Ch. 651..660
Chapter 651
Helpless Alpha King
"She has woken up, and you can see her now," the doctor said. Without wasting a second, I darted toward the room, eager to see her.
But Jasper stopped me. "Wait, Alpha Zander. Ask her what I did to her, and then let me go," he demanded, his tone firm but not hostile.
I nodded curtly. "I'll check on her health first," I replied indifferently, my hand already on the door handle. Jasper stepped closer, his voice tinged with irritation. "Listen, Alpha. I didn't stay here to entertain your baseless accusations. I stayed because I wanted to clear my name and prove I had nothing to do with your Luna's condition. Now, get this over with and let me leave in peace."
I took a deep breath, fighting back the swirl of emotions threatening to overwhelm me. The news of Selena's pregnancy had left me shaken, and her health was my top priority. Lashing out at the Vampire King without proper cause would be reckless and could spark unnecessary conflict. I couldn't afford that. Not now.
"Alright, give me a minute," I muttered in a voice tense but controlled.
Turning away from him, I entered the room to see my mate.
My breath caught in my throat as relief swept through me, seeing my mate sitting upright and smiling while chatting with the nurse. Her laughter, light and airy, filled the room, but it was the spark in her eyes that tugged at my heart. She turned toward me as soon as I stepped inside, her gaze meeting mine. A soft blush crept onto her cheeks, confirming that she already knew the news.
I bit the inside of my cheek, trying to keep my emotions in check as I approached her. Despite the storm brewing inside me, I forced a calm demeanor. She looked so happy, so full of life, and I didn't want to ruin this moment for her.
"Hey," I whispered softly. The nurse caught my eye, giving a quick nod before excusing herself and leaving us alone.
"You nearly gave me a heart attack when you fainted, mate," I admitted as I sat beside her. My fingers found hers, and I clasped her hands gently, taking a moment to feel her warmth. "Don't ever scare me like that again."
Her expression softened, but there was an undercurrent of unease in her eyes. "Did the doctor... tell you why I fainted?" she asked, her voice laced with nervousness.
I nodded, my gaze serious as I studied her. "Yeah, they told me." I paused for a moment, steeling myself. "And don't worry. It doesn't matter who the father is-I'll stand by you no matter what."
Her brows furrowed, her confusion evident as she tilted her head slightly. "What do you mean?" she asked, her tone uncertain, searching my face for answers.
I licked my lips before speaking, my voice steady despite my inner turmoil. "It's your child and I'll accept it as my own and raise it as mine," assured her. But the moment the words left my mouth, her expression changed dramatically. Anger flared in her eyes, and before I could process it, she yanked her hand
away from mine.
"You're unbelievable!" she shouted, her voice trembling with rage. "You're a jerk!" Without warning, she shoved me back, her face a mix of fury and disbelief.
I blinked, utterly bewildered. "Selena... what-what did I say wrong?" I stammered, reaching out to her, only for her to pull further away.
"Don't you dare!" she snapped, pointing to the door with a sharp motion. "Get out, Alpha King! Just get out!"
I stood there frozen, struggling to make sense of what was happening. My mate was furious, and I didn't even know why. "Wait, Selena. Please. What did I do?" I tried again, my voice quieter now, almost pleading.
Her glare didn't soften. "You think I need your pity? That I would carry anyone else's child?" she spat, her voice cutting like a blade. "Get. Out."
I exhaled heavily, dragging a hand through my hair in sheer frustration. "Fine," I muttered under my breath, my tone edged with resignation. "You're overreacting, and maybe I should give you some time and space."
Turning toward the door, I paused
with my hand on the handle,
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glancing back at her. "But just so you know, I added, my voice low and calm, "the vampire king is still waiting outside for your statement. He's adamant that he had nothing to do with you fainting in his arms."
Her eyes narrowed sharply, her annoyance flaring to new heights. "Oh, for the love of—" she groaned, throwing her hands in the air in exasperation. "You kept him here because of your foolishness?"
She grimaced, her expression an exaggerated mix of disbelief and frustration. "Go out there and tell him I fainted because my mate is a clueless idiot who doesn't trust me!" she shouted, her voice laced with venom.
Pointing at the door, she continued, "And let him leave respectfully, unless you want to start a war between vampires and werewolves!"
Her words stung, sharp and unrelenting, but I nodded in defeat. My mate was furious, and I was completely at a loss on how to make things right. Only she had the power to render an Alpha King so helpless-no one else ever could.
With a heavy heart, I turned toward the door, ready to leave. But before I could take a step, the door was yanked open and my mother and Alpha Albert stormed in, unannounced and unapologetic.
"That whore is pregnant with another man's child, and you still care about her?!" my mother spat, her words dripping with venom.
My mate's face fell, her earlier anger dissolving into something far more devastating hurt. The way her lips trembled and her eyes darted
toward me told me all I need ponet
know. Here, I was trying to fix things I
between Selena and me and my family had just made everything infinitely worse.
Chapter 652
A Mother's Betrayal *Selena*
"Mind your words, Mother. You're talking about your Luna," Zander growled, his tone laced with restrained fury. I wasn't surprised. He could be a clueless alpha, blind to the truth of the pup I was carrying, but his love for me was unwavering. Even if he had forgotten our old love, I knew his heart still beat for me-l never doubted it.
