The Alpha's Bride Chapter 1066 Alpha Violet and Alpha Ashton (7)

"Did something occur?" Alpha Cristian inquired, unable to ignore the heavy tension in the room.

"It is nothing major," Ashton replied. "Our Mother is reprimanding us for missing an event and demands an apology." He shifted his gaze toward his mother. "Which is more vital? My role as the future Alpha, or a group of bureaucrats?"

"Now, now…" Alpha Cristian said, waving a hand to signal Ashton to settle down. From those few sentences, he grasped the situation perfectly. Luna Michelle had been weeping last night and throughout the morning because Ashton failed to accompany Violet, making the family appear foolish. They had informed everyone that Ashton had returned with his mate, Alpha Violet Blake, yet the celebrated couple never showed up.

Several Elders had begun to question if Ashton was even present, while others doubted if he was truly mated to Violet.

"You are certainly more important, but it is unwise to cause offense," Alpha Cristian noted. "Some of those individuals have provided great service to this pack. They deserve respect despite being lower in the ranks than you."

"I was not the one who planned the party. I did not send the invitations. I never promised to attend. Why, then, am I expected to apologize?"

Alpha Cristian found himself at a loss for words. In a sense, Ashton’s logic was sound. However, Ashton wasn't finished.

"Matters like these make me question if assuming control of this pack is even worth the effort."

Luna Michelle’s face turned white. "What are you saying?"

"An Alpha is meant to lead, not to bow before others."

"No one suggested you should bow," Luna Michelle countered.

"You insisted I apologize for an error that wasn't mine."

Luna Michelle shook her head in defeat. "Forget I mentioned it."

"I don't think I can. This has caused me to reflect: should I even take over as the Alpha?"

"What?" Luna Michelle gasped.

"You heard me clearly," Ashton snapped. "Times are changing, and we must take the best path forward." Ashton turned to Violet, as he had not yet discussed this plan with her. "I believe it is time to dissolve the invisible border between our lands and merge them into a single territory."

Alpha Cristian let out a sharp, startled breath. "You intend for the Dark Howlers pack to absorb ours."

Ashton gave a nod, his eyes remaining fixed on Violet. "I have considered this since discovering you are my mate. It is the most logical move. Just think—the Spring Leaf pack would be an excellent addition to your territory."

Throughout her life, Violet had never viewed packs as entirely separate entities. Her parents had led the coalition, and their word was law to everyone. Since Violet was destined to inherit their status, focusing on just one or two packs felt small-minded. However, if she had to concentrate on only two, the Dark Howlers pack was significantly larger and more powerful than the Spring Leaf pack.

Before Violet could agree, Alpha Cristian gestured for them to stop. "There are Omegas present. Do not discuss such massive changes in the open without knowing the specifics. Rumors can destabilize even the most solid foundations."

"We can discuss the details later," Ashton conceded. "I'm taking Vi upstairs so we can get ready before heading to the Dark Howlers pack."

"What about the celebration here?" Luna Michelle pressed.

"Wasn't that supposed to be last night?" Ashton questioned her back.

"But you didn't appear."

Ashton might have asked for Violet's input, but she had already made it clear that he should handle his own parents. He had his response ready.

"We will inform you when we are prepared for a celebration. Both Violet and I have our own responsibilities and schedules. As a newly mated pair, we wish to spend time with one another and our families. I am certain the Elders and high-ranking members will be understanding. If they aren't, remind them that I am their future Alpha and that five years of isolation have made me less patient."

Luna Michelle looked toward Violet, her eyes pleading for assistance.

Ashton scowled at his mother. "Do not expect Vi to side against me, mother. I am your son, but I am also her mate and an Alpha."

"Let it go, dear," Alpha Cristian advised.

Luna Michelle was not one to surrender so easily. "Once you have freshened up, could you come to the garden? There are people who wish to offer their greetings."

"If we feel like it, we will come down," Ashton said, guiding Violet inside. He paused to glance back at his mother. "Ensure that we are not disturbed. If there is an emergency, use the mind-link."

Ashton and Violet remained silent until they reached the privacy of his bedroom.

"How was that performance?"

Violet arched an eyebrow. "What are you looking for, a medal?" She winced slightly. "Sorry. Sometimes my temper gets away from me."

"Your best and your worst are everything to me, Vi. As long as you stay by my side, I will accept whatever you give."

Violet felt herself softening inside. Standing before her was a magnificent male—tall, muscular, with broad shoulders, striking tattoos, and captivating eyes she couldn't ignore. He carried the scent of carnations. Ashton Pascal was the perfect package, but it was his love and his vulnerability that moved her most. He was clearly seeking her approval, wanting to know she truly accepted him.

"Alpha Ashton," Violet said. "That isn't how an Alpha is supposed to speak." Or feel. What was the reason for these insecurities?

"No, it isn't. This is how a man speaks to his mate, his other half. When I am with you, I am not an Alpha. I am simply a man who would do anything for your happiness. If I have to slay dragons or put out volcanoes, I will do it for you."

Violet pouted slightly. "It sounds like you'll do a lot of things just to stay away from me."

Ashton laughed softly. He adored her sharp wit and sense of humor.

Hearing voices from outside, Violet walked to the window—the same one she had leaped out of the day before.

The garden was now arranged with tables and chairs. She guessed that at least fifty people could be seated comfortably, and she spotted about a dozen men and women, mostly older and dressed in formal attire. Were they waiting for Ashton's attention? Or hers?

"What are you observing?" Ashton asked.

"I'm wondering if this party is just beginning or if it's already over and these people are just lingering."

Ashton made a noncommittal sound. "Who cares? We aren't going down there."

Violet’s earlier annoyance vanished as she turned to him. "Are you certain?"

"Absolutely. The only thing I desire is to stay here with you. Honestly, anywhere with you is fine, but this place is special."

"And why is that?"

Ashton ran his index finger along her jawline. "I have never had a woman in my room before, Vi."

She considered reminding him that his mother had been here, but she chose not to be snarky. "Really?"

"Mhm… you are my first, Vi. You will be the very first person to sleep in my bed."

"Who said anything about sleeping?"

Ashton chuckled. "I love you, Vi."

She beamed. "I love you too, Ash."

Very slowly, Ashton tilted his head down, and Violet rose onto her toes to close the gap until their lips finally met.

Violet’s arms locked around Ashton, pulling him as close as possible. They had shared many kisses already, yet each one felt brand new and overwhelming. It wasn't enough. She craved more of him; she needed all of him.

Violet pulled on his shirt with such intensity that the buttons snapped off and scattered on the floor, but neither cared about the ruined garment.

Ashton gripped Violet’s backside and hoisted her up. He loved the sensation of her legs locking around his waist as he carried her into the bathroom.

Following the events of the previous night, they both required a shower. It wasn't that Ashton disliked a bit of sweat, but it provided the perfect reason to get naked and have sex—and he wanted to have sex with Violet all the time.