ALPHA UNIVERSE #6: CRAVING YOU

CHAPTER 37

Mark humbly admitted his mistake and promised Danielle that he wouldn't be too strict with her again. There were already countless external pressures weighing down on them, and as mates, it was their responsibility to guide each other toward stability and sanity.

Despite the ups and downs, their undeniable chemistry slowly rekindled. Mark's continuous efforts to improve himself and Danielle's willingness to accept his changes brought them back to a comforting rhythm. The exhausting daily schedule remained the same, but the mates worked tirelessly to ensure it wouldn't become a hindrance to their relationship.

Mark also allowed Danielle to visit him at the company, under the condition that she wouldn't do it too often. He feared that if he grew too accustomed to her presence, he would constantly crave it whenever she wasn't there.

By the end of the week, they both felt a sense of ease and managed to squeeze in study sessions for their upcoming finals whenever time allowed.

Now, the mates lay entangled under the blankets, bodies warm against each other as they prepared to drift into slumber. Mark absentmindedly ran his fingers through Danielle's soft hair while she rested comfortably against his bare chest.

"You did so well today," Danielle murmured, her voice laced with sleepiness.

A small smile curled on Mark's lips. "You too. Sleep now; we have an early morning tomorrow."

"Are you sure you can handle the advanced exams?"

"Yeah, I'm ready. You helped me review, after all."

"Will you go to the company afterward?"

"Hmm, no—ah, that should be a surprise," Mark said teasingly. "Anyway, I requested a day off from my dad for the exams. He only gave me three days, though."

"That's okay; at least you can focus on your studies during those days."

"Hmm... But I was also thinking it would be a perfect chance to make up for all the time I lost with you."

Danielle chuckled softly. "That's sweet, Mark, but no lengthy trips, okay? I still have assignments to complete, and so do you."

"Okay."

Silence settled between them as they simply basked in each other's presence. They could hear the soft rhythm of each other's heartbeats, the calming scent of their mate bonds swirling in the cool night air.

The moon was full, casting a silvery glow over the quiet world outside. It had been a long time since they shared such a peaceful moment, and both silently wished that the days ahead would remain just as tranquil.

As scheduled, Mark took his first set of advanced exams. He had personally requested to take them early, knowing that balancing school and work had been taking a toll on his well-being. Mark was intelligent and a model student, so the dean had no issues approving his request.

Meanwhile, Danielle sat patiently on a bench outside the exam hall, waiting for him to finish. Beside her, Chenle chattered animatedly about what he had studied the night before. His enthusiasm was cut short when Haechan approached them, an obvious scowl darkening his features.

Danielle's eyes flickered to the engagement ring glinting on Haechan's left finger as he sat down in front of them.