Second Chance for the Barren Luna (Talia and Jason) novel Chapter 122

Talia’s POV

I had worked hard to make sure no one noticed me tonight. I adjusted the plain apron over my maid’s uniform and joined the line of omegas standing near the kitchen doors. I lowered my head like the others. I had hoped to blend in, but unfortunately, that hope vanished the moment Solon spotted me from across the room.

He was standing beside Father, greeting guests near the entrance. When his eyes landed on me, a grin spread across his face. I shook my head slightly, warning him not to draw attention.

Jason and his father, Michael, entered soon after. Both looked smug and arrogant, which wasn't a good sign. Father greeted them warmly, clasping Michael’s hand like an old friend.

“It is always a pleasure to see you, Michael,” Father said. “Thank you for volunteering to assist with preparations.”

“Of course,” Michael replied, his tone smooth. “It is what I should do for an old friend after your unfortunate run in with rogues.”

Their conversations seemed friendly to those who were not familiar with my father and Michael, but Solon and I knew better. There was tension between them. Solon’s jaw clenched as I knew he was regretting not listening to my warning about Michael.

A few moments later, Nolan arrived. His presence commanded attention even without trying. I felt my heart skip, but I forced myself to keep my focus on the tray in my hands.

Michael turned toward him immediately. “Alpha Nolan,” he greeted. “It’s been years since I last saw you. You look just like your father. You have his cold eyes and all."

Nolan's neutral expression did not change. "I will take that as a compliment," he said evenly.

Michael chuckled before continuing. “As you should. He was a remarkable man even though he was a bit too trusting for his own good.”

I could tell from Nolan’s posture that he didn’t appreciate the remark, but he didn’t respond further.

The dinner began, and I moved quietly among the tables, refilling glasses and replacing plates. Every time I passed Solon, he looked like he was fighting not to laugh. Father was too focused on conversation to notice, thankfully.

I was halfway through pouring wine when Jason’s voice stopped me. “Well, well,” he said, leaning slightly toward me. “The maid outfit suits you.”

I forced a smile before anyone else noticed. “Thank you, Alpha Jason,” I said under my breath.

He chuckled, clearly enjoying my discomfort. “Is this your way of paying off your debt to the Alpha King? Humility looks good on you."

Before I could reply, Michael’s amused voice joined in. “Ah, former Luna, now a lowly servant, quite fitting."

I straightened carefully and gave a polite bow. “Elder Michael.”

I kept from glaring at Jason. What did he mean by that? Everyone knew that Nolan hated rogues to death because they were relevant with his father’s death.

Michael raised an eyebrow and asked, “Oh? Is that so?”

Nolan’s gaze hardened and he growled, “If you have something to say, say it now.”

Jason smiled, pretending to be innocent. “No need to be defensive, Alpha Nolan. We’re just curious. You did spend quite a lot of time outside your pack before coming here, didn’t you?”

Father frowned. He looked between him and Nolan before warning, “Jason, this is not the time for baseless accusations.”

“Not baseless,” Jason replied. “I have proof.”

All at once, I realized that Jason was setting Nolan up. This was why Michael was here. And because I had not revealed who I was yet, there was nothing I could do but let this play out.

“Proof of what exactly?” Solon asked.

“Alpha Nolan conspired with the mad rogues to poison the Alpha King.”