The Alpha King's Mistress Chapter 31: Paint Roller

It’s been a week, and I've been pouring my energy into fixing up this old cabin to make it more livable. It also helps me keep my mind clear away from my problems even for a moment.

First things first, I tackled the mess—cleaning off years of cobwebs. Bit by bit, I wiped down surfaces, scrubbed floors, and let some fresh air into the rooms. The kitchen needed a lot of work. I sorted out the cabinets, spruced up the old countertops with a fresh coat of paint, and finally managed to clean most of the stubborn rust stains in the sink. In the living room, I rearranged the furniture to make the most of the space. I paid special attention to the fireplace. After clearing out the ashes, I stacked some wood nearby, to use on chilly nights.

The bedroom got a makeover too. I swapped out the old linens for fresh sheets. I threw in a few personal touches, like a rug and some decorations. I was really busy chopping wood and it became a regular thing for me.

I also asked Layla for a hand—she was kind enough to lend me some money for tools and stuff. She even came along when I went to buy supplies, guiding me through the pack. But that came with a lecture about me trying to escape.

Since I borrowed money from her and I don't have any plans to ask my mate for some, finding a job is crucial for me—I want to pay her back and get what I need without asking Nicholas for money.

While swinging the ax, I glanced at the cabin. I stopped, furrowing my brows, and whispered to myself, “It looks pretty sad.”

Suddenly, an idea struck me. I wanted to give the cabin a burst of color—a paint job. Putting down the ax, I stood up, hands on my hips. The vision of a fresh coat of paint, perhaps a warm earthy tone or a welcoming shade of blue, played out in my mind's eye. Excitement bubbled within me as I imagined the colors.

“Yeah, I'll do that” I murmured and ran indoors, wiping my hands on my jeans as I headed to the bedroom to change.

I opted for a plain, soft cotton t-shirt in a subdued shade of gray. Over it, I threw on a lightweight flannel shirt. I traded my work-worn jeans for a pair of faded blue denim. Tying my hair into a loose ponytail, I gathered my keys and wallet, sliding my phone into my pocket.

Exiting the cabin, I made my way to the car. The engine roared to life as I settled into the driver's seat.

The pack center was like a buzzing hive, full of activity. It was a mix of buildings nestled in the forest. A main building stood tall, its structure blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Inside, people bustled about, some engaged in conversations, others focused on tasks. Around the main building were smaller structures—a supply store stocked with various items, a communal dining area where pack members gathered for meals, and a training ground where you could hear the occasional clang of metal against metal as pack members honed their skills.

Nature seemed to weave itself into every corner. The scent of pine lingered in the air while tall trees bordered the clearing.

Driving down the winding forest roads, I navigated the familiar path to the store Layla brought me.

Arriving at the supplies store, I parked my car and stepped out. As soon as I entered, I scanned around for a paint roller. But no matter how hard I looked, it seemed to be playing hide-and-seek on the shelves.

"Where is that thing?" I muttered to myself.

Seeing only a few customers and spotting a guy checking out the shelves, I walked over, hoping for some help.

"Hey," I said, trying to catch his attention.

He turned, looking a bit surprised. "Oh, hi. Need help with something?" His tone was friendly.

The man possessed a tousled mop of dark chestnut hair, styled casually yet with a charming ruggedness. His eyes, a deep shade of brown. He also has a solid build like other shifters.

"Do you know where the paint rollers are?" I asked, clearly frustrated. "Can't find them anywhere."

He nodded in understanding, a smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "Sure thing. Follow me, I think I saw them over this way."

Relief washed over me as I followed him through the store. Soon after, he pointed me in the direction of the paint rollers.

"Thanks a lot," I said with a warm smile, ready to pick one up.

But then, something weird happened. The rollers on the shelf started falling off one by one. I was trying to catch them all, but it was turning into a bit of a mess. My footing slipped, and I braced myself for a clumsy fall, expecting to land awkwardly.

Just as I was about to tumble, a strong arm swiftly wrapped around my waist, steadying me. Startled, I looked up to see the man who had guided me earlier, his brown eyes displaying concern.

"Whoa, gotcha!" he exclaimed with a chuckle, his grip firm yet gentle as he supported me.

"Thanks," I managed to say, feeling embarrassed.

"Didn't expect that, huh?" the man quipped, a playful glint in his hazel eyes as he attempted to break the awkwardness that followed the roller incident.

I chuckled at his attempt to lighten the mood. "Yeah, definitely not what I expected when I came in for a simple paint roller,"

As we made our way towards the checkout counter, the man continued the conversation, his friendly demeanor making my guard loose for a moment.

"So, what brings you to the paint roller section today?"

"Um…renovating an old cabin," I explained, shrugging slightly. "Trying to give it a bit of a makeover."

"Ah, the classic fixer-upper project”

I grinned at his remark, "Yeah,"

"So, are you new around here? It's my first time seeing you and ... .no offense but you are not a Lycan" the man asked casually, his brown eyes curious as we reached the checkout counter.

"Yeah, kinda. Well, I am a guest, sort of" I admitted reluctantly.

Yeah I am a guest of my mate. Funny. A guest who was not allowed to leave.

His expression shifted slightly, "Ah, well, welcome then!"

“Thanks” I said, smiling genuinely at him.

I did not know if someone had genuinely welcomed me when I first stepped foot here.

"By the way, I'm Jake," the man introduced himself with a friendly smile as we stepped outside the store. He extended his hand, offering a handshake.

"Nice to meet you, Jake," I replied, reciprocating the handshake with a small smile. “Florence”

Jake reached into his pocket and pulled out a card, extending it towards me. "Here, take my card. If you need anything or just want to chat, feel free to reach out," he said with a genuine smile.

I accepted the card, glancing down to see his name printed alongside the title of an art store. Surprised, I looked up, meeting Jake's gaze with curiosity.

"Wait, you own an art store?" I asked, my eyebrows raised in surprise.

Jake nodded a hint of pride in his expression. "Yeah, it's my thing. I'm into art, and I manage a small store. Feel free to drop by if you ever need supplies or just want to talk about art stuff."

“Okay”

Jake cleared his throat and scratched his nape, a little awkward, "Um..goodbye then, take care," he said warmly, waving at me.

"You too," I replied, returning the smile. I watched as he headed in one direction, while I began making my way back towards the car.