After they were done being intimate, Alice kept staring at his face as they lay on the bed together.
“You said you’ve waited for me. Did you not have a relationship with another wolf before?” She reached out to caress his jaw.
Conrad took her hand and kissed her fingers.
“I did not. I’m someone who treats the rules on mates seriously. Here in the pack, we’re teaching the youngsters to be patient and wait for the right time. Of course, not everyone is like that and we can’t force them. Still, we try to emphasize the importance of keeping yourself available for your mate. If you tie yourself to someone else and your mate appears, it would be a difficult situation. Would you choose your mate or the one you decided to have a relationship with? Anyway, rejecting a mate also occurs. It’s the same everywhere. When someone can no longer wait, they usually choose to whom they want to be mated. Not everyone is blessed to fin
Just when she thought she could live a normal life among her kind and happily with her mate, that’s when everything changed. One night, the pack was attacked. They were woken up from their sleep and Conrad quickly responded with the men, telling her to stay behind. Alice went out to find his mother and the others, but she couldn’t help worrying. “Was it my father?” She asked as Selene as the older woman patted her arm, comforting her. “Hmm, it seems like he brought more wolves than last time.” She could hear the seriousness of the matter from her tone. “I should go…” She kept muttering this phrase over and over, but Conrad’s mother wouldn’t let her. When the injured were brought back for treatment, the Luna left her side to attend to such matters. Alice saw it as her chance to do something, to help, or maybe to run away and lead the enemies off the territory. She couldn’t bear the thought of anyone getting hurt because of her.
Conrad couldn’t grieve just yet. He has to focus and do what he needs to do. His mother was greatly affected by the death of her mate. He couldn’t ask her for help at the moment. The pain of losing your mate is so great, very few are able to overcome it.His brother was in a similar situation and he confirmed that the girl was supposed to be his mate. They weren’t mated yet, heck they barely met, so the effect on Caleb is still bearable. It’s akin to being rejected. The pain would eventually subside. If he’s lucky, he might have a second chance mate. But for now, he’s not functional.It’s different for their mother, though. Even he is worried. He can only hope that she will be able to push through the sorrow and grief.He tried to be methodical and suppressed his own emotions as he talked to the men of their pack, and gave instructions on what they have to accomplish. They need to restore order and regain security. He hi
The sun was beginning to set as Conrad distractedly walked towards the lake. His turbulent emotions are raring to erupt from within him. He wanted to scream. He managed to pace the perimeter of the lake before letting himself go. He screamed out his frustration. His agony. His regrets. His heartbreak. His failures… “Alice!” He called out her name a few times as the pain of her absence began to seep into his heart. It’s beginning to feel real and he doesn’t know what to do. Should he go after her? She’s still in danger. She’s still being hunted. How could he let her go? Alone? He should’ve… he shouldn’t have left her alone. She needed him. He should’ve given her attention despite his duties to the pack. Now she’s gone… and he wouldn’t be able to forgive himself if something bad happens to her. His howl of hopelessness permeated the air. Everyone in the pack heard it low and they felt a semblance of his pain as they listened. His mind is a mess. He wanted to le
Conrad woke up in cold sweat. He’s got this feeling that what he saw is currently happening to her. Wherever she is, Alice is in danger. He clutched his head as he grimaced, his heart thudded against his chest. Please, be safe. He can only pray for her. He stood up and paced the length of his room, anxious and afraid.Should he go back to sleep? Would he see a glimpse of her again? Would he know if she’s fine?Alice thought she has already gone far, but no. They still managed to track her. They’re good, whoever they are. She grimaced. Maybe it was a mistake leaving a jacket behind. She only meant to confuse them with her scent, make sure they understand she’s no longer at Snow Mountain Pack. She didn’t realize it would be a starting point for them to trace her. Still, it’s good to know that they probably won’t attack the pack now.She managed to escape again. This is the third time in the last three months that they mana
A few more months passed, which he endured. Thankfully, no more nightmares concerning her came to him. And a couple of times, he saw her in his dreams. She seemed to be doing well now.Even so, he must still get her back.Despite his training as the next Alpha, he realized how much information he was not told. He managed to cope quickly, though. Huh, he finally understands now why his father is not strict about pack members leaving the territory. They are still part of the pack, living remotely, still in contact and contributing in a different way. Not everyone would prefer to stay, especially those who are given different combination of talents.Apparently, they are living with the humans and doing business with them. Most of them went to universities to further their studies, something the mentors in the pack can’t provide. Education within the territory is limited. Those who have the intellect and the interest to learn more were allowed to go. Those who
Caleb left and Conrad was hopeful he would get more information about Alice. If his brother could meet her and personally see her, that would be even better. He would be assured that she’s safe and doing well.He felt anxious as he waits for his brother’s call. He knew he’s busy with his own matter during the first week after he left and he couldn’t exactly rush him. He waited almost impatiently. He couldn’t focus on his tasks and his mother had to remind him a few times.“If you’re like this, how can I agree for you to leave? Things might have improved, but unless we’re attacked again, we can’t exactly say how effective the changes were. Theoretically, everything’s better, but are they really? Go and train your men.”Conrad sighed before dragging himself onto the training grounds. They have become stricter with the training, not allowing anyone to slack off. The younger men were encouraged to tra
Alice was surprised by Caleb’s visit. It was so unexpected for her. She never thought she would still meet people from Snow Mountain.From their chat, she learned that he also left the pack not long after that incident. He assured her that no one in their family is blaming her. It’s not her fault some mad wolves are bent on killing her.He didn’t really try hard in convincing her to go back, which made her glad. Although when he mentioned Conrad, her heart became a mess. She was easily rattled by the thought of seeing him again. She reminded herself to be firm in her decision. She’s not going back. She’s not going to endanger the pack.She was nervous at the possibility of Conrad showing up. He won’t, right? He can’t leave the pack when he’s the alpha now. Snow Mountain is extremely vulnerable since the last attack that killed the previous alpha. She doesn’t know the changes that took place since then.
