Chapter Twenty:

I had hoped that Selena and Kat would still be asleep by the time I got back, so I wouldn't have to explain my absence, but I guess my luck had run out.

Selena was pacing in front of the bed, but stopped when I walked in.  Kat was perched on the side of the bed.  She'd been speaking to Selena, but had trailed off when I entered.

"Where'd you go?  I woke up hours ago and you were just gone."  Selena demanded angrily.

"Are you serious?  You always sleep until at least lunchtime, but the one time I needed you to stay asleep, you wake up early?  Really?"  I deadpanned.

She gave me a dry look.  "You can't just disappear like that after what we saw last night."  She hissed in annoyance.

I deflated.  "Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you guys.  I just needed to talk to him."  I admitted.

"Oh.  What happened?"  Selena's face softened.

"There's really no details to give.  Everything is still exactly the same.  He still doesn't want to try and make things work."

"I'm sorry, Kendall."  Kat told me sympathetically.

"It's fine."  I shrugged.  "I'm used to it.  It's disappointing, but I'll get over it."

"I mean, it's kind of understandable now, right?"  Selena added.

"I understand it completely.  But I don't agree with it.  He's being a coward."  I crossed my arms, somewhat defensively.

"He doesn't want to lose you.  I'd probably do the same with Tyler if I was in his position."

"Well then you're a coward too."  I stated, my tone harsh.

"So you consider wanting to protect your mate cowardly?"  She stood up from the bed and mimicked my stance, stopping a few feet in front of me.

"If you refuse to be with your mate because you're scared?  Yes."

"I don't think you really understand, Kendall.  You died.  And based on that vision, you died young.  He's trying to protect you from that.  Give him a break."

I barked a sarcastic laugh.  "That's great coming from you, really.  You want me to give him a break?  You, of all people?  Didn't you just tell him the other day to drown in his river of tears?"

"That was before I knew the whole story."  She snapped.

"I thought you were supposed to be on my side?" 

"I am on your side.  As annoying as you are, I'm always on your side.  But you're being too harsh on him."

"How about you don't talk to me like you know what I'm going through.  Your mate adores you.  When he doesn't and he wants nothing to do with you, then you can come talk to me about this."

"Why are you so damn stubborn?"  She threw her hands up in exasperation.

"Okay, okay.  Why don't we all just take a breath and calm down."  Kat instructed, coming to stand between us.

We both continued to glare at each other, but we did as she said nonetheless.

"Okay, good.  Now you two need to stop fighting with each other.  There's no point in it.  Selena, she's right.  You don't know how she feels and you should be happy about that.  If being pissed off at King Finnian helps her, then by all means, let her be pissed."  I smirked at Selena, but it dropped when Kat turned her attention to me.  "And Kendall, don't get so defensive.  Selena loves you and just wants the best for you.  You need to keep that in mind."

I sighed and we both grumbled apologies to each other.  Kat was right, on both counts, but neither of us liked it.

"Good, now no more fighting today.  Let's just have a nice day.  We get to spend the morning getting pampered at the spa and we get to see everyone. So, let's focus on the good."

"Okay, yeah, you're right.  I'm gonna take a shower, then I'll meet you two in the dining room for breakfast?"  I agreed with her.

"Yeah, sounds good."  Selena agreed.  She sauntered out of the room hurriedly, probably wanting to see Tyler now that he was back.

"Thanks for diffusing that.  I don't want to fight with her, she just knows how to get under my skin."  I told Kat when we were alone.

"Yeah, of course.  I could tell that would have ended badly.  The last thing we need right now, with everything else, is you two fighting.  If we're going to fight this together, we need to be on the same page.  Now take a shower, I'll see you in a little bit."

I nodded as she walked away.  As I made my way to the bathroom, all I could think was how Kat was willing to fight for me, but my own mate wasn't.

***********************

Spa days weren't exactly my cup of tea, but I couldn't say it was completely awful either.  It was actually kind of relaxing. 

We started the day with massages.  It helped release tension that I didn't even realize I had.  That made me feel a million times better.  After our massages, we got facials.  I didn't think I would like it, and I didn't really, but the results were amazing.  My skin looked clear, healthy, and glowing once they finished with me.

In the process of getting the facials, we also had our nails done.  I wasn't one for fake nails, so I just had mine painted.  It was a shimmery gold color, which matched my dress.  They did my toenails the same color.

After all that, it was time for the not so fun part.  We had to get our hair and make-up done. I went for a soft gold eyeshadow and black mascara, which made my eyelashes look a mile long.  I didn't need a lot of makeup since my face looked so clear and healthy after my facial, so they just added a little concealer and bronzer, along with a blush and highlighter.  We finished the look off with a nude lipstick.

After that, was my hair.  They trimmed off all the dead ends first and then dried my curls with a diffuser.  I requested an updo, so they braided it back into a low bun with curls left out around my face.

Now that we'd all finished, it was time to return to the castle.  We had a little over an hour before we had to be there.  We still needed to put on our gowns and add any final touches. 

I thanked the ladies who helped me get ready and got into the limo behind the girls.  We had, surprisingly, all gotten along today, even Emiliya.  She seemed friendlier today, nice even.  Apparently, she loved spa days and it put her in a good mood.  She even complimented my hair and makeup, which was shocking, to say the least, coming from her.

