Chapter 7 – Her daggers

Conrad kept close to her as they made their way towards the forest. He’s got this prickly feeling in his chest, whenever he catches another guy looking at his mate. It’s an irritating feeling, but he knew he needed to keep it under control.

Alice noticed his closeness but it did make her feel safe in this unfamiliar territory. At one point, he grabbed her wrist and held it as they walked. Then, he started telling her the areas in the pack that they’ve come across. She looked around and felt a certain level of calm in her heart. This place seems to have that effect on her. It looks peaceful. It’s simple and neat but that’s its beauty.

She frowned at how organized and tidy the place was. Her old pack is known for being chaotic and messy. The environment alone keeps her alert and on guard. But here… she likes the momentary feeling she’s having. She took in a deep breath and the smelled his scent again. Apples. At some point, his hand has moved toward hers and clasped it. It’s warm and seems to be sending a tingly feeling through her arm towards her body. She knew this is a result of the mate pull. She wants to be as close to him as possible.

He tugged her towards the woods they were in yesterday and she simply followed while staring at him.

She actually found her mate, but what should she do now? Last night, she hasn’t been able to make a decision. It’s a good thing that she doesn’t want to let go, but her conscience couldn’t let them suffer because of her. She has to go.

Sensing her feelings, Conrad squeezed her hand and stopped walking. She bumped into him, a clear indication that she was spacing out.

“I’m sorry.” She looked around, unsure why they stopped walking. This isn’t the place.

“You look sad.” He carefully touched her cheek and she savored the feeling.

Alice bit her lip. Yeah, she is. She stared directly at him. She would commit his appearance to her memory. She’s happy to have simply met him so she smiled.

Sighing, Conrad asked, “Can you tell me what your situation is? Your companions couldn’t tell us much. All they know is that you’re being hunted. Who’s after you and why are they hunting you down?”

This is the task his father gave him, but he’s equally curious. Why would anyone want to hurt his mate? An indescribable anger surged from within him and she felt it. Her eyes widened and she tried to pull her hand away.

Conrad closed his eyes and took deep breaths, but he didn’t let her go.

“Sorry. I just… I’m angry because there are people who wants to hurt you. I won’t let them hurt you. I’ll protect you.”

His swords are sweet, but she couldn’t…

After she retrieves the daggers, she would ask them for supplies. Then, she will be off. Just like that, she has made her decision. Her heart aches, but it’s what she must do.

“Alice?”

“I have to leave. I can’t stay here.”

Her words alarmed him.

“No. You have to stay. This is your home now.” There’s urgency in his voice and he gripped her hand tighter.

Home. That sounds nice.

“I can’t…” She told him again.

“Why can’t you?” He pressed for an answer.

Alice shook her head. “I don’t want to cause you trouble. They would attack your pack if I stay here.”

Just thinking about it makes her feel so much guilt. Her mother died protecting her.

“We know that part already. And as my mate, do you really think I would simply let you go? I’m going to protect you. My father knows it’s the right thing to do.”

“It’s too risky…” She continued. “Members of your pack could die if they attack.”

“We’ll be prepared for that. We’re not exactly weak.”

Seeing the doubt on her face, Conrad knew he must convince her.

“It’s the Silver Crescent, right? They’re notorious for their strength and brutality, sure, but I can assure you that we can take them on. Won’t you trust me?”

Okay, it might be too early to ask that from her. They don’t know each other yet, but here he is, asking her to trust him.

“Alice, you’re my mate. That means you’re going to be this pack’s Luna later on. There are no coincidences to the Moon Goddess, is there? You’re meant to be here.”

Alice very much wanted to believe his words and rely on him. But could she really?

“Why don’t you tell me the situation first? That way we would be more prepared. We need to know what you know to do that. You can tell me anything, Alice.” He likes saying her name. It still feels surreal to him that he found her after so many years. It’s a good thing that he waited until now. The elders have already advised him to choose a mate instead. Thankfully, he didn’t listen.

“I ran away from my pack.” She began after a few minutes of silence that they stared at each other.

He nodded and encouraged her to continue.

“Alpha Walter wants me dead.” She admitted.

Conrad frowned at this. “Why?” Why would that vicious wolf want her dead?

“He… he killed my mother. He k-killed his mate. He’s my f-father.” Her voice trembled as she told him the truth.

Conrad inhaled deeply as she finally gave him some answers. So, some of the rumors were true. The guy actually killed his own mate. But that begs the question, why?

The rumors… somehow, he couldn’t bring himself to ask her. Are you sure he’s your father? Why would he want you dead if he is?

The implication would be… her mother was truly unfaithful. Then, who’s her father?

Alice watched his expression closely.

“They’re saying he may or may not be my father, aren’t they?” She asked in a low voice, her expression turning serious. She considered it and it could be possible. Otherwise, the man who showed her love for many years wouldn’t just… kill his own flesh and blood.

“Your mother didn’t tell you anything?” Since she brought it up, Conrad simply wanted to make sure.

Alice shook her head. Her mother didn’t say anything. She couldn’t even understand how her father could possibly know what the truth is. He came home one night with the intent to murder them. It was horrifying. Remembering that night made her cry and Conrad was alarmed to see her tears.

“I’m sorry. I promise he won’t be able to come near you. I’ll protect you.” He enclosed her in his arms and she finally let herself grieve. It has been so long and she’d been enduring so much.