Cliff's POVThe next day, as the first hint of dawn began to lighten the sky, the faint morning light filtered through the windows and spilled into the living room.I leaned against the sofa, having not slept a wink all night, feeling waves of exhaustion wash over me.After last night's chaos, my nerves were still taut. My mind was a jumbled mess of conflicting thoughts.At that moment, I saw Vanya coming downstairs, carrying some toiletries, apparently planning to head back to her apartment early in the morning.The moment I saw her, my nerves tightened like a bowstring about to snap, and I tensed up instantly.I quickly stood up and took a few steps forward to block her path. My tone softened involuntarily, tinged with caution, "Where are you going?""Back to my apartment," Vanya replied coldly, her eyes distant and resolute, as if I were a complete stranger.Her voice was soft, but it struck my heart like a heavy hammer.Instinctively, I reached out and grabbed her wrist, wanting t
Vanya's POVI blinked awake, the world around me sharpening from a blur to crystal clear. I was in my bedroom, not the storage room of the pack's hospital.I turned, expecting to see my mate beside me, but the bed was empty.A rapid knock on the door startled me."Who is it?" I called out.No answer came, just the door swinging open to reveal a familiar figure.It was Jenny, the Omega, who kept the Packhouse tidy."Luna Vanya, you need to come to the Packhouse," Jenny's voice was fraught with urgency.She opened her mouth as if to say more, then closed it. Her eyes were filled with unspoken words."I'm on my way," I replied, not waiting for further explanation as I got to my feet.As I approached the Packhouse, I stood at the entrance, my heart pounding in my chest.My mate, Alpha Cliff, was inside, holding a petite girl's hand.She glanced at me furtively. For a moment, I thought I saw a smug smile flash across her face."Vanya, what brings you here?" Cliff, my husband, my mate, and
Vanya's POVCliff stared at me in surprise after I spoke.Up until then, I had always acquiesced to his requests, executing them flawlessly.So, when he offered a casual explanation this time, he didn't expect me to challenge him."I told you, it's a necessary choice for the stability of my wolf. You're still my Luna..." Cliff repeated his rhetoric with a furrowed brow.I'd heard this excuse too many times. He didn't love Melinda, not yet, but no werewolf could resist the pull of a true mate.He hadn't rejected her as we had agreed, once his wolf was stable.Over time, the more they spent together, the more he fell for her, until he eventually marked her.Yet, he knew I was a competent Luna, so he didn't reject me.Every time he wanted to be with Melinda, he used his wolf as an excuse.I slowly closed my eyes, trying to escape the harsh reality. However, the pain inside me was like a tidal wave, overwhelming and inescapable.I had given everything for the prosperity of the pack, worki
Vanya's POVCliff carried Melinda out of the Packhouse, their backs seeming to tear a deep rift.I stood still.I could feel the gazes of the pack members around me, a mix of surprise, contempt, and sympathy piercing me like invisible needles.But I showed no emotion.I turned calmly, planning to leave the suffocating place.At that moment, Beta Elliot hurried to my side and asked, "Luna Vanya, are you alright?"I glanced at him and replied calmly, "I'm fine."He frowned slightly, "I know this isn't fair to you, but Alpha Cliff... no matter what, he's doing it for the pack. I hope you understand, we, the pack members, will support you."I vividly remembered Elliot's unwavering support for Cliff all the time.He even sided with Melinda in public later on.So, I had little fondness for him. I said, "Thank you."Then, I ignored him, walking straight out.Leaving the Packhouse, I began to call for my wolf, Selena, in my mind.Usually, she would quickly respond, communicate with me, and of
Vanya's POV"Luna Vanya! Are you here?"Elliot's voice echoed on the outskirts of the Shadow Forest. I regained control of my body and sprinted towards the sound.But my mind was filled with confusion about the giant wolf I had just encountered. Who was it, and why did it appear here?After running for a while, I saw Elliot's figure.I slowed my pace and stopped behind a giant tree trunk to shift back into my human form.The process was more difficult than usual.It felt as if the forces within me had been tearing at each other.Selena seemed to have fallen into a deep slumber, unresponsive to my attempts to rouse her.I dressed casually, and Beta Elliot arrived just in time.He scrutinized me carefully to ensure I was unharmed before gently adjusting my clothes.Then, he squatted down to help me put on my shoes with care and skill.His eyes were always filled with a hint of concern."Did you shift? What did you do in the Shadow Forest?" he asked softly.His gaze fixed on me, as if tr