Once we returned to the castle, we all went our separate ways. I walked into my bathroom, and from there my closet. I stripped off everything but my panties and pulled the dress from where it was hanging. I pulled the cover off of it and threw it carelessly to the floor.  It took some maneuvering to pull it over my head without messing up my hair, but I finally got it settled over my body and pulled the snug material down over my hips.  

My dress was a shimmery gold gown. It fell to the floor, a little too long without shoes, but I knew once I stepped into my strappy gold open toed heels, it would be perfect. It was a backless gown, with thin straps that crossed over each other in between my shoulder blades and connected to the front of the dress. The back started a few inches above my ass and was tight over my hips, but flared out slightly around my legs. The front had a V-neck design with built in support, so my breasts were pushed up. It revealed a good bit of cleavage, but not too much.

It was revealing, for sure, especially with my whole back on display, but I loved it. The gold paired perfectly with my skin tone. It made my naturally tan skin glow and it made my eyes look greener.

Since the dress was shimmery and flashy, I tried to keep everything else simple. I slipped on a pair of gold dangly earrings and a thin gold bracelet with diamonds encrusted all the way around it. The bracelet had been a gift from Niki. It had to have been expensive, since it was real gold and diamonds, but she insisted that I take it; that it matched perfectly with my dress. It did.

I touched up my lipstick and slid my feet in my heels, making me four inches taller than I really was. I flicked off the light and left my bathroom, seeing Kat sitting on the sectional couch, already dressed in her gown.

"You look beautiful, Kendall. That is definitely your color."

"Thanks, so do you."

"I imagine Finnian will be ready to fight for you when he sees you in that dress." She said knowingly.

I shook my head and rolled my eyes. He had seen me half naked and he still didn't, but I didn't say that. 

"How are you holding up?  You seemed sad all day."  

"Honestly?  I'm not great."  She patted the couch next to her and I eased down, trying not to mess up my dress.  "I'm just tired, I guess.  I feel like I'm the only one fighting for us.  I guess I'm not worth being fought for."  I swallowed the lump in my throat.

She didn't jump in to inform me that that wasn't true, which I appreciated.  Some people thought that was helpful, to try and make me feel better about myself, but that wasn't true.  I didn't need other people to tell me that.  I needed to get my feelings out and figure that out myself.

"I've tried to make it work with him, Kat.  Even when he gave me nothing to work with, I tried.  But he just doesn't want that.  He's scared and I get it, but where does that leave me?  It leaves me alone.  I might could eventually find another rejected wolf to be with, but I don't think I could actually be with someone after Finnian.  No one else will be able to compare to him.  And I'd never be able to have a family with anyone else.  I never thought that was that important to me until I realized I might never have it."

I hadn't really considered that point at first, but after running away last weekend, I started to.  Werewolves weren't able to have pups with someone that wasn't their mate.  There was an orphanage here on castle grounds for pups who lost both parents, but there were never many kids there.  Werewolves typically had big families, so there was usually someone to take the kids in, but the few who didn't have anyone, would go to the orphanage.  From there, people could adopt them.  It was usually family friends or the pack that they came from's Alpha.  Or, sometimes, a wolf who had lost their mate before having children.  I suppose I could always adopt, but it wouldn't be the same.  My wolf wouldn't be connected to another child like it would a child that came from me and Finnian.  It was a sad fact, but it was the truth.

"I don't know what to do next, but I feel like I'm finally done.  It's scary.  I always had my life planned out.  I would meet my mate, have a few kids, and that would be that.  I'd live happily ever after.  But now that I don't have that, I really don't know what to do.  I guess I'm going to have to figure it out, because I can't do it anymore.  He keeps getting my hopes up and then letting me down at every turn.  I can't do that anymore.  Does that make me a bad person?  That I'm giving up on my mate?"

"Of course not.  You can't help how you feel.  You have to do what's right for you and only you'll know what that is.  Don't let anyone else help sway your decision about this.  Not your parents, or Selena, or Matt.  If you can't do it anymore, then you can't.  That's your decision and no one else's.  But it's okay if you want to keep fighting too.  Whatever you feel is right in your heart is what you should do."  She squeezed my hand supportively.

"How do you listen to your heart when it's too shattered to even talk to you?"  I asked helplessly.

She gave me a sad smile.  "Maybe the sound of it shattering is your answer."

That answer was vague, at best.  If the sound of it shattering was my answer, then I was screwed because I had no idea what that meant.  I just wished I had a less ambiguous answer.

"I guess you're right.  But I don't really want to talk about it anymore.  If I do, I'll start crying, and then I'll mess up my makeup.  And I could never get it to look this good again if that happens."

She giggled slightly.  "We don't want that to happen."  She teased.

"Thank you, Kat, for checking on me.  For supporting me through all of this."

"You're my best friend.  I'll always support you."  

I smiled a watery smile at her, before taking a deep breath and changing the subject.  "What do you think?  Do I need anything else?"

"Nope, it's perfect.  You don't want to over-accessorize with that dress."

