Chapter 14: Measuring the Alpha
Chapter 14: Measuring the Alpha
(Olivia’s POV)
Elder Madeline Shadowcrest approached me with a warm smile that instantly melted the tension in my shoulders. Her eyes–a striking shade that reminded me of twilight skies–assessed me with genuine interest rather than the judgment I’d grown accustomed to.
“Miss Oasis, what a pleasure to finally meet you in person.” Her voice carried the gentle authority of decades as a pack elder. “The photographs don’t do justice to your beauty and grace.”
I blinked in surprise, unprepared for such warmth from one of the most powerful she–wolves in werewolf society.
“Thank you, Elder Shadowcrest. The honor is entirely mine.” I managed to keep my voice steady despite my racing heart.
Russell Parker stood nearby, his posture respectful yet relaxed. “Elder Madeline has been looking forward to your visit for some time.”
“Indeed.” Madeline gestured toward the other she–wolves in the room. “We’ve all heard of your exceptional talent with ceremonial attire. Traditional craftsmanship is becoming a lost art among our kind.”
Blair stood slightly behind me, her eyes wide as she took in the opulent surroundings and the distinguished
company.
“Please, sit.” Madeline indicated a beautifully carved chair beside her own. “We have much to discuss about
my birthday celebration next month.”
I settled into the chair, arranging my design portfolio on my lap. “I understand you’re celebrating your sixtieth
birthday, Elder Shadowcrest. A significant milestone in any werewolf’s life.”
Madeline laughed, the sound surprisingly youthful. “Yes, though I’d prefer designs that don’t make me look
like I’m ready for retirement to the elder grounds just yet.”
The other she–wolves chuckled appreciatively. I recognized the challenge immediately–creating something
that honored her position as pack elder while acknowledging her vibrant spirit.
“I believe we can strike that balance perfectly.” I opened my portfolio, revealing sketches of ceremonial attire
I’d designed for various occasions. “Perhaps something that incorporates traditional elements with contemporary silhouettes?”
Madeline’s eyes lit up as she examined my work. “Exquisite. You truly understand our traditions.”
As I began taking her measurements, the conversation around us shifted. The other she–wolves–whom I now
recognized as Christina Winters and several other Shadowcrest Pack females–were discussing something in
hushed, excited tones.
“What about her? The daughter of the Eastern Territory Alpha?” One of them held up a photograph.
“Too ambitious, She’d try to influence pack decisions before the mating ceremony was even complete,” another replied.
|||
O
1/4
Chapter 14 Measuring the
Madeline noticed my curious glance. “They’re discussing potential mates for my son, Cassius.”
I focused on recording her measurements, trying not to appear too interested in this revelation. “I see.”
“His birthday coincides with mine, and tradition dictates he should at least consider suitable candidates by his thirty–fifth year.” Madeline sighed. “Though he’s been remarkably resistant to the idea.”
One of the she–wolves–Christina, I believed–held up another photograph. “What about Penelope Crawford?
Her bloodline is impeccable.”
“Too timid,” another countered. “The Shadowcrest Pack needs a Luna with backbone.”
Madeline suddenly turned to me with a mischievous glint in her eye. “What do you think, Miss Oasis? You have a discerning eye for quality and character.”
I nearly dropped my measuring tape. “Me? I couldn’t possibly-”
“Come now,” she insisted. “Just between us she–wolves. Which would you choose?”
I carefully considered my response, aware of the delicate position I was in. “Elder Shadowcrest, matters of the heart and pack bonds are deeply personal choices. The strongest mate bonds form from genuine connection, not just suitable credentials.”
Rather than appearing offended, Madeline seemed pleased with my answer. “Wisely said.”
“Besides,” Christina interjected, studying me with newfound interest, “Miss Oasis herself outshines most of these candidates. Beauty, talent, and clearly a diplomatic mind.”
My cheeks burned at the unexpected compliment. “You’re too kind.”
Madeline’s expression grew thoughtful. “Speaking of mate bonds, I heard there was some… unpleasantness with the Storm heir recently. Are you currently unattached, Miss Oasis?”