Vanya's POVTo my surprise, Theodore didn't press for further reasons.I received a verbal commitment from him. Although I couldn't say I was completely reassured, I wasn't panicked either.I knew Theodore was a man of his word. Once he promised something, he was likely to follow through.As for me, I planned to keep Theodore's identity a deep secret, never to be revealed to others in the pack.After all that, I dragged my exhausted body to the bathtub, craving a good soak to ease my tense nerves.As the warm water gradually covered my body, my thoughts began to drift.After the initial panic, I gradually calmed down.After my bath, I locked the bedroom door.I was well aware of where Cliff was at this hour. He was with Melinda, undoubtedly.Although my wolf was still restless, strangely, there was no pain from the betrayal of my mate.I knew Cliff wouldn't engage in overly intimate actions with Melinda just yet.But this restraint wouldn't last long.Soon, he would indulge his wolf a
Vanya's POVI waved my hand quickly, smiling, "Don't say that. You're Cliff's... friend, which makes you our pack's guest."I deliberately paused on the word "friend," observing her reaction.Melinda's face flickered with a change, but she quickly composed herself.She whispered, "Luna Vanya, you are truly magnanimous."At this, Elliot couldn't help but interject, "Luna Vanya, she's just a..."I raised my chin slightly, my gaze firm as I interrupted him, "Elliot, Melinda is now a member of our pack. Her status is special. We must afford her the appropriate treatment. She can't keep wearing those old clothes. She needs suitable attire."In my past life, Melinda used my aversion to her to pretend to be a sweet girl who was bullied.In contrast, I was portrayed as a cruel, cold queen.This time, I chose to change my approach.Before leaving, I swept my gaze over the pack members one last time and gave Jenny a look.I went to Maggie's house. As soon as I entered, I saw several exquisite e
Cliff's POVA wave of annoyance surged within me, my brows furrowing tightly.I snapped at Elliot, "I explicitly told you to inform her not to come today. What exactly happened?"Elliot's gaze shifted between Melinda and me.Melinda, startled by the suffocating tension, immediately had her eyes rimmed with a circle of redness.She hurriedly explained, her voice on the verge of tears, "This isn't Beta Elliot's fault. I told him to notify Luna Vanya... I'm aware of my status, and I don't want to cause you any trouble, so... I thought it would be more appropriate for Luna Vanya to accompany you inside..."With that, she lowered her head, her vulnerable and helpless appearance unconsciously stirring a hint of pity in my heart.I raised my hand to rub my temple, internally caught in a very dilemma.On one hand, I really didn't want Vanya to appear here, fearing various unexpected situations.On the other hand, I couldn't ignore Melinda's terrified state.Melinda gently bit her lower lip, l
Cliff's POVThe next day, as the first hint of dawn began to lighten the sky, the faint morning light filtered through the windows and spilled into the living room.I leaned against the sofa, having not slept a wink all night, feeling waves of exhaustion wash over me.After last night's chaos, my nerves were still taut. My mind was a jumbled mess of conflicting thoughts.At that moment, I saw Vanya coming downstairs, carrying some toiletries, apparently planning to head back to her apartment early in the morning.The moment I saw her, my nerves tightened like a bowstring about to snap, and I tensed up instantly.I quickly stood up and took a few steps forward to block her path. My tone softened involuntarily, tinged with caution, "Where are you going?""Back to my apartment," Vanya replied coldly, her eyes distant and resolute, as if I were a complete stranger.Her voice was soft, but it struck my heart like a heavy hammer.Instinctively, I reached out and grabbed her wrist, wanting t
Vanya's POVI knew that only by leaving with Cliff could the two packs remain unscathed, and I could secure their future protection.At this thought, a chill ran down my spine, and a deep sense of unease washed over me.Edwin's mind was incredibly meticulous. Every move seemed meticulously planned, which was truly terrifying.He was like a wolf lurking in the shadows, always ready to strike with a fatal blow, catching everyone off guard.After a moment of silence, I said, "Thank you, Mr. Hammond. It's getting late, and I'll leave with Alpha Cliff now. I apologize for any rudeness today and will come to make amends another day."Edwin lowered his eyelids. After a while, he raised a hand in a gesture.The bodyguards stepped aside, and Cliff's grip on my arm tightened even more as he turned to leave.I keenly noticed that outside the Hammond family's door, Cliff had also brought his own people.If I had chosen to stay just now, Cliff's men might have stormed the hall without hesitation.
