Second Chance for the Barren Luna (Talia and Jason) novel Chapter 46

Talia’s POV

Dinner was quiet at first, until Father cleared his throat and looked across the table. “The elders near the southern border sent word today,” he said. “The residents speak highly of your governance, Talia. They are pleased with how you’ve been handling the rogue problem. They said your classification system is working.”

I paused, caught off guard by the praise. “I am happy to hear that.”

Solon looked at me with raised brows, clearly surprised as well. “You deviated from the original protocol?”

I nodded and answered, “I thought the procedures we currently had in place were too rigid. Not all rogues are the same. Some were forced out due to territory disputes or abandoned by their packs. They don’t deserve to be hunted like animals. Last week, a mother and her daughter crossed into one of our villages. They were just looking for food, not a fight.”

My father leaned back, watching me thoughtfully.

“I instructed the warriors to remain firm with violent rogues,” I continued. “But if someone is helpless or simply trying to survive, they should be given a chance. We have enough resources to protect our people and show mercy.”

Father gave a pleased grunt. “Good. About time someone in this family used judgment over brute force.” He raised a brow at Solon. “You could learn a thing or two from your sister.”

Solon smiled and said, “That’s why it is good we will rule together. She will cover the gaps that I missed.”

Father nodded again. I wasn’t used to being spoken of as a future leader. It surprised me how much it meant to be acknowledged.

“Speaking of appearances,” Solon added carefully, “Jason’s wedding ceremony is still scheduled for next week.”

“And why should I care about that?” Father asked.

“He sent the invitation formally,” Solon continued, removing the invitation from his pocket and placing it on the table. “The ceremony’s going forward.”

Father’s expression darkened. “I will not be attending. I won’t celebrate the man who foolishly rejected my daughter for some harlot. What Jason does is none of my business.”

“True, but as Alpha King, you have to attend,” Solon argued.

“No, I do not. But you and Talia will,” Father said.

I choked on my water. “What?”

“I will be stepping down soon, and you and Solon will be taking over. This is the perfect opportunity to show a unified front,” my father explained.

“I don’t want to go,” I said firmly. I wanted nothing to do with Jason or Viki. I was sure Viki had something planned to try to frame me. I didn’t want to be caught in their drama again.

“You will. You’ll go as the Princess of Silverfang, not the omega they thought you are. Jason, and the rest of the packs, need to understand exactly what he gave up.”

I looked at Solon for support, but he shrugged. “We’ll stay just long enough for the ceremony. Fifteen minutes, tops. I promise.”

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