5: YOU HAVE MY HEART

“Marry you?” was what came out of his mouth, as if he was not expecting the last phrase of words I uttered. “Ava come on, is this not too sudden? Let's think about it.”

The tension hung heavy in the air as Alpha Jo and I stood face to face, the moon casting its pale light upon our conflicting emotions. In the quiet solitude of our shared space, the weight of unspoken words pressed upon us, threatening to fracture the fragile bond that bound us together.

"I don't understand, Jo," I began, my voice tinged with frustration and longing. "You say we are soulmates, that our hearts beat as one, and yet you hesitate to take the next step."

“I am sorry Ava, can this wait for some time?” he asked.

“No! My dear, not this time,” I replied.

“Ava, my love, what do you want me to say?” He asked.

“Jo dear, I thought we had a connection. I thought the moon goddess only confirmed what we thought of ourselves. I know we are in love. You are Alpha, no one is stopping you,” I said.

Alpha Jo's brow furrowed in contemplation, his gaze searching mine for answers that eluded us both. "Ava, it's not that I doubt our connection," he replied, his voice tinged with regret. "But as the Alpha of our pack, I am bound by duty and tradition. Marrying an Omega goes against everything our society dictates."

My heart sank at his words, the sting of rejection piercing through the facade of bravado I had built around me.”I did not make myself an Omega and there is absolutely nothing wrong with us,” I said. It was like my status was hunting me everywhere I go and every day of my life." So, it's my status as an Omega that's holding you back?" I demanded, unable to hide the bitterness in my tone.

Alpha Jo's expression softened, a flicker of pain crossing his features. "Ava, you know it's not that simple," he pleaded, reaching out to take my hand in his. "I care for you more than words can express, but I fear the repercussions of defying convention."

Frustration bubbled within me, mingling with a fierce determination to prove him wrong. "But Jo, can't you see? Our love transcends the boundaries of rank and status," I argued, my voice rising with conviction. "We are meant to be together, regardless of what society dictates."

For a moment, silence hung between us, the weight of our conflicting desires casting a shadow over our shared space. But then, with a resolute gleam in his eyes, Alpha Jo stepped forward, closing the distance between us.

"You're right, Ava," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "Our love knows no bounds, and I refuse to let anything stand in the way of our happiness."

With those words, a surge of hope blossomed within me, washing away the doubts and insecurities that had plagued us. And as Alpha Jo pulled me into his embrace, I knew that no matter the challenges that lay ahead, together, we would overcome them, our love a beacon of defiance against the constraints of tradition. I said a little prayer to the gods at that moment. It was one of the happiest moments of my life.

The morning dawned with a sense of newfound hope as Alpha Jo and I approached my parents, our hearts brimming with anticipation. 

I was not sure of how my father would take it. He has always been opposed to the idea of me marrying the Alpha. I told myself I was going to marry him anyway. 

As we shared our decision to wed, their eyes sparkled with joy, and tears of happiness glistened in my mother's eyes.

Carson, my father, clasped Alpha Jo's hand in a firm grip, his expression one of solemn approval. "You have our blessing," he declared, a proud smile gracing his features. "But remember, Jo, the safety of our daughter is paramount. I'll ensure that security around Nashville Town is heightened in preparation for the celebration."

I was shocked, I thought I would meet a strong disapproval from my father. I almost shed a tear. It didn't look right but I was glad he gave his approval and his blessings. My mother was just smiling all the way.

Alpha Jo nodded in gratitude, his commitment to my safety unwavering. "Thank you, Carson," he replied, his voice tinged with determination. "I will do everything in my power to protect Ava, now and always."

With the blessing of my parents secured, Alpha Jo and I set out to seek the approval of his sister, Maria. “Don't worry about Maria, she always wanted my happiness though I consider her to be inconsequential in things like this, I want to show her some respect”  Alpha Jo said.

How can he even say that? Maria is like the law in Nashville. While Alpha Jo is the power and executioner, Nashville revolves around Maria. Her influence cannot be taken for granted and for a woman who does not smile often, one should be very careful with her.

As we approached her quarters, I couldn't shake the uneasy feeling that gnawed at my gut. Despite Maria's outward expression of warmth, I sensed a darkness lurking beneath the surface, a hidden agenda that sent shivers down her spine.

"Maria, we come to seek your blessing for our union," Alpha Jo began, his voice steady but tinged with a hint of apprehension.

Maria's smile widened, her eyes gleaming with an unsettling intensity. "Of course, Jo," she replied, her words dripping with sweetness. "I am thrilled for your happiness, Ava. You will make a lovely addition to our family."

But as I met Maria's gaze, I couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to my soon-to-be sister-in-law's acceptance than met the eye. And as we departed, I couldn't shake the feeling of unease that lingered like a shadow, casting doubt upon the true intentions of Alpha Jo's sister.

Something was not right. I knew Maria was always scheming and making things happen. Could this be one of her schemes to get the Omega clan in line? Right now, apart from me, I do not think anyone from the Omega clan can oppose her in any way. So, why did she say yes without any questions being asked?