The Alphas' Pride Mate (The Pride Who Goes Into Heat)

LOVE ONLY HIM.

Chapter: 28
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They sipped their drinks quietly for several minutes before Seth broke the silence. "You're human," he stated the obvious.

Andrew smiled in response. "And I'm guessing you're a werewolf," he commented, raising a perfectly arched eyebrow questioningly.

"I am," Seth confirmed. "Actually, I'm a Lycger, born of a Lycan and a Weretiger. I also have two brothers; we're triplets."

"Oh, that's wonderful!" Andrew gushed. "And where are your brothers?"

"One is back home, he's the pack leader, and the other is wreaking havoc in the innocent city of Chesterton," Seth informed him, smiling when he heard Andrew's laughter. There was a charming calmness to his laughter that always brought a smile to Seth's face.

"Why are you here tonight, Seth?" Andrew asked after a while, his genuine tone catching Seth off guard once again.

"I don't know," Seth admitted honestly. "I guess I just needed to get away from everything for a bit."

"I know that feeling," Andrew replied thoughtfully. "How long have you lived in Cotati?"

"Thirteen years, give or take," Seth replied.

"I was born here, raised by my adoptive werewolf parents. I always wondered why they chose to raise a human child instead of another werewolf, but I am grateful for the love they showered upon me. After I lost my father, I ran into Vincent, my friend who had also lost both parents at that time. We bonded like brothers and have supported and helped each other ever since," Andrew revealed, gesturing toward Vincent, who approached after Andrew beckoned him over.

Vincent greeted Seth and took a seat beside him. The three of them sat in a comforting silence, sharing life stories and experiences. It was remarkably easy to talk to both men, Seth would later realize, and his love for them grew each day from that night.

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Over the course of their conversations, Seth found himself gradually opening up to Andrew in unexpected ways. Their discussions flowed effortlessly, their laughter filling the air, as they discovered a shared love for art and adventure. Their connection seemed to deepen with each passing moment, as if their souls were in harmony, resonating with each other's passions. Time slipped away unnoticed as they delved into a range of topics, their lives, and experiences blending seamlessly with the music playing in the background. It was a rare moment of relaxation for Seth, a respite from the burdens he carried.

Time seemed to slip away as the night wore on, each moment deepening the connection between them. They clinked their glasses, the clatter of ice against glass punctuating their growing bond. Seth felt an unfamiliar warmth spreading through his chest, a mixture of gratitude and vulnerability. Seth offered Andrew his card so they could keep in touch, a gesture that seemed insignificant but held a deeper meaning. It was a silent affirmation of Seth's growing fondness for Andrew, despite the ever-present internal conflict he carried regarding his feelings for their mate, Dirk.

During their final date, as Andrew leaned in for a kiss, Seth knew he had to confront his emotions. He mustered the courage to open up about his past, explaining how he and his brothers had found their mate on their sixteenth birthday, only to be rejected. Seth acknowledged the possibility that he might not be able to reciprocate Andrew's love fully, unable to provide the depth of affection that Andrew deserved. He grappled with the weight of knowing that Andrew had fallen deeply in love with him, while he remained bound by the lingering presence of his lost mate.

On a warm evening, under the soft glow of streetlights, Seth chose to be honest with Andrew. They sat on a park bench, surrounded by the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant hum of the city, as Seth spoke with vulnerability. He revealed the truth of his conflicted emotions, explaining that his heart still belonged to another. He shared the pain of his rejected mating, a wound that had yet to heal.

To his surprise, Andrew listened with empathy and understanding, his eyes reflecting a profound acceptance. He reassured Seth that he would never force his love upon him, but would instead remain a steadfast support, regardless of the path they chose to take. Andrew's unwavering devotion and willingness to cherish Seth as he was only deepened the bond between them.

In the years that followed, Seth and Andrew loved, cherished, and respected one another. Andrew knew that a day might come when Seth would encounter his lost mate once again, and he was prepared for that eventuality. So, when Seth finally disclosed his recent encounter with Dirk, Andrew, who had long awaited this moment, was ready. He understood that Seth would need him now more than ever, and he would stand by his side, offering support and love.

It has been a challenging journey over the years. As a human, he often viewed the concept of a Fated mate as a burdensome fate. How could one's entire existence be bound to a single soul for eternity? The lives of these Weres were undoubtedly difficult, and he was grateful not to be one of them. After the passing of his adoptive father, he witnessed his mother's relentless devotion to her deceased mate, which persisted to this day. It seemed that their lives were inextricably linked once they found their mate, and no matter their efforts, no one could ever replace their true Fated mate.

Andrew believed this notion to be false. He found it implausible that one could only be bonded to a single soulmate for all eternity. He had been in love with Seth for four years, and the only obstacle preventing Seth from fully reciprocating his love was Seth's lingering feelings for the mate who had rejected him and his brothers. However, that did not mean that Seth never loved him or doesn't currently love him. Seth cherished him above all else, providing protection, support, and lavish romantic gestures, enriching Andrew's life in ways he never imagined possible since meeting Seth.

Therefore, Andrew knew that if Dirk, even as he had suddenly resurfaced and succeeded in re-establishing the bond that was once lost, should Dirk dare to lose this second chance, Andrew would do everything in his power to ensure that Seth forgot about Dirk completely and focuses his love solely on him alone.

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PRESENT DAY
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As Seth sat in silence at the edge of the bed, awaiting Andrew's response to his confession, he felt as though he were shattering the man's heart, despite both of them anticipating this day would come. However, they were not fully prepared for the consequences that would follow. They had shared countless beautiful memories, moments that would forever reside in Seth's heart. Throughout these years, Seth had relied on Andrew as his rock, and anchor, always beside him to guard and keep him afloat. Seth didn't realize until now just how much he had depended on Andrew throughout these past years, relying on his strength to survive. Now, faced with the prospect of losing the one constant in his life for someone who had previously rejected him, Seth was confronted with a painful reality.

A solitary tear escaped his eye, cascading onto the pristine white sheets, leaving behind tiny puddles. He attempted to wipe it away, but it continued to flow.

"How did it feel?" Andrew inquired, seated across the room.

Seth understood the intention behind the question and contemplated whether he should disclose the full extent of his emotions. However, he had promised himself to be completely honest as this situation unfolded.

A Wolf's word is his bond.