chapter twenty-eight

Katherine POV

I packed my things at home, nervous about staying in the same room as Alpha Nathaniel. My parents had arranged with the Hawthorne's for me to stay with him, believing it would help form our bond quickly. Nathaniel's mother had agreed, stating she couldn't stand me for much longer and that Emilia was more fit to rule as Luna after her. Her words stung, but my parents' genuine smiles and caring nature made me happy.

As I finished packing, my mom asked, "Is that the last of it, honey?" I nodded, and she hugged me tightly. "Emilia will drop you off. I'll miss you so much." I relaxed into her touch, but she pulled away, reminding me, "Your father's life depends on how fast you get this done." I swore to her, "I promise not to fail you, mom." She gave me a proud smile before stepping aside to let me enter Emilia's car.

Emilia passed my mom coldly, who rolled her eyes in response. "We don't have all day, get in," Emilia told me. I nodded, waving goodbye to my mom as the ca