A Walk

When the council meeting came to an end, Seraphyne suggested that Zephyir and Kieiran should head home together.

She thought, 'After the school incident, Kieiran might want to discuss the details with his father, and I shouldn't stand in the way of this opportunity.'

"Husband," she said, addressing Zephyir, "since you have your car, you can take Kieiran with you. I noticed that other council members have some pressing matters to discuss with you, and this will also be a good opportunity for Kieiran to learn. I'll head home ahead of you and prepare dinner. Your return will be a special occasion for the family."

Zephyir nodded in agreement. "Let Lucas escort you back."

Zephyir never thought Seraphyne would dare call her husband intimately. When they first met, she was like a goddess on top of the mountain, holy and unreachable. Even when talking about the marriage, he could feel the alienation within her and the lack of emotions.

But facing the woman now, he was surprised with how she greeted him.

He never expected her to get close and be familiar with his son, at least bidding on his son as a person who never cares about people around him. 

Seraphyne accepted Zephyir's suggestion gracefully, offering a warm smile. "I'll head home then."

By the time she returned, it was almost dinner time. However, Seraphyne still had plenty of energy left to assist the pack's kitchen staff in preparing a meal fit for their Alpha's return.

"Luna!" the housekeepers greeted her upon her arrival.

"I've brought my husband's luggage," Seraphyne informed them. "You can sort it out in the bedroom, and please ensure his comfortable clothes are ready."

Aunt Mina, one of the housekeepers, seemed momentarily puzzled. "The bedroom?"

"Yes, the bedroom," Seraphyne confirmed, though Aunt Mina couldn't fathom what might be amiss.

She proceeded to place all of Alpha Zephyir's belongings in the same wardrobe as Luna Seraphyne's on the fifth floor. It had been so long since the Alpha had anyone to share that space with, and Aunt Mina couldn't recall how many nights he had spent there or if he had grown accustomed to residing elsewhere while attending various conferences and meetings.

Seraphyne's words lingered in the air as she went about her preparations in the kitchen.

She had chosen to go ahead and prepare dinner for the pack, a gesture that endeared her even more to the housekeepers and the rest of the pack members. They admired her dedication and willingness to contribute to the pack's well-being.

Her culinary skills were on full display. She prepared a feast fit for the Alpha, Kieiran, and the entire pack. The delicious aroma wafted through the corridors of the mansion, creating a sense of anticipation among the pack members.

As the evening sun began to set, the pack gathered in the dining hall, their hunger piqued by the mouthwatering scents coming from the kitchen.

Seraphyne, with her stepson Kieiran by her side, welcomed everyone with a warm smile.

Aunt Mina discreetly watched the Luna and the young Alpha, noting the camaraderie between them. It seemed that Kieiran had shared the details of the council meeting with his father during the car ride, and the Alpha had been impressed by his son's performance. It was a conversation that had deepened their bond.

As dinner commenced, Zephyir sat at the head of the table, Seraphyne beside him and Kieiran opposite them.

The pack members chatted animatedly, discussing the events of the day and the exciting news of Kieiran's election to the council. Seraphyne couldn't have been prouder of her stepson.

Throughout the meal, Seraphyne and Zephyir exchanged subtle glances and occasional smiles.

The pack felt a sense of unity and optimism, knowing that their Luna and Alpha have a good relationship.

The evening wore on, and the pack members eventually retired to their rooms, leaving Seraphyne and Zephyir in the dining hall. As they sat together, the atmosphere was warm and relaxed.

Zephyir turned to Seraphyne, his eyes filled with gratitude and affection. "Thank you for today, my Luna," he said softly.

Seraphyne smiled, her heart filled with contentment. "You're welcome, husband. Should we retire?"

Zephyir cleared his throat and proposed, "Care to take a walk with me? Digesting food is still ideal for us, even though we're different from humans."

"Okay," Seraphyne answered.

As they walked, Zephyir and Seraphyne engaged in a conversation about the pressing issue of global warming. The world was changing rapidly, and the effects of climate change were becoming increasingly evident. They discussed the importance of the pack taking steps to mitigate these changes and protect their environment.

Zephyir's voice held a deep concern as he continued, "The signs of climate change are becoming more apparent with each passing year. We've seen irregular weather patterns, longer droughts, and unpredictable storms. Our territory and its resources are vulnerable, and if we don't act, the future of our pack could be in jeopardy."

Seraphyne nodded thoughtfully, her eyes scanning the garden they walked through. "You're absolutely right. But it's not just about protecting our pack. It's about our responsibility to the entire world. We should set an example for others to follow, showing that even supernatural beings like us can contribute positively to the environment."

Zephyir agreed, "Indeed. We can start by reducing our carbon footprint. For example, we could invest in renewable energy sources like solar panels and wind turbines. It not only reduces our impact on the environment but also makes us less dependent on non-renewable resources."

Seraphyne added, "And we can promote sustainable practices within the pack, like responsible hunting and fishing, reforestation efforts, and waste reduction. We should also encourage our members to participate in local environmental initiatives."

Zephyir smiled, impressed by her passion and ideas. "You have a remarkable vision. We should work together to make it a reality. It's not just about securing our present but ensuring a better future for generations to come."

Seraphyne returned his smile, her eyes reflecting determination. "I believe we can make a difference. By taking small steps within our pack, we can ripple positive change throughout the world."

As Zephyir and Seraphyne returned to the villa, a sense of tranquility still lingered from their moonlit conversation about global warming.

However, when they entered the master bedroom, Zephyir's expression shifted from serenity to mild surprise.

He thought Seraphyne had meticulously prepared the bedroom for the evening, and it was evident that she had arranged for them to sleep in one room. The elegant furnishings exuded a sense of warmth and intimacy, and the soft glow of candlelight created an inviting atmosphere.

Zephyir hesitated for a moment, his thoughts racing. He recalled the contract they had agreed upon before their marriage, a stipulation that they would maintain a formal relationship.

Sleeping alone was also an arrangement he had grown accustomed to over the years.

Seraphyne was also shocked by the sudden turn of events. She wasn't expecting Aunt Mina to prepare things this way.

To avoid the awkwardness of the situation, Zephyir gave way.

"I still have some pack business to check on. Please sleep ahead."

Out of guilt, Seraphyne said, "Don't tire yourself too much! Good night."