Chapter 124
Juno’s POV
“I insist we share a room, I told Alpha Elton firmly but politely. His eyebrows rose slightly, but he nodded.
“Of course, Luna.” le gestured to a servant who quickly adjusted the arrangements. I’d like to have our pack doctor examine you, if that’s acceptable Traveling in your condition-
“Thank you for your concern,” I cut in. I plan to have a thorough check–up when I return to Clifflands. It’s nothing urgent.”
He studied me for a moment, then inclined his head. As you wish.”
Once alone in our elegantly appointed guest room, Scarlett flopped onto one of the twin beds. I perched on the edge of the other, running my fingers over the soft, cream–colored duvet.
That went surprisingly well, Scarlett linked to me, her expression neutral in case we were being watched.
Yeah. Almost too well. I kept my face blank, pretending to examine the room’s ornate decorations while responding through our link.
Elton is traditional. Old school Alpha. He might not like what happened to his pack members, but he respects hierarchy. He’s disappointed that Augustin didn’t come himself to make amends, even if Augustin wasn’t directly responsible for this. It’s a pride thing. She said.
I nodded, barely perceptibly. Exactly. An Alpha feeling another Alpha should face him directly, especially when it involves territory violations.
Scarlett stood and stretched, speaking aloud now. “What do you think of Councilwoman Azalea? Something feels… off about her.”
I laughed lightly, understanding her strategy. We couldn’t maintain suspicious silence – that would only confirm any suspicions that we knew about potential surveillance.
“Politicians,” I said. “Always playing angles.”
As I spoke, my eyes meticulously scanned the room, noting the ornate vase in the corner, the antique clock on the mantle, the heavy curtains – all perfect places to hide listening devices. Alpha Elton wasn’t just being generous – he wanted to monitor our every move and conversation while in his territory.
“More potatoes, Luna Juno?” Alpha Elton asked, holding out a serving bowl.
“Thank you,” I accepted.
The dining room was impressive, with high ceilings and a long table that could seat twenty. Tonight, however, only six places were set. I studied each person carefully as I served myself.
Vance, Elton’s son, sat stiffly across from me. His dark hair and sharp jawline reminded me of his father, but there was a harshness in his eyes that spoke of unresolved pain. At perhaps twenty–five or twenty–six, he would soon be expected to take over as Alpha.
Beside him sat Dane, Elton’s nephew, a quieter version of Vance but with calculating eyes that missed nothing. He seemed close to my age, and I caught him sneaking glances at Scarlett when he thought no one was looking.
Juliet, Elton’s daughter, was the most interesting. Throughout dinner, she watched Scarlett and me with unabashed curiosity, her head tilted slightly as if trying to solve a puzzle. Her gaze made me uncomfortable, but I refused to show it, meeting her eyes with a polite smile whenever I caught her staring.
The meal progressed in tense silence, punctuated only by the clink of ware and occasional murmured requests to pass dishes. No one seemed eager to break the ice, and I was content to observe rather than force conversation.
Back in our room after dinner, Scarlett paced angrily.
“Did you see how cold Vance was? Not even a proper greeting! And Dane wouldn’t stop staring. I felt like a piece of meat.” She flopped onto her bed with a dramatic sigh.
Suddenly, her expression softened. “I miss Bryloch,” she whispered, “He didn’t want me to come. Said it was too dangerous. But I insisted…” She rolled onto
1/2
Chapter 124
her side, facing me. I just want to go home tomorrow. I don’t want to be apart from him anymore.
I nodded, understanding completely. My thoughts drifted to Augustin, to his strong arms and the safety I felt when he held me. I longed to hear his
while in
In another Alpha * territory. feel the rumble of his chest as he spoke. But I wouldn’t risk contacting him first not
I was nearly asleep when my phone rang. Augustin’s name flashed on the screen, and I sat up quickly, suddenly fully awake.
“Missing me already?‘ His deep voice sent shivers down my spine.
I laughed, the sound full of longing. ‘Maybe a little.”
“Only a little? I’m wounded, Berry.‘ I could hear the smile in his voice.
“We’ll be home tomorrow,” I told him, then hesitated. ‘Well, actually… Alpha Elton invited us to stay for their festival tomorrow night. I thought it would be disrespectful to refuse.*
A low, disgruntled sound came through the phone. “So you’re extending your stay.”
“Just by one day,” I assured him. “It’s important, Augustin. He’s making an effort. We should too.”
He was quiet for a moment. “You’re right,‘ he finally admitted. “But I don’t have to like it.”
“I miss you, I confessed, “The bed here is too empty without you.”
“Mine too.” His voice roughened. “Be careful, Berry. Keep your eyes open.”
“Always. How was your day?”
We talked for several minutes, sharing the events of our day in soft, intimate tones. As we were about to hang up, I remembered Scarlett.
“Oh, wait. Scarlett forgot her phone. Bryloch is probably worried sick. Can I put her on?”
I handed the phone to Scarlett, who took it eagerly, her whole face lighting up as she heard Bryloch’s voice. Their conversation was brief but filled with the same longing I felt for Augustin.
After saying goodnight to our mates, we settled into our beds. Despite the comfort of the mattress, sleep came fitfully. My body missed Augustin’s warmth, and my mind raced with thoughts of tomorrow’s challenges.
EG: Hey everyone! I just updated the cover for my book and I’d love to hear your thoughts! Do you dig the new look, or were you feeling the original vibe more? Let me know what you think! Love you all!
Chapter Comments
LIKE
