Diana's POVI stepped out of the house, leaving Rachel's cheerful chatter behind. Not because I didn't love her, but because I needed to escape. The weight of my childlessness was crushing me.Years of marriage, years of trying, and still... nothing. The pain was a constant ache, a reminder of my failure. I couldn't bear to look at Rachel's innocent face, her bright smile, without feeling a pang of jealousy.I didn't want to be that person - bitter, resentful, and wicked. But the thoughts lingered, haunting me. Why couldn't I conceive? What was wrong with me?I needed time to think, to clear my head, to find a solution. I couldn't keep pretending everything was fine when it wasn't. The pressure was building, suffocating me.As I walked, the cool breeze whipped through my hair, but brought no solace. My mind raced with questions. Should I consider adoption? IVF? Or was it time to accept fate?I thought of my Mate, Rohan, and how he'd been patiently supporting me. But for how long? Did
Rohan's POVI seethed with anger, my mind racing with the implications of Diana's defiance. How could she disregard my concerns so blatantly?"Guards!" I bellowed, summoning them with a sharp gesture.The doors burst open, and two burly guards entered."Alpha?" one asked, wary."No mage is to enter these premises," I growled. "Send them back, whoever they are. I won't have dark magic infecting our palace."The guards exchanged uneasy glances."But, Alpha, the queen—""I don't care what the queen has requested," I cut in, my voice dripping with authority. "You will not allow any mage to pass. Understood?"The guards nodded, bows slightly hesitant."Yes, Alpha."I paced the room, fury burning within me.How could Diana do this? Didn't she trust me? Didn't she know I'd do everything to protect her, our pack?And what was she thinking, seeking out a mage? Did she really believe some charlatan could solve our childlessness?I stopped pacing, my eyes narrowing.And what if this mage was mor
Rohan's POVI stood beside Diana, my eyes fixed on Kael and Elara as they entered. The tension was palpable."Kael, your infidelity has consequences," I stated, my voice firm.Kael's eyes dropped, shame written across his face. "I know, Rohan. I was weak."Diana's voice cut in, icy. "Weakness isn't an excuse, Kael. You've broken our pack's code."Elara's tears flowed freely, her face crumpling. My heart ached for her."How could you, Kael?" she whispered.Kael's expression twisted in anguish. "I'm sorry, Elara. I'll do anything to regain your trust."I glanced at Rachel, standing beside Diana. Her eyes flashed defiance, but Diana's gaze pinned her."And you," Diana said, her voice piercing. "You snatched another woman's mate, destroying their bond."Rachel shifted uncomfortably, but Diana continued."You'll face punishment for your role in this betrayal."I watched as Rachel tried to console Elara, feeling a mix of emotions.As Alpha, I had to uphold our pack's laws. But as a friend,
Diana's POVI rushed to the bathroom, my hand covering my mouth as the familiar wave of nausea washed over me. I barely made it to the toilet before my body convulsed, and I vomited. Again.This was becoming a constant occurrence, and I couldn't ignore it any longer. The frequency of my vomiting, coupled with crippling headaches and dizzy spells, left me exhausted. Food held no appeal; the mere thought of eating made my stomach churn.As I splashed water on my face, I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror. Dark circles under my eyes, pale skin, and a look of perpetual fatigue stared back. When did I last feel like myself?The past few weeks blurred together in a haze of pack drama. Kael's infidelity, Rachel's involvement, and Rohan's subsequent banishment had consumed our lives. It must be stress."Stress," I repeated, trying to convince myself. It made sense. The pack's turmoil, Rohan's and my argument... My body was reacting to the pressure.But deep down, a tiny spark of hope fl
Diana's POVDr. Thompson entered the room, a warm smile on his face. "Well, Your Majesty," he began, "the results are in." I braced myself, anticipating the worst. But nothing could have prepared me for his next words."You're pregnant." My jaw dropped. "What?" I stammered. "Is this a dream?" I felt like I was floating, unable to process the news.Rohan re-entered the room, his eyes widening in shock. "Pregnant?" he echoed, his voice laced with amusement. Dr. Thompson nodded, his smile growing wider. "Congratulations, Alpha, Your Majesty. You're expecting."I felt tears prick at the corners of my eyes as Rohan's shock gave way to a radiant grin.He rushed to my side, embracing me tightly. "A child?" he whispered, awe-struck. I nodded, still trying to wrap my head around the news.Tears of joy streamed down my face as the reality sunk in. Our argument forgotten, Rohan showered me with kisses. "This is a miracle," he whispered, holding me close.Dr. Thompson chuckled, a warm smile on
Tasha's POVI leaned against the old oak tree, my eyes fixed on the path leading to our secret meeting spot. Alex should be here soon. What was taking him so long? My fingers drummed against my thigh, impatient.Minutes ticked by, and my anxiety grew. Had something happened? Was he okay?Just as I started to worry, my thoughts drifted to our last meeting. Alex's warm smile, his gentle touch... My heart swelled.Suddenly, my phone buzzed, shattering the serenity. Bec-beep beep!I hesitated, my hand hovering over my pocket. Who could it be? Hopefully not Alex canceling.I pulled out my phone, and my heart skipped a beat. Helios.My stomach twisted into knots. What did he want? Why now?Fear gripped me, and I hesitated, unsure if I should open the message. What if it was bad news?I slipped my phone back into my pocket, avoiding the message. Not now. Not when I was waiting for Alex.I focused on the path, willing Alex to appear. His presence would chase away my fears.The trees swayed ge
Tasha's POVAlex returned with a bottle of water, his expression unreadable. "Continue," he said, his voice neutral."I just feel like Helios and I have been apart for too long," I explained. "It's killing me. But now he needs me to come... He needs me."Alex's gaze met mine, his eyes glinting in the dim light. But his expression was unrevealing, a mask that concealed his thoughts.I reached out, attempting to reconnect, but Alex's cold look stopped me."Don't," he said, his voice low and even.My hand hovered, unsure."What happened?" I asked, confusion etting in. "What did I do?"Alex turned away, his jaw clenched.The silence was oppressive, heavy with unspoken emotions."Alex, talk to me," I pleaded.But he remained silent, his shoulders tense.The distance between us grew, a chasm that seemed insurmountable.Had I unknowingly hurt him?Was it Helios?Or something more?I tried again, my voice soft and gentle, hoping to break through the icy barrier that had formed around Alex. "A
Helios's POV The next morning, I woke up feeling a mix of emotions. Today was the day I'd face Helios, and I wasn't sure what to expect. I pushed aside my doubts and began my morning routine. A warm bath relaxed my tense muscles, and I took my time getting dressed, choosing a simple yet elegant outfit.As I finished up, I grabbed my phone and texted Tracy. "Hey, I won't be around today. Heading to Helios' place. Will fill you in later." I hesitated for a moment before sending it, wondering if I should've told Alex instead.Shrugging off the thought, I slipped my phone into my pocket and headed out.The drive to Helios' estate was uneventful, my mind consumed by thoughts of what lay ahead. When I arrived, the gates swung open, and I pulled up to the grand entrance.Stepping out of the car, I took a deep breath. Helios' maids, Kaida and Lyra, greeted me with warm smiles."Welcome, Tasha," Kaida said. "Helios is expecting you."Lyra took my hand, leading me inside. "Let's get you settl
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