Theda POV As Alpha Norton flashed a genuine smile at me, I couldn't help but feel a bit unsettled. A rush of warmth spread across my cheeks, causing me to flush with a mix of surprise and embarrassment. Not wanting to make the situation awkward, I quickly turned away, attempting to hide my cringe. With a silent nod to myself, I left the room, closing the door behind me. Stepping out into the hallway, I let out a sigh of relief, my emotions still slightly unsettled. I took a few steps forward, trying to regain my composure and collect my thoughts. However, my moment of solitude was interrupted as Norton's mother appeared from the path leading to another hallway. She approached me with a concerned expression and fixed her gaze on the covered plate on the serving board I held onto. I noticed the worry etched on the woman's face, evident in her contemplative expression. It was clear that she was wondering whether her son had eaten the meal. Not wanting to see her get more worrie

Theda POV I was still caught up in my own nervousness when I spoke without fully considering my words. "Alpha, let's take a stroll in the garden and enjoy the serenity of the night," I blurted out, my voice betraying a hint of uncertainty. To my surprise, he chuckled softly in response. It was a gentle, reassuring sound that made me question whether he had sensed my nervousness all along. His next words confirmed my suspicions."You shouldn't be afraid of what others might think of you, Theda," Alpha Norton said, his tone filled with understanding. He took a deep breath before continuing, "You should think about yourself first. I hope you understand what I mean by that?" I stared at him, momentarily rendered speechless. His words struck a chord within me, reminding me of the importance of self-care and following my own desires. It also made me remember my father again. He used to always advise me to put myself first. I realized that my apprehension had been driven by a fear of ju

Norton POV Some days later, my expression grew even more serious as I prepared to meet with the elders of the pack. The fact that they requested a meeting had me on edge, wondering what important matters they would bring before me. I couldn't help but feel a sense of apprehension as I wrapped up my remaining tasks for the morning. When the wall clock struck 1 p.m., I knew it was time to face the elders. Rising from my desk, I straightened my posture and composed myself for the meeting ahead. Just as I was about to leave my office, my Beta, Duke, entered the room. Duke respectfully bowed, a sign of deference and acknowledgment of my authority."The elders are waiting for you at your chamber," he informed me, my tone reflecting the importance of the meeting. I nodded, acknowledging Duke's message. "Thank you, Duke. Please inform them that I'll be there shortly." He nodded in response before exiting the room, leaving me to gather my thoughts. As I made my way towards the chambe

Norton POV Deep down, I remained resolute and prepared to face whatever challenges lay ahead. However, as the days passed, the pressure seemed to mount, weighing heavily on my shoulders. I remained determined not to succumb to the mounting stress, but deep inside, I felt the strain taking its toll. In my efforts to maintain focus on my responsibilities, I found myself spending more and more time secluded in my bedroom or office, engrossed in my work. However, my seclusion came at a cost. I felt a growing disappointment in my heart as I realized that I barely caught a glimpse of Theda, who had taken a confusing space in my heart, throughout the day. I wondered why she hadn't chosen to bring me a single meal, even just once, despite my secluded routine. One day, as my thoughts strayed from the contracts I was reviewing to unintentionally dwelling on thoughts of Theda, I suddenly found myself unable to maintain my usual composure. The stress and longing had reached a tipping point,

Theda POV I gathered my thoughts and mustered the courage to express myself honestly, despite feeling scared of the unknown consequences. Alpha Norton's question had caught me off guard, but I knew I couldn't hide the truth any longer."You're sorry for what, Theda?" Alpha Norton's voice was filled with curiosity and concern, urging me to open up. I took a deep breath before responding, my voice tinged with a hint of vulnerability. "I had eavesdropped on your conversation with your mother the other day. I didn't mean to." I watched his face intently, searching for any sign of recognition. "I got to know that your position was at stake since you haven't found a Luna yet. And I felt guilty." His brows furrowed as he tried to recall the specific conversation I referred to. I could sense his surprise and curiosity, and it only added to my apprehension."Guilty? Why?" He finally asked, his voice laced with confusion. My eyes shifted away momentarily as I struggled to find the right