From Rejected Mate to Luna (Julia White) novel Chapter 232

Chapter 232

Julia’s POV

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Matthew turned, quickly ending his phone call. His eyes widened slightly–caught, but not exactly guilty. More like a child whose surprise

gift had been discovered early.

“Hey, beautiful. Good shower?” He slipped the phone into his pocket and crossed the plush hotel suite to kiss my forehead. The gesture

was tender, but I noticed he hadn’t answered my question.

“Matthew,” I pressed, “what ceremony were you talking about?”

He sighed, running his hand through his hair–a gesture I’d come to recognize as his tell when he felt cornered. “It was supposed to be a

surprise for when we got back to Spring Valley.”

I moved to the bed, sinking into its cloud–like comfort. My body ached from hours of dancing and socializing at the international gathering. As exhilarating as the night had been, I was mentally and physically drained from navigating wolf politics and remembering

dozens of new names.

“What kind of surprise?” I asked, trying to keep my tone light despite the wariness creeping up my spine.

Matthew sat beside me, the mattress dipping under his weight. “I was arranging a Luna ritual. A formal introduction of you as my mate to the entire pack. His eyes brightened with excitement. “James has been helping coordinate everything–the community center decorated with moonflowers, a special dinner, gifts from the council members…”

My heart sank even as I forced a smile. Another formal event. More eyes watching, evaluating, judging. More pressure to be perfect. The

thought alone made my skin feel tight.

“That sounds… elaborate,” I managed, focusing on the way the Parisian moonlight cast shadows across the carpet.

Through our bond, I felt Matthew’s enthusiasm dim as he sensed my reaction. “You don’t seem thrilled.”

“It’s not that,” I said quickly, guilt flooding me. “It’s very thoughtful of you.”

“But?” He tilted his head, studying my face in that penetrating way that made me feel transparent.

I hesitated, torn between honesty and not wanting to hurt him. “I just…” I trailed off, unsure how to express my feelings without seeming

ungrateful.

Matthew took my hand, his thumb brushing over my knuckles. “Talk to me, Julia. What’s going on in that beautiful mind?”

The gentle encouragement in his voice broke through my hesitation. “I’m exhausted, Matthew,” I admitted, the words tumbling out. “Being

a Luna have been amazing, but also overwhelming. Constantly meeting new people, being watched, trying to remember proper protocol…”

I gestured toward the door, indicating the formal event we’d just left. “Tonight alone took everything I had.”

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Chapter 232

Matthew nodded slowly, listening.

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“The thought of returning home to another formal ceremony, another performance…” I shook my head. “I’m not rejecting the role or you. I just need time to breathe, to settle into our life together before being put on display again.”

Rather than disappointment, I felt understanding ripple through our bond. Matthew shifted closer, wrapping his arm around my

shoulders.

“I didn’t think of it that way,” he said quietly. “I was so focused on honoring you publicly that I didn’t consider how it would feel for you.”

“I know your intentions were good,” I said, leaning into his warmth. “And I appreciate that you wanted to celebrate our bond. I just…”

“Want to do it on your own terms,” he finished for me. “At your own pace.”

Relief washed over me. “Yes. Exactly that.”

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“I can call James tomorrow and cancel the arrangements,” he said, his voice light but sincere. “The pack will understand.”

I looked up at him, searching for any trace of disappointment. “Are you sure? I know traditions are important to you.”

Matthew’s lips curved into a gentle smile. “You’re more important than any tradition.” He kissed my temple. “Besides, there’s no rule that says we have to have a formal ceremony. Many Alphas do, but it’s not required.”

“Really?” I asked, surprised. “I thought it was some sacred ritual.”

He chuckled. “Hardly. It’s mostly an excuse for the pack to throw a party and bring gifts. And for me to show you off. His expression turned more serious. “But we can introduce you to the pack gradually, let them get to know the amazing woman I fell in love with at your

own pace.

I felt tension I hadn’t even realized I was carrying melt from my shoulders. “Thank you for understanding.”

“Of course. His fingers combed through my damp hair. “Though James might be disappointed. He was looking forward to escaping some Beta duties to plan the party.”

I laughed, the sound lighter than I expected. “Poor James. Tell him his wife and little cub will probably appreciate having him around

more instead.

Matthew’s phone chimed with a text. He glanced at it and snorted. “Speak of the devil. James wants to know if we need special wine for

the ceremony.”

“What are you going to tell him?” I asked.

Matthew typed a quick response. “That plans have changed, and he gets to have his weekend back.”

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