Page 54 of Alpha's Hidden Gem

"Let me take a look at those wounds," I murmur, gesturing for Lila to sit on the edge of the bed.

She complies, wincing slightly as she lowers herself onto the mattress. I kneel before her, my fingers delicately tracing the edges of the bandages that peek out from beneath her shirt. The urge to pull her close, to hold her tightly against me, is nearly overwhelming.

“it looks like they are healing just fine, by tomorrow they will be gone.”

"Axel..." Lila breathes, her hazel eyes locking with mine.

Unable to resist any longer, I lean in, capturing her lips in a searing kiss. Lila responds eagerly, her hands fisting in my hair as she pulls me closer. My wolf howls in satisfaction, recognizing Lila as our mate, our other half.

I deepen the kiss, my tongue sliding against hers in a sensual dance. Lila moans softly, the sound sending a jolt of desire straight to my core. I eagerly explore her body, yearning to feel the touch of her skin against mine.

Just as I'm about to lay Lila back on the bed, a sharp knock at the door shatters the moment. I growl in frustration, my wolf snarling at the interruption.

I pull back from Lila's embrace, my mind still reeling from the interruption. With a sigh, I stand and open the door, revealing Ethan's anxious face.

"Sorry to interrupt, Alpha, but there's an urgent matter at your human job that needs your attention," Ethan says, his tone serious.

I exchange a knowing look with Ethan, a silent understanding passing between us. It's time. I turn to Lila, taking her hand in mine.

"Lila, there's something I want to tell you," I begin, my heart racing with anticipation. “I have been getting ready for this moment, eagerly awaiting the chance to embark on something meaningful with someone I deeply care about.”

Lila's eyes widen, her curiosity piqued. "What do you mean, Axel?"

I take a deep breath, steeling myself. "I'm going to resign from my job as a health inspector. It's time for me to focus on the pack and our future together."

Lila gasps, her hand flying to her mouth in surprise. "But Axel, your job..."

I squeeze her hand reassuringly. "That's not all, Vanilla Bean. I've acquired a building on the edge of our territory. It's the perfect place for a restaurant, one that we can run together. You'll be the head chef, and I'll be your partner, supporting you every step of the way."

Tears well up in Lila's eyes as she processes my words. "Axel, I... I don't know what to say. You've been planning this all along?"

I nod, my wolf preening at the joy and gratitude radiating from our mate. "I wanted to provide for you, to give you a new dream after everything that's happened."

Lila throws her arms around me, burying her face in my chest. "Thank you, Axel. This means more to me than you could ever know."

As we embrace, Ethan clears his throat. "I hate to break up this moment, but we should get going. The health department awaits."

I reluctantly release Lila, my heart full of love and anticipation for our future. "Let's do this."

I wrap my arm around Lila's waist as we exit my quarters, Ethan following close behind. The reality of our new venture begins to sink in, and I can't help but feel a rush of excitement.

"This is going to be amazing," Lila says, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "I've always dreamed of having my own restaurant, and now I get to share that with you."

I press a kiss to her temple, savoring the warmth of her skin against my lips. "We'll make it a success together, Vanilla Bean. With your culinary skills and my business acumen, we'll be unstoppable."

Ethan chimes in, his tone supportive. "The pack will be there to help in any way we can. It would be nice if you guys would have a bar and a grill."

“That’s not a bad idea,” I agree.

"Italian and beer would provide a unique combination," Lila cheerfully exclaims.

As we walk towards the car, our conversation delves into the details of the restaurant. Lila bubbles with ideas for the menu, her passion for cooking shining through with every word. I offersuggestions on the decor and ambiance, envisioning a cozy, inviting space that will draw in shifters.

"We'll need to come up with a name," Lila muses, her brow furrowing in thought.

"How about 'The Night Owl Bar & Grill'?" I suggest, inspired by the symbol of our pack. "It's a subtle nod to our community, but still welcoming to everyone."

Lila beams, squeezing my hand. "It's perfect."

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