Chapter 22

Blossom POV

I wondered if things would always be this way for me. Would I forever be seen as "the substitute" and not simply as Blossom, the alpha's mate? Although I had been eager to embrace my position, it seemed some people weren't going to make this transition easy for me. Surely, things would improve. I had no intention of shrinking away like a timid woman hesitant to claim her rightful place. I reminded myself of my royal lineage and fierce inner strength.

My wandering thoughts were suddenly interrupted by the sound of Dean entering the room. I had left a small lamp on, casting a dim light that was bright enough to illuminate Dean as he started to undress, beginning with his shoes and socks. I stifled a laugh watching the meticulous way he tucked in the laces of his shoes and placed them exactly where he had picked them up earlier.

He stood to unbutton the crisp white shirt he had worn that evening, beginning from the bottom with skillful fingers. Halfway up, he paused, realizin