After Ninety-Nine Times

Today was the birthday party of our pack’s Alpha, and the third day after my accidental miscarriage.

However, when Judy knocked over the champagne tower and dirtied the Alpha’s clothes, Leonard’s first reaction was to shield Judy behind him and turn to me.

“Mia, apologize to the Alpha on Judy’s behalf.”

I looked at the man I had loved for six years in disbelief.

The Alpha frowned as well, clearly unhappy with Leonard’s solution. Judy instantly teared up, hiding behind Leonard’s back and tugging at his sleeve weakly.

Leonard patted her arm to comfort her and whispered in my ear, “Judy only joined our pack recently. She doesn’t know anyone here, plus she’s naturally timid. Since she’s pregnant now, she shouldn’t drink any alcohol.

“Why don’t you take the punishment drinks on her behalf? Convince the Alpha to forgive her.”

He shoved me forward before I could say anything, then he raised his wine glass and drained it. “Come on, this is a joyous day! Mia, let’s wish the Alpha a happy birthday and a wonderful life together with his Luna.”

Leonard’s voice was bright and loud, trying to ease the awkward atmosphere.

When I stayed silent, he looked at me again over his glass and mouthed, “You can use a forgiveness coupon.”

Back then, Leonard had asked me to be his Mate 98 times, and I had rejected him 98 times.

I thought he would give up, but he summoned all the werewolves in the pack for the 99th time and got on his knees, swearing to the Moon Goddess,

“Mia, you’re the only Mate I’ll ever have. If you refuse me, I’ll keep asking until you agree.”

I was moved by his determination and love. After that, I established a Mate Bond with him.

To repay his love, I gave him 99 handmade forgiveness coupons on the day of our Marking Ceremony. I promised him that I would forgive him 99 times. As long as he still had coupons left over, I would forgive him and stay with him no matter what he did.

In the first five years, Leonard treasured the opportunity I gave him and my faith in him. He did not use a single coupon.

Half a year ago, however, his childhood friend Judy joined our pack.

Within six months, he had used up 98 coupons. This was the 99th.

I pressed my pale lips together and lifted the glass with a tight grip, forcing a smile at the Alpha. “Sorry, Alpha Mike. Please accept my apology on Judy’s behalf. I wish you and your Luna the happiest days ahead.”

The Alpha exchanged a look with his Luna and told me there was no need for a toast. Even so, I downed the whole glass with a smile.

After I turned to leave, the other werewolves at the party started whispering among themselves. They all knew this was not my fault, and they knew I should not be drinking this soon after my miscarriage.

Leonard was the only one who had forgotten.

I had barely left the party when I looked back and saw Judy pressing her body against Leonard, saying sweetly, “Thanks for saving me, Leonard. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

Leonard put a little distance between them and said exasperatedly, “Be more careful next time. Mia and I can’t help you forever.”

Judy glanced at me by the door and then beamed at Leonard, nodding. “Okay, got it! You’re always so good to me, Leonard.”

She was right. Leonard was so good to her.

The alcohol stung my throat. I forced back the tears in my eyes and the vomit rising in my throat.

‘It’s fine,’ I told myself quietly. ‘With that, all 99 coupons have been used up.

‘I’m leaving you for good, Leonard.’