The Queen Luna

Night Shade Pack

*Quil*

As my alarm blared, I knew that today marked a new beginning. I headed straight for the shower, with Alpha duties to attend to in the morning. Once I was ready, I took one last glance in the mirror before donning a gray button-down and dark gray pants. As I reached the office, I could hear voices inside and wondered who could be there without me. I cautiously pushed the door open to find my friends inside. "Why are you all in here?" I inquired. "Just wondering if you're free tonight," Bryce chimed in. "Sorry, I can't make it," I replied. "I made a commitment to change my ways." Frankly, I felt a bit claustrophobic with the guys surrounding me, so I quickly exited the office, and they followed suit.

Ashton inquired about the reason for not going out. I reminded him and the guys that

I am making changes and it is important for everyone to acknowledge and respect that.

Caleb acknowledges the statement but expresses skepticism.

I made a gesture with my eyes towards all of them.

What evidence or information do I need to provide for you to believe me?

Tony suggested making a bet.

"A bet?" I ask

Bryce expressed his agreement and suggested a bet.

What is the proposal for the bet? I am becoming increasingly frustrated as they are not leaving me alone.

Ashton challenges me by stating that it is unlikely for me to abstain from having s*x. I inquired about what was in it for me if I won? Because I am confident in my ability to win.

"If you win, we will no longer ask you to spend time with us and participate in activities," Bryce stated.

"And if I lose?"

Additionally, Bryce stated that they should continue their activities as usual and I was going to have to treat them every time we went out.

Agreed, we have a deal.

After making a bet with my friends, here comes none other than Amber, in the hallway. Though she attempts to flirt with me, I remain steadfast in my commitment to my mate and our future together. Despite Amber's advances, I ultimately take control of the situation and remove her hands from my chest.

"I'm doing this for my mate, Amber. I've asked you politely multiple times to stop interfering. This is your last warning before I involve my father, and you know how he is. I've found the next Luna for our pack, and it's important for you to respect that."

"But she's not here," Amber protested.

"She will be here soon. I have no interest in what you have to offer, and it's embarrassing that you won't listen. I've rejected your advances repeatedly."

In a fit of anger, Amber jerked her hands away from mine and placed them on her hips, gasping in frustration. Her tone was sharp as she addressed me directly, "Alpha Quil Beckett, you will pay for rejecting me." With that, she stormed off and left the rest of the guys standing there, mouths agape in shock. I tried to brush it off and gave them a small smile before making my way to the kitchen. It felt like a good idea to get some space from the group. As the Alpha, I still had duties to attend to, even in the kitchen. First things first, I started a pot of coffee and grabbed some bagels and cream cheese from the fridge.

Normally, I would have asked someone else to do this for me. However, I'm not in the office, and I don't mind doing it myself. It's strange to think about all the decisions I've made, many of which were influenced by others. I'm happy to say that I'm putting a stop to that now. I can't continue living as if I'm unstoppable. It's vital that I change my ways if I want to win Emry back. It's something I need to do, and I'm determined to make it happen. After having a meal, I go to the dining hall to get my extra laptop, which we use during pack meetings.

Encountering Amber and her two associates at the dining hall, I chose to ignore them and carried on with my tasks. After grabbing my laptop, I headed straight to the kitchen, taking a seat at the counter and opening it up. I perused through several documents and signed off on the ones I approved of, while planning to discuss any disagreements with Lowell and Alaric. These two individuals' opinions mattered most to me, aside from my parents and Emry.

*Emry*

As soon as my alarm sounded, I knew today would be unforgettable. The fact that I would be seeing Quil again after the incident made me both ecstatic and anxious. Determined to make a good impression, I opted for a business casual look, complete with a skirt. I was giving an Alpha a second chance, and I wanted to make sure I looked the part of a professional. While I couldn't change the past, I could certainly influence the future. Quickly, I dressed myself in a light grey dress blouse and a black pencil skirt. For the sake of comfort, I decided to wear flats instead of heels. After a speedy shower and a quick shave of my legs, I got dressed, brushed my teeth and hair, and chose to leave my hair down in the same style as the night before.

After checking my outfit out and feeling satisfied with the way I looked, I went downstairs to the kitchen for some coffee. Upon arrival, my parents were already there enjoying their own cups.

My mother asked me about my evening, and I answered her with ,"I found the food more than good, thanks for asking."

My father asked me about my plans for the day.

I have not yet informed them about Quil, and the opportune moment may be now.

"Father, I will be going to see my mate."

My parents gazed at me with a mixture of joy and puzzlement.

My mom questioned me like she was confused. “You have found your mate?”.

"I have, and today I plan on visiting him."

Dad asks me who the lucky guy is. I said to him, “His name is Alpha Quil Beckett.”

"My mother exclaimed, 'An Alpha!'"

"I responded with 'yes, mom' and giggled."

My father stated in a low tone that he hadn't heard many positive things about him.

"I understand that he has a negative reputation, dad. However, I intend to do this the right way. I would like to establish a friendship first and foremost. “

My father stated, "That is my daughter."

My mother asked if I planned to bring any guards, expressing concern.

