Today has to be the most intense best, worst days of my life in the best ways possible. Tonight is my coronation and I couldn’t be more nervous. I know I’m mentally and physically ready but my heart isn’t in it as it was. I know things between my mates and I are mending but something in the pit of my stomach doesn’t agree.

Glenn will be King along with me while Matthias and Kieth are taking a backseat. Something about that just makes me feel horrible after the recent efforts they’ve both put in to make things right but we can't have more than two rulers. That doesn't mean they won't have opinions on things and that I won't ask them for help and advice.

I know Glenn still doesn’t trust them enough to build a bond with them but I hope he’ll make the effort to be friends with them. Not only for our family but for the country’s sake.

“I hope you’re both hungry.” Matthias smiled as he walked in with two trays with breakfast.

“We were just coming down for breakfast. I need to feed Malachi anyway.” Glenn protested as he got up.

“And you will after breakfast. You promised me you’d put yourself first before anyone else for the time being.” Matthias teased and Glenn grumbled, getting back in bed and began to eat.

“What’s all that noise outside?” I asked referring to the noise coming from the hallway.

“The remodelled room that’s next door is almost complete so they’re just cleaning up.” He smiled and started walking out of the room.

“Thanks for breakfast, Matthias.” I said and he chuckled and his blue eyes clashed with mine and I blushed.

“No problem Ashton. See you guys downstairs in a bit.” He said before walking out of our room and closing the door.

“It’s getting harder to dislike them everyday.” Glenn huffed as he took a bite of his breakfast potatoes.

“Is that such a bad thing? They’re making an effort more than they ever have in the past. That’s a point in my book.” I shrugged and ate my food and sighed. I’m grateful they’ve finally changed, even if it's a slow process, it's still progress.

“It’s not a bad thing, no. I just hate it took this long for them to change their ways. Not that I regret it either or we may have never met. Everything you’ve told me though, I just don’t think I can form a bond with people I can’t fully trust. I will try to be less closed off and friendlier though. They have done enough to deserve that much of my trust.” He smiled a little and nudged me playfully and I chuckled. He’s so unbelievable I love him so much more.

After we finished eating, we took our trays to the kitchen and I smiled as Malachi was being held by Matthias and Keith was next to them, talking softly to him.

“There’s the happy couple.” Adon teased as he walked in with my parents.

“Adon, you’re here again?” I asked with a raised brow. Not that I’m complaining.

“Ashton don’t be so rude.” Mom warned playfully.

“Sorry, I know I shouldn’t be shocked he’s here as often as he is with Glenn pretty much living here now but…it seems more frequent now.” I said and the three of them sit.

“Boys, I think you should sit. It’s time you know the truth behind our partnership and just how strong it is.” Dad spoke and we all went to his office.

“This just became a lot more eerie.” Glenn chuckled lightly as we all sat in the room.

“There’s one part of your history lesson we intentionally left out until your coronation because it is very important you know this. Adon is not only an Alpha but our royal advisor.” Dad spoke.

“And why wait until my coronation to tell me this?” I cut in.

“I’m getting to that.” Dad grumbled.

“Sorry, sorry.” I blushed.

“Short version is, Malachi isn’t the only soul gifted to an Alpha by the Moon Goddess. Adon is a descendent of the Moon Goddess and the Alpha from the history books. He died in a war with our ancestors lost and a shift of power was made such as real wolves. Being a descendent of the Moon Goddess though, our ancestors still wanted to honor him and so was given the highest honorary title below the King and so he became the first royal advisor and still continues to guide us every day while continuing his Alpha duties.  Also he is technically Malachi’s great uncle.” I did not see that one coming.

“So Adon is a descendent of the Moon Goddess? And one of the eldest Alphas in history, and my son's great uncle?” I asked and I went speechless.

“No one in the world knows this but the royal family, his Beta and Glenn’s parents. It was because of a traitor they died. The traitor was planning a triple assasination in an attempt to kill your mother and I along with Adon. They wanted to rule both sides, the wolves of the forest and the royal family. We’re sorry we didn’t tell you all sooner. We should have trusted you with the truth.” Dad’s eyes softened as we took it all in and I looked at Glenn. I couldn’t read his emotions at all. He was just looking down at his hands.

When we left the office the atmosphere felt thick and it was making me nauseous. Glenn has yet to say a word and I had no idea how to comfort him. I’m his mate, yet I felt frozen. Why couldn’t I move?

“There you guys are, we were hoping you wouldn’t take too long. We have a surprise for you and just in time for Malachi’s nap too.” Keith smiled and dragged us back upstairs.

“So what. It’s the room that was being remodelled.” Glenn sighed and I nudged him a little to lighten up even if he was mad at our parents.

“It was being remodelled for a Prince.” Keith said and we all walked into the room and we all gasped.

You couldn’t tell we were in the castle if you stepped into the room. It was so much more modern and the red furniture was replaced with navy blue and the walls were repainted to a calm off white or something. I wasn’t sure. I just know I was in awe of it all.

