Dark Moon Alpha Twins

Responsibilities

Chapter 12

Aiden POV

Since Aric was gone all week, I spent every waking moment training to be Alpha. I threw myself into the rigorous routines, pushing my body and mind to their limits. The physical exertion and mental focus were exactly what I needed to regain my sense of purpose and clarity.

I avoided Emily as much as possible, though it wasn't easy. Whenever I did see her, tears welled up in her eyes, but strangely, I didn't feel the same pull toward her anymore. The emotions that had once consumed me seemed distant, and I felt more like myself—strong, focused, and determined.

Training became my sanctuary, and I relished the challenge of improving my skills and endurance. I also spent more time with my cousin Conall, whose charm and wit provided a welcome distraction from my inner turmoil. Conall had a way of making everything seem less complicated, and his easygoing nature helped me relax and enjoy the present moment.

One afternoon, after a particularly grueling training session, Conall and I sat on the edge of the training grounds, catching our breath.

"You've been working hard, Aiden," Conall said, handing me a bottle of water. "I can see the difference."

"Thanks," I replied, taking a long drink. "It's been good to focus on something other than... everything else."

Conall nodded, his expression thoughtful. "I know it's been tough, but you're handling it well. The pack needs a strong leader, and you're showing everyone that you're ready."

I looked at him, appreciating his words. "I hope so. I want to be the best Alpha I can be, for the pack and for myself."

"You will be," Conall said confidently.

A voice cut through the woods, making us turn around. "Did you miss me?" Aric yelled, jogging his way toward us.

"Damn, brother, you sure did get a tan," I replied, standing up.

Aric chuckled, stopping in front of us. "Looks like you got more buff."

I shrugged, grinning. "Been working hard. Had to catch up to you somehow."

Conall clapped Aric on the back, a wide smile on his face. "Good to have you back, Aric. How was your trip?"

Aric took a swig from his water bottle, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "It was good, a much-needed break. I actually met a girl. Her name is Sophia."

"What?" I said in disbelief. "You met a girl?"

He ran his hands through his hair, looking a bit sheepish. "Yeah, but she's a human."

"Aric, a human!" I exclaimed, the surprise evident in my voice.

Conall raised an eyebrow, a grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Wow, that's unexpected. How did you meet her?"

Aric sighed, a smile spreading across his face as he remembered. "We met at a bar. I accidentally ran into her and spilled my drink on her dress. I felt so bad and offered to buy her a drink to make up for it. One drink turned into several, and, well, one thing led to another. Next thing I knew, I ended up in her bed."

I shook my head, trying to wrap my mind around it. "A human, Aric. You know how complicated that can get, especially with us being werewolves."

He nodded, his expression turning serious. "I know, but there's something about her that just draws me in. It's different, refreshing. I haven't told her about us yet. But I don't think I will pursue her unless she is my mate."

"Enough about me." Aric's gaze shifted to me, a hint of curiosity in his eyes. "And how are you doing, Aiden? You seem... different."

I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of his scrutiny. "I've been training a lot, trying to focus. I've also been spending more time with Conall. It's helped clear my head."