Wolf Endangered (Willow's Forbidden Pack #2) - Avery Song Page 0,55

crowd feel a sense of guilt that it had come to this point of forcing me to reveal the truth due to another's selfishness.

"I'll be the first to say yes, William is indeed Willow, the woman who I stand protectively for. My son during the day...and daughter during the night, has lived a double life for the sake of making me proud," he revealed. "I'll also be the first to say that I didn't originally support my child and this transition. Though it wasn't a circumstance they deserved, I originally disliked the idea that my William was only a male for half the day. My judgment caused me to act out poorly as a father, and though you are witnessing Willow De Luca for the first time in the official public light, let me tell you that she's grown to be a powerful woman in the background."

What...is he doing?

"I'm well aware that in the event of my death, all my assets would be changed over to William De Luca, and as of midnight, it was confirmed that he would carry my legacy. However, I've updated that agreement as of noon, which was a minute ago."

I had to fight the urge to let my jaw drop as I sensed the pack's shock. Even Viktor seemed a bit taken aback by Roberto's words, and we all waited in anticipation for what he was going to say.

"When I was born, I was taught that women are weak. That they couldn't carry themselves in this harsh world, and passing responsibilities down to them would be a waste of one's struggles," he disclosed. "That mindset was changed by raising my child. During the days, I got to see a hard-working boy, who grew up to be a man worthy of taking over my empire and all the success he built on his own. However, what always left me speechless was witnessing the hard work that Willow would put in at night. During the time when many slept and recovered from the day, Willow would continue to learn, train, and widen her accomplishments and knowledge. She'd work towards a level of endurance where nothing could bring her down, and till this day, the only thing that could end her...was herself."

A tear spilled down my face, and Onyx's hand swiped it away before he reached for my hand and held it gently. No one would see thanks to Roberto and Viktor standing before us, and it was the support I needed to keep it together, because Roberto's words were something I'd been waiting to hear my entire life.

"With that being said, I approved of William's resignation because I wanted the world to see my child. To see both sides of my child, who I'm immensely proud of. To acknowledge that William and Willow are the same," he emphasized. "Now that it has been officially announced by Willow herself, I can officially announce that I, Roberto De Luca, am stepping down from my position as CEO, and have appointed my child, who in this moment in time is Willow De Luca, as the official CEO of my enterprise and my empire."

I was speechless, like everyone else, but he had more to say.

"Due to this being a big transition in power, I will still be in a vice president position to aid my child through this big shift. I also ask that those who support William De Luca support Willow De Luca, for they are the same individual and carry the same passion, drive, and determination to implement a fresh coat of change in the realms of finance, fashion, and mental health awareness." He looked through the crowd as he continued. "I made a mistake by not verbally declaring how amazed I am by Willow's perseverance to aid me in my work, even though it was taking a toll on her desire to live amongst the shadows. I want to change that, and that is what prompts this rather drastic decision. Please know that those in collaboration with our businesses are aware of the coming change and humbly support this transition. I ask the public to do the same, so that my child realizes that gender does not determine your worth in this world. It's your actions, perseverance, and ability to tackle life’s challenges that allows your light to shine and change the lives of many, whether it's by the kindness you show, the determination you project to inspire others, or the reputation you allow to be seen while