The Stinky Life I've Accepted

Chapter 14: Just A World Of Pain

Maxxon

I sigh as I stare out the tiny barred window, deep in thought. 

You know how to end all this. Just do it. You nearly succeeded last time. They've gone lax with you. You're not worth anything, You got your mate killed. Do it. 

I grit my teeth, clutching the windowsill. I have to fight. I have to get better. 

No one wants you to. You're locked here for a reason. Come on. It would bring everybody such sweet relief from their responsibilities of taking care of you. 

I clench my jaw, shaking my head. 

Do it. Do it. Do it!

I didn't realize someone walked in the room until a hand touches my shoulder. I flinch before looking up. 

Papa. 

He smiles down at me, and I push myself into his open arms like I used to as a pup, nuzzling his chest. "Oh, my boy." He murmurs, stroking my hair. 

I breathe deeply, taking in his scent. 

"I want to go home." I whisper, my voice gone from last night's nightmares. Papa stays silent as he half carries, half drags us over to the bolted bed. 

"I know you do. I want you to come home too. You're doing so good, too. A couple more months. You're turning over a new leaf. You're so close." He says as he rocks me on the bed. 

I choke back a sob, trying to get over myself. Over 2 years, I have been a wreck to myself, my family, my inner circle, and my pack. 

I need to get myself together. I need to move forward. 

No. You. Do. Not. 

I tremble, and my father stops his rocking. He looks down and I look up, my eyes pleading. His eyes fills with tears as he cups my chin. 

"I need you to tell me the truth. Is the voice back?" He grumbles out, and my breath hitches, my lip quivering. 

"Y-yes." I finally say, and Papa 's tears falls as he clutches me closer. "Please. Please fight it. We can't lose you. We can't." He begs, and I start to sob openly on his shoulder. 

Another hand touches my head, and without looking, I know Dad has joined us. He doesn't say anything as he wraps us both in a hug, nuzzling Papa and rubbing my back. 

"We won't survive if we lose you, son. Your sister won't survive. The pack won't survive. Fight for them." He gruffly says, hiding the pain behind his voice. 

I close my eyes tightly, shuddering. 

"I will. I will. I will." I say through clenched teeth, my trembling increasing. "Hey, now." Dad inhales as they let go.