Ch. 1041..1050
Chapter 1041 Alpha Violet (2)
Page eyed Violet's outfit. "You look stunning. I'm sure your mate will love it."
Violet's stomach tightened. "Can we not talk about it?"
"What DO you want to talk about?" Robin asked. "Don't you want to find your other half?"
"I do but…" It was also scary. What if he is no good? What if he doesn't like her?
"But?" Scarlet asked.
Violet shook her head. "The crowd down there looks like a lot of people, but it's just a fraction when compared to the world. My mate might be from a different pack, or a human, or maybe in a different realm. I want to focus on the run. I will find my mate when the time comes. That's it. Help me get ready." She turned her back to Page. "This string is a bit loose. Fix it…"
The door opened and Lavender stuck her head inside.
Lavender was always the stylish one, wearing high-end clothes that matched and flattered her curvy figure. This time, she also didn't disappoint. Her full chest was covered with the light-brown leather fabric that matched the skirt she was wearing, and it all had intricate embroidery that her father personally commissioned a year in advance because it needed to be flawless.
Seamstress put extra care in Lavender's outfit because the word around was that Lavender will be the next Beta, working closely under Alpha Violet, and also, Lavender's parents were impressive Beta Mindy and Shaman Gideon.
"We should get going," Lavender said.
Violet glanced at the time. "Mom said we have ten minutes."
"If you don't get there in a minute, Jacob will start ravishing girls in front of their parents."
Violet made a face. Jacob was sixteen years old, and he had no intention of controlling his licentious nature. Since he was underage, Jacob was not allowed to join the pack run, so he was making the most of this pre-ceremony gathering. Did he have sex with a female already? That was a possibility she didn't want to think about.
Damon told them that sex is natural and they shouldn't think of it as dirty, but it's fantastic only if done with mate. Of course, that was the talk for the boys. Violet got from Damon his usual: she shouldn't allow any boy to touch her. Ever.
…
The ceremony was majestic.
Shaman Gideon was chanting to appeal to the Moon Goddess to bless everyone present and the future Alpha Violet who was ready to lead the pack run for the first time.
Mindy and Lavender were assisting Gideon, and Violet was standing with her parents and brothers.
Many other high-ranking members were up on the podium that needed to be extended for this occasion.
From the Midnight Guardians pack present were Alpha Axel, Luna Yasmin, Meg, Kai, Sandy, Tyler, Varya, and Grady. From the Dark Howlers pack, there were Commander George, Dawn, General Owen, Zina, James, Cornelia, Keith, Arya, Caden, Maya, Liam, Amelia, Pierce, Daria, Caleb, Trisha, Petra, and Zack. Also present on the podium were witches and Guardians Evanora, Edgar, and Declyn, Oracle Cassandra, and her mate Guardian Marco.
It was crowded up there, but it also showed the strength of the alliance supporting Alpha Violet. If not for the custom that other packs can't join the pack run, there would be many other impressive people present.
Youngsters who were not directly involved in the ceremony were the closest to the podium and they all hoped that Violet will take over as the Alpha soon. They wanted to stand there as high-ranking members of the pack that counted thousands of members.
The ceremony was over, and the crowd stirred in anticipation.
Violet could see Jacob eyeing a few girls that were nearby and she wanted to slap him. "Watch Jacob," she told Logan and Zeke who were fourteen years old, too young to be lecherous, but Violet knew that soon the craziness will catch them also.
The youngsters will gather around the bonfires and linger there in their human and wolf forms until the wee hours of the night or until grownups chase them away.
Violet turned to her parents.
'Go,' Talia's voice sounded in Violet's head. 'We will be right behind you.'
Violet released a slow breath and turned to see that Lavender, Scarlet, Robin, and Page were right behind her, ready to follow. Next to them were Edgar and Valeria, Violet's cousins, both eighteen years old. Edgar and Valeria carried the Alpha bloodline of the Moonrider family and if not for her Uncle Axel yielding to Talia, Valeria would be the next Alpha of the Midnight Guardians pack. Violet wondered if the twins ever carried a grudge against her, but she never sensed anything malicious from them.
Behind were Peter and Thomas, eighteen years old sons of Commander George and General Owen, respectively.
Andrew was also there, even though Cornelia's and James' son didn't have a wolf. Violet was confident that Andrew's proficiency in magic will come in handy in the years to come.
Now that she looked around, Violet realized that she had the support of many.
Violet pulled the string of her ceremonial garments to slide off her body as her shape changed into a majestic golden wolf.
'AWOOOOO!'
Violet howled and the pack followed, thunderous noise shook the surrounding forest and scared all the critters in the area.
Violet let her wolf take over, and she jumped into the nearby foliage, knowing that her friends and members of two packs will be right behind her.
She relished the feeling of soil and grass under her paws, the wind in her fur, it was euphoric.
Violet was proficient in manipulating air and creating winds. She could sense the landscape before it came into view, it was like she became one with nature.
Forward. Left. Her instincts were guiding her, and she didn't resist.
'Vi?' Lavender's voice snapped Violet out of her euphory. 'Where are you going?'
Violet blinked. She was at the border of the Dark Howlers pack. Just a few steps away was the allied territory of the Spring Leaf pack. They had open borders, but it was custom that the pack stays within their territory. Where was she going?
Violet knew she should turn back, but something told her to continue.
'Go on without me,' Violet said. 'I need to check something.'
'Do you think they will follow me?'
'Ask mom and dad for help…' Violet responded and dashed into the forest. There was something there. Like a faint call only she could hear, and her wolf was urging her to check it out.
Straight ahead. Faster. Over the rocks. Beyond the field. Faster.
Violet's paws stopped in the soft grass at the edge of a meadow. Her eyes widened at the sight of a majestic gray wolf. He was just standing there, his fur shone under the moonlight, and she wondered if he knew she was there.
His head turned and their eyes met, and Violet felt invisible threads snapping into place. Mates.
He shook his head and started running away from her.
'WAIT!' Violet shouted through the mind link, but he didn't respond. She realized he couldn't hear With a thought, a gust of wind twirled around Violet and she was gone.
13:52
The wind swept through the forest and Violet appeared right behind the gray wolf, close enough to her which meant that he was not from the Dark Howlers pack or from the Midnight Guardians pack. She had a mind link with both.
Violet's legs moved on their own and the chase was on!
She followed the sweet scent that was familiar, yet her thoughts were too muddled for her to pay attention.
Where did he go? Why would he go? Didn't he know they were mates? Did he not want her?
Violet's steps slowed down.
Right. He didn't want her. Why else would he run away?
Her heart cracked. Maybe she should turn back and go to her pack. Even with open borders, what she was doing was trespassing. It was a wonder that she didn't bump into border patrols of the Spring Leaf pack.
She turned away and froze when she met the gray wolf less than a step away from her.
Violet was too flustered to react and the next thing she knew, he licked her maw and dashed away.
What was that!?
Her heart was not aching anymore because she understood that her mate was playful. He wanted her to chase after him.
Well, if he wanted a chase, he was up to a surprise.
With a thought, a gust of wind twirled around Violet and she was gone.
The wind swept through the forest and Violet appeared right behind the gray wolf, close enough to nip at his tail.
He snorted, as if he called her a cheater, and took a sharp left.
Violet urged her feet to move faster because this time she wanted to catch him for real.
But he was fast and nimble, and his wolf was large and… an Alpha. Her mind was a mess. With years of following her parents, Violet was confident she knew all Alpha wolves in North America, yet this one was unfamiliar. Who could it be?
---
Chapter 1042: Alpha Violet (3)
Violet paused to look around because she lost track of the majestic gray wolf.
She sniffed the air but everywhere smelled sweet, and she couldn't determine which way he went.
Violet was frustrated. How could she lose track of her mate, twice in one night?
She was about to summon the winds for help again, but then she heard a small sound on her right, and before she could react, they toppled, and he pinned her down with his body.
Violet struggled to get free, but it was like he knew her moves before she made any.
She growled in frustration and released her Alpha aura.
Everything stilled.
