The Bloodlust Alpha - Chapter 9: Chapter 9

He stared intently at me, both arms shot out on either side of my head.
His palms pressed into the soil, holding his weight up so not to crush me. He looked disheveled. Messy dark hair clinging onto his skin like glue, breathing harsh and rapid, plump lips parted as he took in harbored breaths, chest coated in a sheet of sweat, he looked enthrallingly chaotic.
Chaotic but undeniably attractive.
I swallowed, forcing to keep my wandering eyes on his face instead of his nude lower half. Thankful that he wasn't pressing his lower half onto me, my wolf disagreed and attempted to coax me into peeking. She sent suggestive images of certain things in my mind that I knew my virgin mind wouldn't have even thought about.
... or at least, before seeing Raizel.
My cheeks burned with embarrassment at our position.
His hostility had vanished and was replaced with an inkling of curiosity. He looked at me with the same puzzled expression on his face as when we were in the cave.
Confused but in awe.
Taking his knuckles, he brushed them softly against the side of my face. The warmth that immediately spread over me, enforced my skin to rise with goosebumps. His gaze darkened from the dim light surrounding us. Overly conscious of our closeness, I wanted nothing more than the ground to swallow me whole. It seems though, my body had different plans. I unconsciously moved into his touch seeking for more. The flicker in his eyes acknowledging the fact.
"Selene."
He breathed out. I shuddered at the sound of my name leaving his lips. The way he said it with that thick accent I couldn't pinpoint. For a split second, I regretted not having a longer name. Had it been longer, the more I could hear his voice. The more I could hear him speak. My wolf purred, tongue hanging out with delight. I stopped midway of speaking when his hand brushed along the curve of my jaw.
"So... strange."
He murmured, trailing his thumb along the point of my chin. This situation looked far from innocent. His look of eager curiosity came across as endearing. Pouty lips turned into a frown as he stared. He looked as if he was searching for something. Sought after something that he could possibly find in me.
Without thinking, my hand raised to cup his cheek. He froze, snapping out of his daze, knowing my intent but allowing me to keep going. His watchful, cautious eyes narrowing down at me in confusion when my skin touched his.
Those freaking sparks.
They were all over the place.
Raizel stiffened under my hold, his gaze holding mine captive. When he realized I wasn't going to do anything but simply touch, he leaned against my hand, softly nuzzling into my palm. My heart clenched at the sight.
Dare I say it?
was like a kitten.
I couldn't help the small smile on my face. The pureness of the image presented in front of me warming my heart more than I thought possible. He immediately went still. His eyes widened at me before melting into an expression I couldn't accurately explain. An expression that held nothing but undistinguished warmth. He mirrored my small smile with an almost shy one.
His grey eyes melted into thick, silver pools of tenderness.
Sentiment and conviction laying beneath them.
"Alpha Locksworth, why are you doing push ups in the woods nude?"
Raizel cursed, hanging his head low before turning over his shoulder to glare at the intruder. I shut my eyes, inwardly groaning as the sound of crunching footsteps got closer. Their scents instantaneously letting me know that the Chancellor, his mate, Elizabeth and a few guards were approaching us. (completely forgot if I named her already and tried to look in the past few chapters but couldnt see it. If i did, please let me know LOLOLOL).
"I understand you want everyone to know you're masculine but I don't think this- Selene?"
Williams stumbled back, dropping his hand holding the flashlight to his side. Blinking profusely in shock, he stared down at me.
Under Raizel.
Who is completely naked.
Ah fuck.
"Oh my."
Elizabeth gasped, a faint redness in her cheeks as she turned away very embarrassed at what they stumbled upon. I cleared my throat, feeling uncomfortable under the scrutinizing gazes of the guards only to have Raizel glare at them. A low, warning snarl rumbled from his chest in turn making them move away and avert their gazes. Williams' eyes widened.
"Were we interrupting?"
Williams asked, a slow, inching smirk crossing his face. Raizel who still had me pinned under him, caging me with his arms, looked blankly at Williams, effectively ignoring his smug look before turning his attention back to me. It took every ounce of my will not to look away. His close proximity that now became even more apparent to me made me feel like a volcano about to erupt. It was getting harder to breathe because everytime I did, I'd smell his alluring scent of musk and cologne. That masculinity of his just tempting me to commit the worst kinds of sins.
I blushed.
He noticed.
And he smiled.
"Oh, James. Leave the two alone! You know kids are wilder these days."
Elizabeth scolds, pursing her lips at Williams who rose a brow toward her.
"Wilder? We weren't much saints in our time, Eliza. Don't you remember the boat? How about your father's shed-"
"I think we should go inside now."
I say, my cheeks staining a painful red as unwanted thoughts of the two being physical circulated through my mind. My eyes were still focused on Raizel who never wasted a second looking away.
"Alright. Everyone inside."
Williams huffs out clapping his hands together and ushering the guards to leave. He turned to look at me and smiled,
"Don't think this conversation is over. You've got explaining to do."
His gaze glides over to Raizel. The obvious cockiness in his expression.
"This goes for the both of you."
If I wasn't so distracted by the amusement underlying Williams' words, I would've sensed Raizel leaning forward, but I didn't. It was only until I felt his head dip to the junction connecting my shoulder and neck that I felt him. Silky, raven black hair tickled the side of my face. His nose nuzzling against my neck as he let out a silent sigh of content,
"My apologies."
He murmurs against my skin. His breath fanning over the patch of flesh he laid on.
"I hadn't realized it was you. My wolf was on high alert and immediately saw you as a threat from your Alpha presence."
I couldn't do anything but nod. I understood the situation. I truly did, but I didn't trust my voice not to break and squeak in front of him. I didn't want further embarrassment from all this. Having him pressed up on me stark naked wouldn't help either.
Not that I was complaining.
My wolf.
I meant my wolf.
"I suppose... you should get off now."
I mumble, nearly cringing at the unintentional innuendo. I wasn't too keen on the fact he was overtaking all my senses. Touch. Smell. Hearing.
Taste.
I snap my eyes shut, mentally scolding myself at the unspeakable thoughts running through my mind. Raizel ceased his nuzzling on my shoulder and slowly looked up. Realization crossing his features as if he hadn't noticed what he was doing. A faint pinkness in his cheeks confirmed my suspicions.
"Right."
Pushing himself up, he stood. I tore my gaze away from him. I had no plans on ogling him like a fool. I'm sure I've done enough of that in the past twenty-four hours. Williams, who was still standing there, handed him a blanket that he brought with him. A thick, fur blanket that draped over the floor. Without so much as looking at it, Raizel took it, wrapping it around his waist before looking down to me.
I was still sitting on the ground, not really knowing what to do when he walked over to me. Extending his hand, he patiently waited for me to grasp it. Against my better judgement, I accepted his kind gesture knowing full well what kind of emotions would rush through me when our hands touched. Raizel sucked in a sharp, barely audible breath when our hands clasped. Electricity shooting up from the small connection. His eyes flickered up to me for a second before letting them settle on our joined hands once again.
