Dark Moon Rising

Chapter 37: Unexpected Revelations

Aralia's Point of View

Selene accompanied me as I walked to my son's house through the forest. I was upset with Wesley for putting me in this position. I was unprepared for the conversation with Eyrx, but when I reached out to the Moon Goddess, she offered to come with me and reassured me that it was time.

How do I share with Eyrx why pursuing Seraphina is not a wise idea without hurting him? I had encouraged him to seek our friendships and open his heart to love. And he did. Just... why her? I was terrified that Seraphina would break his heart and toss him aside. My son was gentle and kind. But he also was a monster capable of devastation and destruction.

When Selene revealed Seraphina's true identity to everyone, I felt relieved. It was one less secret to keep. I wonder if the Moon Goddess will share what she knows about Eyrx today or if that will remain hidden until it needs to be unveiled.

"He's upset, Aarlia. Keep that in mind when you speak with him," Wesley warned, his eyes hard and his voice stern.

I nodded and sighed yet again. Selene slipped her hand into mine and squeezed gently. I was glad she was here with me. She alone knew how much I loved my adopted child and how much time and effort I had invested in getting Eyrx to the point he is today.

I felt the need to protect my son even more, especially from Seraphina, knowing we still didn't know much about Eyrx. Multiple factors were at play: the Collective was focused on the Dark Moon pack, in the last few weeks, vampires were frequently searching for something or someone in the forest, and Lennox had just discovered his past. Everyone's emotions were running high, and I knew that this could be a trigger for Eyrx. For some reason, he strongly responded to the feelings and emotions of those around him. The Moon Goddess had adjusted the mark she had given my son because of this, and I was grateful.

Spending time with Silas Stone had done wonders for Eyrx. Not only did he have the friendship of Luna Jo, but the former Alpha had become someone my son could confide in and learn from. I wish we had thought to have him accompany us for this meeting, but perhaps Silas would be willing to check in on Eyrx afterward if I reached out to him.

I wish I had taken slower steps because Selene and I were standing outside Eyrx's home before I knew it. My friend looked at me and smiled encouragingly. Sighing, I knocked on the door and waited for Eyrx to welcome us into his home. But, it was Wesley who greeted me at the door.

"Remember, he's quite upset when you talk to him," my mate said sternly, his voice firm and eyes unwavering.

I cautiously nodded and entered the kitchen to find Luna Jo seated with my son, holding his hand.

"Mom, why have you and Selene been preventing me from seeing Seraphina?" Eyrx demanded as my eyes met his own.

"I wanted you to become accustomed to the Dark Moon pack without the extra pressure of Seraphina, given your feelings for her," I admitted.

"We both know that her relationship with Adrian is complicated, and with everything going on, I didn't think it was a good idea for you to interact. You are aware of the Collective's interest in the Dark Moon pack, the vampires lurking about, and Lennox becoming aware of what happened to the children of the Silver Forest pack. It's a lot. You were also spending time with Silas, which has been good for you, wouldn't you agree?" I asked hopefully.

"Yes, but I don't believe that was the only reason," Eyrx said, narrowing his eyes.

Shit. He knew I wasn't being entirely truthful.

"I don't think she's right for you, Eyrx. Seraphina is already involved with Adrian, and not just in terms of being one of his best friends and a member of the Byte Club. I'm afraid she's going to hurt you," I exclaimed.

"You wanted me to have friends and open my heart to others. Why do you think I am not worthy of her?" Eyrx bellowed in response.

"Eyrx, she isn't the right match for you. Your heart is pure and kind. You are not only handsome, but you also unknowingly captivated every she-wolf at the Dark Moon pack with your presence. Seraphina may be alluring, but she possesses a dangerous and cold-hearted side. How would you respond if she revels in your affection, captures your heart, and then discards you once she loses interest or is satisfied?" I shouted back.

"Before we continue arguing, let's take a step back. Allow me to enlighten you both on some important information that you may not be aware of," Selene gently suggested, diffusing the situation.

"Eyrx, please make your mother and me a cup of tea first?" Selene asked.

I appreciated her doing that. It would have given Eyrx a specific task to focus on, allowing him to calm down and be open and ready to hear what she had to say.

A few moments later, Eyrx calmly placed two mugs before us and sat down. Selene looked around at our eager faces and offered a small smile.

"Lucius Void has a fondness for she-wolves, which may be surprising since he is the CEO of the Collective. Before being in a relationship with Evelina, Lucius was involved with Layla, one of the children taken from the Silver Forest pack. Despite the Void family's disapproval, a child was born from Layla and Lucius' forbidden relationship. Due to the family's disapproval, arrangements were made for Layla to leave the Collective and work for the Hunter Foundation," Selene shared.

The color drained from my face, and Wesley gripped my hand in response. We could both anticipate where this story was going, although neither Jo nor Eyrx seemed to.