Violet blinked. Did she overdo it? Did she harm him?
She jolted when he licked her maw and jumped to the side.
He rotated twice like he was chasing his own tail and then he dashed into the bushes.
Violet couldn't believe this! Was he taunting her!?
Her Alpha temper took over and she dashed after him.
She used the winds to track him down. He was only a few steps ahead of her, with a bush between them, or a tree, and no matter how fast she moved, he always maintained that distance. How irritating!
Violet wanted to use her magic, but she remembered his derisive snort from the beginning of their chase. He didn't approve of her using her ability and she didn't want to appear weak, so she stopped using the winds.
How could she catch him now?
Another thought hit her. Shouldn't the male chase after the female?
Sure, she was the most powerful Alpha, thanks to the bloodline her parents provided, but she didn't want to dominate her mate. She wanted them to be equals, just as her parents were. Damon Blake and Natalia Moonrider were immensely strong, but what made them undefeatable was that they never competed against each other.
Violet stopped and sniffed the air. This didn't feel right. Should she just give up? It was obvious he was toying with her.
She always imagined that the mate bond will come with attraction and he will be romantic in an attempt to win her heart beyond what the bond provided, and this was none of it. Her pride hurt and her heart cracked.
Violet turned to leave, and she paused at the sound of leaves rustling behind her.
She was determined not to chase after him, but she still wanted to see what was going on.
A majestic gray wolf was pulling something from behind the tree and Violet stopped breathing when she saw him hold in his maw a bouquet of flowers.
She stared at him as he approached her slowly and placed the flowers at her feet. White carnations. Her favorite.
He retracted a bit and lowered his head, not exactly in submission, but he showed no intention of pursuing the chasing game.
The sweet scent wafted into her nostrils and her mind exploded. There was only one male that gave her white carnations, but she didn't see him in five years. Was it him or someone who found out that those were her favorites? But not many knew that. Ethan knew, but he was not really a flower-gifting guy, and this…
With a thought, Violet changed into her human form.
"Shift," she demanded.
He tilted his head. Even with the wolf's face, she recognized his glee because her command didn't work on him.
Oblivious to how her naked form impacted him, displeasure overtook Violet's senses and her eyes lit up in silvery light.
"Shift now or I will leave. See if you can find me when I don't want to be found." No one ever offended her like this, and this was her mate, a person who should cherish her and dote on her, and he was doing none of that. Except for flowers.
This got his attention. The winds picking up from every direction told him she meant business.
He took a step back and her eyes widened when the fur got replaced by bare flesh to reveal a muscular form of a male whose upper body was covered in tattoos.
He was sitting on the ground with his leg raised at the knee to conceal his erection. Her scent was driving him mad, and her body was a thousand times more alluring than he imagined it would be. He waited for such a long time.
"Hi, Vi." His deep voice stirred butterflies in her chest. "Did you miss me?"
"Ash," she said under her breath.
Ashton Pascal was in front of her, in his naked glory.
Any boyish features she remembered him by were gone and she was confident he didn't have an ounce of fat on his body. Only muscles and tattoos which were new yet oddly familiar, but his eyes were the same as she remembered them.
"Did you like my presents?"
Violet was unsure what to make of this situation. For five long years, she didn't see Ashton. She would get white carnations on her birthday and various presents for Christmas with a short generic note "Merry Christmas" or "Happy Holidays" and his name under it, and that was how she knew he didn't forget about her.
Luna Michelle told her that Ashton was fighting rogues up North, and then on the East, and she read reports about how he eradicated a rogue pack by himself while he moved down South. Everyone praised him as the hero who was doing a big favor to their society, and she was proud of him, she really was, but she didn't understand why he never visited because she missed him immensely.
"Vi?" He called and got closer to her, this time on his knees, his body half bent.
"Five years, Ash," she said, her voice breaking from tears she refused to let fall. She had so many questions. "That day…" She inhaled a choppy breath. "When you left… Did you know we were mates?"
He didn't want to lie. "Yes."
"And you left? Why didn't you tell me?"
"I didn't?"
Violet couldn't recall every word of that conversation from five years ago, but she was quite confident that she wouldn't forget the detail of them being mates. "If you did, I would remember it."
Violet's heart flipped when Ashton's image blurred to stop right in front of her. She never saw anyone move so quickly. Was he even trying to run away when she was chasing him?
She could feel his sweet carnation-infused breath on her face and her chin tingled when he held her there.
"Are you willing to give yourself to me?"
Violet blinked. That was an abrupt change in topic. "What?"
"That day, I asked you, are you willing to give yourself to me," Ashton said. "I could sense how flustered you were, and I knew I had to leave." His hand moved to the side, and he put his palm on her cheek.
Violet closed her eyes as the delightful sparks danced on her skin, traveling straight to her brain and the rest of her body as their mate bond became stronger by the second.
"You were not ready, Vi, and I would be an asshole if I claimed a thirteen-year-old girl just because I knew she was my mate. I couldn't put you through it, not before you could feel it too, but your proximity was too much for me to handle without claiming you. I didn't want to risk snapping and doing something you would hate me for."
Violet's eyes blurred with tears. She remembered it now. She hugged him and he said to not do it lightly because he was of age. And he was right. She was not ready, but...
"What about the last few months? My eighteenth birthday was five months ago. Why did you wait?"
Chapter 1043: Alpha Violet (4)
Ashton stared at Violet, his eyes filled with emotions.
He couldn't believe she thought he was avoiding her of his choice! She thought he was rejecting her, and it was killing him from the inside.
"Do you think I didn't want to come sooner? I was stuck in Florida, chasing a rogue that was different." With abilities that a werewolf shouldn't have. It was not the first hybrid Ashton fought against, but this one was stronger, smarter, and more vicious than the others. "I counted weeks, days, hours, minutes to your adulthood, but shit happened." Ashton was gravely injured and nearly died. The thought of seeing Violet was the only thing keeping him alive. He didn't want to say all that and spoil the mood. "I had to finish the job, otherwise I wouldn't be able to face famous Alpha Violet as her equal."
Violet could sense that Ashton was hiding something.
"You were chasing rogues?" Or was he chasing women?
"I would assume that reports of my activities reached you," Ashton responded. "Or were my deeds not worthy of you?"
"If I knew you were doing it for me, I would pay more attention."
"Six years, Vi."
She didn't get it. "What?"
"I am waiting for you to grow up for six years. My wolf nearly went feral, more than once. The only thing keeping me sane was killing rogues and counting the days until I could see you."
Violet eyed his muscular body and she couldn't miss the numerous tattoos. If he didn't care about women, why did he decorate his flesh with all that ink?
She turned away from him and crossed her arms over her chest. "I'm sure you did something else to keep you sane."
"Like?"
Her hair rose when she felt his breath at the back of her head and the heat increasing behind her told her he was impossibly close.
"Women," she said in a small voice.
"What women?"
Violet shrugged. "The ones that kept you company when you felt lonely and…" Horny.
"There were no women, Vi."
She whipped her head to look at him suspiciously. "Not even one?"
He thought for a moment. "About two years ago, I was deep in the mountains, and I hunted a goat. Her fighting spirit reminded me of you, and I contemplated if I should fuck her or eat her."
Violet's eyes widened. Somehow, Ashton being intimate with a goat was worse than if he bedded ten women at once. Or was it? "What did you do?"
"I was more hungry than horny."
Violet didn't think it was funny. "Are you messing with me? You can't tell me you were living like a monk in the mountains without getting in contact with females. You had to visit human towns, or should I believe that those tattoos are natural?"
He looked at himself. Those tattoos were embedded with witches' magic to boost his connection with nature and enhance his body. It was painful like hell and his wolf nearly perished during the last phase of chants. Who could think about getting frisky with women when his body was writhing in agony? Ashton hated every minute of it, but it was necessary if he was to survive numerous clashes against the rogues everyone called hybrids, the new species created in the lab by humans who were combining werewolves with things that gave them abilities. Not every experiment was successful, some created abominations, but Ashton didn't want to talk about it, not now.
