“Tomorrow it is, Alpha,” I say with a smile.
My mind races with thoughts of what lay ahead. I can sense Wyatt’s curiosity about me and my past, his concern for me as a lone wolf that I’m sure he can smell on me, and I know his determination to bring me into his pack now that this alpha has found his mate. His wolf is already pushing at the bond to talk to my wolf. I guess they both want to know about my life before hestormed into this diner. Little does he know, I am more than just a lone wolf — I am and always will be a survivor.
Wyatt
I finishthe meeting with my Beta, Dalton, and my Gamma, Harrison, regarding the rogue wolf problem that Alpha Rex of the Howlite Pack has been dealing with. We’ve covered a lot, and I’m ready to unwind, but something shifts in the air as I pull myself from behind the driver’s seat of my Land Rover.
As I swing open the door, an intoxicating scent hits me like a tidal wave — sweet, tart, and undeniably captivating. Cherries. My heart races as the realization washes over me. It’s her scent. I instinctively turn my head to follow the trail, and my wolf surges to the surface, eager to claim what is rightfully ours. My mate is inside.
“Wyatt?” Dalton’s voice breaks through my haze, his brow furrowing in confusion. Harrison follows suit, glancing around as if trying to identify what’s captured my attention so completely.
“Stay cool,” I manage to say, though the urgency in my tone betrays me. “My mate is in there. Don’t blow this for me.” My voice drops to a near whisper, filled with a mix of excitement and trepidation. I’ve waited so long for this moment, and I can’t let anything ruin it.
The two of them exchange glances, their expressions a blend of curiosity and concern. I step closer to the entrance, my heartpounding in my chest like a drum. Through the glass, I finally see her. My fated mate.
She’s the most breathtaking woman I’ve ever laid eyes on. Dark brown hair is pulled to the side in an elegant braid, accentuating her delicate features. Her eyes, sparkling in the sun creeping in through the blinds, seem to hold a universe of secrets and stories. She’s short, but there’s a confidence about her that makes her presence larger than life. I can’t help but envision myself enveloping her in my arms, wanting to protect her from the world.
“Wyatt, you okay?” Dalton asks, pulling me back from my reverie.
I nod, though I’m not entirely sure I’m fine. The moment feels surreal, like I’ve stepped into a dream. My wolf howls within me, urging me to act, to move, to claim what’s ours. I’m rooted to the spot for a moment longer, just drinking in the sight of her. She’s laughing at something her friend is saying, her voice melodic, and that sound alone is enough to send shivers down my spine.
Finally, I force myself to take a step forward, pushing open the door to the diner. The bell above jingles, and the warm, inviting atmosphere washes over me. The smell of food, coffee, and something sweet hangs in the air, but none of it matters as much as the intoxicating scent of my mate that draws me closer to her.
My heart races as I approach the old formica counter where she stands. The moment she looks up, our eyes lock, and time seems to freeze. In that instant, I know. She feels it too. A connection that transcends words, one that pulls at me with a magnetic force.
“Mine,” I manage to say, my voice low and gravely. I slide onto the stool at the counter across from her, forcing myself to breathe.
“Mate,” she replies, a smile breaking across her face. It’s warm, inviting, and I can’t help but smile back, feeling a rush of happiness that I didn’t think was possible.
“Hello, I’m Wyatt..Wyatt Saltman. Alpha of a nearby pack. What’s your name, beautiful mate?” My voice almost a whisper. I can’t help but admire her, the way the dim light reflects in her eyes, the way her smile lights up the space around us.
“Octavia, Octavia Bellmont. What brings you around these parts?” she asks, tilting her head slightly, curiosity shining in her gaze.
“I was just finishing up a meeting with some friends,” I say, gesturing vaguely towards Dalton and Harrison, who have taken a seat at the counter, trying to look inconspicuous. “But now,” I lean in closer, “I’m really glad I stopped in.”
Her cheeks flush a delightful shade of crimson, and I can’t help but feel a surge of pride. Fuck she’s beautiful, and I’m captivated, completely lost in her presence. The world outside fades away as we talk, and every moment feels precious.
“I’ve lived in this town my whole life or the majority anyways,” Octavia shares. “There’s so much history here. Everyone passes through this town at some point.”
I nod, hanging on her every word. “I can see why. It’s got a charm to it. And you’ve definitely added to it.”
She laughs, a sound that resonates deep within me. “Flattery will get you nowhere, Wyatt.”
“Oh, I’m just getting started,” I reply, winking at her. My wolf is purring in delight, and I can’t help but feel a sense of hope blossoming in my chest.
As we talk, the minutes turn into hours. I learn about her dreams of becoming a bookstore owner since she reads more than any other person I know and her love for wildflowers. The more I discover, the more I want to know. She’s passionateand intelligent, and I find myself hanging on her every word, completely entranced.
But there’s a lingering shadow hanging over us, a reminder of the world outside. The rogue wolf problem Alpha Rex is concerned about, the responsibilities of my pack — all of it feels distant, almost forgotten at this moment. Octavia’s laughter and warmth wrap around me like a protective shield, but I know it’s just a matter of time before reality intrudes.
The diner starts to empty as the sun sets, casting a warm glow over everything. It’s just us now — her dark braid, my rugged features, the tension crackling in the air. I want to reach across the counter and take her hand, to solidify this connection between us that feels so profound.
“Can I see you again?” I ask, the words tumbling out before I can second-guess myself.
Octavia’s eyes widen slightly, surprise flickering across her face. “I’d like that,” she replies, the hint of a smile tugging at her full lips.
“Tomorrow? I know a great spot by Flathead Lake ,” I suggest, my heart racing at the thought of spending more time with her.
“Tomorrow it is, Alpha,” she says, her smile brightening even more.