Chapter 4

"There's no need for that, Grand Luna." Dad insists, waving a hand in protest.

"Nonsense! You have two growing boys with healthy appetites, Beta Evans. My Dante can eat enough to feed a small village." We watch Nora dash into the hallway, her voice growing faint as she announces our arrival. By now, I'm terrified. Agreeing to this was a monumental mistake. I'm nowhere near ready for this matchmaking fever that my Dad is suffering from. "Sit, Alanna." Dad orders, letting me take the armchair.

I'm so nervous, I can't even comprehend my surroundings. It looks like a nice lounge; more of a manly touch, what with all the technology and dark decor. My stomach begins to swirl and I can smell the heavenly scent of baked goods permeating the air.

"Breathe, little sis." Ryan grins, tapping the armrest with his fingers nonchalantly.

"I need the bathroom." I gulp, jumping unsteadily to my feet.

"Wait till the Grand Luna is back." Dad replies. "We've only just gotten here. I asked you if you needed the bathroom before we left."

Good ol' Dad. Always finding ways to reprimand me.

"I'm gonna wet myself. I don't think that's the best impression to give, don't you think?" I reply curtly, already walking away.

"Fine. You have a minute. The bathroom is upstairs. First floor, second door on the right." Dad adds.

I all but sprint through the doors, heading for the stairs. I could shift and get the heck out of here but the consequences would be severe. I don't want to tarnish our family reputation either.

Stumbling up the carpeted stairs, I right my footing before I break an ankle in these heels. Everything's a blur and I vaguely remember Dad's instructions, barreling through the bathroom and slamming the door.

The gold and white tiled bathroom dazzles my vision and I pace furiously, wiping the beads of sweat off my forehead.

See? You wouldn't be feeling like this if it was anyone else. You can feel the anticipation, the potential strength of our bond. That's why you're so antsy.

"This shouldn't be happening." I whisper, closing my eyes. "I can't let anybody have this effect on us. No-one deserves to have this power over us."

Don't be afraid, Aly. Trust our instincts. When have I ever let you down?

"You know I trust you." I reassure my wolf in a shaky voice. "I don't trust these...these feelings. This weird aura I'm getting."

That's because he's close. He's in this very house and you can sense his presence.

"So-- he must know we're here." Of course.

I need to get a grip. I've barely met the guy and I'm already a quivering mess. How can someone have such an effect on me? I'm Aly Evans, the confident daughter of a Beta. The same girl who dealt with months of backlash and hate when I was with Kurt.

"Come on girl. This is a walk in the park for you." I gear myself up in the ornate mirror, smoothing the soft fabric of my dress and dabbing the sweat off my face without disturbing the make up.

With an extra intake of breath and bravado, I stride to the door and pull it open, stumbling to a halt. My gut churns dangerously and I peer up in shock.

Dante is stood inches away, staring down intently. There's no expression on his poker face, golden irises shimmering eerily. I'm so fixated on his fierce gaze, I don't even check him out. Mouth going dry, I can hear my wolf going positively giddy with excitement at his appearance.

"Umm-- hi..." I stutter in a croaky voice, clearing my throat quickly.

Deep down, I wince in response to my lame greeting. Dante cocks his head to one side with interest, the smooth, tanned skin of his thick neck exposed to the light. His powerful heartbeat calls out to me, enticing me to react with every thud. I want to look away, save myself from this stare-down but I can't seem to will my body to react. The musky scent of his body, mixed with the scent of crisp leaves, is invading my senses and befuddling my mind.

Suddenly, he ferocity in his eyes seem to fade, his yellow irises twinkling gently as a small yet intimate smile spreads across his sculpted lips. "Hello." He breathes huskily, revealing a set of pearly white, perfect teeth. I seem to choke on air at this point, blood pounding in my ears. There's a warm, fuzzy feeling spreading through me and time begins to lag. His gentle reaction provokes a powerful reaction from me. It seems I'm not the only one who is struggling with this. Dante's smile fades, lips parted as his eyes dart over my face hungrily.

"Mate." It takes me a moment to realise we both said the same words.

"Alanna!" Dad's stern voice calls with anger.

Dante smirks at my flustered reaction, trailing a finger gently down the middle of my nose, resting on my parted lips.

"Gotta go. Your Dad is coming to get you." With a final whisper, he disappears in flash, the burst of super speed ruffling my bangs.

"Alanna!" Dad appears in the hallway, looking pissed. "There you are. Follow me." Turning on his heel, Dad stomps to the stairs. I hear a deep chuckle tickle my ear as I scurry to follow Dad and I don't dare to stop, already freaked out by my innate response.

"You're gonna make me work for this, aren't you? Good. I love a challenge..." His husky baritone echoes behind me and I race for the stairs.

I'm in deep trouble and there's no denying it.

"Nice to meet you, Aly. I'm Dante." I scoff inwardly, bemused by his innocent introduction. He seems to forget that I saw him only a few short minutes ago, when he cornered me upstairs. "Alanna." Dad prods, glaring at me to return the gesture.

"Likewise, Alpha Pelosi." I reply sweetly, sticking with the formalities.

It's painfully obvious that I'm being condescending; which doesn't seem to bother Dante. If anything, a playful smirk grows on his chiseled features. However, Dad looks like he's going to berate me in public so I tone down the attitude.

"Please, have a seat." Dante adds, standing near the couch with his hands in his pockets.