He pulled me up effortlessly.
I ignored the tingles to the best of my abilities and faced Williams who watched in silence. The quirk in his brow and questioning eyes told me he saw something in that little exchange. Something he was surely going to interrogate me about later.
Bad enough the position he caught us in was more than a little suggestive, the man was in the nude.
I could almost hear the gossip between him and Meredith. Hell, they'd probably include Noah in it too. And somehow I know Isaac will find out and then I'll have my own personal paparazzi by then.
Elizabeth's fingers were already itching to reach for the phone in her robe pocket to "spill the tea". The headaches that'll be sure to come along with it, is almost guaranteed.
I look to Elizabeth who had a familiar glint in her eyes similar to her mate's.
Scratch that, the headaches are guaranteed.
"Well..."
I drawl, wiping the dirt off my nightwear.
"Goodnight."
I said, turning away from them to start my journey back into the mansion. My nerves were kicking in and the urge to scream as loud as humanly possible was mind blowing. The embarrassment, humiliation, adrenaline from that experience had my knees shaking.
"Selene."
I shudder, peering over my shoulder to look at him.
"Goodnight."
The word comes off quiet as soft. I licked my lips, wetting the dryness away and nodded.
"Goodnight,"
I breathlessly whisper.
"Raizel."
The moment that name slipped from my lips, I turned away from him. I continue walking down, ignoring the piercing gazes of Williams and Elizabeth as I walked. The one and only thing I could focus on was the feel of his heat overtaking mine.
And my Goddess did it feel so good.
"I'm not sure if I should be disappointed or ecstatic you were trying to mate in my territory. And in the woods."
I freeze mid-way of directing the spoon into my mouth and blinked.
I stare at Williams who was sitting across from me with his elbows perched on the table and has his hands joined together. Since arriving here at the table for breakfast, he hasn't touched his food and only drilled holes into my head from his staring. I knew what happened yesterday bothered him, but not to this extent.
Elizabeth who was sitting to his right simply ate at her pace, occasionally glancing over to me with a smirk.
"First of all,"
I say, lifting the napkin to my lips and pat down.
"-we weren't mating."
"Of course not,"
Williams snorts with the roll of his eyes,
"-you didn't get the chance to. You were interrupted."
And here I thought he was actually siding with me. I give him a dry look. The spoon in my hand bending.
"No, we weren't. You heard what Raizel said. I was outside and he was too-- coincidentally, and his wolf tackled me thinking I was a threat. I don't even know the man. I just met him. With that said, we aren't involved in any way other than being in similar positions as Alphas."
Williams still looks unconvinced. I doubt I could say anything that could convince him otherwise from what he wants to believe.
"Right. That's why you two were so comfortable with him nuzzling in your neck like that."
I fight back a blush.
But of course,
I failed.
"Not to mention you call him by his first name and he lets you. Doesn't even get mad! Had you been there when your sister boldly claimed him, you'd be surprised to see the amount of anger burning through his gaze. I was worried I'd have to come in to ensure he doesn't murder her."
First name?
I called him by his first name?
My eyebrows furrowed together as I thought back and nearly groaned out loud when I realized my mistake. I did call him by his first name as he did with me.
The indication of familiarity between two people.
I don't know when I stopped referring to him as Locksworth in my mind, but it must've slipped when he tackled me. Not that he seemed to mind.
"Whatever, it's nothing worth being so worked up about. You make it sound like a bigger deal than it is."
"Yes, because the two most feared Alphas being caught in a very compromising position where one of them was rid of any clothes isn't a big deal. Did I mention he was on top of her? And they were in the woods? Yes. Definitely not a big deal at all. I'm sure Meredith would agree. Why don't we ask her?"
My eyes bulged out and I leaned forward, knocking over the glass cup and spilling my water all over the table.
"T-that's not necessary. You'd be bothering her for no reason."
I poorly excuse. Williams smirked, casting a glance at Elizabeth who kept a small smile on her face.
"Hmm. I guess. I'll just have to save it for when she attends the Gala. Speaking of which,"
Williams wiped off the teasing smile on his face. He looked serious, brown eyes going hard and lips pressing thinly.
"You are attending, right? It's your official debut as Alpha in public. After the Windril incident, more Alphas worldwide are interested in you. Many of which, planning to rob you of your place."
I frown, lifting the glass cup and steadying it on its base. The water trickling down the wood and falling into a small puddle on the floor.
"Let them come. I'll just have to prove to them, yet again, that I'm not to be taken lightly. And as for the Gala, of course. I have my gown picked and fitted. No worries about my attendance."
Opal scurried toward me, bowing as she wiped off the water I spilled before bringing me a new one. The small puddle mopped by another maid who I believe is new seeing as I haven't seen her before. After whispering a word of thanks, I turn to Williams who has a deep frown on his face.
"They'll be there as well --Nightwake. Supposedly the Alpha and Luna are currently at war with one another. The word of her 'finding her mate' and being caught lying has taken its toll on their reputation. I'm sure they'll go to the Gala just to keep up appearances and eliminate any suspicion of their fall out."
I leaned against my chair in deep thought. Fall out? Them? I shouldn't be surprised but I am. The two lovers who went against all odds and fate are now at their tippy toes. I wonder if it has anything to do with my reappearance.
"I couldn't care less about whether or not they show up. As long as they don't start anything with me, I don't intend on conversing with them outside of formalities."
I shake away any probing thoughts about the two and continue eating. The topic of Nightwake never brought up again afterwards. When I first got up in the morning, I was preparing myself for when I would face Raizel. Whatever it was i felt for him, I had to stop from escalating. I knew that the emotions bubbling up inside me went further than mere respect.
I respected him, but I was also interested.
Very interested.
The fact that he wasn't Hestia's mate only furthered my interest knowing he didn't belong to anyone. The way he reacted to me also told me he felt the same. I wasn't stupid. I wasn't oblivious. I wasn't going to pretend I didn't feel the obvious attraction between us.
The way he was acting with me in the woods only served to prove the point.
But then again, he has a mate somewhere.
I wasn't going to be some mate stealer nor was I going set myself up by pursuing these emotions knowing he would eventually find his destined and inevitably leave me for her. I didn't want a relationship where I would end up losing. I've lost enough. I didn't need to lose my heart when I spent years picking it up and sewing it back together.
I had to harden myself, keep my heart guarded.
But when it involves him, I'm not sure how effective that could be.
Just two seconds with him was enough to mess with my mind.
"Where is Alpha Locksworth?"
Elizabeth asks, putting into words the same question I asked in my mind. I faked indifference, casually cutting into the pancake before popping it in my mouth.
"You know how he is, Eliza."
Williams looks over to me,
"He usually leaves early going to who knows where when he visits. He's not the type to eat at the table. He's just closed off like that."
I nod in understanding, feeling slightly dampened knowing I wasn't going to see him. I was quick to fight off such feelings and instead focused on finishing the last bits of my pancake. Raizel's scent was all over the mansion, and more heavily near the room in the far side of where I stayed.
