10: Elopement

Ethan's POV

I walked out of the room, my mind reeling with disbelief. This had to be the work of the Moon Goddess. How else could Camella's memories be erased, and her feelings for me reversed? I couldn't help but smile at the opportunity this presented. I could finally correct my mistakes, make amends, and take the throne back.

But it wasn't just about power. As I thought about Camella's smile, her laugh, and her kiss, I realized I had missed her. I had missed her spark, her light, and her love. And that kiss...I hadn't expected to enjoy it so much. I wanted more.

I approached a nurse, trying to compose myself. "Excuse me, how is Camella's condition? Will she be okay?"

The nurse smiled. "She's going to be just fine. The doctor will discharge her soon. But...there's something strange. She seems to have...forgotten some things."

I nodded, trying to appear concerned. "Yes, I've noticed. Do you think it's permanent?"

The nurse hesitated. "We're not sure yet. But we'll monitor her closely."

I thanked her and walked away, my mind racing with possibilities. This was my chance to start anew, to make things right with Camella and the pack. And maybe, just maybe, I could win her heart for real this time.

I paused, confused that I even cared about that. I sighed and continued towards the hospital kitchen.

When I walked back into the room, I was carrying a tray filled with Camella's favorite breakfast - fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and a side of maple syrup, just the way she liked it. I couldn't believe I remembered. As I set the tray down in front of her, she looked up at me with a smile.

"Thank you, Ethan!" she exclaimed, digging in immediately.

As I watched her eat, memories came flooding back. I remembered the times I would practically starve her, giving her small portions of food because she was chubby. I remembered the way she would look at me with tears in her eyes, begging for more. And I felt a wave of regret wash over me.

Subconsciously, I promised myself never to do that again. Looking at Camella now, I realized I had never truly seen her before. She was beautiful, not just in spite of her curves, but because of them. Her round face, her full lips, her sparkling eyes...she was adorable.

As she ate, I found myself mesmerized by her. I couldn't believe I had ever taken her for granted. I couldn't believe I had ever hurt her. And I knew, in that moment, that I would do anything to make it up to her. Anything to keep her by my side. I didn't know where this was coming from but fuck it, I don't care.

When Camella finished her breakfast, I took the tray from her and smiled. "Feeling better?" I asked.

She nodded, her eyes sparkling. "Much better, thank you."

Just then, the pack doctor walked in, a warm smile on her face. "Good morning, Lun– ah, Camella. How are you feeling today?"

The doctor got my aggressive wink and corrected herself.

Camella smiled back, oblivious. "I'm feeling much better, thank you."

The doctor nodded, checking Camella's vitals. "Good. You're clear to leave. Just take it easy for the next few days, okay?"

I nodded, helping Camella out of bed. "I'll take care of her," I promised.

As we walked out of the hospital, I stopped to thank the pack doctor. "Thank you for taking care of her," I said, my voice low.

The doctor bowed her head. "Of course, Alpha. But I have to ask, what about Leo? Should I inform him about Camella's...condition?"

I hesitated, unsure of how much to reveal. But then I looked at Camella, and my heart made the decision for me. "No," I said. "Don't inform him about any of this. Not yet."

The doctor nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "I only answer to you, Alpha. Your secret is safe with me."

Camella's POV:

I settled into the car, feeling a sense of excitement and nervousness. Ethan buckled my seatbelt, his hands brushing against mine, making me feel comfortable and safe.

As we drove, I asked, "Where are we going?"

Ethan smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Home."

I frowned, feeling a pang of uncertainty. "I don't remember our home."

Ethan's smile grew wider. "I'll show you," he said, his voice filled with promise.

We drove through the countryside, passing fields of apple trees, dried corn stalks, and even cows grazing in the distance. I felt a sense of wonder and excitement, twirling my hair around my finger.

"Wow, look at that!" I exclaimed, pointing to a flock of birds flying overhead.

Ethan chuckled. "You always loved the simple things," he said, his voice filled with affection.

Finally, we stopped at a quaint cottage house at the end of a winding road. I rushed out of the car, twirling around in happiness.

"Oh, Ethan, it's beautiful!" I exclaimed, taking in the charming house, the garden filled with wildflowers, and the apple trees surrounding us.

Ethan chuckled, his eyes shining with amusement. "I'm glad you like it," he said, taking my hand and leading me to the door.

As we stepped inside, I felt a sense of belonging, of being exactly where I was meant to be. The house was cozy and warm, with a fireplace crackling in the living room. I couldn't imagine that this was our home, it was too perfect.

"Was this really our home?" I asked, looking around in wonder.

Ethan nodded, his smile growing wider. "Yes, it was. And it still is."

I felt a sense of joy and excitement, knowing that this beautiful place was mine to call home. And with Ethan by my side, I knew that everything was going to be okay.

I turned to him, my eyes shining with happiness. "Thank you for bringing me here," I said, my voice barely above a whisper.

Ethan's eyes softened, and he pulled me into a gentle hug. "I'll always take care of you, Camella," he whispered back.