An Alpha's Jealousy (Narry Storan) (Book One)

Chapter Fifteen: Part Three

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"I need to do this," Harry sharply reminds himself as he gazes at Lou's house the next day, but even his harsh reminder doesn't break through the concrete keeping Harry at the sidewalk. "I need to do this. I need to apologize to Lou not just because he deserves it, but because I want him in my life. He's my pack, and I need - no, I want - him in my life. I need to do this."

Except, needing to do some thing doesn't always mean you can do it, but he has to try.

Harry has to try.

Inhaling, Harry stalks up the driveway and is about to knock on the front door before the squeak of metal captures his attention. Lowering his fist, Harry inhales as the spring wind blows, carrying odors and aromas and the smell of mildew and roses - Lou's scent.

Without letting hesitation grip his legs again, Harry changes direction and walks towards the backyard, pulling open the metal fence before quietly shutting it as he spots Lou on the swing set.

The soft mud squelches as Harry travels towards Lou, and Harry knows Lou's detected him given his tense shoulders, but neither of them say a word even as Harry settles into the empty swing next to Lou's.

The sun is steadfast in its position amongst the cloud as it beats down on the inhabitants of Earth, and the wildlife is bustling as animals of all kind enjoy the spring day. The whole world is filled with noise, but it's as if Harry and Lou are in a glass case. There's no noise. There's no speech. There's just breathing.

"I need to do this," Emerald eyes squeeze shut as Harry musters the courage he needs to properly apologize and take responsibility for his actions. "I need to do this, and I need to do more than just apologize. I need to show Lou my sincerity, and I need to treat him the way he deserves to be treated - the way he's always treated me. I need to do this."

"Lou, I am so," Before Harry can finish his sentence, another voice joins his.

"Haz, I am so," Lou halts as they both stare at each other before a smile, small as it is, tugs at the corners of Lou's lips, and the noose hanging around Harry's neck - something he hadn't even realized was there - is finally stripped from his body as Harry relaxes.

"May I go first?" Harry questions his best friend, and, when Lou nods, he apologizes. "I'm sorry, Lou. I'm sorry for not being good to you. I'm sorry for taking you for granted, but, most importantly, I'm sorry for not being there for you - for not supporting you - the unconditional way you have done since I became a wolf. I don't deserve you, but life just isn't right without you in it, Lou. Would you please be my best mate again?"

"I always knew you loved me, Haz," A genuine smile colors Lou's pink lips as the skies in his eyes brighten with glee. "There's never going to be any other answer but "yes", Haz. Being without you these last few weeks have simply been atrocious."

"So, that's a yes?" Harry seeks the clarification he desperately needs.

"That's a yes, Haz," Lou yelps as Harry yanks him into a tight hug, though he was mindful of his strength. "I love you, too, buddy. I love you, too."

Moisture clouds Harry's vision as he clings to his childhood friend and whispers his gratitude while Lou pats his trembling back.

"Don't go crying now, Haz," Lou gently reprimands as he returns the embrace. "Otherwise we'll both be a hot crying mess."

A giggle bubbles out of Harry's mouth as he nods his head before pulling away, the dimpled smile gracing his lips more radiant than the sun, as he scans the tears pooled in Lou's eyes.