Drystan’s POV
I furrowed my brows, trying to make sense of the details on the paper before me. Beside me lay a stack of documents still waiting to be read.
I paused when my stomach growled loudly, an urgent reminder that I also needed to take care of myself. As soon as I woke up this morning, I headed straight to my office to tackle the paperwork I failed to finish yesterday.
I haven’t drunk water or taken a single bite; I was so focused on the papers I needed to take care of.
With a resigned sigh, I set the papers aside. My hunger is too strong to ignore, and I’m already late for breakfast. Even if I continue working, I know I won’t be able to work effectively if I don’t take a break.
Standing up, I made my way to the Pack’s cafeteria, eager to satisfy my appetite.
Since I arrived late for breakfast, the cafeteria was nearly empty. Remnants of the morning meal cluttered the tables as the Pack Omegas worked diligently to clean up.
I settled at the nearest table that had already been tidied up.
“Alpha, you really should take care of yourself and eat on time,” one of the Pack Omegas said, quickly offering me a plate of steaming food. “We heated it for you so you wouldn’t have to eat cold leftovers.”
I flashed her a grateful smile, appreciating her kindness. “Did everyone eat their breakfast?” I asked, dipping my spoon into the soup to start eating.
Her eyes narrowed slightly as she thought about it carefully. “Yes, Alpha, except for Miss Nova. I haven’t seen her inside the cafeteria.”
My spoon froze mid-air, and I slowly set it back down, a knot tightening in my stomach
“Alpha, is everything okay?” she asked, her voice laced with worry. “I can ask the chef to cook something different for you.”
I stood up abruptly, a sense of urgency nudging me forward. “There’s no need. Prepare an extra meal for Nova, I’m going to eat with her,” I answered decisively before striding out.
As I walked outside, I let out a frustrated breath. Even I felt so hungry. What does Nova think that she would rather starve to death than go and eat breakfast?
Is she starving herself to death just because I forced her to come here with me? I shook my head, annoyance simmering at that thought. I’m not going to let her skip breakfast. I’m going to eat with her and watch her eat all her food.
I stopped in my tracks when a burst of laughter caught my attention. My head snapped to the gardens where the sound came from.
“That’s not a word,” I instantly rushed to follow the sound as soon as I recognized Nova’s voice.
I stepped back and hid behind a tree. As soon as I spotted her in the distance, she sprawled on a blanket under the trees, sharing a picnic with Michael.
“Drystan? What are you doing here?” Nova and Michael stood up abruptly when they saw me.
I smiled at them and waved off my hand dismissively. “I was just walking by. I’m sorry that my cough disturbed you,” I answered, trying to brush off the moment.
“Are you all right? Your cough sounded serious,” Nova asked me worriedly.
Lately, I had been pushing myself too hard, working overtime, skipping meals, forgetting to rest, and it was finally catching up with me, weakening my immune system.
“I think it’s just a cold. I went for a run last night and got caught in the rain,” I said, trying to downplay her worry.
I wasn't lying. Last night, I couldn’t sleep. My wolf was restless, consumed by thoughts of her and Michael. Running was the only way to tire myself out enough to find some rest.
“You should have it checked so the Pack Doctor can provide you with medication,” Nova insisted, her concern evident.
I nodded, ready to agree, but before I could respond, a Pack Omega approached, her head lowered in respect. “Alpha, you received an urgent letter,” she announced, interrupting us.
I took the letter, my curiosity piqued, and opened it. It was an invitation to Ryker’s 4th birthday party, and all Packs were invited.
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