Mated to My Intended's Enemy novel Chapter 30

Chapter 30: Chapter 30 Diplomatic Skills

Victoria

The morning sun filtered through the gauzy curtains of our bedroom, rousing me from a deep, contented sleep. Leo’s side of the bed was already empty, but still warm—he hadn’t been gone long. A note on his pillow caught my attention: "Early meeting with the neighboring pack. Tiny will drive you to Port Willows. I’ll see you tonight, my Luna." His signature was followed by a simple sketch of a wolf that made me smile.

My wolf, Ava, stretched lazily within me. *Another day of Luna lessons,* she commented, not entirely enthusiastic but resigned. The bond between us was strengthening daily, her voice becoming clearer in my mind.

After showering and dressing in a modest dress that hugged my curves without being provocative.I made my way downstairs. Tiny was waiting in the foyer, car keys already in hand.

"Good morning, Luna Victoria," he greeted me, his massive frame making a respectful half-bow. Despite his intimidating size, there was something undeniably gentle about Leo’s Beta. "Ready when you are."

"Thank you, Tiny," I replied, grabbing a travel mug of coffee Rosa had prepared. "And please, when it’s just us, Victoria is fine."

The drive to Port Willows Academy was peaceful, the forested roads beautiful in the morning light. Tiny maintained a protective silence, though occasionally he’d point out territorial markers or places of significance to Shadow Pack history. I appreciated his efforts to help me learn my new territory.

"The Alpha asked me to tell you he’s sorry about missing breakfast," Tiny said as we neared the academy. "The River Valley Pack has been pushing boundaries lately, and he wanted to handle it personally."

I nodded, appreciating that Leo had thought to explain his absence. "I understand. Pack business comes first."

Tiny’s eyes flicked to me in the rearview mirror. "Not always," he said cryptically. "Not anymore."

The academy grounds were quiet when we arrived, still early for most classes. Madam Hannah’s office door stood open, and I found her reviewing what looked like seating charts.

"Good morning, Victoria," she said without looking up. "Punctuality—excellent. A quality I appreciate in a Luna."

"Good morning, Madam Hannah," I replied, setting my bag down. "I see you’re working on seating arrangements for the regional gathering?"

Her head snapped up, eyes narrowed slightly. "Yes. How did you know?"

I moved closer to examine the charts. "The symbols by each name—they indicate pack affiliations and rank, don’t they? My father used similar notations when planning inter-pack events."

Something flashed across her face—surprise, perhaps, or reassessment. "Your father. Alpha Howlthorne was known for his diplomatic skills before his... unfortunate decline."

The mention of my father’s fall from grace stung, but I kept my expression neutral. "He taught me the importance of strategic seating. May I?" I gestured to the charts.

After a moment’s hesitation, she nodded. I studied the arrangement, noting potential conflicts and missed opportunities.

"If I may suggest," I began carefully, "placing the River Valley delegation across from Northern Pines creates unnecessary tension. They’ve disputed hunting grounds for generations. Perhaps seating River Valley beside Coastal Ridge would be better—they recently signed a trade agreement."

Madam Hannah studied me with new interest. "Continue."

For the next twenty minutes, I shared what I remembered from my father’s teachings—how to use seating to foster alliances, defuse tensions, and elevate the host pack’s standing. With each suggestion, Madam Hannah’s demeanor softened incrementally.

"Your insights are surprisingly valuable," she finally admitted, making several adjustments based on my recommendations. "Alpha Howlthorne clearly prepared you well, despite... everything else."

The backhanded compliment made Ava bristle, but I soothed her. Progress was progress, however small.

"Thank you," I said simply. "My father believed diplomacy was the backbone of pack leadership. I was fortunate to learn from him before... before Enzo took control."

Madam Hannah’s expression shifted, something almost sympathetic in her eyes. "Your father was respected throughout the region. His diplomatic legacy deserves to continue." She hesitated, then added, "Perhaps through you."

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