The room fell silent. I swallowed hard, knowing my response would be carefully evaluated.
“Yes, Elder Shadowcrest. Graham Storm and I were to be mated, but he chose my half–sister instead. Rather publicly, I’m afraid.” I kept my voice steady, refusing to show how deeply the humiliation still stung.
Madeline’s eyes softened with genuine sympathy. “How terribly thoughtless of him. Do you still harbor feelings for this young wolf?”
“No,” I answered honestly. “I’ve redirected my energy toward my career. Designing ceremonial attire for werewolves allows me to honor our traditions while creating something beautiful.”
Just as Madeline opened her mouth to respond, the atmosphere in the room shifted dramatically. A powerful presence entered, causing every wolf to straighten instinctively.
I turned to see Cassius Shadowcrest standing in the doorway.
Even if I hadn’t recognized him from my failed mating ceremony, his commanding aura would have identified him immediately. Tall and broad–shouldered, he carried himself with the natural authority of a born Alpha. His features were striking–strong jayline, penetrating eyes that seemed to see through pretense, and an expression of calm assessment.
“Mother,” he greeted Madeline with warm respect before nodding to the others. His gaze lingered on me for a moment longer than necessary.
“Cassius, perfect timing.” Madeline smiled. “We were just discussing ceremonial attire for the celebration.”
|||
<
2/4
< Chapter 14 Measuring the
+15 Points >
I noticed how the other she–wolves subtly adjusted their postures, some leaning forward with interest, others pretending sudden fascination with their teacups. The photographs of potential mates mysteriously disappeared from view.
“Miss Oasis is designing my gown,” Madeline continued. “Perhaps you should have her take your measurements as well. I predict she’ll soon be in demand internationally among our kind.”
Cassius studied me with those intense eyes. “I’m not opposed to the idea. Custom ceremonial attire would be
appropriate for the occasion.”
My heart raced at the prospect of additional work–and for such a high–ranking Alpha. “I would be honored, Alpha Shadowcrest, though my schedule is quite full with the commissions from the ladies present.”
“I’m not in a hurry,” he replied, his voice deep and measured. “Quality craftsmanship deserves proper time.”
Madeline beamed. “Excellent! It’s settled then.”
I nodded, trying to maintain my professional composure despite the unexpected turn of events. “I’ll need to take your measurements as well, then.”
“Of course.” Cassius gestured toward the other she–wolves. “Please finish with the ladies first. I can wait my
turn.”
His consideration surprised me. Graham would have demanded immediate attention, regardless of who was
waiting.
“Thank you, Alpha Shadowcrest,” I said formally.
“Cassius,” he corrected, his expression unreadable. “You may call me Cassius.”
The room fell silent again, and I felt the weight of every female’s gaze. Such familiarity from an Alpha of his standing was unexpected, especially toward someone with my complicated history.
“I… that wouldn’t be appropriate, Alpha Shadowcrest,” I managed, finding a middle ground between his offered familiarity and the formality his position demanded.
He accepted this with a slight nod, neither pleased nor displeased. “As you wish.”
I returned to my work, hyperaware of his presence as he settled into a chair across the room. Unlike Graham, who would have grown impatient and disruptive, Cassius seemed content to observe quietly, occasionally engaging in conversation with his mother or responding to questions from the other she–wolves.
After completing measurements for three more Shadowcrest females, I glanced up to find Cassius watching me with undisguised interest.
“Will I be next, Miss Oasis?” he inquired, his tone polite but carrying an undercurrent I couldn’t quite identify.
“Yes, if that suits you, Alpha Shadowcrest,” I replied, gathering my measuring tape and notebook.
“It does.” He rose smoothly, his movements controlled and deliberate. “I’m at your disposal.”
His calm patience stood in stark contrast to the demanding behavior I’d grown accustomed to from Graham Storm. As I prepared to take his measurements, I couldn’t help but wonder what other surprises this mysterious Alpha might have in store.
|||
3/4
< Chapter 15 An Embarrass.
+15 Points >
Chapter 15: An Embarrassing Mistake
