Logically, I should have avoided any meetings then, especially with Melany.
The air between us was thick with regrets and yearnings.
The last thing I wanted was to witness her tears, fearing it might soften my resolve.
Yet, this could be our final farewell.
If not now, we might never get another chance.
After a momentâs hesitation, I decided, âOkay, let her in.
â
Relieved, the guard responded, âIâll arrange the meeting immediately.
â
I followed him to the visiting area, and upon entering, I was met with the sight of Melany.
Her eyes were puffy from crying, her hair cluttered, and her clothing drenched.
She was a sight of distress.
Yet, she seemed oblivious to her disorganized state, standing there with an air of nervous anticipation, waiting for my approach.
My heart felt like it had been through a storm, aching deeply.
âBrian!â Melanyâs eyes sparkled with recognition the moment she caught sight of me.
However, the sparkle quickly faded.
Her lips trembled, and her eyes, red and swollen, brimmed with tears that spilled over.
Despair and agony were obvious in her gaze.
I struggled to suppress my own sorrow, managing a smile as I told her, âMelany, please donât mourn for me.
I chose this path myself.
â
âIs there really no other option?â she asked, voice raw with grief, tears streaming down her face.
I shook my head.
My decision to assist Caleb was driven by a desire to alleviate the suffering of the Thorn Edge Packâs children, ensuring they wouldnât endure the anguish of sickness.
Having achieved this goal peacefully, I felt a deep sense of fulfillment.
To me, this represented a significant purpose in life.
I assured Melany with a smile, âI have faith that Caleb will excel as an Alpha, and Debra will be a compassionate Luna.
Theyâll guide both the Thorn Edge Pack and the Roz District towards a brighter future.
â
âAnd what about you? What happens to you?â Melany asked.
I replied with serenity, âThe path to leadership isnât paved solely with the defeat of adversaries; it also demands the sacrifices of his followers.
Melany, sacrificing for the leaders I believe in doesnât scare me.
I hope youâll find it in your heart not to resent them.
â
âButâ¦â
Before Melany could continue, the prison guard intervened, announcing, âTimeâs up.
Melany, you need to leave now.
â
âNo, I wonât leave!â Melanyâs tears streaming down her face as she looked at me.
Caught in an awkward position, the guard hesitated, âMelany, please, donât make this harder than it needs to be.
â
Yet, Melanyâs resolve was unyielding; she remained steadfast, refusing to budge.
Left with no alternative, I resolved to exit the visiting area first.
âBrian!â