Page 99 of Abandoned By My Alpha Husband

"Also," I continued, "I've already set up a trust fund for Anya. Her education, her living expenses, everything she'll need in the future—it's all arranged."

Elena's eyes went wide. A trust fund. We both knew what that meant.

"And if you're willing," I gripped her hand tighter, "I can give you custody of Liam."

Her head snapped up. "What?"

"Custody of Liam," I repeated. "Elena, I know you've felt guilty about not being there as he grew up. So if you want, he can stay with you. Both children with you."

"But..." Her voice trembled. "But the Elder Council—"

"I'll handle them," I said. "Elena, I'm the king of Silver pine. I can decide who gets custody of my son."

"But this..." She shook her head. "This will put too much pressure on you. The Elder Council won't agree—"

"That's my problem." I cut her off. "Elena, I just need to know—will you give me a chance?"

She looked at me. Finally, tears spilled down her cheeks.

"Lucifer..."

"I know the bond I broke isn't easy to repair." My voice was soft. "I know the hurt you suffered won't heal quickly. But Elena, I'll spend the rest of my life making it up to you. I'll prove I'm worth your trust."

Her hand trembled in my palm.

"I..." She took a deep breath. "I need time."

"I need to... adjust," she explained carefully. "Lucifer, these five years, I've raised Anya alone. I'm used to being independent. I don't know... I don't know how to trust someone again."

"I understand." I squeezed her hand. "Elena, however long you need, I'll wait. You don't need to feel guilty."

She looked at me, tears still on her face, but a small smile curved her lips.

"Thank you," she said softly.

I smiled too. "Don't thank me, silly. I love you."

Even though Elena hadn't agreed yet, the hollow place in my chest felt like it had been filled with something warm.

I would wait.

However long it took, I would wait.

Because she was worth it.

Because she was my mate.

Because I loved her.

Chapter Twenty-Six

Elena

On the drive home, I stared out the window.

The streetscape rolled past frame by frame, lamplight sliding across the glass, casting gold streaks over my face. Anya leaned against my shoulder, already asleep, her small hand clutching my sleeve, breathing steady and warm.

"I'll spend the rest of my life making it up to you."