Diana's POVI sat in my room, gently cradling my growing bump as I watched the commotion outside through the window. The entire pack was buzzing with activity, preparing for the neighboring pack meeting. As queen, my presence was required, and I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and anxiety.My hand instinctively went to my stomach, feeling the subtle kicks and rolls of our little one. Rohan, my mate and the pack's alpha, had been busy all morning, ensuring everything was perfect for our guests. His Beta, Alex, was equally busy, coordinating the logistics and security.I smiled, observing how efficiently they worked together. Alex's calm and collected nature complemented Rohan's passionate leadership perfectly. The pack was lucky to have them.As I stood up, my maid, Elara, entered the room with a thoughtful expression. "Your Majesty, shall I help you get ready? The meeting is scheduled to begin soon."I nodded, and Elara began assisting me into my formal attire. The soft, fl
Rohan's POVI scooped Diana up in my arms, panic coursing through my veins as I rushed her to the infirmary. My heart racing, I barked orders at the healers, demanding they tend to her immediately.Once they assured me she was in good hands, I reluctantly left her side, knowing I couldn't abandon my duties as alpha. I appointed Elara, our trusted pack member, to stay with Diana and keep me informed.My mind still reeled with worry as I made my way back to the grand hall. I needed to ensure the meetings with the neighboring packs continued smoothly.As I entered the hall, I spotted Alex, his usual calm demeanor replaced by a ghostly pallor. His eyes were fixed on something across the room, his expression frozen in shock.Concerned, I approached him. "Alex, what's wrong?"But before he could respond, I followed his gaze to see what had left him so shaken.My blood ran cold.Helios.The devil himself stood in our midst, his piercing eyes locked onto mine with an unnerving intensity. That
Alex's POVI tore through the gardens, my feet pounding the winding paths as I desperately searched for Tasha. Where had she gone? What was she doing here? The questions swirled in my mind like a vortex, fueling my growing unease.Our packs' rivalry made our friendship forbidden, a potential liability. Helios and Rohan's animosity toward each other was legendary, and I knew I'd be considered a traitor for associating with her. But none of that mattered now. I had to find her.Memories of Tasha's bright smile and infectious laughter flooded my mind. Her melodic voice still echoed in my dreams. I'd deliberately cut ties, thinking I was protecting her from the dangers of my world. But seeing her here, in this place, I realized I'd been lying to myself. I needed her.The moon cast eerie shadows on the paths, and the trees creaked softly in the breeze. I scanned every alcove, every hidden corner, my senses on high alert. Where could she be?Rohan would be looking for me by now, wondering w
Alex's POVAs I turned to leave, my gaze drifted across the garden, and my heart sank. Helios and Rohan stood nearby, their eyes scanning the area, their necks craned in unison. It was obvious they were searching for us.I swiftly grasped Tasha's arm, pulling her close. "Come here," I whispered, trying to keep my tone light.Tasha's confusion was evident. "What's going on, Alex?"I didn't respond, instead guiding her toward a nearby alcove. My mind raced with possibilities. What were Helios and Rohan discussing? And why were they looking for us?As we stepped into the shadows, I decided to stall, to buy some time. "Let's talk," I said, attempting to sound casual.Tasha nodded, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.I took a deep breath, preparing to make small talk, but my gaze wandered to her neck. And that's when I saw it - a red mark, partially hidden by her collar.My heart skipped a beat.I needed a better view.Without thinking, I wrapped my arms around Tasha, pulling her into a gen
Alex's POVAs we walked away from the garden, Rohan's concerned gaze lingered on me. "Alex, what's wrong? You look like you've lost your last friend."I shook my head, muttering, "Nothing."Rohan's eyes narrowed, but he didn't press the issue. Instead, he asked, "Have you seen Elara? I haven't been able to find her all evening.""Last I saw, she was with the other ladies," I replied, trying to sound nonchalant.Rohan nodded, his expression thoughtful. "I think this pregnancy is messing with Diana's head."My curiosity piqued, I asked, "What do you mean?"Rohan sighed. "She's been trying too hard to keep up with her queenly duties, being responsible... She's taking everything too seriously. I told her to slow down, but now she's saying I'm stressing her out."I chuckled, trying to lighten the mood. "You're going to be a dad soon, Rohan. That's amazing!"Rohan's face cracked a small smile. "Thanks, Alex. I appreciate that. But seriously, Diana's stressing me out. She's always worrying a
