Chapter 36
LIAM
A successful businessman, the CEO of a restaurant and hotel chain that has dominated the market. That’s the image I project to the world. But inside me, the battle between my human life and my werewolf nature rages on ceaselessly.
Today, the pack has been restless. We’ve heard rumors of rivals trying to take over our territory, possibly wearing us down and toying with our emotions and weaknesses, just a few days before the annual meeting with King Hassel. As the alpha, it’s my duty to keep my pack united and strong, and that weighs heavily on my shoulders as I review financial reports in my office. The tension in the air is almost palpable, and I wonder how many of my employees might notice my worries; how many would sense that the shadows of dusk are more than just darkness.
My business partners have no idea of the struggles I truly face. They would be furious if they knew that my thoughts often drift back to the fight for territory, rather than focusing on the growth of the chain. Yet, the life of an alpha is not simple. Decisions are made as a team, but the risks are mine. The pack depends on me to prepare the ground before the enemy strikes hard.
The morning had started differently: a bit hectic, but different. My little wolf, my mate, had stayed over, and that was the best feeling I had ever experienced. I thought that being named alpha of the Red Moon pack had given me the best, but now I realize I had no idea what happiness truly is. The night before, we had shared an intimate moment that left a mark on my soul. She had fallen asleep in my bed, wrapped in black silk, pure perfection. Having her comfortably sleep on top of me in my wolf form was the best part of it all. My heart almost leaped out of my chest when I woke up and didn’t see her either on top of me or in the bed, which made me sit up quickly and rush towards the entrance of the room. But upon hearing a sound coming from the bathroom, I ran in that direction. Seeing her kneeling in front of the toilet made my heart tighten a bit; I knew perfectly well, because I had already looked it up, that morning sickness is common when someone is pregnant, and my little wolf carries my child inside her. Even if she doesn’t know it yet…
After making sure she was okay, we both hopped in the shower and made love again. However, I quickly realized there was a practical matter to attend to. I had given her dress to my employees to be cleaned, so I took her shopping for some clothes. The simple gesture of her choosing new outfits filled me with satisfaction; I wanted her to feel beautiful and comfortable.
After the little adventure in the clothing store, where her laughter and joy brightened the atmosphere, I took her to her job. It was a difficult moment saying goodbye, and although the outside world expected me to behave like a rigid leader, her presence reminded me that there was also room for warmth and vulnerability. Then, I had to go fulfill my work obligations.
Upon arriving at the office, I have a meeting scheduled with the directors of my restaurants. A part of me is present in the conference room, but my mind drifts back to the night before, when I shared those special moments with Shane. What is her impression of me? She can’t know who I really am. But the bond formed makes me want to show her my true self, even though I know that, as an alpha, I must be cautious. Explaining my nature could put her in danger, not just because of what I am, but because of those who seek to destabilize us.
After the meeting, I spend time in my office, making calls and connecting with other leaders in the industry. Even in these interactions, my mind returns to the imminent threat, a reminder that I have to be more than the businessman I appear to be. As the day wanes, the moon begins to rise slowly. The call of the pack starts resonating inside me, its strength urging me to go out, to run, to let the wild part of me take control.
Finally, I decide to leave the office to release the accumulated tension. Instead of going home, I head towards the nearby forest. The transformation is liberating; the cool breeze brushes against my black fur, my senses sharpen, and I allow myself to feel the night in its entirety. Here, there are no worries, only the freedom to run under the stars and the bright moon.
As I run, my mind goes back to Shane. How will she react when she finally discovers who I am? I feel drawn to her in a way that I barely understand. I imagine a future where she could learn my secrets, where we could unite our lives in a connection that transcends the ordinary.
The peace of the night is interrupted by the pack’s alert. I sense the call of the others in the distance; a meeting will be needed to discuss the looming threats. A plan is necessary. As I return to the place we have called home, a part of me wrestles with the unease.
The meeting is tense, and the pack members look worried. The urgency with which rumors of a rival group attempting to invade our territory have spread is unsettling. Deep inside me, my protective instinct kicks in. Just as I protect my business, I must apply the same effort to protect my pack. Words flow, strategies are discussed, and as the alpha, I must be firm and strong. But suddenly, a familiar whisper interrupts my thoughts.
-Liam, do you have a moment? -Gigit calls me. Her expression is serious.
-What’s going on, Gigit? -I ask, noticing the concern in her voice.
-I’ve been hearing more rumors. Not just about the territory. It seems others are interested in… eliminating you as alpha. -Her words hang heavily in the air.
-I can’t allow that to happen. Not only for myself but for the pack. -I respond with determination.