"She is not our Luna, Zander," his mother snapped, her disdain sharp and unyielding. "She's using you- climbing her way up to claim the position of Luna of the mightiest pack in the North and Queen of the werewolves. But in truth, she's nothing more than a greedy, selfish bitch carrying a bastard.
I gasped, the words cutting through me like a blade. How could she curse her own grandchild—a life so innocent, still growing inside me?
"You dare to call my child a bastard, Mother?!" Zander hissed, his voice trembling with rage. His eyes burned red, a clear sign that both he and Lyon were on the brink of losing control. Their fury filled the room, suffocating the air with unrestrained power.
"It's... it's not your child, Zander," his mother stammered, her voice trembling with fear. The oppressive weight of his alpha aura was overwhelming, even for her.
"And how can you be so sure of that?" Zander challenged, his glare piercing as he took a step closer. "The doctor said she's one month pregnant," his mother whined, her tone desperate. "It's impossible for the child to be yours because you met her only a week ago!"
I felt my heart sink, the weight of her words crushing me. How could I argue against this? No one would believe that the child was Zander's, and I had no way to prove it. Even if I somehow conducted a DNA test, how could I justify it without revealing secrets no one else remembered? No one seemed to recall that Zander and I were always bound to each other.
But then, to my utter shock, Zander's voice cut through my spiraling thoughts. "And how do you know I met her just a week ago and not before?" he retorted, his words firm, a shield of defense for me.
I gaped at him in disbelief, my breath catching in my throat.
"She is mine," Zander declared, his voice steady and filled with conviction. "And the child she's carrying is mine. I don't need anyone's approval to know that. End of discussion."
His unwavering confidence and sweet declaration made my heart swell with emotions I could barely contain. Once again, Zander had shown me a glimpse of the man who had always held my heart. "You're making another mistake, Alpha King." Alpha Albert spoke this time, his voice dripping with disdain, his piercing gaze directed squarely at me. His hatred wasn't new to me I had always known he never saw me as a daughter. But this level of animosity was something else entirely, and despite my efforts to remain unaffected, his venomous words still managed to sting. I hadn't forgotten he was my father after all.
Zander's response was immediate and sharp. "I don't need your advice, Alpha Albert. Now leave before I lose my temper. You're disturbing my pregnant mate," he growled, his voice layered with authority and a threat no one dared to test.
Neither Zander's mother nor Alpha Albert lingered a second longer; they swiftly exited the room, cowed by the Alpha King's command.
Once they were gone, Zander turned to me, his hardened expression softening into something warm and reassuring. "I'll send the Vampire King off with honor and respect," he said gently. "Then I'll speak to the doctor about when you can come home. After that, I'll come back to you, mate.'
I wanted to stay mad at him for accusing me of carrying another man's child. But I couldn't ignore how quickly he'd stood by me when it mattered. Maybe I'd overreacted a little too-it wasn't entirely his fault. He stepped closer and pressed kiss to my forehead, and despite everything, the simple gesture made my heart skip. Even after the door closed softly behind him, the warmth of his lips lingered, and I found myself blushing like a love-struck fool.
Moments later, the door opened again, and this time, Blair and Austin stepped inside the two people I cherished most in the world. My heart lifted instantly at the sight of them, and a genuine smile spread across my face. Their presence brightened my mood in a way only they could.
Author's POV.
"Oh, goddess, she's pregnant," the High Priestess, Thalassa, gasped, her voice trembling as the news reached her. Her heart sank, the weight of her own choices pressing down on her like never before. The Moon Goddess sat on a celestial pedestal. Her serene smile illuminated her divine presence, her voice soft but laden with wisdom. "What is it, Thalassa? Do you now waver in your resolve? Do you regret offering your daughter as a sacrifice for the world's survival?"
The High Priestess exhaled deeply, her dismay evident. She had always known the path she'd chosen for Selena was fraught with thorns rather than roses. Yet now, faced with this unexpected twist, she felt powerless against destiny's grip.
"How can we sacrifice her when
she's carrying another life within her, Goddess?" Thalassa implored, her voice shaking. She searched the Moon Goddess's face for answers, but the deity only gazed back at her with that same calm smile, an expression that seemed to hold both compassion and inevitability.
"Please, answer me, Goddess. What happens now?" The High Priestess's plea grew desperate as she stepped closer.
The Moon Goddess let out a soft,
melodic laugh, her silver eyes gleaming. "Everything happens for a reason in this universe, Thalassa," she said, her tone unwavering. "Your daughter's fate was sealed the moment you offered her to the cosmos for the world's survival. The balance demands a sacrifice, and it will take what belongs to it."
Thalassa's breath hitched as the words sank in. "But... it's now two lives in her as she's pregnant, and the child is innocent. Isn't there another way?"
The Moon Goddess's serene expression shifted into one of mystery, her voice following suit. "The universe does not bend to sentiment, High Priestess. Trust that all will unfold as it is meant to."
The High Priestess lowered her
gaze. She had never truly regretted
set
her decision, as she had dedicated her entire life to the universe. Yet, seeing her pregnant daughter with her family stirred something deep within her. The cold, distant mother in her softened, and she found herself worried about how her daughter would react once she learned of her mother's betrayal.
Chapter 653
My Eager Mate
*Selena*
After I felt better I insisted to the doctor that I wanted to go home. Blair and Austin stayed with me. Austin adamantly refused to leave without me. My sweet boy was so attached to me, and it melted my heart with love for him.
