The Alpha’s Mate Who Cried Wolf novel Chapter 3

Chasing after me, I hear Ryker’s footsteps crunching on the gravel. I run faster but he matches my pace effortlessly. Eventually, when I am out of breath, and my broken ribs cannot take any more, I am left with no choice but to stop and face him.

‘Why are you following me?’ I demand to know.

‘You’re my mate whether we like it or not. I have to follow you. It’s my business to know who did that to your face,’ he says, firmly but calmly.

‘You didn't care about me when you slammed your fist into the wall above my head,’ I yell.

‘Astrid, please, I'm sorry. I never would have done that had I known what you’ve been through. If I knew you were telling the truth about not knowing you’re not human, I would have been more civil.’ He looks at the ground guiltily.

‘You have really lost it now! Not being human? What is that supposed to mean?’

‘How old are you?’ His tone has changed again.

‘I’ll be eighteen in two weeks.’ I try to avoid his eyes.

‘You won't meet your wolf till then. I’ve had mine for four years. I'd like to show you exactly what I mean if you allow me to,’ he says, politely.

My breathing is heavy; I’m trying to stay calm and avoid feeling more upset than I already am.

‘Are you okay?’ He sounds genuinely concerned for my welfare.

‘I don't want a wolf for my birthday and I definitely don’t want to meet your pet wolf, or any wolf!’ I try to walk off but the pain is too great.

‘You’ve met a werewolf before?’ He is surprised.

‘A werewolf? What is wrong with you? There is no such thing as werewolves. I'm talking about wild wolves. When I was little, my mum and I saw a wolf in the woods. Something bad happened and I've been afraid of wolves ever since. I can’t go near pet dogs let alone wolves. If you’ve got a pet wolf, we’re absolutely incompatible.’ I try to walk past him again to no avail.

‘What happened with the wolf?’ He is curious.

‘You're not very good at minding your own business, are you?’ I scold.

‘Not when it involves my mate.’ His reply is quick.

‘You just said I’m a rogue and you wouldn't have a rogue as a mate. So why do you keep referring to me as your mate when you don't even want me?’

Ryker steps closer to me and it’s impossible not to make eye contact with him.

‘You’re so beautiful under all those bruises. All I want to do is lift you up in my arms and carry you home.’ He is heartfelt and genuine. ‘I want you to join my pack. You won't be a rogue anymore. We can be together.’ His tone has dropped an octave again; if I hear any more sincerity from him, I’m going to melt right into this footpath. He slowly reaches his hand out to take mine.

I rescind away from him.

‘No,’ I say.

‘No?’ He is surprised.

‘You’re asking me to be your girlfriend when we only just met. Not only that, you were an absolute jerk to me earlier. You only want to be with me because you feel sorry for me. And you want me to join your cult? Pack? Or whatever you call it. And talk nonsense about werewolves and fairies?’ I yell.

‘That's not what I meant. And I never mentioned fairies. Come back to the diner with me and I’ll explain everything to you. Everything you need to know about us, how it all works and what to expect,’ he tries to persuade me.

‘We’re werewolves?’ I ask him. He stands there and nods.

‘So, you’re telling me, I’m cursed? I’m stuck with you as a mate, and we’re werewolves?’

‘You’re an unappreciative one, now, aren't you?’ He says sternly.

‘Look, Zenith, if you don't mind. I've had a really bad week. I need to get into town, so I'd appreciate it if you would stop following me and just let me be.’

‘What happened to your job at the diner?’ Zenith asks.

‘How do you know I worked there?’

‘I've seen you in there when I drive past on my way to work.’

‘Right.’ I turn to walk away.

‘Wait, take this.’ He hands me his business card.

I take it reading it, Zenith Creations CEO, accompanied with a contact number. I look at Zenith confused.

‘If you need a job, give me a call,’ he says.

‘Thanks, but I'm sure I'll be fine,’ I say, handing the card back.

‘No, keep it. Just in case. I'll see you around, Astrid.’ He gives me a wink before his window ascends, shielding him from view.

‘Hey!’ I yell as he drives off. ‘How did you know my name?’

I stand there watching the car drive further and further away. The diner is up ahead; I don't want to walk past it, but there is no other road to take; the woods are the only other thing around. There are more cars at the diner than there usually would be.