CEO's Runaway Mate and Her Cubs

Roxy was right: Lara couldn't just decide what society wanted from her. As such, she decided to put more effort into it.

She would try befriending someone the next time Nate brought her to a party. She would have witnessed with her own eyes the expectations put on her; and only then, she would have decided whether to put any weight into public opinion.

As such, she had convinced Nate to accept an invitation to a cocktail party. She loved those: they didn't last too long, and they would leave some time for them to stroll together or even have dinner if the food wasn't good. Not to mention all the exciting activities they could do in the car or - apparently - in a park.

Also, socialisation was easier than that in a formal event such as a gala or a charity auction. Her mother loved the second option more, but Lara had long forgotten how to be amazed by the shining of high society.

«I was so surprised when you asked me,» Nate said. «It's the first time you invite me on a date, isn't it? I was honoured. And grateful to have lived long enough to witness...»

«Hey!» she warned him. «You better stop right there.»

What was he trying to say? That she wouldn't invite him if not for something she needed? Oh, but it was true. She had invited him just because she needed to make new friends.

Was it wrong, though? She should have worked harder on that part: Nate seemed to like being invited even more than organising dates. And she could understand why: when he invited her, he would think about everything, every little detail. Being invited meant trusting her, and following her lead. It meant he didn't need to think too much about their schedule. Lara would have done it.

At that point, she feared disappointing him with too much predictability. She would do exactly what forecasted: go to the party, chat with people, then go back home and kiss on the way.

But Nate seemed content all the same. She didn't spot any sign of excitement, not as if he was expecting any surprise.

Did it mean the point wasn't that?

Could it be that he was just happy she wanted to share some time and maybe common interests?

Would he like it if she told him more often what she wanted to do with him? Oh, there were plenty of things: walking in the centre hand in hand, having ice cream just like the cubs. Also, cooking together must be fun.

However, for that day, they would just go on a date. They were already in front of the cafe where the party would be. It had a garden with a pool, and the men at the entrance would check the guests on a long list.

It was one of those exclusive events, which made Lara's wish to attend even stronger. Nate's social standing was her new reality, and those kinds of events would become as well, sooner or later.

«I wanted to show my new ring to everyone,» she said, at some point.

Instead of feeling offended - even just a little - Nate beamed. He was so happy that Lara's heart melted. How could she miss someone like him, six years before? He was exactly what she wished for her companion. And what she needed.

He would be so happy just with a few words. And he took care of her so often that she would feel guilty at times.

She wanted to give back all of his attention, to make him feel as treasured as she felt. But it wasn't as easy, especially with a wolf Alpha who never needed rest or comfort.

«Let's go in,» she said. «I can't wait to show everyone that Nate Woods is officially mine.»

His smile grew even bigger, and her heart skipped a few beats. If she wasn't mirroring his happiness, she would have worried about strokes and other heart problems.

But she wasn't as sad about dying, because at that moment she felt complete and loved.

She glanced at the ring, and the orange of the stone reflected the sunset lights. The pink was overshadowed, at that time of the day, but she knew it was there, on the other edge.

Her ring was simple, small enough not to bother, and absolutely beautiful. She loved it, for the colour but also because her family had chosen it for her. She was so content that they could find something so beautiful especially for her.

Her feelings were raging in her chest, and they were new after years of the wrong thoughts. She was starting to accept herself, and every time it would surprise her. Sometimes, she would feel afraid and wish to revert to her old self, but looking at Nate and her cubs was enough to replenish her courage.

«You're an important person, Nate,» she added, at some point.

His reaction was more curious than pleased, this time. And her intention wasn't to flatter him either. She had something to tell him before getting in.

«I think you should have friends from your sector. I mean as in: visit each other, talk when you have free time. Exchange advice about life matters and not just business.»

«I see,» he murmured.

«I also need friends. Since I don't have anyone outside the pack, if we don't count my uncle, I think it's better if I make a few acquaintances during the parties. I will be happy if it turns out to help you as well, even though I'm not very convinced it'll happen.»

«It's okay. You don't need to make friends help me, Lara. Just do it for yourself.»

«O-okay,» she whispered, lowing her gaze. «I need human friends, and I couldn't think of a way to find a few just yet. This is the only thing that came to mind.»

«It's fine,» Nate said. «They're all curious about you. Just be careful, not everyone will be as selfless as you. But finding friends is important, indeed. And I can introduce you to a few women...»

«Women? How do you even know them?» she rebuked, crossing her arms.