Alex's eyes glowed with fury as he continued, teeth clenched. "Why can't I just drag her here? Take my powers back from her..."
"But my lord," Zeus interrupted cautiously, "what if she dies in the process?"
For a moment, Alex stared at him-expressionless, bloodshot eyes fixed, his face calm in a way that chilled the air. Then, he began to laugh.
Zeus stiffened.
Alex never laughed.
When he did, it meant something terrible was about to happen.
The usually cold and composed Beta forced himself to remain outwardly calm, but inside, his heart pounded like a war drum. He looked away, avoiding his Alpha's dark, icy gaze.
"The heart, soul, and body of a human... they're fragile," Zeus murmured, trying to ease the tension. "She could be lost if we're not careful."
Alex said nothing.
Zeus pressed on. "If you're serious about going to her, I can guide you. Teach you how to win her over-her trust, her heart. That way, she'll choose to give you what you need. Willingly."
Alex's voice cut through the air like a blade. "What's the problem?"
"Well... it's just-"
"Just what?" Alex snapped. "I don't care what it is. If it gets me results, then we're doing it. And in the future, never mention 'problems' concerning this again."
He paced the floor, fists clenched.
"I wonder how such a little rabbit could be so hard to catch," he muttered to himself.
Zeus spoke again, this time choosing his words carefully. "My lord, the solution is simple. You have to win her over. But girls like her... it's exhausting. According to her records, she's single. No past relationships. Completely focused on business. She values her parents more than anything-holds them in the highest regard."
He continued, "She's currently the second-richest young spinster in the country and CEO of a jewelry and fashion company founded by her mother. She's in her twenties, just like the prophecy said."
Alex turned to the window, standing tall like royalty. "Wow," he breathed. "She's really something. So young, so accomplished. Fierce, devoted... intriguing."
He smirked. "Let's see why she was chosen as my mate."
Zeus allowed himself a small smile at the change in Alex's tone. "To approach her, you must become her friend first. Earn her trust. Only then can you talk about... the real reason she must return with you."
"All the same, Zeus," Alex said with a cold smile, "just give me a week or two. She won't dare refuse me."
He turned sharply. "Make the arrangements. We leave tomorrow."
Zeus bowed and left without a word, the commanding chill of Alex's presence trailing behind him.
Alone in the room, Alex stared into the distance, recalling the dreams the way she always ran from him.
How could she be my prophesied mate, he wondered, when she doesn't even want to face me?
---
Later That Night...
After dinner with my parents, I decided to spend the night at their house. No meetings, no work tomorrow. A rare moment of peace.
"Mum," I said as we sat in the cozy living room, "you wanted to talk about something. I don't have an answer for you yet. But please, don't worry too much about me and marriage. I'll get married soon-just trust me and respect my decision. I'm still young."
She let out a breath, shaking her head.
"You know what, Hildy? I'll talk to your dad," she said, rolling her eyes affectionately. "Dave loves me. He'll listen."
I smiled. "I know you love me, Mum. And I know you want what's best. So don't worry-your dreams will come true sooner than you think."
She laughed softly, gave me a kiss on the forehead, and left the room.
"Less talking, more sleeping. Goodnight! Love you," I called after her, quickly locking the door behind her.
Leaning against the doorframe, I sighed.
Why did I say all that? And why did it sound so... real? Like I actually believe I'm getting married soon?
I shook my head.
No time for this. I've got more important things to deal with than some fairytale wedding.