Mate Ball, Part One

‘Is everyone in position?’ I mind-link the Luna Guard and Crescent Warriors as we walk through the back door of the pack hall.

‘Yes, Delta.’

‘Gamma Alex, are the rest of the warriors in position to support Nick’s men?’

‘Yes, Delta. Everyone is in position. Now stop worrying and try to have some fun tonight,’ Uncle Alex tells me.

I take a deep breath to try to calm my nerves as Cassia passes me a glass of champagne.

“Here, Athena. We might not be able to get drunk, but this will help take the edge off,” she smiles, clinking her glass with mine and then Jess’s.

“Cheers,” I say with a smile, downing the glass in one gulp.

Tony puts his hand on the small of my back and asks, “Are you okay?”

“I’m fine. I’ve just never had to give a speech in front of so many people before,” I explain. I pull the stage curtain back slightly to peer out at the people who have arrived already.