On Tuesday, I woke up early, knowing today was the day. In just a few hours, Ashley would arrive. I had promised her brunch and a tour of our pack in our wolf forms. She was eager to meet Void, and I couldn't wait to see her wolf, Bez. They had left the capital three days ago and should reach us by 8 this morning.
After getting ready, I headed downstairs and told my mom I'd skip breakfast since I had brunch plans with Ashley. I wore a light blue blouse tucked into a pencil skirt that stopped just below my knees, featuring a small slit that reached mid-thigh. My black heels clicked against the floor as I walked out, aiming for a look that was both professional and fierce.
I made my way to my office to check on the final preparations. I had set up an extra desk next to mine, complete with a desktop and laptop for Ashley, just in case she didn't bring her own. Glancing at my watch, I saw it was 7:50. I took a deep breath to steady my nerves.
A knock at the door interrupted my thoughts. It was Clark. "Hey, they're at the border. You ready?" he asked. I took one last look around the office before following him outside, excitement and anticipation buzzing in the air.
We descended the staircase and headed toward the entrance, spotting three large SUVs making their way up the path. I was a bundle of nerves. Meeting another female beta felt like a dream come true. It's rare to see women in such roles—betas are expected to be strong enough to protect their alphas and having a woman in that position commands immense respect. Ashley, as the beta of betas tasked with protecting the king, was someone I deeply admired. I couldn't help but admit to having a bit of a crush on this powerful woman.
As the doors of the SUVs opened, a group of men stepped out—her guards. One of them moved to the second SUV and opened the door. My heart raced when I saw a foot clad in a combat boot step out. That's so me; I'd wear combat boots anywhere! Suddenly, I wished I had chosen them instead of my heels.
I stood patiently with my hands clasped behind my back, Clark beside me grinning as we awaited our guests. A hand reached out to hold the SUV door, revealing a gold ring adorned with the king's emblem—the unmistakable mark of the beta of betas. My heart raced with admiration.
As the guards stepped back, bowing their heads to clear a path from the SUV to Clark and me, I could hardly contain my excitement. Finally, a head emerged, and I nearly choked on my own breath.
Ashli POV
It's been several years since my mate and best friend passed away. I found myself in the role of a replacement beta for the king after his previous beta lost his life during a rogue war. As a rookie, I saw this as an opportunity to gain experience. However, the king recognized my potential and, after three years, decided to let me keep the position, making me the beta of betas.
For the next decade, I immersed myself in my work, withdrawing from society and focusing all my energy on protecting my king and our were-kingdom. I was content—lonely, yes, but still content. That is, until I received an email from Alpha Greg and his beta, Jackson, asking for assistance. They were struggling to modernize their pack, and I seized this opportunity to distract myself from the emptiness in my heart.
Through email, I was introduced to Addison, their next beta. She quickly captured my attention with her sharp mind and quick wit. For a 16-year-old, she was impressively mature. Over the next two years, I worked closely with her, and our professional relationship blossomed into a genuine friendship. We chatted daily on Google Chat and through texts, even on our days off. She shared her ambitions to become a beta and discussed ideas for her pack. Her passion was contagious, and I found myself falling in love with her vision for her community.
She spoke fondly of her wolf and her family, but when I asked about her mate, she revealed he had rejected her and preferred not to discuss it further. My heart ached for her, and I wanted to confront that jerk for hurting her. Our conversations ranged from the serious to the trivial; we bonded over favorite foods and shared laughter. I even sent her packages filled with my favorite treats for her to taste-test. Her quirky remarks about my food choices sent me soaring; I had never talked with anyone who could volley back with such wit.
On her 18th birthday, I sent her a box filled with everything blue—from clothing to food to jewelry. It felt like a small token of the growing affection I had for her, one that I could no longer ignore.
When her alpha invited me to his son's alpha ceremony and asked if I could come to train the new beta, I was over the moon. I shared the news with my king, and he was genuinely excited for me. "I haven't seen you this cheerful since your mate died," he remarked, noting how Addison had positively impacted my life. With his blessing, I was ready to travel to the Blood Moon pack in a heartbeat.
As my SUV approached the Blood Moon pack house, I spotted two figures at the front. The alpha radiated his presence, and next to him stood a woman in a light blue blouse. My heart raced—I recognized that blouse instantly; it was one I had given her. A smile spread across my face. Goddess, she was stunning. Her skirt hugged her curves perfectly, and she stood with her hands clasped behind her back, exuding professionalism. Even in her outfit, she radiated a warrior-like presence—absolutely breathtaking.
I watched as she adjusted her blouse just as my guard opened my door. I stepped out slowly, allowing everyone a moment to take me in. My gaze was fixed on her face, completely captivated, as I unintentionally overlooked the alpha standing beside her.
