When I first moved into the castle, it took no time for Matthew to relocate my things from my university room to his. I'd like to think it's because he was extremely excited for me to move in, but it's also because I have basically no stuff. It didn't go unnoticed to him that I only have one box of clothes. He ended up calling Ashley and Sage, asking if they could take me shopping with his credit card. I invited Clara to tag along so she could finally see the Old Town.

Her first few days were a bit apprehensive. She seemed nervous and somewhat afraid. It was so incredibly unlike her. She opened up to me about the rules that Bren has implemented. Almost everything that goes against his word or isn't viewed as "good enough" is followed by some form of punishment. Clara had to stop telling me about what punishments he or his warriors would inflict because they would make me feel unbelievably guilty.

I introduced Clara to my friends. Letting her know that only Tyler is aware of me being from Sparta. She was nervous at first, but after Evan cracked a few jokes, it was easier for her to come back to her normal self. I can only imagine the shit she's gone through back in Sparta.

Clara asked me a lot about Matthew. She—as a best friend would—asked for all the details. When I told her about his library and how I attend one of his classes, she couldn't help but laugh. She said he sounded like my perfect match. Much more suitable than Dickwad Bren.

I tried to argue against Matthew about giving me his card to go shopping. I do have paychecks from work, but he was quite adamant about me using his money. At first, I didn't even want to go shopping but with the winter coming up, I definitely need some sweaters and coats.

Despite Sage hating shopping, she was very forthcoming with what Matthew would like. Ashley was giddy and running around like a child let loose in a toy store. And Clara seemed to finally feel comfortable. Ashely kept probing Clara with questions that she very fluidly answered or managed to avoid. All the while Sage kept reminding me what Matthew likes—so beyond my usual comfort clothes, we bought a few outfits that would make him drool.

Dark academia aesthetic indeed, I smirk when the girls throw outfits at me. I can't deny that I don't love it. The plaid skirts and high boots. The button up blouses or oversized sweaters. I wouldn't say I've ever had an aesthetic, but I feel confident in this one.

"Mia, we need to get you something nice for Initiation." Sage says while Ash and I turn clothes on the rack. Sage is more than happy to give an opinion but in every store we enter she's basically the sulking boyfriend who sits on the sofa and doesn't move. Occasionally, Clara will join her when she gets tired of watching me try on outfits.

I turn to face Sage, crossing my arms over my chest. "What's Initiation like? We haven't talked about it a lot."

Ashely beams, "Oh it's beautiful here. We have so many different kinds of initiations, but it's like a graduation ceremony and gala combined."

Clara smirks, muttering under her breath. "I wish."

"It's black tie." Sage adds with a shrug, "I've worn the exact same dress for the last four years because I cannot be fucked getting a new one."

I let out a small laugh—typical Sage. Clara also gives off a giggle—Sage turning to stare at her. I lean forward, curious to how it works here. "Do I need to fight someone for the brand?"

"Goddess no," Ashley looks mortified. Her attention turning back to the clothes, "What does this place look like? Sparta?"

I try not to cringe at her words and brush them aside like they're just a pesky comment. Clara fidgets uncomfortably but she knows not to say anything. She's the Spartan advisor—everyone knows it. The brand on her wrist gives it away like a sore thumb. But so far, no one has figured out that I'm from Sparta and that's what we want to keep it as.

Sage watches me intently, quickly reverting to the conversation. "Our Initiation has different purposes. For starters, we initiate new pack members. But we also brand our warriors who have passed the trials. I'm sure Tyler can tell you more about that. And finally, we have a small initiation for our university graduates who aren't originally from the Valley."

"Really?" I'm surprised I haven't heard of this.

Sage nods, "If a student recently graduated and isn't part of our pack but wishes to showcase their appreciation. We give them the brand. It's symbolic and it's on their forearm not their wrist, but that's why we hold our initiation at the end of each term. Once in the fall or winter and then another by the end of the academic year. It's like an addition to their diploma."

That's beautiful, my wolf sighs contently. This pack is so open.

I agree with her, beaming with pride. "Other than dress nicely," I ask. "Anything else I should know about?"

"The mind link might be a bit overwhelming at first," Ashley tells me. Clara nods along with her, her hand reaching her forehead like she remembers a very bad headache.

Ashley turns to me and pushes a reassuring smile. "You're going to be fine, just know that in the beginning it's a lot to handle. It's like having a million group chats in your head that are all buzzing. You'll learn how to silence the ones that don't really matter and how to let in certain people."

