Alpha Alec's Redemption by Kathy M

"No, my sweetheart, I don't have a mate,” she answered after a few minutes of silence.

I wanted to ask more questions, but I could see the sadness in her eyes. I didn't want to hurt her more. After all, I hate it when she or Xena keep asking me questions when I am sad and don't want to talk about what's bothering me.

Instead of asking what I really wanted, I switched it up. "Will I get a mate?"

"Yes, both you and Xena will get your mates when the time is right," she gushed, as if she was excited about that day to come. "Now, it's time for you two to go to sleep."

We both jump to our feet and Mother leads us upstairs. That night, I fell asleep dreaming of the day I'd finally meet my mate.

***

I was in my room. Despite us being twins, we each had our own rooms. Our mother had everything and a bit more than she needed, so there wasn't a need for us to share a room when the palace was being enough.

I was on my princess bed playing with my dolls. The man and woman were happily married and, in my head, they were planning to have a baby.

"Honey, you forgot to give me a kiss," I imitated the woman's voice as I imagined her pouting at her husband.

so distracted." I made my voice

firmly, I make it lean towards the female

as the fantasy in my head took root.

and I couldn't wait to meet mine. I know I was still young and shouldn't be

it. I would be in a princess dress when we met and he, my prince charming

me though. She

had time to hide my doll,

you too old to play with dolls?" she

your own business, Xena, and leave me

pink paint. I wanted something bright. In contrast, Xena's room was dark and dull. I hated it because it

was exactly that. Dead and cold. It lacked any form of

here anyway?" I asked, putting my dolls

bit before coming to sit on my bed. "Nothing,

eyes, trying to figure out what her end game was. I was honestly

face as she stares down at me. "What do you mean 'why?"