Rejected Mate

Chapter Four: Our Mate.

“A soulmate is someone whom, when you meet, without thinking - without letting your neocortex play into the decision - you feel an instant familiarity, a sense of connection, a longing.” Karen Salmansohn.

Zeke dropped me off at my place, and I wasn’t surprised that the lights were on in the house. I knew father would return today to celebrate mum’s birthday. I smiled when I walked in and saw them cuddling.

“Son,” My father let go of my mother, who whined and pouted.

Parent, my ass. She’s the child in this house.

“How are you doing?”

“Good.” I said with a shrug, heading straight to the fridge to get something to drink. I needed energy after spending an entire day working. I feel so drained. I liked it, though. I felt useful for once, to be asked for my opinions and actually listening to my ideas. The whole team were on board with my suggestions, changing stuff to my own accord.

It felt great, but still, I was concerned that it wouldn't work out and it’ll come and bite me in the ass. Or, the big bad Alpha would bite me in the ass.

My ass is precious, so my concern was in its place.

“Ew, gross!” I yelled when I turned to find my parents sucking each other’s faces. “Couldn’t you wait until I leave?!”

My dad chuckled, while my mother stuck her tongue out, shooing me out of the room. Fine! I wasn’t sticking around to see what they’d do next. Having an open kitchen to the living room is good and all, but not for my insane family.

I changed to something comfortable, put on some music and started working. I was given the task of listing ideas for the sequel to include in the presentation of the project. The changes I suggested for the game will need approval from Mr. Matthews, which is why another meeting will be held for us to present our ideas.

I’m excited and nervous to hear what he’ll think of our suggestions. He seemed like a hard to please guy, yet he was open to listen to my ideas. I should just work hard and hope for the best.

A knock on my door snapped me out from my creative thinking, before it opened. My father walked in smiling and sat next to me on the bed.

"How was your day, Jon? I meant to ask you earlier."

I groaned not wanting to derail from my chain of thoughts, but I missed having this father and son moment. It rarely happened lately.

"It was fine. Got to meet some nice people." I smiled, remembering the cool things I tried.

He had a calculated smile that always alerted me of a hidden motive. "Ezekiel called."

Of course, he did.

I looked at him curiously waiting of what he'll say next. Zeke always did this kind of s**t. Whenever he thought that something might cause us trouble, he'd call my dad.

Like he read my mind, he added. "He told me about the Lycans’ Alpha. He said he’s dangerous, and I believe him. I mean, I’ve only had bad encounters with that young man.”

“But, dad.”

He shushed me with that fatherly glare of his, making me huff.

“Just tell me that you’re okay, and I won’t stop you. To be honest, son, I don't want you to be there around the Lycans, but yet again, knowing how stubborn you are, I'll leave that decision to you."

"I seriously don't mind being around them. Some of them are pretty cool. . .I don't get why you guys are fighting, but since no one wants to tell me- which is fine by me, I will just continue to live my life as the human I'm supposed to be."

He sighed and ran his hand through his sleek black hair. "It was my fault, but still, I don't want you around people who are holding a grudge against us, especially their Alpha. . .Believe me, it's for your own good."

“He’s not friendly anyway, so it’s not like we’ll be buddies and hang out and stuff.” I snorted.

“Did he say anything to you?”

“He was so busy yelling at his team to care about us.”

“You’re fine, right?”

Now I’m getting suspicious. “Why do you keep asking if I’m fine? Dad, is there something I need to know?”

“No, it’s just I worry.”

I narrowed my eyes. “You know, you’re acting strange. I think my mum is rubbing off on you.”

He chuckled. “Maybe. . . I’m just being silly, don’t mind me.”

He still looked concerned, and it made me feel bad. He has a lot on his plate and I don’t want him to worry about me, too. It’s enough I’m making him worry over the fact that I don’t have a wolf. He doesn’t say it, but I’m sure he is.

I sighed defeated. “I won’t go through with the internship.”

He placed his hand on my shoulder and formed a dry grin, making no attempt to stop me. He stared at me like he wanted to say something, but he didn't. He just got up to leave, stopping by the door.

“You’ll be a great Alpha, son. I’m so proud of you.”

I formed a grin to cover my disappointment. Before he could close the door, I called him.

"I'll have to go tomorrow to let them know, though. I hope you don't mind?"

He seemed reluctant as he nodded, softly closing the door.

I hate this. This ambiguity and secrecy. Whatever is troubling him, I think it’s the same thing that had Lucas and Zeke concerned.

What’s with that sad look, too?

I pushed my laptop aside, lying flat on my bed and stared at the ceiling. Sometimes I wish I didn’t screw things up. I wish I just handled the pain of rejection differently not to lose my wolf. Maybe if Damon was here, my father would’ve been less worried about my future.

