The Alpha Meeting
Chapter 1

Saphera, a true blood of royal decent from the Mingan Clan, was finishing packing the last boxes. She was moving from the safety of her hometown to a new life.

“Demetri, are all the boxes packed and ready to be loaded?”

“Yes, my love, everything is ready. Are you and Zion ready?”

She wanted to tell herself that she loved the new den and the new home; that everything was starting to look up. “Yes, we are just doing last checks, then we can go.” Saphera picked Zion up in her arms and gave her last look back as she stepped through the door and got into the car. It was cold and dark and she liked the feeling of the night; it filled her with joy and happiness, because they were creatures of the night—known as Wolves, or more commonly known as Shapeshifters. The cold breeze kissed her skin and Zion wiggled in her arms. He loved the night as his mother did. With his moon-white hair and pearly blue eyes and his milky skin, he was a complete contrast to his mother, who had flaming red hair and icy blue eyes with skin as white as snow—that was why the pack called her Saphera.

The new place was near the sea, which was where Demetri thrived.

“He is not like you,” everyone in the pack said. “He will not understand you or your ways. How can he make you happy if he is not one of us?”

They were right: Demetri was not part wolf and part human, but full mortal—meaning he had no supernatural blood in him, making him the weakest choice as a mate for an Alpha Female of the royal bloodline.

The road was long, but the night was cool. Saphera wondered how her life was going to change, moving so far away with a mere mortal who didn’t know who or what she really was, or what Zion was too, for that matter.

“What is wrong, my love?” Demetri noticed that Saphera had been very tense and tired for the past few weeks; she looked stressed and worried.

“I’m fine, just a bit tired of all the packing.”

Demetri nodded his head, knowing that it was the end of the discussion.

Zion lay quietly in his baby chair, sleeping. After about four hours on the road, Demetri opted for a stop at a small town surrounded with luscious forest and the smell of fresh rain on the earth. Demetri got out first to go to the bathroom and shop, while Saphera sat quietly in the car. She couldn’t leave little Zion alone; he was still dreaming away. Suddenly Saphera felt a cold chill down her spine. Her Alpha senses were tingling like mad. She quickly looked in the direction of the feeling, and saw a shadow of a man with solid build, at least six feet in height and with a strong bone structure. As she swallowed, the stranger looked up and straight into her eyes.

“Oh my!” she gasped, as she saw the Golden Eyes of one true Alpha male.

In Saphera’s culture, true Alpha males had Golden Eyes and the females like herself had Sapphire Icy Eyes. He met her gaze, and was just as surprised as she….

He kept on staring at her and immediately his eyes changed to Sapphire, showing that he was still available and not mated yet. Saphera blushed crimson and felt her skin heating up.

Demetri returned and the Alpha male, seeing that Demetri was a mere mortal, immediately put out his cigar, of the finest Cuban tobacco enlaced with Wolf Lichen, and strolled towards the car. Saphera immediately got out. She was not afraid, seeing that she was a true Alpha female and did not feel intimidated at all. Demetri noticed Saphera’s face and turned to see what she was looking at, and saw the stranger coming towards them. Immediately he closed his door and walked towards Saphera.

“Good evening, Ma’am,” the stranger said, directing his greetings towards Saphera.

“Good evening.” Their eyes met again and Saphera could swear she heard a low growl.

“Good evening, Sir,” Demetri said, extending his hand towards the stranger. The Alpha took his hand with a grip that was hard and strong.

“Good evening, great Sir, what a beautiful wife you have here! Definitely an exotic being.”

“Uhmmm, thank you, Sir,” Demetri said, not surprised by the stranger’s words about Saphera. He was used to hearing those words about his fiancée, for she was nothing short of a Greek goddess.

Saphera turned to Demetri, smelling his testosterone rise as if he was preparing to defend himself. These two fighting would definitely end in one being killed and the victim would most likely end up being Demetri. Saphera stepped towards Demetri in a protective way, giving the stranger a soft, soft growl which only he and she could hear. Clearly the stranger took notice, and understood that as his exit card. He turned on his heel, and his jet-black hair with some silver lines glistened in the full moonlight. Saphera noticed his broad shoulders and his solid posture. The perfect Alpha package, she thought, but noticing the silver streaks in his hair, she realised he must be a few years older than her normal suitors. There was something about him, though. As he strode away, Demetri turned to the car as Zion was starting to wake up.

Saphera quickly did her run to the bathroom and tuck shop, changed Zion into fresh clothing and got back into the car.

“That was a strange guy, don’t you think?” Demetri asked Saphera, seeing that she was clearly a bit shaken by the encounter.

