***Piper POV***
"For my Gamma, I choose Piper Grant."
My breath caught in my throat.
"Did he just-" I started to think before Lily cut me off
'Get to the platform!' she barked
I gathered myself and made my way to the platform. Taking the seat next to Alex, I found myself feeling sad. I was sure Steve was going to choose Nick. But that little show he just did with Luna Angel just secured my position. Did I even deserve this?
'Stop doubting us.' Lily spoke up
"Lily, I know that is Nick hadn't just messed it up and drunkenly kissed the Luna, he'd be sitting in this chair.' I sighed sadly
'That's besides the point. We are more than capable'
'I don't want to be someone's second choice. I don't think Steve has faith in us.'
'Then we'll just have to make him a believer, won't we?' Lily said more confidently than she'd ever said anything
'Can we?' I asked still unsure
'Piper, the Moon Goddess makes no mistakes. And I will never lie to you. Trust me.' she coaxed
'I do, Lily. I just wish I was as confident as you are.' I smile
I knew I was capable of doing the job. I was literally born to do it. But being the runner up who wins by disqualification is sort of blow to my confidence. I knew I would have to work harder than any Gamma before me just to prove myself.
Steven finished speaking and Alpha Jason returned to the podium. By that time Luna Angel was standing next to his side, silently beaming.
"All three of these young wolves" Alex and I stood up "Will immediately begin their respective trainings. Steven with me, Alex with Garret, Piper with Spencer. Each must learn how to be effective leaders. From this moment on, they are no longer just your Alpha, Beta, and Gamma by birth. They are now by rank as well. These are our future leaders, consider their words as if they were coming from Spencer, Garret, or myself."
"Yes, Alpha"
"Good. Now let's get back to enjoying the party. I have to have a word with a young Nicholas Clark." he cut his eyes over at Nick
***Unknown POV***
Before I could even think to go to Prince Henry, I had to find my sister. Not only was she my younger sister, but she was also my best friend. And I couldn't leave her upset. As Princesses we are always taught to save face in public. Not to be weak or emotional. But, I knew her better than anyone and she was hurting. And although it was our father's doing. It was my fault.
"Hey, Aubrie" I gently call out as I knock on her door
No answer.
"Aubrie, I know you're in your room. I know you're upset. I'm so sorry. Please talk to me." I began to fight back my own tears
I could hear her sniffles through the door.
"Aubrie, you're not just my sister whom I love dearly. You are my best friend, you know I would never intentionally hurt you. Father is just doing what he thinks best for our kingdom-" I take a quick look around to make sure there were no prying ears before continuing "However, I think he is quite misled. Anyone with a speck on intelligence can clearly see that it is you who feels affectionate towards Prince Henry."
I heard her stifle a giggle. That's my girl.
"And more importantly, I can see that he feels the same about you."
I stop talking. I held my breath, waiting to see how she would respond. After a few moments her door slowly opened.
"You think so, Lizzie?" she asked
"I know so. Even knowing I was the Crown Princess, he was dismissive of me when I intruded on your earlier conversation." I said, reaching out to take her into my arms
She didn't put up a fight.
"I'm sorry I lost my composure. Even though I'd only just met him, I really like him." she sighed
"True love is like that sometimes. I won't be one to stand in it's way. We'll figure this out. We always do." I smiled at her
"How do you supposed we go against a direct decree from father?"
My smile faded.
"I honestly do not know. But, we will stall until we do." I plastered on my best Princess face "Let's get back to the party for now. We'll figure out the details later."
She nodded. Aubriella rushed back in her room to compose herself before returning to the hall.
"I'm ready." she regained her posture
Winking at her, we fell in step. When we got back to the party, we immediately found Prince Henry.
"Prince Henry." I called out cautiously
"Princess. Is there a need to be so formal? We are engaged after all." his eyes never left Aubriella
"Yes. This is all still very new to me..." I pause, looking between the two of them "Henry, why don't we go somewhere a little more quiet to talk?"
"I'd like that." he replied
"Wonderful. Aubriella?" I finally get her attention "Would you mind chaperoning the two of us while we go for a walk?"
Her eyebrows shot up as she caught on to what I was trying to do. It's not very Princess-like, but I gave my sister a wink. I knew the perfect place to get away to, where no one would disturb us. They deserved the chance to talk to each other, and the three of us would figure it out together. I would not come in between their love.
"I'll do whatever it takes to get out of this and make Aubrie happy," I thought as the two of them talked quietly among themselves