False Expectations

Chapter 2 - The acquaintance

Maximus' pov:

-"I am very glad that the future King will attend my son's coronation! It's truly an honor, Alpha Maximus. Your reputation precedes you. You are one of the most remarkable and promising Alphas of your generation! Your father was incredibly powerful, but I truly believe you surpass him!"

-"Thank you," I replied in a flat tone. Everywhere I go, I hear the same compliments. I'm sick of it.

-"Taking advantage of your presence here, I'd also like to discuss a very important matter with you—if you have the time, Your Majesty," the Alpha of the Crescent Moon Pack continued, his tone careful yet eager.

I'm so tired of this ex-Alpha attitude. Why can't they just say what's on their mind without all the flowery praise and formality? Little does he know that flattery gains nothing from me. My wolf, Drako, is restless—an ominous sign. He shifts uneasily, his unease making my skin prickle. Something about this pack doesn't sit right with him. If they've done anything foolish, I'll make them pay dearly for it.

As the Alpha rambled on, a delightful scent hit me. Jasmine and gardenia. The most captivating aroma my senses have ever encountered. My wolf surged forward, taking control as my eyes scanned the room. And then I saw her.

She stood at the door, petite and poised, about to enter. Long brown hair, hazel almond eyes, and a lean, curvaceous figure. She was the most beautiful creature I'd ever seen. She wore a long black pencil skirt and a crisp white shirt, complemented by black patent leather high heels.

-"Magnificent," Drako purred, his voice filled with longing. At first glance, her petite frame and delicate features made me think she might be a low-ranking wolf. But the way she carried herself, with confidence and poise, contradicted that assumption. Her attire was far too polished for an omega. Perhaps they dressed her up for my visit, or worse, she might be someone's mistress, meant to curry favor. The thought alone made Drako growl in disapproval.

-"She is my mate. No one can lay a hand on her. Don't even think about calling her someone's mistress!"

-"Calm down, Drako," I snapped, trying to suppress his excitement. "You can't seriously believe a low-ranking omega could be my mate."

-"Watch your words!" Drako growled furiously. "She's mine. I want to mark her here and now!"

-"Hold your horses," I countered. "You're jumping to conclusions. Besides, I already have a Luna—Gina."

-"Gina?" Drako scoffed. "She's not our Luna. She's just a random fling. And frankly, she's too fake—and far too ugly—for our taste."

-"Speak for yourself," I muttered, irritated.

The Alpha's voice dragged me back into the conversation. "So, Alpha Maximus, what do you think of our proposal? Do you see its potential?"

-"Huh?" I blinked, realizing I'd missed everything. "Apologies, but this trip has exhausted me. I suggest we take a thirty-minute break if there are no objections."

-"Of course, Your Majesty! Please forgive us for not allowing you sufficient rest. I'll have the omegas bring refreshments immediately," the Alpha responded obsequiously.

-"Go talk to her," Drako urged. "I want to know her name."

-"I'll talk to her—but not for your reasons," I said firmly.

-"Oh, the infamous Alpha Maximus doesn't admit to sharing anything—not even curiosity—with his wolf," Drako teased.

-"Cut it out, Drako. I'm already fed up with this sycophant calling me 'Majesty' every two minutes. Don't add to it."