We settled on a blanket, facing the river. Alpha Elias handed me an apple, his fingers brushing mine. It sent an unexpected spark up my arm. My wolf was practically jumping out of her skin, begging to be noticed. I could feel her yearning for him to claim us.
"So, are you still pretending you are only here to help?"
I choked on the piece of apple I was chewing, coughing, and spluttering as I looked at him in shock.
"What do you mean?"
He shrugged, but his eyes twinkled like he was teasing me, but there was something more. And for a moment, I thought I saw the intense attraction.
"You could leave anytime, Lysa. But you’re still here. It makes me wonder why."
I tried to argue but stopped. He was right. I could have left yesterday or even this morning. But I was still here, helping in the infirmary and sitting beside him.
"I like it here. It’s different. The people, the pack... You," I shyly admitted, feeling my cheeks heat.
"And I like having you here."
He brushed a strand of hair behind my ear. The touch was gentle, but my heart ached with longing. I longed for this moment with Alpha Kade, and I couldn't believe it was happening now. We sat there in silence and listened to the river until the sun started descending.
"Come on. Let me walk you back to your quarters to rest."
When we reached my quarters, he stopped by my door.
"Lysa, I would like you to stay a little longer. Not just as a healer but... as someone I want to get to know better."
My heart clenched, and for a moment, I didn’t know what to say. I remembered how I was a mate to Alpha Kade, and he just replaced me. I didn't know if I could believe that this was something different.
"I'm... I'm not sure what you mean by that?" I asked, trying to sound confused although I understood what he meant.
Alpha Elias only smiled. I thought he was somehow shy or afraid to speak what he really wanted to mean.
"I think you know what I mean, Lysa. I am really interested to know you better."
"I don’t know if I’m ready," I whispered.
"I'm sure you could feel our connection was something we can't do away, but that's okay. I understand. Just think about it."
"I will," I said nodding.
I stepped into my room, closing the door behind me. I saw a pink rose on my bed; I touched it gently. Maybe, this was something that I had hoped for.