"That's what I was thinking.  Come on, let's go get Matt and head over there."

She nodded and followed behind me.  Matt opened the door as we walked up, already dressed in his black tux.  His curly shoulder length hair was slicked back, neat for once instead of his usual unruly look.  

We knocked on Dalton's door so he could join us on the walk over.  He was dressed in a similar tux as Matt.  He complimented us all on our appearance and I noticed how his eyes glanced at me for a second longer than they should have.  I wouldn't have noticed before, but now that I knew he was into me, it was hard not to.  I didn't say anything, but I hoped he could move on soon.  I don't really know what he saw in me; our personalities clashed horribly.  But I kept my fingers crossed that maybe he would find his mate tonight.

The castle was crowded with people, and that was just the hallways.  Half of the people we crossed were dressed in gowns and tuxedos, the other half were workers dressed in black slacks, a white button down, and a black vest.   They were speed walking around, trying to make sure everything was ready and running smoothly.  The rest of the people were walking slowly, admiring the artwork on the walls and the architecture of the castle. 

Once we finally reached the ballroom, it was already crowded.  Half of the room was filled with round tables, silky white tablecloths covering them and fancy floral centerpieces on every table.  The other half of the room was the dance floor, which was already being used.

The band was in the corner, playing classical music loudly, but not too loudly for our sensitive hearing.  Waiters were walking around, offering drinks and hors d'oeuvres.  There was a large, elegant staircase directly across the room from us, which I knew the Royals would descend from once everyone arrived, Selena being one of them.  Two of the tables in the center had yet to have anyone sitting at them, leading me to believe that those tables were for them as well.

We walked further in and a waiter stopped in front of us, offering us a drink.  He had a variety of drinks on his tray, letting us have our pick.  Matt and Dalton both grabbed bourbon, and Kat grabbed water.  I hesitated between champagne and water, but finally decided that it probably wasn't a great idea for me to drink tonight.  It didn't go so well last time, after all.  So, I finally picked up a champagne flute filled with lemon water and gave the young werewolf a grateful smile before he walked off.

I did a quick sweep of the room, searching for anyone familiar.  I didn't see anyone at first, but when my eyes landed on a familiar mop of bright red hair, I knew I found someone I knew.

"I'm going to look for Mom and Dad.  Do you guys want to come?"  Matt told us just as I looked back over to them.

"Sure."  Kat agreed and Dalton followed suit.  

"I'm going to go say hi to Nathan first.  I'll find you guys later." 

They nodded at me and we went in different directions.  I weaved in between people as I walked, gracefully dodging anyone who was in my path.  Finally, I made it over to Nathan.  He was standing with a couple guys I was unfamiliar with.

"You clean up nice, Red."

He glanced over at me.  "'Fraid I can't say the same about you."  He smirked.

"Whatever, I look hot."  I waved him off playfully.

"Are you going to introduce us to the beautiful lady, Nathan?"  One of the guys in front of him asked, looking me up and down.  He was older than me; probably by about fifteen or twenty years.  His hair was slicked back and his eyes were a dull, beady brown.  I couldn't put my finger on what it was, but there was something I didn't like about him already.  Something... disturbing.

"This is Kendall Keating.  Kendall, this is Derek Chandler."

Derek grabbed my hand and brought it to his lips, pressing a soft kiss to the back of my hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you, sweetheart."  I withheld a cringe and smiled tightly at him, pulling my hand away from his lips when he held it a little too long.

"You too.  How do you two know each other?"  I queried as I looked between Nathan and Derek.

What I really wanted to ask was how did Nathan, someone who was a really good guy, not that I would ever let him know that, know someone as creepy as Derek.

"Derek attends the ball every year."

"Ah, okay."

"Is your family here?"  Nathan questioned, changing the subject away from Derek.

"Yeah.  My parents should be around here somewhere.  I'll have to introduce you later."

"Sounds good."  He sipped on his bourbon slowly.

"Tell me, Kendall.  Do you have a mate?"  Derek turned my attention towards him again.  He glanced down at my chest before licking his lips.

"I don't..."  I trailed off awkwardly.

"Me neither.  How fortunate for us both."  His eyes met mine again.

"Yes, I feel so lucky."  I drawled out sarcastically, which Derek didn't seem to catch.

"I'm staying at the hotel in town tonight.  Perhaps you'd like to come back with me after this.  I'd love to get better acquainted with you."

"I'm sure you would, perv.  I hate to inform you, but this-" I gestured down at my body with the hand that wasn't gripping my glass.  "-Isn't open for business."

He growled deeply, desire in his eyes.  "I love a good challenge."

"Okay, I think that's enough for now.  Come on, Kendall, let's go find your family."  Nathan butted in.

He gave Derek a scathing look, one he didn't see because his eyes were back on my chest.  Nathan grabbed me by my elbow lightly to lead me away, which I let him do so I could get away from the creepy Alpha.

"I'll see you later, beautiful."  His voice held a promise and I couldn't help but shiver as Nathan pulled me away.

"You're friends with that creep?"  I asked once we were far enough away that he couldn't hear us.

"Hardly.  I hate the guy.  He just came up to me and started talking."

