Chapter 13

**Destiny**

It was time for me to leave and go back home. I was going to miss my cousin, aunt, and uncle but it was time for me to go.
Part of me wanted to stay, but the other half couldn't wait to leave.
I hadn't told anyone about my mate, and I didn't plan to. At least not yet. I wanted to see him again. At the same time I was afraid to.
"Hey you want to visit the pack house before you go? I want to introduce you to some of the other members," Hayley said barging into the room.
I really wasn't up to it. But I was already packed and had a couple hours before I left, so I figured why not.
"Okay."
She took my hand eagerly pulling me with her and I couldn't help but smile. This is why I loved her. She always made me smile even when I didn't want to.
It took about twenty minutes to get to the pack house. We ran the entire way. When it came into view I froze. It was huge. Even bigger than the one back home.
"Come on. We didn't come to just stare at it," she said playfully.
The inside was just as stunning as the outside. There were people lounging around laughing and I liked the laid back atmosphere.
"Hi Hayley. Whose your friend?" a guy asked. He had blond hair and a rich boy look about him. Handsome, but not my type.
"Hi Logan. This is my cousin Destiny," she introduced.
There were some nice to meet yous and a couple comments from some unmated guys that made me a little uncomfortable. However, I was still flattered to be called hot among other things.
A guy walked down the stairs and I could feel the power radiating off of him. I knew immeditately he was the alpha.
"What's all the commotion down here," he said to the room at large.
All eyes went to me.
"Alpha you know my cousin Destiny. I just wanted to show her the pack house before she left."
He looked at me and smiled to my relief.
"Ahhh yes Destiny. I almost forgot you were visiting. How was your stay?"
"Fine thank you."
He nodded in approval and went past me outside.
The rest of us sat around and chatted for a little while and everyone seemed really nice.
The Luna came down and made lunch. It felt almost homey.
Time flew by and I told Haley I really needed to go. I was having a nice time but I didn't want to miss my plane.
I said my goodbyes and some of them looked genuinely sad to see me leave.
"I wish you could have met Ryland. He's a really nice guy," Haley said as we walked out the door.
"Maybe next time."
For some reason I was slightly disappointed he wasn't around, even though I had no idea why. Suddenly a scent hit me full force. It was citrus and lime mixed with a little bit of pine and wood. I knew it was him. I turned and we locked eyes. Time seemed to stop. I thought he was good looking from behind but seeing his face took my breath away. His muscles were on full display because he was shirtless. His eyes were a sea green and I got lost in them.
We stood there just staring at each other before I came to my senses. I didn't know where the woman was at the moment but I was grateful she wasn't around. If this was the last time I was going to see him before he married her then I was going to make the most of it.
I walked over and kissed him with all I had. I ran my fingers through his hair wanting to cherish every moment. He groaned and licked my lips asking for entrance which I granted right away. His taste exploded into my mouth and I couldn't help but moan from the pleasure. I pulled away breathless and gave him one last look before I walked away. I wasn't going to give him the chance to reject me in front of my cousin.
I ran as fast as I could and she was hot on my trail calling my name but I didn't answer. I was thankful my aunt and uncle were gone. I didn't want to waste time. They had to work and we said our goodbyes this morning.
I went up the stairs and grabbed my bags.
I ran out the door after grabbing Haley's keys.
"Destiny will you please stop!"
I shoved her keys into her hands and hopped in the car.
"Please just get me to the airport."
I saw Ryland standing there with a confused look on his face as we drove away. There was the slightest trace of hurt and I hated that look. It was so out of place on such a lovely face.
"Destiny I'm-"
"Please Haley don't say it."
I didn't want to hear she was sorry. Everyone knew he was with that woman and I didn't need their pity. She didn't say another word the whole way and I was grateful.
When we got there I hugged her and told her goodbye. I would call her later but for now I just wanted to get on the plane and go home.
After a couple hours I was finally back, and I felt more alone than ever. My wolf was howling in pain wanting her mate. Why did this happen to me? What had I done to deserve this?
I had done everything right. I saved myself. I waited for my mate and all I got was a slap in the face, a constant reminder he was with someone else.
As bitter as it sounded I couldn't get the image of them out of my head. I didn't know I could feel so many emotions. Hate, anger, fear, and worry were just a few at the top of my list.
Even though I wasn't near him I couldn't help but think of him. The life we were supposed to share together. Would he have that life with her? A house with pups and the whole nine yards?
My wolf growled at the thought.
"He is ours. Why did you run away?" she said furiously. I knew she was upset with me about leaving our mate but what else could I do? He was with in love with another woman and I would only complicate things for him. I couldn't bare the thought of him rejecting me in front of everyone, I was already falling for him and I didn't know the first thing about him. I had to leave to protect us. I had to protect my heart for the both of us.
"Are you okay honey. What happened?" my mom said coming in with a tray of food.
I wasn't really hungry but I nibbled on the food anyway.
I knew she was concerned. I called her and Dad when I landed to let them know I was back. Afterwards I called my cousin, aunt, and uncle to let them know I landed safely.They came over happy to see me but I hadn't said a word after I hugged and greeted them.
"Yeah mom I'm fine. Don't worry."
"We always worry baby girl you know that. But we won't pressure you. Just let us know when you're ready to talk." my Dad said from the doorway.
I kissed him on the cheek and nodded. He smiled weakly and headed to the door. My mom still looked worried but she followed.
I feel asleep almost as soon as they left. I was emotionally drained.

**Ryland**

I woke up early and went running after eating some breakfast. I needed to clear my head. I had been edgy since Marilyn left and running was the only thing that kept my temper in check.
I missed her. I had never felt so alone. The alpha and luna tried to comfort me saying I would find my mate, but nothing helped.
I wanted her back. Everyday I came up with plans and ideas. Each one crazier than the last.
I shifted and let my wolf out for a bit. I didn't know how long I was gone but it had to have been hours. I figured it was around lunch time so I decided to head back.
The closer I got to the pack house the more restless my wolf became. I smelled watermelon and strawberries and my mouth almost started to water it was so sweet.
I had to know who the scent belonged to. I searched and locked eyes with the most beautiful girl I had ever seen. She was breathtaking. All I could do was stare as my wolf yelled mate.
I couldn't believe I found her. All this time I didn't think she existed and here she was standing in front of me.
She walked toward me and I had to admit her boldness intrigued me. To my surprise she kissed me. Not just a peck but an all out kiss.
She tugged on my hair and I groaned. I could feel every emotion she had as she allowed me entrance into his her mouth. I could taste her and never had I tasted something so sweet.
I wanted more and I couldn't help but feel disappointment when she pulled away from me.
I was going to pull her back but she ran. Not just a jog or trot, but hauled ass ran. On top of that she was fast as hell.
I stood there shocked and confused. I didn't know why she would run and my wolf kept yelling at me to chase after her.
I snapped out of it and ran. There was no doubt I would have caught her if I had my head on straight, even with her running full force. But when I came out of the clearing I saw her give the keys to Haley and hop in the car as they sped off to God knows where.
For the first time, I questioned if I still wanted Marilyn.