Page 2 of Whisper of an Alpha
But as he speaks, a flicker of determination ignites within me. I can’t be a bystander in my own life. I won’t let fear and despair dictate my actions. I need to be strong, for my parents, for myself.
“I won’t sit here and do nothing,” I say, my voice steadier now, a resolve settling in. “If you won’t let me help, then I’ll go alone.”
Lysander’s eyes narrow, and I can see the conflict warring within him. “You don’t understand, Octavia. It’s not safe. The rogues could return, and you’d be alone. You’re not ready for this.”
“Then help me get ready,” I implore, my heart pounding. “Help me learn how to fight. I can’t just wait and hope for the best.”
He studies me, and in that moment, I can see the respect flicker in his gaze. “Alright,” he finally concedes, a reluctant agreement. “I can’t stop you, and I wouldn’t want to. If you’re determined, then I’ll help you prepare. But you must promise me that you’ll listen. You can’t rush into danger without a plan.”
Relief floods me, and I nod, feeling a sense of purpose settle in my chest. “I promise. I’ll do whatever it takes.”
Only I won’t getto practice. I will never fight and get ready for what came for my parents. Three days later, my Alpha has banished me from the only home I’ve known. I have no idea why, but I will find out somehow.
1
ALONE
Octavia
Age 27 - Now
In the quainttown of Sweet River, nestled just outside Shelby, Montana, life buzzed with an unassuming charm. It was a place where the sun rose over the mountains like a golden promise and set in hues of lavender and orange, casting long shadows on the bustling streets below. The Rise N Shine Diner is a beacon of warmth and familiarity, where the aroma of coffee mingles with the sizzle of crisp bacon, and laughter floats through the air like musical notes. It’s here that my story begins, though I often feel like a ghost wandering through a world that hasn’t fully accepted my existence.
Today didn’t seem any different, but as I serve coffee to one of my regulars and friend - Wren Archer, joke with the other waitress - my best friend Poppy, and swap stories with the locals, the door swings open, and in walks three men who I know are going to change everything.
The most handsome man I have ever seen, steps into the diner with an air of confidence that makes my heart race. Hispresence is magnetic, and as he enters, I feel a pull deep within me — a connection that both thrills and terrifies me because I know what this means. The other two men with him, his Beta and Gamma, are equally striking, but it’s the man with emerald eyes who has captured my attention completely. He exudes an aura of strength and authority, the kind that makes my wolf stir restlessly within me.
My wolf is almost screaming,“He’s here. It’s him. MATE!”
As I approach their table, I catch a whiff of their scents—earthy, wild, and unmistakably shifter. My heart is racing, and I can’t help but feel that something monumental is about to unfold. The man’s darkening eyes lock onto mine, and in that moment, the world around us fades away. I can practically hear the growl of his wolf echoing in my mind, claiming me with a ferocity that sends shivers down my spine.
“MINE,” he breathes, his voice low and husky, as if he were speaking to the wolf that lay inside me.
“Mate,” I respond on a whimper as I meet this stranger's gaze.
I can feel it, the mate bond tugging at my very essence, an instant connection that leaves me completely breathless. This man, this Alpha, is my fated mate, and I amhis. The realization hits me like a bolt of lightning, igniting a fire in my soul that had long been dormant. But with that spark of hope comes a wave of fear — fear of what it means to be a mate, and fear of the pack that had abandoned me.
“Hello, I’m Wyatt..Wyatt Saltman. Alpha of a nearby pack. What’s your name, beautiful mate?” This gorgeous man asks me in a deep timber voice.
I whisper, “Octavia, Octavia Bellmont.” I can’t believe this is my reality right now. I have a mate and he’s an alpha. Can this be real? Someone pinch me. No on second thought don’t.
“I was just finishing up a meeting with some friends,” Wyatt says, gesturing vaguely towards the other two men, who have taken a seat beside him.. “But now,” he leans in closer, “I’m really glad I stopped in.”
“I’ve lived in this town my whole life or the majority anyways,” I say as my cheeks heat. “There’s so much history here. Everyone passes through this town at some point.”
He nods, “I can see why. It’s got a charm to it. And you’ve definitely added to it.”
I laugh, “Flattery will get you nowhere, Wyatt.”
“Oh, I’m just getting started,” he replies with a cheeky wink. My wolf is rolling over in my mind like a horny schoolgirl at the gesture.
We talk in between me waiting on customers for hours as my shift comes to an end. I find out he’s thirty-three, learn about him becoming alpha since his father handed over the title when Wyatt turned twenty-five, his weird obsession with organic soaps and the love he has for fishing during the summer months. The more I discover, the more I want to know about him.
“Can I see you again?” he asks, the words tumbling out almost faster than his mouth can move.
“I’d like that,” I reply, trying to hide the smile I know is gracing my lips.
“Tomorrow? I know a great spot by Flathead Lake ,” he mentions, my heart pounding at just thinking of spending more time with him.