“Yes, it was actually,” Saphera said, while thinking what a strong and healthy Alpha might be doing in this small town on his own—where was his pack? And why didn’t he have a mate? Questions Demetri did not have to hear, nor would he understand them.

Zion was awake for the rest of the journey; he was babbling and listening to his music tapes. Saphera was very distracted. She looked a bit scared after the encounter with the guy at the station.

Well, I felt a bit stressed and wary too, Demetri thought. That guy was huge and muscular, and to be honest he looked like a superhero every female would lust after. He knew he should be used this by now—the way men looked at Saphera with hungry lust, and how women would always be intimidated by her obvious good looks and her cleverness. Saphera was really one of a kind. He had never met anyone like her, that was why he was determined to wed her in the coming year. To keep her for himself.

It was around 2am when they arrived at the new house in Sunny Beach.

“At least the sky is clear and the wind is fresh,” Saphera said.

“You will come to love this place, it’s going to grow on you both,” Demetri said with a satisfied tone, and lightly kissed her on the cheek. The removal truck was due around 8am, and for the time being, Demetri had made arrangements with friends of his for the neces-sities like blankets and blow-up matresses for them to catch some shut eye, and some food in case they were hungry. Zion was quick to sleep on after being carried into the new house. Saphera not so much—her thoughts were still wandering and focusing on the encounter at the station. It seemed strange to her and she could not shake the feeling.

“Let’s follow Zion’s example. The bed is ready, let’s also get some shut-eye, my beauty.” Demetri kissed her shoulder and turned her towards him and looked into those galaxy eyes of hers. “This is the beginning of our life together.”

“Yes, it is!” Saphera kissed him deeply. She really loved this mortal; he was good looking, and accepted her for herself. He loved her child, and that was more than enough for her. They turned in and both fell fast asleep as soon as their heads touched the pillows.

Around 7am sunlight shone through the windows and Saphera heard birds chirping and singing outside. Wow, she thought, I could get used to waking up to this every morning. Zion was also starting to stir a bit as he was busy waking up.

Demetri moved and put his arm around her. “Morning, my love, did you sleep okay?” he asked.

“Yes, thank you, just not nearly enough.”

They both smiled and Zion giggled. He was fully awake now, and already crawling towards them across the bright white tiles. The truck arrived around 8am and so did a few of Demetri’s friends, who came to help offload and give a hand. The neighbours next door to them were so kind: they made them sandwiches and brought cool drink. They had two boys, and immedi-ately Zion was part of the playgroup. The wife, named Christine, was a lovely woman. She lent a hand with everything, and Saphera soon began to like her. Her husband Jacob was just as nice, and he and Demetri started setting up the TV and the electrical equipment, while the rest of the friends assisted by carrying in the furniture and helping with the big and chunky stuff. The three boys were playing all around the house. Everything will work out fine, Saphera felt, and she

could see herself building a life here.

As soon as the unpacking was finished and everyone had left, she put Zion to bed for a midday nap as he was only three years old. She started to then take in the house—it was small but sufficient, two bedrooms, grey on the outside, and it was a corner house which meant it had a nice big yard. White interior and enough cupboards in the kitchen for everything. A delightful little humble new start, Saphera thought, after her hard previous two years with Zion’s father.

Trees and pretty flowers in the flowerbeds, a nice quiet cul de sac, and everyone so friendly. She smiled and Demetri crossed the living room. He came up behind her where she stood at the front window, which was the size of the entire side wall.

“Is it okay for you?” he asked, sounding wary. Saphera turned around and kissed him softly, “It is

more than enough.”

Saphera started to think about what she would make for dinner whilst Demetri was still busy with the final things in the yard, like installing the dish so they could watch DSTV and Netflix. She was craving a meaty dish and knew Demetri would appreciate one as he’d worked hard. She could literally see his tense muscles and smell the sweat; thanks to her wolf side, every sense in her was amplified.

She opted to quickly go to the nearby grocery store— which was about three blocks away—to get some ingredients to make a hearty meal. Demetri stayed and watched Zion as he slept off all the excitement.

Saphera couldn’t help but notice everyone staring at her, probably because she was new to town, and that is how it goes when you move into a new town. She ran around gathering the necessary ingredients, and as soon as she came out and headed for her car, she felt that familiar chill in her spine which she’d felt early that morning at the roadside shop. She looked back and there he was, the Alpha, standing and staring directly at her with his golden eyes. He had sunglasses on but she could see his eyes clearly through them. She turned back to her car. As she was about to get in, she heard him before she felt him. He was directly behind her, restricting her from opening the door to her car. She could smell his Alpha scent and feel the desire in his look.

