False Expectations

Chapter 36 - An Unexpected Kiss

Maximus' pov:

-"Sorry to interrupt, Alpha, but Luna is outside and wants to talk to you. Shall I let her in?" one of my guards said, breaking the silence. I was so absorbed in the file I was reading that I hadn't even noticed him enter.

-"Yes, send her in—and make sure we're not disturbed," I instructed, my tone firm but distracted.

-"Yes, Sir," the guard replied before leaving the room.

A few moments later, Adelina entered. She wore a beautiful white dress, her soft brown hair cascading over her shoulders. She looked ethereal—like a vision from another world. Stunning didn't even begin to describe her.

-"Good evening, Maximus. I'm sorry to interrupt. I have something important to discuss with you. It'll only take a few minutes," she said softly, her voice light yet full of purpose.

How could I have been so blind all this time? Why hadn't I noticed how utterly breathtaking she is? Every movement she made was graceful, every word she spoke intoxicating. But it wasn't just her beauty—she had a heart of gold, a sharp mind, and a spirit so fierce it commanded respect.

And yet, I'd hurt her.

Is that why she seemed happier with others? Why she smiled so effortlessly when she was around Nicolas? The thought of her being in love with someone else, of leaving me, clawed at my chest. No. I couldn't let that happen. I wouldn't let that happen.

-"Of course, Adelina. I could use a break anyway. Please, sit," I said, gesturing to one of the armchairs across from me, keeping my voice steady and calm.

She sat gracefully, offering me a small, tentative smile. For a moment, silence stretched between us, thick with unspoken words. Finally, she broke it, her voice hesitant and uncertain.

-"It's... a little hard for me to start. What I have to say is very important to me," she began, her hands clasped tightly in her lap.

-"What's on your mind? Does this have to do with your Luna duties? Did someone—an Elder or another pack member—give you trouble? You can tell me anything," I assured her, leaning forward slightly.

She shook her head, her expression softening. "No, it's not about that." She paused, taking a deep, steadying breath. "Maximus... I came here, first and foremost, to thank you."

-"Thank me?" I asked, surprised. "For what?"

-"You know," she began, her voice faltering slightly, "I've told you before that you don't have to pretend we're mates. We both understand the arrangement between us, and I accepted that a long time ago. But yesterday..." Her voice softened, her gaze dropping for a brief moment. "Your support was... unexpected. It felt real."

She hesitated before continuing, her tone more vulnerable. "If you hadn't said what you did, I don't think I would have had the strength to defend my work in front of the Elders and everyone else. You gave me the push I needed to move forward. You showed me you could be supportive, that... maybe you care about me. That means more to me than I can put into words."

-"You know it wasn't my intention to prove anything," I said sincerely, choosing my words carefully. "You presented a strong project, and I supported it because it deserved to be heard. You're my Luna—it's my duty to protect you. Any attack on you is a direct attack on me." I paused briefly before continuing. "As for the true mate you mentioned... I don't know if I can be that for you. But I am trying my best."

-"I know," she said softly, her eyes meeting mine. "I know you're responsible and take your role seriously. But I also know you didn't have to do what you did. You confronted your most loyal members for me, and for that, I'm deeply grateful."