Tamara's POV As the ring sparkled on my finger, it felt surreal. I barely had time to process what had just happened when Sophie and Violet rushed over, their eyes wide with excitement. “Oh my God, Tamara! You said yes!" Sophie exclaimed, her voice a mix of disbelief and joy. I nodded, still a bit dazed. “Yeah, I did.” Violet practically squealed, “Let me see the ring!” She grabbed my hand, pulling it closer to her face. “It’s beautiful! The color is just like your eyes!” I felt my cheeks flush with embarrassment. “Thanks! But you guys saw all of that?” “Of course, we did! We were here the whole time!” Sophie chimed in, her grin wide enough to light up the dark room. “Dante didn’t want you to see us, so he made sure it was dark enough. But he got us these artificially enhanced goggles so we could see everything!” I couldn’t help but laugh at Dante’s overdramatic behavior. “Only Dante would think of something like that.” My heart swelled with affection. “It was a pretty romanti
Tamara's POV We made love until I passed out, and by the next morning, I wwas lost in the delicious warmth of Dante’s touch, the softness of the sheets wrapping us as the morning light began to seep through the curtains. The events of the previous day felt like a dream—full of surprises, revelations, and the promise of a future. But as I lay there, nestled against his chest, all I could think about was the way he looked at me and how he made me feel.Dante stirred beside me, his breath warm against my skin. I tilted my head up to meet his gaze, a smile creeping onto my lips. “Good morning,” I whispered, my heart fluttering at the sight of him.“Good morning, baby girl,” he replied, a teasing grin forming on his face. He leaned down, pressing his lips against mine in a soft, lingering kiss that quickly deepened.With a groan, he pulled me closer, his hands roaming my sides, igniting a fire within me. The world around us faded, and it was just us—wrapped up in each other, lost in the
Jack's POV"Damn it!" I groaned as the faint buzz of my phone jolted me awake in the early morning light, casting long shadows across the dark room.I blinked, trying to shake off the grogginess, but the persistent notification light blinked continuously. I reached over, snatched my phone off the nightstand and looked at it.When I read the contents, my eyes widened immediately and all trace of sleep disappeared.It was a message marked "EXTREMELY URGENT!! An emergency meeting… for all the alphas in the East?" I read our loud.What the hell?!That couldn't be good. They never gathered us together this suddenly unless something serious had happened. And that serious thing was never ever any good news.Worry ate at me, and a hint of suspicion crept in. I really wasn't in the mood for any more problems, but experience told me that this had to be more than just another minor skirmish or territory dispute. Whatever it was, it was big.I slid out of bed, took a shower and dressed up quick
Jack's POV The meeting hall was already bustling when I arrived, and I could immediately sense the tension thick in the air. I still didn't know what happened, but I had been right to assume it was something bad.Some Alphas were pacing around nervously, while some where arguing quietly with each other. Anger, frustration, and fear was all the emotions I could sense and I was becoming nervous to find out why. I spotted my gamma, Richard, in the corner, already waiting for me. He looked fucking terrible. Ever since Violet had left him to go with Tamara, everything had gone downhill for him. His business, the one Violet used to run, was struggling without her, and his new girlfriend was a disaster, that rude girl was spending his money faster than he could keep up.I honestly didn't understand why he wanted to leave Violet for her, but it wasnt my place to judge, after all, i had made the same mistake with Kate."Rough day?" I muttered, catching Richard’s eye as I joined him."That’
Jack's POV Even though most of the Alphas seemed to start believing that I wasn't behind the attack, the room was still tense and everyone was staring at me like I was about to vanish without giving them answers. I understood that Every alpha was on edge, waiting for me to say something that could reassure them that their packs were safe from Dante. But how could I say that when I wasn't sure of what was even going on.But despite that, I sat up straighter, feeling their eyes bore into me, while knowing that I couldnt let them see my own doubts. I needed to assure them that I wasn't their enemy, that the last thing I’d ever do was bring harm to the rest of my family, especially not my grandmother.But explaining that to them without giving away my secrets was like walking on a knife’s edge. “I vow to you all, here and now,” I finally said firmly, “I had nothing to do with an attack on Alpha Dante’s mother. Not a single order came from me for anything like that. Whoever told you ot
Jack's POV “Kate,” I said, trying to keep my tone even, though my mind was racing with the possibilities of why these men were in my house, and whether or not Kate had done something as stupid as poisoning their drinks. I knew her impulsive streak, and the last thing I needed was for her to have done something rash. “Could you excuse us for a moment?” I told her. Kate's smirk faltered, and she crossed her arms, clearly not thrilled with the request. “I don’t see why I should. They were perfectly fine talking with me before you came.” “Kate, please,” I said, my tone firm. “This isn’t up for debate.” She hesitated, but my annoyed expression must have convinced her. With a huff, she spun around and left, casting one last glare over her shoulder. Once she was gone, I focused on the two warriors, keeping my tone steady. “What are you doing in my home?” The taller of the two men, a grizzled warrior with a scar down his cheek, met my gaze steadily. “I'm General Luther and this is Lie
