I quickly cleared my throat and Zephyr fixed his expression as well, assuming one of seriousness. I would just have to keep it as formal and precise as possible.
"Good day Alpha. As you know, I'm an envoy from the Kizmet pack. I'm only here for one task and we are both aware of what it is. An unfortunate incident happened recently, your group was attacked while on a hunting trip and as a result, you lost some of your best warriors and I understand how devastating the situation must be. So I'm here as a representative of my Pack to find out how we can be of assistance to you in this difficult time." I spoke smoothly, even shocking myself. I hadn't been sure that I would be able to say a single word fluently in front of Zephyr but I guess my confidence came through in the end. It also helped that I wasn't looking at him at all and was just thinking about Kayden the whole time.
When I looked up, I saw that Zephyr had another shocked expression, something in between surprise and fascination. He looked frozen for a second before he finally spoke, even spluttering over his own words which really surprised me.
"I….. I…. Yes." He stuttered before pausing and clearing his throat before continuing. "I really appreciate the kind gesture from the Alpha of the Kizmet pack, not many people would do that which he's doing now and it's very commendable. I…I would also like to thank you for taking the time to come here." He thanked me and I was left stunned for a moment.
Is Zephyr actually thanking me for showing up here or am I perhaps daydreaming? It has to be the latter because that would make much more sense. I pinch myself just to be sure and when I'm sure that all this is actually happening, I decide to play along, realizing that this must all be for courtesy's sake.
He probably still hates me as much as he formerly did or maybe even more but I don't care, I owe him nothing.
"Yes, it is my duty and I'm only carrying it out." I remarked with a fake but polite smile.
"Of course and it's very kind of you. As regards to the type of assistance we need, I'm sure that will be discussed in due time but for now, I suggest you and your escorts have a good rest. I know it has been a long journey, you must be tired and need to rest. Besides, you're my guests here so you must be treated properly. It is a habit of the wolves of Crescent Moon to treat our guests like family." Zephyr said and I frowned.
His words though cordial are really nerve wracking for me. Just what is he up to this time? I had expected anything else but such nice treatment. I had expected his words to be tactfully sharp and accusatory, his demeanor to be harsh and unforgiving but it's just different and because this is Zephyr we're talking about, I find it scary. I don't even know what to expect next.
I forced out a small laugh to ease some of my tension. "I love that policy, it's quite welcoming but I really don't think that would be necessary. You see, I'm on a tight schedule and I really just want to finish my task here so I can begin on my other duties as soon as possible. As for the journey, it wasn't really that long and I'm not tired, I think it would be best if we had the discussion today." I pushed with a forced smile.
"I would agree with you but what's the rush? Your pack is doing so much for us and the least I can do is treat you like a queen during your stay here." Zephyr said and I tightened my hands in fists.
I really don't like where this is going but I guess I'll just have to play along.
"Alright, if you insist. We'll rest early today but I would really appreciate it, your Highness, if tomorrow we could talk about the task at hand." I propelled with a sweet smile.
"Of course but it's good to have a proper rest now. The maids will show you to where you'll be staying during your time here, I sincerely hope that the arrangements are up to your taste. Do let me know if you need anything." Zephyr said and I took a slight bow.
"Thank you, your Highness, you're too kind. I look forward to a productive meeting with you tomorrow. Have a nice rest Alpha." I said and turned back towards the door and I paused when I heard him almost say something.
It sounded or rather felt like he wanted to say my name but stopped himself before the words could skip out of his mouth. I shouldn't be thinking about things like that, I really need to focus. I don't want to have anything to do with him that isn't duty related and I want the same from him as well.
I continue walking towards the door and eventually leave the room. Nevaeh runs to me as soon as I'm out of the room but she doesn't say my name, only hugs my legs.
I smile and pat her head softly. She's a sweet and obedient child and I'm glad that she's nothing like her father in behavioral aspects and I sincerely hope it stays that way.
Maids soon approach us and politely tell us to follow them. We do and they each show us to a room. As soon as I'm settled in the guest room with Nevie, I plop on the bed tiredly.
I have a slight headache and my heartbeat is still trying to become steady. I take a deep breath and run my hands through my hair before laying my head down on my lap. I had known returning here wouldn't be easy but I hadn't known that it would be so overwhelming. There are so many emotions coursing through me at the moment that I don't even know which one to express, I mostly feel anger and pain, maybe bitterness as well and a bit of self pity.
The conversation with Zephyr just now makes me believe that he's planning something and I know quite well that whatever it is, I won't like it. I'm just scared that he'll suddenly show up and ruin the perfect life which I've worked so hard to build over the years and I really don't want that. I release a light but sad chuckle when I realize it.
Fear.
This was the only emotion that dominated me each time I was with Zephyr. Four years ago, it had been the fear of him and the way he abused me, I had feared he would destroy me and after finally overcoming that, I'm faced with another fear, the fear that he'll ruin my happiness because he wants to take revenge on me.
The thought of it brings tears to my eyes but I try to hold back. Just then, I feel a light tap on my arm and I look up to see my darling daughter.
"Mummy, why are you sad? Please don't be sad, I know you're missing daddy a lot but I'm right here with you so you don't have to be sad, we will be fine." Nevaeh said with a cute, innocent smile and to me, those sounded like the wisest words I had ever heard, they were just the words I needed.
I smiled back at her and took her in my arms, hugging her closely. She may be three years old but she's right. As long as I have Kayden's love and my daughter right here with me, it'll be alright.
I'll be just fine.