Chapter 48: A confession in the dark...
Charis
The rest of the evening passed in a blur of warmth and unexpected joy.
Despite all my fears and anxieties, I found myself having a genuinely wonderful time with Marcus’s family.
Even though many conversations were awkward, they had an easy, natural relationship that drew me in without overwhelming me with attention. I loved how they paid just enough notice to make me feel included without putting me under scrutiny that might expose my secrets.
I still didn’t understand why Marcus and his extended family had come to the academy for the induction ceremony in the first place—Marcus wasn’t being inducted, and it seemed too flamboyant for it just to be a family visit.
However, I was thankful for having them here; they had given me invaluable information about myself and my mother’s current situation.
Now, the field was quiet, and they were packing up with the help of some sentinels. I approached Luna Alice, who was talking animatedly with the man who had a striking resemblance to Marcus.
"Luna Alice," I said quietly, flashing her a smile. "Thank you so much for including me today. The food was incredible, I had a wonderful time, and you have a beautiful family."
Luna Alice beamed at me with warmth. "You’re welcome anytime, sweetheart. Marcus has told us so much about you—it’s clear you mean a great deal to him. By the way, this is my mate and Marcus’s dad. Jason, say Hi..." she nudged the man.
Alpha Jason gave me a blank stare as he nodded in my direction. "Don’t encourage him, this is just a phase, and it will pass."
"Jason!" Luna Alice hissed. "You can’t say that to him," she glared at her husband before turning to me hastily. "Take care of yourself, Eamon. And remember, if you ever need anything, our family considers you one of our own now."
The kindness in her voice made my chest tight with emotion. I nodded gratefully and said my goodbyes to the rest of the family.