Ezra
I sat at the breakfast table, my mother sat rambling about how excited she was. I watched as she grinned before filling her plate with more fresh pineapple and melons.I'd agreed to the whole contest thing for her. I'd been abit of a party boy, when my mate rejected me at 18, I threw caution to the wind. Not being the heir, I had no obligation to the crown. I spent years of my life jetting around, collecting fake friends and drinking myself silly. When I turned 22 I thought about slowing down. It just so happened that day my mother also came to me with the idea of the contest.I had thought about it for a few days... surely it wouldn't be too bad... spending a few weeks surrounded by pretty girls..."Ezra darling" my mother broke my thought "you need to eat darling." she stood by my side, her hand on my shoulder."of course mother" I smiled before grabbing a croissant and a pile of strawberries. She smiled in satisfaction as she stroked my head softly."how did I get such handsome sons" she laughed."mother stop being soppy and finish your melon" Theo interjected.My mother sat back down at her chair, kissing Theo on the cheek on her way past. "You've got a busy day Ezra""yes... my first chance to meet the ladies" I replied."What are you looking for brother?" Theo spokeI stopped to think about it for a moment "well... all of the girls are pretty so that's already a bonus... I suppose someone who is fun. Life is hard already... I'd want someone who is my best friend""aww Ezra wants a friend... that'd be your first one right?" Theo teased. My mother scowled at him causing him to stop the chuckling."What about you then baby Theo" I asked.Theo was 3 years my junior. Even though he was only 19, he was desperate to fall in love. He was the kind of boy who didn't mind being soppy, he wanted to be married and have children... sooner rather than later.Theo smiled, his eyes almost turning to hearts "a nice girl who I fall in love with"Grey scoffed, normally keeping quiet at our breakfast meetings. "something funny Greyson?" Theo asked."you two are such saps" he rolled his eyes."Grey I know you didn't want to be here... but please try for your mother" My father spoke."sorry father... mother..." Grey spoke. Grey was hard, he'd never wanted love, but when it came to our parents he wanted to make them proud. "good luck today Ezra... I'm going to go for a run I think later... my wolf has been hiding for too long""What time? I'll join you?" I asked."me too!" Theo added."let's say 12. Out by the old sycamore tree where Theo gave himself concussion?" Grey responded before standing from the table "lovely breakfast. Mother I have a meeting to attend... Father..." he bowed his head before leaving the room.---The morning was full of introductions. It was a long day..Groups of girls met me in different garden locations, I didn't want to sit in one spot all day. I waited for our run, my wolf ready to sprint free.We ran for an hour, Theo playfully knocking into my occasionally. After a quick dip in the lake, I redressed before making my way to afternoon tea. The gazebo was covered in pink climbing roses, the large round table set for afternoon tea for 11. As I approached, I took in the 10 girls. All were pretty, of course they were... But there was one... one that stood out.She had deeply tanned skin, her caramel curls pulled into a ponytail, complimented by a pink bow. She didn't seem like most the girls, she didn't seem too bothered by it all. Her eyes shone brightly as her eyes caught mine, a small smile appearing on her plump lips.Amelia...Such a pretty name. But she was so much more than a beautiful girl with a pretty name. She was skilled and funny... She could light up any room... After I had talked to her I had to rejoin the main group. But my eyes watched her, her laugh filling the area. She snorted slightly, before covering her face in embarrassment.I have to get to know her... She was perfect.AmeliaLater that night, me, Riley and Karina had decided to go to the last dinner sitting. We all sat at the table by the window , all with trays full of different foods. Karina was a selective vegetarian... I know strange for a wolf... but she chose to only eat meat when absolutely necessary."so... Ezra..." Riley started, her lips raising into a smile "he was really nice! I expected him to be some party boy but he seemed genuine..." I nodded "yeah... he seems funny too.." I shoveled pasta into my mouth"so who's your favourite so far Amee?" Riley askedKarina looked up, a clueless look on her face "you've met more than Ezra already?" "yeah... I kinda... run into Grey at the welcome ball" I replied. "you...ran into Grey?" a voice from behind me made me jump. I turned, it was Ruby. Her sleek blonde hair was pulled back into a slick ponytail, she wore workout gear, her body glistening with sweat. "it wasn't intentional" I scoffed"give me the low down... he's my favourite..." Ruby
