“Happy birthday to you…. Happy birthday to you…”
Surrounded by a sea of smiling faces and melodious singing, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for my incredible family. Though my classmates mingled among the guests, it was evident that some were present more out of obligation than genuine fondness. Cutting the cake, I made my way to my parents, eager to share the first slice with them.
“ What are you doing? Give the first slice of cake to the Alpha.” My father said with a huge smile as he urged me toward Dominic’s father, the Alpha.
“It’s okay. You’re her father after all. I can’t believe how beautiful Valerie is now. A few weeks ago, we celebrated Dominic’s birthday and now, it’s yours.” The Alpha said with a huge smile making me smile awkwardly in return.
“I don’t see Dominic. Didn’t he come?” My father asked making my heart skip a beat as I waited for the Alpha’s answer.
“He isn’t feeling too well so I asked the pack’s healer to take care of him. I hope you don’t mind, Valerie.” The Alpha said making me shake my head.
Walking away a few minutes later, I couldn’t help but feel relieved as I realized Dominic and his friends had indeed kept to their word and didn’t show up. As long as they were not here, there was no way their identity as my mates could be revealed.
“Happy Birthday, Valerie.” A voice said behind me making me smile as I turned around.
As I caught sight of my childhood friend Joshua, my heart swelled with joy. He stood there holding a grand bouquet of flowers, and I couldn't help but wrap my arms around him with a wide smile before graciously accepting the beautiful gift.
“You really came? I thought you wouldn’t be able to make it because of the storm. Thank you.” I said wrapping my arm around his.
“When has that ever stopped me from coming to see you? Should we go outside? I don’t think your father will be happy to see me.” Joshua said making me smile as I nodded my head
Making our way past several of my classmates, I couldn't help but notice the jealous stares they shot our way as we made our way outside. This was everything I had envisioned for my 18th birthday. A serene, tranquil celebration with the ones I truly wanted to be with. As we settled down, I experienced a sense of relief, and I unwrapped a slice of my birthday cake that I had cleverly managed to sneak out with us.
“Have you found your mate yet? Isn't today the day the day that you are supposed to find that out?” Joshua asked making me sigh.
“Don’t even talk about it. It should be happening in a few minutes. I’m not excited at all.” I said wiggling my legs.
“ I hope you don't find your mate. That way, I can finally have you as my girlfriend.” Joshua said making me gasp in shock.
Feeling my heart race anxiously, I stood frozen on the spot, unable to utter a single word as I gazed at him in disbelief. Had I heard him correctly? The moment I had longed for had arrived, and yet it felt so surreal, like a dream. Joshua, the person I had secretly admired for so long, had at last revealed his feelings for me.
“ What? You want me…. Is this some sort of a dream?” I asked placing my hand on my chest in an attempt to stop my racing heart.
As Joshua reached for the hand I had delicately placed on my chest, I felt a wave of anticipation and joy wash over me. My heart quickened its pace as he tenderly enveloped my hand in his own. I stood there, completely spellbound, as he guided my hand to rest upon his chest, the warmth of his touch leaving me at a loss for words. I knew that without a single doubt that this day was the best day of my life.
“ I want you to be my girlfriend. I know that my identity is special but I have been in love with you from the first day I saw you, Valerie.” Joshua said making me bite my lower lip excited.
“ Of course. I have also liked you from the very first time I saw you. No one here likes me. They all see me as a worthless piece of trash and they bully me. You're the only person that takes care of me.” I said with a shy smile.
“ Is this why you didn't us to attend your birthday party? So you can flirt with another guy who is not your mate?” A familiar voice asked making me shiver in fear the moment I heard it.
Rising from Joshua's side, I widened my eyes as I recognized that I was correct. In front of me stood Callum, one of the individuals who had been cruel to me. Wearing a black leather jacket and black pants, Callum appeared quite like a rebellious individual. I felt reassured upon realizing it was him and not Zane or Dominic. If any of them caught me with Joshua, they would undeniably become envious.
“ What do you mean by that? I don't have a mate.” I said daringly as I stood in front of Callum.
Reaching forward, Callum dragged me harshly pulling me towards him. I could clearly see the fact he was angry however, I didn't care about making him angry. I just didn't want him to ruin this perfect moment for me.
“ Don't test my patience, Valerie. How dare you deny your mates? Do you want me to talk with your father?” Callum asked threatening me.
“ I already said I don't have any mate. I, Valerie Lawson, reject you, Callum, Dominic, Leo, and Zane as my mates. I really meant it when I said that I didn't want to have anything to do with you. Go ahead and tell my father if you want to. It still won't change anything.” I said angrily as I stared at Callum refusing to back down.