Game of Destiny by Dripping Creativity novel Chapter 9

Chapter 9-1

I still couldn’t quite believe I had ended up in a pack house once again. I had promised myself I would steer clear of the werewolf community this time. Yet, something about Finlay had broken down my resolve. Maybe it was because I had finally met someone as stubborn and unyielding as I was. I kept telling myself this was merely a tactic to make him leave me alone. I planned to stay for just a few days, then politely decline his invitation and return to my quiet life in that small town where no one knew my true nature—and that was exactly how I wanted it.

Rising from my seat, I headed toward the bathroom. A hot shower sounded perfect after the long journey, and honestly, it wouldn’t hurt to look somewhat presentable when meeting the pack. Not that I cared about impressing anyone, but it was drilled into me since childhood: when meeting a new pack, you always show your best self. It was a matter of respect and politeness. At least, that’s what I told myself as I prepared.

I had enough time to shower and dress before I settled by the large windows, gazing out at the serene creek bordered by wildflowers swaying gently in the breeze. The peaceful scene calmed me, and I sat there for a good ten minutes, soaking it in, before a knock interrupted my thoughts. Opening the door, I found Finlay standing there.

“Ready to explore the pack lands and meet some of the members?” he asked with a hopeful smile.

“Sure. That’s why I’m here,” I replied.

“Mind if Martin and Sam come along? They’re curious about you, and it’s rare we get new wolves,” he added.

“No problem,” I said, doing my best to hide the nervous flutter in my stomach. Being around unfamiliar wolves made me uneasy, and I wondered how much Finlay had already told them about me. Did they know I had no wolf? I followed Finlay downstairs, where Martin waited with another man. This new wolf had hair nearly as red as my own, pale skin dotted with freckles, and a mischievous glint in his eyes that seemed more fitting for a troublemaker than a Gamma.

I was introduced to him, and my guess was right—he was the pack’s Gamma.

“Finlay, another redhead!” he exclaimed cheerfully. “Medow, my mate, will love you,” he added with a grin. I couldn’t help but laugh, instantly liking Gamma Sam.

The three men led me on a brief tour of the pack house, pointing out the important places I should know. Afterwards, they took me outside, introducing me to other wolves along the way. Their easy banter, full of jokes and playful teasing, made me relax in their company. It reminded me of the friends I had growing up, before one of them shattered my heart. I unconsciously rubbed my chest, a habit whenever thoughts of James surfaced. The ache wasn’t as sharp as before, but I had hoped it would have faded by now. Perhaps the moon goddess might grant me a second chance at finding a mate—but it seemed that fate had other plans.

“Are you okay?” Finlay asked, concern flickering in his eyes.

“I’m fine,” I assured him, forcing a smile. Hiding pain had become second nature to me. He studied me a moment longer before nodding. We continued walking through the heart of the village. Everything looked well cared for, and the pack seemed happy and content. From what I could tell, this was a good pack, radiating the same relaxed, caring, and strong energy I sensed from Finlay himself. It was clear how much influence an Alpha had on his pack.

“I suggest we head to the communal kitchen and finish our tour with dinner,” Finlay proposed.

“Yes, please! Medow has kitchen duty, and I’ve been away from her too long,” Sam said excitedly.

“Newly mated wolves,” his friends teased in unison, rolling their eyes. I laughed along with them.

Inside the kitchen, we found a petite woman with a pixie-cut of brown hair that made her look utterly charming.

“Medow, honey!” Sam called out. She turned and smiled brightly at him.

“Babe!” she responded, waving before returning to her cooking.

“Come, I’ll introduce you,” Sam said, taking my hand and guiding me through the kitchen.

“Honey, Finlay brought a guest home. She’s thinking of joining the pack,” Sam whispered as we approached his mate. Medow spun around, her mouth falling open in surprise as she looked at us.

Chapter 9-2

“You two could be twins,” she said with a warm smile. “Hello, I’m Medow,” she added, extending her hand. I shook it and introduced myself. “So, the boys have been showing you around?” she asked.

“Poor thing, you must be craving some decent company. You can leave her with me, babe. I’ll take it from here,” she told Sam.

“But honey, the Alpha wanted her to eat with us,” Sam protested.

“Do you think I’d chain our guest up in the walk-in freezer? Of course she’ll eat with us. But the food won’t be ready for at least thirty minutes. So go do something useful, and I’ll take care of Amie,” Medow said firmly.

“Is that okay with you?” Sam asked me, torn between wanting to please his mate, obey the Alpha, and respect me as a guest. The poor guy didn’t know which way to turn.

“That sounds like a wonderful idea,” I assured him. He visibly relaxed and smiled at Medow. They kissed twice before she shooed him away.

“He’s sweet, and I love him to death, but he can be a little clingy,” she confided. I laughed.

“Tell me about a mated wolf who isn’t clingy when it comes to his mate,” I joked, feeling that familiar pang in my chest. Medow laughed with me.

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