False Expectations - Chapter 1: Chapter 1

Adelina's pov:
-"Today is a very important day for our pack. I would appreciate it if all my children were beside me when Alpha Maximus Drako arrives. I want us to make a good impression. We need to win his alliance—not only because he is one of the most powerful Alphas in the world but also because he is the strongest contender for the royal throne. Jake, you'll join me during the meeting, while the girls will handle the reception and accommodation for the Alpha," our father informed us during breakfast.
Every morning, we have breakfast together, a time when our father outlines our daily schedule and chores.
-"But Father, I want to be at the meeting too," I interjected. "I'd like to present our economic projects and share my ideas."
-"Don't worry, my sunshine," he replied warmly. "Jake will handle everything. You know how Alphas feel about women in politics. We don't want to provoke or irritate him, do we?"
-"I suppose you're right, Father. I wouldn't do anything to jeopardize our pack's future," I reassured him, though it stung.
As much as I hated it, I understood his reasoning. Wolf society is deeply patriarchal. Women are restricted to roles as omegas or Lunas—breeding and managing domestic affairs, nothing more. Fortunately, my father doesn't share these outdated views, but our pack is too small and financially fragile to challenge societal norms.
Today, Father is particularly anxious. This meeting isn't just about announcing Jake as the new Alpha. He hopes to secure Maximus Drako's alliance to claim the free land bordering our northern territory. Unfortunately, Alpha Bradley of our neighboring pack also desires this land, and his pack is larger and more powerful. I pray Alpha Maximus understands that this land isn't just an expansion for us—it's our survival.
Since our mother's death, Father has struggled to lead effectively. Jake and I were too young to help, so his Beta, Ben, stepped in to manage the pack. While Ben was excellent at defense, he was terrible with economics. Under his management, our businesses declined, and many pack members fell into poverty. Now that Jake is 24, he'll officially take over as Alpha tomorrow, and I'll do everything I can to help him bring prosperity back to our land.
Ben's son, Jacob, is set to become our new Beta—and possibly my mate if I don't find mine. Jacob's mate, Alisa, died six years ago. She was beautiful and kind-hearted. Though we weren't close friends, her loss devastated us all, especially Jacob.
Jacob and I grew up together and share a strong bond, though not as strong as the one he shared with his mate. When Jacob and Alisa were revealed as mates, I was happy for them but also a bit envious, longing for the day I'd find my mate. I yearn for the connection everyone talks about—the sparks, the bond. I pray the Moon Goddess will bless me with a mate someday.
-"The time has come! He's already here! Why are you still in your tracksuit, Adelina?" Stella scolded me, barging into my room as usual. How does she always sneak in unnoticed?
-"Because you're always in your own world, my beautiful sister," she teased.
-"Did I say that aloud?" I wondered.
-"No, you didn't," my wolf replied in my head.
-"Huh?" I blinked in confusion.
-"Stop daydreaming, Adelina! Alpha Maximus Drako is here! Get ready!" Stella said impatiently.
-"Ten seconds, and I'll be done," I replied.
-"Ten seconds? Are you mad? I've been preparing all morning! I'm so excited! I really hope he's the one!"
-"The one?" I asked, puzzled.
-"My mate, duh! He's 30 and still single. Rumor has it he's searching for his fated mate," she said, practically bouncing with excitement.
-"What makes you think the future king of all werewolves will be your mate? His mate will likely be a princess or someone from a royal family. Besides, even if he were your mate, I've heard he's selfish, arrogant, and harsh. Why would you want a mate like that?"
-"Oh, Adelina, can't you see? His mate will be the future queen! Living in a palace, wearing luxurious dresses and jewels, enjoying a life of comfort. Who cares if he's a jerk?"
-"Sorry, Stella, but that doesn't appeal to me. I'd rather be with someone kind and ordinary than endure life with Alpha Maximus, no matter his riches."
-"Whatever, sis. You've always been narrow-minded. People can change, you know. Maybe he'll treat his mate differently—with love and sweetness."
-"People don't change that easily, Stella. And a life like that—always watched, criticized, and in danger—isn't worth all the riches in the world."
-"You're impossible!" she huffed, storming out of my room.
Maximus's POV
At last, we arrived at this insignificant pack—our final stop before returning home. The tour has been exhausting, but I've established my dominance across the werewolf community. They now know not to challenge me for the throne.
This pack holds little interest for me. It's small and financially struggling. However, their invitation to witness the presentation of their future Alpha shows respect, which I won't overlook. Allies, even small ones, can be valuable.
Yet, since entering this territory, I've felt strange—restless, eager, and uneasy. My wolf, Drako, shares my agitation. It's not fear but something more... an anticipation I can't explain.
Something tells me this visit will change my life forever. Whatever fate has in store, I'm ready to face it, as always.