Dark Moon Rising

Chapter 50: Forbidden Attraction

Xander's Point of View

As Luna Jo and I approached the porch, we could see Argus and Adrian lounging in matching wicker chairs, soaking up the warm afternoon sun. They both stood up as we arrived, their smiles wide and welcoming. Looking at Adrian, I couldn't help but notice how much he resembled his father. He had his mother's graceful poise and charm, but an underlying strength and authority echoed his father's presence. My heart fluttered with excitement, knowing that Elder Simon might finally get a chance to meet his son if he accepted Luna Jo's invitation.

Argus smiled and gestured to the kitchen. "Would you both like something to drink? We have some frozen pizza and wings cooking, thanks to Luna Jo and Seraphina's heads up that you would be joining us, Xander."

Adrian added, "We also have containers of blood in the fridge if you prefer that, Xander."

As a vampire turned by Elder Simon, I had the rare ability to eat and taste food like a human. But unlike other vampires who fed solely on blood, I still craved it for its speed and convenience. Nevertheless, it was comforting to have the option of consuming regular food if I wanted to.

"A beer would be great, thanks," I grinned at Adrian.

He opened the cooler, and the sound of ice clinking against each other filled the air. Adrian grabbed two cold drinks and smiled as he held one out to me. As Luna Jo walked into the house, Adrian gestured for me to join him and Argus on the porch.

Argus explained that Luna Jo wanted to invite Elara and Taryn for dress shopping this evening or tomorrow morning.

"I saw your suit when Selene came by. It's quite stylish," Argus added with a grin.

"Do you need to get a suit as well?" I asked Argus.

"Nope," he grinned. "Selene knows that I hate shopping. She picked one out for you and me."

"Are we coordinating?" I joked.

"Surprisingly not," laughed Argus in response. "But one never knows with the Moon Goddess. She was insistent that our suits were chosen to complement our eyes."

I forced a smile and gave a slight nod, although my mind was swirling with confusion about how to respond. Why did the suit need to match our eyes?

"Alpha Felix will be coming shortly. He wanted the chance to welcome you as well. Wasn't Clara supposed to be with you and Luna Jo?" Adrian said.

"We were almost here but then someone linked Clara about a missed appointment. She left shortly after. I've never attended a Luna ceremony before. What should I expect?" I asked, truly curious.

Adrian explained, "How the celebration is conducted depends on the Luna. Jo wanted to model it after a prom because many of us have never had the opportunity to experience something like that. A banquet and dance will be open to all adult pack members. During the day, there will be a barbecue, games, and special activities for families and the pack's children."

I was impressed by this young Luna and responded with a smile, "It sounds delightful and incredibly inclusive."

I could feel Alpha Felix's presence as he approached on his motorcycle. He stopped and took off his helmet, greeting me with warmth and kindness, just like every other pack member I had met. It was no coincidence that the Moon Goddess had blessed this pack; their genuine kindness was evident in everything they did.

Felix's face lit up with a grin. "My mate couldn't stop talking about how delicious the pizza and wings were," he said. "Do you think there's any left for us?"

Luna Jo stepped out of the house and leaned in to give her mate a quick kiss on the lips.

A muffled voice echoed from inside the house, sounding irritated and defensive. "I heard that! We made plenty!"

"Don't worry, Seraphina. He's just messing with you," Argus reassured her as she joined us outside. Seraphina's hands were planted firmly on her hips, and her eyes flashed with irritation.

My drink nearly slipped from my hands as Seraphina came into view. Every inch of her was a vision of otherworldly perfection, with glossy dark locks cascading down her back and hypnotic eyes that seemed to pierce through my soul. Her face was a work of art, flawlessly chiselled and alluring in its symmetry. Her athletic figure radiated raw power and feminine grace; each curve was perfectly placed.

I couldn't deny the captivating allure that Adrian and Eyrx found in her. As I observed her, a fierce sense of envy seared through me. It was irrational, but I couldn't shake the longing to be in their position, even if it meant tearing down everything in my way. How could she elicit such intense conflicting emotions within me?

Seraphina's lips curved into a sly grin as she sauntered to where I stood. She plopped down onto Adrian's lap, her eyes glinting with mischief as she surveyed me. Seraphina was well aware of her effect on me. I took a deep breath and smiled politely, nodding in greeting to hide my inner turmoil.

Two stunning women emerged from the house to greet me. The first had flowing auburn hair that shone in the sunlight, and her bright green eyes seemed to sparkle mischievously. She had a toned yet curvy figure; every move exuded confidence and flirty energy. The other woman, who stood beside Argus, had long blonde hair that cascaded down her back, and her piercing blue eyes radiated wisdom and compassion. As she smiled at me, I felt a sense of calm wash over me. Despite their attempts to hide it, she and Argus clearly shared a special connection.

As we devoured slices of piping hot pizza and breaded wings, Alpha Felix beamed with pride as he spoke about the Dark Moon pack and the upcoming ceremony where Jo would officially become his Luna. Between bites, I listened intently as Argus, Elara, and Taryn shared their experiences within the Byte Club and living under the strict rules of the Collective. Despite only being together for a short time, it was clear that this group of friends had a strong bond and genuine affection for each other. As I sipped my drink, I couldn't help but feel Seraphina's piercing gaze from her spot on Adrian's lap. It unnerved me how she seemed to see right through me, into the depths of my soul.

A shiver ran down my spine as I looked at the woman before me perched on Adrian’s lap. Her beauty was undeniable, but something in her eyes made me uneasy. The way Seraphina held herself, poised and confident, hinted at a hidden strength and danger. I couldn't quite put my finger on it, but my instincts told me to be cautious around her. This woman was more than just a pretty face; she was a force to be reckoned with.