*Selena*
**ONE YEAR LATER**
"Congratulations, Luna! You're pregnant!" The doctor's words kept ringing in my mind, filling me with joy as I made my way to my mate, the Alpha King's office, to tell him the good news.
After many tries, I was finally going to have my Alpha's pup. Zander and I had wanted a baby for so long since we had mated. But every time I got pregnant, it ended sadly with heartbreaking miscarriages, losing my precious pups.
This time, when I realized I had missed my periods, I decided to keep it to myself. I didn't want Zander to go through the pain and disappointment of another loss.
I kept my pregnancy hidden from everyone, waiting for the right time. It wasn't until three months had passed that I went for a check-up, hoping for good news. When the doctor confirmed that the baby was growing healthy and strong, tears of happiness flowed from my eyes. I couldn't contain my joy, rushing to share this incredible news with my mate.
I was going to knock on the door, but my hand halted in the air when I heard Avery's voice.
"Why don't you leave her? She doesn't deserve to be your mate. She's weak and wolf-less.”
My smile disappeared as my heart sank with uncertainty.
"Not now, Avery. I have to go to the conference. We'll talk about it later," Zander's calm voice replied, leaving me shocked.
Mate.
Weak.
Wolf-less.
Then it dawned on me : they were talking about me!
"Why don’t you kill her like you killed her family and pack?" Avery's bored voice came from behind the wide, thick doors.
I gasped and covered my mouth, trying to hold back tears. My eyes stung and everything became blurry.
"Stop! Don't say anything else. I'm late for the conference," Zander growled, sounding frustrated but not denying it.
It couldn't be true.
Goddess, please tell me that it couldn't be true! My mate, responsible for killing my family?! Now, he's plotting my murder with his girlfriend!
My suspicions were confirmed. At first, I only believed Avery was in love with Zander. But now, it's clear Zander also loved her, and they betrayed me behind my back.
The realization hit me like a tidal wave, crashing against the fragile shores of my heart.
I didn't have time to wipe my tears when I heard footsteps nearing the door. I quickly escaped before they sensed me.
Swiftly, I slid away from the door and rushed to my room. Closing the door behind me, I frantically searched for my phone and dialed my father's number.
Each ring felt like an eternity as I impatiently waited for my father to answer, but there was no response. The silence on the other end of the line gnawed at my soul, intensifying the fear gripping my heart.
In hopes of hearing some news, I called my uncle, Jack. He picked up after three rings.
"Uncle, I've been trying to reach Mom and Dad, but no one's picking up the phone," I blurted out, my worry rushing out in a hurry.
"Selena, my dear, it's over. Everything is finished! The pack... our pack... it's gone," Uncle Jack's voice cracked, carrying the same pain I felt.
"Who... who could do that?" I asked, hoping what I heard at Zander’s office was wrong.
"It was him, Selena. It was your mate," Uncle Jack's voice shook with sadness and resentment.
No! No! That's not true!
The ground beneath my feet seemed to crumble away, leaving me suspended in a world of disbelief.
"The Alpha King, Zander Blake. He murdered your family... our pack," Uncle's voice lowered to a somber tone, carrying the weight of an unbearable truth.
I felt like such a fool. Even after hearing it myself, I needed confirmation from my uncle. My already shattered heart splintered into countless pieces, each fragment a testament to the immense loss I had suffered.
My mate hated me so much that he even demolished my whole pack.
I clasped a hand over my mouth, trying to stifle the sobs that threatened to consume me. Tears streamed down my face, mixing with the remnants of shattered dreams as I mourned the devastating loss of my beloved family and the pack members who had once been my kin.
"Uncle," I hesitated, my voice shaking as I wiped my tears with the back of my hand, "I overheard Zander and his girlfriend, Avery, planning to murder me. They've been having an affair and want to get rid of me."
"Oh, Goddess! I always knew he was cruel, but to be so heartless..." Uncle's words trailed off, overwhelmed by deep sorrow for my situation. "Selena, my dear, I beg you to leave immediately and come to me. We'll escape to the South, leaving this treacherous land behind. There, we can start a new life, far away from their reach, where no one will ever find us."
"No, uncle, I can't just run and hide from him," I whispered. "He's my mate, the Alpha King. His power has no limits. I'm sure he'll find me, no matter where I go. And... I... I'm pregnant, carrying his pup," I confessed, glancing anxiously around as if the walls themselves held secrets that could expose my vulnerability.
"What?! You're pregnant?!" My uncle's voice surged with sudden excitement, echoing through the receiver.
I bit my trembling lips and nodded, even though he couldn't see me.
"He... he hates you and will kill your child too," my uncle's voice trembled with concern and desperation. "I'm coming to take you away from him," he advised, and he was right.
If Zander didn’t love me, he wouldn't love our unborn child. It was a truth I couldn't deny, a painful acceptance that stung my heart.
