Bella’s POV
"She is my mate," Parker’s voice rang out clearly, and I felt my breath catch in my throat.
This was not how I had imagined things would play out.
Here I stood, surrounded by the council mbers, watching as my three mates positioned themselves protectively near my children. One of them had seized this mont to announce his intention to marry , boldly declaring our mate bond to the assembled leaders.
"Parker, what are you doing?" I breathed quietly, my voice barely audible as he stood tall, radiating unwavering confidence.
"I speak only the truth. You can ask Bella yourself," he responded firmly, addressing the council directly before turning their collective gaze toward .
The weight of their stares pressed down on , and I noticed Lord Morris’s expression had shifted to one of clear displeasure. He looked utterly defeated as they waited for my response. My eyes briefly found my children, seeking so anchor in this storm of uncertainty.
If I denied our mate bond now, only to acknowledge it later, they would brand a liar without hesitation. More importantly, I did not need to challenge Parker in this mont, not when his declaration might actually serve my purpose.
Fortunately, my children chose that instant to break the tension, their voices cutting through the heavy silence as they spotted and began running forward. The three little ones whom Lord Morris had claid were too terrified to be near now raced toward with obvious joy and relief.
"Mommy, Mommy, Mommy!" Their excited cries filled the air.
They paid no attention to Tara’s presence among the council mbers, focused only on reaching . I dropped to my knees as they collided with , my arms encircling all three of their small bodies in a fierce embrace.
"Mommy, we missed you so terribly much," Zack whispered against my shoulder, his arms clinging tightly around my neck.
When I raised my head, Hugo ca into view. His posture was tense, hands buried deep in his pockets, and the mont our eyes connected, he quickly looked away. The emotion I saw there was not guilt but a profound sadness that made my heart ache. Then my gaze found Derek, whose fury was practically radiating from him like heat waves. He looked ready to launch himself at soone if given the slightest provocation. Between them stood Parker, wearing an expression of unmistakable smugness, as though he had successfully outmaneuvered his competition.
"Very well, if this is indeed the situation, we shall take it under consideration," Lady Helena announced, her tone asured as Parker stepped closer to address her directly.
"Since she is my mate, I am prepared to remain at the house with her for protection. However, the children must stay with their mother," Parker stated with authority.
At this point, I had abandoned any thought of protesting his bold declarations. Whatever his motivations, he was actually providing with exactly what I needed. I searched each council mber’s face, hope blooming in my chest.
"Not until you have properly married her. As it stands, this appears to be nothing more than an elaborate ruse orchestrated by a friend attempting to help another friend," Lord Morris interjected sharply, shaking his head in obvious disapproval as he attempted to expose what he perceived as Parker’s deception.
However, I could see that Lord Thomas held a different perspective on the matter.
"Actually, I believe this arrangent could work. I would prefer they not rush into any hasty decisions without proper consideration. As I have stated repeatedly, our primary concern remains the safety of the children. If an alpha is present to guard them, I am confident he will ensure their protection, particularly since one of the children belongs to him," Lord Thomas explained, his voice carrying calm authority and reasoning.
Lady Helena began nodding in agreent with his assessnt.
"That reasoning is sound. Provided they present us with their final decision within a week’s ti, this arrangent will suffice. During that period, you can discuss matters amongst yourselves and reach a consensus," she added, which caused Lord Morris to make a sharp clicking sound with his tongue, his irritation obvious.
"Do you not believe you are granting her far too many advantages in this situation?" Lord Morris hissed through gritted teeth, his nose wrinkling with distaste.
"Of course we are extending her certain courtesies. She is an exceptional individual who ca here specifically to help heal our children. We must also rember she has a husband with whom she needs to discuss this matter. Convincing him and reaching a mutual understanding will require ti. One week of deliberation should prove adequate," Lady Helena replied firmly, making it abundantly clear that she would not align herself with Lord Morris’s position.
I realized with growing relief that they had not been complicit in his sches after all. They were simply making their decisions based on the information presented to them in the mont.
"Very well, if that is what you truly believe is best," Lord Morris responded with a dismissive scoff.
I noticed his attention shift toward Derek, who returned his gaze with obvious disappointnt and clear disapproval written across his features.
"I apologize if any of our words or actions have caused offense. We were rely fulfilling our responsibilities," Lady Helena offered after having subjected to such intense scrutiny and nearly branding with unspeakable accusations.
I responded with a brief nod, though my expression remained coolly sarcastic.
"In any case, we expect your prompt return to your duties," she continued, reminding that my healing services remained in demand.
The three council mbers began to take their leave. Lord Morris paused beside Derek, placing a hand on his shoulder in what appeared to be an expectation that Derek would accompany him, but Derek stood his ground, refusing the unspoken command. I knew what was coming next, he would approach with argunts and confrontation.
One by one, the council leaders departed, leaving with exactly one week to deliver my final decision. Now ca the mont I had been dreading, facing my mates and dealing with the consequences of what had just transpired.
"We need to talk," Derek spoke up first, his words directed at both Parker and myself, his tone carrying the weight of barely controlled emotion.
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