As soon as they were out of the building, Xandar asked, “Why didn’t you sleep last night?”

“Border duty.” She answered simply.

“How is it that you had border duty the night before you were bound to travel?”

“The available members were either sick or had a family to look after. I didn’t want to flip anyone’s schedules upside down over this so I stood in place.” She shrugged. Her selfless answer exuded the nobility of a Queen, his Queen.

But something still bothered him. “Lucianne, why were you uncomfortable when your Alpha gave you credit for last year’s success? Why didn’t you just thank him and accept the praise?”

She snorted, and looked him dead in the eye as she declared, “I didn’t do it for the praise, your Hig… Xandar. When Alpha Juan got the request, I made it a point to my warriors that the ultimate aim of the battles was to keep innocent wolves safe. I drilled this thought into their heads day-in and day-out. They were to fight to protect, to fight with honour and nobility, not for the sake of pleasing anyone of a superior position.”

He listened to the strength of her voice, and his lips curled up as she continued, “I didn’t accept the praise because I didn’t do it for that. I didn’t do it for you either, Xandar. I respect you as my King but I didn’t fight the rogues for you. I fought for those who couldn’t fight. That’s why I didn’t accept the praise. I never will, so don’t try to get me to do it.”

His animal howled internally with immense joy and pride. He and the Lycan in him could not thank their Goddess enough. They were completely over the moon that the Moon Goddess bonded them to... a goddess. Noble. Selfless. Brave. Beautiful. What pique his interest most was her confident admission that she prioritized the lives of innocent wolves that she had never met over her ruler who everyone was obliged to please.

But somehow, she still seemed unreachable. He felt that she didn’t allow herself to get as close to him as he wanted her to. Then, there was that confusion about her willingness to reject him, or have him reject her. What was that about? Why would she ask for something like that?

He then recalled that she mentioned her ‘previous mates’. Mates. So, she was rejected more than once before. But why would she think that he was like the rest of them? He was not a wolf. Surely, Lycans were more known for their unwillingness to deny the mate bond, weren't they?

He admired her side profile in silence, taking in the most beautiful creature he had ever laid his eyes on. He hoped to learn everything about her one day, but for better or worse, he was dead certain that he would never let his mate go.

When they reached the hotel where they housed a portion of wolves, Lucianne was surprised that Xandar still insisted on following her until they reached her room. He stared at her scar with a frown as she unlocked the door. “Thank you for walking me back. Have a good night, Xandar.” Her sweet voice brought his gaze up to hers.

She took only one step into her room when Xandar grabbed her by her wrist and lifted her hand to his lips. She stiffened in shock as he planted a deep kiss on the back of her hand, sending a strong wave of sparks through her arm and then her entire body. He was still holding her hand when he locked eyes with her and uttered, “Goodnight, Lucianne.”

She retracted her hand, and entered her room before shutting the door behind her. Xandar stood in his spot, where he heard her sigh after she closed the door. He then heard cupboard doors opening and closing before her footsteps moved across the room, where he heard a second door being shut.

After some shuffling sounds, he heard the water from the shower, and the Lycan part of him was aroused by the thought of his mate naked in the bathroom. He walked away from her door in quick steps before his self-control evaporated. He could easily break the hinges and knock down the door if he wanted to. Ignoring his whimpering animal who would rather skip the meet-and-greet and spend the night with their mate, he returned to the hall and started making his rounds.

He found it amusing when pack leaders and warriors displayed their surprise after he expressed his gratitude to them. There were several self-entitled Alphas and snobbish Lunas who tried and failed lamentably to be noble as they humble-bragged. Xandar started taking an interest in scars on his subjects’ bodies.

The warrior from the Blood Eclipse Pack, Gamma Raden, had a scar on his face tracing down to his neck. If the scar went a little higher, he would’ve been rendered blind on one side. “How did it happen?” The King asked in concern as he gestured to the scar.

The warrior smiled graciously as he explained, “A rogue attack five years ago, your Highness. Our pack was attacked and we formed alliances with Blue Crescent and White Blood to eradicate the rogues.”

“Were many injured?” The King asked.

“We lost two wolves in the final attack, sadly, but the death toll was higher before our alliance. Although it’s displeasing to the eye, I must admit that this scar only brings me joy.” He said with a smile.

The King’s curiosity was pique. “What do you mean by that, Gamma Raden?”

Raden glanced at his pack leaders before he explained, “When the rogues attacked, some of us who had an above average strength took on more than one rogue at a time. When I kept taking on two at a time, the rogues took notice. All of a sudden, I found myself surrounded by five of them. One held me by my tail and its member slashed me from the side and gave me this scar.” He gestured to his face before continuing, “When the blood from my face was oozing, the Gammas from our ally packs pounced in and tore the rogues apart, leaving the rogue who slashed me for me to chase before I tore its throat.”

