Every time my husband, Ethan Sterling, brought a younger woman home, he was considerate enough to bring a younger man for me too. “I need something new. You need company.” He said it as casually as if he were discussing an ordinary business deal. “We both get what we want, Claire. No one gets to judge the other.” For the past three years, I had sent every one of those men away. Until this time, Ethan finally went too far. When he brought the pregnant Chloe back to the villa, he also brought me a hockey player with broad shoulders and a narrow waist. “Chloe got pregnant by accident.” He set down his whiskey, speaking with the patience of a man trying to reason with me. “She doesn’t want the baby to be born illegitimate, so we’ll get divorced for now.” “After the baby is born, I’ll marry you again.” He pointed toward the young man standing beside the fireplace. “Until then, Julian can keep you company. I won’t interfere.” He probably thought I would do what I always did—slip Julian a check and tell him to leave. This time, I didn’t. Instead, I smiled faintly. “Yes.” Ethan paused with the cigar between his teeth. “Claire, what did you just say?” I set down my phone and shifted my gaze from Ethan to Julian. “I said yes.” I looked him over from head to toe. He stood over six feet tall, with short dark-brown hair and deep gray-blue eyes. His lean, powerful body was wrapped in a simple white shirt, yet he looked cleaner than every self-important man in the room. “You’re right. He’s gorgeous,” I said. The smile on Ethan’s face faded, but he said nothing. His mistress, Chloe, instinctively tightened her grip on his arm. “Claire has finally come around. We should be happy for her, shouldn’t we?” “Of course.” He crushed out his cigar, walked over to Julian, and spoke in a teasing, frivolous tone. “Take good care of her tonight.” Then he wrapped an arm around Chloe and took her upstairs. I looked at Julian. The tips of his ears were slightly red, and the lines of muscle beneath his sleeves were beautifully defined. “Are you staying in your dorm tonight, or here?” “Either is fine.” “Then stay with me.” I turned toward the hallway. Behind me, the servants quickly lowered their voices and began whispering. “She’s obviously just putting on a show for Ethan.” “The last time Ethan brought home that football player, she had security throw him out.” “Don’t worry. Claire is hopelessly devoted to Ethan. She’d rather die alone than touch one of Ethan’s hired playthings.” Their words pricked my spine like needles. They weren’t wrong. I had once been too proud, too convinced that my loyalty could preserve something. I had driven away every man Ethan brought home, believing that at least I was cleaner than he was. And what had that gotten me? Ethan’s mistress was pregnant and flaunting it in my face. What had my pride protected? A divorce agreement? An empty marriage bed? Or a house full of people waiting to laugh at me? I opened the second-floor guest room. “We’re here.” Julian stood in the shadowed hallway, his tall frame half-swallowed by the darkness. I stumbled. A strong arm caught me. “Careful.” I caught the faint scent of mint on him. His hot breath brushed my neck. My back pressed against the heated chest beneath his shirt—and against the hard, rapid beat of his heart. He was nervous. This time, Ethan really had spared no expense. Julian Hart, a former college hockey star, a scholarship student at Columbia Law School, and already holding an offer from a top firm after graduation. He wasn’t some male model Ethan had picked up from a bar, but his face and body were better than any model’s. His handsome features were clean-cut and still carried a trace of youthful innocence. “Did you really come for the money?” “Yes.” His answer was immediate. He didn’t try to defend himself. The old me would have laughed coldly, asked how much he wanted, and paid him to leave. Back then, I had stood on moral high ground as though one touch from him would contaminate me. Yet all the people I had called “unclean” had left. Ethan never came back. Looking at it now, which of them had ever been dirtier than my husband? “Tell the housekeeper if you need anything.” I turned and walked farther into the room. He followed me inside. “My name is Julian,” he said quietly. “I know. Ethan told me.” “I mean…” Julian added softly, “you can do anything you want with me.” I looked at him for a moment, then nodded. “All right. Go shower first.” When I returned to the master bedroom, the divorce agreement Ethan had prepared was sitting on the nightstand. For the past three years, I had turned a blind eye to Ethan’s absurd behavior. Only because something had happened between us three years ago, leaving a rift neither of us knew how to cross. He had his reasons. I had mine. At first, I told him that as long as he didn’t bring those women home, I could tolerate it. Later, I said as long as he didn’t get one of them pregnant, I could still let it go. I yielded step by step. He pushed step by step. Now, perhaps we were both tired of the marriage. There was nothing left to hesitate over. I picked up a pen and signed my name. At that exact moment, the bathroom door opened. Julian stepped out in a white shirt, the ends of his dark-brown hair still damp. The moment he saw me, the tips of his ears turned red again. I looked him over. “Don’t be so shy. Didn’t you say I could do anything I wanted with you?” “Yes.” “Then take off your clothes. Come to my room.”

When Ethan texted me, Julian was sitting on the edge of my bed. My toes rested against the hard lines of his abdomen. He massaged my calf, his fingertips gliding over my skin like a faint electric current. Go to bed early, Ethan wrote. I stared at those three words and found them ridiculous. He had never cared what time I went to sleep before. Why remember now? Because Julian had stayed? Or because he had finally realized that the woman he believed would never touch anyone else might truly walk into another man’s arms? Ethan and his mistress were staying in the guest room beside the master bedroom. My lover was in my bed. This villa, worth tens of millions of dollars, had become an exquisitely decorated landfill. Anyone could live here. I ignored Ethan’s pointless message and crooked a finger at Julian. Julian moved over me, his lean, powerful body pressing mine into the mattress. I heard his soft breathing against my ear. His kisses landed on my forehead, my cheek, and then my lips. I wrapped my legs around his waist, my body rising and falling with his movements. He moved inside me with strength, yet when he lowered his head to kiss me, he was gentle. His deep eyes held mine. “Claire, tell me anytime if you want me to change positions.” My rising body heat was the only answer I gave him. Ethan thought I was still the same Claire I had always been. He thought I wouldn’t dare. That I never would. That I would preserve my so-called loyalty forever. He was wrong. The next morning, my lower back was still sore when I went downstairs. Julian was in the kitchen helping the housekeeper prepare breakfast. The moment he saw me, the spatula nearly slipped from his hand. I smiled. The man who had whispered, “You can do anything you want with me,” and seemed to possess endless strength last night was suddenly shy again this morning. A moment later, Ethan came downstairs. He sat across from me and lifted his coffee. “You’re up early.” He glanced at Julian, then looked at me with an amused smile. “How was last night?” Before I could answer, several people suddenly entered the villa. Mason and a group of Ethan’s friends burst in. “Ethan, who won?” “I bet Julian wouldn’t last until breakfast. Five hundred thousand dollars.” “I bet she threw him out last night. Three-to-one odds, with Ethan holding the book—” Their voices cut off. The moment they saw me, their excitement turned to embarrassment. “Good morning, Claire.” Ethan sipped his coffee leisurely, as though his friends betting on our marriage were something to be proud of. “Sit down.” Then I looked at Julian. “You should go to class.” Julian paused, untied the apron, picked up his coat, and left. As soon as the door closed, Mason lowered his voice and laughed. “See? She threw him out after all.” Someone else said, “Ethan knew it. Claire was only putting on a show.” “A wife should be like Claire. She knows her limits, and she knows how to protect her place.” At those words, Ethan visibly relaxed, faint satisfaction settling over his features. I drew a breath and stepped out of the dining room. At the same moment, Ethan spoke. “Come with me to dinner at the Westchester estate tonight.” “At two this afternoon,” I said, “meet me at the law firm to sign the divorce papers.”

The living room went silent. I placed the signed agreement on the table. “Let’s take care of this first.” Ethan froze for a second, his gaze falling on my signature. I knew what he was thinking. The old me would have torn the agreement apart and demanded through red-rimmed eyes how he could decide to divorce me so easily. Without several rounds of fighting and emotional tug-of-war, we never would have reached the signing stage. But this time, I only looked at him. “Are you coming at two or not?” Ethan leaned lazily back in his chair. “What’s the rush? Didn’t we agree to wait until Chloe’s pregnancy was stable?” “I can’t wait.” Last night, after we had finished, I had lain in Julian’s arms and asked, “I’m done treating this like a game. If I leave Ethan for good, would you want something real with me?” Disbelief flashed across Julian’s face, joy hidden deep in his eyes. He placed my hand against his burning chest. “I’ve wanted something real with you from the moment I walked through that door. But are you really going to divorce Mr. Sterling?” I nodded. “Yes.” Now, the atmosphere in the living room had frozen solid. Ethan still thought I was joking. “Claire, what’s the rush? Are you still half asleep?” “You’d better sign before I change my mind.” Chloe came down the stairs with both hands protectively over her stomach. “Claire, don’t be angry. I just don’t want the media calling my baby illegitimate the moment it’s born.” Her eyes turned red, making her look delicate and pitiful. “The divorce can wait until the pregnancy is stable. Really. I don’t want to force you.” She sounded as though she were more reluctant to end my marriage than I was. Ethan glanced at her, and his expression turned cold. The one thing he could never tolerate was anyone thinking he lacked the courage to face the consequences of his actions. “You think I’m afraid to sign?” He picked up a fountain pen. Mason spoke immediately. “Ethan, don’t do anything reckless.” “Shut up.” Ethan bent over and signed, then threw the pen heavily onto the table. “Everyone here can bear witness. Once the baby is born, Claire and I will remarry.” He stood, leaned close to my ear, and spoke with confident intimacy. “You’re the woman I dragged back from the edge of death.” “What man out there could possibly compare to me? You don’t want anyone but me anyway.” “And you’ll raise this child after it’s born. You’re the only woman fit to be Mrs. Sterling.” I gave a soft laugh. So this was what he called love. I didn’t answer. I picked up the suitcase I had packed long ago and walked out of the villa. Behind me, Chloe asked softly, “What if she really doesn’t come back?” Ethan held an unlit cigar between his fingers and fell silent for a moment. “Claire can’t live without me. She just needs time to cool down.” His expression relaxed. “Once Chloe gives birth, Claire will beg me to remarry her. Want to bet?” His original plan had been for us to keep living together after the divorce. He believed I would remain in the villa, obediently continue acting as his wife, and wait for him to resolve the issue of the child. But I truly left. That was clearly outside his expectations. Even so, he still believed the outcome would not change. “Once your baby is born, my wife’s place goes back to Claire,” Ethan told Chloe. Chloe was far more intelligent than the women Ethan had brought home before. She never sent me taunting messages. She never called to show off that Ethan was beside her. She always seemed innocent and fragile, which made Ethan constantly worry that I would bully her. I had seen women younger, prettier, and far more brazen than Chloe. They were always too eager to drive me out. Only Chloe never fought openly. She moved into my home with a pregnant belly, calling me “Claire” in an affectionate tone, as though we were the best of friends. Still, I should have thanked her for making my decision easier. At one fifty that afternoon, I sat in the conference room of a family-law firm on Park Avenue. I called Ethan for the ninth time. He finally answered. “Where are you?” “I’m with Chloe at a prenatal appointment.” His voice was careless. “The doctor added a few tests at the last minute. I’ll come over when we’re finished.” “We agreed on two.” “The divorce papers aren’t going to grow legs and run away.” He spoke as though soothing an unreasonable child. “We’ll deal with it after Chloe’s appointment.” He hung up. Wait again. For years, I had always been waiting for him. Waiting for meetings to end. Waiting for him to come home from parties. Waiting for him to tire of some woman. Waiting for him to remember he still had a wife. I had cried before. I had made scenes. In the end, one impatient “stop making a fuss” from him was always enough to make me stay. But today, I no longer needed him to reward me by offering not to divorce me. The lawyer entered the conference room. “Mrs. Sterling, would you like to continue waiting for your husband?” I placed my phone facedown on the table. “No.” “Prepare the uncontested divorce filing. If he refuses to cooperate, we’ll proceed with litigation.” “I’ll send you all the financial documents tonight.” The lawyer nodded. “Understood.” For the first time, I realized that stopping the wait was not nearly as difficult as I had imagined.

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I used to be a skin-grafter. My skill at changing faces was so refined it bordered on the uncanny. After helping my husband, Woodrow, secure his position as Godfather, I quietly returned to my old trade as a skin-grafter. Then my Godfather husband came to me with a woman and demanded that I make her look like me, so she could take my place as the Godfather’s wife. In a disguised voice, I asked him, “Does the Godfather understand how brutal a skin-grafting procedure can be?” “Once the original Godfather’s wife is stripped of her skin, her flesh will be exposed. She may go blind… she may live in agony worse than death.” The Godfather glanced at me, his eyes cold as ice. “I don’t care about any of that. Just do it.” My heart felt colder than the knife in my hand. Fortunately, the black robe and mask covered me so completely that he could not recognize me. I understood very quickly. He did not want to give up my father’s arms support, and he could not bear to wrong the girl he truly loved, so he wanted his mistress to wear my face and impersonate me? In that case, there was no need for me to remember the affection of the past seven years. The only person who would return to his side would be me. Since this Godfather, whom my family had raised to power with our own hands, had become disobedient, I would simply replace him. … “Fine.” I toyed with the skinning knife in front of me, my tone flat. “But if you want a new face, you will have to follow my rules.” “During the procedure, this girl and the Godfather’s wife must both live here with me. No one is allowed to disturb us.” Woodrow nodded. “Woodrow, I…” His mistress, Susanna, nestled in his arms and clung to his sleeve, looking frightened and unable to say more. He immediately soothed her in a gentle voice. “Hedda is the cherished daughter of the Taylor family. Their arms are the key to my standing as Godfather. I cannot fall out with her.” “Besides, your identity cannot be brought into the light. This is the best way. Endure it a little longer, and from now on, you will be my Godfather’s wife.” Expectation rose on Susanna’s face, but soon her expression turned worried again. “Then what will happen to Hedda after she becomes crippled?” I was rather curious to know how Woodrow would dispose of me as well, so I lifted my eyes. But Woodrow did not answer. He only dropped a few words of warning, telling me not to breathe a word of this to anyone, then left with Susanna. I called Woodrow back, my tone heavy with meaning. “Godfather, when the Godfather’s wife is brought here, her hair and skin must not be damaged.” I had to make sure I would not be hurt. Without turning back, he said, “Mm. I will bring her tomorrow.” When the door to the hidden chamber closed, I took off my mask and removed the black robe, turning from skin-grafter back into Hedda. I was deeply grateful that I had listened to my father and never told Woodrow that I was the skin-grafter, or that I had family bodyguards of my own. In a cold voice, I instructed my family bodyguard, “Find out who Susanna is. I want to know what sort of girl my husband is protecting so carefully.” “Have Una come here. Tomorrow, she will take my place as the skin-grafter and wait for the Godfather to deliver his people.” Back at the villa, I had just finished making Woodrow a plate of doctored strawberry cakes. Then Woodrow came in carrying a glass of milk. “Hedda, it’s late. Stop working and rest early. I warmed you a glass of milk…” His voice was tender, his gaze lingering, exactly as it had been seven years ago when he asked me to marry him. Back then, he stood beneath the moon with a bouquet of bright red roses and swore that he would never fail me in this life. So I answered that if he never failed me, I would never leave him. Later, when he went on behalf of the family to inspect an out-of-town casino, he accidentally contracted an infectious disease. For five days and nights I did not sleep, studying until I found a cure. Ignoring my family’s pleas and the long distance, I traveled more than a thousand kilometers to reach him. After he recovered, he used my treatment to save the entire casino and smoothly ascended to the position of Godfather. But at the height of his glory, I collapsed from exhaustion and days of worry. When I woke, he was holding the diamond ring his dead mother had left behind, his eyes red as he proposed to me. “Hedda, be my wife. I will be good to you for the rest of my life.” “Without you, never mind becoming Godfather. I might have died in a foreign land.” “As long as you say yes, I will make you the happiest woman in the world, the woman every other woman envies.” But now, blinded by his mistress, he had forgotten that I knew medicine. I soon discovered that the milk in his hand had been drugged. It was the poison he meant to use to send me away to be skinned and turned into a faceless cripple. Seeing that I did not speak, Woodrow lifted the glass to my lips. “Hedda, let me feed you.” I did not resist. Looking at him, I drank every last drop, then curved my lips slightly and smiled. “Woodrow, you’re so good to me.” At my words, guilt surfaced in his eyes. I took the opportunity to pick up the strawberry cakes on the table, my eyes full of anticipation. “Ever since you became Godfather, you’ve been busy with family affairs every day and haven’t been eating properly. I made these cakes myself. Try them.” He finished them without hesitation and praised them again and again. He had no idea that once he ate those strawberry cakes, his reproductive organs would be ruined. My five-year-old son would become his only descendant.

Half an hour later, the drug made my whole body limp. Woodrow carried me to the bed. “Hedda, don’t blame me.” “Your family’s arms partners only recognize the Taylor family. Behind my back, many people say I became Godfather only because of you and the Taylors.” “But you know that I also secured this position through my own ability.” “Susanna is gentler than you, and more obedient. I found a skin-grafter. Susanna will take on your face, and from now on, she will wear your face and take your identity.” “But don’t worry. Even without a face, I will support you and care for you for the rest of your life. Nothing will happen to you…” He held me and repeated, “Nothing will happen to you,” as if trying to convince himself. Using all my strength, I let out a scornful laugh. “Woodrow, I, Hedda, have been married to you for seven years. I exhausted every effort to help you secure your position, and you want to skin me?” “My family searched for suitable arms for you, and you want to move against them?” “You found someone to replace my identity. Your real purpose is to wipe out the Taylor family, isn’t it?” He clenched his fists but did not turn around. “You should know there is no room in my eyes for any threat.” With that, he strode away. I did not dare imagine what would have happened if I had only been Hedda and not the skin-grafter. A taste of blood surged into my throat. Footsteps sounded outside again, and Susanna, exquisitely dressed, walked in. “Hedda, none of your people are here. No one is coming to save you.” “The Godfather originally said you should disappear forever. I was the one who told him to spare your life.” “Even if you become a cripple, you must live well. Watch me become you and take everything from you.” “Once I have a child of my own, I’ll have your son killed. How does that feel? Despairing enough?” Her seductive face twisted with malice. I closed my eyes, too tired to bother with her. Tomorrow Once we reached the hidden chamber, I would make sure she could not die even if she wanted to. “Mother.” The next second, my five-year-old son, Kyle, called to me from the doorway. “Father said you were ill. I came to see you.” Susanna immediately bent close to me. “Keep lying there. I’ll go deal with your son first.” I snapped my eyes open and shouted toward the door, “Kyle, go back! Don’t worry about me!” But the sound I made was almost inaudible. Susanna went out and deliberately raised her voice. “Kyle? The Godfather said the Godfather’s wife is ill and forbade you from coming near. How dare you disobey?” “Since you find it so uncomfortable to stay in your room, then get down to the basement and kneel there. Beg God to let your mother die quickly.” “You lot, drag him to the basement. Do not turn on the lights!” Kyle had been afraid of the dark since he was little. My heart burned with panic. I used all my strength to crawl up, but the moment I got off the bed, I fell flat onto the floor. Outside, Kyle roared, “You are an outsider, and you dare stop me? You dare shout in my mother’s room? I’ll go find my grandfather right now and have him deal with you!” Kyle’s voice was childish, but every word rang firm. After speaking, he turned and ran. I smiled in relief, while Susanna’s voice trembled with rage as she ordered the servants beside her. “Quick! Go tell the Godfather!” Then she turned back to look at me, sprawled on the floor. “Oh my, Hedda, what are you doing? Crawling on the floor like a dog. How ugly.” “To tell you the truth, that little thing won’t be seeing the old Godfather.” “Ever since Woodrow became Godfather, he has slowly replaced everyone around the old Godfather.” I clenched my fists. Let them enjoy their triumph for now. After tonight, I would be the only one playing with them.

