Chapter Twelve: Conflicted Emotions

Derek paced the hallway of the Northern Pack hospital, his patience wearing thin. He had been waiting for Ella for what seemed like hours as she finished her rounds. The sterile smell of antiseptic hung in the air, and the sound of soft footsteps echoed through the nearly deserted hallway. He hated hospitals—the coldness, the desperation that lingered in the air. But for her, he would wait a lifetime.

Finally, the door to one of the patient wards opened, and Ella walked out, looking completely exhausted. Her hair was slightly disheveled, and the dark circles under her eyes only made her look more worn out. She rubbed her neck absentmindedly, clearly lost in thought.

"It doesn’t help that you check on me every day, Alpha Derek," Ella said, her tone unconcerned as she spotted him waiting.

Derek’s lips curved slightly. "You look exhausted," he replied, ignoring her clear annoyance. "Can we discuss things over dinner? I already booked a place, and I’m sure you’ll love it."

Ella scoffed, b