Odd guest and g-string

My husband had not returned from his quick drink. It was a few minutes before 8:30. I couldn't call his cellphone because he left it in the bedroom, so I sent an omega to go get him.

They didn't find him at the mini bar where I assumed he would be. Maybe he'd gone into his study to do a bit of work.

It was hard to understand how a playboy could so quickly turn serious about life in general. He became a workaholic right after we got married. Whenever I thought about it, I felt proud of myself that I'd inspired such a good change in him. Not everyone could turn a ladies' man into a serious businessman.

However, I got frustrated sometimes with the fact that took the business far more seriously than our marriage. Granted, ours was an arranged union, but I expected to be a priority in his life. I was his mate and wife. And today was very special. How could he think to work?

With my pretty dress and makeup, I left the room to go fetch him from his study by myself, snatching his suit jacket on the way out. I'd taken a few steps when he appeared from the corner of the hallway.

He saw the disapproval in my eyes and smiled,

"I was on my way, babe."

"No work or business today, Liam, you promised me."

He came to kiss me on the cheek. "Sorry. Won't happen again. But you know running a pack isn't easy, Luna Keira."

"What does that mean?" He made these type of comments occasionally. It always touched a nerve. "You sound like you're running the pack alone."

A weird expression crossed his features, but he quickly smiled again and said,

"You have to admit, I do more."

Before I could reply, he dropped another light kiss on my lips. "Just pulling your legs, Kiki. C'mon, let's go renew our vows."

I found it charming whenever he shut me up with a kiss. And he always did that after such comments. I had a pack to run and refused to fight with my husband over silly things, so I always let it go quickly.

I was Luna. Not just the co-leader, but the one with alpha blood between the two of us. While, he was first born son of a warrior, I inherited the pack and the winery from my late father, the former Alpha.

In fact, if not for pressure from the elders, I would be probably be single still and ruling the Spring Moon as Luna Keira Gray, sole leader of the pack.

As we reach the entrance, the troubling thoughts moved to the back of my mind. My beloved uncle came to meet us.

"Good morning, Luna and Alpha. Your guests are here. The Chief Elder is waiting to speak the blessings."

Moments later, Liam and I stood before an older werewolf, exchanging our vows afresh. After that, the customary blessings was spoken upon us like the first time.

The grand hall was packed with people. Alphas dignitaries, well-wishers and prominent pack members. More people were still arriving.

I gave the welcome address of thanks. Then Liam and I danced. After the dance, he began giving a toast, when someone strode in. The person's presence seemed to fill the vast place. He walked like he was entering a bar that he owned. He looked about Liam's age.

From his bearing, I knew he was not just any dignitary. This was an Alpha by blood and rank. Although I'd never seen him before.

The hall went silent. His footsteps were the only sound, though inaudible to an ordinary wolf. His general aura was entirely foreign and imposing.

There was only one Alpha whom I had never met on our side of the country. And that was the notorious, prodigal, lycan son of Alpha Ralph of the Autumn moon. I didn't need to be told that this was him.

My uncle confirmed by going over to offer greetings.

"Alpha Nox, before our very eyes. Welcome! We didn't think you'd make it."

They clasp hands like old friends as my husband called out a greeting too,

"Welcome, Alpha Nox."

I raised a brow at Liam, but he ignored me as the new arrival returned his greeting with a smirk and a nod.

Then, fierce purple eyes moved to me and his smirk gradually faded. An iridescent sparkle emanated from those odd eyes, causing something to stir deep inside me.

It felt like Aria, my wolf, had just moved inside me. No, that wasn't possible. She should be sleeping at this time of the month because of my secret condition. I felt confused and frightened by these feelings.

Quickly, I looked away from the strange beast of a male, terrified that someone could catch me staring at another during my wedding anniversary.

I disliked the guy immediately. Why did he stare at me like that?

I kept my eyes on Liam, who was now giving his toast. He finished in a moment, and the hall erupted in thunderous claps and howls. Then he took a sip from his glass before lowering himself to the chair beside me. I maintained my poise, smiling at my husband like a loving wife should.

The temptation to ask him about our newcomer was strong. But I overcame it, telling myself that it was best to keep my focus off of the stranger. People stopped clapping as a female elder began to give a toast.

Then Liam reached for my hand to squeeze it lovingly.

"Theirs is a beautiful match indeed," said the elder.

Liam's phone made a zzz sound. I gave him a disapproving look because I knew it was work.

"Just a peek," he pleaded silently, then let go of my hand to reach into his pocket.

When he brought out the cellphone, something fell out. A small piece of cloth. Red and silky.

A curious color and a weird fabric for a handkerchief, I thought. We bent down at the same time to pick it up. I reached it first.

Lifting it up, I held it out to see what it was. Hanging on my index finger was a woman's undies. A g-string.