Damon
I strolled down the hallway, my footsteps echoing softly as I made my way to my father's chamber. With a gentle tap, I announced my presence, and upon his approval, I entered the room.
"Alpha," I began, my voice steady, "Serena and her mother have arrived. They were currently taking their rest and were excited to meet you over dinner later."
His eyes brightened, a glimmer of approval dancing within them. “That’s good to hear,” he replied. I felt a small burst of satisfaction hearing that.
Seeing that he was in good mood, I pressed on my real intention. “If you may, may I request for something, Alpha?”
Dad put his elbows on top of the table. “Speak.”
“Could we keep the face of my future Luna hidden from everyone for now? A precaution, if we may," My father's inquisitive gaze met mine, a silent question hanging in the air.
"Precaution against what, Damon?" he questioned. And so, I explained, my words flowing like a cautious stream. "To safeguard her identity, Alpha. Until our wedding day arrives, I fear our enemies might try to target her."
Dad looked serious and I hesitated for a moment before adding, "I also request six months to prepare for the wedding, as we need to ensure that everything was put in place. After all, it’s the wedding of the future alpha of this pack. I want to ensure that the occasion will be fit to glorify your reign."
His silence stretched momentarily, then he nodded in agreement. “Very well. Do as you see fit.
I dipped into a curtsy, feeling a sense of gratitude. "Thank you, Alpha," I said before excusing myself. The door closed behind me, and I exhaled a breath I hadn't realized I was holding.
Heading to the false Serena's chambers, I entered with a smile that I hoped looked genuine. I need to bring up my A-Game if I want to beat this mother-and-child duo.
I entered the imposter's room, noticing its warm colors and scented air. She and her mother, Mathilde, both had poised and calculated expressions, creating an atmosphere of challenge. They wanted to play this game? I would gladly play with them.
The mother and child curtsied, their motions elegant and practiced. Then, Mathilde spoke, “Good day, your grace. We are flattered by your presence. Serena has been eager to see you.”
I looked at the imposter and wanted to puke upon seeing her fakeness. And yet, I continued my facade. “Is that so, my lady?”
The imposter blushed making me irked inside. Knowing that she was fake, I couldn’t bear to call her Serena.
"Serena," I addressed the imposter, a layer of disdain barely hidden beneath my words, "From now on, may I call you Rina? I hope you don’t mind, as I wanted something to call you something exclusive for the both of us. "
She nodded, her lips curved into a coy smile. “Of course, my Lord. I’ll be honored.”
With careful hands, I offered her a mask, an embodiment of her lies. “What is this, my Lord?” she queried.
"From now on, you will wear this mask until our wedding day," I explained softly. My eyes locked onto hers, a silent promise in the air. “No one in Blood Rose should see your face except me and Ashford. I am doing this to protect you from our enemies. Do you understand that?”
“Of course, your grace,” the imposter uttered. The mother's eyes met mine, filled with gratitude.
“Thank you for looking after my daughter, my Lord. Rest assured that Serena and I will do everything as you instructed.”
"Thank you," I replied. I turned to the imposter and plastered a fake smile. “I shall see you both at dinner later.”
“Expect us to come in our most prepared self,” Mathilde interjected. I took my leave afterward, my smile quickly departed as I closed the door.
As I moved away, the weight of my duty settled upon my shoulders. I had to keep her real identity hidden from the pack, a secret that could only be uncovered once I found the true Serena.
Time was my enemy now, but I would make sure to beat it at its own game.