Emily's POV
After breakfast in Liam's office
"Good morning, everyone," Liam said, standing up to address the group. "I'm glad you could all make it. We have an important announcement to discuss."
Our parents' former alpha and Luna, nodded in agreement. Dad's rugged features and commanding presence reminded me of his authoritative past. Luna, his mate, and mum sat next to him, her calm demeanour a soothing presence. Gamma Mason. Beta Lucas and his new mate, who would now hold the position of beta female, exchanged a glance, their bond still fresh and full of promise hopefully for them.
Liam began to explain, "I received a message from the kingdom of werewolves. They're hosting a grand ball to welcome all Alpha's and their pack leaders. It's a huge opportunity for us to strengthen our alliances and make new connections. Unfortunately, it also means we'll have to stay for a week or so to attend meetings aimed at uncovering the traitor Alpha who's been working with the rogues."
Aria's mental voice cut in, "Traitor? That's great, just what we need. More drama."
I mentally shot back, "Aria, be quiet and listen. This is important."
Liam continued, "As discussed with my Father, he'll take charge of the pack temporarily until I return. Beta Lucas and beta female will attend, and Gamma Mason has agreed to join us as well."
I nodded my head, trying to process the information. Aria chimed in, "Great, just what we need. More excitement."
My mental voice replied, "Shh, Aria, we need to think about the pack's well-being. We can't let our personal feelings get in the way."
Liam's eyes locked onto mine, his gaze filled with a deep sense of gratitude. "Emily, I know I've yet to meet my mate, and I've been blessed to have you helping me out by taking on the Luna's role when needed. I'd like to ask you to attend the ball as well, representing the pack."
I forced a smile, hiding my true feelings. "Of course, Liam, I'd be honoured to attend."
Aria growled mentally, "Just great, you're stuck with those two for a week or more. Wonderful."
"Hey, Aria, calm down," I replied. "We need to think of the pack's interests. We can't let our personal feelings get in the way."
Aria's mental voice shot back, "Personal feelings? Are you not also the one who's been hurt, Emily. I'll deal with them when the time comes."
Liam finished his speech, and we discussed the details. Aria started to stir once more, her mental voice a low rumble. "I don't think this is a good idea, can we not fake sick and stay home?"
I replied patiently, "Aria, I know you're hurting, and so am I. But we have to think about the pack. We're helping Liam make important connections, and maybe we can find some answers while we're there."
Aria's mental voice turned icy. "Brother Liam doesn't know about us. He does not know what Ashley has done. And Beta Lucas can fall into a hole for all I care."
I shot back, "Aria, be fair. We have to think about the pack's well-being, not just our own feelings."
Aria's mental voice turned venomous. "Fair? Ha! You're always so focused on being fair, Emily. Let me deal with them, and I'll show them what's fair."
With that, Aria's mental presence grew distant, and I was left with a feeling of unease.
Liam finished discussing the details and announced our departure date. "We'll be leaving on Thursday morning. We have a long drive ahead of us, so let's make sure to get a good rest."
Aria's mental voice cut back in, "Great, just what I needed. More time stuck in a car with those two."