The Dark Forest.
CALLA’S POV
I couldn’t forget the look in his eyes when he reached out to me.
The light that appeared in his eyes when he saw me, and how fast it went out when I asked who he was. He seemed like the world was taken away from him and that devastated look plagued me even while I headed to my room with Scarlett.
“You must have been shocked,” Scar said, and I jolted out of my thoughts.
“What?”
“It’s usually not normal for a wolf to behave that way after a woman has been openly claimed by an alpha, not to talk of an alpha behaving in that manner.” She remarked, “This is just a one-time thing, and I assure you won’t be caught in the drama again.”
She unlocked the door, and pushed it open, gesturing me in. I walked inside, and she followed behind me. “The night was perfect. Other than I couldn’t remember the names of the important people Cole introduced to me, I am genuinely impressed by the love and family.” I said, meaning it from my heart.
“I’m glad you enjoyed it. Because when you officially get coronated as the luna of this pack, you will attend these events by the side of the Alpha.” Scar said, and I noted it, placing it in mind. “As for the names, we can always brush you up as time progresses.”
“Oh great,” I said with a lack of enthusiasm. “I want to know,” I began, taking a seat on the soft mattress of my bed. “That man back then. Who is he? Why does he call me Ithra? What’s his story?”
“I would have been worried if you didn’t ask,” Scar said, and I blushed. It was no news of how curious I was – one of the traits Cole didn’t like about me.
Thankfully, I had Scar – his tested and trusted beta, who helped me in these situations.
“For some reason, Cole didn’t tell me anything about him. We interacted with him on the dancefloor and I could tell there was something between them. And I was right.” I explained to her, hoping she could give me something more to work with.
“I shouldn’t be telling you this,” Scar started and my lips curved downwards. “However, if I know the Alpha, I’m sure this would be the last time you set your eyes on him, so I might as well satisfy your curiosity.” I couldn’t help the sadness that gripped my heart at the thought of not seeing him again. However, I feigned a smile and nodded excitedly, urging her to continue.
“The man you saw is an Alpha. His name is Zadok Kir Roman – Alpha of the Blood Hound pack and one of the most powerful werewolves to have walked the earth.” She started. “As you can already tell, he isn’t in the best relationship with our Alpha.” I nodded, making a mental note to find out the reason for their hostility towards each other. “Some years ago, his pack was attacked by rogues and for some time, he was said to be missing with some lady he newly accepted into his pack.”
“His beta was able to secure the pack after some time, and soon, we heard he returned a shadow of himself. Some said he lost his mate, while others said he lost his mind while trying to find his mate who died in a forest.”
“The dark forest.” I supplied, and Scarlett’s eyes grew wide.
“How did you know that?” She asked, eyeing me warily. “Have you recovered your memory?”
“Of course not.” I said, and after a while, asked, “Do you think that’s where I came from? The dark forest?”
“Calla.” Her tone was serious. “How did you know about the dark forest?” She asked again, leaving no room for distractions.
“I overheard them speak about it,” I said, bowing my head.
“Who?”This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.
“Cole in a conversation with one of the Alpha’s,” I said but she didn’t seem to buy it. “He said something about an alpha sending troops into the dark forest, and they laughed. I didn’t know it had anything to do with Zadok.” I replied innocently.
“Enough now. Don’t mention his name.” She said, and I knew she believed me. “It’s been a long day. Go to bed, I believe Cole will join you very soon.”
I shook my head, hating the thought of spending another night with him. I didn’t think I was ready to give him what he wanted, nor could I let him touch a part of me. But I shelved the thoughts at the back of my mind.
“You didn’t tell me why he called me Ithra.” I reminded with a protest. “Please..” I begged when I noticed her hesitancy.
“Word has it that the name of the lady he lost in the dark forest.” She said and I felt coldness wash over me.
“Was she his mate? Why would he think I was her?” I asked, many questions swirling through my head.
“Like I said, he is said to have lost his mind after his return from the dark forest.” Scar explained with a tut, “He probably calls every girl he meets by that name. Don’t let it bother you. He is crazy.”
I nodded my head, despite not agreeing to her words. By now, I knew when to let things rest. If I pushed further, it would mean I wasn’t satisfied and nothing that bothered me went past Cole.
The last thing I wanted was for him to get wind of the fact I was remotely interested in another male. I learned the hard way – how protective, possessive and jealous Cole could be.
“That’s interesting.” I shrugged, “Thankfully, I wouldn’t be meeting him anymore.” I said with a smile.
“Good. Now get to rest, tomorrow, we will practice more of your witchcraft, so while you play tonight, get enough rest.” She said with a suggestive wink.
I shook my head and gave a smile that didn’t reach my eyes. As soon as the door closed behind her, the smile disappeared from my lips, and I felt anxiety.
Anxiety about what another night with Cole will hold.