Tasha's POVI scanned the crowded room, my eyes searching for Helios' familiar figure. The music pulsed around me, and laughter echoed off the walls, but my focus remained on finding my mate. I weaved through the sea of faces, dodging eager hands and polite smiles.As I turned a corner, I collided with a broad chest. Apologetic, I looked up to meet piercing blue eyes that seemed to bore into my soul. Chiseled features and raven-black hair framed a face that exuded confidence and power."Rohan," I whispered, recalling Helios' mention of the name. Their history was tainted with animosity, sworn enemies in the Alpha world. Yet, standing before him, I sensed something different.Rohan's gaze roamed over me, his expression unreadable. "You're looking for someone," he stated, his deep voice sending shivers down my spine.I nodded, trying to step back, but his hand grasped my elbow, holding me in place."Helios, perhaps?" he asked, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes.My instincts scream
Tasha's POVI wove through the crowd, determination guiding me toward Helios. His piercing gaze locked onto mine as I approached, the intensity making my pulse quicken."Where have you been?" Helios asked, his deep voice laced with concern and a hint of possessiveness. "I've been searching everywhere. I thought something happened to you.""I was just looking for you," I replied, evading the truth, trying to sound nonchalant despite the turmoil brewing inside.Helios' eyes narrowed, his gaze piercing. "I saw you coming out of a secluded area," he stated, his tone firm but laced with a hint of jealousy. "Who was with you? Was it that Alex guy?"My heart skipped a beat. How did he know? And why did he assume Alex guy?"Let's dance," I suggested, attempting to divert the topic, hoping the music and movement would diffuse the tension.But Helios wasn't having it. His grip on my elbow tightened, his fingers wrapping around me like a vice."Tell me, Tasha," he pressed, his voice low and urge
Tasha's POVI excused myself from the gathering, seeking refuge in the quiet hallway. I pulled out my phone and dialed Tracy's number."Hey girl!" Tracy answered on the first ring."Hey!" I replied, relieved to hear her cheerful voice."How's the party?" Tracy asked."It's...complicated," I said, hesitating.But before I could dive into the drama, Tracy squealed, "Oh, guess what? Julian took me to the cutest Italian place last night! He's totally the one!"I laughed, happy for my friend. "That sounds amazing! How's Julian?"Tracy gushed about Julian's charms, and I listened, momentarily forgetting my own worries.When Tracy finally paused for breath, I filled her in on the evening's events – Alex, the blonde woman, and Rohan."Whoa, slow down!" Tracy exclaimed. "A blonde woman? With Alex?"I nodded, even though she couldn't see me. "Yeah, and she's gorgeous. They seem close."Tracy's tone turned serious. "Tasha, be careful. You don't know what's going on between them.""I know," I adm
Tasha's POVI fidgeted with my phone, Helios's text still burning in my mind. "Stuck in Alpha's congress meeting. Miss you."My gaze drifted to Alex, chatting with Tracy. Why wasn't he jealous? Didn't he care that I was practically swooning over Helios?I seethed inwardly. How dare he make me jealous and then act nonchalant?That's exactly why I was flaunting Helios's attention – to provoke Alex. I wanted him to crave me, to desire me as much as I desired him.And Helios. Oh, Helios. My love for him ran deep, but my attraction to Alex refused to fade.Why choose between them? I wanted both.That's why I'd instructed Tracy to act reserved and calm around Alex. It was all part of the plan."Tracy, darling, don't flirt with Alex," I'd said earlier. "Let's see how he reacts."Tracy had raised an eyebrow but agreed.Now, watching Alex and Tracy's polite conversation, I smiled to myself. This was perfect.Amber's sudden arrival ruined my fun. She draped herself over Alex, flirting shameless