But Susanna had no intention of letting me off. She walked toward my most treasured wooden chest. “I hear this is the wedding dress you wore back then?” “How beautiful. I heard your dead mother made it by hand and spent three years sewing it.” She draped the wedding dress over herself and turned once in front of the mirror. “Hedda, do you think the Godfather will like it if I wear this to see him?” The pearls on the dress shimmered under the light. My mother had made it with the last breath of strength left in her body. At the time, she was gravely ill and about to pass away. She said she could not watch me get married, but this wedding dress would accompany me toward happiness in her place. Through gritted teeth, I said, “Put it down!” At some point, Woodrow had appeared in the doorway. He shouted at the same time I did, “Stop!” Susanna’s eyes instantly reddened. “Godfather, from now on I have to wear Hedda’s face and live Hedda’s life. I will never be able to marry you in glory.” “I only wanted to wear Hedda’s wedding dress once. You won’t even allow that?” Woodrow glanced at me lying on the floor. His brows tightened, then loosened, and he gave Susanna a helpless sigh. “Once you take her place as the Godfather’s wife, you will naturally have countless gowns to choose from. A worn wedding dress is not worth your concern.” Susanna let her tears fall pitifully. Woodrow changed his mind again. “Forget it. Hedda won’t have any use for it after this. If you like it, take it.” But Susanna grabbed a pair of scissors and pouted. “I don’t like it now! I want to ruin it, so I won’t feel sad every time I think about not being able to wear a wedding dress.” In the end, Woodrow said only one thing. “As you wish.” The wedding dress split with the sound. Pearls scattered, bouncing and rolling to my feet with bright little clinks. I seemed to see my gravely ill mother working day and night, leaning against the bed, gritting her teeth as she sewed each pearl on stitch by stitch… Tears fell from my eyes. I hated only myself for being unable to protect the last thing my mother had left me. “Why are you crying?” Susanna crouched down and shoved the wedding dress, now cut into pieces, toward me. “I’m giving it back to you, aren’t I?” Woodrow stood beside her, watching without expression. I remembered our wedding day, when he lifted my veil and looked at me with burning eyes. “Hedda, you are so beautiful, and so is the dress.” “When we are old, wear it for me again.” Only seven years had passed, and he had forgotten it completely. He had also forgotten how he swore before my mother’s grave that he would never let me suffer even the smallest grievance. I reached out and gathered the dress into my arms piece by piece, murderous intent churning in my heart. Susanna ran excitedly back to the chest and rummaged through it. The bracelet my mother left me, the gold necklace my father made, the jewels my brother gave me, all were taken out one by one. Finally, she held up a diamond ring flecked with impurities. “Hedda, you’re the daughter of the biggest arms dealer. Why would you keep something so cheap?” I squeezed out a sound like air through a broken bellows. “Heh… Before Woodrow married me, the Godfather barely remembered he had this son. This cheap thing was all he could give me as a proposal ring. It was our token of love.” My voice was very soft. But I bit hard on the words “cheap” and “token of love.” Woodrow snatched the ring, his face changing several times. Perhaps he was unwilling to admit that only because my father and I used all the resources of the Taylor family did he ever have the chance to stand before the old Godfather. Even less was he willing to remember that, when he pledged his love to me, he had nothing of value on him at all. Only this diamond ring his mother had left behind. “Woodrow.” Susanna whined unhappily, “You’re holding that ring so tightly. Are you still thinking about your old feelings for Hedda? Do you think I’m in the way now?” Woodrow looked down at me from above and stuffed the ring into Susanna’s hand. “I only thought of my mother. It was something she left behind. Keep it for me.” “Let’s go. Tomorrow, she has to be delivered to the skin-grafter without a scratch. Let her spend her last night properly.” I was carried back to the bed again. Susanna took Woodrow’s arm and walked to the door, then turned back and smiled at me. “Hedda, after tomorrow, your face will be mine.” I carved that smile into my heart. I hoped she would still be able to smile after enduring the pain of being skinned.

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They used to say I was the most spoiled woman in the Rockclaw Pack.Kane made sure of that. He chased me for ten years—ten relentless years—transforming from an eager young heir into the Alpha every wolf respected…and feared.And yet,when I so much as frowned,that terrifying man would soften like melting snow. Everyone thought I’d be his Luna.Hell,so did I. But love—real love—should never feel like a knife twisting between your ribs. And Kane?He betrayed me.Three times. The first time was at the annual Tribal Alliance dinner. They said it was a setup—that Kane had been drugged,caught in a tangle with Omega Lilian.But when I found out,I still packed up our engagement with shaking hands.He exiled her the very next night. Then he stood outside my wooden house for three straight days and nights,shivering in the cold. “Julia,I was wrong,”he rasped through cracked lips.”Just…believe in me one more time.Just this once.” I looked at him and saw the boy who once hiked through a blizzard to find snow lotuses for me,nearly freezing to death just to see me smile. So,I forgave him. God help me—I believed him. The second time?Worse. I walked into the healing room,expecting a routine report.Instead,I found him sitting beside Lilian again—this time for a pup checkup. When our eyes met,he jumped to his feet,gripping my shoulders like he could hold me still through sheer will. “A few weeks ago,I got into a car accident,”he explained quickly.”She threw herself in front of me—saved my life.” His voice dropped.”She got pregnant…and when Grandma Jennifer announced to the entire council that the pack never abandons its bloodline…I knew I had no choice.” He rested his chin on my head,like he always did when he was desperate. “Don’t leave me.Once the pup is born,I’ll send her away—to the Ice Plains.She’ll never come near you again.” I wanted to scream.I wanted to hate him. But all I could think was:He promised me once,“My word is law.” So again,I stayed. The third time was the one that shattered me. We were both bidding at the pack’s charity auction—for the old pocket watch that had belonged to my mother. It was her only keepsake,worn smooth with her fingerprints.But Kane kept bidding,raising the price higher and higher…until he used his Alpha privilege to claim it outright. And then? He turned around and gave it…to Lilian. I stormed into his tent,fury burning hotter than the sun. But he just rubbed the bridge of his nose,the scent of her still clinging to his clothes. “She’s been anxious lately,”he muttered,like it justified everything.”Holding the watch helps her relax.Julia,just…let her have it.” Something in me snapped. I laughed—sharp,bitter,broken. “Why should I’let her’?”I asked,my voice shaking with rage. His brows pulled together in frustration.”Don’t be childish.Lilian’s due soon.After the pup is born,everything will go back to normal.” Normal?Did he actually believe we could just pretend?That I could forget every blade he buried in my back? “Kane…”I started,but I didn’t even finish before her voice pierced the air. “Kane…it hurts…” Lilian stood just outside the tent,one hand clutching her belly,the other bracing against the pole.”I slipped…the baby…” Kane didn’t hesitate.He pushed me aside—literally shoved me—and ran to her. “KANE!”I screamed after him. But he never looked back. He carried her away like I had never mattered. And as I stood there,laughing and crying at the same time,one thing became painfully clear:He’d never let her go. Not after she saved his life.Not with their pup on the way.So what did that make me?A placeholder?A fool? Blood trickled from the wound on my temple as I leaned against the stone table. The Gamma approached quietly. “Returning to camp,Julia?” I didn’t hesitate.”No,”I said.”I’m going to the altar.To break the bond.” Two hours later,I stood outside the healing ward with the severance contract in hand. Kane had stationed guards outside Lilian’s door like she was the Moon Goddess herself.Healers came and went under his personal inspection. He even arranged three security layers—one for her,one for the unborn child,and one for his guilt. “I want warm blueberry muffins,”Lilian said inside,in that soft,pathetic voice of hers. Kane stood immediately.”Wait here.I’ll have the chef make them fresh.” He brushed past me in the hallway without even meeting my eyes. I stepped inside the ward.Lilian blinked up at me with teary eyes. “Julia…I didn’t mean to take your pocket watch.Kane gave it to me,but…his heart’s still with you.I swear.” I sighed.”There’s no need to perform.It’s just us here.” Her fake tears froze. “You came back with a pregnancy,knowing Kane’s loyalty would trap him.You knew exactly what you were doing.” I dropped the document onto her lap. “This is our bond dissolution agreement.If I hand this to Kane,he won’t sign it.But you…you’ll find a way.Get him to sign it without realizing it.You’ve got one shot.Don’t screw it up.” She stared at the contract for a long while before slowly lifting it,a victorious gleam in her eyes. “Thank you,Julia,”she whispered.”For giving us a complete family.” I forced a smile.”Then I hope you stay happy…forever.” — Back at camp,I dug out a small wooden box.Everything Kane ever gave me—every lie,every illusion—was inside. The first thing I pulled out was a tiger tooth pendant.He gave it to me when he was ten,after his first successful hunt. “I’ll protect you from now on,”he’d promised,eyes wide with pride. The second item—a dried snow lotus petal.On my fifteenth birthday,every girl in the pack got gifts. But mine?Mine came with a note that said,“Only accept what’s mine.” He had already started warding off any male who looked at me. The third?A bone ring set with wolf fur and a moonstone. He placed it on my finger under a full moon and whispered,“In this life,Julia,I belong only to you.” I believed him.I really did.But Lilian changed everything. I closed the box.Tossed it into the incinerator without a second thought. — The next morning,I was woken by the sound of voices outside. I stepped out to see servants unloading crates—boxes of Omega nutrient tonics,limited-edition shoes and gowns,rare accessories…Lilian stood in the center of it all,her hands wringing together in mock modesty. “Kane,this is all too much…” He just smiled and ruffled her hair.”You deserve the best.When you’re happy,the pup’s happy.” Then he saw me.His expression faltered. “Julia,”he said,like nothing had happened.”I didn’t get anything for you this time.But next time—name it.I’ll bring it for you.” I didn’t respond. Before I could speak,Lilian walked over with a soft smile.”Actually,Kane…I prepared something for Julia.” She handed me a folder. Inside was the bond dissolution agreement—signed.His signature matched the one from our original bond. Just like that,it was over. No words.No goodbye.No apology. Just a name on paper.And a woman who’d finally had enough.

Lilian actually did it.She got him to sign it. Good. They could finally play house now—Alpha,Omega,and their precious pup.And me?I was no one’s Luna anymore.No one’s anything. I was just Julia.And that was enough. Kane’s voice snapped me out of my thoughts. “What was in that paper bag you just hid?”he asked,his tone sharper than usual.”Some surprise I wasn’t supposed to know about?” I instinctively tucked the bag behind my back. His eyes narrowed,his voice low and disapproving.”Since when did you start keeping secrets from me?What else don’t I know,Julia?” I met his gaze,calm and unflinching. “Oh please,”I scoffed.”You’ve never lied to me?If I hadn’t walked in on you that day,would you have ever told me Lilian was pregnant?” He didn’t deny it.Just turned his head slightly,eyes drifting toward the woman curled up on the sofa. Then he said it—his voice casual,like we were talking about the weather. “I didn’t tell you because I knew you’d never leave me.We love each other too much,right?” I stared at him.Speechless. So that’s what I was to him—a guarantee.Not a partner.Not a choice.Just someone who’d never walk away,no matter how deep the betrayal. Behind him,Lilian dabbed at her eyes,her shoulders trembling delicately. “I’m sorry…I didn’t mean to stay.But when Kane looks at me like that…how could I walk away?” I didn’t respond.I just watched. She kept going,her voice quivering just right. “I was scared too…but Kane’s grandmother,Jennifer,she insisted I keep the baby once she found out.If it weren’t for her…” “That’s enough,”Kane said quietly,placing a comforting hand on her shoulder.”None of this is your fault.” I didn’t want to hear any more.I turned toward the door. “Where are you going?”he asked,catching up to block my path. “Out,”I said simply.”To the snow plain.I need some air.” He looked at the rain pelting the windows.”Don’t go far.I’ll drive you.” Then,as if on autopilot,he turned to the servants. “Lilian’s sensitive to the cold—raise the heat.Make sure she gets her medicine on time.No spicy food,the therapist said it could trigger complications…” He kept going,listing every instruction like a man who’d already assumed his role as husband and father. Once he finally slid into the car,I got in beside him. For a while,neither of us spoke. Then I turned to him with a faint smile.”You’ll make a great father,Kane.” He stiffened,clearly not expecting that. He reached for my wrist,his touch warm,familiar. “Don’t say things like that,”he murmured.”You know I’ll only ever acknowledge a pup born from you.” I didn’t respond. His hand was steady and strong—but I felt nothing.No comfort.No security.No warmth. Just silence,and the sound of rain against the glass,trickling like the tears I refused to shed. “What exactly are you doing on the snow plain in this weather?”he asked finally,breaking the quiet. I opened my mouth to answer—But then his communicator lit up. Lilian.”Kane…my stomach…it hurts so bad…” Her voice was thin,panicked,breaking. I watched the color drain from Kane’s face,panic tightening every line. “Don’t worry,I’m coming,”he said,then turned to me. “I can’t take you there.Go alone.” He didn’t wait for my reply.Just stepped on the gas and vanished into the rain. Didn’t even look back. I stood there for a while,the cold biting through my coat.Then I laughed,quietly. “If you’d waited just a few more minutes,Kane,you would’ve known.But that’s the problem,isn’t it?You never wanted to know.” — The walk to the snow plain was long and quiet.Not a single car passed me. My boots crunched through the snow.Rain blurred my vision.I couldn’t tell if the wet streaks on my cheeks were tears or just the storm. When I finally reached the Moon Goddess’s Altar,I was soaked to the bone. But I didn’t hesitate. I handed the elder the parchment. He studied it for a long time before asking gently,”Is this an official request to dissolve the mate bond?” I nodded. A heavy pause stretched between us. “You understand,”he said slowly,”there’s a mandatory twenty-day waiting period.If it’s not withdrawn in that time,the bond will be permanently severed.Have you truly made peace with this?” I smiled.My fingers were stiff as I retrieved the faded copy of our mating vow—the one I used to sleep with under my pillow. I’d made peace the moment he chose her over me for the third time. — When I stepped out of the altar valley,the rain had stopped. Sunlight pierced through the heavy clouds,glinting off the snow like diamonds.It was blinding…and strangely beautiful. So maybe life without a mate wasn’t endless storm and shadow after all. Maybe…I’d be okay. By the time I returned to the villa,night had fallen.Not a single light was on.Then I heard it. A voice drifting softly from upstairs. “And finally,Winnie the Bear hid the honey pot inside the tree hollow and whispered,’It’s my secret now…’” Kane.Reading Lilian a story.A pre-birth story.I didn’t move.Didn’t breathe. Then I turned and walked to my room. Changed.Laid down.Closed my eyes. My throat burned.My skin was flushed.Fever had started creeping in.”Water…” I whispered into the empty dark.No one came. From next door,Lilian’s sweet voice rang out again.”I hope the baby looks like you—kind and smart.” Kane chuckled.”I’d be happy either way.Your heart…your goodness…that’s what matters.” I stared at the ceiling,motionless.Two people…behind one wall…planning a future that had nothing to do with me. I forced myself to get up. Reached for the glass on my nightstand.My hand trembled.The glass slipped and shattered on the floor. I sank to the edge of the bed,gasping through the heat.Found the medicine.Took it dry. Their laughter didn’t stop. And suddenly,I remembered.Years ago,during tribal training,I had gotten sick.A fever so high,I could barely speak. Kane crossed the warning line that night—risked being punished just to bring me medicine and water. He sat by my side all night,gently stroking the back of my neck.”If I could trade places with you,I would.I’d rather be the one hurting.” My eyes burned. “Kane…Do you even remember?Or did those words die the moment she walked back into your life?”

