Mysterious mate to the lycan prince (Addison and Max) novel Chapter 9

**The Crimson Oath — Bryan Foster**

**Chapter 9**

**Max**

The moment Koa’s growl reverberated through me, a palpable shift occurred in the atmosphere. Those around us seemed to shrink back, instinctively aware of the primal energy that surged forth, and conversations abruptly ceased, leaving an eerie silence in their wake.

Tyler’s eyebrows shot up, a mixture of surprise and concern etched across his face. I could hardly believe my own reaction; it was as if Koa had taken the reins of my body without warning.

Clearing his throat, Tyler stepped closer, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. “Hey, Koa, it’s been a while since we had a proper chat. How about you dial it down a notch? I’m not going after Addison, I promise. I’ve figured out that you don’t want me to.”

At his words, I felt Koa’s tension begin to ease, and I ceased my growling. It took a moment for me to regain my composure, the remnants of that sudden fury still buzzing in my veins. Why had Koa surged at that exact moment? He was a wolf of pride and arrogance, rarely making himself known unless provoked or if the situation warranted his attention. But with Addison, it was different. I understood now how fiercely protective Koa felt about her.

As I surveyed the surroundings, I noticed the onlookers whispering among themselves, their eyes darting in my direction.

“What was that intense presence just now when he growled?” one murmured, eyes wide with fear.

“I have no idea, but I wouldn’t want to be on his bad side,” another replied, glancing nervously at me.

Their hushed speculations sent a ripple of anxiety through Tyler and me. The fear of being exposed loomed over us; no wolf wielded power over another unless they were of royal blood.

It didn’t matter what they said; I just wanted to escape the spotlight and retreat to the sanctuary of our residence.

In Raven Mist, we resided in a luxurious apartment, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the town. Once I was alone in my bedroom, I sank heavily into my chair, striving to reach out to Koa.

“Koa?” I called softly, my voice barely above a whisper.

Silence greeted me, stretching out like an eternity.

“Koa, come on. I know you’re there. You can hear me,” I urged, frustration creeping in.

“And yet, I find no reason to respond,” Koa retorted, his tone dripping with arrogance.

I couldn’t help but roll my eyes. I had grown so accustomed to his haughty demeanor that it hardly fazed me anymore. There had been a time when Koa and I were at odds, two proud beings clashing for supremacy. I was a prince, looking down on everyone, and he was my reflection—equally proud. Our battle for dominance had led to countless conflicts until we finally learned to coexist in a delicate balance.

Most of the time, I held the upper hand, which meant Koa rarely spoke unless it was crucial. It was his way of asserting his importance, and I had come to accept that.

“Why did you surge when Tyler mentioned Addison?” I pressed, genuinely curious.

“I simply don’t want him getting too close to her, at least not right now,” Koa replied, his tone serious.

Before I could formulate a response, my phone buzzed, and my heart raced at the sight of Addison’s name flashing on the screen. The anticipation electrified the air, and I could sense Koa’s interest piquing as well.

Taking a deep breath to steady myself, I answered the call.

“It’s way past ten minutes, you know?” I teased, trying to sound nonchalant.

“Give me a break! I had so much to explain when I got home,” she replied, her voice light and animated.

“Explain? Why would you need to explain anything? Your parents knew you were at school to sign up for the competition,” I questioned, genuinely confused.

“Oh, it’s complicated. Speaking of family, what’s the name of your pack?” she inquired, her curiosity evident.

My heart skipped a beat as I scrambled for an answer. “Green Silver Pack,” I replied, hoping it sounded convincing.

“Liar,” Koa’s voice echoed in my mind, a smirk evident in his tone.

“That’s an interesting name,” Addison remarked. “I’ve never heard of it before.”

“Yeah…” I forced a chuckle, trying to mask my anxiety.

“But it sounds awesome!” she exclaimed, her enthusiasm palpable.

The conversation flowed effortlessly, and I lost track of time, completely absorbed in our exchange. Two hours had slipped by without me even realizing it.

“I have to study now,” she finally said, her voice tinged with reluctance.

“Murphy informs me that everything is in order at Blackbolt High,” he stated, his voice authoritative.

“That’s correct,” I affirmed, trying to keep my voice steady.

“And there are no other schools left to explore, as you’ve covered them all?” he continued, his tone sharp.

“That is also correct,” I replied, my heart racing.

“Then wrap this up as quickly as possible. You and Tyler must find your mates among these girls. I expect great things from both of you, especially you,” he emphasized, the weight of his expectations settling heavily on my shoulders.

His words felt like a looming cloud of pressure. My father always demanded perfection, and this time was no different.

“I understand that this competition is set to last for two months, but let’s shorten it to one. We can’t afford to waste time,” he commanded.

“As you wish, Your Majesty,” I replied, swallowing hard.

“Those keeping an eye on you have mentioned that you’ve been spending time with one of the girls at Blackbolt High. Remember what I told you: your mate must be the strongest of them all. I won’t allow you to settle for anything less. I’m counting on you not to disappoint me,” he warned, his voice unwavering.

“I assure you, I’ll do my best,” I promised, feeling the pressure mount.

“Excellent,” he concluded, and with that, the call ended abruptly. A heavy sigh of relief escaped my lips as I tossed my phone aside. My father’s demands were relentless, and I had never once failed him. It was this unwavering belief in me that felt suffocating at times, yet I thrived on the challenge, always striving to rise above.

“Koa, you heard my father,” I said, my voice steady.

“Of course I did, and I’m ready,” Koa replied, his tone resolute.

I furrowed my brow, sensing a hint of uncertainty. “Then why do I sense doubt in you?”

“I couldn’t really sense Addison’s wolf, and that only makes her more intriguing to me,” Koa admitted, his interest piqued.

“Now that you mention it, you’re right. Next time I see her, I’ll hold her hand and see what happens,” I mused, a sense of anticipation bubbling within me.