The Alpha’s Feisty Mate
Chapter 14: Calm before the storm

Alpha Blain POV

After dinner with the other Alphas, I couldn’t help but wonder if there was something going on between Isabella and Alpha Drake.

She doesn’t turn 19 for a couple more weeks, so she wouldn’t be able to sense her mate, but I couldn’t help this feeling that there was weird chemistry between them.

Isabella was almost making it her mission to piss off Alpha Drake, I may be old, but I saw right through her intentions at dinner when she wore that provocative dress. I know my daughter, and that dress was far from her usual style. All the unmated males were checking her out. The protective father in me was on high alert. Damn, that girl knows how to push bottoms.

I also noticed that she was being nice to Alpha Thomas, so nice that it again made me question her motives. She actually entertained Alpha Thomas’s offer to go for a walk after dinner. Again, the red flags were going off in my head. Since when would Isabella entertain such a request? The girl hasn’t ever entertained any male attention. I mean, she hasn’t even gone on a date. No one has ever been able to challenge her enough to keep her interest.

My curiosity only grew stronger when Alpha Drake let out a very noticeable growl when Alpha Thomas requested a private walk with Isabella after dinner, and she had accepted.

I watched an angry Alpha Drake storm off from the dining hall and noticed the smug satisfaction on my daughter’s face. What game is she playing now? I wondered. Is this just payback, or is there more to the odd behavior between Isabella and Alpha Drake?

After dinner, I made my way to my office. Declan came in a short while after to talk with me.

I poured us each a glass of whiskey and handed him one.

“What’s going on with Isabella, father?” Declan asked in a curious tone.

“I’m not sure, but I was wondering the same thing. She’s been acting different since Alpha Drake arrived.” I replied, while deep in thought.

“Ya, I mean that dress she wore tonight was a statement. She would never wear that normal.” He stated while staring at the amber-colored liquid in his glass.

“It almost seemed like she was trying to push Alpha Drake’s buttons,” I replied to him.

“Ya well, if she is, she’s playing with fire.” Declan chuckled.

“I’m not so sure, son. Alpha Drake was acting off as well. He didn’t speak the entire dinner, and what about that growl when Alpha Thomas invited Isabella for a walk?” I questioned.

“Do you think they could be mates, father?” Declan asked with a shocked expression.

“I’m not sure, but I felt the chemistry. If he is, she isn’t going to accept him easily.” I said, shaking my head.

Declan chuckled and shook his head “ No, no, she’s not. He’s going to have his work cut out for him.”

I went to bed that night thinking how good it would be if Alpha Drake was her mate. He’s strong, and he’s the Alpha of the biggest pack. There’s no doubt he could protect her. The question is, would she let him?

The next morning I met Alpha Reid and Alpha Thomas out front of the packhouse. They both had to return to their territories. Both promised to send some warriors to assist us with any further attacks.

I thanked them for their generosity, and they were on their way.

The next few days went by without a hitch. I barely saw Isabella. It almost felt like she was hiding or avoiding us.

I didn’t think too much of it. I know things were strange between her and Alpha Drake. She’s probably just trying to avoid any further confrontations.

Her punishment was over, and she had to return to her normal warrior training. She never complained once about the punishment. I’m very proud of who she’s become. Yes, she has a mouth on her, but I couldn’t help but appreciate her strong will and stubborn personality. She’s also a very caring person that treats everyone equally no matter their rank.

When she took her punishment and made the best of it, I wasn’t surprised. She’s never acted like a spoiled brat. She’s a hard worker and would never put herself above anyone else. Working in the kitchen with the omegas just proved that.

Lana, the head omega, had informed me of how helpful and even fun Isabella was to have around. It made me feel like a proud father.

If only she could replace a mate that could tame her wild ways, it would really take the pressure off me. I feel my grey hair spreading like wildfire having to deal with her stubbornness. I chuckled to myself.

