Chapter 26

Arlo finished his shower quickly, the cool water washing away the tension he’d been feeling since the morning. His thoughts drifted back to Lune as he dressed, recalling how breathtaking she had looked stepping out of the bathroom. His heart still pounded from the memory, but he knew he needed to stay focused—especially with the day ahead. Once he was ready, he made his way to join her downstairs.

When he entered their bedroom, Lune was already dressed and waiting for him. She smiled shyly when their eyes met, still feeling a little flustered from their earlier exchange. But she couldn’t help but feel a sense of comfort when he was around, even when things got awkward between them.

"Ready?" she asked softly, her voice gentle as she glanced up at him.

Arlo nodded, offering her a small, reassuring smile. “Yeah, let’s go.” He extended his hand toward her, and after only a brief hesitation, she took it. Their fingers intertwined naturally, and together, they made their way downstairs, their steps in sync.

The house was calm that morning, the sunlight streaming through the large windows, casting a golden glow on everything it touched. Lune felt the warmth of Arlo’s hand in hers, and the quiet moments between them weren’t filled with the tension from before. Instead, there was a softness in the air—a growing understanding, an unspoken bond that was beginning to deepen each day.

As they descended the stairs, Lune’s thoughts wandered to the strange yet comforting routine she was slowly adjusting to. Arlo had been nothing but patient and gentle with her, especially with everything she had learned about his world. Despite the shocks and the uncertainties, Lune found herself feeling a sense of safety in his presence.

Once they reached the dining room, the smell of breakfast greeted them. The table was already set, with warm plates of food and fresh fruit waiting. Arlo led her to her seat before taking his own, and they settled in for their meal.

“Did you sleep well?” Arlo asked, breaking the comfortable silence as he handed her a glass of juice. His tone was casual, but there was a hint of genuine concern in his voice.

Lune nodded, her thoughts still drifting between everything that had happened. “I did,” she said softly, her fingers wrapping around the glass. “It’s just… I still can’t believe how much has changed in such a short time.”

Arlo looked at her for a moment, his expression thoughtful. “I know it’s been a lot to take in,” he admitted, his voice low as he picked at his food. “But I’m glad you’re here, Lune. I’m glad we’re figuring this out together.”

She smiled at his words, feeling a warmth spread through her. Despite the uncertainties, there was something undeniable about their connection, something that made her feel more grounded than she had expected.

“Me too,” she said softly, her eyes meeting his. “It’s strange, but… I’m starting to feel like I belong here.”

Arlo’s face softened, and a small, genuine smile tugged at his lips. “You do belong here,” he assured her. “And I’m going to make sure you always feel that way.”

They both fell into a comfortable rhythm as they ate, exchanging small conversations between bites of breakfast. The peacefulness of the morning wrapped around them like a cocoon, and Lune found herself feeling lighter than she had in days. Even with all the challenges ahead, being by Arlo’s side made everything feel more manageable.

As they finished their meal, Lune glanced at him, feeling the quiet comfort of their morning settle deep within her. There was still so much to learn, so much to discover about each other and the world they were navigating together, but in that moment, everything felt… right.

Arlo stood up, offering his hand to help her rise from her seat. “Shall we?” he asked, his eyes twinkling slightly with that familiar warmth she was starting to grow fond of.

Lune took his hand, smiling as she stood. “Let’s,” she replied softly, and together, they left the dining room, ready to face whatever the day had in store for them.

Later that day, after breakfast, Lune found herself pacing in their room. Her mind was restless, and she couldn’t shake the feeling of being confined, despite the mansion’s vastness. Ever since moving in with Arlo, her life had changed so drastically. While she appreciated the comfort and security, something was missing—something she hadn’t realized was so important to her until now.

When Arlo entered the room after finishing up some work-related calls, he immediately noticed the thoughtful expression on Lune’s face. He approached her, concern etched in his features as he softly called her name, “Lune? What’s on your mind?”

She stopped pacing and turned to face him, hesitating for a moment before speaking. “I’ve been thinking… I’m tired of staying home all the time.” She paused, searching for the right words to explain what she felt. “I know things have been busy with the wedding and all the changes, but I can’t just stay in the house every day. I need something to do, something meaningful. I’d love to work.”

Arlo’s brow furrowed slightly as he took in her words. He hadn’t expected this. He had assumed that she would want time to adjust to their new life together. But he also understood her need for independence—Lune had always been someone who thrived on being active, on contributing.

“I didn’t realize you were feeling this way,” Arlo said, his voice gentle as he moved closer to her. “I’ve been so focused on making sure you’re comfortable here that I never thought about how staying inside might be making you feel… trapped.”

Lune nodded, relieved that he understood. “It’s not that I don’t appreciate everything, Arlo. I do, really. But I’ve always been used to doing things, being productive. And now that we’re settled, I want to find something that makes me feel… fulfilled.”

Arlo watched her for a moment, considering her words carefully. He knew that Lune had given up a lot by moving into his world. She had left behind her old life, her independence, and while he had promised to protect and take care of her, he never wanted her to feel like she had lost her freedom.

“I understand,” he said softly, reaching out to take her hand in his. “If you want to work, we can find something for you. Whatever you want to do, I’ll support you. You don’t have to feel like you’re stuck here.”

Lune smiled, her heart lifting at his response. She had worried he might not understand, that he would prefer her to stay at home, but hearing him support her desire to work made her feel seen and heard.

“I don’t even know what kind of work I’d want to do yet,” she admitted, “but just knowing that you’re okay with it… that means a lot.”