"Well, the Gala is in a few days. I'm sure Meredith has been urging you to find a date."
Williams says cutting into his eggs. Oh great. Another one of their talks.
"Are you going with someone-"
He cuts himself off, eyes going wide by a fraction as he looks visibly taken aback.
"Oh. Well this is interesting."
He murmurs to himself. My eyebrows furrow together in confusion when all of a sudden a scent hits me. A scent so mouthwatering good and distinct that I don't need to turn around to know who has just made his grand entrance. My body stiffened but I tell myself to relax. His shoes tapped against the marble, leaving behind growing sounds of his footsteps behind. Each passing sound managing to urge a shiver out of me.
"Alpha Locksworth. What a surprise."
Williams greets, slyly casting me a look as I carried on eating. Elizabeth smiles as she stands up, giving Raizel an awkward side-hug in acknowledgment. I could feel the discomfort and I automatically know that he doesn't typically greet with intimate gestures like a hug. I assume it's because he never sticks around in one place long enough for the formalities. I was intent on just ignoring his presence but it proves to be impossible when I felt him approach me.
Lifting my gaze from my plate, I met his eyes and nearly drop my fork. He looked different somehow. He looked lighter. As if a weight that had been weighing down on him has been lifted. The dark gleam in his eyes were there, but something much more was lingering beneath them. Something I couldn't quite discern but felt familiar to.
He looked at me and if not for the slight trembling of his hand, I would have thought he wasn't feeling every ounce of my nervousness. He did. And yet he still stood there waiting for me to greet him like a stoned statue. Reluctantly, I nod at him, extending my hand to meet his only to have him grasp it and pull me toward him. Chest against chest, my eyes went wide as I stopped breathing all together. My hand shot out to steady myself from the whiplash and clasped my hand around his cladded bicep. The firm muscles under my hold tensing from the sudden contact but relaxed just as quick.
Somehow I'm sure he could hear how fast my heart was beating right now.
I swallowed, meeting his eyes as I took him in. Finding myself at a loss for words rarely happened, but it's become evidently clear I lost my wits around this man. I was unsure of what to say or how to greet him even when I practiced for almost half an hour in my head. Rehearsing nothing but formal phrases that now seemed lost in the jumble of mess known as my mind.
Unconsciously, my fingers tightened around his arm as he slowly dipped his head. Pressing his cheek against mine, my face went into flames when I felt his lips brush against my cheekbones. That soft, fluttery feel of his skin sent jitters down my body.
"Selene."
He huskily whispers into my ear.
"Raizel."
I whisper back. The softness of his hair grazing along the side of my face sent tingles of warmth pooling in my lower abdomen. I wanted nothing more than to just run my hands through them, feeling the silkiness first hand but decided against making a fool of myself.
It was only when he pulled back with that slight smile on his face did I realize the name I had thoughtlessly uttered.
Fuck.
I used his first name again.
Scolding myself but at the same time, guiltily finding pleasure of being allowed to use his name, I pounded it into my head not to use it again. Whenever he was in my presence I lost all logical thinking and momentarily lose myself around him.
Giving me one last look, Raizel looks over to Williams who said nothing from the whole exchange. I know deep down inside, he had questions and was more than likely to bombard me with them and tease me to no end. I was just thankful he decided to hold it in, in front of Raizel.
"Are you joining us for breakfast?"
Williams asks, searching behind Raizel to seek Opal. Raizel parts his lips, ready to spring an answer like he already considered it before coming here when his gaze falls to my nearly empty plate. A look of slight displeasure crosses his face but he looks away before anyone can really notice.
"Actually, I don-"
"Opal, can you please bring me another plate of pancakes?"
I say, looking at Opal. I feel his eyes burn into the side of my face and I willingly glance over to him. Licking my bottom lip nervously, I breathed in.
"I'm really... hungry."
I finish quietly. Opal nods, stepping outside to go to the kitchen but stops when another voice interjects.
"Make that two plates."
Raizel looks at me and I see the start of a small smile tug on his lips.
"I'll be having breakfast."
So much for staying away.
I mock. I can barely contain myself from wanting him closer.
Wordlessly, Raizel makes his way to the seat opposite of mine. My wolf was whining, looking longingly at the man who wasn't ours. If only she could talk and explain to me why she felt so attached. Her growing interest in him only served to egg me on and stake my claim. Knowing that that wasn't the greatest idea, I resort to keeping my face as impassive as possible. The least I can do is try to keep myself in check.
Hounding my eyes away from him, it wasn't long until Opal came back with two plates of pancakes in hand. She was closer to him so naturally, she handed him his plate first which he then passed over to me. I looked at him with both eyebrows raised, cautiously staring at the plate still in his hand before looking at him. Was there something inside it? Did he want the bigger pancakes? Was it not to his liking?
"Ladies first."
He explains, amused at my indecisiveness. I feel myself get hot from overthinking. Of course I would overlook the one suitable reason he was handing me the plate. Panic was something I never worked well with. Gratefully accepting it, I mutter a soft 'thanks' and stare at the plate blankly.
I wasn't hungry.
I had already eaten a plate of pancakes and eggs. I had instinctively asked for more only because I was hoping a certain person would stay behind. I took a peek at Raizel who had already cut into his pancakes and had the fork in his mouth. His tongue poking out between his lips as he swiped down the opening.
Or at least, I wasn't hungry for pancakes.
Elizabeth who had gone quiet shot me a knowing look. A small, teasing smile on her face as she wiped her mouth with the napkin. The familiar glint in her gaze matching the one her mate had.
"Alpha Locksworth, we were just talking about the Gala this week. It's quite special this year. A lot more is planned. Are you going to attend?"
Raizel who had his glass cup of water raised to his lips, looked at her before setting the cup down. Clenching his jaw in deep thought, he shook his head.
"No, I have no reason in attending."
Elizabeth nodded slow and deliberately. She sighed, ignoring the look Williams was giving her as she then cut into her eggs. A moment of silence passes by us before she speaks again.
"That's unfortunate. Selene here was going to make her official debut, I was hoping she'd have a familiar face around to lessen her nerves."
Nerves?
What nerves?
I stare at her in confusion of what the hell she was going on about when Raizel's gaze cut to me. He stared at me with an unreadable expression on his face as he battled some internal conflict. With a look of intrigue, he looked at me and tilted his head to the side.
"You're attending this year?"
He sounds almost surprised. I nod, looking at Williams and Elizabeth before putting my answer into words.
"Yes. I am."
Something flashes in his eyes and he nods. More to himself than to me.
"Yes, this is her first real appearance in the Alpha world. I do hope you meet many wonderful Alphas, Selene. More preferably single and available ones. I'm sure with that dress, you'll be catching more than just a few eyes that night. The men better make sure not to trip over themselves trying to impress you."
Dress?
What dress?
