I hesitated for a moment before rolling down the window. "Can I help you?" I asked, trying to hide the anxiety in my voice.
"Oh hello there miss, I couldn't help but notice your car," he said, gesturing towards the scratches. "Did someone do that to you?" I nodded, still feeling a bit wary. But something about his friendly demeanor put me at ease. "Yeah, I just noticed it when I got here. It's really frustrating." "I'm sorry that happened to you," he said sympathetically. "Is there anything I can do to help?" I shook my head, feeling embarrassed. "No, I don't think so. But thank you for asking." He smiled again, and I couldn't help but feel like I was in the presence of someone special. "Well, my name is Alex," he said, extending his hand. "I work at the office across the street but my friend is a mechanic and could sort you out with these scratches. If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to ask." I took his hand, feeling a sense of warmth spreading through my body. "I'm Cat," I said, smiling back at him. "It's nice to meet you and thanks for the offer but it’s fine.” "Here's my card. Call me anytime," Alex said, his voice smooth as he handed me his business card. I took it, feeling the weight of the card in my hand, and placed it gently on my empty cup holder. "Thanks, Alex. Anyway, I best be off as I have to collect my children," I explained, feeling a sense of urgency to leave. “0f course. I'm sure we will meet again soon.” He nodded, smiling, and I couldn't help but notice the way his eyes sparkled in the sunlight and my tummy did some crazy somesaults. I hoped that I would see him again. As I drove away, I couldn't shake the feeling that I had just met someone who would change my life forever. There was something about him that made me feel a way I never had before - a sense of excitement mixed with a hint of nervousness. When I finally pulled up to Maria's, I could see the children waving at me from the conservatory window. Their smiling faces filled me with a warmth and happiness that I hadn't felt in a long time, and I knew that I was exactly where I was meant to be. I walked up to the conservatory, feeling grateful for the love and joy that my children brought into my life. As I opened the door, they rushed to hug me, their tiny arms wrapping tightly around my waist. I held them close, feeling their warmth and love, and knew that they were the reason I kept going every day. “How was your day, Cat?” Maria grinned and I realised I had a smiled that I couldn't wipe off my face. “I bumped into someone who I feel this strange connection to.” I shook my head at the sound of my own words because it sounded ridiculous but it was true. “That sounds lovely my dear.” Maria squeezed my arm and went to the kitchen to make a drink. I sat on the floor with the twins listening to their excited chatter about their day with Maria. After a short catch up with Maria, she helped me to get the children safely in the car. I thanked her again and gave her a hug. “Enjoy your evening and we will see you in the morning.” “Goodnnight Cat, see you tomorrow twins.” Maria waved us off. Finally we were home and once I had gotten the twins out and in the door, I closed and locked it. After we settled in, I couldn't help but think about Alex and the way he made me feel. I wondered if he felt the same way or if it was all just in my head. The thought of seeing him again made my heart race, and I knew that I had to call him. However I was scared because I had only just met him. Would he be frightened off that I had twins? Perhaps someone like him already had a family of his own. The niggling feeling in my head kept saying to contact him but each time I would chicken out of doing so. Days turned into weeks, and I found myself thinking about Alex more and more. I wondered if he felt the same way or if it was all just in my head. The thought of seeing him again made my heart race, and I knew that I had to call him. A whole month had passed since first setting eyes on Alex and I decided to go for it. So finally, I mustered up the courage to dial his number. The phone rang a few times before he picked up, his voice smooth and calm. “Hello?” he said and I felt my heart pounding in my chest. “This is Cat. I hope you don't mind me calling but I wanted to talk about getting my car sorted. You suggested your friend.” I mumbled and could have kicked myself for sounding so silly. “Of course. I was hoping you would call me.” his voice all husky. We talked for another two hours, getting to know each other and sharing our hopes and dreams. It was like we had known each other forever, and I knew that this was the beginning of something special. As the days went by, Alex and I talked more and more. We discovered that we had so much in common and that our hopes and dreams were aligned. I felt like I was finally able to be myself around him, and I knew that he felt the same way. Since another month had passed since we met, I thought it was right for him to meet the twins. Maria was excited for me and encouraging. I felt like a teenager when I was around him, all giddy and excited. I couldn't tell him about Lochlan and my past though. I felt it would destroy our new found bond. It was still early days but I liked being around Alex and when the time came to introduce him to my twins, I knew that I did not want to let him go. He was going back home next week and I wanted to make the most of my time with him. I need not have worried about anything since Nadia and Nathan were happy to meet Alex and got along so well. It was like a dream come true. This man had been in my life as lite as three months and I was feeling myself fall for him. He adored Nathan and Nadia and they had this unbreakable bond that made me so happy to see growing. Even Maria approved of Alex. I was so happy that I often