A Meeting With the Alpha

Last night was a blur. After talking with the guest, I momentarily went back to my bedroom and went straight to bed. I awaken to the muffled sound of hushed voices drifting through my bedroom door. Blinking away the remnants of sleep, I sit up in bed just as Ophelia and Solaria enter the room. Their presence, coupled with their animated conversation, indicates that something significant has transpired.

"I told you she's alive," Solaria declares triumphantly, her voice tinged with relief and excitement.

"Morning," I greet them, my voice still laced with traces of sleep. Their presence both comforts and intrigues me, leaving me curious about what could have possibly transpired during my slumber.

"Oh, Mel, you're alright!" Ophelia exclaims, her voice a mix of joy and concern. She rushes towards me, enveloping me in a tight embrace that speaks volumes of her worry and genuine affection. "I thought the man in the wall ate you!"

I pull away slightly, confusion furrowing my brow. "The man in the wall? That was a hoax." The words tumble out in a rush, a mixture of curiosity and trepidation hanging in the air.

Ophelia's expression softens. "What do you mean, a hoax?"

I look at Solaria who nods. I glance back to Ophelia and take a deep breath. "It's Alpha Rhy's."

I watch as Ophelia's world crumbles around her, her face etched with a mixture of shock, disbelief, and a tinge of betrayal. The revelation that the mythical myth of the man in the wall is finally attributed to Alpha Rhy's name seems to weigh heavily upon her. It is as if the very foundation of her beliefs has been shattered, leaving her adrift in a sea of uncertainty.

Solaria, ever the comforting presence, gently pats Ophelia's back, offering solace in her touch. "It's okay, Ophelia," Solaria reassures her, her voice filled with empathy. "It wasn't long before you realized it was him."

My curiosity piqued, I interjected, unable to contain my own questions any longer. "Wait, you knew it was him the entire time?" I inquire, my voice laced with both surprise and confusion. The revelation of this knowledge from Solaria opens up a new avenue of understanding, one that had remained hidden until now.

Solaria turns towards me, her gaze meeting mine with a mix of compassion and acknowledgment. "Yes, I did," she admits, her tone filled with a hint of regret. "But Ophelia needed to come to that realization on her own."

"So you just watched while I went chasing some imaginary creature huh?"

Solaria nods with a cackle.

"You are evil."

Solaria's expression softens, her gaze meeting Ophelia's with unwavering sincerity. Something that I don't see often since coming here. "Well we are the only ones that know Alpha Rhy's is the name in the wall so maybe we can have some fun pranking the other maids," she grins.

"Now you're speaking my language."

I observe their exchange, then a realization settles within me. In Wolvendom, where secrets intertwine with reality, the truths we hold dear can often be elusive. It is a realm of shadows and revelations, where the journey of self-discovery takes precedence over easy answers. In this moment, I am reminded that the bonds between Ophelia and Solaria run deeper than mere friendship. Their connection is built on trust, understanding, and a shared commitment. It kind of reminds me of me and my sister. Thinking of her fills me up with a renewed sense of determination to get the hell out of here.

"Okay, Mel, let's get ready now. The Alpha says "has some guest coming over."

"Please tell me it's not his parents."

"Now why would you meet his parents?" Solaria raises her dark brow at me.

"I mean we are mated aren't we?" I ask, and Solaria nods. "Then it must be the same as marriage."

"Marriage?"

"Yeah, traditionally it's a union between a man and woman. It's a huge celebration around my town. The parties, the white dresses, the food, and your friends and family watch you say your vows to your partner, promising to be their lifetime partner through sickness and health."

"For a human that sounds quite romantic."

"I'm sure it is romantic." Ophelia coos. "Imagine wearing a white flowy dress and saying your vows. Why can't we have our own weddings?"

"Take that to the alpha." Solaria shrugs, walking into my room and rummaging through my closet. I watch as Solaria rummages through my closet, her eyes sparkling with excitement. She carefully selects a few dresses, holding them up to the light as if envisioning how they would look on me. Meanwhile, Ophelia busies herself with the task of drawing a warm bath, the gentle sound of water filling the air.

"So what is this meeting even about?"

"You're just going to be meeting the Alpha's close allies in the nation."

"Oh like Alpha Windson?"

Solaria stops looking through my closet. "How do you even know about him?"

"I met him yesterday. He seemed like a really charming man."

Solaria snorts, shaking her head. "AlphaWindson is one arrogant man who spends most of his days in pleasure and surrounded by slews of women rather than actually caring for his own pack."

"He seemed so nice…" My mind flashes back to the alpha who looked like he was made by the sun god instead.

"Wolvendom is a big territory with big-egoed alphas."

"Sounds a lot like my hometown."

"You bet." Solaria smiles, and it is contagious. Solaria glides across the room, her fingers trailing over the soft fabrics, she turns to me with a mischievous grin. "Mel, I've found the perfect dress for you,""she announces, her voice brimming with excitement.

Intrigued by her description, I step closer to examine the chosen dress. Its vibrant hues and delicate embroidery capture my attention, and I can't help but imagine the way it would drape over my frame, accentuating my features.

Meanwhile, Ophelia returns from the bathroom, a serene expression on her face. "The bath is ready for you, Mel," she says, her voice gentle and soothing. "I've added some fragrant oils to help you relax."

"Thank you." I feel a sense of gratitude wash over me as I take in the scene before me. Solaria's excitement and Ophelia's attentiveness create an atmosphere of care and kindness, reminding me of the strength of our friendship.