I haven't shown anyone my gown. It was a simple silk blue, strapless gown that covered me modestly. Nothing too extravagant or eye-catching. But with the way Elizabeth was talking, she made it seem like I was wearing something scandalously seductive. Like preying on available men was my purpose in attending the Gala.
I open my mouth to ask her but she continues, completely cutting me off before I even have the chance to refute.
"But anyway, it's a shame we'll miss you there, Alpha Locksworth. Do enjoy whatever plans you have."
Warily, I look over to Raizel. She was pinning for a reaction. It was obvious in her taunts she was trying to get something from him. So when I looked over to the raven head and felt his aura prickle me in discomfort, I knew she had succeeded. The intense pressure coming off him making Opal move back a few steps until she stood near the doorway. His eyebrows were scrunched together, the fork in his hand bending with his knuckles whitening quickly.
I was half expecting him to shift and half expecting him to abruptly stand and storm away, but he does neither of those things. He instead just calms himself, screwing his eyes shut for a few seconds before his grip on the fork lessened and the scowl on his face disappeared.
"I suppose it wouldn't hurt to go."
He says finally, his voice an octave deeper than before. The evident irritation in his voice was so blatantly obvious even Opal coughed in awkwardness. I couldn't help but look surprised. He never once attended a Gala. He was always sent an invitation but he never took the time to actual go to one before. Much less, send a response or explanation as to why he didn't want to go. Everyone knew he just didn't want to. Simple as that.
The fact that he was coming brought alive the nerves Elizabeth was talking about. Th nerves that were never there to begin with was now spiraling out of control and it was all his fault.
I felt nervous when I didn't have any reason to at first.
Wiliams and Elizabeth give each other looks that said even they couldn't believe what had just happened. I wondered what changed his mind. Although the vain part of me wanted to believe it was because he was jealous, the more humble part of me --the bigger part-- tried convincing me it was because he wanted to show me respect as an Alpha.
The vain part of me was more convincing.
"I see. I guess this year's Gala will be unforgettable."
Williams murmurs, looking between Raizel and I. Now he was definitely questioning our relationship. I merely nod in agreement, not trusting myself from overreacting and making a fool of myself. His announcement in attending has already scrambled my thoughts all over the place.
"I suppose so."
Raizel huffs out, equally quiet.
Well fuck me if this isn't uncomfortable.
"Anyway, since you're attending, I'm sure you need to get yourself a suit and maybe-"
Elizabeth cuts herself off at the sound of someone's phone ringing. Raizel silently curses to himself, digging his hand in his suit pocket before sending Williams a look when reading the caller ID. He gives him a hard nod, eyes not giving anything away. From my peripheral vision, I see Williams stiffen with a hard look glazing over his face. The two look at each other in silent understanding as the ringing echoes in the mansion.
Neither Elizabeth or I do anything but look on.
Just when I though the phone would just go to voice mail, Raizel answers and puts it to his ear. Excusing himself, he gets up and walks from the dining table in a hurry but not before saying something in a language I couldn't recognize.
"Freumale, costa drendenea."
I make a face. It sounded like something between Spanish and French, if that was even possible. Possibly even a little bit of Latin? I watch as his broad back disappears into the living room. Williams too was watching over him with a less than pleased expression on his face. His earlier comment long forgotten about. I wanted to ask what was wrong or why the sudden cold tension but a frustrated shout stopped me.
"Grendenium! Brothernu sinvikter ladnum!"
Raizel's harsh voice rang down the hall, filling me up with more curiosity as I look over to Williams. He ignores my gaze, knowing that I was staring but decided to keep watching the doorway from which Raizel left. A few minutes and shouts later followed by a crash, Raizel walks back in with his white button shirt unbuttoned from the first three. His hair was slightly ruffled, strands of black locks falling over his face before he rakes his hand through them, to push it back into place.
With a tightened jaw and a tense structure, he gives Williams a thin lipped look.
"I'm heading back. I won't be needing that week after all."
Raizel scans his steely eyes over to Elizabeth and gives her a curt nod before turning to look at me. His gaze softened and his tightened jaw relaxed.
"I'll be seeing you."
He says softly.
"Is that a promise?"
I pale from my own words. My wolf yipping in excitement because to her, that was our attempt at seducing him. I don't know how I managed to say those words because frankly, I wanted to dig myself up in a ditch and just lay there until I die. I sounded eager, infatuated, hopeful.
All of which, were somewhat a gist of what I was feeling but didnt want him to know.
The look of shock on his face was enough to make me want to crawl up into bed and scream into the pillows. The heat slowly coming over me making me feel like an utter embarrassment on this Earth. Williams' and Elizabeth's silence didn't help make the situation any better for me. It just made the whole ordeal a lot more realer than I would've wanted. At this point, I was tempted to just bust out laughing before telling him it was a joke, to save myself from further humiliation. And I was just about to do that when Raizel's shocked expression slipped away and he looked at me fondly.
"Definitely."
Instant. Heat.
My face flushed, my body overheating from that one word. The slight smirk on his face widening as he turned on his heel to leave. The smugness in his aura going out full blast. I could almost see a tail swaying back and forth in arrogance. It was only until Opal's voice sending Raizel off was heard and the front door of the mansion shut did the two eager witnesses start to ambush me.
"Are you and Alpha Locksworth engaging in a sinful relationship?"
"So much for 'not being involved'."
I look between them, unsure if I should feel embarrassed or mortified by the two. To their delight, I feel both at the same time. Elizabeth was the one to make the insinuation that Raizel and I were fuck buddies, watched me with eyes fit for a hawk's. She watched every little movement I made to see if I would try lying and of course, I wasn't going to. There would be no point.
"Elizabeth, no. We aren't fuck buddies. Like I said before, we just met. Though..."
I peek over to them, trying not to mind the pink hue dusting over my cheeks.
"-I admit I'm interested. But I won't act on it. I know he has a mate somewhere, and I am most definitely not going to interfere with something as sacred as that for my own selfishness."
Sudden memories of Landon and Hestia infiltrated in my mind and I almost scowl. As long as four years was, the betrayal was still fresh in my mind. I could care less about the fact that Landon wasn't mine. It had hurt, yes. But I got over it. The only thing I couldn't ignore was the fact he abandoned a pack. He abandoned the pack he had an alliance with. Mercilessly allowed them to suffer when he could've helped to prevent it. Not to mention, he abandoned a pack member. Even if he didn't want me as a mate, I was still a member in his pack. I was still tied to them as they were tied to me.
The loyalty that was supposed to be there was omitted.
They chose to turn their back on me, and I couldn't help but think it was all my fault.
Maybe they were so desperate to get rid of me that they decided to allow Duskfall to perish.
Maybe the reason they didn't help was because I was there.
Maybe they were cruel enough to sacrifice hundreds of lives as long as it guaranteed my death.
My fists clenched tightly, my wolf growling in my mind as our anger combined. For years I had tormented myself with that thought. The thought that their deaths were on my hands as much as they were in Nightwake's. Maybe it was my fault that they got involved. With that running in my mind and having to see Isaac's face everyday that reminded me so much of Bentley's, I was so close to losing my sanity.
