Ch. 481..490

Chapter 481 A New Beginning

I gave myself a gentle slap on the head to snap back to reality as Ryder approached. My father released my hand as Ryder stepped forward, and he kindly helped me up onto the small platform where he stood. He leaned in to plant a sweet kiss on my cheek. "You look absolutely stunning," he whispered in my ear, his eyes traversing down my form before locking onto mine once more, filled with adoration.

The wedding officiant, a tall and amiable man, commenced the ceremony. As he gracefully greeted everyone and eloquently explained the significance of this union, I couldn't help but steal glances at Ryder, wanting to savor every detail of his appearance. He stood there, a picture of confidence and poise. His eyes gleamed with joy and adoration, reflecting the love that bound us together. Clad in an

impeccably tailored black suit that hugged his form exquisitely, he looked every bit the dashing groom. His short, dark hair was slicked back to perfection, accentuating his handsome features. He was simply flawless.

Then, the moment arrived when the officiant turned towards me and asked, "Do you, Bella Peterson, take Ryder to be your lawful husband?" My gaze met Ryder's, and our hands clasped firmly.

"I do." The words came effortlessly, sealing our fate.

The officiant shifted his attention to Ryder, his words clear and deliberate, "Do you, Ryder Knight, take Bella to be your lawful wife?"

"I do," Ryder responded without a hint of hesitation. His conviction was evident, and my heart swelled with love and joy.

The exchange of rings followed, as someone gracefully handed them to us, and we gently slid the bands onto each other's fingers.

With a warm smile, the officiant declared, "I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride."

As those words echoed in the air, the crowd erupted into a symphony of claps and cheers, celebrating the joyous occasion. Ryder drew me closer, his hand tenderly cupping the nape of my neck, while the other arm

wrapped around my slender waist. The first kiss as husband and wife was both gentle and passionate, an affectionate expression of our love for each other. The world seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of us, united in this beautiful moment. I entangled my fingers in his hair, pulling him closer, and our tongues

intertwined in a passionate kiss that seemed to last an eternity. When we finally pulled away, our bodies were ablaze with desire, leaving us breathless and wanting more.

Amidst the congratulations from our family, we made our way to the grand reception hall, a vast and opulent ballroom. As the time came for our first dance as a newlywed couple Ryder took my hand, guiding us to the center of the dance floor. His strong arm encircled my waist while holding my hand securely, sensing my nervousness.

"Relax, baby girl," he whispered tenderly into my ear.

"Ryder, we haven't even practiced our couple's dance. How are we going to make it perfect?" I fretted, feeling the pressure of the moment.

To ease my nerves, his fingers traced down my spine in a soothing caress, and I responded by wrapping my free hand around his neck.

"We don't need perfection. Just being here with you is perfect. Our dance together is perfect because it's us," he reassured me, his eyes casting an enchanting spell that made me melt into his arms. Following his lead, we swayed gracefully to the soft rhythm of the music. "You look so relaxed now," Ryder teased playfully.

"You made me feel that way," I admitted, grateful for his calming influence.

"Hmmn... How about we put on a little show for our guests?" he suggested mischievously, before planting a gentle kiss on my jaw, his lips trailing down the length of my neck.

I glanced around and noticed that

everyone's eyes were on us. It was normal for quests to watch the couple's first dance, but Ryder was adding some extra flair to make them watch with even more interest. I blushed and attempted to push him away, but his firm hold on my waist prevented me from escaping his playful antics.

"And now, for the grand finale," he declared, a mischievous grin lighting up his face. Without any warning, he skillfully dipped me in his arms, bringing me slightly lower as he pressed his lips firmly against mine.

In that moment, time seemed R

stand still as we shared a

passionate and deeply intimate kiss, completely oblivious to the crowd that surrounded us. It was as if we were dancing with our lips, expressing the profound love we

had for each other.

When did he plan this breathtaking surprise?

True to his word, he had orchestrated our dance to perfection, just as our love for each other was.

As we gracefully exited the reception hall, a luxurious limousine awaited us outside. To my surprise, my mother appeared with bags and suitcases in hand. Confusion danced in my eyes as I glanced at Ryder. "What's going on?" I inquired, raising an intrigued eyebrow.

He beamed at me with excitement and revealed, "We're heading on our honeymoon!"

A rush of delight filled my heart as I realized that this was the beginning of our joyous married life, and we were ready to embark on a journey of discovering and cherishing each other even more.

Chapter 482 Give Me A Chance Alex's POV.

We all gathered at Ryder's wedding, witnessing the heartfelt exchange of vows between Ryder and Bella. Their hurried marriage brought back memories of my own wedding day, where I had first laid eyes on Sarah. But after she left, things took a painful turn. I tried countless times to meet her, to explain myself, but she refused to hear me out. Her parents, adamant in their disapproval, forbade me from entering their home. It was absurd - I

was her husband, not some boyfriend they could simply cast aside. I pleaded with them, insisting that I had changed, that I wanted to be with her, but they turned a deaf ear.

Unbeknownst to me, Ryder had invited Sarah to the wedding as well. My heart filled with both hope and trepidation, praying that she would show up so I could finally talk to her. And then, there she was, entering the venue in a stunning peach-colored gown. Something about her appearance was different, and it left me bewildered. Her face was radiant, and I couldn't help but notice her slightly protruding stomach. What on earth was going on?

She was pregnant, and it was my child she was carrying, but she hadn't bothered to tell me.

Overwhelmed with emotions, I leaped to my feet and hastened towards her.

As soon as she spotted me, she averted her gaze, purposely avoiding any interaction with me.

"Sarah, please, just listen to me," I implored, holding her wrist firmly and gently turning her to face me.

Her scowl deepened as she resisted. "What do you want, Alex? Why won't you leave me alone? I don't want to talk to you."

I felt a pang of hurt, but I couldn't let her walk away without understanding the truth. "Sarah, don't do this to us," I pleaded, watching her eyes widen as she realized that I knew about the baby.

My gaze softened as it fell upon her belly, my hand instinctively caressing it with warmth. "I can prove my innocence, Sarah. That video you saw was fake, it was from two years ago. I have evidence to show you," I said earnestly, determined to clear the misunderstandings.

She snorted, dismissing my words. "I don't care. It was all about you and your past habits. I can't believe you'll be serious in this relationship," she retorted stubbornly.

"Why won't you believe me? I am married to you, Sarah. I want to spend my entire life with you and our baby," I insisted, trying to reach her heart.

"This is not your baby. This is only mine," she insisted adamantly.

Taking a deep breath, I closed my eyes briefly to compose myself. Patience was not my strong suit, but this was one situation where I had to keep calm. As she turned to leave, I knew I had to stop her. My arms stretched out to block her way, and she stared at me, clearly flustered.

"Why are you making a scene? It's your friend's wedding. Everyone's watching us. The media is probably watching too," she said nervously, aware of the attention we were drawing.

