Preview of "The Alphas Mate"

Chapter 1

At the tender age of 17, my world took a dramatic turn that would alter the course of my life forever. I was working at the local diner in our quaint little town of Wolfsburg when I saw him. There sat a man at the end table, staring at me as if he knew me.

“Ma’am, can I get a menu, please?” He motions for my attention.

“I’ll be right with you,” I reply. The day was slow, but I was trying everything I could to prolong the time that I had to confront him. He was gorgeous. I knew the minute I turned 18 that I would find my mate, and that was only a few weeks away. I couldn’t look away from him, and it was scaring me about why I felt this pull to go to him. “Here you are, sir.” As I set the menu on the table in front of him.

Standing there with my notepad out, ready to take his order, he glanced up at me and smiled. “I’ll just have a coffee for now.” He stated softly. As I turned to walk away to retrieve his coffee, Anna walked over to me and grabbed my arm.

“That man over there keeps staring at you. What are you waiting for? Go over there and find out that guy’s name?” She giggled softly so nobody could hear.

“Why? I can’t find my mate for another 2 weeks yet.” I retorted.

This town was quite small, and I knew if my mate were here, I would have run into him already, unless he wasn’t of age yet. This guy was at least 23 years old; he could spot his mate by now, so I knew that this could not be my mate. Placing his coffee down on the table in front of him, I reached into my apron and pulled out a stack of napkins. I placed them on the table and turned to walk away when his hand came up to grab my arm. Startled, I jumped as I turned back around to face him. His hand was still holding my arm softly. “Yes, can I help you, sir?” I stared as I looked down; his hand was still on my arm as my cheeks flushed red.

He looked at me with a small grin. “I’m ready to order.”

“Oh, okay, what can I get you?”

“I will take 2 of your breakfast specials, with a large orange juice.” He replied with a smirk as he handed me the menu back. His hand gently grazed mine as he stared into my eyes.

“I will be right out with your order.” I smiled back as I turned to walk away. My heart was beating fast, and I knew my face was red from his soft touch.

“So, what is his name?” Anna asked.

“I don’t know; he ordered 2 breakfast specials, so he must be waiting on somebody.”

“That’s no excuse, Lillian.”

As I waited for the cook to fill the order, I walked behind the counter and started wiping it down. I grabbed the coffee and proceeded to walk to each table except his to see if they wanted refills. “Order up,” the bell rang; I walked to the counter, grabbed the man’s order, and carried it over to the table. I set one of the plates in front of him and the other across from him, and went to turn to walk away when his arm came up and grabbed my hand. Turning around again to face him, I couldn’t help myself. “Yes, do you need something else, sir?” I questioned with my eyebrow raised.

I was mesmerized by his appearance. His glowing features just highlighted every muscle. His short brown hair was feathered back, and it outlined his face so nicely. His strong jaw and muscular body just sent me spiraling. I wanted to leave, to get away from this strikingly handsome man who kept pulling me towards him. I just couldn’t. I didn’t understand the pull I had towards him. Even my wolf, Lola, couldn’t understand the pull we had towards him. It wasn’t the time for us to find out about our mate yet. Standing there, mesmerized by his looks, he smiles softly as he rubs my hand. “I took the liberty of ordering you breakfast. Come and sit down with me,” he smiled softly.

Not knowing what to say, I just blurted out the first thing that came to mind: “I am working, sir. I just cannot stop and sit with you.”

The man flashed a warm smile at me, his eyes sparkling with kindness as he waved at Anna, who stood nearby. Anna, my best friend since childhood, had always been the type to go above and beyond to help me unwind, especially in moments of tension. “Ma’am, allow me to introduce myself; I am Alpha Devin,” he said, his voice smooth and inviting. “Would you be so kind as to take over this young lady’s shift for a little while, so she can enjoy a proper breakfast?” He inquired of Anna, reaching into his wallet with a deliberate motion, revealing crisp bills as he prepared to compensate her for the extra time. “Here’s some additional cash for the inconvenience, should you be willing to cover her shift for just an hour.”

“Most certainly, Alpha. No need for the payment though—just glad to help.” Anna stated as she glared in my direction with a huge grin plastered on her face.

“Come, sit with me.” Alpha Devin stated as he gestured towards the other bench. “What is your name, beautiful?” As he pushed the plate towards me.

“Lillian,” I mumbled as I sat down in the seat across from him.

