Chapter 0358

"Do you have any experience with kitchen operations or computer systems?" I tease, raising an eyebrow.

"Actually, yes," Lillian replies without hesitation. "I handled staff scheduling for our pack's kitchen before I left." The word left catches my attention—not taken, not captured. Another soul fleeing cruelty. Too many of those lately.

"Perfect," I say, grinning. "You just made my entire week. Ready to start?" I rise from my seat.

"Of course, Luna."

I lead her to the kitchens, where I introduce her to Gwendolyn and Rosalind. "Lillian will be managing the kitchen schedules and sharing computer duties with Gwendolyn."

She hesitates. "Luna, what should I do with the rest of my time?"

I exchange a glance with Gwendolyn, who shrugs. "What do you mean?"

"At my old pack, this only took half the day. What other tasks do you need handled?"

I sigh. "You don’t have to fill every waking hour here. Our pack values balance—time for family, for leisure, for simply living." I’ve had this talk too many times with omegas conditioned to believe their worth is tied to labor.

"But if I want to work more?" she presses.

I consider it. "We recently lost one of our gardeners. Any experience with plants? It’d be good for you and Felicity to get fresh air."

"I can garden."

"Great. I’ll introduce you to Seraphina and Cassandra. They’ll show you the ropes."

Leaving her with the kitchen staff, I head toward the gardens. Passing Leopold’s office, an idea strikes. I knock lightly on the doorframe before poking my head in.

"Leopold." He’s on his feet instantly.

"Is Lillian alright? The baby—"

"Both fine," I assure him. "But I had a thought. You mentioned a pack member skilled in woodworking. Could they craft a crib? Or maybe refurbish one?"

He blinks, then exhales. "I didn’t even consider that. I’ll arrange it immediately. Thank you, Luna."

I wink at my mate, leaving him smiling as I stride toward the gardens. Seraphina and Beatrice are among the blooms.

"Beatrice," I call, surprised. "Didn’t expect to see you here."

"Luna." She brushes soil from her hands. "Sebastian and I leave with you and Alpha Adrian tomorrow. I don’t know when I’ll return." Her voice wavers as she surveys the vibrant beds. "This garden... it’s part of me."

"Alpha Lucian and Luna Evelyn would treasure your skills at Blackthorn," I offer. "Or you could start your own garden wherever you and Sebastian settle."

She nods. "I’d love to visit, if that’s allowed?"

"Whenever you wish." I squeeze her hands before turning to Seraphina. "I’ve found you a new gardener—Lillian, Beta Leopold’s mate. She’ll manage kitchen scheduling but wants to help here too."

Seraphina’s eyes light up. "Having the Beta female involved in our food supply chain? That’s brilliant for the pack."

"Exactly. Catch me at lunch, and I’ll introduce you."

As I turn to leave, I smirk at Beatrice. "See you at dawn. And congratulations—from what I hear, Sebastian’s quite the catch."

Her grin mirrors mine. "Oh, he is, Luna. He is."