“Julia,are you awake?”Kane’s voice cut through the fog in my mind. I blinked my eyes open and saw him leaning over me,his expression tight with worry. “You had a fever all night—why didn’t anyone call me?”he asked,his voice hoarse,as if he’d been running or shouting.“I came by to check,and you weren’t responding…I thought I was too late.” But you were too late,weren’t you? “I’m fine now,”I said flatly,pulling my hand from his. His brow creased.“Are you mad at me?” I shook my head.“No.” “Julia…”He moved closer,his voice softening.“You always go quiet when you’re upset.I can tell.” I didn’t respond. For a moment,he just stared at me.Then,like a reflex,he leaned in and brushed a kiss against my forehead.“Didn’t you say you wanted to go horseback riding on the snow plains?The weather’s clear.Let’s go.” He stood and began gathering my clothes,moving through the room like he still belonged here,like nothing had changed between us. I didn’t protest.I didn’t help either.I just moved through the motions—getting dressed,brushing my hair,washing up—like I was back in the old days,playing the role of the obedient partner I used to be. We were just about to head downstairs when a soft knock came at the door. “Are you two…going out?”Lilian stood in the doorway,her hands resting gently on her rounded belly. “I’ve never been to the snow plains stable,”she said with a small smile.“Do you mind if I come along?I promise I’ll ride slow.” Kane hesitated.His jaw tightened.“It’s probably not safe to go too far right now.” She looked down,stroking her stomach tenderly.“I just feel so cooped up inside.It’s starting to affect my mood,and…that’s not good for the baby.” I didn’t wait for his decision.I just turned and walked downstairs. And just like I expected,when I climbed into the car,she was right behind me,helped in by Kane himself—gentle,cautious,attentive. The whole ride there,he hovered around her like a guardian angel,adjusting her scarf when the wind got strong,checking her seatbelt twice,making sure she was comfortable. At the stables,the horses had already been prepared. I chose a calm brown mare and adjusted the saddle myself,tying the reins with steady hands.I didn’t want anyone’s help.Not anymore. Lilian picked a sleek black horse.Its hooves echoed ominously against the snowy ground.The stable hand warned it could be temperamental. But she just smiled.“It doesn’t mind me.We’re already familiar.” Kane didn’t stop her. Instead,he crouched and secured her gear himself,murmuring,“Don’t go too fast.Take it easy,alright?” That voice. Those hands. They used to be mine. I stood quietly,invisible,watching him care for her the way he used to care for me.Watching my old life play out in front of me…without me in it. I mounted my horse without a word. I remembered being twenty and terrified the first time I tried to ride.Kane had held the reins with me and whispered in my ear,“Don’t be scared.I’m right behind you.Always.” He was still here now.Only,the person he was behind…wasn’t me anymore. He turned to say something,but his communicator buzzed in his hand. He looked between us.“I need to take this.Julia,stay close to her.Make sure she doesn’t wander off.” I didn’t answer.Just guided my horse away. Lilian followed. Then her voice drifted over to me.“Julia?” I turned slightly. “What happens if two horses collide?”she asked,tone far too casual. Before I could respond,she jerked her reins hard and charged at me. My horse reared up with a terrified neigh,hooves clawing the air.I held tight,but the sudden force was too much.My balance slipped and my mare bolted,galloping wildly across the snow-covered field. Out of the corner of my eye,I saw Lilian fall—conveniently,softly. “Lilian!”Kane’s voice cracked with panic. I turned my head just in time to see him sprint across the field like his life depended on it.He caught her before she hit the ground,holding her tightly,checking her for injuries,barking orders for help. “Kane!”I yelled,desperate. But the wind swallowed my voice. He didn’t even glance in my direction.Didn’t even look.He carried her away like nothing else mattered. Then I heard it—thundering hooves. A group of horses had broken free,charging straight toward me like an avalanche.I tried to grip the reins again,but they slipped through my fingers.The saddle bucked.I lost control. And then—everything went white. I felt myself lift into the air,as if time had slowed. And in that moment,I remembered his promise:”Julia,as long as you call my name,I will turn back.” But I had called. And he didn’t turn back. The impact was brutal. I hit the ground with a sickening crack,the cold seeping straight into my bones as the world spun and the pain hit me like a tidal wave. Lying in the snow,my body broken and breath knocked from my lungs,I watched as Kane disappeared into the distance,carrying her into the car like she was the most fragile,precious thing in the world. So careful. So protective. So hers. When she fell—someone caught her. When I fell—there was only snow.

I woke up in agony. My entire body ached like I’d been trampled by a stampede—which,come to think of it,wasn’t far from the truth. The sharp scent of antiseptic clung to the air.I blinked up at the unfamiliar white ceiling,confusion tugging at the edges of my foggy mind. Then I turned my head—and saw him. Kane. He was sitting beside the bed,eyes shadowed with exhaustion,the blue-tinged hollows beneath them deep and bruised.The moment our eyes met,his shoulders sagged in visible relief. “You’re finally awake,”he breathed,placing his hand gently against my forehead.His voice was low,soft—too soft.”Where does it hurt?” I parted my lips to speak,but my throat was dry.Scratchy.Useless. The last thing I remembered was screaming his name as the horses charged—screaming for him.Watching helplessly as he ran…in the opposite direction. To save Lilian. He hadn’t looked back. Now,sitting here beside me,he must’ve felt the weight of my silence,the sting of my wordless accusation.Still,he chose not to face it.He glanced away and said,too casually,”Lilian’s a little hurt.You know how fragile her health is.” Right.Of course.Fragile Lilian. I just stared at him. He cleared his throat and added,”The blood bank’s running low.And your blood type matches hers…” My chest tightened. He leaned closer,taking my hand,his voice lowering into a hoarse whisper.”I know you don’t like her…but Julia,you’ve always been the stronger one.You never hold things against me,right?” I blinked at him,my heart slowly curling in on itself. He was right.I’d never truly fought him.Never screamed.Never said no.I’d always been the one who understood,the one who forgave. But not this time. Something in me cracked. I yanked my hand away from his like it burned,the sudden movement wrenching at something inside me.Pain exploded through my side and I gasped,clenching the sheet in my fist. “Julia…”His voice cracked,gravelly and desperate.”Just this once,okay?Once.After the baby’s born,things can go back to normal—if that still means anything to you.” I stared down at the hand he’d just held.It didn’t even feel like mine anymore.And his…his looked like it belonged to a stranger. Just yesterday,this man left me to die under a storm of hooves. Now,he wanted me to save someone else? A knock came from the door.One of the healers peeked in and said quietly,“Alpha Kane,Miss Lilian can’t wait much longer.” His eyes flickered—frustration flashing beneath the concern. “Julia,please don’t make this harder than it has to be—” He caught himself.For once,he realized how hollow he sounded.His tone softened.“Come on.I’ll go with you.Please.” I didn’t answer. Didn’t fight. Just got up and followed him. The moment the needle slid into my arm,I stared blankly at the ceiling.I didn’t flinch.Didn’t cry.Didn’t even blink.Whatever the healer was saying sounded like background noise underwater. All I could hear was a memory—one that wouldn’t let go: “Julia,wherever you go,I’ll be right behind you.” He said that when he was twenty. Now? Now,he was outside the room,checking his watch over and over,not even bothering to come in and see how I was holding up. When it was over,I stood on shaky legs,blood loss making everything tilt.But I didn’t ask for help.I walked back to my room alone. Halfway there,I paused. Lilian’s door was slightly ajar.Something made me look. She was pale,her wrist wrapped in gauze.Kane sat at her bedside,gently pulling the blanket up around her like she was made of glass. “Don’t worry,”he whispered.“Everything’s okay now.The pup is safe too.” My gaze slid to her neck—and my stomach dropped. She was wearing his silver plate. The one he used to wear around his neck.The one I had knelt in the snow for three years ago,praying beneath the stars before clasping it around his neck with trembling hands. “Let it keep you safe,for the rest of your life,”I had whispered. Now it was hers. He had given away the very thing I begged the heavens to protect him with…to another woman. And she wore it like it belonged to her. I turned and walked away before I did something I’d regret. The next day,the healer brought me a clipboard. “Time to finalize your medical records,”she said,not unkindly. I filled in my name.Age.Species.Pack. When I got to”Marital Status,”my pen hovered. Then I wrote slowly,firmly:Unmarried. The healer blinked.“Wait—did you make a mistake?Isn’t Kane your mate?” I looked her dead in the eye,my voice calm.“No.” The door burst open. Kane stood in the doorway,disbelief written all over his face.“What did you just say?”

The healing room fell into an uneasy silence. The healer quietly closed her medicine kit and muttered under her breath,“I’ll come back later.” The soft click of the door shutting behind her left only Kane and me in the room,with a heavy tension hanging in the air between us. “Still mad at me?”he asked,stepping closer.His voice had softened,but the usual commanding edge in his eyes remained. He reached up like he was going to touch my cheek—gentle,hesitant—but I turned my head away,avoiding him.His fingers hovered in the empty space for a second before they slowly dropped. “I never meant to hurt you,”he said quietly.“But Lilian’s condition was critical.I couldn’t be in two places at once.” I closed my eyes,not wanting to see the guilt—or lack of it—in his expression. Then his voice dipped lower,calculated and cautious.“Julia…I came to ask for a favor.” I opened my eyes,already knowing what was coming.“Let me guess—Lilian again?” He didn’t deny it.He didn’t even look guilty. “She’s been having trouble keeping food down,”he said,like it was the most reasonable thing in the world.“She asked for your blueberry pie.Just until she gives birth.Then everything can go back to normal.We’ll go back to us.I’m doing this for our future.Can’t you understand that?” I stared at him,stunned by how easily the words rolled off his tongue—how casually he asked me to bake a pie for the woman he betrayed me with. Something inside me felt hollow.Numb. But I nodded anyway.“I’ll have someone send it over once I’m discharged.” Relief swept over his face like I’d just given him the moon.He leaned in and kissed my forehead.“I knew it.Deep down,you still care about us.” I didn’t react. The day I left the healing center,I gave my recipe to the head chef and had a servant deliver the pie to the estate. Then I started packing. A few days later,Kane came home unexpectedly in the afternoon. “Is Lilian still in the healing wing?”I asked. “She’s getting her follow-up tests,”he said,avoiding eye contact. I didn’t pry. He reached for my hand.“Don’t worry about packing.I’ve planned a trip to the snow mountains.Just you and me.We’re leaving now.” I didn’t have time to ask questions.He was already leading me out the door,his grip firm,his pace urgent. The drive was quiet—eerily so. He didn’t make his usual small talk.No smug smiles.Just the sound of tires against asphalt and his steady breathing. By the time we pulled up to the cabin at the base of the mountains,night had fully fallen.The sky was pitch black,stars hidden behind thick clouds. “I left something in the trunk,”he said,stepping out.“Wait here.” I nodded and stood at the door,clutching my coat around me,watching as he disappeared into the darkness. The wind picked up.Minutes dragged by.My fingers were starting to go numb from the cold. I pulled out my phone and called him. “How much longer?”I asked softly.My breath fogged the screen. There was silence. Then his voice came through—low and cold.“I’m not coming back.” I froze. “…What?” “There was something wrong with the blueberry pie,”he said flatly.“It was laced with an inhibitor.Lilian nearly miscarried.Did you really think no one would find out?” My throat tightened.“You think I poisoned it?” “She only ate your pie that day,”he said,like that was all the proof he needed. “You didn’t even ask me,”I whispered.“You just decided.” A pause.“You’ve changed,Julia.” My voice cracked.“So have you.” Then—click.He hung up. I stood there,alone,the wind howling through the trees,yanking at my coat like icy fingers.And then I heard it—a low rumble,deep and threatening. The mountain groaned. An avalanche. Panic surged in my chest.I turned and ran,but I didn’t get far.The snow came down like a tidal wave,swallowing everything in its path—including me. I hit the ground hard,buried under a suffocating weight of snow.My limbs ached,my breaths came shallow,my fingers trembling as I fumbled for my communicator. I dialed his number.Once.Twice.Four times. Seven. Finally—someone picked up. “Kane,”I gasped.“There’s an avalanche,I—” “Hello?”A woman’s voice. Lilian. “The signal’s bad.Who is this?” I tried to speak,but then I heard Kane’s voice in the background.“Who’s calling?” “Wrong number,”Lilian said sweetly.“Don’t worry.Keep reading to the baby.” The line went dead. My phone slipped from my hand,disappearing into the snow. And so did I. The last thing I remembered before the darkness took me was Kane’s voice from that night,whispering like a promise:“Julia,in this life,you’ll never escape me.” Now,he had left me to die—buried me himself.

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“I’ll say it one last time—if that acquisition doesn’t go through before the quarterly report,we pull out of the entire northern market.” I sat at the head of the table,eyes sweeping across the board. “I’ve already lowered the base price.What’s left is whether you have the guts to bet.” The Delta on the other end froze for a second,then started to speak,but I cut him off with a wave. “No excuses.Thirty minutes.That’s all you get.” “Yes,Luna,”he muttered. I ended the call and leaned back,exhaling.Just as I was about to stand,a sharp chime came from my terminal. 【Did you see Felicity’s wedding post?Are you really not coming?】 My brow furrowed. The high school group chat—dead for ten years—had come alive like a zombie. 【She’s marrying an Alpha of Blackthron Pack!Hundreds of luxury cars at the wedding!The whole class is here!】 【You still alive?Haven’t spoken in a century—how miserable are you?】 I glanced at the terminal,my finger swiping out of reflex…and then I saw it. My heart skipped a beat. Felicity in a white gown,beaming with joy.Standing beside her,in a tailored tuxedo—Logan. My husband. The office fell into a dead silence. “You okay?”My Beta Anna knocked and stepped in.“The board just wrapped up—next up is…” “Anna,”I interrupted,my voice icily calm.“Tell the driver to bring the car around.” She paused.“Where to?” I slid my phone across the desk. She saw the photo and gasped.“Holy hell…is that Logan?” I smiled,but there was no warmth in it. “Looks like I’ve got a wedding to crash.” In the car,I dialed Logan’s number. “Hey?”He sounded casual. “Where are you?” “At work.Client dinner.Why?” “Dinners usually involve wedding tuxedos?”I asked,voice like steel. He paused for two seconds.“You saw the picture.” “Want to explain?”I said flatly.“You’re marrying someone else.And that someone is my old classmate.” “Meghan.”He sighed.“You know our marriage was just a family arrangement…” “You married me to gain a seat on the Holloway board,”I snapped.“How long have you and Felicity been screwing around?” “Don’t make a scene,”he said,voice lower.“Let’s end this gracefully.” I almost laughed.“Gracefully?After you cheated,lied,and married my enemy?” There was a pause,then a quiet chuckle.“Let’s not pretend we were ever in love.” He hung up. I stared at the black screen,fingers digging into my palm. At the wedding hall. I walked in wearing black.Like a storm wrapped in silk. Felicity was in the middle of the crowd,glowing like a star.When she saw me,her smile brightened. “Meghan!You came!”she chirped.“I thought you’d hide!” I stepped forward,eyes locked on Logan. He stiffened.“You shouldn’t be here.” Felicity hooked her arm in his.“She’s my classmate—and your…old friend.Of course she should come.” “Really?”I leaned in close,whispering,“You stole my husband and want me to clap for you?” She grinned.“Let go,Meghan.He chose me.” I turned to Logan.“Say it to my face.Did you marry me?” His jaw clenched.“Yes.” “Then what the hell is this today?” He said nothing. Felicity tilted her head.“Just love,darling.” I tore up the invitation in my hand and let the pieces scatter at their feet. “Remember this,”I said,voice cold as ice.“This isn’t the end.It’s the beginning.” That night,back at home. I stood on the balcony,staring at the moon. A silver light bathed my skin.Then I heard it—a voice,ancient and powerful,echoing from nowhere. “True-blooded Luna,your time has come.Awaken.” I spun around—empty. But my heart was pounding. I looked up at the moon,lips curling into a calm,dangerous smile. “Very well,Felicity.” “You want everything I have?” “Then prepare to lose everything you’ve ever known.”

“Welcome!Are you a friend of the bride?” The hostess at the entrance greeted me with a dazzling smile. I took off my sunglasses and met her gaze. Her smile froze instantly. I didn’t answer.I walked straight inside. The venue was a parade of decadence—crystal chandeliers dripped with imported flowers,a red carpet led to a glass altar,and a dozen photographers circled the couple like vultures around royalty. And there she was—Felicity Simons—draped in a wedding gown that shimmered like sunrise,standing beside my husband,smiling like she owned the world. Logan leaned down to kiss her on the forehead,the cameras eating it up like they were the perfect couple. I swallowed the bile rising in my throat and stepped forward. The buzz in the room dimmed.Chatter faded.All eyes turned as I approached. Felicity spotted me.Her smile flickered—then returned,wider,almost gloating. “Oh!Meghan?”she chirped.“I thought you wouldn’t dare show up!” “You asked me to handle cleanup,didn’t you?”I replied sweetly.“Figured I’d come see what mess needs mopping.” Logan walked over,tension creeping across his face.“What are you doing here?” “Attending the wedding of my‘friend’and my husband,”I said,locking eyes with him.“Got a problem with that,sweetheart?” Silence rippled across the room. Guests began whispering: “Wait—is she really Logan’s wife?” “I heard it was just a business marriage…yikes.” “This is getting wild…” Felicity didn’t flinch.She looped her arm through Logan’s. “Oh Meghan,don’t be so dramatic.We just happened to find happiness first.” I stared her down.“Sleeping with someone else’s husband is happiness to you?” “Correction,”she smiled,“your ex-husband.Divorce papers are filed.Just waiting on your signature.” “You really do love promotion.”I snorted.“From‘classmate’to‘sister’to‘bride’—quite the ladder you’ve climbed.” Her face twitched.“So,you know.” I leaned in close.“You thought you could hide it forever?” “Felicity Simons,”I said slowly,“you’re the illegitimate daughter of my father and a fallen wolf tribe woman.You were never a Simons.You’re a Holloway.” Her pupils trembled,but she kept smiling.“And yet,even as your sister,Logan chose me.” I turned to Logan.“Do you even know who she is?Do you care how she wormed her way into your life?What do you love more—her pedigree or the pup in her belly?” Logan stayed quiet,gripping Felicity’s hand tighter. “You’re pregnant?”I looked at her. She stroked her stomach proudly.“Three months.You never could conceive,right?Guess Alpha blood only works for true love.” I nodded.“How poetic.” Then I pulled a folded ultrasound from my clutch and flung it at her. “Too bad I’m pregnant too.Two weeks ahead of you.” Gasps exploded from the crowd. Felicity’s expression shattered.Even Logan’s mask cracked. I addressed the guests: “I endured all his betrayal and coldness because I once believed I’d chosen him.But now I see—he was never a partner.Just a parasite.Feeding off my family,my position,and my name.” I looked Logan straight in the eye.“You weren’t beneath me—you were never even worthy of me.” Finally,he spoke,voice low.“Meghan,calm down…this isn’t what you think—” “Isn’t what I think?”I laughed,voice shaking with fury.“Then explain the wedding tux,the vows,the kissing photos.Is this some twisted theatre piece?” He hesitated,glancing at Felicity. I stepped closer,voice like a blade.“You’ve been planning this escape,haven’t you?” A pause. “You know our marriage was never real,”he said softly. “Don’t feed me that family-arranged crap,”I snapped.“You were the one camped outside my pack begging for attention.The one who begged to come to the Alpha council banquet.The one who called me‘Luna’in bed while promising forever.” His jaw clenched.“I never said I didn’t love you.” “You never did,”I said,seething.“You loved the board seat.You loved the Beta pass I gave you.You loved what I built—and you stole every bit of it.” His voice turned cold.“And you?You used me too—as your husband’s title for your own leverage.” I laughed.“If I were using someone,I’d pick a far better option than you.” Felicity tried to step in.“Alright,that’s enough.Don’t torture yourself like this,Meghan—” I turned on her.“Shut up.You don’t get to play peacemaker in the story you ruined.” I stepped right up to Logan,locking eyes with him. “You chose betrayal.Don’t expect mercy.I’ll make sure you never take another step in wolf society.Even if you crawl to the fallen tribes,I’ll see to it that you stay an Omega forever—unawakened.Forgotten.” Logan’s face finally dropped. I turned and walked down the aisle,my heels biting into the red carpet like punishment. That night,in the Holloway estate. I sat on the balcony,scrolling through dozens of voice messages from Felicity. 【You think this is over?】 【You don’t have the guts to keep that pup.】 【You think you’re the main character?Please.I’m the one your daddy left behind.Not you.】 I played every one,calm as ice. “Anna,”I said,lifting my phone. “Yes,Luna?” “I need a drone,a paternity test,a hidden camera file,and—contact Elias.” “…Beta Elias?Are you sure?” “Tell him,”I said,smiling.“The game’s about to begin.” Outside,the moon blazed too brightly.Silver light poured over me like judgment. And then—time seemed to freeze. Lunara’s voice echoed,powerful and cold: “She seeks to steal your destiny,not knowing— the true Luna cannot be replaced.” I closed my eyes and whispered back: “Then I’ll rip their masks off,one by one.”

