Chapter 111: Chapter 111 Say Goodbye
Victoria
Two weeks later.
The morning sunlight filtered through the bedroom curtains as I finally managed to pull myself away from Leo’s intoxicating embrace. I knew we needed to face reality eventually—especially with our flight to Greece scheduled for this afternoon.
"I can smell your thoughts from here," Leo murmured, his voice still husky with sleep as he watched me slip into a silk robe. "Having second thoughts about leaving your pack?"
I turned to face him, taking in the magnificent sight of his muscular form sprawled across the bed we’d thoroughly claimed as ours. The mating mark on his shoulder made Ava, my wolf spirit, purr with satisfaction deep within me.
"Not second thoughts," I said, tying the sash around my waist. "Just mental checklists. The formal transfer of power happens this morning, and I want to make sure everything’s in order before we leave."
Leo rose from the bed with predatory grace, not bothering to cover his magnificent nakedness as he stalked toward me.
"My organized little Luna," he teased, wrapping his arms around my waist and nuzzling my neck where his mark still tingled pleasantly. "The papers are already prepared. Tiny has confirmed that Enzo and Lilith will be at the airfield at eleven."
I turned in his embrace, placing my palms against his chest. "I just want to make sure everything’s legally airtight before we temporarily transfer management. Enzo’s been so supportive lately, but..."
His eyes darkened with desire and possessiveness. "You worry too much, sweetheart. Your brother has proven himself worthy of your trust these past weeks." His hands slid down to cup my bottom through the thin silk. "And I promise, once we’re in Greece, the only thing you’ll be worrying about is how many times I can make you scream my name before the sun sets."
"Promises, promises," I teased, reluctantly extracting myself from his grip. "But first, shower. Separately," I added firmly when his eyes lit up. "Or we’ll never make it to the airfield."
"Cruel woman," he growled playfully, but released me with a gentle swat to my behind. "I’ll call Tiny and confirm the final arrangements while you get ready."
---
The private airfield buzzed with quiet efficiency as we arrived. Leo’s sleek black Range Rover purred to a stop beside the gleaming jet that would carry us to Greece. The Shadow Pack emblem—a wolf silhouette against a crescent moon—was subtly painted on the tail, a reminder of the power my mate commanded.
"Everything’s ready, Alpha," Tiny reported as Leo helped me from the car. "The Howlthorne representatives arrived ten minutes ago and are waiting in the private conference room."
Still, old wounds healed slowly, and signing over temporary management of my portion of Howlthorne enterprises to him and Lilith felt momentous.
The conference room was tastefully appointed, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the runways. Enzo and Lilith rose as we entered, both dressed impeccably in business attire. Lilith’s smile was warm as she embraced me.
"You look radiant," she said, her eyes flickering to my mating mark with approval. "Marriage—or should I say mating—clearly agrees with you."
"Thank you," I replied, genuinely touched by her kindness. Our relationship had transformed from bitter rivalry to something approaching sisterhood after she’d helped expose Aurora’s treachery.
Enzo stepped forward, extending his hand to Leo. "Alpha Moretti," he acknowledged with respect before turning to me. His eyes—so like our father’s—softened as he looked at me. "Victoria. You’re glowing with happiness. It suits you."
"Thank you for agreeing to manage things while we’re away," I said, moving to the table where the documents awaited. "It’s only for two weeks, but—"
"But the pack needs continuity," Enzo finished. "I understand. Lilith and I are honored by your trust."
Leo’s hand rested possessively at the small of my back as we sat down. "Let’s review the terms one more time," he suggested, ever the protective Alpha.
Enzo nodded. "Temporary management of Victoria’s shares in Howlthorne Enterprises and oversight of pack matters requiring the Alpha bloodline’s attention. All major decisions to be documented and reviewed upon your return. Financial transactions exceeding fifty thousand dollars require written approval."
"And the Luna training program continues without interruption," Lilith added, referencing the initiative we’d started to help female wolves develop their leadership potential regardless of birth status. It had been my first act as official Luna, and one I was particularly proud of.
"Perfect," I said, sliding the papers forward. "Temporary guardianship, not ownership. Just until we return."
Enzo reached for the pen with steady hands. "I promise to guard your inheritance as if it were my own daughter’s," he said solemnly. "After everything... I owe you that much and more, sister."
"Wait—your daughter?" My gaze darted between Enzo and Lilith, finally landing on the gentle way her hand rested on her belly. She smiled with a softness that radiated pure maternal glow.
"Yes," Enzo confirmed, his voice tinged with pride. "About six months from now, our little pup will arrive."
A wave of joy crashed over me, unexpected and overwhelming. I hugged Lilith tightly, whispering my blessings. Our family was about to grow again—a new princess to cherish.