And she was right. It was a moment

where the whole world seemed to be watching. But I saw it as an

opportunity, a chance to declare my love for her openly. I couldn't hold back any longer. No more

ave?

misunderstandings, no more fights, no more loneliness. I wanted her to know that I wanted to spend my life with her.

Ignoring the eyes around us, I held her hand firmly, even as she tried to pull away. "Sarah, I love you," I confessed, my voice resolute.

Her gasp filled the air, and her diamond-studded clutch slipped from her grasp with a soft thud.

Every camera present at the highly anticipated wedding of Ryder and Bella turned towards us, now recording my love confession.

"I love you, Sarah. Please, you have to believe me. It's the truth-I really do love you. You are my life, and I cannot imagine living without you. Please, don't leave me. I would be shattered," I pleaded, my heart pounding in my chest as I awaited her response. A single tear glistened in her eyes, and she swallowed hard before finding the courage to speak. "Alex, please, don't play with my feelings again. I can't bear any more emotional trauma."

"I could never play with your feelings,

Sarah, because my feelings are entwined with yours. I could never bring myself to hurt you, not even in the wildest of dreams. My love for you is beyond measure. I want nothing more than to see you happy, to give you all the happiness in the world. Please, trust me, Sarah, and give me a chance to prove my love to you," I implored, my voice filled

with sincerity.

I knew I should have confessed my love much earlier, but fear and uncertainty held me back. But now, there was no holding back.

I laid bare my emotions, telling her, "From the very first time we made love, I fell in love with you. Since that moment, I knew you were meant to be mine, and I was meant to be yours. You don't just possess my heart, Sarah; you own my soul, my entire being, my life."

With my heart pounding in my chest, I sank down on one knee, holding

Sarah's hand gently in mine. I looked into her eyes, brimming with love and sincerity, as I asked with the utmost earnestness,

"Sarah Alex Hamilton, will you marry

me again? This time, I want to make

new vows-to be forever loyal, to never intentionally or unintentionally hurt you, to listen to you and give you the power to decide in our relationship. Please, come back to me and marry me again.

Her smile lit up the world around us, and she nodded her head in affirmation.

"Yes, yes, a thousand times yes," she replied, and at that moment, my world brightened with the radiance of her "yes."

Ecstatic, I sprang to my feet and pulled her into my arms, cherishing her like never before. I kissed her with all the passion and love in my soul, knowing that I had found a love so intense it surpassed all else, even my own ego.

I never imagined I could love someone with such depth and devotion, putting her above all else in my life. But there she was, my wife, the mother of my kids, the center of my universe, and I vowed to cherish and protect our love for all eternity.

Chapter 483

Amidst the busy preparations for my upcoming wedding, I couldn't shake off the lingering unease in my heart. Mia's sudden resignation from my company had left me bewildered and bruised my ego. I had made it clear to her that our relationship would remain strictly

professional, yet she chose to leave.

"Why does it bother me so much?" I wondered aloud as I paced in my luxurious penthouse.

Alex, who had been helping me with the wedding arrangements, noticed my distress.

"Hey, man, what's bothering you? You should be on cloud nine with your marriage just around the corner," Alex said, concern evident in his voice.

"I don't know, Alex. It's just that Mia's resignation hit me harder than I expected," I admitted with a sigh. "Even though I told myself I didn't care about her rejecting me, there's this nagging feeling inside me."

"Why do you bother? It is not like you feel something for her, do you?" Alex inquired. "Remember, you have a stunning fiancée, a glamorous wedding ahead, and a successful career. You've got it all, man! Cheer up!"

"Yeah, I know, but still..." I trailed off, unable to articulate the emptiness I felt inside.

As the days went by, the wedding preparations continued with fervor. My family had pulled out all the stops, booking a seven-star hotel for the guests

and hiring a renowned wedding organizer to ensure everything was perfect. Yet, amid the grandeur and excitement, my heart remained restless.

Late one evening, I found myself staring out at the city lights from my penthouse balcony. The gentle breeze caressed my face, and I couldn't help but feel a twinge of sadness. "What am I missing?" I murmured, almost expecting an answer from the wind.

As I stood on my balcony, the city lights flickering below, my phone suddenly rang, jarring me from my thoughts. I glanced at the screen, and to my horror, it was my arch-rival, Marco, calling. He had a sinister reputation in the underworld, and our animosity had been brewing for years. My heart pounded as I answered the call, bracing myself for whatever evil plan he had concocted.

"I've got something that belongs to you, mate," Marco sneered, his voice dripping with malice. "Or should I say someone?"

My phone pinged again and Mia's picture flashed. She was kept tied in a room.

My blood turned to ice as I stared at her tear stained face.

"What have you done to her?" I growled, clenching my fists.

"I've got her in a nice little hideout. If you want her back alive, come and face me like a man," he taunted, the challenge clear in his voice.

Without a moment's hesitation, I knew I had to save Mia. I rushed to the location Marco had specified, a dimly lit abandoned warehouse on the outskirts of the city. As I entered, the stench of decay and danger hung heavily in the air.

Marco stood at the far end of the warehouse, flanked by his menacing henchmen. "About time you showed up," he sneered, his eyes glinting with sadistic pleasure.

"You've made a grave mistake, Marco," I hissed through gritted teeth. "Let Mia go, and this doesn't have to get any uglier."

He chuckled darkly. "Oh, but it already is, my friend. This city ain't big enough for the both of us, and I'm here to make sure you know your place."

The tension in the room escalated,

and then it happened. Marco made the first move, lunging towards me with a vicious right hook. I deftly. ducked and retaliated with a swift

uppereut to his jaw. The impact

reverberated through my fist,

satisfyingly connecting with his face.

Our fight intensified as we exchanged a flurry of kicks and punches, each blow fueled by years of bitter rivalry. I could taste the metallic tang of blood in my mouth, but I couldn't afford to back down. Mia's life depended on my victory. Dodging a powerful swing from Marco, I swept his legs from under him, sending him crashing to the ground. His henchmen rushed towards me, but I was determined to finish this.

Bone-crunching punches, bone-breaking kicks, the sound of flesh meeting flesh echoed through the warehouse. The walls seemed to tremble under the weight of our battle. Amidst the chaos, I spotted Mia, tied up and frightened.

Marco's cold eyes narrowed, and a sinister smile crept across his face. "Kill him!" he barked, and his henchmen wasted no time pulling out their deadly weapons. The glint of metal in their hands sent a alert signal to my instinct.

Instinctively, I dove for cover behind

el.p

a crate as bullets whizzed through the air, tearing into the surroundings with a deafening roar. My loyal men arrived just in the nick of time, providing much-needed cover fire, pushing back Marco's goons as we engaged in a deadly dance of gunfire.

I shot back with fierce

determination, my heart pounding in my chest, adrenaline coursing

through my veins. Amidst the chaos,

I

I caught a glimpse of Mia, still bound

and helpless. My jaw clenched with

a renewed sense of purpose.

couldn't let anything happen to her.

