Page 38 of Alpha's Hidden Gem

Mabel's words hang heavy in the air as she looks at Axel and me with a solemn expression. "Lila, Axel's decision to turn you was not an easy one. He feared that changing you would end both of you."

I feel Axel tense beside me, his hand finding mine and squeezing gently. The weight of his decision settles on my shoulders, and I can't help but wonder what would have happened if he hadn't taken that risk.

Mabel continues, her voice steady and reassuring. "But I wasn't worried about Lila being turned, Axel. You see, there's something special about the bond you two share. You're true fated mates."

Fated mates?

The words echo in my mind, and I feel my wolf stir within me, a sense of recognition and contentment washing over me.

Mabel explains the concept, telling us how the Fates protect such bonds. She shares the story of an alpha from years past. "He was the reason the law was made. All because he lusted over the beauty of a human and he couldn't stand the thought of another man being with her. He wanted to claim her for himself, so he turned her. But she was not his to have, and she went feral."

The gravity of her words sinks in, and I realize just how significant Axel's decision was. He risked everything to save me, to give us a chance at a future together.

"That's why I didn't worry when Axel told me he turned you, because I knew that the two of you were destined to be fated mates. The Fates will not send any true fated mate, human or not, down a feral path," Mabel emphasizes, her eyes locked on ours.

Fated. Meant to be. Always knew,my wolf interjects, its certainty a comforting presence within me.

Axel's relief is palpable, his shoulders relaxing as he pulls me closer.

"I knew the moment I laid eyes on you that we had a connection, Lila. I'll do everything in my power to protect and guide you through this new life. That is if you will let me."

I nod, overwhelmed by the awe and uncertainty that comes with the knowledge of our predestined bond. It's a lot to process, but knowing that Axel and I are meant to be together gives me a sense of comfort and belonging.

I always felt like Axel was my soulmate or something.

Yes, you felt it before me,my wolf encourages.

Oh no, Sophie!A wave of panic washes over me as I recognize the familiar ringtone of my phone. I've been so caught up in this new world of shifters and fated mates that I completely forgot about my human life and responsibilities.

With trembling hands, I pick up my phone, my heart sinking as I see the numerous missed calls from Sophie.

She must be worried sick,I feel guilt twisting in my gut.

Axel and Mabel exchange a knowing glance, and Mabel speaks up, her voice calm and reassuring.

"We need to come up with a believable story, Lila. Something that explains your absence without revealing the truth about our world. It isn’t safe for you to be around humans right now. You need to learn to control things first."

I nod, my mind racing as I try to think of a plausible explanation. "She doesn’t even know how or when I got away from the monsters.”

Axel speaks up, “I stopped by her apartment after I brought you here and told her that you were safe and resting.”

“Then maybe I could say I had a health scare? That I'm recuperating somewhere safe?"

Axel squeezes my hand, his presence a steady comfort. "That could work. We'll help you craft the details."

As I prepare to call Sophie back, my wolf stirs within me, a sense of unease rippling through my body.

Careful. Must protect pack secret,it warns.

I take a deep breath, trying to calm my nerves as I hit the call button. Sophie answers on the first ring, her voice filled with relief and concern.

"Lila! Oh my god, the last time I saw you that man was dragging you away. Axel said that he found you and that I shouldn't go to the police. I still don't understand any of this. Why not go to the police? Where have you been? I've been trying to reach you for days! Lila, I need to….."

"Soph, slow down, I'm fine, better than fine." I swallow hard, the lie heavy on my tongue. "I'm so sorry, Soph. after Axel saved me I... I became very ill, a bit of a health scare."

Sophie gasps, her worry palpable through the phone. "What? Are you okay? Do you need me to come to you?"

Not pack. Can't trust,my wolf interjects, its restlessness growing.

---