THE ALPHA'S SECRET

Tender Care

The morning light streamed through the bedroom window, casting a soft glow on the walls. Elena stirred awake, feeling the warmth of Lucas's body next to hers. She turned to find him still sleeping, his breathing slightly labored. Concern flickered in her heart as she noticed the faint sheen of sweat on his forehead.

"Lucas?" she whispered, gently shaking his shoulder. "Are you okay?"

Lucas groaned, his eyes fluttering open. "Just feeling a little off," he muttered, his voice hoarse.

Elena placed a hand on his forehead, frowning. "You're burning up. I think you have a fever."

Lucas sighed, attempting to sit up but falling back against the pillows. "It's nothing. I'll be fine."

Elena shook her head, determination setting in. "You're not going anywhere. Today, you're resting, and I'm taking care of you."

Elena bustled around the cabin, gathering supplies to help Lucas feel better. She brewed a pot of herbal tea, its soothing aroma filling the room, and brought a cold compress for his forehead.

Returning to the bedroom, she found Lucas attempting to get up again. "Nope, back to bed," she commanded, gently pushing him down. "You're not going anywhere until you're better."

Lucas grumbled but complied, a small smile playing on his lips. "You're bossy when you're worried."

Elena chuckled, placing the cold compress on his forehead. "And you're a baby when you're sick."

He looked up at her with mock indignation. "I am not a baby."

Elena leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to his forehead. "Of course not. You're my strong, fearless alpha who just happens to get a little whiny when he's under the weather."

As the day wore on, Elena remained by Lucas's side, ensuring he stayed comfortable. She brought him soup, fluffed his pillows, and read to him from one of his favorite books. The atmosphere was cozy and intimate, filled with soft laughter and tender moments.

"You're really enjoying this, aren't you?" Lucas teased, his eyes twinkling despite his illness.

Elena smirked, handing him another cup of tea. "Maybe just a little. It's nice to see you let your guard down for once."

Lucas sipped the tea, warmth spreading through him. "I don't know what I'd do without you, Elena."

She brushed a lock of hair from his forehead, her touch gentle. "You don't have to worry about that because I'm not going anywhere."

As evening fell, Lucas's fever began to break, his color returning to normal. Elena sat beside him, their hands entwined. The fire crackled in the hearth, casting a warm glow over the room.

"Feeling better?" she asked, her eyes full of concern and love.

Lucas nodded, squeezing her hand. "Much better. Thanks to you."

Elena smiled, leaning in to kiss him. "Just doing my job as your mate."

Lucas pulled her closer, their foreheads touching. "You're more than just my mate, Elena. You're my everything."

Elena's heart swelled with emotion. "And you're mine, Lucas. Always."

The next morning, Lucas woke feeling much stronger. He found Elena in the kitchen, humming softly as she prepared breakfast. He watched her for a moment, his heart overflowing with love and gratitude.

"Good morning," he said, his voice still a bit rough but much stronger.

Elena turned, her face lighting up with a smile. "Good morning. How are you feeling?"

"Better," Lucas replied, walking over to wrap his arms around her. "Thanks to you."

Elena leaned into his embrace, sighing contentedly. "I'm glad. I was worried."

Lucas kissed the top of her head. "I know. And I'm grateful for everything you did."

They ate breakfast together, talking about their plans for the day. As they sat at the table, Elena couldn't help but envision their future. She saw a home filled with love and laughter, children running around, and the two of them growing old together.

"Lucas," she said softly, taking his hand. "I can't wait to start our life together. To build our future."

Lucas looked at her, his eyes filled with the same dreams. "Me too, Elena. And no matter what comes our way, we'll face it together."

Elena smiled, feeling a sense of peace and contentment. "Always together."

Later that day, they took a walk through the forest, enjoying the fresh air and the beauty of nature. The sun was setting, casting a golden light over the trees and creating a magical atmosphere.

They stopped by the lake, watching the water ripple gently in the breeze. Lucas turned to Elena, his expression serious yet filled with love.

"Elena, I want you to know that no matter what happens, you are my priority. Our future, our family, everything."

Elena felt tears prick her eyes, overwhelmed by the depth of his love. "And you are mine, Lucas. I promise to always stand by your side, to support you, and to love you with all my heart."

Lucas pulled her into his arms, their hearts beating in sync. "Together, we can overcome anything."

As the sun dipped below the horizon, they stood there, wrapped in each other's embrace, ready to face whatever the future held. Their love was their strength, their bond unbreakable. And together, they knew they could create a life filled with endless love and happiness.

The promise of tomorrow was bright, and with Lucas by her side, Elena knew they could conquer anything. Their story was far from over, and she couldn't wait to see where it would take them next.