NADIA
I think the reason Maxwell didn't step in when Asher wanted to kill me is because he knows that the case is between two fated mates and he shouldn't be involved in it for anything in the world.
It is bad enough that he took the mate of his brother as is, it would only make it worse if he intervened in a matter that has nothing to do with him.
Most times, it is best for people to stay away from fated mates because it is none of their business and can land them in serious trouble. If mates had issues they couldn't settle on their own, then and only then could they ask their family members for help. If it is too much for the extended family to handle, then take it to the Alpha and the council of elders.
I guess Max was only trying to make sure things are resolved between us before he steps in.
"Stay out of this, Max," Asher hissed through gritted teeth, pointing the gun at Max. "This is between me and my mate."
My theory is confirmed by Asher's words. Max had and sti has no right to intervene in our problem. He needs to stay out of it until it is settled.
"No, Nadia is my woman and you are hurting her. You obviously don't want her, leave her to me then, I would willingly accept her and take care of her with so much love that your existence would never matter in her life again."
I am beyond touched by Maxwell's words. It warms my heart so much that I smile despite myself. I smile through the tears, knowing that no matter what happens in life, I have at least one person who is by my side.
"Stay out of this," Asher yells louder, the gun pointing at Maxwell becoming threateningly obvious.
I step in, afraid that in anger, Asher would pull the trigger and end the life of his own brother. I don't want that for Maxwell. I don't want him to die protecting me. I am not worthy of such a sacrifice.
I am also sure that my mate wouldn't hesitate to pull the trigger if Max doesn't get out of his way. My mate's hatred for his brother is so much that I know he would feel no remorse if he shoots him and kills him.
"It is fine, Max," I say gently, placing my hands on his shoulders for comfort. "I got this. We have to settle this one and for all. I would appreciate it if you stay out of it."
Max doesn't even pay me any mind. His gaze is firmly on Asher, a mischievous smirk on his face. He is enjoying everything too much. It is as if he hoped to achieve something from all the drama.
"Is he really who you want to go with? Is he really who you want to stand with?" Ignoring Maxwell, Asher turns to question me.
I hesitate, unsure of my answer.
Is Maxwell who I really want? Is he who I really want to spend the rest of my life with?
I am not sure, to be quite frank.
Yes, I like Maxwell a lot, and I feel so bad for him for everything he has been through. He doesn't deserve everything that Asher did to him and I would want nothing more than to see him take back his place on his throne. At the same time, I don't want him. I might want and even need him later in life but right now, my heart feels no love or connection to him.
Maxwell is like a good friend…probably the best I have and would ever have but it doesn't change the fact that he isn't my mate. Even if my mate is the worst person on earth, because of the bond, I would still always be attracted to him even if he cuts my head off. That is simply how the moon goddess made it to be.
He can shoot me and hospitalize me but I will always care about him. That's just how it is meant to be.
It makes me wonder how and why Asher doesn't feel that way about me. Does it mean that he is numb or doesn't feel the pull at all? I just can't fathom how someone could resist one of the greatest and strongest bonds in the whole world.
I want to tell the truth but I doubt it will help me. I want Asher and no one else but I know he would never have me.
"Yes, I want Maxwell. He is the one I choose." I lied.
I didn't care at that moment, I just needed something to hang on to. In this case, someone.
I don't think Asher can ever find a place in his heart to love me, so telling him that I still want him would be a stupid and degrading thing to do. Making him believe that I want him as less as he wants me is the best thing to do.
Asher nods his head in understanding, laughing like a manic while at it. He calls for a while before taking Max's hands in a firm handshake. "Congratulations. And welcome back to the pack. I truly hope you are a changed man and wouldn't make a greater mistake that would have you killed. I made a vow and I am keeping to my words. I hope you keep to your promises too." Then he turns to me, he looks blank again. "I reject you again, Nadia Simpson."
My heart feels like a thousand needles are being pierced through it but I act like I feel nothing. My legs threaten to buckle underneath me but I force myself to stay up.
Before I can accept his rejection, he turns around, walking away, his head hanging low.
"I accept your—"
"Stop," Maxwell hisses, gripping my hands and dragging me to the rock again. "You can't accept his rejection. Not now."
I scrutinize him in confusion, wondering what he is heading to. "Why can't I reject him now? Wouldn't it be best if I do so you could imprint on me as soon as you want? Why don't you want me to reject him, Maxwell?"