Only a few people at the top knew about hybrids and Ashton was aware that Damon and Talia kept this information from Violet because they wanted her to grow up carefree as long as possible. Now that he returned, ready to take the role of Violet's mate, it was Ashton's duty to keep protecting her and not break that innocent kindness that was oozing out of her.
"Vi, I am waiting for six torturous years. I need an answer now. Do you accept me as your mate?"
Did she accept him? What kind of a question was that?
Violet knew Ashton from the day she was born. He was always there to support her and teach her things, he was the person she could rely on. She didn't see him for the last five years, but the connection was there. Ashton was her other half, the piece she was missing to be complete. How could she say no to that?
Violet spread her arms and threw herself at him.
They both groaned at the shock of sparks that prickled wherever their bodies touched, and that was a lot of surface because they were naked.
"Vi," Ashton called with difficulty. "How many times do I need to tell you to not throw yourself at males?"
"You are not just any male. You are my mate."
Ashton's eyes clouded with lust, but he pushed that back. He needed to stay in control for just a bit longer. "Are you saying that you accept me?"
A million butterflies exploded in her stomach, making her queasy. "Yes, Ash. I can respond to the question you asked me five years ago." She licked her lips nervously. "I am willing to give myself to you."
"Only me."
"Yes, yes!" Violet confirmed. Why were they still talking? Was he hoping she will change her mind?
"Ahh!" Violet cried when Ashton picked her up into his arms without any warning.
He smirked smugly, enjoying her flustered expression. "Hold on tight."
Violet had no idea what to expect, and her breath got caught in her throat when he started running. The scenery around them turned into blurs and she could feel the air becoming colder due to the speed he achieved.
Violet gripped Ashton's shoulders and observed his face that tightened due to his attention on the road to wherever he was taking her. Violet knew they were moving away from the Dark Howlers pack, and she didn't care about the details because she was with her mate. Finally.
She thought that it was silly how for years she was wondering who her mate would be, yet she knew him since birth. That was one of the reasons why she was able to relax and let him take the lead. Over the years, Ashton proved himself as reliable and he did everything with utmost care. Actually, whenever she was imagining her mate, she would think along the lines, 'I wish he had this-and-this like Ash…'
Violet ended up staring into his usually hazel eyes which had an otherworldly purplish-blue hue that glowed in the dark. She never saw anything like it, and she wondered how many more secrets Ashton was keeping for her to uncover.
Ashton knew Violet was watching him and he could feel her approval, adoration, and curiosity. He focused mightily on his surrounding because one slip-up might end up with them splatted against a tree and that would leave a horrible first impression. It was silly to think about this as a first impression because they knew each other for a long time, but Ashton was aware that this was the first time for Violet to look at him as a man. It was important and it was making him extra horny.
Chapter 1044 Alpha Violet (5)
Violet squirmed in Ashton's arms, making him slow his run.
"Are you uncomfortable?" He asked. "Just a minute and we will be there."
"Where are you taking me?" She knew all the main roads and landmarks in the allied territories, but Ashton was taking her through a forest she had never seen before. Was taking a road she was unaware of, or did they exit the allied territories already?
He smiled a little. "You will see."
Violet gave up trying to figure him out. The point was that she trusted him, so she leaned her head on his shoulder and took a deep breath to fill her lungs with his scent. Carnations, her favorite. How come she didn't realize his unique scent before? Ashton would always bring her flowers, and she assumed that the sweet scent came from the white carnations in her hands. She was so silly.
She was giddy at the thought that her mate was tall, muscular, and impossibly handsome, and he was stark naked and carrying her somewhere they will find privacy and have sex.
Ashton's smile froze when he picked up the scent of her arousal. With a low growl, he was back to a full run.
During their time apart, Ashton was imagining how it would be when he reunites with Violet. He expected that she will be angry and ask him to make up to her. Part of him feared that she had someone else by her side because she couldn't bear the loneliness, but he was happy now because he couldn't smell any other male on her, and she didn't have any demands before accepting him. She was gorgeous and perfect, just as his mother described her.
Ashton didn't tell anyone that Violet was his mate, but he had a feeling that his mother suspected it because he didn't ask about any other female while he was away. At the same time, he was nearly confident that Talia knew. Talia was looking at him teasingly since he came of age, but she never said anything, and he was grateful for it.
Ashton clearly remembered the moment when he realized that Violet was his mate. At that time, there was only one thing on his mind: RUN!
It was at his eighteenth's birthday party. His mother invited everyone!
Ashton was standing at the podium with his mother and father, they were telling him to blow out the Violet looked around and took note of the dense forest surrounding them.
22:39
Her eyes widened at the sight of the two-story dwelling that looked like a massive cottage. Big candles, but he ended up staring at the table where Damon and Talia were with their offspring. Damon was glaring daggers at Ashton, thinking that the birthday boy was looking at Talia, unaware that Ashton's gaze was just a bit to the left… on the teenage girl sitting by her mother. Violet was looking at him with sparkles in her eyes and smiling innocently, oblivious to the dirty thoughts going through his mind.
Ashton was disgusted at himself. She was just a child!
Black Demon was on the verge of murdering Ashton because he was (according to Damon) too close to Talia, and Ashton was confident that the merciless Alpha will grant him a slow and excruciating death if he knew that Ashton was thinking about desecrating his only daughter. But that was then. Ashton was not a powerless teenager anymore. He was enduring the horniness for years and the thought of finally getting a taste of his mate was boosting his courage.
Ashton was determined to claim his mate and deal with the consequences later.
Violet lost track of how long Ashton was running, and her insides flipped when he slowed to a walk. It meant only one thing: they reached their destination!
Violet looked around and took note of the dense forest surrounding them.
Her eyes widened at the sight of the two-story dwelling that looked like a massive cottage. Big windows on the upper floor hinted at great views.
Ashton walked straight to the door, and he paused in the living area to decide which way to go. He knew the location, but it was his first time inside this house.
The interior was modern, with clean lines, hardwood floors, and carpets. It was decorated with trinkets that looked expensive.
Violet sniffed the air. "Why do I smell Uncle Max and Aunt Tanya?"
"I asked them for a favor," Ashton said. "In your or my territory, we can be found easily, and I was hoping for a few days of solitude."
A few days!? Violet screamed internally. She cleared her throat. "So, we are in the territory of the Blue River pack?"
"Yup. Luna Tatiana promised we won't be disturbed." She also told him that this was the same cottage where Violet was conceived, so Ashton thought it would be appropriate for the occasion. He didn't want to admit that aloud, but by claiming Violet as his mate here, it was like he was overriding Damon's power over his daughter. It was just symbolic, but Ashton felt it was important.
"Who else knows we are here?" Violet asked. The thought of Ethan knowing made her nervous. Nothing ever happened between them, but for all her teenage years, Violet believed Ethan was her mate and she had no idea how to act when she sees him the next time.
"Are you thinking about anyone in particular?" Ashton asked suspiciously.
"Yes. Everyone," Violet lied and hoped he won't figure it out.
"I spoke to Luna Tatiana and I assume that Alpha Maddox knows we are here."
"Do they know we are mates?"
"No," Ashton responded right away. "No one knows. I told Luna Tatiana I found my mate and will bring her here, but she doesn't know it's you."
Violet stared at him. She just found out that Ashton was her mate, and she wanted to shout so everyone could hear her, yet he... "You are keeping this a secret for five years?"
"I was hoping we can announce it together." He leaned closer and pressed a gentle kiss to her neck.
Violet exhaled shakily and gripped his shoulders because an electric bold shot from the point where his lips touched her, and hit her core. That was such a sensitive spot.
Ashton smirked. "You will wear my mark, Violet, for everyone to see. Are you ready?"
Was she ready? "Ash?"
"Yes, Vi?"
"I never… With a man… I don't know how to…"
Ashton thought she was adorable. He was 99% certain that Violet was never with a man, but hearing her say that meant the world to him.
