Ch. 631..640
Chapter 631
"You're not serious, are you?" I gasped, blinking at him as I nervously leaned back while he leaned closer to me.
He chuckled and, oh Goddess, the sound was so deep and teasing. "Why do you look so nervous, mate? I just asked for a kiss. That's it."
"You are... you are shameless," I mumbled, narrowing my eyes at the clear amusement he was taking in my misery.
"If anyone else had said that," he growled, his voice carrying the unmistakable authority of an alpha, "they would've been dead by now." His tone softened just slightly, though his gaze remained intense. "Only you can say such disrespectful words to me and get away with it. And still, you don't understand you don't need to be nervous around me."
Such a big ego my alpha had. Me? Afraid of him? Never. I was the queen of the Lunar Realm, a descendant of the Moon Goddess herself. I had no reason to fear him.
But... somehow, whenever he was this close, his presence seemed to mess with my resolve. My heart betrayed me, pounding loudly in my chest, and I found myself fumbling like a novice.
Stay strong, Selena! I reminded myself sternly.
Summoning my courage, I snapped back, "I don't fear you, Alpha King."
"Then give me a kiss," he persisted, his tone low and determined.
I huffed out a breath.
"Fine!" I murmured, meeting his gaze as I leaned closer. His eyes darkened with desire, his breathing quickening in anticipation.
Biting my lip to suppress a grin, I tilted my head and pressed a quick kiss to his cheek.
"It's done. Now let me go," I said, leaning back with a triumphant smile.
The expression on his face was priceless-first stunned, then confused, and finally, downright annoyed. "That's not a kiss," he said, his voice low and accusing.
"It is," I insisted with a mischievous nod. "You didn't say where." I smirked, knowing I'd just outwitted the mighty Alpha King.
"You are cruel, mate," he groaned, his frustration evident as he loosened his arms around me and reluctantly let me go. Without another word, he stalked out of the pack house, his footsteps echoing his irritation.
I couldn't help but suppress a giggle as I watched him leave, the look on his face etched in my mind. My poor alpha. Still, a pang of guilt tugged at me-had I gone too far?
'You're very bad, Selena,' Arena scolded me through our mind link, her tone half-amused and half- reproachful.
'It's all your influence,' I replied, rolling my eyes at her teasing growl.
Arena wasn't fooled. I could feel her desire mirroring my own, but I had to resist... for reasons. I couldn't let myself be weak again.
As I turned to head to my room, I caught a glimpse of Anne disappearing down the hallway. Her stiff posture and hurried steps didn't go unnoticed. She must have seen us. And judging by the anger radiating off her, she didn't like it one bit.
Sighing, I headed back to my room, shutting the door behind me with a soft click. I glanced around the familiar space, letting the silence settle over me before moving to the center of the room. Sitting cross-legged on the floor, I
my eyes and focused my ener
my
breathing slowing as I prepared to
connect.
The next moment, I was in the lunar realm. The radiant, ethereal glow of the royal chamber greeted me,
and there stood my mother, her calm demeanor hiding a flicker of impatience in her eyes.
"How are you, Selena? Did you manage to gather any information?" she asked, her voice holding both warmth and urgency.
I sighed softly. "Mother, it's only been a day. I haven't had a chance yet," I admitted, feeling the weight of her expectations pressing on me.
She frowned, her serene mask slipping just enough to reveal her frustration. "You're wasting time, Selena. There's nothing there for you to find. Only the God of Destruction can help us, and he is still waiting for you."
Her tone was sharper than usual, a rare moment of annoyance from the High Priestess. But then again, mothers could scold their daughters, even if the daughter happened to be the queen of the realm. I bit back a snort, rolling my eyes internally.
"Give me some time, Mother. I have a feeling I'm close very close-to finding the Dark Alpha. Once I locate him, I'll uncover the root of this destruction," I explained, trying to reassure her.
Zander couldn't be the dark alpha, as my vision had shown me. My heart refused to believe he could be that evil. But I still needed to uncover his connection to the dark alpha.
"And how can you be so certain the Dark Alpha is the key?" Mother countered, her gaze piercing as she folded her hands in front of her.
"Something instinctual is telling me,"
I murmured, atmost unconsciously, my thoughts drifting as I tried to connect the dots. "Everything began to spiral after the emergence of the Dark Alpha," I continued, "He seems hungry for power, and with Damon missing, I can't shake the feeling that something dangerous is brewing-something meticulously planned."
I turned to face my mother, my gaze serious. "I have to stop it," I declared.
My mind raced with the possibilities. Damon's power, amplified by the might of the vampire lineage and the ancient warlock king, made him nearly unstoppable. But why had he remained in hiding for so long? The secrecy felt too calculated, too deliberate.
Mother's expression softened, but her words remained firm. "Whatever your instincts tell you, Selena, remember this: you must return here before the people start to panic. Without their queen, the harmony of the lunar realm will begin to crumble."
"Don't worry, Mother," I replied, though my voice carried a distracted tone. "I'll be back soon," I promised. Sensing the sadness in my voice, she approached me, her hands gentle as they caressed my head.
"Selena," she said softly, her tone
both loving and resolute, "you must
let go of these weaknesses. You are a descendant of the Moon Goddess. Your life is not yours alone-it belongs to your people.
Relationships, material tie
These
things are beneath you. Your purpose is above all of this."
Her words struck a chord, reminding me of the enormity of the role I bore. Letting go of what she perceived as weakness wasn't easy. It never had been. The more I tried to distance myself from my loved ones, the more my heart resisted.
Chapter 632
Author's POV.
After Selena returned to the Moonglow pack, the High Priestess decided it was time to seek an audience with the Moon Goddess. She ascended to Asgard, the celestial realm where the gods and goddesses convened, their thrones casting an ethereal glow over the star-studded expanse.
The chamber was a grand spectacle, with a sky-like dome swirling with constellations, the air shimmering with divine energy. Seated on their ornate thrones were the gods of the realms.