Alex's POVAs Tasha disappeared into the crowd, Tracy turned to me with a warm smile. "So, Beta Alex, what do you like to do in your free time?"I appreciated her effort to distract me from Tasha's departure. "I enjoy reading, mostly historical fiction. How about you?"Tracy's eyes sparkled. "I'm a fan of mystery novels. I love solving puzzles."Our conversation flowed effortlessly, covering everything from books to music. Tracy was easy to talk to, her thoughts engaging.As we spoke, I couldn't help but notice the subtle differences between Tracy and Tasha. Tracy's calm demeanor, her sharp wit, and introspective nature drew me in, but my heart still belonged to Tasha.Tracy seemed to sense my distraction, her gaze piercing. "You care deeply for Tasha, don't you?"I hesitated, unsure how much to reveal. But Tracy's kind expression put me at ease. "Yes, I do."Tracy's nod was understanding. "She's lucky to have you as a friend, Beta Alex. You're loyal and kind."Her words warmed me, bu
Alex's POVI navigated through the crowd, my mind still reeling from the emotions that threatened to surface earlier. Visiting Tasha seemed like a good distraction, despite the ache it brought. We were friends, after all. I'd long accepted her love for Helios, even if it hurt.I approached Tasha's gathering, her bright smile greeted me. "Beta Alex!" she exclaimed, rushing to hug me."I'm happy to see you too, Tasha," I replied, returning the hug with a calm, reserved nature.Tasha's enthusiasm was infectious, but her friend caught my attention. The curly-haired girl beside her radiated a different energy – poised, confident, and captivating."Tracy, this is Beta Alex," Tasha said, gesturing to her friend.Tracy's eyes sparkled as she extended her hand. "Nice to meet you, Beta Alex.""Nice to meet you, Tracy," I replied, shaking her hand. Her firm grip and direct gaze impressed me.Tasha bubbled over with excitement, recounting stories of her adventures with Helios. I listened attentiv
Rohan's POVI took Diana's hand, and together we stepped onto the raised platform, surveying the sea of faces before us. The crowd quieted, anticipating our announcement."My dear friends and fellow Alphas and pack members" I began, my voice carrying across the gathering. "Tonight, we gather to celebrate a momentous occasion."Diana's smile sparkled beside me."Councilor Evelyn has found her mate," I continued, "and we're honored to witness their union."The crowd erupted into applause, cheers, and whistles."But that's not all," Diana said, her voice melodious. "We're also celebrating new life."She placed a hand on her belly, and I wrapped mine around hers."I'm thrilled to announce that our pack will soon welcome a new addition," I declared.The crowd's cheers intensified, congratulatory shouts filling the air."Diana, our beloved queen, is expecting," I said, beaming with pride.As the crowd's enthusiasm reached a fever pitch, we announced, "Let the celebrations begin!"With our w
Rohan's POVI stood on the training grounds, observing our pack's warriors prepare for the upcoming Pack Riot. Alex stood beside me, his eyes scanning the action as we watched our pack members clash in a flurry of punches and kicks. Amber was unstoppable, taking down her opponent with ease."Amber's a force to be reckoned with," Alex said, nodding toward the skilled fighter."Unsurprisingly," I replied, watching Amber land a flawless kick. Alex chimed in, offering words of encouragement and strategic advice to the trainees."Remember, use your surroundings to your advantage!" he called out. "Keep your movements fluid, anticipate their attacks!" His input was invaluable, and I was grateful for his expertise.As the training session concluded, I called out, "Gather around!" The pack converged, eager for my next words. "Tonight's full moon marks a special occasion – a blissful party for our kind." Cheers erupted, and I continued, "We'll host neighboring packs, and our lands will resound
Helios's POVAs I walked Tasha to her room, I sensed her unease. Despite her attempts to hide it, her tension was palpable. I knew better than to pry, but I couldn't help feeling concerned.We approached the living room, and Tracy came into view. She sat on the armchair, legs crossed, clipping her nails with precision. Her eyes sparkled as she noticed us."Hey, girl!" Tracy exclaimed, dropping her nail clippers and rushing over to Tasha.The two friends embraced, their girly squeals filling the room. Tracy bounced up and down, her blonde ponytail bobbing."Tasha, darling! I've missed you!" Tracy gushed.Tasha forced a smile, but it didn't reach her eyes.Tracy didn't seem to notice, chattering on about her day. However, as she pulled back to examine Tasha's face, her expression turned serious."Hey, what's wrong?" Tracy asked.Tasha shrugged. "Later, girl. I have to rest."With that, she turned and headed upstairs.Tracy's eyes met mine, both of us disappointed."Is everything okay?"