"He seems like an abusive Alpha."  I whispered to him.

"It wouldn't surprise me."

"Have you talked to Tyler about him?"

"No, but that's probably a good idea."  He paused, a thoughtful look on his face.  "Anyways, where's your family?"

I looked away from him and started scanning the room.  After a few minutes, I finally found them.  Before I could walk over, a voice over a microphone halted me.  Everyone froze and looked up at the staircase.  An elderly man stood at the top and over to the side.

"It is time to introduce our Royals.  First we have, the Royal Gamma and the Royal Gamma Female, Tyler Hatchett and Selena Keating."

The man paused and Tyler and Selena came into view at the top of the stairs, a spotlight shining on them.  They looked every bit the Royal couple that they were.  He was wearing a black tuxedo with a red bow-tie and pocket square, which matched her red gown perfectly.  His hair was slicked back and Selena's was pulled back into a sleek ponytail.  She gripped his arm that he held out to her and they walked down the stairs together.  She was smiling and waving as people cheered, enjoying the attention.

When they made it to the bottom, the man spoke again.  "Next we have the Royal Beta's; Kieran Cahill and Emiliya Petrova Cahill."

They came down the stairs next, both with stoic expressions on their faces.  Both were decked out in all black, which I thought matched Emiliya's personality perfectly.  They made it to the bottom quickly.

"Now presenting, the Head Royal Witch, Nikolina Petrova." 

Niki walked out next, by herself.  She didn't look lonely being alone, instead she looked comfortable and relaxed.  She smiled as people cheered.  She looked elegant in her silver dress, which was trailing on the stairs behind her.  Her hair was pulled into a classy chignon and she wore matching silver accessories, which were adorned with diamonds. 

"And now, it is my absolute pleasure to present his highness., King Finnian Cahill."

If I thought everyone else got applause when they came down, it was nothing compared to Finnian.  Everyone went crazy, cheering wildly.  It was obvious that his people adored him.  As he walked down, I couldn't help but admire him.  His hair was combed to the side, every strand perfectly in place.  His strong, long body was encased in a black tux and, coincidentally enough, he had paired it with a gold tie and pocket square, which matched my dress perfectly, as if we had planned it.

He looked every inch the King he was.  He exuded power, strength.  You could feel it in your bones and it made everyone bow to him, me included.  He kept his face expressionless as he walked down, but his eyes found mine, however briefly.  I couldn't look away.

Finally he reached the bottom and was immediately swarmed by people wanting his attention.  He was blocked from my view after that.

I sighed silently and turned back to Nathan.  "They're over there."  I pointed to my family and we walked over together.  I gave my parents quick hugs before turning back to Nathan.

"Guys, this is Nathan.  He's my training partner.  Nate, these are my parents, Jefferson and Abby."  I introduced him and they all shook hands.

"How's Kenny doing?"  Dad asked, referring to my training. I groaned at the nickname. 

Nathan grinned at me, catching on that I hated the name.  "Kenny here is doing great."  He teased me.  "Harrison has nothing but good things to say about her.  I'm sure he'd love to meet you as well.  He should be around here somewhere."

"Harrison is the Commander of the Royal Army, correct?" 

"Yes, sir.  Your daughters are in good hands with him.  Kendall has already greatly improved and it's only been, what?  Three weeks?" He turned to me.

"Three or four, something like that." I shrugged.

"Well, I'm thrilled to hear that.  Don't let her slack off."  Dad warned.

"Dad."  I whined in annoyance at him talking about me like I was a child.  He was giving Nathan way too much ammunition.

"Oh, don't worry, sir.  I'll keep her in line."

"Good, she needs it."  Selena snickered, butting her way into our conversation and our circle.

She almost knocked me over squeezing between me and Matt.  Nathan steadied me and Selena started doling out hugs, not even noticing.  I glared at the back of her head.

"You did such a good job, sweetheart.  I'm so proud of you."  Mom gushed to her.

"Yes, she walked down the stairs without falling. We should all be so proud."  I muttered dryly.

Selena shot a glare at me, Mom gave me a disapproving look, and Nathan grinned down at me, trying not to laugh.  Tyler walked over and stepped between me and Matt and behind Selena. 

"Girls, don't start tonight."  Dad interjected, stopping Selena before she could say anything else.

"Fine, I wanted to dance anyways."  She grabbed Tyler's hand and pulled him away from us and over to the dance floor.

Everyone else followed suit after that.  First Matt and Kat, Mom hesitated when Dad tried to pull her away, but I told her to go.  She didn't need to babysit me.  So, in the end, I was left with Dalton and Nathan.

"So, you two think you might find your mates tonight?"  I asked, striking up a conversation.

"It could happen.  You?"  Nathan replied.

I fidgeted slightly, but he didn't seem to notice.  Dalton did though and he frowned over at me.

"Maybe..." I answered unenthusiastically.

"Try not to sound so excited."  He smirked down at me.

"You know, maybe you'll get lucky and your mate will be ginger too.  Then you could go around stealing souls together.  You'll be the redheaded version of Bonnie and Clyde."

"You think you're so clever, don't you?" 

I shrugged. "Only on days that end with y."