How was he so certain? First, because Violet believed the mate bond was sacred, and second, because her father would murder anyone who dared to put a finger on her. Ashton was familiar with their dynamics; if Damon was sleeping, Violet had four brothers hovering around her at any given time. Only a suicidal idiot would try to get frisky with the future Alpha Violet. And here was Ashton… carrying naked Violet upstairs, to the bedroom… like an idiot. Suicidal? Maybe. Horny? Definitely.
Ashton lowered Violet onto the bed and observed her flushed cheeks. The sound of her heart pounding was audible and the rhythm matched his.
He felt like pinching himself. After so much waiting, the time had come. His mate was right there, THEY were right there, on the bed, naked. It was happening, and he was nervous.
Are you curious about the place where Ash brought Vi? Check out chapter 802!
Chapter 1045 Alpha Violet (6)
Ashton looked at Violet and he could pick up all the amazing emotions he hoped for, but there was a tinge of doubt and insecurities. Was she insecure about him? Or were those his emotions?
No, no… definitely hers.
"Vi," he called. "Are you overthinking things?"
"Easy for you to say because you know what to do."
"What makes you think I know? Didn't I tell you I spent five years away without touching a woman?"
Violet's eyes roamed his face, and she was unsure if she wanted to hear the answer, but she had to ask. "What about before that?"
Ashton shook his head. "I was never with a woman, Vi."
"How is that possible?"
"I just entered my teens when I had a heart-to-heart with Talia, I mean... your mom." Somehow, now that Talia was his mother-in-law, it didn't feel right to address her casually. "I was telling her how girls were annoying and that maybe if I gave them what they wanted, they would stop chasing me. Your mother said that intimacy is like giving a piece of yourself, and one should be careful to whom they give themselves. She also said that intimacy is meaningful only when done with the person you really care about. She told me that when I meet my mate, I will realize how shallow all other experiences were and I will regret them. I thought about it. I would be lying if I said I was saving myself for my mate, but I took it one day at a time and before I knew it, it was my eighteenth birthday and…"
"And?" Violet urged him to continue.
"Every woman I looked at was repulsing. Even if they had long black hair, endlessly blue eyes, perfectly white skin, and an adorably perky nose, they were not my Violet Blake, the only woman I really cared about."
Violet's insides turned into mush. "Are you saying I will be your first?"
"I said that two minutes ago, but you didn't believe me."
"You were speaking in riddles."
"I was?"
Violet raised her hand and ran her fingers through Ashton's light brown hair. "You spent five years 22:42
away from home, fighting rogues. It must have been hard for you."
"You never gave me a straightforward answer. Ever since we were kids, you would talk in a roundabout way and I needed to come to my own conclusions."
Ashton chuckled. "Would it be better if I said I was a virgin?"
"It would make this chat shorter, and we could work on fixing that."
They both laughed and Violet relished the intimacy they shared.
She was lying on her back with Ashton next to her. He was sideways with his head propped on his elbow.
They were naked and his erection was pointing her way, but it was not awkward, not even a little bit.
There was familiarity, comfort, and mutual acceptance, and she couldn't believe that she didn't see it before he left. Yes, she was only thirteen, but Ashton never made her nervous or upset and he was always there to comfort her and provide guidance when needed. She was too young to sense they were mates, but if she paid attention to the signs, she would know he was her home.
Violet raised her hand and ran her fingers through Ashton's light brown hair. "You spent five years away from home, fighting rogues. It must have been hard for you."
"Not as hard as watching you naked on the bed and me doing nothing about it."
"Why don't you do something about it?"
Ashton's brows came together as he processed her words. Violet was an Alpha, with a bloodline stronger than his, yet she was letting him take the lead. She was willingly submissive and he wondered if this was real or just another of his dreams. What she was doing was the ultimate show of trust and he felt the pinch at the back of his throat from the emotions that swelled within him.
He licked his lips and looked down her body all the way to her toes, and then back up slowly as if he wanted to memorize every curve of her body. She was beautiful.
"I imagined this moment so many times," Ashton said, his voice now deeper by an octave. "And now that we are here, I'm not sure where to start."
"Kiss me, Ash. Start from there."
Her attention darted to his Adam's apple that bobbed when he swallowed hard, and her eyes widened when he moved to hover above her.
"Close your eyes," he said.
"That's not happening. I want to see you. I don't want to miss a single thing."
Violet opened her emotions fully, allowing him to feel everything she was going through.
Ashton whimpered when he felt the amount of love Violet had for him. "You were hiding all this so far?"
"You are not the only one who waited for your mate," Violet responded. "For the last five years, I was wondering who my other half is and if he will treat me right, and now that I've found you… I loved you from the day I was born. Don't make me wait anymore, Ash."
"Let me know if I'm making you uncomfortable or if I'm hurting you."
"The same goes for you."
Ashton closed the gap between them and her eyes fluttered to close when their lips connected.
There was an explosion of sparks right in the middle of her chest and she guessed it was the same for him because he didn't move for a few long seconds.
Did he know that was her first kiss? Was it the first kiss for him? Violet tried not to think about it. He already told her that he never had sex before, and that should be enough. More than enough.
She didn't think about it before, but the fact that Ashton was also inexperienced made her less inadequate. That was another sign he was exactly what she needed, her other half.
Little by little, Ashton's lips glided over Violet's, with a bit more confidence by the heartbeat, and she could feel his arms moving around her, pulling her on him.
They both quivered when their bodies connected because the sparks of the bond worked both ways and amplified each other.
She had no idea what she was doing. When did he move on top of her? When did her hands end up on his back? It was a glorious back, full of firm muscles.
Ashton couldn't believe how good it felt to have Violet in his arms. She was like a fresh spring breeze that carried the scents of the forest and wildflowers. The best part was Violet's body coiling around him, welcoming him.
After so long away from home, he finally felt at home, with Violet.
Ashton told himself to take his time. Don't rush. Online articles said that foreplay was important for females. But the scent of her arousal was driving him mad, he was between her legs, and she was pulling him down on her.
He swallowed her whimper when he pressed his erection at her core, and he wondered if she the pushing and prodding down there. It was happening.
22:43
The push turned into pressure and the friction came with sparks that soothed the pain right away, disliked it but then her hips moved, and he felt heat and juices spreading over his shaft. It all came with the addictive sparks of their bond and he thought he will come right there that instant.
"Fuck!" Ashton cursed under his breath and dove to kiss her deeper than before, this time his tongue moved in the rhythm of his hips as he was grinding himself on her.
"Vi," he called.
"Yes, Ash?"
"Are you ready?"
"Can't you feel my emotions?" And it was more than emotions. Her body was on fire, and she was a bit nervous but mostly super horny.
"I need to hear you say it, Vi. I need to hear you will spend your forever with me."
Violet gasped when Ashton opened his side of the bond, and she felt his sincerity.
"Yes, Ash. Forever. The two of us will spend forever together."
He smiled and went down to kiss her again and her arms snapped around him firmly when she felt the pushing and prodding down there. It was happening.
The push turned into pressure and the friction came with sparks that soothed the pain right away, leaving only pleasure behind.
Ashton groaned without breaking the kiss and he continued pushing until he was sheathed fully inside her.
He raised his head a bit to see her face. Her eyes were firmly closed, and there was a tear rolling down her temple.
Ashton kissed the tear away. It tasted like happiness because Violet was happy.
"You feel like heaven," he murmured close to her ear, and she released a shaky sigh.
He started rocking his hips slowly while reminding himself to stay in control and not act like a savage.
This right here, the feeling of Violet all around him and him being deep inside her… it was everything.
An emotional chapter. Thank you for supporting my work!
Chapter 1046 A crisis
"Kitten… Kitten," Damon called while nudging Talia.
"Mmm?" She mumbled drowsily while snuggling close to him.
Her arms snaked around his naked torso and she buried her face into his chest to take a deep breath of his cent. Dark chocolate and the forest. Her favorites.
Damon could feel that Talia was content, and he didn't want to disturb her rest, but he had to.
"Kitten? Sorry to wake you like this, but we have a crisis."
A pang of anxiety coursed through Talia. A crisis? Was it another spotting of the hybrids and their warriors were dying? But she didn't pick up any alerts. Actually, things were peaceful. "What is it?"
