Ch. 181..185: Reclaiming My Broken Luna Chapter 181-185

Chapter 181: The Book

Andros's POV

I steeled myself as I made my way through the silent halls of the Packhouse with the monthly report of our Pack business weighing in my hand.

My heart pounded nervously inside my chest, thinking of how I was going to present all these to him while hoping that he wouldn't be disappointed with me this time.

Lost in my thoughts of preparation and mustering my confidence, I rounded the corner, heading towards my father's office. And that's when I saw him - Beta Alek, whom I hadn't seen for three long years.

A genuine smile tugged at my lips as our eyes met, a warmth spreading through me at the unexpected encounter.

"Andros, it's good to see you," Beta Alek spoke, returning my smile and giving a respectful bow of his head. "How have you been? And how is the business faring?"

I let out a sigh. I was just on my way to visit my father and explain exactly what was going on with the business. The weight of my father's mounting demands is evident in my expression.

"You know how it is with my father," I muttered with a rueful chuckle escaping my lips. I wanted to say more, but I couldn't.

Still, I'm sure he would understand. He worked closely with him ever since he became the Alpha

My father is hard to please. He has high expectations that are hard to reach. Even though the business was improving little by little under my leadership, he was never satisfied. He is always looking at my faults, focusing on the little mistakes I made instead of the progress I had made.

Beta Alek is fully aware of this. He had witnessed how my father has been difficult towards me ever since I was little, but he has no idea how things became harder ever since he left.

Before, I used to visit here only once a year to present the yearly reports of the business that he entrusted to me, but then my father changed it into a monthly presentation of reports to closely monitor my progress.

This meant monthly facing his wrath because of his unreachable expectations.

Beta Alek nodded, his features softening with understanding. "I can only imagine," he replied.

He reached out to give my shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "But keep your chin up. I know you got this. You know that your father places a lot of expectations on you because he wanted you to be a better Alpha than him in the future. Even though he points a lot in your mistakes, he still sees the potential in you,"

I felt a surge of gratitude towards his words. Beta Alek always knew exactly what to say. His words of encouragement hit me directly into my heart.

"How about you, Beta? How have you been?" I asked him. I've missed his presence around here so much.

Beta Alek sighed, showing the amount of relief he had that his mission was finally done. "I'm just glad that it's done," he muttered and then laughed.

"By the way, Andros. How is Astrid doing? I mean, is he doing alright recently?" Beta Alek asks, his expression suddenly turning serious.

I licked my lips and nodded my head

as I thought back. "Yeah, I heard she's doing well, her health is

improving day by day

ла

casually, pushing back the suspicions I felt from his sudden question.

It's weird that he is asking me this question. "I'm not around here often. I only come here once a week," I answered truthfully. "Is there anything that bothers you?" I asked. "Oh nothing," Beta Alek quips and shakes it off like it was truly nothing.

My eyes fell on the old, rugged book that he was holding, which seemed interesting. "What is that?" I asked him.

He instantly hid it behind his back when he heard my question, forcing me to look into his face.

"Oh nothing," he answered again with the same tone of voice that he used last time.

"Can I see it?" I asked him innocently.

"Alpha ordered me to burn this book—"

"I can do that for you," I spoke interrupting him.

Hearing that my father ordered him to burn this book made me more interested in it.

"No, it's okay. I'm on my way to do it already," Beta Alek walked past me to end our conversation, but I was too determined to know what was in that book, so I refused to give up.

"Beta Alek, do you not trust me?” I questioned him, stopping him in his tracks. "Alpha Theron is my father, he trusts me so much as his son that he entrusted the Pack business to me. As the future Alpha of this Pack, I will find out about this thing eventually anyway."

Beta Alek stood rooted on his spot when he heard my words, so I approached and faced him instead. "Beta Alek, you can trust me. Don't worry, I'll burn this book for you."

Beta Alek stared at me in silence for a long time as if weighing in his thoughts if he should trust me or not. Eventually, he gave in and handed me the book.

"Andros, no one must know about this," he told me in a whisper as he entrusted the book to me.

"Yes," I whispered back. "No one will know except the two of us."

"Alpha Theron is your father and Astrid is your sister. Soon, you'll be the Alpha of this Pack soon that's why I gave you this," he replied.

"What's exactly inside this book, Beta?" I asked him.

Beta Alek opened his mouth; it's

clear he wanted to say more, but, "I trust your judgment, Andros. Your father had made his decision, but in the future, once you became the Alpha you will need to make that selfless decision. You need this book to guide you."

With questions still running in my head, Beta Alek suddenly left, leaving the book to me.