“What are you doing with a mortal mate when you are of royal blood?” It was more of a demand than a question. Saphera turned around and faced him dead on.

“He is my choice, and who are you to question me?” She stood her ground and she could see he was enjoying her femininity. He asked again.

“I am Celix Varela, the Alpha Male of the Silver-Tongue Pack ruling this territory, and who might you be?”

“I am Saphera Leventis, Alpha Female of the Mignan Pack.”

He quickly stepped back, looking wary; Saphera knew exactly why—her pack was one of the strongest as well as one of the most pure-bred packs. She recalled hearing stories of the Silver-Tongue Pack, also pure-bred and commonly known for their strength in leadership and their dominating nature.

“Where is your mate?” she asked.

Celix smiled. “I don’t have one yet, for I can’t seem to find one tough enough to suit my needs and desires. They all crawl away like wounded doggies.” He smiled down at her. Dammit, she is so hot and so mesmerising, he thought.

“Well, Celix, nice to meet you, I have to get back to my family.” Saphera turned and climbed in the car and drove back home. On her way home she thought to herself that she had better keep cool and calm, seeing that she was in their territory now and their rules were her rules.

***

On returning home, she saw that Zion and Demetri were playing outside with the balls and hoops. Zion was very good at ball games, for his eye-hand coordination was above average for his age. Zion was advanced in more ways than one. He had started walking at nine months, he ran at one year, and he started talking when walking. He was really such a precious little one. Saphera smiled as she entered the yard. Demetri came to greet her as he always did when they had been apart for a while.

“I bought ingredients to make beef stew with veggies on the side,” she said.

“That will be perfect, thank you, love.”

“Mamma!” Zion called whilst walking up to her, arms stretched out. Zion and Saphera had a magical bond and were so close to each other, like every mother and son—but Saphera believed it was a bit closer than normal.

Demetri went to fetch the groceries from the car whilst Saphera put on the kettle for some well-deserved chamomile tea, poured a bottle of fresh juice for Zion, and put him down on the floor, free to explore the new surroundings. Dinner was lovely: she made an effort to light candles and pour them each a glass of rosé. After dinner it was bath time for Zion whilst Demetri was getting ready for work, he was doing night shift for the next week. Saphera felt sorry for him, he was tired, she could see it in his body language. The move and unpacking had taken its toll on him.

***

That night after Zion went to sleep, and Demetri off to work, Saphera was left alone with her thoughts about the encounter this afternoon with Celix. What a strange name Celix was? After the movie she’d been watching finished, she decided that it is time for her to sleep as well. She was so tired and mentally drained with the activities of the past few days.

Demetri came home around 6am and Saphera was long awake by then, she could not sleep, she did not do well in new houses for the first few nights. She waited on him, bringing him a fresh cup of coffee.

“Morning! You are up early?” Demetri said as he walked in the door.

“Yes, I am a morning person, you know,” she smiled, greeting him with a kiss and handing him his coffee. She could see he was tired to the core. She ran a bath and unpacked fresh sleepwear. “Zion and I will be out exploring today so that you can get some sleep. You need it,” Saphera stated.

Demetri was thankful; he went to bathe and straight to bed.

Zion and Saphera decided to walk as the town was small and it would have been a waste of petrol to drive. Zion enjoyed the outing. The town was located near a lagoon with lots of fairies and small farmer markets, it was like a little village out of a storybook. Saphera had loved to read books when she was younger, but as she got older it got a bit more difficult to set time aside to read in peace and quiet. She really missed the days when she could sit for hours and finish a book in a day or two.

***

They came across a small park with swings and tyres for little Zion to play. Luckily, she’d packed a small picnic basket and they enjoyed the afternoon there. She headed home when she could see Zion was tired and in need of his midday nap. As they came into the house, Demetri woke up after a good long sleep, looking refreshed. Zion ran up to Demetri as he was very fond of him. Saphera just smiled as she saw the two men in her life cuddling, and she looked down at her engagement ring.

The neighbours came knocking, and bought roast beef and food; Saphera was so thankful that she completely forgot about preparing dinner or getting ingredients ready. Christine offered a hand in the kitchen. The three boys were playing outside and laughing away. Jacob and Demetri were really enjoying each other’s company.

“So where do you come from?” Christine opened the conversation.

“I am originally from a small town called Karoo of Gold, strange name I know, but it explains that the sunset there is almost like golden rays setting over a sea of sand dunes, and it glistens and reflects in the farm dams,” replied Saphera.