wondered how I got so lucky. I had a good friend, Carla back in my life and a man who worshipped me like a queen. Better than Lochlan had ever treated me. Even my job was going well. I was happy with my life. One morning I woke up and saw a message on my phone from Alex, he asked me to meet him for breakfast at a quaint little café in the heart of the city. As I walked into the café, I saw Alex sitting at a table near the window. He looked up and smiled, his eyes lighting up when he saw me. “Good morning beautiful Cat.” he stood up and pulled the chair out for me. What a gentlemen. “Morning, how are you?” I beamed at him as he pecked my cheeks and took his seat again. “Cat, look i won't beat around the bush, there’s something important that I want to tell you.” As Alex spoke those words, I felt a knot form in my stomach. I looked at him expectantly, trying to read his expression for any clues. He hesitated for a moment before opening his mouth, but then closed it again. I wondered what was on his mind and what he was trying to say. Despite my curiosity, I tried to maintain a calm demeanor and waited patiently for him to speak. “What is it?” I asked trying to hide the shakiness in my voice but I was scared. What if he was about to end things with me? We had been getting on great, I was happy how well things were going between us. Maybe all this had been to good to be true and now it had to end. After a few moments of silence, Alex finally spoke up. "Cat, I've been thinking a lot about our future together," he said, his voice soft and serious. Here it is. He's going to dump me. I took a deep breath and closed my eyes waiting for the words to hit me like cold ice. “And I just wanted to say that I love you and those adorable cheeky twins more than anything in this world. I can't imagine my life without you, and I want to spend the rest of my days making you happy." he took my hands in his and I opened my eyes in disbelief. Was he being serious or was this a silly joke? As he spoke, I felt tears welling up in my eyes. I had never felt so loved and cherished before. I reached out to take his hand, squeezing it tightly. “I know it's still early for us but I can't deny my feelings for you are already so strong.” he said. “I love you too, Alex," I said, my voice trembling with emotion. "I can't wait to see what the future holds for us. You make me feel so happy and it a long while since I felt this good.” I explained. We sat there for a few moments, lost in our own thoughts and feelings. I knew that this was just the beginning of something beautiful, and I felt grateful to have Alex by my side. But there was something niggling in the back of my mind and I could not place my finger on it. “That’s not all.” He smiled. “What is it?” I questioned seeing the glint of excitement in his eyes. “I have to go back to Colorado and I want you and the twins to come with me.” His words rang in my mind. Colorado. No. This could not be happening. Of all places, it had to be there.I couldn't believe my ears when Alex said that he wanted to take me to Colorado. I tried to keep my voice steady, but I could feel the panic rising in my chest. "Colorado?" I repeated, trying to sound casual. "Why Colorado?" Alex looked at me with a puzzled expression. "I thought it would be a great place to go hiking and explore the mountains. You know before moving there.” He took my hands in his and looked me in the eyes. “I am serious about you and the twins. I want you three. You’re all my world. I understand that this is a lot for you to take in but I can't imagine wanting anyone else. You mean so much to me.” I tried to keep my smile in place, but my mind was racing. I couldn't go back to Colorado, not after what happened with Lochlan. I had left everything behind and started a new life, but the thought of going back there made me feel sick. I took a deep breath and tried to calm myself down. "That sounds like fun, but I don't know if I can
I walked into the house, and the first thing I heard was Nadia's voice, "Mummy, we missed you. Is Alex staying? Can he please?" I couldn't help but smile at my twins. They were so adorable and innocent, and their excitement was contagious. I turned to Alex and said, "Looks like you're stuck with us for a while." Alex grinned, "I wouldn't have it any other way." The twins ran up to Alex and gave him a big hug. "Alex, can you play with us?" Nadia asked, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Of course, I can." Alex said, getting down on his knees and hugging them both. They were jumping up and down excitedly, and Maria came in and laughed at their happiness. “I’m so sorry that I can’t stay any longer.” Maria apologised profusely as she glanced at her watch and grabbed her handbag. I smiled at her and shook my head. “It’s no problem. Thanks so much for having them again. I am so grateful for you.” I told my dearest friend and gave he
The twins were settled at Maria’s the next morning and I walked into the office with a smiled on my face. Still daydreaming about waking up in Alex’s arms. “Oh, Cat. How are you?” Carla stopped me as I made my way up to the lift. “I’m ok, how are you feeling?” I grinned at her. “I’m exhausted. But Harry tells me you are hoping to get a move to another office is that right?” Carla's eyes widened when I told her I was moving with Alex. She didn't look happy. "What about your job! Are you sure you want to go back that way?" she asked, her voice laced with concern. I knew that she wouldn't be happy about it, but planting seeds of doubt in my mind wasn't the way to go about it. I took a deep breath and tried to explain. "I know it's a big decision, but I want to be with Alex. He's right for me and my twins. He'll protect us and make sure nothing bad happens to us." Carla rubbed her heavily pregnant belly and wiped her eyes sadly.
