The Alpha's Forsaken Feisty Mate

"Because you said I was your mate, I enjoyed everything," Zenna admitted, keeping her gaze locked on the mirror.

Radulf’s expression softened, though a flicker of guilt still lingered in his eyes. "I’m sorry for hurting you that night," he murmured, taking a small step back. His voice was sincere, but there was a hesitation in it, as if he feared she wouldn’t accept his apology.

Zenna finally turned to face him, meeting his gaze with an intensity that made his breath catch. "It almost feels like we’re going to get married today," she mumbled, eyeing their perfectly coordinated white outfits.

Her attention drifted to the brooch on his coat, which was slightly off-center. Without a second thought, she stepped closer and carefully adjusted it, her delicate fingers brushing against his chest.

Radulf watched her, his lips parting slightly as if to say something, but instead, he reached out and gently lifted her chin. His touch was tender, his emerald green eyes carrying a warmth she wasn’t used to seeing.

"We can marry tonight if you want," he whispered.

Zenna blinked, then let out a light chuckle. "Don’t jest."

But Radulf only smiled, his thumb briefly caressing her jaw before he stepped back. "Shall we go then, Princess?" He extended his hand toward her.

Zenna didn’t hesitate, slipping her hand into his. "Yes, Alpha Radulf."

As they stepped outside, the carriage was already waiting. Savio stood by the door, his expression shifting into mild surprise when he saw them dressed in matching white.

A small, knowing smile tugged at the corners of his lips. ’Radulf is making efforts,’ he thought.

Zenna, noticing him, tilted her head in curiosity. "Oh, Savio, why are you here? Weren’t you supposed to enjoy your day off?"

She then turned her sharp gaze toward Radulf. "Did you not give him a leave? That’s bad. You should’ve told Savio to take a day off." She almost scolded him.

"Luna, Alpha did ask me to take a day off. It was me, who refused saying I should stay by his side since I am his beta," Savio asserted. "Moreover, I am still single. So, the festival isn’t of much significance for me," he added.

"Ahh. Still, you should not work all the time," Zenna replied. She gazed at Radulf, who arched his brow at her and quickly entered the carriage.

"Did you see? How she sees my fault in everything?" Radulf mused. "You should enjoy the festival tonight even if you are single. Who knows you find a nice lady tonight," he asserted and got into the carriage after patting Savio’s shoulder.

"Don’t you have something to say to me?" Radulf questioned, his gaze sharp as he turned to look at Zenna.

Zenna met his stare with a calm expression. "What do I have to say?"

"You accused me of not letting Savio go," Radulf stated, tilting his head slightly.

"Indeed. You could have insisted that he enjoy his day off," Zenna replied without hesitation.

Radulf hummed, a smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "Hmm. Then, it is my fault."

"Yes. It’s the responsibility of an Alpha to take care of his pack and its people," she remarked, her voice carrying a note of playful reprimand.

Radulf watched her for a moment before nodding. "You are right," he admitted.

~~~~~

The market entrance was bustling with life, overflowing with people eager to celebrate the Moon Festival. The chauffeur skillfully maneuvered the carriage to a stop at the side of the road before swiftly stepping down to open the door.

Radulf was the first to emerge, and he extended a hand to Zenna. She accepted it gracefully, stepping down with poise.

As her feet touched the ground, her eyes shimmered with joy—this moment was a long-cherished dream come true. She was finally attending the Moon Festival with her husband.

Radulf tightened his grip on her hand. "Hold on to me," he murmured, "and stay close." Together, they stepped into the crowd while Savio, who had arrived on horseback, veered off toward the opposite side to explore on his own.

As they made their way through the lively streets, the weight of countless gazes settled upon them. Whispers flitted through the air, and Zenna could feel the curiosity in every glance. Her fingers instinctively curled around Radulf’s.

"Are we overdressed?" she whispered, blinking rapidly as she strained to catch fragments of the murmurs around them.

Radulf’s lips curved into a faint smile. "We look perfectly fine," he assured her, his voice unwavering. "It’s the color that draws their attention. White is rarely worn at festivals, and it stands out against the vibrant crowd."

His eyes softened as he took in her appearance. "Your dress doesn’t resemble wedding attire—it’s serene, just like the moon itself. The same goes for mine." He gave her hand a gentle squeeze. "Forget the stares and the noise. Tonight is about us, so focus on that."

"You are right," Zenna whispered, a warm smile gracing her lips before she eagerly tugged Radulf to her left.

Caught off guard by her sudden pull, Radulf blinked in surprise, his brows slightly furrowed as he allowed her to lead him through the crowd. "Where are you taking me?" he asked.

Zenna came to a stop in front of a small, dimly lit stall adorned with delicate silk drapes and twinkling lanterns. With an excited gleam in her eyes, she pointed toward the stall.

"Here! Let’s try this," she said eagerly.

Radulf followed her gaze, his expression shifting into one of mild skepticism as he took in the scene before them.

Radulf frowned slightly. "A fortune teller?" He found a number of people were standing in rows there, waiting for their turns.

Zenna nodded. "Yes! She only comes to the Moon Festival once a year. People say her readings are eerily accurate," she explained, glancing at him expectantly.

Radulf cocked his eyebrow. "You truly believe in this?"

"Yes. I told you she always tells the truth," Zenna replied. "Look at the number of people here. She tells everything accurately."

"I don’t believe in such things. Let’s go elsewhere," Radulf stated, not falling into any superstitious beliefs.

But Zenna held his hand tightly, stopping him from turning around. "Please for me, do it," she requested. "Because I believe in miracles. I waited for this day for a long time, Radulf."

He exhaled a deep sigh and shook his head. "What if she says something bad? It won’t affect me, but you... You will going to overthink about it," he reasoned.

"I won’t believe it," Zenna said and pouted her lips.

"Fine. Let’s do what you want," Radulf replied and made her stand in front of him in the row. "For you, I will do this. But keep in mind no one can tell you your future," he added.