Reclaiming My Broken Luna by Selene Souchon

Chapter 248: Longing Drystan's POV I furrowed my brows, trying to make sense of the details on the paper before me. Besidelay a stack of documents still waiting to be read.

I paused when my stomach growled loudly, an urgent reminder that I also needed to take care of myself. As soon as I woke up this morning, I headed straight to my office to tackle the paperwork I failed to finish yesterday. I haven't drunk water or taken a single bite; I was so focused on the papers I needed to take care of.

With a resigned sigh, I set the papers aside. My hunger is too strong to ignore, and I'm already late for breakfast. Even if I continue working, I know I won't be able to work effectively if I don't take a break. Standing up, I made my way to the Pack's cafeteria, eager to satisfy my appetite.

Since I arrived late for breakfast, the cafeteria was nearly empty. Remnants of the morning meal cluttered the tables as the Pack Omegas worked diligently to clean up.

I settled at the nearest table that had already been tidied up.

"Alpha, you really should take care of yourself and eat on time," one of the Pack Omegas said, quickly offeringa plate of steaming food. "We heated it for you so you wouldn't have to eat cold leftovers." I flashed her a grateful smile, appreciating her kindness. "Did everyone eat their breakfast?" I asked, dipping my spoon into the soup to start eating.

Her eyes narrowed slightly as she thought about it carefully. "Yes, Alpha, except for Miss Nova. I haven't seen her inside the cafeteria." My spoon froze mid-air, and I slowly set it back down, a knot tightening in my stomach "Alpha, is everything okay?" she asked, her voice laced with worry. "I can ask the chef to cook something different for you." I stood up abruptly, a sense of urgency nudgingforward. "There's no need. Prepare an extra meal for Nova, I'm going to eat with her," I answered decisively before striding out.

As I walked outside, I let out a frustrated breath. Even I felt so hungry. What does Nova think that she would rather starve to death than go and eat breakfast? Is she starving herself to death just because I forced her to chere with me? I shook my head, annoyance simmering at that thought. I'm not going to let her skip breakfast. I'm going to eat with her and watch her eat all her food.

I stopped in my tracks when a burst of laughter caught my attention. My head snapped to the gardens where the sound cfrom.

"That's not a word," I instantly rushed to follow the sound as soon as I recognized Nova's voice.

I stepped back and hid behind a tree. As soon as I spotted her in the distance, she sprawled on a blanket under the trees, sharing a picnic with Michael.

No wonder why she did not cto eat for breakfast. She's already eating here together with her mate.

My wolf growled insideas I stood rooted on the spot, unable to take my eyes away from them.

I watched as Nova and Michael shared laughter under the sun. They seemed so carefree, their joy palpable even from afar.

I used to be the one who made her laugh, the closest person in her life. Now, Michael had stepped into that role, effortlessly pushingout of Nova's world.

I felt like a ghost from her past, lingering on the sidelines as they shared their moments.

"See, it's a word! I told you!" Michael exclaimed triumphantly, a grin spreading across his face as Nova pouted in annoyance.

She had always been a sore loser, and I could see the familiar stubbornness rising within her. She could handle losing twice but never thrice.

Once that third defeat hit, the playful banter would morph into a storm of frustration that left no room for reconciliation.

I watched, a mix of longing and bitterness swirling insideas she crossed her arms, her expression a blend of defiance and disappointment.

I remember the twhen I played against her seriously and made her lose for three games straight. I've learned my lesson since then. Every tshe challengedto a game, I made sure to make her win at times.

I placed a hand on my chest when I suddenly coughed, unable to hold it back. It was a deep, raspy sound that echoed through the air, drawing their attention.

"Drystan? What are you doing here?" Nova and Michael stood up abruptly when they saw me.

I smiled at them and waved off my hand dismissively. "I was just walking by. I'm sorry that my oough disturbed you answered, trying to brush off the moment. "Are you all right? Your cough sounded serious," Nova askedworriedly.

Lately, I had been pushing myself too hard, working overtime, skipping meals, forgetting to finally catching up with me, weakening my immune system. "I catabingest and it was think it's just a cold. I went for a run last night and got caught in the rain," I said, trying to downplay her worry. I wasn't lying. Last night, I couldn't

sleep. My wolf was restless, consumed by thoughts of her and Michael Running was the only way to tike myself out enough to find srest. "You should have it checked so the Pack Doctor can provide you with medication," Nova insisted, her concern evident.

I nodded, ready to agree, but before I could respond, a Pack Omega approached, her head lowered in respect. "Alpha, you received an urgent letter," she announced, interrupting us.

I took the letter, my curiosity piqued, and opened it. It was an invitation to Ryker's 4th birthday party, and all Packs were invited.