The mate bond tugs at my chest like a chain around my heart as Ronan leads me back into the celebration, his hand possessively placed at the small of my back. I let my shoulders curve inward slightly, my steps measured and delicate. The perfect Luna-to-be.
“Smile,” he whispers against my ear, his breath hot against my skin. “This is your night too.”
I oblige, letting my lips curve upward while keeping my eyes appropriately downcast. The pack watches us with hungry eyes, desperate for the fairy tale, their future Alpha and his destined mate, the perfect union blessed by the Moon Goddess herself.
They’re all such fools,my wolf growls, ancient and fierce behind my careful mask.
Patience,I remind her.We’re playing the long game.
I hate pretending to be weak.
I know. But weakness is our greatest weapon right now.
The grand hall sparkles with decorative lights, champagne flows freely, and music pulses through the air. Pack members part before uslike waves, bowing their heads in deference to Ronan while offering me curious, assessing glances. I know what they see, the quiet, human-passing girl who somehow caught their golden prince’s eye.
Little do they know what lurks beneath my skin.
“Alpha Jackson,” Ronan calls out, waving to a visiting pack leader. “Come meet my mate.”
The older Alpha approaches, his eyes sharp and calculating as they sweep over me. “So this is the lucky girl.” He takes my hand, his grip firm. “Quite... delicate, isn’t she?”
Ronan’s arm tightens around my waist. “Don’t let appearances fool you. The Moon Goddess chose well.”
I dip my head respectfully. “It’s an honor, Alpha Jackson.”
“She speaks!” He laughs, the sound booming across the space. “And with such manners. Your father would be proud, girl.”
The mention of my father stings, but I keep my smile firmly in place. “You knew him?”
“Fought alongside him once. Good man. Fierce warrior.” His eyes narrow slightly. “Surprising that his daughter turned out so... mild.”
Before I can respond, Ronan cuts in. “She’s perfect as she is. Wouldn’t you agree?”
The challenge in his voice is clear, agree or face consequences. Alpha Jackson nods, backing down immediately. “Of course. A gentle Luna balances a strong Alpha.”
As they fall into discussion about territory disputes, I let my gaze wander the room, cataloging faces, noting alliances, watching who stands with whom. Information is power, and I’m collecting every scrap I can.
Then I see her.
Candice glides through the crowd in a crimson dress that hugs every curve, her golden hair cascading down her back. She laughs at something another pack member says, tossing her head back to expose the elegant line of her throat. Beautiful. Deadly. A viper in silk.
I want to tear her throat out,my wolf snarls.
Soon,I promise.But first, we make her expose herself.
Ronan’s hand squeezes my waist, drawing my attention back. “I need to speak with the council members. Stay here and... mingle.” His eyes hold a warning. “Be charming but modest. Remember who you represent now.”
“Of course, my mate,” I murmur, the words like acid on my tongue.
He presses a possessive kiss to my forehead before striding away, immediately surrounded by admirers and sycophants. I track his movement across the room, noting who he speaks to, who he avoids, who leans in too eagerly.
“Champagne?” A server offers me a flute, which I accept with a grateful smile.
“Thank you,” I say, then add quietly, “Justin, isn’t it? You work security rotations too, don’t you?”
The young wolf looks surprised that I know his name. “Yes, ma’am.”
“I’m trying to learn everyone,” I explain with a shy smile. “Ronan’s schedule keeps him so busy. Does he always work such long hours? I barely see him some days.”