“Matthias you’ve really outdone yourself.” My mom admired the work.

“I had no hand in doing this at all but the idea. I took into consideration the furniture in the castle, the colors, textures and what Ashton and Glenn liked or didn’t like and well I came up with this with the artistic talents of Keith. It was his idea for the tree in the corner there and told me what colors would have clashed with the rest of the castle.” He pointed to a tree on the wall and we laughed.

“Whatever the case may be it looks wonderful.” Adon smiled and they looked around the room.

“So how long has this been in the works?” I asked my mates as they were practically pushed aside by my parents and Adon.

“About three or so weeks give or take. I’m pretty sure you can both recognize some of the things we picked out on our outing that one day the night of the ritual.” Matthias smiled as we watched everyone.

“Queen Ashley got one thing right. You’ve outdone yourself with this one.” Glenn smiled softly and went toward the crib to put Malachi down.

“Was that his way of complimenting me?” Matthias asked me with a light chuckle and a hand over his heart.

“I believe so, love.” Keith snickered.

“Take what you can get. Remember one step at a time. I told you guys last week, he's not so easily trusting. I may be at fault for telling him my past but as one of my mates he deserved to know. That compliment was a step in the right direction. Just give him some time. He’ll come around.” I reminded them. I know this is hard for them. They don’t like the tension between them and Glenn but they’re all unknowingly making the right steps but questioning if it’s enough.

“We know, we’re trying. We just don’t want to screw up more than we already have. You have a son now and an entire country to watch over. That’s more than enough to worry about, especially today of all days. You should be relaxing until tonight. It’s going to be a party to remember you know.” Keith rambled on and I sighed.

“I get it. I do, I’m sure we all still have the same fears but the more we stress about it, I’m sure we’ll only drive each other crazy.” I chuckled and I felt I was already going to go insane.

After everyone left the nursery. Matthias and Keith went to assist with the decorations for the party later tonight after the ceremony.

“Don’t look so nervous, son. You’re going to do great.” Dad smiled as I adjusted my tie in the mirror.

“Why do I feel so nervous? I’ve felt this way all day.” I said and turned to face him and he helped me straighten out my suit.

“It’d be more concerning if you weren’t. It’s completely natural to be nervous. You went from a small town boy now you’re going to be a King. That’s a huge difference. You have us all by your side though. You’re never alone in this. Remember that. A King is not a King without his Queen or in your case, a King and you’re not Kings without your people. You have so many people to help you and advise you. It’s just up to you to take that advice and run with it or ignore it.” Dad said as he kept fixing my tie and he finished smoothing out my outfit.

“Thanks for that.” I hugged him and he squeezed me a little tighter before walking out of my room with a soft smile on his face.

I could smell everyone’s scent as they arrived one by one into the courtyard. To say I was nervous was an understatement but I couldn’t think about that now. Tonight is the night I become King of the nation and Alpha of all wolves.

It was my time to reign and nobody was going to stop me.

I’ve put in months of hard work and training just for this moment. I am where I am because I deserve this. Then again as the crowd grew and waited for Adon to call me out as the new King. My nerves were growing worse. I couldn’t stop fidgeting with my formal coat.

“And now for your future King, Ashton Cooke!” Dad announced to the crowd and I walked out.

“The moment is finally here.” Adon whispered to me and I smiled to myself as my parents and mate's were on either side of me. The crowd before me looked so much bigger than I felt from inside the castle. The only thing that eased my worry was the first royal friend I made here, Mallory. She was sitting with a woman next to her, both looking beautiful in their formal gowns and small crows upon their heads.

“I can’t believe it. All the pain, suffering, and tears, it was all worth it for this moment.” I sighed but smiled.

“Be proud my boy, the Moon Goddess has brought you here and put you through what she did to make you stronger as a person and a King. Embrace your failures and learn from them. That is what will make you a great ruler and King.” He smiled and I looked to the Moon.

“Thank you, Adon.” I said quietly and he ushered the oath.

“Do you, Ashton Cooke. Solemnly, sincerely, and truly declare that you will be faithful to your country as those before you?” He asked.

“I, Ashton Cooke. Solemnly, sincerely, and truly declare that I will be faithful to my country as those before me.” I spoke with pride and strength.

My father stepped forward and I got on my knees and bowed my head as I waited for him to address the people and place my now crown upon my head and when I felt it, I felt all the weight come along with it but I was ready for it.

"People of Domar, it is with great pleasure that I introduce to you for the first time, King Ashton Cooke." Dad's voice said with so much pride and I felt my eyes sting with unshed tears and he helped me stand and turned me to face the crowd. Everyone was on one knee, bowing their heads for me in respect.

Soon after dad and I did the Alpha King ceremony, much like the one for me becoming King. I felt more powerful and I felt the power in my pores. I even got a lot more muscular with broader shoulders and grew three inches.

Soon after fireworks or cannons fired and the atmosphere became cheerful even more than before. Dancing, singing, hugging and all around celebrating for what the future holds.

