Mated To My Mate's Worst Enemy (ARIA) novel Chapter 190

Chapter 190

ARIA

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Finished

The word ‘convenient” stung. Because it was accurate. Our bond had been convenient. Mutually beneficial. A transaction that served both our needs without necessarily involving any deeper connection or choice.

“It was mutually beneficial,” I admitted, unable to lie to beings who could sense deception. “I gained freedom and safety. He gained release from his curse. Whether that constitutes adequate foundation for Luna and Alpha partnership-I suppose that’s what you’re here to assess.”

“Indeed,” Mooris agreed. “Tell us, Luna Aria-what do you believe makes someone suitable for the position of Luna? What qualities or contributions do you think are essential?”

It was a trap. I could feel it. Because whatever I said, it would be measured against what Ivory had demonstrated. And I would inevitably fall short.

“Leadership,” I said carefully. “The ability to support the Alpha while also maintaining independent authority. Connection to pack members-understanding their needs, mediating disputes, fostering community. Dedication to pack welfare above personal interests. And specific skills or knowledge that benefit the pack as a whole.”

“And which of those do you possess?” Kalicus asked bluntly.

“I’m working on all of them,” I said, hearing how inadequate that sounded even as the words left my mouth. “I’ve been settling disputes successfully. I’ve been learning pack dynamics and building relationships with members. I’ve been supporting Kael’s leadership while trying to establish my own authority. But I know I’m not… I’m not exceptional at any of it. I’m adequate. Competent. Still learning.”

“Adequate,” Bridget repeated, the word hanging in the air like judgment. “You describe yourself as adequate. Not exceptional. Not particularly skilled. Just… adequatel

“Yes,” I said, because what else could I say? Lying to beings who could sense deception was pointless. “I’m not a prodigy. I don’t have divine blessings or extraordinary abilities. I’m just a wolf trying her best to fulfill responsibilities that fell to her through circumstance rather than merit.”

The elders exchanged glances. Having silent conversations I couldn’t interpret. Sharing assessments that would determine my fate, Kael’s fate, the fate of our bond and our positions within this pack.

“Tell me about Healer Ivory,” Aryada said suddenly, her gentle voice somehow making the question feel even more pointed. “What is your relationship with her How do you view her role in this pack?”

My chest tightened. This was it. The comparison I’d been dreading. The inevitable measuring of me against the standard they’d set eight years ago when they’d blessed her.

“She’s brilliant,” I said honestly. “Extraordinary in ways can’t fully comprehend. Her medical knowledge, her innovations, her dedication to this pack-they’re invaluable. Irreplaceable. Everyone knows it. Everyone respects and values her contributions.”

“And how do you feel about that?” Aryada pressed. “About her being so valued? So exceptional?”

“I’m grateful,” I said, which was partially true. “The pack benefits enormously from her work. Lives are saved because of her skills. Innovations happen because of her brilliance. That’s good for everyone.”

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20:53 Wed, Jan 7

Chapter 190

“But?” Lunaris prompted, clearly sensing the unspoken complexity beneath my words.

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Finished

I took a breath. Decided that honesty-painful, humiliating honesty-was my only option with beings who could sense lies.

“But it’s hard,” I admitted. “It’s hard being Luna when there’s someone in the pack who everyone remembers as the one who should have held this position. Who was blessed by you. Who saved Elder Aryada’s life. Who commands respect and admiration in ways I never will. It’s hard knowing I’m replacement for someone better. That I’m only here because circumstances made bonding with me convenient rather than because anyone actually chose me for this role.”

The silence that followed my confession was deafening. I’d just admitted my deepest insecurity to beings who had the power to remove me from my position. Had essentially confirmed that I believed I was inadequate. That I wasn’t suitable for the role I held.

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