Four Mates And A She Wolf
38

Avery made her way to the Alpha's office to meet Shane. Her mind was racing with the events that had transpired earlier, and she could feel a knot tightening in her stomach as she replayed the hurtful words over and over. She took a deep breath before knocking on the heavy wooden door, trying to steady herself.

"Come in," Shane's voice called from the other side.

Avery pushed the door open and stepped inside. The Alpha's office was spacious and well-decorated, with shelves lined with books and a large desk dominating the room. Shane looked up from a stack of papers, his expression softening as he saw her.

"Avery, what's wrong?" he asked, concern evident in his eyes.

She hesitated for a moment, unsure of how to begin. "Shane, I need to talk to you about something that happened today," she said, her voice trembling slightly. Shane motioned for her to sit down. "Of course. What happened?"

Avery took a seat and took another deep breath. "It's about Cassie. She insulted me in front of everyone. She called me a hoe because I have four mates."

Shane's expression darkened instantly. His jaw tightened, and a flash of anger crossed his eyes. "She did what?" he demanded, his voice low and dangerous.

Avery nodded, feeling the tears welling up in her eyes. "She said I was a hoe and that I didn't deserve any of my mates. It was humiliating, Shane."

Shane stood up, pacing back and forth behind his desk. "I can't believe she would say something like that," he growled. "Cassie has no right to insult you like that. She's crossed a line, and she will be punished."

Avery watched him, feeling a mix of relief and guilt. She didn't want to cause trouble, but Cassie's words had hurt deeply. "I just don't understand why she hates me so much," she said softly.

Shane stopped pacing and came to stand in front of her, his expression softening once more. He reached out and gently took her hands in his. "Avery, listen to me. Cassie is probably just jealous of you. You have something that she wants, and instead of dealing with her own insecurities, she's lashing out at you."

Avery looked up at him, searching his eyes for reassurance. "But why would she be jealous of me? I'm no one special."

Shane shook his head. "That's where you're wrong, Avery. You are special. You have four mates who love and cherish you. Cassie is likely envious of the connections you have. That doesn't excuse her behavior, but it might help explain it." Avery nodded slowly, absorbing his words. "I guess I just wish things could be different. I don't want to be hated by anyone."

Shane squeezed her hands gently. "I know, and it's not fair that you have to deal with this. But you have to remember that you are not responsible for Cassie's actions or her feelings. You deserve to be happy, and you deserve to be with your mates without feeling ashamed or judged."

Avery felt a wave of gratitude for Shane's support. "Thank you, Shane. I don't know what I'd do without you."

He smiled warmly at her. "You don't have to thank me. I'm here for you, always. And I promise, I will deal with Cassie. She will not get away with treating you like this."

Shane pulled Avery into his arms and gave her a peck. When she looked calm enough, Shane led her to the sofa and discussed tomorrow's journey. It was going to be a journey that will change their lives forever.

When it was late, Shane accompanied Avery home.

*****

The next day.....

As Avery stirred from her slumber, the soft whispers of the wind outside her window beckoned her to rise and embrace the day. The anticipation of the forest expedition tingled in her veins, each heartbeat echoing the rhythm of excitement coursing through her. With a quick stretch and a yawn, she peeled herself from the warmth of her blankets, eager to join her mates in their sacred quest that will change their destiny forever.

Avery got out of bed and stretched, her muscles pleasantly sore from the previous day's activities. She quickly dressed in practical, comfortable clothing, knowing the day ahead would be filled with hiking and possibly some difficult terrain. She grabbed her backpack, making sure it was stocked with essentials: water, snacks, a first aid kit, and some basic survival tools.

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee enveloped Avery as she descended the staircase, its rich scent mingling with the anticipation that hung in the air like a tangible veil. The kitchen, bathed in the gentle glow of morning light filtering through the windows, was alive with the sound of her companions' voices, their laughter and chatter weaving a tapestry of camaraderie that filled the room with warmth.

Shane, with his characteristic grin, glanced up from the map spread out on the table, his eyes sparkling with excitement as Avery joined them. Sean, the quiet yet steadfast member of their group, nodded in greeting, his gaze thoughtful as he considered their plans for the day. Cruz, his energy palpable even in the early hours, leaned back in his chair with an easy grin, his enthusiasm infectious as he shared his ideas for their expedition. And Romeo, ever the calm and collected presence, offered a reassuring smile, his unwavering support a constant source of strength for the group.

"Morning, Avery," he said, handing her a cup of coffee. "Ready for our big adventure?"

Avery took the cup gratefully and nodded. "I am. I've been looking forward to this. Do we have everything we need?"

Cruz nodded, his expression serious. "I've double-checked our supplies. We should be well-prepared for whatever we might encounter. The forest can be unpredictable, but I think we've covered all our bases."

As they sipped their coffee and exchanged stories from past adventures, Avery couldn't help but feel a surge of gratitude for the bonds that united them. They were more than just friends; they were a family forged by shared experiences and mutual respect for the mysteries of the natural world. Each member brought something unique to their dynamic, complementing one another in ways that made their adventures all the more memorable. Romeo, always the most enthusiastic of the group, grinned broadly. "This is going to be amazing. I've heard so many stories about the sacred places in the forest. It's going to be an unforgettable experience."

After a quick breakfast, they all piled into Shane's truck and drove towards the edge of the forest. The drive was filled with lighthearted banter and shared excitement, the kind of camaraderie that had grown stronger with each passing day. With their plans solidified and their spirits buoyed by the promise of the day ahead, they set out into the forest, their footsteps echoing in harmony with the pulse of the earth beneath them. The canopy above stretched out like a verdant tapestry, dappling the forest floor with patterns of sunlight and shadow as they made their way deeper into the heart of the wilderness.