One by one, they crossed through the portal. Luna's fingers were intertwined with Tyler's, gripping tightly. Fear coursed through her veins – what if this was an elaborate trap leading them to their doom?
But they emerged unscathed on the other side, finding themselves in an open field beside the magnificent house she had glimpsed the previous night.
Standing before them was the King from last night, flanked by two imposing figures. The first man, with sandy blonde hair and piercing green eyes, exuded a powerful aura that matched the King's, albeit not quite as grand. The other man, positioned to his left, was slightly shorter with chocolate brown hair and warm brown eyes. He wore a playful, almost childlike expression, and to her surprise, he flashed her a wink and a broad grin.
Did he really just wink at her?
Did she know him from somewhere?
Was he present last night?
Before her mind could process these questions, the blonde man's throat-clearing interrupted her thoughts.
"I am Beta Cole of the Silver Falls pack," he announced.
"To my left is Gamma Maximus Granger.
To my right is the Alpha King Jackson Sinclair."
Gasps and murmurs of awe rippled through the crowd.
Suddenly, Erica's excited shriek pierced the air. Luna whirled around to witness her darting forward and launching herself into Cole's welcoming arms.
Azriale leaned close, whispering, "mates," and suddenly, everything fell into place. The Beta of Silver Falls pack was destined for Erica.
While she felt genuine joy for her after all her hardships, she couldn't suppress a twinge of envy.
She drifted to Jarred and Jennifer, noticing they weren't standing together.
Jennifer was hovering near the King, clearly attempting to catch his attention.
When her eyes met Jarred's, he gave her that smile.
That brilliant, room-illuminating smile – the same one from their first encounter.
But why?
Wasn't he already mated?
Suddenly, a thunderous growl shattered the atmosphere. Everyone around her, Jarred included, instinctively bared their necks to the Alpha King. Her gaze lifted, meeting the King's intense stare.
His eyes remained fixed on her as he commanded, "Eyes up here."
"Since my Beta is somewhat… preoccupied." This comment drew a warning growl from the Beta, while the Gamma chuckled beside the King.
The King proceeded to outline the rules and sleeping arrangements. His gaze remained fixed throughout his speech, causing her to fidget uncomfortably. Like a nervous child, she played with the hem of her shirt, but each time she glanced up, his intense stare awaited.
When the meeting concluded, everyone was instructed to gather their belongings and proceed to their accommodations. The King remained behind, engaged in conversation with his Beta, Gamma, and – unexpectedly – Jason. The revelation of Jason's acquaintance with the King raised numerous questions, but Katelynn's teasing voice interrupted Luna's contemplation.
"The King couldn't take his eyes off you," Katelynn remarked with a mischievous wink.
"That's not it," Luna objected, lowering her head. "I wasn't looking forward, and he caught me. I hope I didn't cause offense."
When she dared to raise her gaze again, she met the King's eyes. Despite the considerable distance between them, he managed to direct a wink and smile her way.
Had he just winked at her too? Could he possibly hear their exchange?
Katelynn's laughter rang out. "That's definitely more than just a casual glance." She wiggled her eyebrows suggestively.
Luna couldn't suppress a laugh as they began walking. "The king wouldn't be interested in someone like me. Men of his caliber don't notice women like me," she confided.
Being petite and curvy, Luna had always grappled with her self-image. Though Azria and her sister insisted she possessed beautiful curves rather than excess weight, her ex Jared's words continued to haunt her. He'd repeatedly reminded her she should be grateful he dated "big girls" like her.
"The king would surely prefer someone tall, slim, and athletic like you or Jennifer," she reasoned.
Katelynn shook her head disapprovingly. As they passed the King, was that a growl she heard? Had he overheard their conversation? Was he agreeing with her assessment?
Why did his opinion hold such significance to her? She needed to cease this obsession with the King and concentrate on her future here.
They followed the three men into the impressive structure. The King departed in one direction while the Beta escorted Erica to their designated area. The Gamma assumed responsibility for showing them around their new home.
