Second Thoughts After Divorce

Chapter 35

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08:04

Rose’s POV

The movie played softly in the background as I nestled into the couch, my dinner settling comfortably on the cushion Ashton had placed on my lap. The aroma of the pasta wafted up, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of contentment wash over me.

Ashton sat beside me, his focus divided between the screen and his phone, which he had placed beside him to keep an eye out for Lydia’s response.

I enjoyed my meal, savoring each bite of the delicious pasta as the movie unfolded before us. The gentle ambiance of the room, combined with Ashton’s calming presence, made for a perfect evening. I felt a warmth in my heart, knowing that I was building connections and creating a life that was uniquely mine.

As the movie continued, a feeling of relaxation began to wash over me. The events of the day had left me with a mixture of excitement and exhaustion. The comfortable couch, the soft glow of the screen, and the soothing sound of Ashton’s presence had a lulling effect on me. My eyelids grew heavier, and I fought to keep them open, but eventually, sleep won out.

The next morning, I blinked open my eyes, the sunlight filtering through the curtains and gently illuminating the room. For a moment, I was disoriented, not remembering where I was. But as the events of the previous day flooded back, a smile spread across my face.

1 sat up slowly, stretching my arms out above my head, feeling a pleasant ache in my muscles from my sleep position. My gaze landed on the bedside table, where a neatly folded note caught my attention. I reached for it and unfolded it to read Ashton’s handwriting:

Morning, my beautiful Rose. I hope you had a decent sleep. I’ve gone downstairs to fetch us some breakfast. Get dressed when you wake up, and we’re going out for the day – Ashton

I couldn’t help but grin at the thoughtfulness of his note,

Quickly, feeling a rush of excitement for what the day ahead would bring, I swing my legs over the side of the bed and head straight to the closet to choose an outfit for the day- now having more options thanks to my shopping trip to the mall the other day!

After looking through my choices, I settled on a comfortable pair of blue jeans and a light pink, floral–patterned top.

As I finished getting organised, brushing through my freshly dyed hair, finding it falling back into a wavy curl which was still kept from yesterday – I hear the sound of footsteps approaching-

Just as I turned towards the door, it swung open, revealing Ashton with a large tray in his hands. My stomach rumbled at the sight and smell of the hat breakfast that he had brought…

“Good morning, I take it that you seen my note?” He greeted with a smile, setting the tray down on a nearby table. “I hope you’re hungry.”

“Very,” I reply with a laugh, my eyes fixed on the spread before me. The tray held scrambled eggs, toast, crispy bacon, and two flaky croissants, along with two glasses of freshly squeezed orange juice.

“How about, we

we eat out on the balcony with his plan.

this morning? It’s a nice day.” Ashton admires the sun shining in from the large windows as I nod in agreement

Ashton picked up the tray, motioning for me to join him outside as I help him to open and get through the door leading on to the secured balcony overlooking the backyard.

“How did you sleep?” He asks me as we take a seat across from one another at the wooden table and chair set outside.

“Really well, actually…” I tell him with a contented sigh. “I must have been more tired than I realised yesterday! I even missed the movie!” I laugh, before taking a bite of the croissant first.

He smiled as he took a sip from his orange juice. “Well, you did have quite a busy day yesterday… spending hours on end at the salon.” He chuckles sarcastically, as I flush at the statement.

Yeah when he puts it like that, it does sound really silly!

We both ate in comfortable silence, the occasional exchange of miles saying me than words ever could, as I pected over the balcony often to watch the gardeners work to keep the grounds neat and tidy.

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The morning air was crisp and invigorating, the gentle breeze carrying the promise of a beautiful day ahead. We settled into the chairs overlooking view, and Ashton reached across for my hand, his touch warm and reassuring.

“It’s a perfect day… He comments, his eyes scanning the scenery briefly before he takes another forkful of egg.

“Perfect for whatever we are doing today…?” I push for more information, as he smirks and chews at his food.

“You just can’t wait a little longer can you?” Ashton’s eyes glimmer with amusement as I shake my head and laugh.

“I’m taking you to find a dress for the Alpha ball… maybe also find something more casual that you can wear tomorrow too for meeting the pack?” Ashton explains, as I straighten up at the mention of two of the biggest events to ever happen in my life to date… besides mating with the Alpha himself of course!

Crap… the salon had totally distracted me from meeting the whole pack tomorrow… revealing our new hond to them!

Sound good to you?” He questions further as he clears his throat, finding my silence concerning.

Oh… yeah that sounds good! I’m just a little nervous still. I admit, as he nods and takes another drink.

Sangus

08:02

It’s normal but I’ll be right there by your side Rose!” Ashton comforts, as I nod and continue on eating, enjoying the moment too much to ruin it with stress!

As we sit there, basking in the early morning sunlight, a thought suddenly crosses my mind. I look to Ashton with a hopeful smile. “Hey, I totally forget after falling asleep last night, but did Lydia reply to the text I sent her yet? 1 ask, watching him pause briefly.

He met my gaze, before reaching in to his jean pocket for his phone, seeming to check for any new messages. “Let me see,” He trails off, swiping through the notifications. “Hm, I’m afraid not. But it looks like she read the message late last night…” Ashton informs me, turning the phone for me to see it for myself.

My heart sank a little at the news. I had been so eager to hear back from her, to know that she was interested in our dinner plans still, “Oh,” I reply softly, trying not to let my disappointment show, however struggling to keep the overwhelming feeling at bay.

Perhaps Lydia was only being polite at the salon by saying yes and giving me her number… maybe she never had any intention of actually coming

ming over? Ashton noticed the change in my demeanor and frowned slightly. “Don’t worry too much about it, Rove. Sometimes people take a while to respond. Maybe she’s just busy.” He explains gently, as I shrug and stab around at my food.

