Another Chance for the Luna Queen novel

Chapter 0248 Chapter 0248 +25 BONUS Alexander placed his hand over mine on the table , his touch firm but reassuring .

His warning look was unmistakable , and I steeled myself , realizing who was walking toward us .

Alpha Lake , Alexander greeted evenly as the man reached our table .

Good evening , Alpha Black , Derrick replied .

I hope Im not intruding .

We can spare a moment , Alexander said , his tone polite but measured .

I wanted to congratulate you , Derrick said , his expression unreadable .

Im sure you understand our obligations were elsewhere on the day of your wedding .

Of course , I replied , turning to face him .

My gaze shifted to Lily , standing silently by his side .

She looked … different .

Her face was pale , almost gaunt , as though shed been unwell .

Gone was the flawless composure I was used to seeing , and it startled me .

It was clear that everything involving David had taken a toll on her far more than I had realized .

Yes , congratulations , Lily said softly , her voice barely above a whisper .

Thank you , I said , though my tone was cautious .

And … Alpha Derrick began , drawing our attention back to him .

His expression was measured , almost solemn .

I dont mean to overstep , but Ella , I feel I owe you an apology .

I stared at him , unblinking , disbelief washing over me .

This had to be a trick some calculated ploy to lower my defenses .

For what ? I asked , my voice sharper than I in tended .

For how things played out between you and David , he replied , keeping his voice low to avoid the ears of nearby tables .

I glanced at Alexander , uncertain how to respond .

Alpha Derrick sounded sincere , and there was nothing in his tone or demeanor to suggest he was lying .

Yet the idea of him apologizing to me felt absurd .

He had never liked me .

He had made it painfully clear that he expected me to be the quiet , obedient wife to David .

He was irritated every time I dared speak my mind .

He had embarrassed me before the king , belittled me in front of my own father , and treated me as though I were a burden rather than a partner to David .

What could have possibly changed to make him apologize now ? And why here , in public ? I didnt need to look around to know people were staring .

The Lakes had already drawn attention just by entering the restaurant .

This interaction would fuel weeks of gossip .

Im not sure I understand , I said hesitantly , wary of the trap I couldnt yet see .

Ill make it clear then , Derrick said , his gaze steady .

My son is a fool Ive always known that but I didnt realize how much of one until now .

He never should have thrown you away .

He never should have chosen Amanda over you .

And to do it in such a shameful , public way … It was an embarrassment to me as a father and an Alpha .

His jaw tightened slightly as he continued .

I thought he would see his mistake and make things right , but clearly , I was wrong about that too .

And so , on behalf of myself and my pack , I want to offer my sincerest apologies .

You deserve respect , Ella , and I am sorry that a member of my own family caused you distress .

1/2 +25 BONUS Chapter 0248 Alexanders hand tightened over mine , a silent show of support .

Ah , so that was it .

Derricks apology wasnt about remorse it was about diplomacy .

He wanted to ensure the Lake Pack wouldnt face any issues now that I was married to a more powerful Alpha .

This was about smoothing over relations with Alexander , and he thought placating me was the way to do it .

I smiled at him , cool and deliberate .

Theres no need to apologize , I said firmly .

If not for Davids shameful behavior , I never would have ended up with Alexander .

And I couldnt be happier now .

Alpha Derricks smile faltered , but it didnt vanish entirely Im glad to hear it , Alpha Derrick said , his voice tight and measured , as though holding back words he dared not utter .

I continued to hold Alexanders hand as I stared at Alpha Derrick expectantly .

The tension between the four of us was impossible not to notice , and I had no idea what to expect from their next move .

Would they try something more , or were they really backing down ? Were they as impulsive and chaotic as their son , or did they know better than to pick a fight with Alexander Black ?