The girls end up taking me to a few more up-scale stores. They make me try on plenty of evening gowns until we settle on two that are really nice. Clara and Ashley also buy one for themselves. I catch Sage watching them intently—her mouth dropping slightly when she sees Clara is a deep V-neck dress. Clara has always had the most spectacular boobs—even with all the weight she's lost, she looks stunning.

They also dragged me into a lingerie store which was just embarrassing. It's a Saturday afternoon and Old Town is packed. A few pack wolves watched as I was pulled in and I turned a solid crimson. Even the shop owner smiled at me knowingly. It's particularly embarrassing because everyone knows exactly who I'll be wearing this for.

"Matthew said clothes," I scowl at my friends.

Sage smirks, "Alpha would transfer me his entire bank account if it meant we're spending it on lingerie for you."

"Yeah Mia," Clara smiles brightly. "What was it he said? Dote? Do often think erotically?"

Ashely gasps, "He said that?"

I've never worn any lingerie—I've never had a reason too. But as I'm staring at the cute lace bras and adorable silky underwear, I can't help but get excited. Why does lace and silk have to be so cute and sexy at the same time? I ended up buying way more lingerie than I intended to. Well, partially because Ashley was throwing it in the bag like it was a scrap napkin.

"You'll need this," She would say tossing a matching set into the basket. "Oh, and this. And this."

By the time we finished shopping, the sun was setting. As soon as we all walked into the castle, we could smell Matthew's cooking. The two guards I've become friends with—John and Joel—are sitting along the counter, some beer in their hands as they relax on their time off. And to my surprise, Tyler is sitting there with them, just a few feet away from Matthew.

Matthew is playing chef—instead of his usual Alpha demeanor. He's talking to the two guards, Tyler listening intently, all of them smiling while they discuss Joel's new pup. Something amazing is cooking in the oven and I can't help but drool. His nose picks me up first, face turning towards me until his gaze lands on my face, a beautiful smile spreading over his lips.

"Hello ladies," He walks up to us, but his eyes stay focused on me. "I was just making dinner for you all."

The girls walk towards the kitchen to grab a much-needed drink. They start conversation with the guards while Joel shows off pictures of his new son.

Matthew gently holds my chin between his index finger and thumb, placing a slow kiss against my lips. "I can see you had fun," He says when he pulls away, smirking at all the bags on the ground. Eyes landing with subtle sultry on the bags of lingerie.

I bite my lip, a gleam of mischief sparkling in my eye. Whispering softly, "Maybe later I'll model some outfits for you."

His eyes snap to mine, "Oh I'd very much like that."

I kiss him softly, the oven timer going off. Matthew zips around the kitchen until he pulls out two massive pizza's. They both look homemade. The sauce, the dough, everything about it smells delicious. I rush over to Tyler, who's been waiting patiently to talk to me. Even though I know Matthew is watching us intently, I can't help myself and hug him tightly.

"How'd it go?" I beam proudly.

Tyler pulls away from the hug—a bright smile on his face. He had his Trials this week—I haven't seen him at all. No one was allowed to see anyone from the Trials until they were over. There was one night where Matthew didn't come home because he was too busy attending the Trials.

"I—" Tyler's voice is caught in his throat. He can't stop smiling which lets me know exactly what I knew this entire time. I squeal happily, jumping up and down and hugging him again. Tyler laughs, jumping up and down with me.

"Mia..." Matthew growls from the end of the kitchen. His gaze coming off of the pizza's he's made. Tyler pulls me away—afraid that he'll get scowled again.

"I'm just very happy for him," I let Matthew know. I turn to Tyler, "You'll have to tell me all about it."

Tyler chuckles, "It was intense. But I managed."

"He didn't just manage," Sage smirks. "He was the top of the warrior class. Alpha couldn't do shit to get him kicked off even if he wanted to."

Ashley beams at our friend, "So we'll be celebrating you and Mia this weekend."

Matthew starts cutting into the pizza, his eyes planted on Tyler and me. I appreciate that he's trying to control himself. Trying to be unbothered by Tyler and I's friendship. Matthew hands us plates, there are too many of us to sit at his dinner table, so we comfortably surround the island. Ashely and I telling the story of when Evan ripped his pants in front of the class when he had a presentation.

I watch as Tyler and Clara talk to each other briefly. Sparking small talk and getting to know each other. Watch as Sage's eyes stay focused on them. Her expression confused. Matthew pulls me into his chest, kissing the side of my head.

"Are you ready for initiation?" Matthew whispers in my ear. His arms snaking around my waist.

I smile, "I can't wait."

**********

"Sage," I call into the hallway. I can't help it, I yell as loud as I can. "Sage!"

