Page 57 of Alpha's Hidden Gem

As we discuss our plans, I can see the wheels turning in Sophie's head. "But wait," she says, her brow furrowing. "How will you manage this with your... secret? Won't it be risky?"

I nod, appreciating her quick grasp of the situation. "It will be challenging," I admit. "We'll have to be careful, always vigilant. But we believe it's worth the risk to create a place where shifters can come together."

Lila turns to Sophie, her expression earnest. "And that's where you come in, Sophie. We want you to be a part of this. I could really use your help in making this dream a reality."

Sophie's eyes widen, a mix of surprise and delight dancing across her features. "You want me to work with you? In your own restaurant?"

Lila grins, nodding enthusiastically. "Definitely. I can't think of anyone I'd rather have by my side. We would love it if you would be our front of house manager. What do you say?"

Sophie takes a deep breath, her eyes sparkling. "Oh my gosh, are you serious?! This is amazing! I'm so excited I could burst! You know I've been dreaming about this forever. I can't believe it's actually happening! Thank you so much for this opportunity. I promise I'll work my butt off and make you proud. This is going to be incredible! We totally need to celebrate tonight. Drinks are on me!"

Lila laughs, pulling Sophie into another hug. "Then it's settled. We're going to make this restaurant a success, together." She pulls back, her smile turning apologetic. "As much as I'd love to celebrate tonight, I'm afraid we'll have to take a rain check on those drinks. There's still so much work to do to get everything ready. But I promise we'll celebrate properly once we've got the place up and running. How about that?"

I watch Lila and Sophie excitedly discuss plans for the restaurant and I feel a renewed sense of purpose.

As we stand in this empty space, I can almost see our future unfolding - The Night Owl Bar & Grill, a beacon of unity in a world divided, and a symbol of the family we've chosen.

With Lila's culinary skills, my business acumen, Sophie's friendly presence, and the support of our pack, I know we'll be unstoppable.

As the sun begins to set outside, casting a warm glow through the dusty windows of our future restaurant, I can't help but feel a sense of destiny. This is where we're meant to be, all of us. The Night Owl Bar & Grill will be more than just a restaurant - it will be a home, a haven, and a testament to the power of love, trust, and acceptance.

I pull Lila close, pressing a kiss to her temple. "We're going to make this work, Vanilla Bean," I whisper. "Together, we can handle anything."

Lila leans into me, her scent wrapping around me like a comforting blanket. "I know we will, Axel. This is our dream, and nothing can stop us now."

I can’t help but think of all kinds of supernatural things that can try to stop us.Witches, dragons, werebears…

Chapter 20

Vows

Lila

I take a deep breath, trying to process the whirlwind of events that have turned my life upside down. My wolf stirs within me, still adjusting to our new reality. As I stand in the empty space that will soon become The Night Owl Bar & Grill, a sense of excitement mingles with the uncertainty.

Elena bounces into the room, her energy infectious. "Lila, you're going to need a bouncer for the bar with all the shifters coming in," she says with a grin.

“Oh, you got a good point there.” I silently nod, coming to the realization that she could be right. "Do you know any good bouncers?"

Elena's eyes sparkle. "Actually, I'd like to apply for the position myself. If you'll have me, of course."

A smile spreads across my face. "I'd be happy to have you as the bouncer, Elena. Welcome aboard."

Sophie walks into the empty space, her eyes widening as she takes in the scene. Her gaze lands on Elena, and I detect a flicker of jealousy in her expression. I quickly step forward, wanting to smooth over any potential awkwardness.

"Sophie, this is Elena," I say, gesturing towards the other woman. "She's going to be the bouncer for The Night Owl."

Sophie raises an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "A bouncer? I didn't realize we needed one."

"Yes, Soph we need a bouncer to keep the customers from being too aggressive after one too many beers. You know that most of them will be shifters," I remind her.

"Oh, but her, why?"

I nod, feeling a sudden wave of emotion as memories flood back. "Remember when I was kidnapped a while back?" Sophie nods, concern etching her features. I continue, "Elena was taken too. She... she helped save my life and with her being a werewolf enforcer, I’m sure that she will be able to handle them with ease."

Sophie's eyes widen, and she turns to Elena with newfound respect. "I had no idea," she says softly. "Thank you for being there for Lila."

Elena shrugs, a small smile playing on her lips. "We looked out for each other. That's what our pack does."

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