Previously **

For years, I had waited for the moment I'd have my mate by my side. While I wish the circumstances that had brought us together had been different, I was nonetheless grateful. So grateful to have her by my side, and I knew I could protect her, and no one would ever lay a hand on her again.

"I'm going return to my office to wash up. There's a bathroom in my office. I'll come to get you when dinner is ready." Cane told Bianca as he helped her off the bathroom counter. His eyes wandered around the room as he attempted to shake away the impure thoughts his wolf screamed in his head.

"No, please, this is your bedroom, your bathroom." A slight rumble came from the belly of the young she-wolf. "I'll just be outside." Bianca squeaked out, noticeably embarrassed. "Thank you again." With a flush creeping up her cheeks, Bianca made her way towards the bedroom door, shifting her weight from foot to foot, her eyes fixed on the ground beneath her. Her shoulders were hunched slightly; her arms hugged against her sides. April, her wolf, was confused about why her blonde counterpart was awkward and shy around their mate when she had never been timid. Then again, she understood Cane was intimidating, and everything happened quickly. It must be overwhelming.

Quickly leaving the bathroom and closing the large door behind her, Bianca sat perched upon the edge of a bed.

Why do I feel so weird around him? Bianca asked herself as she fell back into the large bed.

He's our mate; it's natural to become submissive.

I'm not acting submissive I'm acting like a nervous weirdo.

Back in the bathroom sanctuary, Cane stood beneath a cascade of warm water. The steam enveloped the space, veiling his muscular frame in a misty embrace. The water droplets cascaded down his chiseled figure, glistening as they traced the contours of his broad shoulders, muscular chest, and rippling abdominal muscles.

As the water coursed over his body, the rhythmic pattern mingled with the rhythmic pulse of his throbbing headache, forming a dissonant symphony within his mind. 

His wolf was listing the gruesome ways they would deal with the men who had caused harm to his mate. 'Beheading, waterboarding, no, let's rip them apart limb from limp.'

His brow furrowed, revealing the strain etched upon his handsome face. Sweat mingled with the water droplets, trickling down his forehead and cascading along his chiseled jawline.

'Lucca, please, shut up. You're not helping,' He growled back at his wolf.

With a wearied sigh, he tilted his head back, allowing the water to run down his face. The rivulets ran over his brow and cheeks. The soothing touch of the water mingled Bianca's scent that spread throughout the shower and the various soaps and washes, providing him relief. He lathered his body with the same soaps Bianca had used. The thick white bubbles fell down the naked valleys of muscles and down the drain as the water once more washed over Cane.

As he reached for the towel, the water droplets clung to his body, glistening like diamonds against his rich dark skin. He wrapped the soft fabric around his waist, securing it firmly, and stepped out of the shower, the steam dissipating into the air.

In that quiet moment, he stood tall, glancing at his blurred image in the foggy mirror. The memory of the soothing shower lingered, offering a brief interlude of tranquility in his journey. He couldn't just slaughter them quickly and easily. No, they had to pay.

They will regret the fucking day they breathed the same air as our mate. Lucca's dark voice rang through his mind. The young alpha stepped into his walk-in closet. His eyes skimmed across the neatly arranged rows of shirts, jackets, and trousers. Finally, settling out a pair of dark-washed jeans and a plain black T-shirt.

Once dressed, Cane returned to his bedroom, where his mate awaited him. Bianca was still sitting on the enormous bed when Cane entered the room. Her head was laid back onto the massive pillows. Her eyes closed, her chest moving up and down slowly. He admired her for a moment; she looked so at peace.

A soft knock came from the other side of the heavy door, capturing the attention of both Cane and Bianca. Her eyes fluttered open as she rose from the pillows, her head turning to look at the door.

"Damn, this bed really is comfortable." She mumbled to herself.

Cane strode toward the door. With a slow and deliberate motion, he swung the door open. Before him stood an older woman clad in a crisp and modest maid's uniform. In her hand, she carried a neatly folded pile of clothes.

As the old woman fixed her gaze upon the young man before her, she dipped into a respectful bow. Her voice, suffused with genuine happiness, carried the weight of her purpose. "The queen sent this for your mate, young prince," she announced, the words brimming with joy and reverence.

"Thank you, Myra," Cane spoke, his voice filled with appreciation and respect. Taking the precious garments from her hands.

"Dinner is ready, my prince; we await you and your mate."

