As I drove away from Aria's house, I couldn't help but think about the way her face lit up when she got her acceptance to the final year. I had just made her life a little brighter, and that made me feel good. I wanted to protect her, and I wanted to see her happy.
Meanwhile, Aria walked into her home. The atmosphere inside was calm, with her mom asleep in her wheelchair, resting peacefully. Owen, her younger brother, was waiting for her at the table, and I could sense the excitement in his eyes as Aria rushed to tell him everything.
"Guess what, Owen!" Aria exclaimed, practically bouncing on her feet. "I got accepted to the final year of school!"
Owen's eyes widened in disbelief. "Really? That's amazing! Did the King help you? Is he changing my schools too? I don't like this current one, so I was wondering if he would change my too as am about to enter college "
Aria smiled, her cheeks glowing with happiness. "Yes, he helped me! But I don't know if he'll change schools. He's the King; he has a lot going on."
Owen nodded eagerly, trying to process everything. "That's still so cool! You're going to school where the King calls the shots! What will Mom say?"
Aria glanced at their mother, who was still asleep. "She's resting because of the medicine. We should wait until she wakes up to tell her the good news."
"Good idea!" Owen replied. "Let her sleep. We can tell her later!"
•••••••••••
WINTER MOON PACK
I arrived at the Winter Moon Pack's territory. I could feel the tension in the air as I pulled into the parking lot of my office. I stepped out of the car, my thoughts still on Aria, but I quickly reminded myself of the responsibilities that awaited me.
Walking into my office, I immediately noticed Fergus, my trusted second-in-command, and several Pack elders gathered around the large conference table. The atmosphere was serious, and I could feel the weight of their concerns hanging in the air.
"Your Majesty," Fergus said, his voice steady but serious. "We need to discuss the situation at the borders."
"What's happened?" I asked, my heart racing. I was still angry about the intruders who had crossed our territory.
Fergus exchanged glances with the elders, then took a deep breath. "Some intruders crossed the boundary earlier today. They were trying to gather information about our Pack. I handled it, but we need to stay vigilant. They might be planning something more dangerous."
I clenched my fists, feeling a surge of anger. "We can't let anyone threaten our Pack. Who are these intruders?"
"They were from the Dark Moon Pack," Fergus explained. "They were looking for weaknesses, trying to figure out our defenses. It's concerning."
I paced the room, frustration boiling inside me. "We can't allow this! We need to strengthen our borders and increase patrols. I want to know the moment anything unusual happens."
"Of course, Your Majesty," Fergus replied. "We'll increase patrols immediately."
As I prepared to address the situation, my mind shifted to another issue that had been bothering me. "Fergus, what's this I hear about the elders wanting to find another candidate to be my Luna?"
The elders shifted in their seats, their expressions uncomfortable. "It's just a discussion, Your Majesty," one elder said, trying to remain calm. "We want to ensure the future of our Pack. With the current threats, we believe it's wise to consider other options."
My temper flared. "Aria is my mate! I will not entertain the idea of anyone else as my Luna! She is strong and capable, and she makes me a better leader!"
Fergus stepped forward, his voice firm but respectful. "We understand your feelings, but you have to understand the Pack's concerns. They see your bond with Aria as a potential weakness, especially with the threat of the Dark Moon Pack. They believe you need a Luna who can stand by your side in all circumstances."
I shook my head, feeling frustrated. "They don't understand what I have with Aria. She is everything I want, and I will not let anyone come between us. If they continue this discussion, I will make it clear that Aria is my only choice."
The elders looked worried, but they knew I wouldn't back down. "Very well, Your Majesty. We'll respect your wishes," one elder said, trying to diffuse the situation. "But we ask that you remain vigilant. The Dark Moon Pack is known for their underhanded tactics. We need to be prepared for anything."
"Prepare the warriors and increase the patrols," I ordered. "I won't let anyone threaten Aria or our Pack. I want reports on any unusual activities, and I want them now."
As I dismissed the elders and Fergus, I felt a surge of determination. I knew I had to protect Aria, not just from outside threats but also from the judgments of others within my own Pack. I would show her that she was worthy of being my Luna, that she was everything I ever wanted.
With a sense of purpose, I left the office and headed back to my car. The sun was beginning to set, casting a warm glow over the territory. I wanted to see Aria again, to reassure her that I was there for her, no matter what challenges lay ahead.
Driving back to the Crescent Moon Pack, I couldn't help but think about how I would prove my love to her. I wanted her to know that she would never have to face anything alone. With her by my side, I felt invincible.
Arriving at her home, I stepped out of the car and walked toward the front door. I could hear the laughter of Aria and Owen inside, and it warmed my heart. They were happy, and that was all that mattered to me.
As I knocked on the door, I felt a rush of anticipation. I was ready to show Aria that she was not just my mate; she was my everything.