Chapter 7
8:57 pm
I stood. My wolf surged. And I ran.
Avelyn’s POV
At the Ashton Family estate, Riven Ashton was already waiting, my bags in his hand as he opened the door for me.
Their home was enormous-old blooded, ancient. Far beyond anything the Ashton pack could ever offer.
Even my father, the Alpha of the great Alpha of the Moonveil Pack, had once bowed to the Ashtons.
“This used to be my room,” Riven said, leading me inside. “I had it remodeled for you. It’s nothing special, but… I tried to make it your style.”
He looked at me gently.
“If it doesn’t feel right, I’ll find another place. Or tear it down. Just say the word.”
He nodded toward the next door. “That’s where I’m staying. If you need anything-day or night- call me.”
My eyes shimmered.
I had grown up sleeping in a servants’ room. Even when I became Luna, I was never given a space that truly felt like it belonged to me. But Riven. He had made me a sanctuary without me ever having to ask.
This is what it means to be loved, I thought.
He noticed my silence and frowned, clearly worried. “You don’t like it? I’ll have them-”
I chuckled softly, placing a hand on his chest to stop him. “I do like it. I’m just… overwhelmed. Take me upstairs?”
Relief softened his face. He smiled and guided me up.
The room walls were a soft blush rose. Handcrafted dolls from distant packs lined the shelves. A vase of lilies graced vanity. Every detail reflected me.
Even I couldn’t have imagined a room so perfect for myself.
“If you’d chosen me,” Riven said quietly, “you wouldn’t have had to suffer all this time…”
He trailed off as I turned and wrapped my arms around him.
He stilled.
“Thank you, Riven,” I whispered. “For loving me all this time. I’ll make it up to you now.”
His arms circled me gently, his wolf purring beneath his skin.
“You said it yourself,” he murmured. “In two weeks, we’re registering our mating bond.”
I nodded. “We are. But before that…, I have one request. Let’s not go public yet.”
He looked at me, surprised.
I smiled though my eyes were still wet with old pain. “Let me be just Avelyn for a little while. Not Luna. Not Alpha blood. Just… me.”
Chapter 7
8:57 pm