I spent the whole night rerunning the whole kiss in my head. How we'd got there... how it felt. It was so early... how did that happen so quickly? I'd been here for 3 days... 3 days where everything was the same but so different all at once. The sun piercing through the slotted blinds welcomed the morning. Riley stirred in her bed, stretching out fully. "morning" she murmured. "you been up all night?""most of it.." I mumbled back "I'm confused by all of this... I don't know what I'm doing here... I'm not cut out for this""what makes you say that?" she replied, quickly running across to my bed, before pulling the covers up over her shoulders. I checked the other 2 beds, Ruby was gone already, her bed pristinely made. Karina was fast asleep, light snore escaping her lips. I turned to her, before leaning in "Grey kissed me last night"Her eyes went large, her hand covering her mouth "omg" she scream whispered. "how? what? when?""I.. went for a run last night... when I got back he wa
The next morning we were all asked to meet in the ballroom. The mumbles of confusion filled the air as girls made their way to the room. There seemed to be less of us, but I was never good at maths."morning ladies" The Queen appeared at the head of the room, wearing a simple chiffon pleated skirt and a jewelled jumper. Her hair was effortlessly swept into a ponytail, she looked so effortless. "I'm sure by now you can see there is half of you. We made the decision last night to streamline the competition, the prince's chose their 25 favourite ladies and fortunately for you 25, you were chosen. Now I know it's early, but we didn't want to waste anyone's time... so from here on out individual dates will comence. My sons want to really get to know you. You will all get a chance at a 1:1 date with one or more of my children... I hope you all understand.. I just want my boys to be happy" Everyone agreed happily, clearly because they were one of the 25. Me and Riley found Karina in the roo
I felt so confused, so conflicted by it all. I had become so invested in it even though I hadn't wanted to be involved. I felt a draw to Grey, but was he being honest? if he felt drawn to me too, then why didn't he just call his match already.Ruby basically ran into the bedroom, a smug smile on her face "omg I'm in love" she cooed. I turned to her, watching as she pretended to melt against the door. "Grey is so handsome! he told me I was one of his main choices" "did he though?" Karina chuckled. "yes!" she squeeled, clapping her manicured hands. "he invited me out to dinner tonight, 2 times in one day!" A part of me stirred, jealousy? did he lie to me last night? was it all pretend?"are you okay?" Riley whispered to me as she sat next to me on my bed. "I'm just... confused" I confessed "he told me he didn't like Ruby..." "well by the sounds of it he's playing with you all..." she rolled he eyes. "you need to prioritise you... get ready for your date with Ezra... give him your
I found my way to the library, hoping to read up on the mate bond. Thick leather bounded books filled the heavy oak shelves. Hundreds written on the instant bond at 18. only one of the other sides of bonding. I picked the book up before finding a secluded area. I pulled my knees against my chest as I began reading. 'Many believed the mate bond to be an instant thing. We were told that we would know one our birthdays, and anything after that wouldn't be a true bond. Recently a phenomenon called the Love Bond has been discovered. it is believed to be a mate bond created through compatability. The first case was of a young couple from Denmark. They fell in love the human way, when one day they awoke to an undeniable true mate bond. It is said to be the strongest bond, the pairing is meant to be. A recent study found 1 in 10 mates were hypothetically incompatible. There is belief of multiple bonds. Typically identified in fraternal siblings which are genetically identical. however the
GreyI felt excited. I couldn't quite understand what was going on with Amelia... how she could feel it with both of us. Every time I was with her it became stronger, everytime she laughed... smiled... every kiss I stole..I made it my mission to make her choose me. I'd make her fall for me. I found Ezra the next day, he'd gone out early for a run. He'd often stop in a small clearing where we used to pretend we were pirates when we were children. It had a view over the valley below, the cliff being a prime scene for dramatic scenes. "you okay?" I spoke, patting him on the back. I joined him on the log that was often the plank we would walk. "yeah... it's all abit confusing" he confessed "so she has to choose?""I think so... it's not really something we can understand..." Being the older brother I was often his confidant... "I can't lie it's hard... I've spent more time with her than you... not rubbing it in... I'm just saying that the more you get to know her... it becomes so hard
I couldn't wait to see my family. At the week mark we were allowed to visit our homes for the weekend. I went to see Grey after finishing packing a small bag. "I'm going to miss you" he confessed"it's the weekend. you will be fine. a week ago you didn't even know me" I laughed. He rolled his eyes dramatically, sighing "yes but you know that doesn't matter" "it's 2 days... I will be back before you know it..." ---I was dropped off by my house, the dusty road leaving a haze in the air. I knew noone would be home, on a Saturday we would usually go and visit my Aunt Clara so I had a bit of time to be alone in my home. I found the spare key which was hid in the old broken plant pot before opening the door. The familiar scent hit my nose, nothing had changed. I don't know what I expected, it had been a week! My mothers knitting sat draped across the arm of her armchair, my fathers slippers placed neatly by the fireplace. Toys were scattered around, Emmet was never one for clearing up