"Please inform everyone that we shall join them momentarily," Cane responded, his tone imbued with a regal air.

Myra bowed once more before departing, her footsteps resonating softly on the stairs, fading into the distance as she embarked on her journey to inform the waiting staff.

"Prince," Bianca repeated the title playfully.

Cane chuckled, "She's the only person in the castle who still calls me a prince. I like it, though; it makes me feel young." He let out another chuckle, walking back towards the bed. "My mom sent this for you." Gently, Cane laid the clothes onto the bed beside Bianca. The room shimmered with anticipation as Bianca's eyes danced with curiosity.

"Please, tell her I said thank you," Bianca said to Cane. She felt a sense of relief wash over her. It was a simple yet comfortable ensemble instead of an elaborate gown or princess dress. A soft, solid-colored T-shirt and a pair of well-fitted jeans.

"I'll give you some privacy to get dressed. I'll be waiting right outside the door, and once you're ready, we can head downstairs together," Cane offered considerately, his voice filled with gentle reassurance.

Cane stepped away from the immediate vicinity of the bedroom. Cane made his way toward the hallway, giving her the solitude she needed to slip into the attire sent by his mother.

As he positioned himself just outside the door, Cane leaned against the wall, his thoughts drifting toward dinner. Hunger, too, was consuming him.

Finally, the sound of the door opening broke the silence, and Cane's attention returned to the present. He turned his gaze towards Bianca.

"Ready?" Cane asked, extending a hand towards her. Together, they would venture downstairs.

They descended the grand marble staircase, their steps echoing softly off the walls. The flickering light of the crystal chandeliers above cast a warm glow, illuminating the path before them and casting dazzling reflections on the polished marble floor. It was as if they were walking through a scene from a fairytale.

As they got closer to the dining room, Bianca's gaze wandered, taking in the intricate details. The dark aesthetic of the castle was captivating.

As they approached the dining room, the double doors opened to reveal a sight that took Bianca's breath away. The room was adorned with elegant furnishings and a long, intricately carved dining table. 

Bianca's eyes widened as she took in the spectacle before her, her senses immediately captivated by the sight and aroma of the food on the grand table. Platters of succulent roasted meats, their surfaces glistening with savory juices, took center stage on the table. Tender cuts of beef, juicy poultry, and succulent lamb promised a symphony of flavors with every bite. Their rich aromas filled the air, mingling with the delicate scent of fresh herbs and spices.

Besides the meats, various vibrant vegetables and salads created a colorful display. Crisp, verdant lettuce leaves, ripe tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers beckoned with their freshness, while roasted root vegetables and glazed carrots provided a comforting warmth. Golden and fluffy mashed potatoes, their creamy texture. The table was filled with platters of freshly baked bread, still warm from the oven, promising a soft, pillowy interior.

It was a feast fit for royalty, which made sense.

As her gaze swept across the elegant table, Bianca's eyes fell upon a selection of steaming soups nestled in elegant bowls. Creamy butternut squash soup, its vibrant orange hue captivating her attention. Besides, it was a hearty vegetable minestrone, brimming with abundant colorful vegetables.

Bianca's heart filled with relief as she realized that she could still eat the soups on the table even with her injury. But she hoped that her werewolf healing had kicked in by now so that she could enjoy a wide variety of food without pain.

Cane guided Bianca to their designated seats at the head of the table. Cane sat at the head of the table. Bianca satbeside him.

"I asked the chefs to prepare foods that would be gentle on you and easy for you to enjoy without discomfort," Cane informed her with a warm smile. "I know that it's been a while since you've had a proper dinner, so I wanted to ensure there's a variety of different foods," Cane explained with a gentle smile. "I thought it would be best to have a little bit of everything to cater to different tastes."

Bianca's eyes filled with gratitude as she looked at Cane. "Thank you, Cane," she was touched by his thoughtfulness.

"Is this the Bianca I've been hearing about all day?" Bianca turned her gaze toward the source of the voice. A tall, burly man entered the room. His voice carried a particular enthusiasm as he made his presence known. He looked older than Cane, with a dark stubble adorning his jawline. The lines on his face hinted at a life filled with experiences.

Beside him stood Ashton. His dark, tousled hair looked slightly damp from a recent shower. His hair's casual disarray looked like he had just rolled out of bed.

Bianca greeted the men with a warm smile, a genuine expression of welcome and curiosity. "Hello," she said, her voice laced with warmth and friendliness.

