From Rejected Mate to Luna (Julia White) novel Chapter 175

From Rejected Mate to Luna

Chapter 175

Julia’s POV

By evening, Dad’s fever had dropped to 101.3 degrees Fahrenheit–still elevated, but a significant improvement. His breathing had eased, and his color looked better.

I sat at the kitchen table, drinking coffee and updating my treatment notes. Eric leaned against the counter, watching me.

I’ve never seen anything like it,” he said quietly. “The way you took charge. The way you knew exactly what to do.”

I shrugged. ‘It’s my job.”

“No, it’s more than that.” He sat across from me. “You’ve changed, Julia.”

“We all have.”

A comfortable silence settled between us, much easier than the tense interactions we’d had years ago.

‘It’s good to see you in action, Eric said, gesturing to my medical supplies. “All those late nights studying really paid off.”

I smiled slightly. “Spring Valley’s protocols are cutting edge. I’m glad I could bring them here when you needed them.”

“Mom’s been showing everyone your graduation photos,” he said with a half–smile. “She practically cornered Mrs. Henderson at the grocery store last week t brag about her daughter the nurse.”

“That sounds like Mom,” I said, shaking my head. “How have things been here? Really?‘

Eric’s expression sobered. “Nathan’s been… difficult. Especially since becoming Alpha. The pack’s divided–some support his leadership style, others question it privately.” He paused. “Dad’s been caught in the middle, trying to maintain order.”

I nodded, understanding the complex position my father held. “And you?”

Managing. He drummed his fingers on the table. Lisa helps. Having a mate makes everything clearer.”

Before I could respond, Dad called my name from upstairs. I rose, gathering my medical kit.

“He’s awake again,” I said. “I need to check his lungs.”

When I entered the bedroom, Dad was sitting up, looking more alert than he had all day. Mom sat beside him, holding his hand.

“The medicine is working,” he said, voice stronger,

I listened to his lungs, noting the decreased congestion. “Your body’s responding well. How’s the pain?

Manageable. His eyes studied my face with obvious pride. “Look at you. Professional, confident. Spring Valley is lucky to have you.

I smiled, adjusting his IV. “I’ve learned from some excellent mentors. Dr. Wilson has been especially helpful with my research.

“And that Alpha of yours? Dad asked, his expression knowing. ‘Matthew, right? Eric says he’s quite different from most Alphas.

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Mom leaned forward, clearly interested. “We’ve been wanting to meet him properly. Under better circumstances, of course.”

‘He is different,” I confirmed, feeling warmth spread through me at the mention of Matthew. “He leads by example, not fear. The pack respects him for this decisions, not just his position.”

“And he treats you well?” Dad asked, the protective father showing through despite his weakened state.

“Very well,” I assured him. “He’s the one who helped me arrange all these supplies. He was worried about me coming, but understood why I needed to

Mom squeezed my hand. “We’ve missed having you around, but seeing you now–confident, accomplished–it’s clear you’ve found where you belong

Something warm spread through my chest. The simple joy of family connection.

‘It’s good to be able to help,” I said honestly. “Even if the circumstances aren’t ideal.”

The next morning, Dad was stable enough for me to prepare for departure. I’d written detailed instructions for Mom on administering the remaining medications and recognizing warning signs.

“You need to stay isolated for at least three days,” I explained. “Even after symptoms improve, the virus can still spread.”

Mom nodded, clutching the papers I’d given her. “Will you come back? To check on him?”

I hesitated. ‘It’s too risky. But can arrange for supplies to be delivered through Eric.”

Julia, Mom said suddenly, “I’ve always been proud of you. Even when I didn’t show it. I hope you know that.”

Before I could respond, the front door opened downstairs. Eric appeared in the bedroom doorway, face drained of color.

“Nathan’s here,” he hissed. “He wants to check on Dad.”

My blood turned to ice. “Why?”

“Routine visit. He can’t know you’re here.”

Mom’s eyes widened with fear. “The basement,” she whispered. “Quickly.”

I grabbed my backpack, heart pounding. Eric led me to the stairs at the end of the hallway.

Stay silent,” he ordered. “I’ll get rid of him as fast as I can.”

I descended into the darkness, hearing Nathan’s voice from the front of the house. Deep, commanding, familiar in a way that still made my skin crawl.

“He hasn’t showed up for days, Nathan was saying. “As Alpha, I need to ensure my member’s health.”

“He’s resting, Eric replied, his voice carrying down the stairs. “Doctor’s orders.”

Tll just check on him briefly.”

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10:06 Fri, Apr 24 M

Chapter 175

I pressed myself against the cold concrete wall, trying to control my breathing. Footsteps moved overhead, coming closer, then receding toward my parents bedroom.

Minutes passed like hours. I heard muffled voices, then footsteps again–heading back toward the front door. Relief flooded me.

Then: “What’s that smell?”

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