The Mates of Monsters novel Chapter 7

I say one last goodbye to Lindsey and my Dad before my mother takes me back to the guest house. We walk in silence until our time together begins to run low. She starts talking about responsibilities and communication; how important it is to be patient with him, to give him a chance. "Just promise me you'll try," she says. "Don't give up right away. Just try to open yourself to the idea of it."

Usually I have plenty to say in response to my mother's advice, but this time I have no desire to speak. When we reach the guest house, she takes my hands and bundles them together between her own.

"You're a strong girl, Brigie, okay? Promise me you'll be okay."

I swallow and say, "I'll be okay. You know I will."

"I know," she murmurs and brings her arms around me. "And you'll come back soon, won't you?"

"I will, Mom. I'm sure I'll need to get away at some point."

My mother pulls back and smiles at me. She tucks a stray hair behind my ear. "Okay. You go on then. And don't worry about your things. The Alpha told me he'll have people come by in the morning for everything."

I break away and take a few steps toward the door before glancing back. "I'll see you later," I say.

She nods and covers her mouth with the side of her fist. With her free hand, she waves. I hurry inside before tears begin to trickle down my cheeks. I don't want her to think that I'm upset to leave her; I have to let her believe that I'll be okay.

I fall closed with the door and face the inside of the guest house, knowing he's here. I squeeze my eyes shut as if all the welling in my eyes will drain back. I refuse to seem weak. I refuse to seem weak. I cannot look weak.

"You're back."

I open my eyes and see the Alpha walking down the last few steps of the staircase.