Falling in love with my Ex's Alpha Chapter 42

***Kaiden***

The sun sets over the horizon, casting an ethereal glow upon the sacred gathering spot as I stood before my pack in the heart of the dense forest.

My heart is pounding with a mix of excitement and trepidation. The time had come for me to reveal my Luna to my pack members.

I had a conversation with Jayson and Chad yesterday. They both advised me to tell the whole pack that I chose Katie to be my Luna.

When they said that, I immediately freaked out, but since our last training session, everyone was already curious to know about our relationship. So, there wasn't much of an alternative.

We are now in a place nestled amidst ancient trees where ceremonies and sacred announcements usually take place.

In the center of the sacred place stood an intricately carved stone altar, weathered by time and etched with ancient symbols. As the sun descended, the sky transformed into a breathtaking canvas of vibrant colors.

Amidst the serenity and natural splendor, the pack members found their places, their eyes fixed upon me. They stood in a semi-circle, their silhouettes bathed in the warm hues of the setting sun. The stillness of the forest accentuated the weight of the moment, each breath imbued with anticipation and the unspoken promise of unity.

The mesmerizing beauty of the sunset mirrored the intensity of the emotions of my pack members. I can feel how much they are anxious for me to start talking. They know that if they are here, it is because it is an important announcement.

As I faced them, with a deep breath, I mustered the courage to address them. My voice resonated with authority as I began, "I stand before you today to share the news. Many of you are wondering what my relationship with Katherine Wright is." I looked at her, she had fear and concern in her eyes. I wanted to calm her down, but I tried to stay firm.

"Katie, come here," I commanded, and she obeyed me, accompanied by Jason.

She walked over and stood next to me, along with Jason. Chad was already on my side.

Silence settled over the gathered werewolves as they absorbed the weight of my words. I could sense the mix of surprise, curiosity, and fear that hung in the air. I continued, my voice steady, "I want to announce to all of you that she is my mate. She is now the Luna of the Diamond Claw."

Everyone gasped and was stunned by my revelation. I could feel that they were shocked. I could see how surprised they were that I found my mate and, most importantly, that she was human. I share that same sentiment with them.

I decided to tell them that she is my mate and not my chosen mate. I can't lie about it to my pack, I can make up some excuse to Katie because she'll never know, but I couldn't come in front of everyone in a sacred place and say that she's my chosen mate and not my true mate.

Katie was taken aback, but she quickly covered it up. I felt pride emanating from Jason and sadness from Chad.

I paused, my eyes scanning their faces. The anticipation weighed heavily upon me, but I remained resolute.

As the words lingered in the air, I watched the reactions ripple through them. They exchanged shocked glances. Among them, I saw flickers of happiness and hints of acceptance, which made me extremely confused.

Suddenly, a voice broke the silence — a seasoned werewolf elder known for his wisdom.

"Alpha, you have no idea how happy I am that you found your mate. I know Katie, you couldn't have had a better mate. She is a gift to you from the moon goddess. We stand with you, ready to embrace her as one of our own."

The elder's words unleashed a wave of acceptance and understanding throughout the pack. Cheers erupted, accompanied by heartfelt words of support and encouragement.

I am dumbfounded. How come they accepted her so easily?

Why aren't they rejecting her?

She is a fucking human, for goddess's sake! They know she's human, don't they?

I didn't expect this reaction from them, I figured I would have to convince them to accept it and not that they would celebrate like that.

What did she fucking do for them? They shouldn't have that reaction.

Some of them seemed to already know her, which made me even more surprised. Not to mention that they not only know her but seem to like her a lot.

I tried not to show my confusion amid their cheering.

Then, a voice broke through the enthusiasm. It was my Beta, one of the most respected members of my pack, who stepped forward with a steady gaze and an understanding smile. "Alpha," Jason began, "I can finally truly fulfill my duty as a Beta," he bowed his head to me and knelt before Katie, his eyes filled with unwavering loyalty. With a determined voice, he said, "I am ready to pledge my unwavering loyalty and commitment. I swear upon my life and the honor that flows through my veins, I shall protect you with every breath I take until my last."

Katie seemed touched by his devotion to her. She placed a hand on his strong shoulder. Her voice carried regal authority and gratitude as she replied to him, "I am humbled by your pledge and the depth of your commitment. Your unwavering oath resonates deep within my heart. I accept your pledge and hold it as a sacred bond between us. Know that your bravery and loyalty will forever be cherished."

Their eyes locked, a shared understanding passing between them. At that moment, As we are in a sacred place, a sacred bond formed between the Luna and the Beta, transcending the boundaries of duty and honor.

I marveled at Katie's words. I didn't know she could be so steady and graceful. It seems she was born to be Luna, even if I reject our bond, it seems to be her fate to be Luna wherever she goes because everyone accepted her without a second thought, and she passes an aura of Luna regardless of being human.

I was confused by this whole situation. What the fuck is going on here? It was all very unexpected for Katie and my pack's reaction. I hadn't thought much about what this announcement would be, but I hadn't imagined it would be so sacred. The air in the place seemed pure. Everything around looked majestic and seemed to agree with the announcement.

One by one, they voiced their support and their acceptance.

I accepted the contract to pretend that she is my mate.

I'd need to act like I cared. Any Alpha would be happy to find his mate.

I need to act as if it didn't anger me.

Filled with conviction, I held my mate's tiny hand. Her soft hand almost got lost in my calloused hand, she's so delicate and small. Her hand calmed me down, and I felt a sense of being in the right place.

I might not have to fake it at all.