The Alpha Killed My Husband

43| The Tale Continues

‘What in the sweet f*****g hell?’ I had heard him mumble under his breath as he struggled with an overloaded shopping basket.

I could see my son was not in deep thought. He was light and chirpy as if he had not asked me a hypothetical question shaking my sanity hypothetically. Maybe he was contemplating but did not let it on the surface. I took a sharp breath as the cold breeze jabbed me in the ribs.

We purchased our essentials and walked out of the storeroom in silence.

‘Is there a proven theory that a wolf and a serpent cannot conceive together?’ Nakul whispered beside me. A playful twinkle sparkled in his eyes. He yawned lazily and took carefree glances around.

‘Shhh...talking shamelessly before your mother. You have grown mannerless. Is this how serpents talk in their kingdom.’ I silenced him. ‘Just watch your mouth next time.’ I warned him, knowing well that the warrior considered me more of a friend than a mother.

We had an open relationship where we could talk about anything freely. He used to share with me all about the places–no matter how questionable those were–the people he mate and the missions he took out. Sometimes, he would mistakenly reveal even the confidential part. Such was the trust between us.

For the first time, I had just suspected a weirdness in him. Nakul was hiding something and I wanted to confirm my suspicion right then.

‘Ma! It’s natural. It ain’t like nobody does it. All of us have to mate to continue reproduction. Why make it such a big taboo? I am just asking can a female not birth a pup ever when copulation is possible between a pup and female and vice-versa with their males and our she-wolves. Isn’t it normal? Just like us! Haven’t I told you already?’ Nakul retaliated. ‘Besides, I was just questioning your question. Haven’t there been anyone who tried consummating with a serpent before? Every time they capture a she-wolf, they r**e her first before pushing her into s*****y or murdering her. Clearly, there aren’t any natural limitations. Then why question the offspring? And think about it Ma, how beautiful the offspring must be with the combined powers of serpents and werewolves. She would be invincible. Crown of the History.’

‘She must be.’ I agreed bitterly. ‘But it has never happened before.’ I reminded him sternly. ‘Our ancestors were against it. Maybe the offspring would come out to be lethal.’

‘It doesn’t mean it cannot happen. Ma, I have lived with them for six years. The serpents are not that bad. Trust me. In fact, before stepping into their world; I hated them more than you or anyone can do. I have seen their soldiers r****g our she-wolves. I have feasted on their bodies with other warriors. But it isn’t the case now.

I know them better now. I understand them better. They only have the wrong fundamentals. They are evolving as much as we do. There is hope for peace and harmony. Vengeance would only lead to more bloodshed. An eye for an eye would lead us nowhere. Think about a future where a Serpent and a wolf would rule the combined kingdom and all of us would co-exist. The world will be a better place. Don’t you think?’

His word slowly seeped into my conscience. He opened another window for me to peep in. Indeed, from it, the wars, clashes, and tug seemed trifle and useless. The power of love!

Our races had been fostering animosity for nothing. What is the point? I thought and instantly I relaxed. You see hatred, jealousy, animosity, revenge, greed, anger can never bring the solace that only acceptance, love, harmony, and satisfaction can bring.

For the first time in that hour, I smiled. ‘You think it can ever be possible? You just wait and see, one day we’d conquer them. A wolf will rule the Samrajya and roam in the castle they are so proud of.’

‘Will you,’ He emphasised, ignoring my comment on the ruling kingdom. ‘Accept a female as my mate and mother of pup? Do not answer my question with a statement or question. Just yes or no?’

‘I…’

‘Yes?’

‘I’d accept her.’ I told my pup delightfully. He raised his eyebrows probably startled. ‘If you ever bring a serpent to my house, I’d accept her. She would be loved as much as you are. She is no different.’ I explained and instantly his features relaxed.

His face broke into the biggest grin I have ever seen.

‘Ma,’ My pup was happy. His eyes were relaxed and his face was soft. Alongside, there was a pinch of disbelief too—like he could not believe his ears. ‘I-I...you will accept a serpent? A female? An enemy just like that?’ He asked as he stared at my face. His eyes were reading my face like an open book, yet he looked so unsure and off guard.

I enjoyed his flabbergasted face. It was the rarest of the rare occasions when my Nakul had become speechless. All of them were hilarious and amusing.

It had to be the toughest phase of his life. I cannot imagine what he might have been through. Only it could not be easy. To his utmost relief, I nodded my assent.

‘I would gladly accept whoever you bring home, Nakul. I trust you. Our pack trust you. We believe in you. We know you wouldn't do anything for nothing without thorough deliberation. But I also know that you are a mere wolf. No one is devoid of emotions. As your mother, I will respect your feelings. I know my pup is a great warrior who will never bring shame to his pack.’ I told him. ‘I trust you. Your pack trust you.’ I had repeated firmly. I wish I had not.

Unknowingly, I had interrupted a confession that later set the foundation of the last chapter of his life. I so wish I’d let him speak, let the secrets out, and bring Trupti home the night itself. Things might have taken a different turn. We could have figured a way out in peace before the news of their shenanigans broke.

I think he was not expecting it. Or could it be, he’d expected shrills of denial, arguments, yelling, confrontation—anything but faith? I cannot exactly point out how he felt. The darkness had concealed my pup’s emotions. It was no less than a curse.