Chapter 6 – Her mother

Conrad went to the room next door and took a shower as well. He promised that they’ll look for her daggers and he meant to do that first thing this morning.

He was ready to go when she came out of the bathroom. She was wearing a white shirt and blue pants. Ah, he forgot the shoes again.

“Wait here for a moment. I’ll get you some shoes.”

He quickly went out and while he’s away, Alice looked around his room. She was not able to do so yesterday. When he left her to sleep, she truly fell asleep.

He returned with a pair of white rubber shoes. He took her hand and guided her through the pack house. There was that undeniable spark when they touched.

“Are we going to the woods?” She’s still anxious about losing her daggers.

“Not yet. Let’s have breakfast first. My mother wants to meet you.”

In the kitchen, her mother is already there. She’s usually early at work, overseeing the pack house management.

She approached when they entered the dining hall.

“Hello. You must be Alice. I’m Selena, Conrad’s mom.” Her warm smile and friendly tone lowered Alice’s guard. She was actually reminded of her own mother. She’s just as sweet and caring.

Selena gave her a brief hug before directing them into a table. The three of them sat down as someone brought out three plates. They were early as breakfast doesn’t begin until thirty minutes later. Alice felt comfortable with the scarce number of people around them. She would most likely freak out if there’s too many people. One reason he brought her here before the others pour in.

His mother chatted with her, mostly asking if she’s feeling comfortable or if she needs anything in particular.

“We’ll go and look for her daggers in the forest.” Conrad explained what their next activity is.

“Daggers? You use them?” Selena is intrigued. The young woman in front of her has a small frame. Though of course, it’s also possible that she knows how to fight. Every wolf has that tendency to learn to protect oneself.

“Yes.” Alice replied simply.

“We have daggers in the storeroom, don’t we?” She turned to her son.

Conrad looked at Alice before answering, “Yes, we do.”

“Why don’t you just get new ones? The forest is vast.” Selene suggested kindly. It made Alice uncomfortable.

“My mom gave them to me.” Her voice was small and sad as she kept looking down.

“We’ll find them.” Conrad promised her. Wait, he already promised her last night, didn’t he? Why did he forget about it so soon? He’s losing points for trust. She might think he’s unreliable.

“I see. Of course, you should look for them. Take all the time you need. Do you want me to pack lunches for you?”

“It’s fine. I can find them quickly. I’m sure I have my scent on them.” Alice assured them that it won’t be a time-consuming task.

“Even so, you don’t need to rush.” Selena insisted, then turned to her son.

“Why don’t you show her around the territory? Have a picnic. I’ll prepare the food.” She smiled at them before returning to the kitchen.

Conrad stared at Alice’s figure.

“Look at me. Keep your head up.” He told her. When she didn’t budge, he reached out and touched her chin with a finger.

“What’s wrong?” He became concerned because of her expression.

“I need potions to conceal my scent, too. You said your pack has them?”

“Yes. We’ll drop by the storehouse. I told you, the borders already conceal everyone’s scent. You don’t have to worry about it.”

“I just want to be doubly sure. I don’t want to risk it.” She bravely looked directly into his eyes. She liked that he’s concerned about her.

He smiled at her before lightly caressing her cheek. Her skin is too soft and fair. He decided that he’ll ask her questions after they find her daggers. She seemed jittery because of her lost daggers. She didn’t mention last night how important it is to her, but he did think it has that kind of significance to her.

“You said the daggers were given by you mom? Where is she?” Or maybe he shouldn’t have asked.

Her expression became dark and sorrowful.

“I’m sorry.” He pulled her into a lose hug and caressed her back.

Alice couldn’t stop herself from crying. Her mother’s death was horrifying and terrible. The memory alone could make her tremble from fear. Even now, she’s wondering how she managed to run away from that nightmare.

But in a way, she understood it’s because her mom protected her. Clung to her killer so he couldn’t go after her immediately. That was enough time for her to leave and run endlessly.

Selena returned with a packed basket to witness this scene.

“What did you do?” She’s ready to reprimand her son. You don’t make a lady cry! Even more so when it’s your mate!

Conrad winced at his mother’s tone. He mouthed silently the words “her mom” to her.

“Oh…” She correctly assumed that her mom’s already dead. Death is always going to be the worst experience one can have. No one truly knows how to deal with it. It’s different for everyone. 

With her presence, though, Alice stopped herself from crying and wiped her face with her hands.

“Sorry. I didn’t mean to cry.”

“It’s okay to cry.” Conrad softly replied by her ear. She shivered a little.

Selena breathed in relief. It’s good that she can pull herself together quickly. “Here’s your lunch. Don’t let her go hungry. Also, be careful when you’re on the training grounds.”

“Yes, mom.”

“Does your father already know? Or should I tell him you’ll be away from your duties today.”

“I already informed him.”

“Good. I’ll see you both for dinner.”

“Thanks, mom.”

“Hmm…”

“Thank you.” Alice didn’t forget to express her gratitude and stood. They should go now, right?

Selena smiled at her.

“I hope you’ll feel at home here. I would like to welcome you into the pack in advance.” She gave Alice a warm but brief hug.

“Another one?” Selena gladly embraced her again when she saw how she looked disappointed at their parting.

Alice was glad, too. She missed her mom so much.