Contract Marriage With Alpha Snow - Chapter 142

Chapter 142: New Duty Chapter 142: New Duty ************** CHAPTER 142 ~Zade’s POV~ An hour later, we found ourselves seated at a small restaurant within the mall.

The aroma of freshly baked bread and sizzling meat filled the air as we browsed the menu.

“So,” I began, leaning back in my chair, “how have you been holding up?” Tempest hesitated, her fingers playing with the edge of her napkin.

“I’ve been…

fine.

Just trying to figure things out.” I nodded, my expression gentle.

“It’s okay to take your time.

No one expects you to have all the answers right away.” She looked up at me, her eyes searching mine for something I couldn’t quite name.

“Why are you so nice to me, Zade?” “Because you deserve it,” I said simply.

“You’re stronger than you think, Tempest.

And I see that.” Her cheeks flushed slightly, and she looked away, focusing on the menu.

“You’re annoying, you know that?” I chuckled.

“It’s part of my charm.” As the waiter arrived to take our orders, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of hope.

Maybe, just maybe, things between us could find a way to heal.

*************** ~Koda’s POV~ The faint buzz of activity in the pack house reached my ears as I made my way down the wide hallway toward the Alpha’s office.  The polished wooden floors gleamed under the light of the hanging chandeliers, and the air carried the faint scent of pine and leather-a smell I’d come to associate with authority and power.

I straightened my posture as a sharp voice resonated in my mind through the mind-link.

“Koda, report to my office.

Immediately.” “Yes, Alpha,” I replied without hesitation, quickening my pace.

Reaching the large oak door, I knocked twice and waited until I heard his deep voice call out, “Enter.” The office was grand yet functional.

Shelves lined with books on strategy, law, and pack history stretched along one wall, while another was adorned with portraits of past Alphas.  Behind the imposing desk sat Slade, a man whose very presence demanded respect, the alpha of Silver Claw Pack.

“Slade,” I greeted, lowering my head in deference as I stepped inside.

“Koda,” he said, his gaze sharp but not unkind as he motioned for me to approach.

“Come closer.” I obeyed, stopping in front of his desk.

Slade reached into a drawer and retrieved a gold envelope, sliding it across the desk toward me.

“I have an important responsibility for you,” he began, his tone measured.

“The annual end-of-year festivities ball will soon be held on the first Saturday of December.

As you know, our pack is hosting this year.” I nodded, already understanding the weight of what was being asked.

“This event is a significant occasion, one where alliances are strengthened, and we showcase the best of our pack.

However,” he continued, his eyes softening briefly, “my Luna is with child, and I don’t wish for her to overextend herself.

You will oversee the preparations alongside her.” He leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers as he regarded me.

“I trust you to ensure everything is perfect.” “Of course, Alpha,” I said, accepting the envelope.

“I’ll do my best to ensure the event is a success and Luna Trisha isn’t overburdened.” Slade gave a curt nod of approval.

“Good.” “But what of Daisy, if I may ask?”  Slade’s expression lightened.

Knowing his sister, the little princess was anything but trouble.

“You know Daisy’s attention to detail is€¦” he drawled, “second to never.

Trisha needs the best to ensure and command things.

Who better than my beta to do that?” I nodded in understanding.

“It is a shame neither of my twin siblings have a knack for responsibilities and leadership.

All they want is fun.

I guess I have spoiled them too much.” I chuckled as he massaged his temples.

It was true those two had troubled their brother so much but that was not because he spoilt them.  “I doubt.

They are capable.

You still see them as kids and irresponsible and they decide to use that to their advantage.

Also, taking care of them since the last Alpha and Luna died when they were only seven isn’t a bad thing.” Slade nodded.

“You see why I need you.” We both chuckled before focusing once more.

“In addition to that, you’ll handle the invites.” He picked up a thick file from the stack on his desk and handed it to me.

“This contains the list of alphas and their plus ones.

Invitations must be sent out immediately.

We have barely two weeks until the ball, and I want no delays.” Taking the file, I flipped it open briefly, scanning the names inside.

The list was extensive, filled with notable figures across packs and regions.

My eyes froze momentarily when I saw two familiar names near the bottom: Aira and Tempest Zephyr.

Considering who their father and brother were, it wasn’t surprising that they were included, but seeing their names still sent a ripple through me.

“Understood, Slade,” I said, closing the file and tucking it under my arm.

Slade studied me for a moment, his eyes narrowing slightly.

“Koda, you’ve been quiet lately.

Is there something on your mind?” I hesitated, debating whether to voice my thoughts.

“It’s nothing, Alpha,” I said finally.

“Nothing?

Alpha?” he echoed, raising an eyebrow.

“You forget I’ve known you since you were a pup.

If something is troubling you, speak freely.” I exhaled, feeling the weight of his gaze.

“It’s the Zephyr sisters,” I admitted.

“Aira and I€¦ there’s history there.

And Tempest-” “Ah,” Slade said knowingly, leaning forward slightly.

“Matters of the heart are rarely simple.

But you are a warrior, Koda.

Whatever emotions you feel, channel them into your duty.” “I understand,” I said, though my chest felt heavier.

“Good,” he said firmly.

“Now, focus on the task at hand.

The ball is an opportunity to rise above personal matters and prove your worth to the pack-and perhaps even to yourself.” I nodded, his words resonating more deeply than I cared to admit.

“I’ll get started immediately,” I said, bowing slightly before turning to leave.

“Koda,” Slade called just as I reached the door.

“Yes, Alpha?” He regarded me with a rare softness in his expression.

“Whatever weighs on your heart, remember this-you’re stronger than you think.

And sometimes, the most difficult paths lead to the most rewarding destinations.” “Thank you,” I said, his words settling in my mind as I stepped out of the office but I wasn’t sure I was ready for this event and what lay next.