Zander arrived a while later and took me home, but I still wasn't speaking to him. How could he even think I'd been with another man? Blair had already informed me that the vampire king had been sent off respectfully, accompanied by Zander's apologies.
What concerned me more was whether Jasper would stick to our plan or if his encounter with Zander might have changed his mind. I needed to contact him again-just not now.
Right now, all I could focus on was the fire burning inside me. Goddess, I was overwhelmed with need. Knowing we were expecting another baby had only heightened my longing for my mate. It had been so long since we'd been truly intimate, and I couldn't fathom how he'd managed to maintain such self-control. But I wasn't strong enough not when I knew how utterly irresistible he was. My alpha mate the sexiest man alive, mine and only mine. Just the thought of him sent a rush of heat through me, and I couldn't hold back any longer.
In my room, I waited for his return, anticipation building with every passing moment. Finally, the door creaked open, and there he was the man of my dreams, standing before me. The innocent, almost pitiful look on his face tugged at my heart, making me want to run straight into his arms. But I held back, determined to wait and see what he would say.
"Are you still angry, mate?" he asked in a soft, sad voice.
Aw, my resolve wavered at his tone. I wanted to comfort him, to assure him that everything was okay, but I decided to make him squirm a little longer. After all, he deserved some teasing as punishment for doubting our mate bond.
I turned my back on him, huffing in fake annoyance. "Oh, now you care about me?"
"I've always cared about you, baby," I heard him say, his footsteps drawing closer until he stopped right behind me. I bit my lip, struggling to maintain focus as his intoxicating scent-pure masculinity with an earthy undertone-threatened to cloud my thoughts.
Spinning around, I faced him, finding him standing tall before me, his blue eyes, now dark and intense, fixed on mine.
"If you cared so much, how could you accuse me of carrying someone else's child?" I shot back, crossing my arms across my chest.
A flicker of realization crossed his
face before he lowered his head. Then, lifting his gaze to meet mine he said softly, "I admit my fault. I'm ready to accept any punishment you choose for me, mate. I shouldn't
have said those things."
He surrendered. The Alpha King-my powerful mate-admitted his mistake and stood there, apologetic. It was almost unbelievable.
"Now you believe it's your child I'm carrying?" I challenged, narrowing my eyes at him.
He stepped closer and placed his hand gently on my still-flat stomach. "It's mine," he murmured, his voice heavy with regret. "I'm sorry I don't remember the last time we were together." Despite his uncertainty, he had stood by me against his mother and Alpha Albert.
I let my hand slide up slowly to his neck, catching him by surprise. "Then why don't we relive it and remind ourselves?" I whispered, a blush creeping up my cheeks. I wanted him-right here, right now.
His eyes widened in surprise, but the next moment, his strong arms wrapped tightly around my waist, pulling me flush against his hard body.
"Are you sure, my love?" he asked, his voice low and rough, his gaze smoldering with desire. The lust in his eyes made him look ravenous. "The doctor said you're still weak and need to be careful."
"Then be gentle, Alpha," I teased, biting my lip playfully. "But I want you right now," I admitted.
The desperation in my voice was impossible to hide, and I didn't care how I sounded.
"Fuck, baby, I can smell your arousal," he groaned, his voice rough with desire. "I can't promise to be gentle."
"Just do it, Zander," I whimpered and
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he lowered his head to the crook of my neck, and I tilted my head back granting him better access. His hands stid slowly down my sides, stopping at my hips. His fingers dug firmly into my skin through the thin fabric of my silk robe, pulling me even closer.
My fingers found their way into his hair as he nibbled at the sensitive skin of my neck. "Ah, Zander!" I moaned, grinding myself against him. "Please, please take me to bed," I begged breathlessly.
He lifted his head, his dark eyes smoldering with intensity. "My little mate is so eager," he teased, a taunting grin playing on his lips.
I pouted in frustration, not wanting to waste another second, but before I could say anything, he swept me into his arms and carried me to the bed.
Chapter 654
Claiming Her
*Zander*
My beautiful mate lay before me, and I drank in the breathtaking sight of her to my heart's content.
"Are you just going to stare, or are you planning to touch me as well?" she teased, her voice carrying a playful hint of a whine.
If only she knew how desperately I was aching to touch her, to claim her as mine once again. It nearly killed me to hold back, to stop myself from losing all control and giving in completely.
"I'm just thinking about how I could forget the most beautiful period of my life," I admitted with a remorseful sigh.
"Ah!" she whimpered softly, her impatience evident. "Leave the thinking for later-just focus on me right now."
I couldn't help but chuckle at my impatient mate. "Your wish is my command, my pregnant Luna," I declared.
Without hesitation, I grabbed the shirt I wore, tearing it open rather than bothering with the buttons, and discarded it carelessly.
The way her eyes slid over my bare torso, growing darker with lust, only stoked the fire burning inside me. With urgency, I unbuckled my belt and tugged it free, letting the button of my pants pop open. The zipper slid down, leaving the pants hanging low on my hips as I stepped closer to my mate. She grabbed my hand, pulling me nearer, her touch igniting sparks across my skin.
Leaning down, I hovered over her carefully, every inch of my body alive with anticipation.
"Tell me what you want, mate," I asked, my voice ragged and breathless.
Her small, soft hands explored me, dragging her fingers down my chest to my abs. A shudder ran through me at her sensual touch. Goddess, it was so intense, every nerve in my body responding to her like a flame to oxygen.