Felicity stormed after me down the aisle,one heel missing,gown dragging behind her like a broken promise. “You can’t be pregnant!”she hissed,catching up to me.“Pack doctor said after that accident you—” I held a finger to my lips and smirked.“Shhh.Looks like you’ve been snooping more than I thought.” Her pupils shrank.“You planned this?” “Pregnancy is a blessing from the Moon Goddess,”I said coolly.“You think your tricks would be enough to steal Logan and the Alpha bloodline all to yourself?” She trembled with fury,lips pale. I turned,walking toward the exit. “Watch yourself,Meghan,”she called after me,voice suddenly smooth.“You think I’m your only enemy?You don’t even know who you are.” I stopped. She smiled—sweet and venomous. “Maybe you should ask your mother how she found out about me in the first place.” I turned back slowly.“My mother knows about you?” “Of course she does,”Felicity said,stepping closer.“You think I just coincidentally transferred to your school that year?You were thirteen,remember?Just brought back from foster care into the Holloway estate.And I—well,I was placed right next to you.” Something flickered in the back of my mind—long-forgotten images. A girl who mimicked my clothes,copied my handwriting,even stole my lunchbox.Teachers said we were“like sisters.” She pressed on.“Remember those nightmares you had?Someone stealing your father’s hugs?Not dreams,Meghan.Memories.” My throat burned. “You’re lying.” “Am I?”Her grin widened.“Then go get a DNA test.See if we share the same father.” My fists clenched.“You’ve hated me since we were kids?” She tilted her head.“Not hate.Jealousy.I have your blood,but not your face,not your title.Not your throne.” I looked at her for a long second. “So you didn’t just want Logan,”I said softly.“You wanted to erase me completely.” Her voice was almost a whisper.“You said it yourself—wolves honor bloodlines and fate.And while you were busy believing you were chosen…I’d already stolen your destiny.” I walked away without another word. Back at the estate,I unlocked a door I hadn’t opened since coming of age—the family archives,sealed with the Holloway crest. Tonight,I needed answers. Scrolls,letters,records covered the shelves like ancient bones.I found a letter written in my father’s own hand: “Regarding F.S.,her existence must be concealed.Her mother,of fallen blood,ensnared me years ago…a daughter was born…” My fingers trembled. He’d admitted it. I pulled out a silver ring—Holloway’s blood verification artifact.Prick the finger,drop the blood—if compatible,the Moon Crest glows. I bit down,let the blood drip. The ring shimmered.Twin crests emerged—my blood and hers. They matched the wolf tooth pendant Felicity wore since high school. We were sisters. That night,a video anonymously exploded across the wolfnet: 【Logan Ridley,still married to Meghan Holloway,secretly engaged to Felicity Simons.】 【Felicity Simons:revealed to be Holloway’s illegitimate daughter.】 【The two colluded to seize Luna inheritance and connect with fallen tribes.】 Comments blew up like wildfire: 【No wonder the wedding wasn’t streamed—guilty much?】 【Meghan is the rightful Luna!】 【This is more dramatic than our favorite werewolf soap—LOVE IT.】 I closed the app,smirking. “Now they’ll see what it feels like…to burn in public.” Late at night,Elias knocked on my study door. He stood tall,composed as always,but there was fire in his eyes. “You finally called me.” I didn’t answer.I simply tossed him my father’s letter. He scanned it,jaw tightening. “She really is your sister.” “She doesn’t just want Logan,”I said.“She wants my name.My blood.My place.” “What will you do?”he asked. I stared at the moon outside. “I’ll make her watch everything she stole be ripped from her fingers.And I’ll make Logan beg to lose everything.” Elias’s voice was quiet.“This path…it won’t be clean.Every step from now on is war.” I looked him dead in the eye. “I’ve never been afraid to fight,”I said.“I was just too merciful before.”

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For the past nine years,I had been secretly involved with Alpha Nick—my cousin Alpha Roger’s best friend. Our relationship was never made public.Because we believed in the power of true love between us. That night,after the Northern Moon Festival in the forested highlands,the Alphas of the pack were gathered around the longfire pit,drinking and sparring.He had a bit of wine,looked at me with that familiar playful curve on his lips,and said,“Leona,I’ll find you someone better.Stop clinging to me,will you?” I answered calmly and obediently,“Alright.” [So you’ve finally let go.] My wolf soul,Aris,murmured deep in my mind,her voice hoarse and firm.[But why do I feel pain instead of relief?] I didn’t respond.Aris was right. In my last life,I had refused his suggestion and insisted on forming a bond with him.But after the ceremony,he had grown distant and cold. Even when I was seven months pregnant and severely injured in a winter patrol across the snow ridges—buried under an avalanche,bleeding out—he had been with the heartbroken Beta selene,listening to ballads sung by bards in the Moonsong Cavern at the border market,completely unaware of the life-or-death struggle of me and our Alpha pup. It was in that moment I truly understood—he might be someone else’s salvation,but he was never my fated mate. When I said“alright,”Alpha Nick froze where he stood.He hadn’t expected me to agree so easily. The shadows of wolves flickered beside the fire pit in the wind.His handsome face was tinged unnaturally red,but his eyes were sharp—clearly not drunk. I sat on the wolfskin rug,composed and poised,my lips curled into a faint smile as I looked at him. At that moment,all his laziness vanished.He straightened up abruptly,his tone serious.“Leona,did you hear what I just said?” I nodded.“I heard you clearly.” [You didn’t cry.] Aris’s voice softened slightly.[That’s not like you.Every time he hurt you before,you’d call me out at night,curl up in a cave corner and cry yourself to sleep.] I replied quietly inside,[I’ve cried enough.] In the past,whenever he said things like this,I would plead,act pitiful,beg him not to walk away.But now,my emotions were still as water,as if I were just an outsider watching someone else’s play unfold. “Leona,you—” He didn’t finish.My cousin,Alpha Roger,had returned,his hunting cloak draped over his shoulders,a familiar smirk on his lips.“Guess who I just saw at the northern watchtower?” He didn’t wait for our response.“I saw your ex-girlfriend.She was drunk and collapsed on the patrol trail.Two warriors carried her to the Moonshade Shelter—” Just before Alpha Nick could dash toward the mountain path,a deep voice rose beside the long ceremonial fire pit—it was Elder Rovan. “Nick,I heard there’s a young girl around you lately?The tribal council wants to confirm whether you’ve already selected a potential mate.” All eyes immediately turned to him. Alpha Nick frowned slightly.His gaze brushed past me,but then he chuckled and said,“It’s a misunderstanding.She’s just Roger’s sister—I see her like a sister.” My hand froze mid-air,crushing the orange segment between my fingers. “I see.”The elder smiled.“Then would you be willing to attend next month’s‘Mate Selection Ceremony’as a candidate?” He nodded.“Of course.” The entire gathering fell into stunned silence. Alpha Roger blinked,turned toward me,about to speak—but I raised a hand to stop him. I stood up,graceful and composed,and said,“Alpha Nick,I wish you the best in your selection.” {You’re still not giving up?}Aris growled low in my mind.{He denied you three times—in front of an elder—just to make it clear.What more proof do you need?} Before he finished,Alpha Nick had already rushed off into the mountain path. Soon,the forest corridors echoed with the sound of snapping branches and low,enraged growls.Someone must have crossed a line.His Alpha instincts had awakened—I knew his eyes must be glowing golden now,a sure sign that the wolf had surfaced. I remained where I was,unfazed,calmly picking up a peeled orange segment from the fruit basket and placing it in my mouth. Alpha Nick liked fruit but hated peeling.It had always been me—carefully removing the skin,placing it before him—only then would he eat a few bites,satisfied. Alpha Roger used to tease me,“You treat him too well.I’ve never seen you do that for me.What,do you like him or something?” Many times,I wanted to tell him the truth about me and Alpha Nick. But Alpha Nick would always beat me to it,ruffling my hair with a chuckle,“Maybe,in Leona’s eyes,I’m her real big brother.What’s wrong with a sister doting on her brother?” Eventually,I understood what he meant.He never wanted anyone to know what we were. So,I chose silence too. For nine years,no one knew the secret between Alpha Nick and me. Aris had warned me many times,deep in my heart: [Do you really believe he’s your mate?You’ve never once felt his wolf soul resonate with yours.You’ve never truly completed a soul merge.] I gave a bitter smile.[I was too stubborn.] Now,Alpha Roger stood at the edge of the mountain path,watching the chaos unfold in the distance. I popped the final orange slice into my mouth and shook my head.“My arms are thin,legs weaker—I’d only get in the way.” Alpha Roger raised an eyebrow,said nothing,and walked off. I stayed in place a long while,until the forest quieted again.Then I rose slowly,making my way north along the Moonshade Corridor. Just as I crossed the stone bridge,I saw Alpha Nick—carefully cradling another woman in his arms. It was his ex-girlfriend,Beta selene. She was dead drunk,her limbs limp as if she had no bones,completely leaning against his chest. Alpha Nick didn’t push her away.Instead,he held her tighter,as if afraid she might slip from his arms. Aris let out a long,heavy sigh inside me. [He chose her.Not you.Do you understand now?]

There was a flicker of something in Alpha Nick’s dark,deep-set eyes—concern,maybe even a trace of anger.Perhaps even he didn’t realize it. Alpha Roger strolled over lazily,raising an eyebrow as he joked,“Leona,you think the two of them might rekindle something?” He didn’t speak loudly,but it was more than enough for Alpha Nick to hear clearly. Alpha Nick abruptly looked up at Roger,then his gaze quickly fell on me.Guilt flashed in his eyes. “I never meant to get back together with her,”he explained in a rush.“She was just drunk…” I gave him a faint smile and shook my head.“Alpha Nick,I understand.Selene really is quite drunk.You should take her home.” [Listen—“she was just drunk.”How familiar.] Aris,my wolf soul,let out a cold laugh,her tone thick with mockery. [Every time he betrays you,he coats it with calm logic.As if your pain only matters when it’s inconvenient enough.] I didn’t respond.But Aris was right. In my previous life,I had married Alpha Nick,thinking I had finally won the bond I longed for—thinking the Moon Goddess had blessed us.But there was never peace. At my eighteenth birthday ceremony,standing before the sacred Moonstone Circle,I saw him for the first time.My wolf soul trembled.I thought it was the call of fate. [It wasn’t fate.] Aris’s voice dipped,as though sparing me shame. [That tremble wasn’t joy.It was instinct.I sensed a strong Alpha’s presence,and you twisted that into meaning.] I froze for a beat,then chuckled softly.[You never said that before.] [You wouldn’t have listened.] She huffed,a touch of exasperated anger lacing her tone. On my birthday,I just wanted to spend a quiet day with him during my ritual season.But he said coldly,“Celebrating birthdays is a waste of time.I’m busy.” That same night,Selene’s spirit message appeared—pictures of them camping in the silver fir forests of Northridge. [Do you remember what you told me that night?] Aris asked suddenly. [You said,‘Maybe if I try a little harder,he’ll remember my birthday.’There was still light in your eyes then.] My throat tightened.I had said that. When my stomach ulcer flared up,I asked him to go with me to the Sacred Well Healing Hall.He replied impatiently,“I’m not a healer.Even if I went,I couldn’t cure you.Stop bothering me.” Later,I found out he had taken Selene to a high-ranking pack healer for a mild fever—and even gifted her a custom-forged purification crystal. At seven months pregnant,I was in a car accident.Bleeding heavily,the pack doctors called him to authorize the emergency spell-signature.His response was icy:“Is she dead?If not,don’t call me.” The call hadn’t even ended when I heard Selene’s cheerful voice through the spirit link:“Alpha Nick,the Moonsong Cavern performance was so worth it!The soul-chanting heir finally took the stage!” The connection snapped.Blood surged like wildfire through my body.The silver-etched spellmat beneath me soaked through,turning crimson. Even now,I remember the despair of that moment. [You nearly died that day.Do you even realize that?] Aris’s voice crashed through me like thunder. [I was at the edge of your soul.I felt the silver poison block your transformation path.I thought I’d never see you again.] In my past life,I finally realized—he had only ever seen me as Selene’s substitute. “Alpha Nick,we need to talk.” “What is it?” He looked impatient,and his eyes flicked toward the distance,as if hoping to be anywhere but here. I took a deep breath,forcing down the storm churning inside me. “All these years…everything you did for me—was it just because I reminded you of Selene?” “What nonsense are you talking about?” “Stop pretending!”I suddenly raised my voice,my eyes welling up. “On my birthday,you left me to go find her.When she got sick,you panicked.But when I was bleeding out,you didn’t even flinch!Looking back now,all your tenderness toward me…was just because I reminded you of her!” Alpha Nick turned his face away,silent for a long while before finally speaking. “You do look a lot like her.The way you smile,the way you speak…seeing you brought back memories—of the time I had with her.” His voice was low,tinged with a trace of something like nostalgia. “So my years of love meant nothing to you?It was all just a joke?” My voice trembled as tears finally spilled over. “Why didn’t you tell me sooner?Why did you have to hurt me like this?” “What difference would it have made?” He snapped his head back toward me,frustration flashing in his eyes. “Selene was gone.And you—”his tone turned cold—“you were there.You filled the void she left behind.Isn’t that good enough for both of us?” I lowered my head,pressing my hand against my chest.A bitter smile escaped me. That night,Alpha Roger carried me home silently.We crossed through the moon gate just before the curfew bells rang—set by my mother for all unmated females returning to the pack. The next morning,groggy and bleary,I instinctively reached for my communicator crystal—only to find a message from Selene waiting. It was a picture of Alpha Nick sleeping in her home,with a caption: [Alpha Nick spent the night with me.] [Such a bold challenge.] Aris scoffed. [She knows you’re still waiting.That’s why she sent it—to make sure you give up.] I stared at the photo without emotion.I replied with a single word:“Oh.” Then she sent another photo—breakfast. [He made me my favorite heart-shaped pasta today~] Alpha Nick never once set foot in a kitchen with me.He always said an Alpha had no business in a cooking space—it was Omega territory. For him,I learned to cook.I learned lunar diet balance,ceremonial recipes,fire invocation spells.As long as I was home,he never missed a hot meal. But now,seeing him cook for someone else—remember her favorites—I finally understood. I had never been his mate. Only a habit. I glanced briefly at her message.I didn’t reply.Calmly,I continued eating my breakfast. Two minutes later,Alpha Nick sent a spirit message too. He didn’t mention the night before.He simply wrote: [The corn soup you made last time was pretty good.Make another and bring it to the council spire.] [And this time,don’t add onions.]

