Chapter 4

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I saw that you were perfect and so I loved you. Then I saw that you were imperfect and so I loved you more...
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Leaving the bathroom to grant my mate some privacy, I descended the stairs to prepare her a meal, sensing her malnourishment and weakness. In the kitchen, I quickly gathered ingredients, opting to make pancakes and a small portion of pasta for her.

As I dished out the food, I felt the scrutiny of my brother and friends upon me. Just then, my brother's voice interrupted my concentration, cautioning me about the perceived danger of being near her, "Marcel, I don't think you should be in the same room as her. She is dangerous, she is a rogue and a black girl at that".

Annoyed by his persistent warnings and prejudiced views, I whirled around to confront him, questioning the validity of his concerns and defending her honor despite the negative perceptions held against her. In a cold tone, I challenged his narrow-mindedness and stood firm in my resolve to prioritize her well-being above all, "Why? Because she is a rogue? A black skin girl? All of you have your mates in your arms but when my comes stumbling into my life you want me to stay clear of her?".

"Because she is different from our mates. She can't be trusted nor accepted into this pack. Blacks can't be trusted, they are betrayers and you have a fiance. Your marriage is in four days so forget about her, it's for your good," Alex's solemn words only fueled my frustration as he reiterated his lack of trust in her due to her status as a rogue and a person of color.

Refusing to succumb to their biased opinions, I firmly held onto my belief in her and my commitment to stand by her side, gallantly bearing the weight of their disapproval. With a sense of determination and protectiveness over her, I proceeded to shield her from their doubts and offer her the care and reassurance she deserved. Contrary to their expectations, I stood unwavering in my loyalty to her, ready to defend her at all costs.

Upon entering my room, I encountered a heart-wrenching sight – my mate lay on the cold tiled floor, draped in just a thin towel, evoking a wave of sorrow and empathy within me. Overcome with emotion, I gently cradled her in my arms and tenderly transferred her to the warmth and comfort of the bed, tucking her in with care. As my friends observed in astonishment, I guarded her slumber and privacy, seeking to shield her from any disruptions or intrusions into her respite.

Tasking my companions to leave, I asserted my commitment to safeguarding her welfare and tranquility, signaling my unwavering dedication to her well-being, "Leave, I don't have the strength to argue with you and I don't want any of you to disturb her sleep".

"You should not let her get into your life, she might cause you a lot of pain, we are only looking out for you. This girl is not good for you, she is chaos, bro". How can I have someone like Alex for a brother? He was so selfish.

Asha took in a breath and said in a calm voice, "Marcel, we want what's best for you and clearly, she isn't the best for you".

Despite their protestations and misgivings, I maintained my steadfast resolve and chose to prioritize her needs above all, vowing to protect her from any external trials or tribulations.

"Get out," In a firm but composed manner, I commanded them to depart, resolute in my determination to shield her from any turmoil or discord, unwilling to waver in my devotion and protection of my mate.

Locking the door behind me, I lifted the tray of food with a sigh of resignation. Gently shaking her awake, I felt a pang of hurt when she recoiled at my touch as though I were a scorching flame. Masking my disappointment with a smile, she sat up, her expression vacant. Uncorking the food, I offered her a glass of water, noting her need for it.

She accepted the glass cautiously, sipping it slowly. Though I wanted to assure her not to be cautious around me, I refrained, simply stating, "I brought you some food. Pasta and pancakes."

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