Imara Diversifies The Beastmen World

Chapter Forty Seven: Its Over For Them

I was so surprised. "Guys, wha—" My words died off as I took in their appearance.

They all looked beaten up and ragged. Then, one by one, they dropped to their knees and bowed.

I started to step toward them, my heart aching to ask what had happened, to reach out and hold them. I really cared for them.

Harvey's hand squeezed mine gently, grounding me. "Let's see what they have to say," he murmured, his voice calm but firm.

John was the first to speak, his remorse painfully evident. "I'm sorry, Imara, for making you sad. I couldn't help being selfish, and I said things I shouldn't have..." His voice cracked as he clenched his fists. "I've learned so much from you, and it's made me realize that having a relationship takes more than just liking someone. There's so much more to think about."

He paused, struggling to find the words. "My impulsiveness has always gotten me into trouble—and hurt others. I never had to really care about that until I met you. And now I see why it's so important. After I almost hurt you... and ruined things for my brother—my family—you still haven't given up on me."

John's voice trembled, thick with emotion. "Seeing you cry because of me... because of what I said to you—it's the worst feeling. I can't believe I did that. I'm disgusted and disappointed in myself. I-I keep promising to do better, but I haven't."

Tears welled in his eyes as he looked down. "Yet you continue to be kind and forgiving towards me. I don't deserve it."

Reaching into his bundle, he pulled out a carefully wrapped fur, holding it out to me as if it were his heart in his hands. "I got this as an apology for not trying to understand you, for taking your kindness for weakness. I hope we can still be family and friends. If you wish, though, I know I don't deserve it."

Steve spoke up next before I could say anything. "I am sorry as well, Imara. It made me feel like the worst, hurting your feelings." He wiped his hand over his forehead, his weary expression showing just how much the situation weighed on him.

He continued, "I understand, as well as you do, what family means and how important it is to make the right decisions to keep your family safe.

Yet, I dismissed it when it came to you because of how I felt, and it really didn't click until you mentioned our safety as potential mates. It showed me that even I have some maturing to do."

Steve paused, his voice growing softer, more reflective. "I like to think I have things under control as an older brother. But I realize now I can be impulsive too. Under pressure, I might not make the best decisions—like I haven't been when it comes to you."

His eyes met mine, full of regret. "I am sorry, and I know I have no right to ask for your forgiveness. This is the only thing I could think to bring you." He reached down and placed a bag of rice in front of him. "I saw you were running low and thought it might help. I would like to stay your friend and family, please, and do better by you."

I opened my mouth to respond, but Harvey interjected, his voice calm but firm. "I'm allowing them to speak and apologize to you. Make your decision after that, my love."

So I remained silent, giving them the space to express themselves. My heart ached, yearning to tell them not to be so cruel to themselves.

Nicholas spoke up next, his voice heavy with emotion. "I want to apologize for not speaking up when I should have. I was hoping the odds would somehow fall in our favor—my favor—and I'm sorry for being so selfish. I hurt you by doing that, and I have so much regret..." He looked at me, anguish clear in his eyes.

"I've realized I wasn't a good match for you. I've reflected on the things you said, and you're right. Your family would be at a disadvantage with mates who aren't strong enough to protect you."