Unwanted Mate

Chapter 1

CHAPTER ONE
Gary gazed into the murky abyss between the towering trees. The pit was deep, so deep that even when the summer rains arrived, the body would remain hidden beneath the turbulent current. Deep enough to bury his mate, yet her memory still clung to his thoughts.

The pain was unimaginable. Hazel had been his companion since they were mere pups. They had frolicked together, chased after prey together—she had even aided him in playing pranks on Brennan before he ascended to the position of Alpha. And long after that, she had stood by his side, supporting him through the trials of his brother's stubbornness.

But now, she was gone.

As he stared into her grave, Gary cursed himself for the umpteenth time. Hazel had always been frail. When she started coughing incessantly the previous spring, he should have known something was amiss. He should have taken her to see Reagan before the infection spread. But Hazel had convinced him to let her stay at home, arguing that if she left, who would care for their pups? She had always been a loving and protective mother, even when she discovered their children would never possess the same strength as the others.

And so, she grew worse and worse, refusing medicine and healers until it was too late. Her devotion to their family had cost her life, and the burden of guilt tightened around Gary's heart like a vise. Why hadn't he called Reagan sooner? He could have made time...he could have done something...

Beside him, his young son Sawyer sniffled, his tears flowing from sightless eyes. Sawyer was still too young to fully comprehend death, but he understood that his mother was gone forever. Clutching his father's hand, he sought solace in their shared grief.

Sawyer had been born blind.

It wasn't uncommon for pups born from the complex lineage of wolves to face health issues. Sawyer's birth occurred before they began to mate with humans, so his blood was pure wolf. But like his brother and mother, he would be plagued by illness for his entire life. Despite never laying eyes on her face, Sawyer loved his mother dearly. Her absence would weigh heavily on the young boy, and Gary knew he had to help him navigate through the pain.

Brian, his older son, had refused to attend the funeral. At fourteen years old, he masked his sorrow behind a veil of anger and rebellion. It was peculiar, Gary often thought, to witness a boy who could barely walk causing such chaos. One would assume that Brian's weak legs, damaged from a bout with polio during childhood, would hinder him from stirring up trouble. However, the boy zoomed around in his wheelchair, provoking fights with older and stronger males. Gary had to intervene on numerous occasions, rescuing his son from predicaments he couldn't possibly win. He knew that Brian's aggression stemmed from internalized pain. Before Hazel fell ill, Brian had never strayed from the path of obedience. With his mother's fiery red hair and emerald green eyes, he had worshipped her.

But everything had changed now.

"Gary." He lifted his head to find Holly, his brother's mate and the pack's matriarch, standing beside him.

Her expression mirrored the solemnity of the moment, her hands resting on her swollen belly carrying their third pup. As Brennan's human consort, she had given birth to the strongest of their offspring. More than five years ago, they discovered that humans with her particular genetic makeup—dark-skinned, resilient women—could fortify the weakening bloodlines of the pack.

Since this revelation, most males had chosen human mates. In fact, there were so few females left within their species that they struggled to find partners. But Brennan, their Alpha, had been among the first to take a human mate. He had stolen Holly away from a world where their kind rarely interacted, and they faced the consequences together. After numerous incidents where males forcibly took females from the city and surrounding countryside, Gary's frustration reached its peak.

Unlike their isolated society, he was one of the few males who sought knowledge about the human world in order to better integrate with it. With this understanding, he established a system that allowed women to choose their wolf mates, avoiding any conflicts between men vying for the same woman. Though Holly was initially taken against her will, she assimilated into the pack much more seamlessly than some willing women. She embraced Brennan, his people, and his family as her own. In the months leading up to Hazel's death, Holly and Hazel had grown incredibly close, and her sorrow was evident in her darkened countenance.

"I'm so sorry, Gary. Hazel was cherished by all. She departed knowing she was loved by those around her." Holly had joined their pack as an immature and headstrong girl. But over the years, she had transformed into a formidable figure and a respected leader. Even Brennan, at times, had to acknowledge her wisdom.

There were few like her, and Gary was grateful that this young woman had been by his mate's side when she passed away.Holly's touch on his arm was gentle, her voice a hushed whisper. "I can take Sawyer, if you need a moment alone."

Stiffly, he nodded, unable to find the words to respond. Holly understood him well enough that words were unnecessary.

Despite her rounded stomach, Holly leaned down with only a slight difficulty and rested her hand on Sawyer's small shoulder. "Sawyer, come with me, honey. Let's get you something to eat."

The tiny boy shook his head frantically, clinging to his father. With a quick glance at Gary, Holly scooped Sawyer into her arms, skillfully maneuvering him as he squirmed in protest. The pup struggled for a minute or two before surrendering with a wail, clutching tightly to the dark-skinned woman.