"Uncle, wait for me outside the borders of this pack. I'll join you in a few hours," I replied, wiping my wet cheeks with determined yet shaking hands as I ended the call.
*Selena*A grand conference had descended upon the Moonglow pack, nestled in the heart of the North. Known far and wide as the largest and most prestigious pack, it stood under the rule of none other than the Alpha King himself, Zander Blake. Alphas from every corner of the world converged upon this sacred ground, drawn by the significance of the gathering. And at the helm of it all, leading the congregation, was the formidable figure of Alpha King Zander Blake.I wiped away my tears, summoning the strength to compose myself. Taking a deep breath, I hurried towards the conference hall. The pain of betrayal made it challenging to drag my weary body forward. Tears persisted, blurring my vision and momentarily blinding me. Nonetheless, I fought against them, pushing them back."Luna Queen, I'm sorry, but you can't enter. The conference has already begun, and I've been instructed not to let anyone in," the guard pleaded, attempting to prevent me from entering. However, as the Luna Queen,
*Selena* **Four years later**I stared helplessly at the stack of cash in my hand. We had half a month to get by with this meager amount, and it would be incredibly difficult."Ugh!" I groaned, running my hand through my hair before placing the cash back in the box where I kept it in my room.My bank account was already empty, and without a proper job, I had no idea how I would provide for my family next month. Austin's birthday was just three months away, and the thought of failing him made me feel like a complete failure as a mother. My baby boy had asked for a game as a birthday gift, and I couldn’t even afford to give him that.Damn it. I felt so miserable, and my fate seemed even crueler than my circumstances.I worked multiple part-time jobs, barely earning enough to cover our basic necessities, let alone any luxuries. The weight of my failures bore down on me even more because Austin wasn’t just any child—he was a prince, an heir, and carried alpha blood. It broke my heart to s
I struggled to calm the tumultuous emotions swirling within me, feeling like a storm was about to engulf me. Yet, I couldn't help but steal a glance at my son, who was blissfully playing with building blocks. My heart suddenly brimmed with love and tenderness at the sight of him. After losing everything, Austin had become my reason to keep going. Nothing in this world was more precious to me than him. I was aware that my thoughts could be irrational at times, but I couldn't help being frightened for him. The fear of Zander discovering Austin's existence and the potential consequences consumed me.Suddenly, my breaths became shallow, and panic threatened to overtake me. I struggled to keep it together and reached for a glass of cold water, attempting to regain control. Sitting down, I closed my eyes, trying to focus on the good memories to calm myself.Gradually, my breathing steadied, and my heart resumed its normal rhythm. I glanced at the time and realized I was running late for my
*Selena*To travel to the North, I needed a flight ticket, and with the little money I had, I had no choice but to borrow some from my friends at the bar where I worked. I promised them I’d pay it back as soon as I got my paycheck.With a heavy heart, I said goodbye to my son and uncle before leaving for the Wild Howl Pack.Standing in front of the hotel where my interview for the housekeeping staff position was scheduled, I took a deep breath and put on a confident smile before stepping inside. This wasn’t just any hotel; it was the only eight-star hotel in the world, catering exclusively to the wealthiest clients. The pay was generous, and they didn’t require a degree—just experience.With my background as a janitor and bartender, I felt certain I could land this job. It finally seemed like the goddess had heard my prayers.When I entered the hall and saw at least fifty candidates competing for just ten vacancies, I must admit, I felt a little nervous. But I needed this job desperate
*Selena*Personal omega to his Luna?My ass!“What if I refuse?” I challenged, lifting my chin with defiance.A scowl darkened his face as he narrowed his piercing blue eyes dangerously. My bravado faltered for a moment, and I silently cursed the heavens. Goddess, save me. His alpha aura was suffocating, intense, and powerful enough to crush the small shred of resolve I was clinging to.I instinctively averted my gaze, stepping back in a desperate attempt to escape his presence and catch a breath. But it was impossible. The room felt smaller, the air thick with his intoxicating scent—the same scent that still had the unnerving ability to send my heart spiraling into chaos.“You signed the contract,” his sharp voice cut through the tension like a blade, snapping me out of the haze he always seemed to create.I blinked, gathering my wits. “I signed the contract this morning, yes. But I can still refuse to work, penalty be damned!” I shot back defiantly. Honestly, I didn’t care about the
*Selena*I had planned everything down to the smallest detail to make sure no one would ever suspect me. Playing the part of a humble omega made it easy to carry out my plan without raising eyebrows.I only needed one day to complete the job, and then I’d be gone, leaving no trace behind. The clock bell rang, drawing my attention to the time.It was the moment the security guards were about to switch shifts, and that was my opening. With my laptop in hand, I moved through the hallways quietly, keeping an eye on the clock. I had a mere fifteen-minute window, but for someone with my skills, it was more than enough. Hacking into their security system would be as easy as snapping my fingers.The packhouse was mostly quiet at this hour. Most people had already retreated to their rooms for the night. The usual guard patrols were absent from the hallways, giving me the perfect chance. I moved silently, stepping into shadows and ducking whenever I heard footsteps coming my way. My destination:
I didn't stop there for a moment after that. Running off, I stopped only after reaching my room.Shit! How could he come so early? He spoiled all my plans.I locked the door and took out my laptop, connecting it to the portable wifi I had with me. It was not easy to get detected by server security.*I can't do this. I am going back.* I sent a text to the anonymous client. What happened today made me question whether the amount of money was worth the risk after all.He still hadn't disclosed his identity and wanted me to die for his so-called work. I snorted at the dickhead.*No, you can't back out. You have to do this.* The reply came instantly*I am not so silly to get myself killed.* I replied back, getting frustrated about his dangerous deal.That guy would get me murdered by the Alpha King if I were not cautious.*I am sending there a backup. But you already have someone who will help you there. You don't have to leave the work incomplete.* He texted, and he signed off instantly.
