Tangled

Unshift 303

Unshift 303

303 Ava: Westwood Luna

Everything moves too quickly, and before I know it, Lucas and I are standing in front of the entire pack.

All the scouts are back for the occasion. Even the humans who lived in this community before

our arrival are here.

This place was long ago chosen as a safe place in case of invasion, though I'm sure previous alphas never believed such a day would happen.

Lucas stands before the pack, his presence a palpable force that washes over the gathered crowd. I can't help but marvel at the sheer power he exudes, even without his memories. His alpha aura blankets the area, and I watch as it affects both wolves and humans alike.

The weaker members of the pack bow their heads, unable to meet his gaze; it's a stark reminder of the hierarchy that exists within wolf society. But it's the stronger wolves that catch my attention, their eyes glittering as they watch Lucas. A mix of pride and unease churns in my stomach. How many of them are eyeing his position, waiting for a moment of weakness? Lucas's voice rings out, clear and commanding. "I have found my mate, your new Luna."

The cheers that follow are halfhearted at best, a ragtag chorus that lacks true enthusiasm. My heart sinks a little. I knew this wouldn't be easy, but the lukewarm reception still stings. "Ava, Lucas says, gesturing for me to join him.

I step forward, my legs feeling like lead. As I look out over the crowd, I'm not surprised to see several faces twisted with discontent. Their disapproval is written plainly across their features, and I fight the urge to shrink back. Lucas continues, his voice steady and sure. "Ava has been working tirelessly to bring allies to our pack. She understands the threats we face and is dedicated to our survival.

I'm a mess of nerves. It's also strange to hear Lucas speak about me this way when I know

his tone taking on a note of pride that makes my heart skip, "it was Ava who brought Sister Miriam to us. As we know, her actions have

in the crowd is immediate and startling. A loud cheer erupts, catching me off guard. The sound

of the wounded, including those still in the hospital, Selene says, sounding rather proud of the vampire she once bickered

the sincerity of their reactions. Some still look doubtful, but others nod in approval. It's a small victory, but I'll take it. Lucas's voice takes on a more serious tone, and I can feel the shift in the atmosphere. "I know there have been rumors circulating about Ava

1/3

BIG Ava Westwood Luna

tall, my chin lifted. I meet their gazes head-on, refusing to cower or look away. fear. My heart

address these rumors directly," Lucas continues, his voice firm and unwavering. "Ava is no defect. She is not

Whispers start up, quickly hushed

unique," he says, his eyes scanning the faces before us. "She

on many faces. I can almost hear the questions forming

side. "I'd like to introduce you to

forward, her movements graceful and deliberate. She takes her place beside me, her presence a comforting warmth against my leg. The crowd's confusion deepens, their gazes darting between me and Selene. After all, she's

dog to

Lucas to formally bring you into the pack as Luna, Selene's voice echoes in my

my place in this pack, for better or worse. I turn to Lucas, my

Pack, I stand before you and our people. I offer myself as your Luna, to serve and protect this pack with all that I am. Will you accept me as your mate