“Wow, that sounds beautiful. Is the town smaller than Sunny Beach?”

“It is actually more or less the same in size, we just don’t have the huge number of water sources you have here, but it is sufficient for the locals,” Saphera said.

“What made you move here?”

“Well, Demetri got a job offer he could not refuse, and we decided to relocate together.”

“Okay,” remarked Christine, “that’s very loyal.”

“Yes, well, we are getting married soon, and also I don’t believe in long-distance relationships,” said Saphera.

“Me neither, they never end well.”

They finished dishing up and set the table. The children ate at the small table specifically crafted for kids; Demetri poured some cool drink for them. Saphera took the wine to the adult table. They ate together and laughed.

This is so lovely, Saphera sat thinking to herself.

After dinner Demetri got ready for his shift which started at 10pm. Christine helped with the dishes and Jacob took their boys to get them ready for bathtime. Zion passed out by 9pm. Saphera took a long bath and replayed the whole day’s happenings in her mind. We will fit in here nicely, she thought to herself. After her bath she blew out the candles and incense and went to check on Zion. He was snoring loudly, in a deep sleep.

She could rest with ease tonight.

The next morning Saphera woke when Demetri got home. She heard the kettle boiling turned on her side and decided one more hour would be perfect. Around 7am Zion came into her room and snuggled up against her. They slept for another hour. Demetri decided to let them both sleep in as they were still recovering after the big move.

Saphera is taking the move hard, he thought to himself. Relocating with him had left her unemployed, and for a woman with her persona, being unemployed was not an option. She said she is going to start looking for a vacancy—anything—just to start somewhere.

Demetri made a nice, sweet cup of tea and took it to where she and Zion were still sleeping. “Morning gorgeous,” he kissed her on her forehead and little Zion as well.

“How was work?” she said.

“It was tiring, but the big job is almost over then I will be going back to normal dayshifts.”

“That’s good news. I’m glad you enjoyed it.” Saphera sat up.

Wow, Demetri thought. This beautiful woman surrounded in snow white linen is going to be my wife soon.

She was utterly mesmerising, especially with her flaming red hair. Zion had more of his biological father, Ralph’s, features—the white hair and pearl blue eyes. Saphera had gone through a heavy rough patch with Ralph. Demetri knew this because he saw how Ralph tried to destroy her and break her spirit, but Saphera was unbreakable. She was one the strongest women he knew.

Saphera got up and dressed in a light blue maxi dress with white patches. It fit her like a glove, with a slit up the left thigh. She finished her look off with silver sandals. She tied her hair in a half-bun with some strands hanging loose. Demetri started on a light breakfast, eggs and toast for all. Zion was already playing outside.

“I’m going to take you two to the lake today, then I’ll sleep when we get back. I want you to see the Saturday market this town has—you’ll love it.”

“That sounds perfect.”

Saphera and Demetri ate their breakfast. Zion wanted porridge, so Saphera made enough for him. After breakfast Demetri took a bath whilst Saphera got Zion ready and packed a snack bag. After Demetri was done, they drove to a place known as “Fisherway”; it was a place just next to the lagoon with jetties and restaurants on the lagoon.

This is magical, Saphera thought to herself.

Zion enjoyed the water—he would play in a lagoon, but the open sea was another mission. Demetri got a table outside on the jetty and ordered cocktails for them both. People stared at them a lot. Saphera ignored it.

“It’s a beautiful day,” Demetri said as he took a sip of his strawberry cocktail.

Saphera had ordered a minty cocktail. Zion got a plate of fresh golden fries and a blue kiddies milkshake. There were a lot of people there, the lagoon buzzed with boats and children playing and laughing, fishermen trying their luck opposite the river, and of course school-children waterboarding. Demetri could not help but notice the other men staring at Saphera, the warm sun on her hair made it glow crimson red. It was her hair that made her stand out—he had never seen any redhead born with such a flaming shade that was so long and thick and yet natural. Although a lot of people accused her of dying it that colour, Demetri knew the truth. He’d seen her baby photos.

Demetri was just as handsome. His olive skin and black hair combined with brown eyes was a potent combi-nation for a lot of females. Unlike Saphera, he enjoyed the attention he got from other women. Saphera learned to live with this, otherwise the two would constantly be arguing. Together they made a gorgeous couple, as they always heard.

Zion was walking up to the table and Saphera knew he was hungry and thirsty. She sat him up next to her on the bench at the table and he immediately dove into the chips and the shake. Demetri was staring over the water and taking his surroundings in.

“It is so peaceful here,” Saphera said, smiling at Demetri.