*Avery*Eden stood before me, trembling with fear as she murmured, “I’m sorry, Luna. I failed to perform the task you assigned to me.” Her voice quavered, and I could see the guilt etched on her face. My anger boiled over. The first part of my plan had failed spectacularly, and I hadn't anticipated Zander intervening to save his ex-mate. This only fueled my thirst for revenge, making me more determined than ever.“Don’t worry,” I said, my voice cold and unyielding. “But remember, this should never happen again. I want that little whore to suffer before she dies in misery. I’ll make sure she’s ensnared in a crime so grave that the Alpha King himself will be forced to execute her. Only then will I find peace.” My eyes narrowed as I imagined the cruel end I planned for Selena. She dared to steal my love and would pay dearly for her audacity.“Of course, Luna,” Eden said, her tone dripping with flattery. “You are invincible and the most clever. No one can outwit you. I am always at your s
“You’re not serious, are you?” I snapped, narrowing my eyes in annoyance.Zander watched me for a moment, his expression confused, before realization dawned on him.“Why can’t I sleep here? It’s my bed,” he shot back, his tone calm but firm.I blinked at him in disbelief as he walked to the other side of the bed, sat down, and stretched out his long legs. He leaned back, adjusting his pillows with casual ease.“But… but you said you wouldn’t come closer,” I muttered nervously, clutching the cover tightly to my chest.He glanced at me, amusement dancing in his eyes. His blue irises sparkled with mischief, and in that moment, I knew I was in trouble.“The bed is big enough, and I’ll stay on my side,” he declared, his tone laced with playful arrogance. “I promised I wouldn’t touch you, and Alpha Zander is true to his word.”His confidence, combined with that mischievous glint in his eyes, made my heart race.I narrowed my eyes, not buying his convincing act for a second. Without a word,
I sat on the edge of the guest room bed, glancing around. Everything here felt so familiar, yet at the same time, it felt like I didn’t belong. What had happened in such a short time that made me feel so lost in what was once my home? Or... was it even my home anymore? I let out a sigh, still wrestling with the unanswered questions swirling in my mind.Zander left for the pack office to handle some work with Maddox, and Blair took Austin with her. As if things couldn’t get more complicated, I discovered that my father, stepmother, and half-sister were also here when I returned. Now, I had to live with them in the pack house as well.To my shock, none of them remembered me—not even my own father. To make matters worse, they all seemed to despise me the moment Zander introduced me as his mate. Their resentment stemmed from their desire for Anne to be with the alpha king instead.What luck I had.Slumping back onto the bed, I stared blankly at the ceiling, trying to quiet my thoughts. Su
Though Mother wasn’t pleased with my decision, she refrained from voicing her disapproval. She knew that no amount of arguing would change my mind, especially after the council had formally sealed the agreement.Zander approached me, holding Austin’s small hand, and my heart ached with the overwhelming need to embrace my son. Maddox and Blair followed closely behind, their expressions unreadable.“Austin, this is Selena,” Zander said gently, crouching to meet our son’s gaze. “She’s going to live with us now.”Austin’s curious eyes studied me with a mix of confusion and innocence. I offered him a soft smile, silently praying that some part of his heart would recognize me—perhaps just a trace of the bond we shared, the blood and flesh that connected us, would make him realize who I was.“Why will she live with us?” Austin asked, tilting his head toward his father.His words pierced through me, and I sighed deeply, the weight of despair settling over my chest. My baby boy didn’t recogniz
I followed Selena silently toward the council courtroom, my eyes fixed on her back. It was as though I were trying to see through her, to reach the depths of her soul—but it was a futile attempt.Lyon was just as restless as I was and the uncertainty of what Selena would announce as her decision before the council made both of us anxious. Selena entered the courtroom first, her steps graceful yet determined. I followed a few paces behind, watching as she moved with quiet confidence and grace. She took her seat beside the High Priestess, while I settled into a row just behind her. Despite the physical distance between us, I could sense her awareness of my presence. Her subtle shifts in posture and the faint tension in her shoulders told me she knew I was there.The council head entered the courtroom, and everyone rose in respect. He was an elder of the werewolf community, a figure of immense authority and wisdom, with over two centuries of experience. Known for his unparalleled powers
