Chapter 50: Intended Mate
Chapter 50: Intended Mate
(Aria’s POV)
The aroma of expertly prepared werewolf cuisine enveloped me as I sat across from Dominic in the private dining room of Silver Moon. After the tense encounter with Alexander and Claire, I’d expected my appetite to vanish. Instead, I found myself ravenous. “You should try this,” Dominic said, gesturing to a platter of moonberry–glazed venison. “It’s their specialty.”
I took a bite and couldn’t suppress a small moan of appreciation. The rich, gamey flavor complemented by the tart sweetness of moonberries was divine.
“Good?” he asked, a knowing smile playing at the corner of his lips.
I nodded enthusiastically. “It’s incredible.”
My wolf stirred contentedly within me, satisfied by the protein–rich meal. The pregnancy had altered my appetite in unexpected ways, making me crave foods that nourished both me and my growing pup.
“Here, try the silver pine–infused mushrooms,” Dominic suggested, placing some on my plate before I could respond.
His attentiveness surprised me. Alexander had never paid such close attention to my preferences, even before Claire had reentered our lives.
“These are rich in nutrients that werewolves need,” Dominic explained, offering me a marrow–rich bone that wolves particularly favored for strength. “Especially female wolves.”
I wondered if he somehow suspected my pregnancy. But that was impossible – I’d been careful not to show any obvious symptoms around him.
“Their moon–seared lamb shank is mediocre,” Dominic commented after sampling the dish. “I could make a better version at home.”
I nearly choked on my water. “You can cook that?”
The thought of the powerful Alpha King standing over a stove, preparing a complex dish like moon–seared lamb, seemed almost comical.
Dominic’s silver–gray eyes twinkled with amusement. “There’s a lot you don’t know about me yet, little wolf.”
The nickname sent an unexpected warmth through me. My wolf perked up, strangely pleased by it.
After finishing our meal, Dominic leaned back in his chair. “How about we take a walk? There’s a mall nearby. It might help with digestion.”
“I don’t need to go shopping,” I replied, confused by the sudden suggestion.
Dominic’s expression became slightly sheepish. “Actually, I thought we might need to get you some clothes for tomorrow’s visit
to Shadow Pack territory.”
I stared at him, bewildered. “Shadow Pack territory? I thought we were just visiting your grandmother.”
“My grandmother lives in Shadow Pack territory,” he explained, as if this should have been obvious. “Did I forget to mention that?”
“Yes, you did!” I couldn’t believe he’d omitted such a crucial detail. “You didn’t say anything about going to Shadow Pack territory!”
Dominic chuckled, seeming amused by my distress. “Didn’t you agree not to be afraid of being ‘sold to pack hunters‘ by me?”
Iremembered our earlier conversation and narrowed my eyes. “That’s not what I agreed to.”
“My grandmother has been pestering me to bring home a potential mate,” he explained, his powerful Alpha scent betraying no
nervousness. “She’s threatening to travel across territories to ‘tear my ears off‘ if I don’t comply soon.”
“And you chose me for this charade?” I asked incredulously.
“Who better?” He shrugged casually. “You saved her life three years ago. She already likes you.”
1/3
<Chapter 50: Intended Mate
+4 Points)
I remembered the elderly she–wolf I’d helped at the Neutral Grounds during a territory gathering. I’d had no idea she was Eleanor
Blackwood, matriarch of the most powerful werewolf family in the Northern Territory.
“Besides,” Dominic continued, “your circumstances are perfect.”
“My circumstances?” I echoed.
His expression softened slightly. “You’re severing your mate bond with Alexander, and you’re pregnant with his pup. Grandmother will understand why I couldn’t possibly pursue anything serious with you.”
My breath caught in my throat. He knew. Somehow, he knew about my pregnancy.
“How did you-”
“Your scent has changed,” he said softly. “And you’ve been eating foods pregnant she–wolves typically crave.”
“Don’t worry,” he assured me, reaching across the table to pat my hand. “Your secret is safe with me. And it makes our charade more convincing. Grandmother will be sympathetic but ultimately disapproving of you as my mate.”
“What are you doing?” I whispered, startled.
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