Her earlier observation proved accurate – the house spanned thirteen floors. The layout was methodically organized: separate sections for unmated single men and women, multiple floors designated for families, and exclusive floors reserved for the King, Beta, and Gamma.
The first floor featured an elegant sitting room, a sophisticated theater, and a well-stocked library. As they toured the kitchen and dining area, she noticed details missed during her brief visit the previous night. A magnificent head table, elevated on a platform, dominated the space – the designated dining spot for the King and his inner circle. Several long, beautifully arranged tables accommodated the adult members, establishing an atmosphere of community and hierarchy.
In a thoughtfully designed corner, a cozy area with smaller tables provided a special space for children to dine together, fostering friendships and camaraderie.
The children's delighted reactions – Piper's squeal and Junior's applause – brought a smile to Luna's face. Their infectious enthusiasm was understandable; after months of isolation during their journey, the prospect of playing with other children had them bubbling with excitement.
Following the Gamma to the elevator, they ascended to the second floor, which he explained was dedicated to families. The amenities were impressive: a vibrant game room, an inviting playroom, and a spectacular home theater that surpassed any they'd previously encountered.
Upon reaching their destination, the Gamma unlocked a door and handed the key to Johnny, announcing, "This will be your home." His arm suddenly blocked Luna's entry as they gathered their belongings and stepped inside.
"This is just their home," he stated firmly.
"Oh, it's okay," Katelynn and Luna responded simultaneously.
Katelynn approached him, explaining, "She can stay with us; she's my sister, and she'll be comfortable here."
"Sorry, ma'am. There are only three rooms," the Gamma replied. "Luna's room is on the 13th floor, by King's orders."
"What!" Luna exclaimed, panic rising. "I want to stay with my family. Where are my brothers? I can stay with them."
The Gamma's amused chuckle only intensified her frustration. "I don't think that's wise," he said.
Without further discussion, he gestured for her to follow him.
He showed her to her room on the 13th floor. Fighting back tears, she asked him again about her brothers' whereabouts.
"They're on the first floor, down the first hallway," he explained. "You can visit them, but I strongly advise against staying overnight."
"Why not? They're my brothers!" she protested.
"If I want to stay with my brothers, I can!" she declared, stomping her foot childishly. Family meant everything to her; not even the King could dictate otherwise.
The Gamma's response was a knowing chuckle. "Well, I'm not telling the King," he said, leaving.
As he departed, she caught his mumbled words about "having his work cut out with this one."
His cryptic behavior left her confused and frustrated. What wasn't he telling her? Who was he referring to? The questions swirled in her mind as she stood alone in her new room, feeling more isolated than ever.
Curiosity drew her to explore her assigned quarters; the size of the room took her breath away.
A majestic 4-poster king-size bed dominated the center of the space, its presence both inviting and intimidating.
One wall featured floor-to-ceiling windows, complemented by a sliding door leading to an expansive balcony.
Stepping outside, she was mesmerized by the panoramic vista before her. The view stretched endlessly, making her feel like she was surveying a vast kingdom.
A quaint bistro set graced the balcony. The scene beckoned thoughts of peaceful mornings spent there, watching the sunrise paint its masterpiece across the heavens.
Behind another door lay a walk-in closet that could rival any high-end boutique. An elegant center island with multiple drawers served as the focal point, encircled by floor-to-ceiling wardrobes and hanging spaces. Designer women's clothing caught her eye, their superior quality evident even from where she stood. She made a mental note to report their presence, determined to ensure their rightful owner would receive them.
The bathroom behind the next door defied all expectations. A massive tub, reminiscent of a small pool, dominated the space, complete with its own waterfall feature. Twin sinks gleamed beneath sophisticated lighting fixtures, while a glass-enclosed shower stood ready for use. A separate water closet offered additional privacy. The months of basic living overwhelmed her, and she succumbed to the temptation of drawing a bath. As she added the oils, the King's familiar scent enveloped the space. Submerging into the warm water, she felt months of tension melt away. Time seemed suspended in this peaceful sanctuary, and only pruning skin prompted her reluctant emergence.