 

Chapter 182: Comparison

Andros's POV

I stood in front of my father with my head lowered and my fists clenched tightly to my side as I waited for what his reaction was going to be.

I had just finished giving my presentation and showing him everything. Now, he is meticulously going through the data I have printed for him to see.

The seconds ticked by, the silence in the room deafening, and I could feel the tension building, coiling tighter with every passing moment.

I flinched, my heart pounding in my chest, when he suddenly slammed the papers down onto the desk. The documents scattered, and I swallowed hard, bracing myself for the onslaught of criticism I knew was coming.

"Two percent?" My father's voice thundered, the anger and disappointment lacing his words. "You are already proud of that after all the resources poured into this venture, this is the best that you can do?"

I opened my mouth, desperate to explain, to plead my case, but the words got caught in my throat as his piercing gaze silenced me.

Two percent is the development that the business made. I know it's too little to satisfy him, but I wasn't expecting to receive such a violent reaction from him.

I held myself together as my father breathed out in frustration. "You've been managing the business for years and until now you're still making little to no progress," he continued, shaking his head in disgust. "Your sister, Astrid has only been managing the Pack for three years as an acting Beta, but she's making more progress and producing more results than you."

The sting of the comparison was like a knife to my heart. Before, when Astrid still hadn't entered our life, my father criticized me fairly, focusing solely on the results I had presented him.

Now that she came into our lives, my father would always compare me to her. It was always Astrid, Astrid, Astrid.

She's always better than me, more capable than me. Father is more proud of her, and he's always disappointed with me.

I had always strived to prove my worth, to show my father that I could be the great Alpha that he wanted me to be, but all my efforts always seemed to fall short because of Astrid, who always outshines me in everything.

"Andros, I gave you the business to

handle to give you experience and to have the training that you needed. If you can' even manage a simple business, how are you supposed to manage a large Pack?" he growled, the words cutting deeper than any physical blow.

I lowered my head, ashamed and defeated, the weight of my father's expectations crushing me.

As if his expectations weren't already high enough, it becomes even higher because of Astrid's presence.

Before, if Astrid wasn't here, my father would have been fine with the two percent progress, but because of her, the two percent progress is no longer enough to impress him.

"I'm sorry, father. I will be back with better results next time," I mumbled, unable to raise my head to welcome my father's gaze.

He scoffed when he heard my words. "Just how many times have you already told me that. Were there any difference?" he asked, lowering my confidence even more.

My father sighed as he leaned back on his chair. "Never mind, you'll have to stay here in the Pack for a month, anyway," he muttered, making me look up at him in surprise.

"F-father," I stammered with wide eyes, thinking that my father had already given up on me and was going to remove me as the CEO of the business.

"Send them an email and tell them

that you'll take a leave for a month. Our Pack needs you here, I'm going to announce Astrid as a part of our family soon," my father explained.

My face went pale when I heard his words. I thought Astrid wanted nothing to do with the Pack. I thought she was leaving once Beta Alek was back.

I held on for three years, thinking that Astrid would be leaving us anyway, but now he's going to make her a permanent member of the Pack and of our family.

"H-Have you already told Asha about this?" I asked instead, trying my best not to let my emotions show through my voice.

My father sighed once again. He knows Asha would be hysterical if she found out about this. I hope on her behalf, he will change his mind.

 

Chapter 183: Filial Son

Andros's POV

My father's gaze sharpened when he looked at me after I asked so many questions.

"You don't have to worry about those things. I already have everything all planned out," he answered me, making me fall silent. "Everyone is already working together to prepare for the event. Since we are going to introduce Astrid as a part of the family, everything needs to be grand and special," my father spoke excitedly.

His eyes were glinting with excitement; he had already made up his mind about this.

I clenched my jaw as I tried to remain expressionless when I heard my father's words. I don't want him to know that I don't like this decision he made.

It was so sudden. What made him change his mind? The plan was to let Astrid leave once Beta Alek was back, just as Astrid wanted. Why is he keeping Astrid with us instead?

My heart sank when my thoughts made an unexpected turn. What if my father also changes his mind in the future? What if he suddenly chooses Astrid as the future Luna of the Pack instead of me, just as he had initially planned?

What if he is doing this to pave Astrid's path to the title? First, he made her the Pack's acting beta for three years to give her experience and the training that she needed. Now, he is finally announcing Astrid as his eldest child? What if he had changed his mind about me? For the past years, he had done nothing but praise Astrid for his diligent work and criticize me for being unable to keep up with Astrid.

