Two

Nina looked up from her desk as I entered the classroom, a friendly smile on her face. She's always been observant and empathetic, often noticing when someone's off.

"Hey," she said quietly as I took my seat, her eyes studying my expression. "How are you holding up today?"

I gave a casual shrug as I responded. 

"I'm alright," I said, trying to maintain a casual tone. I was attempting to act like nothing significant had happened, hoping to push the events of yesterday out of my mind.

Brittney chimed in, her voice filled with disdain. "Did you spend the whole night crying over that damn cheater?"

I gave a dry smile, trying to appear unbothered. "Nah, not really," I managed to say, attempting to downplay the situation.

As I caught a glimpse of Felix and Giselle engaging in conversation again, a wave of worry washed over me. Seeing them together, even though they were in different classes, still stung. I instinctively lowered my head, hoping they wouldn't notice my distress. 

My heart ached as I realized I might not find another mate, even though my mom had tried to boost my spirits before I left for school. 

The pain of letting go of the two-year relationship I had built with Felix was too much to bear. I still loved that alpha deeply, and the thought of letting him go was like a knife to the chest.

Brittney's voice growled with resentment, her frustration evident as she spoke. "Oh, and have you seen Giselle yet? She's such an obnoxious girl. Trust me, if this place wasn't controlled by Scarlett Moon, I would've given that girl a piece of my mind for ruining things between you and Felix!"

Nina added her opinion, her arms crossed in front of her. "Yeah, don't forget that Giselle comes from the Scarlett Moon pack. They're a pretty tough bunch, and she uses her father's influence to do whatever she wants here. No one dares to stand up to her, knowing who her dad is."

"I don't get it. Scarlett Moon is loaded with hot, strong Alphas. Why is she after Felix, who's not even the most gorgeous one in her pack? It doesn't make sense." Brittney shook her head, her expression puzzled. 

Nina shrugged, her eyes rolling slightly. "Yeah, you know that saying—the grass is always greener on the other side. But for Giselle, it runs deeper. She's the kind of girl who's always jealous of what others have. I don't think she even really likes Felix, per se. She just can't stand the idea of him being with someone else, especially you, Kate." 

"Of course. I mean, you're prettier than her, and that definitely drives her nuts. Giselle can't stand the fact that you're more attractive than she is, which only fuels her jealousy." Brittney couldn't help but laugh, her expression smug. 

My heart ached as I caught a glimpse of Felix being attentive to Giselle. The pain, anger, and betrayal flooded over me once again. I couldn't understand what Felix saw in Giselle that made him so drawn to her.

I silently wondered if it was because of her beautiful werewolf form that Felix was drawn to Giselle. She was a werewolf with a stunning coat, which only added to her allure. 

Could that be the reason he had chosen her over me?

Nina glanced at me, her expression sympathetic. "Just forget about him, Kate. I'm positive you can find another Alpha who's far more loyal than Felix could ever be."

"And who knows, maybe your second chance will be a man who's better in every way than Felix. Think of it—he'd be the kind of guy who'd move mountains just because he loves you so much!" Brittney chimed in, a sly grin on her face. 

Nina nodded in agreement, her eyes sparkling with approval. "Yeah, Brittney is right. Your second chance guy could truly be someone exceptional. He'd go to extreme lengths to prove his love, showing just how devoted he is to you. How romantic." 

I let out an exaggerated eye roll, feeling slightly bored. 

"Nah, I'm not ready for a second chance yet," I responded, my voice tinged with a hint of melancholy. "The memories of me and Felix are still fresh in my mind, and I can still taste the sweetness of our time together."

Brittney snickered, her voice dripping with impatience. "You're taking way too long to move on, even though plenty of alphas out there are checking you out. Come on, let's have some fun at the park after school. It'll take your mind off Felix."

"Yeah, Brittney's right. We could have a picnic, or play some games, or just enjoy the nature around us. You need to clear your head and let yourself have some fun." Nina chimed in, her eyes lighting up with excitement. 

I shook my head, feeling a bit drained. 

"Nah, I think I'll head home instead," I replied, my voice tired. "I just need some alone time to sort my thoughts out."

Nina's expression turned resolute, and she spoke adamantly. 