Risking everything, I made a daring dash towards Mia, firing at the henchmen that stood between us. Bullets rained down upon us like a torrential storm, but I had to reach her. I could hear my heart pounding in my ears as I finally reached her side. "Stay down, Mia!" I yelled, shielding her with my body as bullets continued to whiz past us. "I won't let them touch you."

With a swift, precise shot, I managed to release her from her binds, and I shielded her with my body, determined to keep her safe at all costs.

A split-second decision changed everything. As my rival, Marco, took aim at Mia, I knew I had to act fast. I pushed her out of the way just as the bullet left the barrel, taking the hit myself. Pain seared through me as the bullet tore into my flesh.

My vision blurred as the pain intensified, but I refused to give in. Ignoring my own wounds, I continued to return fire, protecting Mia with every ounce of strength left in me. The battle raged on around us, a symphony of violence and chaos. I fought through the haze of pain, vowing to stay conscious until the threat was neutralized.

Finally, the sound of gunfire began to wane as my men gained the upper hand. The air was thick with the scent of gunpowder and blood, indicating the heavy weight of loss.

As the last henchman fell and Marco was dead, silence enveloped the once chaotic warehouse. My body gave into the weakness I felt due to blood

loss. I fell to the ground. Mia cradled my head in her trembling hands, her tears falling freely onto my face.

"Please, don't leave me," she whispered, her voice breaking with emotion.

"I did it to protect you," I managed to say, my voice weak but filled with sincerity. "I've always loved you, Mia."

Her tears fell harder, and I felt a sense of peace wash over me. I had done everything I could to ensure her safety, and now, she knew the depth of my feelings for her.

As my consciousness began to fade, I saw her lips form the words "I love you too" before darkness engulfed me.

Chapter 484

As I slowly opened my eyes, the harsh, sterile lights of the hospital room greeted me. Disoriented and weak, I blinked several times until the blurry figures around me came into focus. There was Mia, her eyes filled with worry and relief, and my family standing by her side, their faces etched with concern.

"Mia..." I whispered, my voice barely audible.

Her eyes lit up with tears of joy as she took my hand in hers. "Thank goodness you're awake," she said, her voice trembling with emotion.

My family wore expressions of both happiness and concern. My mother's eyes were red from crying, while my father's stern facade tried to hide his fear. It was then that I knew I had to be honest with them about how I felt.

"I can't go through with the marriage," I admitted, my voice stronger now. "I love Mia, and I can't marry someone else."

My father's face turned stern, and he scolded me, "You're being impractical! You have responsibilities, and this is no time for childish whims!"

Before I could respond, my mother stepped forward, her voice calm yet firm. "Honey, we understand that this might not be the easiest path, but if Mia is where our son's heart lies, then we must respect that. His happiness is what matters most." My father seemed hesitant, but he could see the genuine love and conviction in my eyes.

"You have to think about the consequences of your decisions," he warned, but his tone softened slightly.

"I have thought about it, Dad," I replied earnestly. "Mia makes me a better person, and I can't imagine my life without her. I can't let her go."

Mia's grip on my hand tightened, her eyes never leaving mine.

My father seemed to relent, his stern expression giving way to a glimmer of understanding. He glanced at my mother, who nodded encouragingly.

Torn between tradition and his son's happiness, my dad sighed heavily before finally relenting, "Fine, but remember, this path won't be easy. You'll have to face the consequences."

With that, a wave of relief washed over me. My family might not fully approve, but they were willing to accept Mia for my sake.

"I know it won't be easy," I said, my determination unwavering. "But with Mia by my side, I know I can face anything."

As my family left the room, Mia and I were finally alone. She leaned closer, her eyes shining with affection. "I can't believe you stood up for us," she whispered, a mix of gratitude and love in her voice.

"I couldn't let you go, Mia. You're everything to me," I replied, caressing her cheek gently.

With a smile, she leaned in, and our lips met in a tender, passionate kiss. In that moment, it felt like the world around us disappeared, leaving only our love and connection. We had overcome the odds, and nothing else mattered.

After a week of recovery, I was finally discharged from the hospital. With newfound determination, I decided it was time to face Mia's father and ask

for her hand in marriage. As I reached their house, I noticed the somber atmosphere, and my heart sank when I learned that he was very sick.

Mia greeted me with a mixture of

relief and concern, and I assured her

that I was alright. However, my

focus was on her father's well-being.

I knew thad to take on the responsibility of his treatment expenses, but when I broached the tépic with Mia, she adamantly refused.

"No, you can't burden yourself with this," she pleaded, tears welling up in her eyes. "I can manage somehow."

I held her gently, looking into her eyes with love and determination.

"Mia, your father is now my family too," I said firmly. "I won't let his illness go untreated. It's my responsibility now."

Her eyes softened, and she knew there was no arguing with my resolve. Reluctantly, she nodded, grateful for the support I offered.

We went inside to meet her father. His face registered shock when he saw me, a member of the infamous Mancini family, standing before him. He had heard stories of the dangerous world I was a part of, and naturally, he was concerned for his daughter's safety. Taking a deep breath, I spoke with respect and sincerity.

"Sir, I know who I am and what my family represents," I began, looking him in the eyes. "But I want you to know that I love Mia with all my heart, and I promise to protect her and provide for her."

He scrutinized me, his eyes searching for any signs of deception. I answered every question he threw at me, revealing my genuine intentions and determination to make things right for Mia and him. After what felt like an eternity, he finally seemed to soften.

"You've faced the darkness of this world," he said, his voice weak but firm. "But if you're willing to change and give my daughter a good life, I'll trust you."

Relief washed over me, and I nodded gratefully.

"I promise, sir, that I'll do everything in my power to make her happy and keep her safe."

With his reluctant approval, Mia's father gave us his blessing, and we knew that we had overcome a significant hurdle. I had gained his trust, and now, the responsibility of Mia's happiness and well-being rested heavily on my shoulders.

As we left her father's house, Mia clung to my arm, tears of happiness and gratitude streaming down her cheeks. "Thank you," she whispered, her voice choked with emotion.

I held her close, vowing to protect her and her family no matter the cost. Our love had overcome the obstacles, and now we were ready to face the future together.

*****

Finally the day had come. We were going to get married. Mia would be mine forever.

The ceremony was an intimate and hurried affair with only a few close friends and family present. As I stood at the altar, I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and trepidation. Mia looked breathtaking in her wedding dress, and I felt a surge of pride knowing that she was now Mia Logan Mancini, my wife.

The tension in the air was palpable as the ceremony commenced. We exchanged vows, promising to love and cherish each other through thick

and thin. It was a commitment I took with utmost seriousness, knowing that our lives were now intricately entwined, and I would do whatever it took to protect her.

After the exchange of rings, the

priest pronounced us husband and

wife, and we sealed our love with a passionate kiss. The cheers and applause from our small gathering filled the air, and it felt like time

stood still for a moment. I held Mia's hand tightly, ready to face whatever challenges life would throw at us.