Well, she tried. She’s a mess inside. She truly didn’t expect him to come.Although she looked busy with her tasks, she did turn his way a few times. She’s not hallucinating, is she? He’s really here, right? She was a little flustered to learn he had been staring at her as well. If there’s anything noticeable about him, it was his darker complexion. She can only surmise he spent a lot of time under the sun. It has been what? Almost ten months now.His presence did remind her of something. The potions. Would he have brought more for her to use?“You seem a little distracted.” Steven, a co-worker, asked her at one point.“Oh, am I? Sorry. I haven’t messed up anything yet, though.” She smiled, feeling good about it.The man frowned at her. “What’s bothering you?”“Nothing, really.” She doesn’t want to discuss it.“Does it have something
Alice woke up feeling tickled. Her mate was pressing kisses behind her ear and along her neck. She moaned lightly, grasping the arm around her waist. “Good morning.” Conrad slightly got up and pressed a kiss on her lips, eventually sitting on the bed. Ever since Liana came, they were able to relax and rest properly. They were very grateful. The woman was an elite vampire. She was born a vampire, not turned. Her father was an elite, whereas her mother was turned. She was able to explain what’s going on with Ice and assured them that there’s nothing to worry about. The red eyes are apparently due to feeling extreme emotions, mostly irritation. But it can also be due to extreme happiness or sadness. The need for blood would depend on several factors. As a baby, a small amount should suffice. Consuming more blood than necessary is also not recommended. It could get addicting and could prove troublesome. Liana didn’t elaborate but simply mentioned it’s a case most vampires try to avoid. T
“Give me a moment.” She replied and went to stare at herself in the mirror. Yes, they do have reflections. She took a few deep breaths while organizing the information she has gotten. She’s quite skilled and she knew the woman told her the truth when she asked questions.A new place… but how would she be treated in a place infested with wolves? Their natural enemy? Would it be better than her current situation? She hesitated and bit her lip. She had to play this well to her advantage.She took a few more deep breaths before standing straight and exuding the confidence she normally wears.She got out and the couple were waiting for her. She stood there, sizing them up. The way the woman clings to his side, such affection… she was tempted to sigh.“Then, should we get a table and chat? What would you like to eat?” The place is half-bar, half-restaurant.Liana nodded and gestured for them to lead the way. Caleb scanned her once, not letting his guard down. She rolled her eyes at him. Do
For a few months, they observed the twin’s growth, especially Ice. He seems fine and wasn’t troublesome. Well, all they do is eat, play and sleep. Cry and poop. That was the cycle. It’s fairly ordinary. Caleb has been coordinating with their members in the city, asking them to help locate a few vampires, preferably females. He’s assuming they would be easier to talk to. Huh. If it’s a male, he could already picture the aggression and the unwillingness to engage in a conversation. Their view on hybrids is similar to wolves, or any other species for that matter. They do not treat them kindly. Some may be indifferent but that’s not the general stance. Lourianne wanted to go with him and he hesitated. “We’ll see. If the person isn’t too dangerous, I will take you. Do you want to visit your parents?” Her eyes lit up. Of course, she does. Caleb chuckled seeing her excitement. “I’ll take you. I’ll let you stay with them for a while if it’s dangerous. If not, you’re with me.” “Great. Than
“Ah, shit…” Conrad softly cursed. “What is it?” Alice quickly asked him. It was as if he came to know something. “Could he be a full-pledged vampire? They’re normally pale and cold to the touch, right?” To him, it’s better than having a dead son. It doesn’t matter to him, he would accept the child. It’s still his own blood and flesh. The problem would be how other people perceive him. Not to mention, other packs may also have their own opinions. Alice heard him and carefully eyed both babies. They’re easy to distinguish because of it, even though their appearance looks the same at the moment. She took a deep breath, trying to calm herself. She also understands the possible implications of this birth. “We’ll figure it out later. What’s important is that they’re both here, alive and well. Healthy and safe. And you as well. Aren’t you tired? Rest for a while.” Conrad kissed her cheek before taking the second baby off her and hugging it. He figured the first baby would be better off on
