Married To The Cold Alpha

Chapter 5 - Husband

Kenneth

My mornings had always been a solitary affair, characterized by the crisp routine I maintained. The scent of freshly brewed coffee filled the air as I made my way to the dining room. But today was different. My morning had been disrupted by a reminder I couldn't ignore—the undeniable fact that I was now a married man.

As I descended the grand staircase of my mansion, the echo of footsteps and the faint aroma of a well-cooked breakfast wafted toward me. I had almost forgotten about the arrangement, about the marriage dictated by the laws of our kind. The reason for the change in routine was sitting at the dining table, her presence a vivid reminder of the new chapter that had begun in my life.

Maurice, my mate and wife by arrangement, sat gracefully across from me.

My eyes briefly met hers, and I couldn't help but notice how she seemed equally out of place. She had barely touched her breakfast, her unease mirroring my own. We were two strangers thrust into a reluctant arrangement neither had asked for.

After a perfunctory breakfast in the mansion, I wasted no time, hastily making my way through the grand hallways and out into the crisp morning air. My car, a sleek black luxury sedan, was waiting, a silent sentinel guarding my hasty exit.

The drive to the pack headquarters was a well-practiced routine, a familiar path etched into my memory. Tall trees lined the winding road, casting dappled shadows across the asphalt. The tranquil scenery was a stark contrast to the turbulent thoughts swirling in my mind.

The whole situation felt like a cruel twist of fate. A chosen mate, a strategic alliance decided by the pack's elders, and yet here I was, married to someone I barely knew.

Chosen mates were a complex matter among our kind, often determined by factors beyond our control. The alpha or the pack's council made such decisions based on the needs of the pack, politics, and resources. While the idea of a mate bond existed, it was often overshadowed by the practicalities of leadership.

In my case, I had already accepted that I might never find a true mate, someone with whom I shared a deep, natural connection. My focus had been on leading our pack and ensuring our survival.

As I approached the formidable pack headquarters, its imposing structure came into view. It stood as a symbol of power and authority, a testament to the might of the pack I led. Security personnel, clad in dark uniforms, were a constant presence, ensuring that only those with the right credentials gained access to the inner sanctum.

The moment I parked my car, the security personnel on duty gave me a nod of recognition. Some offered a warm smile, while others simply continued their vigilant watch, their respect palpable. As the alpha, I was both feared and respected, a fact that had always been a part of my existence.

I walked through the entrance of the headquarters. The vast lobby was a hub of activity, pack members engaged in conversations or huddled in meetings. The atmosphere buzzed with energy, a reflection of the tasks and responsibilities that awaited me.

Greeting nods and respectful smiles followed me as I made my way through. I acknowledged each gesture with a dignified nod, my stride purposeful and unwavering.

My alpha best friend and right-hand man, Rion, then approached me with a playful grin. "Morning, Kenneth!" Rion greeted me with a knowing look. "Or should I say, 'Morning, married man!'"

I acknowledged Rion with a curt nod, my expression as controlled as ever. "Don't make a big deal out of it, Rion. It's a necessary arrangement for the pack."

Rion's grin widened. "Oh, come on, Kenneth. You're the alpha of our pack. A marriage is never 'just' anything, especially when it involves you. So, how's the lovely bride?"

My lips formed a thin line. "She's... adapting."

Rion chuckled, clearly enjoying the opportunity to tease me. "I can't wait to meet her properly. And, who knows, maybe this marriage will change things for you."

I gave Rion a wry smile, acknowledging his attempt to lighten the mood. As Rion and I settled into my office, he couldn't help but raise an eyebrow in curiosity. "I didn't expect to see you here today, Kenneth. Aren't newlyweds supposed to be off on some extravagant honeymoon by now?"

I leaned back in my chair, my gaze fixed on the stack of papers on my desk. "Honeymoon?" I echoed, a hint of dry humor in my tone. "I'm afraid I can't afford the luxury of a leisurely vacation, Rion. There are matters in the pack that require my attention."

As I settled into my office chair, the ringing of my phone disrupted the silence. I reached for the receiver and answered with a simple, “Hello.”

"Kenneth, it's your mother." I couldn't help but feel a sense of surprise and curiosity at her call.

“Hi, Mother.” I noticed Rion making a discreet exit from my office, not wanting to intrude on my private conversation with my mother

"Kenneth, dear," my mother's voice was as sweet as honey, but it held a steel undertone. "I hope you're taking good care of your new bride."

I sighed inwardly, knowing this call would lead to something I didn't want.

"Mother, I'm quite busy with work," I replied curtly.

"I understand, dear, but it's expected that newlyweds take some time off for a honeymoon. It's tradition, you know."

I couldn't hide the exasperation in my voice. "Mother, isn't it enough that we've already gone through with the marriage? Honeymoons are for young couples in love, not for an arrangement like ours. The pack needs me now more than ever."

My mother's tone remained gentle but persistent. "I understand your dedication to the pack, Kenneth, but traditions are important. A honeymoon is a chance for you and your new bride to bond, to start your married life on the right foot. It's an opportunity to create lasting memories."

My frustration grew, but I kept it in check. "Mother, I have responsibilities here. I can't just drop everything for a vacation."

I knew my mother wasn't one to easily let things go. I relented slightly, but with a hint of reluctance in my voice. "I'll think about it, Mother. But I can't make any promises."

My mother's voice brightened with hope. "That's all I ask, dear. Think about it. It could be a wonderful experience for both of you."