Jack's POV Later the day, Mike my Beta, -- who I didn't always carry around because of his devote loyalty to Tamara -- plus Richard, and I approached the mansion Adrian has bought in my pack.I immediately noticed that he had designed the place to be a Beautiful fortress. There were Warriors and mercenaries standing guard at every corner, with their eyes sharp and weapons within easy reach. The mansion was beautiful and imposing, and it seemed Adrian intended to make it his stronghold here in my pack, like he was preparing to come and stay in my pack very frequently. Mike whistled in surprise beside me, "Looks like he’s not just here for a short friendly visit. With all these weapons and warriors, it's obvious that the guy’s gearing up for something serious." "Yeah," I said, glancing around. "If I had any doubts about Adrian’s intentions for war against the north, they’re definitely gone now." I grumbled.It's true that I'd always wanted Dante out of my way, but I’d never imagined
Jack's POV The room felt colder as his words sank in. "Then who are you talking about?" I asked in confusion. Adrian’s eyes suddenly darkened even more, but somehow still managed to flash a dangerous glint. "Tamara." Adrian finally said. "I was talking about Tamara." I stared at him, completely stunned and confused.What was he talking about?. "You’re joking right?. Are you saying you want to go to war because of my fiance?" i gasped and Adrian frowned."Ex," He corrected. "She's your Ex fiancé.'"Whatever!" i snapped. "When you and I first got into this partnership, you told me it was supposed to be about revenge. You wanted Dante taken down for stealing Amanda from you, and you blamed him for your father’s death. That was the deal. Now you're suddenly saying it's because of Tamara?" I was completely confused. "Yes, you're right about all the reasons I told you, but that’s how it started," he admitted, voice low. "I wanted Dante gone but I wasn't planning to go to war over those
Kayla’s POV I blinked, trying to process what she had just said. She took my funds? On purpose? Candice was the first to react, gasping loudly. “But why?” Lady Catherine didn’t look the least bit guilty. If anything, she seemed pleased with herself. “I needed to see how Kayla would handle a crisis. Unlike you, I already knew she had the skills to manage the funds well, given her past experience as Luna. So, I upped the challenge.” My mouth opened slightly in shock. “You knew about my work in my former Pack?” Lady Catherine smirked. “Of course. You think I wouldn’t do my research? I needed to test whether you could handle unexpected setbacks. And you outperformed my expectations. A test is not just about what you can accomplish with plenty of resources—but how you handle things when they are taken away." I swallowed, still processing what she had done. I had been thrown into that situation with no resources, and instead of crumbling, I found a way to help the orphanage. My frust
Kayla’s POV The sun dipped below the horizon as Ingrid and I left the orphanage.But the cool evening air doing little to clear the fog in my mind because The old woman’s insistent voice still rang in my ears. "I'm sure I remember you. You stayed at my orphanage once, didn’t you?" I had been too stunned to respond properly at the time. Now, as I replayed the conversation in my head, it still didn’t make sense. I had never lived in an orphanage. I knew that for a fact. After my parents died, I was taken in by Alpha Xavier’s family—not lovingly, not as one of their own, but as a maid. There certainly had been no orphanage. No kind old woman watching over me. So why had she been so sure? Maybe she was just mistaken. I shook my head, trying to push the thoughts away. The woman was old, and memories could blur with time. That had to be it. "Lady Kayla?" Ingrid’s voice pulled me from my thoughts. "Hm?" I turned to her, realizing she was staring out the window with a frown. She po
Kayla’s POVMy money was stolen.Only my money.I stood there, my mind racing, my hands shaking as the weight of it settled in. The test had barely started, and someone had already made sure I failed.I looked at the guard, my throat tightening. "It was only mine?"He nodded. "Yeas ma'am. Lady Candice’s money is still safely locked away, plus she has guards safeguarding it."A cold wave of realization hit me. Candice planned this. And now I was furious at myself for not expecting something like this."That snake," I hissed, clenching my fists.Ingrid crossed her arms. "It’s obvious she’s behind this. Who else would want to sabotage you like this?"I barely let her finish before storming off to get my money back.I found her in one of the palace meeting rooms, standing with a few of her followers. She looked up just in time for me to march straight up to her."Where is it?" I demanded.Candice smirked. "Where’s what?""My money!" I snapped. "Don’t play dumb."She tilted her head, feig