"Vi is not home yet."
Talia groaned. How was that a crisis?
Liseli snickered in Talia's mind. 'Busted! I told you this will happen. Your mate won't like that you kept this from him.'
Talia tuned out her wolf. It was like Liseli enjoyed whenever Damon's feathers were ruffled.
Talia wondered what time it was. She didn't hear the noise that was normal for daytime.
Talia opened her right eye a bit to see that the dawn was cracking outside. She knew that Damon would notice Violet's absence, but she hoped the kids will have more time for themselves before Damon interrupts them with his wrath.
"Why are you not sleeping? Vi is a grownup, Damon. She might be hanging out with friends. It wouldn't be the first time." She hoped this will pacify her handsome demon.
Damon huffed. "Vi left the pack run early. She is not in our territory and her closest friends were seen at the campfires after the run. What if something happened? What if she was kidnapped?"
"Vi has our genes, Damon. I taught her how to be careful, and you taught her how to fight. If anyone tried to kidnap Vi, I would be more worried about them. Vi can take care of herself."
Damon couldn't believe this. "Aren't you worried?"
"No, not really."
"What if the hybrids got her? What if humans are experimenting on her as we speak? What if she is suffering while we are relaxing and thinking her powers are enough? No matter how powerful she is, Vi is not aware of how vile people can be and what greed will make them do. She is naïve just as you!"
Talia pouted. "I am not naïve."
Damon shook his head. "Sorry, I didn't mean that. What I wanted to say was that you always believe people will be good. How many times have I got in trouble while rescuing you because you trusted others?"
Before Talia could respond, Damon pried her arms away from him, pushed himself off the bed, and grabbed his jeans.
Talia's eyes snapped open as she was wide awake now. "What are you doing?"
"I will wake up the boys and alert the guards of allied territories. We don't want to cause panic, but everyone with an ability should start looking." Damon was buttoning up his pants and he already had a plan ready. "Witches will help us track her down with a spell and we will start a rescue mission. I will call Cornelia and Amelia. Lavender will show us the exact place where she parted with Vi and we will…"
Talia couldn't believe this. Did he really want to bring a mass of warriors and witches to Violet when the unsuspecting girl was spending the first night with her mate?
"Damon, calm down."
He jabbed his hand into his hair. "Calm down? Calm down!? Do you think I'm overreacting? The only thing odd here is that you can sleep peacefully while our only daughter is enduring who knows what by who knows whom!"
Feeling violence oozing from Damon, Talia called to her wolf. 'Lis, I need your help.'
'Deal with that man-child yourself,' Liseli scoffed.
'I'm sure you can do something. Ask Sapa to calm Damon's emotions.'
Sapa and Liseli had their own mental connection, and they could communicate without Damon and Talia knowing about it.
Liseli snorted. 'Sure, rely on my mate when yours goes unhinged.'
'Lis, please. This is for Vi.'
'I can try.'
Talia looked at Damon while trying to project calmness. "Violet is not in trouble."
Damon snapped to look at her suspiciously. "How do you know?" A moment later, he narrowed his eyes at her. "What do you know that you are not telling me, Natalia?"
Talia blinked. He used her full name, and that meant he was serious.
She looked at her handsome mate who was wearing jeans, and his chiseled torso was fully exposed, making her throat dry. But this was not the time to get frisky because Damon was angry and there was a chance he would be angrier when he confirmed that his precious daughter found her mate.
Talia bit her lower lip. How much should she tell him? It was not something that could be hidden for long.
She patted the mattress. "Come here, Damon. We need to talk."
He cocked an eyebrow at her and hesitated for a second before obeying.
"I'm here. Talk," Damon said dryly when he sat on the bed.
Talia realized this was beyond serious when she noticed streaks of black twirling in Damon's 15:03
normally icy-blue eyes.
"You know that Vi is not a child anymore," Talia said. "We talked about this. Her eighteenth birthday passed, and it was only a matter of time before…" Her voice trailed when Damon's brows came together. She never saw him frown that much.
His eyes moved left, right, and then he jumped off the bed like he was burned.
"Are you saying… Vi found…" Damon shook his head violently as if that would disperse dark thoughts.
Damon was standing next to the bed with his hands balled into fists and his chest heaved. "Where is she?" His voice was low and ominous. "Tell me or I will destroy everything until I find the bastard."
Talia realized this was beyond serious when she noticed streaks of black twirling in Damon's normally icy-blue eyes.
Talia grabbed his hand. "I will tell you, but first… calm down. I need you to think. This is perfectly normal, and he is a wonderful boy."
"You knew!" Damon was livid. "Since when?" Wait! That was not important. The main question was… "Who is he!?" Damon was ready to murder the boy and ensure that his filthy bloodline was extinguished.
"I'm not telling you until you calm down," Talia said stubbornly.
Damon sneered. "Fine. I will find them myself."
Talia jumped off the bed and clung to him like a koala. "You will do no such thing, Damon! If you are so stubborn, I will teleport us to the middle of a jungle and it will take you a week to get back."
Damon groaned. The sparks of their bond flared wherever they touched, and that was most of his front.
His hands were hovering below her bare ass as he struggled to not hold her there for support. He was angry and he shouldn't give in no matter how wonderful her ass was.
"Do you think that a week in a jungle will calm me down?"
"If it doesn't, I will do it again and again and I will keep doing it until you calm down." She looked up at him. "Damon, be reasonable."
Damon's jaw ticked. "Vi is my baby. You want me to be reasonable while some filthy bastard is… Ahhh!" A non-manly cry-moan interrupted his words when Talia's lips latched to her mark on his neck.
In less than a second, Damon's mind was muddled with lust and his legs were shaky.
Her ass fit perfectly in his palms, and he gave her a squeeze as he stumbled on the bed with Talia on the bottom.
'You are not playing fair, kitten,' Damon spoke to her through their mind link while they worked together on the buttons of his jeans, ripping them before discarding what was left of the fabric.
Damon wanted answers and to rescue Violet from the lecherous guy who was lucky enough to be her mate, but at that moment, the only thing Damon could think about was getting deep into Talia, and he suspected that Sapa was increasing his lust because this was not normal.
"Fuck!" Damon cursed as he thrust into Talia in one mighty move and the way her eyes rolled to the back of her head was arousing beyond belief.
He started rocking into her with urgency because his baby daughter needed rescuing, but first... he needed to take care of his mate who needed him the most.
Hehehe... Damon, Damon... nearly two decades with Talia, and he didn't change much.
Chapter 1047 Alpha Violet (7)
"Ash… Ash… Ash…" Violet moaned Ashton's name like prayer as he pounded himself inside her from behind.
She fisted the bedsheets while chasing her release and also hoping that this will last forever.
The room was a mess. Windows were broken, doors hung off hinges, and everything that could be broken and crushed was broken and crushed. For some mysterious reason, the bedframe was still holding on.
Ashton and Violet were not fighting or breaking things on purpose; the mayhem was caused by Violet's powers which were erupting uncontrollably with her every orgasm.
The sound of flesh slapping against flesh filled the space, with every thud Ashton reached deep into her and made her see stars in front of her closed eyes.
The whole night, Ashton and Violet were entangled with each other, with only a few short breaks to freshen up and cuddle before giving in to their lust, like they were making up for the time they lost.
Ashton grabbed a handful of Violet's hair and pulled toward him, making her back arch and give another angle for his cock to slide inside her.
For five years, five long years, he was counting the days until he will be able to see his mate, dreaming, imagining how it will be, and the reality was so much better than anything his mind could produce.
"Fuck, Vi!" He groaned. "I am close." And he could sense that she was close as well.
His left hand gripped her hip to keep her in place, and he tugged her hair in one small jerk.
"AHH!" Violet cried as the sting on her scalp flared in pleasurable waves, tipping her into rapture and her body tensed as she dissolved into breathless moans.
Ashton groaned when her hot pussy tightened around his cock in rhythmical pulses and he braced himself for the incoming impact, and there it was… Violet's orgasm washed over him, and his ass buckled as he shot his load inside her.