"Alex?" I quizzed. "yeah! I havnt seen you since high school!" he said enthusiastically.Alex Munroe... He was the schools golden boy, not only was he the captain of the football (soccer) team but he was a straight A student who was also one to volunteer in his spare time to help teachers or visit the retirement home. He was the perfect guy. But being who he was, he always had a harem of girls following him around, queuing for their turn. "I didn't even think you knew my name" I laughed."of course!" he smiled "so this is weird..." he rubbed his neck with his hand.."I know what you mean... how... why now?" I asked."I went away during the end of the last year... My dad got a job in Germany... we came back on Thursday..." he smiled, his eyes shining. "so this explains the whole not finding my mate thing... you were here all along" I felt awkward, it felt awkward. "so... what does this mean?" I asked."what? wernt you listening in school? this is it now... we are meant to be togeth
The day came too quickly. It was the wedding day. After today, I'd officially be a princess... his princess. A team of official hair and makeup artists turned up bright and early, I was instructed to sit back and relax. I closed my eyes as I waited for them to finish. "morning!" Riley beamed as she entered the room. Large curlers sat in her hair, her face half filled with makeup. "shouldn't you be finished by now?" I asked her "Karina needs to be done within 20 minutes..." "Alright bridezilla.." she mocked as sipped her iced coffee. "oh what's this?" she indicated to my neck. "you know what it is" I chuckled. "what does it feel like?" she quizzed, sitting on the table to the side. "it's so strong... it makes you feel more for them... I can feel him near... sense his presence..." just talking about it made me blush. "I can't wait until it happens for me..." she gushed. "how do you want your hair?" the stylist asked as she prepared her kit. "straight or curly?" "my natural cur
"what's your plan today?" Grey asked. "I'm getting my dress" I smiled. Grey perked up, a cheeky look on his face "oh yeah... what are you thinking?" he asked, a suggestive tone in his voice. "never you mind..." I tutted before quickly leaving before we ended up back in bed. ---The queen had turned the dining room into a makeshift dress shop. Metal rails of white dresses lined the room, all surrounding a ornate couch and table. Champagne sat in a bucket of ice, with glasses ready to be filled. I'd asked Riley and Karina to join, and had even extended the invite to Ruby. Since she offered me her dress she seemed to have started to want to bond. My mother sat next to the Queen, gossiping away happily. I was ushered into a cordoned area, where dresses were pulled for me to try. I didn't know what I was looking for, I had always imagined I'd end up getting something last minute, a simple white shift dress... but the dresses were exquisite... fine lace covered silk and satin, gems st
"Noe Amelia if you place your left hand on Prince Greys chest to show the ring." the photographer instructed. We had been stood here for what felt for hours, and every moment I got stiffer and stiffer. "are you okay?" Grey asked, leaning closer so only we could hear. "these shoed are killing me" I chuckled. "Take a break, we need to rest for a moment" Grey spoke, the photographer instantly leaving. "here" Grey spoke as he knelt down, taking off my heels. "you won't even see my feet on the photographs" I laughed "we will leave them off" he said softly as he kissed my knee. He stood up again, before placing a stray hair behind my ear. "I'm so lucky" "you've turned soft Grey" I laughed. His face sarcastically fell into a scowl, pretending to be mean."say it again" he pretended. "I dare you" "your soft" I laughed. He quickly picked me up throwing me over his shoulder. "Grey!" I squeeled, as I slapped his broad back. "say you lied" he struggled to hold back a laugh as he paced aro
I sprinted into the palace, frantically searching the usual places. When I turned to the long open corridoor, he appeared at the end of the corridoor clearly having been running too. We both looked at eachother, full of emotions and unsaid feelings. I started towards him, him towards me. As we met we embraced, our lips colliding in a burst of passion."Grey" I muttered into the kissHe pulled back just enough to look into my eyes, they'd softened instantly. "do you feel it too" he whispered.I nodded, "I rejected Alex... and as soon as he left... it... happened" He kissed me again."the necklace... it's my mothers" I said between kisses. "I don't care" he growled, pulling me closer. It felt so different. My whole heart felt healed, healed from all of the hurt... all of the pain. Being near him was intoxicating. His scent, his touch. Moments after he dropped to his knee, before looking up at me softly "marry me" he spoke."what?" I asked. "marry me please. I wanted to marry you b