Gary felt the pressure in his chest intensify as tears welled in his eyes. Holly cradled his child carefully as she carried him away, leaving Gary standing alone with his brother, Brennan. Throughout the entire ceremony, Brennan had remained silent, providing the strength that Gary desperately needed as they watched a member of their pack being laid to rest. Brennan had known Hazel almost as long as Gary had, and on some level, he understood his brother's grief.

"I know you're in pain, brother," Brennan's hand rose to rest reassuringly on Gary's shoulder as his deep voice resonated through him. "Hazel was an extraordinary woman and she left behind a proud legacy."

Gary had always prided himself on his way with words, but in that moment, he realized how empty they could be. He knew Brennan meant to comfort him, but the thought of Hazel only made him long to be buried alongside her. He was aware of his children and the life he still had to live, but the pain felt impossibly distant from any sort of relief.

"Please," Gary's voice was hoarse with emotion, his eyes closing. "Leave me with her."

"Of course."

Brennan released him and turned on his heel to follow his mate back towards the settlement.

Now completely alone, Gary stood at the edge of his mate's grave, gazing down at the cloth-covered body below. According to their customs, it was his duty to bury her, a task that would likely consume most of the night. But for Gary, such trivial matters held no significance. He would cherish these final hours with his mate, and when the sun rose, he would bid her a final farewell.

*

"I'm so excited."

Allegra stood by the ancient oak vanity, examining the reflection in the mirror. Jocelyn had always been a breathtaking beauty. Unique, grey eyes, toffee-colored skin, and a cascade of dark curls that tumbled down to her waist. Her curvaceous figure was accentuated by the form-fitting white dress that draped to the floor. Her hair was pulled back, revealing her stunning features. A mixture of nervousness and anticipation played across her face.

"Angie, I'm getting married. Married!"

To a man she barely knew.

Allegra mustered a smile as she squeezed her friend's shoulders, offering support. She and Jocelyn had grown up together, sharing classes from childhood through high school. They both understood that this marriage wasn't what it seemed. Not for women like them.

Allegra and Jocelyn were part of a secret society - the fortunate few, as Allegra's mother often referred to them - who were aware of the existence of paranormal creatures beyond their world. It was knowledge that Allegra had cherished growing up, until she reached adolescence and began to understand the true nature of her unique knowledge.

The pairings had started five years ago, an attempt by her mother to slow down the wolf males who took females from the human world to mate. At the time, Allegra was nineteen and just beginning to comprehend the reality of the creatures she had idolized since childhood. In her youth, wolves had been mysterious and captivating beings, guardians of the forest and its inhabitants.

However, the first time she encountered a male wolf, all her illusions shattered. He was an animal in every sense of the word. A brash, arrogant fool who swaggered into their community demanding a mate. Although Allegra's mother, as the matriarch, agreed to his terms, it was incredibly rude for him to speak in such a manner.

As if they were still living in the sixteenth century! It was almost 2016, Allegra thought with frustration.

She couldn't decide which was more offensive - her mother making a deal with the devil or the girls actually being excited about being handed off like property. They knew so little.Bulging muscles and pretty faces were all they saw, and in an instant, they were ready to embark on a life of servitude. A life that involved little more than producing offspring and being controlled by others.

For Allegra, sex was enjoyable, but not to the extent that it consumed her. Her encounters with the males who sought her mother's approval for potential matches had been far from pleasant. Wolves, at best, were distant and detached, and at worst, uncivilized. She vividly remembered one of them sniffing her, right in her mother's house!

Despite her reservations, Jocelyn was ecstatic to have finally found her match. Her father shared in her joy, thrilled at the prospect of having a hybrid grandson. And Allegra's own mother, bound by their pact with the clan that sought them out, was content to continue fulfilling her obligations.

Allegra held immense admiration for her mother. The woman had single-handedly raised her when her father disappeared without a trace. Since discovering the existence of wolves as a young girl, she had developed a deep respect for them.

Yet, Allegra questioned the morality of making deals to hand over young women to a society they knew nothing about. These creatures would have taken them regardless of any pact. To her, it felt reminiscent of the kidnapping and forced marriages that occurred in certain Middle Eastern countries.

The weddings themselves were nothing short of farces. As far as Allegra knew, wolves had little regard for human customs. The value placed on their mating rituals far surpassed that of any union performed in a church. It made her wonder if Jocelyn truly understood what she was getting herself into.

Jocelyn turned this way and that before the mirror, meticulously arranging her hair. Then, she fixed her large gray eyes on Allegra and asked, "How do I look?"

Allegra's gaze scanned her friend from head to toe. "Absolutely stunning."

