No one Takes What is Mine.

The Rival’s Arrival

The soft morning light filtered through the leaded glass windows of the guest house, painting intricate patterns on the rich fabrics. Annie stirred, stretching languidly, the unfamiliar comfort of the bed a stark contrast to the chaotic memories of the previous night. She felt surprisingly rested, the deep, steaming bath having washed away some of the emotional grime. But the questions remained, swirling like a persistent fog. Alpha? Bowing? And the intense, possessive words Dane had uttered, “You are mine.”

She dressed in the fresh clothes provided, soft wool trousers and a cashmere sweater, perfectly sized, a thoughtful gesture that only deepened her confusion about her enigmatic professor. Stepping out of the guest house, the crisp morning air was refreshing, carrying the faint scent of woodsmoke and something wild, yet clean. She followed a paved path that led back to the main house, her stomach rumbling faintly. The grand hall, now bathed in natural light, was even more impressive than it had been in the twilight. The colossal fireplace still blazed, but the shadows were gone, revealing intricate carvings on the mantelpiece. Several people were moving about, quietly preparing breakfast on a large, communal table in what appeared to be the dining room.

Annie hesitated at the entrance, feeling an acute sense of being an outsider. A woman with kind eyes and a warm smile noticed her. “Good morning, Annie. Did you sleep well?”

“Yes, thank you,” Annie replied, a little shyly. “It was… wonderful.” She looked around, searching for a familiar face. “Is… is Dane around?” The woman chuckled softly. “Alpha left for the university hours ago. He had an early lecture, and then some urgent pack matters to attend to.”

“Alpha left for work”. The words felt impossibly normal, yet utterly surreal in this ancient, hidden world. Annie’s heart sank a little. She hadn’t had a chance to properly thank him, or even to ask about the strange events of last night. She didn’t even have his phone number. How was she supposed to reach him? “He asked us to ensure you have everything you need,” the woman continued, gesturing towards the breakfast spread. “And a driver has been assigned to take you to the university whenever you’re ready.” A driver? Annie felt a fresh wave of bewilderment. This was too much. She picked at a piece of toast, her mind racing. She was still reeling from one betrayal, and now she was caught in a whirlwind of secrets and ancient customs she couldn't begin to understand, with a man who claimed she was "his" but was now unreachable.

As she finished her hurried breakfast and headed towards the front door, a figure emerged from a side corridor, stopping dead in her tracks. She was stunning, with fiery red hair that cascaded down her back in loose curls, and eyes the colour of emeralds that held an unnerving intensity. She wore a tailored leather jacket that hugged her figure, exuding an air of confident power.

“Well, well,” the woman purred, her voice low and melodic with a distinct edge. “So this is the little human the Alpha brought home.” Her gaze swept over Annie, lingering disdainfully. “Angie,” she introduced, though it sounded more like a challenge than a greeting. “Daughter of Beta Albert”.

Annie felt a prickle of unease. “Annie,” she managed, extending a hand, which Angie completely ignored. Angie’s emerald eyes narrowed. “I heard about last night. A distressed human girl found weeping on the street. Very… dramatic.” She stepped closer, her scent, something sharp and floral, yet distinctly predatory, suddenly overwhelming. “It’s been a long time since the Alpha showed such… personal interest in an outsider. Especially one who doesn’t even know how to hold her liquor, apparently.”

Annie bristled. “I wasn’t weeping because of liquor, and I’m not an outsider. I’m a student of Professor Dane’s.” Angie let out a short, dismissive laugh. “Oh, I assure you, you are very much an outsider, little human”. And Professor Dane is merely a role he plays. Here, he is Alpha. And Alpha has responsibilities. Responsibilities that have always included us.” Her gaze hardened, a clear message passing between them. “Some of us have been waiting a very long time for the Alpha to choose a mate. Someone who understands this world, who belongs here. Someone who can stand by his side, not just be protected by it.”

The implication hung in the air, heavy and undeniable. Angie saw Annie as a rival, an unwelcome intrusion into her carefully constructed future. Annie felt a cold wave wash over her, a fresh sense of vulnerability. She was out of her depth, truly. Before Annie could formulate a response, the large oak door opened, revealing a dark, sleek car parked outside. The same kind eyed woman from earlier smiled apologetically. “Your ride is here, Annie.”

Annie nodded, grateful for the interruption. She cast a final, bewildered glance at Angie, whose expression remained a perfect blend of disdain and proprietary claim. As she walked towards the car, the weight of Angie’s unspoken challenge settled heavily on her shoulders. She was not just dealing with her own heartbreak anymore; she had stumbled into a world where ancient laws, hidden powers, and fierce loyalties reigned. And she, a mere human, was now caught right in the middle of it.