The Alpha’s Mate

As the group embarked on their hiking and camping adventure in the Santa Monica mountains, the excitement bubbled within them like a shaken soda bottle waiting to burst. The crisp morning air carried the promise of adventure as they drove through winding roads flanked by vibrant wildflowers and towering trees.

Upon reaching their destination, a secluded spot nestled amidst the rolling hills, they found a perfect clearing to park the car. Eager to begin their escapade, they unloaded their gear-tents, sleeping bags, cooking utensils, and provisions-all while taking in the breathtaking panoramic view that stretched out before them.

With enthusiasm fueling their steps, they commenced their ascent into the heart of the mountains. The trail, flanked by lush foliage and occasional glimpses of wildlife, guided them upwards. The sun played hide-and-seek with the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the earthy path that crunched softly beneath their feet.

As they hiked, the mountains unveiled their grandeur. Towering cliffs stood sentinel over verdant valleys, the play of light and shade painting a mesmerizing portrait of nature’s raw beauty. A gentle breeze carried the scent of pine, intermingled with the distant murmur of a nearby river-a siren call promising refreshment.

Finding a serene spot beside a shimmering lake, the group decided it was the perfect place to set up camp. The girls swiftly went about organizing the tents, laying out sleeping bags, and setting up a makeshift kitchen area. Meanwhile, the boys eagerly ventured to the lake’s edge armed with fishing rods, aiming to hook up some dinner.

With practised precision, the boys cast their lines, while others scoured the nearby woods for dry wood to fuel their impending bonfire. Laughter echoed as they worked together, forging memories as they collected firewood and shared tales.

As the girls busied themselves preparing a hearty lunch, slicing vegetables and setting up the portable stove, the boys returned triumphant with a catch of fish. They joined the girls in the camp kitchen, lending a hand in cleaning and seasoning the fish while swapping stories of their adventure by the lake.

With the sun casting a warm, golden glow over the mountains, the group finished their delicious lunch, leaving the campsite spotless as they diligently cleaned and washed their utensils, ensuring everything was ready for dinner. The laughter and camaraderie continued as they gathered inside Oliver and Elena’s camp, creating a cosy atmosphere filled with the chatter of friends enjoying each other’s company.

The afternoon lazily drifted away as the group engaged in card games shared stories, and simply basked in the serene ambience of the mountains. The canvas of the sky gradually transformed, painting hues of pink and orange as the sun began its descent. With the camp illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns, they decided it was the perfect time for nature observation and exploration.

Exiting the camp, they wandered into the surrounding wilderness, the crunch of leaves beneath their feet serenading their journey. The air carried the sweet scent of pine, and the distant murmur of the river provided a soothing backdrop to their adventure. Nature unfolded before them like a living tapestry.

They observed the landscape from various points of view, standing on rocky outcrops and gazing out across the valleys. The group marvelled at the play of shadows and the serene beauty of the mountains. As they strolled through the wilderness, they encountered pockets of edible fruits, plucking them and storing them in their backpacks for later.

Photographs captured candid moments of joy, with the backdrop of majestic mountains and the setting sun casting long shadows on the landscape. The group, enchanted by the beauty around them, couldn’t help but feel a profound connection to the natural world.

As the sun dipped lower, bathing the mountains in a warm glow, Elena, walking beside Oliver, couldn’t help but voice her curiosity about the absence of wildlife. “It’s been two hours since we’ve been exploring the mountain, but I haven’t seen any wild animals lurking around us. Why is that?” she asked, genuine puzzlement in her eyes.

Oliver and the others were well aware that the wild animals were purposefully keeping their distance. This wasn’t due to mere chance but because they were werewolves, and wild animals could sense their distinctive aura. Understanding the potential fear it might instill in Elena, they chose not to divulge this information. They were cautious, knowing that revealing their supernatural nature might cause her to panic and distance herself from the group.

In fact, the group, despite their natural inclination to run freely in their wolf forms and engage in a nocturnal hunt, decided against it. The fear of unintentionally revealing their shapeshifting abilities to Elena held them back. Shifting from human to wolf form or vice versa could pose a problem if witnessed by her. To avoid any complications, they exercised self-control and postponed their wolf run until the following morning when Elena would be peacefully asleep in her tent.

Oliver, quick on his feet, responded with a playful smirk, “That’s because I have someone supervising the area for wild animals, all for your protection.” His remark earned him a playful punch from Elena, and the group chuckled at the banter.Nôvel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive © material.

Sky, ever the knowledgeable one, joined in, “I think it might have something to do with the plants around here. I read that certain herbs can act as natural scent deterrents for wildlife.” Reece nodded in agreement, adding, “Yeah, I heard that the people who take care of this area have planted certain herbs that release scents animals find repulsive, all for our safety. We might have brushed against them without even realizing it.”

Elena nodded in understanding, and Oliver, along with the others, released an inaudible breath, relieved that Elena had fallen for their explanation and hadn’t suspected anything. However, they were well aware that they couldn’t keep their supernatural secret hidden for much longer.

Piru, who had recently completed the mating process with Reece and shared a mental link with their pack, voiced the concern, “Until when are you going to hide our species from her? You have to tell her about us eventually. When do you plan on doing that?”

Oliver considered the question, responding, “I’ll reveal our true nature when I’m sure she’s head over heels for me.”

Milley suggested an alternative approach, “Do you want me to bring up the topic of werewolves with her to gauge her beliefs? It might help us decide when to disclose our secret.”

Cassie interjected, “I don’t think that’s a good idea. We know how practical she is.”

“I agree with her,” Oliver affirmed, closing the conversation within their pack link.

Nick, gazing at Elena chatting happily with Oliver ahead of them, sighed, “It’s going to be a long journey ahead.”

“Indeed,” Oliver concurred with a smile, engrossed in Elena’s story about a recent debate she had in college.