#Chapter 45: Charles and the Children

The children loved Charles from the moment he walked into the play yard, towering above Ms. Beale as she called out an introduction to them. There was no noise as every single child stopped and stared. It seemed there was something inside us as children that are naturally drawn to Alphas, complete with the desire to please and be near them. It made me wonder about my own attraction and if it was as deeply rooted as that. And why not? I was just as much werewolf as any other. What was more surprising to me, however, was his reaction to them. It was like watching him revert twenty years into a kid himself, but still managing to martial them like little troops. It wasn't long before he had them all playing one enormous game, with even the most shy child having a role that made them feel important and seen. The youngest rode on his shoulders as he dodged and played like a delighted puppy with the kids. Ms. Beale and I stood back and marveled, and at times I pretended not to