Her response was genuine. The real question was whether Jocelyn's future mate would take the time to appreciate her efforts before treating her as a mere vessel for his offspring. Jocelyn beamed with satisfaction and headed towards the door to gather her belongings for the journey to the wolf settlement. One of the pack's stipulations was that the chosen women had to live there for a full year before even considering a return to civilized society. This, Allegra suspected, was to ensure that the women were already impregnated before they could change their minds.

The thought sent a shiver down her spine. She knew her own name was on a shortlist of available women for mating. As her mother was the architect of the pact, she held more influence over when and to whom her daughter would be mated. So far, Allegra had just passed her twenty-fifth birthday, and her mother had yet to present any potential suitors.

Sometimes, she desperately hoped that she would never be forced into a union with a wolf. The idea of being torn away from her loved ones and comfortable life in Buckhead, just outside of Atlanta, and thrust into an unfamiliar wilderness and society terrified her. She even had nightmares about it.

But as a dutiful daughter and member of the sect led by her mother, she had no choice but to abide by the rules. After all, according to the matriarch—and the woman who had raised her—they were the "fortunate" ones, the privileged few.

While Jocelyn rummaged through her belongings, Allegra stole a glance at her own reflection in the mirror. She appeared weary. The past forty-eight hours had been spent helping her friend prepare for her "wedding," leaving her sleep-deprived.

Dark circles lingered beneath her normally vibrant brown eyes, and her once flawless complexion glistened with excess oil. She wasn't as striking as Jocelyn, but she would suffice. She possessed her mother's elegant bone structure and a full mouth, often adorned with her favorite red lipstick.

Her short pixie haircut framed her face beautifully, and although she leaned more towards the slender side, she had enough curves to fill out the dresses she loved wearing for nights out dancing. Pulling back the skin beneath her eyes, she suppressed a groan at her current state. A quick shower was in order, but she would see her friend off from the chapel first.

Allegra had already met the wolf chosen to be Jocelyn's mate. Silas, a colossal figure with blond hair and bulging muscles. Her friend had been captivated by his physique, but Allegra couldn't help but notice the lecherous glint in his eyes when he looked at Jocelyn.

She rarely heard from the girls who despised mating with wolves, and since she had never been allowed to visit the settlement herself, she remained unaware of their treatment, happiness, or potential discontent. It was all shrouded in secrecy. And now, she was bidding farewell to one of her closest friends as she entered that enigmatic world.

A thin smile curved on her lips as she crossed the room and enveloped Jocelyn in a tight embrace, tears threatening to escape from the corners of her eyes. "Promise me you'll call and let me know how everything goes?"

"Of course!" Jocelyn chuckled softly, returning the embrace. "Don't worry, Allegra. Have you seen Silas? It's going to be amazing."

Allegra stiffly nodded. She certainly hoped so.

Chapter 2 (1)

CHAPTER TWO
Chapter Two: A Year Later

"Gary?"

Surrounded by a circle of eager pups, Gary found himself faced with five young wolves, all under the age of four. Despite their youth, they possessed a strength and speed that surpassed even his own sons and the previous generation's pups. Gary studied each child, taking note of their gleaming eyes and restless feet.

As one of the pack members tasked with teaching them the art of combat, he knew that these pups possessed the natural abilities required to excel in hand-to-hand fighting. What he could offer them was technique and strategy.

"Gary?"

The second time his name was called, he looked up to see Brennan approaching him with a grim expression. "You're needed back at the settlement. Leave the pups to Liam and come with me."

Glancing back at Liam, a younger wolf still bearing the scars of a past altercation with a rival pack, Gary handed off the responsibility of training the pups before following Brennan towards the edge of the clearing. Brennan had already transformed into his massive raven-furred canine form, his presence emanating an air of tension. Gary swiftly shifted into his own mahogany-hued wolf form, sharing his brother's eye color, signifying their kinship. Once in his natural shape, Gary locked eyes with Brennan.

"What's going on?" His voice emerged as a growling, shrieking sound, barely decipherable to human ears. "What has happened?"

"Your son." Brennan barked in response. "Brian went looking for trouble and found it with the Travis wolf-lings."

Gary's blood turned to ice. Without uttering a word, he pivoted on his heel and raced through the woods, heading back to the heart of the settlement. Thoughts vanished from his mind, breath barely registered, and his heart pounded in his throat as he ran faster than the wind itself. He didn't halt at the edge of the settlement, instead transforming mid-stride as he sprinted towards the building serving as their hospital.

Inside, numerous males bore the injuries inflicted by the Travis pack's aggression. Lacerations, broken bones, lost eyes, and limbs were among the visible wounds. But Gary's focus was solely on his son, seated on an examination table next to Reagan, the resident healer.

