The Alpha’s Fated Outcast: Rise Of The Moonsinger

Chapter 252 252: The night that changed everything II

Neriah

Thames left to greet the entourage escorting the Lycan Leader's son while I just stood in the crowd feeling lost.

The vibrant lights from the party flickered against the night sky, reflecting in my eyes. Laughter, clinking glasses and the endless, scattered conversation all over the place surrounded me, but I felt oddly out of place.

The music played softly in the background, creating an atmosphere of celebration, yet I couldn't shake the unfamiliar feeling that seemed to settle over me. For the first time ever, I was not in charge of anything at the party, which felt strange.

Normally, I would be directing servers, checking on the food preparation or ensuring the ceremonial aspects of the welcoming feast were properly arranged. Practically all the things my mother would have done if she was healthier.

Thereafter, I would stand with my stand to greet the arriving guest. And after that, I would continue managing the events and continue to serve everyone. But for some reason today, my father had specifically instructed me to simply attend as a guest.

"Your only duty is to be present and presentable," he had said that morning, his tone leaving no room for argument.

I shifted awkwardly, not quite sure what to do with myself. It was strange – almost unsettling – not to be needed. I tugged at the unfamiliar formal dress of my mother feeling restrictive compared to my usual practical attire. The sleeves were too long, constantly threatening to dip into whatever I might be eating or drinking and the neck was too wide showing the soft mounds of my upper breasts.

for dancing later, though now it served as a gathering area where small clusters of pack members – especially women conversed in hushed

familiar face. My usual friends were all occupied with duties. Even my sister, who would normally be my refuge in such uncomfortable social situations was holed up in the pack healers' quarters,

were and grabbed a plate. The rich aroma of the meat and baked bread filled

the food, sniffing at a few dishes, and tasting

the specially fermented honey mead

decided against it. Tonight, I needed to hold in my liquor. Whatever my father's mysterious plans were, I suspected I needed my wits about me. Sighingg, I placed the glass back down and turned my attention back

pheasant. They are particularly excellent and perfectly seasoned with juniper berries, I believe," a smooth voice spoke from behind me. "Unless, of course, you're fond of spices. Then the pheasant might

landed on a man standing just a few paces away, his presence was commanding yet still at ease. He was dressed in immaculate dark clothing – well-tailored, unlike the practical garb worn by the pack members. His dark curls framed a striking face, with a sharp jawline and piercing amber eyes that seemed to hold secrets as

almost teasing, but his posture was poised –

though I quickly masked it

"I'm sorry?" I replied.

trying." He gestured toward the

don't

the honeyed apples. Sweet, but with just the right amount of

found myself placing a few on my plate without thinking. The man