Kailey’s POV I lay in my room, staring at the ceiling as my mind churned with endless thoughts. The events of the past two days had been overwhelming, and doubt gnawed at me. Coming back to this pack had felt like the right decision then, but now? Now, I wasn’t so sure. Auren’s anger burned brighter than ever, and Ezekiel… well, he was trying, but nothing seemed enough to bridge the gap between them.I sighed heavily, pressing the heels of my palms to my eyes. “Was this a mistake?” I murmured to myself, my voice barely audible.Elyra had gone back to the woods to fetch a few things, leaving me alone with my thoughts. My son didn’t want anything to do with his father. That was the main reason I’d returned—to give Auren the connection he deserved, the father he’d never truly known. But it seemed I’d only stirred more chaos.A sharp knock on the door startled me.“Come in,” I called out, sitting up and smoothing my dress. The door creaked open, and Anastasia stepped in, her lips curled i
Ezekiel’s POVThe packhouse was unusually quiet tonight. I leaned back in my chair, rubbing my temples as I tried to focus on the stack of paperwork in front of me. It had been a long day—training schedules, rogue patrols, and disputes between pack members. My mind was a jumble of thoughts, but one stood out above the rest: Kailey.I smiled to myself, thinking about her. Bringing her and Auren back had been the right choice, though it had stirred more chaos than I anticipated. Still, it was worth it. I’d made my decision: Kailey was going to be my Luna. I just needed to handle things carefully, especially with Anastasia.I sighed, pushing the papers aside. What I really needed was a cup of coffee.“I could use a break,” I muttered to myself. “Maybe a strong coffee to clear my head.”“Why not?”The voice startled me. I looked up and saw Anastasia standing in the doorway, holding a steaming cup of coffee.For a moment, I was too stunned to speak. Anastasia, offering me coffee? That wasn’t jus
Ezekiel’s POVI narrowed my eyes. “Peace isn’t usually your priority, Anastasia.”She laughed softly, a sound that would have seemed pleasant if I didn’t know her better. “You’re so suspicious, Ezekiel. I brought you coffee earlier, and now I’m here to see if you’re okay. And somehow, that’s cause for concern?”“Considering the circumstances,” I said carefully, “yes. It is.”She walked closer, her hands clasped in front of her. “I know I’ve been… difficult lately. But I’ve been thinking about everything—about us, the pack, even Kailey and her son. Maybe it’s time I let go of the resentment.”Her words caught me off guard, but I kept my expression unreadable. “That’s… unexpected.”She smiled again, her gaze steady. “I’m trying, Ezekiel. Isn’t that what matters?”I studied her for a moment, searching for any sign of deception. She was calm, too calm, and it was unsettling.“Why now?” I asked finally. “Why the sudden change?”“Because I realized I was fighting a losing battle,” she said simply. “Y
Ezekiel’s POVKailey’s voice stopped me just as I reached the door."Ezekiel."I turned, my hand still on the doorknob. "Yes?"Her expression had softened, her gaze dipping to the floor before meeting mine. "Stay. Just for a little while."My pulse quickened. She wasn’t the type to ask for company unless she truly needed it. I let go of the knob, stepping back into the room and closing the door behind me. "Of course."Kailey gestured toward the chair across from her, but as I sat, she stood, pacing toward the window. Her movements were restless, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her dress."Kailey, what’s going on?" I asked, leaning forward. "You’ve been distant since you returned."She stopped mid-step, her back still to me. "Do you know what it’s like to carry so much pain that it feels like it’ll crush you? To be so full of love and yet feel like there’s no place for it?"Her words struck a chord deep within me. "I think I do," I said quietly. "I’ve felt that every day since you left."