Kaelvor's deep voice echoed through the hall as his piercing gaze fell upon the High Priestess.
"Why did you send Selena back? What about the wedding?!" he snapped, his tone heavy with impatience. The High Priestess lowered her hood, revealing a calm yet resolute expression. "I tried to stop her, but she wouldn't stay," she replied, her voice steady and composed.
Sylvara, the serene goddess of wisdom, tilted her head in curiosity, her silver hair flowing like moonlight. "You're aware the day of sacrifice is drawing near, aren't you?" she asked, her voice gentle yet filled with an undercurrent of concern.
The High Priestess nodded silently, but before she could respond, Pyrrhos, the god of flames, leaned forward. His crimson robes seemed to flicker like fire, and his glowing ember eyes bore into her.
"Everything will be destroyed if we don't follow the process," he growled, his voice like a crackling inferno. "That will never happen," the High Priestess replied, her tone unyielding and devoid of emotion. "The sacrifice must occur on the destined day, as ordained."
Kaelvor narrowed his eyes, the weight of judgment radiating from him. "Alpha Zander will be a problem," he said, his voice cold and sharp.
"He can't do anything," the High Priestess dismissed with an air of finality.
Kaelvor's gaze darkened further. "He can do a lot. Haven't you seen how he manipulated the Queen of the Lunar Realm? Selena went willingly to live in his pack," he retorted, his tone laced with challenge. The High Priestess clenched her jaw, resisting the urge to reveal the secret mission Selena was undertaking within the Blue Moon Pack.
"You know," Kaelvor continued, a smug smirk playing on his lips, "if I don't marry Selena, I won't be able to merge my power with hers. Without that union, I cannot save the Lunar Realm from destruction."
"I understand," the High Priestess replied tersely. Her gaze flicked toward the Moon Goddess, who remained calm and silent. The goddess hadn't spoken a word
throughout the entire et
fnet
merely observing with a serene expression. The High Priestess felt a twinge of confusion at the goddess's lack of interference or reproach, and unease lingered in her heart. However, for now, she resolved to follow the goddess's lead, trusting that her silence carried a deeper meaning.
"You need to bring her back to the realm before it's too late," Kaelvor spoke again, his voice tinged with urgency. His fear of Alpha Zander was evident, his unease growing with each passing moment. "If we take him lightly, he will ruin everything."
The High Priestess inclined her head in a gesture of respect, her expression carefully neutral. Without another word, she turned and left the chamber, her robes sweeping gracefully behind her.
After the High Priestess returned to the Moon Goddess Temple to resume her duties for the day, Kaelvor realized his work there was done. He headed back to his realm, where his partners in crime-the Dark Alpha and Damon Shadowthorn-were waiting for him.
"What happened?" the Dark Alpha asked. "Did they agree to speed up the process?"
"No," Kaelvor replied with a frustrated sigh. "Selena's not returning anytime soon."
"That's going to be a problem. Zander is very clever and he can figure out our intentions, and if he does,
no one can stop him from finding out what we're really planning," the Dark Alpha said, a hint of concern in his voice.
"And then he won't stop until he kills us," Damon added, his voice low. "He's more than we ever anticipated. He's the fucking Alpha King."
"He may be the Alpha King, the
mightiest werewolf, but he can't do anything. He's nothing compared to my powers," Kaelvor boasted е smugly. After all, he was the God of Destruction, the most powerful being who could destroy anything at will. He took pride in his strength and efficiency.
"You don't know what he possesses-something far more powerful than the might of any god or goddess, Damon said, his tone grim. He had witnessed Zander Blake return from the brink defying nature itself. What Damon didn't remember, however, was that the power he referred to wasn't
f dealer
some divine force but the true mate bond between Zander and Selena.
When the High Priestess erased Selena's existence from everyone's memory, all traces of her significance had vanished. Now, Damon only saw her as the descendant of the Moon Goddess and a vessel of immense power, coveted for her abilities and her ancient wolf, Arena.
"Don't worry," the Dark Alpha said with a chilling smirk. "I've devised a plan. Zander will throw Selena out
of his pack and out of his life himself. Once that happens, she'll have no choice but to return to God Kaelvor."
Kaelvor and Damon exchanged a glance, their expressions shifting to mirror the Dark Alpha's cunning smile. Though the Dark Alpha's face was concealed behind a mask, the malice in his eyes was unmistakable. Whatever he was planning, it promised to be something truly sinister.
Chapter 633
I received a mind link from the border security team, alerting me that something was wrong. Without
wasting a second, I rushed to the headquarters. The air was thick with tension as I entered, and the grim faces of my team only deepened my unease.
"Report," I commanded, my voice sharp as I approached Freya, who stood examining the scene on the monitors.
Freya's expression was grim. "Alpha, we found several people dead in the peripheral regions. Their bodies were discovered in strange and unnatural conditions."
"What do you mean by unnatural?" I demanded, my brows furrowing.
"It's unlike anything we've seen before," she admitted hesitantly. "At first glance, it resembles a plague, but we haven't been able to identify the cause or source. The tests are inconclusive."
I clenched my fists, anger boiling beneath the surface. "I didn't appoint the best team to hear vague
explanations, Freya," I growled, my voice carrying the weight of my frustration. "You're the best in your fields-don't give me half-answers when my people are dying."
Freya flinched but nodded resolutely. "Alpha, We're doubling our efforts. I won't rest until we have answers."
Seeing my people in peril-helpless, and now dead-was my breaking point. Lyon stirred restlessly within, echoing my rage. I wouldn't rest until I discovered the truth. I wouldn't let this happen again. My people depended on me, and I'd burn the world to protect them if I had to.
I approached the bodies, my gaze narrowing as I examined them closely. Encased in glass covers, their pale skin shimmered with an eerie silver hue.
"What's happening to them?" I asked Freya, expecting she might have conducted some tests, which could explain the odd glow.
I glanced at Freya, noticing her hesitation.
"What's wrong?" I demanded sternly.
