My nemesis turns out to be my mate

As soon as I stepped into the kitchen, everything came to a standstill. In the blink of an eye, everyone rushed toward me, laughter bubbling up like a joyful fountain. I couldn't believe how genuinely thrilled they were for me; it tugged at my heartstrings. "What's he like?" Patricia asked, her curiosity sparkling in her eyes. I let out a shy giggle, and the room erupted in squeals of delight, even the head chef beamed at me. "Well, he's sweet," I replied, and that was all it took. They all swooned, showering me with compliments about my luck. I had no idea I had such a supportive crowd behind me. We chatted for a while, basking in the warmth of friendship before I made my way to my room.

As I walked down the hallway, I was lost in thought when suddenly, a hand shot out and grabbed me. Startled, I used all my strength to shake it off. "Whoa, you're strong!" It was Arnold. What was going on? "Is something wrong with you?" I asked, confusion lacing my voice, but he just chuckled. "You see, Felicity, I really like you," he said, stepping closer. I stood my ground, feeling Jane stir within me. "You should really let go of that idea," I warned him, our faces inches apart, my nails already sharpening in response to the tension. He laughed again, "You two are so similar, but that's what makes you unique. What do you think will happen to Drew if I take you out?"

Now it was my turn to laugh, and his expression shifted to one of surprise. "I'm pretty sure you can't take Drew in a fight, so what makes you think you can take me on?" I challenged, noticing his arrogant grin. I leaned in closer, ready to deliver the shocker. "In the entire Crimson Pack, I can confidently say I'm the only one who can go toe-to-toe with Drew, so don't push your luck."

He stepped back from me, and I could feel the shift within me, teetering on the edge of transformation. I was certain my eyes had turned an inky black, the same shade as Jane's, a color that has made many tremble in fear.

My father was no mere weakling; he could stand toe-to-toe with the alpha. I remember it vividly, and I often ponder how he met his end.

I spun around, but a nagging thought clung to me—how did I not notice him approaching? I need to talk to Drew about this; it feels deeper than just an inferiority complex—there's an obsession brewing with Drew at its center.

As I entered the room, I found Drew already lost in thought, gazing out the window. What was going on in his mind? Hadn't he felt my presence? "Drew?" His gaze snapped back to me, and I caught a glimpse of pain in his eyes. I could sense his emotions swirling—love, guilt, regret—but I was at a loss for what to do with them. I wanted to reach out and comfort him, but the urge faded as quickly as it came, leaving only his smile in its wake.

"I apologize; it seems you had a wonderful time." I chuckle, "I truly did, they were all over me," which made him giggle too. Should I share my encounter with Arnold? Given his earlier demeanor, I'm starting to hesitate.

I let out a sigh; he deserves to know. "What's wrong?" he asks, stepping closer. "I ran into Arnold, and he said some ridiculous things." His eyes widened with fury. "What did he say to you?" I could sense a dangerous energy radiating from him, making me gulp nervously before I replied, "He said he really likes me." In an instant, Drew stormed out.

I called after him, desperate to avoid any trouble, but I needed to tell him what Arnold had said. I quickened my steps to catch up, saying, "Just calm down, okay?" He spun around to face me. "If I don't confront him, he won't back off." I nodded in understanding, I wonder what will happen if I tell him the other thing Arnold said about taking me out, "I know, but not tonight; it's late, please." He hissed and turned away, but then paused, saying, "Don't ever talk to him again." I was about to respond when, without warning, he lifted me into his arms, and we headed into the room.

I have to admit, I'm utterly exhausted. We both lay on the bed, and he murmured, "I'll talk to him and probably send him home before either of us does something we'll regret." He pressed a gentle kiss on my forehead, and I felt a comforting warmth in his embrace—a sensation I haven't experienced in years.

"I didn't even notice him coming," I confessed to Drew, who fell silent for a moment before replying, "There are techniques to mask your scent, but only a few know them." My curiosity was instantly ignited; there's so much I still have to learn, from the mark of infinity to this new revelation. "I want to learn how to do that too," I said eagerly. He chuckled softly, "Alright, mate, I'll teach you, but first, you need to get some sleep." I smiled, and in an instant, I was drifting off.