"Bianca, this is Kyle, Brett's older brother. He is one of our best pack's warriors," Cane gestured toward the tall man beside Ashton. Bianca's gaze shifted towards Kyle, her eyes scanning his features. She recognized the strength and determination etched upon his face; it reminded her of her father.

"And, of course, you already know Ashton," Cane continued.  The two men sat at the table.

"Hey, eating without us?" Another lively voice filled the room, drawing everyone's attention. Another man entered with a woman by his side. The woman gently cradled her pregnant belly, a tired yet contented smile gracing her face.

"Kai, Nea, it's about time you two decided to join us," Ashton playfully chided, a mischievous glimmer in his eyes.

Kai, a tall and rugged man with a warm smile, raised an eyebrow. "Someone had to ensure the pack is safe while you enjoy your meal."

Radiant with the glow of impending motherhood, Nea lightly elbowed Kai, a hint of amusement dancing in her eyes. "Show some respect." She said, referring to the curly-haired blonde sitting aside Cane.

"Luna," Nea addressed her with a warm smile, her hand gently resting on her round belly, "please accept my apologies for being unable to bow. These little pups inside me are on my bladder." She laughed.

"Please, Bianca is just fine," Bianca assured Nea with a slight blush coloring her cheeks. The title of Luna felt unfamiliar and somewhat overwhelming to her.

"Kai is our gamma, and Nea, of course, is his mate," Cane introduced the two.

"It's an honor," Kai said, his voice filled with respect as he bowed before Bianca. The two made their way to their seats. Nea's face flushed with mild embarrassment when her chair emitted a creaking noise as she sat down. She couldn't help but facepalm in frustration. "You have got to be kidding me. Every single time?"

Laughter filled the room as the pack members shared in Nea's exasperation. The light-hearted banter continued as Nea playfully glared at her chair, vowing to conquer the creaking predicament. Amidst the shared laughter and teasing, Bianca couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth that radiated from the pack.

Ashton's hunger manifested in an eager grin, his hands rubbing together in anticipation. "Can we eat?" The hungry gazes of the pack members turned towards Cane, waiting for his nod of approval before indulging in the bountiful feast spread before them. While Cane may not have held the official title of alpha, his noble bloodline still commanded respect, warranting his role as the first to partake in the meal.

With a nod and a smile, Cane gave his consent. "Eat." The pack members wasted no time, their hunger driving them to fill their plates with various delicious dishes eagerly. The clinking of cutlery against plates and the soft murmurs of contentment filled the air as they began eating.

Bianca began filling her plate. She delicately scooped up a small portion of creamy mashed potatoes. She raised the fork to her lips, and a rush of relief flooded over her when she realized that the excruciating pain that had plagued her throat had vanished. A contented smile graced her lips.

She surrendered to the allure of the feast before her, her plate gradually amassing a mountain of food. The irresistible temptation of indulgence had cast its spell on her, and her appetite seemed insatiable.

Ashton couldn't help but jest, his voice laced with amusement, "Wow, it looks like she might give even Kyle a run for his money in the eating department."

"More than me?" Kyle's laughter filled the room, his tone feigning astonishment. His eyes sparkled with playful competitiveness as he glanced at Bianca, a teasing smile spreading across his face.

Bianca flashed a warm smile, her lips slightly pursed as she savored the delicious food in her mouth. The flavors danced on her palate, tempting her to indulge further. The food on her plate had captivated her senses, making it difficult to resist the urge to continue eating.

She swallowed her food, delicately dabbing her mouth with a napkin from the table. A sheepish smile played on her lips as she confessed, "I'm sorry, I have quite the appetite."

With a mischievous glint in his eyes, Kyle responded with a hint of excitement, "I welcome a challenge."

"So Bianca, what pack are you from?" Kai inquired.

"I'm from the Westmoon pack on the West Coast," Bianca replied, her voice carrying a hint of pride in her origins. But as she mentioned her pack, she began feeling a longing for her family. She missed them so much.

"You must have held a high rank there," Ashton commented, pulling her out of her thoughts. He recognized the immense strength she must possess to have endured and survived what she had been through.

Bianca nodded, her eyes gleaming with pride. "I was a pack warrior, the third-best warrior in the pack." She glanced at Cane, noticing his admiration.