I hear a bit of a huff. Her stomps echoing through the house as she climbs the stairs towards Matthew and I's room. She's already irritated having to wear her Initiation "dress." Her one evening "dress" that incidentally is an elegant jumpsuit. Instead of wearing heels, she has Doc Marten's on. I don't think I'd catch Sage dead in heels.

"What?" She practically yells back as she walks into the bedroom. Her eyes fall on me, softening slightly.

"I need your help," I instruct her as I turn my back to her. The zipper is out of my reach and Matthew has already gone to the Initiation grounds. It's a beautiful dress—dark and sparkles slightly.

The Initiation always takes place under the moonlight so for the last hour I've been trying to calm myself and relax. But I've been fidgeting. I've done my hair, put on make-up. I want to look presentable and when Matthew was wearing a tuxedo it made me realize how ceremonial this Initiation is.

And the whole pack is going to be there, my wolf howls. She's excited. Excited to be a part of a pack. I feel like I'm going to throw up.

Sage laughs softly, taking a step towards me to help me zip up my dress. "Stop being nervous," She says gently. "You're going to be fine."

I turn to face her, even she's wearing makeup. I can't believe they do this twice a year. I can't believe that I'm finally going to have my own brand and my own pack. It's exciting and nerve-racking.

Sage gives me her arm, leading me down the stairs. I'm a bit wobbly at first—I've never worn heels before, but it only takes a few minutes to adjust to the new height and strange walking. "Tyler is going to be by your side on stage," She explains to me briefly. "You'll get your five minutes of fame. And then after the ceremony, there's some small snacks and dancing. You're going to have fun."

Sage drives us to the ceremonial grounds. A beautiful clearing past Old Town. Once in the clearing, I can see that it overlooks the lake, university, and town. I can even see the back of the castle from here. The moon is full, and people are already gathered. String lights illuminating the clearing, a beautifully ornate stage at the very end. There's a dance floor to one side where a few families are dancing with their kids. I quickly realize that all of the Valley is here. There are hundreds of people and somehow, we all fit.

"Tyler is over there," Sage says stopping the car. "I have to go park."

"How mundane." I laugh stepping out. As soon as my feet touch the ground I wobble again. Sage must have mind linked Tyler because he suddenly appears from the crowd of people. Much like every other male here, he's wearing a tuxedo.

"Holms," He appears by my side. I grip his arm to steady myself. He chuckles, "Come on. I'll take you to your man. He's getting angsty."

As we're walking, I can't help but ask, "Has River assigned you yet?"

The crowds all look at us, parting the way like the Red Sea. Tyler smirks, "You mean what Alpha called 'glorified babysitter?'"

I guess River has informed him that he'll be my personal little bodyguard. I bite my lip, maybe that's not what Tyler wanted. "Does that upset you?"

"Goddess no." Tyler smiles brightly, "Guarding my best friend and future Luna? It's an honor."

Matthew's scent of Amberwood and coffee hits me vaguely. I start looking around for him, wondering where amongst the crowd he is. Just across the large sea of people, I finally catch his dark green eyes. My breath hitches at the sight of him wearing a tuxedo—and he had the audacity of wearing his glasses. A sexy Clark Kent indeed. It makes me wish we were back home and not here.

His eyes trail down my body—slowly. The smile on his lips disappearing as he clenches his jaw. He excuses himself from a conversation, never taking his eyes off me. There's a glass of champagne in his right hand, his tattooed left in his pocket. Tyler is smirking beside me as I let go of his arm. He takes a few steps back, winking at me before walking just past Matthew, who doesn't even entertain his presence.

Matthew stands in front of me, his eyes glittering with lust and splendor. He drags his tongue across his bottom lip, biting down gently. "Gorgeous."

I smile at him, leaning into him slightly as his scent takes over my senses. "Not too shabby yourself, Alpha."

"Mia..." Matthew leans forward, it feels like we're in our own bubble. "You look ravishing."

"As do you."

"Let me take you to the stage, gorgeous." Matthew takes my hand, giving it a small kiss. His aura glowing around him. He looks incredibly happy. His eyes unable to waver from me. "The sooner we go home, the sooner I can get you out of that dress."

I feel a blush creep up my neck but suppress it. Even with the night air cool, my blood is running warm. Matthew let's out a small chuckle, guiding me towards the stage alongside all the other initiates. Tyler is standing there talking to a few other warriors that are being promoted.

Matthew places me beside Tyler, who gives him a nod of respect. Sage and River appearing alongside their Alpha, the three of them making their way on stage. I look out into the crowd. So many familiar faces that I notice. The university students that I teach or take classes with are all huddle at one end. Enjoying free champagne. Families, store owners, everyone I've met at the Full Moon or in town makes up the majority of attendees.