When I saw the message,my expression darkened slightly. Alpha Nick wasn’t someone who avoided onions.In fact,he’d always said onions enhanced flavor—especially in soup,where they were essential. I hesitated for a moment,then sent a simple reply: [Okay.] Without a second thought,I opened the food delivery app and randomly ordered a corn chowder.I added a note—”no onions”—and had it delivered straight to his office in the Council Tower. That evening,I went out to dinner with Alpha Roger. Just as we arrived at the restaurant,I saw Alpha Nick and Selene walking in,arms linked,laughing sweetly. The moment Alpha Nick saw us,he instinctively let go of her hand and walked toward us. [See that?That wasn’t guilt.It was instinct.] Aris let out a scoffing breath. Selene smiled brightly.“We’re late,and it looks like there are no empty tables left.Mind if we join you?” She hadn’t even finished speaking before Alpha Nick had taken the seat right next to me. Alpha Roger’s eyes went wide.He immediately stood up and yanked him to another spot.“Are you insane?Sitting next to her—does that seem appropriate to you?” Reluctantly,Alpha Nick moved to the seat across from me.His Alpha gaze held shadows,like he was waiting for me to say something. I avoided his eyes,handed the menu to Selene.“Go ahead and order whatever you like.My brother and I already chose ours.” “Leona,your corn soup is amazing—better than anything you can get from restaurants,”she said with a smile. That one line confirmed what I’d suspected:the soup Alpha Nick asked me to make was meant for her. [How does it feel,being used?] Aris said coolly. [Every spoonful you made for him became her badge of victory.] I didn’t reply.I just smiled faintly. Alpha Roger chuckled.“She suddenly wanted to learn how to cook a while back.I thought she’d blow up the kitchen,but she surprised me.Honestly,I keep wondering who the lucky guy will be that gets to eat her food every day.” Alpha Nick had been smiling,but at that moment,the smile disappeared from his face.He slowly sipped his tea,his voice casual but tight:“Leona,are you thinking about dating lately?” I blinked,not immediately understanding why he asked. Remembering what he’d said the other day—”I’ll find you someone better”—I nodded.“I’m twenty-seven.It’s time I started thinking about it.If you know someone suitable,feel free to introduce us.” “You’ve finally come around!”Alpha Roger was more excited than anyone.“I’ve wanted to set you up for ages,but you always refused.Now that you’re open to it,I’ll find you the best.” Alpha Nick’s jaw visibly tightened,his sharp gaze locked on me. Selene,noticing the tension,laughed.“Leona,your brother’s wonderful—I’m jealous.But I actually think Alpha Nick is amazing too.What if—” “Don’t say things like that.Leona is my sister,”Alpha Nick cut her off,frowning. I nodded with a light smile.“Exactly.Alpha Nick is like a big brother to me.Don’t joke like that,Selene.” I paused,then added,“Honestly,I think you and Alpha Nick are a better match.” His expression darkened instantly.A cold laugh slipped out:“Is that so?Then how about I set you up with someone?Would you go meet them?” “Of course,”I said brightly.“Thank you,Alpha Nick.” As we were leaving the restaurant,Selene suddenly stepped in front of me,smiling sweetly as she handed me a black velvet box. “Did you leave this on Alpha’s office desk?He said it might be yours.” I took it with a puzzled expression.When I opened it,inside was the silver double-moon pendant I had custom-made two months ago—the one I had prepared as an anniversary gift for us. Beneath the pendant lay a handwritten note: “Nick,I know you’re not into flashy things,but this design is from the day we first met.You drew it in my palm.I remember.” My face went pale. That note—I had burned it long ago. I looked up sharply.“How did you get this?” Selene feigned innocence.“It was in the second drawer of Alpha Nick’s desk.There was no name on it,so I thought maybe it was mine.The moment I opened it,I thought it was just so pretty—I wanted to try it on.I had no idea you made it.” She gave a light laugh.“Don’t worry,I didn’t take it out…I just snapped a quick photo and shared it in the group chat.” My head buzzed. {She did it on purpose.} Aris growled through gritted teeth.{She wanted you to see it—wanted you to know that even your most private feelings meant nothing to him.} I tightened my grip on the box,my gaze calm as the sea.“Thanks.I’ll remember to put my name on it next time.” I returned alone to the house Alpha Nick and I once shared. As I pulled into the driveway,I spotted his car immediately—parked crookedly,its windows fogged. I quickened my pace.The sound of ragged breathing filtered through the glass—Alpha-level rut breathing.Heavy.Primal. I reached for the door handle,my hand trembling. The moment the door opened,the world stopped spinning. Selene’s head was tilted back,her face painted with satisfaction.Alpha Nick sat beside her,expression void of emotion—as if I didn’t exist. [Now you see it clearly.] Aris growled low in my mind. When they stepped out of the car and fixed their clothes,Selene looked straight at me and smirked. “Sorry,Leona,”she said mockingly.“I’ve always wanted to try it in a car.Alpha Nick was kind enough to help.Still as incredible as ever.” She tossed a crumpled tissue to the ground at my feet.“You should probably clean that up.We made quite a mess.” My cheeks burned with humiliation.My fingertips went numb from the cold in my blood. Alpha Nick’s voice sliced through the silence,detached and cruel.“While you’re at it,go inside and make us dinner.I’m hungry.” [He’s still giving you orders.You’re not his Omega.You were his mate.But he’ll never admit it.] Aris rasped,sharp and firm. I turned without a word,climbed into my car,and drove off. In the days that followed,I didn’t reach out.He didn’t either. But Selene showed up. That day,Alpha Roger and I were both at home. As the door opened,Alpha Roger stepped forward,gripping his Alpha token,and said coldly,“Speak.Now.”

Selene put on a shy little act,glancing at me from the corner of her eye before turning to Alpha Roger. “Alpha Roger,you know Alpha Nick and I grew up together.We’ve always had feelings,even if we’ve broken up a few times.” “It was impulsive of me to end things last time.But this time,I want to confess seriously.I want us to get back together.Will you help me?” If it were the old me,I might’ve jumped up and said,“Impossible!He’s my Alpha!” But now,I simply smiled—faint,indifferent. I had already survived a marriage without blessing,without bond resonance,without even a whisper from our wolf souls. I knew very clearly—Alpha Nick did care about her.He might not admit it aloud,but there was a primal compatibility between them.Maybe that was what others called being fated mates. [No.] Aris cut in sharply from the depths of my mind. [Fate isn’t about instinct.It isn’t Alpha lust.It’s the merging of spirits,the moonlit link between wolf souls.If you’ve never felt Selene’s wolf,it’s because she doesn’t have the right to stand in that bond.She’s a thief.Not fate.] “Of course,”Alpha Roger said easily.“Come on—who hasn’t noticed Nick still has feelings for you?If you confess,he’s bound to say yes.” The triumphant gleam on Selene’s face was clearly meant for me.She even raised an eyebrow slightly,as if to say,“See?You were never the one.” I remained still.No emotion.Only a strange sense of clarity rising in me. Two days later,Alpha Roger and Nick’s friends organized a dramatic“crisis confession”scene—whitewater rafting in the Northern Highlands. The scenery was beautiful.The river was fierce.The kind of setting where Alphas could show off their strength and protective instincts. I hadn’t planned to go in the water.I can’t swim.But Selene grabbed my arm. “Leona~We’re sisters,aren’t we?Just once!I’m scared to go alone—you wouldn’t let me shiver in the raft by myself,would you~?” [She’s baiting you.] Aris’s voice dropped into a deadly chill. [She knows you can’t swim.She also knows exactly where the deepest bend in the current is.Don’t fool yourself—this isn’t innocence.It’s intent.] The raft surged downstream.Selene clung to Alpha Nick the entire way,her nails digging into his skin like she was trying to brand him with her Alpha’s authority. Alpha Roger,knowing exactly what was happening,stayed beside me and gave my shoulder a friendly pat.“Don’t worry,I’ve got you.” But just as we were nearing the rapids,Selene suddenly turned—and threw herself at me,feigning a loss of balance. I wasn’t ready.The raft jerked violently. Before Alpha Roger could react,I was hurled into the freezing water. As I plunged into the river,I clearly heard her whisper: “Oops.Sorry,Leona.” She did it on purpose. Cold water flooded my nose and throat.I struggled,desperate,unable to stay afloat. I saw Alpha Nick dive in after us.A spark of naive hope flared in my chest. I reached out—maybe he’d see me.Maybe he’d pull me to safety. But I watched,with horrifying clarity,as he swam right past me.Straight toward Selene. Leona.What are you still hoping for? [You saw it,didn’t you?] Aris growled,a snarl scraping across my thoughts. [You are not his first choice.You never were.You were just a convenient Omega—never his Luna.Never his match.Never his fate.] I stopped struggling. Thank the Moon,Alpha Roger dove in and pulled me out in time. I collapsed on the shore,soaked and shaking,gasping for air. Alpha Roger gave my shoulder a gentle pat.“Don’t dwell.The confession scene’s ready.Come on,let’s watch the fun.” I stood up,head still spinning—not just from water,but from that voice,that whisper:“Oops.Sorry,Leona.” Selene wanted to hurt me. She wanted me gone.Out of the way.So she could monopolize every bit of Alpha Nick’s attention.His guilt.His comfort. And I— I had no words. On the lawn,the pack’s friends had arranged a massive heart of flowers,filled with shared memories:handwritten letters,photos,holiday gifts,birthday tokens. Alpha Nick stood in the center,dripping wet,staring blankly at it all. Selene,bouquet in hand,walked toward him,eyes shining with tears. A breeze passed across the lake.The surface rippled—and so did something inside me. [If you turn away now,I won’t blame you.] Aris’s tone had softened. [But if you stay—if you watch this—then do it for yourself.Clap for your own freedom.] People shouted,“Say yes!Be with her!” I clapped too.Loud and bright. “Say yes!Be with her!”I cheered. Alpha Nick turned sharply toward me,shock twisting his face. “Leona,are you insane?Have you forgotten you’re my—” “No,Alpha Nick.” I cut him off gently,clearly. “I,Leona,rejected you,Alpha Nick,as my mate.” “Our bond died the moment you swam past me.”

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The wind at the cemetery was as sharp as a blade, cutting against my face and numbing my skin. I stood before the cold stone, staring at the name engraved on it—Noah. “For the glory and safety of the pack, he was sacrificed.” Leon stood beside me, his voice chillingly calm, as if the”sacrifice”he spoke of was not our son, but merely a disposable piece on a chessboard. I turned to look at him, rage burning in my chest, threatening to consume me whole. “Sacrifice?”I repeated each syllable slowly, “Are you telling me that you personally killed our son for the glory of the pack?” Leon’s gaze darkened slightly, his voice devoid of emotion.”Yes.” My fingers trembled slightly, my palms turning pale from the tight grip. I knew that if I continued to press him now, he would respond with the same icy indifference—or worse, complete silence. But I couldn’t ask. I couldn’t let him realize that I already knew the truth—Noah didn’t die for the pack.He died for Selina. My sister. The woman he truly loved. A chill ran down my spine, but I forced myself to maintain my composure.I took a slow, deep breath, making my voice sound as steady as possible.”So that’s your final answer?” Leon looked at the tombstone, his expression showing no guilt—only the absolute certainty of a man who believed he had made the right decision. “This is the truth, Evelyn.You need to accept it.” Accept it? My hands clenched tighter, nails digging into my palms. How I wanted to rip apart his mask, to demand why he didn’t even bother lying to me, why he didn’t offer a single excuse to ease my pain. But I couldn’t. If I exposed him now, what would he do? Show remorse? Explain himself?Deny it? No, he wouldn’t. He would simply give me the same cold stare and say, “It’s done.You can’t change it.” And then, he would start guarding against me—perhaps even eliminate me first. I couldn’t let him know that I had seen through everything. So I had to endure it. I slowly loosened my grip, making my emotions appear more controlled. Lowering my head, I fixed my gaze on Noah’s tombstone, as if I was truly accepting Leon’s so-called”truth.” “I understand, “I said softly, my voice devoid of any discernible emotion. Leon studied me for a few seconds, as if trying to gauge my reaction.Finally, he nodded and turned to leave the cemetery. Only when his figure disappeared completely from sight did I unclench my hands. The deep crescent marks left by my nails had broken the skin, and droplets of blood dripped onto the black marble tombstone, merging with the engraved letters. I gently traced Noah’s name, whispering, “Mommy won’t let your death be in vain.” A few days ago “Mom, why hasn’t Dad been training with me lately?” Noah looked up at me, his dark eyes filled with confusion and a hint of disappointment. I crouched down, running my fingers through his soft hair, offering a gentle smile.”Your dad has a lot of responsibilities right now.Once he’s done, I’ll ask him to take you hunting, okay?” Noah frowned slightly, reluctant but still nodding.”But he promised me.” My heart clenched.I had long grown used to Leon’s coldness, but Noah was still just a child.He didn’t understand the burden of power, nor did he know how ruthless his father could be. “Then…can you train with me, Mom?”he asked expectantly. I smiled warmly.”Of course.” His face instantly brightened as he grabbed my hand and pulled me toward the training grounds. After practicing some basic techniques, Noah suddenly stopped, looking at me with serious determination.”Mom, I’m going to get really strong.When I grow up, I’ll protect you.” My chest tightened, my eyes burning with unshed tears. I cupped his cheek gently, my voice soft.”Alright.Then Mommy will wait for the day Noah grows up to protect me.” But Noah would never get the chance to grow up. Leon and Selina’s Conversation The dimly lit room smelled faintly of medicine. Selina lay on the bed, her face pale, her breathing weak.Leon stood beside her, gazing down at her with conflicted eyes. “What are you hesitating for?”Selina’s voice was frail but firm, carrying an unshakable determination.”I’ve already checked.Noah’s liver is a perfect match for mine.” Leon’s hands curled into fists.He remained silent for a long time before finally speaking in a low voice, “He is my son.” Selina’s lips curved into a weak smile, a hint of mockery in her expression.”But he is also Evelyn’s son.” The room fell into a brief silence. “Leon, we don’t have another choice, “Selina whispered, her voice barely audible.”Do you know what the doctors said?If I don’t get the transplant soon, I won’t live past three more months.” Leon’s breathing grew heavier.He looked at Selina’s frail face, memories of their past flashing through his mind.The conflict in his heart slowly crumbled, replaced by a chilling resolve. Finally, he nodded, his voice low and unwavering.”I understand.”

The night was dark and silent.The entire house seemed to be swallowed by an endless abyss. I pushed open the study door and walked cautiously towards the safe in the corner. Leon’s safe—there must be secrets inside that he didn’t want me to know. My fingers hovered over the keypad, quickly running through possible combinations in my mind.I tried Noah’s birthday first—incorrect.Then, I entered my own birthday—still incorrect. My heart sank. Finally, I tried entering Selina’s birthday— Beep— The electronic lock clicked open. I froze, my breath catching in my throat.This man…he actually used Selina’s birthdayas the password?! A bitter taste filled my mouth as my hands clenched into fists, my palms damp with cold sweat.Leon, let’s see what you’ve been hiding! Taking a deep breath, I reached out with trembling fingers and pulled the safe door wide open.A stack of documents was neatly arranged inside. My eyes darted over the papers, flipping through them rapidly. A bank transaction record caught my attention. —Leon had transferred a huge sum to a surgeon at a private hospital. Then, I found a death certificate.My fingers trembled as I traced over the name—Noah.At the bottom, Leon’s signature stood clearly in black ink. Next, a medical report made my blood run cold— Donor:Noah Recipient:Selina Organ:Liver transplant My body swayed, and I had to grip the desk to steady myself. So his so-called‘honor and safety’were all lies.He killed our son, not for the pack, but for Selina! I bit down hard on my lip, the metallic taste of blood spreading in my mouth. The pain was the only thing keeping me from breaking down. I pulled out my phone and quickly snapped pictures of every single document. Leon, I will make you pay for this! I tossed and turned in bed, unable to sleep.My heart felt like it was being strangled, the pressure unbearable. Leon’s phone lay on the nightstand, its screen dark yet tempting, like an unspoken invitation. I needed to know what else he was hiding. Carefully, I reached out and picked up his phone.I entered the passcode—Noah’s birthday.Incorrect.My birthday.Incorrect again. My fingers clenched tighter around the device. Taking a deep breath, I entered Selina’s birthday. Unlocked. My heart pounded as I scrolled through his messages. Soon, I found his conversation with the doctor— Leon:I don’t want any loose ends.You understand? Doctor:Don’t worry, all records have been erased.Even an autopsy won’t find anything unusual. Leon:Good.Once the transplant is done, I don’t want to hear Noah’s name ever again. My grip on the phone tightened.Not only did he kill Noah, but he also made sure to cover it up, making it look like an accident… But the worst was yet to come.I kept scrolling and found his messages with Selina— Selina:Now that Noah is dead, we can finally be together forever, Leon.I love you. Leon:Once you recover, everything will be easier. Selina:It’s so exhausting pretending to care about Evelyn every time I visit her. Leon:I know, but you have to keep up the act so she doesn’t suspect anything. My hands trembled, my stomach twisted in disgust. Selina had been coming to visit me all this time, pretending to be a loving sister, while secretly sleeping with Leon behind my back.And I had been completely blind to it. Bile rose in my throat.I had never felt so sick in my life. At that moment, Leon shifted in his sleep and opened his eyes. “Why aren’t you sleeping?”His voice was low and groggy. He reached out and pulled me into his arms, resting his chin on my head before pressing a kiss to my forehead. My body went stiff, every fiber of my being screaming in revulsion.But I forced myself to remain calm, to act as if nothing had changed. “Just couldn’t sleep, “I whispered, managing a small smile as I quickly placed his phone back. Leon didn’t seem to suspect anything.He closed his eyes and drifted back to sleep. But I lay awake, staring at the ceiling until morning. At breakfast, Leon’s phone buzzed.He glanced at the screen, then stood up abruptly. “I won’t be home tonight, “he said hastily before grabbing his coat and heading out the door. I watched him leave, my lips curling into a cold smile. Was he going to see Selina? Just then, a wave of nausea hit me. My stomach twisted violently, and I barely made it to the bathroom before retching into the sink. A terrifying thought struck me.Could I be…pregnant? My hands trembled as I dialed the hospital to make an appointment. An hour later, I arrived at the hospital for a check-up. As I walked toward the examination room, familiar voices drifted from the hallway. I turned my head, and my breath caught in my throat. Leon and Selina were standing together, their expressions uneasy.Selina’s hand was gently placed on her stomach. “How far along?”Leon’s voice was low and urgent. “Almost two months, “Selina said softly, a small smile playing on her lips. I froze in place, my body turning to ice.Selina was pregnant.With Leon’s child. Leon reached out and held her hand.”Don’t worry.I’ll take care of everything.” My fingernails dug into my palm.My head spun, but I forced myself to walk past them without a word. Five minutes later, I sat in the doctor’s office, gripping the edges of my chair as the doctor studied my test results. “Congratulations, Evelyn, “the doctor said with a smile.”You’re pregnant.” I stared at the test results in shock, my mind going blank. I was pregnant.With Leon’s child. My hands trembled as I clutched the paper. Outside, in the hallway, Leon and Selina were discussing their future with their unborn baby. And I stood there, holding my own pregnancy results, my heart drowning in pain and uncertainty. Should I keep this child?