“So, what happens now?” Alice asked as they watched those men leaving their territory.Conrad glanced at her. He’d been extremely relieved that she stayed and did not have any desire to leave. He’d been worried and every night he would somehow tell her how much he needs her. The first few days, he could tell she still entertained the idea, albeit not seriously. When she began to be productive around the pack, he began to relax and focus on his own responsibilities.“We rebuild the pack. We keep on training. We’ll improve security even more. We’ll be ready for any trouble.” He firmly replied to her, gently squeezing her hand.She audibly sighed as they eyed the forests. It’s not the end. It’s only the beginning. But she hoped to have a few years of peace before any kind of trouble arrives.Caleb and Lourianne wanted a separate home, but not too far from the pack house. It was fine. Not everyone lives in the pack house. It’s more like a headquarters for the Alpha and the other officers.
They rested but they couldn’t sleep properly. Early in the morning, both of them decided to go out and help with the clean-up and restoration of the territory. Mostly, it’s only the men they saw.Conrad told her to stay close. Along with everyone else, their expressions were solemn as they did their tasks.The men already managed to bury the dead last night. Their Alpha told them to rest as those who rested last night began to rise and show up on the grounds. Caleb also showed up, but his expression was grim. Lourianne was still in hysterics, blaming herself. It was difficult to keep her calm.“Can you accompany her?” He asked Alice but Conrad wanted to beat him up when he heard his request.“The hell are you asking her? You want my mate to break down as well?” He berated through the link.His younger brother grimaced. He hasn’t considered that. All he knew was that since Alice felt the same way before, she might be able to help Lourianne overcome her emotions.Alice noticed their exp
Conrad wanted to be quick. He doesn’t want to leave Alice for too long. This time, he wanted to be there for her, to be with her as they go through this loss and grieve. But alas, he couldn’t just not do any of his responsibilities as Alpha of the pack. Everyone who needed rest, he told them to take a break. Those who can still move around began the clean-up. They first dealt with their comrades, giving aid to those who are badly injured and in need of medical attention. Priorities. Marco brought Walter’s body deeper into the woods and began digging. They would set him on fire and witness his ruin before burying him. It has to be done. Otherwise, they can’t be sure if he planned some hocus-pocus or if his minions would. After their own were tended to, the rest went to gather the dead bodies. Their fallen members go in one side and the enemies go in another. Sure, they were cruder in handling the bastards’ bodies. There were cries and wailing as family members find their loved ones am
Conrad wouldn’t waste the opportunity. He knew such an action from Walter wasn’t natural. He could guess Alice has something to do with it.He clamped hard against his neck and ravaged him, tearing his flesh. There was a howl of pain and Alice struck him across the face. He told her to never position herself below an enemy, exposing her neck to vulnerability. He’s proud of how she’s applying the things she learned in real life.But it’s not that easy. Walter resisted and struggled, managing to swipe Alice away with such force that she was pushed back a few feet away. Conrad also persisted and wouldn’t let go of him. He was almost hugging the other wolf, keeping him in place. Alice returned within a minute and attacked his body. She wouldn’t dare hit him on the head, lest Conrad’s bite on him loosens. It became a matter of perseverance. Who would last longer? Who would tire out first? She could tell Conrad is already exhausted. He must have fought others earlier even before this bastar
Everything suddenly became a blur to her, which is bad. She’s moving on instinct and not truly aware of her surroundings and who she’s attacking. She fiercely growled before stalking behind a tree and calming herself. Both Caleb and Conrad told her how important it is for her to be fully conscious of her every action.Someone dared to sneak up on her and she mercilessly fought back. At this time, her nervousness died down, no longer rushing her and making her impatient. That’s good enough for her. She crouched down, laying low as she surveyed her surroundings again. The wolf within her began to feel agitated the longer they stay still.She began moving, pouncing on an enemy and sinking her fangs on their necks. She clawed at their bodies, striking them repeatedly until they no longer move. Whimpers and growls filled the air. Almost no one in sight is in their human form. This time she moved with purpose, methodically attacking one after another. Only by looking at her red eyes were wo