The atmosphere in the room remained tense, the silence almost palpable. Thalia’s heart raced, unsure of what to expect next. She glanced around at the pack, each member wearing an expression of shock and curiosity.
Xander, still seated, seemed deep in thought. The weight of his unexpected apology hung in the air, creating a mix of confusion and intrigue among the pack. Thalia knew this moment would be pivotal, not just for her relationship with Xander, but for the dynamics within the entire pack.
Just as she was about to speak again, the Alpha said, "Well, that's enough pack drama, Everyone hurry with breakfast, time to start the day. Let's go."
The pack began to disperse, murmuring among themselves as they moved about the dining area. Thalia and Xander exchanged a glance, knowing that while the immediate tension had been diffused, the underlying issues were far from resolved.
Everyone left, leaving Thalia and Xander alone. Thalia broke the silence, "I apologize for raising my voice at you like that, but that was no way to speak to anyone you call family."
"Remember when you told me there is a different, softer side to you? What I witnessed today was not it. You are supposed to be showing me there's more to you than this. Family, or people we consider like family, is important, Xander. Yes, families have squabbles, but that does not mean it is to be met with iciness."
Xander pleaded his case and apologized again, "It was hard to just stand there and let their opinions about me go on. They had no right to say any of that. I couldn't take it."
Thalia nodded with understanding, "I know, and that was wrong on their part too. But you, as the next heir, have to show restraint when it comes to that. Authority but emotional restraint."
Thalia, feeling a mix of emotions, approached Xander with a newfound sense of understanding. She gently placed a kiss on his cheek, her eyes meeting his as she whispered, "I know there's a good, sweet guy in there somewhere."
Xander, taken aback by the gesture, felt a warmth spread through him. He watched as Thalia turned and walked away, her words lingering in the air, leaving him with a sense of hope and a hint of a smile on his lips.
YOU ARE READING
"Heart of Stone, Heart of Gold "
Lupi mannari*Prologue* --- The moon hung high in the night sky, casting an eerie glow over the dense forest. The pack gathered in a clearing, their eyes fixed on the imposing figure of Alpha Blackthorn. He stood tall, his presence commanding respect and loyalty...