His eyes devoured the sight of his son, alive and well, though adorned with a few superficial scratches on his face and arms. Relief surged through Gary, but quickly gave way to a deep scowl.

He strode across the hospital, stopping beside Reagan to glare down at Brian. "What is the meaning of all this?"

The dark-haired female glanced up from her work, taking in the furious male standing beside her. She raised an eyebrow. "Isn't it obvious? Your son decided to pick a fight where he would be at a severe disadvantage."

"You sought out Travis wolves?" Gary demanded, his voice low and dangerous.

Brian's defiant green eyes met his father's gaze. "They've been attacking us! They need to learn a lesson!"

"And you're the best one to teach them?" Gary gestured towards an open wheelchair in the corner of the room, waiting for its owner. "Do I need to remind you of your weaknesses, Brian? What were you thinking? Those wolf-lings are twice your size and utterly ruthless!"

"Yeah, well what are you doing about it?" Brian's cheeks reddened with anger. "They're hurting our pack members, dad! They're killing us while you and Uncle Brennan stand by and do... what, exactly?"

Rage and frustration welled up within Gary as he stared down at his eldest son.Since the loss of his mother, his confidence had grown exponentially with each passing day. Yet now, it seemed that his boldness was pushing him towards stupidity. Gary was already overwhelmed trying to keep Sawyer in line, and having his oldest son constantly challenging him wasn't helping. Every day, he felt the absence of Hazel like a deep, throbbing wound.

Before he could respond, Reagan's hand swiftly flew through the air, landing a sharp blow on Brian's mouth. He stared at her in shock, blood welling up from his split lip. Reagan continued tending to him as if nothing had happened, her disapproving blue eyes shining.

"Do you think your legs will protect you from discipline, Brian?" Her voice was firm as she began to wrap bandages around his arm. "You're not too old for a good punishment, and what you did was incredibly foolish. You're fortunate Brennan was there, or you might have been killed."

The stern reprimand momentarily subdued the young wolf, causing him to look away with a pout. Gary let out a sigh, shaking his head. "When you're done with him, Reagan, send him home. We have a lot to discuss."

"Of course." Reagan nodded, moving on to tend to the lip she had just split. Meanwhile, Gary made his way out of the hospital, finding his brother waiting for him on the steps with a frown still etched on his face.

"Your son is reckless, Gary. He went after three Travis pack members, three of them." The Alpha let out a frustrated exhale. "Sometimes I wonder if he forgets how weak his legs are. His heart may be strong, but I've seen stronger hearts pierced by Travis pack claws."

"Don't remind me." Gary sat heavily on the bottom step, running his hands through his disheveled dark hair. "Damn it, Brennan, what am I supposed to do? He becomes more unruly with each passing day."

Sitting down beside him, the Alpha pondered for a moment, his expression thoughtful. When he finally spoke, his words were chosen carefully. "Perhaps he needs a touch of feminine influence."

Gary tensed up, looking at his brother suspiciously. This wasn't the first time Brennan had brought up this subject, but it didn't mean he wanted to hear it any more than the last time. He knew exactly what was coming. "It's been a year, Gary. I know you loved Hazel, and I know you always will. She loved you too. But I can see how unhappy you are... how exhausted you are from taking care of the pups. You're a protector and a valued member of this pack. And above all, you're my only brother. I just want to see you happy."

"And you think finding another mate will make me happy?" Gary's words came out sharper than he had intended, and he immediately felt embarrassed. He knew Brennan was only trying to help. In fact, the Alpha wasn't the only one who had suggested this. Holly had hinted that it might be time for him to seek female companionship. Reagan hadn't said anything directly, but she had implied that it wasn't too late for Sawyer to have another mother figure.

Gary could already imagine the resistance he would face from his oldest son, who still held his mother close to his heart. And then there was the fact that he wasn't quite ready to let go of his cherished memories of Hazel.

"Gary... no one is pressuring you. You know that," Brennan reassured, clasping his shoulder. "I'm simply reminding you that you made arrangements with the woman in Atlanta for potential mates. The system works. Look at how many males have found happiness with their women. Our pups are growing stronger with each passing year. I know you love your sons, and they love you. But... it's not too late for you to have another chance at finding someone who can support and help you."

Gary understood that his brother was speaking both as an Alpha and as his closest friend. It was Brennan's duty to ensure the pack's future, but his heart wanted Gary to be happy, healthy, and well.

Exhaling slowly, Gary responded, "Brennan, I'm not like the others. There has already been one great love in my life, and I'm not sure if there can be another."

Leaning in, his brother squeezed his shoulder reassuringly. "That may be true. But how will you ever know unless you give it a try?"