He hated that his movements became jerky because he wanted to continue this journey. Every time was better than the previous one.
As the last hot pulse went through his shaft to fill her up, Ashton released Violet's hair and plopped over her.
Violet spread her arms and legs while lying flat on the sweat-drenched mattress.
She was catching her breath and she smiled when she felt Ashton kissing the back of her shoulder. He pushed her hair aside with his nose and arranged kisses toward her neck. Her insides trembled in anticipation if he will put his mark on her.
Violet's wolf wanted to mark Ashton, but Violet wanted them to do it together, just how her parents did (according to her mother). However, Ashton said it was not the right time. What was he waiting for? He didn't want to say.
Ashton was hard and hot inside her, and somehow… it felt like he was larger than before? Can a man's cock grow from too much sex? Violet wiggled her hips a bit and gasped when pleasurable sparks flared in her core like she was on the verge of an orgasm again.
"Ash… are we…?"
He chuckled. "Stuck? Yeah."
Violet read about the copulatory tie, but she thought that happened only when they mated in their wolf forms.
"Ash?"
"Hmm?"
"Now what?"
"Mmm," he hummed and grazed her shoulder with his teeth.
Violet thought he might bite her there, but then she realized that was just a distraction as his hand landed on her hip and he raised her ass a bit before thrusting into her.
"AHHH!" Violet cried and then he rocked into her again.
Within a few seconds, Violet was muffling a mixture of curses and sobs into the pillow as she came apart again.
Ashton's mind was a mess, and he was sure that he was floating. No amount of jerking off could compare to sex with Violet, but this… this was on a totally different level. It was beyond physical pleasure. Their wolves were resonating and amplifying their senses and he thought he might go mad from how good it felt.
Could one suffer a mental injury from too much pleasure?
Her pussy tightened around his swollen cock so he couldn't pull out, and every rock of his hips was hitting her g-spot and making her come in a string of orgasms that didn't seem to end, and Ashton could feel them all. On top of that, his cock was super-sensitive, and he could come with the slightest stimulation.
His body was trembling, but he refused to give up even a second of this bliss he was sharing with Violet. He waited for such a long time to enjoy pleasures only his mate could provide.
Ashton pushed her legs wider apart and found the best angle while pressing his chest on her back. A beautiful back. His. All his.
The tornado around them was trashing whatever was left of that place but Ashton and Violet were too much into each other to notice.
Ashton would ask Violet if she was alright, but he could sense that she was lost in euphory, so he released brakes and continued rocking into her making them both groan and cry as they lost count of how many times they orgasmed in those minutes that felt like an eternity, yet it was not long enough.
…
When the copulation tie loosened, Ashton pulled out and plopped on the bed next to Violet.
He looked down and couldn't believe that his cock was still up and ready. Damn! Just a minute to catch his breath and he would pounce on Violet again. Definitely.
Ashton turned to see Violet. She was in the same position he left her with hair stuck to her sweaty face.
Ashton chuckled breathlessly and pushed her hair away. He wanted to see her expression, glad that she greeted him with a dreamy smile that told him he didn't disappoint her.
Man's biggest pride was to satisfy his woman, no matter how accomplished he was in other fields.
"Are you OK?" He asked.
Violet moved a bit and grimaced when she felt hot liquid spilling out of her. She looked down. "I think I peed."
Ashton wanted to say it was not a big deal, and if the mattress was damaged, he will say it was him but then he took a second look at the mess between her legs. It was him.
"That's not pee, Vi. It's all me, baby."
She stared at the soaked bedsheets below her. "Really? How can you come that much? Are you a pig?"
She read that a pig's orgasm lasts up to 30 minutes and their cum can fill a 16oz container! Lucky pigs.
Ashton laughed and pulled her on him. "How can you call your mate a pig? Will we make pups or piglets?"
"That depends if they take after their mother or father," Violet responded right away.
He loved her spunk. Ashton knew that until a few hours ago, Violet was inexperienced in the pleasures of the flesh, well... they both were, but it was different for guys. Despite that, Violet was not a shy girl. She was an Alpha, determined to take what belonged to her, and he was hers. Her confidence turned him on beyond belief.
"Fuck, Vi! Look what you did!" He pressed his erection on her stomach.
She reached down and wrapped her fingers around his cock. The sparks flared upon contact, and she loved that he released a barely audible "ah". It made her feel like she was in control.
Ashton was an impressive male specimen, the best one she ever saw, and she was still adjusting to the fact that he was hers, her other half. It was beyond fantastic.
"If this is my doing, I will take full responsibility," she said smugly.
Ashton cupped her cheeks and gave her a kiss that made her toes curl. This, right there, the woman in his arms, was the reason why he survived the last five years. Now that the time was ripe, and she was his, he was determined to enjoy her to the fullest. The fact that she wanted him with equal fervor only amplified the passion, love, and belonging.
Without breaking the kiss, Ashton rolled them so he was on top of her.
"You are mine, Vi," he mumbled into the kiss. "Say that you are mine."
"Yours, Ash," she confirmed and she relished the grin of approval that bloomed on his face.
She could feel him prodding at her entrance and she reached down to grab his ass.
"Take what's yours, Ash."
"As you wish..."
Chapter 1048 Damon's approval (1)
Ashton and Violet finished tidying up after an umpteenth mind-blowing carnal session and Violet thought they will eat something or go at it again, but then he got all serious and told her to dress up. He prepared a backpack with a change of clothes for both of them.
"Where are we going?" Violet asked while trudging after Ashton through the forest that was getting denser with every next step.
Ashton didn't rush. He was observing, silently measuring, obviously on alert.
Violet used winds to sense their surroundings, but she didn't find anything unusual. However, Ashton was tense and that got her worried.
"Ash? Talk to me. What's going on? Is it rogues? Are our packs in danger?"
Ashton glanced at her before narrowing his eyes to the distance. "It's your dad."
Violet had the urge to flee. Damon Blake was the most awesome dad in the world, but also overprotective and when it came to the topic of Violet's suitors, Damon treated Violet like she was five years old.
From the moment she realized that Ashton was her mate, Violet was completely focused on him and their bond, and she forgot about everything else. She had no idea what to expect from her father once he finds out she was with her mate, but she knew it won't be good. Damon coming here was worse than rogues!
Violet wanted to tell Ashton that her father was nowhere near them, but he was oddly confident.
"Dad is here? Are you sure?"
Ashton took her hand into his and gave her a squeeze. "Don't worry about it, Vi. I will handle him."
"How? Don't do anything reckless. Let me talk to him."
Ashton turned to her and cupped her cheeks, making her focus on him. "Vi, I need to do this. I need to prove to you and to your dad that I'm worthy of you, that I'm worthy of you wearing my mark."
Violet's insides tightened. Was that why he didn't mark her so far? There was nothing he needed to prove to her, as for her dad… "What are you going to do?" Seeing his determined expression, blood drained from her face. "Don't tell me you will fight him?"
"I will do whatever is necessary to get his approval."
"You don't need his approval. I approve of you and that's enough."
Ashton smiled. "You care about your family, Vi. I don't want to put you in a position where you need to choose."
"I would choose you."
"You will, but you won't be happy. I want you to have all, Vi. If your dad doesn't approve of me, of us, it will taint what we have. Trust me, Vi. Trust in your mate. Can you do that?"
Violet hugged him tightly and buried her face in his neck, his scent of carnations had the power to excite her and calm her down, but this time it had limited effect.
"I trust you," she said, but she didn't trust her father. Damon always said that if anyone puts a finger on Violet, Damon will rip the offending finger off. What if Damon decides to rip every part of Ashton he put on her… every part he put IN her? She waited for Ashton forever and if Damon rips Ashton's parts that make him a male, their future will be ruined!
Violet's hold on Ashton tightened.
"I don't want to lose you, Ash."
Ashton pressed a chaste kiss on her forehead. "You won't lose me, Vi. I am yours from the moment you were born. But we need to go now, and you will watch as I secure a blessing from your father. Can you do that for me? I need your support."
