ALPHA CEPHEUS (EBNAB#1)

Chapter 3

ALPHA CEPHEUS

The Mating Ceremony finally started.

In the clearing of our vast forest, the newly eighteen-year-old females eagerly awaited their transformation into their wolves and the chance to meet their mates. Everyone was dressed in white, symbolizing the purity and new beginnings this day represented. It was a pivotal moment for many, but for me, it was just another duty as Alpha.

As the pack members shifted into their wolves, I stood on the stage, observing the scene. The Alphas of the other packs sat around me, discussing pack politics and alliances, but I was more interested in scanning the crowd. I had an unsettling feeling, a restless energy that I couldn't shake. I hoped this ceremony would bring some clarity.

My gaze moved over the newly mated couples, their joy and connection evident in their eyes and actions. I felt a pang of something I rarely allowed myself to acknowledge—loneliness. At thirty, I was still mateless. Despite my power and influence, the Moon Goddess had not yet blessed me with a mate. It was a source of frustration, a weakness I couldn't afford to show.

As the ceremony continued, my eyes caught sight of someone standing at the edge of the clearing. A young woman, seemingly out of place and alone, trying so hard to hide herself in the crowd, it didn't go unnoticed. Her aura was different, almost as if she didn't belong here. She wasn't shifting with the others. Curious, I kept my gaze on her, feeling a strange pull that I couldn't explain.

Then our eyes met. In that instant, everything around us seemed to disappear. Her eyes were wide with surprise, mirroring my own confusion. There was something about her, something familiar yet foreign. I felt a connection, an invisible pull that ignited something deep within me. It was as if she could see right through me, beyond my Alpha exterior, into the core of who I was.

No wonder my wolf have been restless this morning.

Before I could process what was happening, the moment ended. I broke the gaze, feeling a mix of emotions—confusion, frustration, and something else I couldn't quite identify. I needed to know who she was.

Determined, I moved through the crowd, my eyes never leaving her. As I approached, she looked up at me, her expression a mixture of fear and awe. She was smaller up close, her presence unassuming, yet there was a strength in her eyes that intrigued me.

"A-Alpha," she whispered, bowing her head in respect.

"You. What's your name?" I demanded, my voice cold and authoritative than I meant to, I got used to being commanding, I saw how it scared her.

"Callista... Alpha Cepheus," she replied softly, her voice barely audible.

"Callista, look at me," I commanded. She obeyed, her brown eyes meeting mine again. There was something in those eyes, a vulnerability that made my chest tighten. She had no wolf, I realized. She was different from the others, an anomaly in our world.

"You have no wolf," I stated, my tone harsher than I intended. Her reaction was immediate, a mix of hurt and acceptance. She knew she was different, and she carried that burden with grace.

For a moment, I felt a surge of anger and frustration. Not at her, but at the situation. How could the Moon Goddess be so cruel? To deny someone their true nature, their wolf? It made no sense. And yet, as I looked at Callista, I felt something shift inside me. An inexplicable connection, a bond that defied logic.

Without another word, I turned and walked away, my mind in turmoil. This was not how things were supposed to be. I was the Alpha, the leader of the Loropoulus pack, yet I couldn't shake the feeling that something profound had just happened. I am angry with the fact that I searched for my mate in different places, and yet all along she's in my reach, waiting for me to find her. The thought of her feeling upset about finding out she can't shift and not being able to join the mating ceremony upset me even more.

As I rejoined the ceremony, my thoughts were consumed by her. By the way she had looked at me, by the connection I had felt. I know she felt it too. She don't seem to realized what we are to her, without her wolf she will think that it's infatuation. A connection that will not last.

I knew from there, that Callista is mine, with or without wolf— I will claim her and make her mine.

——–—

Callista

The following morning, I went through my routine in a daze. I helped Grandma in the bakery, served customers, and tried to act normal, but my mind kept wandering back to the Alpha. As the day wore on, I found myself glancing toward the door every time the bell chimed, half expecting to see Alpha Cepheus standing there. But he didn't come, and by the time the sun began to set, I felt a strange mix of relief and disappointment.

Why am I disappointed?

Around midday, the doorbell chimed, and I looked up to see a group of young pack members entering the bakery. They were chatting excitedly, their faces glowing with the joy of newfound mates. I couldn't help but feel a pang of envy as I watched them, wishing I could share in their happiness.

