Prince Alexander gave her his wicked grin again, before turning to the journalists and talking about the impact the festival had on their community, and why it was one of the many things that made Avondale so special.
Listening to the prince talk about his country and its citizens, Destiny couldn’t help but think that she wasn’t the only one who’d been underestimated. It was obvious Alexander truly cared about his people, and that he took great pride in ensuring that they could live safe and comfortable lives. He was smarter than he let on, and more suited to rule than her online research had led her to believe.
When Hunter and Greyson added their own astute observations to the conversation, Destiny thought she might orgasm from the sheer competency of the three alphas. These were men who knew how to lead and, more importantly, to properly care for those they led.
Just like they would take care of her, if she’d let them.
The world shifted on its axis at that thought. It had popped into her head fully formed, without her conscious input, but feeling as true as the ground beneath her feet. Somehow, Destiny knew that Pack Stepanov would be hers if she would have them. It was her decision to make, to choose what she wanted her life to look like, now that she felt free to live for herself.
Deep down, Destiny knew she’d already made her choice.
Chapter fifteen
Greyson
Greyson thought they’d all been joking about the whole Christmas miracle thing at first, but now he was a firm believer. He didn’t know if he should thank the skeleton Father Christmas, the snow gods, or some other deity, but he would gladly prostrate himself before whatever entity was responsible for their current good fortune.
This holiday season was unfolding in a way he couldn’t have possibly imagined, and far better than he could’ve hoped. First, Genesis had appeared, and Greyson finally got the chance to reconnect with the sister he’d missed so much. They were rebuilding their relationship, getting to know one another again, and figuring out how to be family in more than name only. They’d texted daily since Genesis left, and though they’d mostly talked about the mundanities of their daily lives, it was precious to Greyson.
And then there was Destiny.
What could he have possibly done to deserve her? To have two amazing women come into his home, his family? Greyson was never letting either of them go again.
He felt positively buoyant after the press conference. Xander had been brilliant with the press and, more importantly, with their omega. He’d been the best version of himself during their movie day, and Destiny had been able to relax and let down her walls. Every smile, every casual touch, and every lingering gaze had strengthened the sense of rightness Greyson had felt since she arrived.
Even with that disastrous article throwing a spanner in the works, they’d still come up aces. Greyson could feel the bond between the four of them growing. The way her siren eyes held theirs during the media’s interrogation made it clear that Destiny felt it too.
“How’d I do?” Xander asked in a low voice. Pack Stepanov stood clustered together after the press conference, watching Destiny leave the room with the rest of the royal family. “I think I handled the reporters pretty well, but I worry I might’ve given them something new to write about.”
Greyson clapped him on the shoulder, his chest warm with pride. “You were brilliant, mate! Funny, charming, and in control of the situation. You found the perfect balance between humility and confidence.”
Hunter nodded, eyes scanning the room. Greyson knew it was instinctual, and that his packmate was completely attuned to their conversation, despite his apparent inattention. Hunter rarely missed anything. Of course he’d been the first to recognize Destiny for what she was.
“The press will start speculating about our relationship with Destiny, but that was inevitable. A little gossip won’t hurt anyone.” Hunter shrugged nonchalantly despite the excitementGreyson could feel thrumming through the pack bond. “The truth will come out soon enough.”
“I have an idea about getting ahead of it, but we can talk about that later,” Greyson said, thinking back over the plan he’d been formulating since theCeleb Webpost published. It was a pretty brilliant plan, but first they needed to ensure the day went smoothly. “For now, let’s keep our focus on making sure she falls in love with Avondale.”
Greyson was buzzing with the energy and excitement of shared purpose. It was nice being all on the same page, focused on the same goal. Destiny.
Hunter nodded sharply. “How’s the rest of the day looking?”
“She’ll be headed to the children’s program next, then the luncheon. After that is the choir concert, a bit of down time, and finally the tree contest.” Greyson grinned, proud of his careful strategizing. “Destiny will be seated next to at least one of us during each event. Best of all, she’ll share our sleigh during the contest. It seems Natalya’s sleigh was full.”
Of course, Natalya’s sleigh had initially been earmarked for the princess, her best friend, and Destiny and Sasha, since each sleigh seated four. However, when Greyson had reviewed the plan and suggested a few alterations, it made more sense for Sasha and Mina to join the princess in the second sleigh, while the kings and queen were in a larger sleigh leading the procession, and for Pack Stepanov to bring up the rear. Both assistants had agreed it would help to be in the middle sleigh so they could keep an eye on everyone’s needs. Their smiles had hinted at other reasons for agreeing, but they’d kept those thoughts to themselves.
“Well done,” Xander replied with a wide grin. “You could be a criminal mastermind if you’d chosen the dark side instead of sticking with me.”
Greyson rolled his eyes. “You’ve led me into plenty of darkness, you prat. Now let’s follow Star out of it.”
Xander laughed, and it was a boisterous, contagious sound that warmed Greyson’s soul. He couldn’t remember the last time Xander had been so lighthearted. Actually, he couldn’t remember the last time they’d all been this lighthearted. Greyson had missed this over the last few years when they’d all been too caught up in the business of being royals.
“By all means, lead the way.” Xander bowed grandly and gestured toward the door.
Greyson rolled his eyes again as he led them into the corridor. He nearly collided with a flustered-looking Mina, who was walking swiftly, intently tapping on her tablet with her cell phone cradled between her ear and shoulder. He steadied her as the little beta squeaked in surprise, nearly dropping her phone.
“Prince Consort Greyson, I’m so sorry!” she exclaimed, unceremoniously ending her call. “I apologize. I should pay attention to where I’m walking.”
Greyson studied her with concern. As chief advisor, he made a point of building positive relationships with the castle’s staff, and Mina was one of his favorites. She was smart, efficient, and unshakably cheerful even in stressful situations. Greyson could count on one hand the number of times he’d seen her ruffled, and there had definitely been occasions when she would’ve been justified in succumbing to the stress. He gave her a reassuring smile.
