Stuck with the enemy

Chapter 62: Matchmaker Profile

The day began with a plan.

If I was going to get Adeline to trust me enough to grant access to the rogue, I needed to play the game. Alya's advice lingered in my mind like a taunt.

I waited until Adeline seemed relaxed—well, as relaxed as someone like her could be. She was seated at her desk, talking with Amalia about how to impress Derek more. It was the perfect moment to strike.

"Adeline," I began hesitantly, standing near the door.

She glanced at me through the mirror, raising an eyebrow. "What?"

"You know," I started carefully, "you have a way of commanding attention. It's... impressive."

She turned fully toward me, her eyes narrowing.

"You have this... presence. It's hard not to notice you when you walk into a room. You've got this commanding aura that demands respect."

Her lips twitched in a small smile, but her eyes stayed sharp. "Go on."

"And you're stunning, obviously," I added, waving my hand as if it were a given. "But it's more than that. You're driven, you're focused. That's something not many people can claim. It's admirable."

Adeline tilted her head slightly, studying me. "You really think so?"

I nodded, stepping a bit closer. "You and Alpha Derek," I said, gauging her reaction. "You make a striking couple, of course. But..." I paused, pretending to hesitate.

I gave her my most sincere smile.

"But what?" she asked, her tone soft but edged with curiosity.

"I think Alpha Derek sees all of that, but what really makes an impact on him is... kindness," I said carefully. "He's drawn to people who show a softer side, who have a sense of goodness. He admires strength, don't get me wrong, but he adores seeing goodness in people. It's something he values deeply."

Inside, Derya was livid.

"You've got to be kidding me," she snapped.

"Derya," I hissed silently, "not now."

"Not now? Are you hearing yourself? Complimenting her? Telling her how to get close to him? Have you lost your mind?"

"I'm doing what I have to," I replied firmly, though my chest tightened with guilt.

Derya let out an angry huff. "You're making her sound like the perfect mate for him. And you think this is helping us?"

Adeline's brow furrowed as she processed my words. "Kindness? Goodness?"

I nodded. "Yes. Like when someone does something thoughtful without expecting anything in return. When they go out of their way to make others feel seen, respected. It's not about being perfect—it's about being genuine."

She seemed to consider this, her gaze drifting to the floor. "I am kind and good."

"Of course you are," I said quickly. "And you also care about Alpha Derek, don't you? That's where it starts. Show him that side of you. Let him see the Adeline who isn't just strong and determined but also compassionate and thoughtful. You know, make him see you differently."

Her expression softened slightly, curiosity replacing suspicion. "What do you mean?"

"Well," I said, thinking fast, "when he's overwhelmed with work, offer to help in a way that feels personal. Like, if he's been skipping meals, bring him something you know he loves without making a big deal about it. Or, ask him how he's really feeling—about his responsibilities, his pack, everything. He doesn't open up often, but when someone genuinely cares, he notices."