"I checked the illumination from their bodies and..." She paused.
"And?" I frowned, waiting for her to continue.
"Come with me, Alpha," she said, motioning for me to follow her toward the laboratory. Just before we entered, she handed me a full-body suit. I glanced at her, puzzled.
"Please wear this," she explained. "These are magic- and spell-proof suits. We still don't know how the magic spreads from the bodies or how it might affect others."
She slipped on a similar suit herself.
I followed her into the dimly lit room, where candles flickered, casting
long, wavering shadows. The air was thick with the heady aroma of enchantments. Freya's assistants, a few other witches also clad in protective suits, were engrossed in their tasks-mixing potions for various cures and crafting enchanted weapons.
Freya was a skilled witch, and I trusted her judgment completely. Whatever she needed, we'd provide it to enhance the resources of the research and investigation center.
"Here, I tested the light from their bodies," Freya began, pointing at one of the corpses her assistants were still examining. She ran her hands over the body, and it began to emit a different, eerie glow.
I watched in amazement, unable to hide my disbelief. "What is that?" I murmured, almost in a trance.
"It seems a ritual was performed that caused their deaths," she explained, her voice steady but laced with unease. She hesitated before continuing, "And... I was shocked to discover that the spell or rather, the dark magic cast on them-originates from the Lunar Realm."
Her revelation made my eyes widen in shock. The Lunar Realm?! I masked my surprise quickly, though, and asked calmly, "What's your interpretation of this?"
I needed to know her take on it, to see if she had come to the same conclusion that I had-a conclusion that felt far more dangerous than I could have anticipated.
"Many people dismiss it as a myth or a rumor, but I've heard a prophecy passed down from my ancestors," Freya began, her tone hesitant. "It mentioned that the entire universe would face destruction, and the only way to stop it is through a specific process. I don't know all e but..." Her conflicted expression deepened. "If it's true-and based on my findings-the process is somehow connected to the Lunar Realm."
The suspicion in her eyes made my temper snap.
"Are you out of your mind?" I roared. "Do you even know what you're saying?"
"I do, Alpha,” she replied firmly, her voice steady despite the weight of her words. "Trust me, I've double-checked it thousands of times-even though I confirmed it in the first trial. The magic came from the Lunar Realm. It doesn't exist anywhere else," she said, her tone résolute, though her expression conveyed a deep empathy. "I understand what this means to you, and for the first time in my life, I
wished to be wrong."
I exhaled loudly, then inhaled sharply, running a hand through my hair. No, this couldn't be true. It couldn't.
Freya hesitated but continued, "If I connect the pieces... it all started when your mate, Queen Selena, came to reside in our pack."
"Shut the fuck up!" I growled, spinning abruptly toward her with a glare that could scorch the air between
us.
Freya flinched slightly but held her ground. "I hope I'm wrong, Alpha. But we can't ignore the facts."
The facts pointed to a grim possibility, but my heart refused to accept them. Selena... behind the deaths? No, no! The mere thought was unthinkable-believing it felt impossible.
But if it were true... then what?
Chapter 634
I stood before my pack house, my legs threatening to give out beneath me as my heart and mind waged war against each other.
'Come on, Zander. Do you really think Selena is behind those deaths?' Lyon growled in frustration. 'I'm not ready to believe she could do something like that.'
I let out a long sigh, a wave of defeat washing over me. I didn't want to believe it either. But as a ruler, I couldn't ignore the facts-and the facts were pointing in a direction I couldn't refuse to accept.
Taking a deep, steadying breath, I pushed open the doors and entered the pack house. The sight that greeted me eased a fraction of the weight on my chest.
Austin's cheerful laughter filled the room as he sat cross-legged on the floor, his tiny hands gripping crayons. Anne knelt beside him, patiently helping him with his kindergarten coloring assignment. Seeing my son happy melted away some of the stress that had been clawing at me, even if only for a moment. "Zander," Anne greeted me with a warm smile. "Would you like a cup of coffee?"
"No, thanks, Anne," I replied, shaking my head. "I want to freshen up first."
She nodded, her attention returning to Austin as she resumed helping him with his coloring. I walked past the kitchen, where the familiar sight of my mother and Blair overseeing the household chores greeted me.
My eyes instinctively scanned the room, searching for Selena, but she was nowhere in sight.
"Where is Selena?" I asked Blair, my tone casual yet laced with curiosity.
"I haven't seen her all day," she answered calmly. "She might be in her room."
Without another word, I turned and headed straight to my room, where Selena had been staying.
When I opened the door, the faint trace of Selena's scent lingered in the air, but it was faded, as if she
hadn't been here for a while. I didn't need to look further to confirm-she wasn't here.
But where had she gone for so long without telling anyone... without telling me?
I wandered through the pack house, following any hint of her presence, until I finally caught her scent near
my study. My steps faltered outside the door before I abruptly pushed it open and barged in.
Selena jolted at the sudden intrusion, her wide eyes staring at me as she froze mid-action... using my laptop?
"Hi!" she greeted hesitantly, her voice uncertain. "You're home early?"
My frown deepened. "What are you doing here?" I asked, my gaze sweeping over the study. "No one enters this room without my permission," I said, my piercing gaze locking onto hers.
"But I'm your mate, Alpha," she replied softly, her voice carrying an innocent charm, her wide eyes looking at me with an almost disarming cuteness. "Do I need permission too?"
"Selena," I said firmly, my tone laced with authority. "You are my mate, and because of that, I expect you to respect my position as the Alpha King of the North. This is my workspace, filled with confidential details I bring home to review in my free time. If you wanted to come here, you should have asked me first." "Okay, Alpha King. I'm sorry," Selena said quickly, her voice soft yet tinged with something unreadable.
As I approached, she pressed a button on the laptop with practiced ease. Suspicion pricked at my senses. I swiftly turned the laptop toward me, my eyes scanning the screen.
The all-too-familiar sinking feeling hit me when I realized that all the recent work on it had been erased. Clever. My mate was very clever.
