Raymond
Over the course of several days spent with Michelle, I have awakened a deep feeling within my heart that I haven't experienced in over a decade. The sense of longing and desire feels incredibly fresh, almost as if I've never encountered it before. Although I have felt this way in the past, the current intensity surpasses what I ever felt with my ex-mate.
Ever since Michelle was 18 years old, I had been suppressing my feelings for her because she was so young and innocent. I buried my emotions even deeper when I discovered she was Brian's fated mate. However, now that Brian rejected her and the fact that I see her every day, all the feelings I had long suppressed are hitting me with full force.
There is an undeniable pull between us, a magnetic force that seems to draw us closer together whenever we're near each other. I'm uncertain whether Michelle is entirely aware of this tension or if she merely feels it on a subconscious level. On Saturday morning, as she prepared breakfast for me, fate seemed to lend a hand—she coincidentally caught me just after I stepped out of the shower.
Her eyes lingered on me, hesitant yet undeniably interested. I could feel her heart pounding faster than usual, a telltale sign of her heightened emotions, especially as I gently held her close to prevent her from losing her balance. The air between us was thick with unspoken words and suppressed desires, and I couldn't help but notice the subtle scent of her arousal that seemed to drift toward me, adding a new layer to the intimacy we were already sharing.
Although Michelle may appear shy and innocent at times, her qualities are part of what draws me to her. I believe the Moon Goddess has blessed me by bringing Michelle into my life. Her presence helps me forget my problems, giving me a sense of strength and focus. The pack's businesses are running smoothly, and the pack itself is thriving, demonstrating our collective power. Yet, I remain concerned about Brian. His neglect of his Alpha duties and frequent tardiness undermine our strength, and his unpreparedness when he finally shows up challenges my authority.
His current behavior does not exemplify the qualities of an incredible Alpha. If he continues down this path, he will not be my successor. Up until now, I have imparted to him essential lessons on what it takes to be an incredible Alpha, including how to successfully lead a business and how to treat your fated mate. Unfortunately, these lessons seem to have been disregarded, as everything I have taught him appears to have gone out the window.
Right now, my attention is centered on Michelle. Having her as my assistant not only compensates for Brian's absence but also strengthens our bond. My goal is to make Michelle my chosen mate and Luna of this pack, fostering a closer and more meaningful connection. I just hope she feels something for me. Michelle will be my wife.
Spending the weekend with Michelle without the stress of work truly brought me a sense of peace and relaxation. When we returned to work today, everything went smoothly; I was able to teach Michelle all the necessary tasks she needs to perform as my assistant, and later on, we also enjoyed a lovely dinner together. I was hoping she would stay at the pack house again tonight, but I was a little surprised when she chose to go back home. After we bid each other goodnight, a couple of hours passed, and Brian strolled into the house just as I was enjoying a cup of tea for the night, adding a peaceful end to a generally calm evening.
"Long time no see," I began, trying to keep my voice steady despite the rush of emotions inside me. "Get off my back, father. I just got home. I really don't want to hear any lectures tonight, alright?" Brian replied, a hint of defiance shadowing his tone. I stood up to my full height, glaring down at him with eyes blazing with anger. I dared him to come into my house and challenge me, as if he owned the place. My patience had completely worn thin dealing with Brian. Without thinking, I swiftly moved toward him and grabbed him by the back of his neck, feeling the heat of my fury. "You dare speak to your father and Alpha that way? Do not forget your place, son. I will strip away your title as Alpha son and as my successor. You’re already teetering on a thin line with me," I said, my voice low but threatening, warning him of the consequences if he crossed me again.
"I'm sorry, Father. It will not happen again," he said quietly, bowing his head slightly in remorse. I gently loosened my grip at the back of his neck, a sign of my frustration softening momentarily, and then turned away to finish my tea, needing a moment to collect my thoughts.
"Where have you been all this time? You were supposed to handle Alpha duties in my stead, but you were nowhere to be found," I questioned, my tone edged with disappointment and concern.
"I was tending to other obligations," he replied, trying to keep his tone steady. "Brian, having his own obligations, is quite rich and disregards orders. I can't rely on him for Alpha responsibilities."
"The only obligations you should have right now are Alpha duties. Anything else is a waste of your time," I stated firmly, my eyes searching his face for any hint of honesty. "Where exactly were you, and don't bother lying to me."
"I was at the Howard house," he answered cautiously. I knew Brian was unaware that I already knew he rejected Michelle. That secret sat heavily on my mind. I wondered how he would explain himself when the truth inevitably came out.
"You were spending time with Michelle, good," I said, trying to keep my tone neutral. "But why hasn't Michelle moved in here yet? It's been almost two years since you both found out you were mates."
He hesitated before answering, a flicker of guilt crossing his face. "It's complicated, Father. Michelle and I are no longer mates," he finally told me, the words heavy with unspoken meaning.
The atmosphere grew tense as I absorbed his words, realizing that everything I had taught him about responsibilities and relationships was shifting before my eyes."
"Why did you reject Michelle? She was your fated mate—blessed to you by the Moon Goddess herself! Have I not emphasized enough how crucial your mate is to your life, to your happiness, and your purpose? I begged, my voice rising with frustration and desperation.
What did I tell you about the importance of accepting your destined partner? Did you not understand? Your mate is the most essential part of your existence, and yet you cast her aside as if she were nothing. I can't believe you would dismiss such a divine blessing without a second thought.
Then he looked at me, his expression conflicted and defensive. "Who told you I rejected her?" he questioned, his voice tinged with surprise and underlying hurt.
The question hung heavy in the air, and I knew that beneath his words, there was a storm of confusion and maybe even regret. This was no simple rejection; it was a ripple that could shake the very foundation of his life. How could he reject his mate, knowing what his own mother did to me? Nevertheless, Brian's rejection of Michelle brought her to me.
"I know you, Brian. You tend to give up too easily on everything, no matter how much effort you put in. It’s like, almost automatically, you’re ready to surrender when things get tough. And honestly, I saw the way Michelle looked at you—her eyes lit up whenever she was near you. She was clearly smitten, completely captivated by you. So, honestly, there's no way she would ever reject you, not if you had any confidence left in yourself," I said, trying to keep my tone steady but tinged with frustration.
He looked away, a slight smirk playing on his lips. "I had to reject her. She’s not Luna material. You know that as well as I do. Besides, Michelle's sister is a better fit for Luna—she's got the qualities I and the pack need. It just makes sense," he replied, sounding almost dismissive.
My jaw clenched, feeling a surge of anger and disappointment. "You disgust me, Brian. Truly. For all the hurt you’ve caused—deliberate or not—know that it will haunt you. Every decision you make, every regret you ignore, will eventually catch up with you. Mark my words, Brian," I told him, voice low but firm, filled with an unshakeable resolve.
I found myself unable to continue sipping my tea, as a profound sense of disgust toward him overwhelmed me. Frustrated and unsettled, I decided to retreat to my bedroom earlier than usual to seek some respite. Upon settling in, I closed my eyes and offered a quiet prayer to the Moon Goddess, asking for her wisdom and guidance to steer Brian onto a better path.