He returned the smile, and put his hand on hers. Suddenly a loud noise grabbed their attention, coming

from the direction of the water. A small boat had tipped over with a family of three and a little infant. Saphera, without thinking, got up in a rush and jumped off the jetty into the water. She was a strong swimmer and immedi-ately set course to the infant. Upon reaching the little girl, she held the child above the water and with her free arm paddled back to the shore where locals were waiting to assist. The mother and father got out seconds after her. Demetri and Zion were heading towards them. She was soaked and her dress was skin-tight, every curve of her body was clear. And Celix, standing at the restaurant door, noticed this, too.

The locals thanked her, and the mother and father kissed her and hugged her tightly.

Saphera accepted a towel from one of the locals and draped it around herself, banning all the eyes from her.

“Are you okay?” Demetri asked as he got through the crowd.

“Yes, I’m okay”.

She looked to the infant girl and could hear her breathing and pulse steadying back to normal. She was saved.

Everyone returned back to their brunches, and every-thing started to normalise. Saphera noticed Celix in the far corner of her eye. He was staring with that look of approval on his face, and his eyes glistened sapphire. Demetri picked Zion up when he saw the little one refuse to walk, as his way of saying he was getting tired and in need of his midday nap.

They finished their cocktails and drove home, where Zion was laid to sleep in his bed.

***

Demetri however wasn’t quite ready to sleep. Saphera picked up on his testosterone levels as soon as they left Fisherway. Demetri had a special trick to work with Saphera when he felt aroused. He would start by taking her hips in his hands, and then he’d pull her against him so that she could feel his whole body, and every curve. He then slowly kissed her neck and behind her ear. One hand would move up and down her side, then cup her small yet firm and tender breast in his hand, massaging the soft nipple. Saphera turned around in his arms and kissed his lips, first softly then more fiercely, claiming him with her mouth like an Alpha—yet he did not know.

He picked her up in his arms. She was lightweight, and she folded her legs around his torso and her arms around his neck. He moved towards the bedroom, their lips still locked. He laid her down softly on the bed and started kissing her from her thigh up, where the slit in the dress started. His hands restrained hers from touching him or grabbing his hair, which was part of her signature style. As he moved his lips over her navel and up towards her neck, he pulled the dress up and undressed her slowly. Lying there in her black lace underwear, she was the most beautiful being ever created—muscular and toned by just enough. He took off his grey shirt, exposing his well-formed upper body, which she loved to dig her nails into. He bent over her, completely dominating her. He unclipped the bra and released her full, firm breasts. She loved the feeling of freedom. He took of her thong with his mouth, leaving a slight line of wet where he kissed and licked her. Once she was completely naked, she felt free, she felt wanted, and she felt safe. He undressed, removing his pants and underwear, and she could see his erection pulsing with lust and hunger for her. The image made Saphera warm and wet and readied her body for him.

He positioned himself between her thighs and bent low to kiss her breasts. He positioned her in the centre of the king bed and laid on top of her, pressing their naked bodies against each other. She could feel his erection looking for her opening—he was claiming her mouth with hard and fierce kisses. He put his one hand behind her lower back and pressed her pelvis against him.

“God you’re beautiful,” he whispered in her ear as he slowly penetrated her.

She felt herself stretch to give him space—he wasn’t huge in that part of his body, but enough. As soon as he’d filled her, he started his rhythm. She moved with him. His hand twisted in her red mane, pulling hard. Saphera began building to climax, and he felt her body tensing below him. It put him in overdrive. He turned her around with force and immediately sunk back into her. He grabbed her hips to keep her in place, and put one hand on her upper back, pinning her to the mattress.

She’s so wet and soft, Demetri thought, and she looks so vulnerable yet so exotic. To dominate such a beauty, he slammed into her with forceful, deep strokes. She felt him beginning to climax and adjusted herself for the rough finish.

Demetri grabbed a fistful of hair and twisted it as he thrust himself into her, so hard she could feel him hitting the roof of her canal. She felt the warm liquid and smelled it with her wolf senses. Mortals smelled different—there was almost no scent at all, actually. He turned her around and sank down to her, engulfing her mouth with such force she thought he wanted another turn, but he didn’t.

Saphera on the other was not fully satisfied, and it was because of her wolf genes—she was used to it being a bit more rough and tough, that was what got her going—but mortals lacked in that category. She got up and headed to the shower, her nipples still aroused and her sweet spot still aching.

Demetri fell asleep on the bed, naked.

