"Alright so the next lesson is, Sophia pay attention this is important."
"Right sorry." Rubbing my eyes fighting to stay awake Theresa shakes her head frustrated.
"I know you're tired but it's only 5:30 in the evening, try to stay alert."
Sitting up straighter in my chair I nod picking up my pen scribbling down notes.
I haven't studied this much since college good grief. This is complicated stuff, running a pack. Nothing like teaching in the slightest.
All of these rules and regulations, the do's and don'ts. Etiquette when meeting other Alphas and their packs. How to handle an attack, when it's the appropriate time to declare wars.
It's a lot to take in and remember. I've pretty much got it all down. The real test begins tomorrow when our allies come to visit.
Of course Gerry and Theresa will be there but they want me to handle some of the work. I'm playing hostess and it's nerve wracking.
"I think that's enough for now, we'll have a refresher lesson in the morning. Get some rest." Theresa helps me from my chair beaming at my belly.
"My grand baby is getting big. I can't wait to meet you little one." She rubs my stomach gently before saying her goodbyes.
I shuffle towards the kitchen to raid the cabinets. "Luna you need help?"
Derrick scares me causing the pack of cookies I have to spill on the floor. "I wanted those." I whine struggling to bend down and pick them up.
"Soph let me get those for you."
I don't know why it irritated me so much but I wanted to bite his head off at the offer.
"I can fucking do it Derrick, I don't need your help." I snap snatching up the last cookie.
"Hey they're just cookies." He snorts.
Slamming my hand on the counter I scream, "It isn't about the damn cookies! It's about everyone treating me like I'm fragile, like I'm incapable of taking care of myself. I did it before you guys came in to the picture!"
Seething wiping hot angry tears from my face Derrick looks taken back by my outburst but not upset. He looks hurt.
What did I just do?
"Sophia, we...I love you. Like my sister, I would do anything to help in any way I can, even if you don't want that help. You need it." He explains pulling me into a hug.
I rest my head on his shoulder sobbing, "I'm sorry Derrick, I'm so sorry. I didn't mean it."
"Please Luna, people have said worse things to me. I'll ease up if my helping you is too much okay?"
I nod sniffling. I don't know what came over me. Sure I get annoyed with everyone helping me but I never wanted to make a scene over something so silly.
"You're under a lot of stress Sophia, I get it. Try to relax though alright? This can't be good for you or the baby."
I know and it's beginning to take a toll on me.
∆∆∆∆∆∆
I can't fit in the dress I'm supposed to wear today and it's really bumming me out. No matter how I squeeze, pull, and yank. It won't go over my belly.
"This is fucking impossible." I huff throwing myself back on the bed.
There's a knock on my door but I don't open it, just call for them to come in.
Ami steps in looking very handsome in his suit. "Sophia you still aren't ready?"
"Nope." I say pursing my lips.
"What's the matter? Your guests will be here soon." He takes a seat on the bed helping me sit up.
I lay my head on his shoulder grabbing hold of his hand. He stiffens under my touch but doesn't move.
"Ami I can't fit in this dress, I'm a damn whale." I huff. Ami snickers patting my leg comfortingly.
"No you're pregnant. We'll just have to find something else for you to wear." He goes to the closet pulling out a female tux for me to put on.
He waits patiently for me to get dressed. I can't zip the white dress shirt in the back which adds to my annoyance.
Who puts zippers in dress shirts like seriously!?
"Ami can you help me!" I call to him. He steps back in my room looking me up and down in awe.
"Breathtaking."
"Yeah yeah but can you zip me up?"
He motions for me to turn around I can't be sure but I feel like his fingers lingered just a little longer than I would've liked against my bare back.
"A-ami you got it?" I stutter.
I hear the zipper fly up and my nerves settle slightly. "Relax Luna, let's get down to the party." He kisses my cheek but the way his lips feel against my skin is extremely unsettling.
Something isn't right.