Since I fled the landing to return to the lounge, I've chosen to stand near the fireplace with my back to everyone. Feeling wholly unsettled, I don't want Dad's probing eyes to sniff out why I'm so flustered. Even though it was Dante who decided to flirt, I'll probably get the blame for it.

"No, thank you. I'd prefer to stand." Staring at my shoes, it's easier to act cool when I don't have to make eye contact with him. My wolf begins to whine, putting up a fight.

Look at him, Aly! What a fine specimen...

Giving in, I peek through my lashes with interest. Butterflies seem to billow through my stomach and unconsciously, I gasp. It's hard to describe the sheer magnetism emanating from him.

I'm already familiar with this fiery eyes; golden hues shimmering seductively. The rest of him is just as captivating as those distinct irises and I feel like I'm viewing a work of fine art. Adonis, Michelangelo...whatever tickles your fancy.

Broad and imposing, he seems to take up the room with his statuesque height. His tousled, bronze locks are the perfect length; short yet smooth. There's something about his features, an aristocratic air to him. High cheekbones, broad nose with a substantial jaw, a slight dusting of stubble covers his face.

I never thought it was possible to be so attracted to a person. They way he handles himself with a commanding, confidence presence is overwhelming. He's busy talking to Nora, who's re-entered the lounge with an actual tea trolley full of snacks. The minute we make eye contact, he pauses with a small smile. Naturally, everyone turns to stare at me, gauging our reaction. Taken aback, I quickly revert back to staring at my shoes.

"Please, take a seat. I'll be highly offended if you don't." Dante breaks the silence, addressing me directly.

"Dante's right, dear. No need to be shy." Nora chips in with a secretive smile.

Reese and Ryan give me indirect glares, pointing at Dad, who looks like he's going to yell at me again. Backed into a corner, I perch awkwardly on the nearest armchair, opposite Dante. Nora hands me a delicate cup of tea, glancing between Dante and I. She probably expects me to jump him with undeniable lust or something.

Don't get me wrong, I would love to...it takes a lot of self control to act nonchalant.

"Alpha Pelosi, I'd like to apologise for my daughter's behaviour." Dad announces, much to my chagrin. "Alanna seems to have gone unusually quiet."

"I tend to have that effort, Beta Evans. No need to apologise." His smug tone makes me narrow my eyes.

"I can assure you, Alpha Pelosi...you are not the cause of my lack of conversation." My retort is out before I can stop myself.

Aly! You know your Dad's going to be pissed with that comment.

To my surprise, Dante begins to chuckle. I'm not the only one shocked by his reaction, with his own mother gawping at the both of us.

"Spunky." He comments, leaning back in his chair with interest. I can feel his piercing stare raking over me and I try my best not to squirm. His little vow back in the landing irked me; the way he expected me to fall at his feet.

"Let's cut to the chase." Dad clears his throat awkwardly. "It is painfully obvious that the both of you are mates." I wince at his directness. He could at least have some tact. "Alpha Pelosi. Do you accept my daughter?"

I seem to have lost my ability to speak, flabbergasted that Dad seems to think he can speak for me. Do I not have a say in this? "I wholeheartedly accept Aly." Dante replies smoothly, looking at me while he answers. "I want to get to know her and show that I'm worthy of being her mate. The question is...will your daughter accept me, Beta Evans?" Dante trails off, waiting for me to respond.

Of course! Of course we accept you!

Dante smirks, as if he can hear my wolf and hew desperate cries.

The attention turns to me once more, tension rising. Dad narrows his eyes, as if to say; 'your reputation and the reputation of this family rests on your shoulders'.

"Well? What do you say, Miss Evans?" Dante adds softly, with an enticing smile. "Care to give me a chance?"

"I suppose." I reply in a tiny voice, shrugging my shoulders defensively.

Everyone except Dante seem to breathe a sigh of relief. I guess I could have given away some of my true enthusiasm but I couldn't sit there and take in his smirk if I all but admit that I want him.

"That's settled then!" Nora beams happily, clapping her hands. "With the formalities out of the way, I think we should let these two get to know each other."

Dante and I continue to stare each other down, Nora's words causing no movement. She probably wanted her to follow her son to some secluded place and let him work his magic. Fat chance of that. "How about you give us a tour of the grounds, Grand Luna?" Ryan hastily intervenes. "I've heard the pack house is undergoing major renovations."

"Of course, dear. Follow me." Nora gives her son a wink, waiting near the doors for the men to join her. With some difficulty, Dad gets to his feet. I can feel him glaring at me but I pretend to be oblivious. Eventually, he follows Dante's mother out of the lounge. The minute the doors close, Dante appears in front of me. I look up in shock, his towering figure directly in front of me. That crisp, forest fresh scent is tantalising and I inhale deeply, savouring it. Perching on the coffee table in front of me, Dante simply observes me.

"This isn't how I imagined it would be..." He whispers, ruffling his tousled hair. "Finding your mate is supposed to invoke a whole range of reactions. Why are you so quiet?"

"What should I do, dance in joy for you?" I huff.

"Not necessarily." Dante smiles, laughing lightly. "I thought you would be as enthusiastic as me."

"I wasn't expecting to have a mate." I grudgingly tell him the truth. I have nothing to lose anyway.

"And why is that?" He asks instantly, a handsome frown on his face.

I take my time to think, trying not to get overwhelmed by Dante's proximity. If anything, he deserves some honesty. This time, I won't hide anything.