Chapter 15
Third Person
Matteo observed the intense confrontation between Joric and Clay. He acknowledged the strength of both combatants, recognizing the potential for either to assume the role of the other’s beta. Despite Clay’s current beta status, Matteo sensed that he possessed the capability to ascend to the position of Alpha.
In their human forms, despite Joric’s seniority, Clay exhibited a formidable fighting prowess and a physique that matched Joric’s. Well-trained and disciplined, Matteo wouldn’t be surprised if Clay, the prospective beta, managed to surpass his future alpha.
Joric declared, “Freya is mine, Clay. She’s my mate,” surprising everyone. All eyes turned to Freya, who lowered her head in embarrassment, bewildered by the unexpected revelation.
Observing the unfolding drama, Freya sought guidance from Matteo, whose gaze communicated an unspoken message. In response, Clay retorted confidently, “Freya already has her mate, and as far as I know, it isn’t you,” directing a smile at her. Joric, witnessing the exchange, seethed with jealousy at the sight of Clay’s grin directed at the woman he admired.
Joric harbored jealousy whenever Freya interacted with either Clay or Alec. As he observed Freya reciprocating Clay’s smile, Joric’s frustration escalated. “She’s mine, Clay, mine!” Joric declared, transforming in a fit of anger. He lunged at Clay, who adeptly evaded the attack, biding his time to shift.
Concerned for her friend, Freya recognized Joric’s strength as their future alpha, rooted in superior bloodline. Despite Clay’s tactical skill and composure, the ongoing skirmish favored Joric, with the latter adopting an aggressive stance while Clay focused on defensive maneuvers.
Matteo meticulously observed the unfolding duel, sensing Clay’s strategic patience, waiting for the opportune moment to strike. Though Clay might be trying to tire Joric, the latter’s alpha lineage ensured enduring strength, even without regular training. Despite being the alpha’s son, Clay remained calm and composed, carefully evaluating the situation and contemplating how best to confront his future alpha.Belonging © NôvelDram/a.Org.
As the battle raged on, Joric’s aggression persisted, and Clay maintained a poised defense. Matteo discerned Clay’s calculated approach, assessing the possibility of overcoming his future alpha and strategizing accordingly. Noticing Joric’s fury, Clay understood the reason behind it, having learned about Joric’s misguided claim on Freya. With a knowing smile exchanged at just the right moment, Clay anticipated the impending attack from Joric.
Joric growled and relentlessly charged at Clay. When the future beta declared that it was time for him to shift, Joric complied. His wolf, Claude, was a formidable creature. Despite being a large, dark brown wolf that could be intimidating due to his size, the light brown hue of his paws emitted a sincere vibe. Despite his imposing stature, observers might mistake him for an alpha, but his aura resonated with that of a beta. Since he hadn’t reached the age of 18 yet, his status could change upon reaching maturity.
The anticipation for this fight was palpable, as everyone knew that Clay was not the next beta in line. Clay was fortunate to have gained Jack’s approval, though he felt compelled due to Jack’s daughter, who he knew couldn’t fight when necessary. As onlookers focused on the intense battle between the two wolves, Matteo directed his attention to Freya, whose face displayed evident concerns. Although he wished for the tournament to conclude so he could be with her, Matteo understood the importance of fulfilling his responsibilities as their prince and future king. Therefore, he had to maintain control and pacify his inner beast.
His focus returned to Joric and Clay, still engaged in combat. They skillfully evaded each other’s attacks or absorbed blows but swiftly regained their footing. Aware of the dynamics within the pack, Matteo opted to modify the rules, simplifying the objective to pinning down the opponent. Joric’s unpredictable behavior and perceived closeness to Freya posed a potential danger, and Matteo suspected that Clay’s feelings for Freya added another layer of complexity.
The growls of the two wolves reverberated, signaling the imminent conclusion of their struggle. Joric, now infuriated, might have been teased by Clay through their mental link. “Clever,” Matteo thought as he observed. Joric recklessly lunged at Clay, neglecting his defense while countering an attack. Seizing the opportunity, Clay’s wolf, Claude, evaded the assault, bit Joric’s hind leg, and swiftly pinned him to the ground upon his fall.
Despite Joric’s attempts to break free, Clay maintained his hold, understanding the pivotal moment. Clay persisted until Jack intervened, separating the two combatants. Joric, still growling, struggled to accept his defeat. Freya rushed to Clay, embracing him in his wolf form. Matteo chose not to intervene, though Joric disapproved, growling as he approached them. Witnessing Joric’s aggression, Freya and Clay were paralyzed.
As Joric leaped toward them, Matteo swiftly intercepted, gripping Joric’s neck and pinning him down. The unexpected turn of events surprised onlookers. “Your Highness,” Alpha Daniel addressed Matteo, sensing his anger. Matteo’s intimidating aura frightened everyone, causing them to submit, except for Freya.
“Mine!” Matteo growled, his beast asserting dominance. His attention fixed on Joric, now in human form. Gasps echoed as Matteo released Joric, approaching Freya with urgency. Instinctively, Freya shielded Clay with her body.
“Mine!” Matteo growled again before claiming Freya’s mouth in a protective kiss. Initially surprised, Freya reciprocated, realizing Matteo’s concern for her safety. As they broke the kiss, locking eyes, she observed the intensity of his lycan. Gently caressing his face, she worked to soothe the primal instincts that had taken hold, and after a while, the tension dissipated.
“You are only mine, Freya; you got that?” Matteo asked. She didn’t say anything and just agreed with him by nodding. Because of that, he hugged her tightly. So tight in fear that someone will take her away from him.
“I guess you can put me down now,” she told him. He chuckled when he saw how red her face was, so he did as she said and faced the pack.
“Yes, Freya is my mate. Your princess and future queen,” he announced, and they all had their eyes on her in disbelief. She looked at her parents, who were both surprised at what they had found out, and she knew that she had some explaining to do.