Alex sighed, trying to tamp down his curiosity and impatience. He’s not used to having a source of information but being unable to demand them. They moved from one area to another as they continued to chat. Luna felt comforted by his presence and she got this warm feeling inside her.
Along the way, Akira joined them and Alex focused on the two wolves accompanying them.
“Who’s the leader?” His guess was Akira but the woman shook her head, seemingly knowing his thoughts.
“Killian. He’s also my guard. Akira is more drawn to you. He’s going to keep you company and protect you.”
His lip twitched upon hearing her answer.
“I don’t need protection. I can protect myself.”
“Of course. You can just treat him as a pet.” Luna laughed when the wolf in question lowly growled in complaint and glared at Alex. He’s not going to be treated as a pet. He has a reputation to live up to.
“Are they really gifts from the goddess?” He couldn’t help asking, though he’s unsure whether she would give an actual answer.
“Yes, they are. They’re the same wolves given to the first king, actually.”
That surprised him and he can’t help but be amazed of the fact. These wolves have lived that long? They witnessed everything from the very beginning?
“They’re free-spirited. Don’t think they’re old. They adapt quickly, depending on their master.”
“You’re their master, aren’t you?”
“For now.” Luna threw a glance at him. He’s their actual master. She’s merely their guardian.
Alex raised an eyebrow and the look on her face gave him an idea. He’s not too conceited to believe it, though.
Hours later, they had dinner with everyone. Alex introduced her and each of his men. He acted like the middleman. They were all polite and respectful. She’s feeling a little overwhelmed, being surrounded by this many people. It’s such an upgrade from being alone. There’s also the fact that she can’t answer much of their inquiries. After a while, they realized it and made their questions simpler. The meal became much more enjoyable because of it. She had fun after years of being trapped in these ruins.
They chatted for almost two hours before they dispersed. Some wanted to explore the ruins while the others wanted to get more rest. The moon was exceptionally bright above them.
Alex turned to face Luna as they made their way back to her room, “I’ll stay with my men tonight. Do you still need to prepare? Do you think we can leave the day after tomorrow?”
She showed him a teasing smile, “That depends on you. Would you be willing to kiss me before then? Tonight? Tomorrow?”
He was momentarily made speechless by her boldness. His gaze slid down to her lips. They’re enticingly red and plump, he would admit that. Still, he’s not sure how to proceed with it. He looked awkward as he scratched the back of his neck. He tried to think of ways to resolve this. His mind became a mess. An idea popped into his head and he grabbed it.
“How about this…” He became serious as he pondered while speaking. They’re now standing outside her room and Luna gave him her full attention.
“Why don’t you try it with someone else first?” s**t. The moment he posed the question, he realized how off it was. Still… it was an idea. It would kind of prove if she’s telling the truth or not. This thought swayed him.
“You can just try it once. If it doesn’t work, then I’ll do it.” He tried to convince her but was met with her glare.
“Are you hearing yourself?” Her tone was low but it sounded threatening enough, her eyes also narrowed on him.
Alex hesitated and couldn’t give a reply. He’s still running the pros and cons in his mind. It’s not such a bad idea, is it?
The woman took a deep breath before moving towards the door.
“You can take your men and go. I don’t need someone like you.” She pushed the door open and slammed it shut. It didn’t look like he’s planning to apologize any second. It wasn’t lost on her that he truly considered his own suggestion. He’s such a jerk.
Alex was stunned and he did feel a bit guilty. His heart raced as he ran a hand through his hair. He made her angry, that’s clear to him. Was he wrong? That’s what he needs to think about. Did he hurt her feelings? Maybe. Okay, yes.
He sighed while staring at the closed door. He heard a sound behind him and saw Akira with an unimpressed look in his face. His lip twitched. Even the wolf was blaming him. He slowly stepped away from her room and walked towards a balcony.
He tried to calm himself first, so he can properly think it over. He’s rattled, sure. Her reaction is not something he usually deals with. He rarely offends other people and even if he does, they defer to him because of his status in the pack. They’re lenient and display an enormous amount of patience towards him.
It’s not the first time he said something inappropriate or insensitive. Still, he rarely cared before, knowing the others would accommodate his mistakes. Ugh. Damn it.
He grimaced, recalling her expression. She’s a girl. She’d been alone for years. She was excited to meet him. And what did he do? Between the two of them, he should have been more considerate and sensible. So what if he’s inexperienced? How would she even know? He doubts she would mind. She seemed like a very kind soul. Sure, she teases him but it’s not something he should get mad about. Of everyone present, she’s probably feeling the most comfortable with him. And what did he do? Went ahead and suggested she should kiss another guy. He continued to grimace. He sees now how bad of an idea that was.
But… when he thinks of the technicalities and his doubts, his suggestion was actually pretty clever. It he can ascertain that he’s the only one who can kiss her and free her from this place, then he would be inclined to believe that she is his mate. He took a deep breath before looking at Akira. The wolf was looking up at the moon. He did the same for a while and it relaxed him a little. He should go and apologize.
With that in mind, he took another deep breath and directed his steps to her room.
He lightly knocked on the door and waited. Nothing. He sighed before knocking again and calling her name.
“Luna? I didn’t mean what I said. I’m sorry.” This time, he means what he said.
He waited, but there’s still no response.
“I’m really sorry.” He repeated and kept waiting. He tried turning the knob but it remained locked. He exchanged a glance with Akira who sat next to him.
“I’ll see you in the morning.” He finally uttered before leaving and meeting his men.
Downstairs, someone noted his expression.
“You don’t look good. Is there a problem?”
Suddenly, everyone tensed and became alert. Some began looking around.
“No, there’s nothing. I... I just had a misunderstanding with Luna. You can all take it easy until tomorrow. We’ll be leaving the day after.”
He noticed the furtive glances between them but decided not to comment on it. He wanted to be alone at the moment.
“I’ll head to bed, then. Do whatever you want. The wolves are protecting the castle.”
Well, they could agree to that last statement. It was clear to them now what those wolves are doing. About four of them are patrolling the area while the rest are stationed at entrances and exits. Ah, yes. There’s that one keeping the lady company and the other seemed to be following Alex around.
Alex laid on a bed but couldn’t sleep. He would glance at Akira from time to time but the wolf seemed to be unbothered. Its eyes are closed and he seemed to be sleeping well.
Luna was hurt by his suggestion. How could he? She’s his mate and he’s going to let another man kiss her? If he’s feeling the bond, he wouldn’t even think of it. He would probably get angry just imagining such a scenario. He would be possessive and protective of her against any man. He wouldn’t even let her near anyone else.
But alas, that’s not how it is with them. The bond is non-existent to him. She cried and her heart feels heavy. Did his mother feel this way? She would love to meet her.
She would admit her fault, though. She was only teasing him. She just didn’t realize he would react like that. It was easy to make a conclusion. He doesn’t want to kiss her. He doesn’t want her. What should she do? How can she make him accept her as a mate?