From Rejected Mate to Luna (Julia White) novel Chapter 149

Chapter 149

“I can do that.” Her voice strengthened. “Julia? Thanks for not… you know. Treating me like I’m stupid.”

Tears pricked at my eyes. “You were never stupid, Sophia. I’m sorry I didn’t see what was happening sooner.”

Three days later, the extraction plan went into motion. Matthew had created an impressive facade of a photography workshop, complete with official invitations to several talented teenagers from three neighboring packs. Sophia’s name was simply one among many.

I watched anxiously through a secure video feed as James arrived at the White family home in an SUV marked with Spring Valley’s logo and “Youth Arts

Initiative” on the side. He wore a polo shirt with the same branding, looking every bit the program coordinator.

My breath caught when I spotted Nathan’s black Mercedes parked across the street. He was there, watching.

“Matthew,” I whispered, though he was miles away in the Spring Valley security center. “Nathan’s at the house.”

Through our connected earpieces, Matthew’s voice was calm. “We anticipated this possibility. James knows what to do.”

On screen, James approached the front door confidently, carrying a folder of materials. Mom answered, welcoming him inside. Minutes stretched like hours as I waited, imagining the conversation happening inside.

Finally, the door opened. Sophia emerged, camera bag over her shoulder, wheeling a small suitcase. Mom followed, carrying another bag. James took the

luggage, chatting animatedly about the program as they walked to the SUV.

My eyes darted to Nathan’s car. The driver’s door opened, and he stepped out, his posture rigid with authority. He started walking toward them.

“Matthew-” I began, panic rising.

‘I see him, Matthew answered tensely. “Backup is ninety seconds out.”

On screen, James spotted Nathan approaching. Without missing a beat, he turned and extended his hand in greeting, his body language open and professional. I couldn’t hear the exchange, but I could see James offering Nathan the program brochure, pointing to various pages as he spoke.

Nathan’s body language was stiff, suspicious. He glanced at Sophia, who was carefully maintaining an expression of excited anticipation. Mom stood besidde her, one hand protectively on Sophia’s shoulder.

James continued his enthusiastic pitch, finally handing Nathan a business card–presumably Matthew’s contact information for any concerns. After what seemed an eternity, Nathan nodded curtly and stepped back, allowing them to proceed to the vehicle.

I didn’t breathe until the SUV pulled away from the curb, Sophia safely inside.

“They’re clear,” Matthew confirmed in my ear. “Nathan’s returning to his car. He’s not following.*

Relief washed through me so powerfully I had to sit down. “Thank you,” I whispered, not caring it he could hear the tears in my voice.

That night, I video–called Sophia in her temporary quarters at Spring Valley. Her face filled the screen, looking more relaxed than I’d seen in months,

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2:31 pm

Chapter 149

This place is amazing,” she gushed. “The mountains, the forests–I’ve already taken over three hundred photos.

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