Gonzalo's POV
After Alpha Michael left, I decided to change into more suitable attire for the evening's events. I made my way toward the main hall of Alpha Michael's pack territory, intent on finding Ruby. The guards stationed at the entrance recognized me and nodded, allowing me to enter without issue.
As I walked through the main hall, I couldn't help but be captivated by the energy and anticipation in the air. Pack members were engaged in various activities, from discussing strategies to sharing stories and laughter. The atmosphere was charged with excitement, and it was clear that everyone was preparing for the upcoming competition.
My goal, however, was to find Ruby. I knew that her father, Alpha Michael, had given instructions that she shouldn't see anyone, but I couldn't resist the urge to at least try.
I walked further into the hall, determined to find her. But as I attempted to go deeper into the halls of
Gonzalo's POV.I entered my tent, a sense of frustration and annoyance still lingered from the confrontation with Alpha Ralph. However, those feelings were quickly pushed aside when I noticed Lucas standing there, as though he had been eavesdropping on my conversation with Alpha Ralph just a few moments ago.Lucas, ever the perceptive and caring friend, was quick to inquire, "Is everything okay, Gonzalo?"I sighed and walked towards the bed, my frustration still fresh in my mind. "It's just Ralph, Lucas. He's trying to find something that isn't there. I don't want to give him any emotional advantage or engage in unnecessary confrontations."Lucas nodded in understanding, recognizing the delicate balance we had to maintain during this competition. "You're right, Gonzalo. We have to stay focused and not let any distractions get in the way of our goals."I could tell with that way he was standing by the
Ruby's POVAfter Gonzalo left, I remained seated in the quiet night, gazing up at the stars and relishing the peaceful atmosphere. The encounter with Gonzalo had left me feeling both excited and anxious. I knew the competition was about to begin, and the choices we'd make were going to shape our futures.Eventually, I decided to return to my room, but as I approached the guard who had allowed me to see Gonzalo earlier, I couldn't help but express my gratitude. "Thank you for letting me see Gonzalo," I said with a warm smile.The guard nodded politely, "You're welcome, Ruby."I continued down the hallways, lost in my thoughts. The pack's territory was vast and had an organized and regal quality about it. The moonlight filtering through the windows illuminated the path ahead, and I couldn't help but think about the various possibilities and challenges that lay in front of us.Just as I was about to reach my room, I spotted my father, Al
Ruby's POVThe morning sunlight streamed through the window of my room, casting a warm glow on the elegant furnishings. I was seated on a chair in front of a large mirror, where a maid was meticulously fixing my hair. Her nimble fingers worked with precision, weaving identical patterns into my hair.The maid, a young woman with kind eyes, gently touched my shoulder. "Are you alright, Lady Ruby?"I let out a soft sigh, my gaze fixed on the mirror. "I'm just nervous, that's all. The competition is starting soon, and I have to be ready to be presented to the contestants."Outside, the sounds of preparation and excitement for the competition were growing louder. The day had finally arrived, and the weight of my choices and the destiny of our packs were on my shoulders.The maid, sensing my anxiety, asked softly, "Do you have a preference, Lady Ruby? Between Alpha Ralph and Alpha Gonzalo, I mean."I pause
Ruby's POVAfter Vincent left, I had to regain my composure. His unexpected visit had brought back a flood of memories and emotions I thought I had buried. It had been a while since our relationship had felt distant and dry, and I wasn't sure if I wanted things to return to the way they were.I sat back down and finished fixing my hair on my own, each movement a deliberate act of self-sufficiency. My thoughts kept returning to Vincent's expression when he was in my room. It was clear that he was worried about me, and it made me realize how much we had drifted apart.As I dressed for the day, I put on the necklace I had received from my mother. It was a simple silver pendant with an intricate design, and it held sentimental value. Today, for some reason, I decided to merge it with the necklace my father had given me, creating a unique piece of jewelry that held pieces of both my parents. The weight of both p
Ruby's POVAs my father's speech concluded, the crowd's cheers filled the air, and I couldn't help but feel the intensity of the moment. The competition was about to begin, and the fates of our packs hung in the balance.The senior pack member stepped forward, and I watched with curiosity as he walked up to Alpha Ralph and Alpha Gonzalo, who were standing shirtless. The atmosphere grew solemn, and I sensed the significance of this moment. The senior pack member, who was a trusted and experienced individual, was about to perform a ritual that would symbolize the start of the competition.The senior pack member began the ritual by circling both Alpha Ralph and Alpha Gonzalo. He held a ceremonial knife, which gleamed under the sunlight. The knife had intricate carvings on its hilt, signifying tradition and power.With precision and intent, the senior pack member made small incisions on their chests, drawing blood. The blood trickl
Ruby's POVAfter Alpha Ralph's confident departure, I returned to my seat on the elevated podium, deep in thought. The conversation with him had left me feeling a mix of emotions. The competition was far from decided, and there was still Alpha Gonzalo to consider. As I played with my fingers, contemplating the choices ahead, my thoughts were interrupted when I noticed Alpha Gonzalo making his way toward me.He approached me with a warm smile, his intentions seemingly kind and gentle. I couldn't help but appreciate his respectful demeanor. He extended his arms, clearly aiming for a hug. However, I hesitated and avoided his embrace, causing him to notice my apprehension."Ruby, is everything okay?" he asked, a look of genuine concern in his eyes. He couldn't hide the worry he felt when he saw the expression on my face.I decided to be honest with him. "Alpha Gonzalo, it's been a challenging day so far. Alpha Ralph h
Ruby's POVVincent's insinuations about my possible preference for Gonzalo were starting to wear on my patience. As we continued our conversation, his persistent probing stirred an unexpected frustration within me."Vincent, please stop," I finally said, unable to contain my irritation any longer. "I'm trying to keep my feelings and thoughts in check. The more you say it, the more it stirs up unnatural feelings, and I can't afford that right now."He sighed and ran a hand through his hair, realizing the impact of his words. "I'm sorry, Ruby. I didn't mean to upset you."I nodded, appreciating his apology. "It's okay, Vincent. I know you mean well, but this is already complicated."Seeing the exhaustion on my face, Vincent offered to leave me alone. "If you need some space, I understand. Just remember that I'm here for you."I managed a small smile. "Thank you, Vincent. I appreciate your support."
Ruby's POVMy mother's question hung in the air, waiting for a response. It was a question that everyone seemed eager to ask. After a moment of reflection, I decided to give her a partial answer, not revealing my true feelings yet."I think I do," I said with a hint of mystery, hoping to keep the conversation light.My mother's eyes sparkled with curiosity as she took my hand. "Which one?" she asked, leaning in, eager for the inside scoop.I smiled, but my reply was playful and evasive. "I can't tell you, Mom. It'll ruin the fun."Deep down, I was weary of the constant questioning about my preference. I had become tired of it. It was a complex matter, and I didn't want to give anyone the satisfaction of knowing my choice just yet. Additionally, I couldn't shake off the suspicion that lingered around my mother, despite my tentative desire to rebuild our relationship.My mother accepted my respon