Violet snapped to look at him. "You need me?"
"Of course, I do. Thanks to you, I survived the last five years. Now that I got to taste you, I'm hungry for more, much more, and I'm not going anywhere. Having you by my side, cheering me on, will fuel my determination to not give up while facing the most powerful Alpha in existence."
Violet wanted to say that her mother was the most-most powerful Alpha, but she kept that to herself because her father was a close second.
Ashton's hand disappeared into Violet's hair and he held her in place as he kissed her slowly and tenderly, letting her feel all the emotions he had for her, and it was wonderful.
…
"Are you sure Violet is here?" Damon asked Talia. She teleported them to this clearing and said that Violet was on her way, but he couldn't reach Violet through the mind link or sense her presence.
"Just a minute," Talia assured him.
Damon snorted and continued looking around, searching for signs of Violet, but there was nothing. If this was anyone other than Talia, Damon would blow a fuse and demand an explanation.
Rustling from the right got Damon's attention and his head whipped that way to see two figures emerging from the bushes.
Damon's heart fell into place when he saw Violet. She was alive and appeared unharmed.
Damon's heart tightened when he realized that Violet and a male were holding hands and his stomach churned when he recognized the boy. THAT was Violet's mate!?
Damon felt like pulling his hair out and shouting profanities at the Moon Goddess. Was that her idea of a joke? The snotty boy who always clung to Talia was now clinging to his only daughter!
He will never get rid of that annoying shrimp!
Ashton glanced at Talia and then focused on Damon because Damon's hostility was tangible.
Violet broke the awkward silence. "Mom, dad, Ashton is my mate."
Talia smiled and gave them an encouraging nod and Damon didn't move a muscle.
Ashton lowered his head. "It is my honor to have Violet for my mate."
"Since when?" Damon asked stiffly.
"Since my eighteenth birthday," Ashton responded.
"That's why Ash left, dad. I was young and he wanted me to come of age before I find out and…" Violet's voice trailed when Damon shot her a glare.
"This is a talk between me and Ashton. You will speak when I address you."
Violet pursed her lips defiantly and she wanted to talk back, but Talia was quick to step in.
"Come with me, Vi. Ash and your father have some things to discuss."
"I'm not leaving him!" Violet protested.
"It will be OK, Vi," Ashton assured her.
Damon gritted his teeth and released some of his Alpha aura.
"Are you talking like I am a bad guy?" Damon asked. "Is that your idea, or did he plant it in your mind?"
Violet lowered her head. No one planted anything in her mind, but it was obvious that she was taking Ashton's side and she knew Damon was disappointed. There were days when she wondered if she could fight off her father's pressure, but even attempting it would be a sign of disrespect.
"No, dad," Violet said. "No one thinks badly of you. However, Ash recently healed his grave injuries and I fear he is still not at his best. Don't hurt him."
Damon didn't respond and Talia waved at Violet to come with her to the side.
Violet was too distracted to notice that two more people joined them, and she was startled when she saw them standing only two steps away from her. "Uncle Cristian, Aunt Michelle!" Violet called. Why were Ashton's parents there?
"Is it true?" Michelle asked Talia. "Our Ash found his mate?"
Talia smiled mysteriously. "Watch and see."
Chapter 1049 Damon's approval (2)
Ashton was aware that other than Talia and Violet, his parents were also watching, and that put additional pressure on him to make this work.
He was Alpha Ashton Pascal, the only heir of the Spring Leaf pack, and failure was not an option.
Unfortunately, the man in front of Ashton was not just a doting father or an overbearing Alpha. That was Alpha Damon Blake, the man who is leading the largest coalition of werewolves known to history, and he wouldn't be able to achieve such a feat if his power could be measured.
Ashton knew how possessive and protective Damon could be. Ashton was not a child clinging to Talia; he was a grown man wanting to claim Damon's daughter. Actually, Ashton had claimed her already, but they didn't seal the bond, and Ashton hoped that Damon would see that as a good thing.
"Alpha Damon," Ashton spoke in his official voice. "Since I came of age, I knew that the Moon Goddess blessed me with Violet Blake for mate. However, she was too young, and I decided to step away and give her space to grow into the formidable female she is now."
Damon snorted. "You wanted to say it was too much for you to watch her without touching her."
Ashton's stomach tightened. Damon was right. If he stayed, it would be a matter of time before his wolf would take over and claim Violet, regardless of if she was ready. Ashton was able to control his wolf 99% of the time, but there was that one percent when his control slipped. Someone would get too close to Violet or look at her in a certain way, and Ashton would snap and do something he would regret forever.
Damon raised his chin victoriously. "Don't try to sell me stories about chivalry. Do you think you can deceive me? What kind of a man leaves his underage and unaware mate unprotected?"
"Vi was not unprotected. She had you, her mother, and her brothers, and she is not weak either. I knew Vi was in good hands."
Damon grimaced. Ashton was right, but Damon didn't want to acknowledge it because that would be a sign of approval.
"I am here to ask for your blessing," Ashton said.
"You need my blessing?"
No. "Yes. It is something that would make Violet happy, and I want her to be happy."
"I am not a person who gives blessings," Damon said ominously. "You want to be my daughter's mate? Just the will of the Moon Goddess is not enough. You need to earn it."
Ashton's expression didn't change a bit, but the air around him became prickly and feral. "That's why I'm here."
Luna Michelle was an emotional mess. On one side, she was happy to see her son after a long time, and she was delighted that he found his mate, and she was proud that Violet was his mate, but… why did it look like she was about to lose her son? Was she about to witness her son being brutally murdered? The only thing stopping her from going between those two males was her mate's hand on her shoulder, holding her firmly, keeping her grounded.
"Vi," Luna Michelle called in a small voice. "We have known you since you were born, and you know Ash, he is gentle and caring. Can you do something about this?"
"Ash changed, Aunt Michelle," Violet said. "He is gentle and caring, but he is also determined and skilled. If I interfere, it will be a sign that I don't trust him, and I trust my mate."
"I'm afraid that just trust won't be enough when facing your father," Luna Michelle said.
"If Ash can't do it, he wouldn't be my mate."
'Good job, Vi,' Talia spoke through their mind link. 'Send those emotions to Ash. He will need them.'
Violet glanced at her mother. She was talking bravely, but the truth was that she was scared. Not because she doubted Ashton but because she knew her father.
The only person who could stop upcoming carnage was Alpha Natalia Moonrider, but instead of worrying about the happiness of her daughter, Talia was looking at her mate with sparkles in her eyes. Would Talia allow Violet to be a young widow?
Violet held her breath as it seemed that the whole world stilled. There was no wind, the sounds of nature were muted, and no movement could be detected as far as she could sense, like everything was focused on this showdown between two Alphas who didn't move a muscle, yet their auras were flaring as they were engaged in a motionless battle of minds.
Ashton could feel Damon's pressure on him, and he had to balance his response delicately. Too much would be perceived as provoking and disrespectful, but too less would brand him as weak and unworthy.
'Krrr-SNAP!-CRACK!'
Twigs on the ground were snapping, and the trees crackled under the energy that filled the air. If any human were in the vicinity, they would suffer heavy injuries, and stronger creatures like werewolves would find it difficult to breathe and probably faint. Alpha Cristian, Luna Michelle, Talia, and Violet were able to witness this showdown because they were powerful, and Luna Michelle was unsure if she was queasy due to the aggression or due to stress.
"Ah!" Luna Michelle stifled a cry when Damon and Ashton moved with such speed that they left afterimages behind.
'BOOM!'
Their fists collided in much more than just physical contact, sending a gust of wind in all directions.
'Don't worry, Vi,' Talia said to Violet, who visibly paled. 'Your father is just testing him. Ash is doing well.'
Violet didn't respond. If this was just a test, she didn't want to know what the real thing would look like.
The thing was that Violet knew that her father was amazing, but Ashton's power left her in awe, and she wondered what he had gone through to reach that level.