Diana's POVI sank into the plush bed, resting my weary head on the soft pillows. My temples throbbed with a dull ache, a constant reminder of the stress eating away at me. Pregnancy wasn't supposed to be this exhausting. Every day felt like a battle, my body wrestling with fatigue and anxiety.Thoughts swirled in my mind like a vortex. Rohan's Alpha Council meeting dragged on, and I couldn't shake the feeling of unease. What if something happened to him? What if he got hurt?I rubbed my swollen belly, trying to soothe my racing thoughts. Our little one kicked and squirmed, sensing my tension. I took a deep breath, focusing on the gentle movements.But my mind refused to quiet. Alex's behavior worried me. His distant attitude, the mysterious phone calls... Rohan assured me everything was fine, but I knew better. Alex was hiding something.The door creaked open, and Rohan walked in, his expression tired but reassuring."Hey," he said softly, dropping onto the bed beside me.I smiled we
Tasha's POVI excused myself from the gathering, seeking refuge in the quiet hallway. I pulled out my phone and dialed Tracy's number."Hey girl!" Tracy answered on the first ring."Hey!" I replied, relieved to hear her cheerful voice."How's the party?" Tracy asked."It's...complicated," I said, hesitating.But before I could dive into the drama, Tracy squealed, "Oh, guess what? Julian took me to the cutest Italian place last night! He's totally the one!"I laughed, happy for my friend. "That sounds amazing! How's Julian?"Tracy gushed about Julian's charms, and I listened, momentarily forgetting my own worries.When Tracy finally paused for breath, I filled her in on the evening's events – Alex, the blonde woman, and Rohan."Whoa, slow down!" Tracy exclaimed. "A blonde woman? With Alex?"I nodded, even though she couldn't see me. "Yeah, and she's gorgeous. They seem close."Tracy's tone turned serious. "Tasha, be careful. You don't know what's going on between them.""I know," I adm
Tasha's POVI wove through the crowd, determination guiding me toward Helios. His piercing gaze locked onto mine as I approached, the intensity making my pulse quicken."Where have you been?" Helios asked, his deep voice laced with concern and a hint of possessiveness. "I've been searching everywhere. I thought something happened to you.""I was just looking for you," I replied, evading the truth, trying to sound nonchalant despite the turmoil brewing inside.Helios' eyes narrowed, his gaze piercing. "I saw you coming out of a secluded area," he stated, his tone firm but laced with a hint of jealousy. "Who was with you? Was it that Alex guy?"My heart skipped a beat. How did he know? And why did he assume Alex guy?"Let's dance," I suggested, attempting to divert the topic, hoping the music and movement would diffuse the tension.But Helios wasn't having it. His grip on my elbow tightened, his fingers wrapping around me like a vice."Tell me, Tasha," he pressed, his voice low and urge