And now, this gave me yet another reason to trust Freya's findings and to doubt Selena.
What are you hiding from me, my mate?
The thought echoed in my mind like a persistent whisper. A strange sense of déjà vu crept over me, a nagging feeling that something eerily similar had happened before. But when?
"What were you doing on my laptop?" I growled using my sharp and authoritative Alpha King tone.
Selena glanced at me, her
expression neutral, but her voice
carried a touch of nervousness. "I was getting bored at home, so thought I'd do some research about the North to understand you better," she replied smoothly.
I studied her carefully. The words seemed too practiced, too deliberate. A queen of the Lunar Realm needing to study the North in the mortal realm? It made little
sense. The Lunar Realm httttnet
controlled ours for eternity
"Don't use my laptop," I said curtly, my tone leaving no room for argument. "It contains many confidential files, and if anything were accidentally deleted, I'd be in serious trouble."
Her expression shifted slightly, a flicker of displeasure crossing her face at my restriction.
"Then get me a laptop," she demanded, her voice sweet yet assertive, as though trying to mask her defiance with innocence.
"I'll think about it," I said, deliberately dodging her demand. "Now, let's go. I need to lock the study," I instructed in a distant tone.
Selena didn't respond, but I could see a flicker of recognition in her expression..She must have sensed the emotional barrier in my voice couldn't help it. Until I knew what was true and what was false, trust was a luxury I couldn't afford-not even with my mate.
As I turned to lock the door, her voice stopped me in my tracks.
"If you give me a laptop and access to your study," she began, her tone laced with a playful edge, "I can negotiate on some terms."
I froze, my brows furrowing in confusion. "What terms?" I asked, my tone guarded, caught off guard by her unexpected proposition.
She bit her lip shyly, making my confusion grow further.
"How about a kiss?" she said, her voice soft yet teasing, leaving me utterly baffled.
Chapter 635
I thought he would jump at the opportunity after hearing my proposition, but what happened was the exact opposite of my expectations.
"You'll get your laptop today," he said in a dismissive tone, and I was left utterly shocked.
"Are you sure you don't want anything in return?" I asked, my voice dropping to a teasing whisper as I observed him intently. But he didn't even glance in my direction.
"I've had a long day. I want to rest," he said, his tone detached, leaving my jaw practically on the floor. My mate-Alpha King Zander Blake-refused the kiss. Refused me. He didn't know but I might have been willing to offer more than just a kiss if he had pressed.
What was that? Did he hit his head somewhere, or was something seriously wrong with him?
Seeing that his mood wasn't good, I quietly followed him to the room. Without a word, he entered the bathroom, leaving me alone. I stared at the closed bathroom door for a few moments before walking over to the cupboard, selecting his clothes, and neatly placing them on the bed.
Deciding to give him space, I headed to the kitchen to help the omegas with dinner. On my way, I passed through the hall and noticed Anne with Austin. She was amazing with my son. If there was anyone who could fill my place in Austin's life, it would be her.
Anne would make a good wife for Zander too, and the thought lingered in my mind. That's why, despite the tug in my heart to go and spend time with my baby boy, I didn't interrupt them.
I found Zander's mother and Blair in the kitchen. As soon as Zander's mother saw me, she cringed and quickly left, as if I were a plague. Blair sighed and gave me an empathetic smile.
"Don't mind my mother," she murmured, coming over to me and whispering in an apologetic tone. "Of course, don't worry," I assured her with a warm smile. I was accustomed to my mother-in-law's indifference toward me; it was nothing new.
Blair and I got involved in preparing dinner, and the omegas also warmed up upon seeing me there. Though they had almost forgotten me, they still felt a connection with me.
Soon, the warriors and other officers began arriving, gathering in the dining room at their respective tables. Zander and Maddox also came in after a while. Zander was still distant toward me, and I couldn't understand what I had done wrong. Was entering his study without permission such a big crime that he was still upset with me? Goddess, this Alpha and his mood! I sighed, my eyes lingering on his handsome features as he carefreely talked to his beta, completely unaware of what he was doing to my heart. After dinner, Maddox approached me and handed me a new laptop. He informed me that I could use the study, but I would need to inform the Alpha beforehand.
Okay?! I could work with that.
Once dinner was over, everyone retired to their rooms. When I entered ours, Zander was already lying on his side, his eyes closed. Letting out a sad sigh, I lay down on my side. Closing my eyes, I silently hoped that by morning, things would be better.
In the morning, when I woke up, I
found the other side of the bed empty and cold. Zander had already left. I headed down the hall and helped Austin get ready for the day. After he left for kindergarten found Blair preparing to leave for the training ground.
"Can I also come?" I asked.
She nodded with a smile. "Sure."
As we walked to the training ground, we came upon Zander sparring with the young warriors in training. He was shirtless, wearing only a pair of shorts. The sun highlighted his toned ripped physique, and beads of sweat glistened on his tan complexion, making him look like a Greek god incarnate.
My throat suddenly felt dry. Oh, Goddess, was it the weather that was so hot-or my impossibly sexy mate making it even hotter?
Blair's fingers gently touched my chin, attempting to close my mouth. It was then that I realized I had been drooling over the hot Alpha King.
"I know my brother is handsome," she teased with a smirk, "but he's yours, and you can watch as much
as you want in the privacy of your room, Selena."
I blushed so deeply I felt my cheeks heat up.
"Blair, stop it," I said, smiling shyly. She giggled.
"By the way, if you want, I can arrange the next training session for you," she suggested, nudging me with her shoulder mischievously.
"Will he train me?" I asked with doubt. Since I arrived at the training ground, Zander hadn't even spared me a glance.
"Of course he will," Blair affirmed confidently. "After all, you are his mate."
I nodded, smiling, but then a thought crossed my mind.
"Blair, do you know if something is
going on in the pack? Zander seems off lately,” lasked, noticing how Maddox and Zander had been talking intensely last night at the dinner table. It made me think that maybe Zander was stressed and taking it out on me by being upset.
