Secrets Behind the Betrayal

Chapter 7

Today is the day. The day I reject my mate and leave behind my best friend as well as all the friends I've made since I've been here. Victoria will do fine here and Ian will take care of her. She'll be safe, no matter what Rae says.

Dread builds in the pit of my stomach as I help Victoria get ready. Part of me wants to enjoy today and to be happy for Victoria, but the other part of me wants this day to be over as fast as possible so I can go home. I want to get back to some semblance of a normal life, albeit mateless and alone, but normal nonetheless.

"Hello? Earth to Zena. Is anybody home?"

I shake my head and look up at Victoria who is standing in front of me in her gorgeous pale yellow dress that fits neatly around her torso and falls loosely around her legs. I smile at her.

"You look gorgeous," I say honestly.

She rolls her eyes, but smiles back at me. "Thank you for your opinion, but I wanted to know if you think Alpha Cory will be pleased with the choice."

"I don't see why he wouldn't. You look stunning and you'll definitely be catching Ian's attention. He won't be able to keep his hands off of you tonight," I say, raising an eyebrow at her.

She scoffs and shakes her head. "You're unbelievable," she laughs. She turns towards the mirror, looking herself up and down as she smooths the skirt of her dress nervously. "What do I even say tonight?"

I lean back in the chair and sigh. "I have no idea, Tori. But I'm sure you'll come up with something. You always do well under pressure."

She frowns, furrowing her brows. "I'm so nervous, Zena," she murmurs. "What if the pack doesn't accept me as Delta?"

"What the pack thinks doesn't matter. Alpha Cory accepts you as Delta female and Ian accepts you as his mate. They have no choice but to respect you as a ranked member, whether they like it or not. Although, I doubt you'll have an issue with anyone disliking you. You're the most likable person I know."

She smiles slightly. "Thanks, Zena." She turns to face me, leaning down and wrapping her arms around my shoulders. "You're an amazing friend."

I embrace her for a moment before she pulls away, standing up straight. She holds her hand out to me. "You ready to head down?"

I smile as I take her hand, allowing her to pull me to my feet. "The real question is, are you ready?"

She smiles, shaking her head. "As ready as I'll ever be. I'm just ready to get this over with."

We head out of the room, making our way downstairs. As we pass pack members, most of them smile and compliment Victoria's dress, but I do notice some of the unmated females staring daggers at her as well. They must be jealous that Ian isn't mated to them. It's to be expected, honestly. What female wouldn't want to be mated to a ranked male? I glare back at them, resisting the urge to bare my teeth. They need to learn to respect her, but it's not my place to discipline them.

We continue walking until we reach the door leading out back. The yard has been completely rearranged and decorated specifically for tonight. There's tables scattered about that have been set neatly by the Omegas earlier in the day. Lanterns have been placed around the space, giving the area a warm glow as the sun begins to set. Most of the pack has gathered already, waiting for Alpha Cory to begin the ceremony.

I feel Victoria squeeze my hand as she stands beside me. I squeeze back, trying to reassure her. "You'll do great," I murmur.

She smiles at me before letting go of my hand. Just as she does, Ian comes up to us. He grins at Victoria, taking her hand in his.