Page 171 of Unyielding Mates
He said he was done with me. Why is he here? He’s also mated! I narrow my eyes at the twins, roll my shoulders back, and take another deep breath.Stick to the plan. A quick glance around confirms our surroundings are safe so I refocus my attention on Duck.
His gentle faded green eyes crinkle at the corners. He nods slightly. I could just gracefully eliminate him from the game. I don't have to be an asshole, juststick to the plan. Duck dips his head and smiles. I nod at Holden, letting him know I’m ready.
"Young Alpha Prince Lucretius Jacob Langhlan, of the Emerald Pack, Luna Solar Territory."
I hold my breath, anticipating him stepping out of the car. Nothing happens.
Holden clears his throat and repeats himself.
But Luke doesn’t exit the limo.
Chris frowns, turning toward the vehicle. Charlie follows. Jeremy and Justin climb back into the car. Chris closes the door and stands guard next to Duck.
Confused, I look to Joe. “Did Luke change his mind?”
Joe shrugs.
My mother reaches for my father's arm. An unspoken communication passes between them. Anders strides to the limo and speaks to Chris before returning next to my parents. What a shit time not to have access to my magic. My mother places her hands over her heart, and her eyes shine again with unshed tears.
I hate seeing my mother like this.
Carmen approaches from the side, motioning for me to follow. She waits for me to approach, tapping her finger against an envelope in her hand.
"What’s this?" I ask, taking the envelope she offers me.
"He won't come out until you read this. He asked me to give this to you prior to his introduction, but I didn't because, well, that's against the rules."
I scoff. "Isn't it also against the rules to let a mated man into the game, even if his mate is in jail?"
Carmen purses her lips. "Just read it. We're wasting time."
I huff out a breath of annoyance. I was willing to make peace for reputation's sake, but now? He's kind of pushing it.Ripping open the envelope, I read the handwritten note first.
J—
I’ve been trying to tell you for a long time—I never cheated on you, and I never mated Elaine. I knew if I denied it or said it outright, you would never have believed me. So here’s my proof.
Please read the report. It’s an official document from the investigation team from Mating Affairs. The report is public. If you have any doubts, you may verify the contents through their office.
Love,
Luke
Quickly, I scan through the report and then shove the papers back into the envelope. I hand it to her, but she refuses to take it.
Joe takes it from me and places it into his inner jacket pocket.
With clear annoyance in my voice, I tell Carmen, "Tell him to get the hell out of the limo." Spinning around, I return to my mark and patiently wait for Luke to get out.
