Page 4 of Claws and Effect (Paranormal Dating Agency #87)
THREE
A s she moved through the crowd, Laykin felt the weight of her position more keenly than ever. For all her internal rebellion, for all her secret desire to choose her own path, moments like this reminded her why she couldn’t simply walk away. Her pride needed leadership that looked forward, not backward to outdated traditions that valued strength over wisdom.
“There’s our girl” came a warm, familiar voice.
Laykin turned to see her parents approaching, their regal presence causing the crowd to part respectfully. King Hansel Barclay stood tall and imposing in his formal attire, silver streaking his golden hair while Queen Juliette gleamed beside him in a gown of deep gold that complemented her elegant figure.
“You look beautiful, darling,” her mother said, embracing her with genuine warmth. “The burgundy was an excellent choice.”
Her father’s eyes shone with pride as he kissed her forehead. “You handled Marcello masterfully. That old lion needed the reminder that our pride has thrived under progressive leadership.”
“I had good teachers,” Laykin replied, the tension in her shoulders easing slightly in her parents’ presence. Despite her complicated feelings about the arranged mating, she had never doubted her parents’ love for her.
“The eastern delegation is impressed with our quarterly returns,” her mother noted, ever the financial strategist of the pride. “I’ve been discussing potential joint ventures that could benefit both our communities.”
“And I’ve laid the groundwork with their diplomatic corps,” her father added. “The alliance terms are favorable—we’ve ensured your position as heir to our pride remains secure regardless of the mating.”
Laykin felt a rush of gratitude. While arranging her mating, they had still protected her birthright and future role.
“Thank you,” she said softly, “for everything you’re doing to make this... easier.”
Her mother squeezed her hand, noticing the bracelet. “I see Frances’s gift arrived. It suits you.”
“The Rubins have excellent taste,” Laykin replied diplomatically, though the weight of the jewelry felt heavier at the mention.
Her father’s expression softened. “We know this isn’t what you would have chosen, Laykin. But your mother and I both believe that given time, this union could bring you happiness as well as security for our people.”
“We wouldn’t have agreed if we didn’t think Zyle Rubin could be worthy of you,” her mother added. “And the treaty timeline gives you months to know him before the mating ceremony.”
The sincere concern in their eyes made Laykin’s throat tighten. They weren’t just rulers making a political alliance—they were parents who wanted their daughter’s happiness even within the constraints of duty.
“I know,” she assured them. “I understand what’s at stake, and I’m prepared to do my part.”
Her father touched her cheek gently. “You’ve always made us proud, little lion. Tonight, enjoy the celebration. Tomorrow will take care of itself.”
With a final reassuring smile, her parents moved on to greet other dignitaries, working the room with the practiced ease of seasoned diplomats—her father strengthening political connections while her mother discussed the financial future of the pride with key investors.
Laykin caught Seren’s eye across the room and received a subtle thumbs-up for her handling of Marcello. The small gesture of solidarity strengthened her resolve.
Tonight was just the beginning—a prelude to tomorrow’s engagement ceremony and the months that would follow before the actual mating and treaty signing. Months of getting to know a stranger who would become her mate, her partner in leadership, the father of her future cubs.
Please let him be kind, Laykin thought as she accepted a glass of champagne from a passing server. Or at least kind enough that we can survive this together.
The weight of the Rubin bracelet caught the light as she raised her glass in response to a toast. Whatever tomorrow brought, she would face it with the strength and dignity expected of a Barclay princess. Not just because duty demanded it, but because her people deserved nothing less.