It seemed like hours; I sat there not eating a single piece of food on the plate, listening to this gorgeous guy trying to get my attention. I could never picture myself with a man so handsome, let alone one with authority like an Alpha. It was just unclear why he even took an interest in somebody like me. I was a nobody. A lonely girl who didn’t have much of a social life, for I was too busy supporting my family. I wasn’t even of age, and yet this fine-looking, powerful man was talking to me. I was lost in thought; I couldn’t grasp why I was even in his presence, staring at me.

“Earth to Lillian. I asked you a question. How old are you?” He smiled brightly.

“Oh. Sorry, I’m 17 Alpha. I will be 18 in 2 weeks.”

His eyes flickered from a light blue to a brown almost instantly. I knew his wolf was trying to press forward at that point, but I didn’t understand why. His captivating features kept my mind busy; I kept trying to shake them out of my head. But it was no use.

“Well, I have to go now.” He stated, looking at his watch, “I’ll return tomorrow for lunch, since apparently you don’t eat breakfast.” He grinned as he pointed to the full plate of food sitting in front of me. “Make sure you’re not on shift, let’s say around 1,” he said as he stood from the booth and walked to the counter to pay.

Waiting till he left the diner, I let out the breath I didn’t know I was holding. Turning to walk behind the counter, Anna shot me a huge smirk as she waited on the other tables.

The day went smoothly after Alpha Devin left, getting only a few customers here and there. As I clocked out and waved Anna goodbye, I stepped out of the diner.

Walking down Juliana Street towards home, my mind began to wander. It wasn’t till I heard somebody whistle that I snapped out of it.

Looking around, I noticed I was not where I needed to be. I must have taken the alleyway, which I don’t normally do, to hurry and get home. The alleyway was dark, and even in broad daylight, it was not a great place to walk down. Staying alert, I picked up my speed when I heard more men whistle. My heart started beating louder, and I knew I had made a huge mistake. Just as I picked up speed, I was stopped by 3 men standing in front of my path. I turned around and saw another 2 men blocking me in.

“We are in trouble.” Lola whimpers in my head. I couldn’t fight like normal she-wolves; I never had the time for training. “I know. What are we going to do?” I ask Lola. Just when I thought I saw a way out through a side door to Grand Hardware, I was jerked and thrown back against the brick wall. One of the men caged me in, pawing at my sides and waist. I knew I was done for.

“Let me go!” I screamed as the man moved closer, pawing at my top. His breath smelled of stale beer, as his head was next to my neck. He ran his tongue down my neck and pawed at my breasts.

“Don’t you scream!” He growled as he placed a hand over my mouth. Closing my eyes, I knew what was coming. I wasn’t strong enough to fight them off and knew putting up a struggle would only entice them more. Standing as still as I could, I kept my eyes closed till I couldn’t feel his touch anymore. Hearing the most relentless growl, I shivered. Out of nowhere, I felt his grip pull away with such force; I opened my eyes and saw Alpha Devin. Looking around, the man who was pawing me was on the ground with gashes so deep that blood poured from them, coating the alleyway red. There was no sign of the others when I glanced up and down the alleyway.

“Are you alright?” My heart hammered so hard I could barely hear his concerning question. Pulling my attention away from the body that lay sprawled on the ground, I heard it again.

“Lillian, are you alright?” Nodding in reply as I trembled, Alpha Devin pulled me towards him, embracing me against his chest. His scent was soothing; I couldn’t move and just stood there, embraced in his arms. Trying to walk, I staggered as he guided me down the alleyway. He noticed my staggering and carried me back to the diner.

“Oh my, what happened?” Anna came running as Alpha Devin sat me down in one of the booths. Shaken and confused, I just sat there, staring off into space.

“She’s in shock. I found her being attacked by men in the alleyway.” Alpha Devin told Anna to relieve some of the worry that she was portraying.

“I didn’t know where she lived, so I brought her here.”

“Thank you, Alpha. I will make sure she gets home okay after my shift.” Anna stated. He looked at me with such concern and worry that I sat there looking back into those big blue eyes.

“If you can give me her address, I will take her home myself.” Alpha Devin stated, as his worry deepened, as he glanced back and forth between Anna and me.

“Of course, Alpha. Let me go get the address for you.”

Chapter 2

Waking up the next morning, I jolted, sitting up in the bed. Looking around, I could tell I was in my bedroom. Relief flooded me as I took in my surroundings. ‘What the hell happened?’ I asked Lola. She was quiet. I climbed out of the bed, noticing that I was only wearing my bra and underwear. ‘Lola, why am I naked?’ I asked her again; I could feel her presence, but still she remained quiet. Walking toward the bathroom, I opened the shower and climbed in. Washing up quickly, I walked back to the bedroom and put on a blue tank top and blue jean shorts.