"I want you, Alpha," she whispered seductively, her voice sending shivers down my spine. Hearing her openly voice her desire for me was intoxicating, hotter than anything I'd ever experienced.
"I want you too, baby," I confessed, pressing my lips to hers. The kiss was deep and electrifying, igniting a primal need to claim her fully. "Fuck, baby, I love you so much," I murmured against her lips, the words spilling out with raw honesty. My heart had known it all along I'd loved her far longer than I'd realized. She smiled against my lips, her voice teasing as she whispered back, "Are you sure, Alpha?"
"Goddess, I've never been more certain of anything in my life," I admitted. "What I feel for you is pure love, my tuna." I tugged gently on her bottom lip with my teeth, teasing her until her soft, sensual moan drove me wild. My arousal strained against my boxers, desperate for her.
My hands moved to the sash of her silk robe, untying it with deliberate slowness. When the fabric fell away, leaving her completely bare beneath, my breath caught.
"Fuck, baby. You are so ready for me," I groaned, the sight of her stirring an overwhelming hunger deep within me.
"Yes, Alpha. Don't torture me by
making me wait," she breathed, her voice laced with desperation. Her back arched off the mattress as my hands caressed her soft bosom tracing the perfect curves that rose and fell with her rapid breaths.
My mouth latched onto her peaked nipple, sucking harder as her cries filled the room. Her fingers tangled
in my hair, tugging me closer with a need that matched my own.
"Oh, Zander," she whimpered. "I feel so sensitive because of the pregnancy."
"Do you want me to stop?" I murmured against her, my teeth teasing her swollen, sensitive nipple before my tongue swept over it to soothe her.
"No, don't stop," she moaned, her voice trembling with desire.
I smirked against her skin and sucked harder, earning another sensual cry from her lips. Her hands
reached for my pants, fumbling to free me, but I caught her wrists gently.
"Wait, baby," I said, pinning her hands gently above her head. Her eyes locked onto mine, a mixture of frustration and longing burning in their depths.
I lowered my head, my gaze lingering on her red, swollen nipples glistening with my saliva. Her pale skin still bore no marks from me, something I intended to correct.
My lips began their descent, leaving
a trail of love bites down her
stomach, marking her as mine. With every kiss and nip, I made my way southward until I reached her soft thighs. My hands gripped them firmly, parting her legs to reveal her pink, glistening core.
"Fuck," I breathed out, my voice thick with desire. The sight before me was nothing short of heaven. I knew I wouldn't last long if I entered her right now, not with the overwhelming need coursing through me. "Watch me while I eat you out," I commanded, my alpha tone leaving no room for defiance. Our eyes stayed locked as I lowered my head, my tongue finally finding her wetness.
Chapter 655
Recollection
Her chest heaved as her breathing quickened. Her flushed face and half-lidded eyes made her look utterly irresistible—the sexiest woman in the world. I couldn't tear my gaze away from her, but the moment my tongue tasted her nectar, my eyes closed instinctively, savoring her essence.
Her taste was divine, a sweetness unmatched by anything else. The intoxicating scent of her arousal ignited an even fiercer desire within me, making my head spin with lust. My cock throbbed painfully, the veins straining under the relentless pressure of my need for her.
"Oh, my Goddess!" she cried as I sucked her swollen nub, swirling my tongue over it while sliding a finger into her tight, wet heat.
"Fuck, Zander!" she moaned, her voice trembling with pleasure.
I groaned deeply, the sound raw and primal. "Yes, baby, moan my name louder," I urged, my voice a mix of command and adoration. "Let me hear how good I make you feel.
I flicked my teeth lightly over her clit as I thrust two more fingers into her slick heat. She whimpered, her body trembling as she instinctively tried to close her legs, but my firm grip on her thigh kept them apart. "No, baby," I growled, my voice thick with desire. "Open your legs wider so I can make you come." "Zander, please," she whimpered, her voice breaking with desperation. "I want you. Don't torture me anymore.'
Her plea only spurred me on. I plunged my fingers deeper, curling them just right as my tongue flicked fiercely against her sensitive nub. It didn't take long before she shattered completely, crying out as her release flooded my mouth. I groaned in satisfaction, savoring every drop of her sweetness, drinking her in until there was nothing left.
Lyon growled restlessly in the back of my mind, desperate to take over, to claim our mate fully and lose himself in her. But I held him back, my control barely hanging by a thread.
When Selena finally came down from her intense climax, she reached for me, pulling me up into a heated kiss. The taste of her own desire didn't seem to faze her as her hands roamed over me, and before I realized it, she pushed me onto my back and straddled my hips.
A smirk tugged at my lips as I looked up at her flushed, determined face. I knew exactly what was coming next. My Luna was ready to take matters into her own hands and claim what she wanted.
She wrapped her trembling, soft hands around my steely hard length, and, goddess, the sensation sent a jolt of pleasure through me. Her
touch was delicate yet full o
her fingers barely able to
encompass my girth. The thought crossed my mind-how would I fit inside her, especially now that she was pregnant? I couldn't bear the thought of causing her any pain.
Her hand moved along my shaft, stroking slowly, her gaze fixed on it with a mix of awe and hunger. Her thumb circled the sensitive tip, smearing the beads of arousal that gathered there, and her tongue darted out to wet her lips. The sight alone nearly made me lose control.