I was deep in thought as I entered my office. I didn’t notice right away the envelope sitting on my desk. After a few moments, I sat in my chair, and that’s when I noticed it.

It was a simple white square envelope with my name written on the front.

I opened the envelope to replace an index card inside that read “I know your secrets. She’s mine.”

What the hell does that mean? I started to panic with thoughts of what it meant. Does someone know that Isabella and Declan have royal b***d in their veins? Who sent this envelope? How did they make it into my office undetected? Is there a mole working with the enemy, hiding within my pack? I started thinking to myself.

I couldn’t pick up any scent on the envelope or in my office. I thought that was strange. Whoever delivered the envelope was being very careful.

I couldn’t stop the concern running through my mind. Is this related to the rogue attacks? Is this regarding the same female they want? If so, are they referring to Isabella?

I mind-linked Declan and asked him to come to meet me in my office.

Once he arrived, I informed him about the card that was left. He had the same shocked look on his face. How did they get in undetected, and more concerning, is there a mole in our pack working for the enemy?

Declan asked me if I knew what it meant. I lied and said I didn’t. Well, to be honest, I was not sure yet. I don’t want to reveal my secret unless I know for sure. It’s not looking good, though.

After Declan left, I met up with Alpha Drake and also updated him on the envelope in my office. He had the same reaction as both Declan and I. Wondering how someone was able to get into my office undetected.

I couldn’t help but think, what’s next? The attacks and now these notes. I feel like it’s the calm before the storm.

I spent the next few days on high alert. I can’t help but internally suspect every single pack member that steps into my office. Who left that envelope? It’s been eating away at me.

There’s been nothing else since.

While I’m sitting in my office, there’s a knock at the door.

“Come in,” I said.

Alpha Drake entered and took a seat in front of me. We have become quite comfortable around each other over the past week. I have a lot of time for the Alpha, he’s a strong and fair leader, and I respect him greatly.

“How can I help you, Alpha Drake?” I asked.

“Well, unfortunately, I will have to head back to my pack territory in a few days. There are a few pressing matters that are waiting for me. My Beta has done a great job in my absence, but there are some things he can’t do.” He stated with an apologetic look on his face.

“I completely understand, Alpha Drake, and I truly appreciate everything you’ve done for us,” I said sincerely.

“Well, then I’ll give it a few more days, see if there are any further attacks. If not, I’ll return home, but I’ll send you some of my warriors to help in my absence.” He said with a nod.

“I truly appreciate it, Alpha Drake,” I replied.

I decided to test the waters, and I added, “I think Isabella might miss you when you’re gone.” I let out a little chuckle but watched his face closely to see if he reacted. His face paled, and I saw a mixture of emotions In his eyes, disappointment, longing, frustration, and l**t? Oh ya, there’s something between them for sure.

“Alpha Blain, your daughter is something else.” He chuckled before continuing.“ Her missing me is the last thing you have to concern yourself with.” He finished.

“I’m not so sure about that. But I suppose since her 19th birthday is in less than two weeks, she’ll hopefully replace her fated mate and put this silly little infatuation with you aside and focus on him.” I said to Alpha Drake and continued assessing his reaction.

Alpha Drake’s face showed surprise and a hint of excitement at my words, but he quickly hid it, hoping I didn’t read his emotions. Too late young Alpha, I got you. I thought to myself.

“Well, Alpha Blain, she is young. I’m sure if anything, it’s just a simple physical attraction to me.” He said while brushing the thought aside.

I decided to drop the subject. I was curious, though, if he is her mate and knows it, why hasn’t he spoken to me about it? Maybe he’s as headstrong as Isabella and doesn’t want a mate?

Well, they are young. They don’t understand that you can’t fight the mate bond. It’s a losing battle. Try all you want, but it’s just going to drive you crazy with desire, wants, and needs.

I chuckled, thinking how perfect they actually are together. Now, if only they could realize that.