"Well, we'll definitely put your skills to the test, little Luna. You should join us at the training area sometime and show us what you're made of," Kyle suggested a playful glimmer in his eyes. Bianca couldn't help but cringe at the nickname, as it reminded her of Brett's teasing in the infirmary.

"I'd love to, and Bianca is just fine," she responded, asserting her preference.

Laughter filled the air as the dinner conversation continued, intertwining with the clinking of cutlery against plates. Everyone indulged in the delicious dinner before them. The dishes were devoured with gusto, and soon enough, no crumb remained.

"Well, I don't know about the rest of you, but after a meal like this, I need to hit the hay," Kyle said, patting his now full belly. The others nodded in agreement, feeling the pleasant heaviness after a satisfying meal.

Cane stood up from his seat. "It has been a long day indeed. Rest well, everyone."

With that, the pack members bid each other goodnight, slowly dispersing from the dining room. Cane's gaze shifted towards Bianca, noticing the weariness in her eyes.

"You look tired, Bianca," Cane observed, concern lacing his voice. "It has been a long day for you. I'll walk you back to my room."

Bianca managed a small smile, grateful for his consideration. "Thank you," she replied, her voice filled with appreciation and exhaustion.

Side by side, they made their way out of the dining room, navigating the hallways back toward Cane's bedroom. As they reached her door, Cane paused, his eyes meeting hers. "Rest well, Bianca," he said softly. "If you need anything, I will be in my office."

"Are you sure you want me to sleep in your bed? I don't want you to sleep at your desk; I can sleep on a couch."

"I assure you I won't be sleeping at my desk," he said warmly. "You're my mate and must have a proper place to rest."

"Thank you, Cane," Bianca murmured. With a final nod, she entered her room, closing the door behind her.

Cane stood outside for a moment, his thoughts lingering on the events of the day and the connection he felt with Bianca. Cane's heart felt heavy with longing as he approached his office. Cane knew it was the right decision to give Bianca space and time to get to know each other before taking that step. Patience was essential, and he was willing to wait.

As he settled into his office chair, his mind was filled with thoughts of Bianca. He couldn't help but imagine what it would be like to hold her close, to feel the warmth of her body against his.

Taking a deep breath, Cane focused on his work, channeling his energy into the tasks. He knew many responsibilities needed his attention as the alpha and king-in-waiting. The paperwork, the pack affairs, and the upcoming trials required his concentration.

Bianca walked into the bedroom. She slowly removed the clothes she had been wearing, letting them fall to the floor in a pile at her feet. Bianca decided to slip back into the shirt she had been wearing earlier. She pulled the shirt over her body, letting it drape loosely around her. Gathering the discarded clothes, she neatly folded them and placed them aside before making her way toward the bed, ready to lie down and rest. She reached up, drawing back the folded covers atop the bed. Letting out a heavy sigh Bianca fell back onto the bed under her, surrounding herself in the gentle embrace of the pillows. In the quiet stillness, her breathing slowed, becoming rhythmic and steady, harmonizing with the soft cadence of her heart. As her eyelids grew heavier, a dreamy haze enveloped her senses. She was fast asleep within minutes.

Cane was just a few feet away behind the closed doors of his office. The bright light of the lamps illuminated the manila folders and papers scattered around his desk. Encased in the folders were all the printed information of each man who took part in the trafficking of she-wolves. The documents about their pasts, even dating back to their births.

The phone on his desk began ringing, vibrating against the dark wood. Cane's hand instinctively reached for the ringing phone, lifting it to his ear with a practiced motion. 

"Yes?" He answered, his voice laced with fatigue.

"Ah, hello to you too, son," came the voice on the other end of the line.

"Hey, Dad," Cane greeted, a flicker of concern etching his words. "Is everything alright? Are you coming home soon?"

"Kid, let me be frank with you," his father's words resonated through the phone, a blend of amusement and honesty. "I can't wait for you to take over. I need to retire." His father's boisterous laughter filled the airwaves; in response, Cane's chuckle escaped, his heart lightening with the infectious mirth.

"I'll be back soon," his father assured him, his voice carrying a hint of determination. "These stubborn packs just can't seem to reach a resolution for the territory. At this point, I'm almost tempted to split it right down the middle and let them deal with the consequences." A chuckle escaped Cane's lips.

"Ah, the joys of negotiation," Cane replied, his laughter blending with his father's. "I'm sure you'll find a way to settle things."