Raden smiled. “The scar brings me joy because it has been a long time since I knew I could count on someone from another pack to watch my back. I’m not an Alpha, and I’m not a member of their pack. They had no obligation to save me but they did.”

The King listened attentively before he confirmed, “Blue Crescent and White Blood, you say?”

“Yes, your Highness.” Raden said with a slight bow, and added, “The warrior from White Blood is Gamma Tobias Tristan. And you’ve already met the warrior from Blue Crescent, Gamma Lucianne Paw.”

“Mm.” the King nodded.

Gamma Raden then glanced at his leaders again, who both have doubtful expressions. He cleared his throat, and with visible fear in his eyes, he began, “Your Highness?”

“Yes, Gamma Raden?” The King obliged with an encouraging smile.

The Gamma said cautiously, “I wasn’t standing very near where you were when you met Gamma Lucianne, so I’m not sure if what I heard was…what I heard.” He hesitated. “You mentioned that Lucy is your mate?”

“I did, and she is.” The King responded with a smile, despite the tint of jealousy he felt from the way this warrior called his mate ‘Lucy’ with such affection.

Gamma Raden nodded and said, “I’m not sure if you’re going to kill me for what I’m about to say, your Highness. But as I said, I owe her my life, so I think this is going to be a fair trade.” He chuckled once, before saying seriously, “Your Highness, I beg you, don’t hurt her. She is a good person who, for some unknown reason, was forced to go through with more than most.”

The King’s eyebrows were furrowed. He felt insulted. Why would this Gamma think that he, as Lucianne’s mate, couldn’t take care of her? Who the hell did this wolf think he was?! The King tried his best to keep his composure and declared in a serious tone, “I would never even think of hurting her. She’s my mate. I would start a war before I let her get hurt.”

“That’s good to know. It’s been an honour to meet you, your Highness.” Gamma Raden bowed.

The King smiled flatly and said, “Likewise, members of Blood Eclipse. Do enjoy the rest of the evening.” He walked away in quick steps as he felt the jealousy overtaking his body when Raden expressed so much concern for Lucianne. If he stayed any longer, he might have killed Raden.

When he was speaking to a Luna who was running her pack after the death of her husband the previous month, Xandar felt a hand run down his arm seductively, making him turn his sights to glare at the creature.

He asked in a dangerously-low tone, “What the hell are you doing?”

It was the daughter of his Defence Minister, Sasha Cummings, who smiled coyly at the King, making Xandar angrier.

“Sasha,” her father called out as he approached them.

The King growled again. “Should your daughter interfere in one of my conversations again, we’ll have to discuss your future and hers, Cummings.”

Sasha was left stunned but opted to say nothing, and held her head low as her father bowed and apologized, “I’m terribly sorry, your Highness. I should’ve been more alert. We’ll excuse ourselves now.”

The King’s glare remained on them until they were far enough for his comfort. He thought about Lucianne to calm himself before turning back to the Luna whom he was speaking to and said, “I apologize for the interruption, Luna Lyssa. We were talking about the construction works for a training ground in your pack if I’m not mistaken?”

Luna Lyssa didn’t expect an apology from the King, and was quite surprised by the sincerity from his words. When the King remembered where they left off in their conversation, she was more encouraged to show her enthusiasm when she spoke about her plans to mandate every able pack member to fight. The King supported her, and encouraged her to submit an application should she need help in terms of finances or trainers. She thanked him, and promised to keep his offer in mind.

When he left Luna Lyssa, Alpha Juan and Luna Hale approached him hastily and nervously. They stood before him and bowed. “Heads up, pack leaders of Blue Crescent. To what do I owe this pleasure?”

Their raised heads were met with the King’s smiling eyes. No King in history was known to find meeting werewolves a ‘pleasure’, and no Lycan would bother offering a smile to their species, let alone the King himself.

Alpha Juan glanced at his mate, who nodded encouragingly. The Alpha looked at the King and spoke doubtfully, “My Gamma is your mate, your Highness?”

Now, he was getting pissed-off. His eyebrows furrowed as he said, “She is. Is there a problem?”

Alpha Juan muttered a ‘wow’ under his breath before speaking, “Your Highness, please understand I mean no disrespect for whatever comes out from my mouth next.” He cleared his throat and continued, “If you’re not… serious about… having her,” he swallowed a lump in his throat before proceeding, “…please let her go. I don’t want to see her hurt by the mate bond again. I’ve known her since we were kids. She’s like a sister to me. It pains me and my Luna to see her hurt.”

If Alpha Juan didn’t have a mate, Xandar was dead certain that he would have ripped the Alpha’s throat right then and there out of pure jealousy. Gamma Raden had already emptied his patience reservoir, and Xandar was clinging on to the thread of patience he had left for the night.