If only.

I woke up the next morning groaning from a headache that was so sudden. I walked lazily to the bathroom and took a quick shower, hoping the cold water would energize me and get rid of the migraine. Looking in the mirror, I noticed my eyes were bloodshot and my complexion was so pale.

I think I'm getting sick.

On any normal day, I would hide under my blanket and enjoy a good rest, but today I had a responsibility towards the guys. I’m a man of my word. I offered my help. Well, I didn't have much of a choice as it was imposed on me, but still, I should let them know I wouldn't be able to work with them and give them the rest of my notes.

I just hope it’d be enough.

Once I finished my shower, I put on a pair of jeans, worn out sneakers, and a plain t-shirt. I was set to go. It was redundant for me to wear a suit. I’m just going to hand over my notes and leave.

Since Zeke texted me last night saying that he and Lucas won’t go, I rode my bike to downtown.

“Oh, hello. Mr. Cooke is in his office.” The receptionist said after giving me a once over, frowning. She seemed to disapprove with my outfit.

I just ignored her judgmental gaze and strode to where Brenan’s office is.

“Yes, come in.” He called when I knocked.

I opened the door softly and peeked through, and he waved for me to get in. He smiled brightly but soon faltered when he studied my look.

Maybe I should’ve worn a suit after all.

“You’re not continuing with the program, too?” Disappointment laced his tone. "So, no reason at all. Just quit like that, and here I thought we were becoming friends."

I smiled as he pouted. Now I see why Beatrice fell for him. He does have a cute side and those chubby cheeks are just darn adorable.

"Sorry. I wish I could stay. I actually like it here but. . ." I cut myself off, not wanting to go into details for my sudden decision.

"Is it because we're Lycans?"

Or, he could just find out by himself.

I didn't answer since I didn't want to lie, and he nodded. Seriously, the man looks fun to be around, and here I was going to miss out a great friendship over some stupid feud. I just wish someone would let me know why they’re fighting.

"Don't worry about it, Jon. I don't know why you're involved with them, and I won't ask. . .Just wait here for a moment, I'll take these notes to Mr. Matthews and come back."

I nodded and watched him leave the office.

I hate myself more now. I seriously love this place. I like everyone I’m doing the project with, I love how chill back all departments are, and I love this fricking scent that overwhelmed me since I came here. I hate that I have to leave this place, even my body agrees with me.

I mean, even the throbbing headache I had this morning stopped. Ugh, why life has to be difficult?

The door opened after a few minutes of me sulking. Brenan informed me that Mr. Matthews wanted to see me, and of course, my nerves started to kick in.

What else does he want from me?

I followed him to the boss's office, which was two floors higher. On the way, Brenan kept trying to change my mind about leaving. He said that I need to think about my future, and he’s right. I’m not suitable to be an Alpha nor do I have a neck for what my father does.

I feel torn about this.

He knocked and opened the door for me to get in. I reluctantly did. I watched Brenan leave, closing the door with a soft click.

I looked around the spacious office, my eyes instantly glued on Mr. Matthews. He was wearing a pencil black suit with no cravat nor a tie. I was disappointed since it looked good on him, that until I noticed the first couple of buttons of his shirt were open.

What a tease.

He looked relaxed and younger, even his hair was styled into a quiff. The new hairstyle made his facial features more prominent. That jawline and those cheekbones, though. Damn, did he have to be this perfect?!

“Please sit down, Jonathan.”

Oh, s**t. I was staring again. I was my mother’s son after all, can’t do anything subtly.

I chose to take a seat on the other side of his desk, across from him, for a better view of this gorgeous man.

"He told me you're leaving." Still not looking up from what appears to be my notes. Even though he asked, he didn't sound nor look interested.

"Y-Yes, sir." I stuttered a bit. I couldn't help it. The guy is intimidating.

I could see his mouth tug a beginning of a smirk, before going back to his apathetic expression. He looked up and stared at me, making me feel uncomfortable. I could feel him scanning my body and he hummed. . .pleased?

Really awkward.

I looked interested at my hands on my lap, checking my nails like some nervous and shy girl.

"Jonathan, what's your deal with the Lucians?"

The question surprised me and so did my heart, as it started racing by hearing him say my name softly. It sounded different than before.

I remembered my father’s words from yesterday about Mr. Matthews being dangerous, so I hid my true identity and settled with the most convenient lie. "I'm their witch."

Well, technically, it’s not a lie. I am a witch.

He nodded, not looking convinced at all. He kept his burning gaze on me, and this time, I stared back.

Don't blame me. He has a good face to look at.

"Do you know his daughter?" I raised my eyebrow at him and he elaborated. "I'm talking about the Alpha."

He thinks dad has a daughter?

"I know only his son. Why?"

