One Year Six Months Later.
The sounds of bones breaking and skin tearing filled the air as the fighters changed into their wolf form. It was getting closer to the end of the training session.
The training had become more hectic but Rowland who was training hard was eager to finish the wolf training. His thoughts were elsewhere.
He hasn't seen Cassy for one week now because of the intense training and he misses her badly. He can't wait to see her and her beautiful face.
"What's on your mind, Row? You look distracted. Don't let your father catch you" Rowland receives a mindlink from his friend Della. He was also his Delta.
"I wonder why he keeps coming to the training this past week. Isn't he going for his trips anymore?" Rowland replied.
" Perhaps, he is leaving everything for you to handle. You will be taking over from him soon and if I am not partial, I would say Alpha Frederick was one hell of an Alpha!" He said.
" Yeah. But he failed to be one hell of a father! Let's say he excels in being one hell of an Alpha and a pawn to his mistress!" Rowland snorted.
"I think you are right, Row. I hate that woman too. I can't wait to spread out all her dirty linen in public!" Della replied.
"Yeah. And I bet the stench alone might make the almighty Alpha Frederick puke!" Rowland replied.
They growled in excitement as they ran across the bush path. They were supposed to be back beating the previous record.
It wasn't hard for Rowland because he was an athlete in high school. He was fortunate or according to him unfortunate to be sent to the human realm for schooling.
It wasn't easy for him to control himself at first but gradually, he adapted to the lifestyle of humans. He was graduating in two months and he would be returning permanently to the pack.
Although he never stayed out, that part of his life felt like a new world to him. He always wondered if it was worth schooling over in the human realm but then he can't go against his father.
Rowland was sure it must have been Kiara's idea to get him away from home for some time. Unfortunately for her, his father was reluctant for him to go boarding in the human realm.
He only enjoyed it because he went there with Della, his friend.
Rowland looked at his friend who was running along with him. They kept running until they got to the stopping point. Luckily, they met the cut-off points.
*******
Rowland was in total bliss as the bond between Cassy and him grew stronger. They met regularly at the pond where they had met for the first time one year and six months ago.
It still feels like a dream to him. In a way, he would have to thank Kiara for making him angry that day. If he had not run off into the forest that day, he might not have come across Cassy.
As for Cassy, over the months she had grown into a beautiful and bold woman who wasn't afraid to get what she wants. They constantly meet up now and then.
And Rowland had remained her only source of joy. She had been able to overcome everything thrown at her as long as Rowland was by her side.
Their relationship had bloomed over the months and they couldn't wait to get married once Rowland clocks eighteen according to the Pack's rule.
Though her father still nags her from time to time he relented when he saw how close the Alpha's son adores her. At least, he was going to earn from Catalina's daughter.
Cassy had become more open toward Rowland and they shared lots of secrets. She still works at the bar, though. Cassy always talks about her night shifts at the bar down her street.
Rowland had tried to stop her but she refused." I am an independent woman, Rolly. I only need you to shower your love on me. A little assistance won't be rejected, although it isn't my utmost aim"
She had always told him these words whenever Rowland asked her to quit the bar work. Cassy knew he was jealous because of the men flocking there but she always assured him of his place in her heart.
"You are irreplaceable, Rolly" She always tells him.
Being a beautiful woman who just blossomed into her youth, Cassy was flocked by different suitors and admirers. But, she had her eyes on only one man.
Although she had tried to convince him of her undying love for him, he still wasn't too pleased with her working at the bar. He had always insisted she quit the job.
Cassy had underestimated his jealousy! Her only excuse was to use her father. She told him that's the only way to keep her father at bay.
One day, they lay quietly on the grass filled with lilies and the scent of fresh air wafted through their nose.
Rowland could tell that his wolf was growing stronger every day. He knew it was almost time for his eighteenth birthday and on that day he was supposed to meet his mate.
"What if I am not your mate, Rolly?" Cassy asked as she leaned on his broad shoulder.
"I don't care," Rowland replied nonchalantly.
"Rolly, you know it's impossible not to care," Cassie said.
"It is as long as it is anything relating to mates. I already love you…you are already the one I love, Cassy. My dear, you know how much I have grown to love you" Rowland said, kissing her rosy lips.
Then he added," What about you? What would you do if I am not your mate?".
"It would never happen. You are my boyfriend and…mate" Cassy said looking straight into his eyes.
"Of course, I know this very well but let's assume the moon goddess decided to give you your real mate, what would you do?" Rowland asked.
This question has been bothering Rowland for some time. He can only vouch for his decision but what about Cassy? Would she willingly leave her mate for him?
"Rolly, I can't have a mate," Cassy blurted out, afraid she might not have the courage to say it again.
That was her curse…from her mother.