The Alpha’s Mate

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm, orange glow on the Santa Monica mountains, the group returned from their exploration, their laughter echoing through the hills. Energized by the day’s adventures, they decided to cool off with a refreshing swim in a nearby river before returning to their campsite.

The river, bordered by tall grass and the soothing sounds of flowing water, proved to be the perfect place for a swim. The group splashed and played, the cool water providing a welcome respite from the day’s warmth. Their joyous laughter blended with the rustle of leaves and the river’s gentle melody, creating a symphony of nature and camaraderie.

After their swim, they returned to the campsite, where they spread out the photos they had taken during the day. Each image captured a moment of their journey – smiles against the backdrop of majestic mountains, candid shots of nature’s wonders, and the camaraderie shared between friends. They reminisced and laughed as they relived the day through their photographs.

As the night settled in, the group gathered around the campfire, its flickering flames casting dancing shadows on their faces. With ingredients prepared earlier, they collaborated to create a hearty dinner, the aroma of spices wafting through the crisp mountain air. The feast was a culmination of their collective efforts, and they sat around the fire, enjoying the warmth and the delicious meal.

After dinner, they conscientiously cleaned and packed away everything, leaving only the essentials for the night. So that they could leave the mountains as soon as possible the next morning without the hassle of packing their things and enjoying the morning in the mountains. The decision to burn a sizable bonfire near their campsite added to the enchantment of the night. The crackling flames illuminated their faces as they engaged in lively conversation, sharing stories, and gazing up at the star-studded sky.

The night wore on, and as the fire gradually dwindled, the group began to feel the embrace of sleep tugging at them. One by one, they bid their goodnights, retreating to their respective tents. The flickering light of the dying bonfire accompanied their journey into a restful slumber.

In the early morning, as the first light painted the sky with hues of pink and orange, everyone, except Elena and Oliver, arose with renewed energy. The call of the wild beckoned, and they transformed into their wolf forms, venturing into the mountains for an exhilarating run.

Meanwhile, Oliver, choosing to stay behind, spent the quiet morning with Elena. As she peacefully slept in her tent, he sat nearby, keeping a watchful eye to ensure she remained undisturbed, so that she didn’t find out about their secret.

Having returned from their early morning run, the group moved quickly to pack their belongings before Elena woke up, ensuring she wouldn’t notice their absence. As they worked efficiently, the campsite transformed from a hub of activity to a state of organized readiness.

Once Elena emerged from her tent, rubbing sleep from her eyes, the group rallied to help her pack. Oliver took charge of her bags, his movements practised and efficient. As they secured the last of her belongings, Elena inquired about the broker’s arrival.

“When will the broker come to the hotel?” she asked, her curiosity evident as she handed her bag to Oliver.

“He’ll be there at 10:00 A. M. Why do you ask?” Oliver inquired, securing her bags in the car.

“I was thinking of taking a stroll in the mountains before heading to the hotel to see how they look early in the morning. I even missed seeing the sunrise, but we don’t have time for that,” Elena expressed, a slight pout on her face.

Oliver, wanting to uplift her spirits, playfully ruffled her hair and replied, “We can always come back here for hiking.”

Elena’s mood brightened at the suggestion. “Yes, let’s come again with everyone,” she exclaimed, a wide smile gracing her face.

Cassie, who had been quietly listening, chimed in from behind, “Let’s make sure to stay one more day when we come back for camping.”

“Yes, let’s do that,” Milley agreed, echoing Cassie’s sentiment. Elena, ever practical, raised a crucial point, “Have you guys made sure you’ve packed everything that you brought on this trip? It would be a problem if we forget anything here.”

“I and Cassie had checked the area before coming here; nothing is left there,” Reece assured, closing the trunk of his car.

“Then let’s head to the hotel,” Oliver suggested, already seated inside his car. The group maintained the same seating arrangement as they had on the way to the mountains. Oliver, Sky, and Elena occupied one car, while Reece, Nick, Piru, and Cassie shared another. Milley and Mitchell travelled together in a third car.

They decided to make a pitstop at a local cafe for breakfast before continuing their journey to the hotel. The warm aroma of coffee and the chatter of other patrons created a cosy atmosphere as they enjoyed a hearty meal together.

Upon reaching the hotel, they gathered in their respective rooms to freshen up and prepare for the day ahead before the broker’s arrival.

As the group gathered in Oliver’s room after getting ready, the atmosphere was a mix of anticipation and curiosity. Just as they settled in, Oliver’s phone rang. It was the broker, informing him that he had arrived at the mansion he had found for Oliver.

With a sense of eagerness, the group quickly made their way to their cars and drove towards the location provided by the broker. The journey took them through scenic landscapes, and as they neared the mansion, the surroundings transformed from a cityscape to a more secluded and serene setting. Tall trees lined the path, and the mansion gradually revealed itself through the foliage.Copyright Nôv/el/Dra/ma.Org.

The mansion, an imposing structure with Victorian architecture, stood against the backdrop of the forest. Its grandeur and the air of mystery that surrounded it left the group in awe. The exterior was adorned with intricate carvings, and the mansion’s large windows hinted at spacious rooms within.

Upon reaching the entrance, they noticed a sweeping driveway leading up to a grand entrance adorned with a set of double doors. The facade was well-maintained, with climbing vines adding a touch of natural charm. The surroundings were quiet, except for the occasional rustle of leaves and the distant calls of birds.

The group parked their cars, and as they approached the entrance, the doors creaked open, revealing a lavish foyer bathed in soft, filtered light from the chandeliers above. The interior was a blend of classic and modern elements. Elegant furniture adorned the hall, and a grand staircase led to the upper floors.

“Wow, this place is incredible,” Milley exclaimed, her eyes scanning the intricate details of the foyer.

Oliver led the way as they explored the various rooms, each revealing a unique charm. The mansion seemed to have a timeless quality, with spacious living areas, well-appointed bedrooms, and windows that offered breathtaking views of the surrounding forest.

“Huh, the mansion is nice, and it looks like it can accommodate all of us, with the staff,” Sky commented to Oliver while exploring the various rooms and corridors of the mansion. Oliver, concerned about the distance from Elena’s college, turned to Sky and asked, “Can you check how many kilometres away Elena’s college is from here?”

“It’s 45 km away from here, with the traffic,” Sky replied after checking the map.

“This won’t do,” Oliver muttered to himself. Sky, sensing Oliver’s unease, inquired, “What’s wrong?”

“Mr. Tang, can’t you find another mansion for me?” Oliver asked the broker, expressing his concerns about the location.

“Why? Is something wrong with this mansion?” Mr Tang asked, a frown creasing his face.

“The mansion is nice, but it’s far away from my girlfriend’s college. I need a mansion near her college and a forest,” Oliver explained to the broker, emphasizing his desire for a more convenient location.

“But why do you want to purchase a house near the forest? I’ve also noticed that your mansion in NY is also close to the forest; it’s really unusual,” Elena questioned, her curiosity piqued.

Since Oliver couldn’t reveal his secret as a werewolf to Elena, he improvised, saying, “Well, you know, I’ve always had this profound love for nature. There’s something magical about the rustling leaves, and the soothing sounds of the forest. It’s my way of escaping the chaos of the city, finding tranquillity in greenery.”