Ezekiel’s POVI obliged, letting the urgency between us take over. My movements became more primal, driven by the overwhelming need to be closer to her, to feel every part of her. Our bodies moved in perfect sync, each thrust drawing moans and cries of pleasure from her lips. The sound of her—Kailey, mine—only fueled the fire within me.My hands gripped her hips, guiding her, meeting her rhythm. We were a blur of passion, lost in the moment, the rest of the world fading away until only she existed.“I love you, Kailey,” I panted, the words tumbling from my lips between kisses and gentle nips at her neck. “Always have, always will.”Her response wasn’t in words but in a cry that sent shivers down my spine. She tensed around me, her release washing over her, the sensation driving me to the edge. With one final, deep thrust, I followed her, my own release crashing over me like a wave, my name falling from her lips like a prayer.Together, we tumbled into the abyss, our cries filling the roo
Ceceilia’s POV“Here goes nothing,” I muttered, gripping the wheel tightly. The forest loomed ahead, its shadows twisting like dark promises. My heart raced, but not from fear. It was excitement—raw, reckless excitement. Tonight would change everything.I parked the car at the edge of the woods, the headlights slicing through the thick darkness. Turning off the engine, I grabbed my phone and a small vial from the c upholder.“Don’t mess this up, Ceceilia,” I whispered to myself as I stepped out. The forest’s cold air greeted me like an old friend, wrapping around me as I ventured deeper into the trees.Just a little farther. He’ll be waiting.I reached a clearing lit faintly by the moonlight. My eyes scanned the shadows, my heart pounding harder now. And then I saw him.A hulking figure stepped out from behind a tree, his golden eyes glowing. The rogue wolf. His presence was menacing, his massive form dwarfing mine. His voice was deep and gravelly when he spoke.“You’re late, Ceceili
Kailey’s POV “Rise and shine, my love,” Ezekiel’s warm voice broke through the remnants of my dreams. He tapped me gently on the shoulder, his touch as soft as the morning light streaming through the windows.I groaned and turned slightly, my eyes still heavy with sleep. “Just five more minutes,” I murmured.“No way,” he said, his tone playful. “You’ll sleep the whole day away. Besides, you’ll miss this.”Curiosity got the better of me, and I forced my eyes open. Ezekiel was sitting on the edge of the bed, a tray balanced on his lap. I blinked a few times to clear my vision and saw the spread he’d prepared—eggs, toast, bacon, fresh fruit, and a steaming cup of tea.“Breakfast in bed?” I said, a lazy smile spreading across my face. “You’re spoiling me.”“You deserve it,” he said, leaning down to kiss my forehead. “After last night, I thought you could use some extra TLC.”I laughed softly, memories of the night before flooding back. “Last night was… intense.”He grinned, his golden eyes spar
Kailey’s POVAs we got back from the woods, Ezekiel held my hand firmly, his warmth seeping into me. His grip was strong but comforting, like he never wanted to let go.“Where are we going?” I asked, giving him a curious side glance.“You’ll see,” he replied, a mischievous smile playing on his lips.The sun was setting, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple. We walked through the pack’s main path until we reached the dining area. As soon as I stepped in, my breath hitched. The room was stunningly arranged with flowers of every color, their sweet aroma filling the air. Candlelight flickered softly, casting a romantic glow over the space.“Ezekiel,” I whispered, unable to keep the awe out of my voice. “What is all this?”He turned to me, his golden eyes shimmering with pride. “This is for you, my love. Just a little something to show how much you mean to me.”My cheeks heated up, and I couldn’t suppress the smile spreading across my face. “You really outdid yourself,” I said, biting m