I have a few more days till Alpha Drake heads back to his territory. Maybe it’s time I play the old matchmaker. I chuckled to myself.

After a little small talk, Alpha Drake eventually left my office.

I mind-linked Declan and asked him to meet me in my office.

Meanly, I’ve got a plan to execute. I smirked to myself. I may be older, but I have a few tricks up my sleeve.

Declan entered my office a few minutes later and sat across from me.

“Son, I need you to do me a favor tomorrow morning during training,” I told him.

“Yes father, what is it?” He asked curiously.

“Well, now that Isabella is done her punishment and back to full-time training, I need you to pair her and Alpha Drake together for sparring,” I told him with a smirk.

“Really? Father, do you think that’s a good idea? They already want to kill each other. Should we really be encouraging it?” He asked with a bit of concern lacing his words.

“Yes son, trust me,” I told him.

“Ok father, but if this goes downhill, it’s on you.” He said while shaking his head and letting out a nervous chuckle.

Declan left my office, and I couldn’t help but smile at my little plan.

Of course I would have to go and observe training tomorrow morning. I need to see this battle firsthand. I chuckled. It could get interesting.

The following morning I made my way to the training field and took my place on the sidelines to observe.

I listened to Declan as he partnered everyone off. When he got to Isabella and told her to partner with Alpha Drake, I could see the b***d drain from her face. Once the shock wore off, I saw the irritation rolling off her. It made me chuckle. Payback, baby girl, for all the times you gave me a hard time.

Alpha Drake didn’t seem thrilled by the match-up either, but they both didn’t say anything and walked off to a mat so they could begin sparring.

I watch as they both circle each other, assessing their opponent. Their eyes were glued to one another and I could see the determination on Isabella’s face. She wants to win this fight.

Isabella went first. I could tell she did it out of anger because she’s not usually so reckless. It was a bad move. I watched Alpha Drake easily sidestep her attack, and he swiped her feet out from under her, causing Isabella to fall. I saw the smug look in Alpha Drake’s eyes, thinking how easy that was. Oh, son, jokes were going to be on you if you get cocky and underestimate her, I thought to myself.

Isabella stood back up and quickly got into her fighting stance. This time Alpha Drake attacked first. Isabella anticipated his move, I watched as she spun around and threw her elbow out, and because of Alpha Drake’s momentum, he couldn’t stop in time, and his abdomen collided with her elbow full force. I saw him buckle over while holding his stomach. I chuckled; yup, that’s my girl. He didn’t even have a chance to see it coming.

Alpha Drake recovered quickly and used his leg to swipe Isabella’s from underneath her. I watched as she fell to the ground, but not before latching herself onto Alpha Drake and taking him down with her.

She was on her back and had him pinned on top of her. I could see she was trying to use her body to flip him over, but he’s so big she couldn’t quite do it.

I watched as he pinned her hands above her head, and there it was, that unmistakable chemistry as they gazed at each other.

Of course, it’s not that easy, though, not when it comes to Isabella. I watch as she manages to get her legs between Alpha Drake’s legs and knee him in the groin. He rolled off of her holding his family jewels with a pained expression on his face.

She didn’t waste time and hoped on top of him, pinning him down to the ground, trying to make him submit to defeat.

Alpha Drake is just as determined to win this battle as her. He wrapped both of his legs around her waist and flipped his body so that he was back on top and her beneath him.

This fight was quite entertaining to watch. You could see the attraction they had for one another, even when they tried their best to hide it. Neither one of them would submit to the other. The fight went on and on, with no winner, but it left no doubt in my mind that they were meant to be together. Both were so dominant and strong.

Declan announced the end of training. Alpha Drake had Isabella pinned underneath him, and I watched as he hesitated for a few seconds before he got up and walked away.

Well, Alpha Drake, I’m going to do everything in my power to make sure you don’t let her go, I thought to myself with a smile.