After doing my hair and brushing my teeth, I walked down the stairs to my family’s living room. What I saw there astonished me. Standing at the bottom of the steps, I pulsed. Glancing around the room, my mother and father looked at me with sorrow and pride. I was the only girl in the family, for all my siblings were boys. Knowing I was going to get scalded for walking that alleyway, I held my breath and walked over to the 3-section sofa that sat in the middle of the room. My eyes never left the floor till I heard a small rumble in the corner of the room. Glancing up, there stood Alpha Devin, with his back against the wall by the tall bookshelf that sat in the corner of the living room.

“Are you okay, Lillian?” He spoke softly as he glared at me with those blue eyes. Nodding my head, I glanced at my parents, who smiled softly at me.

“Why are you here?” I asked as I kept my head down low, not wanting to look at his gorgeous face. Slowly glancing up, I saw him walk towards me as he knelt to cup my face.

“I was worried about you.” He replied slowly as he tilted my face up to look at him. Drowning in his scent, I looked over at my parents and saw a sense of pride written across their faces. I didn’t know what they were so proud of—after all, I didn’t even put up a fight.

I looked back at Alpha Devin, then down towards the floor. “I’m fine. Thank you, Alpha, for saving me.” I replied, trying so hard not to look at his muscular frame. Alpha Devin grinned as his hands rubbed my arms.

“There is no need to thank me, dear Lillian.” His voice was calm and soothing, making me melt within the sound of his voice. What the hell was wrong with me, I thought to myself. “I’m just glad that I was there.”

Looking up at his gaze as he stood up, I found myself wanting his touch back. Picking up enough courage to ask, I lifted my head and looked into his bright eyes.

“Why were you there?” When he grinned down at me, I recoiled and wished I kept my mouth shut. Grinning, he looked down at me and glanced over to my parents. I kept my composure but held my breath for his answer.

“I left the diner to attend a meeting with your Alpha. Afterwards, I headed back to the diner to wait for you, but Anna said that you had already left. The meeting was short, so I wanted to push up the lunch date we had.” Smiling, he glanced over at my mom and dad. “I walked out of the diner and heard you scream. I found you in the alleyway being attacked.” His eyes never leaving my face. I began to sink into the sofa to hide the strange pull I had towards him.

“Honey, it was Alpha Devin who brought you home,” Dad stated bluntly. “He stayed here telling us about what happened and wanted to make sure that you were safe.” I glanced over to my father as he spoke. My mother looked at me as if she lost her precious baby. I didn’t understand what she was thinking at the time, but I was too focused on Alpha Devin to care. “I have another meeting tomorrow afternoon. If you feel up to it, can we have dinner? Let’s say about 5 pm.” Alpha Devin spoke as he proceeded to turn the doorknob, exiting the house. “I’ll pick you up here at 4:30.”

Chapter 3

Lying awake in bed, trying to forget the crazy situation that happened yesterday, I tossed the blankets to the side. Flipping my legs over the side of the bed, I sat up, thinking what I got myself into. I couldn’t risk falling for somebody when I had only 2 weeks left till I could find my mate. My mother explained to me when I was a child what it would feel like when I found him, but the pull I had toward Alpha Devin was so much more than that. I prayed to the moon Goddess to help me find a way to get out of this, but there was just no way around it.

The respect & authority that made us comply with Alphas was unbreakable. I walked into my bathroom & proceeded to shower when my mother walked into the room. “My dear child, I laid out an outfit for you to wear this afternoon. It will be hanging on the back of your door,” she stated as she walked out. Grumbling to myself on how I didn’t want to go, and how my parents were acting, was too much to deal with.

As I dried off, wrapping the fluffy black towel around my body, I brushed my teeth & got dressed in an everyday sundress. Slipping my sandals on my feet, I headed down the stairs to the kitchen. “Good morning, sweetheart.” Dad smiled at me. “There are pancakes & bacon ready. Come sit down & eat.”

“I can’t dad, I am late for work.”

Grabbing my lacy shawl to wrap around me, I headed out to work. I walked my way up the street, keeping my distance from the alleyway that horrified me. Walking into the cafe, I saw Anna rushing towards me. “Lillian, what are you doing here? You shouldn’t be working after what happened.” She uttered.

“I’m okay, I want to work,” I stated as I waved her off. Grabbing my apron & tying it around my waist, I proceeded to wait on the tables that were being filled up with the breakfast rush. Normally, we don’t get that many people for breakfast, but today something was going on. All of a sudden, the place was packed full.

