From Rejected Mate to Luna (Julia White) novel Chapter 169

Chapter 169

Julia’s POV

I took a deep breath and began explaining a modified approach that would allow limited pack interaction while minimizing transmission risk.

“One thing we need to implement immediately is universal masking during all indoor gatherings,” I said, drawing a quick diagram on the whiteboard. “I know wolves hate anything covering their faces because it dampens scent perception, but we can use these modified designs with scent channels that still

filter air particles.”

I sketched a specialized mask design I’d developed during my final research project.

“We should also establish a weekly education program,” I continued, my confidence growing as the medical staff leaned forward with interest. ‘Every Thursday evening, we could host a ‘Pack Health Hour‘ at the community center–and stream it for those who can’t attend–covering different aspects of prevention and early symptom recognition. Information is our best weapon against panic.”.

I outlined how mindlink systems could be used for remote health monitoring, how to effectively isolate symptomatic individuals without triggering instinctual distress, and a modified medication schedule that accounted for werewolf metabolism.

When I finished, the room was silent. Sarah exchanged glances with other team members, then nodded appreciatively.

“Matthew didn’t exaggerate your capabilities,” she said. “I’d like you to work directly with me on implementing these protocols.”

Pride swelled in my chest as I nodded, catching Matthew’s approving smile from the corner of the room.

That evening, Matthew opened the door to a cabin at the edge of Spring Valley territory. “Welcome home,” he said softly, setting down my bags.

I stepped inside, taking in the rustic living room with its stone fireplace, the kitchen with herbs hanging from ceiling beams, and windows that looked out onto dense forest. On the walls hung photographs–me in my graduation gown, Matthew and I at last summer’s pack gathering, and several shots of Spring Valley landscape that Sophia had taken.

“It’s perfect,” I whispered, trailing my fingers along the wooden dining table.

Matthew came up behind me, wrapping his arms around my waist. ‘I wasn’t sure if you’d want to move in right away or-1

I silenced him with a kiss, then pulled back with a teasing smile. “Someone’s eager. Couldn’t wait another week until I’d finished all my paperwork?”

His eyes softened as he brushed a strand of hair from my face. I’ve waited over a year for you to finish your degree. I can wait as long as you need

My heart melted at his words. Matthew Collins had to be the most patient man or wolf–I’d ever known. Suphia and Jason had completed their marking ceremony barely a week after recognizing each other as mates. My little sister was now attending art school while Jason had somehow managed to get

reassigned as security chief at her university campus Meanwhile, Matthew and I still hadn’t marked each other, yet he never pushed

“You know,” I said, running my fingers along the collar of his shirt, Sophin told me Jason proposed three times before she said yes to the marking. You

haven’t even asked once.”

I’m waiting for you to be ready,’ he said simply, his thumb tracing circles on my lower back.

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11:23 am P p p p

Chapter 169

Something warm and tender unfurled in my chest. After everything with Nathan–all the pressure, the demands, the control–Matthew’s patience felt like the

greatest gift.

“This is exactly where I want to be,” I whispered, pressing my forehead against his. “With you. In our home.”

Later, as we sat on the porch swing watching moonlight filter through the trees, I voiced the concern that had been nagging at me since hearing the radio

report.

“I need to call my mom,” I said. “Find out what’s really happening at Star Shadow.”

Matthew nodded, his arm tightening around my shoulders. “What do you think we should do?

The ‘we‘ made warmth bloom in my chest. After years of fighting my battles alone, having someone genuinely beside me still felt miraculous.

“If Nathan is really ignoring the risks…” I trailed off, then straightened my spine. “We need to find a way to help them without directly challenging his authority. Maybe we could arrange for medical supplies to be delivered anonymously, or share prevention knowledge through trusted channels.”

Matthew considered this, his eyes reflecting the moonlight. Traditionally, pack boundaries are sacred, especially for Alphas. But some things transcend territory. He pressed a kiss to my temple. “If Star Shadow needs help, we’ll be there.”

“Or, we can approach this from a non–territorial angle,” a voice called from the darkness beyond the porch.

I jumped, my hand instinctively grabbing Matthew’s arm. A moment later, James stepped into view, his tall figure materializing from the shadows of the

trees.

“Sorry,” he said, noticing my startled expression. “I didn’t mean to eavesdrop.”

“How long have you been there?” I asked, heart still racing.

Matthew seemed completely unfazed. “James has standing permission to approach my home for reports anytime. He glanced at his Beta with a mixture of amusement and resignation. “Though perhaps a text warning might be appreciated in the future,”

James nodded apologetically. “Noted, Alpha. But regarding Star Shadow–we could have the mask manufacturer send Nathan a business proposal directly. Frame it as a special offer for pack leaders, maybe mention other Alphas who’ve already bought in. Makes it a commerce issue, not pack politics. Even if he

refuses, there’s no territorial challenge to respond to.”

“That’s… actually brilliant,‘ I admitted, impressed by the diplomatic workaround.

Tames didn’t become Beta just for his fighting skills, Matthew said with obvious pride. He’s saved me from many inter–pack conflicts with solutions like

this.

James grinned, leaning against the porch railing. It’s easier to help someone save lace than deal with wounded heart, especially with Alphas the shat Matthew a teasing look No offense

*Full offense taken, Matthew replied, but his smile took any sting from the words

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