"Oh, you didn't know?" Blair asked with surprise.
"What's wrong?" I asked, feeling a sense of unease.
"Some deaths happened yesterday, and we can't find the cause of them. This has made Zander
extremely worried, as you know, for him, his people and pack always come first," she informed.
Deaths in our pack? In suspicious conditions? That explained why Zander had been in such a bad mood. But he should have discussed it with me.
But who could be behind it? I won't rest until I find out.
Chapter 636
Zander finished training with the male warriors, and now it was time for the female warriors to begin their session. The female warrior trainer stepped forward as Zander walked out of the wrestling ground, accepting a towel handed to him by one of the male omegas on duty at the training grounds to attend to the Alpha and other officers.
In the far corner, Maddox was practicing in another training area, and I couldn't help but notice Blair's eyes fixed on him.
Watching Blair and Maddox's love story unfold right before me was so sweet; it felt like witnessing a romantic tale come to life.
But my happy moment disturbed when I heard the voice of one of the female warriors.
"Alpha, can we not have the honor of your training as well? Or is your perfection reserved only for the male warriors?"
My eyes darted from the female warrior to Zander, whose expression was unreadable and stern.
"Of course, I will train you. For an Alpha, all his warriors are equal," Zander declared firmly.
His words brought a wave of joy among the female warriors, their eyes lighting up as they gazed at him
like he was some kind of eye candy. My heart burned with anger.
My stupid mate didn't seem to realize what these warriors really wanted-they didn't just want his training; they wanted him.
"No!" I exclaimed before he could step into the training zone, and every pair of eyes turned in my direction. "Alpha Zander will not train the female warriors."
"What are you saying, mate?" Zander growled, clearly displeased by my interruption.
"Yes, I'm saying the right thing. You're my mate, and I won't allow you to be in close contact with other females," I declared, lifting my chin in defiance, hearing a soft giggle from Blair beside me.
"Have you lost your mind? I'm the Alpha, and to me, my pack members are like my children. Your jealousy is absurd, mate," he hissed, frustration evident in his voice.
Oh, my poor, innocent Alpha. Couldn't he see they didn't view him as a father figure? They saw him as the hottest man alive. How could he be so oblivious to the effect he had on the she-wolves around him? "Alpha or not, I won't let you train those females," I declared firmly, feeling the heated glares of the female warriors boring into me.
"That's ridiculous," Zander huffed in frustration. "Your demand cannot be fulfilled, mate. The Alpha's duty always comes first and above everything else."
"Oh really? Above me?" I challenged, crossing my arms defiantly as I stared him down.
He didn't reply with words, but Zander's sharp, intimidating glare spoke volumes. Blair's reassuring grip on my hand gave me a sense of support, reminding me I wasn't entirely alone in this. "Zander, you can't just disregard your mate like this," Blair chimed in, her tone laced with irritation. "You wanted her here, and now that she is, you don't respect her? Typical male behavior," she added with a huff of annoyance. "If she doesn't want you training the female warriors, then respect her wishes. Appoint one of your best trainers for
them instead."
I fought the urge to cheer Blair on. No one except me ever dared to speak to Zander this way, but here she was, standing up for me. It meant more than words could express.
"Fine! Rachel!" Zander called out to one of the most skilled female warrior trainers.
Rachel stepped forward promptly. "Yes, Alpha!" she responded, bowing slightly in respect.
She was a brunette with a well-built, toned physique. Her six-pack abs were prominently visible under her cropped tank top, and her leggings accentuated her strong, sculpted legs.
"You take the lead and train the females for today. I will personally oversee the training and provide my input," Zander commanded with authority.
Rachel nodded, then turned to the female warriors and instructed them to step into the training zone.
I watched as the female warriors' faces fell with disappointment, but none dared to challenge their alpha's decision. Zander Blake was not just an alpha-he was the Alpha King.
However, I mentally made a note to give him a piece of advice when we were alone. How could he allow other females to touch him, training or not? I huffed silently.
Then he turned to me and his expression was still laced with frustration as he asked, "Is that okay for you, mate?"
I smirked in victory. "That's alright," I replied, my tone dripping with a playful attitude. I couldn't help but enjoy teasing my Alpha mate from time to time.
"But that's not it," I added, watching as Zander narrowed his eyes at me in irritation.
"What more do you want?" he asked in a low, dangerously calm voice the same tone that always sent a
shiver down my spine and made my core throb with anticipation and need.
"I want you to train me, Alpha,” I said,
my voice firm yet tinged with a hint
of playfulness. I was pleased to see
the way my mate's eyes
Chapter 637
Under His Control
I swear I saw the possessiveness swirling in his blue orbs as he stepped closer.
"As you wish, mate," Zander's voice turned husky, his possessive eyes raking over me as he grabbed my wrist and led me to the training area.
By now, everyone had gathered around the practice area where their alpha was going to train me.
Meeting his eyes with confidence, I grabbed the hem of my white top and was about to pull it over my head when he grabbed my hand.
"Don't!" he ordered sharply. "You can practise in these clothes."
I smirked. Two could play this game, Alpha.
He didn't bother covering himself in front of the hungry eyes of the she-wolves, yet he wanted me to stay modest. Such a hypocrite.
"But my clothes will get muddy," I pouted, letting my voice drop just enough to hint at the mischief dancing in my mind.
"They won't," Zander replied curtly, his gaze narrowing. "I'll be careful."
Oh, my Alpha-pretending not to care but still caring. It was adorable, really.
"So," I murmured, tilting my head and letting my fingers trail lazily along my waist, "what's the first move, Alpha?"
His eyes darkened, the playful spark fading into something more primal, more possessive. His chest expanded with a slow inhale as he stepped closer, towering over me, his shadow swallowing me whole. "Defense," he said simply, his voice husky, a delicious rumble that sent a shiver racing down my spine. "Defense," I echoed, my lips curling into a teasing smile. "You think I need to defend myself from you?" "No," he replied, his tone low and dangerous. "But from anyone foolish enough to try and take what's mine."