Saphera got into a hot steamy shower and as soon as the water touched her skin, felt herself reacting. She closed her eyes and immediately all senses were on alert. She pressed her hand over her still-throbbing clitoris, she sank one finger in and started with a circular movement. Her eyes closed and shut out reality. She released herself using two fingers and her palm for friction. She exploded in her own hand, and felt the tension leaving her body. She opened her eyes and returned to reality. She washed herself off and dressed in sweats and a tank top.

She started on dinner a bit earlier than usual, seeing that they’d had a busy afternoon and she could sense that both her boys were hungry. She decided on her favourite Meaty Wraps. Demetri liked the wraps and Zion as well, so this was her go-to choice. She also prepared two extra for Demetri to take to work, and made a flask of coffee.

Christine and Jacob came over just after dinner to enjoy some coffee. Christine brought some apple tart, Saphera’s favourite desert. Immediately they started chatting away. Christine helped bathe Zion, as her two sons were at a sleepover. Tomorrow was Sunday school, and on Monday Saphera had decided she would start looking for a job.

Saphera was highly educated, she had two interna-tional BA Degrees and was qualified in the department of health/sport science and leisure activities. She was also a trained physiotherapist. Her parents believed that a women should have a good education and be able to provide for herself and not be depended on any man of sorts.

After Demetri left for his last nightshift, Jacob went home and Christine stayed behind and polished off a nice bottle of red wine with Saphera. She really loved Christine, who was already becoming part of Saphera’s pack. They had some girl talk about nails and hair obviously. Christine was also a redhead, but more of a copper shade then Saphera’s deeper red. She was about seven years older, but she looked young for her age. She was wise and also very strict. Jacob was the opposite—a big boy who loved to play games, and who loved his beer and sports.

That night Saphera slept like a cub to put it bluntly. She was so tired, still trying to adapt to the new life and all the hustle. In her hometown where the Mignan clan ruled, she’d had help with baby Zion when needed and she could count on her pack to assist when she was ill or unable to do her duty as a mother and pack Alpha. Zion decided to snuggle up to her that evening, and they slept together like they did most of the time.

When Demetri entered the house after a long night-shift, she was waiting on him with a steaming cup of fresh coffee and some pancakes with maple syrup and honey.

“Wow honey, you don’t have to do this all the time you know.”

“It’s my way of saying I am thankful for you.” She kissed him ever so softly on his cheek and set the table.

They both enjoyed an early breakfast before Zion woke up.

“How is the testing of the machines coming along?” Saphera asked.

“Well, it’s hard. This new line of pressure boilers we got in is very different to the previous line so I basically have to study them from beginning till end to completely understand how they operate. But I’m winning.”

“I’m glad. As long as you are happy and learning, I’m happy.”

“Thanks, my love. Now you said something about starting to look for a vacancy tomorrow?”

“Yes. I’m not good at being a stay-at-home mom. I want my own earnings and want a career, so I will be looking locally tomorrow. Luckily I have a strong CV with good references.”

“Yes, that will help you a lot. I’ll ask around and find out from my friends if they know about any vacancies.” Saphera smiled and finished her breakfast just in time as Zion woke and came walking out of the room with messy hair.

Demetri picked him up and made a nice bottle of chocolate milk for him. He put Zion down on the couch and went to the bathroom to ready a shower for himself. Zion watched cartoons whilst Saphera fixed up some oat porridge for him. Zion Loved oats in the morning, he had very healthy eating habits thanks to his mother.

After the shower, Demetri went straight to bed. Zion and Saphera attended church three blocks away. Saphera believed in morals and values, and going to church was her number one priority as she’d promised to give Zion the closest life to mortal beings as possible. That was the last request from Ralph before he walked out on them both—not by choice but by law. Saphera felt her heart tensing as she thought back to the date of Zion’s birth.

The Church ceremony was nice and fitting, the church was beautiful. Saphera loved architecture and was sometimes mesmerised by the beautiful structures built and created by these mortals. Saphera sat in the back with little Zion, as he was busy and she did not want to disturb the other people. Saphera was just preparing herself and Zion for the start of the service when Celix walked in with four other wolwes. They immediately noticed her and gave her a gentle nod. She returned the kind gesture, and could feel the atmosphere in the building change.

Celix stared at Saphera with those sapphire eyes, and she knew what he meant with his look. She stared back and nodded, then focused her attention on the priest as he cleared his throat.

Is this Alpha going to keep on stalking me now, or what are his intentions? she thought.

