“I’d say it was more than that, Draven. But what’s the problem with her having a pup?”
“It’s not a problem that she has a son,” I answered honestly, Alaric huffing in agreement. “But it… unsettled me.”
“Wait until you meet the boy then,” she said.
“I met him yesterday.” I quickly told her how things happened, and when I mentioned the doctor’s misunderstanding about me being the father, Clara laughed heartily.
“He’s a very clever and talkative little pup. Very welcoming,” Clara commented. “He reminded me of you when you were a child.”
I couldn’t help but wonder if that’s where this strange sense of familiarity I feel toward the boy comes from-a kinship Alaric seemed to recognize instantly.
“Yesterday he was very drowsy. The doctor said it was because of the fever and the medicine the nanny had already given him.”
“So you didn’t see his eyes?” Clara asked.
“What about his eyes?” I frowned. “If they take after his mother’s, they must be beautiful.”
“Yes, they are beautiful,” Clara replied carefully, but I got the distinct impression she was deliberately withholding information.
“Clara, what do you know about the boy’s father?” Alaric growled within me, suddenly possessive at the thought of another male.
“I know everything, but I’m not going to tell you. That’s something very personal to her, and if Caroline thinks you should know, she’ll tell you herself.”
What the hell is this mystery all about? Is the kid’s father some kind of rogue Alpha? I would have to contain my curiosity until Caroline decided to talk to me, though the wolf inside me was growing increasingly restless, this curiosity eating us alive.
Ryan walked into the office next, his beta energy filling the room, looking like he’d had a wonderful night’s sleep and wearing his usual cheerful demeanor.
“Well, well, two of my favorite pack members together so early. How are my Alpha and our wise elder doing?” he said while giving Clara a respectful nod and brushing his shoulder against mine in wolf-like greeting.
“Your Alpha here is exhausted, didn’t sleep,” Clara said, piquing my friend’s curiosity.
“Alpha Draven, we’ll sort out the company situation, relax. The pack’s finances are secure.”
“I know, Ryan,” I said.
“So what kept you up? Miss Caroline?” Ryan asked playfully.
“Would you look at that, you got it right!” Clara responded with a knowing smile.
“Cut it out, you two,” I growled softly while they shared knowing looks. “She has a son.”
Ryan looked at me surprised, and I told him everything again, adding the information that Clara already knew.
Ryan gave me a serious look and asked, “And what’s the problem, Draven? You’re not some traditionalist Alpha who judges she-wolves for being single mothers. Or are you going to pull that dominance crap on Caroline?”
“Of course not,” I snapped. “I don’t care that she has a son. It only makes her more incredible, stronger. Raising a pup alone isn’t easy in any pack, you know that well, Clara, and I’ve always seen how hard you fought to raise your daughters without a mate.”
“Then I don’t understand the problem?” Ryan pressed, confused.
“Neither do I, my friend,” I admitted, “but something about it is bothering both me and my wolf, and I don’t know why.”
When I finished speaking, Caroline knocked on the door and came in, her delicate form filling the doorway.
“Good morning, everyone! Alpha Draven, I just arrived. Thank you for understanding my delay.”
She looked tired, with slight shadows under her eyes, and probably hadn’t slept. She should have stayed home with her pup.
“Don’t mention it, Caroline. How’s Liam?” I asked.
“Much better, thank you. Fortunately, pups recover quickly.” She smiled sweetly.
“Carrie, you mean you have a little cub? You have to introduce me, I’m an amazing honorary uncle to all the pack youngsters!” Ryan said, making everyone smile.
“I bet you are, Ryan,” she laughed. “How about this? When he’s feeling better, we’ll have lunch at my place so you all can meet him properly. Just don’t teach my son to howl at female pack members, okay?!” she responded with a widening smile.
“I can’t promise anything!” Ryan winked at her, incorrigible as always. “Caroline, you’re not alone here. You’ve already submitted your pack application, and once Alpha performs your joining ceremony, you’ll have a formal pack bond with us. So count on us for whatever you need.”
She looked at him with slightly teary eyes and thanked him.
Before everyone left, I informed them about my conversation with Arthur, mentioning how much he respects Caroline, which made her smile. I confirmed our meeting would be held at my house on Saturday, telling Caroline she could skip this one.
“No way, Alpha Draven! I’ve never neglected my obligations to any pack, and that hasn’t stopped me from being a good mother. I’ve already arranged everything with the babysitter, and Elle will also be home tomorrow. My son will be well protected, so I will be working.”
Her firm determination only increased my respect for her.
Draven’s POV
After everyone left my office, I took the opportunity to make a few more calls and handle some paperwork. The morning flew by, and soon Ryan showed up, dragging me out for lunch.
When we returned, I decided to stop by the bakery, thinking I’d brighten my assistant’s day a bit. I was curious about her son’s father, but I could wait until she was less tense to tell me.
When I got back to the office, she was already at her desk working diligently. I asked about her son; she said he was doing well and chatty as always. I smiled and went back to my office.
Near the end of the day, I went to the door and called my assistant. When she came in, I locked the door behind her. Her eyes widened at the sound of the lock clicking into place, and I gestured for her to sit on the couch. I had many questions for her, but I’d decided to save them for tomorrow, at my home-it would be less formal.
When she sat down and crossed her legs, I offered her the plate with our chocolate cake.
She smiled sheepishly and took it, her slender fingers wrapping around the fork.
“I thought I’d sweeten your day with a slice of our cake,” I said, looking into her eyes.
“Our cake?” she asked playfully, a spark lighting her green eyes.
“Yes, half is mine, as always. Unless you offer me something tastier.”
“Alpha Draven, are you starting with the teasing?” The playful warning in her voice only aroused my interest, sounding more like an invitation.
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