"I think I'll have to disagree on that one."  Nathan chuckled.

"You do that.  Do you know when they're going to feed us?  I'm starving."  I complained.  We ate breakfast before we left for the spa this morning, but I hadn't had the chance to eat after that.

"Whenever you want.  Just pick a table to sit at and a server will bring you dinner." 

"Are you two hungry?"  I looked between the two.

"I could eat."  Dalton shrugged. 

"Yeah, me too."  Nathan agreed.

With that, we found an empty table in the corner.  A waiter was immediately at our table, asking whether we wanted chicken or steak.  Once we ordered, it only took him five minutes to return with our meals and fresh drinks.  We dug in as soon as the food was in front of us.

"So, how was your guy's poker night, by the way?"  I inquired.

"It was great until your brother took all my money."  Nathan grumbled.

I barked a laugh at his sullen tone.  "I guess I should have warned you he was good." 

"Would've been nice."

"But not nearly as fun for me.  How about you, Dalton?"

"Eh, I pretty much broke even, so could have been better, could have been worse."

I nodded at him and took a bite of my steak.

"What about you?  How was your girls night?"

I froze briefly, but tried to act normal after that.  "It was fine.  Selena and I fought over what movie to watch."

"Well that's nothing new."  Dalton chuckled lightly, although he eyed me warily first, obviously catching my momentary hesitation.

He didn't say anything and we continued eating, making light conversation.  After we finished, Nathan left us when he saw a few people he knew, leaving me and Dalton alone.

"You want to dance?"  He asked after a few minutes.

I hesitated for a few seconds.  I didn't want to get his hopes up by saying yes, but I finally decided it should be fine.  He knew I wasn't interested in him; I made that clear.  So if he took this as something more than a friendly dance, that was his problem.  I finally agreed and we walked over to the dance floor together.

I wasn't exactly an expert on dancing to classical music and neither was he, but we managed by mimicking the movements of others.  He rested his hand on my waist, surprising me by being respectful enough to keep his hand against my dress and not the bare skin of my back.  I rested one hand on his shoulder and the other clasped in his.  He twirled us around slowly, slower than most others so that we could avoid each other's toes. 

"I think we're getting the hang of this."  He told me after a few minutes. 

"I think so."  I grinned at him as we started moving faster.

"So what's up with you?  Did something happen last night?"  He questioned in a low voice, leaning in slightly closer to me.

"It was... not what I expected.  I can't really talk about it in front of all these people."

"Okay, later?"

I nodded, although I wasn't entirely sure that I was being honest.  I trusted Dalton.  He got on my nerves, but at the end of the day, I knew he was on my side, which made him trustworthy.  But the thing was, whoever had betrayed Finnian was someone he trusted.  So could anyone really be trusted?

That I wasn't sure of.

I knew without a doubt I trusted my family, and that was about it. 

That left a pretty short list of people.

Dalton didn't question me anymore after that.  We continued dancing and talking. It was a rare occurrence, getting along like we were, but we just enjoyed it instead of questioning it.

After a while, I got thirsty.  I left to go get a drink and Selena cut in, leaving Tyler to dance with her best friend instead.  He didn't seem to like it, but I quietly assured him that her relationship with Dalton was completely platonic on both sides.  He finally agreed, looking like he felt better about it after that.  He walked off the dance floor with me, but when he saw Lili standing by herself, he left and asked her to dance.

I was left by myself and tracked down a waitress.  I grabbed a glass of water from her tray and thanked her before she walked away.  I stood at the edge of the room, watching everything that was going on while I sipped at my water.

All around me, people seemed to be having a great time.  Newly discovered mates were dancing and getting to know each other.  I even saw two mates meet for the first time, a look of adoration filling their eyes as they embraced each other.

At seeing that, my eyes unconsciously searched the room for my own mate.  I saw just about everyone else before him.  All of my family was still dancing, having a great time.  Mom was dancing with Matt and Dad was dancing with Kat.  I even saw Niki dancing with an older werewolf.

Finally, my eyes found the King.  He was standing on the other side of the room, still near the stairs, surrounded by a group of people.  He had his hands shoved in his pockets as he listened to some elder gentlemen talk.  He was trying to look interested, but I could see boredom on his face that no one else seemed to notice. 

When his eyes shot over to mine, he looked me up and down briefly.  I held his gaze for a few beats before blushing slightly and looking away.  I felt his eyes leave me after that.

"You got a thing for the King?"  An obnoxious voice asked from behind me.

I whirled around and came face to face with none of than the pervy Alpha Derek Chandler.

"I'm afraid you're mistaken, Alpha Chandler."  I told him formally.

"Are you sure?  He seems to have a thing for you."  He grinned creepily at me.

"I'm positive.  We don't have a thing for each other."

"Well, that makes me a very happy man, darlin'."

"It's Kendall."  I retorted.  "And I don't know why it would."

"Why wouldn't it?  It means you're up for grabs still."  He moved closer to me, causing me to take a couple steps back, which didn't seem to deter him.  He somehow managed to back me into a wall.

"I'm not up for grabs, Alpha Chandler."  I spat.

"Ooh, feisty.  I love it when you call me Alpha."

