Chapter 4

Xander

(A few days later)...

The fluorescent lights above my desk cast a sterile glow on the clutter of paperwork that had taken over my workspace. The international expansion of our business had unleashed a relentless surge of tasks and responsibilities. With the addition of numerous personal and pack-owned ventures, my days had transformed into a chaotic whirlwind of decision-making and strategic planning with no time for a breath.

I sighed and pressed my fingers against my temples, feeling the beginnings of a tension headache. The plush leather chair in my CMH Industries office did not help with the kinks in my brain. As I contemplated the growing stack of documents, my office door swung open with a nonchalant disregard for privacy. “When are you people going to learn to knock? I thought we covered all of that at Alpha Academy!” I couldn’t help but quip, a blend of exasperation and affection in my voice.

Alex, my best friend and the Alpha of the Silver Moon Pack entered with his signature carefree grin. “Oh, come on, Xandy. You know we’re exempt from that rule and we know you love us too much for that,” he teased, forming a heart shape with his fingers.

Sean, the Alpha of the Golden Moon Pack and my other best friend followed suit with an easy smile. “And we come bearing gifts,” he announced, pushing a container of food toward me.

Our camaraderie went back to our childhood when our families used to attend Alpha conferences, and we, as the offspring of Alphas, accompanied them. Our bonds grew stronger over time, and we eventually formed an inseparable trio, a team of powerful Alpha kids who rose to prominence. As time unfurled, we transitioned into entrepreneurs and leaders, inheriting our Alpha roles and amassing a portfolio of businesses both jointly and individually.

Through thick and thin, they had stood steadfastly by my side, unwavering in their loyalty. I was profoundly grateful to the Moon Goddess for gifting me with such unwavering companions. Our collective efforts and synergy had propelled us to the positions of influence we now held.

I couldn’t help but ask, “What do you want now?” I pointed my index finger at them, a challenge in my eyes.

“Oh, you wound us, Xandy, can’t we just grace our bestie with his favorite meal without expecting something in return?” Alex grinned as he spoke, an easy affection evident in his voice.

I couldn’t help but raise an eyebrow in their direction. “Alright, spill it. I highly doubt you guys brought me my favorite food out of sheer benevolence.” I opened the Biryani container. Yum! I almost forgot that it was a bribe for probably something really annoying.

They looked at each other, trying to come up with a way to tell me something. I leaned back in my chair, feigning a contemplative expression. “Alright, fine. I’ll play along. What’s the catch?”

“NTF Limited has requested a meeting with us. They’re interested in a business deal and want us to sign a 5-year contract,” Sean announced, his words punctuated with a sense of purpose.

“Alright, we do get plenty of proposals from various firms. But there must be more to this if you brought my favorite food as a peace offering,” I probed, intrigued by their unexpected gesture.

“They want to discuss the contract in person, at their office,” Alex explained, providing more context.

“Ah, so you want me to go and negotiate? That’s the point of this bribe, I presume.” my irritation was evident in my tone.

Sean chimed in with a chuckle. “In essence, yes. But seriously, Xander, you’ve had prior dealings with the NTF board. Meeting face-to-face will give you a better read of their intentions and the finer details. Bob Harris is not the CEO and we need to get a better understanding of his son, the new CEO. And hey, you can also swing by your sister’s place.”

I relented, recognizing the logic in Sean’s words. “Alright, alright. I’ll do it. But you know, guys, as co-CEOs of CMH Industries Limited, why am I the one who always ends up dealing with that insufferable new CEO of NFT Chris Harris?”

“We’ve got your back from our respective thrones as co-CEOs,” Alex smirked. “Enough shop talk; we can’t let these delectable dishes turn cold.”

I raised an eyebrow as I observed Alex’s eagerness. “Honestly, you and your food obsession. I swear, your future mate might get jealous of the attention you lavish on your meals.”

Sean couldn’t resist chiming in with a grin. “Yeah, she’ll probably be competing with the food for your affection.” Alex stuck their tongue out and dug into the food.

“You’re a child, Alex,” Sean mused, shaking his head.

“Oh, by the way, almost forgot this!” Alex’s excitement was palpable as he handed me a magazine.

Curious, I asked, “What’s this? Why are you giving me a copy of GQ?”

“Turn to page 11, will ya?” He instructed with a grin. Flipping to the specified page, I was met with an unexpected sight. Oh, hell no!

“They have crowned you the most eligible and wealthy bachelor of the year? Where’s the champagne?” Alex mused, and I looked at them in horror.

Alex and Sean burst into laughter, clearly finding my reaction entertaining. “Our Xandy looks quite dashing in that long gray coat... doesn’t he, Se-Se?” Alex’s laughter was infectious as he playfully mimicked my imagined admirer.

“Why are you two laughing? Just so you know, you’re in second and third place, respectively,” I grumbled, my pride momentarily stung. “Idiots!” I murmured under my breath.

Alex pouted, giving me a dramatic puppy-dog expression. “Hey, I heard that! You hurt my feelings, Xandy. Is this how you repay my efforts?” Of course he can hear it. He a damn Alpha werewolf for fuck’s sake.

Sean responded to Alex’s theatrics with a sharp smack on the head. “Quit it, Alex.”

Rubbing his head, Alex retorted, “What the hell, man? I was just thinking that our Xandy’s future mate will go crazy when she sees this article.”

“Yeah, if I can ever locate her,” I mumbled somberly under my breath, my thoughts drifting to my unfulfilled desire for my mate.

My words seemed to strike a chord with Alex and Sean, their expressions softening with understanding. They were the only ones who truly comprehended the depth of my yearning for my mate. We had always been transparent with each other, sharing our deepest desires and fears.

“I understand how much you long for a mate, Xander. But you can’t give up on finding her. When the time is right, the Moon Goddess will bring her into your life,” Alex spoke gently, his words infused with quiet reassurance.

“When, Alex? I’ve scoured the country for her! The pack is pressuring me to select a mate since they’re in dire need of a Luna,” I confessed, the weight of my responsibilities and my unmet desires evident in my voice.

“You know, if you choose to wait, the pack will stand behind you. They hold you in high regard. In any case, it’s your decision, and it’s a choice you’ll live with for the rest of your life. We know you’ll regret it if you succumb to external pressure and choose a mate who isn’t your true match,” Sean chimed in, his voice infused with empathy.

I nodded in agreement, knowing it was true. “I’m hoping I can find her soon.”

“You will succeed, Xander. And at the very least, unlike Alex’s future mate, she won’t be envious of your relationship with food,” Sean teased.

Alex responded in a mockingly indignant tone. “Hey, my future mate will adore me. Your mate, on the other hand, will probably knock you down a peg and put an end to your cockiness.”

“Trust me, I’m fine without a mate,” Sean retorted with a scowl.

“That’s what you say now. I’m sure you’ll be kissing the ground where she walks.” Alex fired back with a smug grin.

“Whatever,” Sean responded nonchalantly.

Our conversation eventually transitioned to our business discussions, focusing on the tasks at hand. As we spoke, I could feel my mood lightening, their presence acting as a soothing balm for my worries. True to form, they managed to bring some levity to the situation, and I couldn’t help but acknowledge how they consistently brightened my days.

As the details were addressed and plans solidified, Alex and Sean departed, each heading back to their respective territories to manage their packs and responsibilities. I was left alone in a better mood, a hope to see my mate soon.