Chapter 3
That evening, I made plans to meet Vanessa at a bistro for dinner. Vanessa, my loyal Gamma and best friend since childhood, had always stood by my side, even during the darkest times when my father’s pack fell into ruin. Though I had distanced myself from her during my infatuation with Jimmy, she never abandoned me. Now, having learned from my past mistakes, I only wanted to surround myself with those who truly cared for me.
As we stepped into the bistro, the scent of roasted meat and fresh herbs filled the air, mingling with the low hum of conversation. The place was packed, and I immediately noticed Jimmy, surrounded by a group of Deltas from rival packs, throwing a birthday celebration for Rosalina. The moment I entered, Rosalina’s voice cut through the room like a sharpened blade.
“Oh, if it isn’t Angelina,” she sneered, her tone dripping with mockery. “What brings you here? Looking to mooch off someone else’s celebration?”
Her words were laced with venom, and I could feel the weight of their stares. Rosalina had always been one to flaunt her status, especially when she had an audience. I let out a quiet, sarcastic laugh internally, keeping my expression composed.
Vanessa, ever protective, frowned beside me, her hand twitching as if ready to lunge. But I subtly tugged at her sleeve, signaling her to hold back. This wasn’t the time for a public confrontation.
“I’m here to meet a friend for dinner,” I replied calmly, my voice steady despite the tension. “So, my presence here is none of your concern.”
I turned to find our seats, but Jimmy’s voice stopped me in my tracks. “Well, since you’re here, why not join us?” he called out, his tone loud enough to draw the attention of everyone in the bistro.
The Deltas around him chimed in, their taunts sharp and cutting:
“The food here isn’t cheap. You might struggle to foot the bill alone. If you’re here to freeload, just admit it instead of pretending. It’s embarrassing.”
“Jimmy’s so generous, inviting you to eat with us. You act like you’re uninterested, but I bet you’re secretly thrilled.”
I watched the scene unfold, my mind racing. Jimmy was desperate to maintain his facade, basking in their admiration, but I could see the flicker of unease in his eyes. He was worried that I might actually be able to cover the expensive tab myself, which would raise questions among his followers.
“Well, since you’re all so inviting, I won’t hesitate,” I said, suddenly smiling as I accepted his offer. I pulled Vanessa to sit down with them, ignoring her confused look. She trusted me, and I needed her to play along.
Jimmy was visibly taken aback by my response. A flicker of discomfort crossed his face, but he quickly masked it and turned to the waiter. “Bring out several bottles of the finest wine and the top dishes,” he ordered, his voice commanding.
Then he turned back to me, his smirk returning. “Angelina, Amy mentioned wanting some coffee earlier. I ordered it for everyone. It’s coming soon; could you go pick it up?”
I agreed without hesitation, though Vanessa shot me a questioning glance. I gave her a slight nod, signaling her to stay calm. This little drama was far from over.
As I stood to leave, one of the Deltas piped up, “Jimmy, what extravagance! This place is expensive, and that coffee isn’t cheap either. Angelina’s lucky to have a mate like you.”
“Exactly,” Rosalina added, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “With Jimmy around, Angelina doesn’t have to worry about anything.”
I forced a polite smile as I walked away, my mind already plotting the next move. Jimmy’s little charade wouldn’t last long, and I was determined to expose him for the fraud he was.
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