Rising to her knees, she positioned
herself over me, the head of my cock brushing against her entrance. She teased me, sliding my length along her slick folds, coating me in her wetness. I clenched my teeth, my restraint hanging by a thread. My hips ached to thrust upward and bury myself inside her, but held back. This was her moment. I wanted her to take everything at her own pace, to feel the pleasure of owning me completely.
She lowered herself gradually, inch by inch, until my thick length filled her completely, and a deep moan escaped her lips. Her head fell back, her expression one of pure ecstasy. The way her body stretched and adjusted to take me made me feel utterly consumed by her her love, her passion, her claim over me.
her
My hands gripped her hips firmly, guiding her movements as I thrust upward, matching her rhythm. I controlled the pace, moving her up. and down along my length, the sensation driving me insane with desire. Watching her ride me, h body swaying above mine, was like every hidden fantasy of mine coming to life. This bold, confident side of her was utterly mesmerizing, a reminder of how much she wanted me as much as I craved her.
"Baby, say you love me," I demanded, my voice rough and desperate. I needed to hear it-to feel the truth of her words resonate in my heart. Maybe she had said it before, but the memories were lost to me, and I wanted to etch it into my soul, to cherish it forever.
"I love you, Alpha Zander Blake. I've always loved you, and I will love you until my very last breath," she confessed, her voice raw with passion and sincerity. Her words sent me to a new high, a rush of emotions flooding through me.
"Fuck!" I cursed loudly, her declaration tipping me over the edge. I thrust harder, losing myself in her entirely. "I love you too, my mate," I groaned as the release hit me, my body tensing as I spilled deep inside her. Her climax followed, her cries of pleasure filling the room, sending waves of pride and satisfaction through me.
And then it happened a sudden, intense sensation, as though a barrier had shattered in my mind. Memories came rushing back, hitting me with a force so overwhelming my head felt impossibly heavy. A loud growl tore from my throat as I clutched her close, my body trembling with the onslaught of emotions and recollections flooding my senses.
Chapter 656
My Existence
*Selena*
Oh Goddess, it was breathtakingly beautiful. My mate had made love to me, and I was utterly lost in the waves of pleasure he brought me. As our mating reached its completion, my eyes widened in surprise. The mating mark on his neck began to illuminate, a soft glow that seemed to pulse with life. A sudden warmth spread across my back, and I realized my own mark was also gleaming.
The marks that had once disappeared were now vividly reappearing, glowing with an ethereal light. The bond was reforming, pulling us together in a way that felt deeper, stronger, and more profound than ever. But before I could fully grasp the moment, Zander's expression shifted. His face contorted in pain, and he closed his eyes tightly, a loud growl escaping his throat.
"Zander?" I whispered, my voice trembling with fear as panic gripped my heart. When he opened his eyes again, they gleamed a bright, unnatural red. My breath hitched as I stared into them, realizing it wasn't just Zander I was looking at Lyon was surfacing.
Even Arena stirred with alarm.
"Zander! Zander, what's happening?" I stammered, my voice rising in urgency. I was scared, confused, and desperate to understand what was going on.
We were still connected, our bodies intimately joined, and I could feel him still hard and throbbing inside me, his movements halted as his body trembled with suppressed energy. My hands reached out instinctively, touching his face in an attempt to ground him, to bring him back to me.
"Zander, talk to me!" I pleaded, my voice cracking with emotion as tears pricked my eyes.
"Selena," he murmured, and this time his voice was soft, his gaze gentle as it locked with mine.
My heart raced as I heard the change in his tone. "I remember everything," he said, his eyes shimmering with emotion.
I blinked, trying to process his words, my breath hitching. "You... you remember everything? About us? About our love?" I asked, my voice laced with surprise and cautious hope.
"Yes, baby," he confirmed, his lips curling into a tender smile. "I remember every single thing." Without another word, he pulled me closer, capturing my lips in a long, deep kiss that spoke of love, longing, and promises renewed.
"Don't ever leave me," he demanded softly, his voice raw with vulnerability.
Though I wanted to promise him the world in that moment, the weight of everything unsaid lingered between us. I couldn't give him my word-not yet. Instead, I let my silence speak for me I kissed him back, pouring every ounce of desperation, love, and unspoken emotion into that embrace, as if it were the only way to convey what I couldn't yet say.
Suddenly, he switched our positions, pinning me beneath him without even pulling out. His slow, deliberate thrusts at first made my body ache with anticipation, but soon they turned fierce and needy, as if he were claiming me all over again. The room filled with our moans and
groans, a symphony of our emotions and connection reaching its crescendo.
Once more, we reached our peaks together, riding the intense wave of pleasure that left us both breathless and trembling.
We lay there, tangled in each other's arms, exchanging long, deep kisses, neither of us ready to let go. The sound of our labored breathing filled the room, but I knew I had to pull away. There was so much to discuss now that Zander had regained his memories.
Slowly, I pushed against his chest,
and as if understanding my silent cue, he withdrew, his hardness sliding out of me and leaving a sudden emptiness in its place. But he didn't move away. Instead, he wrapped his strong arms around me and pulled me back into his chest, his warmth and scent grounding me.
"Are you okay, baby? Did I hurt you? Are you feeling any discomfort?" he asked, his voice filled with genuine concern as he tilted his head to look at me and then toward my stomach. His hands caressed my still flat belly with tenderness.
A soft smile spread across my face, and I stretched my neck to press a tender kiss to his lips. "I'm fine, don't worry," I reassured him, my voice soft and soothing.