*Zander*I knew the moment she averted her eyes that she had made up her mind to reject me. The thought of losing her was terrifying, a fear I couldn’t even put into words. My heart pounded in my chest, each beat louder than the last.But when our lips finally met, I felt the resistance she had been holding onto dissolve. The mate bond between us surged to life, undeniable and overwhelming. Lyon growled in my head, so overcome with love for our mate that he wanted to take over, to mark her, to make her ours forever.Goddess, the moment I saw her in that silvery bridal gown, I had wanted to do this. She looked so breathtaking, so irresistibly stunning, I couldn’t think of anything else. I wanted to forget about the trial and take her to the wedding hall, marry her, make her my wife, mate with her, impregnate her, and make her have my pup. Catching her lower lip between my teeth, I tugged harder, unable to get enough of her. She moaned softly, and I deepened the kiss, our lips overlapp
"Alpha King Zander is already betrothed to Alpha Albert’s daughter, and Queen Selena is promised to God Kaelvor. It’s only fair to proceed with the planned arrangements and not disrupt them simply because the Alpha King suddenly realized he is the mate of our queen," the High Priestess argued firmly in my favor. She cast a sharp, instructive glance my way, urging me to speak. But I remained silent, unsure why I felt compelled to hold my tongue."High Priestess, how can you say that?" Zander retorted, his tone filled with fury. My gaze lingered on the imposing figure of my mate, the Alpha King, as tension filled the air. A deep unease settled in my chest, knowing that a conflict between my mother and my mate was brewing. If it came to a confrontation, whose side would I even take?"You know what a mate means to us werewolves!" Zander’s thunderous voice echoed through the hall, his words cutting through the murmur of the council like a blade."The times have changed, Alpha King," my mot
*Selena*The wedding was halted, and when I was summoned to appear before the Council for my trial, I didn’t even have time to change out of my wedding dress—a traditional royal attire of the Lunar Realm.I glanced down at the silver blouse, its snug fit and intricate embroidery catching the light. The flowing silk skirt swayed gracefully around my legs as I moved and its elegance was undeniable. A delicate veil, pinned at the crown of my hair, trailed behind me, secured by a crescent moon clip. The diamond jewelry I wore sparkled brilliantly, perfectly complementing the attire and completing the regal look.I must have looked like the most beautiful bride today because Zander’s gaze hadn’t faltered for even a second since it landed on me. His expression was one of pure astonishment, his eyes wide and unblinking. My cheeks grew warm, and I was certain they were flushed as red as a ripe tomato. His gaze roamed over me, slow and deliberate, filled with raw hunger.I fought the urge to s
Author’s POV.“Mother, why can’t I save the realm without marrying a god?” Selena argued, frustration lacing her voice.“Because marrying a god will multiply your powers,” the high priestess replied calmly, though her tone held a firm finality. “You are not a complete goddess, Selena. You only carry the essence of the Moon Goddess as her descendant.”“But what about my mate? I’ve been married to him, and we have a son,” Selena questioned defiantly as her voice trembled with emotion.They called her the queen of the realm, worshipped her as their goddess, but as others continued to dictate her life, she felt less like a queen with authority and more like a pawn in their game.“He has forgotten about you,” the high priestess reminded Selena. “They all have forgotten you, even your son. If it weren’t for the mate bond, Alpha Zander would never have acknowledged you, Selena. You don’t matter to them, to Alpha Zander. So it’s better you stay here and fulfill your duty as the queen of the L
"Mate, don’t do this to me," I whispered, desperation lacing my voice.For a moment, hope flickered in my chest as I saw the yearning in her eyes. I was certain there was love for me too. But before I could even hold on to that hope, the high priestess raised her moonstaff, directing a beam of light straight at me. The last thing I heard before everything went dark was my mate's soft and regretful voice whispering, "I'm sorry."Then, in the blink of an eye, I was gone, pulled from the lunar realm, and transported to my Moonglow pack. She betrayed me. Tricked me into being sent back—so she could marry some god?! No. She was my mate and mine alone. I wouldn’t stop until I made her realize there was no escaping me.“Alpha!” Maddox’s voice snapped me back to reality. I turned to see him and Blair watching me, their faces etched with concern.“Where have you been?” Blair asked, her tone sharp with worry.I hadn’t told anyone where I was going. Only Freya knew as she had shown me the way to