***

For the rest of the service Celix refused to think about Saphera in the back, the desirable female Alpha sleeping with a mortal. She was so hot, with those firm breasts of hers—and her body…. Yesterday he desired

her when he saw how her dress stuck to her after she got out of the lagoon. And her cub—he could sense the little one was not of pure blood. How could an Alpha Female have a cub which was not pure? She really was intriguing to him. He had never felt so entranced by a female, let alone an Alpha. Since he saw her at the station that early morning, he could not stop thinking about her. Her scent was imprinted in his brain and tastebuds.

His friend Josh, older than him by a year or two, noticed that Celix was preoccupied by the redhead Alpha.

Saphera noticed Josh looking at her. She straightened up and gave him a solid stare with her sapphire eyes. He immediately looked in front of him and shifted a bit in his seat. Celix noticed, and saw her holding his gaze. She stared back more intensely, showing that she would not submit to him. He gave her a smile and turned back to the priest. After the service was finished, Saphera gathered Zion in her arms and headed for the door. Celix was waiting for her outside with his friends.

“Morning Saphera,” Celix said.

“Morning, Celix.” She looked around at his friends. “Let me introduce you, this is Josh. He’s my right hand.” Josh had blonde hair and green eyes, and a solid build like Celix.

“Nice to meet you,” Saphera said, accepting his hand.

“This is Zane.”

A younger male with black hair and blue eyes. She greeted him with an offering of her hand.

“These two are twins, they are called Zander and Leon.”

She saw that Zander was a bit bigger than Leon, where Leon had brown hair and Zander blonde. She greeted them.

“I am Saphera Leventis.”

All four of them exhaled sharply and looked at Celix, who smiled. Clearly they knew who she was.

“Welcome to our territory, Saphera,” Josh said. He was the first to recover.

“Thank you Josh, now if you will excuse me I have to return home.”

“To what? Your mortal mate?” Celix growled a low growl. It caught the other four off guard.

“Yes, Celix. I do not have to explain myself to you, as we are both Alphas of Royal blood.”

“No, you don’t. But I can promise you this: he will not satisfy your needs.” Celix’s eyes turned a bright sapphire, staring into her soul.

She kissed Zion on his head and made her way home.

She felt Celix staring after her.

“Celix, what the hell was that about?” Josh demanded—knowing full well what it was about. His Alpha friend had found a siren in the form of an Alpha female, in his territory.

“She has a mortal for a mate, that’s what the bloody problem is, Josh!”

“Celix, you can’t choose for her you know. And you know the pack she is from doesn’t do well at submitting.” Zander and Leon stared at Celix with awe. “I have never seen you so hungry for a female in all my life,”

Zander stated.

“Well to be honest, she isn’t just a normal female,” Zane said. “She is an Alpha female of royal blood, and she has the whole package. No wonder our Alpha is losing sleep.”

Celix turned on his heel and walked back to his car. They all got in and decided to go to Celix’s house for a late brunch.

***

When Saphera returned home, Zion played with his water paint. Saphera started on something light for lunch for her and Zion, as Demetri was still sleeping. After lunch Zion fell asleep on the couch and Saphera carried him to his bed. Saphera decided to some exercise. She loved exercising, as it kept her mind calm and head levelled. She decided on some yoga. She put in her earphones and pulled herself out of reality. She couldn’t stop hearing Celix’s comment: “He will never be able to satisfy your needs.”

She was so mad at him in that moment. How dare he judge her? How dare he stare at her with those lustful eyes? She decided he was not worth it, and focused on her yoga instead. Afterwards, she took a cool shower. It was the middle of January—the hottest time of the year here, according to Demetri.

After her shower she figured to do some housecleaning before both Demetri and Zion woke. After she finished, she heard little Zion starting to wake. She collected him, and went next door to give Demetri some more time to sleep. Christine was busy baking cupcakes for the boys as she entered. Jacob was over the street at his in-laws, and the two boys immediately included Zion in their play. Saphera made herself useful and helped with the icing of the cupcakes. Christine poured a glass of Amarula for them both—this was now a ritual for the two women, who had quickly become close. They chatted away about the boys’ school sports coming up.

“Do you know a guy named Celix?” Saphera asked, warily.

“No, I don’t know him at all. I heard about him once and saw him at the dance club before, but I don’t know him.”

“Oh… okay.”

“Why?” Christine said. “I saw him and his friends talking to you after the service today.”

“Yes, they came to introduce themselves to me.” “Oh, yes. He is a very scarce guy, and is a big boss

at some lingerie store. He helps to dress the models for runways. He’s a big league in the fashion industry overseas.”

“Oh, that’s interesting.”

Strange for an Alpha to be part of the fashion industry, Saphera thought. He probably has the models eating out of his hands.

