Chapter 8: Meeting with the Elders

Adam's pov

As I stepped out of the cottage, I could see the pack's house in the distance. It was a large, imposing structure, made of stone and wood. I felt a sense of trepidation as I started walking towards it, unsure of what to expect. But I knew that I had to face it, that I had to face my future head on. I couldn't hide away, I couldn't run away.

As I approached the house, I felt the eyes of the pack members on me. I felt like a piece of meat, being inspected by a hungry crowd.

I entered the pack house, the members of the pack bowing their heads in respect as I walked by. I was already used to it but I didn't really like how I felt when everyone bowed to me. I knew that it was because I was the Alpha, but it still felt a little surreal. I was just a normal person, after all. But to them, I was their leader.

I walked through the halls, trying to get my bearings. I had never been here before, but I knew that I had to make a good impression.

"Welcome, Alpha," my beta said, his voice filled with respect. "It's an honor to have you here."

"Thank you," I said, nodding at him. "I appreciate the warm welcome."

"There's something you need to know, Alpha," he said, his tone serious. "You will have to present your mate to the elders in three days time."

The happiness I felt when I finally found my mate was indescribable, although I didn't feel any bond, but I like the way I felt around her

I had been searching for so long, and I had finally found the girl I was meant to be with. She was perfect, everything I had ever wanted. I knew that I would be happy with her, that we would have a bright future together. I couldn't wait to tell the elders about her, to introduce her to my pack. I knew they would be just as happy as I was.

I walked into my room, thinking of her, she was pure, innocent and naive. For some reason, I knew that the elders will talk and they must have something to say about it but I'm the Alpha and what so ever I say counts, I felt tired and I knew the best way to feel relaxed is to have a long relaxing bath.

I started to run the water, adding in some of my favorite bath salts. The scent of lavender filled the air, calming my racing mind. I sank into the warm water, letting it envelop me. I closed my eyes, allowing myself to drift off into a peaceful state of relaxation.

After my bath, I got dressed in a simple T-shirt and jeans. I ran a comb through my hair, taming it into a neat, tidy style. I took a deep breath, trying to steel myself for the meeting with the elders. I knew it would be a challenging experience, but I was determined to face it head on.

I walked down the hallway, my steps steady and confident. I felt ready for whatever the elders would throw at me. I was ready to face whatever came my way.

I stepped into the courtroom, the sound of my footsteps echoing off the marble floor. The room was opulent, with plush carpeting and gold accents throughout. The elders were seated in ornate chairs, made of pure gold. They were all dressed in fine robes, their expressions neutral and unreadable.

I took a seat in the chair designated for me, feeling the weight of their stares. I tried to remain calm, to exude confidence and strength. But inside, I felt like a nervous wreck.

The first topic they brought up was the one I had been dreading: my mate. I knew they would want to know if I had found her, and I took a deep breath before answering. "Yes," I said, my voice steady. "I have found my mate."

I could feel their anticipation, their curiosity. But I knew I couldn't tell them the full truth. I couldn't tell them that my mate hadn't found her wolf yet. I couldn't risk their judgement, their scorn. So I kept my secret to myself, determined to protect her.

To my relief, the elders didn't press me any further about my mate. I knew it was only a matter of time before they would want to know more, but for now, I was safe. Then, I heard one of the elders speak up, their voice calm and measured. "We would love to know more about your mate's pack," they said. "Can you tell us where they are from?"

I felt my heart sink. I knew I couldn't tell them the truth, but I also knew I couldn't lie. I was caught in an impossible situation, and I didn't know what to do.

I stood tall, my expression as neutral as I could make it. I was determined not to let anything show, not my fear, not my worry. I knew this was a crucial moment, and I couldn't let anything slip.

Then, I heard one of the elders speak. "We would like to see your mate, if that is not too much of an inconvenience," they said. I felt my stomach clench, but I forced myself to remain calm. I had to play this carefully. I couldn't risk anything.

I took a deep breath, knowing what I had to do. I looked at the elders, and I gave them a slow, deliberate nod. "Of course," I said, keeping my voice steady. "I will make sure she is here."

I knew this was the only way to keep her safe, but I also knew it was a risk. I had no idea how she would react, how she would feel. I had no idea what would happen, but I knew I had to try. I had to protect her, no matter what.