 

Chapter 485 I'm Going To Be A Father Ryder's POV.

The club was alive with energy as the weekend reached its peak. The neon lights danced across the crowded dance floor, casting a kaleidoscope of colors on the revelers. The pulsating music thumped in my chest, creating an electric atmosphere that fueled the excitement in the air. The air was thick with the scent of alcohol and sweat, mingling with the overpowering aroma of perfume and cologne.

Sitting at a reserved booth in a dimly lit corner, I was joined by my close friend, Alex. He exuded impatience, his foot tapping restlessly against the floor as he scanned the entrance of the club. We were regulars at this place, but tonight, our excitement was tinged with a hint of unease. We were waiting for Logan, our once dependable comrade, who seemed to have changed since his marriage to Mia.

"Ryder, when is Logan coming?" Alex asked, his voice edged with irritation.

I understood his frustration; Logan used to be the first one to arrive, always ready to embrace the nightlife. However, things had changed since he tied the knot with Mia, and his absence tonight only deepened the divide between us.

"Let me call him," I replied, pulling out my phone from my pants pocket. As I dialed Logan's number, I hoped he would finally show up and bring back the camaraderie we once shared.

The phone rang for what felt like an eternity before he finally picked up.

"Where are you, Logan? We've been waiting for you," I asked, my tone a mix of concern and annoyance.

"Just pulled up, coming bro. Wait a little," he replied, his voice slightly distant.

With a hint of relief, I hung up the phone

"He said he had arrived. He's just coming inside after parking his car," I informed Alex.

He nodded in acknowledgment, but his gaze soon shifted to his wife,

Sarah, who sat next to my wife, Bella, chatting away. Alex seemed genuinely happy, the lines of worry on his face momentarily softened as he watched Sarah with affection.

"When are you due?" Alex turned his attention back to me, curious about our impending parenthood.

"Next month," I replied, a smile spreading across my face. I couldn't help but feel a mixture of excitement and nervousness at the thought of becoming a father. I glanced at Bella, her pregnant belly now in full bloom, and we exchanged a knowing look. Our lives were about to change forever.

"I can't believe the three most notorious playboys got hitched and swooned off by their wives," Alex chuckled, breaking the silence.

I laughed heartily, knowing the truth in his words. The three of us had been renowned for our wild and reckless ways, but love had transformed us into devoted husbands. "Yeah, but I was really surprised when Logan told us that he was in love," I said, shaking my head in amusement as I recalled the memory of his

wedding.

"Someone took my name?" A familiar voice interjected, drawing our attention. And there he was, Logan, swaggering into the room with his wife, Mia, by his side.

We turned to face him, and a teasing grin played on Alex's lips. "Think of the devil, and he appeared," he quipped.

Logan smirked, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "You know me, always making an entrance," he replied, his voice carrying the same charisma that had captivated countless souls. Mia whispered something in his ear, and he kissed her cheek before she

went to meet Bella and Sarah. His eyes then met mine, and a knowing look passed between us.

"Alex, where have you left your son tonight?" Logan teased, raising an amused eyebrow.

"My parents volunteered for babysitting duty," Alex replied with a nonchalant shrug. "It's our night off, after all."

"How's everything with the new changes, Ryder?" Logan turned to me, his gaze filled with curiosity.

"It's... thrilling," I said with a knowing smile, recalling the whirlwind of emotions experienced during Bella's pregnancy. From dealing with her mood swings to making sure she was comfortable and happy, I had embraced every challenge that came my way. "But I love her, and I'll do everything for her happiness."

A sense of pride washed over me as I thought about Bella, my wife, and the love that had blossomed between us amidst the chaos of our world.

She had brought light into my life and made me a better man, and for that, I would forever be grateful.

Breaking the momentary silence, Logan beamed, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "I want to share some news with you guys," he said, barely containing his joy.

The curiosity in Alex's and my eyes was palpable as we eagerly waited for Logan's announcement. "Mia and I are expecting our first child," he declared, a wide grin stretching across his face. "Congratulations, dude!" Alex and I chimed in unison, exchanging hearty hugs with our friend.

"I can't believe it, guys," Logan said, his voice filled with awe. "I'm going to be a father."

Amidst the laughter and celebration,

I couldn't help but reflect on how far we had come since our days as reckless and dangerous individuals. The love of our wives had

transformed us into better men,

instilling in us a sense of

responsibility and purpose.

"We are actually lucky," I began, raising my glass in a toast, "to have found angels in our lives who have changed us and our lives, making us better people."

"I second you, dude," Alex said, raising his glass to join the toast.

As we shared a moment of gratitude and unity, our gazes locked, and we instinctively knew it was time to join our wives. Together, we walked

towards the table where Bella, Sarah and Mia sat, their smiles radiant with love and happiness.

At that moment, amidst the haze of

our dangerous world, we found solace in the arms of our loved ones. Our bond as brothers extended beyond the loyalty of the mafia, and in the embrace of our wives we found a sense of peace and purpose that made everything worthwhile. With renewed determination, we faced the

challenges ahead, knowing that love and family were the anchors that kept us grounded in an

unpredictable and perilous world.

 

Chapter 486 Prologue

*Selena*

"Why would I marry your daughter?" I heard a deep, sexy voice emanating from my father's office.

"If you meet her, you will like her. She is pretty and has been training to be a good and perfect Luna. She would be a perfect wife and mate. She is a very calm and obedient girl," my father's voice pleaded, and I couldn't help but wince at his words.

Which daughter was he talking about? My younger sister, Anne, was only fifteen - he couldn't possibly be considering marrying her off already, right? The acceptable minimum age for werewolf marriages was sixteen. So, it dawned on me that they must be talking about me, as I had turned eighteen just last month.

"Still, Alpha Albert, I don't buy your words. Why would I marry a wolfless girl just to make this filthy alliance with your pack?" The same deep, husky voice responded with arrogance.

Alliance?!

Curiosity gnawed at me as I tried to decipher the situation. Who was this man who seemed so dismissive of my father's offer, yet held such power and authority?

"If you have something else to offer me, tell me quickly because you know my time is very costly, and you can't afford to make me regret giving you my time," the man's lazy tone dripped with confidence.

Unable to contain my anxiety any longer, I burst into my father's office, acting impulsively.

"Father!" I called out, my voice a whisper.

"Selena!" My father's brows furrowed, and he shot me an annoyed glare for interrupting.

"Who are you talking to, Father, and whose marriage are you discussing?!" I asked, dismissing his irritation. I needed to know what was going on.

My gaze fell on the man seated before my father - his broad, muscular back adorned in a black suit immediately caught my attention. An aura of dominance and intimidation surrounded him, sending shivers down my spine. "Selena, meet His Highness, Alpha King Zander Blake," my father introduced, a flattering grin on his face.

The name struck me like lightning.

Alpha King Zander Blake?!

In our pack?!

I couldn't fathom what he was doing here. I had heard rumors that he was a heartless and ruthless devil, showing no mercy to anyone.