Yeah, you’re probably right… or maybe she just doesn’t want to come… I mean, that’s ok too.” I whisper out, forcing a smile.

Ashton’s gaze softened as he looked across at me. “Stop feeling aid Rose… how about this? Since we’re going out today anyway, we could swing by the salon while we’re out. Maybe you’ll run into her there, and you can talk with her again in person. It could be anything, maybe her phone is broke or ran out of charge?” Ashton bargains, as I think on his suggestion,

My heart skipped a beat at the idea–feeling a little hope return again. The thought of seeing Lydia face to face filled me with a renewed sense of hope…

The girl didn’t really seem picture perfect, in fact, I would say she seemed sort of miserable when I had first gone downstairs for the treatments… I have to see her again, find out what’s going on with her? Maybe I could help?

“That sounds like a great idea,” I reply finally, my smile brightening up again.

He grinned back in accomplished response. “I thought you’d like that.” He states, earning a little giggle from me.

with our plans for the day taking shape, I felt a surge of excitement once again. Ashton’s unwavering support

Lydia pressured me that I wasn’t alone in this journey.

port and his willingness to help me

e connect

After finishing our breakfast and tidying up the balcony area, Ashton had suggested that we visit the town’s best dress store first, where Ruth- Ashton’s fortner maid and now my friend–hud recommended he take me to find a gown for the Alpha ball,

The thought of attending such a prestigious event both thrilled and intimidated for all at the same time… and with that, we set out towards the boutique tu fetch nor a gowTL-.

Ashton had booked out the whole store for us, giving me the freedom to try on anything and everything I wanted. I tell a mix of excitement and nervousness as we entered the elegant boutique, the soft chime of the bell announcing our arrival to the staff.

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The store was a dream come true, filled with racks of stunning dresses in various styles, colors, and fabrics. It was like stepping into a fairytale. 99

I glanced around, my eyes wide with wonder. “This place is amazing,” I breathed, feeling a rush of anticipation as Ashtons hand found the small of 07:59

back.

Ashton smiled down at me. “I’m glad you like it. Ruth thought you might.” He led me further into the store, where a sales associate approached us with a warm smile.

“Welcome Alpha! My name is Isabella. How can I assist you both today?” She asked, her eyes curious and attentive;

“This is Rose.” Ashton introduced me immediately, “We’re looking to find her a gown for the Alpha ball.” He explains in brief.

Isabella’s eyes lit up with recognition, Ah, the Alpha ball! What a wonderful occasion. Well, you’ve come to the right place. We have a stunning collection of dresses that I’m sure you’ll love. Is there a particular style or color you have in mind?” The lady turns her question towards me, as I fumble

To think.

I exchanged a glance with Ashton, suddenly feeling overwhelmed by the options. “Um, not really. I’m open to trying different styles and colours.” I admit, as she nods in understanding.

“We’re just looking for something that suits her and makes her feel confident.” He states, as we follow her around to look at different options.

“Of course, we’ll find something that suits her perfectly. Let’s start by taking a look at the different styles, and you can decide which ones you’d like to try on.” Belonging to NôvelDrama.Org.

For the next hour or so, I wandered through the racks, pulling out dresses that caught my eye. Isabella and Ashton offered their opinions and suggestions, and 1 found myself having a great time after a while.

I tried on gowns that ranged from classic and elegant to more modem and daring… each different and unique in its own way.

My eyes suddenly landed on another dress, pale blue and shorter, with a playful skirt that puffed out slightly at the bottom. I turned to Ashton and Isabella with a grin. “Can I try that one on too?”

Ashton chuckled. “Of course, Rose. It’s your day to explore.” He encouraged, getting comfy on the sofa.

I slipped into the pale blue dress, and as I looked at myself in the mirror, I felt a different kind of excitement. The dress was fun and flirty, and it made me want to twirl around like a kid.

Ashton’s eyes sparkled as he took in the sight. “You look amazing in that one. Do you like it for tomorrow?” Ashton suggests, as I nod without hesitation.

I turned this way and that, the fabric swishing around me. “Yes I really love this one!” I admit, as he nods and takes it in

“I like the red one over there… perhaps for the ball? Will you try it on?” Ashton gestures to the far corner, where a sparkling lace red gown hang on the rack.

“Sure!” I agree, as the kind girl goes off to fetch it for me instantly.

I slip out of the blue, swapping

pping it for the red to try it on for Ashtons sake… before I tum to face myself in the changing room mirror once it was fully

The dress fit like a glove, hugging my body perfectly and contrasting devilishly well against my bright blonde hair…

step out to show it off to Ashton, seeing his brows perk up I reveal the newest choice to him… caring a few slow nods of approval.

king perfect! He states boldly, as the lady chuckles at his statement.

it Mi you perfectly!” She adds, as I smile and admire it again in the larger mirror,

“Should I get this one for the ball? i ponder, as Aslitun nods eagerly, standing from his seat next

Dit get the blue for tomorrow and the red for the hall… great choices! He a

states confidently, as I think on it a little before I agree,

Chapter 35

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With the decision made, we moved to finalize the purchases. Isabella packed up the dresses carefully, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation. The thought of attending the Alpha ball and meeting the pack in these beautiful dresses sent floods of varying emotions dancing through

07:57

As we left the dress store, the afternoon sun felt warm on my skin, and I couldn’t stop smiling at the expensive looking dress bags we had left with……

I was living a dream these days….

“Last thing on the agenda today then… let’s go see your friend Lydin, shall we?” Ashton questions, as my mind returns back to for.

to the di

dinner I had hoped

I hope that she still wants to come… and that she hasn’t just avoided my invite….

That would suck!

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