Conrad kept close to her as they made their way towards the forest. He’s got this prickly feeling in his chest, whenever he catches another guy looking at his mate. It’s an irritating feeling, but he knew he needed to keep it under control.
Alice noticed his closeness but it did make her feel safe in this unfamiliar territory. At one point, he grabbed her wrist and held it as they walked. Then, he started telling her the areas in the pack that they’ve come across. She looked around and felt a certain level of calm in her heart. This place seems to have that effect on her. It looks peaceful. It’s simple and neat but that’s its beauty.
She frowned at how organized and tidy the place was. Her old pack is known for being chaotic and messy. The environment alone keeps her alert and on guard. But here… she likes the momentary feeling she’s having. She took in a deep breath and the smelled his scent again. Apples. At some point, his hand has moved toward hers and clasped it. It’s warm and seems to be sending a tingly feeling through her arm towards her body. She knew this is a result of the mate pull. She wants to be as close to him as possible.
He tugged her towards the woods they were in yesterday and she simply followed while staring at him.
She actually found her mate, but what should she do now? Last night, she hasn’t been able to make a decision. It’s a good thing that she doesn’t want to let go, but her conscience couldn’t let them suffer because of her. She has to go.
Sensing her feelings, Conrad squeezed her hand and stopped walking. She bumped into him, a clear indication that she was spacing out.
“I’m sorry.” She looked around, unsure why they stopped walking. This isn’t the place.
“You look sad.” He carefully touched her cheek and she savored the feeling.
Alice bit her lip. Yeah, she is. She stared directly at him. She would commit his appearance to her memory. She’s happy to have simply met him so she smiled.
Sighing, Conrad asked, “Can you tell me what your situation is? Your companions couldn’t tell us much. All they know is that you’re being hunted. Who’s after you and why are they hunting you down?”
This is the task his father gave him, but he’s equally curious. Why would anyone want to hurt his mate? An indescribable anger surged from within him and she felt it. Her eyes widened and she tried to pull her hand away.
Conrad closed his eyes and took deep breaths, but he didn’t let her go.
“Sorry. I just… I’m angry because there are people who wants to hurt you. I won’t let them hurt you. I’ll protect you.”
His swords are sweet, but she couldn’t…
After she retrieves the daggers, she would ask them for supplies. Then, she will be off. Just like that, she has made her decision. Her heart aches, but it’s what she must do.
“Alice?”
“I have to leave. I can’t stay here.”
Her words alarmed him.
“No. You have to stay. This is your home now.” There’s urgency in his voice and he gripped her hand tighter.
Home. That sounds nice.
“I can’t…” She told him again.
“Why can’t you?” He pressed for an answer.
Alice shook her head. “I don’t want to cause you trouble. They would attack your pack if I stay here.”
Just thinking about it makes her feel so much guilt. Her mother died protecting her.
“We know that part already. And as my mate, do you really think I would simply let you go? I’m going to protect you. My father knows it’s the right thing to do.”
“It’s too risky…” She continued. “Members of your pack could die if they attack.”
“We’ll be prepared for that. We’re not exactly weak.”
Seeing the doubt on her face, Conrad knew he must convince her.
“It’s the Silver Crescent, right? They’re notorious for their strength and brutality, sure, but I can assure you that we can take them on. Won’t you trust me?”
Okay, it might be too early to ask that from her. They don’t know each other yet, but here he is, asking her to trust him.
“Alice, you’re my mate. That means you’re going to be this pack’s Luna later on. There are no coincidences to the Moon Goddess, is there? You’re meant to be here.”
Alice very much wanted to believe his words and rely on him. But could she really?
“Why don’t you tell me the situation first? That way we would be more prepared. We need to know what you know to do that. You can tell me anything, Alice.” He likes saying her name. It still feels surreal to him that he found her after so many years. It’s a good thing that he waited until now. The elders have already advised him to choose a mate instead. Thankfully, he didn’t listen.
