THE ALPHA’S PAWN

“Romance and Confession”

Astor Buckingham had lavishly planned a romantic date with Chantelle. They arrived at a grand event first, where the elite of the shifter world had gathered. It was the birthday of Byrd Buckingham, his father .

“Ready?” Astor asked Chantelle softly as they alighted from their ride . Chantelle looked around in fascination. She had never seen an event place this big and lavish.

“hmmhmm” she hummed in agreement as she nodded slightly to back up her response. She was nervous and was a bit weak from the incidence that had occurred earlier that morning . Astor’s presence tonight soothed her.

“Let’s go”

In his fancy tailored tuxedo, Astor held Chantelle’s hand as they made their entrance. Chantelle took a nervous gulp as every she-wolf in attendance turned to cast envious glances as Astor introduced her as his mate. The whispers and covetous stares from those who had hoped to be in her place were obvious.

Chantelle, dressed in a breathtaking black backless shimmering gown that clung to her every curve, felt a sudden wave of insecurity wash over her. She couldn’t help but notice the ethereal beauty of the other she-wolves who seemed to flow effortlessly through the crowds.

“Um,” Her voice was small as she clutched Astor’s suit . She was nervous, and the pheromones of other Alphas oozing from every angle was not helping. “Astor? I feel out of place” She let out shakily, her eyes darting around nervously.

Astor’s hand snaked around her waist, warm and protective, his gaze boring deep into hers. “I’m here baby” His words were soft. “and this is exactly where you belong. By me, with me”

His soft words of reassurance were a lifeline, pulling her from the depths of self-doubt as she smiled at him, holding his gaze, and then slowly lowering her gaze to his lips. His, were on hers too. s****l tension filled the air in an instant..

Kiss! Kiss! Kiss! A loud voice chanted in Chantelle’s head and she let out a shocked exclaim.

“You good?” his voice was laced with concern and Chantelle nodded, a blush creeping up to her cheeks. “Okay, shall we dance?”

As they swayed gracefully to the slow, enchanting music, Chantelle rested her head on Astor’s broad shoulder. His lips brushed against her neck every now and then, which sent shivers down Chantelle’s spine, he whispered words of adoration that sent tingles down her skin.

“You are the most stunning woman here, my love," he breathed, his voice an intoxicating melody that drowned out the envious whispers around them.

Chantelle’s heart swelled with affection, and a radiant smile graced her face. “Astor, I feel like I don’t belong here. They’re all so glamorous.”

Astor tightened his grip on her waist and smiled, his eyes locked onto hers. “Chantelle, you belong by my side, and that’s all that matters. Your beauty outshines them all. f**k, I really want to kiss you. Can-”

Their Intimate exchange was interrupted as Byrd Buckingham, the celebrant approached with an air of authority. He was the richest man in the East and the father of three dominant alpha wolves. He extended his hand to Chantelle, a rare gesture from a man so well respected and feared in the shifter world.

“Hello father. Happy birthday” Astor’s voice was full of courtesy as he nodded in respect to his father. “This is Chantelle, my mate. I told you about her” He gestured towards Chantelle who stood there awkwardly.

“Chantelle, it’s a pleasure to finally meet you,” Byrd Buckingham said with a nod. “Astor has spoken highly of you.”

Chantelle, still feeling the weight of her insecurities, managed a shy smile. “Thank you, Alpha Buckingham. I’m really honored. Happy birthday”

Byrd’s eyes held a glint of curiosity as he studied her. “Please, call me Byrd. You’re family now. Please enjoy your night” And he walked away.

After their brief exchange, Astor and Chantelle returned to the dance floor. The music’s spell seemed to engulf them once more.

“You handled that beautifully,” Astor whispered, his warm breath caressing her ear.

Chantelle blushed. “I was so nervous, Astor. Your father is quite imposing.”

Astor chuckled. “He can be, but he likes you. That’s a good sign.”

The night wore on, and the couple found themselves lost in each other’s arms. The world around them faded into insignificance as they whispered sweet nothings to each other. After a while of dancing and subtle s****l building, Astor pulled Chantelle closer, his breath fanning against her ear.

“Wanna get out of here, love?” his deep voice was laced with impatience and want.

After the event, Astor took Chantelle to a lavish restaurant. Nervousness bubbled within her, causing her to babble incoherently. Astor, ever the gentleman, smiled warmly, reassuring her with his presence.

“You know,” Chantelle babbled nervously, “I’ve never been to such an extravagant place before. I’m afraid I might say or do something silly.”

Astor’s eyes softened as he gazed at her. “Chantelle, just be yourself. I adore everything about you, including your quirks.”

But inside, Rhys, Astor’s inner wolf, was far from pleased, and he growled within Astor..

Astor’s mind went to that morning, in the early hours, Rhys had been on the brink of harming Chantelle, her life hanging in the balance. Luckily, he had quickly intervened, their eyes had locked in a charged moment, and with awe and determination, Astor had declared her his mate, inviting her to this very date.

Chantelle’s voice brought Astor back to reality as she ranted on excitedly about her life, and how much she loves her job. She spoke of every little detail about her, of course leaving out the information that could get her executed and Astor listened through it all, adding in his own information every now and then.

Chantelle and Astor found themselves in the comfort of his luxurious car after dinner. She had requested they go for a night drive. Chantelle was overwhelmed by the entire experience, from the opulent event to the intimate moments shared on the dance floor. They arrived at a secluded spot by the moonlit beach, the silver glow of the moon casting an enchanting spell.

“Yay, I love the beach!” She remarked excitedly as she began to run towards the ocean wave.

Playfully, they frolicked in the moonlight, laughter and joy permeating the air. Without wasting much time, Astor pulled Chantelle closer, reducing the proximity between them to zero. Their lips clashed hungrily against each other and their tongues fight for dominance.

Chantelle’s head was in the cloud. It felt like their body was made for each other as they move in sync. A moan escaped from Chantelle as Astor’s hand rested on her waist, giving it a quick squeeze. As their kisses deepened, Astor suddenly stopped and gazed into Chantelle’s eyes, inhaling her sweet citrusy pheromones.

“Chantelle,” he murmured, his voice husky, his breath was shaky and his eyes were dark with lust. “May I mark you?”

Chantelle’s eyes widened, and panic gripped her heart. She pulled away quickly and took a few steps away from him. “I…I can’t, Astor. I could... die.”

Confusion clouded his handsome face. “Die? Why would you say that? It doesn’t hurt. You’re going to feel good, I promise. I’m your mate and I will never do anything to hurt you.”

Chantelle shook her head frantically, panic engulfing her and eating her alive whole. Astor wore a confused and worried expression. He tried to move closer to her but she pulled back instantly, extending her arm to tell him to come no further.

Chantelle hiccuped, tears welling up in her eyes, and her voice trembling as she revealed her deepest secret. “ No you don’t understand, I-“ her voice broke “I have no wolf, Astor.”