Two Rejects

Chapter 13 - Werewolf Hangovers

Oh Goddess, I groan to myself as I sit up in my bed. There's a splintering headache that crosses my forehead. I've never been hung over, I guess this is what humans must feel. I completely underestimated the strength of Eli's beer. I don't know what he does to it, but I'm sure if a human were to drink just a shot of it, they would be completely knocked out.

Last night slowly starts coming back to me in a blur. I recall chugging an astronomical amount of beer. And then a lot of cheering. Did I win something? I think I did. Did I break the record? I can't remember all the way. What I can remember is being really happy and laughing a lot. Then there was something about karaoke. Oh God, did I sing karaoke last night?

Yes, My wolf says with a snicker. You did. It was hysterical.

"Don't talk in my head," I tell her as the headache intensifies. "You're killing me."

I lay back, trying to remember the rest of the night. I know that Sage brought me home. I can't remember anything that she said. I glance at my clock, knowing that I have about two hours before I need to meet her at the Alpha's house.

Groaning loudly, I stand up and start heading towards my shower. I notice a small sheet of paper on my table and glance at it.

Drink a lot of water, hang over should be gone within an hour. Here's something that usually helps me.

--Sage

There's a small pill by her signature. I don't even hesitate; I drink it down and keep drinking water until I feel like I'm about to puke. That's when I decide to shower and try to relax. She wasn't wrong though, within an hour, I was already feeling much better. Thank Goddess for our fast metabolisms. I can't imagine having to deal with this as a human.

After a nice long shower, I quickly get changed into the few clothes that I have. I'm supposed to get my first paycheck in the next week or so. I can't wait to go buy myself new clothes. I think even my students have noticed that I rotate the same t-shirts and jeans. As I'm leaving the house, my hangover is finally gone. I feel much better and quickly head towards the Alpha's castle.

As soon as I'm at the front door, the usual guards let me in without any hesitation. It takes me aback for a second because they usually ask me why I'm here. Instead, they seem to have known that I was coming.

"Beta Sage is waiting for you in the kitchen." One of the men says when I look at him with pure confusion in my eyes. I look back into the house, causing him to raise an eyebrow, "Do you need help getting to the kitchen?"

"No, I think I remember." I say with a kind smile. I walk into the house, trying to exude the confidence that is currently lacking in me. I haven't been here in a few days. The attraction that I feel for Alpha Matthew isn't exactly normal and I don't really know what to do about it. As soon as I'm in the kitchen, I can't help but take a deep breath in. The house smells just like him—Amberwood and coffee and books. It instantly makes my insides feel warm.

Sage isn't in the kitchen yet so I figure she might be running late. The house is quiet, but I find comfort in it. I take a moment to investigate the living room. Matthew's guitars are pulled out a bit more from the corner. He has them right next to the fireplace and I can't help but wonder if he's started playing more often. Last time when I heard him play, I was absolutely starstruck.

Speak of the devil, My wolf coos in my head. I can sense Matthew's powerful aura enter the room. It's like feeling the sun's rays when you're sunbathing at the beach.

"Mia," he says lowly. I turn on my heels, letting my eyes quickly skim over him. He's not wearing his usual button down and dress pants. Instead, he's in black t-shirt and grey sweatpants. I can see all the tattoos that line his forearm and hand. My eyes fall on his face, and I see his devilish smile peak the corner of his lips. His eyebrow raises, a small gleam of excitement in his gaze.

"Hey," I say awkwardly. I feel like a child caught with their hand in the cookie jar. "Sorry, I'm just waiting for Sage."

Matthew steps towards me, arms crossing. "Oh? What mischief has Sage dragged you into today?"

I love the way he looks at me. I bite the inside of my lip to stop myself from smiling too brightly. "Sage is taking me to see your town. The old parts of the city. I haven't left campus that much."

Matthew's eyes brighten, I think he likes the fact that I'm trying to incorporate myself into his pack. He licks his bottom lip, biting it down for a second. The sex appeal so strong it makes me want to shudder. Kill me now, I think to myself.

"I'll mind link her that you're here," he walks towards the kitchen right behind us, going straight to the fridge to pour out a drink. He stands in front of his island counter. I can tell immediately he's mind linking by the way his stare is focused on nothing. Part of me starts wishing that I have mind linking abilities. Maybe one day.

A frown appears on Matthew's forehead. I try not to stare, but it's nearly impossible not to. Even frowning he's stunning. Coming out of the mind link, his eyes land on me. I push back a blush that I feel creeping on my neck.

"Well," Matthew leans on the counter. "I have some bad news, and good news."

"Hit me with the bad news," I cross my arms over my chest. There's no way that Sage would leave me hanging, she was so excited yesterday.

"Sage is extremely hungover," Matthew smirks. "So, she will not be able to take you to Old Town."

My heart sinks a bit. I was really looking forward to spending more time with Sage. I haven't had the chance of making a lot of friends, but last night really felt like a turning point for her and I. As if feeling my disappointment, Matthew tilts his head, smiling.

"The good news is...my afternoon is free." Matthew fidgets with his wolf ring, watching my expression carefully. My bottom jaw slacks in astonishment and I can't help but feel butterflies explode in my stomach. 

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A/N: A short chapter I know!!! But I feel like my publishing schedule is on point right now ;) 

I can't believe I'm almost at 500 reads already. That's so crazy to me guys!!!! I hope you're enjoying the story so far :)) the plot is going to kick in soon -- I promise -- but hey, gotta build that tension between Mia and Matthew ;)