“I ran away from my pack.” She began after a few minutes of silence that they stared at each other.
He nodded and encouraged her to continue.
“Alpha Walter wants me dead.” She admitted.
Conrad frowned at this. “Why?” Why would that vicious wolf want her dead?
“He… he killed my mother. He k-killed his mate. He’s my f-father.” Her voice trembled as she told him the truth.
Conrad inhaled deeply as she finally gave him some answers. So, some of the rumors were true. The guy actually killed his own mate. But that begs the question, why?
The rumors… somehow, he couldn’t bring himself to ask her. Are you sure he’s your father? Why would he want you dead if he is?
The implication would be… her mother was truly unfaithful. Then, who’s her father?
Alice watched his expression closely.
“They’re saying he may or may not be my father, aren’t they?” She asked in a low voice, her expression turning serious. She considered it and it could be possible. Otherwise, the man who showed her love for many years wouldn’t just… kill his own flesh and blood.
“Your mother didn’t tell you anything?” Since she brought it up, Conrad simply wanted to make sure.
Alice shook her head. Her mother didn’t say anything. She couldn’t even understand how her father could possibly know what the truth is. He came home one night with the intent to murder them. It was horrifying. Remembering that night made her cry and Conrad was alarmed to see her tears.
“I’m sorry. I promise he won’t be able to come near you. I’ll protect you.” He enclosed her in his arms and she finally let herself grieve. It has been so long and she’d been enduring so much.
I'll try to update three chapters a week. Enjoy reading :)
She cried for a while and Conrad tried his best to comfort her. He felt helpless with his words. He knew he would truly protect her and keep her safe, but she can’t seem to accept it. He can tell she’s having thoughts of leaving. Alice found comfort in his arms. She grudgingly admitted to herself that she liked the feeling. To have someone to lean on… but she really doesn’t want to trouble them. She wiped her tears and stepped away from him. “I’m sorry.” “You have nothing to be sorry about.” Conrad replied, itching to touch her again. She turned away from him and asked, “Should we move on? I really want to retrieve my daggers.” Conrad checked their position and gestured towards a certain direction, “This way.” As soon as they neared the place, Alice sniffed the air. The daggers definitely have her scent. They’re very dear to her and she sleeps at night holding them. Conrad picked up the scent as well but he let her find it. It
Conrad decided to give her more time. He understands it won’t be easy for her to trust him when she spent the last few months only relying on herself and the others she’d been with. When they neared the lake, he heard her softly gasp.“It’s beautiful, isn’t it?” He’s proud of this scenery. It’s one of the best places in their territory. Also, it’s calming.The surface of the lake is calm and reflects the mountains beyond. The colors are clear, perfectly simulating a mirror.Her pace became faster and she almost skipped towards it, going ahead of him.He chuckled at her reaction. He’s glad she likes it.Alice also noticed the cute houses that were situated near the lake. There were two of them. She assumed those were the houses he mentioned. Her gaze focused on the lake and its water surface. She breathed in the fresh air, too. His scent of apples tickled her nostrils. It made
The more he looks at her, the more he wants her. But he kept himself under control. They ate everything his mother prepared, which wasn’t much. Apparently. After a few hours of light conversation, in which he told her things about the pack, the sun has gotten very hot against their skin. It must be lunch time already. “Do you want to head back? Or stay a while longer?” Conrad asked her and she contemplated. “Can we come back here?” She likes this place. “Of course. Any time you want. It’s not restricted. I can come with you if I’m not busy.” Alice nodded. “Let’s go back, then.” She helped in packing the basket and they walked back. “Do you want me to show you around?” Though he told her what she would find in the pack, it’s not the same as seeing them. Alice hesitated. “Can I rest for a while?” He noticed the way she seemed to wince while asking. “Of course. I should’ve known you would be tired. How long has it been since you last had a fun run?” “Almost a year?” “Back in yo
