Page 62 of Alpha's Hidden Gem

"Alright, let's get it done," I sigh, knowing that cutting corners is not an option. "We'll have to adjust the timeline and budget accordingly."

As I relay the news to Lila, I can sense her disappointment and frustration. My wolf paces within me, agitated by the delay. I pull her into my arms, offering comfort and reassurance.

"We'll get through this, Vanilla Bean," I murmur, using the affectionate nickname that never fails to bring a smile to her face. "We're partners, remember?"

Lila nods against my chest, drawing strength from our embrace. "I know, Axel. It's just frustrating when things don't go according to plan."

Our moment is disrupted by the sound of tires sliding on grass and pack members growling outside.

Rushing out, we discover Ethan and Finn dealing with a group of rowdy pack members who have gotten a bit too wild. I step forward, my wolf surfacing as I assert my authority as Alpha.

"Cut it out, and behave," I command, my voice infused with strength. "This is your only warning."

The pack members hesitate, weighing their choices, but eventually opt to back down in the face of our united stance. I exhale deeply, aware that the potential for chaos is still present.

"Everything okay out here?" Lila asks.

I turn to her, marveling at the concern and strength in her eyes. "Just a minor threat. They're gone now."

We walk down the bustling streets of Crescent Moon. The curiosity in the air is palpable as townspeople glance our way, their eyes lingering on the newly renovated Night Owl Bar & Grill. My wolf remains alert, ever vigilant in protecting our pack's secrets.

"Looks like we're the talk of the town," Lila murmurs, her fingers brushing against mine.

I nod, offering a friendly smile to a passing couple. "Just remember, we're here to integrate, not isolate. But we must also guard our truth."

As we make our way down the street, I guide Lila in navigating the delicate balance between friendliness and discretion. We exchange pleasantries with the locals, discussing the upcoming opening of our restaurant while carefully steering conversations away from our personal lives.

Suddenly, Sophie appears at our side, her eyes wide with urgency. "Hey, can we talk privately?"

We duck into a quiet alley, the sounds of the bustling street fading behind us. Sophie turns to face me, her eyes wide with urgency. "Guys, I need to tell you something," she says, her voice trembling slightly. "I... I have psychic abilities. I've kept it hidden, even from you, Lila. But I had a vision that I can't ignore."

Lila and I exchange a surprised glance, but we nod for Sophie to continue. She takes a deep breath, steeling herself. "I saw a health inspector coming to the restaurant. He found traces of wolfs-bane in the kitchen, and it nearly exposed us." Sophie's words hang heavy in the air, the gravity of the situation sinking in.

My heart races at the premonition Sophie discloses, and I feel a chill run down my spine. "Wolfs-bane?" I ask, my browfurrowing. "That's harmless to humans but potentially deadly to werewolves. Who would be hiding that in our restaurant?"

Lila places a comforting hand on Sophie's shoulder. "You did the right thing by telling us, Soph. Your gift is incredible, and we're grateful for the warning."

I nod in agreement, my mind already forming a plan. "Okay, we need to do a thorough cleanse of the kitchen," I instruct, my voice firm with determination. "We can't take any chances. Sophie, your vision has given us a valuable heads-up. Thank you."

Sophie manages a small smile, relief evident in her features. "I'm just glad I could help. I don't know what I'd do if anything happened to you guys or the restaurant."

"We're in this together," Lila assures her, pulling Sophie into a quick hug. "Now, let's get back and make sure our kitchen is spotless. We have a restaurant to protect."

Sophie nods, a mix of relief and determination in her eyes. "I'm just glad I could help. I know how important it is to keep your secret."

"Soph, how long have you had this gift? And when were you planning on telling me about it?" Lila asks, her voice a mix of surprise and concern.

Sophie shifts uncomfortably, her eyes darting between Lila and the ground. "I've had it for as long as I can remember, but it's not something I like to advertise. People tend to think I'm crazy and I didn’t want to be locked up."

Lila's expression softens, and she reaches out to squeeze Sophie's hand. "You know you can trust me with anything, right? I would never judge you."

Sophie nods, a small smile tugging at her lips. "I know, Lil. I wanted to tell you, but I didn't want to burden you with my secret. Especially not with everything you've been going through lately."

As they continue to talk, I hear raised voices coming from the direction of the restaurant. My wolf stirs within me, sensing the tension in the air. "Excuse me for a moment, ladies. I need to check on something."

I make my way towards the source of the commotion, my senses on high alert. As I approach, I see Finn and Elena, engaged in a heated argument. Their voices are low, but the anger behind their words is unmistakable.

"What's going on here?" I ask, my tone firm but not accusatory.

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