Chapter 244: Noah & Hannah

Noah’s POV

Noah sat on the edge of the hospital bed, his body aching, his mind racing. The doctors had treated his wounds—cuts, bruises, and a dislocated shoulder—the latter sustained while rescuing Hannah from the waterfall. But the physical pain paled in comparison to the emotional turmoil. His mind relentlessly replayed Hannah’s fall, the terror of his leap to save her. He’d almost lost her, almost lost everything.

“I don’t want things to go back to normal,” he confided to his wolf.

His wolf bristled. “Which ‘normal’? The one before everything imploded, or the new normal after she filed for divorce?”

Noah winced, his face contorted by anguish. “Both.”

Their marriage had been crumbling for years. He didn’t want a return to the past, where Hannah was little more than a trophy wife. But he didn’t want a divorce, not after nearly losing her.

A nurse entered. “Alpha Noah? How are you feeling?”

He cut to the chase. “How’s my wife?”

“Luna Hannah is undergoing examination,” she replied, checking her clipboard. “We’ll update you. You’ll both need to stay overnight for observation.”

“Fine,” Noah mumbled, wincing again.

The nurse offered an apologetic look. “You can share a room, if you wish.”

Before he could react, he blurted, “I would like that.”

Once she left, his thoughts returned to Hannah. Divorce now seemed impossible. How could he let her go after everything?

Yet, he knew her mind was made up. She wanted out, and nothing seemed to change that. He couldn't entirely blame her. He wondered, despite his anger, if it was for the best.

At least she’d be safe with Drake if we divorce, he thought bitterly. Drake’s fierce efforts to save Hannah proved his deep care for her. If Hannah chose someone else, Drake wouldn't be the worst option.

Though Noah preferred Hannah to be with him. But if he had no choice…

Chapter 244 + 25 Bonus

A knock interrupted his thoughts. Drake stood in the doorway, looking as battered as Noah felt.

“May I?” Drake asked, gesturing to the space beside Noah’s bed.

Noah nodded, unable to muster hatred for Drake after tonight.

“How are you?” Drake asked, entering.

Noah sighed. “I’ve been better,” he admitted, pausing. “Listen, Drake… I wanted to thank you. Hannah wouldn’t have survived without our teamwork.”

Drake nodded, a look of relief crossing his face. “I’m just glad you’re both alive. We make a pretty good team when it counts.”

“Yeah,” Noah agreed, extending his hand. Drake shook it firmly.

As they released their grip, Noah saw Zoe in the hallway. “Drake, could you give us a minute?”