I stared at the ceiling of the hospital room, my mind slowly filling with the bitter reality. I lost the child. The doctor’s words hit me like nails, driving into my heart with such force that it became hard to breathe. I had decided to keep him.I had made up my mind. But in the end, I couldn’t protect him. When the doctor announced the results, my mind went blank.I didn’t even shed a tear. I don’t remember how I was wheeled out of the operating room, nor how I made it back to the hospital room. It wasn’t until there was a soft knock on the door that I looked up, seeing a man standing in the doorway, his expression a complex mix of emotions. I raised my head, and the moment I saw him, countless memories flashed through my mind. “Ethan…”I whispered, my voice hoarse and strained. Ethan, Selina’s husband, and Leon’s subordinate, an Omega. In their family, Omega was at the bottom of the hierarchy, and Ethan’s life was nothing short of miserable. His wife was cold and selfish, and his Alpha was a man who would sell out everything for his own gain. He, like me, lived in that house as nothing more than a joke. Ethan stepped inside and pulled a chair to sit by my bed, silently watching me.His gaze held no sympathy, only suppressed anger and a hint of…expectation? He asked softly, “Do you want revenge?” My fingertips trembled slightly, and my gaze wavered. Revenge? Leon killed my son, betrayed our marriage. Selina took my husband’s heart and even killed my child just to survive… They both owed me—blood debts. But…should I seek revenge? I closed my eyes, exhausted, leaning back against the pillow, my voice low:”I need time to think.” Ethan nodded, not pressing further.He simply sat quietly by my bed, giving me a brief moment to breathe. The day I was allowed to leave the hospital, it was drizzling outside.The air smelled of dampness, and the cold seeped into my bones, making me shiver uncontrollably. Back at home, I waited for Leon’s call. But nothing came. I waited all day, but not a single message from him. No concern, no apology, not even a token greeting. I moved from disappointment to anger, and finally, all that was left was an endless despair. He had killed our son for Selina’s liver.Now, I had lost our child again, and he couldn’t even spare a word. I let out a bitter laugh, the emotions churning inside me threatening to drown me. Leon, so you’re not even trying to pretend anymore, are you? Just as I was about to head upstairs to rest, my phone screen suddenly lit up. I quickly grabbed the phone, a glimmer of hope flashing in my heart.But when I opened the message, I saw it wasn’t from Leon—it was from Ethan. A photo. When I saw the image, my blood froze, and the fury swirling in my chest almost drove me insane. In the photo, Leon and Selina were lying on the bed, their bodies pressed together.Leon’s hand was shamelessly roaming over Selina, their lips tangled in an intimate kiss, lost in a passionate embrace. The photo was taken today. Just a few hours ago, I had been discharged from the hospital and returned to this empty house, waiting for Leon’s call. I stared at the photo, my nails digging into my palm. So, my pain meant nothing to him. He doesn’t care about me, or the unborn child. And Selina, she didn’t just want my husband.She wanted me to lose everything. I took a deep breath, trying to steady my breathing.But my anger, like a fire, couldn’t be extinguished. My hand slowly clenched into a fist, my knuckles whitening, and my gaze became cold. Leon, Selina, do you really think I won’t do anything

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I clutched the pregnancy test results in my hand,heart pounding in my chest,the word“positive”still ringing in my ears like a distant melody of hope.I had to tell him—William had to know. I rushed toward the construction site of the amusement park he was overseeing.The carousel gleamed in the distance,spinning slowly under the early morning sun. That’s when I saw them. William…and Quinn. His arms were wrapped tightly around her,his face buried in her hair.And her belly—Swollen.Pregnant. I froze. His voice floated toward me,sharp and careless.“So what if she finds out?” The ground shifted beneath my feet.Loose stones crunched,giving me away. Both their heads whipped in my direction. William’s eyes widened when he saw me.He let go of her like he’d just been caught stealing.“Caroline?What are you doing here?” Quinn turned too,a smug expression blooming across her face like a poisonous flower. William stepped forward,his voice trembling with guilt—or maybe just fear. “How long have you been standing there?Look,it’s not what it looks like—don’t misunderstand—Quinn and I,we just—” “Save it.”I wiped the tears from my cheeks with the back of my hand.“What exactly are you going to explain,William?That you’re just comforting her?That this is all some…big misunderstanding?” “I—Caroline,I—”He stuttered,scrambling for excuses,but the look in his eyes said everything. I raised the envelope in my hand,shaking slightly. “I used my money to save Ember Claw Pack.I didn’t do it to buy you.If you didn’t want the Moon Ceremony,why didn’t you just say so?Why go through with it and then do this behind my back?” His mask slipped.The lies,the shame,the rehearsed apologies—he dropped them all. “Caroline,please,”he said,his voice quieter now.“I never meant to hurt you.I didn’t plan for this to happen.” I stared at him,my chest hollowing. “When did it start?”I asked,my voice barely more than a whisper. William looked away. “After my brother died,”he said finally.“Quinn jumped into the river.Everyone thought she drowned.” I nodded slowly. “So you started sleeping with her after that?After we were married?” His silence was an answer enough. A bitter laugh escaped my lips.Of course. I had been a fool—believing that love could grow where betrayal already had roots.I thought if I worked hard enough,sacrificed enough,he’d eventually see me.If I became his Luna,his mate in every way that mattered,he would learn to love me. I was wrong. I was always the second place.A consolation prize.Gratitude in the shape of a bride. The wolf inside me howled in pain,clawing at the walls of my soul.But the grief was too heavy.It choked out my shift,drowned out my strength.I could feel something breaking inside me—something deep and primal. A year ago,William’s brother died of cancer.And Quinn—his fated mate—threw herself into the river in grief.Nobody was ever recovered.William spiraled into a darkness I couldn’t reach. So I tried.God,I tried. I organized search teams,begged elders for blessings,scoured the banks myself until my feet bled.I searched for her,mourned her with him. All this time…she wasn’t dead.She was alive.Living in secret.Sleeping with my mate. And now she was carrying his child.

William watched the rage bloom in my eyes,shifting from hurt to fury.Finally,he opened his mouth,as if that could fix what was already broken. “Don’t twist things into something they’re not,”he said,his tone sharp and defensive. He looked at Quinn,then back at me. “She was alone.Wandering the streets.I only took her in because she loved my brother so much.I pitied her—nothing more.” “And what?One drink too many and you accidentally slept with her?”I snapped,my voice rising. His lips parted.“I wasn’t thinking clearly.I—I thought she was you.” I stared at him,stunned.But he wasn’t finished. “It wasn’t intentional,”he continued,his voice cracking.“Just think of it as me…forcing myself on her.It’s all my fault.Every bit of it.” Quinn’s eyes welled up with tears as she clung to his arm. “Don’t say that,William!This isn’t your fault,”she cried,the picture of innocent guilt.“If anyone should be blamed,it’s me—for being stupid enough to jump into that river in the first place!” I snapped.“Shut up!” My voice echoed through the open space,stopping her fake sobs in their tracks. “You don’t get to speak.This isn’t your business—it’s ours.” I turned back to William,my blood boiling. “You’re unbelievable.You waited until she was almost due to show me this?To rub it in my face like I’m nothing?” “I’ve spent the past year tearing myself apart trying to find her,thinking she was dead.Comforting you.Nursing your mother like she was mine.And this—this—is how you repay me?” “You’re despicable.” When his older brother died,William’s mom collapsed from grief and ended up in the hospital.For over six months,I stayed by her side,practically living in that cold hospital room.I bathed her,fed her,watched over her night and day. In her second month there,her organs started to fail.The hospital issued a critical notice.It was touch-and-go.I was terrified. I called William all night.He didn’t answer.Not once. I paced outside the operating room alone for hours,clutching my phone until my fingers went numb.And when he finally showed up the next morning,he reeked of whiskey—and there was a hickey on his neck. A goddamn hickey. He’d told me he was at a client banquet.He looked me in the eyes and lied. Then he saw his mother and started sobbing—calling himself a bastard,slapping himself in front of me. And I forgave him.Because I loved him.Because I was stupid. I didn’t even realize Quinn was already back…already in his bed. William said nothing now.Just stood there,head bowed,letting me pour it all out. I pulled myself together and met his gaze with ice in my veins. “You want to fix this?”I said,my voice low but clear.“Then get rid of the pup.Tell Quinn to leave.” “Or I swear to the goddess,I will never forgive either of you.” Quinn gasped like she’d been stabbed.She bolted toward the door—but William grabbed her wrist and pulled her behind him like a shield. “Caroline,are you outta your mind?”he snapped.“The pup is almost full-term!You want her to abort it now?” “You’re acting like some bitter woman—jealous that someone else can give me what you can’t!” I blinked,stunned.“What…did you just say?” “My brother is gone.You can’t have children,”he said,like it was some damning fact.“Do you want Ember Claw Pack to lose its only Alpha heir because of your insecurities?” “You’re cruel,Caroline.And selfish.There’s a limit.” His words hit me like a slap across the face.Each syllable was a poisoned dagger. I laughed.A bitter,broken sound.Then tears came. “Tell me something,”I whispered.“Why can’t I have a pup?” He didn’t answer.He didn’t need to. “You don’t remember?”I asked softly.“That day…You were an hour late.That was all it took.An hour.” “Your mother was attacked.By a rogue.If you’d been there,William—if you’d shown up when I begged you to—I wouldn’t have had to jump in front of her.I wouldn’t have been stabbed three times by a Feral Wolf.” I lifted my shirt slightly,revealing the scars along my abdomen. “The Pack Doctor said I was lucky to survive.That if he hadn’t arrived in time,I would’ve died.And even if I lived,I’d never be able to shift again.” “You cried at my bedside,remember?You held my hand and told me you didn’t care.You said we didn’t need children.That we could adopt.That you’d walk away from the Pack if the Council didn’t accept us.” “You swore to protect me.To fight for me.” “But now?Now I’m cruel?Selfish?”I shook my head,my voice trembling.“No,William.You’re the one who’s changed.You’re the one who betrayed everything we built.” The man standing in front of me wasn’t my mate. He was a stranger.

After William’s brother passed,everyone in Ember Claw Pack whispered the same thing behind closed doors:William needs an heir. And I heard every word. I watched the pressure weigh him down,and even though my heart broke for him,I pushed my own pain aside.I became a woman on a mission:hunting down every Pack Doctor,every healer,every witch rumored to possess ancient magic.I paid in blood,gold,and sleepless nights. And for what? To earn his love? To become more than just a placeholder in his life? To thank me,William handed over all his passwords—his phone,his laptop—telling me he wanted transparency,that he had nothing to hide.I believed him.Goddess,I believed him. When I found out I was pregnant,I thought…maybe now,he’ll see me.Maybe now,he’ll be happy. But nothing could have prepared me for what came next. William’s eyes were ice-cold when he turned to me. “I’ll do anything you want,”he said flatly.“Except ask Quinn to abort the pup.” Then he actually added,like it was a gift,“Once she gives birth,I’ll let you raise him.He’ll carry my bloodline,and it’ll be like you had him yourself.” He was serious. “And from now on,you won’t have to see any more doctors or take those disgusting herbs.This is the best outcome for everyone.You’re not losing anything,Caroline.Nothing.” He stepped closer,eyes hard.“Unless you want to be cursed forever as the Luna who couldn’t bear an Alpha heir?” I felt the air leave my lungs. Then he had the nerve to check his watch. “I still have to prep for Mom’s discharge banquet,”he muttered.“You should head back.” Like we’d just had a polite conversation. Quinn stepped toward me,her voice syrupy and fake.“Please don’t be mad at William.This was all my idea.I—I didn’t mean for things to get so messy.” “I promise,once the pup’s born,I’ll disappear.You won’t ever have to see me again.” Behind her,William paused and looked over his shoulder.For a split second,guilt flickered in his eyes. Then he took her hand and walked away with her. And just like that…the sky darkened. Thick clouds rolled in,throwing shadows over the half-built amusement park.It felt fitting.The place we once dreamed of building together now stood hollow,just like us. I bent down and picked up the crumpled pregnancy report from the dirt,brushing it off with shaking hands. I walked away. Alone. — The recovery banquet was held at Ember Claw Pack’s luxury estate hotel.I sat silently in the back of the taxi,watching the familiar streets blur past. It all looked the same.The city hadn’t changed. But I had. Memories hit me like a wave. I’d chased William for four years in college.He was already the crown jewel of Ember Claw Pack—the Alpha heir every she-wolf wanted.To stay close to him,I turned down a prestigious graduate program my parents had arranged.I worked at his side,watching him shine,while he barely noticed I was there. Then the crisis hit.Ember Claw Pack nearly collapsed. And me? I sold everything—my parents’inheritance,my future—to keep the pack from falling apart.To save him. When the deal closed,and Ember Claw Pack was safe,William dropped to one knee and proposed with a diamond ring. I thought it was love.I thought I had finally earned my place beside him. But now I know…it was gratitude.Nothing more. Our Moon Ceremony was broadcast for three days.Three whole days of joy I thought was real.I stepped into the role of Luna,ran the pack’s affairs,buried my own dreams just to stand by him. And now…I was just another disposable woman he had to manage. A pawn to be blamed for her own broken womb. Tears welled up,but I blinked them away. I picked up my phone and made the call. “Hello?I’d like to schedule a termination.” — By the time I arrived at the hotel,the banquet was already winding down. Laughter echoed through the hall.But when I stepped in,it died. My mother-in-law was beaming.She grabbed Quinn’s hand like it was a lifeline. “Quinn is a blessing to this family,”she declared,loud enough for everyone to hear.“She’s carrying the only Alpha heir Ember Claw Pack has left!” She cast a sharp glance in my direction. “Not like some people,”she snapped.“Three years of marriage,and not even an egg to show for it.” The crowd laughed. Then she reached down and removed a gleaming jade archer’s ring from her finger—Ember Claw Pack’s Luna ring. She placed it into Quinn’s hand with reverence. “From this moment forward,”she said with pride,“you are Ember Claw Pack’s Luna.And if anyone dares question it,they’ll answer to me!” Applause broke out.Cheers.Congratulatory words. And then silence,as everyone turned to me. Their expressions were a mix of disgust and pity. “She’s actually here,”someone muttered. “How shameless can one woman be?” “I heard she’s barren.Poor William,he must’ve been suffering these last three years.” “She should’ve left ages ago.She’s clinging to the Pack like a leech.” “She’s cursed.I swear it.Everything went wrong the moment she showed up.” My nails dug into my palms until they bled. But I didn’t flinch. Because I had already made my decision. This was the last time they’d ever look down on me. The last time they’d ever laugh behind my back. I may have walked in alone…But the next time I came back—They’d all kneel.

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On my eighteenth birthday,my grandfather laid out profiles of several eligible men in front of me and asked me to choose one for an engagement. Without hesitation,I chose Julian Howard from the Howard Family Group. Everyone present was stunned. After all,it was common knowledge in our circle that Shirley Lennox,the heiress of Lennox Corporation,had been deeply in love with the eldest son,Miles Howard. At my coming-of-age banquet,I had even publicly declared that I would marry no one but Miles Howard. In my previous life,I got my wish and married Miles Howard. But just three days into our marriage,he couldn’t wait to tell me that he planned to take my stepsister,Mia Sullivan,under his wing as well. My mother was furious and immediately arranged for Mia Sullivan to marry one of my father’s protégés. Miles Howard was convinced that I had sabotaged his plans and came to despise me. From then on,he was constantly embroiled in scandals,and every one of his companions bore a striking resemblance to Mia Sullivan. He allowed those women to humiliate me in every possible way. Ultimately,on the day he inherited the family business,I was poisoned to death. Reincarnating with a second chance at life,I decided to stay far away from him and let him be with Mia Sullivan. But to my surprise,as soon as the news of my engagement to Julian Howard was announced,he lost control and publicly opposed the marriage. … After leaving the chairman’s office,I didn’t expect to run into Miles Howard. He had just concluded an important company meeting,surrounded by executives and industry elites. Upon seeing me,the group burst into laughter,teasing,“Shirley Lennox,are you chasing General Manager Howard all the way to the company headquarters?If your father knew how persistent his daughter is,he’d probably have a hypertensive crisis and take a sick leave!” Miles Howard looked at me with disgust,his tone icy:“You came to the company—did you think my father would directly order us to get engaged?Let me warn you,without my consent,don’t act crazy again.” I was all too familiar with that look of disdain in his eyes. Suppressing the sting in my heart,I spoke calmly:“The chairman asked me here to arrange an important coming-of-age ceremony for me.It has nothing to do with you.” No sooner had I finished speaking than the room erupted:“Coming-of-age ceremony?” I knew why they were shocked. The company founder,Miles Howard’s grandfather,had left a will stating that the fiancé chosen by the youngest daughter of the Lennox family at her coming-of-age ceremony would become the next heir of the company. My words had effectively announced that the successor was already decided. After the shock wore off,everyone rushed to congratulate Miles Howard. “It seems it won’t be long before we have to call you Chairman Howard,”they said. A look of satisfaction crossed Miles Howard’s face,but when he looked at me,his tone was filled with mockery. “Shirley Lennox,you’ve chased after me for so many years,and now that you’ve finally gotten your wish,you must be over the moon.” As he spoke,he stepped closer,lowering his voice in my ear:“I won’t repeat the same mistakes,so there’s something you must agree to before I even consider marrying you.” “The day we get married,I’ll have Mia be my assistant and enter the company with you,”he paused,his tone growing even deeper. My heart sank in disbelief. It was clear—he too had been reborn. Before I could respond,a delicate voice came from behind:“Sister.” It was my stepsister,Mia Sullivan.She looked frail as she walked over. Her face was pale,and Miles Howard immediately stepped forward with concern,gently supporting her:“Mia,why did you come to the company?” Mia Sullivan covered her mouth and leaned into his chest,her voice trembled with tears:“Today is sister’s coming-of-age ceremony.I couldn’t not come.But my health isn’t great—I’ve caught a bit of a cold.I hope sister won’t blame me.” Miles Howard glared at me sternly:“How could you be so heartless?Just for a coming-of-age ceremony,you had to bring someone who’s ill?” With that,he swept Mia Sullivan into his arms:“Mia,let’s go to my office.I’ll have a doctor check on you.” Before leaving,he didn’t forget to warn me coldly:“Shirley Lennox,reflect on your behavior.If you keep acting so arrogantly,our wedding will be put on hold.” And with that,he carried Mia Sullivan away without looking back.

