My Marked Luna (Apphia and Nicholas) novel Chapter 44

**In Fragile Moments We Discover Strength Hidden In Stillness by Tao Cole Rynn**

**Chapter 44**

Apphia

“What ceremony are you talking about, Lily?”

In that moment, the princess appears as if she has been caught in a moment of wrongdoing. Her mouth opens and closes several times, but no sound escapes her lips, as if the very words have fled in fear.

“Um, for your welcome ceremony… To the pack, right, Lily?” Vicky interjects, her voice rising in pitch, almost a squeak. I squint at her, my gaze narrowing, and I give a slow, reluctant nod.

“I really don’t want a welcome party,” I murmur, my voice barely above a whisper, as if saying it too loudly might summon the event.

“Well, we should get going. The guests have arrived,” Lily insists, gently steering me out of the bedroom. She is already adorned in an exquisite white chiffon dress that flows like water around her, while Vicky sports a stylish midi dress that complements her figure. They both look stunning, like ethereal beings from a fairy tale.

As we make our way toward the ballroom, I can’t help but marvel at the grandeur surrounding us. The ballroom is a sight to behold, with two enormous chandeliers casting a warm, inviting glow over the sea of guests below. The decorations are tasteful yet minimal, allowing the soft music that fills the air to weave its magic, creating an atmosphere of elegance. Black-suited servers glide through the crowd with practiced ease, champagne bottles in hand, effortlessly refilling glasses.

“How many people are here?” I inquire, a hint of disbelief creeping into my voice. Lily had mentioned it would be an intimate gathering, but this feels more like a grand spectacle.

“About one hundred,” she replies, linking her arm with mine, her smile bright and infectious. “Mom knows how to throw a party.”

“Ready?”

I can feel the weight of the moment pressing down on me. Ready? Not in the slightest. But I nod, forcing a smile onto my face.

We begin our descent down the grand staircase, and I take a moment to observe the guests more closely. I silently thank Lily for this beautiful outfit; it makes me feel somewhat less out of place among the impeccably dressed crowd.

For the next hour, I remain by Lily’s side as she introduces me to various guests. By the time the evening ends, I know I will only remember a handful of names. Their eyes scrutinize me; some are friendly, while others carry an air of indifference. I can’t help but feel a twinge of intimidation. This is my first experience at such a lavish affair, and I feel like a fish out of water.

Standing quietly, I watch as Lily engages in animated conversation with three stunning girls. The female shifters around us are fit from their rigorous training, exuding an aura of confidence and beauty that is almost palpable.

“Ciaran, watch yourself,” Lily interjects, her voice low and dangerous, annoyance etched across her features. “And you ladies can stop throwing yourselves at him. My brother has found the woman he intends to spend the rest of his life with, and trust me, none of you can hold a candle to her.”

Gasps of horror ripple through the group. Their faces contort as if they’ve tasted something foul, and slowly, disappointment washes over them. I stare at Lily, my throat tightening, tears threatening to spill from my eyes. Blood rushes through my veins, pounding in my ears. Has Nicholas truly found someone? Is it his mate, or has he made a choice?

“Who is she?”

“Where can I find her?”

“Who are her parents?”

The three girls bombard me with questions, their frustration mounting—especially Ciaran’s. I take a deep breath, inhaling and exhaling slowly, battling the turmoil within me as a sickening feeling churns in my stomach. Why does it hurt so much that he has found someone?

Because he told you he had strong feelings for you.

He introduced you to his parents as the only woman who makes his heart race.