The Alpha's Stolen Luna - Chapter 144: Chapter 144

: Lucas
It was a four-hour flight to the national capital of Lycuria. I had been surprised to hear the Alpha’s Summit would be hosted by the Royal Council in Moonhaven. However, it made sense when you considered the short notice of the typically lavish event. The capital would be the only place with the funds and resources readily available to organize everything so quickly.
Transportation was waiting on the tarmac as our private plane landed at the airport. I escorted Sutton off the plane and into the town car. I could feel Sutton’s anticipation through our mate bond — a mix of curiosity, excitement, and anxiety all rolled together. I laced my fingers in hers, lifting her hand to my lips.
“We’ve got this, princess,” I told her.
She gave me a small smile before leaning her head on my shoulder. She’d been like that since the day before — keeping close, being more affectionate than usual, almost like she was trying to touch me as much as possible. I didn’t know what had caused change but I certainly wasn’t complaining.
Her head lifted as we approached the main part of the city. Moonhaven was one of the oldest cities in the nation, as well as the wealthiest, which showed in the architecture that made up the primary district. It was an incredible sight to see for most people. It was the first time I had come to the capital. However, the city had quickly lost its appeal for me. It was mostly a bitter memory now.
Still, I wouldn’t take this experience from Sutton. She looked out the window in awe at the extravagance of the place. Her jaw dropped as we came into view of the palace. It was an incredibly massive building with centuries of history written in every stone. I almost felt disappointed we weren’t staying there when I felt Sutton’s curiosity strengthen as we passed by.
Instead, we continued toward the Council District where the conference center we would be housed was located. It had been eight years since I had last been to Moonhaven. At that time, the Alphas were required to be there to celebrate the bicentennial of the royal family’s reign. Remembering how extravagant that occasion had been made me wonder what we should expect this week.
Sutton kept a hold of my hand the entire ride. Even as we pulled up to the hotel entrance and got out of the car, she kept in constant contact. The moment we stepped onto the sidewalk, we were bombarded by journalists and photographers. Panic shot through our bond from Sutton. I cursed myself for not thinking to warn her about the publicity as she stuck to my side, hanging her head to avoid the cameras.
Wrapping an arm around her waist, I pushed through the crowd. Max and the rest of our security rushing to make room.
‘I’m sorry, baby,’ I linked. ‘I forgot about the paparazzi.’
She didn’t respond until we were inside the hotel lobby and out of the direct line of sight of the public. I felt her release a deep sigh of relief. I felt guilty that she had been ambushed like that but at the same time, I was a little surprised at the reaction. She had been so much more confident lately. So determined to be here to prove herself against whatever was coming our way.
We were greeted by a concierge at the front desk and immediately swept up to our suite. I couldn’t help but notice Sutton’s lingering uneasiness as her eyes kept darting around the place. However, this was a feeling I understood a bit better. All of the pack leaders and their personnel would be staying in this hotel. It was likely that we would run into Alpha Anders and Beta Mason at some point and we both wanted to be prepared if that happened.
“This floor has been dedicated to the Ironpaw envoy,” the concierge stated as we exited the elevator on the sixth floor. “The Alpha and Luna have the primary suite, of course. The rest of your group can choose whichever arrangements they prefer. We only ask that you provide a list of names for the final assignments for our own security purposes.”
“That won’t be a problem,” Max told her.
“The Summit Agenda has been provided in each of the rooms as well as all of the necessary identification badges,” she continued as we walked down the hall. “We have provided complimentary amenities for the entire party, of course. And if you need anything else, please don’t hesitate to call down to the concierge desk.”
“We’ll do that. Thank you,” I told her as gave her a tip.
Swiping our keycard, I opened the door to the large suite. I left Max to organize the rest of the group while I got Sutton into the privacy of our room. Once we were inside, I pulled her into my arms and kissed her deeply. Reminding her that I was here and we were in this together.
“Are you okay?” I asked once I pulled away.
She nodded. “Just trying to take it all in.”
I brushed my nose against hers.
“I know it can be a lot,” I said.
“Will all those cameras be around the whole time where here?” she asked nervously.
“No,” I replied. “There may be some here and there who manage to get into the building but the actual Council sessions and other events are heavily guarded. Everything except the Farewell Ball, at least.”
She tensed at the mention of the ball. I knew she was concerned we may not make it that far but I had assured her I wouldn’t let anything happen that would keep us from going home together once this was over. Feeling her anxiety and fear now only made me more determined to ensure that was true.
“We should start getting ready for dinner.”