“What is going on, Anna? This place is never this packed.” I huffed as I walked to wipe up an empty table. Grabbing the tips that were left on the table, I shoved them in my pocket to help a customer who waved me over for a coffee refill.

After an hour, the diner calmed down; Anna and I were finally relaxing on the barstools before the lunch rush veered its ugly head. “Hey, I was meaning to ask you, did you give Alpha Devin my address?” I asked Anna as she sipped her coffee on the next bar stool.

“Uh… He was worried about you. He brought you in here after the attack and asked for your address to take you home.” She sighed, “I’m sorry, I didn’t see any harm in it.”

“It’s Okay Anna. I was just wondering how he found my home.” I reassured her.

Dreading the dinner situation I got myself into, I confided in Anna for some advice. Anna was 19 and had found her mate when she was 18. This feeling that has been rearing at the forefront of my head required answers, and I was hoping that Anna had those answers for me. Sitting there at the counter, I told her all about how my head became clouded, and I just couldn’t focus when I was near Alpha Devin. She was fascinated with my story, but the only thing that she told me was the same thing that I heard growing up from my mother about the mate bond. It wasn’t much help. I sighed, grumbling about the dinner when she leaned over to tell me not to worry so much. That may be because he was an Alpha, and the feelings were normal toward the men of power.

Finishing with my shift, I was dead on my feet. When I got home, all I wanted to do was to go to bed, but I knew that would never happen. Removing my clothes, I sank into the hot, bubbly bath that I ran to ease my aching muscles from standing on my feet all day.

I must have drifted off to sleep, for the next thing I heard made me jump. “Why aren’t you ready yet, Lillian? Alpha Devin will be coming over soon to get you,” my mother questioned me with her eyebrow raised with furry. I hurried and got out of the tub when I realized I only had 10 minutes to get ready. Walking out of the bathroom into my bedroom, I saw a black dress lying on my bed that my mother laid there for me. Grumbling to myself, I walked over and put it on. It was a lacy black dress that had sleeves that hung off the shoulders. The length came to my mid-thigh with a low “v” collar. Putting my long black hair up in a tight braid, I reached for my black high heels. I slipped them on, wondering why my mother chose this dress for me to wear, of all things. It wasn’t like I was going on a date with the man.

Sitting on my sofa in the living room, nervous about what was happening, I wait. The doorbell rings right on time as my mother walks over to the door, as she smiles at me proudly. Opening the door, she tells Alpha Devin to come on in. Looking over toward the door, I couldn’t pull my eyes away as I took in the sight before me. His muscles ripped through the black t-shirt he wore; the tight blue jeans he wore highlighted his shape perfectly. My eyes took in every detail of him. Grazing along his scalped face, down his neck, where I noticed a snake tattoo run down through his shirt toward his chest and wrap around his arm muscles. His black hair was tasseled beautifully as it lay on top of his head, as he ran his hand through it. His eyes met mine instantly, as he smirked, noticing that I was staring at him while biting my bottom lip. Standing up, his eyes ran over my entire body. A small blush formed on my cheeks as he purred lightly. Holding his hand out, he grinned, “Are you ready to go, my beautiful?” Walking towards him, I placed my hand into his. Cloudiness started forming in my head as I got closer to his warm body.

Turning around, he guided me toward the black SUV that was parked out front. Walking forward and opening the door, he held onto my arm as I sat in the seat. Buckling me in, before closing the door and getting into the driver’s seat. We drove to the Lafayette, which was the fanciest restaurant in town. It was where only the elite could eat. Pulling up in front of the place, a man went to open the door when I heard a sudden growl. I looked over in the driver’s seat at Alpha Devin, but he wasn’t there anymore but opening my door while the valet backed away. He smiled at me with those bright blue eyes and reached out for my hand, helping me down out of the SUV. I should have known better than to wear this dress, for when I swung my legs around to exit, the dress rose a little more. His eyes flickered to brown briefly when he noticed. I hurried to pull down my dress when his eyes went back to their natural blue color.

Wrapping his arm around my waist, he walked into the restaurant. “Alpha Devin, so happy to see you. Right this way. We made sure to keep your usual table open,” a blonde-haired woman stated. Keeping his hand around my waist, pulling me closer to him with every step, we followed the server. Alpha Devin pulled out a chair for me to sit in and scooted it forward slightly. He sat right across from me at the corner table.

