Chapter 32 - Chapter 32 : The Heartbreak

Thalia noticed that Reed, another alpha from the Laufey pack and the next pack leader of her pack, was friends with Brian. Although Reed and Brian weren't particularly close, they met regularly during basketball games. Thalia saw an opportunity. By becoming closer to Reed, she hoped she could see Brian more often and maybe even learn more about him.Thalia began spending more time with Reed, following him home and to the gym, under the pretext of friendship. Reed, always the gentleman, didn't mind her company and enjoyed their conversations. He didn't suspect that Thalia's true interest lay in Brian.Throughout their days at college, despite being close to Brian through Reed, Thalia never found the right moment to confess her feelings. The end of college approached rapidly, and Thalia felt a sense of urgency. She knew she had to tell Brian how she felt before it was too late.On the day of their graduation, Thalia made up her mind. As the ceremony ended, she searched for Brian, determined to pour her heart out. She looked everywhere—among the crowds of celebrating graduates, around the campus grounds—but he was nowhere to be found.Desperation set in. Thalia's heart pounded as she continued her search, hope slipping through her fingers with each passing minute. Finally, as she was walking back, she spotted Brian. Her heart lifted for a moment, but then she saw Mia with him.They were in a car, and before her eyes, Brian leaned in and kissed Mia. Thalia's world seemed to crumble as she watched them drive off together, their connection undeniable and their bond clear.Thalia stood there, frozen, tears welling up in her eyes. The image of Brian and Mia together was a dagger to her heart. All her dreams of confessing her love to Brian shattered at that moment. The realization that she had lost him to Mia was unbearable.Reed found her a few minutes later, noticing her distress. "Thalia, are you okay?" he asked, concern etched on his face.Thalia wiped her tears and tried to compose herself. "I'm fine, Reed," she lied, her voice trembling. "I just need a moment."Reed nodded, not pressing further. He could sense her pain but didn't know the cause. Thalia felt an overwhelming sadness as she watched the horizon where Brian and Mia had disappeared. The dream she had cherished for so long had turned into a painful reality.As the days passed, Thalia tried to move on, but the image of Brian and Mia together haunted her. Her once vibrant feelings of love turned into a deep-seated resentment and heartbreak. This pivotal moment shaped her future, fueling her determination and bitterness. The innocence of her love story was replaced with the harsh reality of unrequited love, setting the stage for the woman she would become.The war between the werewolf packs intensified, with different factions attacking each other in a brutal struggle for dominance. The Laufey pack, where Thalia belonged, was no exception. They were embroiled in constant skirmishes, fighting to protect their territory and their people.Amidst the chaos, Thalia's parents grew increasingly worried about her safety. They decided it was time to take action. They arranged for a guardian to watch over her, someone who would protect her from the shadows. Thalia, aware of the dangers that lurked around every corner, welcomed this decision with relief.The chosen guard was Chris, a fierce and loyal member of the Laufey pack. He was known for his exceptional skills in combat and his unwavering dedication. From the moment he was assigned to her, Chris took his duty seriously, blending into the background while keeping a vigilant eye on Thalia.At first, Thalia wasn't sure how she felt about having a guard, but she quickly grew accustomed to Chris's presence. He was discreet, only revealing himself when necessary. His silent watchfulness provided her with a sense of security she hadn't realized she needed.One evening, after a particularly tense day of skirmishes, Thalia sat by the fireplace in her home, lost in thought. The memory of Brian and Mia still haunted her, but the ongoing war demanded her full attention. She knew she had to focus on the present and the safety of her pack.Chris, who had been stationed outside, entered the room quietly. "Is everything alright, Thalia?" he asked, his voice steady and calm.Thalia looked up, offering him a small smile. "Yes, Chris. Just thinking."He nodded, understanding the weight of her thoughts. "If you need anything, I'm here.""I know," she replied. "Thank you."As the days turned into weeks, Thalia and Chris developed mutual respect and understanding. He was more than just her guard; he became a confidant and a silent protector. Thalia found herself relying on his strength and wisdom, especially during the darkest moments of the war.One night, as Thalia lay in bed, she heard whispers outside her window. She rose quietly and peered out, her heightened senses on alert. In the shadows, she saw Chris confronting a group of intruders. Her heart raced as she watched him fend them off with skill and precision. Once the danger had passed, Chris returned to his post, his eyes meeting Thalia's through the window."Thank you," she mouthed, gratitude and admiration evident in her gaze.Chris nodded, his expression unwavering. "Always."Thalia realized that, amid the war and her heartbreak, she had found a steadfast ally in Chris. His presence gave her the strength to face the challenges ahead, and she knew that, no matter what happened, she wouldn't be alone. As the war raged on, Thalia steeled herself for the battles to come, determined to protect her pack and find her place in a world torn apart by conflict.The long and grueling war between the werewolf packs had finally reached a breaking point. After countless battles and numerous losses on all sides, the leaders of the pack decided to come together and sign a peace agreement. Each pack was to send a representative to the meeting, which was to be held in front of the Laufey pack's territory.Representatives from all packs gathered for the historic occasion. Brian arrived to represent the Manian pack, standing tall and resolute. Reed accompanied his father to represent the Laufey pack, exuding the calm confidence of a future leader.The ceremony proceeded with the signing of the peace agreement, a solemn and hopeful moment. As the last signature was placed, a sense of relief and cautious optimism filled the air. The pack leaders exchanged formal nods, signaling their commitment to peace.After the ceremony, as the representatives began to disperse, Brian prepared to leave with his pack members. Before he could depart, Reed approached him with a friendly smile."Brian, it's been a long time," Reed said, extending his hand. "Would you join me for a drink inside our territory? For old times' sake."Brian didn't see that coming