Chapter 4

The next morning, at seven o'clock, instead of making his usual patrol around the territory, Silas returned to the estate early.

The moment he stepped through the door and saw the four neatly packed suitcases in the living room, he froze.

"Do you really need this much luggage just to visit your family?"

Without even taking off his coat, he walked anxiously into the bedroom.

I was helping Luke fold his clothes. Without looking back, I answered, "It's a long trip. We might be staying for a while."

Hearing that, Silas instinctively turned to Luke.

After a brief silence, Luke nodded.

Only then did Silas visibly relax. He pulled three beautifully designed tickets from his coat and placed them in front of us.

"You've been upset that I never took Luke to Moonshadow Park, haven't you?

"I bought VIP tickets for this afternoon. The three of us can finally go together."

His voice was obviously placating, and even his usually calm-looking eyes were filled with anticipation.

For a moment, I wondered if I'd heard him correctly.

Nearly a month had passed. Only now had he remembered Luke's birthday wish.

But when I thought of the dozens of unread messages and apologies on my phone that morning, I understood.

This was simply a belated attempt to make amends.

I said nothing. I simply lowered my head and continued straightening Luke's collar.

Luke's eyes, however, sparkled with excitement. Looking up at me eagerly, he said, "I want to go."

Seeing the hopeful look in his eyes, I couldn't help but smile.

Before I could respond, Silas spoke hesitantly.

"But if you two want to go, there's one condition."

His voice grew softer and softer.

"Julia knows we're planning a trip soon. She's worried Aiden will be upset if he finds out.

"So, could we postpone our trip for now?"

As he spoke, he couldn't even bring himself to meet my eyes.

The light in Luke's eyes faded instantly.

"I see."

He lowered his head before gripping the hem of his shirt tighter and tighter, but Silas never noticed his disappointment. Instead, he let out a relieved sigh and continued explaining.

"It's just one small favor for Julia. It's not a big deal.

"We'll have plenty of chances to travel together in the future. Luke, what do you say?"

He had no idea that this was the last chance he would ever have to make it up to this family.

Tomorrow, Luke and I would be gone forever.

Neither of us said a word. We simply nodded quietly.

"Okay."

Silas visibly relaxed, and a relieved smile finally appeared on his face.

"Then let's meet at the entrance to Moonshadow Park at one this afternoon. I'll let Julia know right away."

He turned around and walked away after saying that.

Just before leaving, he paused and looked back.

"Elena, Luke, you're both wonderful."

Neither of us replied to him.

Only after his footsteps had completely faded away did Luke open his wardrobe and retrieve the small backpack he had already packed.

"Mom, I don't want to see Alpha anymore. Can we leave sooner than we planned?"

I gently rubbed his head.

"Yes. I've already rescheduled our flight. We're leaving this afternoon."