The Wolf God's Unwanted Luna

Chapter 69: Hawai

We stared at each other. He looked calm, serious even, but I was a whirlwind of confusion. Still, I held back my questions when I heard my mother’s voice on the line.

"Oh, that’s wonderful, but how? And why can’t you two come here?" Her voice held a mix of joy and curiosity. Hearing I was safe and with my mate, no less, seemed to settle her nerves. She’d always believed that a mate would protect me.

"For many reasons, Mrs. Gray. But wouldn’t you like to see where your daughter is living now?" Zaliver’s tone turned smooth, persuasive. If I were in my mom’s shoes, I’d be curious too.

"Uh, yes, I suppose I would. So, you two are living together? I don’t know how your father and I feel about that, Vivian. You barely know each other. Maybe you should come home, and the both of you can—"

Zaliver’s arm suddenly tightened around me. What was once a comforting hold became possessive, almost as if he feared she could somehow pull me away through the phone. He yanked me closer like I was his and his alone.

"I don’t think that’s a good idea," he said firmly. "There’s a lot we need to talk about, which is why I’ve arranged for both of you to come here. It’s important we all get to know one another. Don’t you agree, Vivian?" His eyes pinned me, dark and unyielding, daring me to say anything different. There was something simmering beneath the surface, anger maybe, or fear. He hated the thought of my parents separating us, even just hypothetically.

"Uh, yeah," I said softly, unable to look away or go against him. "We should meet here, Mom. It’ll be great."

"Well, I’ll speak with your father, sweetheart. My heart feels so much lighter now. Thank you for looking after my daughter, Mr. Azrala." My mom’s warmth made me wince inwardly. She had no idea she was thanking the same man who had kidnapped me, my mate yes, but also the feared Lupus Deus.

"The pleasure is mine. She’s wonderful. I’m honored to have her by my side for the rest of our lives," Zaliver replied smoothly, watching me with burning eyes. Through the bond, I felt a teasing wave of heat and something darker, mockery maybe. I turned away.

"Oh, how adorable! I can’t wait to meet you," my mom gushed. I felt my stomach twist. She thought the "forever" part was a cute exaggeration.

"Mom, I think you should know about—"

"We’ll send over your flight details soon," Zaliver cut in again, his voice all business. "I hate to end the call, but we must. You should be here in two days."

I opened my mouth to protest, to finally say what needed to be said, but she beat me to it. "Where are you two exactly?"

"Let’s keep that a surprise," he said with a smile in his voice. "But pack like you’re going to Hawaii."

Mom squealed into the phone. "Oh, thank the Lord! You’re safe and sound. We’re going to Hawaii! I’m so happy!"

"Mom—" My disbelief was all over my face.