*NEW* Chapter XXIV

Derek's POV

I woke up the next morning with a grin stretching across my face. The thought of Lydia's smile last night filled me with an unfamiliar warmth. Patting myself on the shoulder, I muttered, "You did well..." Only a man in love could understand how fulfilling it was to see his woman happy.

As I made my way to the breakfast table, I noticed the eerie emptiness. Lydia was nowhere to be seen. My smile faltered. Was she mad again? For a brief moment, I had thought things were getting better between us.

I asked around, but no one could give me a clear answer. Then, I overheard that she was helping on the farm. Curiosity got the best of me, and I made my way there, only to find her eagerly learning how to tend to the cows.

"What are you doing here?" I asked, unable to hide my amusement.

She looked up nonchalantly. "Learning."

I crossed my arms. "Why didn't you show up for breakfast?"

"I ate earlier and decided to come here," she replied simply.

Disappointment tugged at me—she still didn't see me the way I saw her.

Brushing aside my thoughts, I said, "Get ready. We're heading to the city center to buy you a suitcase."

She frowned. "A backpack will do. I don't have much."

I was stunned. "That's unacceptable. My Luna should look presentable. We should get you new clothes as well."

Lydia blushed when I called her Luna. "That's not necessary."

I smirked. "You need all types of clothes, including warm ones for the trip."

The thought of spending the afternoon with her filled me with excitement. "Hurry up," I said, eager for the time we would spend together.

The first thing we did upon arriving in the city was take pictures for Lydia's passport. She was going international. I could see the glimmer of excitement in her eyes, though she would never admit it.

Lydia's POV

I hated to admit it, but I was enjoying this more than I thought I would. Maybe it was the compulsion of being her mate. Or maybe, just maybe, I was simply happy being with her.

I took her from store to store, encouraging her to try on everything and take whatever she liked. I made sure she had her way while I led the way, ensuring she had everything she needed.

Until we stepped into a lingerie store.

I immediately noticed the shift in her demeanor. She was embarrassed. But I—well, I didn't think it was a big deal. That was, until she shot me a desperate look and practically begged me to leave. "For the love of god, just go!" she hissed, flustered.

I sighed, reluctant but amused. "Fine. I'll take the bags to the car."

I hadn't been gone for a minute when a familiar voice cut through the air.

"That one in your hand is cute."

Lydia turned, her breath catching. Standing before her was Arabella.