Alethea
The past couple of weeks have been a whirlwind. Each day, I try my best to heal from all the pain I’ve been carrying for so long.
There have been moments where I wonder if I went too far, asking Selena those hard questions right in front of Xavier, but then I realize that the truth had to come out. Strangely, I’m grateful that everything is out in the open now.
Xavier has disappeared from the office. I don’t see him around anymore, and sometimes, I catch myself wondering if I’ve made a bigger mess of things.
But deep down, I know it was necessary. The truth can be messy, but it also brings clarity, and in that clarity, I find peace.
Now, I’ve focused on what truly matters to me-my mother, Declan, and my career. It still feels strange to call Selena “mother.” I know it will take time, but she’s been patient.
She promised not to rush me, and for that, I’m grateful. I can only take it one day at a time.
There’s also something big brewing in my career. I can feel it already, and though I’m not entirely sure I’m ready for it, I know it’s going to change everything. And it’s both exciting and overwhelming.
The truth is, I’ve never been one to shy away from challenges. I’ve learned to see them as opportunities to grow.
Right now, I feel the need to change my appearance, to hide who I am. Selena has told me so many things are at stake, and that she will reveal everything to me when the time is right.
But when will that time come? I long to know who I truly am because, from what she’s said, I come from a powerful bloodline, both from my father’s side and hers. This bloodline could change the entire dynamic of our world.
But I’m left with so many questions. If I am so powerful, why haven’t I gotten my wolf? Why haven’t I shifted like everyone else did on their eighteenth birthday?
I know I’m probably worrying too much. To ease some of my anxieties, I’ve come to the park. Selena begged me not to bring Declan, though, for his sake. She says it’s not yet time for him to be part of whatever is unfolding, so I’m here alone, watching the other kids play, their parents watching over them with smiles.
It’s hard not to feel a pang in my heart as I watch them. I long for that kind of life, one where both parents are present in their child’s life. But it is what it is with Declan and me.
He deserves all the love I have to give, and I will be the best mother I can be for him, no matter what comes next.
******
I finished packing my bag, ready to leave. I know I’m heading to a place I shouldn’t be, but right now, it’s where I need to go because I’m the best at what I do, not that I’m bragging, but it’s the fact.
TechSpark has partnered with a werewolf pack to help create an app for their database, and we’re the team they trust with the job.
“You look so different now,” Selena says, her eyes scanning me. “I doubt anyone will recognize you as Alethea.”
She pauses for a moment as if gathering her thoughts. “Remember everything I’ve told you,” she adds, pulling me into a hug.
I slowly nod. “Of course, I do,” trying to muster a smile despite the heaviness in my chest. “I trust you to take care of Declan for us. I’ll keep you posted on everything.” Saying goodbye to them both, especially Declan, feels harder than I anticipated.
After one last hug, I made my way towards the car, my heart racing. I’m nervous but I’m determined to stay strong and do my best, making sure the app is perfect before I return to Northville.
Amelia, at least, will be with me. She’s part of the team heading out, which gives me some comfort. Though she’ll be joining us later.
The ride to the pack territory is long, the landscape passing by in a blur as we drive for what feels like an eternity. After nearly three hours, we finally pulled up at the pack border.
As is pack protocol, we are required to meet with the Alpha before settling in. My heart pounds in my chest with anticipation, my nerves making every second feel like an eternity.
But suddenly, a sickening feeling twists in my stomach, and I realize I’m not sure if I’m ready to face Alpha Asher.
Then, after what feels like an endless wait, he appears.
Alpha Asher makes his entrance with a presence that commands attention. His masculinity radiates with every step, an aura of wealth, power, and untouchable fame surrounding him like a second skin.
My heart begins to beat erratically at the sight of him. My mouth waters, but I force myself to stay composed, even as my resolve threatens to crumble.
His face is almost ethereal, sculpted with a perfection worthy of a Greek god. His blonde bangs fall effortlessly over his forehead, but he sweeps them aside, revealing eyes so captivating they could hold anyone in a trance.
He wears a light blue shirt that perfectly fits his toned body, highlighting his biceps and chest. My eyes drift to his perfectly tailored black pants.
Naughty thoughts race through my mind, imagining what if… I quickly shake my head, trying to dispel the thought.
He stops just a few feet away from us, his gaze sweeping over our group with an intensity that sends a shiver down my spine.
When his eyes meet mine, there’s an instant connection, as if he recognizes me. But he furrowed his brows
“Damn it, get your shit together,” I repeat in my head like a mantra, trying to steady my nerves. Selena’s voice echoes in my mind, reminding me, ‘Don’t let anyone know who you are.’
His lips curve into a small smile. “Welcome to Redwood pack,” his voice deep and commanding.
I take a deep breath and introduce myself to the Alpha, focusing on staying calm. “Hello, Alpha… I’m Zoe.”
My voice is steady, but inside, my heart is racing. I can feel his gaze on me, sharp and calculating. I keep my posture straight, trying to mask any nervousness.
There’s an intensity in his gaze that makes me wonder if he’s sensing something about me that I’m trying to keep hidden.
“Zoe,” he repeats, His lips curl into a small smile, but there’s a strange edge to it. “It’s good to meet you, Zoe.”
His gaze lingers for a moment before he looks away, and I can’t tell if he’s just being polite or if he’s already figured out something about me. He gestures for me to follow him.
“You’re here for the tech project, yes?” His tone shifts to businesslike.
“Yes, Alpha,” keeping my voice even. “We’re here to help with the database and tech system.”
He nods, “Good. Let’s get started, then. We don’t have all day.”
I nod again as I follow his lead. But as we walk, I can’t shake the feeling that Alpha Asher knows more than he’s letting on, and something tells me I’m going to find out what that is soon enough.