As we stood in the empty hallway, I felt emotions wash over me. It was hard to believe that we were leaving our old home behind. I looked around, taking in the empty walls and the boxes that were piled high in the corner. It was strange to see everything packed up and ready to go. My heart ached as I watched the twins run through the hallway, their feet echoing loudly. It was a sound that I had loved to hear over the years, but now it felt bittersweet. Nathan and Nadia shrieked with laughter as Alex jumped out on them, picking them both up in his strong arms. Nadia held onto her favourite dolly as Alex spun her around, and Nathan danced at his feet, shouting for his turn to be spun in the air. I couldn't help but shed a tear as I watched them. It was hard to imagine leaving this place where we had made so many memories. But I knew that it was time to move on, to start a new chapter in our lives. "Are you okay?" Alex asked, noticing the tears in my eyes.
"Cat," Alex said, his voice low and serious. "I know this might sound crazy, but I need you to trust me. I looked at him skeptically, wondering what he could possibly be talking about. "What do you mean?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady. Mario helped the children into the jet and I was gobsmacked by it all. It was hard to process. “What do you want to tell me?” I asked him. “I will show you. Please just trust me.” Alex said. I looked at Alex, trying to read his expression. There was something in his eyes that made me feel like he was being genuine. But I was still hesitant. "Okay," I said finally, feeling as though I was taking a leap of faith. "I trust you. What do you want to show me?" Alex smiled at me, taking my hand in his. "Come with me," he said, leading me towards the jet. “Goodbye Mario, see you soon.” Alex called over his shoulder to his trusted friend. I followed him, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. I had no ide
Lochlan’s POV The day that I lost my mate was one of the worst days of my life. I was devastated and heartbroken, and I felt like my world had been shattered into a million pieces. It was as if a part of me had died along with her, and I knew that I would never be the same again. For weeks after her disappearance, I searched high and low for her. I scoured the woods and the surrounding areas, desperate to find any trace of her. But it was as if she had vanished into thin air. None of the neighbouring packs had seen her, and I could no longer mindlink with her or pick up her scent. It was as if she had never existed. I was consumed with guilt and regret. I knew that I had messed up, that I had made a terrible mistake. I had been unfaithful to her with that slut Tara, and I knew that it was my fault that she was gone. My wolf still had not forgiven me, and I could feel his anger and betrayal simmering just beneath the surface. As the days turned into weeks
Catarina’s POV I slowly opened my eyes, taking in the serene surroundings. The sun's rays filtered through the curtains, casting a warm and welcoming glow across the room. As I shifted my gaze towards Alex, I noticed that he was still sound asleep, his chest rising and falling with each breath. I couldn't help but smile at the sight of him, feeling grateful for this peaceful moment. His arm was draped over my body, creating a sense of security and comfort. Despite the urge to stay in bed, I knew I had to get up and go to the bathroom. I carefully removed his arm from my body and slipped out of bed, taking a moment to stretch my limbs and take in the fresh morning air. As I made my way to the bathroom, I couldn't help but admire the beautiful decor of the house. The walls were adorned with stunning paintings and photographs, and the furniture was tasteful and elegant. Everything was so perfectly arranged that it felt like a dream. I splashed water on my face and looked at myself i
“Matilda?” I whispered, my voice shaking with disbelief. I gripped onto the banister to ensure that I did not fall down. My mouth felt dry and my heart was pounding in my chest. “Matilda?” I repeated, tears welled up in my eyes. My wolf. She was back! “Yes, Catarina it is me,” she said, her voice soothing and gentle. I had to sit down. This was so unexpected. I had always wondered why she never came back to me. I had missed her so much and hated Lochlan for making me lose her. How dare he. I clenched my fists into balls of fury at the thought of that sorry excuse of an alpha. I hoped that I would never cross paths with that horrible imbecile again. The hurt and pain that he had caused me was unforgivable. My twins would never know him and he would never know of their existence. I would make sure of that. Alex had promised to protect me and I knew that he would. But Matilda coming back and confirming that he was our mate made me happy. So happy. “Matilda I’m so sorry for what
