The Alpha's Unclaimed Mate (Jason and Laila) by Caroline Above Story novel Chapter 385

Chapter 385

Laila’s POV

Richard led us toward a group of men that seemed comfortable in their group, like each knew exactly where to stand when they were together.

“This is the Elder Council,” Richard said. “Gentlemen, this is my lost niece, Laila.” Something caught his eye behind us. “I hope you can entertain my niece for a moment. I see a matter that needs my attention.”

He walked off without another word. I turned, trying to see where he was going, but soon he was swallowed by the crowd and gone from my sight. Jason continued looking, though, perhaps able to scent him in Alpha ways I couldn’t detect.

“The lost princess returned,” said one of the Elder Council.

I turned back giving them my attention. They all looked the same in their suits and masks. Even their graying hairstyles were similar. It was impossible for me to tell them apart. I even struggled to discern which of them was speaking.

“Welcome back to your pack, Laila.”

“We are honored to have you returned to us.”

“You father will rest easier knowing you are safe.”

I wasn’t safe. Not yet. But I couldn’t tell them that.

“When you have settled in,” one said, “We will discuss finding you an appropriate mate.”

“Excuse me?” Jason said, his attention snapping all of his attention to this conversation.

The Elder Council totally ignored him.

“You are as close to royalty as possible in the pack, my dear,” said a council member. “It is important that you find a match who will not bring you down.”

“Laila” Jason whispered, like I had forgotten him Lake I could ever

I could not. And would not

“My daughter Ava already has a father,” I said, gesturing to him. “Atid I… already have a mate.”

It was a chance, saying that, with our future so unknown, but in the moment, after everything we had shared, it felt like the right thing to say. I didn’t know what the future held for Jason and me after this. Maybe we wouldn’t be strong enough to go back to our daily lives without breaking. But I wasn’t going to allow this moment right here, this small confrontation with the Elder Council, to already decide it.

Jason relaxed a little. His arm came up and settled snugly around my waist, pulling me closer to him. I pressed my hand to his chest.

Our bond thrummed pleasantly between us.

He placed his hand over mine on his chest and dragged it up to over his heart. Beneath my palm, I could feel the steady beat of his heart, almost in tandem with my own.

“But I am thankful for you concern,” I told the Council. “If you will excuse us.”