Chapter 458
458
Third Person’s POV
At the banquet, Eugene and Magnus felt like two isolated islands, often lost in thought.
Members of the Eugenius Scout Team naturally gathered together, seeking comfort in each other’s company.
Although Marsh wasn’t present, a representative from the Hornbeam Pack attended with Lynette, who was there at her mate’s request.
Lynette, new to social events, became the center of attention as an honored Lady.
Guests approached to greet her and inquire about Marsh.
Even Madison stopped by to congratulate her on her newfound status.
This spotlight made Gloria extremely uneasy.
Lynette’s success felt like a public roasting to Gloria.
Despite no direct criticism, she was filled with shame and regret for attending.
Originally reluctant to come, she had been persuaded by Rosemary, who stressed that rejecting the Styxwarden Pack’s invitation would be rude.
Now, surrounded by praise for Lynette, she was on edge..
She got up to find some peace.
Christine, noticing Gloria’s distress, sent a maid to follow her, worried she might cause a scene.
Gloria wandered into the garden, where the chatter of guests only heightened her agitation.
Unconsciously, she passed through an archway into the front courtyard, a space filled with male guests.
Under the trees, several men stood beneath the shade, surrounded by festive colors and balloons.
One man looked up and locked eyes with her.
Gloria froze, as if electrocuted.
He was thinner and darker, but still carried himself with poise and confidence.
Eugene immediately looked away/and hurried off upon meeting her gaze.
“Gloria!” an omega from Christine’s group whispered. “What are you doing here?”
Gloria, regaining her composure, said in a low voice, “I heard he’s been promoted to Gamma of the Golden.”
“Who are you talking about? It’s best not to gossip,” the omega cautioned, well–aware of Christine’s
O
173
intentions.
Ignoring the warning, Gloria continued, “Before Tad left for the Southern Border, Lycan Erasmus appointed him commander of the Royal Army. Now he’s a regional commander. Where will he be
stationed next?”
The omega solemnly warned, “Gloria, focus on your own mate. He’s here today too.”
“Why is he being rewarded now?”
Gloria’s voice was bitter. “Lynette’s mate carned a title, and she’s an honored Lady, while he’s made a regional commander. What kind of merit is this? Just for passing on intel? Will werewolf soldiers fighting on the front lines be disheartened by such honors?”
The omega grasped her arm firmly, trying to bring her to her senses. “Gloria, watch your words. This is the Styxwarden Pack’s territory.”
The pain made Gloria start. She snapped, “Who asked you to follow me?”
The omega calmly replied, “Christine worried you might get lost and asked me to accompany you.”
Gloria snorted, “Lost? You just don’t want me to embarrass the Ironclaw Pack.”
“Gloria, if the crowd is too much, I can accompany you to the garden for some fresh air. The wind might clear your head. Remember your identity as the Bloodmoon Pack’s Luna,” the omega urged.
Gloria glared and said, “Enough! If you must follow, stay at a distance.”
She stormed off, unaware that she had drawn attention.
Every glance felt mocking to her.
Unable to bear it, she left the Styxwarden Pack without a word.
The omega reported back to Christine, who frowned—she had left without informing anyone? And Ulrik was still there.
Worse, she hadn’t excused herself, causing embarrassment as many witnessed her departure.
Though inwardly annoyed, Christine kept her composure.
She summoned Gloria’s maid and instructed her to monitor Gloria closely and report back.
Only after the banquet did Ulrik learn of Gloria’s early departure.
Upon returning to the pack, he went straight to her. She was already in bed, and he said with some irritation, “Why did you leave early without telling me?”
Gloria, rubbing her forehead, said, “I had a terrible headache and came back ahead of sch
Hearing of her discomfort and seeing her pale face, Ulrik’s tone softened. “You should have informed me. Leaving without a word puts the hosts in an awkward position.”
He gently touched her forehead and asked, “Are you feeling any better?”
2/3
458
His tender concern , which would have comforted her before Eugene’s return, now only filled her with bitterness .