Kayla’s POVI woke up before sunrise, my nerves already getting the best of me.Today was the first day of training and The first test.I had no idea what to expect, and the thought of failing in front of Lady Catherine— and worse, having my bad report sent to the council—made my stomach twist uncomfortably.I sat up, rubbing my face, when I felt the bed shift beside me.Strong arms wrapped around my waist, pulling me back into the warmth of Adrian’s chest."You’re up too early," he murmured, his voice still thick with sleep.I sighed. "I have to be. I don’t exactly want to start my first day with your mother by being late."Adrian hummed, his lips brushing against my shoulder. "You’ll be fine, Kayla."I wasn’t so sure. "What if I mess up?""You won’t," he said, confident as ever. "And I’ll even check in on you later to show my support."That made me pause. "Really?"He nodded. "I want to see how you’re doing."Something warm settled in my chest at that.Adrian kissed my temple before
Kayla’s POVLady Catherine's gaze was sharp, cold, and unwavering.Even without her saying another word, I could already tell—this conversation wasn’t going to be a pleasant one.She wasn’t here for pleasantries.She was here to tackle something that had to do with me."You may have manipulated your way into getting engaged to the Alpha of the South," she said evenly, "but that does not make you an acceptable Luna of my pack yet, so don't go around town parading yourself as one."I swallowed. She must have heard about our outing.Beside me, Adrian’s body tensed. "Mother—"She raised a hand, silencing him effortlessly.I had never seen anyone talk to Adrian in that tone before. He must have a lot of respect for her.Lady Catherine turned back to me, her sharp eyes raking over my form as if she were already judging every flaw I had."Custom demands that all women who wish to become one of the Alpha's wives must undergo training," she continued. "You and Candice will both be instructed,
Kayla’s POVA slow warmth curled around me, pulling me from sleep. The bed was too comfortable, the scent surrounding me too delicious.It was Adrian, cuddling me without shame, and I was letting him.I could feel his gaze before I even opened my eyes."Are you awake, or are you pretending?"His voice was teasing, husky with amusement.I blinked my eyes open, only to be met with his smug expression.Adrian was close—leaning over me, his smoldering eyes full of mischief."You’re staring," I mumbled sleepily.He grinned. "Can you blame me? you're free to stare back."I scoffed and turned my face into the pillow. "You’re annoying.""And yet, you were seeking my touch in your sleep."I froze.My eyes snapped back open, and Adrian’s grin widened as he leaned even closer."Not like that," he added, his voice wicked. "Yet."I smacked his chest, my face burning. "You’re impossible!"Adrian laughed.Then, before I could retaliate, he sat back and stretched. "Come on. Get up. I have plans for u
Kayla’s POVI couldn’t stop thinking about it.Leo’s words echoed in my head like a haunting melody I couldn’t shake."I know your secret.""You’ll go missing, just like all those wolfless girls before you."My stomach twisted.How did he know?Who else knew?How long had they known?And worst of all—how much danger was I really in?I kept my face blank as Adrian led me out of the council hall, but my thoughts were anything but calm.I needed to figure out what to do.Fast.I barely noticed the drive back to the palace. My mind was still tangled in a mess of worry when Adrian’s voice suddenly cut through the haze."You’ve been quiet," he said, his golden eyes flicking to me with a hint of concern.I forced a small smile. "Just thinking about somethings. It's nothing to worry about."Adrian didn’t look convinced. "About what?"I hesitated.Should I tell him?Should I tell him that Leo knew everything—that he had practically threatened to make me disappear?The words were on the tip of
Kayla’s POVThe weight of their stares was suffocating.Every councilman in the room glared at me as if I were their worst enemy. As if I had committed some great sin simply by standing beside Adrian.I clenched my hands at my sides, forcing myself to breathe.I had expected hostility. But this? This was hatred.I turned slightly toward Adrian, seeking reassurance—not that I needed it, but because something about his presence always made things seem less scary.And when I looked at him… I saw growing rage.Not at me—but at them.Adrian’s dark eyes was beginning to burn with undiluted fury as he surveyed the room, his body tense with barely contained aggression.Then, his gaze locked onto Councilman Augustine.And just like that, the storm hit."I won’t be allowing you to preside over this meeting, Augustine," Adrian said, his voice deadly calm.Murmurs broke out instantly. Augustine was head councilman, this was his main duty, Adrian's words must have been a slap to his face.Augustin
Kayla’s POV A soft warmth surrounded me, and for the first time in a long while, I felt truly safe and wanted. It took me a moment to register why. it was because I was in Adrian’s arms. His strong, steady breathing tickled the back of my neck, and his body heat wrapped around me like a protective cocoon. His arm was draped over my waist, holding me against him as if he had no intention of letting go. I should have been shy about this—should have been flustered about being this close to him. But I wasn’t. Somewhere between last night’s terrifying attack and the way he had held me afterward—something had changed between us. His touch no longer made me nervous. It made me calm. It made me feel home. I blinked up at the ceiling, my mind drifting back to the way he had touched my face last night, the way his thumb had brushed my cheek so gently. "You’re worth it," he had said. Those words had shaken me. I had spent so long being treated like I was disposable. Unwanted. A bur