Page 14 of The Alpha's Auctioned Pregnant Mate

As they stepped out into the cool night air, Articus made a silent vow. He would come back tomorrow. He would apologize, and if she'd let him, he'd spend as long as it took making it up to her. He'd learn about her world, about the struggles rogues faced. He'd challenge everything he thought he knew.

Climbing into Cassius's car, Articus's mind was made up. No matter what, he had to see her again. He had to make things right.

"I have to apologize," he murmured as Cassius started the engine. "I must see her tomorrow."

As they drove off into the night, Articus's thoughts remained fixed on the beautiful waitress with light brown hair and fierce hazel eyes. Tomorrow couldn't come soon enough.

Chapter 6 - Wren

Wren Knight wiped down the bar counter, her mind still buzzing from the previous day’s events. The argument with that pack wolf had stuck with her longer than she wanted to admit.

Why did he get under my skin so easily?

She shook her head, trying to dismiss the thoughts. It wasn’t like she hadn’t dealt with rude customers before.

She finished cleaning and glanced at the clock. The morning rush had died down, leaving the bar quiet. Mara was busy stocking the shelves, humming a tune under her breath.

Just as Wren was about to take a break, the door swung open, and in walked the last person she expected to see.

Oh damn.

His tall, muscular frame filled the doorway, his white hair and blue eyes making him stand out even more against the dim interior of the bar. Her heart skipped a beat, though she quickly pushed the feeling aside.

What is he doing back here?She wondered, her body tensing as he approached the counter.

“Wren,” he greeted her, his voice deep and smooth. “I wanted to apologize for yesterday.”

She folded her arms, not making it easy for him. “Grudgingly” was the word that best described how she felt about accepting an apology from him. “Apologize? For what, exactly?”

“For what I said about rogue wolves. I spoke out of ignorance,” he admitted, his gaze earnest. “I’m not from aroundhere, and I’ve heard things… things that colored my judgment. I shouldn’t have made assumptions.”

Wren studied him, searching for any sign of insincerity. But all she found was a genuine apology, and something else—a vulnerability she hadn’t noticed before. Her stance softened slightly.

He really doesn’t seem like a bad guy.

“That makes sense,” she said slowly. “You’re a pack wolf, not from around here. You’ve probably heard all sorts of things about us. But just so you know, it’s better to ask before you judge. It could save you from being offensive.”

He nodded, a small smile tugging at his lips. “You’re right. And I’m sorry. I’ll remember that.”

Wren let out a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding.

At least he’s willing to learn.

There was something about him that made her want to lower her guard, though she wasn’t quite ready to do that yet.

“By the way, I didn’t introduce myself yesterday,” he said, extending a hand. “I’m Articus.”

She hesitated for a moment before taking his hand. “Wren,” she replied, though she knew he already knew her name. His grip was firm but gentle, and she found herself surprised by the warmth of his touch.

“Could I… spend some time with you today?” Articus asked, his tone careful, as if he didn’t want to push too far too soon.

She raised an eyebrow. “Maybe after my shift,” she replied, not committing to anything.

“Would it be alright if I spent the shift with you then?” he persisted, his eyes hopeful.

Before Wren could respond, Mara chimed in from across the room. “Just go sit with him, Wren. I can handle things here.”

Wren shot her boss a look, but Mara simply waved her off with a smile. “He’ll pay for taking you out of work for the day, won’t you, handsome?” Mara added with a wink at Articus.

---