Freya's POV
Robert and Grace visibly relaxed upon hearing the King's words.
However, call it a hunch or just my perception, but I sensed a subtle hint in the King's tone when he said “find any justification”.
Suddenly, a realization struck me, and a slight smile tugged at the corner of my mouth. "Your Majesty, coincidentally, on this auspicious occasion, may I make an announcement?"
The king looked at me, a mix of puzzlement and anticipation in his gaze. "What is it?"
I shot a disdainful glance at Robert and the nearby Grace. "I'm pregnant!"
Robert and Grace's expressions turned incredulous. The implications were clear to everyone: the baby in my belly would be the legitimate next Alpha, even if Kingsley was truly gone. No way would someone like Robert assume that position.
"No way! You're obviously infertile!" Grace exclaimed, breathless and shocked.
"If I remember correctly, the doctor's diagnosis that day suggested my chances of conception were very slim," I said confidently, smiling at Grace. "It's not that I can't get pregnant!"
Silence fell around me. Grace's lips trembled, but no words escaped. Robert glared grimly at me and my belly.
"Freya," the King snapped, "is what you say true?"
"If it's true or not, you can have a doctor verify it. Your Majesty!" I said calmly, raising my head.
The king promptly summoned a doctor, and tension filled the hall during the examination. After some tests, the doctor nodded at the king.
I witnessed the king's cold demeanor soften for a moment.
"What a great day! The Shadowmoon Pack is about to welcome a new Alpha."
The king proclaimed loudly. There was an uproar at his words. Everyone clearly understood the true meaning behind the king's proclamation.
Grace's face turned pale for a moment. Robert's expression darkened, but soon he resumed his normal demeanor as he walked toward me with a false smile.
"Congratulations! I'm so happy for my cousin Kingsley," he exclaimed.
However, I couldn't ignore the flash of hatred and malice in his eyes. I glanced at him coldly and said, "Is that so? But that's just the beginning. I'm sure you'll feel even more 'joy' in the future."
I deliberately emphasized the word 'joy,' and Robert clearly caught my hint. His eyes flashed with murderous intent for a moment as he stared at me coldly, but he diverted his attention when the king spoke again.
"Grace, Robert, I don't want any accidents to happen until Kingsley returns, understand? This is Kingsley's first child, and I want the baby to be born safely and grow up well!"
The king's voice was serious and solemn. Grace and Robert froze for a moment, then reluctantly promised to take good care of me and the baby in my belly.
The king specifically instructed Grace and Robert to ensure there were no accidents. In other words, if anything happened to me or my baby, the king would hold them accountable.
Moreover, the king's mention of Kingsley suggested that he might not believe Kingsley is dead, as I claimed.
"I'm sure Freya must be tired by now, considering all she's been through. If there's nothing else, we'll retire for now," Robert said, glancing at me before respectfully addressing the king.
The king nodded casually, a kind smile on his face. Immersed in joy, he was prepared to raise his hand in response upon hearing Robert's words.
"Your Majesty, there is one more matter I would like to seek your assistance with."
Observing Robert's intention to depart, I promptly interjected, surprising him. His eyes held a trace of resentment as he waited for my follow-up statement.
"Go ahead," the King replied amiably.
Grateful for the joy I had brought him, I suspected the king would agree readily to any additional requests.
"I've recently returned to the pack and find myself a bit overwhelmed with the management of various matters. I may require the assistance of Jeremy, Kingsley's beta."
To my knowledge, Robert had imprisoned Jeremy for refusing to submit, leading to my earlier loss of contact with him. Speaking up now might prevent Jeremy from falling into a more perilous situation.
Though my words were respectful, my eyes subtly shifted to Robert, standing beside me without a trace of emotion.
The king frowned, sensing something amiss and glancing at Robert as well.
"Earlier, Jeremy went out in search of Kingsley and hasn't returned on time. Recent reports suggest he might be a guest at Robert's house. Perhaps Robert's enthusiasm is keeping Jeremy from returning," I explained with an apologetic expression, directing my gaze towards Robert.
Robert, caught off guard, tried to appease the King with a forced smile. "My cousin went missing, and I was worried. We've been discussing plans since Jeremy found a lead two days ago."
A flicker of panic crossed Robert's face, swiftly replaced by composure as he explained with a fawning smile.
"Now that Freya has returned, let Jeremy assist her." The king's expression remained unreadable, concealing his mood at that moment.
"Alright; I'll bring Jeremy back here," Robert said with an ingratiating smile before turning towards the door.
Witnessing this scene, my heart breathed a long sigh of relief as I gratefully looked toward the king. The king remained motionless, nodding in my direction.
Soon, Robert's figure reappeared, and right behind him stood a pale Jeremy. Although Jeremy's clothes looked neat and tidy, his spirit appeared somewhat shriveled. It didn't take much guessing to know that he must have suffered greatly during his days of captivity.
"Luna Freya! What are you doing here?" Jeremy looked at me in surprise and then subconsciously scanned the surroundings for any sign of Kingsley.
"Uh, well, let's talk about it back at the pack," I suggested, waving my hand to signal that this wasn't the appropriate place for discussion. Jeremy understood and stopped asking questions, standing silently behind me.
"Your Majesty, we will go back first. By the way, Robert, thank you for entertaining Jeremy." After bowing to the king, I turned my head to Robert, giving him a cold smile.