One of the girls, a pretty blonde named Lily, approached the counter with a shy smile. "Hi, Callista," she said, her cheeks flushing slightly. "Can I get a loaf of your special honey bread?"

"Of course," I replied, returning her smile as I wrapped up the loaf and handed it to her. "Congratulations on finding your mate, Lily."

"Thank you," she said, her eyes sparkling with happiness. "It's been amazing. I hope you find your mate soon, too."

I forced a smile and nodded, though my heart ached at the thought. "Maybe one day," I said softly.

As the group left the bakery, Grandma gave me a sympathetic look. "It's alright, dear. The Moon Goddess has a plan for everyone, even if it's not what we expect."

"I know, Grandma," I said, trying to sound more confident than I felt. "But you know I'm not looking for a mate right?"

Grandma looked at me with knowing eyes.

"One day, it will come child. You'll see."She stated, with a hint of hope in her voice. I did not respond to her and just nodded, as if I agreed.

No way I'll get one.

The afternoon passed quickly, and soon it was time to close up shop for the day. As we cleaned up, I couldn't shake the feeling that something was about to happen. The air felt charged with anticipation, and I found myself glancing at the door every few minutes, half expecting Alpha Cepheus to walk in and tell me to leave the pack, but then my Grandma save me from my worries.

"Callista, dear, why don't you take the evening off?" Grandma said as we finished cleaning up. "You've been working so hard lately. Go for a walk, clear your mind." My Grandma's gentle voice snapped me back to reality.

I nodded, grateful for the suggestion. "Thank you, Grandma. I think I'll do that."

I headed out of the bakery and into the cool evening air, letting the sounds of the forest soothe my restless thoughts.

The path through the woods was familiar, one I had walked many times before, but tonight it felt different. The shadows seemed deeper, the rustling leaves louder, and I couldn't shake the feeling that I was being watched.

As I walked deeper into the forest, I heard a twig snap behind me. I spun around, my heart racing, but saw nothing. Shaking off my unease, I continued on, telling myself I was just being paranoid. But the feeling of being watched didn't go away.

Finally, I reached a clearing where the moonlight spilled onto the forest floor, casting an ethereal glow over everything. I took a deep breath, trying to calm my racing heart. The moonlight was comforting, a reminder of the Moon Goddess and her watchful presence.

I stared up at the sky, listening to the quiet rustle of the trees, I noticed that the sky was darker and the moon fuller than usual.

Then, I heard it again.

A branch creaking. I jumped nervously when I heard the noise, and a chill ran down my spine. Was someone out here? If so, who was it? I knew I shouldn't be here in the middle of nowhere, but somehow I felt drawn here. Like I needed to see or hear whatever was going on.

Taking a deep breath, I turned to search for whoever or whatever was making the noise. When I finally looked back up.

My gaze locked onto the figure, who stood motionless in the distance. It was a man.

Alpha Cepheus.

Before he could even see me, I run for my life. Now, I just have to avoid any confrontation with the Alpha at all cost, specially after seeing how angry he was after discovering that I'm wolfless.

I ran through the forest, branches whipping against my arms and face, my breath coming in ragged gasps. The sounds of my hurried footsteps and the pounding of my heart filled my ears. I didn't dare look back, fearing I would see Alpha Cepheus chasing me.

Why am I even running?

I didn't have time to answer my own question. I just knew I had to get away.

Eventually, I burst out of the forest and onto the familiar path leading back to the village. I slowed my pace, trying to catch my breath and calm my racing heart. I glanced over my shoulder one last time, but there was no sign of Alpha Cepheus. Maybe he wasn't following me after all. I'm just over thinking it too much.

Feeling a mixture of relief and confusion, I continued walking back to the bakery. The village was quiet, the streets empty as most of the pack members had already retreated to their homes. The moon cast a silvery glow over the houses, and the night air was cool and crisp.

When I reached the bakery, I found Grandma waiting for me at the door, concern etched on her face. "Callista, are you alright? You look like you've seen a ghost."

"I'm fine, Grandma," I said, forcing a smile. "Just needed some fresh air."

She didn't look convinced, but she didn't press the issue. "Come inside, dear. It's late, and you need your rest."

I nodded and followed her inside, the warmth of the bakery enveloping me like a comforting blanket. I headed up to my room, my mind still racing with thoughts of Alpha Cepheus and the strange encounter in the forest.