"No, no, we're gonna have some fun." She gestured at herself and Brittney. "We already got permission to bring you to the park after school, and we still haven't celebrated your birthday yet."

I sighed again, "But..."

Brittney chimed in, "You know, you probably have a hankering for some delicious food. Maybe some meat or spaghetti? Or how about a few bagels with your favorite spreads?"

After a moment of contemplation, I nodded, reluctantly agreeing. "Alright, fine. But just a quick outing, okay?"

***

SOMEONE POV’s 

The woman with straight hair strolled into the elaborate room, holding a new journal in her hands. "Hey, boss. I have a new journal for you," she announced, her voice filled with a mix of respect and familiarity.

I gestured with a subtle raise of my eyebrows for the man in the black suit to come forward. He made his way toward the woman with straight hair, his features schooled into an impassive expression, awaiting further instructions.

The woman passed the journal over to the man in the black suit, her voice firm yet nonchalant. 

"Here, this'll be his new book," she instructed.

The man in the black suit swiftly handed the journal to me, the cover gleaming as I took it in my hands.

"Also, your parents are expecting you to make the observation visit at Miracle Academy," she announced, her tone firm but respectfully addressed.

I raised an eyebrow, my voice tinted with an edge of curiosity. "Do I have to handle that personally?"

"Absolutely, just giving you a heads up. The Big Boss wants you to handle the business or find a mate."

"Great." I muttered sarcastically, rolling my eyes. "And let me guess, my parents want me to either handle business affairs or find a mate. Fantastic."

The woman nodded in confirmation, her expression remaining impassive. 

"Unfortunately, it's true. Your parents have made it clear that they expect either you to take charge in matters or find yourself a mate," she clarified, the words leaving a bitter taste in my mouth.

My irritation bubbled to the surface, and I let out a frustrated exhale as I slumped back in my chair. "Just go... Leave me alone," I grumbled, my words laced with annoyance.

"But what if Miss Madonna—"

"No buts, just go."

Judith flipped through the pages of my journal, her eyes darting across the words. My loyal sidekick remained steadfast beside me, a constant presence in my life. After a few moments, I paused, taking a deep breath to steady myself.

Judith spoke once more, his tone formal but carrying a hint of curiosity. 

"Sir, it seems that some people are starting to catch on to things regarding you," he observed, his words measured.

"And what might they be catching on to, Judith?" I asked, though I was fairly certain I already knew the answer.

Judith's words cut through the room as he stated matter-of-factly. "It seems, sir, that some individuals are becoming aware of your tendency towards being overly cold and formal. Perhaps that's the reason behind the difficulties you're facing in finding a mate."

"What's wrong with me, Judith?" I asked again, playing along.

Judith continued his analysis, his tone candid yet respectful. "It appears, sir, that perhaps you should consider softening your approach a bit. I understand that you possess the qualities of a powerful alpha and have good looks to accompany them, but it couldn't hurt to be more sociable, wouldn't you agree?"

I waved a hand dismissively, my voice tinged with irritation. 

"I've had more than enough of that Madonna woman," I grumbled, my annoyance palpable.

"Don't you feel guilty that your destined mate could be out there suffering because you're here having fun with Madonna?" he questioned, his tone laced with a hint of over-the-top concern.

I feigned a contemplative expression, trying to appear open to suggestions. 

"Well, could you offer some advice? Should I actually take on dealing with those troublesome kids at the school? It wasn't exactly my original plan," I responded, attempting to maintain a reasonable tone.

Judith, as usual, advocated for my attendance, always advocating for me to make more public appearances. 

"Mr. Gregory, I really think it'd be beneficial for you to show up," he stated, his voice firm but respectful.

"This seems like a bit of a futile endeavor," I muttered to myself. 

But I knew I didn't have much of a choice in the matter. "Quite ironic, isn't it? Guess I'll have to confront them once more," I added, my voice tinged with resignation.

I rose to my feet and instructed Judith to prepare the car. 

"I could use some fresh air," I said, my voice a little steadier now. Then, with a firm tone, I added, "And make sure that Madonna doesn't step foot in here again, or there will be consequences."

Judith, not taking the hint, brought up the subject of the school visit again as we walked. I let out a frustrated grumble, my irritation growing. 

"Leave it alone. I don't want to discuss it," I retorted, my voice edged with annoyance.