Arlo squeezed her hand, his expression softening. “Of course, I’m okay with it. I want you to be happy, Lune. I want you to feel like you belong, not just in this house but in every aspect of your life.”

She looked into his eyes, feeling a wave of gratitude for how supportive he was being. “Thank you,” she said softly. “I didn’t expect this adjustment to be easy, but with you… it feels like I’m not doing it alone.”

“You’re never alone,” Arlo replied, pulling her gently into his arms. “We’re in this together, every step of the way.”

Lune rested her head against his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart. For the first time in days, she felt a sense of calm wash over her. Arlo’s understanding and willingness to support her decision gave her a renewed sense of purpose.

“We’ll figure it out,” Arlo continued, his voice a soothing presence as he stroked her hair. “And if there’s anything you’re interested in, just let me know. Whether it’s helping with the pack or finding something outside of that, we’ll make it work.”

Lune smiled into his chest, her anxiety fading away as she felt the security of his embrace. “I’ll think about it,” she said softly. “There’s so much I want to learn about your world… maybe there’s something I can contribute to the pack. But I also want to keep a part of myself—the part that was me before all of this.”

Arlo nodded, understanding her need for balance. “We’ll make sure you don’t lose that part of yourself,” he said. “You’re free to do what makes you happy, Lune. Whatever that is.”

As they stood there, wrapped in each other’s arms, Lune felt a renewed sense of hope for the future. She had found someone who not only cared for her but also respected her need for independence. And that was something she had never thought she would find in this new life.

Later that evening, after their conversation about Lune wanting to work, Arlo found himself thinking about her future more deeply. As much as he wanted her to feel fulfilled, he also realized that Lune might have some unfinished dreams or goals that she had yet to pursue. One thing that came to mind was education. He remembered during one of their early conversations that she had mentioned she didn’t finish college due to her family’s financial struggles.

Arlo was someone who believed in empowerment, especially for his mate. If Lune wanted to work, she should have all the tools necessary to chase her dreams, and a solid education was one way to ensure that. After considering it for a while, he decided to bring it up with her.

Later that night, after they had dinner, they found themselves sitting together on the couch in their room, the soft glow of the lamps providing a cozy atmosphere. Arlo glanced at Lune, who seemed relaxed, her face reflecting the same peace he had noticed since their earlier conversation. He decided it was the perfect moment to ask.

“Lune,” Arlo started, his tone gentle but thoughtful. “I’ve been thinking about something.”

She looked up at him, curiosity sparking in her eyes. “What’s that?”

Arlo took a breath, wanting to frame his words carefully. “You mentioned before that you didn’t finish college. I know you’ve been thinking about work and finding something meaningful to do, but… have you ever thought about going back to school? Continuing your education?”

Lune blinked, a little taken aback by the question. It wasn’t something she had expected him to bring up. “I… I guess I haven’t really thought about it,” she admitted. “Things were so complicated before. My family couldn’t afford for me to continue, and then everything with us happened so fast.”

Arlo nodded, understanding. “I know a lot has changed, but I want you to know that you have the option now. If going back to school is something you’d want, I’d be happy to support you. You could study whatever interests you, and it might help you figure out what you want to do in the future.”

Lune was silent for a moment, processing his words. The idea of going back to school hadn’t crossed her mind since she moved in with Arlo. But now that he mentioned it, a part of her felt a spark of excitement. She had always loved learning, and the idea of finishing her degree—of gaining knowledge and skills that could help her find her path—was appealing.

“You really think I should go back to school?” she asked, her voice soft but intrigued.

Arlo smiled, his eyes full of encouragement. “I think it’s a great opportunity. You could take your time, explore different subjects, and figure out what you’re passionate about. Plus, it would give you something to focus on outside of the house. You wouldn’t feel like you’re just sitting around.”

Lune nodded, thinking it over. He was right. Going back to school would give her a chance to find her footing again. It would give her a sense of purpose, and it would be something she could do for herself.

“I think I’d like that,” she said finally, a small smile playing on her lips. “I always did enjoy learning. And maybe finishing my degree will help me figure out what I really want to do.”

Arlo’s smile widened, clearly pleased with her response. “I’m glad you think so. We can start looking into schools and programs that interest you. Whatever you decide, I’ll be here to help.”

Lune felt a surge of gratitude toward Arlo. He was always thinking about her well-being, about ways to make her feel more comfortable in this new life. She had never imagined that he would encourage her to go back to school, but it only made her appreciate him more.

“I can’t believe you thought of this,” she said softly, leaning into his side. “Thank you, Arlo. It means a lot that you’re supporting me in this.”

He wrapped his arm around her, pulling her close. “Of course, Lune. I want you to have everything you need to feel fulfilled, whether that’s work, school, or something else. You don’t have to rush, either. Take your time to figure out what’s right for you.”

They sat there for a few moments in comfortable silence, the warmth between them growing stronger. Lune felt lighter than she had in weeks. The prospect of returning to school excited her in a way she hadn’t anticipated, and knowing that Arlo was fully behind her made it even better.

“I think this is exactly what I need,” she said after a while, her voice full of quiet determination. “I want to go back to school, finish what I started. I just need to figure out what I’m really passionate about.”

Arlo smiled down at her, pressing a soft kiss to the top of her head. “We’ll figure it out together,” he said warmly. “You have all the time in the world to find your path, and whatever you choose, I’ll support you every step of the way.”

Lune smiled, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. The future didn’t feel so uncertain anymore. With Arlo by her side, encouraging her, she knew that she could face whatever challenges lay ahead.