The alpha secret baby

Akira stepped out of the carriage and onto the winding driveway of her family's estate which is the pack house, the grand manor house looming before her like a specter. She felt a familiar sense of unease settle in the pit of her stomach as she gazed up at the windows, searching for a glimpse of warmth.

"Akira, welcome home," Ryder said, his booming voice and warm smile a comforting contrast to the chilly atmosphere of the estate.

Akira's eyes met her father's, and she forced a smile, feeling a pang of guilt for not being more enthusiastic about her return. She had spent the past few months visiting her grandparents in the countryside, enjoying the peaceful rhythms of rural life.

As she entered the manor, Akira's senses were assaulted by the familiar sights and scents of her childhood. The creaking of the wooden floorboards beneath her feet, the faint scent of Victoria's perfume, and the soft murmur of the staff in the background all combined to transport her back to a time when life was simpler.

"Akira, darling, you look...presentable," Victoria said, her voice dripping with condescension as she air-kissed Akira's cheek.

Akira's eyes met her mother's, and she felt a familiar sting. She knew that Victoria's cold demeanor was nothing new, but it still hurt.

Harrison, Akira's older brother, appeared at her side, his warm smile a welcome respite from the tension. "Hey, kiddo, it's great to see you," he said, enveloping her in a bear hug.

As they hugged, Akira felt a sense of comfort wash over her. Harrison had always been her rock, her confidant, and her protector.

The evening wore on, with Akira's family inquiring about her visit with her grandparents. Akira answered their questions, feeling a sense of relief that she was home, but also a sense of unease about what the future held.

with the family gathering in the dining room for dinner. As they sat down, Gabriella, Akira's older sister, raised an eyebrow.

"I see you're still wearing those...rustic clothes," Gabriella said, her voice laced with disdain. "Don't you think it's time you dressed more...refined?"

Harrison shot Gabriella a warning glance. "That's enough, Gabriella. Akira's style is

Perfectly fine.

But Victoria intervened, her voice cool. "Actually, Harrison, Gabriella has a point. Akira should strive to present herself in a more...elegant manner."

Akira felt a surge of frustration, but she bit back her retort. She knew that arguing with her family would only lead to more tension.

As the dinner continued, Akira couldn't shake the feeling that she didn't belong. She felt like an outsider, a temporary guest in a family that wasn't truly hers.

Later that evening, Akira decided to take a walk in the gardens to clear her head. The cool night air and the sound of crickets provided a soothing balm to her frazzled nerves.

As she strolled along the winding paths, she came across her cousin, Kaida, who was sitting on a bench, staring up at the stars.Kaida was Akira's childhood cousin and confidante. As the daughter of Ryder's younger brother, Cassius, beta of blackwood pack, Ryder is the alpha of blackwood. Kaida had grown up alongside Akira, sharing secrets, laughter, and adventures. Despite their differing personalities - Kaida's gentle nature contrasting with Akira's fiery spirit - the two cousins had formed an unbreakable bond.

While Gabriella often made Akira feel like an outcast, Kaida had always been there to offer a comforting word, a listening ear, or a reassuring hug. Kaida's unwavering support and acceptance had been a constant source of strength for Akira, helping her navigate the complexities of her family dynamics.

As they grew older, their bond remained strong, with Kaida often seeking Akira's counsel and protection. Akira, in turn, cherished Kaida's empathy and kindness, valuing their relationship above all others.

"Hey, Akira," Kaida said, smiling as Akira approached. "Welcome back. I've missed you."

Akira smiled, feeling a sense of warmth towards her cousin. "I've missed you too, Kaida. How have you been?"

Kaida shrugged. "I've been good. Just keeping busy with my studies and helping out around the estate. But I'm more interested in hearing about you. How was your time with Grandma and Grandpa? What was it like staying with them?"

Akira's eyes lit up as she thought back to her time in the countryside. "It was amazing," she said. "Grandma and Grandpa were so warm and welcoming. They taught me all about the old traditions and stories of our family. And the countryside was so beautiful - rolling hills, sparkling streams... it was like a different world."

Kaida listened intently, her eyes sparkling with interest. "That sounds incredible," she said. "I'm so jealous. I've always wanted to spend more time with Grandma and Grandpa. They're so full of wisdom and love."

Kaida paused, a thoughtful expression on her face. "You know, Akira, I've always wondered... between your parents' place and your grandparents' place, where do you feel more at home?"

Akira hesitated, unsure of how to answer. She looked at Kaida, seeing the genuine curiosity in her eyes. "Honestly?" she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I feel more at home with Grandma and Grandpa. They just... they make me feel seen and loved, you know?"

As night drew to a close, Akira retired to her bed chamber, her thoughts swirling with doubts. She knew that she was expected to take on a more prominent role within the family, but she couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to her life than the narrow path laid out before her.

Little did Akira know, her life was about to take a dramatic turn, one that would challenge everything she thought she knew about herself and her place in the world.