Chapter 28
THE ATMOSPHERE in the room was stifling for Serena as she could sense the underlying tension between the two men she was sitting with. Alpha Perez appeared calm next to her, while the Alpha King across from them seemed relaxed, yet there was an air of uncase surrounding them.
“I had no idea you were getting married. I’m disappointed that had to find out through a public announcement like this” Alpha King James said, glancing briefly at Perez. While he was aware that a woman had been brought into his pack, he never expected it to become anything serious. “Have you guys developed feelings during the war?”
“From what I can remember you are married to the youngest son of Lauver.” His eyes shifted to Serena, making her feel uneasy. She couldn’t quite put her finger on it, but something about the King didn’t sit right with her.
He appeared friendly, yet there was an underlying feeling of danger. At that moment, he knew the king was not to be trusted. His two–faced and cunning nature was just like her sisters.
“We got divorced, Alpha King. He mated with my sister while I was in the midst of a war, and it nearly cost me my life. Thankfully, Perez was there to save me.” Serena explained as she put her hand above her alpha, making sure she would call him by his name only to show the King how genuine their relationship was
“After coming back home. I discovered that my sister was carrying my mate’s child, which is why I ended our relationship She continued speaking, feeling Alpha Perez lacing their fingers together in a comforting gesture as she recounted the
memories.
The Alpha King hummed thoughtfully and ran his hand over his chin, his gaze shifting to their intertwined hands before he responded.
“I understand now; it’s a terrible situation and it explains why you don’t seem to have a good relationship with your family.” he commented, recalling their disruptive behavior at the banquet earlier. It didn’t sit well with him, but he decided to let it go for now because his main objective was to win Serena over to his side.
The way Perez’s face lit up whenever he was around her was a clear indication to the Alpha King that he was truly in love with Serena. The way he would touch her hand or lean in close to whisper in her car earlier showed a level of tenderness not often seen in him.
This relationship was far from a mere facade to appease the Alpha King and convince him to stop his search for a mate. Despite his frustration at not being able to plant a spy inside the Blood Moon pack, the Alpha King couldn’t deny that Serena held some sway over Perez. Her presence seemed to soften him, making her his perfect weakness.
“I’m grateful that the Moon Goddess brought you and Perez together. It must have been destiny!” King James spoke jovially as he took a sip of wine from his glass, “You see, Perez has always been like a son to me. I used to worry that he would never find love, so I am relieved to know that he will finally be getting married.”
Despite the smile on Alpha Perez’s face, a dark feeling of disgust churned in his stomach. Hearing that he was like a son to the Alpha King was insulting, especially knowing he just saw him as nothing but a threat to his power. It reminded him too much of how King James saw his late father–a threat.
The memories of the Alpha King’s cruel actions towards his father resurfaced, reminding Perez of the true reason for his murder. His father had posed a threat to the throne, not only because of his beloved reputation among the people for his kindness and bravery but also because he possessed intelligence and strength far beyond that of the current king.
“Perez. The sound of Serena’s voice snapped Alpha Perez out of his thoughts. He blinked and shifted his gaze towards her. “The Alpha King’s asking you a question.”
Ah, sorry. My mind was elsewhere…” he said, then turned towards the King, who smiled warmly at him.
“It’s fine, I’m just asking when you guys are planning to marry.”
We haven’t set a specific date yet since we haven’t begun planning, but I hope to tie the knot with her as soon as possible.”
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Alpha Perez’s simile warso genuine that it only strengthened the King’s belief that Serena held some sway over him. With
his in mind, his new mission was clear to gain Serena’s support and loyalty.
“You’re going to invite me, right?” He let out a soft chuckle and Alpha Perez gave a nod of understanding. Even though he didn’t want his father’s murder to be present at his wedding, it was necessary to invite the King. Showing his hatred could raise suspicion that he was aware that he was involved in his father’s death.
If that Alpha King were discovered, he would undoubtedly he killed before he could do anything.
“Of course, My King Alpha Perez responded, and the discussion continued until King decided to end it and made them return to the banquet to enjoy the rest of the evening.
Serena let out a sigh of relief as they exited the room, their fingers still intertwined. It was remarkable how both men managed to keep up a friendly conversation despite the underlying tension between them. She couldn’t help but notice the subtle signals, particularly the way they looked at each other. They might be smiling but it never reached their eyes.
“Are you okay?” Alpha Perez asked as they strolled down the grand hallway, on the way to the main hall where faint sounds of music and laughter could be heard echoing through the halls
“Yeah, I just felt like I can breathe more freely now.” She admitted with a light smile before taking another deep breath. “Even though we were having a friendly conversation, the King’s presence made me feel uneasy. He reminded me of Marga which was unsettling
“Well, that was because the King was two–faced like your sister.” He shrugged, causing her eyes to widen. She quickly looked around, making sure no one else had heard their conversation. Once she was certain they were alone, she turned to him and frowned.
“How can you say that out loud? What if someone hears you?”
“It’s fine, everyone knows that.” A chuckle escaped his lips as he opened the door, and they were immediately greeted by blinding lights in the expansive hall. The atmosphere was lively now compared to earlier before they left, with guests chatting amongst each other and indulging in food and wine, while others danced joyfully to the live music.
Serena was relieved to see that her family’s earlier drama didn’t affect the overall mood of the banquet. Aside from that, it seemed that they had already gone home because they no longer returned inside the hall.
“Shall we dance, too?” Alpha Perez suggested, causing Serena to snap her head towards him. She couldn’t help but smile, it had been a while since she danced, let alone in such an energetic and vibrant place.
“Sure,” She nodded, and they headed towards the dance floor. She draped her arms around his neck, and he held her waist, drawing her in closer. As they swayed to the music, any worries they had seemed to fade away as they lost themselves in each other’s arms and the simple joy of dancing together.
“Sorry about what happened at the train earlier,” Alpha Perez spoke as they swayed freely, causing Serena to look up at him, “I wasn’t upset by what you said; I just went quiet because I didn’t want to make you feel any more uncomfortable than you already did.”
“It’s fine, I’m kind of harsh with my words so, it’s understandable. She pursed her lips as she recalled his reaction when she had firmly established the boundaries of their relationship.
Thinking about it, she seemed like a heartless person. She knew it must have taken a lot for him to be honest with her, but she shut down any possibility of him trying to pursue her. Now, she was starting to feel guilty.
“I should be the one apologizing. I was so wrapped up in my own feelings that I didn’t consider whether you would be hurt by my rejection. My main focus was protecting myself, but in doing so, I neglected your feelings and acted inconsiderately Serena realized, regretting that she didn’t consider her decision more carefully before outright rejecting him.
“It’s all right, I know you were afraid of getting hurt again. I was the one being thoughtless. I came on too strong, knowing that you were still healing from your past experiences.”
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Alpha Perez spun her around gently, before pulling her in closer to him. Their faces were only inches apart, causing a blush to spread over her cheeks. He was undeniably attractive, whether from afar or up close, and she couldn’t help but be drawn in by his sex appeal, especially with his beautiful amber eyes glistening as they focused on her.
“There’s one thing you should know about me, though: I have a tendency to be stubborn and selfish.” He added, his lips curving into a smile, “Once I set a goal, nothing can stop me from achieving it.”