With a grateful smile, I step towards the waiting bath, feeling a wave of anticipation building within me. As I sink into the warm water, the stresses and worries of the day begin to melt away, replaced by a serene tranquility. I close my eyes, allowing the fragrant scents and soothing waters to envelop me. In this moment, I am reminded of the importance of self-care, of allowing oneself the simple pleasures that bring joy and rejuvenation.

Solaria's laughter fills the air as she and Ophelia exchange banter, their voices a gentle backdrop to my thoughts. Their presence, their unwavering support, reminds me that I am not alone in this world of mysteries and enigmas. As I bask in the warmth of the bath, a renewed sense of energy and determination fills me. Feeling ready to take on the meeting that awaits me.

~

I walk through the grand corridors of the palace, my steps guided by the escort assigned to accompany me. Each turn we take brings us closer to a part of the palace I have yet to explore, a place unknown to me until now. Anticipation courses through my veins, mingled with a touch of nervousness. As we approach a large stone door, adorned with intricate carvings and symbols, I can feel the weight of history and secrets it holds. The door swings open with a slight creak, revealing an outdoor space nestled within the protective embrace of the palace walls.

My eyes widen as I take in the sight before me. The outdoor area is a sanctuary of lush greenery, the fragrance of blooming flowers filling the air. Sunlight dances through the leaves, casting playful shadows on the ground. It is a tranquil haven, a respite from the opulence and grandeur of the palace's interior. And there, in the midst of this serene oasis, stands Alpha Rhy's, his figure commanding attention. He is dressed in his signature style, a white silk shirt that drapes loosely over his broad shoulders. It's not entirely buttoned up, and I can't help but wonder about his penchant for leaving his shirts partially undone. It's a small quirk that adds to his enigmatic aura.

As our eyes meet, a jolt of electricity seems to pass between us, making my skin tingle with a strange mix of excitement and trepidation. Alpha Rhy's presence is formidable, his gaze penetrating, and I find myself momentarily lost for words.

"Well, we will leave you two," Solaria's voice breaks the silence, and I turn to see her and my escort retreating, the door closing behind them. Suddenly, it's just Alpha Rhy's and me, standing in this secluded outdoor space, surrounded by nature's embrace.

I take a tentative step forward, drawn by an invisible force that compels me to be nearer to him. The air feels charged with unspoken possibilities, and I can't help but wonder what lies beneath his confident exterior. Alpha Rhy's offers me a small smile, his eyes glimmering with a mixture of curiosity and intrigue.

"Melanie, you finally made it. You look lovely."

"I thought we were having guests come over."

"Did I?"

I narrowed on him, but the alpha doesn't seem to be intimidated by the stares I give him at least more than ten times a day.

"Come sit." He pulls out the chair next to him.

I hesitate for a moment but then I just sit next to him because the faster I get this over with the quicker I get to be by myself. I watch Alpha Rhy's as he pours the dark liquid into a delicate cup. My eyes widen for a moment, my mind playing tricks on me as I see the crimson hue of the liquid. It looks like blood, thick and foreboding. My heart skips a beat, a surge of apprehension coursing through me. But then, as the aroma wafts towards me, my senses are momentarily confused. Instead of the metallic scent of blood, a fruity fragrance fills the air, teasing my nostrils and calming my racing thoughts. I take a small sip and put down the cup.

"What is the place anyways?"

"Welcome to one of my many sanctuaries," he says, his voice carrying a note of warmth that surprises me.

"Let me guess, the one hidden in the wall happens to be one of your other sanctuaries."

"There it is again."

"What exactly is it?"

"You always seem to ignore my words when I explain something to you."

"Maybe I have no reason to listen to you."

Alpha Rhy's takes a sip of his tea.

"If there are no guests coming then what is the point of sitting here staring at each other." I try to stand but Alpha Rhy's eyes pin me down on my seat.

"What is with the hurry my beauty."

"Stop calling me that."

"I can't promise you that."

I let out a sigh and sip from my tea again. This time,, the flavor bursts upon my tongue, a delightful blend of berries and herbs. It's a surprising contrast to the initial impression I had formed, a reminder that appearances can be deceiving.

Alpha Rhy's watches me closely, a glimmer of amusement in his eyes. "The tea may look unconventional, but its taste will captivate your senses,leaving you wanting more," he says, his voice carrying a hint of something else.

I put them up to ask, "I heard you had many other mates than me."

"Who told you such a thing?"

"The lady with the cane."

Alpha Rhy's leaning back on the chair. "It seems like I need to have a word with Madame Fara."

"You never answered my question." I look at him.

"Whatever Madame Fara told you was a lie. A gossip from the servants, that's all."

"I don't believe it."

"Will you stop pestering me? Oh I might have to find a way to shut that pretty little mouth of yours." His voice goes low.

I just take another small sip of my tea.

"All I want is to spend some time with my mate but she keeps talking."

"Thanks, it's a special talent of mine."

"You are unbelievable." He mutters to himself. "Always needing the last word."

I put the cup down, which is almost empty. I stand up with a single movement and paint a glare at the alpha. "As long as I am kept here, I will make sure to be a pain in your ass."

The Alpha does the unexpected. He also leans close to my face almost to the point of our noses touching. "Go on," he says in a deep voice. "Because the more you talk, the more I am thinking about marking every inch of that pretty body of yours."