Vanya's POVMy heart skipped a beat. I hadn't detected any amusement in Edwin's eyes.My initial approach to Wilmot was always driven by his status and future prospects.Such a motive couldn't even be hidden from Wilmot, let alone Edwin.I recalled how Edwin had dealt with that flamboyant woman just now—right in front of me. It was clearly a warning.My heartbeat quickened involuntarily, but I maintained a calm facade and said, "Just classmates, not particularly close."Edwin let out a soft chuckle and said, "The wind up here is rather strong. Miss Dalton, it's better if you don't come up. Wilmot is downstairs. You two can have a chat."I couldn't fathom Edwin's intentions, but one thing was clear—he didn't want me near this terrace.Naturally, I wouldn't oppose him. After a polite nod, I headed downstairs.When I reached the bottom, I saw Wilmot drinking alone at the stairway entrance.Upon seeing me
Cliff's POVIn the hospital corridor, Elliot hurried back to the ward after receiving a phone call.He said to me, "Alpha Cliff, there seems to be some trouble at the Hammond family's event."I made a shushing gesture and glanced at Melinda, who was still unconscious in the hospital bed.I whispered to Elliot, "Let's talk outside.""……Yes, Alpha Cliff," Elliot hesitated but went out to wait first.After I closed the ward door, I said, "Go ahead.""It's about Luna..."Before he could finish, I frowned and asked, "What trouble has she caused now?""It seems two of Miss Coleman's classmates were slandering Luna Vanya, calling her a call girl and saying some very unpleasant things. They were kicked out by Mr. Hammond.""Slandering Vanya as a call girl?" I furrowed my brows even more. "Would she just stand there and let herself be slandered?""Luna Vanya didn't say a word the whole time. It was Gra
Third Person's POVRaven was frightened by Wilmot. She retreated two steps, shrinking behind her father, Tristan Schmidt.Tristan had never seen his daughter so wronged, especially right in front of him.He immediately said, "Mr. Hammond! Raven is a girl. You should let her have the last word. How could you..."Tristan's words were cut short as Wilmot found it amusing. "Excuse me?"Everyone around them wore expressions of anticipation, as if watching a drama unfold.Who was Wilmot?From a young age, only Edwin had been able to keep him in check. No outsider had ever dared to lecture him condescendingly.Tristan's face fell as he said, "Even so, I am your elder!""Who do you think you are?"Wilmot gave Tristan no respect.In this circle, respect was only given to those who were more powerful.These were just obscure small-business owners, making a few hundred thousand a month. If it weren't for Vanya
Third Person's POVCliff completely ignored Vanya beside him and strode forward, swiftly picking up Melinda and holding her in his arms.He shouted, "Elliot! Go get the doctor! Hurry up!""Yes, Alpha Cliff!" Elliot glanced deeply at Melinda in Cliff's arms before rushing off.Vanya couldn't help but sneer at the sight.Melinda's fainting seemed too convenient—too perfectly timed.Anyone with even a basic understanding of the situation, including Elliot, could sense something was amiss. Only Cliff, in his concern for Melinda, failed to notice.Wilmot watched the scene with a burning heart and said to Vanya, "He just left you behind like that?""Isn't that normal?" Vanya replied, though she was genuinely surprised by Melinda's move.Raven's gaze towards Vanya grew more hostile as she watched Melinda being carried away.Vanya noticed Raven's look and raised an eyebrow.It seemed Raven and Fawn believed t
Third Person's POVCliff saw Vanya the moment she walked in.He also noticed Theodore, who was following behind her. That sight seemed to sting his eyes.Wilmot had been waiting inside for quite some time. Upon seeing Vanya, his eyes lit up instantly.He dropped the glass of red wine in his hand and strode quickly towards her."Why so late?"Wilmot's tone conveyed dissatisfaction, but more so, it was filled with delight.Vanya said, "Let me introduce you. This is my friend, Grace."Wilmot's expression changed slightly upon seeing Grace.Grace, however, seemed quite intrigued and said, "Wilmot? You've grown up. We've met when you were still a kid."With that, Grace reached out to tug at Wilmot's ear, but he quickly blocked her hand, exclaiming, "I'm grown up now! I'm not a kid anymore!"Vanya hadn't expected that they knew each other.Grace then explained to Vanya, "When we were kids, the Hammond fami
Melinda's POVI deliberately lowered my voice, pretending to be at a loss.At the mere mention of Vanya, Cliff's brows furrowed. Although he didn't say anything, I could sense his impatience."Do you not want to come?" he asked."Of course not!" My cheeks flushed as I explained, "I'm just worried that people will make wild guesses about our relationship again."Cliff didn't respond to me.Soon, Cliff and I arrived at the gala venue. There weren't many people inside. Cliff greeted the people one by one.Before long, the main doors were pushed open again.Two couples walked in, followed by Fawn and Raven, who were holding hands.They came too!In an instant, my heart dropped into the abyss. How could they be at such an important occasion?Cliff noticed the change in my expression and frowned, asking, "Melinda, are you feeling unwell? Shall I have Elliot take you home first?""I..." I was about to speak
Third Person's POV"Stop pretending. It's been so long since the incident, and you never once invited us out for a meal to apologize. What's the real deal? Now you're just trying to show off that your rich boyfriend bought you a house, right?"Raven's voice was just loud enough to reach the ears of those around them. The surrounding people cast odd glances their way.Raven had previously been accused of spreading rumors by the dean and had endured quite a few disdainful looks during that time.She had no patience for Melinda now.Melinda hadn't expected Raven's reaction to be so intense, nor had she anticipated that Raven would directly expose her vanity.Her face turned pale instantly. "Raven, let's talk this through. I didn't mean it like that..."Raven scoffed, "Who wants to talk this through with you?""Raven, I know I was wrong. This time, I genuinely want to apologize to you... can you just forgive me?" Tears rolled down