On my grand birthday banquet,Miles Howard arrived late with Mia Sullivan,looking as if they had just finished some mischief. Most of the guests had already left,leaving only a group of trouble-loving second-generation heirs,all waiting for me to lose my temper. Mia Sullivan’s hair was disheveled,her eyes dazed,and her cheeks flushed—a clear sign that something was off. Miles Howard,on the other hand,wore a look of triumph,with a fresh strawberry mark on his neck. Anyone with a clear eye could tell where the two of them had been,and they were all waiting for me to erupt. In the past,I would have thrown a tantrum,crying and making a scene. But now,I simply picked up my teacup and took a gentle sip. Miles Howard had already placed Mia Sullivan behind him,waiting for me to kick up a fuss so he could scold me. Unexpectedly,I acted as if nothing had happened,seemingly oblivious to them,and even gently set my teacup back down. His brow furrowed,clearly displeased. But then,as if remembering something,he laughed and said,”Shirley Lennox,are you pretending to be a lady now,fearing that I might call off the wedding?Not bad.To be my fiancée,you need to be more magnanimous.After all,today is your birthday.” As he spoke,he pulled a cheap pendant from his pocket,about to hand it to me,when Mia Sullivan snatched it away. “Brother Miles,this pendant is so shiny,”Mia Sullivan said in a cooing voice. Miles Howard immediately replied,”If Mia likes it,then it’s yours.” Mia Sullivan feigned reluctance,glancing at me with a smirk that she couldn’t quite hide:”But that’s the gift you were going to give your sister.What will she do if I take it?” Miles Howard disdainfully glanced at me:”Her?She’s easy to deal with.” He casually grabbed a disposable plastic fork from a passing waiter’s tray and threw it in front of me,his tone contemptuous:”This is for you.”Then,with a smile,he said to Mia Sullivan,”Anything I give her,she’ll accept.” The fork knocked over my drink,splashing liquid all over me. The onlookers stifled their laughter behind their hands. Looking at the fork in front of me,I suddenly felt utterly tasteless. In the past,I used to pester him for gifts. He would buy me a plastic bracelet from a street stall for just a few dollars,and I would be overjoyed,wearing it every day. Everyone in the circle mocked me,saying that even if Miles Howard gave me trash,I would treat it like a treasure. I took a deep breath,not wanting to ruin my own birthday banquet.I handed the fork back to the waiter and said softly,”The young master was just joking with me.You may leave.” The waiter,frightened,quickly retreated. Seeing my indifference,Miles Howard became even more displeased,his expression darkening. He pulled Mia Sullivan to sit beside me,and the two of them flirted shamelessly,completely ignoring me. While indulging in their affection,he stealthily observed my reactions. I found it all incredibly tedious,stood up,and prepared to leave. Miles Howard noticed and grabbed my arm,smirking triumphantly:”What’s the matter?Already jealous?Shirley Lennox,you’d better get used to it.I’ll never be yours alone.Jealousy is a cardinal sin in a wealthy family.” I hastily shook off his hand and said coldly,”There’s a distinction between men and women.Young master,please behave yourself.” He paused,then suddenly laughed again:”What’s this new act?We’re about to be engaged.You’re already mine.Can’t I even touch you?” I was so angry I almost laughed.If it weren’t for my uncle’s warning not to reveal my choice yet,I would have slapped him hard. For now,I could only retort,”Miles Howard,how can you be so sure that I chose you?” He froze for a moment,then burst into laughter. The crowd around us,unable to contain themselves any longer,joined in the mockery. Tears streaming down his face from laughter,Miles Howard said,”Not to mention that everyone in this circle knows you’re determined to marry me,but even if we look at the other eligible young men—Number Three is already married,Number Four has a prearranged marriage with a foreign tycoon’s daughter.Surely you’re not considering being their mistress?As for Number Two,he’s in poor health;who knows…could you be aiming to be a widow?So,Shirley Lennox,tell me,who else could you possibly marry besides me?”

Everyone was waiting for me to embarrass myself,eager to see how I would respond. Recalling my uncle’s warning,I lost all interest in arguing with him. After all,it wouldn’t be long before everyone knew who I was going to marry. On the way home,I shared a car with Mia Sullivan. She looked at my dress,soaked from the spilled drink,and laughed loudly. “Even if you become the president’s wife someday,what does it matter if you can’t win Miles Howard’s heart?You’re still worse than a lowly assistant.” Now that she no longer had Miles Howard’s support,she finally dropped her act of vulnerability. Looking at her smug face,I recalled my past life. My mother forced her to marry my father’s assistant,a man of humble origins who later achieved great success. Grateful for my father’s mentorship,he doted on Mia Sullivan in every way. Her life was far more comfortable than mine as the president’s wife. In this life,I would absolutely not allow my mother to meddle in her marriage. I couldn’t wait to see what fate had in store for her. Thinking this,I ignored her taunts and simply said,”Then I wish you and Miles Howard a lifetime of happiness together.” She froze,her arrogance deflating like a punctured balloon. I ignored her further and got off the car. At my uncle’s birthday banquet,I followed my mother to pay respects. To avoid the young masters attending the banquet,I found a quiet corner in the garden to rest. Unexpectedly,I ran into Mia Sullivan there. I heard that recently,Miles Howard had been sending her various luxury gifts nonstop. She was now decked out in jewels and dressed more flamboyantly than I,the legitimate heiress. Seeing me,she swayed her hips and walked over,speaking in a coquettish tone:”Sister,isn’t my dress beautiful?Brother Miles had a designer create it specially for me—it’s a one-of-a-kind global limited edition.” I completely ignored her,but she persisted in showing off:”Brother Miles also said that my wedding dress has to be top-notch!He promised that mine will definitely be shinier and more dazzling than yours!” As I was about to scold her to be quiet,my gaze was drawn to the bracelet on her wrist,and my heart felt as if it were being squeezed by an invisible hand. That bracelet was identical to the one my grandmother left me before she passed away. I loved the Ruyi(a traditional Chinese ornament symbolizing good fortune)design,so my grandmother had a skilled craftsman carve the bracelet into the Ruyi pattern. I cherished it so much that I couldn’t bear to wear it myself. Just as I was about to take a closer look,Mia Sullivan suddenly covered her face and screamed:”Sis!What are you doing?I know you’re jealous that Brother Miles dotes on me,but you can’t just hit me!” My wrist was grabbed tightly by someone. A cold voice came from behind:”Shirley Lennox,what are you doing?” Miles Howard glared at me:”What’s gotten into you now?” I shook off his hand and stared straight at Mia Sullivan,asking,”Where did you get that bracelet?” A flash of panic crossed Mia Sullivan’s face,but seeing Miles Howard standing by her side,ready to defend her,she straightened her back:”Brother Miles gave it to me.” “You’re lying!That bracelet was custom-made for me by my grandmother,one of a kind in the world.” “Fiona,go take it off!” My assistant,Fiona,started to step forward to remove the bracelet from Mia Sullivan’s wrist. But Miles Howard slapped her to the ground. “You wretched woman,who gave you permission to touch Mia?!” He roared at me like an enraged lion,pointing his finger in my face:”Shirley Lennox,I never expected you to resort to such despicable tactics to smear Mia and drive a wedge between us!I,Miles Howard,declare here and now that I personally gifted this bracelet to Mia!” After hearing his words and seeing the blood at the corner of Fiona’s mouth,my anger flared. This jade bracelet was a gift from my grandmother,and Miles Howard had seen it before. Now,he was blatantly lying to protect Mia Sullivan and even resorted to violence against my assistant. “Miles Howard,hitting my assistant is equivalent to slapping me in the face,”I said.I had never raised my voice at him before,and my sharp gaze stunned him,making him instinctively want to explain. Mia Sullivan theatrically wiped the corner of her eye,feigning distress as she took off the jade bracelet and held it out to me:”If sister likes it,take it.Don’t quarrel with Brother Miles anymore.” She pretended to push the jade bracelet into my hands but deliberately let it slip,causing the bracelet to shatter into pieces on the ground with a”clack.” I was so enraged that my whole body trembled,and I raised my hand to slap her,only to be pushed aside by Miles Howard. “Shirley Lennox,you are forbidden to harm Mia!Look at you now,acting like a shrew!”he roared. I stumbled from the push and fell to the ground,sitting there in disarray. Mia Sullivan weakly leaned into Miles Howard’s embrace,a triumphant sneer curled at the corners of her mouth. Seeing me fall,a flicker of panic crossed Miles Howard’s eyes as he reached out to help me up. But Mia Sullivan clutched his hand tightly. With tearful eyes,she whimpered,”Brother Miles,my chest hurts so much…” Miles Howard immediately became anxious,lifting her into his arms and urgently called for a doctor. Bystanders,witnessing the drama,began to point and whisper. “Isn’t that the daughter of President Lennox?Causing a scene over a man and fighting with her own family’s illegitimate daughter—truly disgracing the Lennox family name.” Miles Howard stared at me,his face livid:”Shirley Lennox,have you had enough of your theatrics!Apologize to Mia right now!You madwoman,you’re unworthy of being my fiancée!” The group of second-generation heirs behind him burst into laughter. “Miss Lennox,if you’re this jealous,just wait until our General Manager Howard has multiple wives and concubines—won’t you be literally worried to death?” Amidst the cacophony of mocking laughter,Miles Howard strode up to me,his tone oozing certainty. He looked down at me and said leisurely,”I heard that my father is announcing our wedding today.If you still want to marry me,you’d better behave.” “After the news is made public,you can plead with my father to allow Mia to marry into the Howard family alongside you,as my mistress.” “I’ll magnanimously overlook this incident and even let you earn a reputation for being‘virtuous and generous’—killed two birds with one stone.” I stared at him in disbelief.Although I had always known what kind of person he was, his shamelessness still shocked me. Seeing my silence,he assumed I had acquiesced and said triumphantly,”If my father agrees to this arrangement,I’ll consider preparing a dowry for you on par with Mia’s,so you won’t lose face when you two marry me on the same day.” His smug expression was as if he had already cornered me and was certain of his position as the future head of the Howard Family Corporation. Fiona ran over,crying,trying to help me up. The surrounding colleagues all covered their mouths,waiting for my humiliation. Just as the farce was escalating,a thunderous rebuke cut through the air:”What is going on here?!” Everyone turned to see Julian Howard and Secretary Fitzgerald approaching. Julian Howard quickly stepped forward,carefully helping me to my feet,and looked at my soiled dress with concern,asking,”Are you alright?” Secretary Fitzgerald,on the other hand,announced sternly,”The chairman has something to say—” Hearing this,Miles Howard and the group of rich second-generation heirs knew the announcement of the marriage news was imminent. The crowd beamed with anticipation,clustering together to await the good news. Miles Howard cast a triumphant glance my way,as if to say,”You’ve lost.” He didn’t forget to lower his voice and threaten me,”Don’t forget what I just told you.Hurry up and plead with my father to let Mia Sullivan marry into the family with you!” One of the heirs beside him was already whispering congratulations to Miles Howard,”Congratulations,General Manager Howard,on inheriting the family business and securing two Lennox heiresses as your wives.Double joy indeed!” However,the jubilant atmosphere didn’t last long. “The chairman has declared that Shirley Lennox,the Lennox Corporation heiress,is talented and virtuous,and is to be wed to Julian Howard. An auspicious date will be chosen for the wedding,”Secretary Fitzgerald announced. Everyone present froze in shock. The engagement the chairman had announced was between me and Julian Howard.

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I sat in the bridal chamber of the Goldenflame pack’s ceremonial hall,dressed in full wedding attire.The gown felt heavier than armor. In my hand was the ceremonial mate ring Alpha Liam had given me.My fingers were ice-cold. Then my phone buzzed. I tapped it out of reflex. [Image]—Alpha Liam and Omega Shirley beneath the Moon Tree,their blood marks merged. [Text]—“I’m sorry.I love her.” I stood up.The hem of my dress scraped loudly against the floor. “What’s going on?”my bridesmaid Ayla rushed over. I handed her the phone.Her face went pale in an instant. “He…they…How could he?!This is your wedding!” I said nothing.Outside,the ceremonial drums continued,slow and pounding. “Let’s go.”I adjusted my veil and headed for the altar. As I stepped out,the entire hall fell into silence. The guests turned to me—all eyes wide,the altar empty. No Alpha Liam.No groom. Murmurs rippled through the crowd. “I heard the wedding’s off.” “Seriously?What about the bride?” I kept walking.No one came to help me.No one dared speak. Suddenly,a long wolf’s howl cut through the air. Thundering hooves followed. The grand ceremonial doors slammed open. A squad of black-cloaked warriors rode in.Leading them was a man in the Nightfog Pack’s battle armor—Alpha Adrian. “What are you doing here?”a Goldenflame elder barked. He ignored the elder and strode straight toward me.Then,before everyone,he dropped to one knee. “Marry me,Luna Ivy.I’ll give you half of the Nightfog Pack.” He didn’t speak immediately.His gaze locked onto mine,unwavering. “You’ve been crying,”he said softly,like it was both an observation and a confession. “Marry me,Luna Ivy.I’ll give you half of the Nightfog Pack.” He paused.“Not because you’re convenient,”he added in a low voice,“but because you’re worthy.” I searched his face for mockery.Instead,I saw something that looked like restrained pain.Not a performance—something real. The hall exploded. “What?!The Nightfog Alpha is proposing?!” “Right now?!” I stared at him.His lips curled slightly,but there was no warmth in his eyes. “I’m not your fated mate.” “You are.”His gaze pierced mine.“I felt the bond resonate.” “Now’s not the time for games,”I said coldly. He lifted a hand.One of his guards brought forward a projection orb. “Let me show you something.We’ve had feelings for a long time.” The images flashed—me training with my sword,sitting alone under the moon,feeding wolf pups. Each frame soft,quiet,carefully edited to look like a long-term crush. “You spied on me?”I gritted my teeth. “I protected you,”he said smoothly. Goldenflame elders glared at me. “Luna Ivy,what is this?”one demanded. “I’ve never had any personal involvement with the Nightfog Alpha,”I said firmly. Alpha Adrian straightened and faced the crowd.“Then let it start today.” And just like that,my wedding turned into a spectacle. My life was rewritten in front of hundreds of watching eyes. That night,I sat in a strange room in the Nightfog estate—my new“home.” Alpha Adrian walked in. “Getting used to it?”he asked. I said nothing. He stepped behind me and gently removed my headdress.“You should rest.” He stood behind me,hands removing the ceremonial headdress gently. “You should rest.” His fingers brushed past my temple,pausing for a moment. “Ivy,”he murmured,“you looked beautiful today.” I turned.“You don’t need to fake sweet words.” He studied me in silence.“Not sweet words.Just truth.You don’t need anyone to validate you—you shine on your own.” Then,quieter:“I was just too late to see it.” I turned to face him.“You planned this from the beginning,didn’t you?” He didn’t deny it.“Since the day you agreed to marry Alpha Liam.” “So,everything—including that video?”I stepped closer.“It was all staged?” “You planned all of this,didn’t you?”I asked. He didn’t deny it.“Since the day you agreed to marry Alpha Liam.” “But you noticed me long before that,didn’t you?” His eyes flickered. “The first time…it was when you trained alone outside the Moon Temple.You thought no one saw.” “How long have you been watching me?” He let out a soft breath.“Too long.At first,I thought it was curiosity.” He hesitated,voice dropping.“But later…the name I called out in my dreams—it was yours.” His voice remained calm.“You think I did this just for romance?No,Luna Ivy.I did it for the bond written in the stars.” I scoffed.“And what about her?” I showed him the portrait I had found in his study—Omega Shirley at fifteen. On the back,it said:“My one and only in this life.” He hesitated for half a second. “She’s just an old friend,”he said casually. “You’re a good liar,”I muttered. The next morning,I felt a wave of nausea. I rushed to the washroom,retching into the basin. Alpha Adrian entered soon after,holding a steaming bowl. “Drink this.It’s an herbal fertility tonic.” I took it from him,watching his hands tremble slightly. I looked up.“What are you afraid of?” He didn’t answer.Instead,he smiled faintly.“Afraid you won’t drink it.”

“This is honeygrass decoction.Good for the womb and pregnancy.Drink it,you’ll feel better.” Alpha Adrian placed the bowl in front of me,his voice soft.He even stirred it gently,like a caring husband. I held the bowl,forcing a smile.“You prepare this every day.Aren’t you tired?” He paused for a moment,then offered his usual smile.“You’re my Luna.I’ll do anything for you.” I lowered my head and took a few sips.The taste was a bitter mix of herbs and sweetness. “I’ll be late tonight.Meeting the elders at the border.”He stood up.“Stay here.Don’t wander.” “Where else could I go?”I said under my breath. He didn’t respond—just gave me a lingering look before leaving. The door shut.I set the bowl aside. This was my seventh pregnancy. Since marrying into the Nightfog pack,every pregnancy had ended in tragedy.At first,I blamed my body.Then the moon’s phases.By the third time,I started doubting everything. Now,I didn’t even dare to hope. The pain came in the afternoon. It started sharp,twisting deep inside,spreading like fire.I could barely breathe,soaked in cold sweat. I hit the comm-stone weakly.“Call Dr.Ryan!Now!” Ryan rushed in minutes later. “Don’t panic,don’t panic.Just lie back and relax,”he said,helping me down gently. After checking my pulse,he frowned.“Same issue.Weak constitution.You need strict bed rest.” I stared at him.“I don’t believe you.” He froze. “You’ve said the same thing every time.But every time,I lose the pup.Is it really my body…or is it the medicine?” His expression twitched,but he kept smiling.“You’re overthinking.You should trust your Alpha.” I laughed coldly.“Should I?” I struggled to stand and dragged over a small bottle from the waste bin.I threw it at his feet. “Then tell me what this is.” His face changed instantly. The label read:Concentrated Abortifacient—Wolfflower Extract. “Explain,”I said through clenched teeth. Before he could,the door swung open. Alpha Adrian. “What’s going on here?”His voice was ice. Ryan jumped up like a guilty child.“Alpha,she accused me of tampering with her medicine!She’s holding up trash as‘evidence’!” Alpha Adrian’s gaze landed on the bottle,then on my pale face. “You’re accusing me?”he said slowly. “I just want to know why none of my children survived.” Silence fell. Then suddenly,Alpha Adrian stepped forward and grabbed me by the throat,slamming me against the wall. “You think you can question me?In my Pack?” His voice was soft,but every word sliced like a dagger. I gasped for air,my nails digging into his wrist. “If you want to live…keep being my Luna.” He let go.I collapsed,coughing,my throat burning. He turned to Ryan.“Keep monitoring her.Anything suspicious—report it immediately.” That night,I pretended to sleep.My body was frozen stiff. The comm-stone buzzed quietly.Alpha Adrian’s voice came through. “How is she?” A man replied,“Stable,for now.But the cord blood extraction has to wait until the fetus is more developed.” Alpha Adrian sighed.“Omega Shirley’s leukemia…we don’t have time.” “So you’re going to make her get pregnant again?” “It has to be her child.No other blood will work.” I stayed still.My tears soaked the pillow. Early the next morning,I went to the kitchen. The Beta housekeeper flinched when she saw me.“Luna?You—why are you here?” “Yesterday’s tonic.Who made it?” She panicked.“D-Dr.Ryan arranged it.We just followed instructions.” “And the herbs?” “Alpha Alpha Adrian gave them directly.” I nodded and walked away. Back in my room,Omega Shirley was sitting on my bed. I froze.“How did you get in here?” She turned slowly,her smile cold.“Alpha Adrian brought me.He said you needed company.” “You know I’m pregnant,”I said. She nodded.“Thank you,Luna Ivy.I really needed this opportunity.” “You’re not afraid I’ll die?” Her smile deepened.“He promised.One more miscarriage,and the cord blood will be enough.” She leaned closer.“You’re such a good person.That’s why I trust you.” After she left,I sat on the edge of the bed and placed my hand over my flat belly. “I’m sorry…pup…” I whispered again and again,voice hoarse. That night,Alpha Adrian sat beside me,thinking I was asleep.His hand rested lightly on my belly. “This time…it has to work,”he murmured. I didn’t move. When he left,I opened my eyes,staring at the ceiling. I knew everything now.And yet,I couldn’t resist.Couldn’t escape. I picked up my comm-stone and searched:“Repeated miscarriages consequences.” First result: “Permanent infertility.Uterine rupture risk.” I slowly touched my abdomen. It felt like a grave—emptied,hollowed out by betrayal.