“Give us a moment.” Alpha Devin stated to the server, not averting his eyes from mine. I felt so out of place here. Looking around, I saw many people staring at me like I was a complete outcast. Well, technically I was. This place was for Alphas with their Lunas and their Betas, not for nobodies like me. What was I even doing here, I thought. “Don’t worry about them, they wouldn’t dare say anything to you.” Alpha Devin grinned as he reached across the table to hold my hand that I was nervously picking at. “Order anything you like.”

I never even noticed when the waiter came to take our order. I was drowning in his robust woodsy scent. I couldn’t focus, staring into his blue-eyes, my heart beating rapidly. “What would you like, ma’am?” The waiter asked.

Trying to shake off the pull I was feeling, I glanced up at him, “Uh.. what?” I murmured, trying to regain my focus.

“What would you like to order?” the server repeated, there was a small smirk on his face as he glanced between Alpha Devin and me.

“Yes. Sorry. I will take the chicken chef salad.” I retorted as I proceeded to pick at my fingernails.

“And to drink, ma’am?” he replied, “Bring us your best bottle of white wine.” Alpha Devin stated before I had a chance to talk.

“Very well, Alpha. We will bring your order right out shortly.”

I kept my head low, trying to avoid looking into those bright blue eyes that pulled me toward them. Not wanting to lose my focus again, I kept quiet as Alpha Devin stared at me. Glancing up, I bite my bottom lip as he reaches his hand out to swipe a small curl away from my face and tuck it behind my ear. “You are so beautiful.”

He cupped my cheek, brushing his thumb over my bottom lip. Glancing around nervously, everyone was staring at me. Leaning into his hand, his face turned to a grin. Our food came quickly, much to my surprise. It normally took quite some time for us normal she-wolves to get served, but it seemed like only minutes before the server came out. Setting his plate in front of him, and my salad in front of me, he placed a bucket of ice with a bottle of wine in the center of the table. 2 glasses were set down by each of us. Popping the wine bottle, Alpha Devin poured the white wine into my glass as well as some into his. Alcohol was never an issue with us werewolves. It took an outrageous amount for us to even feel anything from it.

Picking at my salad, he looked at me as he cut up his steak. Noticing that I wasn’t eating, he leaned across the table and held my hand. “Are you not hungry?” Alpha Devin questioned quietly as he lifted my head by my chin to look at him.

“Um…. “ My words escaped me. I was hungry, but my nervousness won over my hunger.

“Do you want to get out of here? We can go to the park and talk if you like?” Alpha Devin smiled as he motioned for the waiter.

“Yes. Alpha.”

“Place Lillian’s salad in a go bag and give me the bill,” he stated to the server. Looking over at me, the waiter grabbed my salad and walked over to do what was told.

“Yes, sir, Alpha Devin.” He replied.

Scooting out of the chair, Alpha Devin walked over to me and pulled out my chair for me to get up. Grabbing around my waist, he walked me over to the register as the waiter ran up to him with the bill and a small paper bag with my salad in it. Pulling out his wallet, he paid for the meal and walked me to the valet. Nodding to the man, he waited for the SUV to pull up. Opening the door, he helped me into the vehicle and buckled my seat belt. My eyes watched him as he walked around the SUV and hopped into the driver’s seat.

The drive to the park was short as we pulled up to the empty parking lot. Putting the car in park and turning off the engine, he turned in his seat to look at me. “Want to go for a walk to the pond?” He smiled as he cupped my cheek in his hand. Running his thumb down my cheek gave me a sigh of peace. I don’t know why, but I felt safe with him. I gave a small nod as he opened the car door to walk over to open my side. I left the seat, taking in my surroundings. Standing near the hood of the SUV, I waited for Alpha Devin.

Walking through the park, it was so quiet. Just the sound of the birds chirping and the leaves rustling from the slight breeze. Feeling his muscular arm wrapping around my waist, he guided me over to the beautiful, sparkling pond where the geese were swimming peacefully with their babies.

Lying down a blanket that I never even noticed he had, Alpha Devin pulled me on top of his lap. Feeling a little shy, I tried scooting off of him, but his grip was unbreakable. Looking at him, his eyes flickered to that brown hue briefly, as he took in my worried face.

Loosening his grip, I slid off his lap and onto the black blanket that he laid down on the full, lush grass. “There is no need to be afraid of me, Lillian. I will never hurt you.” Alpha Devin expressed. I somehow knew that he would never hurt me, but I didn’t really know the man. I was still curious why he was even talking to me to begin with. We sat there talking for hours about our favorite things. After a while, I loosened up, knowing that even though he was an Alpha, he was still just like any other man. He had things he loved and hated. He had fears and worries, and he seemed pleasantly interested in the answers I gave him to the questions he asked.