As I lay in bed, staring at the ceiling, I couldn't shake the feeling that something significant had happened tonight. Alpha Cepheus presence in the forest wasn't a coincidence. But what did he want? And why was I so affected by his mere presence?

—

The sun peeked through my window, and I forced myself out of bed. I took a quick shower, brush my teeth, and chose to wear a pair of Jeans and pink shirt with a flower design in the middle. I snorted, the shirt made me look like I'm forcing myself to wear a kid's shirt, it's too tight because of my chest, another day of being me.

Looking at myself in the mirror, I see someone unremarkable. As a werewolf without the usual wolfish traits, I feel ordinary. Unlike the tall, slender women in our pack, I am quite different. I'm not slim or conventionally fit like them; instead, I've always had curves that made me insecure growing up-baby fat, long black hair, hazel brown eyes, and freckles. My breasts are too large, my hips too wide-everything about me feels oversized. I used to wish I were slim and tall, but I've long accepted that this is who I am. I don't stand out in the pack; at five foot two, it makes me wonder how the Alpha even noticed me in the first place.

Right, he noticed me because I'm out of place in that crowd! Ha. I figured that's probably why.

After the events of the previous night, I had barely slept, my mind a tangled mess of thoughts and emotions. I tried to shake off the lingering unease as I got ready for the day. I pulled on my apron, tied my hair back, and headed downstairs to the bakery.

Grandma was already up, her hands busy kneading dough. She glanced up as I entered, giving me a warm smile. "Good morning, dear. Did you sleep well?"

"Not really," I admitted, grabbing an apron and joining her at the counter. "I couldn't stop thinking about last night."

"Last night?" She looked at me with concern. "What happened?"

I hesitated, unsure of how much to tell her. "I just... ran into Alpha Cepheus in the forest."

Her hands paused, and she turned to face me fully. "Alpha Cepheus? What were you doing out there?"

"I went for a walk, like you suggested. I didn't expect to see him. He didn't follow me or anything, but it was unsettling."

Grandma's expression softened, and she reached out to pat my hand. "The Alpha is a good man, Callista. You have nothing to fear from him."

I nodded, wanting to believe her, but the memory of his intense gaze lingered. "I know, but it still felt... strange."

"He might be checking the boarders," she said gently. "It makes sense to see him occasionally."

I hummed in response to gran, does she mean rarely? I've never encounter him so close before and now it seems like I'm bound to see him anywhere. What changed?

The day wore on, I tried to focus on my work, letting the familiar tasks of baking soothe my frayed nerves. Customers came and went, and the bakery buzzed with the usual chatter and warmth. It was a busy morning, and for a while, I managed to push thoughts of Alpha Cepheus to the back of my mind.

The telephone in the bakery rang, Gran was the one to answer it. Beta Caxius is asking for Cinnamon Pastries to be delivered in the pack house. He never asked for delivery, but today is different. He usually drops by to the bakery for his pastries that he liked. As if reading my mind, Gran spoke.

"The Beta is busy today, since the mating ceremony, they have been accomodating the new members of the pack. Will you deliver the pastries?"

"Sure Gran." I have never been into the packhouse or inside it. Keeping to myself, I see no reason to visit it.

I packed the cinnamon pastries I made myself for Beta Caxius, I couldn't shake off the unease that settled in my stomach. The packhouse was a place I had actively avoided, despite its central role in our pack's community. It wasn't just the bustling activity or the hierarchical structure that intimidated me, it was the undeniable presence of Alpha Cepheus, who seemed to loom over every corner of our lives. The big scary Alpha who is rarely seen, yet has done so much for the pack and it reflects with our status. We are not a powerful pack for no reason.

Taking a deep breath, I set out with the pastries in a box, navigating the familiar streets of our village until I reached the edge where the packhouse stood, imposing and formidable against the backdrop of the forest. The building itself was a blend of modern architecture and natural elements, designed to integrate with the surrounding environment while exuding authority and strength.

Approaching the entrance, I hesitated for a moment, gathering my resolve. I reminded myself that this was just a delivery, a task like any other. With that thought, I stepped inside, the scent of freshly baked pastries mingling with the faint aroma of pine and cedar that permeated the air.