The guilt and shame so overbearing it almost consumed me whole and drove me off to a darker path.
It took a slap to the face and a thorough scolding from Meredith to understand that it wasn't my fault.
It wasn't my fault Nightwake was cruel, it wasn't my fault the rogues were evil, it wasn't my fault Duskfall had fallen.
It was theirs.
It was 'that ungrateful fucker who couldn't keep his dick in his pants'' fault.
I was just an unlucky pawn that got involved was all.
And now there was Raizel.
The man who stirred both my wolf and heart like no other.
I knew that it was strange to feel so attached to a man I barely met for twenty-four hours. It was unexplainable. The moment i met him there just this connection. A connection that went beyond any form of logic I could think of. A connection that even my wolf acknowledged. Second chance mates were rare. And typically, people who had a deceased mate were the ones who got them. I never heard of a rejected mate getting a new one.
Then there's the topic of Raizel having a mate.
From the time he first became an Alpha at a young age, the spotlight was always on him. Granted, no one was close enough to him to really get any info and the fact that he strayed away from social events definitely didn't help anyone get a better idea of who he was. But never did the topic of his mate get brought up.
It was possible his mate had passed and it was also possible he hadn't met his mate yet.
But the mutual attraction between us was strange.
Was it all just lust-ridden?
The sacred pool had already declared us as not mates so why were our wolves responding so well to one another?
I pondered for a bit, knowing I wasn't going to get an answer but couldn't help myself to.
"He doesn't have a mate."
My eyes snap to Williams who sat there with a vacant look in his eyes. A small frown on his face as he stared at me silently.
"His mate passed?"
I ask quietly. My wolf went silent, not sure how to feel about the situation. She knew how much it hurt to lose a mate but she didn't know how much it hurt to lose a mate. A mate that actually loved her and returned her affections. Landon and I never established any kind of relationship like that, so our loss wasn't that much of a big deal anymore.
It was easier to forget something you couldn't really dwell upon.
"No, its a little more complicated than that."
His nervous glance to Elizabeth told me he knew exactly how much more complicated it was. But he chose not to share it. Williams sighed, setting his dining utensils down as he lace this fingers together.
"It's not my place to say anything but..."
He gave me a small smile,
"-don't back down if what's holding you back is his mate. Trust me Selene, you won't be doing anything bad if you choose to pursue your feelings. You're not stealing him from anyone, that much is true."
He swallowed, pushing his seat away and held his hand out to Elizabeth. She interlocked their fingers as they looked at me with a hopeful expression on their faces.
"We must go now. We have to officiate some details for the Gala."
I nod in understanding but kept my mouth shut. His words running through my mind-- as cryptic as it was.
"But Selene."
Elizabeth looks at me seriously,
"-if you want him, get him."
Then she shoots me a thumbs up before sauntering away, dragging Williams behind her. I think over their words. I was sure Williams wasn't lying when he said he didnt have a mate. But at the same time, it didn't sound like he met her yet. As much as I would like to "get him", there were too many unexplained answers.
Answers I was itching to get but had a slim chance of actually receiving.
And just like that, a week went by and it was the night of the Gala.
I was in my guest room at the Capital, wrapped in my fuzzy robe with my hair damp as I stared down at the gown hanging in my closet in horror. I was planning to return to Greyhound after the night of the Gala. Noah and his mate, Mailia, were meeting me here. They too were invited as my Beta and the Beta female. Isaac would've attended too, but according to Cade who was also attending, he wanted to stay back at the pack so he could finish training them quicker.
I would've smiled at the memory if it wasn't for the fact I was beyond petrified by what I was seeing.
The simple blue silk dress I had picked was nowhere to be seen.
Instead, I see a black, form-fitting lace gown with intricate gold lining detailing around the plunging neckline and the hem of the gown. Just below it was matching black pumps with golden floral designs wrapped around the heels.
I stared.
And continued staring.
It didn't disappear.
With a groan, I fished out my phone which was buried under the piles of clothes i had stripped out of when I was getting ready to take a shower and immediately called the designer who I was also good friends with. He was the one I purchased my gown from. The personal designer I has since beginning my time as Alpha. After the third ring, he answered.
"Where is my dress Antonio?"
I ask in a hurry. There had to be some mistake. This was not the gown I had personally picked out and fitted for. There might've been a mix-up. A terrible, terrible mix-up that needed be solved.
"Whatever do you mean, Alpha?"
I clench my teeth. My patience was wearing thin and the fact that he was sounding like he was having fun with this was pushing me to the edge.
"Antonio."
I grit out. Finally, he sighs.
"I'm sorry, hon. Meredith asked me to send you that dress. She practically ordered me to."
I close my eyes in attempt to calm myself.
Of course she did.
"But you know... you should be glad she did. That dress you picked was cute and all, but it did you no justice. This one is a killer and you damn well know it."
I was now beginning to understand what Elizabeth was talking about. The dress that she kept bragging about to Raizel was real, and it so happened to be the one hanging in my closet. Those two were planning this and I had no doubt in my mind that Noah was part of this too. He was, after all, the one that personally brought me the dress inside of a grey garment bag. I was just too naive to check.
I should've known there was a reason Meredith said nothing when I showed her the dress I picked even with that look of distaste on her face.
Sighing, I pull the phone from my ear after defeatedly saying good-bye to Antonio and tossed it to the bed. With one last grumble to myself, I pull the soft gown from hanger and begin to put it on. The gown was gorgeous, there was no denying that. It fit me perfectly. Fit and snug in all the right places. I wasn't foreign to tight fitting clothes. I had worn a great deal of them before but I had wanted to go out comfortable for tonight.
Forcing myself to handle countless Alphas all plotting some way to get rid of me earned me the right of comfortable clothing.
It hugged everything my body had to offer and I had to say, I looked damn fine. My blonde hair was slicked back, my neck laced with a diamond necklace Isaac had given me for my birthday and my ears adorned with matching diamond droop earrings.
I had a hair and makeup team do the finishing touches.
When the preparation was over with, I had stepped out of my room to see Noah and Mailia waiting outside. Mailia with her brown hair pinned up in a bun was wearing a simple, white sweetheart neckline gown that reached just above her ankles. Noah who was wearing a black suit, had his hair slicked back with gel and a permanent smirk on his face when he saw me. Mailia gaped, looking at me as she whistled.
"If I was lesbian, I would so do you."
I bit back a cough as Noah looked down at her in shock. The pure look of betrayal in his eyes as he stared at his mate grew when he put a hand to his chest.
"And leave me out of it?"
He shook his head in pure offense,
"That's just cruel, Mailia."
She shrugged, looking bored as she shot me a wink.
"Well, I wouldn't want to share. I would want her all to myself, isn't that right Alpha?"
I raise a hand, unable to take anymore of this. These two were bad enough alone. So together? Yeah, no.
"I think this is the part you two stop.I don't even want to consider the things going through your minds right now."