Matthew is the first to step on the stage, followed by Sage and River. His aura starts to pulsate into the crowd the way he does when he teaches class. Everyone quieting down almost instantly. The light music that was playing coming to a stop. There's an elegance to this Initiation that doesn't exist in Sparta. The women are in evening gowns and dresses, men in tuxedos or three-piece suits.

Tyler stands beside me, giving me a reassuring smile as my heart starts pumping faster in my chest. There aren't a lot of initiates—most university initiates take place in the summertime. But there are warriors and then me.

"Good evening, everyone." Matthew echoes into the crowd. Even without a microphone his voice resonates through the forest. He talks about the tradition the Valley has regarding the Initiation. His skills as a professor coming in handy when he briefly summarizes the history of the Valley.

Once he's done, River is the one to introduce his new warriors. One by one, they're called up to the stage. Mainly males, but a few females who passed the Trials. Tyler is the last to go up. He gives me a bright smile. I watch intently as they're all handed a chalice. As River initiates them, they all take a sip. Tyler's eyes glass over in red for a split second—almost like a surge of energy goes through him. The crowd cheers, encouraging their new warriors.

I turn to the crowd, my eyes landing on my friends. Clara giving me a thumbs up. Ashley waving at me gently while Evan waves like he's a two-year-old that just saw Mickey Mouse. It actually helps me relax slightly and I don't notice my introduction until I hear Sage call my name. "Mia Holms."

I take my steps up on the stage, trying to focus on not falling over in my heels. To my absolute surprise, there are cheers in the audience. I try hard not to smile like a total buffoon but fail miserably. Matthew's intense gaze on me with so much pride it makes me glow. My wolf howling in my head, doing cartwheels if she could.

I stop center stage, the warriors behind me while I smile at Sage and River. There are a few formal words shared. Matthew and Sage agreeing to take me into the pack. Matthew steps towards me, his voice quieter than before but equally as resonating. "Mia," He says slowly. "Do you take the Valley as your pack?"

I can't even speak, my voice is caught in my throat over my influx of emotions. I'm trying hard not to tear up. This is what I want, a pack. A place to call my own. "Yes," I manage to say with enthusiastic nods.

Matthew steps in front of me, his back to the crowd. Everyone is dead silent—or at least it feels like that while I stare into his eyes. He smiles so brightly, so calmly. He reaches for my hand, his eyes never waver from mine. I watch as his lips move while he mouths, I'm fond of you.

I beam. Mouthing back, I'm fond of you, too.

His smile is infectious. Taking my wrist and bringing it up to his mouth where I watch his eyes darken. His canines extend. He kisses my wrist gently before his teeth sink down in a small and quick bite. I flinch slightly at the pain but suddenly a warm feeling spreads through my veins. It's incredible. My wolf starts purring as we're both suddenly flooded by...by energy.

Matthew kisses my wrist again. I look down—watching as the two canine marks ignite the veins in my wrist. It burns slightly, but in a good way. Like when the water is too hot in the shower. I don't know how, but the burning intensifies, a sigil slowly forming under my skin. Getting darker and darker as I feel this energy surge through me at every heartbeat. A Celtic tree of life slowly forms until finally, it blossoms on my wrist. I feel stronger—energized. My wolf is going crazy.

It's the strength of a pack. She says gleefully.

My head feels like it's about to burst. I place my hand to my forehead when I feel something tapping against my mind. It's so strange—like someone knocking on my door. I'm not sure how to control it but my wolf guides me. Without thinking much, I somehow open it.

Hello gorgeous. I hear Matthew's voice in my head. I feel tears forming in my eyes. Open your mind. Everyone wants to say hello.

It's like breaking a dam. As soon as I open the door in my head, everyone's voices flood in.

Hey roomie, I hear Sage.

Welcome Mia!

What up, Holms? Tyler's voice echoes.

Tia Mia!

Welcome to the pack, Prof.

Mia. Mia. Mia. Mia.

I can hear my students, my friends, everyone that's introduced themselves to me over the last few weeks. I'm overjoyed. I close my eyes, soaking in the different voices. It hurts my head, but I don't care. My wolf and I are overwhelmed. I know that I'm crying—tears of joy unable to be contained. Everyone sounding so excited—so overjoyed. And suddenly it stops. Going dead silent.

I open my eyes, wondering if I happened to shut the door in my head. Glancing to the side, I see Matthew's body slightly arched down in a bow. His head evidently bowing at me, but his eyes peeking through the rim of my glasses. My breath catches in my throat as I watch everyone follow him. Their heads and bodies bowing in respect. A chorus of one word echoing so clearly in my head.

Luna.