She was correct, and she was aware of it; now Tyler was also cognisant of this fact. Throughout her absence, he had not once contemplated her. He recognised this with absolute clarity now, and it caused him profound anguish.
She glanced at her phone, really relieved by the distraction when it rang, as she needed it before becoming a weeping wreck. She composed herself, inhaled deeply, and answered, “Hi Nora.”
“Good morning, Bella. I am calling to express my apologies. My family is reluctant to visit for Christmas, and I would prefer to refrain from going as well, at least until the conclusion of the break. I apologize.”
“That is acceptable, Nora. I presumed you would prefer to remain with your family.”
I apologise if I exerted too much pressure yesterday. Will you be coming in the new year? I would appreciate your presence here to live and work; the children and I would truly welcome that.
“Reside there?”
“Indeed, I will be relocating here officially in a few weeks,” she informed her. As soon as her human existence concluded, this would be her destination.
“May I take my time off to contemplate that, if it is acceptable?”
“Indeed, it is. I urge you to contemplate it. I recognise that this will necessitate your absence from your family. However, I will ensure you return home for all significant events.”
“I will inform you on the 2nd.”
“Thank you, Suzi.” She placed her phone down and exhaled deeply. How would she convey this to Macky? He would likely be displeased, perhaps even irritated with her for failing to persuade his friend to come here.
He arose and exited the suite, contemplating the location of his room, which must be nearby. He ambled down the corridor, observing the doors. Opposite the Alpha suite was the Beta suite, adjacent to which was the Luna suite. Further down the corridor from the Alpha suite were the Gamma suite and the Delta suite, positioned opposite each other.
All were distinctly labelled with little plaques on the entrance, positioned closely around their Alpha, as they would be inside the pack, ready to defend him if necessary.
She knocked on the door labelled Gamma S, assuming the S represented Macky, and initiated a mind-link with him as she did so, asking, ‘Macky?’
“Affirmative, Bella,” was the immediate response.
“Where are you? Are you occupied?”
“I am in the Alpha’s office; what is the issue?”
I require a moment of your time for a discussion; do you have a few minutes available now?
Kindly.
“Where are you?” he enquired.
“Will you meet me at the coffee hub outside your suite?”
“Certainly, I will. See you shortly.” He terminated the connection.
She proceeded to the third-floor coffee hub and requested Amelia to prepare two lattes, one with a double shot. She reminisced about Macky’s coffee preferences, which brought a smile to her face, as she remembered that Nora favoured a double shot cappuccino. Nora appreciated the foamed milk on top, whereas Macky considered it a superfluous use of space in his cup.
As Amelia set the glasses on the table, she noticed him approaching and smiled at her, saying, “Thank you, Amelia.”
“You are most welcome, Luna,” Amelia smiled directly at her.
“What troubles you, Bella?” Macky enquired as he took a seat.
“There are probably numerous matters regarding that issue, Macky, but at this moment, I must discuss Nora with you.”
“Has she returned your call?” He inquired.
“Yes, just now…” she inhaled deeply. “I apologise, Macky; she will not be visiting for Christmas and wishes to remain with her family.” She genuinely felt remorse, realising the difficulty he had at this moment, having a Mate who was unaware of his existence and their connection.
Saw him nod slowly “You did warn me.” He sighed, “Kind of been trying to prepare myself for that answer.”
I have requested that she contemplate relocating here, and I wanted to inform you in advance. I have indicated that I will reside here and expressed my desire for her to join me.
“What was the outcome of that?”
I believe that is also not favourable. However, she did indicate that she would contemplate it.
“I apologise, her family is paramount to her; they are present in her life. I am uncertain whether she will relocate here, as it may be too distant from her family.” She observed him exhaling deeply at that moment. She stated she will call and inform me on the second.
He was silent for an extended while before stating, “That is two weeks away, Bella.”
“I understand, it is an extended duration to be separated from your Mate.” Why don’t you go out there? I already stated that I doubt she would be inclined to initiate a relationship so soon to Christmas. However, she is your Mate; possibly if you see her, intentionally, in her realm, such as in a coffee shop. She will be drawn to you, given your physique and captivating eyes,” he observed, smiling slightly. “That grin will also enchant her, prompting her to join you and replenish the coffee you intentionally spilt to capture her attention.”
He was now smiling appropriately and was an attractive boy. That was undoubtedly the case.
I would appreciate if… Luke has determined that my presence is necessary. I cannot go without his permission.
She scowled at him now. “May I, as the Luna, grant you permission?” She enquired with curiosity.
If he is absent from the pack and you are in command, you may perhaps override his decision; nevertheless, he would likely reprimand us both upon his return.
“Or me, at least.” He acknowledged. Ultimately, I acquired the latte and had a sip. Elevated an eyebrow in her direction.
Bella smiled at him, contemplating if her happiness in his presence stemmed from his status as Gamma, which influenced her feelings, or whether she genuinely enjoyed conversing with him. She was unaware that she had come to a realisation and intended to go with the latter option.
