The Alpha's Exchanged Mate
The Alpha’s Exchanged Mate – Chapter 100

Edwina’s POV…

I was feeling restless again since Sonia had been brought to the palace. I couldn’t replace it in myself to check up on her. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to see her or not; everything just seemed more complicated. I had tried to distract myself by heading to the library that had become my safe haven to keep my mind occupied.

The moment I opened up a book, it reminded me of Ben. The description of the hero was almost in tune with Ben’s identity. I felt some energy surge through my inner thighs at the mere thought of him.

Truth be told, he still had some hold on me without necessarily being around. I missed him. Shutting my eyes tightly, I tried to get the thoughts out of my head. Xander would have my head thrown into the depths of the sea if he ever caught me thinking of the man who had almost ruined his life.

The thought of his men lingering around the night howler’s pack lingered in my mind. It was my duty as the Luna to protect my people next to my husband. I couldn’t let sentiments rule where people’s lives were at stake. At the same time, I was just as confused and had no idea on what to do.

Xander seems burdened enough as it is; he comes home very late. The last time he let me in on what was going on, he had said the prisoners’ training was going really well. The other warriors were trying their best to fish out the imposters amongst them. I should be able to help without necessarily burdening him.

Dropping the book, I stepped out of the library. Walking towards the main door with calculated steps. Becca bumped into me carrying some freshly washed duvets.

“So sorry.” She mused, easing up the load she carried.

“Shouldn’t you get help for that?” I offered.

Adjusting the pile, she smiled. “It’s nothing. I can handle it just fine. Where are you headed in such a hurry?” She asked.

“I would like to check on my sister.”

“That’s so sudden. You have been a bit skeptical for days.” Becca noted.

Her consistent observance was something I needed to learn. I sighed, “there is something important I need to ask her. I guess I would need you to come with me.” I said after thinking for a second.

Not hesitating, she took a few strides towards the steps. “Give me a minute.” She said, increasing her pace.

Within a blink of an eye, she was back. I smiled at her as she led the way to the guest quarters, with every other person bowing as I passed them. At first, it had felt odd, but I had become accustomed to it and no longer taken aback.

As we got to the chambers assigned to Sonia, I almost bumped into another person for the second time in less than an hour.

“Excuse me, please,” I said, my eyes meeting the gaze of the person. She looked so young like she had just attained the age of twenty. Her eyes looked so pure, and it mesmerized me.

She gasped when she reckoned who I was, “I’m so sorry Luna, pardon my clumsiness.”

I chuckled, waving her off, “it’s fine, we both bumped into each other. You work here?” I queried.

“She is the maid assigned to your sister.” Becca responded on her behalf.

“Oh, I didn’t know that,” I said, nodding towards her to take her leave. She bowed hurriedly, scrambling her way through the hall. “How did she get to work here?” I asked, still amused that she got a chance to work at the pack house.

“Her mother fell ill and they needed to keep up with their expenses, she only just resumed few weeks ago.” Becca responded

“Who is her mother?”

“Dana.”

I gasped, “how am I just knowing this?”

“You had too many things on your plate, I didn’t think it wise to bother you.”

“Come on Becca.” I g*****d, “you still could have noted me, that way I would have sent her to the infirmary and ensure she is well taken care of.”

She bowed her head, “I’m sorry Luna, would take note of that next time.”

I rubbed at my forehead, not sure of what to say. I continued my walk towards Sonia’s room with Becca on my tail. Getting to the door, I inhaled and exhaled, trying to calm my breath. I didn’t realize I was shaky. Why does seeing her have to be always this hard?

Finally replaceing the courage, I knocked lightly on the door. There was absolute silence. I knocked again, but no response came. Knowing Sonia, she probably was in no mood to respond, so I pushed at the door, letting myself in.

“Is that how you act around here? Barging into people’s rooms without seeking the occupants’ consent?” Her voice rang from the balcony that faced the palace garden.

Didn’t realise you were having a you moment; I wanted to say but bit on my tongue instead. I have no intention of exchanging words with her.

“I’m sorry.” I said. “I had knocked but didn’t get any response.”

“Shouldn’t you have known I wasn’t in the mood to entertain anyone?” Sonia retorted.

Becca and I exchanged looks, each person keeping their thoughts to themselves. After a long moment of silence, she decided to grace us with some movement. Turning to look at us, I was amazed at her transformation. Sonia had always been a beautiful woman, but she glowed incredibly. Pregnancy had never looked better on anyone than it did on her. I felt relieved knowing that bringing her here wasn’t much of a bad idea.

“To what do I owe this noncommittal visit?” She glared

I winced at her unwelcoming attitude; she obviously had a beef against me. It had been a whole week, and I had not stepped into the quarters to visit her. I was taking my time; I knew it would fuel her anger if she got to know I actually needed a favor from her during my visit.

“Has the Luna suddenly lost her voice?” She jeered.

Taking a deep breath, I made myself comfortable on a settee placed in the middle of the room. “You might need to sit, please.” I muttered.