Once inside, I took a hot shower, trying to wash away the lingering chill. Wrapped in a towel, I sat on the edge of my bed and scrolled through my social media. Tracy’s latest tweet appeared on my feed, accompanied by a picture. It showed Roan sitting beside her and her child, their faces illuminated by the warm, golden light of their room. The scene was a striking contrast to the cold rain outside, a painful reminder of the life he chose to share with them over me.
The next morning dragged on as I waited for my mate to return home. When he finally did, he launched into an explanation immediately, his voice laden with exhaustion and concern. "Tricia had a high fever all night. It wouldn't go down."
"Is everything okay now?" I asked, trying to maintain a semblance of interest. The name 'Tricia' felt foreign and unwelcome in my ears. Yet, I knew that she was Tracy's daughter.
Funny how my mate cared about another woman's child better than his mate.
He paused mid-motion, annoyance flickering across his features. "Are you being sarcastic again?" His sigh was heavy with weariness, whether genuine or feigned, I couldn't discern. "Look, I didn't sleep all night. I'm very tired."
"Then you should get some rest. I'm going for my duties." I turned away, reaching for my bag. The duties of being the Luna demanded my attention.
"Lori..." He interrupted, pulling me gently. "What is it?"
"We'll make it up for the mateship anniversary celebration next time, okay?" His attempt at reconciliation was met with a ghost of a smile from me, devoid of any real emotion. "I'm not mad."
He hugged me, but the gesture felt hollow, his promises even emptier. "There's a Wolf gathering this weekend," he murmured into my hair. "Many packs will attend. Let's go together."
The Golden Moon Pack held a prestigious position not only in Bellflower Town but also in neighboring territories. Every gathering meant socializing with other Alphas, who often sought to curry favor with Roan. Mating with him had once seemed a blessing, but as his Luna, I felt nothing but numbness. Despite my efforts, the elders and warriors of the pack still regarded me with disdain, likely viewing me as little more than a servant.
In the past, I often brought meals or medicine to Roan, even in inconvenient situations like his office. Yet, he never respected me in front of others, especially not the elders or the Omegas.