Chapter 9: clumsy

Ariana’s pov

Alpha Frank's eyes never left the stage during my solo set, which ended about an hour ago, and it was almost two in the morning. I would occasionally look up at him, and he continued to observe me closely.

Did I leave such a positive impression?

I was thrilled that he would consider hiring me for the mating event, but I also felt it was the most strange, brief talk of my life. Although I'm all for it, it would be a nerve-racking performance.

I turn my head and look at Lyra, Earth to Ariana.

I apologize, but what's going on?

To get us home, Derik is here. Are you doing well?

I pause to consider whether Frank is still upstairs. I must see him before I depart because, strange as it is, I feel pulled to him. I blurt forth a massive untruth because my mouth is ahead of my thinking. I believe I forgot something upstairs a few minutes ago. You go ahead and wait. I'll be leaving shortly. Assure me. Lark turns, takes my hand out, and puts money in my palm as Lyra nods at Ame and bids him farewell. I can't explain why I didn't leave anything upstairs, even though I know darn well that I did.

Tonight, you were outstanding. I'm hoping you'll be able to return sooner.

Let's hope. I put my money in my pocket, smile, and give him a short hug before making my way up the stairs. My heart begins to race in anticipation once more. Ascending them, I glance in the direction where Mark and Frank are seated, but all I see is Mark. I take a deep breath and approach him.

A beta mark? He turns to face me once more and gives me a kind grin. Why are you back up here, Ariana? I am unable to respond to his questions. I came up here with a completely made-up excuse. That was untrue. Now what should I do? Am I lying once more?

You're insane.

Awkwardly clearing my throat, I respond, "I think I might have left something up here, but apparently I was wrong." Mark, I hope you have a pleasant evening.

Ariana, you too. Tonight's set was fantastic! I give a quick smile and start to leave, but I run straight into a hard chest. I stagger back a bit and have trouble getting back on track. A powerful hand grabs my shoulder and holds me in place.

Are you alright, Ariana? Once more, that deep voice. I marched straight into the Alpha King, oh my god.

I did say I wanted to see him...

I look up to meet his eyes, nodding slightly. Yes, sorry. I wasn't paying attention to my destination. I didn't cause you any harm, did I?

My pulse skips a beat when I hear the low laugh rumble from his chest.

That's what I should ask you. I can't help but laugh when he says this gently. Considering everything, I'm doing fine.

Excellent. Are you heading out for the evening? Yes, I give a small nod. I thought I might have forgotten something when I came up here, but I was wrong. I am really sorry for walking into you like that. I'm not so clumsy normally.

He laughs heartily once more. Don't worry about it; it's okay. I'll take you out to your pals, but it's late.

I take a rapid breath. I'm sure you have many more important things to do than that.

Is there anything more important than ensuring a stunning girl like you makes it safely to her car? I flush as he asks me a question. Actually, you don't have to.

What did he call me, I wonder?

Are you not obstinate? I give him a bashful nod when he asks. Regretfully, I am not embarrassed about it. But I will take you up on your offer, Alpha. You're not incorrect. It's late.

He moves ahead of me in the direction of the upstairs section's back hallway. We can go out here, he says, turning back to face me. Then he turns to face Mark. I'll see you at the vehicle.

I get it, Alpha. I notice a tiny smirk on Mark's lips as he bids Alpha Frank farewell as he gets up and passes by us both waving.

Are you ready? When I'm called back to attention, I nod in agreement.

Then follow me. I draw closer to you as we walk side by side out the back doors and descend a longer flight of stairs at the rear of the starry den that overlooks the nearby woodland. The majority of the walk is silent, but then I'm suddenly pushed back against the damp, chilly brick wall, Frank's body clearly near mine, and I'm shocked, my hands spread across his chest.

He presses a finger to my lips to silence me as I open my mouth to speak. I make every effort, but when I'm silent, my thoughts start to wander. Suddenly, I realize that I'm still holding his chest, so I grab on and start to tear them off. He grabs them to stop me, and I can't help but notice how cozy and warm his grip is. He whispers to me as he leans in. I believe there are rogues in the forest.

In hearing just one word, my body freezes instantaneously, and I know he felt the shift in me, but I can’t do anything about it. I didn't hear anything Alpha Frank said to me. I bite my lip hard to keep from screaming in agony as my thoughts race.

You didn't succeed.

I entirely lose my voice. I'm forced to glance up and meet those dazzling blue eyes after what seems like an eternity, and as soon as warm fingers touch my chin to raise my face, I'm instantly lifted from my frozen position. My breathing steadies, and my hearing rushes back in Aloha Frank's quiet voice sounds troubled as he looks at me with his concerned face. Eyes strained and brow furrowed as he asks me. Are you all right?

I give a brief nod. Yes, I am alright.

Are you afraid of them? Still looking at me with a worried expression, he asks.

I nod and sigh. In the past, they never did. I used to be stronger, and I never felt this kind of fear. I start to ramble, but then I remember that Frank is gently petting my cheek. My heart stammers in response, heat rising to my cheeks.

You underestimate your strength. He looks behind us and lets go of his hand. They are now gone. It appears that they were not interested in entering the populous region. You should be able to reach your friends at this time.

Thank you, I didn’t hear them. I'm happy I wasn't by myself.

If I still had Seles by my side, then I would have.

I swear I catch a moment of confusion on his face, but it's gone as quickly as it appeared. It's truly not an issue. Let's return to you. Derik and Lyra are waiting by our car as he begins to walk once more, and I follow him carefully. When we get close, Derik and Lyra both bow and speak to him, their eyes widening.

Aloha king.

We apologize for taking so long; we needed to confirm that walking her was safe. Are you friends with Ariana? They nod in response to Frank's question.

Yes, exactly. This is Lyra M., and I'm Derik. Alpha King, I appreciate you taking Ariana for a walk and ensuring her safety.

It isn't an issue; it was the least I could do. I hope everyone has a great evening, and based on what I've been informed, I'll see you all in a few weeks. when I come to see your pack. Avoid being strangers.

Then Alpha Nate looks at me. Meeting you was enjoyable; I hope to see you again soon. I nod as I glance up at him. The same is true. Once again, thank you. Goodbye.

Then, without another word, Frank leaves.

Derik and Lyra climb into the driver's and passenger seats as I approach the car and quickly get inside. Before Derik starts the automobile, Lyra spins around in her seat. Did you go back upstairs for that reason? What took place? You're flushed.

Simply stop talking and go for a drive. Later, I will inform you.

Derik starts the engine and drives away as Lyra laughs and the automobile comes to life.

Really, what the fuck?