“Why would you think that I’m not serious about Lucianne, Alpha Juan?” He asked, taking some comfort in saying her name.

Alpha Juan said, “My King, I admit that I don’t know your intention with Lucy. Having just met you today, I have to say that I don’t know you at all so I cannot tell how this… mate bond is going to… progress. All I wanted to say is that...” he sighed like he was going to make one of the biggest mistakes of his life, “…she has gone through too much in one lifetime. Please, don’t hurt her.”

Alpha Juan looked like a man ready to receive his punishment after he finished speaking. Xandar was impressed with what Lucianne was capable of doing with her very existence. In one night, two wolves were ready to be punished just to tell him not to hurt her, and one was an Alpha.

He chuckled at his own thought before meeting Alpha Juan’s confused look as he declared, “Alpha Juan, my intention with Lucianne is to court her, mate and mark her and only her, have her mark me, and make her my Queen. I don’t know what I did to have you and Gamma Raden think that I will hurt my mate, but I can assure you that I can never bear to see Lucianne hurt, let alone hurt her.” He chuckled darkly before muttering, “If anything, she hurt me with what she said tonight.”

Luna Hale then stepped forward cautiously and explained, “Your Highness, p-please forgive her. It’s not in our position to speak about her past. But if she decides to tell you one day, you’ll understand why she said the things she did.”

Xandar nodded in understanding as he listened to her speak nervously. He then added with a smile, “You both need not be so afraid of me. I wouldn’t punish or kill without a proper basis. Logic and legality aside, I wouldn’t dream of killing my mate’s pack leaders who are just trying to look out for her.”

There was a moment of surprise before they bowed to display their gratitude. Xandar moved on to the next pack and two more after before he took his leave.

When Xandar arrived home, he made himself go through one file in the rogue stack before turning in for the night. He looked to the side of his bed, and he imagined Lucianne lying next to him. His hand subconsciously reached for the empty pillow and felt the coldness on its surface. His animal whimpered, missing their mate. He thought about being able to see her the next day and fell asleep with a smile.

Lucianne got out of bed at 4 a.m., brushed her teeth, dressed up and grabbed a bag with a water bottle before making her way to the ground floor and exited the building through the backdoor. She jogged to the nearby forest behind the hotel and stripped behind a tree. After placing her clothes in her bag, she shifted.

Her white wolf with sapphire eyes had an unusual feature - a striped tail of white and grey. She never knew why. She scoured through any book she could find on the oddities of werewolves but there was nothing on striped tails. Those who had seen her form always pointed out this peculiarity of hers. Some said she had an unknown gift; others said she was cursed. It never bothered her in terms of functionality so she just shrugged off these comments.

When her paws hit the grassy ground, she held onto her bag in her mouth and ran into the forest. The cool breeze was invigorating. The gentle rustling of the wind was a sound she loved, and the endless rows of trees drew her deeper and deeper into the forest. She only stopped when she heard the gushing sound of water from a river.

There, she sat by the riverbank and looked at her reflection. Lucianne then stared at the sky, and took a deep, satisfying breath of freedom. She did this every morning back in her pack. The stillness gave her the space to clear her head. The quietness offered her some peace.

The first ray of light was her cue to dash back. She ran through the forest from the path she came from, shifted back to her human form, dressed and entered the building before taking the elevator up to the seventh floor. As soon as she walked out of the elevator and turned around the corner of the corridor, she heard the sound of heavy footsteps coming to a halt. Lucianne was scrolling through her phone as she walked, so she didn’t see who it was.

Suddenly, her body was tugged forward, and she slumped into something hard. “Oof!”

“Goddess, I was so worried! Where were you?!” The person who had his head buried in her hair exclaimed.

Lucianne pressed her hands on the hard surface of his chest to part their bodies, and when she felt the sparks and registered the scent of acacia wood and forest trees, she realised that it was the King. When their gaze locked, she saw worry, relief and some anger in his eyes. “Oh, it’s you. Good morning, your... I mean, Xandar.”

He gently tugged a stray hair behind her ear as he asked, “Where did you go this morning, Lucianne?”

“I went for a run in the forest at the back. Why? Did something happen?” She asked.

Xandar pressed their bodies together once more, and the sparks intensified. He then buried his head in her neck as he whispered, “I couldn’t hear anyone in your room, and your scent in the corridor was faint. I thought something bad happened to you. Don’t do that to me again, Lucianne, please. I can’t afford to lose you.”

The sincerity in his voice pulled at her heartstrings but she reminded herself of her previous mates and remained calm as she uttered, “I’m sorry that I worried you. But there aren’t any attacks around here, are they?”

“No.” He whispered into her ear, and his warm breath tickled her skin as he continued, “But that doesn’t mean I would be any less worried if I didn’t know where you were.”

