Molly’s gaze involuntarily shifted back to Jayce. He was the sole subject of her wolf’s discourse—or, more accurately, his wolf was. She was reluctant to succumb to her wolf’s desires, as her sole wish was for her mate, desiring Molly to submit to his demands. Particularly when the man she asserted was her mate despised her and felt sick by their kiss. “What are the consequences of disregarding her desires?”
“You must seek a compromise. I suggest dedicating an entire day to understand her; otherwise, she will be disinclined to listen if there is discord between you. Progress will not be instantaneous, but it will be more beneficial than you anticipate. Give it a try.”
Molly acquiesced and nibbled at her meal. The dish was exquisite, and the meat dissolved in her mouth delightfully; however, her stomach revolted. She was famished prior to entering, yet now that Jayce was present, her thoughts were consumed by the manner in which he spat at her feet following their kiss.
“I am aware that she dislikes being instructed; she declines to approach me when summoned and only moves at her discretion. During the snowstorm, she did not alter her course to assist me.”
“This situation will persist for some time. She is attempting to demonstrate her dominance over you to elicit your compliance. They are indifferent to the lengths they must go to assert their control, even at the cost of their own well-being,” Colton stated, as Jayce adjusted his position in his seat.
“My entity attempted to dominate me for years during my youth, compelling me to commit reprehensible acts to elicit change until I recognised the injustice. We are the ones who govern our inner wolves.” Beckham took a lengthy sip and cleared his throat. “She will acquire knowledge; do not be deceived by her statements.”
Molly perceived the advice as repetitive, yet it failed to elucidate her course of action. Negotiate with her wolf until it consented to transform? Intimidate her wolf or attempt to assert dominance she lacked? They all gazed at her as though they anticipated her comprehension. She comprehended nothing; they had been wolves for such an extended period that they were oblivious to the experience of ignorance regarding it.
Molly inhaled deeply and exhaled slowly prior to speaking. “Understood. I believe I comprehend it.”
The sky remained dark when Molly awoke the following morning. She insulated herself against the frigid temperatures and packed additional garments and a cloak in a compact bag. No one was awake when she exited her cabin and walked towards the woods behind it. The utter silence was peculiar. The only sound was her footsteps crunching in the snow, amplifying her sense of isolation in the world. She believed she was, in a manner.
Molly traversed a familiar path she had frequented numerous times previously. The atmosphere was tranquil and serene, devoid of any indication of an impending storm; however, she sought to remain near a familiar path as a precautionary measure.
After distancing herself from the camp, she deviated from the path and discovered a spacious clearing amidst the towering trees. She placed her bag on the ground and positioned herself in the centre to gaze at the sky. The sun was just beginning to ascend. The grey skies exhibited a blend of blue and yellow hues. She inhaled the crisp air and felt her head nearly whirl from the experience. She typically did not relish the morning air; she favoured the scent of the night.
“I am aware of your presence here. You understand that I can overhear your discussions, correct?” Cordelia articulated in her thoughts. Molly nearly flinched and glanced around, yet maintained her composure to avoid embarrassing herself once more. She needed to acclimatise to this. This voice was an integral aspect of her being, as peculiar as it was to acknowledge.
Molly spread a small blanket and seated herself upon it with her legs crossed. They advised her to reach a compromise. Molly stated, “I believed we could become better acquainted.”
“I am already aware of all your desires, including those you attempt to conceal,” Cordelia remarked with a laugh. Molly placed her frigid hands against her cheeks to avert a blush. Her knowledge of everything concerning her was irrelevant. No one would be capable of conversing with her regardless.
“I have come here to acquire knowledge about you. I am unfamiliar with this environment and uncertain of my expected actions,” Molly confessed.
“It is evident. You cannot maintain a facade of ignorance indefinitely, my dear Molly. Eventually, I will expose your deception.”
“I wish I were performing!” Molly exclaimed, closing her eyes. She desired to observe her while she spoke rather than fixating on trees or darkness. It induced a sense of madness in her. Molly remarked after a pause, “I understand you desire to be with your partner.” “I understand you desire me to submit to Jayce and cater to his demands, but it is not that simple.”
Cordelia scoffed, the noise was loud and jarring to her ears. “It could be different if you were not resisting so vehemently. Our companions are designated for us for a purpose. If you permit me to be with mine, I would be more amenable.”
“I am aware you would.” Molly exhaled and massaged her forehead. A headache was already developing. “Please recognise that Jayce and I are incompatible. His animosity towards me is greater than you realise. He detests the concept of a mate and adamantly refuses to engage in such a relationship.”
“If that were true, why did he diligently seek you at the palace when that unpleasant maid assumed your position as his lady? He searched extensively to locate you, yet you continue to evade him. Do you believe he appreciates knowing his mate harbours disdain for him?”
“I am uncertain! I doubt he comprehends the reasons behind his fervent search for his mate, yet it is evident that he is dissatisfied with this existence. If you are consistently observant and attentive, you are aware of his behaviour following the kiss.”
