The Betrayed Princess Rising (Lylah and Ezra) novel Chapter 26

Lylah’s POV

“Alpha Ezra is Sir Riven? My…mate?”

I froze, the words striking like a blow to the chest.

It felt as if the sky itself had collapsed on me. By Selene’s grace–how could this be real?

Fini

My status would change overnight? Legally bound. Claimed. Wife to Alpha Ezra and Luna of Mooncla Pack?

I had to be dreaming.

“I know this must feel overwhelming,” Damon said gently. He stayed outside the car, offering me an apologetic smile. “There are complications if Alpha Ezra registers at the Mate–Market under his curren name. Riven was the name his family used when he was a boy, so that’s the one he uses.”

Of course. If an Alpha of his standing entered the Mate–Market openly, the system would implode.

Every unmated female within a hundred packs would swarm it like a blood–moon frenzy, drawn by power, rank, and the promise of an Alpha bond.

Still–why did someone like him need the Mate–Market at all?

A man like Alpha Ezra could command devotion with a glance, loyalty with a breath. He didn’t need a system to find a mate!

“Lylah.”

His voice came from beside me, low and warm, and stirred something in my blood. “I’m sorry for the confusion. If you wish to stop this, say the word. I don’t want you feeling cornered or disadvantaged.”

Disadvantaged?

I had just been struck by fate itself.

“I need our mating status acknowledged by law, Alpha,” I said quietly

His gaze sharpened. “So do I. I knew you wouldn’t walk away so easily.” A pause, then softer, “Despite the shock, shall we continue?”

My throat tightened. There was no turning back now. I’ve arrived at Lunaris, and it was too late to seek

another male.

I nodded.

Alpha Ezra extended his hand. “Then let’s go.”

I didn’t know what compelled me, only that my body answered before my mind could protest.

1/3

4:13 pm M M M

Chapter 26

When my fingers touched his, heat surged through me. Selestine stirred with a pleased rumble, recognizing what my heart was only beginning to accept.

Husband. Mate.

As he led me forward, I studied his broad back, the effortless authority in every step. I would have to le this new life–this new place at his side.

Damon drove us through the waking streets of Lunaris City, where the spire of the Academy of Lunar Grace pierced the dawn mist. We slowed–but not at the apartment prepared for us.

We stopped at City Hall.

Ah. The mating license.

“But it’s still too early,” I murmured. “Are they even open?”

“That’s already been handled,” Alpha Ezra replied calmly.

I felt foolish for asking. The man beside me was an Alpha. The world rearranged itself around his will time slowing to accommodate him.

We stepped out of the car and moved toward the entrance. The staff greeted him with deep, reverent bows. Then their attention shifted to me, their smiles warm and respectful.

We were escorted inside and guided to our seats–me beside the Alpha, Beta Damon standing watch at shoulder.

A folder was placed before me.

“My medical clearance,” Alpha Ezra said. “All recent. And my assets declaration.”

I stared. “I appreciated the medical, Alpha. But I don’t need to know your assets.

“Lylah.” His voice was firm. “I am your legal mate in the eyes of the law. It is my duty to give you security Besides,” a faint smile curved his lips, “what wife doesn’t know her husband’s holdings?”

I fell silent, my thoughts spinning.

He had planned everything. Far beyond anything I had expected.

“Alpha. Luna.” A staff member approached. “We’ll need a photo of you together.”

Alpha Ezra rose immediately.

“Luna, please,” the staff added, glancing at me.

Luna.

The title still felt unreal as I stood. How was I supposed to grow into this role so quickly?

With careful respect, they led us into the photo room. Alpha Ezra removed his sunglasses, and my breath caught.

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