Relief washed over his face, and he let out a quiet breath, his features softening as he held me closer. "Zander, what happened? How did you forget me and our memories?" I asked eagerly, my voice laced with both curiosity and desperation.
He seemed lost in deep thought as he began to speak. "The last thing I remember was going to meet the High Priestess to find out about your whereabouts. After that... I don't remember anything," he admitted, his brows furrowed.
Then, suddenly, his expression shifted. Realization dawned on his face, and his jaw clenched. "The High Priestess," he murmured, his voice filled with a mix of anger and clarity. "It was her. It must have been her spell-one that was just broken by our mating and the resurfacing of our marks."
My heart clenched at his words
Mother?! My mother?! She erased me erased my existence from the mortal realm? She was the one who made everyone forget about me?
Chapter 657
Who Are You?
"I'm not going to let this matter go, Selena," Zander growled, his voice resonating with fury. "I don't care if she's your mother. She will answer for her actions."
Panic surged within me. Zander's anger was palpable, and I knew my mother wouldn't stand a chance to explain herself to him. She wouldn't even try. If my suspicions were correct-if her reason for erasing my existence was to ensure harmony in the Lunar Realm-then she should have come to me, discussed it with me, not taken such drastic measures without my consent.
"Zander," I said softly, placing a hand on his chest in an attempt to soothe him. "I will talk to Mother first and find out her reasons. Let me understand her actions before you confront her."
His jaw tightened, his stormy gaze fixed on mine. "No, my mate," he argued, his tone unyielding. "I will question the High Priestess myself. She altered our lives without permission, and she must face the consequences.
Oh, no. This could turn into a disaster if the two most important people in my life ended up clashing. "No! Please, give me this chance. Let me speak with her first," I pleaded softly, my voice laced with desperation as I gazed up at him with imploring eyes, hoping it would work as it always had. "Please, Alpha," I whispered, my tone low and deliberately persuasive.
His eyes narrowed, clearly catching on to my attempt to sway him. After a tense pause, he exhaled sharply. "Alright," he conceded, though his tone held a warning. "But if her reasons don't satisfy me, I'l confront her myself, and she will have to face the consequences."
I nodded hesitantly, relief mixed with unease. "As you say, Alpha," I replied, biting my lip nervously.
Zander groaned, a smirk forming on his lips. His earlier anger seemed to dissolve, replaced by something far softer. "You always know how to twist me around your little finger, my mate," he murmured, pulling me close.
Oh, so now his anger had vanished, just like that, and he was ready to get romantic again-even after making love to me twice just moments ago.
"Not again," I protested, pressing a hand against his chest to keep some distance. "You've already worn me out after two rounds of... passionate love-making," I added, pouting slightly.
"And whose fault is that?" he teased, his voice a low rumble. "You stayed away from me for so many days. Now you have to make it up to me."
"What?! In one day?" I exclaimed, my eyes widening in disbelief at his audacity.
He simply raised a brow, the amused smirk never leaving his face.
"No way," I declared, shaking my head firmly. "Absolutely not!"
He chuckled softly, the deep sound vibrating through his chest. His mischievous expression made it clear that he wasn't planning to let me off the hook anytime soon.
His face leaned closer, and I instinctively tilted my head back to maintain some distance, determined not to let him distract me before I got the answers I'd been seeking for days.
"Wait. First, you have to give me some answers," I demanded, feigning annoyance.
"Ask me anything, baby," he replied in a husky tone, his gaze fixed on my mouth while his thumb toyed
with my bottom lip. I forced myself to resist his temptations, steeling my resolve to get the answers ĺ desperately needed.
"Are you the Dark Alpha?" I asked abruptly.
Zander's face registered surprise before he pulled back slightly, his expression shifting to one of
discomfort, as though I'd asked him the most forbidden secret.
"What?" he snapped, his voice sharp as he quickly averted his gaze. "No."
If that was true, why couldn't he look me in the eyes?
"Then why does he look exactly like you, Zander?" I countered, my tone firm and unyielding. I wasn't going to stop until I uncovered the truth.
"What are you talking about, Selena?" Zander frowned, his skepticism evident. "No one has ever seen the Dark Alpha's face," he retorted, his tone laced with doubt.
Oh, right. I'd forgotten-no one had ever seen that devil. But I had. I'd seen him in my visions, and I was certain the truth was somehow tied to them.
"You haven't seen him either?" I pressed.
"What kind of question is that, Selena?" he countered instead of answering, only fueling my suspicions. "I've seen him, Zander," I shot back, my voice firm.
"You mean to say..." He furrowed his brows, his eyes narrowing as he processed my words. "He's hidden his face and identity from everyone, yet he revealed himself to you? He snorted, disbelief dripping from his tone. "How does that even make sense, Selena?"
"You think I'm lying?" I scowled, irritation flaring within me.
"No," he sighed, his voice softening. "But it just doesn't add up, baby." His expression gentled, his skeptical edge replaced by concern.
"I saw him in your territory, Zander! He looks exactly like you," I yelled in frustration. How could he keep hiding the truth from me? He knew I was his Selena-his fated mate-and that I loved him so deeply. How could he do this to me?
"You must be mistaken or confused," he exhaled, trying to sound calm, though the tension in his jaw betrayed him. "The Dark Alpha is a monster. If he were in my territory, I would've killed him."
I didn't respond, just kept staring at him, searching for any cracks in his façade. I knew it was him. I had felt the mate bond, faint though it was at the time. But I still felt it. It was definitely him.
