Page 55 of Alpha's Hidden Gem

As we drive to the health department, the conversation shifts to the challenges we may face. Running a restaurant is no easy feat, and we'll need to navigate the complexities of the human world while maintaining our secrecy.

"We'll have to be careful," Ethan warns, his expression serious. "We can't let our guard down, even in this new venture."

I nod, understanding the weight of his words. “We'll take all the necessary steps to stay safe.”

Lila leans her head against my shoulder, her presence a comforting reminder of why we're doing this. "Together, we can handle anything."

As we arrive at the health department, I feel a sense of confidence wash over me. I know in my heart that this is the right decision.

I take a deep breath, squaring my shoulders as I prepare to walk through the doors and resign from my position. It's time to leave the past behind and step into a future filled with love, purpose, and the promise of a new beginning.

I enter my boss's office with a mix of anticipation and nervousness churning in my gut. As I close the door behind me, my boss looks up from his paperwork, his eyebrows raised in question.

"Axel, what can I do for you?" he asks, leaning back in his chair.

“Did you get the email I sent you?” I ask.

“Yes, but I was hoping that it was some kind of joke or something. That you weren't serious,” he answers.

I take a deep breath, steadying myself. "Sir, I haven’t changed my mind, and it is no joke. I've come to inform you that I'm resigning from my position as a health inspector."

My boss's eyes widen in surprise. "Are you sure, Axel? May I ask why?"

I nod, my resolve strengthening. "It's a career change, sir. An entrepreneurial pursuit. You see, my fiancée Lila and I have decided to open our own business - a bar and grill."

My boss's jaw drops, his eyebrows shooting up to his hairline. "Fiancée? Axel, I didn't even know you were seeing anyone. When did this happen?"

I can't help but shift a bit uncomfortably under his incredulous stare. "Well, sir, it's been a whirlwind romance. We've been keeping things quiet, but now with our business plans..."

He leans back in his chair, clearly still processing this unexpected information. "I see. This is... quite a revelation, Axel. Not only are you leaving, but you're engaged and starting a business. Are you absolutely sure about all of this?"

"Absolutely," I reply, my voice firm. "It's been a long-held dream of mine, and with Lila by my side, I know we can make it a success. But to do that, I need to dedicate my full attention to this new venture."

My boss leans forward, clasping his hands on the desk. "Well, Axel, I can't say I'm not disappointed to lose you. You've been an excellent health inspector, and your dedication to the job has been invaluable."

I feel a twinge of guilt, but I know in my heart that this is the right decision. "Thank you, sir. I've learned a great deal duringmy time here, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to have served the community."

My boss sighs, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "I understand, Axel. Pursuing your dreams is important, and I wish you all the best in your new endeavor. Just know that you'll be missed around here."

I stand, extending my hand. "Thank you, sir. That means a great deal to me."

As I shake my boss's hand, a sense of relief washes over me. I've taken the first step towards a new future, one that I'll share with Lila and the pack.

I exit the office, my heart lighter than it's been in years. I spot Lila and Ethan waiting for me in the car, their faces filled with anticipation.

I slide into the passenger seat, a grin spreading across my face. "It's done. I've officially resigned."

Lila reaches over, squeezing my hand.

Chapter 19

Starting Over

Axel

As Ethan pulls out of the parking lot, I can't help but feel a sense of excitement for what lies ahead. We're heading towards the empty restaurant space, the first step in our new venture.

"I can't wait to see it," Lila says, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. "Our very own restaurant... it still feels like a dream."