He's an Honest guy

CHAPTER 16: HE’S AN HONEST GUY
~ Harper’s POV ~

Knowing that Gabriel ended things with Samantha made me feel a little giddy. But I am very uncomfortable with the way that it all happened. I am, however, glad that Gabriel clarified all of that for me. I can see that he is an honest guy at least.
“Um well. Thank you for explaining all of that to me. I really hate that things happened the way they did, only a day after me first arriving here but I do understand what you’re saying. I appreciate your honesty. I probably need to get to my workout now. I am sure you have responsibilities here as the alpha.” I said awkwardly, shuffling from one foot to the other in a nervous motion.
“Yeah, sure! Sorry for distracting you. I’ll let you get to it then. Make yourself at home. Use any of the equipment you want. If you have any questions, just ask either Tanner or me.” Gabriel rubbed the back of his neck and took a few steps backwards. Making his way to a set of weights that were near us.
“Thank you, I appreciate that.”

I decided I would run a couple laps around the track that circled the edge of the entire field. Occasionally, I would glance toward Gabriel. He would catch me looking and give me a flirty grin and wink. He said he was attracted to me. He said he ended things with Samantha because it wasn’t right for him to have attraction toward another woman when he was in a relationship with her. I respect that. Knowing he was attracted to me made my insides quiver with anticipation. This is only my second full day here. I really don’t want to jump into a relationship right now. I don’t plan on pursuing Gabriel. I decided I wouldn’t run from my attraction to him though I am not chasing him either. If he wants me, he will have to come and get me. I ran five laps, did fifty sit-ups, and fifty chin-ups. I want to take things slow and get back into my routine. I don’t want to overdo it. My attention wasn’t focused on my work out anyway.

I decided to walk over to the ring where a couple men were sparring. They were both going at it hard. It looks like the fight is nearly over though. A tall muscular guy with dark brown hair cut short and spiked in the front jumped and kicked another guy in the head knocking him out cold. I wonder how long this match has lasted. Pack members that were gathered around the arena cheered. The winner of the match exited the ring. Other pack members entered the ring and collected the guy who was laying on the ground. I guess they were taking him to the pack doctor.

Beta Tanner approached the winner, patting him on the back.
“That was a tough match, Preston. I thought he was going to beat you for a second.”
“No, I was just playing with him. I wanted to let the match drag out. It’s no fun if it ends right away.” So, this guy’s name is Preston. Tanner turned to the left and saw me standing there.
“Hey Harper! How’s it going? Did you get your workout in?” Beta Tanner walked over to me. He was sweaty from training; it was hot out today. He had a cooling towel draped over his shoulders.
“Yeah, I got a small workout in. It’s not what I’m used to though. I decided to take it slow today and not overdo it. It’s my first day back in weeks.” Preston had followed beta Tanner over to where I was standing.

I decided to introduce myself. “Hi, my name is Harper. Nice to meet you, Preston. That was a great match.” Preston moved past Tanner and came closer to me. He wore a cocky grin as he replied to my comment.
“Nice to meet you Harper, thanks. Leon is a tough opponent. How are you liking it here so far? It looks like you’re settling in well. This is only your second day here, and you’re already training.”
I smiled at Preston answering his question. “I like it a lot actually. It didn’t take long for me to feel right at home. Everyone is so nice and accommodating. Training is something that I’ve never liked to skip. So, you will get used to seeing me on the field.” Preston put his hands on his hips, trying to wrest his body from the fight.
“Believe me, I have no complaints watching you here on the field every day. Just make sure you wear that outfit every time you come.”

A low growl was heard to our left near the chin-up bars. I looked and saw alpha Gabriel staring menacingly at Preston while getting a drink from his bottle of water. Preston must not have heard alpha Gabriel; he continued to focus on me. This guy gives me bad vibes. I’m going to try to ignore them though. Maybe it’s just because I’m meeting him for the first time. Preston grunted as beta tanner nudged him in the ribs to get his attention. Looking nervously from Preston to Alpha Gabriel and back. I took a step back to put distance between Preston and me.

“That’s enough for today. Everyone is free to hit the showers and have the rest of the day off to spend with your families.” Beta Tanner said loud enough for everyone on the field to hear. I turned and walked back towards the packhouse.

After entering I made my way up the stairs to my floor.
“Harper hey, how are you doing? Look, I need to give you this key to your room. I’m sure you don’t wanna keep leaving it unlocked. How is everything? Do you have everything you need?” Kelly’s bubbly personality was so infectious. I gave her a big smile.
“Oh, Kelly hey. Thank you so much. Yes, I didn’t even think about a key. I’m doing great, everything is great. Are you able to point me in the direction of the laundry room? Most of my clothes are dirty. I really need some more clothes, but I can’t afford anything until I get a job.” I walked into my room and invited Kelly in.
“Oh honey, you don’t have to worry about doing your laundry. Let me get those for you. It’s really my job anyway. I know you need clothes. You came here with only a small backpack. Let me know when you’re ready to go shopping. Alpha Titus told me to make sure you’re comfortable and have everything that you need.”

Kelly, sat down at my small desk. As we continued our conversation.
“I couldn’t possibly let you do my laundry. Trust me, I can do it myself, really. Also, I don’t really feel comfortable taking money that I haven’t earned. I’ll just have to make do until I get a job. There is one thing I’m worried about though. The day of the Eclipse Alpha Titus is having a formal celebration. I don’t have a dress to wear to it. You wouldn’t have an old gown laying around anywhere that you wouldn’t mind for me to try on, would you? I’m so sorry. I really don’t like asking for favors.” I sat on the edge of my bed, across from her as I waited for her reply.
“Honey don’t hesitate to ask me for anything also, I get paid to do your laundry, really, it’s ok. As far as a dress goes, I’m sure we can come up with something. No matter what you wear, you’re going to be stunning regardless.”

Kelly gave me a warm smile that reached her eyes. She was so nice, and I could already tell that we were going to be great friends. Kelly reached over and gave me a tight hug. It’s the first genuine hug that I have gotten since my mother and father died. It felt nice.
“Thank you, Kelly. Really, for everything. You’ve been so nice to me. If there’s anything that I can ever do for you, please don’t hesitate to ask.” I stood up as Kelly walked toward the door. She picked up my dirty laundry basket on the way.
“Harper, it’s nothing really. You’re very welcome. I’m so glad you’re here. I’ll have your laundry done this evening. I’ll also be working on a dress for you for the celebration, so don’t stress yourself.”

I hugged Kelly one last time before she left my room. I shut the door behind her. I got undressed and jumped into the shower. I held my body under the stream. The hot water was so relaxing and soothed my aching muscles. I’m already sore from my workout today. I washed my hair and my body. After drying off I grabbed my last T-shirt and Jean shorts. I quickly got dressed and threw my hair up into a messy bun. Training took a while today and I’m already hungry again. I guess I should probably make my way into the dining hall to get something to eat. I exited my room and locked the door behind me.