Marked by the Alphas

Chapter 160: Chapter 160

Elara POV

I open my eyes to a long white tunnel of pain. I am in my bed, the curtains are drawn, and the door is closed. I have no idea if it is day or night, and I am not about to investigate. It is too painful. Even the slightest movement of my head results in skull-crushing pain.

I lay still, searching my brain for answers. I remember Quinn’s party, the news about the treaty and Mindy. But between falling out of the truck and waking up in my bed, there is a big hole of nothing.

Oh, dear Goddess, I groan inwardly. Why are my memories a blur, and what the hell have I done?

My door opens slowly, and Gabriela enters.

“How are you feeling?” She asks softly.

“Like death warmed up,” I grunt, grabbing my head and sitting up. “Is it normal to feel like this after a night out?”

“Only when you drank like twice your body weight,” she smiles sympathetically.

“Take this,” she hands me two painkillers and a glass of water. “It will kill that nasty headache in no time. And then you should have breakfast.”

“Please, no,” I groan, accepting the painkillers gratefully. “Just thinking about food makes me want to be sick.”

“It’s not optional,” she says firmly. “I have years on you and know what works.”

“Fine,” I reply, I am too exhausted and sick to argue anyway. “Where is everyone?”

“The men are playing with the kids outside,” she replies.

“Urgh, I’m a terrible mother,” I groan, lying back against the pillows and throwing my arms over my eyes. “I have a hangover and am neglecting my child.”

“Your child is loved and cared for,” she says firmly. “There’s no need for a pity party.” ƒreewebηoveℓ.com

“Thanks, Gabriela,” I say softly. “For everything.”

“You’re welcome,” she replies. “Now, get up and into the shower. There are matters to discuss.”

“Oh, yes,” I nod, ignoring my headache and climbing out of bed. “It’s date night with the witch.”

“And you kicking Mason’s ass,” she replies dryly.

“What are you talking about?” I frown. “Mason and I had a good time; we didn’t fight.” ƒrēewebnoѵёl.cσm

“You really don’t remember?” She frowns.

“Remember what?” I ask, confused.

“It’s better if Kane and Axel tell you themselves,” she replies, walking to the door. “I’ll see you in the kitchen.”

Mason POV

I inhale deeply, trying to calm my anxiety before walking into the kitchen. I have no idea what is waiting for me on the other side. I did not know Elara could get that mad. However, I doubt that she will kick me out, not because of me, but because of my kids.

But my worst fear is that I overplayed my hand and that she might not forgive me. If I no longer have a chance with her ... hell, I do not know what I will do. All I know is that it is now more important than ever to get rid of my brothers.

Gabriela and Elara share a joke and laugh softly, and I use the moment to enter the kitchen.

“Hi,” Elara smiles when she sees me, and I instantly relax. “Are you nervous about tonight?”

“I think he’s more nervous about last night,” Kane smirks, entering the kitchen with Axel right behind him.

“Shut it,” I huff, glaring at him. It appears Elara has forgiven and forgotten. I do not need him to remind her.

“Seriously,” Elara frowns. “What the hell happened last night?”

“He kissed you,” Axel points to me.

“And you didn’t like it,” Kane adds.

“Will the two of you stay out of this?” I growl.

“Nope,” Kane shakes his head. “This is too much fun.”

“Hold on,” Elara holds up her hands. “What exactly do you mean by I didn’t like it?”

“It means you blasted me into a tree,” I snap before dumb and dumber make a bigger deal out of it.

“Oh, no,” Elara says, looking at me wide-eyed. “Did I hurt you?”

Her words make my heart flutter. She still cares. My well-being is her first concern; maybe there is still hope.

“No,” I smile lovingly at her. “You didn’t hurt me. It was only a little scary when you used your wind powers like a jet pack and elevated yourself.”

“I did what?” She mutters, pale as a ghost.

“It sounds worse than it is,” I say quickly, telling her everything. Everything but the part where I forced the issue on us becoming a couple.

“I misread the signs,” I end my explanation. “I thought there was a moment, and I was wrong. I’m sorry, Elara.”

The silence in the kitchen grows as she stares stoically at me, and my hope that we can reconnect slowly drains out of me.

“I will never drink again,” she finally breaks the silence. “I’m so sorry, Mason.”

“I owe you an apology,” I say quickly, reaching for her hands. “Not the other way around.”

“He’s right, Elara,” Axel adds. “You only defended yourself when he tried to take advantage of you when you were intoxicated.”

“That’s not what happened,” I argue, trying to control my anger.

“Okay,” Elara says firmly. “We’re not going to argue about it, because my head still hurts. Besides, Mason has a date to prepare for.”

“Oh, Goddess,” I grunt, pulling my hands out of Elara’s and pushing my fingers through my hair. I need this date with Rhiannon, but that is not something they must know. I will play the martyr like my life depends on it. “Don’t remind me.”

“You’ll be okay, man,” Kane pats me on my shoulder. “Just take her some flowers to conceal her scent.”

“And I got you this,” Axel drops a packet of condoms in front of me. “The pharmacist assured me it’s extra thick and strong.”

“What am I supposed to do with that?” I grunt, slapping the box away. “She will turn me into a frog if she sees it.”

“You’re resourceful,” Axel grins wickedly. “You’ll find a way to slip it on without her noticing.”

“You’re enjoying this way too much,” I huff, grab the condoms and stand up.

I march out of the kitchen and grind my teeth to hide my excitement. I still have a chance with Elara, and this date is part one of my plan.