ALPHA UNIVERSE #6: CRAVING YOU

CHAPTER 42

Mark and Danielle knew there were still people in their lives who deserved to hear about the progress of their relationship.

After their parents had left, the young mates lay sprawled across the bed, making up for lost time. The warmth between them was undeniable, a comfort they had both missed dearly.

Mark recounted his experiences at the company, his voice laced with excitement as he spoke of his achievements. A proud smile was etched onto his face, making Danielle's heart swell. She listened intently, her eyes sparkling as she hung onto every word he spoke.

"Gi accompanied me sometimes too. She'd practically drag me home when I looked like I was about to pass out."

"What?" Danielle's expression turned sharp in an instant.

Mark pressed his lips together before offering a sheepish smile, but Danielle was already narrowing her eyes.

"So you were really overworking yourself?" she asked, crossing her arms.

"Well... I haven't actually fainted—" He cut himself off when her glare intensified. "Yeah, okay. Maybe a little overworked."

Danielle sighed, letting her frown soften just slightly.

"Anyway," Mark continued quickly, changing the subject, "Gi took over some of my shifts. Honestly, it looked like the two of us were training together."

"How many hours have you been sleeping lately?" she asked, suspicion still lingering in her voice.

"At least four?" he replied hesitantly.

"Really, Mark?"

"I'm sorry, I can't help it," he said, shifting onto his side to face her properly. "What about you? How have you been?"

"Mmm. Other than the finals, I'm fine."

"Did you get sick at all?"

"Almost. But it's expected, isn't it? We're young mates, and we've been apart for too long. We're supposed to spend time together to strengthen our bond."

"And how about now?" he asked, brows furrowing.

"Hmm. I think I'm going to get sick."

Mark's frown deepened. "Why?"

Danielle only laughed in response, reaching up to squish his cheeks before pressing a kiss against his pouting lips.

"I feel whole now," she reassured him. "The only thing I'm worried about now is graduation."

"Right, we're graduating soon," Mark groaned, pulling her into a tight hug. "I don't want to work yet! I just wanna stay with you."

"I believe that's called karma," Danielle teased, patting his back.

"Baby!" he whined dramatically, making her chuckle.

[I believe I should marry myself,] Jaemin said, his camera showing him lazily sprawled across his bed during their video call.