Bound by Fate: The Alpha's Luna

Chapter 3: Isabella's Routine

Life in the Moonshadow Tribe had settled into a steady rhythm for Isabella. Every day started the same—up at 6 AM for training, then straight to work. Unlike some of the others, who were paired off with their werewolf mates or engaged in tasks more aligned with their skills, Isabella's responsibilities were varied and demanding, keeping her busy from morning until evening.

From 8 AM to 12 PM, she worked in the tribe's office, handling paperwork, organizing schedules, and assisting with the tribe's day-to-day administration. At 12:30, she would head over to the schoolhouse, where she taught the children until 3 PM. The kids were bright, curious, and full of energy, and teaching them had become one of the highlights of her day. But by 3:30, it was back to the office until 5:30, where she would help finalize the day's work and prepare for the next.

Day in and day out, this was her routine. It was exhausting but familiar, and it kept her mind occupied. Unlike most of the others, Isabella frequently saw the tribe's leaders—the Alpha, Beta, and Gamma—during her workday.

The Alpha, Alaric, was an imposing figure. He stood well over six feet tall, with broad shoulders and a commanding presence that seemed to fill any room he entered. His human form was just as striking as his werewolf form, with piercing blue eyes and hair the color of silver. Every movement he made was fluid and controlled, exuding a quiet power that demanded respect. Despite his fearsome aura, there was a gentleness in the way he interacted with his people, especially the children, that hinted at the depth of his character.

The Beta and Gamma, who worked closely with Alaric, were equally impressive in their own right. The Beta, named Fenrir, was a few inches shorter than Alaric but no less powerful. His dark hair and intense gaze gave him an air of mystery, and Isabella found herself intrigued by him, even though their interactions were strictly professional. The Gamma, Lyra, was a fierce warrior, her movements swift and precise, with a keen mind that matched her physical prowess.

Isabella's duties often brought her into contact with Fenrir and Lyra, assisting them with their daily responsibilities. It was strange, perhaps, that she was entrusted with such important tasks, but she didn't complain. It kept her busy, kept her mind off the things she was trying not to think about—her husband, the life she'd left behind, and the confusing feelings that had begun to stir within her.

One day, as she was finishing up some paperwork in the office, Fenrir, the Beta, walked in. His presence was commanding, and Isabella looked up, surprised to see him there outside of their usual meetings.

"So, Isabella," Fenrir began, his tone calm but with a hint of something else, "it's time for you to visit our counselor."

Isabella furrowed her brow, concern flickering in her eyes. "Oh," she replied, "is everything alright?"

"Everything is fine," Fenrir assured her, his expression neutral. "We just like to make sure everyone is doing well."

Isabella relaxed slightly but still felt an undercurrent of tension. "Except...?" she prompted, sensing there was more to the story.

Fenrir hesitated for a moment before continuing, "Except the Alpha wants the Gamma to join us in the meeting as well."

"Oh," Isabella said, her suspicion deepening. "That's it? What else do you need to tell me?"

Fenrir glanced at her, a flicker of surprise in his eyes. "Why do you ask that?"

Isabella sighed, feeling a strange mixture of anxiety and calm. "Because whenever the Gamma is around, it's like she puts me in this state where I feel so calm. I would say yes to anything. It's almost like she puts a spell on me. So I know you're prepping me for something, Fenrir. I can sense it."

Fenrir's expression softened, a hint of admiration in his gaze. "You're perceptive, Isabella. I can't hide it from you. Yes, there is something, but I promise, when we get there, it will all be revealed."

Isabella studied his face, searching for clues, but Fenrir's calm demeanor gave nothing away. Yet, the fact that both the Beta and Gamma would be present at her counseling session only heightened her curiosity and concern. What could be so important that it required their presence? And why was the Alpha so intent on this meeting?

As they walked together toward the counselor's quarters, Isabella couldn't shake the feeling that this was a turning point—something that would change the course of her life in the tribe. What that change would be, she didn't know, but she resolved to face whatever was coming with strength and honesty.