Page 49 of Alpha's Hidden Gem

Once back at the cabin, I sink into the couch, my thoughts spinning with a mix of questions and uncertainties. Axel sits beside me, his presence steady and reassuring.

"I know what you're thinking," he says softly, taking my hand in his. "But this isn't your fault, Lila. Gio made his own choices, and we'll face the consequences together, as a pack."

I lean into his touch, drawing strength from his unwavering support. My wolf stirs within me, her protective instincts towards the pack growing stronger with each passing moment.

"Come with me," Axel says as he pulls me from the couch.

"Where are we going?"

"You'll see." his face opens up with a wide grin.

As we enter the kitchen, my eyes widen in surprise at the sight before me. The counters are neatly arranged with all the ingredients and tools needed for a cooking lesson, and the warm scent of garlic and herbs fills the air. Axel stands beside me, a nervous but hopeful smile on his face.

"I thought you might like a little break from everything that's been going on," he says softly, gesturing to the setup. "And I was hoping you could teach me how to make pizza, like the ones from your food truck."

A swell of emotion rises in my chest, a mix of gratitude, affection, and a deep sense of belonging. Axel's thoughtful gesture touches me deeply, and I can feel my wolf stirring within me, content and pleased with our mate's efforts.

"Axel, this is amazing," I breathe, turning to face him. "I would love to teach you how to make pizza. It's one of my favorite things in the world, and I'm so excited to share it with you."

Axel's smile widens, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm and a hint of relief, as if he had been nervous about my reaction. We begin by mixing the dough, my hands gently guiding his as we knead the soft, elastic mixture together. The sensation of his strong hands beneath mine sends a pleasant tingle up my arms.

"You've got a knack for this," I tease, giving him a playful nudge with my elbow. "Maybe you should consider a career change."

Axel laughs, the sound warm and carefree. "I think I'll stick to health inspecting for now," he jokes back. "But who knows, maybe I'll open a pizza shop one day."

As we work, our wolves seem to dance together, their joy and contentment mingling in the shared experience. The kitchen fills with our laughter and the delicious aroma of the pizza taking shape.

When it comes time to toss the dough, Axel insists on trying it himself. "Stand back, Lila. I've got this," he declares with a confident grin.

I raise an eyebrow, stepping aside. "Alright, hotshot. Let's see what you've got."

“I’ve seen this done many times. It’s easy watch.”

He throws the dough into the air with a dramatic flourish, only to have it land directly on his head, draping over his face like a comical veil. I can't help but burst out laughing at the sight of the serious health inspector wearing a pizza dough mask.

Axel stands there for a moment, the dough slowly sliding down his face, revealing a mix of embarrassment and amusement in his eyes.

"Well, that didn't go as planned," he chuckles, peeling the dough off his head, revealing a sheepish smile.

I can't help but burst into laughter at the sight, my sides aching as I double over.

"Okay, maybe I don't got this," he admits, chuckling at his own mishap.

I take some dough from the bowl, still giggling. "Here, let me show you," I offer. "It's all in the wrist." I toss the dough expertly, sending it spinning gracefully before catching it with a flourish.

I guide Axel's hands, helping him form the dough into a perfect circle. "The key is to use your fingertips, not your palms," I explain, demonstrating the technique. "And when you toss it, give it a little spin for extra flair."

Axel watches intently as I demonstrate the proper technique, his eyes following my every move. When it's his turn to try again, he mimics my actions with determined focus, and this time, the dough sails smoothly through the air before landing back in his hands.

"I did it!" he exclaims, a triumphant grin spreading across his face.

"See? I knew you could do it," I say, giving him a playful nudge. "With a little practice, you'll be a pizza-tossing pro in no time."

Axel laughs, his eyes sparkling with joy. "Well, I had a great teacher," he says, giving me a wink.

I feel a blush creeping up my cheeks at the compliment.

A mischievous glint flashes in Axel's eyes as he flicks a puff of flour at me, the white powder dusting my nose and cheeks. "Oh, you're gonna pay for that!" I exclaim, laughing.

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