Destined (Book 1)

Chapter 8

The scalding water cascades down my back allowing my tense muscles to relax. Since the rogue attack I have been training with Theo, and let's just say that it's fantastic that Derek isn't supervising it. If he saw the way that Theo throws or tackles me to the ground his wolf would flip shit whether he likes it or not. Training isn't that bad because I come from a Beta family. My dad made sure that I entered training as soon as I was able to walk. The only down side to my training is that it's a lot more advanced. I know enough to defend myself, but this is some high level shit.

Training has also been taking up most of my schedule. It's been days where Robin literally has to use her Luna voice in order for Theo to allow me to leave early – hell I'm surprised he even let me leave early today. Tonight we are all going to the Season Ball held at Castleroy. I'm not too excited about it because I know that Cody and his new mate will be there, but I guess I should find some solstice in the fact that mine will be there as well? I mean sure Derek and I aren't going as dates, or even acknowledging each other as mates, but that's better than nothing right? At least he'll be in the same vicinity and I honestly find some comfort in that.

The water soon starts turning cold so I hop out and wrap myself in the plush white towel and begin towel drying my hair. Robin informed that she will be at the salon and spa all day preparing for tonight and that I needed to meet her at Magda's to get ready. She is the only reason why I'm not a ball of nerves today. I know that she'll be by my side all night and make sure that I steer clear of Cody. I pull on a pair of black lace cheeksters and throw on a pair of black tights and a loose fitting dark gray tank top. I curse whoever invented bras. I hate those stupid things with a passion. Since Robin is out for the day I will be maintaining her duties for the morning. I slip into my black UGG boots and exit my bedroom. Someone clears their throat before I make it three steps down the hallway. I turn on my heel and a knot is lodged in my throat. Derek is standing there in a light gray long sleeve thermal, a pair of black jeans, and black boot. The thermal is tight across his muscular chest and I clench my thighs together with need. I arch my brow at him as he takes a step closer to me.

"Are you ready for the evening Luna Crandall," he asks softly sending chills down my spine. I hate the formality he uses with me, but that damn silky voice of his makes me want to pounce on him. Derek doesn't need to be pushed so I straighten my spine and give him a nonchalant look.

"Of course Alpha Derek. I'm just on my way to Luna Rosewood's office to finish up some paperwork," I inform him. I can tell when Derek gets upset or annoyed with my formality. It appears on his face for a brief moment and then it vanishes in the blink of an eye. I can see the annoyance in his eyes and it brings me pride knowing that I'm getting under his damn skin.

"How is your shoulder," he asks closing what little distance was between us. He flips my damp hair away to assess the healing. It healed two days after the attack and he knew that, but he still finds a reason to "inspect it" as if I'm still injured.

"It's fine sir," I reply. His calloused thumb runs over the barely there scar and I shiver. The friction from the roughness of his fingers on my smooth skin turns me on, and I can feel my nipples perk with how excited I'm becoming. He runs his thumb on the juncture where my shoulder and neck meet. It's where he would mark me if he accepts me as his. I look up at him through my eyelashes and notice his eyes have turned a dark blue.

"Lacey," he breathes out and pulls me to him. My mind clouds out all rational thinking and I feel my knees weaken. I place my hands on his muscular chest and relax as his other arm wraps around my waist. Before I can think clearly and pull away Derek's mouth attacks mine and I all but sink to the ground. His pouty lips coax my mouth hungrily. I ease into his touch more and kiss back with just as much fervor. Derek's tongue licks my bottom lip asking for access and I open my mouth hesitantly. I have never kissed a man let alone had his tongue in my mouth. Derek tastes divine and I instantly want more. I can feel the wetness pool between my legs and I don't care. I grip the nape of his dark locks between my fingers as our tongues duel for dominance, but then the worst thing happens. Derek rips himself away from me. He turns on his heel and jets down the hallway and slams his office door behind him. He just kissed the life out of me and left me horny, cold, and alone.