The grand halls of the royal kingdom pulsed with electric energy as I stood before King Alex. The anticipation hung in the air, crackling like lightning in a summer storm. This was it, the moment that could change the course of my pack's destiny. As the king offered to join forces, a mischievous glimmer danced in his eyes, hinting at a depth of excitement that mirrored my own. The king's words swirled around me, wrapping me up in a whirlwind of possibilities.m "You, Lochlan, and your pack are invited to become an integral part of our kingdom," the king proclaimed. "With your unique strengths and the royal resources at our disposal, together we can conquer any challenge. Our unity will be a force to be reckoned with, legendary in its power and scope." My heart raced in my chest, and adrenaline surged through my veins. This was more than just an offer of allegiance. It was an opportunity for growth, greatness, and the realisation of dreams that had long been whispered beneath moon
Catarina’s POV I watched as David was pulled down from the pillar and taken down to the cell block, I felt glad to see hom go. He deserved it after all the pain that he had inflicted onto this kingdom. I gazed down at my twins, a mix of conflicting emotions flooding my heart. Lochlan, the man who had caused me so much pain in the past, was now transforming before us. It was a surreal moment, one where I questioned everything I had ever believed. Part of me had always wanted to shield my precious twins from Lochlan, to protect them from the darkness that had seeped into my life because of him. But something had changed, not just within Lochlan, but within me too. Perhaps, against all odds, he deserved a chance to be a part of their lives. Lost for words, I looked from my children to Lochlan, searching for answers within their innocent eyes. As if sensing my internal struggle, Alex, my partner, wrapped an arm around my waist, offering his unwavering support. His wor
Lochlan’s POV “Keep your filthy mitts off of my Queen and if anyone dares to harm a hair on their bodies then they will have me to answer to.” Alex roared as he pulled Catarina, Mindy and the twins behind him, his eyes ablaze with fury and anger. “Mindy. I apologise for assuming you had anything to do with this bizarre situation. Lochlan perhaps you should deal with your Beta before my guards end his life here and now.” I watched as Alex’s men stood by keeping my every move in their sight as if they thought that I would suddenly command my own men to lunge out at the King. No, I wanted peace. I wanted to be a better alpha than I had been. All these members of my own pack looked up to me all this time that I had been their Alpha. David would not be able to take that away from me. “Enough. Pack. Listen up. I am your alpha. We are not at war with King Alex or Queen Catarina. What's done is done! My word is final. Now restrain
Catarina’s POV “Mindy, tell me. Is there not a hidden door in case of emergencies?” Mindy's eyes widened slightly, and she glanced around nervously before speaking. "I... I can't say for sure," she replied cautiously. "There have been rumours, whispers of a hidden door, but it's mostly speculation. No one knows for sure. “Ok. Mindy, we have to find out. We can't afford to be trapped here if something goes wrong." My heart raced as I looked at Mindy, her eyes filled with uncertainty. We had been trapped in the safe room, but staying there indefinitely was not an option. Danger loomed outside, threatening the safety of my precious twins, Nadia and Nathan. We needed to escape the clutches of my old pack, who would stop at nothing to claim the children since their father was the alpha of our old pack. Convincing Mindy to leave the safe room, however, was no easy task. She was loyal to the King's orders, but this was my twin's lives at stake. "Mi