"You're going to be calling me Alpha when I kick your ass."  I sneered.

"Mm, foreplay.  I love it."  He muttered lustfully.

"You're a disgusting prick."

He leaned in closer, whispering in my ear, his breath on my skin making me shiver in disgust.  "You won't be calling my prick disgusting when it's buried deep inside of you."

I grimaced in revulsion.  I was getting ready to lift my knee, to show him just what I wanted to do to his 'prick', but he was off of me before I could follow through.

"I suggest you leave her be, Chandler."  A voice growled from beside me.  I glanced over at him, he seemed familiar, but I couldn't place him.  

"Fuck off, Covington."  Chandler replied, but it was all talk because he turned and walked away, not once looking back.

"Thanks for that."  I mumbled, turning to face the man in front of me.  He radiated power - an Alpha.  He was a little shorter than most alpha's, but he was stockier than most as well, his shoulders wide and his arms ripped.  He had thick espresso locks and even thicker eyebrows, sitting over cerulean eyes.  The lower half of his face had hair just as dense and dark, his lips pulled into a kind smile underneath his beard hair. 

"No problem.  I'm Rylan Covington."  He introduced, holding his hand out to me, which I accepted.  

"Kendall Keating.  You seem familiar.  Have we met before?" 

"Briefly.  At the brunch a few weeks ago.  Niki introduced us."  

Oh, right.  I was wasted when we met.  "Yeah, yeah.  I remember now."

His grin grew even larger, revealing straight white teeth.  "Good, I thought the champagne may have obscured your memory."  

I snorted unattractively.  "Yeah, you caught me.  Was I that obvious?"  

"A little."  

"So, I hear you're on the Council.  I answered the phone when you called a few days ago.  Tyler told me who you are." 

"I am.  For about four years now.  I hear your father is our next member?"  

"Hopefully.  That's why I'm here."

"I remember the process well.  It's tedious, but well worth it.  I look forward to working with you and your family more closely."

I opened my mouth to reply, but was cut off by a voice getting everyone's attention. It was the same man who introduced the Royals earlier.  He was back at the top of the stairs.  "I am honored to welcome King Finnian as he gives his annual speech."

The music stopped and everyone was quiet.  All attention turned to the stairs, where King Finnian was walking up.  Rylan stayed next to me, both of us giving Finnian our attention. 

Once Finnian reached the top and turned to face the room, he didn't even need the microphone.  His deep voice filled every crevice of the room, even someone with human hearing would be able to hear him.

"I would like to thank everyone for coming tonight.  The Mating Ball is something that my Mother, the late Queen Raina, started her first year as Queen.  It is my honor to continue it, to keep her legacy alive."

He paused and his eyes found mine and surprisingly they stayed there.

"She believed that a mate was the most important thing to a werewolf.  It gave her such great pleasure to bring two souls together, to watch them meet and connect.  She lived for that, for the magic that was the mate bond.  Which is why, if she were still with us today, she would be ecstatic for my next announcement."

He paused to let the anticipation build and I froze, not sure where he was going with him.

"It is my absolute honor to introduce to you your next Queen."  He announced, his eyes unreadable as they stared into mine.

My breathing quickened and my heart began to shatter in my chest.  He'd mentioned finding another Queen, but I figured after I found out the truth that he'd just said that to hurt me.  I didn't think he meant it and I certainly didn't think he'd introduce her in front of me.

I turned to walk away, my eyes blurring with tears that I refused to let fall.  I held my head high, but I had to get out of here.  I couldn't bear to see him standing up there with someone else.  My walking away didn't seem to bother him because he kept going.

"I couldn't have asked for a better Queen.  She's beautiful, strong, kind, a fierce warrior.  She is perfect and she will be an excellent leader.  Please, help me welcome your new Queen, Kendall Keating."

I froze when he said my name.  My tears dried up and my mouth fell open in surprise.  I could vaguely hear applause, but it didn't seem to register to me over the whooshing in my ears.  I slowly turned away from the door, which I nearly made it out of.

Every pair of eyes in the room were on me, but I only saw one person.  His face remained stoic, but I could see something in his eyes, a softness that I couldn't quite decipher.

The crowd parted right down the middle, urging me forward.  I walked slowly, almost in a trance.  A few people hugged on my way up; mostly family.  I didn't look at any of them; I didn't want to see Matt or Nathan or Harrison or any of the others who didn't know.  I had no doubt Matt was going to be pissed and hurt about this.

Once I made it to the front of the crowd, I reluctantly walked up the stairs.  I gave Finnian a questioning look, but he just gave me a ghost of a smile and pulled me into his side.

He leaned in close to me.  "I'm ready to fight."  He breathed so quietly I knew no one else would have been able to hear.  I shivered when his warm breath hit my skin, but in a good way this time, unlike with Derek.

I wasn't sure what to feel when he uttered those words.  I should have been happy, that was what I wanted all along, and I wasn't.  If he'd done this weeks ago, I would have been nothing but thrilled, but I guess he was just a little too late.  I wanted this to work, but he was going to have to fight damn hard if he wanted to repair and win over my shattered heart.  He had done nothing but hurt me and that was going to take more than this grand gesture to fix.