Violet didn't want to be condescending, but Ashton's father was an Alpha, while Luna Michelle didn't have an Alpha aura from birth; she got it after Alpha Cristian marked her, and everyone knew that their fighting power was below average when compared to other Alpha couples. The Spring Leaf pack prospered thanks to their diplomacy and negotiation tactics, and not because of power, so… how was it possible that Ashton was so strong?
When they were frolicking through the forest, Violet observed that Ashton moved with unexpected speed, but this was much more than just speed. There was strength, and… was that magic? From where would Ashton get magic? There were no items or chants, and she didn't see him drink any potion. It was like it was coming from him directly, but werewolves didn't have magic unless they had mixed bloodlines like her mother, and Ashton was definitely a pureblood werewolf Alpha. What was she missing?
'Don't doubt your mate, Vi,' Talia's voice sounded in her mind.
'What are you not telling me, mom?'
'Ash will tell you everything you need to know in due time.'
Violet pressed her lips into a line. 'I do not doubt him, mom. I just feel that he suffered a lot.'
'He did it for you.'
'I don't deserve it.'
Talia smiled. 'That's the thing about mates, Vi. They give us everything, even the things we believe we don't deserve. He is a good mate. Treasure him the way he treasures you, and you will be happy.'
Chapter 1050 Damon's approval (3)
Damon was impressed. Ashton matched his speed and strength, countering him in ways that spoke of numerous battles. That kind of finesse could be achieved only when polishing skill through life-and-death situations where Ashton had to use enough power to suppress his opponents while not using too much to exhaust his strength before the fight was over. Damon was determined to see how far Ashton could go.
Every next move was a bit faster. Every next punch was a bit stronger. More speed. More power.
It was a while since Damon was able to enjoy a match to this degree. His joy was tainted by the fact that he was facing a young man who wanted to take Violet away!
As the clashes between the two Alphas became fiercer, their audience could feel the effects of violent aftershocks.
Talia waved her hand, and an invisible shield enveloped her, Violet, Alpha Christian, and Luna Michelle.
Violet's heart swelled with pride at the sight of Ashton, who surpassed all her expectations. She knew her mate was awesome, but Ethan and Jacob, who were the strongest warriors of her generation, looked like children compared to what Ashton was doing right there, matching her father in order to prove he was worthy of her. How could he not be worthy?
"Vi," Talia called. "You need to lower your aura so you don't interfere with the fight."
"What?" Violet didn't remove her gaze from the impressive display of power in front of her. She didn't do anything on purpose!
Alpha Christian was watching his son in awe. He had a feeling that this was once in a lifetime opportunity to see a fight of this caliber. He could barely follow their movements. Even with his Alpha-enhanced vision, Damon's and Ashton's limbs often became blurs.
Ashton was focused mightily on his opponent, using his sharpened survival instincts more than his sight because his movements depended on reflexes that kept him alive in the last five years.
Dodging, hitting, blocking, advancing, and retreating; it was a primal dance where any mistake could be deadly.
"Ugh!" Ashton grunted when Damon's aura-infused fist punched the air out of his lungs, and Ashton fell to his knees.
Damon stood in front of Ashton, and his chest heaved while wondering if he really got him or if Ashton allowed this hit to land on purpose.
"Is that all you've got?" Damon asked breathily.
Ashton looked up at Damon. "Was it not enough?"
Damon narrowed his eyes. "Do you think that's enough for my daughter?"
Ashton shook his head. "No."
"Ash!" Violet called in panic. Was he giving up on her? She wanted to run there, but Talia held her back.
Ashton pushed himself up to his feet and looked at Damon.
"This is not enough for Vi because no matter how good I am, nothing will ever be good enough for her. But I won't give up."
Damon sneered. "That's brave of you to say."
"It's the only way. She is my mate, my other half, and no matter how selfish it sounds, I will never give up. If I'm not good enough, I will keep working hard and training until I can match her, at least to some degree. In that sense, I am lucky."
"You think that the Moon Goddess' will is enough to bring you luck?"
"I was not talking about her. I was talking about you."
Damon was confused. "Me?"
"I am lucky to have you, the most powerful Alpha, to train me, teach me, and protect Violet with me. You, Alpha Natalia, young Alpha Jacob, and the other boys. The whole pack, yours and mine will protect my mate and ensure she is not lacking anything. That's why I know we will do well as long as you give us your blessings. I can make Vi happy, but I need your help to keep her safe."
Damon snorted. "You are still a cheeky snot."
Ashton smirked. "Coming from you, I will take it as a compliment." Over the years, Damon definitely called him much worse than that.
"Mom?" Violet called in an urgent whisper.
Talia released a long breath and waved to remove the shield she had created previously. "Go to your mate, Vi. He did it."
Violet ran there, and she dug her legs into the after-the-fight, sorry-looking grass when she reached between Damon and Ashton.
She turned to Damon. "Dad?"
Damon had a complex expression on his face. "Is this what you want, angel?"
"Yes, dad. He is my mate. I love him."
Damon released a long breath and lowered his head in dejection, hoping she won't see how hard this was for him.
Violet broke into a sad smile and jumped to hug Damon.
"You are the best."
Damon hugged her tightly and kissed her forehead. "If he makes you unhappy, come home. Your room will always be yours."
"Ash will treat me well. I know it."
Damon narrowed his eyes at Ashton. "He better be, or I will break his legs, and no amount of magic, surgeries, and healing will fix him."
Violet didn't understand the odd choice of words, and she got on her toes to kiss his cheek. "Thank you, dad."
She released Damon and jumped on Ash.
Ash groaned upon impact. Every muscle in his body ached. Fighting against Damon was worse than handling five rogue packs at the same time.
"Are you OK?" Violet asked while examining his face anxiously.
Ashton wrapped his arms around Violet, and he took a deep breath that filled his system with her scent of the forest and wildflowers. "I am now." Everything was so much better with Violet in his arms.
"Can I congratulate you?"
Violet turned to see Talia standing there with her arms open for a hug, and the proud mama stepped closer to hug both Violet and Ashton at the same time.
"Take care of each other," Talia said. "Don't leave anything for tomorrow. If there is something you want to do, do it now."
Luna Michelle and Alpha Cristian also came to congratulate the young couple and to give their advice. It was obvious that Michelle and Cristian were overjoyed and slightly afraid of Damon, who was standing stiffly and brewing in acceptance of the inevitable.
Talia hugged Damon and spoke through their private mind link, 'You did great. I am proud of you.'
'You are?' Damon asked.
Talia was well aware that Damon was on the verge of ripping Ashton into pieces, but he didn't. If Damon wanted, he would use his ability, and Ashton would perish in a matter of seconds.
'What tipped the scale?' Talia asked.
'The little snot told the truth. He will never be good enough for Vi. As long as he knows that, he will be alright.'
'I think you should stop calling him little snot. Ashton is an Alpha now, and you know through what procedures he went in order to acquire his abilities. He did it for Vi.'
'How is he different than hybrids?'
Talia didn't have an answer to that question. Those were risky procedures, and potential side effects were not researched, but… 'As long as he treats Vi well and doesn't lose his way, I will support them.'
With that, Talia turned to Violet and Ashton. "I'm sure you want to complete your bond. I want to give you a gift. Enjoy." She winked, and strong winds gathered around Violet and Ashton, who didn't get a chance to react.
Violet blinked and observed the cave. There was a cot, and grooves in the rocky walls held blankets and food supplies, and she could hear the trickling of water from somewhere, like a little stream.
"Where are we, Vi?" Ashton asked.
"Midnight Guardians pack. My mother enchanted this place. No one can come here."
Ashton grinned. Privacy. And also… "Here, time passes differently."
"About thirty times slower, so if we spend a month here, it will be just a day for our packs."
Ashton cocked an eyebrow. "Isn't this technically your pack also?"
Violet slapped his shoulder playfully. "Are you here to talk or to…" She wiggled her eyebrows.
A low growl bubbled in his chest, and he pulled her on him. "Now that your father approved, I have no intention of talking."
Well, Damon didn't really approve, but Violet didn't want to go into details. Ashton was already kissing her and ripping her clothes off, and she had no intention of being the passive one.