Dr. Volkov's Dilemma

**Dr. Volkov POV**

In my workshop, the air carries the soothing scent of medicinal herbs, mingling with the subtle aroma of aged wood. Shelves filled with carefully organized vials and bottles of healing elixirs line the walls, each labeled with precise instructions. The soft glow of lanterns bathes the room in a gentle light, casting a calming ambiance.

Surrounded by the familiar surroundings, I can't help but find my thoughts drifting back to Alivia's recent encounter with Adam. The image of her smile, when she was with him, lingers in my mind, evoking a twinge of jealousy I can't quite explain. I've always prided myself on maintaining a composed exterior, but whenever Adam is around her, I can't help but feel an unsettling pang of insecurity. It's as if I'm competing for her attention, a notion I find both ridiculous and disconcerting.

The almost kiss between us surfaces in my thoughts, stirring a mix of emotions that I'm still trying to comprehend. But it's a dangerous line of thought, one that I quickly dismiss. I thought I had everything under control, that my focus on protecting the pack and finding a cure for the virus would be enough. But Alivia has disrupted that equilibrium, bringing emotions and uncertainties rushing to the surface.

With a frustrated sigh, I run a hand through my hair. I can't let myself be distracted by these feelings. Alivia's training, and the pack's safety—remain my top priorities. I must be strong and unwavering in my decisions, just as an Alpha should be.

As I adjust a tray of freshly harvested healing herbs, other feelings surfaced as well. Her determination, her unwavering spirit—it was both intriguing and enchanting. There was a warmth she brought into my life, one that made me feel like I could let down my guard when I was around her. And when she told me she wanted to go back to art school, I couldn't refuse her. It was admirable to see her pursuing her passion despite the challenges our world presented.

As I lost myself in these contemplations, a knock on the door brought me back to the present.

"Come in," I called out, and Council member Cedric entered the room, assuming his usual air of formality. Soon after, Seraphine graced us with her presence, her serene demeanor a calming contrast to my swirling thoughts.

"Dr. Volkov, Seraphine," Council member Cedric acknowledged us with a nod. "I trust you are both aware of the reason for this meeting."

Seraphine and I exchanged a glance before nodding in unison. "Yes, Council member Cedric," I replied. "We are here to discuss Alivia's training and her recent progress."

With a gentle nod, I walked over behind my desk and offered for both of them to take a seat.

"Indeed," Council member Cedric continued, his eyes resting on me with a scrutinizing gaze. "How is the training going?"

"Alivia's training has been progressing quite well," Seraphine chimed in, her voice gentle and reassuring. "She has shown remarkable dedication and a strong connection to her healing magic. Today, she managed to summon it willingly, a significant milestone in her development."

I listened attentively to Seraphine's words, a sense of pride swelling within me as I thought about Alivia's progress. It was no small feat to summon healing magic willingly, and I couldn't help but feel a surge of admiration for her determination.

"Alivia has shown great potential as a healer, but she did lose control on her first day due to her emotions," Seraphine continued, her eyes meeting mine swiftly. "I've been guiding her through various healing techniques, and she's been a quick learner. Her empathy and compassion are assets that enhance her abilities as well."

Council member Cedric's eyes narrowed as he absorbed Seraphine's assessment of Alivia's progress. His gaze then shifted to me, expectant and curious. "Why wasn't it brought to my attention that she lost control?"

I took a moment to collect my thoughts before responding. "I wanted to observe Alivia's progress closely before bringing it to the Council's attention," I explained, my voice measured. "Her initial loss of control was expected as she was grappling with her newly discovered abilities and the emotions surrounding her father's death."

Council member Cedric nodded, seemingly satisfied with my explanation. "It's essential that we monitor her progress closely," he remarked, his tone stern. "We cannot afford any accidents or reckless use of her powers, especially considering the virus outbreak."

"I assure you, Council member Cedric, that I have been vigilant in guiding Alivia," Seraphine interjected, her voice carrying a note of assurance. "She is well aware of the responsibility that comes with her abilities, and she takes her training seriously."

Council member Cedric glanced at Seraphine, nodding in acknowledgment. "Very well," he conceded. "I trust that you will continue to monitor her closely."
With that matter settled, I knew it was time to address the other topic that had been on my mind—the one that involved Alivia's passion for art. I felt a flicker of nervousness, wondering how Council Member Cedric would react to my unexpected defense of her desire to go back to art school.

I took a deep breath and began, "There is another matter we need to discuss. Alivia expressed her desire to go back to art school."

Seraphine's eyebrows raised in surprise, and Council member Cedric looked thoughtful but cautious. "Art school?" he echoed. "Right now, her priority should be her training."
"That's precisely what I addressed with her," I replied, my tone earnest. "Art is a part of who she is, and it holds a deep connection to her emotions. By nurturing her artistic side, we might be able to strengthen her understanding of her healing magic."

What the hell am I thinking? I never thought much of art before, always considering it a mere distraction, a frivolous pursuit. And yet, here I am, fervently defending its significance in Alivia's life.

My mind replays the scene—the determination in Alivia's eyes as she shared her dream of going back to art school, the way her face lit up when she spoke of her father's connection to it. It stirred something within me, a sense of understanding that I hadn't anticipated.

Council member Cedric appeared skeptical, and I sensed that convincing him wouldn't be easy. "But won't it be a distraction? Art can be emotionally charged, and we need her to focus solely on her training."

"I understand the concern," I said, "but Alivia is determined and responsible. If we encourage her to embrace her passion for art, it might enhance her emotional understanding, which is crucial in mastering healing magic."

Seraphine's eyes gleamed with agreement, and she added, "Art can be therapeutic and provide a unique outlet for her emotions. By stifling her passion, we might unintentionally hinder her growth as a healer."

Council member Cedric remained thoughtful, clearly grappling with the idea. "This is an unconventional approach," he admitted. "But I can see the reasoning behind it."
I sensed a flicker of hope inside me, but I knew that Council Member Cedric's approval wasn't guaranteed yet.

"Alivia's well-being is my priority," I emphasized. "If there's a chance that art can complement her training and aid her in mastering her powers, then I believe it's worth considering."

"I'll make sure to closely monitor her progress in both her training and art pursuits," I continued to assure him. "If I see any signs of her falling behind or struggling, I'll intervene and adjust her schedule accordingly."

Seraphine chimed in, her soothing voice adding weight to my argument. "I will also support her in balancing her responsibilities and passions. As her mentor, I'll ensure that her training remains on track while encouraging her artistic growth."

Council member Cedric seemed to consider our assurances, and after a moment, he relented. "Very well," he said with a nod. "But the Council will continue to evaluate the situation closely. If we find that her art endeavors are affecting her training negatively, we may have to reconsider."

I accepted his terms with a nod, grateful for the opportunity to let Alivia pursue her dream, even if it came with conditions. Seraphine and Council member Cedric stood up, and just after the Council member left, Seraphine offered me a small nod before leaving my workshop.

I found myself lingering on the thoughts of Alivia's smile, her determination, and the emotions that seemed to intertwine with her magic and art. For so long, I've approached life with a pragmatic mindset, focusing on the practical and logical aspects of everything. Art had seemed inconsequential compared to the pressing matters I dealt with daily as Alpha and doctor of the pack. But Alivia's passion for art, her unwavering belief in its importance, has given me pause.

Maybe there's more to it than I've allowed myself to see. Maybe, just maybe, art has a profound impact on a person's life. I shake my head, trying to dispel the swirling thoughts. This is uncharted territory for me. Allowing myself to be vulnerable, to consider something I've disregarded for so long, is uncomfortable. But then again, Alivia has a way of turning my world upside down.