Chapter 35: Perfectly Imperfect
1098 Words
Jo's Point of View
"I. Am. A. Monster," declared the eerie creature before me.
"Yes, you are. However, to some extent, we all possess that quality," I murmured, maintaining eye contact with his glowing orbs.
"Do you not fear me, Luna Jo?" inquired the sinister beast with hostility.
"I do. But, I also have faith in my friend, who is a part of you, knowing he will keep me safe from harm," I responded with a newfound courage. Every word I spoke was sincere and delivered with unwavering certainty.
A tear streamed down the creature's cheek, and Eyrx returned to his human form before us. I let go of Wesley's hand and hurried to hug my friend. I probably should have been bothered that he was naked, but let's be honest, I'm mated and marked to Alpha Felix Stone, who has ruined me for any other man. It was fine.
"You... you stayed and embraced me..." Eyrx cried while in my arms.
This is truly heartbreaking to witness, Rica whispered.
Try to imagine feeling that way, I replied sadly.
We need to ensure the pack accepts him. He possesses a gentle soul despite the hidden creature within, Rica stated firmly.
"Son, you're a valued member of our pack, and we genuinely care about you. I hope that one day you'll truly sense belonging within the Dark Moon pack," Wesley expressed.
"I trust you'll protect our Luna tomorrow and ensure the safe passage of Argus and the other two operatives through the magical barrier. Please forgive any doubts I may have had," Wesley gently reassured Eyrx.
Wesley embraced Eyrx and me with open arms. I wished that, like me, Eyrx would eventually see Wesley as a father figure.
"Son, go get your clothes and let's return to the Dark Moon pack to share with Alpha Felix, Beta Jacob, and Gamma Damian what we've planned. I believe what you and Luna Jo have planned will work. However, I want Alpha Felix, Aralia, and I to be near both of you on the other side of the magical barrier to assist if needed," Wesley said.
Eyrx returned to the secluded part of the forest where he had transformed earlier. While he was away, Wesley and I had a quiet conversation. We were aware that Eyrx could potentially hear us, although we doubted he was listening at that moment.
"Selene mentioned something about aerial surveillance. Could Rogue, Seraphina, and Adrian collaborate on creating a system to notify us if we are being observed from above and eliminate the threat?" I inquired.
"I believe they can come up with a solution. The Byte Club remains a strong team, even with just the three. Their strength will increase once Argus joins them," Wesley reassured me.
"I will connect with Gamma Damian to inform the others that we must meet with Rogue. Aralia insisted that Seraphina and Eyrx should not meet just yet," Wesley mentioned.
I pondered Wesley's words. Did Aralia know about Seraphina's involvement with both men? This situation could become quite complicated, especially since Eyrx was her adopted son.
"I believe we should postpone the Luna Ceremony until we have a clearer understanding of the Collective," I shared with Wesley.
"What is Alpha Felix's opinion on this?" Wesley inquired.
"I haven't informed him yet," I answered. "Or, Clara. I'm dreading telling her."
Wesley burst into hearty laughter and wiped tears from his eyes.
Wesley smiled, “Are you more nervous about informing the Beta's mate than the Alpha about postponing the event everyone has been preparing for?”
I nodded in agreement. Clara was the one I was most apprehensive about. She was like a bridezilla but even more intense. Clara wasn't even the one becoming the Luna!
"Jo, lurking danger will always be part of our existence. Living in a world that doesn't fully understand or accept us, we have skilled warriors and contingency plans for any potential attacks during this event," Wesley responded, wearing a gentle smile.
"Shouldn't I be included in these plans?" I asked, hands on my hips, displeased about being left out.
"Yes, plans can always be adjusted as necessary. These plans will require modifications with new pack members and considering Eyrx and Aralia. However, it would be best if you didn't halt your life due to worries about the unknown. Let the pack celebrate their Alpha's commitment to his Luna and the upcoming pups. You excel in your role and will improve as you become more comfortable and confident. I was truly impressed by the Warrior Luna I stood beside a moment ago," Wesley added proudly.
I blushed at his kind words and confidence in me.
Pft, you are too modest. We are amazing, Rica huffed.
Jo, Eyrx is taking a long time. Do you think something is wrong? my wolf inquired.
"Eyrx, is everything okay?" I called but didn't receive a response.
Wesley and I exchanged worried looks. We walked over to the secluded spot, and Eyrx was nowhere to be found.
"He must have heard us talking. I'll link Aralia to let her know, and she will need to speak with him," Wesley sighed.
"Did we jeopardize the mission?" I panicked.
"No, but I think Aralia needs to explain to Eyrx why she hesitates to have her son near Seraphina. That conversation needs to be held between mother and son," Wesley explained.
His eyes glazed over as he linked with Aralia. Wesley looked agitated and started walking quickly toward Eyrx's home with me following closely behind.
"She doesn't want to have this conversation, but Aralia will. I am going there to ensure it takes place. Would you like to accompany me, or shall I escort you back to the packhouse first?" Wesley proposed.
"I'll go. If this has affected Eyrx as much as it seems, we should be there for him. It's evident that he still doesn't feel fully accepted for who he is," I responded.
"Before getting too upset with your mate, remember that Aralia single-handedly raised Eyrx and taught him how to control the monster within. Thanks to her guidance, Eyrx is kind, loving, and generous. Keep this in mind when you talk to her," I stated firmly.
Wesley paused, his expression shifting from shock to realization. He agreed quietly, acknowledging my point.
"There might be a reason known to Aralia why Seraphina is not ready to meet Eyrx. We will uncover this mystery together and provide Eyrx unwavering support," I assured.
"That is what families do. We are family in every meaningful sense," I concluded with a smile.
- Writer