Chapter 2 (2)

Two weeks later, Gary found himself on his motorcycle roaring towards the distant Atlanta, a two-hour’s ride. As he navigated the two-lane highway, his mind raced over and over the decision he’d made.
Two weeks later, Gary found himself speeding towards Atlanta on his motorcycle. The decision he had made swirled in his mind as he navigated the two-lane highway.

He planned to ask Clara for her opinion, nothing more. She had been incredibly generous in helping their kind find mates discreetly and safely. Clara had a wealth of beautiful ethnic women who were enthusiastic about furthering their race's population. However, Gary still wasn't entirely sure if he wanted to join the ranks of males searching for a mate.

Hazel, even a year after her passing, remained etched in his memory. Finding another woman who could rival her beauty, poise, and strength seemed impossible. Plus, he had little interest in procreation. His brother might urge him to have another pup, but with two sons already, he saw no need for it. The Alpha would have no say if he decided against having another child.

If Gary did decide to search for a mate, he needed someone understanding and compassionate. His sons were both handicapped and difficult to handle. They required a firm yet loving hand. How many women, he wondered, would be capable of loving someone else's children as their own?

There couldn't be many, especially among the young women Clara provided. Most of them were in their early to mid-twenties, adventurous and barely out of university. They would have little interest in someone else's children. They were more fascinated by the world of wolf-kind itself – a mysterious, exotic, and desirable way of life. What could he, a wolf approaching his fifties, offer them?

It was unlikely that any woman would be interested in him. Clara would try and fail to find someone suitable, and then he would return to the settlement alone, trying to piece together his crumbling family life.

Arriving in Buckhead in the midafternoon, Gary turned off his Harley's engine and placed his helmet on the seat. He walked toward the upscale apartment building where Clara resided. He knew she had a daughter who lived across the street, but he had never met her. When he dealt with Clara, their conversations usually took place over a meal or, sometimes, with a prospective mate.

As he surveyed the manicured lawns and expensive cars, Gary realized this was the world humans inhabited. He knew more about it than any other wolf in the pack. He understood more than he cared to admit, but he still preferred the simplicity of the forest settlement to the city's nightlife.

After ringing the doorbell, Gary paused for a moment to check his reflection in the mirror. He still looked as unkempt and weary as ever. With a powerful frown, he waited until the door opened. However, instead of finding the shrewd, generous matron he sought, he was faced with a woman who left him speechless.

**

Allegra stopped by her mother's house to pick up her sweater. Her mother had kindly offered to have it dry cleaned, and since she had a key, Allegra let herself in. She found the garment hanging in the coat closet.

While she was there, she decided to raid the fridge. Lately, she hadn't been able to enjoy her mother's home cooking as much due to her busy schedule arranging matches for wolves from all over. As she savored a mouthful of succulent roast beef, the doorbell rang.

Raising an eyebrow, she headed towards the doorway. She hadn't seen her mother since she arrived, assuming she must be in the bathroom or shower. After swallowing her food, Allegra opened the door.

She tried her best not to gape at the sight before her. Standing in the doorway was a man who was undeniably a wolf, but unlike any she had ever seen. Most of the arrogant, rough men who came to her mother's door were giants, nearly seven feet tall, with stunning looks and eyes in every color imaginable.

This man, however, was different. He was a bit smaller for a wolf, but not short – he still towered over her modest five feet eight inches. His eyes were a sparkling, silvery grey that gleamed in the foyer's light, contrasting with his unruly mahogany hair. His face had the beginnings of a beard, with a hint of gray that she found strangely alluring. And beneath all the stubble, she could see his strong facial structure, with a firm jaw and chiseled cheekbones.

He wore a long-sleeved sweater and jeans, revealing a body just as strong and unyielding as any wolf's. She could tell by his posture and muscular arms, which carried a heavy leather jacket. As he laid eyes on her, his full lips parted slightly, and all conversation died on his lips.

**

"Hi," Allegra managed to say, her voice thick as she swallowed."Um... is my mother expecting you?" The man's eyes widened, surprise evident on his face. His voice, despite his rugged appearance, possessed a low, mellow tenor that both delighted and titillated her senses. There was no growling, blustering, or leering from him. Yet, he still exuded the essence of a wolf.

"Yes, I am Clara's daughter," she replied, slightly caught off guard by the question. "I think she's in the shower... or the bathroom. I'm sorry, come in." Stepping back to make room, she watched as the man stooped down to fit through the doorway. He carefully placed his jacket over a chair in the foyer while she closed the door behind him. As he turned away, Allegra took the opportunity to study him from head to toe.

