Karl

Shana and I are strolling through the paths of the local botanical garden. It's a nice, sunny day, the perfect day for a second date. Figuring that it was best if we got to know each other a little more before the Alpha gathering, I decided to invite Shana out for a couple of hours.

But as we walk, I can't help but notice the occasional sidelong glances from people I know from the town, members of the pack, and even some acquaintances. It's clear that the rumors have spread like wildfire, and everyone is well aware that their Alpha is dating a new woman.

I glance at Shana, who's walking beside me without a care in the world, seemingly unfazed by the curious gazes. I feel a pang of guilt for putting her in this position, for subjecting her to the scrutiny that comes with being associated with me.

“I'm sorry about all of this,” I say, turning to face her. “If we continue to see each other, you'll have to get used to this sort of thing.”

Shana gives me a nonchalant shrug, her expression inscrutable. “I figured it would be like this, Karl. It comes with the territory, right?”

I'm relieved by her calm response, grateful that she doesn't seem to be bothered by the attention. But as we continue to walk, my thoughts drift back to Abby and how different things used to be with her.

Abby always had a fiery spirit. She was never the type to let nosy gossips get away with their intrusive questions or judgmental looks. She would hold her head high, radiating confidence and pride in who she was, regardless of what others thought.

And on more than one occasion, she would call those gossips out on their behavior.

I still remember one day when a group of teenagers had been huddling near the restaurant we were eating in, trying to sneak unflattering pictures of her to start a smear campaign. She marched right out of the restaurant and walked up to them.

All she did was hold her hand out, and after a moment's hesitation, the girl taking the pictures handed her phone over. I felt so impressed that day; my wife, my Luna, could command people with just one look.

I miss having her beside me. I miss her sharp wit and her ability to put people in their place with a single cutting remark. Shana is nice, she’s refined, but she lacks that fire.

Shana's voice pulls me back to the present, and I realize she’s been speaking to me. “Karl, I was asking you about the Alpha gathering. You mentioned that it's coming up soon.”

I blink, refocusing my attention on her. “Oh, right. The gathering. Right.”

Shana nods, her interest piqued. “And you mentioned you'll pick me up at seven?”

I confirm with a nod. “Yes, seven o'clock. Oh, and it's a black tie event, so we'll need to dress accordingly.”

As I utter those words, a sudden realization hits me like a ton of bricks. I used to be so controlling with Abby, always telling her how to dress, even when she looked absolutely beautiful just the way she was.

I can’t help but cringe inwardly at my past behavior.

Shana, seemingly unaware of my internal turmoil, offers a polite smile and says, “I'll make sure to dress modestly and in a feminine way so as not to embarrass you.”

I open my mouth to respond, but then I hesitate. I can't repeat the same mistakes I made with Abby. I won't be so controlling if I'm going to move on to a new relationship. It's not fair to Shana, and it's not the person I want to be.

“You don't need to dress modestly,” I find myself saying. “And you certainly won't embarrass me. Wear whatever makes you feel comfortable and beautiful. It's your choice, Shana.”

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