Second Thoughts After Divorce

Chapter 87

Ashton’s POV

The train slowed to a stop as we arrived at Jacob’s pack, the hustle and bustle of the station falling silent as we prepared to disembark.

I stood to open the door to pay Rose a glance, seeing her breathing steady and looking peaceful as she slept.

It didn’t feel right to wake her, so instead, I scooped her up soundly in to my arms, with her exhaustion evident as she grumbled a little before continuing to sleep.

Carefully, I lifted her through the train towards the door, cradling her gently against my chest as I stepped off of the train and out onto the platform.

The cool breeze greeted us as we made our way to the waiting cars – as my men helped to load up the vehicles with our stuff.

It was uncertain how long we would be planning to stay here for, but I didn’t want to take any chances since the challenges ahead were bound to be testing.

Climbing in to the back, I placed Rose down on the seats as she cuddled up to my leg and I allowed for Sawyer to drive,

The other members of our group followed closely behind us, including Hunt and Lydia with their expressions a mix of determination and apprehension as we set out to explore Jacob’s pack in its new abandoned state.

It must feel strange to the pack members, having had such a strong and respected Alpha for it all to fall apart before their very eyes…

As we drove through the streets of the pack, I couldn’t help but notice the curious and wary looks we received from Jacobs ex–pack members. They watched us pass them by with a mixture of curiosity and skepticism, their eyes lingering on our convoy of cars as we made our way through the unfamiliar territory and towards our final destination.

It was clear that they were unsure of our intentions, especially after the recent arrest of their former Alpha. But it was time for a new beginning, a chance to rebuild and make the pack strong once again, and I was determined to help lead them towards that brighter future – by firstly appointing Sawyer as their new Alpha.

As we approached the familiar crime scene where it had all first unravelled, the once grand castle–like building where Jacob would hold his annual balls, a sense of eerie desolation hung heavily in the air. The place seemed ghostly and deserted, as though it had been abandoned for years rather than just a

few weeks.

The crumbling stone walls stood as a silent testament to the chaos and destruction that had torn through the pack, leaving it in ruins. But amidst the devastation, there was a glimmer of hope, a chance for renewal and redemption.

We could turn this palace in to a place of positivity and fun for the poor children who were wronged by Jacob, Seraphins and of course Tarrick all left without homes to return to.

The thought alone made me itch in fury, but I suppressed my taste for vengeance to look at the much bigger picture – let’s work to fix this.

I stepped out of the car, turning back to get my mate, carrying Rose in my arms as I surveyed the scene before us. It was probably for the best that she didn’t see this place so soon… since it would be guaranteed to resurface the trauma from that night.

The dim sun cast long shadows across the empty courtyard, the silence broken only by the distant sound of birdsong and cars pulling up to accompany

Despite the somber atmosphere, I felt a sense of determination stirring within me. We would rebuild this pack, brick by brick, and restore it to its former glory. And with Rose by my side, I knew that anything was possible.

As we made our way through the deserted corridors of the castle, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement building within me. This was the beginning of a new chapter for Jacob’s pack, and I was ready to lead them into a brighter future.

“Have the place scoped to see if anyone is still living here, and when you’re all done that, find yourself an appropriate rooms to stay in!” I instruct the group, as they all break up and I continue to carry Rose towards one of the bedrooms.

It was evident that she needed to rest, which I didn’t mind.

I gently laid Rose down on the soft, plush bed in one of the empty bedrooms of the castle, ensuring she was comfortable before pulling the covers over her sleeping form.

She stirred slightly, mumbling something incoherent before settling hack into a peaceful slumber. Satisfied that she was alright, I leaned down to press a tender kiss to her forehead, murmuring words of reassurance before turning to use the bathroom.

As 1 made my way towards the bathroom, there was a soft knock on the bedroom door, and I turned back to answer it,

Opening it, I was surprised to see one of my men standing there, holding a small white puppy in his arms. I squinted in confusion at the tiny creature, wondering where the dog had come from and why it was even here…

Did those fuckers leave behind their family pet? If only I could hate them more than I already do….

“What’s this?” I asked, raising an eyebrow at the man as he shifted uncomfortably under my

“We found it running around the hallways Alpha, yapping away, none of us knew what to do with it so I said I would bring it here to see you… I think it’s a girl.” he explained, holding the squirming puppy out towards me for further inspection. “Figured it belonged to someone in Jacob’s family.” He concluded, as I nod slowly and think on the matter,

The dog suddenly began to wriggle excitedly in his arms, its tail wagging furiously as it let out small barks of joy. Before I could even respond, the puppy leaped from his grasp and darted towards the bed where Rose lay sleeping, its tiny paws padding across the floorboards as it picked up more speed with each step.

“Fuck!” 1 claim, knowing what was bound to come next.

I watched in amazement as the dog bounded onto the bed, muzzling its wet nose against Rose’s cheek before showering her with enthusiastic licks. Rose stirred awake, her eyes fluttering open in surprise as she was greeted by the unexpected visitor.

“Hey there, little guy,” she cooed in her half awake state, giggling as she reached out to pet the puppy’s soft fur. “Where did you come from?” She claims, rubbing her sleepy eyes to focus more on the animal.

“Little guy? I think it’s a little girl.” 1 correct, as Rose mlls her eyes and continues to pet the happy dog.

The

puppy continued to wag its tail happily, nuzzling closer to Rose as if sensing her warmth and affection. Rose’s laughter filled the room, a sound that warmed my heart as I watched her interact with the small creature.

I turned back to my man, a small smile playing at the corners of my lips. “Go find some food and water for the dog.” I instructed him, gesturing towards the door. “And bring it back up here. Looks like we’ve got a new addition to the pack.” I laugh, as the man smiles and nods respectfully before heading

off.

I wasn’t sure when the last time it was fed was… depending on when Jacob’s family had packed up and had left I guess?

As Rose continued to pet the puppy affectionately, a pleading look crossed her face as she gazed up at the with hopeful eyes. “Ashton, can we please keep her?” she pleaded, her voice filled with longing.

I hesitated for a moment, torn between the practicalities of caring for a pet and knowing that we had a baby on the way. But as I looked into her eyes, I couldn’t bear to deny her this simple request.

Before I could respond, Rose continued, her voice pleading. She is just so sweet, and she obviously needs a new home. Please, Ashton, I promise that Ill take care of her.”

I sighed softly, knowing that I couldn’t resist her heartfelt plea. “Rose, the truth is, this puppy was likely left behind by Jacob’s family,” I explained gently, my heart aching at the thought of the abandoned creature. “But if you want to keep him, then we will. I can’t stand to see you upset, and if this little thing brings you joy, then she’s more than welcome to stay with us.”

A look of gratitude and relief washed over Rose’s face as she wrapped her arms around the puppy, holding her close. Thank you, Ashton,” she whispered, her voice choked with emotion. I promise we’ll take good care of her.”

I smiled, approaching and reaching out to brush a stray strand of hair from her face. “I know you will,” I replied, my heart swelling with love for her. “And besides, shes already stolen my heart too.” I admit, laughing as the tiny dog leaps up to lick my chin.

With that, we fed her and made sure that she had a filled water bowl with the puppy becoming an unexpected hut cherished addition to our little family.