The grand hall was bustling with the chatter of Lunas from various packs. I walked in, my head held high with confidence, even though I felt like a storm was raging inside me. It was the day of the annual Luna meet.
With all that was happening to me this was the last place I would imagine myself being in, filled with nosy big headed Lunas that would never mind their own business.
Most of the times I never attended these meetings, but at this point I wanted to do anything that kept me as far as possible from Leo.
Intially, these meetings were supposed to be about discussing pack matters, future allies and treaties and supporting each other, but they often turned into a session for gossip and subtle insults for me .
As I joined the circle, the other Lunas' eyes followed me, whispers already starting. I took my seat, maintaining a calm and composed demeanor.
"Well, if it isn't our lovely Ava, long time no see..." Christina one of the Lunas sneered. She was always on my business and was on top of the pyramid when it came to spreading the wrecks of my life . "It's ... thoughtful of you to join us today , and how's going with the infamous , Leo?"
A few snickers echoed around the room. I took a deep breath, reminding myself of my training and lessons my mother taught me . A Luna must never show anger or rage ,she is supposed to be kind and perfect. I wouldn't give them the satisfaction of seeing me break.
I plastered on a serene smile. "Life is challenging, but as Lunas, we're all used to challenges, aren't we?"
They exchanged looks, clearly annoyed that I hadn't taken the bait. One of them leaned in, her voice dripping with fake concern. "How do you handle all those… gifts? It must be so embarrassing... I mean scary because you don't know where they are —."
I met her gaze, my smile unwavering. "Gifts are a sign of affection and admiration. I'm lucky to be surrounded by so much love. And you when was the last time anyone got you a gifts?" My words hung in the air, silencing them. They were all just jealous.
I couldn't take it anymore, standing up, I straightened my dress. "Excuse me, ladies. I have better things to do than worry about your sleepless nights over my affairs."
I called for my maid who had escorted me, a kind woman named Lila, she was just like a second mother to me.
"Lila, get my things, please."
Yes I left early, at least I made an appearance and left the 'I was here mark'.
We walked out of the hall, Thomas , the chauffeur already waiting with the car. Once inside, the walls I had built around my emotions began to crumble. As soon as the door closed, I let out a scream, venting my frustration. Leo's actions had humiliated me once again.
"Are you okay my Luna?" Lila asked her face filled with concern.
" Don't worry about me ," I forced myself to smile.
"Where to, Luna?" Thomas asked,he definitely knew I didn't want to be home.
"The mall," I replied, my voice steadying. "I need to clear my head." And with that he started the engine and we headed off to the mall.
At the mall, Lila looked at me wondering why I suggested the mall . "What are we here for, Luna?"
"I'm buying you clothes," I said firmly.
Lila shook her head. "N-No my Luna you've done enough for me, I haven't even yet worn the clothes you bought me last time. I can't accept more."
"I insist Lila , and shopping helps me calm down," I insisted. "Please, let me do this."
Lila was a warm-hearted woman in her early 30s. She had bright ginger hair that curled around her shoulders and lively green eyes. She was short but inches taller than me and chubby, with a nice body. Lila was kind and always ready to help me with anything at anytime, making her an important part of life.
We entered an expensive high-class boutique. I picked out several outfits and handed them to Lila, insisting she try them on. As I was browsing through a rack of dresses, a deep voice from behind me startled me , "That would definitely look good on you," he pointed at one of the dresses.
I turned to see a handsome man standing there. He had dark, wavy hair, piercing green eyes, and a chiseled jaw. His smile was confident, almost predatory.
I gave him a polite smile and moved away, but he followed. "I'm Asher Hale," he introduced himself.
"And I'm not interested," I replied, focusing on the clothes.
He chuckled. "I was just wondering why a beautiful woman like you was talking to herself looking so serious and grumpy."
I rolled my eyes and was about to walk away when he pulled and grabbed me by the waist pulling me closer to him . " C'mon baby doll you know, I can make you forget all your worries," he whispered suggestively.
I could feel his breath on my neck, as I tried to free myself. Suddenly, I heard a dominant, angry growl, but it didn't come from Asher. Then followed a scent, a familiar scent, one I had always noticed while running errands around and I never figured where it came from.
The scent was a seductive blend of vanilla and freshly chopped wood, warm and inviting. It wrapped around me like a creamy embrace,It was comforting yet intense making me want to breathe it in deeply. And Yes , it didn't come from Asher either.
I freed myself from Asher's grip, glaring at him. "You alphas are all the same," I spat. "Stay away from me."
With that, I went back to Lila. "Let's finish up here," I said, trying to shake off the encounter.
We picked out a few more things, including gifts for Maeve, and then left. Back home, I headed to my room, expecting to be alone. To my surprise, Leo was there, lying on the bed reading a book. And surprisingly there was no slut in sight.
We exchanged looks but didn't say anything. I quickly mind-linked Maeve. Mae You won't believe this, but Leo is actually in our room, alone. No sluts. A book in his face and not a vagina.
Maeve's laughter echoed in my mind. Maybe he's finally lost his touch!
I couldn't help but laugh out loud, catching Leo's attention which made everything awkward. He put down his book and looked at me. "Ava... we need to talk."