Before I could respond, his hands shot out, gripping my wrists with just enough force to command but never hurt. "First rule," he murmured, his eyes locked on mine, "never let your guard down."
His touch was electric, his thumbs brushing against my pulse points, making my breath hitch. I could feel the power coiled in his muscles, restrained but oh-so-potent, and it sent heat pooling low in my belly. "You're distracted," he pointed out, leaning in so close that I could feel the warmth of his breath fanning over my face.
"Wonder why," I managed to say, my voice weaker than I wanted.
His smirk was a devastating mix of arrogance and desire. "Spin."
Before I could process his command, he twisted me effortlessly, pulling my back flush against his chest. His arm snaked around my waist, anchoring me to him, while his other hand moved to my neck, not squeezing, just holding me in place.
"Try to get free," he whispered, his lips brushing the shell of my ear, making my knees go weak.
I wriggled, half-heartedly at first, because being pressed against him like this was intoxicating. But then I felt it-the heat radiating from his body, the steady thrum of his heartbeat, the way his grip tightened slightly when I moved just right. It ignited something primal in me, something that wanted to fight, not to escape, but to push him further.
"Is this all you've got, mate?" he teased, his voice dripping with dark amusement.
Oh, he was enjoying this. The challenge, the closeness, the way I couldn't quite decide if I wanted to fight or surrender.
I shifted my weight, using a self-defense move I'd vaguely remembered, and tried to stomp on his foot. He anticipated it, of course, sidestepping smoothly and pulling me closer, so close I could feel every hard plane of his body against mine.
"You're predictable," he murmured, his voice lower now, his lips dangerously close to my neck.
"And you're a hypocrite," I shot back, twisting my head to glare at him. "You train shirtless for all those she-wolves, but you want me covered?"
His grip tightened just slightly, and the growl that rumbled in his chest sent a fresh wave of heat coursing through me. "You're mine," he said, his tone possessive and unyielding. "No one else gets to see you like that."
"And no one else gets to touch you," I countered, tilting my chin defiantly.
"Are you jealous?" he finally asked, his voice a low, rough rasp as he released my wrists, stepping back just enough to let the tension between us breathe.
I turned to face him, my chest rising and falling rapidly-not just from the training but from the sheer effect of his presence.
"So what if I am?" I admitted boldly, my tone a mix of challenge and defiance. My words seemed to fuel the fire in his smirk, which deepened, his handsome face a picture of smug confidence.
"I am yours, mate," he said, his voice thick with certainty. "You don't need to be jealous."
Before I could respond, his hand shot out, gripping my elbow and pulling me closer with a commanding strength that sent a shiver down my spine. My palms fell against the hard planes of his bare chest, the heat of his skin searing into mine.
"See? I'm all yours," he murmured,
his tone dropping to a tantalizing whisper as his other hand brushed along my waist. "To touch, to feel to see..." His lips ghosted over my neck, stopping just at the marking spot, where the faintest graze of his
mouth sent a jolt of of his
electricity
through me.
"...and to make love," he finished, his voice husky and dripping with desire.
"Goddess," he growled, his lips pressing more firmly to the sensitive skin at my neck, "how badly I want to mark you right here, in front of everyone, so the whole world knows you're mine."
The possessiveness in his tone made Arena howl with delight inside me, her joy practically bursting at the seams. She pushed against my control, eager to break free, to let him claim us fully.
My eyes darted toward the crowd gathered around us. They were watching, their breaths held in a mix of awe and suspense. Heat flushed my cheeks and summoning every ounce of willpower, I pushed against his chest, trying to create distance between us. His smirk faltered slightly, but the raw hunger in his
eyes didn't waver.
"Alpha king, focus on the training," I teased, a playful glint in my eyes. "What's next? What are you going to teach me?"
"Watch me," he responded, his voice
ne'
low and commanding. In a flash, he rolled me into his arms, spinning us around. My hands instinctively gripped his torso, my body moving with him as he flipped us
effortlessly, sending him crashing
onto his back while I landshing
of him.
on top
A collective sigh of disappointment echoed from the crowd, but Maddox and Blair's cheers rang out loud and clear.
"That's my girl, Selena!" Blair shouted, her voice full of pride.
"An alpha can only be defeated by his luna," Maddox added, clapping in amusement.
I glanced down at Zander, who didn't look angry, but instead, strangely content. I tried to get up, but his hold on me was firm, not allowing me to move.
"Now, I want you alone in our room, mate," he whispered, his voice rough with an edge of something dangerous.
"What?" I squinted at him, trying to process his words. He tricked me while making everyone believe I had defeated him in training. What a liar of an alpha he was.
"You need to take responsibility for what you've started here," he murmured, his tone low and filled with meaning. His arms wrapped around my waist, pressing me down, and I felt his hard length, now a giant size, poking my belly.
With a wicked smile, he slowly helped me sit up before standing and leaving, his voice carrying over his shoulder with a hint of mischief.
"Five minutes, mate."
My head spun, torn between the exhilaration of victory and the anticipation of what was to come. Was this a victory or a defeat?
Chapter 638
The Target
I watched as a male omega handed Zander a T-shirt. He nodded in appreciation and walked off with Maddox, who had also finished his session for the day. Blair turned to me with a mischievous smile, her eyes glinting with playful intent.
"So, how was it?" she teased, winking at me knowingly.
"What? Your alpha brother is a good trainer, you know," I said, trying to dodge her question, feeling the heat rise to my cheeks.
"Oh, yeah?!" she laughed. "Tell me something about it!" Her grin widened as she shrugged nonchalantly, clearly enjoying my flustered state.
Before I could muster a reply, Anne's voice cut through the moment like a sharp blade. "Selena, how shameless you are!"
Startled, I turned to find her standing behind me, her face contorted with fury.
"What's wrong, Anne?" I asked with genuine concern, though her anger made me uneasy.
