3#03

3

The atmosphere in the pack house was heavy with unspoken tension, though most were unaware of the impending conflict.

Anastasia's voice, filled with arrogance, echoed through the hallways as she bragged to her small group of admirers.

"A simple necklace? That's nothing," she said dismissively. "My partner gifted me an entire set of emeralds—the gems were sanctified under the full moon by the Silver Seer herself."

Her audience responded with intrigued whispers. Anastasia extended her hand, showcasing a sparkling emerald ring that emitted a subtle, mystical aura.

"Moon-blessed emeralds? Those are invaluable!" one exclaimed.

Another added, "They're rumored to boost a wolf's power during shifting. Lila, your mate must truly treasure you!"

Anastasia feigned humility with a shrug, her smirk revealing her pleasure. "Naturally. He spares no expense for my happiness."

I remained hidden, listening to her words with suppressed anger. Her "mate" was no secret to me—Alpha Kade, my supposed husband. The man who had once sworn under the Blood Moon to cherish me above all else.

As I approached the garage where Kade waited, his polished demeanor greeted me like a facade he'd worn for years.

"Prepared for dinner, Luna?" he inquired, flashing his trademark smile, the one that once made me believe his deceptions.

I took my place beside him, my voice steady. "Do you have any pack responsibilities tonight?"

Kade shook his head, pride evident in his tone. "None. Tonight is just for us. I've made sure nothing will interrupt."

Yet midway through our journey, his demeanor changed abruptly.

"Pull over," he instructed the driver. He turned to me with practiced remorse. "I'm terribly sorry, love. The Elders have summoned an emergency council meeting. It's critical."

I observed his face carefully, tilting my head. His eyes darted nervously, avoiding mine.

"I comprehend," I said quietly. "The pack's needs come first."

His posture relaxed. "Thank you for being understanding. I'll make it up to you, I swear."

As his vehicle sped off, I followed discreetly, my wolf stirring restlessly within. Kade's scent led not to the council chambers but to the Moonlit Haven, the new upscale restaurant near the woods.

I remained concealed, watching through the large windows as he dined with Lila. Their laughter filled the air, her hand touching his as he leaned in closer. Fury bubbled inside me, but I suppressed it. Tonight wasn't the moment.

Kade returned to the pack house hours later, a faint lavender scent clinging to him—a fragrance that wasn't mine. He hesitated upon seeing me seated in the dimly lit living area.

"Darling," he began uncertainly, "why are you still awake?"

I held up a small wooden container, my expression neutral. "The omega cleaning your office found this. She was unsure what to do with it, so she brought it to me."

Kade's gaze fixed on the box, recognition crossing his features. His drunken haze lifted as he approached.

"This..." He took the box reverently, opening it to reveal its contents—a collection of mementos from our courtship.

He lifted a faded ribbon, his smile softening. "This is from the night of the Harvest Festival. You wore it in your hair, and I couldn't take my eyes off you all evening."

Next, he picked up a tiny silver charm, his voice nostalgic. "And this was from the day you accepted me as your mate under the Blood Moon. Remember how nervous I was? I thought you might reject me again."

I watched him, my expression unreadable. For a moment, I glimpsed the version of Kade I had once loved—the wolf who had promised me eternity. But the man before me was a stranger wrapped in broken promises.

As he continued reminiscing, I leaned back, my gaze unwavering. "Kade," I said softly, interrupting his musings. "Do you ever consider what follows betrayal?"

His hands froze over the mementos, his eyes rising to meet mine. For the first time in years, uncertainty flickered in his gaze.