New Beginnings

I'm in the midst of doing some laundry, the rhythmic sound of water sloshing against fabric filling the air. My sister, Nesa, is outside, helping our father chop wood for the fireplace. As I work, I notice Alpha Rhys approaching, a bundle of clothes in his arms.

"My clothes need washing," he announces, his voice carrying a touch of uncertainty. I glance up from my task, the corners of my lips curling into a playful smile.

"Okay, come and wash them," I responded, gesturing for him to join me. However, he stands still, an expression of slight hesitation crossing his face.

"What is it?" I inquired, curiosity piqued by his sudden hesitance.

"Uh, I don't know how to wash my clothes," he admits, his voice laced with a mix of embarrassment and genuine confusion. I can't help but let out a soft sigh, a playful teasing escaping from my lips.

"And you called me a brat," I jest, shaking my head lightly. I pause my own laundry duties, realizing that I'll need to show him the ropes. With a determined nod, I set up a bucket of water nearby, ready to guide him through the process.

"Alright, I'll show you how to wash and dry your clothes," I assure him, stepping closer to guide him through the necessary steps. With a hint of amusement, I demonstrate how to properly soak and agitate the garments, ensuring the water and soap work their magic.

As I instruct him on the proper techniques, I can't help but notice the flicker of curiosity and willingness in his eyes. He's genuinely interested in learning, and there's a newfound appreciation for the everyday tasks that keep our lives in order.

"No, not like that," I gently corrected him, observing his attempts to scrub his clothes clean. He looks at me, a mix of frustration and curiosity evident in his expression.

"Then show me how to do it," he challenges, his voice laced with a hint of playfulness. I rise from the ground, brushing off the dust from my clothes, and position myself in front of him. I take his hand in mine, a surge of electricity shooting through me at the touch.

The Alpha tenses slightly, his gaze locked with mine. It's no secret that our proximity stirs a longing within me, but I push aside those feelings for now. Our focus is on the task at hand—to teach him the proper way to wash his clothes.

I guide his hand with the cloth, demonstrating the right amount of pressure and circular motions needed to remove stains effectively. As I do so, I can feel his breath against my cheek, his warmth radiating beside me. It takes every ounce of self-control to remain composed and focused on the task.

With each stroke, I explain the importance of thorough cleaning, ensuring that the fabric is treated with care. I feel his attention shift from the laundry to our proximity, and a part of me wonders if he's experiencing the same inner struggle.

Together, we continue the process, sharing stories and laughter along the way. He learns how to rinse the clothes and wring out the excess water before moving on to the drying process. We find a suitable spot to hang his clothes, the gentle breeze promising to aid in the drying process.

As we finish up, I take a moment to observe him, his usually composed and authoritative demeanor replaced by a sense of accomplishment and newfound knowledge. It's a simple act, but it showcases the willingness to adapt and learn—a quality that I appreciate in him.

"You did well," I compliment him, a genuine smile gracing my features. "From now on, you won't have to worry about your laundry."

Alpha Rhys returns my smile, gratitude shimmering in his eyes. It's in moments like these, the mundane tasks turned into shared experiences, that we forge a deeper connection. Beyond our roles and responsibilities, we become companions, supporting and learning from one another.

As we resume our respective tasks, a sense of camaraderie lingers in the air. I find solace in the simplicity of this moment, grateful for the opportunity to show him the ropes and strengthen our bond. And in the rhythm of washing clothes and the shared laughter, I realize that even the most mundane chores can hold the power to unite and bring us closer together.

"I have some news to tell you."

"What is it?" I stop what I am doing.

"We have to leave tomorrow morning. The others will be returning to the palace."

I feel a heaviness in my heart as I receive the news of having to leave my family once again. The thought of parting from them fills me with a profound sadness. I watch Alpha Rhys tending to his clothes, his presence a constant reminder of the path I've chosen.

An insidious voice whispers in the depths of my mind, urging me to take drastic measures. "Kill him," it says, promising a solution to my predicament. But I quickly dismiss the thought, knowing the consequences that would follow such an act. Violence and bloodshed will only bring more pain and suffering, not only to me but to those I hold dear.

Alpha Rhys senses my inner turmoil and breaks the silence, his words offering a glimmer of hope. "I promised I'll let you see your family again this spring," he reassures me, his voice sincere. Those words provide some solace, reminding me that this separation is temporary, that I will have the opportunity to be reunited with my loved ones once more.

I cast a longing gaze at my family, their figures laboring together, carrying wood with them. I realize the value of every moment spent with them, the importance of cherishing the time we have. In the face of impending departure, I vow to make the most of our remaining days together.

As the days pass, I immerse myself in the company of my family. We share meals, laughter, and stories, weaving memories that will sustain me during the upcoming separation. I relish in the warmth of their love and support, finding solace in their presence.

Although the thought of leaving them still weighs heavily on my heart, I draw strength from the promise Alpha Rhys made. Spring will come, and with it, the opportunity to be reunited with my family. I hold onto that hope, allowing it to guide me through the bittersweet moments that lie ahead.

In the midst of this emotional journey, I learn the value of embracing the present, of treasuring every moment with the people who mean the most to me. I understand that life is filled with sacrifices and difficult choices, but it is the love and connection we share that make those sacrifices bearable.

As I watch my family, their faces etched with determination and love, I am reminded of the depth of my bonds. Together, we navigate the challenges and uncertainties that life presents, drawing strength from one another.

And so, I make a silent vow to make the most of the time we have left, to create lasting memories that will sustain me during the inevitable separation. With every shared moment, I fill my heart with love and gratitude, knowing that it is this love that will carry me through the trials that lie ahead.