"Don't be like this. Please tell me, Zander. I don't have much time," I whispered, my lips trembling with despair.
His expression shifted, growing concerned and intense as he asked, "What do you mean you don't have much time?"
I pressed my lips together, unsure
how to answer. I couldn't tell him that I had returned only to go back needed to find the truth, and fast But deep down, I feared that the truth would make it impossible for me to ever return to the mortal realm.
"I mean... I'm tired and don't have time to argue," I said, making an excuse for my reckless outburst. I closed my eyes, trying to steady my emotions.
Zander finally sighed loudly, running a hand through his hair. "Baby, you're exhausted," he said softly, his tone turning gentle. "The doctor told you to rest and take care of yourself... and our baby.
As he spoke, he carefully eased me down onto the pillow, his hands tender as if afraid I might break.
"Sleep for a while; I have some work
to do," he said, pulling the covers over me before getting up and heading to the bathroom. He came out after a while, picking a fresh pair of clothes before getting ready watched in silence as my hobalpha mate prepared for the day, leaving the room but not before giving me a long, deep kiss and instructing me to rest.
But I couldn't rest. I couldn't even be at peace until I knew his secret.
Alpha Zander Blake, what are you hiding from me?
Chapter 658
The Secret Chamber
*Zander*
The night was pitch-black, and my footsteps quickened as I descended the stairs to the basement. Hidden deep within the pack house, this was my sanctuary-my secret chamber. No one dared to enter this area, not that many even knew it existed. Only a select few, trusted members from the old guard, were aware of its presence.
Reaching the heavy door, I pushed it open and slipped inside, shutting it firmly behind me. My heart pounded like a drum, loud enough to echo in the silence. It had been years-years since I'd dared to do this. Years since I'd faced HIM.
My movements were deliberate, each step bringing me closer to the wall-sized mirror shrouded in a heavy black cloth. Stopping just before it, I reached out, my fingers curling around the fabric. A deep breath steadied me before I pulled it away, revealing the mirror.
But there was no reflection staring back at me. Only an endless void of darkness.
This was no ordinary mirror. It wasn't meant to reflect the physical world. It was a gateway—a link to a world I wished I could forget. A reminder of my darkest secret.
The dark world.
"Where are you?" I growled, my voice low and rough as my anger surged. My hand pressed against the cold, dark surface, ripples spreading from the point of contact like water disturbed by a stone.
The mirror began to shift, its blank surface stirring to life. I pulled my hand away, watching as, slowly, an image began to form.
"Well, well, Zander," a mocking voice rang out, smooth and sharp, as the figure in the mirror became clear -my own reflection, distorted by a sinister grin and eyes as dark and endless as the death itself. "What a pleasant surprise. Missed me already?"
"You'd better answer my questions instead of spouting nonsense," I growled, my voice echoing in the chamber. "How dare you come near my mate?"
"Oh, you mean our mate?" he retorted with a dark, mocking laugh, his grin widening as he saw my grimace.
"Shut up!" I snapped, my anger flaring.
"Shut up?" he repeated with feigned amusement. "I'm not here to take your orders, Zander. But I'll tell you this-I'm still offering you a chance. Join me. Together, we could rule the world."
His voice was a sickening mockery of my own, every word twisting my stomach with disgust.
"I'll offer you something," I snarled through gritted teeth. "Stop killing my people. Surrender, and I might just show you mercy."
"Or else what?" he sneered, his wicked chuckle reverberating through the room. "You can't do anything to me, Zander. You know that."
"Don't underestimate me," I warned, my tone sharp and cold. "I won't hesitate to kill you if that's what it takes to protect my world."
He threw his head back, laughing harder, his mirth stabbing at my pride like a dagger. The sound made my blood boil, every nerve in my body screaming for action.
The urge to reach through the mirror and drag him out was almost unbearable. I wanted nothing more than to wrap my hands around his throat and end this madness. But I couldn't. I'd never felt so helpless in my entire life.
"You can't kill me, and you know it,” he snorted, his smug grin stretching wider. "You can't stop me from taking your world and turning it into my world-the Dark Empire," he declared with chilling confidence, making me glare at him in a mix of fury and despair.
"You'll have no choice but to submit when it happens. And your mate..."
"Don't you dare drag her into this," I warned, my voice low and dangerous.
"She's our mate, Zander," he sneered, his eyes glinting with malice. "After meeting her, after feeling the mate bond... there was no way I was going to let her go." His expression twisted into something vile and sinful, making my stomach churn.
"No!" I roared, my fury igniting. "Leave her alone. Leave my world alone!"
"Zander, you're so boring," he sighed theatrically, shaking his head like a disappointed parent. "No fun at all. With the power you hold, you could conquer all the realms. And your. mate? She's far more powerful than you realize. If you claim her powers, you could become eternal Together, we could rule the universe. Don't let this opportunity slip away."
"Stop talking nonsense, or you won't even want to imagine what will happen if I fose my mind," I growled my voice shaking with unbridled
rage. Every fiber of my being
trembled as Lyon howled in my
head, clawing to take over and show this demon his rightful place.
"Stop wasting my precious time," he said with a mocking grin, his voice dripping with arrogance. "I have plans to make, things to execute. After all, I'm destined to be the king of the universe, King Zander Blake." His proclamation echoed with dark certainty.
"You don't have much time left," he added with a smirk, his eyes gleaming with malice. "Choose wisely whose side you'll stand on."