She tried to keep herself composed as she uttered, “You could’ve asked Ethan. He saw me leave.”

Xandar's body stiffened, and his grip on her shoulders tightened as he pulled away to look at her face. His eyes were fierce, and his tone was laced with jealousy as he asked, “Who is Ethan?”

With furrowed eyebrows, Lucianne answered simply, “The guard at the backdoor. Six feet. Dark. Short hair. He is a guard of this place, isn’t he? Or you could’ve asked his partner, Benjamin. He guards the front but I think he saw me leave from the back this morning.”

Xandar's body relaxed, and he smiled in bliss as his thumb traced her cheek. He thought about how amazing his mate was to learn the names of the hotel guards. The King chuckled lightly for no reason other than how happy he felt when he was with her.

Lucianne's phone beeped, pulling her gaze to the screen. She then looked back at the King, and asked, “Was there anything you need? I have to get ready for breakfast. I should get there before my Alpha and Luna.”

He took a glance at her phone when she held it up, and saw that it was a reminder for her to get ready. He was so worried that he hadn’t noticed she was in a tracksuit. He reluctantly released her as he said, “I won’t keep you. I should go get ready as well. I can’t wait to see you at breakfast, Lucianne.”

She managed a polite smile and walked past him. He watched her unlock her door and disappear from view when the door closed behind her. Xandar was rooted at his spot for another five whole seconds before he entered the elevator and left the building like a grinning monkey.

For once, he contemplated what he would wear for the day. He never really cared about clothes. When one is in a position of power, subordinates will bow to you regardless of what one wears. But now, he wanted to look his best for his mate. After putting on a teal green shirt and finishing the look with a black tuxedo, he ran his fingers through his dark, thick hair a few times until he was satisfied with the way it looked in the mirror before leaving his room and driving to the dining hall.

The moment he stepped into the hall, everyone who was present bowed his way, and the initial chatter died down instantly. He caught sight of the person he was looking for, and felt a pang in his heart when she, too, had her head down and knees slightly bent.

The King forced a smile as he announced, “Heads up, everyone. Please help yourself to food and drink. Wolves, you need not wait for the other Lycans to arrive. As far as I’m concerned, both species are of equal importance. Please start.”

Some older Lycans were particularly displeased by what their King just said but most of the younger ones were pleasantly surprised. Many whom the King had spoken to the night before walked up to him with the sole purpose of greeting him. ‘It feels different', he thought. In previous years, wolves and Lycans would approach and greet him but it always looked obligatory. This year, he felt their sincerity oozing when his subjects wished him ‘good morning’.

He made a beeline to his mate, who had her back against him when he was approaching her. She was speaking to Luna Lyssa, who was listening attentively until the Luna noticed his presence and bowed in greeting. “My King. Good morning.”

Lucianne turned ever so gracefully in her turquoise dress. The sleeves reached her elbows and covered her scar. There was a glass of water in her hand. Her head was beginning to tilt downwards when Xandar held her shoulder and lifted her chin up as he pleaded in a whisper, “Lucianne, you don’t need to bow to me, please. It really hurts me when you do that.”

Lucianne was shocked to hear that the King was hurt to see her bow to him but she stubbornly muttered, “It would be rather odd if I don’t though, especially when everyone else’s heads are down.”

He smiled and reached for her cheek as he said firmly, “It won’t be odd because you’re my mate. I will not have you bow to me.” With that, he took her hand and lifted it up to his lips before pecking a sweet kiss on the back, and said, “You look beautiful.”

He had offered her the same gesture the night before but that didn’t mean Lucianne was any less shocked. She tried to say something, “Uh... thank you, Xandar.” He never knew his name could sound so good until it came out from his mate’s lips.

“Sit with me for breakfast?” He asked with hopeful eyes.

She hesitated, and glanced at Luna Lyssa before she asked, “Can I have a few more minutes with Luna Lyssa? We were just finishing up our discussion.”

“Of course.” He grinned, once again feeling proud of her selfless nature.

“Apologies, your Highness.” Luna Lyssa said.

He waved his hand in the air with a smile and said, “No need. It brings me great joy to see a fruitful exchange.” His graciousness and understanding earned him a smile from Luna Lyssa and Lucianne. He got lost in his mate’s smile and moved closer to her before slipping his arm around her waist.

Lucianne gasped softly, and tried to ignore the sparks and warm sensation from his arm and hand. She then cleared her throat, and spoke to Luna Lyssa about her training plan. “Luna Lyssa, you need not worry about the Blood Eclipse Pack, I can assure you that they are nothing like the rumours being spread about them. They are fierce, yes. But that’s only because they have to be when the rogues attack. We’re all like that when we fight. Their Alpha is understanding and generous. He will help you.”