Kailey’s POVYeah, sure. I know I was having a good time... I definitely was. More Alphas and their pack elders recognizing me... more than Cecilia. Yes, I was definitely the reigning Luna, I said to myself, even as I just smiled and continued sipping my wine so gently.Then, suddenly, someone tapped me from behind. I turned, expecting to see Elyra or Cedric again, but when my eyes landed on the person in front of me, I nearly dropped my glass.Kyle.What the fuck?!"Ey, Kailey... it's really been a long time," he said, his lips stretching into a grin.I blinked. Then blinked again. "Kyle? Are you serious right now?"His deep chuckle sent a wave of nostalgia through me. "What? No hug for an old friend?"Old friend? The man was my ex-boyfriend from college! The first guy I ever really cared about before life and duty pulled us apart. And now here he was, standing in front of me, looking... well, looking absolutely incredible.He had grown. Like, really grown. His shoulders were broader
Kailey’s POVAs the ceremony went on, I was just so happy. Seeing my son, Auren, being ceremoniously decorated as the next Alpha of this land, my heart swelled with pride. Tears almost ran down my face. My ten-year-old son, given such an important role—it felt unreal. I was beyond happy, even as I thought of a name to call myself.“Alpha’s mother,” I murmured, tapping my chin thoughtfully. “No… Queen of the Alpha.”I giggled to myself, shaking my head. It was funny. I was giving myself so many options, and the more I thought about it, the more ridiculous they sounded.Then I burst out laughing. Like, really laughing. I couldn’t help it. It was just so amusing to me.“Kailey, what the hell is so funny?” Elyra’s voice pulled me back. She had walked up to me, her brows raised as she stared at me like I’d lost my mind.I tried to talk between laughs. “I was… I was just thinking…” I took a deep breath, wiping a tear from my eye. “What should I be called now? I mean, I can’t just be Luna an
Kailey’s POV"Alpha Ezekiel, I'm so happy for you. Finally, you have a son who will continue your legacy."Alpha Darius raised his glass, and I met his cheers with my own. The clink of our glasses echoed through the great hall, filled with the voices of powerful Alphas gathered for Auren’s coronation."Yeah, that was perfect," I said with a nod.Darius chuckled, leaning in slightly. "I just hope your new heir will continue the good relationship we’ve all kept through the years. You know how these young ones can be. Always eager to prove themselves."I smirked, taking a sip of my drink. "Sure, why not? He will. I trust him. He will be perfect. Though he's still very young, I know he will do his best."More Alphas began to approach, one after the other, congratulating me as they lifted their glasses. The air was filled with laughter and hushed conversations, everyone exchanging pleasantries and well wishes."Ezekiel, my friend," Alpha Tobias called as he clapped me on the back. "Tonight
Kailey’s POVToday, a lot of Alphas were going to be around. The full coronation of my son, Auren, was today, and I was so happy. I was fully ready and dressed up. Elyra helped me with my dress even as she was telling me that there shouldn’t be any fight between me and Cecilia today.“I didn’t promise anything,” I muttered, adjusting my necklace.Elyra gave me a side-eye. “Kailey…”I smirked. “Yeah, yeah. As long as Cecilia don’t step on my toes, I’m gonna be good.”Elyra folded her arms. “You’re always the one finding trouble.”I turned to her, raising an eyebrow. “Me? Finding trouble? Elyra, be for real.”She sighed. “You don’t even see it, do you?”“I see plenty.” I smirked, checking my reflection. “I see that I look damn good. I see that my son is about to be crowned. And I see that if Cecilia breathes wrong today, I just might—”Elyra groaned, cutting me off. “Kailey! This is Auren’s day. Can you, for once, not start a war?”I chuckled. “I’m not starting anything.”She gave me a
Kailey’s POVWhy isn’t this soup spicy?” I said even as I tasted the soup the maids were preparing for dinner.“My Queen… it’s—”“Your what?!” I cut her short, my voice sharp. “Don’t call me that. Call me the Luna.”“But—”“Are you trying to question me?” I shot back at the maid.“Sorry, Luna,” she said quickly, lowering her head.“Better. Now make sure this soup is spicy and not this trash you are cooking,” I snapped, turning to walk out of the kitchen. But as I reached the doorway, I paused.Cecilia was standing there, her arms folded, watching me with amusement. And then, she laughed.I narrowed my eyes. “What’s so funny?”Cecilia smirked. “What makes you think you are the Luna?”I tilted my head, my lips curling into a smile. “Oh, don’t worry about that. In no time, I will personally kick you out.”She arched an eyebrow. “Oh? And how exactly do you plan to do that?”I stepped closer, my voice low and firm. “All I need to do is prove you were the one behind my son’s murder.”Cecili
