Chapter 9 By the time he came to his senses , most of his territory had been seized , and he was dethroned , a mere failure . He also grew to hate Riley for conspiring against him . And without his protection . Riley was as helpless as a lamb to the slaughter . She was completely at the mercy of those who wanted to exploit her , and her fate was sealed . Liam sent Riley to the coldest region in the North , where , after months of torment , she ended her own life . Her sins had finally caught up with her . for him , when he found out he had bone rot disease , he simply gave up , choosing to spend his remaining days in Silver Moon Valley , using it as a way to escape his guilt . I unblocked him . The most recent message was : Seraphina , if I spend the rest of my life in Silver Moon Valley , will you forgive me ? His voice was full of remorse , desperate for my forgiveness , yearning for salvation , for a return to the past . My only reaction was to silently applaud . The Moon Goddess is just after all , ensuring everyone gets what they deserve . My inner wolf was rejoicing in his tragic fate . As for talking to Liam , that would never happen . I wanted him to live each day with his remorse . I would never forgive him . his sins were unforgivable and he needed to spend the rest of his days repenting for them .. Another winter arrived , bringing the first snow . I found myself standing outside Caspians apartment building again . After taking a brief glance upwards , I tightened my coat and turned to leave , trying to suppress my feelings , not wanting to fall back into that abyss . Then , a black umbrella appeared over my head . It was Caspian , who had shed his boyish features and become a mature werewolf . His gaze was unwavering , and his wolf had fully awakened , making him a strong protector . He smiled at me , Still leaving again this year ? his voice gentle , full of hope . He was still waiting , he had never given up on me , his love was so resolute . I didnt answer , I just pulled him close , finally finding the shoulder I could lean on , finally finding my belonging , my one and only mate . I had always been a coward , because a failed relationship had kept me from loving , and it had pushed away the people who loved me . I was scared to get hurt again , I was scared to lose again . Thank you , Caspian , for still waiting . I will spend the rest of my life repaying you for your steadfast love , and I will cherish your love for me, and use my life to protect you .