True Alpha’s Chosen Mate - Chapter 161

The wolf and the lamb had always been like that. At first, there was a clear line between us. But as time goes by and we stayed with each other company, our relationship developed as well. Not as lovers, since we didn’t know those feelings.

Our relationship was more like a family. We only had each other back then. So, there were also times we argued, consoled each other, and just be there for each other. Having a human form and mingling with humans, we sort of adapted those habits and familial relations.

It wasn’t an exaggeration to say we developed this love and hate relationship during the last years of being ‘human’. But after that incident, where the wolf betrayed the lamb, only hate remained.

Still, after my encounter that night with Daniel, I felt a little relieved after expressing my utter hate towards him. He also hated me, obviously, which was also relieving in a way. Why? Because that only meant his disgust towards me would keep him from going berserk and succumbing to his instincts.

That hatred in his heart kept him from doing something stupid. If he didn’t hate me, I was certain Daniel wouldn’t endure his longing for his cursed mate. Plus, his love for his siblings strengthened his resolve.

‘Werewolves’ instincts are always like that,’ I thought, glancing at Anne, the maidservant, who was standing behind me while fixing my hair. ‘Especially towards their mate. It is almost impossible to deny it. But Daniel already refused me as his mate. He just has to continue that and die on his bed.’

The side of my lips curled up, giving me a gentle look as the maid glanced at my reflection in the mirror. She also smiled subtly and blushed. If only she knew I was praying for the crown prince’s death, she wouldn’t blush like that.

“I would like to keep my hair down. I’m already married, so I don’t like to stand out,” I requested in a kind tone, watching her nod in understanding.

“Your Highness, even if you wear a simple dress, you will still stand out.”

“You speak so kindly, Anne.” I chuckled, scratching my cheek lightly. A compliment from Hugo was different from a compliment from others. Hugo’s compliment boost my confidence, but a compliment from others made me a bit shy and uncomfortable.

“Your Highness, even if you are married, it is still good to stand out as His Highness wife,” Anne giggled. She had been my personal maid ever since I arrived in the palace. We’ve grown very close in a short time.

“Is that so?”

“Your Highness, for unmated werewolves, the mating season is an opportunity to meet their mates. The reason, no matter how far they came from, they will travel to the capital just to attend. Married werewolves, on the other hand, still present themselves wearing their best dress to represent their house.”

“Oh… so I have to look beautiful since I am Hugh’s wife?”

“Yes and also, because you’re the Luna of one of the strongest packs in Ronmin.” Anne smiled kindly. “People will surely have their eyes on you not only because you’re a human and His Highness’ wife, but also since you have the authority over the pack.”

“Now I feel pressured, Anne.” I laughed awkwardly.

“Apologies, Your Highness.”

“It’s fine. It’s good that I know these things beforehand.” I shook my head and sighed. “Anyway, why aren’t you attending?”

“I already met my mate, Your Highness.”

“Ohh, I see.” I studied her smile, and she looked happy just by thinking of her husband. “I’m happy for you, Anne.”

Anne continued to arrange my hair. Although she kept it down as requested, she braided a portion of my hair from either side to make half of my hair up.

It was already that time of the year in the empire. The mating season. Days were fleeting and before I knew it, it was already the start of the season. The reason Hugo had been busy since he was helping and he was being watched closely, just in case he sabotage it again.

The season would last for weeks. Tonight would be the start.

As a tradition, there would be a public ball on the first day. It was one of the most crucial days of the season since everyone would gather in the palace. After this, there would be banquets that would be held in different venues and houses. The crowd would be split then and the search would be even harder.

“Your Highness, it’s finished.” I was brought back from my thoughts when Anne spoke. “You are dazzling, Your Highness.”

I pressed my lips into a thin line and smiled subtly. Looking at myself in the mirror gave me confidence in the person looking back at me. Anne was very skilled.

Although she put makeup on my face, it was light. But it was enough to hide whatever was there to hide. She also added some small flowers to my hair.

“Thank you, Anne.” I pivoted on my chair, holding her hand gently. “You did a good job.”

“Not at all, Your Highness. You’re already pretty.” Anne looked down to hide her flustered face. She was a bit timid, reminding me of my old self, who couldn’t take a compliment. Or maybe compliments were not for everyone, since I also felt a bit uncomfortable receiving one.

I chuckled as I gazed at the shut door. Hugo hadn’t come. He told me that if he couldn’t escort me, he would see me in the ball. I understood his disposition, so I didn’t feel bad that he hadn’t arrived yet.

“Anne, I will head to the ball now,” I informed her as I stood from my seat. Anne bowed and followed behind me.

But just as I opened the door, I halted and looked to my side. There, Hugo was leaning against the wall with his arms crossed. Ivo and the twins were with him.

“Hugh?” I called, watching them turn their heads in my direction. “What are you doing outside our room?”

I didn’t get an answer. Hugo was just staring at me, blinking innocently.

“Luna, this is the reason. If we let Alpha Hugo barge into your room, we’re afraid you two wouldn’t come out,” Ivo explained while staring at me. “But you’re really pretty. I can hear my heart pounding against my chest. Is this love?”

“Ivo, my heart also races every time you open your mouth. Is that what you call love?” Kieran planted his palm against his chest. “But why does it feel so negative, though?”

“That’s anxiety.” Cyran laughed while patting his twin brother’s back.

Meanwhile, I shifted my attention back to Hugo. He was still staring in silence, making my brows raise.

“Is there a problem?” I inquired awkwardly.

Hugo pressed his lips and blinked a bit more. “Yes. This mating season. I’d rather stay inside with you. Ivo sabotage the –”

“Hugh.” I leaped closer to his side, holding on to his arm. “You were told to behave. Let’s just leave quickly after we make our appearance, alright?”

“An angel…” I heard Ivo mumble, followed by the twins.

“No wonder Alpha Hugo just wants to hog her to himself.”

Hugo ignored them as if his world right now just revolved around… me. He raised his hand and touched my earlobe.

“So pretty,” he muttered with his eyes on me. “Don’t look at other people later. I’ll lose it.”

When a frown appeared on his face, I couldn’t help but giggle. Sometimes, I just wanted to read his train of thoughts.

“I won’t.” I smiled sweetly as I wrapped my hand around his arm. “Let’s go?”

A shallow breath slipped past his lips as he grumbled. It was obvious Hugo was reluctant to attend. If only it didn’t slip out of my head, I would’ve told him we should’ve stayed behind and kept each other company.

Hugo shouldn’t be the one to be was anxious. It should be me because… Hugo was a werewolf.. And the mating season was for the werewolves to meet their destined one.