Chapter Six

Nova Pov

I can’t believe Arlo just barged in here like that, what is he thinking? I apologised to Alpha Remi who just laughed it off. I have to admit that Alpha Remi is hot. He has short dark hair, dark facial stubble and dark brown eyes. Muscles for days and a cheeky smile. He would be a good option for a chosen mate. His mate passed away a year ago and he is being pressured to take a bride.

“We best head over to the pack house now,” my mother says as she clears plates away. “The Alpha and Luna-Beta are waiting to meet you.”

“Of course,” agrees Alpha Remy as he follows my parents out.

Once we reach the pack house, the tension is clear. Arlo narrows his eyes at Alpha Remy as we walk in. As introductions continue I elbow Arlo in the ribs.

“Stop glaring at him,” I whisper yell to Arlo. “You are being rude.”

Aro grumbles but doesn’t stop glaring at Alpha Remy.

‘I think it’s cute’ Margo swoons in my head. I can’t help but roll my eyes at her.

We all sit down in the meeting room to discuss Arlo’s sparring match and what Mr Archibald’s plan is. Alpha Remy is not allowed in so he and my parents go for a tour around the pack. I decide it is best to stay with Arlo after he has been so unpredictable lately.

“Thank you,” Arlo squeezes my hand as I sit next to him.

“Of course,” I reassure. I expect Arlo to let go of my hand but he doesn’t which makes me nervous.

“I was very impressed with your sparring Arlo, i personally think you have been ready for a long time your highness.” Mr Archibald says.

“Don’t call me that,” Arlo snaps and then rights himself with a deep breath. “Sorry. I wanted to speak to everyone today anyway. I am ready to start preparations for my coronation.”

Everyone’s face lights up with glee, except mine. That means Arlo is leaving already. Which leaves me no choice but to accept Alpha Remy as my mate.

“Excellent young Prince,” Mr Archibald claps his hands in delight. “I can finally retire.” He laughs, everyone joins in. “So I assume you have chosen a bride?”

Everyone then goes silent, you could easily hear a penny drop from a mile away.

“A bride?” Arlo asks stunned and confused.

“Did I not mention that?” Mr Archibald queries sheepishly. When Arlo shakes his head he continues speaking. “A king must have a queen Arlo. No king can ascend to the throne without a queen. I know marriage is not custom between werewolves very often but it is tradition for the monarch.”

“But I haven’t found my mate yet. I am not Eighteen until the end of the year.” He says with dismay.

“I’m sorry Arlo, but you must take a chosen mate.” Mr Archibald insists.

“Can’t he just wait until his birthday to ascend?” Alpha Jax asks.

“Technically yes, but I had hoped you were ready today given that I am unwell.” Mr Archibald says with sadness. “The effects of the poison all those years ago have been long lasting. I have been desperately trying to hold on for Arlo but I cannot any longer.”

Arlo now looks devastated. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“I’m sorry Arlo but I didn’t want to pressure you into a decision you weren’t ready to make son,” he explains softly.

Arlo closes his eyes and takes a deep breath. When he finally opens his eyes there is a look of determination.

“Fine, I will take a chosen mate,” Arlo says with finality and my heart aches for him. I already know the burdens of this choice given I am making the same one.

“We can set up suitable meets for you Arlo,” Alpha Jax starts but Luna-Beta Adyson puts her hand on his arm to stop him. He looks at her quizzically before the Luna looks softly back at Arlo and nods gently.

“I will take a chosen mate,” Arlo repeats. “But I chose Nova.”

My hand drops from his and my breath gets stuck in my throat and I start to choke. Did he just say my name? He wants to be my mate? Margo is howling excitedly in my head but I cannot breathe.

“Nova,” Arlo says as he grasps my arms. “Take deep breaths. One,” he inhaled and exhales with me. “Two,” he breaths again. “Three,” he says softer this time as my heart slows down again.

A glass of water is placed in my hand.

“Are you sure about this Arlo?” Mr Archibald asks whilst eyeing me gently.

“Yes sir, she is my best friend and I know I can fully trust Nova. She will be the perfect Luna queen.” Arlo declares confidently.

“And you my dear?” Mr Archibald turns to me.

My mind reels as I try not to spiral again.

“I think I need a minute,” I announce before scurrying out the door. I make it down the hallway before Arlo pulls me to a stop.

“Are you alright?” He asks with concern.

“Wh-what-w-what?” I stammer out all jumbled.

“I’m sorry for throwing it on you Nova but you are being forced to choose a mate. I am being forced to choose mate. Would it not be best to choose each other?” He explains which does clarify some questions in my mind.

I take a couple more deep breaths before speaking with a dry throat, “okay.”

Moments later we are walking back into the meeting room hand in hand, Arlo squeezing mine to share his confidence.

“I accept Arlo’s proposal for marriage,” I announce clearly without a tremor in my voice.

“Wonderful,” Luna-Beta Adyson stands with a huge smile and comes towards us. She pulls me into a warm embrace and whispers in my ear. “It’s okay sweetie, I will make sure he looks after your heart.” She pulls back and strokes a hand over my hair.

I blush furiously as I realise she knows my true feelings for Arlo.

“We shall announce it to the pack tonight but first we need to speak with Nova’s parents. And someone needs to sensitively inform Alpha Remy that she is no longer available.” Alpha Jax states as he stands. “I suppose we shall do that dear?” He looks over at the Luna who nods.

“Arlo and Nova go wait in the media room and lock the door. I don’t want anyone else in the pack house until we share the news this evening. It needs to remain between us until I say otherwise.”

“Yes Alpha,” everyone choruses as Arlo pulls me out the room.