My nemesis is back

Days passed as they usually do, but one day at school, I overheard some students saying, "The alpha has sent his son Drew to live with his mother's pack; he wants him to grow up there and learn some manners." Honestly, he could use some lessons in etiquette, and I couldn't help but wonder if this meant I would finally be free from him. I hoped this news was true.

And it was true. I couldn't have been happier; he could stay there for all I cared. I shared the news with Frederick, and we both celebrated the thought of no longer having to deal with the annoying Drew.

Fast forward ten years.

I was utterly exhausted and collapsed onto the sofa, not even realizing when I dozed off. When I finally woke up, it was late at night. Life had been tough; my mother passed away five years ago, the weight of losing her mate was too much for her to bear, leading her to join my father in the afterlife. Since then, the alpha has taken responsibility for me. Now, at nineteen, I work part-time as a chef in the pack's kitchen while attending college. I can't wait to finish my studies; I'm so worn out.

I got up from the sofa and glanced out the window. Frederick lived next door, but I knew that good things don’t last forever.

Frederick and I had started dating three years ago, but just six months into our relationship, he found his mate after we both got our wolves. He ended things, and while I don't hold it against him, it’s frustrating that he distanced himself from me. Now, we only exchange polite greetings.

His apartment was brightly lit, a stark contrast to my gloomy one. I often wonder how we ever fit together, so perhaps it's for the best that we maintain our distance. I sighed, feeling the weight of loneliness pressing down on me. At times, it gets so overwhelming that I slip into depression, but what can I do?

I sluggishly made my way to bed, knowing tomorrow would be another exhausting day filled with school and work.

After school, I hopped into a cab and headed to the packhouse for my shift. Upon entering the kitchen, I noticed everyone was bustling about. "Are we expecting a guest?" I inquired of Patricia, who looked at me in confusion. "You didn't hear? A message was sent out that young master Drew will be arriving today." I quickly checked my phone and found the notification—my nemesis was returning. I couldn't help but wonder how much more insufferable he had become; apparently, he didn't remain there for eternity after all.

The day was hectic. Are we really throwing a feast for that jerk? If so, it seems a bit excessive. Once we finished cooking, I found a spot to sit and removed my apron. "He’s here, he just arrived," someone announced. Great, here we go. "Waiters, serve the meal immediately! Young master Drew is here! Felicity, come here!" It was the head chef. "We’re short-staffed since the young master isn’t the only one here, so could you assist the waiters?" Can’t she see how exhausted I am? But I had no choice. "Alright, I’m on it," I sighed, feeling the weight of my frustration.

I was dressed in a white shirt, black pants, and a tie with a pair of black shoes looking quite professional, but inside I felt terrible. I made my way to the dining area and spotted the alpha seated with others at the table. To his right was the Luna, and to his left—wait, who is that incredibly handsome guy? Suddenly, Jane shouted "mate!" and the striking figure, who I hoped wasn’t Drew, turned to face me as if he had heard my wolf react to the word. Wait, mate? Jane, what on earth did you just say?