“Would it be possible for you to introduce us at tea later? I was hoping that, since he knows you, he’ll be more willing to offer his warriors to train our pack.” Luna Lyssa suggested.

"That wouldn’t be a problem at all, Luna Lyssa. I should also introduce you to Luna Lovelace from the Midnight Pack. Their warriors are very well-trained as well, and their pack isn’t very far from yours so perhaps you would want to consider collaborating with them in the future.” Lucianne smiled and uttered in response.

“That would be wonderful! Thank you, Lucianne. It’s so wonderful to finally make your acquaintance after hearing so much about you. I won’t keep you now.”

“Likewise, Luna Lyssa.”

Luna Lyssa bowed to Xandar once more before taking her leave. When she was far away enough, Xandar whispered into Lucianne's ear, “It’s so difficult to not fall in love with you after seeing you do that.”

She shrugged and muttered, “I was just helping.”

“Helpful and humble.” He uttered and smiled, offering her his hand as he said, “Come, let’s get something to eat.”

She nodded and, hand-in-hand, they made their way to the buffet table. The wolves and Lycans stepped aside when they saw their King approaching but His Royal Highness insisted that his subjects took their food first as he happily waited in line. Lucianne sighed with relief when he did this. He knew. He didn’t want her to feel uncomfortable about being a royal. More importantly, he didn’t want her to feel uncomfortable being with him.

Seating was free but there was an unspoken rule that wolves could not sit at a table if a Lycan was already sitting there. So, both species sat among their own. When Lucy placed her plate on an empty table, Xandar pulled out the chair for her and uttered, “If you like, you could have your pack leaders sit with us.”

“Really?” Her eyes sparkled, sending an electric spark through his being.

“Of course.” His lips curled up as he chuckled lightly.

Her eyes glazed over when she mind-linked Alpha Juan and Luna Hale. Within moments, they arrived at the table, and bowed to the King before taking their seats. Conversation with the King started out careful and polite but when Xandar took an interest in Alpha Juan’s efforts to challenge ruthless Alphas to take their packs and give better care to the pack members, the atmosphere around the table eased considerably.

Cold as he may seem, the King felt touched when Luna Hale talked about how the pack, under her supervision, took care of the new pups from the packs they took over, especially if they had lost their parents. She personally adopted five of them, and said that she would’ve continued to take in more had it not been for Alpha Juan’s firm objection.

“I can’t allow her to do it, your Highness. I really can’t. We already have three of our own, and I love the five we have taken in but any more than that and we may have to build a hotel for a pack house.” Alpha Juan said, earning a playful slap on his arm from his mate.

Lucianne giggled, capturing Xandar’s attention. He thought her voice was the most beautiful thing he had ever heard but her laughter sounded even better! He wanted to hear more of it.

Xandar looked at Alpha Juan with a smile and said, “Should Luna Hale decide to take in any more pups in future, Alpha Juan, do let me know. I’ll happily contribute financially to building the hotel.”

Both Luna Hale and Lucianne laughed at Alpha Juan’s terrified look. He looked nothing like the stern, scary Alpha that many packs described him as at that moment. Alpha Juan cleared his throat before suggesting, “Your Highness, perhaps we should strike a deal. For every pup we take in, you should, too.”

It was the King’s turn to look terrified, and he looked at Luna Hale and jokingly said, “Please forgive me, Luna Hale. I’m afraid I must take your Alpha’s side on this. You should stop at the number of pups you already have.”

Alpha Juan smirked victoriously in his mate’s direction, and Luna Hale said in mock anger, “You spineless traitor, your Highness!” Lucianne and Xandar were about to laugh when a low growl came from behind them, “How dare you speak to our King like that, you wolf!”

Alpha Juan and Luna Hale flinched visibly in their seats. Lucianne froze. But Xandar was furious. Who dared speak to them like that?! His head turned. His murderous eyes saw that it was Cummings, his Defence Minister. His daughter, Sasha was right behind him with a man next to her.

“Is there a problem, Cummings?” Xandar growled.

“Your Highness.” Cummings bowed. “Should I send security to deal with this she-wolf?” As if on purpose, he said it so loudly that half the hall turned in their direction. Alpha Juan stood, his body shielding his mate as his dark eyes bore into Cummings’.

Xandar growled furiously, obliging Cummings and the two behind him to bow. He said in a clear tone, “These people are my guests. I will deal with you before you have a chance to deal with anyone without basis.”

“But your Highness, she accused you of being a traitor!” He argued, and Sasha gasped in mock surprise from behind.

“Did you partake in our conversation? DID YOU HEAR WHAT WE WERE TALKING ABOUT?” Everyone finched at the King’s outburst.

“N-no, your Highness.”

“Then how would you know the context in which we were speaking?”

