A few weeks later, Antonio laid on his bed, deeply engrossed in a video call with Rachel. Her laughter, even through the phone, brought a warmth that pierced through Antonio's stern exterior. As they discussed their weekend plans, the excitement in their voices was a testament to the joy they found in each other's company.
A knock on the door interrupted their conversation. Antonio looked up, irritation flickering across his face. Jerome, his loyal beta, stepped into the room with a concerned expression.
"Sorry to interrupt, Alpha. The elders are here," he announced, his voice low and respectful.
"What for? They didn't mention it to me" Antonio said, sitting up.
"I think it's about her, there is a rumor going on within the pack," Jerome said.
Antonio's mood darkened instantly. "Why can't people just mind their business," he groaned, hoping for a bit more time to enjoy Rachel's company, but unfortunately, he had to attend to the elders first.
"Babe, I have to go," he said into the phone, his tone reluctantly serious. "I'll call you later."
Rachel's understanding voice came through the line.
"It's okay. Take care, my love."
Hanging up, Antonio stood, squaring his shoulders as he prepared to face the elders once more. "Show them into the meeting room," he commanded.
Jerome nodded and left the room, heading to the meeting room moments later with the elders following behind. The elders took their seats round the large wooden table, their faces grave with concern. Antonio took to the seat on the edge of the table, his eyes flashing with defiance.
"We've heard rumors about you and a woman in town," the head elder began, his voice dripping with disapproval. "We need to know the truth."
"They aren't rumors," Antonio said, his eyes calm and steady.
The elders' faces turned red with rage as Antonio spoke. "You can't be serious, Antonio," one of them growled. "She's not even one of us!"
Antonio's annoyance grew, his patience wearing thin. "Just because she doesn't have a wolf doesn't mean she's not one of us" he snapped.
The elders exchanged uncomfortable glances, their faces a mix of shock and anger. "But she's fragile, Antonio," one elder argued. "She can't protect herself like one of our own would, how can we trust her to protect the pack."
Antonio went silent as he stared into their faces, reading their expression. "I love her, and that's all that matters."
The woman that had earlier spoken leaned forward, her eyes soft yet firm. "Love is important, but we must consider the safety and well-being of the pack. Not only is she wolfless, she was banished and rejected by her mates which poses risks that we cannot ignore."
"We're not in support of your relationship with Rachel. We plan to visit Olivia and talk to her on your behalf" another elder chipped in. "Isn't it?" he asked, looking into the eyes of others and they responded with a nod.
"You want to beg Olivia? For what exactly?" Antonio asked in confusion.
"Beg her to accept you with the promise that you'll fix up your physique," Elder Marcus said.
"Huh," Antonio exclaimed in surprise.
"That is the best option right now. To plead with Olivia before things get out of control with Rachel," the head elder said.
Struggling to keep his anger down, Antonio voiced out. "None of you will go to Olivia, okay?"
"But… Alpha…" the only woman amidst them started. "Olivia is the one for you not Rach…"
Antonio's anger flared, interrupting the female elder as his voice rose. "I don't need some destined mate who's only with me because of prophecy and my looks. I need someone who loves me for who I am, and Rachel does."
"Antonio, you know the laws," the head elder said, sensing Antonio's anger. "Half breeds are not to be trusted. They're fragile, vulnerable... and they can't be part of our world."
Antonio's temper snapped. "Enough!" he roared, slamming his fist on the table. "I am the alpha, and I won't be questioned. You swore allegiance to me, to follow my leadership and obey my orders"
The room fell silent, the elders cowed by Antonio's outburst. He stood, his eyes flashing with warning. "I won't tolerate any more opposition from any of you" he growled, before turning and barging out of the meeting room.
Antonio didn't stop until he reached his bedroom. He paced around restlessly, the echoes of the elders' words still ringing in his ears. He took a deep breath, trying to steady the tumult of emotions within him. He needed Olivia for the stability and strengthening of the pack, but his heart beats for Rachel.
Jerome lingered in the doorway, concern written all over his face. "Alpha, are you sure about this? The elders… they have their reasons."
Antonio turned to his beta, his eyes hard but understanding. "I know, Jerome. But Rachel is different. She's worth fighting for. I can't afford to lose her. She's the first woman I've ever loved"
Jerome nodded slowly, respecting his alpha's conviction. "I stand with you, Alpha. Although the pack's safety is our priority, your happiness matters too."
"The elders don't seem to understand that. I've lived for the pack, never going against the traditions, and this only time I've decided to be happy, they're against it," Antonio complained. "What should I do, Jerome?"
"I have an idea," Jerome said and Antonio's face lightened up immediately.
"How about we introduce Rachel to the pack," Jerome suggested. "Let her meet the elders, show them she's not a threat."
Antonio considered his words. "You think that will work?"
"It's worth a try," Jerome said. "The pack needs to see that although she's weak, she's still one of us."
"Thank you, very much, Jerome" Antonio placed a hand on his friend's shoulder, grateful for his unwavering support. "I really appreciate it."
Just then, Antonio's phone buzzed. It was Rachel. Her name on the screen brought a smile to his face, momentarily lifting the burden he carried. He signaled to Jerome who smiled and left the room.
"Hey babe," he answered, his voice softer, more relaxed.
"Hi love," Rachel replied. "Is everything okay? You sounded tense earlier."
Antonio hesitated, then decided to be honest. "The elders came by. They're worried about us, about you being weak and vulnerable."
Rachel hesitated, her mind racing with the thoughts of the consequences their relationship might bring. "I see. I'll call you later, I need to do something," she said.
Antonio frowned as the call ended abruptly, wondering what Rachel was planning.