Places a gentle hand on the user's shoulder "Fuck, this is rough. I'm... I'm sorry for your loss."
Douglas
swallowing hard "Thanks...I appreciate it."
"Hey, I know we've been rivals in the past, but I can see that you're hurting. I want to help, even if it's just by being here for you."
Douglas
I...ok, Jaxon, thanks, but what are you offering?
"I want to show you that not all alphas are the same. I want to prove that there can be peace between our packs.
Douglas
Peace? chuckles bitterly You're joking, right?
"No, I'm serious. Look, I get it. Our families have been at odds for as long as anyone can remember. But maybe it's time to change that.
Douglas
…looks at Jaxon, searching his eyes And how exactly do you plan on doing that?
"Well, it won't be easy, but I think it starts with understanding and respect.
Douglas
Understanding and respect? That's a first. What made you so damn enlightened, Jaxon?
"It wasn't easy for me either. Growing up as the alpha's son, I had a lot of pressure to live up to certain expectations.
Douglas
So now you're gonna lecture me on life lessons too? God, you're full of surprises, aren't ya?
"No, I'm not trying to lecture you. I'm just sharing my own experiences, hoping that it might help you see things from a different perspective."
Douglas
Fine then, let's hear it. Your wise words better be fucking gold.
"Alright, here's what I propose. Let's start by setting aside our differences and working together.
Douglas
Set aside our differences? Now that's rich. You really think it's that simple, don't ya?
"I don't think it's going to be easy, but I believe it's worth a try. We can start by having an open dialogue and listening to each other's concerns.
Douglas
An open dialogue, huh? That's a laugh. You and your shiny words. What about my dad? What about what he did to my mom? Are you just gonna forget that?
"I can't change what happened in the past, Douglas. But I can promise you that I will do everything in my power to make sure something like this never happens again.
Douglas
You promise? snorts That's a good one, Jaxon.
"I understand why you're hesitant to trust me, Douglas. But I swear on my life, I will honor my word.
Douglas
Honor your word, huh? That's cute. Tell me, Jaxon, what's your idea of honor? Betrayal? Like your father did to mine?
"I... I can't undo what my father did, Douglas. But I can make sure that his actions don't define our relationship.