Page 16 of His Bullied Fated Mate

The cross turned green, and we started moving. They were quiet as they walked by me, but as soon as they passed, they continued to whisper.

“Is that who the Alpha married? Out of all the women he could have bonded with, he married her? She looks like a fragile little doll. She probably would snap like a twig.”

I paused for a split second and bit hard on my cheek. I forced myself to keep moving. I shouldn't care. It wasn't like our marriage was legit anyway.

The more I walked, the more I heard.

“Look at her.”

“Jesus, does she eat?”

“How are they supposed to make strong children? She looks like she can’t even hold herself up.”

I was naturally small. I was a petite woman, and I always said my mind was sharper than my body. But I was starting to feel like I should have stayed home.

Most of Riverville was the same. There were the same shops and restaurants that were here when I was a kid. I couldn’t help but smile a little, finding that my favorite breakfast place was still open.

“Janella?”

I turned as I heard my name and froze as a woman stood just a few feet behind me. Her eyes were wide as she stared at me, and her mouth dropped open a little. It took me a moment to realize that it was Kyla. Her short hair had grown out, and she was wearing it over her shoulders. Her deep green eyes had seemed almost darker since I last saw her.

But as she smiled, it was the same.

Kyla and I had been close friends in high school. Or at least, as close as I would allow. We were both ostracized from other groups, so we leaned on each other to survive. But as soon as we graduated, I never reached out.

“Kyla. Wow, hey.”

“You know I heard you were back, but I didn’t believe it.” She moved closer. “Dang, how have you been? Are you really married to Riley now?”

I nodded. “I am.”

She looked stunned. “Wow. Married to your high school bully. That’s…”

“It sucks,” I admitted, not finding the need to lie to her. She wouldn't likely see through it.

She nodded, giving me a pitiful expression. “I bet. Jesus, how have you been besides that?”

“I’m doing well, actually. And you?”

She shrugged. “I’m fine. Been busy with work. I actually work at the bakery my folks own.”

“Oh, that’s nice. Your folks must be so proud to have you in the family business.”

“Janella.” I heard my name, and we both turned to find my mother walking towards us. She had a big grin on her face as she hurried towards us. “Oh, Kyla. How are you, dear? Are you joining us for lunch?”

Kyla quickly shook her head. “No, I’m actually on the way to work. Was just stopping to say hi to Janella.”

“Oh, that’s sweet of you, dear.” My mother stopped next to me, her smile growing. “We’ll have to do lunch together.”

Kyla nodded and gave me another smile before slipping past us. My mother turned her smile to me. “Oh, I’m just so excited we’re doing lunch.”

I gave my mom a smile in return. I wanted to forget about my entire walk here and all the looks and whispers I received. I just wanted to spend some time with my mom.

“How have you been, sweetie?” My mom pulled at my arm as we headed inside and got a booth in front of one of the windows.

“I’m good, Mom.”

She still held the grin. “I’m just so happy that you're home.”