"First things first, Vic." Enzo pulled back and handed me a leather-bound journal, its pages pressed with delicate leaves. Energy pulsed faintly from the dried specimens. "Luna Elizabeth wanted you to have this."
He continued, "When she learned about Lilith’s pregnancy, she rushed out to prepare a gift for the baby. She also told me to remind you—"
I slapped a hand over his mouth, glaring daggers at him before he could embarrass me further.
Leo’s deep chuckle rumbled beside me. "We’ll make sure to catch up soon."
I turned to him, only to be caught by the heat in his eyes. My cheeks burned instantly. "Just... sign the papers already," I muttered.
As the last signature dried, I expected relief, but what filled me instead was something far deeper—a sense of belonging, of bonds reforged and strengthened.
"It’s done," I whispered as Tiny gathered the signed documents. "The companies have been notified, and the council will have the official record today."
Enzo stood, his expression unwavering. "Your pack is safe in our hands, Victoria. Go enjoy your honeymoon knowing everything you’ve built will be protected."
Lilith stepped forward, surprising me with another embrace. "We won’t let you down," she whispered. "After all you’ve done to unite our packs and bring justice for your father... you deserve this happiness."
Leo’s arms encircled me from behind. "She certainly does," he agreed, his deep voice rumbling with pride. "And I intend to make sure she enjoys every minute of it."
Enzo’s lips twitched in a smile. "Just bring my sister back in one piece, Moretti. Remember, she’s still a Howlthorne, regardless of which pack claims her now."
"Trust me, Enzo, I treasure her more than my own life," Leo replied, the deadly seriousness in his tone making even Tiny shift slightly.
I squeezed Leo’s hand, touched by his declaration. "We should get going. Our flight..."
"Of course," Lilith said, gathering her things. "Don’t forget to call when you arrive."
---
Emma was waiting near the jet when we emerged from the conference room, bouncing on her toes with barely contained excitement. My human best friend had been my rock through the darkest times, and seeing her bright smile never failed to lift my spirits.
"V!" she squealed, throwing her arms around me. "I can’t believe you’re really going to Greece! Without me!" She pulled back to give me a mock-accusatory glare.
I laughed, squeezing her hands. "Someone has to keep the Bakery running."
Emma groaned dramatically. "Don’t remind me. We’ve got three wedding cake orders and that massive corporate event for Silver Creek Industries next week." Her eyes darted to where Tiny stood at a respectful distance. "Besides, I wouldn’t want to abandon certain... responsibilities."
I bit back a smile at her blush. The attraction between my human best friend and Leo’s intimidating Beta had been simmering for weeks, though neither would admit it openly.
"I’m sure Tiny would be devastated if you left," I teased softly, delighting in how her cheeks flamed brighter.
"Stop it," she hissed, glancing anxiously at the massive wolf-shifter. "He’ll hear you."
"Enhanced hearing is both a blessing and a curse," Leo commented dryly as he joined us, making Emma jump. "Don’t worry, Emma. I’ve instructed Tiny to check on the bakery daily while we’re away. For security purposes, of course."
Emma’s blush deepened to scarlet. "That’s... thoughtful of you, Alpha Moretti."
"Leo," he corrected with unusual gentleness. "You’re practically family now."
My heart swelled at his acceptance of my dearest friend.
"You’ll call me as soon as you land?" Emma asked, hugging me again. "And send pictures. Lots of pictures."
"Promise," I assured her, blinking back unexpected tears. We’d never been separated for longer than a few days since we’d met. "Two weeks will fly by."
"They better," she sniffed. "And you better come back with a tan and completely relaxed, or I’ll be having words with your mate."
Leo raised his hands in mock surrender. "Relaxation is my top priority."
The pilot approached, informing us it was time to board. After one final fierce hug from Emma, we climbed the steps into the luxurious interior of the private jet.
I gasped as I took in the opulent cabin. Cream leather seats, polished wood accents, and champagne already chilling in a silver bucket. "This is... excessive," I murmured, though I couldn’t help feeling a thrill of excitement.
"Only the best for my Luna," Leo replied, guiding me to a plush seat. As the jet prepared for takeoff, he poured two flutes of champagne.
He clinked his glass against mine. "To new beginnings."
As the jet took off, carrying us toward our new beginning, I unfastened my seatbelt and moved to his lap, my lips finding his in a kiss that tasted of champagne and promises.
The cabin attendant discreetly disappeared toward the cockpit as I straddled my mate, my body already responding to his proximity.
"What happened to relaxation being your top priority?" I teased as his hands slid under my blouse.
His wolfish grin sent heat pooling low in my belly. "We have plenty of time for that. Right now, I need to claim my mate at thirty thousand feet."