DRAVEN'S POV

Celeste's words dripped with sweetness, but I detected a tang of deceit. What did she want? I leaned back in my chair, eyes locked on hers. But still, I had to dismiss the meeting first. I spoke with the elders about when we were going to meet each other. They agreed and left for their different homes. I had to still go back to Celeste and confront her about her interruption and what she really wanted. “Hey,” I said, waving my hands to her.

“You look so curious; what do you want?” Celeste asked.

“Actually I should be the one asking you those questions. Okay, you know that the way you came inside my chambers where I was having a meeting with the elders was so suspicious, and I doubt if you only came for support like you claimed,” I said, racing and my eyes brow.

“And that's actually what I can give, or were you expecting any other thing from me? I just came inside to show you how loyal I'm to you and also the pack. Okay, I have nothing else from me,” she said. I knew she was lying and she was up to something, but I couldn't sense it coming and had no clue about what she was planning.

"Your support is noted, Celeste,” I said, my tone neutral. “But tell me, what makes you think you're qualified to advise on this matter?”

Celeste's smile faltered for a moment before she regained her composure. “I only want what's best for the pack, Alpha,” she said, her voice dripping with sincerity. “You start to believe that you are actually up to something. Why don't you share the problems with me? I can actually be of good help to you; just try me,” I said.

“Like I said before I have nothing else in mind coming inside your Chambers I just want what's best for you and the pack. You should control your doubts towards me and focus on trusting me, okay?” she said.

I chuckled first before regaining composure. “I know that you are good, but there is more to understanding each other. I have to study you. I have to understand you before I get to trust you, okay, not even you, everyone. You should try not to trust anyone so easily so you wouldn't have to fall victim to any betrayal, okay?” . “Okay, since it's coming from you, I have to follow your lead then. Just know that I would always be loyal to you as you wanted me, okay?” she said, wearing a big smile on her face.

I wasn't convinced. I knew Celeste's history, her manipulation, and her games. I wouldn't be swayed by her charms. “I appreciate your concern,” I said, my voice firm. “But the council will make the decisions regarding the Luna Trials. Your input is… appreciated, but not necessary.”

Celeste's eyes flashed with anger, but she masked it quickly, her smile returning. “Of course, Alpha,” she said, her voice sugary sweet. “I'll just… observe the trials, then.”

“Okay then you still have my time if you need them,” I said, wanting to create more conversation between the both of us, knowing that it might actually lead me to something of hers.

“Okay, so tell me about the Luna trials. How far has it gone? Like, I mean, when are they starting it?” She asked.

“According to one of my elders, he provided the date on which the trials would begin, which is in three days' time. It was elder Thorold who provided the date,” I replied. “Okay, then all the maidens would just have to go get prepaid to get the Alpha's attention,” she said.

“You sound as if you wouldn't be a participant among those who are going to go for the trial. I would be so overwhelmed if I had to see you there,” I said, putting a perfect smile on her face. “Really,” Celeste said, drawing closer to me. “I would actually give it a try. I can still get to win it if you put my best on it,” Celeste said.

“Sure, you are actually going for the win, but only if you are determined to win, okay? Just try not to be so dramatic and be yourself. I think I would have to go now, okay? I have other plans to discuss with my father, and he is the one giving me the worst hard time. Now I have to talk to him,” I said, leaving her alone in one spot.

I lied to her. Not only that, but I was actually not going to talk to my father. Likewise, I was going to talk to Julian, one of my trusted guards. I knew he was the one going to do a flawless job for me. Keep a very close eye on Celeste. “Hey Julian,” I called.

“Yes, Alpha Draven,” Julian said, rushing quickly to me.

“I want to ask you some questions about Celeste,” I said.

“What about her, my king?” He asked.

“Well I have been seeing her suspicious movements now and I can't help it but I know that she is really up to something I don't know about, which is why I always want you to help me check on her. I want you to keep a very close eye on her,” I said.

“I'm sorry to say this, but don't you think she might be suspicious of me if I get to go spying on her?” Julian asked.

“I know, but I called you to do it because, among all, you are the most trusted, and I don't want you to fail that trust I have with you. Just do a clean job with her and make sure she doesn't suspect anything about you because I know that she is up to something,” I said.

“I appreciate the trust you have with me, my king j will all things possess to see that I help get you the information about her you need,” Julian said as I dismissed him immediately.

I nodded, my instincts screaming warning. Celeste was up to something.