Alex’s POV My heart raced as I swiftly carried Catarina over my shoulder, determined to reach the safe room where I knew the twins would find solace in her presence. The corridors seemed endless. A labyrinth of uncertainty mirrored the chaos outside. I knew time was of the essence, and I couldn't let anything happen to my queen or those precious twins. With each step, my mind raced, replaying the events that had led us to this moment. Everything had unfolded at a breakneck pace, leaving little room for thought or hesitation. But I was glad that Lochlan had agreed with me, for despite our differences, we both recognised the importance of keeping Catarina and the twins out of harm's way. Finally reaching the safe room, I gently placed Catarina down and pulled the heavy door shut behind me. It was sealed with a resounding thud, providing a barrier between the outside world and the sanctuary within. This was where Catarina and the twins would be protected, shielde
Catarina's POV As the sounds of the approaching danger intensified, my thoughts involuntarily turned towards my precious twins. Their innocent faces flashed before my eyes, their laughter echoing in my mind. A wave of protectiveness washed over me, engulfing my every thought. I couldn't help but imagine their confusion and fear, unaware of the impending danger that loomed over us. Images of their wide-eyed innocence mixed with the harsh reality of the situation, amplifying my instincts to keep them safe at all costs. They were my world, my reason for fighting. Even in the midst of this chaos, I could almost feel their warmth against my skin and their tiny hands clutching mine. Their safety became my unwavering determination, driving my actions and choices. I couldn't bear the thought of them being harmed in any way. But as much as I longed to gather them in my arms and shield them from harm, I knew I had to trust in the protection my mate provided. I believed in his streng
Alex’s POV The sound of footsteps echoed down the corridor and I thought I was dreaming when I heard her voice. "Alex!" Hearing her soft and beautiful voice made my heart skip a beat, a surge of hope and relief flooding my veins. Catarina had found me. Finally. Everything was going to be alright. But as my eyes followed her gaze, my breath caught in my throat. Standing behind her, the very embodiment of betrayal, was Lochlan. What was he doing with her? How could she stand beside him? Why was he not dead? A seething rage coursed through my body, overpowering any semblance of calm that remained. "Get away from her!" I growled, my voice laced with anger and protectiveness. Each word dripped with venom, a warning to Lochlan that he had trespassed too far. Catarina's eyes widened in surprise, her delicate features mirroring the confusion and conflict that waged within her. She reached out a gentle hand, a plea for understanding in her touch. “Alex, please," sh
Catarina’s POV I couldn't believe I was even considering trusting him again. After everything he had done to put me in this situation, how could I possibly let myself be vulnerable to him? Was I being foolish? Were there any other options? "Fine. I'll give you a chance," I sneered, my voice dripping with bitterness. "But let me make myself clear, Lochlan. If you so much as think about deceiving me, I'll tear you apart, limb by limb. It's what you deserve, after all the pain you've caused." He nodded, a mix of regret and determination in his eyes. "I know I've wronged you in the past," he confessed softly. "But believe me, I want to make things right. I want to show you I can be a better man." As he spoke, a war raged within me. The memories of his betrayal were fresh and painful, yet a small part of me yearned for redemption. Could he truly change? Could I find it in myself to trust him again? Only time would tell. "Actions speak louder than words, Lochlan,"
Lochlan’s POV In the heat of the moment, a surge of anger coursed through my veins as I confronted my Beta about his disrespectful treatment towards Catarina. My voice carried a low growl as I locked eyes with him, throwing a warning look his way. How could he disregard the years of loyalty and dedication she had shown our pack? Yet, instead of showing remorse or understanding, David let out a callous laughter, dismissing my concerns as if they were inconsequential. The audacity of his actions surprised me, for he had never before displayed such blatant disregard for my authority. "She shot me," he sneered, his voice dripping with contempt. "She abandoned her pack and left you weak. And let's not forget, she ran off with your heirs, keeping them away from their true family. Why should I have any respect for her? She is no longer worthy of being our Luna." His words pierced through me like a dagger, stirring a mix of emotions within. Yes, Catarina had made choices that brok