As he turned to face me, my world seemed to come to a standstill. Deep blue eyes curiously locked onto mine, causing my heart to skip a beat. I felt breathless, and my lips parted in a gasp as I was caught in the intensity of his gaze.

His indifferent eyes bore into me, scanning every inch of my body from head to toe. In a sudden motion, he got up and closed the distance between us in just a few strides. I was mesmerized by his presence, intoxicated by the blend of his manly, spicy scent and the expensive cologne that enveloped him. He smelled like the earth after rain, a delightful fusion of forest and nature. I blinked, trying not to stare at the Adonis standing before me.

His features were a masterpiece: dark hair, a chiseled face, a pointed nose, sharp jawline, and full, inviting lips. It seemed almost unreal for a man to possess such beauty and allure. His broad, sculpted body left nothing to the imagination, evoking an irresistible magnetic pull. Bulging biceps strained against the sleeves of his coat jacket, and his jacket was left open, revealing a chest that seemed to puff out smugly and perfectly defined eight-pack abs visible through the fabric of his white shirt.

My dad's voice reached my ears, but I was lost in the intensity of Zander's gaze as it roamed over me. His eyes held an awestruck admiration, and in the next moment, they caressed my entire being, leaving me breathless.

"Alpha King, she is my daughter, Selena," my father introduced, breaking the enchantment momentarily.

"I will marry her," Alpha King declared, snapping me out of my trance.

I took a deep breath, feeling suddenly parched. I turned to my father, who seemed elated by the proclamation.

"What gives you the impression that I would marry you?!" I challenged, meeting Zander's hypnotic gaze with defiance. My heart pounded in my chest, and I looked away to break the spell before I became ensnared once more. I saw his lips slightly curled up in a smug smirk.

Asshole!

My father's reaction was less amused. "What are you saying, Selena?!" he gritted his teeth, glaring at me.

He grabbed my arm, forcefully

pulling me away from the

captivating Alpha King, Zander

Blake. I tried to free my hand, but my father's grip only tightened, leading me further away from the enigmatic man whose presence seemed to hold both allure and danger.

"Date me then! You will find the answer," Zander's deep voice echoed through the room, causing both my father and me to stop in our tracks, our jaws dropping in surprise.

"I don't even know you. Then why would I go on a date with you?" I replied with a nonchalant shrug, shaking my head at his audacious proposal.

Despite his status as the Alpha King, the mightiest and strongest among werewolves, I refused to be intimidated by him. There was something about him that didn't give off scary vibes, as if he had no intention of frightening me. Zander's eyes narrowed slightly, a thin line forming on his face as he smirked in amusement.

"I am sorry, Alpha King!" My father quickly apologized, perhaps realizing the seriousness of my response. "Selena, you come with me," he scolded, grabbing my arm, and briskly led me out of Zander's office, slamming the door shut behind us. Once we were out of earshot from Zander, my father stopped abruptly and delivered a stinging slap across my cheek.

"You disobedient daughter! How dare you misbehave before my guest?!" he growled angrily.

My cheek burned from the impact, and tears welled up in my eyes. "But, Father, I can't marry him," I whimpered, trying to reason with him.

"Selena, I have decided that you have to marry the Alpha King in exchange for this alliance. You know this is the only way to save our pack. Otherwise, no one can save us from his wrath," he grumbled, his voice filled with frustration and desperation. "But, Father, why me?! You know how ruthless and heartless he is. The story of his cruelty and inhumanity is famous worldwide," I protested, trying to make him understand my fears.

"Selena, you are a curse on our family as you were born wolfless. I am ashamed even to call you my daughter. But, at least now, you're going to be useful to us. You have to marry him," he scowled, his face contorting with disgust as he looked at me. My head hung low, the weight of my fate crushing down on me. I realized that my future had been decided, and there was nothing I could do to change it.

"Will you behave nicely this time?" My father demanded, his voice stern.

I nodded slowly, trying to accept my fate, even though it felt like a heavy burden on my shoulders.

"Don't say anything that will make me regret bringing you up as a princess," he warned, and I nodded submissively, feeling a sense of resignation settling over me.

We returned to my father's office,

and as soon as I stepped inside, Zander's intense and cold eyes locked onto me. I felt a shiver down my spine and quickly lowered my gaze, not wanting him to see the vulnerability and helplessness reflected in my eyes.

Even though he wasn't touching me, I could sense his presence right beside me. His heat seemed to

radiate, brushing against my skin t

and making me suddenly feel warm in the otherwise cold room. It was as if his aura engulfed me,

leaving me breathless and unsettled.

My father, seemingly oblivious to the tension between us, eagerly declared, "Alpha King, she is ready for the alliance."

However, Zander paid no attention to my father's words.

Instead, he turned his attention to me and asked, "Will you go on a dinner date with me, Princess?"

Caught off guard, I glanced at my father, searching for some guidance, but his stare conveyed a clear message - that this was an opportunity I shouldn't pass up. Summoning every ounce of courage, I murmured subtly, "I am... uh... I agree to marry you."

"I want to take you on a date, Princess," he announced, his tone laced with authority. "Have dinner with me."

It wasn't a request but a command. An Alpha's order. His icy, cold gaze bore into me, making me swallow hard.

I glanced at my father through my lashes, but his cold expression made it clear I had no choice but to comply with whatever this cruel Alpha King desired.

Chapter 487 Chosen Mates *Selena*

He sent his car to pick me up for the date. Not that I expected him to come himself. Of course, the almighty Alpha King couldn't be bothered to do something as simple as that.

When I arrived at the restaurant, I stopped dead in my tracks. The entire place was empty. Reserved. For us.

In the center of the room, a table sat perfectly set, glowing under soft candlelight. My eyes immediately landed on him-Alpha Zander Blake. He was already sitting there, dressed in a black tuxedo that looked like it was tailored just for him. Because of course it was. I hated how unfairly handsome he looked. The cold-hearted monster somehow managed to look like he'd stepped out of a dream.

"Alpha," I mumbled, walking toward the table.

He didn't stand. Didn't offer so much as a smile. Typical. The waiter pulled out my chair, and I sat down across from him, pretending I wasn't the least bit impressed. But I couldn't help it-I glanced around, taking in the sheer extravagance of it all. The place was beautiful. Too beautiful.

Of course, Zander wouldn't settle for anything less.

We sat in silence as the waiters served our meal, the tension in the air thick enough to cut with a knife. The soft clink of utensils was the only sound, and it felt like every moment stretched on forever.

I couldn't take it anymore. The silence was unbearable.

"Can I ask something, Alpha?" I finally broke the stillness.

He slowly looked up from his phone, his piercing blue eyes locking onto mine with that unnerving intensity. For a moment, I forgot how to breathe.

"Go ahead," he said, his voice low and husky, sending a shiver down my spine.

I swallowed, trying to clear my mind of the effect his mere presence had on me. This wasn't the time to get distracted by his godlike features. Focus, Selena. Focus.