"I have arranged to have two guards come with me and will not be using my bike, so one of them will have to drive me to and from his pack," I informed my mother.

My father asked, "Do you know where you're going? And that's a good idea, love."

I have not yet found that information and need to search for it.

My father inquires about the location I will be at and offers to provide directions if he has been there before.

“He holds the position of Alpha in the NightShade Pack,” I told him.

"Hmmm" is the sound that came from my father as he puts his finger on his chin trying to remember.

“Have you ever been there before dad?” I was curious about his answer.

“I visited that place in the past, but I think I can still recall the way. I'll inform the guards that you're departing and provide them with the directions.” My father assures me.

Expressing gratitude, I thanked my father and told him I loved him.

My mother requested that I link her once I arrive. And I eased her mind by agreeing to do that for her. Then I asked my father to contact two guards and share with them the directions to Quil’s pack as I went and grabbed my bag.

I was unsure of what to bring with me. I didn't wear makeup, so no touch-ups were necessary. My only needs were a place for my phone and a hair tie. Opting for the smallest bag I owned, it's slightly larger than a clutch but can still fit a lot if necessary.

As I came down the stairs, I observed the two guards coming with me engaged in conversation with my father.

My mother approached me and embraced me.

“Take care and stay safe, my dear. When you return, I want to hear all about it.” my mother says with tears in her eyes.

"You got it, mama." I said to her, and then gave her another hug,

After receiving a kiss on my cheek and yet another hug, I proceeded towards my father and the guards. When they were ready to go, I turned on my heels and made my way out the front door.

Two guards, Jason and Cam'ron, both 20 years old, were with me. They were my father's best guards and warriors. I trusted them with my life. We got into their SUV and relaxed. Cam'ron had found his mate, Rosy, last week. Jason hadn't found his mate yet, but he had been training more and broke his personal record yesterday. I was excited for both of them and asked them to keep me updated.

As the ride grew quiet, I took in the scenery when a message popped up on my phone. It was from Chris, thanking me for the previous night and calling me an amazing friend. I brushed it off, telling him there was no need to thank me and that I was just happy he was happy. Chris assured me that he was, and I jokingly warned him to treat his significant other like a queen or face my wrath. He promised he would, and we ended the conversation, wishing each other a great day and promising to catch up later.

As I glanced at my phone's clock, I realized that we'd been driving for almost half an hour. "Jason, how much longer until we reach his pack?" I asked.

"About 20 more minutes," he responded.

"Great. When we get to the border, I'll handle the talking," I said, addressing Cam'ron and Jason.

I reached out to my friend Malia to update her on my decision to visit Quil's pack. I wanted to talk to him about his reaction to my rejection and see if we could work on a friendship. Malia was supportive of my decision and even had some exciting news to share with me. We made plans to hang out the next day, but kept the time flexible. I also asked about Elle’s relationship with Chris, and she assured me that everything was fine and they were just enjoying their time together. We ended the conversation looking forward to our plans for the next day.

As I finished my conversation with Malia, our car came to a slow stop and four guards approached us. Unfortunately, one of them was extremely rude to Cam'ron and Jason. I quickly linked them and reminded them to stay quiet. After the guards finished bombarding us with questions, I rolled down my window and motioned for one of them to come closer.

"What's your name, guard?" I asked, letting my daughter of an Alpha power show.

Jasper introduced himself to me. However, the focus quickly shifted as I, Emry Whitlock, identified myself as the daughter of the Alpha of the Whispering Moon pack and the mate of Alpha Quil Beckett. I instructed Jasper to open the gates so we could pass and I could speak with Quil.

Two of the guards did not believe me. To prove them wrong, I exited the SUV and approached them while holding my cell phone. I had done research beforehand and obtained the phone number for the Alpha of the pack from my father. Every Alpha has a means of contacting others, whether it be a direct line, a link, mail, or in-person.

I dialed the number my Father gave me into my cell. It started ringing. The guards snickered about me going after him for the title. They didn't believe I was his mate or their Luna. I'll prove them wrong. I didn't use my Alpha, Luna tone. The phone stopped ringing. Someone answered.

In the midst of the border entrance, I let my voice ring out, "Well, hello there my Alpha. Your guards are laughing at me and won't let me pass. I wanted to come see you and talk with you." The line went silent as Quil processed the shock of hearing my voice and the news that I was standing on his pack border.

The guards suddenly became alert and one of them went to open the gate after receiving a link from Quil.

“We apologize sincerely, Luna. Please forgive us.” the guards said together in unison.

I remained silent and returned to the car. Since my window was still open, I spoke.

“While forgiveness is being granted this time, please understand that this situation should not reoccur. Or next time there will be punishments.”

They all spoke simultaneously.

"Yes Luna"

After rolling my window back up and watching the pack border gates open, laughter ensued amongst Jason, Cam'ron, and myself.

Jason stated, "I am surprised by your actions, Emry."

I explained to them that in certain situations, it can be necessary to assert oneself and make clear one's identity.

Cam'ron acknowledged, "You successfully demonstrated your abilities."

