Luca's POV
The next pack meeting, Rian keeps his promise.
"Before we discuss border expansion," he announces, "my Luna has thoughts on diplomatic approach."
All eyes turn to me. I stand, nervous but determined.
"The Ridge Pack has been peaceful for years. Maybe they're not the enemy." I pull out research I've done. "Their Alpha recently mated. New mates typically want stability, not war."
"They've been testing our borders," a warrior argues.
"Or they're nervous about us testing theirs." I look at Rian. "What if we invite them to a peace summit? Establish clear boundaries both packs can agree on?"
Murmurs ripple through the room.
Rian considers it seriously. "And if they refuse?"
"Then we know their intentions. But at least we tried." I sit back down. "Diplomacy first. War as last resort."
He's quiet for a long moment. Then nods. "We'll send an envoy. Propose a summit." His eyes meet mine. "Luna's right. We try peace first."
Pride and satisfaction flood through the bond.
After the meeting, pack members approach me with new respect.
"Smart thinking, Luna," one says.
"The Alpha's lucky to have you," another adds.
Rian finds me afterward, pulling me into an empty room.
"Thank you," he says.
"For what?"
"For being right. For challenging me." He cups my face. "You made me look stronger today, not weaker. The pack sees us as united, thoughtful."
"That's what partnership means."
"I'm learning." He kisses me deeply. "Slowly, but learning."
That evening, we train together. He teaches me combat, but actually listens when I suggest alternative techniques.
"You're getting good at this," he observes, blocking my strike.
"I have a bossy Alpha teacher."
"Bossy?" He sweeps my legs, pinning me. "I prefer 'thorough.'"
"Same thing." I hook my leg around his, flipping our positions. He lets me, pride evident in his eyes.
"Look at my Luna. So fierce."
"You're letting me win."
"I'm letting you learn." He pulls me down for a kiss. "There's a difference."
Later, showering together, his hands gentle on my sore muscles.
"The Ridge Pack responded," he says. "They agreed to the summit."
"Really?"
"Really. Your idea worked." His lips brush my shoulder. "You're good at this. Being Luna."
"I'm figuring it out."
"You're a natural." He turns me to face him. "I mean it, Luca. The pack respects you. Trusts you. You've earned your position."
"I didn't want it at first."
"I know. But now?"
I think about it honestly. "Now... I think I do. Want it. Want this life with you."
His joy through the bond is overwhelming. "Yeah?"
"Yeah." I kiss him softly. "Don't let it go to your head."
"Too late." He grins. "My mate loves me AND wants to be Luna. I'm insufferable now."
"You were already insufferable."
"But now I have reasons."
I can't argue with that.