Page 68 of Alpha's Hidden Gem

As the night progresses, I find a moment to reconnect with my parents and Mabel. They're seated at a corner table, enjoying dessert and animated conversation.

"Lila, honey, this place is absolutely wonderful," my mother gushes as I approach. "I can't believe how far you've come from that little food truck."

I beam with pride, my wolf practically preening at the praise. "Thanks, Mom. It means so much to have you both here tonight."

My father raises his glass in a toast. "To The Night Owl, and to our incredible daughter."

Mabel joins in the toast, her eyes twinkling. "And to new beginnings and family," she adds, giving me a knowing wink.

As we clink glasses, I notice my mother eyeing Axel across the room. "So, Lila," she says, her tone casual but her eyes curious, "things seem to be going well between you and Axel."

I feel a blush creeping up my cheeks. "They are," I admit. "He's... he's really special, Mom."

My father clears his throat, his protective instincts clearly kicking in. "He seems like a good man, but I hope he knows how lucky he is to have you."

"Oh, David," Mabel chimes in, patting my father's hand. "Trust me, my grandson knows exactly how fortunate he is. Lila has brought so much joy into his life - into all our lives."

I'm touched by Mabel's words, feeling a surge of affection for this woman who has become like a second mother to me.

As the night winds down, I notice my parents stifling yawns. "You two must be exhausted," I say. "Why don't you head back to the hotel? We can catch up tomorrow before the wedding."

My mother nods gratefully. "That sounds perfect, sweetheart. We wouldn't want to keep you from your other guests."

As they gather their things, I walk them to the door. My father pulls me into a tight hug. "We're so proud of you, Lila," he whispers. "You've built something truly special here."

"Thanks, Dad," I murmur, blinking back tears.

My mother hugs me next. "And remember," she says softly, "no matter how busy things get here, you always have a home with us."

I nod, feeling a lump in my throat. "I love you both," I say. "Thank you for everything."

As they leave, I watch them go, feeling a mix of emotions. My wolf whines softly, already missing them. But as I turn back to the bustling restaurant, to Axel's warm smile across the room, I know I'm exactly where I'm meant to be.

Mabel appears at my side, placing a comforting hand on my arm. "Family is precious," she says softly. "But remember, Lila, your family has grown. We're all here for you, always."

I smile at her, feeling the truth of her words deep in my heart. "Thank you, Grandma Mabel," I say, pulling her into a hug. "For everything."

As we rejoin the others, I can't help but marvel at how full my life has become. With my birth family's love and support behind me, and my new pack family surrounding me, I feel ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead.

As the night winds down, the last of the patrons filtering out into the cool evening air, I feel a sense of accomplishment wash over me. We've faced our first real challenge as a team and emerged stronger for it.

I realize then that this is what it means to be a leader, to be an Alpha. It's not about dominating or controlling, but about guiding and supporting, about bringing out the best in those around you. My wolf hums in agreement, proud of the balance we've struck.

I start heading for the door, ready to catch some fresh air, when I feel a warm hand on my shoulder. I turn to see Axel, his eyes shining with pride and affection. "You were incredible tonight," he murmurs, pulling me close.

I lean into his embrace, feeling the stress of the evening melt away. "I couldn't have done it without you, without everyone."

He smiles, pressing a soft kiss to my forehead. "That's what being a pack means. We support each other, always."

As we stand there, wrapped in each other's arms, I feel a sense of peace settle over me. This is where I belong, with my mate, with my pack.

The Night Owl's opening night has been a resounding success, despite the challenges we faced. I take a moment to breathe,savoring the lingering aromas of delicious food and the faint echoes of laughter and conversation.

We walk together through the restaurant, taking in the empty tables and the soft glow of the dimmed lights. My mind wanders back to the beginning of this journey, to the day Axel first walked into my food truck. I never could have imagined that a simple health inspection would lead me to this moment, to a life I never knew I wanted but now can't imagine living without.

My wolf stirs within me, a contented sigh echoing through my mind. She's at peace now, no longer fighting against the changes in our life.

Chapter 23

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