Pulling out the brown paper bag, he opened the bowl that had my salad in it. Handing it over to me, he grinned softly. “Eat. I know you’re hungry.” Grabbing it & slowly taking a bite at a time, I stared at the geese that were swimming in the pond. I tossed a crouton in the water; The baby swam right over & gobbled it right up.

Glancing over, I saw Alpha Devin staring at me with that wide smile on his face. “What? Do I have something on my face?” I asked questionably. He reached his hand over to mine, grabbing it softly as he raised it toward his face.

“Not at all, my dear Lillian.” Touching the stubble that ran along his jaw, I started melting in his presence. “You are just so beautiful. I can’t help but look,” he replied as he tucked a small curl of my hair behind my ear.

By the time we left the park, my nipples hardened from the crisp, cool air that flowed freely through the trees. Wrapping his jacket around my shoulders, he held me close as we walked back to the SUV. His warmth felt so right. That intoxicating scent clouded my head, where I didn’t want to leave his warm embrace. Leaning in closer, my arms running up his chiseled chest, I breathed deeply. Stopping near the passenger door, Alpha Devin peered down at me. Grinning as he buried his head in my neck, inhaling deeply as he purred softly. The rumbling of his purring had my knees buckle slightly. His grip around my waist was the only thing keeping me upright against his muscular frame.

“I’d better get you home. You’re just too tempting right now.” Alpha Devin said as he opened the passenger door.

Chapter 4

Alpha Devin’s P.O.V.

Heading to Wolfsburg for the meeting I was supposed to be having with their Alpha William, I was a bit early. I saw this cute little diner and figured I could go in and pass some time. Stepping into the building, I noticed that it wasn’t what I had expected coming from a small town. The tables were nice, spread along the walls with a bar area for those who eat by themselves. I was not much for socializing with the waiters and kept my distance from everybody.

I found a small booth in the corner and sat down to be waited on when I smelled it. That sweet, intoxicating scent of vanilla and cinnamon. Looking around, trying to find where it was coming from, is when I noticed her. There was a waitress who looked mesmerized. Her long black hair swayed as she walked to clear off the booths. I know she couldn’t be of age, for the mate bond was so strong there was just no way to deny it. I knew one day I would find my mate, but I never thought that she would be so beautiful.

“Ma’am, can I get a menu, please?” I blurted out to get her attention. Anything to bring her over to me so that I may view her beauty more clearly. “I’ll be right with you,” she replied with such a lovely voice that I wanted to hear more of. I sat and watched as she waited on the other tables, taking in her tiny frame. I could tell she felt something towards me, as she tried everything to stay away from my presence. “Here you are, sir.” She stated as she placed the menu on the table in front of me. She backed away slowly as she pulled out her notepad to take my order. I never even looked at the menu, mesmerized by her beauty. I just spoke the first thing that came to mind. “I’ll just have a coffee for now.”

She turned to retrieve my coffee when the other waitress walked up to her with a slight smile. I strained to hear the conversation, but they were just too quiet. After a few minutes, she returned with my coffee in hand, placing it in front of me on the table. She was getting ready to leave when I reached up and grabbed her arm. I don’t know what I was thinking; I wanted her to stay. She turned around with her eyebrows raised and looked at me with concern. “Yes, can I help you, sir?” She muttered as she took notice of my hand, still holding her arm. “I’m ready to order,” I stated as I slowly rubbed my hand across her arm, trying my best to control myself. I didn’t want to frighten the girl, but I wanted her to stay. Thinking of anything that I could do to bring her back and make her spend time with me, I came up with a plan. “I will take 2 of your breakfast specials, with a large orange juice.” I thought to myself, maybe if I get her over to sit and eat breakfast, I could discover a little more about her.

I could see that the other waitress was a good friend of hers. Every chance they got, they started talking quietly by the bar. I just wish I could hear what they were talking about. I just sat there staring at that gorgeous woman, whom the moon goddess has blessed me with. How could I be so lucky? While I sat there staring, I took in all those features that took my breath away. I noticed her hips sway with each step she took, and how quiet and shy she actually was. After a while, she returned to the table, placing the plates on the booth. She went to turn and walk away, but before I could stop myself, I grabbed her hand again. She turned, looking at me, agitated as if I were some annoying customer. “I took the liberty of ordering you breakfast. Come and sit down with me.” I smiled softly at her, hoping to ease the tension that was building. I knew she was desperate to get away and avoid me, but I wanted her close. “I am working, sir. I just cannot stop and sit with you,” she stated in a blunt tone, almost annoyed at the question I asked.

