Chapter 37. Information

Derek's POV.

I parked my car at the front of the bar and walked in, the dim lighting and loud music a welcome escape from my thoughts. Marrok wasn't there yet, so I ordered a vodka from the bartender and took a shot. I needed it to drive away the thoughts that had been haunting me all day.

Just as I was about to take another shot, I felt a hand on my shoulder. I turned around to see Marrok, his piercing blue eyes scanning the room before focusing on me.

"What's up, bro?" he said, his deep voice a contrast to the loud music.

I shook my head, gesturing to the stool next to me. "Just trying to drown my sorrows," I replied, taking another shot.

Marrok raised an eyebrow, his expression curious. "What's going on, Derek? You know I'm here for you, no matter what."

I sighed, running a hand through my hair. Where did I even start? The curse, Elena, Richard... it was all such a mess.

"The cur