Marked By the Pureblood Alpha (Deanna and Luis) novel Chapter 343

**Chapter 343: Your Childhood Self**

In a moment steeped in tension, Jake sensed the weight of a gaze piercing through him. He glanced up, his eyes locking onto another pair, and for a fleeting instant, the world around them faded into obscurity.

The two men stood in silent confrontation, each bearing the same inscrutable expression, dark and heavy with unspoken rivalry.

Jake’s voice was laced with irritation as he broke the silence. “What are you staring at? I’m not like you. At least I once had her.” His words dripped with bitterness, a reminder of a past that felt both cherished and tainted.

Malcolm’s features, usually soft and approachable, hardened at Jake’s retort. “Oh really? But at least I’m still her friend. You? You’re nothing.” Each word cut through the air, sharp and unforgiving, piercing Jake’s heart like a dagger.

In the depths of his mind, Jake wrestled with the reality of his situation. Lately, he had been forcing himself to accept that Deanna was no longer his. The truth stung like a bitter cold wind; she had moved on, and he was left to grapple with the remnants of their love.

He reminded himself that he wasn’t the type to linger like some wretched fool, clinging to shadows of what once was. That wasn’t who he was! Yet, every time a friend casually mentioned her name, Jake felt the façade of his supposed restraint crumble, revealing the raw ache beneath.

With a chilling calmness, Jake’s voice dropped, “And what does being a friend get you? Standing there watching her walk into another man’s arms? Might as well close your eyes.” The truth of his words hung heavily in the air.

Malcolm nodded, a reluctant admission dawning on him. Watching Deanna with another man was a torment he could hardly bear. Yet, a flicker of hope still resided within him, a small, greedy whisper that longed to comfort her if she was unhappy.

A bitter laugh escaped Malcolm’s lips, weak and tinged with sorrow. “You and I are no different, Jake. We’ve both lost to M Eaton.”

Jake scoffed, a harsh sound that echoed his frustration. “Luis better treat her right. If he doesn’t, I swear I’ll storm the Mooncrown Pack myself and take her back.” The fierce protectiveness in his voice was palpable, a testament to his lingering feelings.

Malcolm glanced in the direction where Deanna and Luis had disappeared, but they were already gone, leaving behind only the memory of their presence. “If Mr. Eaton announced their marriage during a time like this, it means he’s serious.”

He paused, weighing his next words carefully. “And between you and me, you have even less of a chance than I do.”

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