Alice stared at him straight. She could sense his feelings. He’s nervous. She could feel his sincerity. His words touched her deeply. She badly wanted to believe him, yes. But this morning, didn’t she tell herself that she would leave? Conrad didn’t press her for a reply. He kissed her forehead and they walked back to the house. There were people on the way, but she seemed distracted and not ready to meet anyone so he excused themselves as he escorted her to his room. Well, their room. He left her there after a while, telling her to think about what he said. He needed to see his father. What he learned isn’t much, things they could’ve speculated based on the rumors going around. His father is starting to gather more factual information about Alpha Walter of the Silver Crescent Pack. His past isn’t good. There was a period of time that he seemed tame but now he’s uncontrollable. “We’re going to keep Alice here, right?” Conrad wanted a direct answer from his father and alpha. “Of c
Conrad spent a long time with his father, the pack leaders and the elders. They’re happy that he has found his mate, but they were also concerned that she’s trouble. Alpha Walter is hunting her. If they keep her in the pack, they would have to battle it out with Silver Crescent. A pack that has a reputation for being ruthless and stronger than most. There were heated arguments about it. It’s practically half and half. At least half were supportive of him, who doesn’t mind her presence, and looking at the situation like a challenge. Maybe it’s time they battle it out with that pesky pack. Yes, Snow Mountain may not be able to handle it on its own, but that’s why they have allies. The neighboring packs would most likely help them out. The other half are either pessimists or cowards. They like their current comfort and didn’t want it to change. Or they simply don’t want to engage in a confrontation with a vicious pack. The rest understand that packs like
“You’re safer here. I’ve said this many times already, I’m going to protect you. I promise you that.” Alice let him pull her closer to him. She stared into his eyes, searching for something. It’s not as if she’s good at discernment but she could usually tell if someone’s lying. Also, he is her mate. He would surely feel compelled to protect her, keep her safe, and have intimate feelings for her. “Would you really?” She wanted confirmation. She wanted to trust his words but she’s afraid he would let her down. These last few months, what she learned is that she can only rely on herself. “I will. You’re a part of me now. You are my mate. If you get hurt, I would feel your pain and I can’t stand that. Your pain is my pain. Your sadness is mine as well. I will keep you safe and make sure you’re happy in this pack. This is your pack now, just as it is mine.” When she looked like she’s going to cry again, he took her into his arms and hugged her tigh
She seemed to return to her senses after tasting his blood. Her eyes widened as she froze atop him. What has she done? Seeing her shocked expression, Conrad understood that it was an unconscious reaction on her part. But still… how did she have the urge to mark her own mate? “I’m sorry… I didn’t mean to…” She looked at the mark she made and her gaze darkened. How could she carelessly mark him? Without his consent as well? She feels terrible. He breathed out and held her in place. “It’s fine.” His assurance made her feel even more guilty and he can see that. He caressed her back, trying to make her relaxed. Well, women can technically mark their partners but it was not necessary in mating. What’s required is for the male to mark his mate. “I like it.” That sentence from him was better, relieving her. She sighed as she stared at him with a remorseful expression. After a while, his hand moved from her back towards her arm
Conrad brought her everywhere he goes. When he can, that is. He introduced her to everyone they meet and it was clear as day that she is his mate. He kept her close and he’s always touching her. He’s either holding her hand or keeping a hand on her back.Every one in the pack is happy for him. Also, they understand that she’s their future Luna. No one dared to be disrespectful. Even when they learned that the previous incident was technically because of her presence, no one dared to voice out their opinion or pin the blame on her.Also, it’s quite a change to see their next Alpha blissfully happy with his mate. He’s a good leader and they mean to support him in everything. His father trained him well.And so, Alice was warmly welcomed by everyone. His family has been wonderful. The members of the pack have been nice to her. No one was hostile.Well, they were actually a few complaints but Conrad and his father made their posi