I was drinking my daily dose of honeygrass tonic when the Goldenflame matriarch summoned me. “The Grand Matron wants to see you,”the servant said coldly.”She said something about the lineage records.” I put down the bowl.”Alright.” As I stepped out,I glanced back at the tonic.The taste had become too familiar—bitter,sweet,and laced with something darker. Old Luna Lily sat at the far northern end of the Goldenflame Pack. Inside the study,the Matriarch sat in a tall-backed chair,stern as ever. “There,”she said,pointing to a shelf.“Seventh scrollbook.Your branch.” I obeyed,pulling the thick volume down and flipping through it. Tucked in the back was a sheet of parchment and a small silver key. “What’s this?”I asked cautiously. She didn’t answer—just gestured toward the adjacent room. The bedroom was clean,almost too pristine.A portrait on the wall stopped me cold. It was Omega Shirley,in her youth.Wearing white.Smiling sweetly. On the back,in old Nightfog script:“My only love.” My fingers trembled. Alpha Adrian had never hung a single portrait of me.Not even our ceremonial mark. I scanned the room and found a lockbox hidden beneath a chest. I typed in a number—0715.The date of my first miscarriage. Click. Inside was a thick photo album. Page one:Omega Shirley at thirteen,feeding a wolf pup.Caption:“Her first time feeding our cub.” Page two:Omega Shirley dancing by Nightfog Lake.Caption:“My forever love.” Page after page,Omega Shirley’s entire youth was documented—her,with Alpha Adrian.Her,in white.Her,glowing. I was never meant to be anything but her stand-in. She couldn’t carry children.I could. I was just a temporary vessel. I slammed the album shut.My comm-stone buzzed. It was Omega Shirley. “Hi,Luna Ivy,”she cooed.“Thanks for testing the medication for me.” I said nothing. “My twins are doing so well.Dr.Ryan says we’ll be able to harvest the cord blood in just three months.” “You’re dreaming,”I snapped. She chuckled.“Maybe.But you’re living in my dream.” “What do you want,Omega Shirley?” “You alive.The baby alive.So I can live too.”Her voice dropped cold.“Don’t tell me it took you this long to figure that out?” I cut the call. Back in the study,the Matriarch sipped tea calmly. “Finished browsing?”she asked. “You knew,”I said.“From the beginning,I was just a replacement.” She smiled thinly.“At least your womb still works.That’s more than we can say for her.” “I’m a living person,not a tool.” She stood,slapped me hard across the face. “You’re Nightfog’s Luna.Stop playing the victim.” My ears rang. She tossed a scroll at my feet.“Take a look.Omega Shirley’s latest prenatal exam.She’s carrying twins.And you?You can’t even keep one.” I bit my tongue until I tasted blood. “You’re only useful if you deliver that thing safely.” I lowered my head,voice hoarse.“You’ll regret this.” “Regret?”She scoffed.“You think Alpha Adrian will pick you?” I didn’t answer.I just walked out. But the tears had already started to fall. Back in my room,I found a small cloth bundle on the bed. Inside:a photo and a note. The photo was our wedding portrait. Alpha Adrian stood stiffly,not even holding my hand.He wore his own sigil ring. As if keeping a distance. The note was from Omega Shirley. “Luna Ivy,you really are made to be a perfect stand-in.Even in pictures.” I sat on the edge of the bed,staring at the photo. My fingers traced the ceremonial mark. I was never his fated mate. I was a borrowed womb.A polished shell.A“wife”they could parade around while slaughtering me inside.

It was nearly midnight. Alpha Adrian had left hours ago,saying he had”tribal business.”He didn’t even glance at me.I sat on the edge of the bed,untouched tonic in hand.The herbal scent made me nauseous. I opened my comm-stone and typed in a banned tracking command—Alpha Adrian’s lifebond beacon. Match Found. Location:West District,Shadow Wolf Guesthouse. I clenched my fist and threw on my cloak. The guesthouse catered exclusively to noble Alphas.There were Nightfog guards stationed at the front. I approached.One of them stepped forward nervously.“Luna?It’s quite late…” “Alpha Adrian is inside,isn’t he?” He hesitated.“I…I’m not sure.” “Move,”I said coldly,brushing past him. I followed the signal to the far end of the third floor.One door was slightly ajar.A faint scent drifted out—Omega Shirley’s signature incense. I crept closer.Through the gap,I saw them. Alpha Adrian was seated at the bed’s edge.Omega Shirley knelt in front of him,wearing a silk robe that barely covered her.Her belly was slightly swollen. He was gently massaging her stomach.“This time,everything’s perfect.I’ll keep you and the baby safe.” “But she’s still alive,”Omega Shirley murmured.“And she’s carrying…I don’t want to think about it.” Alpha Adrian pulled her into his arms.“Once the cord blood is harvested,she can disappear.” “Really?”Omega Shirley’s voice trembled.“I thought you said she was your fated mate…” He chuckled low.“Fate?I’ve never even touched her.You’re the only one I’ve touched.” My hand shook violently.I nearly burst through the door. Then Omega Shirley“accidentally”dropped a glass vial. “Oh no…”she bent down to pick it up. The vial rolled to my feet. Inside was something horrifying—a fetal specimen.Tiny,curled. “What the hell is this?!”I slammed the door open. Alpha Adrian shot to his feet. Omega Shirley screamed and ducked behind him.“She was spying on us!” “What is this?!”I shouted,pointing at the vial.“Is this my…my baby?!” Alpha Adrian’s eyes darkened.Without a word,he backhanded me. I crashed into the table.Blood filled my mouth. “Alpha Adrian!”I choked.“What did you do to me?!Are you even human?!” He leaned in,eyes cold.“I’m gentle only to my woman.” “Then what am I to you?!” “A tool,”he whispered.“You knew that long ago.” I forced myself up and tapped the hidden rune behind my comm-stone. A shimmer of light.The recorder activated.Everything in that room—captured. Omega Shirley gasped.“You’re recording?!” I smirked.“Crystal clear.” Alpha Adrian’s face twisted.“You dare—” He kicked me in the stomach.Pain exploded through my body. I collapsed,gasping,hands over my abdomen. He ignored me and shielded Omega Shirley.“Don’t worry,I’ve got you.” In the projection,I looked like a beaten dog—bloody,trembling,collapsed. I activated a second comm-stone,hit Broadcast Live. Comments flooded in: 【“That’s the Nightfog Alpha?!He’s hitting his pregnant Luna?!”】 【“She’s bleeding!Someone stop him!”】 【“Didn’t Omega Shirley lose her womb?What’s going on?!”】 Alpha Adrian lunged for the device,but just then,the screen lit up— Flight CA1231 to Icefang Island:Check-in Confirmed. He froze.The note read:Passenger:Omega Shirley Nightfog.Private Suite:2 seats. His eyes narrowed.“You tracked me?” I laughed through the pain.“You’re running away with her,aren’t you?” Omega Shirley whimpered,clinging to him.“She’s crazy…she shouldn’t be here…” I stared at them.My mouth filled with blood. Footsteps echoed outside. “What’s going on?We saw the livestream—” “Out!”Alpha Adrian barked. But it was too late.The entire pack had seen it:Alpha Adrian kicking me,calling me a tool,holding Omega Shirley while I bled. I was dragged back to my room.No one came to check on me.Not Alpha Adrian.Not Omega Shirley. I lay there all night,pain wrapping around my stomach like a noose. Eyes wide open.Listening to my body scream. I couldn’t fight. I could only survive—like a corpse that wouldn’t die. But I remembered everything. And one day,they’d remember me too.

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I collapsed in the rain. Soaked to the bone, I curled up like a dying cat on the edge of the slums. My calming brews had worn off, and the Omega scent markers inside me were spiraling out of control. I vaguely heard a car door open. “Is she still alive?” “Breathing, barely. Looks like she hasn’t had any calming brews in a while.” “Bring her back.” The low, commanding voice cut through the storm. When I opened my eyes again, I was lying on a warm, unfamiliar bed. “You’re awake?” A deep, magnetic voice reached my ears. I turned my head and met a pair of icy blue eyes. “You…” My voice trembled, hoarse and weak. “You’re… Alpha Ethan?” He didn’t deny it. “Alpha Ethan Foster.” The Alpha of the Foster Pack. A legend. A pureblood Alpha born into power and ruthlessness. “You don’t remember me?” I asked, voice barely a whisper. He glanced at me for a second, then looked away. “I didn’t save you because I know you.” “Then why?” He stood, back straight and cold like a sculpture. “Your blood type is rare. A perfect match for someone I need to save.” My fingers clenched the sheets. “Who?” I already knew. “Luna Chloe.” He said her name quietly, and for the first time, his tone held a trace of warmth. “She’s… everything to me.” I felt my heart shrink. “She’s relapsing. The doctors say she won’t survive two more months without a transplant.” He turned to me, eyes devoid of emotion again. “You’re the only viable donor.” “So you brought me back… for my heart?” He didn’t answer. Instead, he placed a contract on the bed. “What is this?” “A marriage agreement. Sign it, and I’ll give you a wedding and this—” he pulled out a deep blue sapphire necklace and tossed it onto the pillow, “—a Foster heirloom.” I stared at the necklace. Years ago, he once said, “When you’re grown up, I’ll give this to you.” Now, it was Luna Chloe’s. “You want me to marry you… just so you can legally take my heart?” I asked. “I want no delays,” he said flatly. “Sign it, or go back to the slums and die.” “You love her?” My voice was barely audible. “She is everything,” he said simply. I nodded and picked up the pen. “Good,” he said, not even glancing at the signature. “Don’t be late to the ceremony.” The wedding was quick. I wore white. Outside, it drizzled. He stood at the altar with the elegance of a born Alpha. When Luna Chloe entered the chapel, his entire expression softened. I had never seen him look at anyone like that. The priest asked, “Do you take this Omega—” “I do,” Alpha Ethan said gently. Applause. Laughter. Happiness. And me, standing like a ghost among the living. After the ceremony, he approached me, clipped the necklace around my neck with cold fingers, and said, “Keep quiet. Don’t ruin the arrangement.” “I will,” I murmured. “Don’t worry—I won’t beg for anything.” He paused. “Then why are you crying?” I wiped my cheek. “Must be the wind.” The operating room was cold. I lay on the surgical bed, numb. Nurses whispered as they prepped the equipment. “Did you hear? This Omega was specially found by Alpha Ethan. Her blood type is almost extinct.” “Luna Chloe’s so lucky. He even married someone else just to save her.” “And gave her the heirloom necklace too. That’s love.” I wanted to laugh, but I couldn’t. My chest burned. My vision blurred. And then On the overhead screen, a live wedding broadcast played. Alpha Ethan kissed Luna Chloe under the stained glass window. Their scent markers intermingled like moonlight and fire. My heart stopped on the table. And in my final moment, all I could think of… was that boy from the orphanage who once knelt beside me with a needle and whispered: “Don’t be afraid. I’ll protect you.” Turns out, he wasn’t talking to me after all.

I knew I was dying. The rejection response spread like fire through my veins, tearing me apart from the inside out. My chest throbbed. Every heartbeat felt like a countdown. “Acute rejection onset!” “Massive internal bleeding—she’s crashing!” “calming brews aren’t working, pressure’s falling fast!” Their voices sounded distant, like I was at the bottom of a deep ocean. My limbs were ice. I could no longer lift my eyelids. I wanted to ask—where was Alpha Ethan? He promised he would stay. Promised he would be there when I went into surgery. So… where was he now? On the other side of the city, a grand wedding was underway. The camera panned across white roses, crystal chandeliers, and guests dressed in finery. In the center of it all, Alpha Ethan stood beside his bride, tall and regal in his black suit. His gaze was fixed on her—Luna Chloe. “The ceremony begins,” the priest announced. “Do you, Alpha Ethan Foster, take Luna Chloe Harrison to be your bonded Luna?” “I do,” he said softly, the kind of softness he’d never once used on me. He reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a familiar object. The Foster pack’s heirloom sapphire necklace. The one he once promised to give me when I came of age. Now he clasped it gently around Luna Chloe’s neck, whispering, “You’re my only Luna.” I lay dying in an ICU bed, watching him declare eternal love to someone else. The nurses beside me were whispering. “She’s so lucky. Alpha Ethan even married another Omega just to get a heart for her.” “He gave her the pack heirloom too. That’s real love.” I wanted to scream. But my throat had closed up. My body no longer obeyed me. I looked at the monitor beside me. It streamed the moment Alpha Ethan leaned down and kissed Luna Chloe. Their scent markers intertwined like fire and starlight. It was beautiful. Perfect. And then, my heart stopped. My pupils dilated, fixating on the image of him kissing her while I died. The last thing I remembered… was the little boy from the orphanage who once said: “Don’t be afraid. I’ll protect you.” Turns out, he wasn’t talking to me after all. But then, something strange happened. I opened my eyes. Sunlight. Warm and blinding. “Miss, you’re awake. The Marcus pack car is waiting outside.” I sat up, heart thudding—strong, steady, but foreign. I ran my fingers along my chest. No scars. No pain. I wasn’t Emily anymore. A mirror reflected a stranger’s face. Sharp cheekbones. Amber eyes. Alpha aura. “You said I’m… who?” “You are Alpha Evelyn Marcus,” the elderly butler said, bowing deeply. “The long-lost Alpha heiress of the Marcus Pack. Missing for sixteen years, now finally returned.” An Alpha. I had been reborn. No longer the poor Omega girl they used and discarded. No longer the weak one begging for affection. I was Alpha Evelyn now. I stood up, smiled faintly. “Then let’s not keep the world waiting.” Somewhere in the city, bells were still ringing from Alpha Ethan’s wedding. But I was no longer the girl dying in a hospital bed. I was the Alpha who had come back from the grave. And this time—I would burn everything down.

The council hall was lit like a coronation chamber. I walked across the red carpet, each step of my heels clicking like a countdown. “Is that… Alpha Evelyn Marcus?” “The long-lost Alpha heiress? She was supposed to be dead.” “Looks insane to me.” Let them talk. I didn’t come back to be silent. Alpha Ethan sat on the high seat, dressed immaculately as always, his gaze sharp as a blade. “Miss Marcus,” he spoke, voice calm but cold. “Is your presence today political… or purely theatrical?” I smiled, pulling a bottle of wine from behind me. “A celebration, of course.” Then I uncorked it and threw the entire glass at his tailored suit. Gasps filled the room. Alpha Ethan’s scent markers flared immediately—pine and blackwood, crashing down like a storm. But I didn’t flinch. I released mine—cold iron and silver fox. The scent sliced through the air like a dagger. He stumbled back. “She’s suppressing his scent markers!” “She’s a top-level Alpha!” I stepped closer. “What’s the matter, Alpha Ethan? Can’t handle a woman who doesn’t bow anymore?” A silver haired man stepped forward, watching me with faint amusement. “Miss Marcus,” he said in a smooth voice, “Alpha Daniel Reyes. Alpha of the Silver Pack.” He extended a hand. “Would you honor me with a dance?” I was about to answer when another presence brushed against my senses. A cool, restrained scent—cedar and snow. An Omega? He passed by me silently, but for one brief moment, our scent markers intertwined. We both stopped. He turned his head slightly. “You are?” “Omega Silas,” he said. “Omega.” For a heartbeat, we simply stared. Alpha Ethan’s expression darkened from across the room. I smiled. So you can discard me like trash but get jealous when others look my way? Later, in the dressing room, I went to change—only to find a stack of old photographs inside the locker. I frowned and pulled one out. A faded picture. Children from the orphanage. There I was—Emily—curled up in the corner with messy hair and too big clothes. On the back of the photo, a child’s handwriting circled one boy in red ink: “I will always love Alpha Ethan.” My throat tightened. I traced the words with my fingertip. I wasn’t Emily anymore. But the girl who once loved him with everything she had… she was still somewhere in here, quietly breaking. “You love her now,” I murmured. “Then don’t you dare look back.” A soft knock broke the silence. I quickly wiped my face and turned. It was Omega Silas. “You again?” He leaned casually against the doorway. “You unleashed a lot of scent markers earlier. Gave me a bit of a headache. Came looking for a calming brew.” I handed him a vial from the cabinet. As he took it, his fingers brushed mine. “You were… sad,” he said softly. I froze. “Omegas are sensitive,” he added. “You can lie with words, not with scent.” I looked at him. His eyes were gentle. Steady. “You can talk to me,” he said. “…Thanks,” I whispered. He smiled, pressing his thumb lightly against my palm—a quiet promise. The door suddenly slammed open behind me. Alpha Ethan. His eyes were like ice. “Am I interrupting something?” I turned, completely calm. “You’re just in time to leave.” That night, I didn’t sleep. The orphanage photo lay beside me on the pillow. You used to love him so much. But now? Now it was his turn—to break.

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