After the cupcakes had been decorated, the boys came for their first helpings.

Jack, who was almost ten years of age, was very tall and strong. His little brother Henno was small in build with lighter features than his brother, blonde hair and blue eyes. Zion indulged in the cupcakes and after they’d had six cupcakes between the three of them, they went to back to play Wii in their room.

Saphera and Christine retired to the lounge and continued their conversation. Christine enjoyed Saphera’s company very much, and she was so happy that she now had a girlfriend to hang with it. After the Amarula was finished, Saphera took Zion and went back home. She started on dinner as it was already 6:30, and Demetri began work at 10pm. She went to wake him with a fresh cup of coffee. As always, he was delighted to see her and kissed her deeply and passionately.

“Thank you, love.”

“Dinner will be ready in twenty.”

Saphera decided to make some effort. She lit candles and poured wine for them both. Zion was still watching TV, absorebed in one of the new educational children’s movies.

They enjoyed a nice chicken dinner with roast veggies and a green salad. Saphera was very strict about healthy eating and living. After dinner, Demetri prepared for work as usual. Saphera bathed Zion and put him down with his toys to play. She quickly showered whilst Demetri was still home to watch Zion.

While she was busy in the shower, she could not help but remember Celix and his friends. The way the Alpha had looked at her made her skin warm. The legends always told that Alphas of royal blood, once mated, would form the strongest pure love and would combine their two packs to form the ultimate Alpha pack. She wondered if it was true, or just another story to get her to marry an Alpha. She was so tired of being told who to marry and who to mate with. Yes, she was an Alpha—but she had a child with a supernatural hunter: Ralph.

Her shower was interrupted by Zion calling for her. She turned off the taps, got out in haste and entered the living room with nothing but a towel.

Demetri was picking Zion up. “The little one is tired,” he said to her. “I’ll sit with him on the couch until you’re done.”

She went back to bathroom to finish her shower, and got dressed before exiting the bathroom again.

Demetri’s lift came and she kissed him goodbye. “Enjoy work, my love.”

“I will, thank you.”

After Demetri left, it took less than ten minutes before Zion was fast asleep on her lap on the couch. She took him to bed, tucked him in, and went back to the TV to finish watching a documentary about wolves on National Geographic.

She always wondered what it would be like to freely be herself and not have to hide her real form, but the humans were not ready for this. They would be afraid, and would form hunting parties like the hunters who already knew about their existence. Mortals did not believe that supernatural wolves existed—only a selected few Hunters knew the truth. If more humans found out, hunting parties would grow in strength.

She went to bed after midnight, when she’d finished watching TV. Her sleep was troubled and filled with Celix’s sapphire glare. She could feel his eyes looking past her soul.

“I want you now!” he demanded—and strangely she came closer to him, locked his eyes with her Alpha stare. He grabbed her around her waist and pulled her close to him so tight that she could feel him.

She woke with a jolt. Sweat dripped from her forehead. What is going on with me? Saphera thought to herself as she rinsed her face with cold water in the bathroom. How is it possible to have such a vivid dream about

another Alpha when we haven’t even touched?

She knew of another legend. When an Alpha male imprinted on a female there was a possibility—although limited—that he could visit her in her dreams and carry messages over. But this was something that only Alphas of royal blood could do. Could this mean that Celix had imprinted on her? Saphera looked at herself in the mirror with eyes as wide as saucers.

This can’t be happening.

After struggling to get back to sleep, she sat outside to look at the moon and instead enjoy the night. She heard soft footsteps outside the gate, and caught the scent of another wolf nearby. It was a familiar scent.

“Evening Saphera, did not mean to scare you.” It was Josh.

“Evening Josh,” Saphera greeted.

“May I join you on the wall?”

Saphera was a bit wary, but then thought, Why? She was an Alpha and he a Beta. “Yes you can.”

Josh got up in one leap. “It’s a nice night out.” “Yes, it most certainly is.”

“What are you doing awake? Shouldn’t you be sleeping next to your mortal?”

Saphera gave him a death glare. “His name is Demetri. And no, he is working at the moment.”

Seeing that he’d irritated her, he chose his next words carefully. “It’s just strange to see an Alpha of your bloodline with a mere mortal. Celix is also struggling to comprehend the whole situation.”

“Well, that’s his problem and not mine.”

“Okay. I didn’t mean to fight. I only came here to ask if you and your family wouldn’t mind coming over for dinner Friday at Celix’s place.”

“I’ll think about it and let you know. But no funny business with Demetri, or my son,” Saphera said, and added an Alpha growl.

Josh immediately backed off and left.

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