Cummings shook visibly as Xandar announced, “For clarification’s sake, our conversation trailed around humour. What your Defence Minister just heard was simply a joke. If he didn’t manage to decipher that, I must say that I’m worried about allowing him to continue being the one to protect my people.”

Murmurs filled the room as everyone started throwing disapproving looks at the minister. Cummings bowed lower and uttered, “A thousand apologies, your Highness. It won’t happen again. I misunderstood. I apologize for my mistake.”

Xandar glanced at Lucianne, whose eyes of displeasure were fixed on Cummings before he looked back at his minister and said loudly, “Don’t apologize to me. Apologize to Luna Hale, the wolf you’ve wronged.”

There were audible gasps, even Sasha’s, which was genuine this time but their King was unperturbed. Since Lycans were the more superior species, it was completely unheard of for a Lycan to respect a wolf, let alone apologize to one. Cummings raised his head only slightly. He was about to say something but when he saw the King’s murderous eyes, he faced Luna Hale and gritted his teeth as he uttered, “Please forgive me, Luna Gale.”

“It’s ‘Hale’, minister.” Lucianne’s irritated voice echoed in the space between them as she remained seated.

“Pardon me?” Cummings asked, surprised by the remark from a tiny wolf whom he did not recall ever meeting. He arrived late the previous night so he didn’t know who she was.

Alpha Juan then said darkly, “It’s Hale, with an ‘H’.”

Cummings was getting agitated until Xandar’s cold voice rang through his ears, “How can you call yourself a Lycan if you can’t even hear a name correctly, Cummings?”

Cummings aborted his plan to retort the wolves, and bowed in their direction as he said, “My apologies, Luna Hale. I misunderstood and misspoke. I hope you’ll forgive me.”

Luna Hale glanced over Cummings with disdain before she locked eyes with Xandar, and stood up with poise and grace as she said in her Luna voice, “Thank you for clarifying the situation, your Highness. Otherwise, there would be a severe misunderstanding among our species that may take too much time to mend.”

“I can assure you that that won’t happen on my watch, Luna Hale.” he smiled, and he looked around the hall as he said, “Everyone else, as you were.”

Cummings and the two behind him turned and walked away, towards the buffet table. Alpha Juan, who was still standing, thrusted out his hand and thanked Xandar for resolving the confrontation. Xandar shook his hand graciously as he said, “You need not thank me. Right now, I’m embarrassed to even admit that he is one of my ministers.”

When they both resumed their seats, Lucianne turned to him with her bright eyes and whispered, “Thank you, Xandar. Really.”

The shine in her eyes and her adorable smile ignited a fire in Xandar’s heart. He leaned over to whisper in her ear, “Don’t thank me, Lucianne. It was the right thing to do.” He took advantage of their proximity and pecked a kiss on her cheek, sending a visible blush to it, and he chuckled at how her body responded to his gesture.

They continued their meal. Then, Cummings came around the table with the two who followed him. Xandar was speaking to Alpha Juan but when he noticed Lucianne’s eyes wandered to the side, he turned to see the minister standing before them sheepishly. “Forgive our intrusion, your Highness. May we sit with you? Perhaps we’ll take this opportunity to make amends for my poor behavior earlier.”

The King smirked. “That’s not for me to decide, I’m afraid.” He looked at Alpha Juan and said, “Alpha Juan, the discretion is yours and your Luna’s. I have no qualms even if the minister’s presence is refused.”

Alpha Juan’s gaze turned gentle when he asked his Luna, “What do you think, baby?”

Xandar envied how sweet the couple before him was. He could only hope that he’ll be allowed to call Lucianne his ‘baby’ soon. He hadn’t even begun calling her ‘Lucy’ yet. He didn’t mind taking it slow, so long as she was comfortable.

They were clearly mind-linking until Luna Hale smiled meekly and said, “Perhaps we should take this opportunity to make amends.”

“Thank you, Luna Hale.” Cummings said, and dropped into the seat next to Alpha Juan.

“Lucianne?” A deep voice came from behind her.

Lucianne turned around, and when she saw who it was, she stood without a smile and greeted the Lycan, “Sebastian Cummings, it’s a pleasure to see you again.”

Sebastian looked uneasy as he trembled over his words, “Uhh... it’s good to see you, too. H—How have you been? You look beautiful, by the way.”

Xandar was practically shooting daggers with his eyes at the man who was talking to his mate with such yearning. He only managed to control himself because he saw how uninterested Lucianne was.

She responded in a flat tone, “I’ve been doing well, thank you. If you can excuse me, I would like to finish my meal now.”

Before she could turn back around to sit and resume eating, Sebastian exclaimed, “No! Lucianne, wait!” He was about to reach for her arm but her agility enabled her to step back before he caught hold of it.