He was undeniably attractive, but it wasn't just his physical appeal that intrigued her. There was something about his demeanor, the way he spoke, and the look in his eyes that captivated her. It was clear, even at first glance, that this wolf was different from the others she had encountered. Though she remained on guard, aware of what to expect from his kind, she couldn't ignore the intense attraction that immediately ignited within her.

"I'll go check on my mom," she said abruptly, tearing her gaze away from him. She hurried down the hall and up the stairs, finding her mother on her way out of her room, running her fingers through her short, graying locks. Clara Miller, at fifty-five years old, embodied strength and independence. She had been a role model for her daughter, raising her to be just as resilient. But she also harbored a secret, one she guarded fiercely.

"Mom," Allegra called out, causing Clara to jerk her head up, revealing sharp brown eyes and plump lips that mirrored her daughter's. "There's someone... a wolf here to see you." Clara's eyes widened.

"Christ, child. When did you get here?"

Allegra couldn't help but smile at her mother's reaction. "I told you I was coming to get my sweater, didn't I?"

"Ah, so you did," Clara replied, patting her hair into place. "Well, I'm lucky you happened by. I might have missed Gary otherwise."

So his name was Gary. It suited him, from his silvery eyes to his booted feet, Allegra mused.

"So you know him already?" Allegra usually tried to distance herself from matters involving wolves and their matches, but her curiosity got the better of her this time.

"Know him?" Clara chuckled, amused. "Honey, he's the one who made the pact for his pack in the first place."

Allegra's stomach clenched in shock. Him? He was the one responsible for spiriting away young women of color before they could reach their full potential? That man with the cultured voice and mysteriously alluring eyes?

"That's the Alpha?" Allegra's surprise was evident in her high-pitched tone, and her mother shook her head, slipping into a deep blue cardigan.

"His brother. I might have mentioned to you that the Alpha is already mated, long before this arrangement," Clara explained, gently brushing past her daughter. "I have a meeting now, darling. You're welcome to stay if you want. We'll just be in the kitchen."

Allegra had no intentions of staying anywhere near Gary. He was the cause of all her troubles. Once her mother had moved past her, Allegra dropped her wary smile and raced into her mother's room, shutting the door behind her. She took a deep breath, attempting to compose herself and quell her anger.

That man had changed her future forever. Of course, she would be attracted to him at first sight. The world was screwed up that way. She wanted nothing to do with him. Hopefully, his business would be finished soon, and he would be gone. The sooner she never saw him again, the better. After waiting a few minutes to ensure her mother would be engaged in conversation with Gary, Allegra slipped back down the staircase and fled the house, grabbing her sweater on her way out.

Once outside, in the fresh air, she felt a bit better. Her mother may see it as her duty to ensure wolves had human mates, but Allegra didn't approve of the methods involved. In her opinion, young women were tricked into going with men who could potentially be monsters.

When her best friend, Jocelyn, had been handed off to one of them a year ago, they had tearfully parted ways, with Jocelyn promising to keep Allegra updated on her progress. They had known each other their whole lives and had rarely gone a day without speaking. Yet, Allegra hadn't heard from her since the day she watched her drive away with her new mate in a beat-up truck. She resented the secrecy surrounding the pack and its traditions. Even though her mother had taught her a few things, it wasn't enough to reassure her that Jocelyn was safe. If she wanted proof, she would have to see her friend herself. And that seemed impossible.

Allegra spent the rest of the day in a sour mood. Even lunch at her favorite restaurant and a movie couldn't ease her mind. What she truly wanted was to discuss the morality of her mother's actions. Couldn't she see the danger she was putting young girls in? Allegra bitterly wondered. They hadn't heard from anyone who had gone to the wolves' den, and yet the cycle continued, with more women being sent there.

What made her mother so unshakably loyal to these beasts?

Chapter 2 (3)

Over dinner, Allegra decided that she had to talk to her mother about what was going on. It had been a year since Jocelyn, and she had to live every day knowing her name was on the list of potential mates. Though she was comforted by the idea that her mother would never give her away so callously, that didn’t help comfort her about the other girls.
During their dinner together, Allegra made up her mind that she needed to confront her mother about the unsettling situation. It had been a year since Jocelyn's disappearance, and every day Allegra had to grapple with the knowledge that her own name was on the list of potential mates. She found some solace in believing that her mother would never betray her so callously, but the fate of the other girls haunted her.

Later that evening, Allegra left her apartment and headed towards her mother's house. She knew that Clara would still be awake at this hour, as she often stayed up late contemplating matches. Quietly slipping inside, Allegra found her mother sitting at the kitchen table.

To her surprise, Clara wasn't engrossed in her usual list of potential young women. Instead, she appeared lost in thought, cigarette in hand. Allegra couldn't help but feel a pang of concern – her mother had quit smoking years ago.