She changed into her packed sleepwear – a stark contrast to her practical woods attire of sweatpants. The pink silk pajamas felt luxurious against her skin. After donning cozy socks and securing her hair in a ponytail, thoughts of her brothers tugged at her heart. Perhaps Tyler would let her stay; the prospect of sleeping alone in this grand space felt overwhelming.
Following Max's earlier directions, she took the elevator to the first floor. The stark contrast between her accommodations and her brothers' quarters was immediately apparent. Ryker's welcoming wave directed her to their space – a communal room reminiscent of military barracks. Simple beds lined the walls, complemented by privacy curtains, basic dressers, and reading lamps. The sparse furnishings highlighted the disparity in their living situations.
Guilt gnawed at her as she compared their accommodations, but Ryker and Tyler assured her of their satisfaction. They explained this was temporary until they secured positions in the King's Guard. Their career choice sent a shiver of fear through her. The thought of losing either of them to such a dangerous profession terrified her more than any threat they'd faced in the woods.
She lay drowsily on Tyler's bed, listening to their animated discussion about future plans. Both would begin training on Monday, leaving the weekend free to settle in and explore. Tyler mentioned she could stay tonight, though tomorrow they'd need to discuss her relocation to Katelynn House with the King. He explained she couldn't remain with them until they secured their accommodation.
As sleep began to claim her, a fierce growl shattered the room's tranquility. Every male present instinctively bared their neck and dropped to their knees.
The King's commanding voice resonated through the space. "Where is she?"
Her heart raced – could he really be searching for her?
Before she could process the situation, Tyler positioned himself protectively before her, squaring off against the King. The atmosphere crackled with tension as both men exchanged threatening growls.
Tyler's voice boomed, "You won't touch her!"
The King's response came measured but menacing. "Move aside, Boy. I have no intention to harm you."
Ryker and Jason stepped in, attempting to diffuse the mounting tension between the King and Tyler. Jason's unexpected presence kindled hope that he might prevent the situation from escalating further.
As their voices escalated and their stances grew more confrontational, her anxiety intensified. Tears cascaded down her face as she struggled to breathe, her hands pressed desperately against her ears, silently begging them to stop.
Through the chaos, Max's voice cut through. "Um, guys, the girl," was all he managed before darkness crept into her vision and she began to fall. Instead of hitting the cold floor, she collided with something firm and warm. Tyler's indignant voice pierced the air, "Hey, no need to shove me; I could've caught her." The King muttered something about "Mine" while continuing to comfort her, his gentle back rubs accompanied by whispered promises of safety.
"Zo," Tyler's voice softened as he caressed her arm. "I'm so sorry, Zo. I should've known better."
She raised her head to meet Tyler's eyes. Understanding dawned—his actions stemmed purely from protection, never meant to cause distress.
She offered him a warm smile. "I know," she assured him.
Suddenly conscious of her position in the King's lap, heat colored her cheeks. Her attempts to move were thwarted by his tightening embrace.
Rising with her still cradled in his arms, he addressed Tyler. "I'm taking her to bed; she won't remain here tonight." Tyler responded with a silent nod.
Embarrassment flushed her cheeks as he carried her bridal-style toward the elevator.
"You can put me down; I must be heavy," she ventured.
His response emerged as a growl: "You're never too heavy; don't ever say that again." His grip intensified as he carried her to her room, the journey passing in weighted silence.
With utmost gentleness, he lowered her onto the mattress.
His gaze traveled deliberately from her feet to her eyes, and for a fleeting moment, she caught a glimpse of something primal in his stare—desire, perhaps? But it vanished so quickly that she questioned if she'd imagined it. He reached for a blanket, draping it over her with tender attention. That's when she noticed the bed carried his distinct scent. She inhaled deeply, nuzzling into the pillow, surrounded by his essence.
A soft laugh escaped him. "Sweet dreams, Angel."
Her exhausted mind struggled to process his words as sleep claimed her. Finally, peaceful rest embraced her in a proper bed.