"Why do you want to marry me?" I asked timidly, my gaze following his every movement as he ate with effortless grace, almost as if he were doing the food a favor by allowing it to touch his lips. "Because you are the most beautiful woman I have ever seen," he replied, his voice cool and matter-of-fact, as though discussing such a thing was as casual as talking about the weather.

I felt my cheeks warm at his words. Coming from Zander Blake the most powerful, most handsome, and most dominant alpha, no... the Alpha King himself—it was both flattering and unnerving. But the doubt lingered in my heart as I shot another question, "Umm... What about your wolf? Will he accept me?"

"Lyon has already accepted you. You don't need to worry," he assured me, his focus still on his meal, as though the subject didn't warrant his full attention.

"Oh!" My lips formed a perfect 'O' of surprise. The idea of meeting his powerful wolf intrigued me, as I had heard countless stories about him.

"But... don't you need a strong Luna by your side who helps you to be stronger?" I couldn't help but voice my confusion, well aware of the importance of a strong Luna to support an Alpha.

His deep laughter resonated through the air, causing my heart to flutter in response. He peered at me with his intense, deep blue eyes, and I found myself momentarily lost in their captivating gaze.

"I am Zander Blake, Selena," he growled with authority. "I am the Alpha King, the strongest among werewolves. I don't need a woman to make me stronger. But..." He leaned closer, his smugness evident. "I assure you that if you stay with me, you will be well taken care of and safe," he declared confidently.

As much as I wanted to roll my eyes at his show-off attitude, a part of me couldn't deny the truth in his words. Zander was undeniably powerful, and I couldn't ignore the fact that being with him might provide a certain level of security.

I shifted in my seat before summoning the courage to ask an important question that had been troubling me since the revelation of this arranged marriage and alliance.

"What if... what if someday you find your fated mate?" I breathed out nervously, my heart pounding in my chest.

"I am twenty-five and still haven't found her," he dismissed my concern with a wave of his hand as if it was an insignificant issue.

"But it doesn't mean you can't find her in the future," I argued, staring at him closely.

His expression turned hard and cold, his calculating gaze studying me intensely for what felt like an eternity before he finally responded, "You have my word, Selena. You will always be my Luna as long as you give me an heir."

Of course, I knew he wouldn't reject his fated mate if he found her someday. Only a fool would reject a fated mate. But the reassurance that he wouldn't abandon me provided a slight sense of relief.

At least he acknowledged that I would be his Luna... if I had children with him.

I took a deep breath, trying to process what this meant for my future. The weight of his promise settled heavily on my chest, and yet, doubts lingered.

But could I trust him completely?

I couldn't peek inside his heart, and I was well aware that I could not refuse this marriage in any way.

Finally, we got married in a whirlwind week, the alliance papers were signed, and my fate was sealed. We were chosen mates, so we needed to accept each other in front of the werewolf council.

"I, Alpha King, Zander Blake, accept Selena Ardolf as my mate and my Luna," Zander declared confidently in front of the council.

"I, Selena Ardolf, accept Alpha Zander Blake as my mate and my Alpha," I vowed, trying to steady my nerves before the officiant and the council.

Then we exchanged rings.

"You have declared your consent before the council and accepted each other as chosen mates. By the authority vested in me by the Moon Goddess, I now pronounce you mates. To seal your mate bond, the Alpha King can mark his Luna and take her to the mating ground. to complete the mating ritual," the officiant proclaimed.

As the significance of those words

sank in, my pulse quickened, and my heart pounded relentlessly. I started to perspire heavily, my nerves getting the best of me. I glanced at Zander, silently pleading with my. eyes. We had already talked about it. I had told him I was a virgin The idea of the mating ground terrified me. Unable to shift into my wolf form, I couldn't participate fully as a wolf would. Mating in my human form, with everyone watching, felt overwhelming and intrusive.

He gazed at me coldly, and I knew my pleas had no effect on him. He turned and glanced at the council members. They all nodded as if they were talking through the mind link.

Then, with a swift motion, he faced me and extended his hand. Trembling, I placed my own shaky hand in his large, powerful palm. His grip tightened as he pulled me closer, his arms encircling my waist. His touch sent shivers down my spine, and I couldn't look away from his hypnotic gaze.

His hand gently cupped my face, making me meet his alluring eyes. At that moment, his eyes spoke of desire and possession, full of lust, consuming me entirely. His full lips parted, releasing a low, possessive growl from deep within him. My breath hitched as his enchanting eyes held me captive. And then, his lips met mine in a fervent kiss.

My first kiss!

I gasped as his kiss overwhelmed me. My senses drowned in the intensity of the moment. My eyes instinctively closed, surrendering to the powerful connection between us. The fervor only intensified as he deepened the kiss, his tongue exploring my mouth with a

ovel.

possessiveness that sent shivers down my spine. I shamelessly moaned, lost in the intoxicating bliss of the moment, unaware of the crowded hall surrounding us. His arm tightened around me, drawing me closer as if he wanted to merge our very beings into one.

His lips left my mouth, and a trail of kisses led down to my neck. I arched my neck in response, offering myself willingly to him. He licked the spot where his mark would be placed,

sending another surge of desire net

through me. And then, he sucked hard, causing me to gasp and moan his name, my arms instinctively wrapping around his neck. Our bodies clung to each other, and I felt a stinging sensation as his canines pierced my skin, sealing our bond.

At that moment, our souls fused, and an undeniable connection linked us together. It felt divine and eternal as if we were destined to be entwined from the very beginning. I belonged to him, and he belonged to me - a profound and unbreakable bond. He licked the mark he had made on my neck, kissing it with a tenderness that contrasted with the wild passion of moments ago. His eyes now gleamed golden, signifying the presence of his wolf. Yet, he kissed me with an ardor that devoured me whole, as if he wanted to claim every inch of me in that single kiss.

And then, he lifted me up in a bridal style, and I knew what would come next. At that moment, I cared not where we were or who might witness our union. All that mattered was being his in every possible way.

But as he placed me inside the car, confusion crept in, as the mating ground was merely a short walk away.

"Where are we going?" I asked, furrowing my brow as I looked at him while he settled beside me.

"On honeymoon," he replied, pulling me onto his lap.

I wanted to ask more but couldn't because my mouth was busy kissing him with the same passion as he kissed me.

He took me to a deserted island and made love to me. We were there for seven days, and he remained buried in me all the time. We only stopped when we needed to eat. Otherwise, we were not separated from each other even for a second. He came inside me countless times and made me come in so many ways I didn't even know existed. Lying in his arms, I felt like all my dreams had come true.

But the bubble of my happiness burst when I had a miscarriage for the first time. Zander didn't say anything, but I saw the disappointment in his eyes. Slowly he became distant, and his ultimate excuse was the workload. Still, I tried to assure myself that it was all in my head and he hadn't changed.

But the truth came out in the end, and my illusion ended.

I came to know that I was living a false dream.