After an hour of celebration, I walked back to the podium to speak. It was the first time since the ceremony started that I remembered tonight was not only about me but about Glenn as well.

“My people, I come to you this day with a heavy heart. I know what the future brings and I cannot do it without you, my mates, and my King, Glenn.” The crowd gasped. Mallory smiled and nodded at me. I then walked back to my seat and my mom ushered Glenn up to the podium and repeated a similar oath to mine. I know we’re the first same sex couple to rule and that may cause conflict but he’s my everything.

Once they had both been seated I went back to the podium.

“I know this may come as a shock to a lot of you. Maybe some of you have known for a while. I am gay, and Glenn will rule along with me. I do have two other mates. We think Glenn is a more suitable fit for the Lunos and 'Queen' position. However, Matthias and Keith hold high positions as Matthias is an Alpha and Keith is my mate so they are to be treated with respect much like myself. I hope that I will be a good King and help you in any way that I am able. You can come to me for anything at any time. I have an open door policy so please don't be afraid to come to me. I am and will always be here for each and every one of you.” I said to the crowd and also in the mindlink that I now have with every single werewolf in the world. I can have it closed which I will but I won't block any wolf, ever from reaching out to me.

No one made a sound at first but soon enough everyone stood and began to clap. I smiled at my other mates; they just nodded at me with beautiful smiles on their faces.

As the ceremony came to a close, we all just joined the country’s people in celebrating.

“Why the long face?” Said a familiar voice and I turned around to see Mallory.

“I just…a lot has happened since I came here. I just feel that all my mates should have been crowned tonight. I mean, I know we still have a long way to go to mend our bond but they’ve put so much effort in and I’ve put in less than they have with all I’ve been doing getting ready for today, being a dad, being with Glenn. Grieving over Malachi’s lost soul. I just haven’t had time to just be…me. Don't get me wrong, I love my life and who I am, I'm just a little stressed." I sighed softly and she put her hand on my shoulder.

“Feel better?” She giggled.

“Slightly, but you have company.” I chuckled a little and tilted my head towards the girl trying to sneak up behind my friend.

“I was looking for you everywhere you know.” Mallory looked toward the girl attempting to hide but failing miserably.

“Did you check the dessert table?” The girl said and I just stood there as they bickered back and forth.

“Anyway, Ashton, this is my wife, Queen Karina.” My jaw instantly dropped.

“When I became Queen I made same sex mrriage legal and married this sexy thing.” Mallory smirked.

“Well congratulations, I remember you saying you were going to so I'm happy for you both.” I smiled and waved to Karina and was soon wrapped in her arms.

“I’m sorry about her, she’s a hugger and not your stereotypical royal. Among friends that is. When it comes down to business she’s not someone to mess with at all.” Mallory said and she was dead serious about it.

“I like her already.” We both laughed causing Karina to pout.

The rest of the night we just caught up and I introduced them to Malachi.

I spotted Matthias's Alpha friends and he was with them along with Keith so Glenn with Malachi in his arms and I went over to them and I immediately was taken into a hug by Ajax and instantly I could feel his high stress level and how sad he was. I told the other's we'll be back and took Ajax to a private garden that is closed off to the crowd and we sat down at a table.

"Are you alright Ajax?" I asked right away and he shook his head and sighed.

He looked at me and his eyes filled with tears as he explained what is going on with his mate's and what they have been doing, how they have been treating him, how they have been neglecting him and the children.

"I don't want my first piece of advice to be so harsh but Ajax, you need to do something about them. You need a mate to help you, to feel complete, to lean on, to be there for you and the pack. I understand the need to be with them probably more than you would think so for me to say this, it's serious. Break the bonds you have with them. They obviously aren't wanting to be with you, no matter how hard you try nor how wonderful a person you are. You can't force nor make then change or to be with you. You have given up your own life since you were a young teenager and have had so much to handle so to have two mate's who aren't even trying, you need to do this for you, no one else. It is time you are happy and live your life, fully." I said as I held his hand and he sniffled and gave me a shaky smile.

"You will make an excellent King, Aloha King Ashton." He bowed his head as his eyes turned red, showing his wolf was present and showed respect.

"And you will make someone very happy one day, I just know it Blade, you and Ajax will have a good happy life." I tried to assure them and with the genuine smile I see on his face, I assume I did.

"Thank you. Even if it's just spending time with someone. I just want to feel like I matter to someone for once. I have so much love to give and I want to spoil someone and dot over them, be held and loved on as well. I don't think that's too much to ask for."

"It certainly isn't. I understand how you feel, I felt that way when I first met Keith and Matthias, seeing them happy together and wanting that only to learn we're mate's but I didn't know and thought feeling the way I did was wrong and I longed for what you are longing for so I understand. I know this isn't something you want to hear but, be patient. It will happen when you least expect to. Trust in the Moon Goddess to have a plan for you. She has one for all of us." We sat there talking for a little while longer before rejoining the celebration.

I was happy, but not complete so I think it's time to make that happen.