I gaze at the chaotic swirl of colors splattered across the canvas in front of me and let out a small chuckle. It was Kellan who had adamantly insisted I take up a hobby after I casually confessed that I didn't have any—or rather, that I'd never had the opportunity to explore any. Since that conversation, I've been pulled into trying all sorts of activities, from shaping clay in pottery classes to attempting to master various musical instruments. Nate, for his part, seems utterly bewitched by the violin. He's been dedicating himself to learning it with a fervor that I admire, although my own attempt quickly revealed that it definitely wasn't meant for me.
For the first time in my life, I'm doing something solely for myself. We even treated ourselves to new clothes, a stark contrast to the faded clothes we wore when we first arrived in Moonsand. Although I initially tried to decline Kellan's generous offer, he was adamant and wouldn't take no for an answer. I'm not complaining though, not at all.
As the Alpha Prime, Kellan's days are consumed by a relentless whirlwind of responsibilities. He's perpetually engaged in meetings, delegating tasks, or hurrying from one place to another, always accompanied by his reliable beta, Tristan. It's a sight that never fails to amuse me—seeing such a towering man rushing about with stacks of papers in hand.
Sighing contentedly, I place the paintbrush down and remove the apron I was wearing. A wave of satisfaction washes over me as I survey my colorful creation. The irony isn't lost on me; when I was exiled from my old pack, they likely never imagined I would end up living in such comfort and luxury. The thought makes me snicker, a hint of defiance in my amusement.
Who would have guessed that being cast out would lead me here. The stark contrast between my past and present is almost surreal. I think back to the hardships and the constant struggle to survive,to fit in and it makes this newfound tranquility even more precious.
I glance over at Nate, his face a picture of intense concentration as he studies the music sheet in front of him. Not wanting to break his focus, I quietly leave the room and decide to prepare for my upcoming date with Kellan. These dates have become a cherished routine over the past two weeks, a time where we can connect beyond the chaos of our daily lives.
As I get ready, I can't help but reflect on my growing feelings for Kellan. It's more than just physical attraction—though the lust is undeniably strong. Each day we delay our mating, the pull between us intensifies, making it increasingly difficult to resist. My wolf urges me to close the distance, to claim him, but I know our bond is deepening beyond mere instinct.
I smile to myself, thinking about how many times I've had to exercise restraint, stopping myself from mounting him right then and there, whether in public or in private. It's a struggle really, he is so attractive.
*
For today's date, I'm preparing dinner. Cooking was a skill I picked up as part of my alpha mate duties in my previous pack. Though I used to despise those long hours in the kitchen, I suppose I should thank them for the lessons. Back then, cooking for Jake was a thankless task. I would spend hours crafting meals, only for him to dismiss my efforts without a second glance. The memory still stirs a flicker of anger, especially when I think about the stark difference in Kellan's reaction. His face lights up with genuine excitement whenever I cook for him, making the effort feel worthwhile.
As I work on tonight's meal, the exile mark on my back occasionally twinges—a physical reminder of the Mystral Pack . The skin is still somewhat fragile, but it has healed significantly. Yet, whenever I think of the Mystral Pack, a deep pain resurfaces, quickly transforming into anger.
But tonight is about new beginnings and the growing bond between Kellan and me. The contrast between my past and present couldn't be clearer. Instead of resentment and dismissal, I now find appreciation and warmth. Kellan's genuine enthusiasm for something as simple as a home-cooked meal fills me with a sense of purpose and belonging I never thought I'd ever experience.
I won't pretend I was innocent. I did, in fact, mistreat Jake's beloved little mate, and my father did try to kill her and all. But, given my upbringing, it's not surprising. All I had ever known was being the pack Alpha's mate. My entire life was a series of events and preparations for that role—the clothes I wore, the friends I made, my hobbies, my image, even my body—all belonged to him.
Reflecting on it now, after meeting Kellan, I realize I never truly loved Jake. He was everything to me because that was how I had been conditioned. When his sweet little Freya appeared and threatened my position, of course I retaliated. I hated her fiercely, but it wasn't her fault that the moon decided she was his true mate. In the end, I became the villain in their nauseating love story.
The sizzle of oil snaps me out of my thoughts, and I decide to leave those memories behind, focusing instead on the meal I'm preparing. I can feel a sense of anticipation building as I think about seeing Kellan tonight.
With the help of the staff of wolves, I set the table, feeling satisfied with my work. Today, I'm wearing a floral green and yellow dress that accentuates my more-than-ample chest. Did I choose this dress on purpose? Absolutely.
I have a guilty pleasure, and it's watching Kellan become distracted, his eyes following me possessively. He's shameless about it, openly admiring me most of the time, and my wolf and I relish every moment of it. There's something intoxicating about having the most powerful wolf so captivated, eating out of the palm of my hand. It's addictive.
I quickly run my hands through my hair, smoothing out any stray strands, and brush off imaginary dust from my dress. The tingling sensation on my skin and my wolf's heightened alertness tell me that my mate is getting close.