Page 76 of The Alpha's Pretend Mate

Sunlight streamed through the hotel room's sheer curtains, casting a soft glow over the plush bedding where Alysa stirred awake.

The remnants of last night's passion lingered in the air, a warm memory clinging to her like a delicate perfume. She blinked against the brightness, her heart fluttering as the events of the evening rushed back—a whirlwind of laughter, stolen kisses, and promises whispered in the dark.

She brushed her fingers through her tousled hair, a smile creeping onto her lips. There was a peace within her, an excitement thrumming just beneath the surface.

Glancing around the room, she took in the luxurious surroundings that felt both intimate and surreal. The faint scent of Cassius’s cologne mixed with the morning air, stirring a familiar warmth in her chest.

This was it, wasn’t it? She was really here with him.

Alysa’s gaze landed on Cassius, his golden hair tousled, and the strong lines of his jaw softened in sleep. He looked so serene, a stark contrast to the powerful Alpha he was during the day. Her heart swelled. He had become everything she never knew she needed.

How did I get so lucky?

The thought echoed in her mind, a whisper of disbelief mixed with hope. There was something different about Cassius—a depth in his eyes, a strength in his presence—that made her feel safe, cherished.

As she sat up, the sheets slid off her body, revealing her bare skin to the cool air. A shiver raced down her spine, yet the warmth of anticipation quickly replaced it.

What would today hold?

She bit her lip, glancing back at Cassius. Their evening together had changed something deep inside her. It was more than physical; it felt as if they had laid the groundwork for something sacred. And yet, there was still that lingering thrill, that little tingle of nerves dancing at the edge of her consciousness.

A soft groan escaped Cassius, and his eyes fluttered open, revealing a sleepy blue that sent a rush of affection coursing through her. He blinked a few times, his expression shifting from confusion to that lazy, pleased smile that made her heart race.

“Morning, beautiful,” he murmured, stretching like a lion. “Did you sleep well?”

“Better than I have in ages,” she replied, her voice soft but steady. “Last night was…” Words failed her, but she hoped the blush on her cheeks conveyed the rest.

Amazing!

His smile widened, and Alysa felt her insides flutter. Cassius propped himself up on one elbow, his gaze serious yet gentle.

“Alysa, there’s something I need to say.” Her heart raced as she prepared herself, the weight of his words hanging in the air between them.

His blue eyes searched hers, and she could see the weight of his words. “Will you be my mate?”

The question hung in the air, and her heart swelled. His words resonated deep within her, promising a future she had dared to hope for.

Taking a deep breath, Cassius continued, “I don’t want to just call you my mate in name. I want it to mean something. I want you to be my mate in heart and soul.”

His voice was a mixture of confidence and vulnerability, something that set him apart from the Alpha she knew. “You’ve brought light into my life and Aurora’s. I promise to cherish and protect you, to build a life together as a family.”

Tears prickled at the corners of her eyes, and she shook her head in disbelief, feeling overwhelmed by the depth of his sincerity.

This was really happening.

“Cassius, I…” She paused, emotions swirling within her like a tempest. “I love you. I’ve loved you for so long. I can’t imagine a future without you and Aurora. Yes, yes! I want to be your mate!”

His eyes lit up, a mixture of relief and joy dancing across his face. “You really mean it?”

“More than anything,” she affirmed, feeling a weight lift off her chest.

Finally.

Cassius pulled her into a tight embrace, his warmth enveloping her like a cocoon. “You won’t regret it, I promise.” He kissed her, and it felt like a pact sealed with the universe. When they pulled away, Alysa's heart was still racing, the gravity of their commitment settling in.

Once the moment passed, they both exchanged mischievous glances, and Alysa chuckled softly. “We should call Aleksander and tell him.”

Cassius groaned playfully, but there was an undeniable glint of excitement in his eyes. “Fine, but be prepared for his teasing.”

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