The two immature kids giggled to themselves. I could barely make out what they were giggling about but it was most definitely something inappropriate. Sucking in a breath, we start making our way to the ballroom. The Gala had already started about an hour ago. I would've went earlier if it wasn't for my dress being delivered late, thanks to Noah who so wonderfully decided to make a stop at McDonalds for an Oreo Mcflurry.
Again, i found myself questioning my choice of putting him as Beta.
All jokes aside, I had mentally prepared myself for what was to happen through those doors.
Many of the Alphas attending would be surveying me, watching out for any mistake I'd make even if it was just a minor one such as forgetting to laugh at a poorly made joke. Everyone attending tonight was out to kill. I just had to make sure I wasn't going to be one of their victims.
"Aren't you nervous, Selene?"
I look over my shoulder to Noah who genuinely looks worried for me. He was probably worried about my reaction to seeing Landon and Hestia or any of the Nightwake members that could possibly attend. It was either that, or that he was worried the Alphas here would eat me alive with their presence.
"No, I'm fine."
I tell him honestly.
I wasn't worried about the whole Gala thing. As I trained for the Alpha position, Meredith has also trained me for etiquette and how to handle myself at social events. It was a big part in her instructions. You could make it or break it during these things. You could make new allies but at the same time lose some or even go as far as making some enemies.
It took one wrong move, one wrong word to break the balance of peace.
Admittedly, the only thing I was really slightly nervous about was Raizel.
After listening to Williams and Elizabeth, i still hadn't made up my mind. For now, I decided to go along with my initial plan (though it didn't work out) which was to distance myself. I had been so distracted by him that I underestimated my pull toward him. Now that I knew the extent of my attachment, I could at least refer to him with his last name.
We walked into the entrance, and immediately I was met with the loud chatters of people and the sound of glass clinking and heels clicking.
With my head held high, I walked in with my Beta and his mate following behind me. All traces of our good-nature hidden under stoic, hardened exteriors. Playtime was over and they knew it. From the first step I took, I already caught everyones attention. The Alphas that had come sniffed the air, recognizing me as an Alpha they never met and instantly began to wonder about me.
Pairs of eyes followed my every move and the once loudly chattering atmosphere was replaced with a quiet, tense one.
"Ah, Alpha Crestfield!"
I turn my head to see Cade walking toward me with a small, pretty, dark haired girl beside him. From the newly made mark on his neck matching the one on hers, I put two and two together and realized it was his mate. The mate that he had been forcibly separated from by his father. I smile, noticing how much healthier he looked now compared to before.
The dark circles were long gone and his eyes were a lot more vibrant.
"Alpha Woods,"
I greet with a nod. I turn to the woman beside him and she blushes, fumbling with the material of her rose gold dress.
"-and this is?"
Cade smiles, placing his hand on the small of her back before looking down at her.
"This is my mate, Kayla."
He breathes affectionately. The love in his eyes burning wild for the small female beside him. She mirrored his expression, squeezing his arm in reassurance as she looks at me.
"N-Nice to meet you, Alpha Crestfield. You um, you look beautiful."
She gushed, red cheeks and all. A sincere smile inches across my face as I laugh to myself, amused by her cute awkwardness.
"Thank you. You look gorgeous, yourself. I'm surprised Alpha Woods has managed to keep his hands to himself for so long."
I shoot him a smirk which he returned.
"Oh believe me, Alpha. These hands weren't to myself earlier befo-"
He stopped when Kayla squeezed his arm harder. Giving her a sheepish smile, he cleared his throat and grinned at me.
"Gamma Isaac has been a really great help. My pack members have been improving drastically just from one week alone. I don't think he needs two months to train them at this rate. He's so thorough and concise, it's almost terrifying."
I can't stop the pride swelling in my chest. My wolf and I loved to hear someone praise my members. It was one of the most rewarding things to an Alpha. To know that their members were being recognized by fellow Alphas. The success of the pack members was the success of the Alpha.
And it was beyond exhilarating to hear someone speak so fondly of my Gamma.
"He is quite strict, though."
Cade adds in thought. I see him cringe as if he remembered something and I stop myself from laughing.
"I'm sure he is. I didn't just give him the position for no reason."
I muse. Cade nods and shrugs,
"Indeed. He is well deserving of that title. He's become good friends with everyone in the pack. They all look up to him. Speaking of friends, I want to formally request an alliance with you. That is, if you are willing."
I give him a smile. I was already writing up an alliance pack to make with Cade before formally asking him, but I guess he beat me to it.
"I'm more than willing. We'll have to discuss this in a more..."
I glance around, noticing how everyone was watching us.
"-suitable environment."
Cade catches my surveillance and looks around. His expression hardened as he nodded. He knew these Alphas were out to look for weaknesses. Everyone had their gazes pinned on us and I had no doubt in my mind that they were also eavesdropping.
"You're right, my apologies Alpha Crestfield. I suppose we'll just have to settle with making an appointment."
Looking down at his beloved, he holds her tight.
"My Kayla and I will be on our way, then. We still have lots to do back at the pack. We hope to see you and please, expect a meeting request soon."
Cade brings out his hand and I take it firmly. We smile one last time before he goes off to leave after saying good bye to other guests. Mailia and Noah who had drifted off to the sidelines were now by my side. I could already see a few Alphas inching closer to me, probably with the intention of engaging in a conversation. I inwardly sigh.
This was going to be a long night.
"Noah, Mailia, you two enjoy the night. I can handle it from here."
Noah looks ready to protest but i give him a pointed look leaving no room for argument. He breathes out slowly and nods, taking Mailia's hand as they drifted off to the dance floor. The moment I was alone, two Alphas who I recognized as Alpha Reynolds and Alpha Sei approach me.
My wolf straightened, her fur ready to bristle out if she felt the slightest bit of killing intent. The two Alphas seem friendly as they go. I didnt feel anything bad from them but I didn't feel anything necessarily good either.
"You must be Alpha Crestfield,"
Sei begins, thrusting his hand toward me. I took it with my own and shake it as I did with Reynolds. More and more eyes focus on me when I confirm their suspicions.
"Yes, I am. I assume you two are Alpha Reynolds and Alpha Sei?"
The two look at each other, slightly surprised to hear that I know of them before they let out a heartily laugh. The two men giving out a pleased vibe from being recognized.
"Why, yes we are."
Reynolds smiles.
"We've heard so much about you. Obviously, seeing you dethrone Windril like that was also quite a feat but hey, I doubt anyone's complaining."
I smile, shaking my head in amusement. The two were there that day at the conference regarding Fio and Val. I guess that's why they knew to keep their distance. They weren't trying to get on my bad side. They knew better than to.
The conversation between the three of us flew by and next thing I know, we're all saying goodbye and a new batch of curious onlookers are here. Speaking as eloquently as I could was tiring. Keeping up these fake smiles and pretenses were also exhausting. Meredith had warned me about the emotional and mental drain that came with these Galas. By now, everyone had calmed around me but there was still slight tension. It was like they expected me to just suddenly shift and start mauling on everyone like a feral animal. I was a little annoyed but I understood why.
