Jacob Barduff sat in his usual chair at the head of the great hall, his arms crossed over his broad chest, a storm brewing in his eyes. He had never been one to let go easily, and now, as his eldest daughter approached womanhood, the idea of her finding a mate was proving to be a challenge greater than any battle he had fought. As serafina adjusted the delicate silver bracelet on her wrist, the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over Barduff Castle.
Leah, who was standing next to him, put a soft hand on his arm. Jacob, she is a strong woman. She was well-raised by you. She must be trusted to make her own decisions.
Though he sighed deeply, the doors opened and Thomas Shaw entered before he could react. With his steel-grey eyes and his unwavering yet respectful stance, the young Alpha-to-be exuded quiet confidence. He looked at Serafina after bowing his head to Jacob and Leah.
With a mix of curiosity and resolve, Serafina looked him in the eye. This was different from the years she had spent training and establishing herself among warriors. She was now a woman with a future of her own to think about, not just the Alpha's daughter.
"Alpha Jacob, Luna Leah," Thomas said with deference. "To be here is an honor. I've long admired the Night Wind Pack's strength, and my father has said great things about your leadership. But tonight, I am here for another reason."
Jacob's protective instincts flared, and his eyes narrowed a little. "And what reason is that?"
"To formally express my interest in Serafina. I do not ask for an immediate answer. Only the chance to earn her trust and prove my worth." There was a tense silence, but Serafina stepped forward, tilting her chin up. "I appreciate your honesty, Thomas. If we are to consider any future, it must be built on respect and understanding." Jacob exhaled, hesitantly, but knowing that this was inevitable. He looked at Leah, who gave him a comforting smile before turning to Thomas. "You are both young, and there is no rush. Take time to know each other. And know that we will always be here to guide you."
Thomas gave a little nod. "That is all I ask."
As the night wore on, the tension in the room started to subside. Serafina and Thomas talked about their goals, aspirations, and experiences. And even though Jacob continued to exercise caution, Leah's words continued to haunt him.
It's possible that this was a new path to embrace rather than a fight.