Chapter 488 The Unexpected Surprise *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.

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 needed to escape 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.

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 net

dreams as I mourned the devastating loss of my beloved

family and the pack m

had once been my kin.

who

"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," I whispered. "He's my mate, the Alpha King. His power has no limits. I'm sure he'll find me, no matter where 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," 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.

"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.

 

Chapter 489 Severing All The Bonds *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, I held authority over the pack.

"This is urgent, and I must speak with the Alpha King right away," I asserted firmly. "Please, open the doors and allow me inside."

The guard couldn't deny my instructions this time, conceding to my authority as he reluctantly opened the doors, granting me passage.

Dressed in a mini dress, I adorned myself as Zander desired. My long, wavy blonde locks cascaded freely over my shoulders. He only married me for my beauty and didn't miss any chance to use my body for his pleasure. For him, I was only a plaything. Yet, I willingly transformed myself, hoping that he would someday reciprocate the love I held for him as his mate. It was foolish of me to believe that his love ran deeper than superficial desires. Tears welled in my eyes, tracing the memories of the intimate moments we shared. I had loved him with every fiber of my being, surrendering my heart, soul, body, and life to him. I gave him everything I possessed, morphing into someone I never thought I could be, all for the sake of his happiness.

My steps faltered, my heart pounding with fear, but I pressed on. The hall came into view, brimming with Alphas from far and wide. The mingling scents of their strength and power saturated the air, an overwhelming presence that could instill terror in any human or weaker wolf. Yet, I summoned my courage, drawing strength from within as I faced my mate. "Alpha King!" I roared with seething anger, my voice echoing through the hall.

"Selena?!" He growled, his once vibrant blue eyes darkening as they locked onto me. "What in the world are you wearing?" His disapproving frown directed the attention of the other Alphas in the room, causing them to avert their gazes.

Disregarding his remark, I remained focused on my purpose, my heart pulsating with a mix of fury and pain.

"You... you took the lives of my family and my pack," I screamed, the intensity of my emotions shaking my very existence.

He was the epitome of power, a force that none dared to challenge. Yet, here I stood, shouting at him, defying the mightiest wolf. A wave of intimidating pheromones enveloped me, causing me to stumble back. Zander's dangerous gaze bore into me, his expression hardening.

"This is neither the time nor the place discussing personal matters," he ordered, his voice laced with authority as an Alpha.

"No, you slaughtered them, and now you desire to do the same to me!" I yelled at him, shaking my head in disbelief. "Selena!" Zander snarled, his warning tone sending shivers down my spine. However, I stood my ground, refusing to be silenced. "No, Alpha King, no!" I screamed, my voice ringing with defiance. "You cannot prevent me from revealing the truth to everyone."

"It is an order from your Alpha. Leave this instant," he growled, his knuckles turning white as he tightly gripped the armrest of his chair.

"I do not obey your orders. You are not my Alpha. You are a murderer. I reject you, Alpha King Zander Blake, as my mate and Alpha," I spat out, my words dripping with defiance and finality.

"Luna Selena Blake!" Zander's howl reverberated through the air, his teeth bared in anger. His body trembled as his wolf, Lyon, took control, its fierce presence reflected on Zander's visage. "Ardolf! Selena Ardolf is my name," I retorted, my voice laced with contempt.

In an instant, all the love, respect, and trust that once existed between us dissipated upon learning of his unforgivable cruelty.

"People warned me that you were the cruelest Alpha in this world, but I refused to believe them. I held onto the hope that our mating would change you. Yet, I was living in a delusion," I sobbed, my voice quivering as I fought to maintain my strength, to assert my rejection of my mate.

"I was mistaken. You never changed. You have no heart. I cannot continue to live alongside you. I despise you. So, accept my rejection and release me from this unwanted bond," I cried, my words punctuated by tears that betrayed my resolve.

Zander's eyes turned cold and dark as his face was covered with a dark, chilling shadow.

"Selena Ardolf," he uttered in a deep, emotionless Alpha voice.

"People warned me not to choose a wolfless, weak woman from the weakest pack in the world as my mate and Luna Queen. Yet, I disregarded their counsel. I bestowed upon you the title of Luna Queen and offered you everything you never deserved. But you have failed to fulfill your duties as both a Queen and my mate. You are disrespectful, disobedient, and unworthy of being the Luna Queen to the largest and strongest pack in the world. I accept your rejection, Selena Ardolf. I, Alpha King Zander Blake, reject you, Selena Ardolf, as my mate and my Queen," he bit out with disgust.

The rejection was completed, and the mate bond broke instantly.

The air evaporated from my lungs, leaving me gasping for breath. My body crumbled to the ground, my hands instinctively reaching out to protect my swollen belly. Fear gripped my heart as I worried for the safety of my unborn child. As I

on the floor, the world around me

seemed to fade into a roundelt

blur, and I

closed my eyes, willing the pain to dissipate. No one rushed to my side, but their watchful gazes weighed upon me, a silent audience to my torment. Taking slow, measured breaths, I mustered what little strength remained within me.

Though Zander must have felt the agony coursing through our bond, he wore a stoic expression, masking any hint of his own suffering. As the Alpha King, he was the epitome of strength among wolves, capable of enduring the pain.

Minutes ticked by, each passing

moment accompanied by my

ragged panting. The searing

sensation of the mating mark on my

1.m

neck intensified, threatening to unleash a scream from my tightly

pressed lips. I refused to reveal my weakness before them, forcing the tears streaming down my face

against my will.

Eventually, the pain began to wane, relinquishing its grip on me. Summoning the remnants of my resilience, I rose unsteadily to my feet.

I cast one last glance at Zander, his piercing blue eyes meeting my hazel gaze. For an instant, I thought I detected a flicker of pain and hurt within them. Yet, before I could fully process the sight, it transformed into an expression of loathing and repulsion. Now he would revel in the happiness of being reunited with his beloved, while I was cast aside from his life.

Slowly, I dragged my weary and aching body out of the hall as I made my way towards the borders of the pack, where my uncle patiently awaited my arrival.

I departed without taking anything from the pack, for I required nothing from him.

All I yearned for was escape, to depart from his life before he discovered the secret I had concealed.

Chapter 490 An Offer

*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 see him endure a life of poverty because of my inadequacies.

Austin possessed a wisdom far beyond his tender age, and his physical stature surpassed that of his peers. As a born Alpha, he exuded an air of authority, appearing much older than his mere three years. Many mistook him for a five-year-old, captivated by his maturity and commanding presence.

With his father's features reflected in his appearance, Austin was the spitting image of him. His dark hair, pointed nose, sharp jawline, rosy lips, and sun-kissed skin were unmistakable reminders of his heritage. Yet, it was his piercing blue eyes that stood out the most-a striking feature that seemed to hold a world of depth.

"Mommy, is the breakfast ready?!" Austin's voice broke through my sad thoughts, pulling me back to the present. A warm smile spread across my lips as I turned to see the light of my life.

