The Alpha's Exiled Mate Chapter 225

Freya’s POV

Several days passed in a blur of work and avoiding both Thorne's silence and Jasper's attention. I'd immersed myself in designs, staying late at the office to minimize my time at home where thoughts of Thorne and my pendant would inevitably creep in.

I was just putting the finishing touches on a digital render when my phone rang with an unfamiliar number. Hesitantly, I answered.

"Hello?"

"Mia? This is Elena Stone." The warm, cultured voice of Jasper's mother filled my ear, causing me to nearly drop my stylus. "I hope I'm not catching you at a bad time."

"No, not at all," I replied automatically, though my mind was racing. How had she gotten my number? "What can I do for you, Mrs. Stone?"

She laughed lightly. "I was wondering if you might be available this weekend to join me for some shopping? I'd love to get to know you better, and I could use a designer's eye for selecting some new pieces for the upcoming full moon gathering."

My stomach knotted. It seemed Jasper still hadn't told her the truth. "That's very kind of you, but—"

"Jasper mentioned you might be hesitant," she interrupted smoothly. "He said you've been working very hard lately. But I insist—a few hours away from that office will do you good. Besides, I need to see you in person for proper measurements for the ceremonial pieces you're designing."

Put that way, it was difficult to refuse without seeming unprofessional. "I suppose I could make some time on Saturday," I conceded.

"Wonderful!" Elena's delight was evident. "Shall we say eleven o'clock? I'll have a car sent for you."

After confirming the details and ending the call, I sat back in my chair, a mix of emotions washing over me. It was clear Jasper had no intention of telling his mother the truth. Which meant I would have to do it myself, as awkward and potentially disastrous as that might be.

Still, there was a silver lining. Spending time with Elena would give me insight into her personality and preferences—valuable information for designing her jewelry. If she still wanted me to create the pieces after learning who I really was, at least I'd have a better chance of making something she'd truly love.

I saved my work and began gathering my things to head home. This weekend would be challenging, but perhaps it was for the best. Better to be honest now than to let the deception grow deeper. And if Elena rejected me once she learned the truth? Well, that was a risk I'd have to take.

My wolf, ever protective, whined softly within me. She sensed the potential danger ahead—the social risk, the exposure, the possibility of rejection. But she also recognized the necessity of claiming our true identity, however painful that might be.

With a deep breath, I straightened my shoulders and headed for the elevator. One way or another, this charade would soon come to an end.

The weekend arrived faster than I'd anticipated. At exactly eleven in the morning, I found myself staring out my apartment window, watching a sleek black SUV pull up to the curb. Elena Stone was punctual—her driver stepped out and opened the rear door as my watch struck eleven o'clock.

I smoothed down the simple navy dress I'd chosen—professional enough for a business meeting but casual enough for shopping. My crescent birthmark was carefully concealed beneath a light scarf, my shield against recognition. Taking a deep breath, I grabbed my purse and headed down to meet Jasper's mother.

"Mia, darling!" Elena's warm voice greeted me as I approached the vehicle. She stepped out, elegant in a cream-colored pantsuit that probably cost more than my monthly rent. "You look lovely, though perhaps a bit too... modest for a day out."

Her critical glance at my outfit made me self-conscious, but I forced a smile. "It's nice to see you again, Mrs. Stone."

"Elena, please," she insisted, guiding me into the spacious SUV. "We're practically family now."

My stomach clenched at her words. I settled into the soft leather seat opposite her, gathering my courage to address the situation.

"About that—" I began, but Elena immediately launched into conversation.

"I've been thinking about your living situation," she said, eyes bright with excitement. "That employee apartment is so... basic. Jasper has that beautiful guest house on his property that's sitting empty. Wouldn't it be more convenient for you two if you moved closer?"

I blinked, surprised by her directness. "Mrs. Stone—Elena—I think there's been a misunderstanding. Jasper and I aren't... I'm not his..."

"Oh, I know, I know," she waved dismissively. "You young people like to take things slowly these days. But living nearby doesn't mean living together. It would just make things easier."

My wolf bristled at being interrupted, but I kept my expression neutral. "I appreciate your concern, but I'm quite comfortable where I am."

Elena gave me a knowing smile that suggested she thought I was being unnecessarily stubborn. "Well, perhaps after today you'll reconsider. We have so much planned!"

Before I could attempt another clarification, the driver announced we had arrived at Crown Center, one of the most exclusive shopping centers in Stone territory. I'd passed by its gleaming façade many times but had never ventured inside—the prices were far beyond what my Stone Group salary could afford.

"I thought we might start with updating your wardrobe," Elena said as we entered the marble-floored atrium. "A designer of your caliber should dress the part, don't you think?"

"That's really not necessary," I protested, but Elena had already linked her arm with mine, guiding me toward an upscale boutique where the staff straightened attentively at our approach.

"Alpha Stone's mother," one saleswoman whispered to another, and suddenly we were surrounded by eager attendants.

What followed was a whirlwind of activity. Elena selected outfit after outfit, each more expensive than the last. I tried to voice my objections, but she dismissed each one with practiced ease.

"Nonsense, this is an investment in your career," she insisted when I balked at the price of a cashmere sweater. "First impressions matter in design circles."

As she helped me try on a particularly elegant blazer, she adjusted the collar with motherly precision. "You know, Mia," she said softly, "I never had a daughter. Always wanted one, but after Jasper..." her voice trailed off. "It's nice to have someone to shop with, to talk about design and fashion."