Xandar leaped out of his seat, and growled as he stood in front of Lucianne, shielding her from Sebastian. The word ‘mine’ was at the tip of Xandar’s tongue but he didn’t want to take that choice from Lucianne. He remembered the previous night when she was reluctant to consider being with him for the rest of her life. He didn’t want her to feel like she was coerced to give in to the mate bond.

“Your Highness, I—” Sebastian looked startled. He peeped at the indifferent Lucianne before bowing to the King and said, “I apologize.”

He then moved to sit in between his sister, Sasha, and his father. Sasha was sitting right next to Xandar. She wore a backless bright red dress showing a lot of cleavage. In Lucianne’s head, she was rolling her eyes. ‘What some females would do to get the attention of the opposite sex’, she thought.

“So, Lucianne, what have you been up to since last year?” Sebastian asked as he poked into the food on his plate, breaking the awkward silence at the table.

Xandar tensed up but next to him, Lucianne shrugged as she avoided Sebastian’s soft gaze and responded, “The usual. Training. Fighting. Teaching.”

Sasha started speaking animatedly, “Oh, it must be awful to have to learn all of that! It takes away so much energy and time!”

Lucianne blinked at Sasha’s comment, and cocked her head to one side as she said, “I can’t think of a better way to spend my time and energy but I do acknowledge that everyone has a different set of priorities.” Xandar smiled at his mate’s diplomatic response.

“Oh yeah. I know about that. Being the daughter of the Defense Minister, I can’t really escape the importance of combat. But given the choice, I’d rather settle down with a mate and have his babies, not having to worry about safety and all of those things.”

Lucianne smiled flatly in her way. “Not having to worry about safety is a viable priority, I suppose.” Alpha Juan covered his mouth to hide his smile. He and his mate had known Lucianne for so long that they could recognise her sarcasm from a mile away.

In fact, Sasha was the only one at the table who seemed oblivious about it as she continued, “I know, right? And I must say, you are so brave to sit next to our King! I mean, most wolves I know would shun away from Lycans, and for what? I don’t know. But here you are, next to the strongest Lycan. Don’t you feel small?”

Before Lucianne could speak, Xandar asked coldly, “Why should she feel that way?”

Her eyes brightened when she met Xandar’s cold ones as she chuckled lightly before explaining, “Well, your Highness. Not to brag but we are a superior species so...”

“Superiority in size and strength is no match for a superiority in character.” Xandar said.

“Oh, such wise words from our King.” She laughed coquettishly. Lucianne sipped her water as she wondered whether she could escape this unwanted exchange. In the end, she only hoped that her Alpha and Luna would not leave her alone with the Lycans.

Luna Hale seemed to have read her mind as she mind-linked, 'Don’t worry, Lucy. We’ll be here as long as you need us.'

'Thank you, Luna.'

Sasha then leaned in a way to show her cleavage as she asked “So, what have you been up to, your Highness?”

“Work.” He replied flatly as he looked at the wall ahead and sipped his drink.

“Oh, you work so hard for us. It almost makes me feel bad as one of your subjects. What do you do for rest?”

“Sleep.” He said equally uninterestedly, and Lucianne almost snorted at his emotionless response.

“Hmm…” Sasha then whispered, “Want some company for tonight?”

Lucianne bit her lip and intertwined her fingers as she hid her hands on her lap, under the table to cope with the familiar feelings of rejection before Xandar said, “No, I don’t. And even if I do, it won’t be with you.” Despite his firm tone, Lucianne still felt uncomfortable. Xandar noticed this, and it made his animal whimper to see their mate sad.

With pain in his eyes, he leaned towards her, and was about to say something when Sebastian asked Lucianne, “Would you like to take a stroll in the park later, Lucianne? The Irrelises are in full bloom this time of year. It’s a beautiful scene.”

“No, thank you, Mr Cummings. I’ve seen them.”

He seemed defeated but persisted to speak to Lucianne, “Would you like to sit with us during the ceremony later this morning?”

“No, thank you. I’ll be sitting with Alpha Juan and Luna Hale.”

“We can make room for a few more. Our seats are nearer to the front so you would all have a better view of the stage.” Sebastian offered with a small smile.

Xandar then said, “You need not worry about their view. I have invited Lucianne and her pack leaders to sit with me at the front row. They were about to respond to my invitation before your father showed up at our table.” Of course, this was a lie.

Disregarding the three Cummings’ stunned looks, Xandar’s eyes softened with tenderness when he turned to Lucianne and asked with a charming smile, “What do you say, Lucianne? Would you join me at the ceremony?”

She managed a small smile and nodded slightly as she uttered, “Sure, Xandar.”

“What did you just call his Highness?!” Sasha hissed in anger.

Xandar glared at her and said, “It’s my name. Do we have a problem, Ms Cummings?”