I tousled my son's hair affectionately while flipping the omelet sizzling in the pan. Once it was done, I carefully plated the fluffy omelet and set it on the table.

"Finish your breakfast like a good boy," I gently urged him, my tender smile lingering as I turned to tackle the rest of the household chores.

When I left the Moonglow pack, circumstances forced me to abandon my education and let go of my dreams of pursuing higher studies. My uncle and the baby growing inside me depended on my support. To make ends meet, I took up employment, working shifts at restaurants and general stores. However, the income was barely enough to get by, let alone provide a comfortable life, especially with the additional expenses of my pregnancy.

But, my talent for computers had always been exceptional, particularly hacking. In search of financial stability, I began working as a hacker on the secretive dark web. It allowed me to earn some quick and modest income.

But for days, I couldn't find a single hacking assignment. Darn it, it felt like all the odds were stacking against me at once, threatening to make my already miserable condition even worse.

In hope to find a new hacking job, I opened the dark web. As I navigated through the depths of the web, a message caught my attention, arriving from an unidentified sender. It contained an enticing proposition-an opportunity for a significant hacking project, accompanied by a lucrative sum of money.

*Hi, we can discuss the assignment.* I sent a reply promptly.

The temptation of the immense sum was so enticing, and I was in desperate need of money. I waited impatiently when a message box suddenly appeared on the screen.

*Security system of the Moonglow pack.*

The reply from the other end made my breath hitch.

That was an insane assignment, and who the hell was so desperate to die that they wanted to hack the system of the Moonglow pack? That Alpha Zander had himself made that system, and he was an expert. I had training under him when... when we were married. I knew it was impossible to invade the security of the Moonglow pack, and that includes all the details of the North. Hacking the Moonglow pack's security means gaining access to all the details of the security for the entire North and risking the safety of the whole region. No. I was in desperate need of money but not a fool to accept an offer of my own demise.

*Sorry, I can't do this.* I quickly typed the reply and was about to sign off.

*I can increase the offer and pay you even more if you're interested. But I really need your skills for this job.*

The reply came swiftly, accompanied by an additional zero at the end of the amount.

He was offering me ten million for this project. It was an absurdly high figure, but the task at hand carried grave risks. What he wanted me to do was very dangerous and if I were to be caught, my life would be forfeit. *Apologies, but I can't take on this job.* I texted back without a moment's hesitation.

*Don't rush into a decision. I can add one more zero to the amount and pay you the entire sum upfront. Take your time to consider. I'll be waiting for your reply.* His message came through before he quickly signed off. Holy shit!

A hundred million!

But was this amount worth risking my life and everything I had kept safe for so long?

With that kind of money, I could live a peaceful life without having to work and even start my own computer business. The person behind this offer must be immensely powerful and influential, seeking my expertise to breach the world's most intricate security system. It felt like staring into an abyss with no bottom.

Incredibly dangerous.

Unbelievably treacherous.

With a frustrated groan, I forcefully slammed my laptop shut, distancing myself from the enticing allure of dangerous possibilities.

"What's troubling you, Selena? You seem agitated," Uncle inquired, his gaze filled with concern. He was elderly and had grown weaker after surviving the war. He couldn't assist me financially or with household chores.

"Oh, it's nothing, Uncle! I have an interview today. Will you look after Austin for a while?" I smiled, asking him a genuine question, not revealing the reason behind my irritation from the tempting offer I had received.

In the dark web, I was known as C-tech. Our real identities and faces remained hidden, while payments were discreetly transferred to our dark web accounts. We could withdraw the funds in cash, maintaining our anonymity. So, how did he find me, and why did he need only me to do this job? A strange coincidence, if it was one!

"Of course, Selena. But are you sure you'll get a decent job? You dropped out of school," Uncle reasoned.

"Let me give it a try, Uncle. What if they really can see my incredible skills in computers and hire me without a degree?" I shrugged with hope in my heart.

Uncle had been a pillar of support in raising my son, Austin. Whenever I couldn't be at home due to work commitments, he was there, ensuring Austin's well-being.

"You're right, Selena. You should try. Don't worry about Austin. He'll be fine with me. You focus on getting a high-paying job," my uncle reassured me.

I nodded, grinning with encouragement. Yes, I could do it. I had to get a decent, well-paying job ASAP-for Austin's future.

Uncle reached for the remote control, an air of boredom evident on his face. "It's the same old news again! Let's switch channels and see if we can find something more interesting," he grumbled, flipping through the various options until he stumbled upon a set of headlines that caught his attention.

"Alpha King, Zander Blake, to wed his childhood sweetheart, Avery Wright, next month. Preparations for the grand event are already underway," announced the news anchor, his voice capturing my full attention. Every fiber of my being became acutely aware of whom they were discussing.

My eager, yet treacherous, gaze fixated upon the television screen, and the sight that greeted me stole my breath away.

Alpha King, Zander Blake!

The very image that had haunted my sleepless nights and tormented my heart appeared before me. He was the architect of my wretched existence, the cause of my misery.

Despite the passing years, the

despicable man still exuded an

irresistible allure. In fact, during that

three-year absence, he had only grown more striking and captivating. His sculpted physique emanated dominance, a mere glimpse of his imposing build enough to instill fear in anyone. His short, dark hair was slicked back, emphasizing his sharp features, while his piercing blue eyes seemed to penetrate the screen, as though he possessed the power to see through it.

His perfectly tailored suit clung to his form, emphasizing his chiseled chest and showcasing the defined contours of his rock-hard eight-pack abs. It was no wonder women yearned to throw themselves at the feet of this cruel and heartless Greek God. The first time I laid eyes on him, he captured my heart effortlessly. Little did I know then that it would be the worst decision of my life, a stark reminder that

appearances could be deceiving.

He appeared blissfully content in his new life without me. Of course, he would be ecstatic with his chosen mate, the one he was now preparing to marry. I tore my gaze away, my attention drifting from the news. The news anchor delved into intricate details about the extravagant wedding and the opulent ceremony that would seal their bond as Alpha King and his future Luna.

A twinge of pain gripped my chest, and I attempted to push the thoughts aside. Perhaps three years and my immense hatred for him weren't enough to erase him from my memory.

Everything was still fresh in my memory, haunting me even as I attempted to forget. From the day I married until the moment I escaped my cruel husband, the memories were etched into my mind like deep scars. Despite my efforts to move on, painful recollections threatened to consume me, and the urge for revenge surged, overtaking every other emotion. But above all, I had a greater purpose-to ensure my son, Austin, did not suffer because of the burning fire of revenge within me. As much as I longed for retribution against my ex-mate, Alpha King

Zander Blake, I refused to put

Austin's well-being at risk.

feared he wouldn't even hesitate to kill his own son if it served his pride and ambitions.

But the truth was, taking down the invincible Alpha King was no easy task. It required a foolproof plan and abundant resources to challenge the mightiest, most merciless, and seemingly indomitable ruler. The rumors of his heartlessness were undoubtedly true, and I