The White Wolf

Visit

KADE

I sat in my study, going through the daily reports and contemplating the upcoming coronation, when a knock on the door interrupted my thoughts. I looked up to see my mother, Sylvia, standing in the doorway. A wave of warmth washed over me at the sight of her.

“Mother,” I said, rising from my seat and embracing her. “What brings you here?”

She returned my embrace, her familiar scent engulfing me. “Kade, my dear son, I couldn’t stay away any longer. I wanted to see how you’re doing and meet this remarkable woman who has captured your heart.”

A mix of joy and apprehension settled within me. I loved my mother dearly, but introducing her to Rose was a step I wanted to handle delicately. I couldn’t risk overwhelming Rose with too much too soon.

“Mother, I appreciate your desire to meet Rose,” I began, choosing my words carefully. “She means the world to me, but we need to consider her feelings as well. I’ll talk to her about it and see if she’s ready to meet you.”

Cecile’s eyes sparkled with curiosity and anticipation. “Oh, Kade, I understand. You’re right, we must respect Rose’s comfort and pace. Please assure her that I mean no harm and only wish to welcome her into our family.”

I nodded, grateful for my mother’s understanding. “I will, Mother. Once I’ve spoken to Rose and she’s comfortable with the idea, we can arrange a meeting. I’m sure Father and Claire would also be thrilled to meet her.”

Cecile smiled warmly, her eyes shimmering with a mix of pride and love. “Thank you, Kade. I trust your judgment, and I know you’ll make the right decision. Rose must be an extraordinary woman for you to hold her in such high regard.”

I couldn’t help but smile at my mother’s words. She had always been my pillar of support, and her approval meant the world to me.

“Rose is more than I could have ever dreamed of,” I replied, my voice filled with genuine affection. “She’s resilient, kind, and fiercely independent. I am grateful every day that she found her way to me.”

Cecile’s expression softened, and she reached out to gently caress my cheek. “I can see the love in your eyes, Kade. It warms my heart. Take your time, my son, and when the moment is right, we’ll welcome Rose with open arms.”

Her words reassured me, and I felt a renewed sense of gratitude for the love and support of my family. With their understanding and patience, I knew we could create a harmonious bond between Rose and the pack.

“Thank you, Mother,” I said, my voice filled with sincerity. “Your support means everything to me. I will keep you informed and let you know when the time is right for you to meet Rose.”

We shared a tender moment, the unspoken understanding between us strengthening the bond that held our family together. With each passing day, I grew more certain that Rose’s presence in our lives was a blessing beyond measure. And when the time came, I knew that my mother’s warmth and acceptance would envelop Rose, making her feel truly welcomed into our pack.

After my mother’s visit, I made my way to the living room where Rose was engrossed in a book. Seeing her there, so peaceful and immersed in her own world, filled my heart with warmth. I approached her, a mix of excitement and trepidation swirling within me.

“Rose,” I said, my voice soft and gentle, “may I speak with you for a moment?”

She looked up from her book, her eyes meeting mine with curiosity. “Of course, Xavier. What’s on your mind?”

I took a seat beside her, my hand reaching out to gently hold hers. “My mother, Sylvia, came to see me today. She expressed her desire to meet you and extend a warm welcome into our family.”

A flicker of surprise crossed Rose’s face, and I could sense her hesitation. “That’s…unexpected. What did you tell her?”

I squeezed her hand reassuringly, wanting to convey my support. “I told her that meeting you should be your decision, Rose. Your comfort and well-being are my priority. I wanted to discuss it with you first, and if you feel ready, we can arrange a meeting with my mother, father, and Claire.”

Rose’s gaze softened, and she leaned closer, her forehead resting against mine. “Xavier, I appreciate your consideration. Meeting your family is a big step, and I want to be sure I’m ready for it.”

I placed a gentle kiss on her temple, letting her know that I understood. “Take all the time you need, Rose. There’s no rush. We can wait until you feel comfortable and ready to take this next step.”

She looked up at me, her eyes filled with gratitude and love. “Thank you, Xavier. Your understanding means the world to me. I do want to meet your family, but I want it to be when I feel more settled and confident in this new chapter in my life.”

I brushed my thumb along her cheek, cherishing the vulnerability she shared with me. “I completely understand, my love. We’ll make sure the timing is right, and when you’re ready, we’ll arrange a meeting that feels comfortable for you.”

Rose nodded, a sense of relief washing over her. “I’m grateful for your patience, Xavier. It means so much to me. And please, let your mother know that I appreciate her warm welcome. It’s comforting to know that your family is accepting of me.”

I smiled, filled with gratitude for Rose’s understanding. “I will, Rose. I’ll reassure my mother and let her know that we’re taking things at our own pace. When the time comes, I’m certain she’ll be thrilled to meet you.”

We sat together, wrapped in each other’s embrace, knowing that we had a future to build and a journey of love and acceptance ahead. I was grateful for Rose’s honesty and her willingness to communicate her needs. And when the moment was right, I knew that my family’s warm embrace would welcome Rose into our pack with open arms.