Augustin’s POV
The dining room buzzed with subdued conversation when we arrived. I noted my mother’s absence and raised an eyebrow at Bryloch, who sat near the head of the table.
My mother? I inquired.
“Having dinner with Chris and his family,” Bryloch replied.
I was pleasantly surprised. Perhaps she was making an effort to welcome them after all. I glanced at Evanth, wondering if he’d joined them, but his presence here answered that question. I considered mentioning it but decided against stirring unnecessary conflict.
“We have an interesting development,” I announced to the table as we took our seats. “Isabelle has provided us with a USB drive that supposedly contains names of everyone involved in Charles’s organization.”
Matthew’s jaw tightened at the mention of Isabelle, but he remained silent.
“We haven’t had time to verify its contents,” I continued, “but if legitimate, it could be extremely valuable.
I turned to Matthew with deliberate casualness. “Thank you for allowing your mate to assist us in this matter.”
Matthew’s eyes flashed dangerously. “I’d caution you against trusting anything she says.”
I noted his visceral reaction to my referring to Isabelle as “his mate.” Interesting. Matthew seemed to forget that he bore some responsibility for the collapse of his marriage, not just Isabelle. But that wasn’t my battle to fight, and I was grateful Berry had extricated herself from that particular tangle.
“Any news from the Riddick clan?” I asked, changing the subject.
Elton Riddick cleared his throat. “My daughter Juliet has been found. Her brother Vance is bringing her north as we speak.”
“Good,” I nodded.
Elton looked uncertain. “Should we arrest her immediately, or would you prefer we bring her directly to the manor? Your Majesty.”
I considered our options. “Have Vance bring her to the manor. Tell him we’re hosting a celebration, a party of some kind. No need to alarm her yet.”
“But it’s already eight thirty, Elton said. “They won’t arrive until very late.”
“We can have them here by ten,” I assured him. “I can send escorts to speed their journey.”
In truth, I was eager to focus on our operation in Goldenvale. Questioning Juliet could wait until we had dealt with the more immediate threats. Still, the thought of punishing the woman who had poisoned Berry and nearly killed our unborn child made Fenris growl with anticipation.
The rest of dinner passed quietly, with each of us lost in our own thoughts. The enormity of what we were about to undertake weighed heavily on everyone’s
minds.
As we finished eating, I turned to Evanth. “You should go see Chris. He’s your brother too.”
Evanth frowned. “I need to rest before tomorrow’s operation.
“About that, I said, setting down my napkin. “You won’t be participating in the arrests.”
“What?” Evanth’s face darkened with anger. “Why not?”
I need you here,” I explained calmly. “To attend the party at the arena for the winners.”
“That’s ridiculous, Evanth protested. “I may not have Alpha blood, but I’m still a capable fighter. I deserve to be there. I’m your brother.
This isn’t about capability,” I said firmly. “It’s about necessity. As my brother, you represent the Levenston family, someone needs to be at that zo
“The trophies won’t be given until the closing remony the day a
by after tomorrow, Evanth argued.
True, but there’s a party for the winners after tomorrow’s matches,” I countered. “Someone from our family must attend. It’s a matter of respect for me? people.”
Evanth scowled. “Why can’t Mother go?”
‘Because it’s our responsibility,” I said, my tone harde
slightly. “None of us particularly enjoy these functions, but they’re part of our duty-
Evanth held my gaze for a long moment before grudgingly nodding. “Fine. I’ll stay at the arena. But I want to be part of the interrogations afterward
Agreed, I conceded. “Though there won’t be immediate interrogations. The arrests will be quiet, discreet. We don’t want to cause a panic.
“Do you expect resistance?” Bryloch asked.
I shook my head. “Not if we move quickly. They won’t have time to react.”
“Unless someone warns them,” Evanth pointed out.
The possibility of a leak had been weighing on me. “Let’s hope not. These people have resources, connections. They’re smart. This is as much a battle of wits as anything else.”
Back in our bedroom, I sat on the edge of the bed, removing my shoes. Berry was already changing into her nightclothes, her movements graceful despite her growing belly.
‘I want you to handle Juliet’s questioning,” I said casually.
Berry paused, turning to look at me. “Why me specifically?”
“Because it keeps you away from the arena,” I replied honestly. “I don’t want you anywhere near there tomorrow.”
Her eyes narrowed. “Because of the potential for a gun attack.
I nodded, not bothering to hide my concern. “It’s one battle you won’t win with me, Berry. I won’t risk you or our child in a public venue where someone could be hiding with a gun.”
“But–”
“No,” I said firmly. “This isn’t negotiable.”
*
Berry sighed, recognizing the finality in my tone. ‘Fine. I’ll question Juliet.”
I relaxed slightly, grateful she wasn’t going to fight me on this..
As I lay down, Fenris settled within me, both of us needing rest before what promised to be a very long day. Berry joined me, her warm body curling against mine, her scent filling my senses.
My last thought before drifting off was a prayer to the Moon Goddess that our plan would succeed, and that those we loved would remain safe through the coming storm.
The Broken Luna’s Sacrifice