I waved down the other waitress to see if she could fill in for her so that I could admire her beauty. “Ma’am, my name is Alpha Devin. Would you mind taking over this young girl’s shift for a few so that she may sit and eat breakfast?” I asked the waitress. I had a feeling that she would, but I didn’t want to cause a burden. “Here is some extra cash for the inconvenience, if you would be willing to take over her shift for an hour,” I stated as I pulled out my wallet to hand her some extra cash. I knew from stories that my grandmother had told me that waitresses work harder than most and never get paid what they should. I didn’t want her to feel that her time was not valuable. The lady was friendly as she replied, looking between her friend and me. With a grin, she left. “Come, sit with me,” I asked, as I motioned her to the other side of the booth. Pushing the extra breakfast plate towards her and the orange juice, I stared into those brown eyes, “What is your name, beautiful?”

“Lillian,” she answered in a low, almost silent tone. I couldn’t help but notice she just moved food around her plate as if she was just passing the time to figure out a way to escape my presence. I was curious about how old she was, so I looked at her and just asked. When she didn’t respond, I grinned as I noticed her staring at me. “Earth to Lillian. I asked you a question. How old are you?” I smiled brightly at her. “Oh. Sorry, I’m 17 Alpha. I will be 18 in 2 weeks,” she replied quickly as I finally brought her attention back to the real world. No wonder she acted like she was torn between emotions; she was so close to becoming of age that the mate bond was starting to take effect. I was so drawn to her that I needed to leave before I jumped across the table and took her right there. “Well, I’ve got to go now,” I told her as I looked at my watch, not giving away that I was only leaving for her safety and my self-control. “I’ll return tomorrow for lunch, since apparently you don’t eat breakfast,” I stated with a grin as I pointed to the full plate of food sitting in front of her. “Make sure you’re not on shift, let’s say around.1” I stood from the booth and walked to the counter to pay.

Leaving the diner, I hopped back in my vehicle and drove around to the next block, and stopped. I didn’t want to leave her, but I knew my self-control was fading fast. The pull was so strong, it was hard to balance and control myself around her. I couldn’t tell her that I was her mate; I wanted her to find out for herself, but I was so desperately wanting to be near her. The meeting with Alpha William was coming up soon, and I knew I had to attend, but I couldn’t just leave my mate unguarded. I reached for my phone that was in the passenger seat and dialed my Beta. I explained the situation as I knew he would look after her. “Why don’t we get a few warriors up there and rotate as customers? We can leave heavy tips so she wouldn’t know that she was being watched.” Beta Shawn replied. It wasn’t a terrible idea, but my thoughts of keeping it quite was thrown out the door. “Sure, why not?” I replied. “Make sure they leave a huge tip, though.”

Alpha William was a horrible, self-centered Alpha who took all he could from his people. The meeting was over disputed lands that gave way to neighboring allies. He had trouble with the land’s Alpha, who absolutely refused to provide safe passage through the isolated forest that bordered between William’s pack and Alpha Michael’s pack. As the largest and most powerful pack, Alpha William asked for my help in resolving this issue. I didn’t like Alpha William at all, but found that even his logic about the land made sense. I reassured Alpha William that I would speak to Alpha Drake about allowing a safe passage on the outskirts of the land to allow to 2 packs to cross.

Leaving the meeting, I headed back to the diner, wanting to see my beautiful mate. I stopped when I smelled her scent. It wasn’t in the diner but down the alleyway when I heard it. “Let me go!” My wolf came forward, running as fast as I could; I saw my beautiful mate trembling in fear, pushed against the brick wall of the alleyway. Without any thought, I ripped the man off her, slashing his throat with my claws. I looked around and saw the other men scatter as she should. “Are you alright?’ I asked through gritted teeth. She was shaking so badly, I reached over to her gently, not wanting to scare her more, as I placed my hand upon her soft cheek. “Lillian, are you alright?” She finally gave a nod in reply. Scooping her up, I didn’t know where she lived, so I took her to the only spot I knew, back to the Diner.