"Mom, are you alright?" Allegra asked, her voice filled with worry.

Clara seemed startled by her daughter's sudden presence. She jumped slightly, spilling ashes on herself before offering a distracted smile. Her eyes held a distant, thoughtful look as she motioned for Allegra to join her.

"Hey, baby. Come sit with me, will you? We need to talk."

Sighing, Allegra took a seat across from her mother, eyeing her skeptically. "Mom... I thought you had quit smoking."

As if only just realizing she was holding a cigarette, Clara glanced down at it in mild surprise before stubbing it out in her half-full coffee cup. She looked up at Allegra, her brown eyes filled with an emotion the younger woman couldn't quite decipher – sadness, hesitation, confusion. It added a shimmer of uncertainty to her gaze.

In that moment, Allegra's fiery determination wavered. She had come to confront her mother about the disturbing practice of sending young women off to be broodmares. She wanted to understand why Clara, who had been raised with different ideals, was perpetuating this tradition. But now, faced with her mother's evident distress, the words she had prepared died on her lips.

"I am done with it, darling. There are just... a few things on my mind and I thought it would be nice to have one," Clara finally spoke, her voice tinged with weariness.

Now, Allegra was truly alarmed. What could be troubling her mother so deeply that she would turn to such an unhealthy habit? This was the same woman who had strictly forbidden Allegra from ever touching a cigarette for the sake of her own well-being.

"Mom... what's going on?" Allegra asked softly, her gaze fixed on their intertwined hands. She didn't want to worsen her mother's distress, so she let her speak first.

"Sweetheart... I'd like you to consider being mated to Gary," Clara said, her voice filled with a mix of hope and apprehension.

Allegra felt her heart plummet into her stomach, her mouth agape in shock. Mated? Now? She had just begun to hope that she could avoid the entire process, that she could discuss her concerns with her mother before her name was put forward.

The image of the man who had visited her mother earlier flashed through Allegra's mind, fueling her anger. He was the one responsible for all of this. She couldn't – and wouldn't – be mated to someone like him. It didn't matter if he appeared cultured or if his mere presence made her weak in the knees. He embodied everything she stood against.

"Mom... I... I can't," Allegra finally managed to say, her voice filled with a mix of desperation and defiance. "Not with him."

It was the first time she had ever refused her mother's wishes. "Not with him," she repeated, and though unspoken, she knew she couldn't imagine being mated to anyone else either.

To her surprise, Clara didn't appear upset by Allegra's refusal. Instead, she looked at her daughter intently, holding her hand tighter. "Why not with him, darling? What do you know about Gary?"

What a question. "That's just it!" Allegra exclaimed, her emotions getting the better of her. "I don't know anything about him, except that he's the one who started all of... this!"

Clara raised an eyebrow at the strength of her daughter's outburst. "And what is 'this'?"

With a frustrated groan, Allegra shook her head. This wasn't how she wanted the conversation to go, but if it was the only way to make her opinion heard, she would take it. "Mom, let's not pretend that what we're doing... what you're doing is normal. You recruit young women of color, who are educated, talented, and beautiful, and convince them that their best option is to be whisked away to some secret location in the countryside, where they'll be expected to lie down for a group of half-beast men! I understand the stories and the lore, but this... I don't know. Lately, it's been turning my stomach. And now... you're asking me to be a part of this... 'legacy'?"

Chapter 2 (4)

For a moment, Clara’s gaze searched her daughter’s face. Where Allegra had thought she might become angry or irritated, the elder woman only retained the utmost calm. “Allegra…” The name escaped her on a sigh. “I owe you an apology. I spent your entire life building you up on fairytales and myths without telling you the truth about how the wolves became involved in my life. Perhaps once you understand the truth, both about me and Gary, you’ll understand why I do what I do.”
Clara's gaze lingered on her daughter's face, searching for a reaction. Allegra braced herself for anger or irritation, but was met with unexpected calmness. "Allegra..." Clara's voice held a hint of apology, escaping on a sigh. "I owe you an apology. I've spent your entire life building you up on fairytales and myths, without telling you the truth about how the wolves became a part of my life. Perhaps once you understand the truth, both about me and Gary, you'll see why I do what I do."

There was little that could make Allegra feel better about the situation, she thought. But she pushed down her protests and nodded silently. Clara's smile was gentle as she took hold of Allegra's hand, ready to share her story.

"In my youth, I met a young man who captivated me. We fell deeply in love, despite never meeting each other's families. It wasn't until later that I discovered he wasn't entirely human. He was a wolf - the first one I had encountered. At first, fear gripped me, but I soon realized that his true form didn't matter. My love remained unwavering."

