Second Chance for the Barren Luna (Talia and Jason) novel Chapter 79

Talia’s POV

The infirmary walls had begun to feel like a cage. For days I had been watched over by doctors, healers, and the occasional guard, while my father and Solon remained consumed by the endless wave of visiting Alphas. Due to the altercation with Jason, the doctor had changed his diagnosis and ordered me to remain in the infirmary for a few more days. Because of that, I was missing everything.

Silverfang had become crowded overnight. High-ranking wolves from nearly every pack had arrived, each bringing gifts, entourages, and the heavy weight of politics. My father received them in the great hall, Solon shadowed him constantly, and I was left behind, expected to recover quietly.

The truth was that I already felt fine. The soreness from my collapse had faded, the dizziness passed. The only thing missing was my wolf, and even that silence had become something I tried not to dwell on. I longed for movement, for training, for the rhythm of sparring to ground me. Staying in bed only made me restless.

Della visited often, sometimes carrying gossip, sometimes with nothing but a grin and a plate of food. She was my only company when the corridors outside filled with footsteps and laughter from the delegations. If not for her, I might have clawed my way out of the hospital out of sheer boredom.

On the morning of the day before the Hunting Rite, Solon came to see me. “You have clearance to leave today.”

My heart leapt. “Really?”

“Yes. But do not push yourself,” he warned. “Remember what the doctor said: light activity. If anything happens, you get Della to get me or let Della handle it.”

“Okay, you don’t have to worry about me,” I agreed.

“Tonight, I will host a gathering for the young Alphas. A chance for them to relax before the Hunting Rite.”

Della practically squealed. “Finally! A party worth dressing up for. You’re coming with me, Talia.”

I hesitated. I did want to leave the infirmary; however, that didn’t mean I wanted to go to a party full of Alphas. I already knew Della would be trying to hook me up with one of them all night and I was not in the mood for any additional chaos.

“If Father approves, I will help,” I said.

“He already approved,” Solon said with a bright smile.

By evening, Silverfang’s great hall was alive with music and laughter. Solon stood at the front, giving a short welcome speech. His voice was calm but commanding respect. When he finished, he shook a few hands and left, giving the younger Alphas freedom to enjoy themselves.

The mood changed right away. Wolves from different packs mixed together. The music changed to more lively music that drew them to the dance floor. However, I wish I had left with Solon.

I stood near the bar, tugging self-consciously at the hem of my dress. Della had insisted I wear it. It was a camisole-style slip of black silk that felt far too revealing. I had fought against wearing it until I had no choice. Della had taken and hidden all my dresses.

“This is ridiculous,” I muttered, running a finger along the edge of my glass. “I feel exposed.”

Della laughed, tossing her curls back. “That is the point. You need a mate, Talia. You can’t be in heat every full moon. So, I’m saving you from yourself.”

I glared at her. “This is your idea of saving me?”

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