Chapter 6 – Seeing Him

Well, shit. No one ever said anything, Sab repeated that in her head. Yes, of course. She really wouldn’t say anything. How could she? She thought of doing so, but she knew it would be difficult to believe. She was already bullied before for being weak, she can’t give them a reason to persecute her more. She would be called a liar if she says anything she can’t prove was real. Her head began to ache, along with her heart.

“You don’t look well. You’ve just finished training, you should rest.”

“Hmm, thank you for your time. I’m sorry for bothering you.” Sab stood and bowed her head at the man.

He smiled at her and nodded, dismissing her.

The following weeks, she did this a few more times with the other elders. They all responded similarly. She hoped at least one of them would have something to say, but nope. They all haven’t witnessed or heard of such a thing before.

A month later, she braced herself. She can only ask the Alpha and the Luna. They’re younger than the elders, but they might know something or know someone they can ask. They often correspond with other packs, so maybe she could ask if they might be able to get answers from someone else.

She asked Ice when his parents would be free so she can speak with them. When Ice mentioned it to his parents during dinner, they were a little surprised. That young girl used to have meals with them, but as they grew older… they’ve all maintained what is deemed appropriate distance.

“Of course, we have time. I haven’t seen her in a while. How is she? She hasn’t found her mate within the pack as well?” Alice replied.

They’re actually having a family dinner and everyone’s present. Even Clyde. He was just listening from the side, but he perked up after hearing she might not have found her mate as well. Even though there are a few others, he feels less left out with more of them. Is it wrong of him to feel that way?

“She’s fine. I’m not sure about that matter, though. Maybe, maybe not.” Ice answered vaguely. Though she said she found her mate, the fact that they’re not together is concerning to him. He can tell there’s a problem somewhere in there.

“Why don’t you invite her to dinner tomorrow? Oh, tell her to wear the dress I gifted her. I really wanted to see.” They have two boys. And given her closeness to Ice, they treated her as the daughter they never had.

“I’ll tell her.” Ice returned his mother’s smile.

“She really hasn’t told you? I was hoping she’d have her mate here so it’s less likely that she’ll leave in the future.” Her mother continued the conversation, making Ice feel a little helpless.

“It’s her matter. I didn’t want to pry. You can ask her tomorrow, if you really want to know.” He could only respond like this.

When Sab heard about it, she felt bothered. If it’s a family dinner, won’t Clyde be there? How is she supposed to act with him around? She was restless the whole day and even messed up during training. She doesn’t look well.

“Do you want to cancel? You look like you need to rest more.” Ice asked, but she only glared at him.

“It’s fine. It’s better if I can ask them as soon as possible. I’ll take a nap before meeting them.”

“Alright.” Ice reached out to caress her hair. That gesture has always been comforting to her.

“Oh, right. Mom was asking if you could wear the dress she gave you? She wanted to see you in it.”

For some reason, Sab reddened at imagining it. She’s really not used to such kind of clothing.

“I’m not sure…”

Ice chuckled, “Well, don’t force yourself if you don’t want to.”

They parted and Sab tried to psyche herself for the meeting. She would rather Clyde isn’t there.

That was wishful thinking. Clyde was there. He even opened the door for her and she froze for about a minute before entering. He has a confused smile on his face as she didn’t enter immediately.

“Sorry.” She muttered as she passed by him, careful not to accidentally touch any part of him.

“It’s been a while. What have you been doing?” He asked as he usually did.

“Just training most of the time.” It’s the only thing she liked doing because she could easily find him in the training grounds before. Now, she’s using that knowledge to avoid him. She momentarily grimaced as she noticed how different her tone is. She coughed to clear her throat.

“If I didn’t know you, I would think you’re avoiding me.”

Damn, he actually noticed.

“But I understand you’re busy. Your training’s getting more extensive, isn’t it?”

“Yeah, it’s getting more difficult to follow.” She inwardly sighed. She wasn’t sure how to answer him or what excuse to give for avoiding him. Thankfully, he gave himself a plausible reason.

Clyde didn’t notice it at first, but he looked at her clearly now. He stepped back to look at her properly. Sensing his gaze, she felt very conscious.

He chuckled, “Is this the dress mom was talking about? You look good in it.”

She blushed and timidly thanked him for the compliment.

In the kitchen, she greeted his parents.

Alice exclaimed upon seeing her, gushing at how lovely she looked. She noticed her red cheeks and happily hugged her.

“You look beautiful. See, you should wear dresses more often.”

Sab merely grinned at her enthusiasm and her cheeks reddened further. She’s not used to being complimented.

“You wait for a while. I’m nearly done cooking.” She disappeared again and Sab was left with Clyde.

“Where’s Ice?” She whispered to him. In a way, she’s glad the bond doesn’t seem to be as strong as before. She can actually stay in the same room as him without freaking out and succumbing to her desires.

“He’s getting some fruits or something. He’ll be here soon.”

“So, I’ve heard you haven’t found your mate in the pack? Is that true?” He sounded nonchalant, yet curious. This sudden question made her heart race. How is she supposed to answer?