Everything had become too much. As soon as we got back I decided to go for a run. I shifted behind the trees before running for a long time. I'd set up a route a few days ago, and had hidden a small bag with some clothes in so I could sit in human form to overlook the hills. My wolf was angry, she didn't care about anything but being with her mate... yes she had started to like Grey, but to her Alex was our mate. I shifted, quickly slipping on the oversized hoodie. I'd found the perfect spot, it overlooked the town, the sun perfectly highlighting the old buildings. "Amelia?" a voice appeared behind me. I turned, greeting the voice "Ezra?" Ezra and Theo emerged from the trees, both looking as though they had been on human runs. I never understood why some wolves chose to also run as humans, it's so much easier... so much more fun as a wolf. "what are you doing out here?" Theo spoke, before sitting on the soft grass next to me. "I needed a run... and I needed space..." I spoke, my
The next morning I woke alone in my old bedroom. I was meant to return to the castle this afternoon, and whilst I wanted to see my family more, I needed to see Alex again. I quickly dressed in a cream jumpsuit, the thick straps complimenting the simple pearl earrings i wore. "Amee" my mum spoke as she knocked on the door."come in" I replied, admiring myself in the mirror. "you going soon?" she asked. I nodded.She produced her a small black box, it was weathered and old, I remembered it... I'd often seen it on her dressing table and wondered what's inside. She watched me intently as she opened the box. I instantly recognised it, it was a simple gold necklace, with a small knotted heart at the end. "wait what?" I stuttered. She delicately took the necklace from the box before motioning for me to turn around "this was your great grandmother's... she passed it to Nanna, and then Nanna gave it to me... now I want you to have it" she placed it around my neck before securing it. I look
After our dinner, we took a stroll along the dimly lit marina. Grey held tightly onto my hand, a happy smile on his face. "I don't want tonight to end.." I muttered, resting my head against his arm."I know.." he replied quietly "so reject him as soon as possible" "part of me is all for that... but my wolf is tunnel vision... it's her mate.." it felt like I was in for a battle between myself. "shall we get back to the palace?" he asked as we neared the car. I nodded, before we slid into the sleek black car. ---The next morning I quickly dressed in a oversized tshirt dress, before throwing on a denim jacket and a pair of high topped sneakers. I had chosen for now, to stay in my room. Until I had chosen, I had to remain as I was... I didn't want special treatment. I had asked for an extended weekend to return home. I needed to spend some time with Alex... too see if we even got on. "I'll miss you" Riley spoke as she helped me pack a small bag. "it's a few days Riley" I chuckled.
Grey was what? he was leaving the competition?"excuse me!" Ruby screeched. "Grey has chosen who he wants... if she accepts she will also be withdrawn from the running." the queen began "she will obviously then be welcomed into the family. The competition will continue with just Ezra and Theo as part of it." the queen spoke.had he chosen me? unless he was lying and he was happier with someone else..."Now I cannot announce his choice. My son has a mind of his own and he wants to do it his way. But rest assured, it'll be the greatest choice for himself... and a very lucky girl" I watched as her eyes met mine, a slight smile on her lips. ---I had to admit I was nervous, how could I accept any offer Grey had for me with Alex around... That's saying he has chosen me. For all I know he had decided to ditch the drama and had chosen someone like Ruby. When I got back to my room, a small envelop was sat waiting on my pillow. A waxy red seal was placed over the lip, engraved with HRHPG. I
I fell back into routine very easily. Grey had gone away for a few days and would be returning later today. I used the time to read further books. I'd spoke to the Queen about the me and Grey situation, she had given me some more books that she read when it happened to her. I'd settled under a quiet tree in the afternoon sun, my box of cookies next to me as I began reading.'The phenomenon is still largely unknown. it is possible to encounter ones true mate during the building process. It is unknown and not spoken of often. But ultimately the choice is to the reader. There is an opportunity... one where they may choose what they want the most... the mate assigned to them or someone they are made for? this author is in favour of the latter... Humans get to fall in love... so why can't we as wolves get the same luxury... love is a great thing... and whilst some may feel it with their mate... love of the pure kind is an experience we should all deserve'I closed the book, placing it on