“I did not anticipate their arrival would be so imminent.” He acknowledges, “It is fortunate he did not arrive two minutes later, as I would have had you positioned on the counter, consuming you,” causing my cheeks to flush pink.
His remarks were exceedingly bold and alluring. I clear my throat and say, “Go answer the door; he’s awaiting you,” I smirk.
I prepare breakfast, and Cohen returns indoors shortly thereafter. “What was the significance of that?””
I intended to construct Alyssa’s sandbox independently; however, while addressing some work last night, I recognised my significant backlog. I did not wish to prolong her wait, so I contacted my associates. He enquired about the location and dimensions I desired. They will remove some grass and excavate, followed by the installation of aesthetically pleasing brickwork around the area.
“I observe that this is an opulent sandbox, rather than the conventional red plastic crab variety,” I remark with a smirk.
“I desire her to possess a spacious sandbox, ensuring ample space for her friends or siblings when they visit,” he elucidates.
“You are an excellent father,” I exclaim, leaning in to bestow a kiss upon him. We consume breakfast, after which he proceeds to his office at the packhouse. Alyssa remains asleep, prompting me to ascend the stairs to verify her health and ascertain whether she has a fever. She seldom sleeps in this late.
She is well; she likely experienced a lengthy day, and perhaps her new bed is more comfortable. I choose to prepare myself while awaiting her awakening. I will be meeting many members of his pack, so I aim to create a favourable initial impression.
I wish to avoid wearing sweatpants, yet I also desire to refrain from appearing pretentious. What attire is appropriate? Contemplation. I opted for black skinny jeans paired with a white and black striped t-shirt. I don a loose-fitting ¾ length black blazer and complement it with n**e flats. Before I have the opportunity to style my hair and apply makeup, Alyssa awakens. I complete our preparations and feed Alyssa.
Alyssa and I are seated on the floor in the living room as we await Cohen’s arrival. I am organising my meals for the week while simulating consumption of the food Alyssa prepares for me using her toy picnic basket. I am quite apprehensive about meeting Cohen’s pack, thus I am endeavouring to remain occupied. Upon entering, Cohen first approaches Alyssa to greet her and receive a hug.
“What are you currently engaged in, dear?”“He inquires.”
“I am currently organising my meals for the week.”
“What is the reason?””
“It can be daunting to determine daily meal preparations.” “If I schedule it weekly, it becomes significantly more manageable.”
“Will you be cooking daily?”He enquires, astonished.
“Indeed?”
“I simply mean it requires considerable effort.” He confesses, “My mother never cooked, and I do not either, which makes it appear daunting.”
I enjoy cooking and am accustomed to it. Furthermore, the aroma of home-cooked meals, the remnants of those dishes, and the sense of unity they foster contribute significantly to transforming a house into a home,” I remark, eliciting a smile from him.
“This residence has never embodied the essence of home more than it does with both of you present,” he states, leaning in to bestow a kiss upon me.
“Eliminate at least once weekly, and we shall dine out as a family.”
“That sounds agreeable,” I concur, and eliminate Friday.
“Prepared to depart?”Cohen enquires.
I inhale deeply, “I am as prepared as I will ever be.”
He laughs, “Celine, they will adore you, and our warriors will hold you in high regard.”
Cohen lifts Alyssa onto his shoulders, an action she enjoys. Our initial destination is the packhouse. Upon Cohen’s opening of the door, I observe an expansive grand staircase, with two levels of bannisters above and a substantial, glittering chandelier.
On the right, there are two imposing doors. Cohen reveals the ballroom to me. It is expansive, featuring marble flooring and exquisite chandeliers. There is no one present, and no furniture exists. “This is the ballroom; it is typically unoccupied unless an event is occurring,” he elucidates.
He then presents the expansive cafeteria, stating, “They offer muffins, bagels, fruits, and cereals for breakfast, and there are always pre-prepared sandwiches, fruits, salads, cookies, and similar items for lunch.” All members of the pack are invited to partake in the meal. There are 10 refrigerators consistently stocked, a dozen microwaves, and several stoves. All residents prepare their own meals. Approximately 100 individuals reside in the packhouse. Only solitary adult wolves or young pairs reside here. With the exception of my parents. They occupy fifty percent of the uppermost floor. It is essentially a four-bedroom condominium,” he elucidates.
I am currently feeling quite well; however, I have not encountered anyone thus far. Likely due to the hour, individuals are occupied with their employment. Cohen directs me to the public restrooms and subsequently escorts me to the basement, which contains additional public bathrooms and a spacious theatre room with tiered seating.
Three industrial-style refrigerators are stocked with beverages, and three popcorn machines are positioned on a counter adjacent to the refrigerators.
“Appears enjoyable!”I concede. The Lunar Howl Moon lacked any comparable features. The remaining portion of the basement comprises bedrooms. The second floor consisted entirely of bedrooms for pack members. The third level contains Cohen’s office, his parents’ apartment, and seven spacious guest suites designated for visits from Alphas or high-ranking officials. Cohen escorts me to his parents’ door, knocks, and subsequently enters.
“Mother, Father,” he calls out. His mother emerges hastily. Claire’s hair is impeccably coiffed, and she is attired in a skirt suit. “Oh, greetings,” she states, accompanied by a slight smile. Cohen’s father then emerges from another room.
“It is a pleasure to see you again, Celine.” “And Alyssa as well, naturally,” he states, and I can discern his sincerity.
He embraces me and then approaches Cohen, who is holding Alyssa, saying, “Hello Alyssa!”“He speaks in a gentler tone.”
