Hers Freely

32. Meeting the Alpha

As the Beta said, he arrived early the next morning to take me to the Alpha, who I learned was actually his own brother.

I made sure I looked clean and presentable. I don't know why I cared but I wore one of their long skirts and a plain knit sweater I was given. I hadn't really used many of the clothes they had given me. I preferred to use as little as possible from them, as it reminded me of my reliance on their reluctant generosity. Wearing their clothes felt like a constant reminder of my vulnerability, which made me wary.

The Beta was quiet and stoic, he didn't say anything, but instead, firmly clasped my hand with his own sizable one. 

Got up on the wrong side of the bed, did we?

With a protective grip, he guided me through the village, keeping up with his strides so as not to stray from his side. As we made our way, we encountered numerous pack members bustling about their daily tasks. Their curious gazes and hushed whispers followed us like a shadow, I couldn't help but feel a sense of unease.

"Ignore them," he whispered, sensing my discomfort. "They're not used to humans." But his words did little to ease my nerves.

However, as we marched on, what really put me on edge was the way the she-wolves, especially the younger ones, couldn't help but gaze at him with adoration in their heart-shaped eyes. Their smiles lit up as he passed by, and some even attempted to flirt with him. I admit he was a striking figure, exuding charm and confidence with each step. However, I knew better than to judge someone based on their appearance alone.

Meanwhile, I quietly observed his interactions with the pack members. His commanding presence and powerful body language made it clear why he was the leader. Every move he made was calculated, from the way he held his head high to the subtle gestures he made. Yet, as the she-wolves noticed our intertwined hands, their adoration quickly turned sour. They saw me as a threat to their leader's attention and authority. It was clear that my presence caused tension within the pack.

We finally reached the pack house, a grand cabin with a rustic charm that seemed to beckon us inside. Even with its crumbling parts it looked cozy.
Once inside we walked across the open living space that had remnants of a different era- old furniture and faded tapestries, to a door with a wolf head emblem carved on it.

The air seemed to grow thick with anticipation, and for a moment, I was afraid. Afraid of what this powerful creature would do to me, afraid of what my fate might be in his hands.
Standing there, staring at the closed door, there was a sudden squeeze of my hand from Jonah. I was frozen with fear. I could feel my heart beating in my ears and my palms began to sweat. But then a soft whisper reached my ear. "Don't let him get to you." His voice urged me. "Control your fear, or he'll revel in it. I got you, I won't let him hurt you."

A second later, a gruff voice said, "Come in" from the other side. I took a deep breath and tried to appear confident as Jonah pulled down on the handle and the door creaked open. As we approached the Alpha, a tall and imposing figure, his eyes, like molten silver, seemed to pierce right through me. Despite his fierce appearance, he was a sight to see. I've never met a wolf quite like him; he almost seemed otherworldly. His fair complexion was accentuated by long, intricate braided platinum blonde hair, with a striking dark grey streak cascading down the left side of his head. While on the right side it was partly shaved.

His beard was also intricately braided in two small plaits that added to his mystique. His features were nearly flawless, except for a scar that marred his upper lip.

It was hard to believe that this was Jonah's brother. Their features were both strikingly sharp, but they were opposites in every other way.

"Well, well, it's about time you introduced me to your pet," he said mockingly. The Alpha sat regally at his ornate desk. The room was adorned with a shelf with a collection of books that looked pretty ancient and relics of battles long forgotten.
His gaze was predatory not blinking once, as he scanned me from head to toe. I bristled at being viewed like a helpless prey.