The Secret Heirs of the Lycan King (Bella and scott) novel Chapter 62

**When Midnight Winds Carry Secrets Toward Worlds Yet Unknown**

The moment my feet crossed the threshold into the territory of the Silver-Mane Pack, an unsettling sensation gripped me. A heavy weight settled in my chest, constricting my breath. The further I distanced myself from Bella, the more pronounced the ache became. I could already feel the absence of her fragrance, a scent that had become my solace. I longed for the sound of her laughter, the way it danced in the air, and how the twins’ faces would light up like the dawn whenever I entered a room. Without them, I felt like a shell—hollow and devoid of purpose.

Inside me, my Lycan stirred restlessly, a tempest of emotions. It growled in frustration, urging me to turn back, to keep Bella within my sight, to safeguard her from the uncertainties that loomed ahead. I had entrusted my pack to watch over her while I was away, relying on their updates to keep me informed, each report a lifeline tethering me to her.

“Your Majesty.”

I turned at the sound of Cindy’s voice, my devoted housekeeper. She was a petite figure, her hair almost entirely white now, yet her eyes sparkled with the kindness I had known since childhood. She approached me, scrutinizing my expression before enveloping me in a warm embrace that felt like home.

“How are you?” she inquired, stepping back to gauge my response.

“I am fine, Cindy…” I replied, though the words felt hollow.

Her gaze was piercing, disbelief etched across her features, but she softened, sensing the turmoil beneath my facade. “I am glad you are here. And congratulations,” she added, her voice brightening. “We are all very happy for you.”

A frown creased my brow. “For what?”

“For your upcoming marriage to Miss Tasha,” she explained, her tone light. “She announced it to the pack the day she arrived. Everyone has been calling her Luna since then.”

A chill ran down my spine. “She announced it herself?”

“Yes,” Cindy replied, a grin spreading across her face. “She sounded so official, presenting the Elders’ letter. The others are anxious; they do not want to upset someone you have chosen. She is overseeing all the preparations and has insisted that nothing for Samhain proceeds without her approval.”

A surge of anger coursed through me. “Thank you for informing me,” I said tersely. Cindy handed me the house keys and departed, leaving me to grapple with my thoughts.

I immediately contacted Troy. “You will handle the Samhain preparations from now on! If Tasha has any objections, she can come to me directly.”

“Yes, Your Majesty,” he responded, relief evident in his voice.

That evening, I made it a point to remind Tasha of her role, but as night enveloped the cottage, my anxiety grew. I perched on the edge of my bed, my phone in hand, yearning to hear Bella’s voice. I dialed her number, but it rang unanswered. Frustration bubbled within me, and I fought the urge to hurl the device across the room. Yet, I knew her silence all too well; it was a protective barrier she had erected around herself. In her mind, I was here, allowing the Elders to dictate my fate, a future that likely did not include her. It was only logical for her to distance herself now.

My Lycan roared in anger, ‘Go to her. She should be with us.’

Frustration flared within me, and before I could think twice, I found myself outside, shedding my clothes and shifting into my Lycan form. The wildness surged through me, propelling me into the embrace of the trees. The night consumed me as I ran, needing the burn of exertion to drown out my tumultuous thoughts.

I leapt over fallen trunks, scaled steep inclines, and snapped at the low-hanging branches that dared to impede my path. After what felt like an eternity, when the sky began to lighten and my muscles screamed for respite, I turned back. I shifted back near the cottage, slipping inside to take a quick shower before collapsing into bed, exhaustion wrapping around me like a comforting shroud.

The sound of my phone jolted me awake. “Your Majesty,” Troy’s voice came through, steady and formal. “The Elders have arrived.”

“I understand,” Troy replied, his expression solemn.

The wait until the next day felt like an eternity, each minute stretching into an agonizing hour. When the time finally arrived, I dressed with a sense of urgency. Upon my arrival, I was greeted by the sight of three hills illuminated by tall torches, large fire pits stacked high with wood. Tables overflowed with roasted meats, potatoes, vegetables, fresh bread, cheeses, and the last fruits of autumn. Barrels of ale and jugs of wine lined the periphery, waiting to be enjoyed.

Families began to arrive, dressed in traditional attire. The young ones, eager and excited, clung to their parents’ hands, their energy palpable as the drums began to echo in the background. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the atmosphere shifted; young adults donned clothing that allowed for both shifting and dancing. Those who were open to claiming wore small copper bands on their wrists, signaling their readiness to choose a mate.

The mood swelled, laughter and chatter filling the air. Restless, I stood near a raised platform, where Troy offered me a small nod of encouragement. I stepped up to deliver my speech, and the pack responded with a unified howl.

“Tonight,” I began, my voice resonating with authority, “we honor Samhain. We remember those who came before us, we strengthen our bonds, and we choose with strong hearts. Pray to the moon goddess. Be proud of who you are and of the land you stand on.”

As I spoke, I sensed movement beside me. Tasha stepped up onto the podium, positioning herself close to me, her smile soft and inviting, as if she belonged there. My irritation simmered beneath the surface, yet I pressed on. Once my speech concluded, I descended to ignite the first fire pit.

Just as I was about to leave, I was intercepted by Cass and the other Elders. “Where are you going?” Hux inquired, a note of curiosity in his voice.

Tasha laughed lightly, stepping beside me. “They all want to give us a toast.”

“Yes, please get wine!” Cass chimed in cheerfully.

With a graceful nod, Tasha moved to fetch the wine, leaving me to grapple with the reality of my situation.