We arrived at the pack house and saw an older woman waiting for us in the driveway. She was beautiful with gray hair and a few wrinkles on her face. Her dress was dark green with gems at the bottom and short sleeves on top. It was modest and looked good on her. Jason opened my car door.

Because we are at another pack, I was given special treatment because I am the daughter of an Alpha. This was a show of respect. The only time I receive such attention is when visiting other packs. Otherwise, I prefer to remain as Emry without all the focus. On this particular occasion, a woman approached and placed her hands on my face.

You have a lovely appearance, my dear.

Thank you for your help. May I ask for your name, please?

Kira Beckett introduced herself as the former Luna of the pack. Her son informed her of my presence on her packlands. She came down to meet me before Quil did. . "I prefer to be called Kira instead of my formal name, Emry. We will be family, so there is no need for formality." Kira says to me as she places her hands on my face with her eyes full of love for me.

"Thank you for your kindness, Kira." I said to her and hugged her briefly.

Quil and his father are currently in their office. Would you like to join me for some tea while you wait?

"Tea sounds nice." I said to her.

Jason, Cam'ron and myself follow Kira into the house. She leads us into this amazing kitchen. It's even bigger than the one in my pack house. The kitchen was light green with gray appliances, and a dark green and gray countertop.

She led us over to a small kitchen table and she motioned for me to sit down.

"Would you gentlemen like some tea or coffee?" she asked Jason and Cam’ron.

"No Luna, thank you though." Jason answered, for both of them.

After I took my seat, she headed over to the tea pot and added water to it and put it on the stove.

"What kind of tea would you like, dear? We literally have every tea you can think of." She stated as she opened cabinet door after cabinet door, showing off her very impressive tea collection.

May I ask for a cup of chamomile tea, if you have it?” I answered Kira, who was very quick at getting a chamomile tea bag out for me.

"How do you take your tea love?" she asked.

I would like some milk and two sugars in my tea, please and, thank you.

"Coming right up." Kira said very joyfully, and went right to making my cup for me.

She made tea and asked me questions about my life. She was curious about my friends, interests, goals, pack, and parents. I didn't mind answering. As the future Luna, I understood her need to know me. We talked for 20 minutes before I heard footsteps. My heart raced with excitement, but then I saw her and felt slightly disappointed.

Three individuals, including Amber, entered the kitchen. Upon noticing my presence, Amber abruptly stopped.

.

She altered her direction and approached me directly.

"Who are you?"

Hello, my name is Emry and I am the mate of Alpha Quil.

I find it difficult to believe that you are his mate.

Kira's shout of "That's enough Amber!" surprised me, as she appeared calm and non-aggressive.

Can you clarify what you're talking about, Kira?

"First off, how many times have I told you that I am Luna Kira and, yes, this young lady right here is Quil's mate! He sent me down here to attend to her until he was done with his father." Kira shouts at Amber using her Luna tone.

Amber's face dropped and she stormed off. I knew that as soon as the Luna stood up for me.I knew Amber had now become my enemy. I also knew that this slut was going to be trouble. However, I knew myself pretty well. So I knew that it wouldn't be easy for her to get to me. I'll continue to kill her with niceness and then when I snap at her it will be well deserved.

"I apologize, but she has shown a strong interest in my son for an extended period of time." Kira says, looking at me with hope in her eyes that Amber has driven me away.

“There's no need to apologize for her behavior. She's upset because she won't get to be Luna. I can understand why she feels that way, but it doesn't bother me personally.” I tell Kira and she starts to laugh and looks right at me.

I heard another set of footsteps approaching. Moon prompted me to jump around and whine in my mind.

"That is our mate!, Em."

Moon expressed her nerves were going nuts, and I now can also sense our mate's presence. "I'm feeling nervous too, Moon," I admitted.

Moon encouraged me to stay strong, and I thanked her. Just then, Quil and his father entered the kitchen. Leikos introduced himself as Quil's father and the past Alpha of their pack. I greeted him warmly, and he offered that Quil was free to speak with me.

Can we go somewhere and talk? I have something to share. I said to Quil, trying not to show too much emotion in my face.

“I can offer to talk in my office or we can walk and talk outside in the garden, whichever you prefer.” he says with a very bright smile.

“After being in the car for an hour, I believe taking a walk would be more beneficial.” I said to him and he agreed.

I shook my head at Jason and Cam'ron, indicating they should stay behind. I needed to speak with Quil about us. The conversation was private, and I didn't want anyone else to hear.

Quil guides me to the garden through the house. He opens the back door, and I step outside. Quil follows and shuts the door behind us. It's just the two of us now. Quil stands next to me.

“There are two possible routes we could take. One goes by the pond and the other goes by the flowers.” Quil states and gives me the option to choose our path.

"Can we do both?" I asked, because why the hell not right? And he agreed to do whatever I was up to doing! That did not sound like the Quil I spoke to at The Liquid Meadow the other night. However, I like this Quil much better.

I accepted eagerly to do both as I wanted and faced Quil. We made eye contact and I felt the bond between us, though weakened by my rejection. Today, I hoped to take back that rejection and start anew. I stood up, smoothed my skirt, and approached Quil. He remained steadfast and I placed my hand on his arm.