Kamrynn's POV
No matter how much I tried to convince myself that I didn't care, I lingered around the Alpha's office, hoping to read the air when they came out, to know what might have transpired.
The meeting between the two Alpha families finally concluded and when both Alphas came out of the office exchanging handshakes with smiles on their faces, I already knew what to expect. I didn't even get time to dwell on it before Alpha Orion called for a broader assembly. The news had to be shared with everyone in the palace, and preparations for the announcement were swiftly underway.
By the time we all filed into the Grand Hall, the atmosphere was buzzing with anticipation. The Alphas and Lunas were seated in the front row, their positions elevated above the rest of us who stood. The grandeur of the hall, with its towering windows and glittering chandeliers, seemed even more imposing with the weight of the news that was about to be revealed.
I lingered near the back, blending into the crowd of palace staff and visiting Pack members. My palms were clammy, my heart pounding in my chest despite already knowing what the Alpha was about to say.
Alpha Orion stood from his chair, his presence commanding as he stepped forward to address the room. His deep, resonant voice immediately silenced the murmurs.
"Thank you all for coming," he began, his tone firm yet inviting. "For those of you who were not present earlier, there has been a significant development in the lives of two young individuals among us." He paused, his gaze sweeping the gathered crowd. "Kyven and Thalia have discovered that they are fated mates."
The room erupted into cheers and applause. The thunderous noise bounced off the walls, but I barely heard it. My hands clenched the fabric of my dress, my knuckles whitening as I tried to steady my breathing. You knew this was coming. Why does it still feel like this?
Orion raised a hand, and the applause died down. He continued, his voice carrying a note of pride, "After careful discussion between both families, and hearing from Kyven and Thalia themselves, it has been decided that they will marry."
The applause this time was deafening. People clapped and cheered, some calling out congratulations. My stomach twisted, and I swayed slightly, gripping the back of a nearby chair for balance. My mind replayed his words. Marry? Of course, it makes sense. Why wouldn't they?
"And," Alpha Orion added, his tone growing even firmer, "as per Alpha Draven's wishes, the mating ceremony will take place in one week's time."
The crowd's excitement reached a fever pitch. I stood frozen, struggling to process what I had just heard. One week? My thoughts spiraled. Why so soon? My eyes darted to the front, catching a glimpse of Rmonica. Her smile seemed strained, the corners of her mouth tight in a way that didn't quite reach her eyes.
"Congratulations to Kyven and Thalia," Alpha Orion declared, gesturing toward the pair.
Kyven looked overwhelmed but proud as he stood beside Thalia. Her radiant smile lit up her face, her posture poised and elegant. Around them, the room swarmed with well-wishers offering their congratulations.
I forced myself to look away, my heart sinking further with every cheer. Alpha Orion clapped his hands, drawing the room's attention once more.
"Tonight," he said, "we celebrate the Harvest Moon Festival, and I expect to see everyone at the bonfire. Enjoy yourselves, and let us honor the blessings of the moon goddess."
With that, the meeting was dismissed. The crowd began to disperse, chatting animatedly about the announcement and the festivities ahead. I turned to leave, eager to retreat to the quiet of my room.
"Kamrynn," Rmonica's familiar voice stopped me in my tracks.
I turned, offering a small smile. "Luna?"
"Come with me," she said gently.
I followed her back to her quarters, where she guided me to sit on the edge of her bed. Her brow furrowed as she studied me closely.
"You look pale," she said, concern lacing her tone. "Are you alright?"
I mustered my most convincing smile. "I'm fine, just a little tired."
Her expression didn't soften. She crossed her arms, a hint of sternness creeping into her voice. "Kamrynn, you've been working too hard. I know you want to help, but you need to slow down. You're pregnant. You can't keep pushing yourself like this."
"I'm fine," I insisted, though my voice wavered slightly.
Her eyes narrowed. "You always say that, but you don't look fine."
I sighed, knowing she wouldn't let it go. "I promise I'll rest after tonight. I just want to make sure everything goes smoothly for the festival."
She shook her head but smiled faintly. "You're stubborn, you know that?"
I let out a soft laugh. "So I've been told."
Her gaze softened further. "Still, take care of yourself. You're important to all of us, Kamrynn. Don't forget that."
"Thank you," I said quietly, her words easing the tightness in my chest, if only a little.
Desperate to change the subject and unable to ignore the nagging curiosity, I asked, "You didn't seem too thrilled during Alpha Orion's announcement. Is something bothering you?"