I tired not to let it get to me, but what did bother me was the amount of Alphas --who had sons around my age-- trying to discreetly bring up possible marriage proposals. One thing the Gala was also known for was its matchmaking service.
A service I was wasn't dire in need of.
At least, not with the people they were bringing up.
I was currently talking to a group of Lunas, all of whom were trying to brag about their sons. One Luna in specific, Luna Cavelli, was going on and on about how her son was 'looking for a woman of my caliber'. I could feel the twitching need of an eye roll but I did my best to maintain my impassive expression with a smile. The number of times I've heard 'it must be hard being a sole Alpha' was more than I could count on both hands. Luna Cavelli was just about to go into depth about her son's future visit here when I caught a whiff of a familiar scent.
A familiar scent I couldn't misplace anywhere.
They arrived.
Hestia and Landon walked in, her hand hanging on his forearm with a tight smile in place. She wore a pale blue, sleeveless dress that loosely flared down her hips. A pretty similar styled dress to the one I had initially picked out. Hestia and I always had similar tastes. It wasnt a surprise she chose blue as her color. We've heard that it suited us better and that it brought out our eyes.
I was beginning to thank Meredith for sending me this dress.
I knew the instant he stepped in, he smelt me. He looked through the crowds, eyes searching around until they found where I stood. Landon's dark hair gelled up, his body cladded in a dark blue suit to match Hestia with a white button up under. His eyes stayed fixated on me, his mouth slightly gaping as he trailed down my figure.
Fire. Scorching disgust left behind with each passing second his eyes took me in.
This was uncomfortable.
I looked away, not sparing him another second but his heated gaze still pinpointed where I was. His attention was sickeningly sticky. Everywhere his eyes passed down left behind a muck of repulsive emotions quivering straight through me.
Benicio and Sophie were also here, standing right behind them dressed just as formally and undoubtedly looking in my direction too.
I don't look their way.
I simply allow others to start crowding around me full of questions and eyes shinning with intrigue. My wolf huffed out her annoyance, clearly over with the whole event and wanting nothing more than to just go home to Greyhound and be let loose. She rolled on her side, staring leisurely at all these new faces crowding around us.
"Alpha Crestfield, I don't believe we've met."
I look up, taking notice of a fairly young man, lean and tall with sandy blonde hair and chocolate brown eyes. He smiles at me with a drink in his hand and soon the Luna's surrounding me move aside for him. I arch a brow at this, knowing that he wasn't an Alpha but understanding that his presence was still undeniably strong. Almost on par with an Alpha but not exactly there.
"Yes,"
I breathe out, turning my body to him.
"-I don't believe we have."
Blondie flashes me a coy grin and I could've sworn I heard a few of the women swoon at the sight. I smirk to myself, almost letting a soft scoff leave me. He's handsome. I'm not blind to see his physical appeal, but he also screams 'womanizer' just as blatantly.
"We'll have to change that, won't we? My name is Marco Williams."
He holds his hand out to me and I take it only for him to bring my knuckles to his lips. Pressing a light kiss, he peers through his lashes trying to see if his little gesture has an effect. His mouth slightly tugs down when he sees me staring at him indifferently. He recovers, straightening up.
"So you're the famous nephew."
I say amusedly. Marco's grin bounces back on his face as he nods. Looking at him now, I could see somewhat of a resemblance to Williams. They both had brown eyes and their heights were somewhat the same. Marco was a lot leaner than Williams though.
"Yes, Uncle James has often told me about you. He and Aunt Elizabeth seem quite fond of you, but I can say that after meeting you personally..."
His eyes scan me down,
"I'm not surprised to see why. I can say I'm beginning to be just as fond of you as they are."
The Lunas who still surround me watch as I suddenly laugh. My body shook as more rumbles of laughter pass through my lips. A streak of confusion flashes in his eyes but he's quick to cover it.
"Not only are you a comedian but you're also quite the flirt."
Marco smiles, a certain gleam in his eyes at my words. He knew he wasn't going to get anything from me but he was still trying. He must've thought that by having many witnesses around us, I would've went along with his not so subtle flirting just for the sake of saving face. His flirts were harmless. He was most likely testing me rather than actually trying to get in my pants.
The intimidation factor was not working, unfortunately for him.
We observe each other. Eyes betraying nothing of our inner thoughts. He was cunning. I found from our little conversation just how very careful he actually was. Any Williams blood would be. It would seem Marco was no exception to the saying. I was so engrossed in trying to break through his mask that I didn't notice the growing tension behind me.
A chill ran over me. My eyes fled to the far side of the floor, seeing Landon watching with enraged eyes. His grip on Hestia's hand tightened to the point she was trying to pull away, but he didn't notice. His gaze was directed on Marco, who didn't feel the slightest bit of tension being projected onto him. Some Alpha's who were standing around seem to stiffen, detecting the aura of aggression and looked around for the source subtly.
He looked like he wanted to say something and he did. Landon walked toward us, breaking away from Hestia and leaving his entourage behind. They helplessly looked after their Alpha, afraid of the kind of stupidity he was about to commit in his state of fury. My wolf snorted, laying back down and continued to stare blankly at the swaying bodies of people beginning to dance.
Already tuning out half of what Marco was saying, Landon was about three feet away when a sudden silence fell upon us. The sound of shoes prattling on the marble floor echoed in the pin drop silence of the ballroom. Landon had completely stopped walking, his earlier anger diminished as he stood staring. Even Marco who was yapping on and on fell silent to watch the intruder. My heart thumped against my chest. A burst of anticipation running through me. Curiously, I look toward the source and held my breath at the sight.
Raizel walked in wearing a black suit tailored specifically for him that outlined the firmness of his build. His broad shoulders highlighted and his muscular arms flexing as he ran a hand through his hair. His dark, luscious hair attempted to be slicked back only to have some locks fall over his eyes. That chiseled face I've been seeing in my dreams coming to life right in front of me. He looked so breathtaking. After a few days of his absence, my body felt this wanton need full force. My wolf stood on her legs quickly, ecstatic at the sight of him as she barked out her excitement.
He was alone.
The Beta of his, nowhere in sight.
Or a date...
I hiss at my subconscious and force the giddiness down. He caught everyone's attention the moment he stepped in. He stopped walking, eyes scanning the cluster of people huddled in groups, no doubt ready to gossip about his appearance the moment the tension left. He kept scanning, each person he looks by freezing up when they felt his gaze and slowly he reaches me.
We lock eyes, a shattering breath forcibly leaving me as his gaze narrowed down on my dress.
I feel his eyes outline my figure, his jaw clenching as they looked down my chest, waist, hips before slowly making their way up. Fuck. My legs felt like jelly and he just looked at me. I expected him to walk on and venture around the jungle known as the elite's playground but he doesn't.
He walks, alright, but toward me.