And just like that, he vanished. His figure dissolved into the void, and the mirror darkened once more, leaving behind an oppressive silence.
His filthy ambitions only deepened my resolve. I could never stoop to his level. Greed for power was not in my nature. I never wanted this strength, this dominance. I was content as a simple alpha, dedicating my life to protecting my pack and caring for my family.
But that life felt like a distant memory now. I wasn't that person anymore. And I would never let myself become him. The Dark Alpha.
Chapter 660
The Process
*Selena*
I woke up to the sound of birds chirping and golden morning sunlight filtering softly through the window. Yet, Zander still hadn't returned since last night. A pang of worry crept into my chest, but my rumbling stomach quickly reminded me of my other priorities.
I placed a hand on my belly, soothing my unborn child as I thought about my elder son. Austin must be waking up soon. Determined to push through the morning, I quickly took a warm shower, dressed, and stepped out into the hall. The aromatic fragrance of freshly cooked bacon, eggs, cupcakes, and coffee wafted through the air, making my stomach growl louder in anticipation.
I caught sight of an omega and asked her to bring breakfast to Austin's room while I went to help my little boy get ready for kindergarten. His laughter brightened my mood as I brushed his hair and adjusted his uniform. Moments later, breakfast arrived, and we enjoyed the meal together-Austin giggling through mouthfuls of cupcake crumbs while I sipped my coffee.
Afterward, I saw him off in a pristine white Mercedes designated for the Alpha's son, waving until the car disappeared from sight. My heart warmed, but disappointment lingered. Zander still hasn't come back. The memory of our conversation from the previous night played on repeat in my mind. My unease grew, and with it, a decision formed. I needed answers from my mother. I knew calling her here could be risky- especially if Zander decided to intervene before I understood her side of the story.
Without telling anyone, I left for the Lunar Realm. We need to talk face-to-face. She deserves the chance to explain herself in private, and I need to hear the truth before things spiral further out of control. "Mother! Mother!" My voice echoed through the grand hall of the Lunar Castle. Guards and lunar servants bowed in respect as I hurried past. I acknowledged them with a curt nod, too focused on my mission to stop. I didn't have much time I had to return to the Moonglow pack house before Zander or anyone else noticed my absence.
"Selena, you've returned at last," my mother's excited voice called from behind, causing me to spin around.
"Mother," I said, my tone clipped and serious as my gaze locked with hers. "We need to talk."
Sensing the urgency in my voice, she nodded and gestured for me to follow her to the throne room. The towering doors groaned as they closed behind us, sealing us in with a heavy finality. Guards stood at attention outside, ensuring our privacy.
The white marble walls gleamed under the golden glow of candle flames, casting a warm light that danced across the surfaces. The red velvet upholstery of the throne and other seats shimmered with a crimson brilliance, adding a regal touch to the room. High above, the ceilings soared, adorned with an opulent chandelier that sparkled like a constellation, while rare and intricate artwork graced the walls, telling stories of an ancient, majestic past.
"What's wrong, Selena?" Mother asked, turning to face me. Her eyes softened with concern as they flitted briefly to my belly. "Sit down. You shouldn't stress yourself," she said gently, her voice tinged with worry. So, she knew.
"You're going to be a grandmother again, High Priestess," I said, my words laced with sarcasm. "I hope this time you'll be honest with me and tell me everything."
Her expression shifted, hesitation flickering in her eyes. She folded her hands in front of her, her regal composure faltering. "What do you want to know?"
Her unease confirmed it-she already knew what I was about to ask.
"Why did you make my mate and my family forget about me?" I demanded, my voice sharp with frustration.
"It was necessary for the process," she replied calmly, her composed demeanor only fueling my anger.
"Process? Process? Process!" I
yelled, the words tumbling out in a storm of frustration. "What is this process, and how could you make such a life-altering decision about my life without even consulting me?"
"I am your mother, Selena. I know what's best for you," she said in that same maddeningly serene tone. "Oh, so now you suddenly remember you're my mother?" I shot back, my voice dripping with sarcasm. "You didn't think twice before abandoning me after giving birth, did you?!"
"Selena, my child," she whispered, her voice trembling with an unfamiliar vulnerability. The tears welling up in her eyes made my anger falter for just a moment, softening the edges of my resolve. "Today, I'm going to tell you everything. But will you believe me once you know the truth?"
Her words tugged at my emotions, but I couldn't let my guard down so easily. It could be another one of her manipulative tricks. I wasn't the emotional fool I used to be-not anymore, not after everything she'd done to me.
"I'll decide that after hearing your side of the story," I said coldly, refusing to let my emotions cloud my judgment.
She looked away, and for a moment, I thought she had changed her mind and wouldn't tell me the truth. "Mother," I began, my tone sharp, pressing her with the authority of the Lunar Queen. I had had enough of being treated as just a daughter.
"Selena..." she started quickly, as if afraid of losing her nerve. "Your birth and your death were planned long before you came into this world."
My eyes widened in shock, the weight of her words slamming into me.
"What do you mean?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.
She took a deep, steadying breath, her eyes filled with helplessness and sorrow as they locked onto mine. "You were created in my womb to be offered to the universe-to save the world from destruction."
My lips parted, a silent gasp escaping as her cruel revelation hit me like a blow.
"You were born to die, Selena," she continued, her voice trembling. "The day of your sacrifice is the culmination of the process."