"What's wrong?" she spat, her scowl deepening. "What's wrong?! Huh?" Her teeth clenched as she
stepped closer. "You snatched my fiancé, and now he's canceling our wedding while you shamelessly flirt with him and seduce him openly! Such a filthy skank you are!"
Her words hit like a whip, drawing gasps from a few onlookers nearby.
I was stunned and couldn't speak for a moment, frozen by the weight of my actions. I hadn't realized I was going against my own carefully laid plans.
"Anne, don't worry. Your wedding won't be canceled," I muttered, and then I didn't stop there-I just turned and walked away, ignoring Blair as she called my name. I couldn't bear to look back.
How could I lose my focus like this? How could I let things spiral further out of control? I silently scolded myself, frustration boiling beneath my skin.
'It's not your fault, Selena,' Arena's voice echoed softly in my mind. 'He's our mate, and whether he remembers us or not, we're still bonded to him. Married to him. The pull you felt, the things you did- they're instinctual. Normal,' she assured me.
I sighed deeply. She might be right, but this wasn't part of my plan. Yet every time Alpha King Zander Blake stood in front of me, I lost both my focus and my control.
But now, I had no choice-I needed to accelerate my task and leave this realm as soon as possible.
I stormed into Zander's study, grateful to find it vacant. My heart raced as I locked the door behind me. I needed access to his files-documents that could support my search for the truth.
Sitting at his desk, I powered up his computer and entered the code. To my relief, it unlocked easily. Wasting no time, I searched for data from six years ago, focusing on the time when the Rock Claws Pack was decimated.
Questions plagued my mind: How did my father, his wife, and my half-sister survive that massacre? Was my half-brother still alive? Did they all fake their deaths back then? If yes then how did he manage to do
it?
As I scrolled through the archives, a
news article caught my eye. It detailed the attack on the Rock Claws Pack-their Alpha, Albert, and his family went missing during the onslaught. And everyone assumed they died in the war. But after six long years, they had reappeared, seeking aid from Alpha King Zander Blake to rebuild their pack.
The report claimed they had gone into hiding, surviving in secrecy to evade their enemies. But something felt off-terribly off. As far as I remembered, Zander himself had led the charge to destroy the Rock Claws Pack. Did Zander truly forget why he annihilated them, justas he forgot me? Did he forget the reason why he punished Alpha Albert and his pack? Why did something deep inside me whisper that my half-brother might still be alive, especially if the rest of the family had survived?
The pieces started forming a theory in my mind a theory that made my blood run cold.
Had my father planned their escape all along? But no, that seemed impossible. Escaping the wrath of Alpha Zander Blake his unparalleled fury-should have been unthinkable.
Unless...
Who had helped him? Someone mightier than the Alpha King? Or perhaps someone with strength equal to his?
My eyes darted around the room in frustration, my thoughts spiraling.
Frustration bubbled within me, threatening to spill over. None of this made sense. The gaps in the story, the contradictions, the missing pieces-it was maddening. My head throbbed under the weight of so many unanswered questions.
But one thing I was certain of:
A far greater force was at play here-something darker and more dangerous.
And if my suspicions were correct, the mighty Alpha King wasn't just the hunter in this game. He was also a target.
Lost in my thoughts, I kept scrolling through the news absentmindedly, my eyes skimming over headlines that barely registered until one name made me freeze.
The Dark Alpha.
The pieces that had been scattered in my mind suddenly clicked into place. It all made sense now.
The person who could have helped
my father, the one with the power to
J.n
stand against the Alpha King, was none other than him. His dark, otherworldly powers could explain the impossible escape-the survival that defied Zander's wrath.
My eyes widened as the realization sank in.
"Oh no!"
Chapter 639
A Mother's Dismay
My heart pounded so loudly in my chest as I recalled my vision of Zander as the Dark Alpha.
Oh, Moon Goddess, why this confusion? Why was I being tested so relentlessly by life? I closed my eyes, trying to focus, hoping to summon another vision-something, anything-that could offer clarity. But nothing came. Was it something that happened on its own? Could I not control it?
Oh Goddess! How much more did I have to learn about this new identity, this new life? And yet, here I was, burdened with a mountain of problems to face all at once. What was I supposed to do?
I rubbed my head in frustration just as the study door was yanked open, and Zander's commanding presence filled the room.
"What are you doing here, mate?" His deep, threatening voice sent a shiver down my spine as his piercing eyes locked on mine, each step he took toward me brimming with raw dominance.
"I came here to learn more about your pack, Alpha," I replied softly, breaking eye contact and looking away so he wouldn't see through my lies.
"But I told you to meet me in our room in five minutes," he said, his voice laced with quiet authority. "I've been waiting there for you, yet you didn't show. So, I had to come here to find you."
Before I could respond, his hands grabbed my waist, and he lifted me effortlessly, placing me on the desk. I gaped at him, my eyebrows shooting up in confusion. "What are you doing?"
"Since you're here," he murmured, leaning closer, his breath warm against the side of my face as his lips grazed my earlobe, "let's make good use of this desk."
I swallowed hard, my throat suddenly dry. "I... I have to go," I stammered, trying to slide off the desk.
But his hands planted firmly on either side of me, trapping me in place. His smoldering gaze held mine, and the air around us seemed to thicken.
"You didn't come when I told you to, and you made me wait," he growled softly, his voice heavy with desire. His darkened eyes bore into me, sending my heart racing at a jet speed. "Now, be ready to face the consequences, mate."
"You... you can't do this," I stuttered, my voice trembling as his hands trailed over my thighs, the fabric of my sweatpants doing little to dull the intense sensation that seeped through.
"Are you challenging me, mate?" he asked, narrowing his eyes with a teasing smirk that sent a shiver down my spine.
For a moment, I was speechless. If it
were another time, I might have played along, leading him into the game of seduction. But this was different. This wasn't the moment, and the stakes were too high. I needed to focus on pushing him and Anne closer, ensuring he would never remember me. So when I finally left, he wouldn't be hurt.