I couldn't think of that right now, because I was on the spot, in front of at least three hundred werewolves.  I gulped nervously and turned to face the crowd.  King Finnian pulled me closer.

"Your Queen, ladies and gentlemen."  He added again, pulling away briefly to gesture at me.

The applause picked up again, along with cheering and excited yells.  I smiled at everyone and waved like Selena had done earlier.  I pushed my apprehension away and focused on this moment.  I pulled my wolf forward slightly.  She felt more confident, more comfortable in her role.  My wolf half had felt like the Queen since she meet the King, so it was easier when I let my animal instincts take over.

Eventually the clapping and cheering died down and I was able to speak.

"I am so honored and humbled to receive such a warm welcome from everyone.  I'm new to this Queen business, but I promise to always keep the werewolf population's best interests at heart for everything I do.  Please bear with me as I navigate these unfamiliar waters and please don't be afraid to come to me with your questions, comments, and suggestions.  The late Queen Raina certainly left big shoes to fill, but I will work every day to be half the Queen that she was."

I finished and the applause started up again.  My gaze found my parents and they looked at me with pride, both seemed to be tearing up a little.  They gave me a thumbs up, letting me know I had done a good job.

I glanced over at Finnian, who looked just as proud.  He had the same look that he did the day he watched me train for the first and only time.  His smile lifted, only a fraction of a centimeter, but it was better than nothing.

"Thank you again for coming and we hope you enjoy the remainder of your night." 

At that, he tightened his arm around my waist, his forearm warm against my bare back, and guided me down the stairs.  We were swarmed by people as soon as we reached the bottom.  Everyone seemed to want to talk to me, if only to shake my hand.  I was so overwhelmed by the sheer amount of people that I couldn't give them all the attention that I wanted to, so instead I just let people talk to me, hug me, and shake my hand excitedly.

It took about thirty minutes of this and Finnian pulling me away from the crowd to finally get a moment of peace.

"You look stunning, by the way."  He breathed into my ear again once we were alone. 

"Thank you."  I replied evenly.  I wanted to question him, but now wasn't the time nor the place.

"Dance with me."  

I wanted to say no, just to be difficult, but I let it go for now and nodded once.  He laced our fingers together and pulled me to the dance floor. 

He held me much closer than Dalton had.  The front of my body was melded to his, hip to hip, chest to chest.  He left our fingers intertwined and held out next to us.  He wrapped his other arm around my waist, his big hand splayed out against my bare back, his warm flesh against mine causing me to break out in goosebumps.  I rested my hand at the back of his neck, twirling the ends of his hair absentmindedly.

"Do you want me to kill him?"  He murmured lowly as we swayed.

I nearly chocked on my saliva.  "What the hell are you talking about?"  I sputtered quietly.

"Chandler."  He clarified.

"Why would I want you to kill him?" 

He clenched his jaw, fury filling his eyes as they turned a shade of gold that matched my dress and his tie.  "Because of how he spoke to you."

"No, I don't want you to kill him."  I rolled my eyes.  "He's a creep, but he didn't actually touch me or anything."  Although he got close.

"He disrespected his Queen."  He argued.

"He didn't know I was his Queen.  Just let it go.  How did you even hear him?  It was completely across the room, which was very loud by the way."

"I hear everything that happens with you."

I pulled back slightly, or I tried to, but he wouldn't let me.  I was going to ask what he meant by that, but he changed the subject.

"I'll let it go this once, since you asked me too.  But I won't tolerate to take out anyone who I deem a threat to you."  He warned.

"Fine." 

We swayed in silence for a few minutes after that.  No one interrupted us and it was nice to be in his arms, actually in front of people for once.  He held me tightly, securely, like I was a delicacy that he had to protect from everyone else around.  My heart swelled at being so close to him, at him holding me so tenderly.  I couldn't help but lean in closer, even though I was still upset with him.

"Was the tie a coincidence or did you know the color of my dress?"  I wondered after a couple songs of silence.

"Nothing is a coincidence."  He muttered.

"How'd you know what my dress looked like?  Wait, don't even answer that.  Let me guess.  Niki?"

"I can't get anything past you, can I?"  He gazed down at me adoringly.

"I'm glad you're finally figuring that out.  Try not to forget again, King Finnian."

"Just Finnian, or Finn.  You're my equal; you don't have to call me King."

I nodded, but I would probably still do it for a while.  Calling him King had never been about respect, just like him calling me Miss Keating hadn't been about being polite.  It was a way for us to distance ourselves from one another.  I needed to keep that distance for now, at least until I knew he wasn't going to change his mind.

"I hope you realize how much trouble I'm going to be in with my brother after this little surprise of yours."  I drawled out, changing the subject.

"That certainly wasn't my intention."  Mirth filled his eyes, his voice teasing.

"It's not funny."  I mumbled and purposely stepped on his toes, which he didn't seem to notice.

"Why didn't you tell him?  You told everyone else in your family."

"Oh, wait a minute.  Let me take in this moment.  I want to remember it."

"Remember what?"

"The day the great King Finnian Cahill didn't know something."  I teased.

"In that case, you should remember it, because it will never happen again." 

