Chapter 4

Ava’s pov

It was morning already. I could hear the chirping of the birds as they sang their melody. I just wanted to sleep today and can still remember the look on Lorcan’s face.

It is still as clear as day. I was relieved I finally got the words out, but that feeling was short-lived as a genuine concern grew in me. I just rejected him.

“Lorcan, it's just that-” I began to explain, not knowing what exactly I could say to make him feel better, but he stopped me.

“I understand, it's alright,” he said with a reassuring smile, and at that moment a wave of comfort washed over me. He still walked me home even after I had told him I could walk home by myself.

“It will be my pleasure,” Lorcan said.

We still laughed and shared some merry moments before I went back home.

I stood up and opened my windows. The sun was in full shape, and its warming rays always had a way of soothing my thoughts.

I’m glad me and Lorcan can still be friends after the rejection. The only challenge is telling my parents about my decision. I mustered up courage and marched downstairs. I could smell the soup coming from downstairs. I took a deep breath and, with a nervous smile, walked into the dining area.

“Good morning Father and Mother” They looked at me suspiciously.

“Good morning dear”, my father replied.

“How was your night?” I asked, still with a smile on my face.

“What did you do, Ava?” My mother had a way of knowing my thoughts sometimes, it was her superpower.

“I need to talk to you both” My smile had disappeared and I fixed a serious expression on my face.

“Go on dear, we’re listening,” My Father said.

I knew if I kept stalling it would only make things worse, I rather say things the way they are.

“I rejected Lorcan.” I bowed my head down, I didn't want to see their angry expressions.

“Why?” My Father asked.

I lifted my head and saw that there wasn't any trace of anger in their faces. My mom’s head was bowed down, and I could see that she was more disappointed than angry.

“I don't want to mate now, Father,” I said calmly.

“That's okay dear, you'll find your mate” My father reassured me.

“Whatever makes you happy,” my mother said before walking out of the dining room and going upstairs.

“Give her time,” My Father said before he stood up and patted my head, and then headed out.

I left the house feeling accomplished. At least I didn't have to worry about a proposal anymore. I headed over to Kairo’s house and I could hear whispers and side talks about the ball that evening. It seemed to be on everyone’s lips.

People speculated about the dresses, the musical artists, and the ballroom dances.

They didn't forget to mention the enchanting ballroom and how magical the night would be. Truly, it'll be a night to remember. I can't believe I'll finally see the Pack mansion. I arrived at Kairo’s house and she showed me the lovely dress she was going to wear. Every mated female werewolf must identify with a rose petal on the side of their ears. While going to such gatherings, to let people know of their relationship status, Kairo showed me her elegant dress. It was pink and it complimented her body so beautifully.

“Okay, I have to go prepare now,” I said after speaking at length.

“Bye now, meet you at the Pack Mansion,” Kairo said excitedly. We bid our farewells and I rushed home.

“Where have you been?” My mother asked furiously.

“I was at Kairo’s house”, I immediately answered.

“Hurry up and get dressed, we don't want to be late” my mother snapped.

I rushed to my room to freshen up, I picked out my dress, and my mother came to tighten up my corset.

“You’ll have to mate sooner or later,” she said while pulling the corset with extra force.

“I'm sorry Mother, but if you tighten it any more than this I won't be able to breathe” I pleaded.

My mother left to put on her dress and I wore mine. Oh, how I love this dress. The details and the design were stunning.

My father had rented a wagon we could use to transport ourselves to and fro the pack mansion.

We finally arrived, and I could already see people eagerly waiting to get inside. The big golden gate glittered under the moonlight. As we made our way into the Affluent pack mansion, blue and purple colored chandeliers hung perfectly on the ceiling, casting a luxurious glow on the floors.

The paintings brought a touch of elegance and beauty to the room. Each painting had a distinct and vibrant color. The decorations were stunning and the flower arrangements were just perfect. The tune of the music was enchanting. The music filled the room, it was like a dream.

“Excuse me, my lady, would you join me for a dance?” A tall and slender man asked me while extending his hand.

“Go on Ava” My mother whispered and nudged me.

“Yes,” I hesitated. When I stepped onto the dance floor, I could feel the stares that were fixed on me. He held my waist and I held his shoulder. He took my hand in his and we followed the rhythm of the music.

We danced slowly before he started speaking to me.

“You’re very beautiful,” he said.

“Thank you”, trying not to sound uninterested.

“I’ve been staring at you since you walked in,” he said.

“Oh, that's…nice.” If only he knew I didn't want to have this conversation right now.

The conversation led to him telling me about his extravagant houses and wagons.

“You will be very comfortable if you mate with me, and my father is also a Beta” he uttered.

Beta is the second in command after the Alphas. I hadn't met anyone of higher rank before but I was feeling uneasy with his stares that settled on my chest. I wanted to stop dancing with him as I was still contemplating. I felt a hand on my shoulder.

I turned around to see a tall man with black hair, long and wavy that had a blonde tip. I could see everyone had stopped dancing and everyone’s attention was fixed on the person standing in front of me. He had an aura of respect and confidence around him. With a warm smile, he stretched out his hands and asked

“Can I have this dance?”