"That's the plan, son," his father affirmed, his voice brimming with confidence. "By this evening, we'll finally reach an agreement and end this dispute. And once everything is settled, I'll be on my way back home."

Cane's father's voice carried a tinge of anticipation as he spoke, "I suspect the raid against the rogues went well. I've received Ashton's report. I saw you left Ashton to do the interrogations. Have you proceeded with trial preparations?"

"Well, I was awaiting your call before proceeding. There's something I have to tell you about why I didn't participate in the interrogations."

"Ah yes, your mom tells me you've found your mate," he remarked, the playful tone underscoring his words. "Well, no one would blame you if you killed them. I know I wouldn't." The mirth in his father's voice hinted at a shared understanding of the complexities that came with someone hurting their mates.

"Hadle it, Cane." his father's voice turned serious, a weighty acknowledgment of the burden that now rested upon Cane's shoulders.

There was a momentary pause, a shared understanding passing between them. Cane's father's stern expression softened, pride flickering in his eyes. "I have faith in you, son," he said, his voice filled with confidence and paternal love. "As for your mate, it's absolutely wonderful, Cane," his father's voice brimmed with genuine pride and joy. "Now that you've found your mate, it's clear that you're ready to take on the role of king. I can finally step down." A subtle pause followed as if his father was savoring the momentousness of the occasion. "I'll have to call Lionel and schedule our golf games. Retirement beckons and the fairways are calling our names." Cane could almost envision the mischievous glint in his father's eyes.

Cane playfully rolled his eyes. "Just make sure you get home soon, old man," he teased, his voice filled with fondness and mild impatience. "Goodbye."

"Goodbye, son" With those parting words, Cane gently placed the phone back on the desk. His head throbbed, a familiar ache pulsating through his temples. The weight of his responsibilities bore down on his shoulders, intensifying the pressure that plagued his mind.

We've gotten the okay. Now it's time to make them pay.

Lucca's dark voice called out to Cane, his sinister tone weaving into his thoughts like a tempting devil on his shoulder. Kill them. The words resonated with a dangerous allure, appealing to his baser instincts. The haunting images from the photographs he had examined earlier seared into Cane's mind, tormenting his thoughts with vivid depictions of the suffering his mate had endured. Each snapshot etched a painful imprint on his consciousness, fueling a fire of anger and protectiveness that burned within him.

Pushing back from his desk abruptly, Cane stood up. He knew that the only relief he could find in this relentless storm of emotions lay in the presence of his mate, Bianca. The mere thought of her gentle touch and reassuring presence offered a glimmer of calm amidst the chaos.

His gaze flickered toward the clock, the hands ticking steadily towards the early hours of the morning. But, time seemed to lose its significance as his heart urged him to seek the comfort of her embrace.

With a determined stride, Cane left his study behind, a whirlwind of emotions propelling him forward. Cane knocked on his bedroom door, but after no response, he wiggled the doorknob to see if it was open. Which it was. He hesitated to invalidate her privacy, but he had to see her.

Pushing open the door, he peaked his head into the dark bedroom. His eyes wandered around the room before falling upon the young she-wolf. Silently observing his mate as she lay nestled in the king-sized bed. The moonlight, filtering through the slim openings of the curtains, cast a gentle glow upon her, highlighting her delicate features that captivated his heart.

With an awe-struck tenderness, his gaze traced the contours of her face with his eyes. Silky curls of blonde hair spilled like a cascading waterfall upon the pillows, framing her peaceful face. Soft, even breaths escaped her slightly parted lips.

His heart swelled with adoration as the anger left him. He took in every detail, from the delicate curve of her cheek to the flutter of her long lashes against her tawny skin. The lines of worry and fatigue that marked her face while she slept in the hospital bed seemingly melted away. Cane approached the bedside; his steps were cautious, as if afraid to disturb the fragile tranquility that enrobed his slumbering mate. His eyes, filled with a mixture of wonder and affection, he drank in the sight before him. The rise and fall of her chest, the gentle flutter of her eyelids, the faint blush of color graced her cheeks—each detail reaffirmed the ethereal beauty that captivated his soul.

In this intimate tableau, he recognized the privilege bestowed upon him to witness his mate in her most vulnerable state. His heart swelled with profound gratitude, a deep-seated awareness of their bond.

With a lingering gaze, he turned away, leaving her to her peaceful slumber and returning to his office. Now he could sleep.