My hand automatically clenches up until I feel the band of the Greyhound ring dig into my skin. He got closer and closer, eyes following him like a magnet you were unable to separate yourself from. When he finally reaches me, he glances down at Marco whose eyes widened by a fraction before stepping back and looking away.
Everyones attention was on us.
You can do this, Selene. Just do what you planned earlier. Make distance. Separate yourself.
The little pep talk I had with myself proved to be somewhat helpful. Mustering up all my courage, I speak before he does.
"Alpha Locksworth, it's a pleasure to see you again."
I said steadily. Raizel's mouth twitches but his gaze grows colder. I'm almost tempted to to reach out to him but I don't. That doesn't stop my fingers from twitching to do it. He presses his lips thinly before giving me a nod,
"Likewise."
I thought that the conversation, if you can even call it that, would be over and end there but again, he proves me wrong. A passing waiter who nervously offers Raizel a glass of champagne stops when Raizel reached out to take not one, but two of the alcoholic beverages. He looks over to me, handing me one and I take it almost too quickly. Trying to act calm was a feat in his company.
But of course he notices and the panty dropping smirk had made its appearance.
Marco and the Luna's had all slowly inched away when Raizel made it his point to stand beside me. The music continued playing and so did the chatters among the ballroom but what didn't change was the eyes glancing toward us every so often. Noah and Mailia who were dancing with each other sent me looks of concern before warily drifting over to brooding man beside me.
Waving off their needless worry with a small smile, they returned my gesture with their own when I was certain they didn't believe my attempt to assure them. Sipping on the silky beverage, I look to Raizel whose focus was on the couples dancing in the the center. His startling grey eyes never ceasing to amaze me.
"You look beautiful."
My breath catches as he slowly turns his head to look at me,
"-as you always do... but more so tonight."
I find myself smiling at the compliment and laugh softly. My response shocking him as he tenses up but relaxes when he sees the smile on my face.
"Thank you. You don't look so terrible yourself."
His lips quirked up as he brought the cup to his mouth. I watch --too intensely-- his Adams apple bob when he downs the drink. Setting the empty glass down onto the steel platter a new waiter passing by was holding, he gives me a slight smile that just barely pulled up his lips.
"If I didn't know better, my little wildflower, I would say you were trying to flirt with me."
His sudden statement had me coughing from the outrageousness of his comment. Did he not just call me beautiful? Was he not the one that started this? I look at him, a little surprised from his bold statement and couldn't resist to scoff.
"Then it's good that you know better. I was simply trying to be nice, Alpha Locksworth. I'm afraid I don't fit into the category of the women falling weak to your charms."
Liar.
Raizel smirks, suddenly taking the drink from my hand and setting it down. His warmth kissed mine and it felt like I've been burned. His touch lingering on the skin it made contact with. His arm suddenly lays around my waist, bringing me to his chest as he steadied us. His face got closer and closer until he stops just a few inches away.
"Somehow, I don't believe you."
His eyes fell to my lips as I swallowed. My throat constricting painfully as a sinful thoughts wedged its way into my mind.
"Fortunately, I didn't ask you to."
I whispered. His eyes met mine and a spark of attraction lights up between us. Unmeasurable attraction, undeniable temptation... He was everything a forbidden fruit was meant to be. I was ready to pull back, ready to awaken myself from this short, deluded dream but his grip on my waist hold me there.
"Dance with me."
He orders huskily.
I could barely manage a nod, knowing that denying him of a dance was not in my best interest. Not when that look he was giving me reminded me so much of a predatorily look I often give the rogues in my 'care'. The infamous I-dare-you-to-even-try look. Not that it was in any of my interest to reject him as I was admittedly starved of his presence for the last few days.
If I couldn't have him, what harm could one little dance do?
"Okay."
He breathes out, leading us to the center of the dance floor with his arm still attached to my waist. I'm aware of everyone watching our every move, including Noah and Mailia, even Landon, Hestia and my parents. I know and hear all the murmurs of shock and questions spreading around the air but I couldn't bring myself to care.
Couldn't even act like I did as Raizel slipped a hand to my waist and his other hand to hold mine. We swayed together, my free hand resting on his firm shoulder as he spun us around. His focus was on me as mine was on him. His intoxicating scent I grew addicted to blurred my rational thinking. Under the light that dimmed out any interest for anything else other than my male in front of me, I feel myself getting drawn closer. His grip tightened at the same time mine did and slowly my restraint is dwindling. I couldn't break free from the trance even if I wanted to. The pleasure from being held by him chaining me to his will. His warm body holding me close to him preventing me from even considering escape.
"I know you feel it, Selene."
He whispers softly. We turn, my feet keeping up with his. A shudder runs down my spine when his warm hand scrapes along the exposed part of my back. His warm fingers skim down the curve of my spine. I bite the inner part of my lip, forcing my face to hold an expression of indifference but my voice betrays me as my response came out as a soft whisper.
"I don't know what you mean, Alpha Locksworth."
I mutter, feeling his minty breath fanning over my lips. He pulls back slightly to look me in the eyes. His grey ones prying into my blue ones with the intention of breaking down my barriers. His expression lying somewhere between disappointment and confusion.
"Are we back on last name basis?"
He asks suddenly. Disheartened and a little upset. My heart fell at the sound.
"We should've always been on last name basis."
I feel the words leave my tongue heavily. I know damn well I was trying to bluff for the sake of my peace but it was so obvious. I knew better than anyone that I had loved the freedom of calling him by his first name. After uttering 'Raizel' for the first time, saying 'Locksworth' now was completely foreign to me. It sounded wrong.
Raizel frowns, clearly unhappy with my answer and moved his face closer to mine. I momentarily freeze up from his invasion. Leaning closer and closer, the side of his face brushes against my cheek and he stills. I swallow thickly. So much for self restraint. My fingers curled into the fabric on his shoulder from anticipation. I felt the bridge of his nose grazing up the curve of my neck and the soft, plushness of his lips kissing the skin of my earlobe.
"Shame..."
He breathes deep and sultry,
"I quite liked the sound of 'Raizel' coming from your lips."
I fight back a moan, tensing my legs as he swayed us closer together. The burning sensation of his touch igniting my inner desires. The hold he has on me turning possessive as his hand greedily ran up and down my waist. Learning my body as I did his.
"I don't think its professional for two Alphas to address each other without their titles."
I say quickly, knowing if he prolonged this sweet torture I would lose myself completely. Raizel smiles against my skin. His soft breath hitting my skin as he laughed.
"I suppose you'll just have to make an exception then?"
Rolling my bottom lip in between my teeth, I sigh contentedly when his lips trailed down to shoulder. Planting a butterfly kiss along the curve, I nod absentmindedly.
"I suppose I do."
Raizel gives me another kiss, pulling back until our foreheads pressed together.
"You will be the death of me, Selene."
Pressing a light kiss to my forehead, he shoots me a genuine smile. His hands firm on my waist as we stop dancing completely and just stand in the center of the dance floor.
"I know you will."