Alpha Nocturne's Contracted Mate

Title of the document

Ann giggled lightly, her nerves getting the better of her as loud cheers echoed through the air.

“Don’t get me wrong, I’m grateful for their excitement and the more than warm welcome, but I’ve done nothing to prove myself to them yet.” She replied with a worried smile.

“Is that really what you think?” Adam murmured quietly, “Ann, take a step back and think about it for a second. These past few months have thrown so much at you and the accusations and lies that were thrown in your direction put you under intense public scrutiny. Yet, no matter what Narcissa and Ada threw at you, you continuously emerged triumphantly with your reputation intact”

“Yes… but I couldn’t have done it without you, you know? I’ve had a lot of support..” Ann protested weakly before Adam held a hand up to stop her.

Maeve as well as I think I do, I’m sure she will tell you to stop

yourself every time you’re insecure about your abilities. You’re

at all, I just..’ Ann replied, a little taken aback

you’re going to say I want you to know that I’m not listening and I intend to ignore it anyway. Just shut the f**k up, accept it, and

you said that…’ Ann snorted in a mixture

growled. ‘I don’t understand why

sure the Elders will agree… it’s not exactly protocol…’ Maeve snorted

with me wanting to feel pretty sometimes too… and the crown is shiny… and I want to wear it…’ she pouted sullenly as Ann debated how best to respond. Luckily for Ann, she was drawn out of the bizarre conversation by a voice from behind her. “Your highness, the people have seen you now, so I think it would

her eyes met the gaze of the elder that had conducted her coronation ceremony and he smiled

be underway shortly and your presence is required

glanced backward, her concerned stare focused in the direction

Elder chuckled good-naturedly, his severe features crinkling into an expression that was not unlike one that you would expect to see

not miss out, your Highness. They will be escorted to the plaza, where food and drink has been provided for them. I promise you, their feasting and additional celebrations will last far longer than ours…” He smiled as a wicked glint crept into

before she could stop herself and froze momentarily, not sure if

time, your highness. Despite our fearsome reputation, we elders are no different than any other individual that resides within our kingdom. Apart from our current privileged positions of course… and the ever-increasing years that only add to our already ancient status… but we won’t talk about that.” He chuckled, as he gestured for

guilty as the sounds of disappointment drifted up toward them,

had been correct in her prediction of the chill that would await Ann on the balcony and she had found herself incredibly grateful for the thick cloak that chased the chill away. She pulled it tighter around her as she made her way inside