He shrugged. "You seem like a nice kid, so I'll advise you to stay away from them, especially his son. He seems to only cause trouble and pain to others."

I furrowed my eyebrows, annoyed. What is he talking about? I’ve never met him before nor did I ever have an altercation with his pack. The only pain I caused was to myself.

He noticed my angry expression as he said.

"You’re friends, I see." He smirked." So, you know what he did to his mate?"

I cringed at the word that left his mouth. And as much as I wanted to hear what he'd say about me and my mate, I couldn't. Questions and possibilities raced in my mind, but the urge for me to leave his office was much stronger.

"What his son did to his mate is irreparable."

I cut him off before opening old wounds by bringing up the past, standing up.

"If you're done, sir, I'll leave."

His smirk widened to a derisive grin. I think he had a doubt that I’m the son from the beginning and was just toying with me. I clenched my jaw, vexed by this evil man.

"Sure, Jonathan." He purred my name again, bringing a shiver down my spine. "You can leave, but you need to come back here and sign some papers, since we're using some of your ideas. You can bring your father if you want. I'm sure it would be a great meeting."

He finished, wearing a smug look that would make a monk curse and kick him where the sun doesn't shine.

I made a move to leave, and he held out his hand for me to shake. He stared at me dead in the eyes, nodding for me to accept his hand, and I hesitantly did.

At first touch of our hands, I instantly regretted accepting the internship. The headache was back, making my head throb as if it’ll split in two. And looking back at him, he seemed to be affected too.

No, it can’t be! He's not the one! He can't be!

‘My Mate.’

I looked around expecting to see someone else but there was only the both of us. He was glaring at me, a twirl of emotions glinted in his dark eyes.

‘He's our Mate.’

After years from not hearing his voice, it was so overbearing, given the situation we’re in.

‘Damon, is that you?’

I called in my head. Part of me happy to have him back and part of me scared that the pain would come back again.

‘Yes, Jon.’

I looked at the man before me, whose face was growing red, and I stepped back, trying to leave. I wasn’t ready for this.

‘No, hold up! Tell him how we felt. Tell him how much pain he caused to both of us.’

‘I'm sorry, Damon, but I can't.’

I ran towards the door, but Mr. Matthews caught my arm, pulling me back inside before I could leave.

"Do you have any f*****g idea what you've done to me?!" He spat. "You little piece of s**t. You killed every person I claimed."

He pushed me against the door, and I groaned from the pain in my lower back caused by the door knob.

"You sucked every moment of happiness that I had. . .You ruined everything, you worthless mutt."

He kept poking me with his finger, and as much painful the contact was, I kept wishing for more, shivering under his touch.

l totally blame the pheromones.

I kept looking at him while he ranted about how I caused every f****d-up thing in his life to happen. How every time he claimed someone, that person faced the same fate and died in the end. But was it true? Could what I’ve done five years ago hurt him as well?

I stood there silently and listened to his venomous words about how I am a mistake, worthless, and selfish. I guess this wasn’t how Damon expected the meeting with our mate will be, as he was silent as well.

". . .And you send your father to chastise me for something I had no choice in doing. You selfish bastard."

I smirked but a few tears betrayed me, making him stop his reprimand.

No. Why am I crying? Why am I crying in-front of him?

"You call me selfish? Do you have any idea what you've done to a ten-year-old who didn't know what being rejected is? Huh?! Do you?!" I yelled and shoved him back. "Spending nights hearing your wolf whining in pain for not ever being with his mate."

I wiped my face not wanting to cry in front of this jerk.

"What I've done. . .I had no intention to hurt anyone but myself, and I won't apologize for it."

No, this isn’t what I wanted to say.

He looked hurt, and I hated myself for it. Maybe that spell did something since I was young, and for sure I didn't know what I was doing.

My spell harmed other people. Innocent people.

I put my hand on the door knob and turned to leave, but before I did, I had one more look at my supposed mate who looked stunned and hurt.

"I hate you for breaking my heart seven years ago, and I hate you for reminding me again of what it was like."

He opened his mouth to say something, but I slammed the door shut behind me before he could. I took the lift and pressed the parking lot level button. Damon’s voice echoed in my head, asking me to go back and reconcile, but Mr. Matthews' voice was way stronger. His words kept running through my head, accusing me of things I didn't know I caused. But if I did, then I am a killer, and he’s right. My selfish desire to relieve myself from pain hurt many people, including my father, who’s constantly worrying about me, my friends who'd keep being careful around me, and him for taking away the people he loved.

I arrived home, and thankfully mum was busy in the kitchen or else she wouldn't let me be, knowing how flustered I must look right now. I ran upstairs to my room, crying myself to sleep.

You're a mistake. . .Worthless. . .Selfish.