“Since when were we allowed to address royals by their name so casually? Especially a King! As one of your closer associates, your Highness, it is my duty to advise you…”

“You are in no position to advise me.” Xandar’s cold voice cut Sasha off before she finished speaking.

Ignoring Sasha, Xandar turned to Alpha Juan and said, “I hope you and Luna Hale can join us?”

“It would be our honour, your Highness.” Alpha Juan accepted graciously.

Minister Alfred Cummings then started looking at Lucianne with interest. “Young lady, I don’t believe we’ve met.”

Lucianne responded without missing a beat, “We have met, minister. We met three years ago at the defense meeting in New York when we revised the laws to mediate with the hunters. Two years ago, I asked you about the rumours circulating among packs about rogue Lycans, to which you responded by asking me to worry about my own species instead. And last year, I was introduced to you again by Sebastian Cummings at this event. When I asked which packs were the most vulnerable to rogue attacks at that time, you asked me to go around the hall on my own to find out which of them may need our help.”

Alfred Cummings glanced uneasily at Xandar, whose face was getting darker with each of Lucianne’s statements. He cleared his throat before he said, “Perhaps you have mistaken me for someone else, miss. I don’t think…”

“My Gamma is not mistaken, minister. I was in attendance as well.” Alpha Juan confirmed Lucianne’s account of the events with confidence.

Alfred Cummings opened his mouth but he could argue further, his son spoke meekly from his side, “Dad, you have met her. She’s not mistaken.”

Alfred’s displeasure was evident with his son’s express statement. His son could’ve just mind-linked him but he chose to embarrass his father before the King and some pesky wolves instead. Alfred forced a smile and addressed Lucianne, “Well then, I must apologize for not remembering you. Old age does not serve the memory, I’m afraid.”

Xandar’s eyebrows were furrowed with disgust as he spoke, “How could you give such an answer to our people?”

Seemingly unperturbed, Alfred said, “Your Highness, in my defense, I meet many people daily so…”

“That wasn’t what I meant.” Xandar spat, “Excuse my language but why the he*l did you ask our subjects to worry about their own species? Do you think they would be safe if Lycans went rogue? Do you think they were just asking to bad-mouth Lycans, and not because they are concerned for their packs’ safety? And the thing about asking them to find out which packs needed help by themselves!” He shook his head, “Honestly, Cummings. Why would we need you?”

The King sighed in frustration as he ran his fingers through his hair. His animal wanted to be released to tear the old man into pieces. His bright purple eyes were turning onyx. He was on the verge of losing his cool. Then, a small hand reached for his clenched fist that was on his lap under the table. It sent a trail of sparks into his body, and when his onyx eyes met Lucianne’s comforting black orbs, she mouthed ‘calm down’. She started stroking his fist with her thumb to soothe his animal and him.

His animal purred under her touch, and he let his fist loosen and unfold. Their mate bond calmed his simmering anger. Holding onto Lucianne’s hand gently, he pondered in silence for a moment before his low voice rang around the table, “Cummings, I’m giving you one more chance in the name of my late father, who trusted you to the bone when he was alive. Take your job seriously or you can forget about holding this position any longer than you already have.”

“I will do my best to make amends and serve our people, your Highness.” Alfred said as he restrained himself from glaring at the members of the Blue Crescent Pack.

Lucianne retracted her hand and stood. Xandar’s eyes shot up at her retreating figure, feeling the loss of skin contact with his mate. His animal was already whimpering inside his head. Before he could say anything, she looked at him and said, “The ceremony starts in fifteen minutes. I need to use the restroom first. Hope you don’t mind that I excuse myself now?”

Luna Hale exclaimed, “Oh gosh! I didn’t realise the time! I need to use it as well!” Alpha Juan stood from his seat after checking his watch.

Xandar followed suit, and gazed dreamily at Lucianne as he said softly, “I’ll wait for you in the front row. Don’t take too long.”

“Okay.” She returned his smile, and turned to the Cummings family as she said, “It has been...interesting to speak to three of you. Please allow us to excuse ourselves.” She left with her pack leaders before any of the Cummings could speak.

Xandar wouldn’t have minded if she had left without a word to the three of them. In fact, he would have been quite happy if she had ignored them after the incompetence Alfred Cummings showed. But her sarcasm when she used the word ‘interesting’ made his lips curl upward. ‘Thank you, Moon Goddess’, he thought.

He didn’t spare any of the Cummings a glance as he walked out from the other way, and entered the auditorium at the end of the hall. He greeted his ministers on the way to his seat, and the King sat right in the middle of the front row. As he waited for Lucianne to return, he reminisced the pleasure he felt when her hand touched his. He didn’t expect her to make a move. But he was close to instability at that moment and if she hadn’t calmed him down, he may have shifted in the middle of the dining hall.

When Lucianne exited the restroom, she came face-to-face with Sebastian Cummings.