"Zander, we need to talk," I said abruptly, forcing myself to take a deep, steadying breath to regain my resolve.
"I'm all ears, mate," he murmured as he leaned forward, burying his head in the crook of my neck. His warm breath fanned against my skin, and he inhaled deeply, making it nearly impossible for me to focus.
"Zander, I'm serious," I shrieked, my voice rising in desperation as he nipped at the sensitive skin of my neck, sending jolts of electricity through me.
"Okay," he husked, his voice heavy and rough with lust. This was not the way I wanted to discuss this matter.
I tried to push him away.
"Zander, listen to me," I raised my voice in frustration.
He raised his head, frowning, his eyes still laden with lust but now mixed with confusion. "What's wrong, mate?" he asked.
I licked my lips, still steadying myself after his sensual ministrations. "I want to know about the Dark Alpha," I demanded.
He nodded slowly. "What else do you
want to know? Everyone knows he's
pure evil with a twisted wish to plunge the entire world into
darkness and claim it as his territory. That's why he was spreading terror, demolishing packs, capturing werewolves, and turning them into dark beings to increase his army. But no one has ever seen his face or knows his name."
He told me what I already knew. But my question was different.
"Do you know him personally?" I pushed my luck, hoping he might confide the truth to me.
Zander furrowed his brows, his gaze narrowing as if searching for something within himself. Then, for a
fleeting moment, he looked lost, but his expression quickly changed.
"Blair mind-linked me," he said with urgency, his voice tight. "Austin is burning with fever and..." He paused as his eyes searched mine, "He's crying and missing his mom."
My heart sank with dismay hearing this.
Chapter 640
A Mother's Promise
Austin was burning with a fever! Knowing my baby boy was in pain, I couldn't stay there any longer. Before Zander could say anything, I dashed toward Austin's room. As soon as I opened the door, his desperate cries echoed through the air.
"Mom! Mom!"
Anne and Blair were sitting beside him, trying to comfort him, but their efforts were in vain. Anne gently caressed his forehead, but he angrily shrugged her hand away.
"No! I want my mom!" he wailed.
My eyes stung with tears, and all my resolve shattered seeing him in such a condition, needing me more than ever. I couldn't stop myself. Nothing and no one could hold me back now.
"Yes, sweetie," I whispered, my lips trembling as I rushed to his side. Blair got up from the bed, giving me space to sit beside my son.
"Mom is here," I assured him, placing my hand on his head. Leaning, I kissed his forehead, silently praying in my heart. The moment I touched him, I broke into tears, feeling the intense heat radiating from his tiny body-my baby boy was burning with fever.
"Mom, you're here," Austin murmured weakly, his eyes still closed. He seemed half-conscious, his little body succumbing to the rising temperature.
"Yes, sweetheart. I'm here. Mom is here," I repeated softly, my voice trembling with emotion. I kissed both of his eyelids, as though trying to transfer all my strength to him. Slowly, his eyes fluttered open.
I smiled, a mixture of relief and love washing over me. "Hey, baby boy! How are you feeling?"
"Mom?!" he called again, his voice fragile yet unmistakably filled with longing. My heart swelled with love and emotions, nearly overwhelming me.
My son called me Mom. He remembered me.
How could he not? After all, he was my blood, my flesh-a piece of me. My son.
"Why isn't there a healer here yet?" I yelled, my voice echoing through the room. My furious eyes darted toward Zander. "Why are you just standing there, doing nothing? Our son is suffering!" I scolded my husband, my frustration spilling over.
"Relax, Selena. The doctor is on his way," Blair tried to reason, her tone calm but firm.
"On his way?" + scoffed, my voice dripping with disbelief. "Are you serious? He is the heir of the MoonGlow Pack, and you're treating him like a nobody?" My anger flared like wildfire, consuming reason and sparing no one who dared stand in its path.
Everyone seemed to retreat. Even Anne stood from the bed, trembling with fear, and moved away. Only Zander remained calm.
"Calm down, Selena," he said softly, stepping closer and taking my hand in his. "Our son will be fine." His voice carried a quiet assurance that made me pause, even if just for a moment.
He gently placed our joined hands over Austin's chest. Arena stirred within me, her energy flaring to life The warmth of her power coursed through me and into Austin. Slowly, his labored breaths eased, and the burning heat of his fever began to Cool.
Zander smiled down at our son, relief softening his features, as Austin stirred and murmured, "I want water."
Without hesitation, I used my free hand to grab the glass from the bedside table and held it out to him. Austin sat up slowly, his small body still weak but visibly better, and took a sip. Watching him drink, I exhaled a breath I didn't realize I'd been holding.
"Dad!" Austin called out, his voice still a bit weak but curious. "Why is everyone here?" His gaze shifted between Anne, Blaire, Alpha Albert, and Zander's mother, all gathered out of concern for him.
"Austin, you had a fever, and we were all worried about you," Zander explained, his tone gentle but reassuring.
"But I feel good now," Austin said in his small, innocent voice, making me immediately pull him into a tight hug. Pressing him close to my chest, I finally felt a sense of relief wash over me. My baby was safe.
"Mom," Austin said softly, making me pull back slightly to meet his eyes.
"Yes, baby boy?" I smiled, my eyes glistening with joy and love.
"Don't leave me anymore," he said with a quiet determination, his voice tugging at every fiber of my being. His words sparked a deep warmth in my heart. My baby wanted me by his side, and in that moment, I knew I couldn't deny him-not now, not ever. No matter how difficult the decision, the answer was clear.
"I won't leave you, sweetheart. Never," I promised, holding his small hands in mine.
From the corner of my eye, I noticed Zander exhale a quiet breath of relief, the tension in his shoulders finally easing. Just then, the door opened, and the pack's doctor stepped into the room.
As he entered, I caught sight of some people quietly leaving. Their expressions were laced with disdain and disgust. It was Zander's mother, my father, and Anne.