Page 20 of His Bullied Fated Mate

I jumped and spotted a man crossing the street towards me. He offered me a soft smile, his hands stuffed in his pockets.

I slowly nodded. “I guess I might be. Where am I?”

“You’re on North Cedar Lane. Where were you trying to get?”

I frowned. “I was trying to get to the library. I swear it was over here. Am I on the wrong block?”

His eyebrows went up. “The library is across town.”

I frowned. “Since when?”

He shook his head. “No, they moved two years ago. They built a bigger building across town. They are right next to the coffee shop and the burger joint.”

I nodded. “Wow, yeah...it's been a while.”

“You new in town or just moving back?”

I wasn’t sure how to answer that. I was waiting for him to realize who I was and say something. But he didn’t seem to know, or if he did, he didn’t care.

I shook my head. “No. I grew up here. I just got back after being gone for some time. I didn't realize how much had changed.”

“Ahhh, so some changes you have to take in.”

I slowly nodded. “Yeah, it’s grown.”

“All great work of our Alpha. He's worked hard to make things better.”

I had heard a lot of compliments about Riley, which only made my stomach twist up more. My parents had even been telling me about all the changes he was bringing and how happy everyone was. I couldn't deny that Riley had clearly been a good Alpha. I heard all about it.

“So, would you mind telling me how I can get to the library from here?”

“Yeah, just take this road.” He moved closer, pointing to the right. “And head down about five blocks. Take a left on Court Street and keep walking. You’ll see the library.”

“Thank you. This means a lot.”

He nodded. “Or I could walk you there? I was heading down that way anyway.”

I paused at his offer. I was a little surprised. Anyone who knew me wouldn't offer to help me so openly. “No, I’ll find it. I wouldn’t want to take up too much of your time.”

He gave me a smile. “It’s not a problem. We could even stop at the coffee shop and grab something to eat. I can tell you about the new changes that happened while you've been gone.”

I stared at him. Had he just asked me out? No, I doubt that’s what he meant. But he just stood there smiling at me.

“I’m actually married.” The words just came out automatically.

He frowned. “Oh shit, I’m sorry. I didn’t see a ring.”

I quickly shook my head. “It’s new. I’m still adjusting to wearing a ring every day. I left it in the bathroom.” It was an easy lie. I just refused to wear the ring. I purposely left it behind as a protest, but I doubted that Riley even noticed or cared.

“Well, congratulations. He’s a lucky man. But my offer still stands. I can still take you to the library. As a respectful individual, of course.”

I felt a blush cover my face, and I didn’t even know what to say. I’d heard people talking about how terrible our match was, and I was lost for words. But he didn’t know who I was married to. I’m sure if he did, he wouldn’t be saying this.

“Thanks. I mean, if you're heading in the same direction, it would be nice to not be entirely lost.”

“Am I interrupting something?” A new voice spoke up, and we both turned to find Riley walking towards us. I could tell he was clearly in a grumpy mood, but I wasn’t sure why.

The guy gave Riley a smile. “Alpha. I was just giving her directions to the library. Do you know...” He glanced at me. “I didn't even get your name.”