Chapter 74 Reconciliation
GAEL’S POV
I groaned as the toasts about how excellent former Beta Ezekiel was went on. I knew this was going to happen, and I wished the tradition didn’t exactly exist and I would be free enough to make a run from the scene. Unfortunately, I have no other choice but to sit through it all. I stretched my neck to glimpse Nia, but I couldn’t see her amidst the several heads. She would be among them, probably anxious to see me, too.
My hand instinctively felt my pocket, and a smile tugged at my lips. I had imagined the many looks that Nia would have on her face when I popped the question. I intend to do it when everyone starts to party. That would put more delight in them, as they have all been waiting for the day I would decide to take a Luna. Knowing I am about to make everyone’s dream come true makes me delighted. My heart keeps jolting in excitement every two seconds.
I need to exercise more patience. Nia isn’t going anywhere, and I will be spending the rest of my life with her.
Tonight is about my best friend, who has always been beside me. I should be mindfully present for him. Turning my head to the side, I saw Ezra looking so blissful with a bright smile. He seems genuinely happy; the last time I saw this sort of smile on his face was before his parents’ death.
A lot has been snatched from us forcefully. I am glad that we are finally getting the happiness that we all desire and deserve. The toast went on a round, and then it was finally my turn. Raising my glass, I stood up, clearing my throat.
“Where do I begin? These men have been a part of my life since I can vividly remember.” I thinned my lips, turning to Ezekiel. “We have had our differences over the years. But I must admit that you have been nothing short of a blessing to the Sunset pack. Thank you for serving with all of your heart and doing your duty appropriately. I want you to know I wouldn’t have gotten this far without your guidance. As for you, Ezra, I am proud of you, my friend. I hope this new dispensation will bring us and every pack member a blissful term. Congratulations to you both and us all. Since we are all here to have fun, let’s do that. Cheers.” I beamed, raising my glass.
Everyone cheered, and it began in full swing. I looked around the droves of heads; none of them looked like that of Nia. She must have returned to the room. It just dawned on me that she has no friends. Ezra and I are the ones she is close to. She probably got bored and left. I shifted the chair to the back, intending to look for her.
“Is it time?” Ezra asked, accosting me on the way.
I nodded quickly, “Yes, I just need to get her here. I can’t find her, and her scent isn’t near either. I will mind link you when we are ready.”
“Alright. Go do your thing.” He urged grinning.Têxt belongs to NôvelDrama.Org.
I scoffed, making my way out through the back. Just then, I bumped into Gemma. “Gemma, hi,” I muttered, feeling awkward.
It’s been a while since I last saw her. It is unclear why I suddenly feel guilty at the thought of not missing her absence in the least. “How are you?”
She held up a subtle smile. “I am doing fine, thank you. I hope you have been well, too. Thanks for hosting my dad tonight.”
I waved in dismissal, “Come on. Your father deserves his flowers. I am only doing my duty as the Alpha. I am doing just fine. I hope you are having fun, too?”
Gemma blew air with her lips. “oh, please. Those long epistles made me want to sleep. I thought it wasn’t going to end.”
“Me too. I just couldn’t cut the council members off.” I replied, stretching my neck.
For some reason, I don’t want to be rude and shun her. I wouldn’t care initially, but Nia’s etiquette is beginning to pay off.
“So, where are you headed?” She drawled. “shouldn’t you be with the council members?”
I scratched the back of my neck. “Yeah, I am looking for Nia. I don’t know if you saw her anywhere around?” I asked, rubbing at my pocket.
Gemma blinked slowly; her eyes lingered on my hand. “What’s that?”
“It’s a ring box,” I admitted.
“You are going to propose to her?”
“Yeah.”
“Wow, times do change, right? You haven’t even met her for too long, and you are already ready to marry her.”
I gulped. “Don’t be hard on yourself, Gemma. I can assure you that whatever happened has nothing to do with you. I couldn’t feel the deepest form of affection for you, no matter how much I tried. It was just different with Nia. It just happened. Considering how much I detested her, I never would have imagined her becoming the woman I hold dearly to. I promise the intention wasn’t to hurt you.”
She waved me off, smiling weakly. “It’s fine. There is no need for you to apologize. You were clear from the very beginning about your feelings. I was the one who refused and insisted on trying the long-term out with you with the hope that you would fall in love with me. But I am fine now. I hope to get along with whoever is interested in me. We are still friends, right?”
“Yes, Gemma. We would forever be friends. Thank you for understanding.” I mused sincerely.
“So, did you see, Nia?”
“Yes. I saw Nia enter one of the rooms down here. I will head back to the party. See you around.” She said, walking away.
I smacked my lips, smiling. Nia is so silly, and she went to sleep even after I asked her to wait for me.
Making my way to the rooms, I began to open them one by one. Gemma didn’t mention which room she went into exactly. I turned the doorknob of the third room while fishing out the ring box from my pocket. Raising my head, the view before me made my heart snap.
“Nia!” I yelled at the top of my voice.