I giggled, then decided to answer him.  "He's protective.  If he knew everything..." I trailed off, not wanting to go into details right now about how he treated me.  He already knew anyways.  "He would have challenged you, to protect me.  I had to protect him."

His eyes lost their mirth and turned sad.  "You were protecting him from me."  He stated.

I shrugged.  "You know the rules of a challenge as well as I do."

"Just for future reference, I wouldn't kill your brother or any of your family.  Even if challenged, I would never do that to you."

"So you weren't planning on attacking Selena in my room the other day?"  I raised my eyebrow at him.

"Of course not.  My wolf was pushing me forward at her disrespect, but I never would have attacked her.  Not only would I never do that to Tyler, but I certainly wouldn't do that to you.  She does have quite the attitude though, I must admit."

"She's protective too."  I smirked.  "I hope you're prepared for the hate my family will have for you for a while."

"I'll win them over.  I'll win you over."

"Hmm, can't wait to see what you come up with."

I laid my cheek against his chest and he rested his chin on top of my head.  His arms tightened around me.

"I know I don't deserve you, not after everything I've done.  But I'm going to spend the rest of my life making it up to you."

I didn't reply, just continued to snuggle up against him and sway slowly to the classical song the band was playing.

"If you get ready to leave, let me know.  We can leave whenever we want."

"We?"  I lifted my head to look at him again.

"I need you with me."  He gave me a meaningful look and I understood what he really meant by that.

He needed to keep me close.  It was the only way for him to ensure my safety against the traitor.

I was reluctant, but I nodded.  "I need to tell my family bye, then we can go."

He released me, but still kept my hand firmly in his.  He led me through the crowd, to my family.

They were sitting at one of the tables, everyone except Matt and Kat was there.   I didn't see them anywhere.  I pulled out one of the empty chairs and sat down, Finnian sat next to me.

"Where's Matt?"  I asked warily.

"He needed to step out."  Mom answered, since Dad couldn't because he was staring heatedly at my mate.

My gut churned with guilt that Matt was upset that I hadn't told him. 

"Oh," I mumbled.

"He'll be okay, Kenny.  He's just surprised.  You know Matt doesn't stay angry long."  She encouraged.

"No, but I do.  This little romantic gesture doesn't make up for anything, asshole."

Everyone looked at Selena in horror that she would talk to the King that way.  Tyler even looked a little fearful for her safety.  I glanced over at Finnian.  He looked annoyed, but he didn't look ready to attack her.

Her words were a little contradictory to her words to me this morning, but it wasn't hard to figure out why.  She wanted me to give him another chance and to be understanding of his reason for his actions, but that didn't mean that she was going to give him a free pass or that she wanted me to give him a free pass for how he had hurt me in the past.

We were on the same page.

"Your growing list of insults never cease to astound me."  Finnian grunted.

"Good, 'cause you're going to hear plenty of them."

He growled lowly, but didn't do anything else.

"We're gonna leave now.  I just wanted to tell you guys bye."

Before they could say anything else, a nervous looking waiter came up to our table.  He bowed to Finnian and waited for permission to talk, which he gave.

"Can I get anything for either of you, your Highnesses?"  He whispered in a shaky voice.

"Do you want anything?"  He turned to me.  He stroked my back with his thumb as he spoke.  His hand had been resting there since we sat down.  It didn't slip my notice that he kept touching me in some way since I reached his side.

"No, thank you."  I told the waiter and gave him a friendly smile so he'd relax.  He did, but just slightly.

"You sure you don't want anything to eat before we go?"

"I'm sure.  I ate already."

"Okay."  He turned back to the waiter.  "We're good, thanks."

"Will I see you guys tomorrow before you head home?"  I turned back to them.  They were staying at a hotel tonight, but I wanted to see them again in the morning.

"If King Finnian doesn't mind, then yes, we'd love to see you again tomorrow."  Mom remarked, directing her words mainly at Finnian.

"You don't need his permission to see me, Mom."  I told her.  I glanced over at him, daring him to disagree with me.  He didn't.

"You're more than welcome to stay here at the castle tonight.  We have plenty of room.  You can have breakfast with Kendall in the morning before you leave.  We have amazing chefs that work here.  And please, call me Finnian."

"Thank you, Finnian.  That's incredibly generous.  We graciously accept your offer."

"It's no trouble at all.  You're always welcome here." 

I rested my hand on his leg, right above his knee, under the table and gave it a gentle squeeze, trying to show him my appreciation.  My family meant everything to me, so it meant a lot that he was being so accepting of them and trying to make them feel welcome.  It was definitely a good step in the right direction in my eyes.

He added slight pressure to my back, which told me that it was no problem.

"Tyler, would you mind showing them to their rooms?"  He looked away from me and over to his best friend and gamma.

"Of course."  Tyler agreed.

"Okay, well I'll see you all in the morning."  I stood up and made my way around the table, giving everyone a quick hug.

After that, Finnian pulled me back into his side and led me up the stairs and out of the ball room, up towards the sixth floor.

Where we would be completely alone and away from prying ears. 

This would either get really interesting, or it would be really anticlimactic and we would just go to sleep.  Either way, at least I'd finally be welcome in his room for once.