Clara's tone darkened, carrying the weight of past pain. "His kind didn't approve of our union. The wolves of that time knew little about the human world or its inhabitants. They believed humans were a threat and could never coexist with them."

"I never saw the boy I loved again, but he stayed with me in my heart. And I made a vow that if I ever had the chance to bridge the gap between our worlds, to help the wolves understand ours better, I would take it."

Allegra could only stare at her mother, unable to find the right words. Clara continued, undeterred. "You might think these young women could make a bigger impact as doctors or engineers, and perhaps they will someday. But for now, it's crucial to bring the wolf clans into the modern age. These girls will teach them about technology, society, and progress. Yes, they are leaving their families and our world temporarily, but they will return, and both our worlds will be better for it. That's why I do what I do, and why I believe this option might be the best choice for my only daughter."

Allegra's gaze dropped to the spotless counter beneath her, where her and her mother's hands were entwined. She hoped that if she stared long enough, everything would start to make sense. She understood her mother's desire to bridge the gap between their worlds, but it still felt brutal to her. These men were still part animal. How could they know if the young women were safe, if they hadn't even contacted anyone?

"It takes time for anyone to adjust, darling, and wolves are more secretive than most. I'll admit, when I first considered finding a mate for you among them, I had my doubts. I know that appearance and power aren't your priorities." Clara's smile turned fond. "Ever since you were young, you valued intelligence over looks, and I've always been proud of you for it... which is why I think Gary would be an excellent match for you."

The mention of her potential match snapped Allegra's head up. She wanted to protest, but the words stayed trapped inside her, swallowed down.After her mother had unveiled her most deeply held secret, Allegra felt an obligation to at least hear her reasons before dismissing the man entirely.

"This wolf is not some inexperienced youth. He is the elder brother and advisor to the Alpha. It is his duty to be well-versed in our world and how we navigate it. He has attended university courses downtown, possesses a broad range of knowledge, and...has little interest in siring more offspring."

Allegra couldn't help but emit a small sound of astonishment at this revelation. One of the main motivations for this peculiar "arrangement" was the wolves' desire for stronger progeny. It was widely believed that if you mated with a wolf, you would conceive within a year, regardless of any contraceptive measures taken. Their fertility was almost absurd, and it seemed that human females were capable of bearing significantly healthier children than their lupine counterparts.

The fact that this particular wolf had little interest in having more pups was no trivial matter. However, Allegra hadn't missed her mother's previous statement entirely. Clara had mentioned that the man didn't desire additional offspring.

"So he has been mated before?" Allegra inquired, her words cautious and deliberate.

Clara nodded in response. "To a female wolf. For nearly fifteen years. They had two pups together, and Gary mentioned that the boys...are unwell. Just like their mother. She passed away a little over a year ago."

Allegra's eyes widened. The wolf was a widower?

She couldn't recall ever hearing of such a circumstance. She knew that wolves typically mated for life, but she had limited knowledge regarding their interactions with their own kind. Nowadays, the males seemed far more inclined to seek out human companionship.

"The man is seeking companionship, Allegra," Clara's voice carried a distinct note of empathy, recapturing her daughter's attention. "There is a genuine sadness in his eyes. He deserves a second chance at happiness. You...you, my dear, are the most brilliant young woman I have ever encountered. Your capacity for love knows no bounds. Furthermore, you can satiate this man's curiosity about our world. I now understand that you have questions about my methods, but let me say this: you are Gary's perfect match. I would never force you into anything you don't wish for, and I would never dream of such a thing, but please, consider it. That's all I ask."

It was a lot to process. Her mother was essentially asking her to abandon the life she knew in order to assist a wolf in need of a fresh start. She didn't know this man, and the knowledge of children in the equation only heightened her anxiety. She didn't even particularly like children. She was the type of woman who glared daggers at negligent mothers in grocery stores because they couldn't control their kids.

And now, she would be, for all intents and purposes, a stepmother to two of them. Good Lord, she thought, contemplating this would require an eternity.

Gently withdrawing her hand from her mother's grasp, Allegra rose from her seat, attempting to conceal the trembling in her fingers. "Mom, I...I will need some time."

"Of course, darling. I understand," Clara replied, standing up and making her way to the refrigerator to pour herself a glass of milk. She sipped the cool liquid slowly before speaking again. "You know...I have always been extremely discerning. A part of me believed that I would never come across a wolf whom I felt was right for my Allegra."

Allegra would need more convincing. This decision concerned her entire life. She would have to leave behind everything and everyone she held dear for an indefinite period of time. It seemed impossible. So why, she pondered, had those piercing silver eyes haunted her thoughts all day long?

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