Walking through the doors, that friendly waitress ran over to us as I placed Lillian in one of the empty booths in the back. “Oh my, what happened?” She questioned me as she looked me up and down as if I had done something to her. “She’s in shock. I found her being attacked by men in the alleyway.” I stated not paying her any mind of the accusing tone and look in her eyes. “I didn’t know where she lived, so I brought her here.” The waitress seemed relieved and went to thank me for saving her friend. She tried to tell me that she would make sure she got home after her shift, but I was not having it. She needed to be home now, with people who could watch after her. “If you can give me her address, I will take her home myself,” I exclaimed, worry in my eyes deepening as I glanced at my lovely mate, so scared. The next thing I knew, the waitress ran off and returned with Lillian’s address.

Placing her in the SUV, I drove to the address that she gave me. Carrying my stunning mate to the steps, I reached out and rang the doorbell. A short blonde woman answered the door with a look of surprise; she gasped as she saw who I had in my arms. Gesturing me inside, she ran up the stairs and opened the door to the right, as I followed her aimlessly throughout the house. I walked in and noticed the twin bed pushed up against the window; I pulled the red blankets back as I lay on the bed. She was sleeping in my arms and, leaving my grasp, did not wake her up. I stood there for a minute staring at the sleeping beauty. Glancing over the room, there weren’t many personal items. The blonde-haired woman stood by the front door, waiting for me to acknowledge her presence. “You must be Lillian’s mother,” I uttered as I glanced her way. “Can you give me a few minutes with Lillian, please?” I asked pleasantly. As I glanced her way briefly, I saw her nod as she slowly closed the door behind her. I stood there, staring at my fragile mate, worried about her well-being. How could anybody harm such a beauty? I thought to myself. Noticing that her clothes were torn slightly, I undressed her, not wanting her to wake up with the blood-stained shirt and leggings torn. Brushing her hair aside, I covered her half-naked body with the blanket. Tucking it under her chin as she squirmed to get comfortable.

Walking out of the bedroom and back down the steps, I saw her mother standing there, worried, with her hands clamped together by her mouth, wanting desperately to ask what happened. Next to her was a tall man with black hair and a slight build. He held onto her gently as they both looked at me, waiting for an answer. “She is okay. She’s in a bit of shock; she will be fine tomorrow.” I started as I tried to calm them. “She was attacked in the alleyway next to her work.”

The woman looked at her husband, and then looked over at me, “Thank you for saving our daughter. How can we ever repay you for kindnesses?” I glanced back up the stairs briefly and turned around to face them when they must have picked up on my feelings towards their daughter. “There is no need. I’m just glad that I was there.” I stated bluntly. They looked at each other and then back at me, “Stay. Let me make you some coffee,” the lady uttered as she walked towards the kitchen. I walked over to the bookshelf in the corner and sat down in the chair that was placed there. It seemed like only an hour before I heard footsteps coming down the wooden stairs. Standing up, not moving from the spot by the bookcase, I waited to see if she was okay. She headed towards the 3-section sofa that was in the middle of the room. Her head hung low, as though she was embarrassed about the situation she was in. When I saw her, my chest vibrated with a slight purr. It must have startled her, for she stopped dead in her tracks and looked up at me. Her eyes met mine briefly, as I saw she was fighting with herself not to look at me. “Are you okay, Lillian?” I asked softly, not wanting to startle her more. She slowly nodded her head as she glanced between her parents. “Why are you here?” She questioned as she kept her head down. Wanting to look into those beautiful brown eyes, I walked towards her, cupping her soft cheek in my hand and tilting her face upward to look at me. “I was worried about you,” I answered softly, gazing into those brown, captivating eyes. She seemed hesitant, looking between her parents, then down at the floor. “I’m fine. Thank you, Alpha, for saving me.”

Rubbing my hands down the soft skin of her arms, I wanted to reassure her that there was nothing to thank me for. If only she knew what she meant to me. I stood up, trying to give her some room to feel more comfortable, and began making my way towards the front door when she asked why I was even there. I had a feeling that her parents knew what she was to me, but I kept my answers on that fact.

“I left the diner to attend a meeting with your Alpha. Afterwards, I headed back to the diner to wait for you, but Anna said that you had already left. The meeting was short, so I wanted to push up the lunch date we had.” I answered, smiling as I glanced over at her parents. “I walked out of the diner and heard you scream. I found you in the alleyway being attacked.” I finished as I looked directly into her eyes. She was trying to hide herself from my gaze, for she sank lower into the sofa as I looked at her.

Glancing over to her father, he knew that I was trying to keep her calm and wanted to leave before losing my self-control. “Honey, it was Alpha Devin who brought you home.” He told her, giving me enough time to make it to the door. Quickly realizing I couldn’t be without her, I explained that I had another meeting tomorrow afternoon, and not meaning to bluntly point out that I would be picking her up around 4:30 for dinner.