Page 72 of My Fated Mate

It's a beautiful morning, a big difference from the turmoil within me.

Ever since that night, under the full moon's glow, a thick tension hangs between Thorne and me.

We avoid each other's gaze, and our interactions are stilted and awkward.

The memory of our passionate encounter hangs heavy in the air, unspoken words and desires swirling around us like a storm waiting to unleash its fury.

I know I should feel… something.

Relief? Contentment?

But instead, I'm filled with a hollowness—a gnawing sense of unease.

The Mendshore Bloom may have temporarily mended our bond, but it hasn't addressed the deeper issues—the mistrust, the hurt, and the vast chasm that separates us.

Thorne, bless his Alpha heart, has taken it upon himself to "educate" me about my supposed powers.

The idea of him, Mr. Stoic and Brooding, trying to explain the intricacies of magic is almost comical.

"As my fated mate," he begins one morning, "you possess certain abilities…"

I stifle a groan.

Fated mate? Right now, the only thing I feel fated for is a lifetime of awkward silences and stolen glances.

"These abilities," Thorne continues, clearing his throat, "can be used for healing, for protection…"

His voice trails off as I raise an eyebrow. "Or?"

He hesitates, then mutters something about "offensive maneuvers" that sounds suspiciously like battle tactics. The last thing I need is another lesson in wolf warfare.

"Thanks, but no thanks, Alpha Thorne," I interrupt him, my voice surprisingly firm. "I think I'll find another instructor."

Thorne opens his mouth to protest, but before he can speak, a booming laugh cuts through the air.

Kain emerges from the trees, his mate, Lela, at his side.

"Well, well," he drawls, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Looks like someone's not too keen on their grumpy teacher."

Thorne throws him a withering glare, but I can't help but smile.

Kain, despite his initial annoyance, has become a surprising source of comfort. He's patient, understanding, and most importantly, he doesn't take himself too seriously.

"Actually," I say, stepping towards Kain and Lela, "I was wondering if you or Lela might be willing to teach me about my powers."

Lela, a slender she-wolf with eyes like molten gold, beams at me. "Of course, Elowen!" she exclaims. "I'd be delighted to help you explore your abilities."

Thorne's jaw clenches, but he remains silent. Clearly, the idea of me learning from Kain doesn't sit well with him.

A small, mischievous part of me enjoys this. Maybe a little jealousy is just what Thorne needs.

The following days turn into a whirlwind of discovery.

Under Lela's gentle guidance, I begin to explore the depths of my connection to the forest. I learn to sense the flow of energy beneath the earth, to manipulate the growth of plants, and even to create small illusions.

It's exhilarating, a heady rush of power that leaves me breathless.

One afternoon, Lela leads me to a secluded clearing bathed in sunlight. Birds chirp merrily in the branches above, and the air hums with a soft energy.

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