Moonlite Desires

Chapter 9

"Well, aren't you feeling a bit clingy this morning!?" Rose's laughter echoed through the packhouse. Alexander was now lifting Rose in the same manner a groom would carry his bride across the threshold. She had playfully mocked him for trailing her like a lost puppy, and now he was joyfully returning the favor. 

Alexander beamed, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "I can't resist you; you're too charming." He whirled her around, making Rose squeal with glee. 

They walked into the kitchen, where Elara, Emmett, and Loid were already seated, enjoying their breakfast. Elara glanced up and arched an eyebrow, her lips quirking up in amusement. "What's this? Alpha, have you transformed into a prince overnight?" 

Emmett chuckled, shaking his head. "More like a lovesick dog. But it's kind of endearing. If you squint, that is." 

Elara rolled her eyes. "You're just a hater, Em. You're probably annoyed because you're too weak to lift me." 

Emmett gasped. "Who's weak!? If anything, you're just too heavy!" That appeared to be the couple's signal to begin their loud bickering. 

Loid smirked. "Well, as long as he doesn't drop her. How's your morning going, Rose?" 

Rose laughed as Alexander carefully set her down. "It's been quite the show, to say the least. But I'm beginning to think he's trying to keep tabs on me after last night." 

Elara poured a cup of coffee and handed it to Rose. "I'm not surprised. Meeting Maxwell and his family was intense. How do you feel about it now?" Elara quickly remarked before tossing a wooden cutting board at Emmett. 

Rose took a sip of her coffee, her expression contemplative. "It was a lot to absorb, but I think it ultimately went well. There's much to consider, but I'm optimistic. It was a positive first step." 

Alexander wrapped an arm around her waist, giving her a comforting squeeze. "And he adores you; he just dislikes me." 

"He doesn't dislike you; he just needs to get accustomed to you," Rose sighed. 

Alexander raised an eyebrow knowingly at Rose. "And you genuinely believe that?" 

Emmett leaned back in his chair; his expression serious. "Yeah Rose, I think Alpha might be right here. According to Loid, the man has hated Alpha since he was born. Do you think Maxwell will warm up? He seemed quite protective last night." 

Rose sighed, recalling the tension. "I hope so. He has his reasons, I suppose. But it's going to take time for him to realize that Alexander and I are good for each other." 

Loid nodded, his tone encouraging. "You've got us, too. We're all here to support you, no matter what happens." 

Elara smiled, reaching out to touch Rose's hand. "Exactly. We're family, and we stick together. Now, enough of the serious talk. How about we do something fun today? A picnic, perhaps?" 

Rose's eyes brightened. "That sounds amazing. We could all use some time to unwind." 

Alexander beamed. "A picnic it is. Let's gather some food and head out to the meadow." 

The group sprang into action, bustling about to get ready, filling the kitchen with sounds of activity. They packed baskets with an array of sandwiches, fruits, and treats, along with a couple of bottles of wine. The atmosphere was filled with cheerful chatter and laughter, the earlier tensions dissolving away.