My parents aren't thrilled with my announcement that I will be dining at the Alpha family starting today. I explained my meeting with Glary and his invitation to become familiar with his family, as I am the next Beta in line. When I told them that I actually wanted to meet the Alpha and Luna to inform them that I am not interested in the position, they were somewhat reassured.
Their reaction amazed me.
I mean, every parent in the pack would be excited if their daughter landed an invitation from the Alpha's son. And then to dine in their company every night! That would be quite an upgrade for the whole family, although mine doesn't really need it. I make a mental note that I'll question them about this, there are too many gaps in our relationship with the Alpha family.
So, now I'm standing in front of the mirror in an old dress my mother bought me when she was out shopping in human town. She had bought it at the sale, when she saw it hanging in the boutique, she immediately thought it would look great on me. That was two years ago, so the dress is so outdated now, not the usual expensive outfit I'm used to wearing. This is intentional, I want to make a statement with my appearance.
I don't think Glary's sudden heightened interest has much to do with my Beta appointment. My parents didn't prepare me for that, so obviously, my father doesn't want to pass that rank on to me. And I already have a mate, Glary must know that this means I'm leaving my pack soon to be with Zane. No way I’m staying here. Again everything in me warns that the Alpha son is after Zane.
I decide not to put on makeup but just comb my hair and put it in a boring ponytail. Can't get any simpler than this.
When I go down the stairs, my father is waiting for me. He surveys me from head to toe and then nods in approval. “Don't come back late, Mercedes. Now that Zane is abroad, it is not appropriate that you stay out late at night," he urges. He walks with me to the car, I feel he is concerned about my visit to the packhouse. “Don't worry, Dad. I'm a big girl and can take care of myself," I soothe and kiss him on the forehead.
As I drive away, I see him staring at the car until I'm out of sight. I can't have my parents worrying about me, so I decide to make this dinner as short as possible. And I know Zane will want to be updated about this night out. He texted me this afternoon that he arrived safely at his destination and is on a tight schedule today. So I'll message him later in the evening when I know he's in bed.
I drive into the parking lot in front of the packhouse. When I get out, I see that Glary is waiting for me on the porch. He walks towards me with big steps. “Thank you for coming, Mercedes. I thought you'd let me down. My parents are looking forward to meeting you”, he declares clearly relieved. And then he tries to grab my hand, but I keep out of his reach in time. With a distance between us, we walk into the packhouse. As far as I remember this is my first visit here, so I look around curiously.
Like a gentleman, Glary leads me into the huge dining room. The Alpha and Luna are already sitting at the table when we enter the room. “Welcome, Mercedes. Glary told us he would like you to have dinner with us. He is so focused on making you his Beta,” Alpha Ahri says invitingly. The Luna nods. “Yeah, I remember now that I never saw you in the packhouse before. You should have dined with us a long time ago. Fortunately, Glary makes up for this", she added to her mate.
I politely shake their hands and sit in the chair their son pulls back for me.
And when he sits down himself, I notice that he has given me his Luna place. Also, he is too close to me. I’m back on my feet and slide my chair away from him before retaking my seat. When I look up, I see the Alpha and Luna looking at me in shock, but decide to remain silent about my action.
The waitresses come in and put the food on the table.
When the Alpha opens the lids, I can hardly contain my nausea.
Beef stomach steamed in olive oil, spicy potato wedges, hot chicken wings and stuffed auberges. Every dish I hate is on the table. Glary picks up my plate. “Tell me what you like. And if you want something else, I ask the kitchen to prepare it for you quickly,” he offers. Fearing that my voice will betray my distaste, I just shake my head. I point to the potato wedges and he gives me a generous treat. When he questioningly looks back at me for more, I shake my head again and take the plate from him.
When I look up, I notice that the Alpha couple is looking at us strangely. And then the Luna beckons her mate, they are clearly communicating in the mind link. When everyone is served, the Luna turns back to me. “Mercedes, your birthday party was a huge success. The pack members are still talking about it. Never before have we had such a big party here. Maybe we can use the same script for the Luna ceremony of Glary”.
The Alpha looks at her with adoration. “Our son has no mate yet and you are already talking about a Luna ceremony”, he teases her. But when his eyes turn to his son, I recognize the disappointment. “At least if he ever finds his mate. I want to retire but make sure the pack has a stable Alpha with a mate next to him. Can you still find her, son?"
Anger marks Glary's face.
“Maybe if you have patience and rush me less, the Moon Goddess will finally bless me? She's probably annoyed by your repeated insistence," he hisses through his teeth. “Or do you want me to take the risk and accept a chosen mate?”...