The Alpha and The Witch.

Chapter One (Ryder)

Since dawn, the relentless rain has been cascading down, it's percussive impact on the cobblestones seeming unusually amplified, echoing through the surroundings with a force nearly forty times greater than usual. I've been standing here, watching as people rush by to escape the rain. For me, rain has never been a problem - after all, it's just water, not acid. 

A certain woman captivated my attention. Her hurried steps were accompanied by the sight of her son walking right beneath her vibrant red coat. Their synchronized struggle to maintain the same pace was a touching scene.

 I couldn't help but notice their stunning matching auburn hair, a color I've always found captivating. My admiration for it may stem from having such an ordinary black hair color myself. I ran a hand through it absentmindedly, "Excuse me, miss." I tapped the woman on the shoulder as she walked past; she turned around startled at first. "Can I help you?" She asked in a suspicious tone. 

Of course, some strange man touching you in the rain may seem sketchy, I extended my hand offering her my purple umbrella. She was hesitating, the rain now soaking my top coat making it's weight heavier than before. She gave me another once-over before making her decision.

"Oh," She blushed. "No I can't," she shook her head. "You're getting soaked!"

I just smiled, "You will be doing me a favor, I hate this umbrella." It was my favorite umbrella.

The woman took it sheepishly, "Thank you so much, I'm Jane and this is Tim, say hello Tim." Her green eyes looked tired, but so appreciative. The boy peeked from under his mother's brown coat, "Hello Tim."

I couldn't help but chuckle at him, so innocent. "Hello Tim, I'm Ryder."

The woman thanked me once more before hurrying off to an appointment she was already late for. I finally made it back to my BMW soaked. I really don't mind though, maybe it's the animal in me.

I started the engine and sped down the narrow streets. The car's tires hummed against the damp cobblestones as I navigated the labyrinth of narrow streets. The air was thick with the scent of wet asphalt and distant car horns. The next few days were going to be so incredibly draining for me. Being the son of James Galtero, the burden of the upcoming charity ball weighed heavily on me. Every passing hour brought me closer to the inevitable storm of fake smiles and forced conversation.

 My jaw clenched as I imagined the endless rounds of meaningless small talk. I could feel the beginnings of a headache forming behind my eyes. I envy the boys who just have to take over 

The thought made me roll my eyes. Ryder Galtero, the great future alpha of London. The title held a hollow weight, a gilded cage. My family, the fifth generation of Pureblood werewolves, carried the burden of leadership. I'd watched my cousins step into their roles with apparent ease, a stark contrast to the turmoil within me. I craved the ordinary, the chance to forge my own path.

I made a hard stop in the horseshoe driveway, the crunch of gravel beneath the tires a jarring interruption to my thoughts. The imposing house loomed ahead, its rust-colored brick bathed in the fading twilight. A chill crept down my spine as I climbed the steps, the weight of expectation growing heavier with each stair.

The house was more than a building; it was a symbol, a legacy. Yet, it was the people within its walls who truly mattered. The grand hall, with its towering ceilings and marble floors, was a mere backdrop to the lives that unfolded within. This place was a stage for family dramas, shared laughter, and unspoken tensions.

I reached for the ornate wolf-shaped knocker, the cool metal a stark contrast to the warmth I craved. The door swung open, revealing Gwendolyn's impatient face.