Battle of the Alphas

XIV

I woke up alone the next morning. But as I regained my senses, it was obvious that Benjamin had been in the bed with me. His scent was wrapped around me and I was reluctant to leave it. I got up nevertheless, knowing I needed to get back to my pack and check up on everything, and headed downstairs to the kitchen.

Benjamin wasn't in there but seeing as I was starving and not about to do anything without eating first, I helped myself to some toast. It wasn't long before I was interrupted from my food by one of Benjamin's pack members walking in.

"Who are you?" The woman asked, her eyes narrowing. It was clear she didn't see me as a threat; I was eating toast and obviously not about to hurt anyone.

"Um," I stammered, trying to think of what to say. I didn't want anyone to know that Benjamin and I were mates yet but I also didn't know how to introduce myself as alpha of another pack. Finally, I settled on just saying my name, "I'm Isobel."

"What are you doing here? The pack house is for pack members only." The vibe I was getting from her was far from friendly.

"I'm a guest. From last night's party for your alpha." I explained tersely.

"Party's over though, isn't it? Sleeping with Ben for one night doesn't entitle you to everything our pack's got." She replied snottily.

"Ben, huh?" A surge of jealousy shot through me, I couldn't help it. "Close are you?"

"Very." She gave me a sneer.

"That's nice." I gave her a fake, tense smile.

"Yeah, it is. In fact, I'm close enough with him to know that you're overstaying and should probably leave before he gets back." She returned my fake smile, leaning on the kitchen island.

"I think I'll wait," Picking my toast back up again, I ignored her, knowing that she would instantly mindlink Benjamin. Boy, was she going to be surprised when he turned up.

And it wasn't long before he did. He appeared at the kitchen doorway, looking really rather confused.

"Alpha Isobel, Natasha," Benjamin nodded formally in my direction and acknowledged the girl but I was busy watching for her reaction. Her mouth dropped open in shock and I couldn't stop a smile from spreading on my lips.

"Ben, babe," I replied, mocking the girl, Natasha, and further confusing Benjamin, "Come here." For someone who had no clue what was going on, he was rather dutiful and came to my side. Somewhat awkwardly, I pulled his head down for a kiss, my jealousy fueling my actions rather than rationality. Benjamin's surprise was obvious and came with a little hesitation but kissed me back eagerly.

"You know this girl?" Natasha interrupted us with her snivelling voice.

"Yes, this is-" Benjamin started to reply but I cut him off.

"His mate. So I suggest you give up on whatever dream you had of him falling in love with you." I offered another simperingly sweet smile and bid her on her way. Natasha left the room in a huff whilst I was left with a staring mate.

"Can I have an explanation?" Benjamin asked, an eyebrow raised curiously as he sat down next to me.

"Is everyone in your pack determined to make me feel as unwelcome as possible?" I groaned, dropping my heads into my hands.

"What did Natasha say?" His voice hardened as he asked.

"Oh, nothing. But apparently, you're 'very close' as she puts it." I smirked at Benjamin as he went red.

"I had a crush on her when I was maybe, 12, and ever since she thinks we're a thing. But I can't kick her out of the pack for being delusional,"

"Well, now she knows you're taken and I doubt she'd bother attempting to steal you." I shrugged.

"Mm, yes, about that; what happened to not wanting to tell anyone about us?" He gave me a look.

"Turns out I'd rather not have to be fending off bitches who think they can have you for themselves," I sighed. "Guess we'll have to tell your pack, huh?"

"Don't go forgetting about yours too," Benjamin shot me a smug grin. "First though, you're going to have to look a little more presentable." He stood up to leave but I managed to get a smack on his arm before he was out of my reach, making him laugh.

"Oh, and don't think I've forgotten about that fact that you thought it was okay to sleep in the bed with me last night!" I called out as he left the kitchen.

"Hate to point this out, babe, but it was my bed!"