Kailey’s POV"Nothing," I said easily, flashing another smile."Bullshit," Auren grumbled.Ezekiel leaned forward, resting his arms on the table. "Kailey, I know you. You were ready to tear this whole plan apart five seconds ago. Now you’re just… agreeing? That’s not how you work."I shrugged, tilting my head. "Maybe I had a change of heart."Auren laughed. "You don’t have a heart.""That’s rude." I smirked."That’s the truth," Ezekiel replied, his eyes still locked on me. He was studying me, trying to read me like a book with torn pages.I kept my face smooth. If they even got a hint of what I was thinking, it would ruin everything."Look," I sighed loudly, tapping my nails against the table. "We all want the same thing, don’t we? This curse broken. That’s why we’re even having this damn talk.""Yeah," Ezekiel said slowly, still wary."And this is the only way?" I asked, trying to sound hesitant."You know it is," Auren said."Then I’m in," I said with certainty.Silence. Thick. Heav
Kailey’s POVHow fucking annoying it is to actually wake up to a text from Ezekiel.Meet me at the eating by 9 a.m. with Auren. Don’t be late! Who the hell does this fool think he’s talking to? I slid my phone onto the table and lay back down. I didn’t even know when I dozed off yesterday. I was so tired and scared that I just crashed, and now I wake up to this buzzing sound? So crazy. “Another crazy morning in this hell of a pack,” I mumbled, looking at the ceiling. I reached for my phone again to check the time. It was almost 8:30 a.m. I groaned, wondering whether I should even bother going to the diner. My wolf stirred, growling lowly, her way of nudging me to get moving. You should go. “Why? So he can piss me off even more?” I asked aloud. You know why. You care. I rolled my eyes. “Yeah, deep down, I still love Ezekiel so much. But what he did in the past? It’s always fresh in my mind. Every damn time I see him, I feel that pain. And it pisses me off so bad. Sometimes, I fe
Ezekiel’s POVJames’s eyes widened slightly, but he didn’t reply. “Alpha,” he said slowly. “I… I think you need to address this head-on. Call a meeting. Confront Remus and the others. Show them you’re still in control.”I scoffed. “Oh, that’ll go well,” I said lightly. “What am I supposed to say? That my house is in shambles but they should still believe me? That my son publicly insulted me, and my Luna and ex-Luna are locked in a power struggle, but I’ve got everything under control?” “You don’t have to say all that,” he answered, his tone calm. “But you do need to remind them of who you are. Of what you’ve done for this pack and the Alliance. They’ve forgotten, Ezekiel. And if you let this continue, they’ll change the story entirely.” I rubbed a hand over my face, tiredness sinking deep in my bones. He’s right, you know, my wolf said, his tone softer this time. You’ve been so focused on keeping the peace that you’ve forgotten how to lead. Maybe it’s time to tell them. And yourse
Ezekiel’s POVAs it stood right now, I was really losing it. Like, I was way too tired of everything. The feast Cecilia told me to plan? A fucking mess. Like, what the fuck? How can a fourteen-year-old boy talk back to me and Cecilia like that? Like, what the fuck?It shocked me to the highest level.You fucking caused all this for yourself.I could hear my wolf’s voice in my head, sharp and cutting, like he was enjoying my misery.“How did I?” I muttered under my breath, dragging my hands through my hair as I paced the room.You let Kailey down years ago, and you think nemesis won’t catch up with you?“You must be joking,” I growled back at him, my anger boiling over. “I have paid for my mistakes. Why the fuck is all this still happening to me?”Paid? Oh, please. You’ve barely scratched the top of what you owe, Ezekiel. And if you’re not careful, Auren is going to become something you’ll regret.“Fuck!” I snapped, striking my hand into the wall. My chest heaved as I tried to calm my