From Rejected Mate to Luna (Julia White) novel Chapter 15

Chapter 15

Julia’s POV

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You look happy tonight, Julia,” my father remarked with a gentle smile as we need through the Spring Valley community center. Im glad I brought you Why don’t you enjoy yourself? Have a drink if youd like.”

I nodded, returning his smile genuinely as we mingled with the guests. What strk me immediately was how different Spring Valley Pack felt compared to

Stay Shadow. The atmosphere seemed lighter, less focused on strict hierarchies. When Matthew stood on the small stage during part of the ceremony. I noticed his Beta, James, standing nearby with relaxed confidence rather than the exaggerated deference that would have been expected in our pack.

“This is nice, I admitted to my father quietly. “Their pack feels… different.”

‘I thought you might appreciate that,” my father replied, his eyes crinkling withderstanding. “Spring Valley has always had its own way of doing things

I wandered aimlessly around the reception area after the formal ceremony ended Matthew had stepped down from the stage and disappeared into the crowd before I could get a better look at him. My eyes scanning the room hopefully each time someone tall walked by. I was embarrassed to admit, even to myself, that I was looking for another glimpse of Matthew Collins–the Alpha who had stod up for me against Nathan at the university.

“Julia!” My father’s voice pulled me from my thoughts. Come here, sweetheart.”

I moved toward where my father stood with a silver–haired man, both laughing about something. They seemed to be old friends, reminiscing about college days and regional sports leagues.

“Julia, I’d like you to meet Edward Parker, former Beta of the Spring Valley Pack, my father said, placing a hand on my shoulder. “Edward, this is my oldest

daughter. Julia.”

“Pleasure to meet you, sir,” I said, extending my hand.

Edward grasped it warmly, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “Please, call me Edward or Mr. Parker. ‘Sir‘ makes me feel ancient.” He laughed, the scent of

whiskey evident on his breath.

“Julia’s a freshman at State University,” my father added, a hint of pride in his vee that caught me off guard. “She’s preparing for the scholarship exam.”

“Is she now?” Edward said, eyebrows raised with interest.

I shifted uncomfortably at my father’s tone. He made it sound like I’d already won the scholarship rather than just preparing for the exam. The subtle pride

in his voice felt foreign and awkward after years of disappointment.

Edward swayed slightly, his glass of whiskey sloshing dangerously close to the rim He’d clearly had too much to drink. And how are you finding the program, young lady?”

“I enjoy if very much,” I answered politely. “The faculty is excellent.”

The scholarship exam, Edward said thoughtfully, taking another sip of his drink You know, that s Matthew’s pet project. He personally oversees the whole process. He leaned in conspiratorially, his voice dropping. “Smart girl like you, studying so hard…. I’m sure our Alpha wouldnt mind giving you some potance. Point you in the right direction, you know? These things can be tricky you don’t know what to focus on

I felt my face flush “That’s very kind, Mr. Parker, but I don’t think

Nonsense Edward waved his hand dismissively Matthews around here some re Let me introduce your properly A few pointers from the man who writes the questions himself couldn t hurt, right?

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Chapter 15

My father nodded encouragingly beside me “That’s very generous of you. Edward

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I wanted to protest, to explain that I didn’t need special treatment or shortcuts put the words caught in my throat. Part of me a part I wasn t entirely proud of–was curious to see Matthew again, to speak with him beyond our brincounters. My heart rate increased traitorously at the thought..