The interior was spacious yet organized, bustling with activity as pack members moved about their day. I kept my eyes focused on the task at hand, searching for the Beta's office. As I walked down a corridor lined with doors, I couldn't help but notice the occasional glance directed my way. It was clear that I stood out, not just because of my status as a baker but also because of my unique situation within the pack.

Finally, I spotted the door labeled "Beta Caxius" and knocked softly. A deep voice called out from within, granting me permission to enter. I pushed the door open and stepped into the office, where Beta Caxius was seated behind a large wooden desk, poring over documents.

"Good morning, Beta Caxius," I greeted politely, setting the basket of pastries on his desk. "Grandma sends her regards."

He looked up from his work, a warm smile spreading across his face. His long curly blonde hair covers his thick brow, he wears a friendly smile on his face. The beta has always been nice, he usually drops by to our bakery. "Ah, Callista. Thank you for bringing these. They smell delightful, as always."

"You're welcome," I replied with a small smile, relieved that the delivery had gone smoothly so far, and I'm glad I didn't encounter the Alpha.

"By the way, Callista-"

Before he could say more, the door behind me opened suddenly, and I turned to see who it was. My heart skipped a beat as Alpha Cepheus entered the room, his presence commanding attention without effort. His eyes locked onto mine briefly, and I felt a shiver run down my spine.

"Alpha," Beta Caxius greeted respectfully, rising from his seat. "What brings you here?"

Alpha Cepheus glanced at me again, his expression unreadable. "I was just passing by."

"Alpha," I acknowledged quietly, my voice barely above a whisper. His unexpected appearance unnerved me, and I struggled to maintain composure, of course he will be around, this is the packhouse, it's impossible not to see him.

I had to remind myself why should I fear him, he don't like me obviously, he sees me as weak pack member, the image of his angry and disappointed look when he realized that flashed in my memory.

"Callista, You were seen in the forest last night," Alpha Cepheus stated calmly, his gaze piercing.

I knew it. He saw me running away from him, and even If I was in the forest, why should he care?

I swallowed hard, feeling the weight of his scrutiny. "I... I went for a walk Alpha, like what pack members do."

The pack members don't walk in the forest for hours in their human form. They shift into their wolf which is something I can't do. It's the closest thing I can do to connect with nature. Even not as wolf.

"Since the regular pack members can change into their wolf, it would be better for you to not walk in the forest alone. The forest can be dangerous, especially for one such as yourself." He grunted almost sounding angry. His tone made me winced, a reminder that I have no wolf hurts.

"W-who should I walk with Alpha?" I asked quietly, I wanted to cry. I have no friends to walk with, I am alone. I only have my Grandma, and it's not like I can ask her to walk in the forest with me, she's too old for that.

"I will have someone walk with you, Callista." He responded coldly.

I now concluded that the Alpha is always angry and has a bad temper. No wonder everyone feared him.

I did not respond to the Alpha because I don't agree with him. I want to defy him but I fear trouble, I did not dare to meet his gaze directly. The tension in the room was palpable, and I felt a rush of anxiety coursing through me. As if noticing my discomfort and panic, Beta spoke.

"Alpha, I know you'll love this Cinnamon buns. It's made by Callista, it's very delicious!"

The Alpha was silent but seem interested. I watched in horror as Beta Caxius stood up with his towering height that's almost the same six foot height of the Alpha, he open the box and force one of the cinnamon buns to the Alpha's mouth, it almost made me choke in my own saliva, wide eyed by the Beta's action towards the Alpha, he grumbles angrily but opens his mouth and eats it anyway.

"Thank you for the pastries, Callista," Beta Caxius spoke in a friendly manner, "You may go."

I nodded again, grateful for the dismissal. Without another word, I hurried out of the office. I wonder if the Alpha —

"Callista, The Alpha likes it! He likes your Cinnamon buns!"

Beta yells from the office, I closed the door behind me with my heart pounding in my chest, flustered by the encounter, it left me shaken, with more questions than answers swirling in my mind.

Outside the office, I took a moment to collect myself. The hallway was quiet, but I couldn't shake off the feeling of being scrutinized. As I walked briskly through the packhouse corridors, avoiding eye contact with anyone I passed, I can't help myself but feel vulnerable.

Alpha Cepheus likes my Cinnamon Buns,I'm glad he did, but it did not aide the feeling of attraction and hate I felt for him, how he reminded me of my status in this pack. An outcast.

Author's Note:

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-Intimate_Ivy