It's clear that my father doesn't like me. He likes Astrid better. He trusts her more than he trusts me.

"Andros, have you been listening?" My father asked, pulling me out of my thoughts.

I swallowed hard and straightened myself. "Yes, father," I answered, not knowing what he was even talking about.

My mind was too occupied with my thoughts that I failed to listen to a word that he said.

"Is this fine with you, Andros? Are you okay with announcing Astrid as a part of our family?" My father asked as he pinned me down with his gaze, observing me closely.

I smiled and nodded my head

eagerly. "We should have done this

for a long time, father. Astrid is your daughter and it's right for everyone to know about that and to be

formally considered as a part of our

family," I answered confidently.

My words, my voice, and the fake smile on my face were able to win my father's heart. "I'm glad that you bear no hate towards Astrid, unlike your sister," my father spoke, confessing the burden in his heart.

"I will tell you the truth, father. It was also hard for me to accept Astrid, that you had a child that is even older than me. But then, how could I be so selfish?" I spoke, pouring my heart out.

"You know, Asha, father. She;s just selfish of your love, she's afraid that Astrid will take away all the love and attention you are giving her-"

"That will never happen," my father rebutted instantly, cutting me off.

"I know that father, but it will take time for Asha to understand that. Let's just give her time, father. That's all that she needs," I muttered like a good son.

"But I have given her three years already__"

"Then give her more," I replied, cutting him off. "You don't have to worry, father. Asha and I are close, I'm sure she would listen to me. I've been trying to change her mind."

My father felt at ease upon hearing

my words. "Then I entrust your sisters to you, Andros," he spoke with less burden in his voice. "Someday, when I die, you will take the throne and you will be the sole protector of your sisters. That's what I only ask from you, always protect them."

I fell silent when I heard his words. My father always said that he would make me the Alpha of the Pack. He has always been difficult to me but easy to my sister, and when Astrid came into our life, he showed his favourite.

"Don't worry, father. I got it."

 

Chapter 184: Special Banquet

Astrid's POV

I stared into the mirror, feeling exhausted and sleepy, yet the makeup perfectly covered the weariness etched into my face.

The bags under my eyes caused by the stress of being an acting Beta was gone, covered by whatever cosmetic they used on me.

It's like they worked magic on me. I looked fresh and beautiful, like I wasn't from a long day of duty.

I smoothed my hands over the soft, velvety fabric of my dress, which was sent to me by Alpha Theron just yesterday. He told me to wear this dress for today's special banquet.

I wanted to deny the invitation, and I think he knew that which is why he sent me this dress along with the invitation, so it would be hard for me to say no.

The dress looked so good on me, though. The deep burgundy hue accentuated my graceful figure. It's evident that it was custom-tailored just for me.

I have no idea what the banquet is for. I heard nobody is invited, just Alpha Theron and then my half-siblings. The banquet is solely for the family.

Perhaps the banquet is for Andros, who has just recently returned to the Pack. That's the only reason I could think of for Alpha Theron to hold a special banquet just for us.

The banquet was so special that I had to wear such a beautiful dress on this occasion.

"Beta," the Pack Warrior standing guard at the banquet hall bowed his head to me as I approached.

With a slight nod of my head, I acknowledged his greeting, and then he swung the towering wooden doors open, revealing the special banquet inside.

My eyes couldn't help but look around as I took in the grandeur of the place. Alpha Theron is sitting at the head of the lavishly appointed table, flanked by his daughter, Asha and his esteemed son, Andros.

Everyone is already inside except for me. I arrived terribly late because I got held off from my duty, and I didn't expect it would take me so long to get ready.

I thought simple makeup would do, but I had to look fashionable for today's simple yet special event.

Everyone's eyes were trained on me as I entered. With my chin lifted high and my hands clutched together in front of me, I walked in confidently and took in their reactions.

Alpha Theron's weathered face broke into a warm smile when he saw me approaching, while Andros gave me a small, amicable smile.

Meanwhile, Asha treated me the same way; she never bothered to glance at me. Instead, she held a disdainful look on her face as she remained looking forward.

"Astrid, you can take this seat," Alpha Theron spoke in his usual firm tone and gestured for me to take the seat at his right hand, the place of honour.

I momentarily stopped at the foot of the table and stared at the seat he wanted me to take.

That seat is supposed to be for Andros. I hesitated whether I should take the seat or not, but everyone had already taken their seat, and Alpha Theron was asking me to sit there, so I had no choice but to do as he wanted.

I looked up and glanced at Asha,

who was sitting across me after I settled on my seat. She instantly turned her head away, not wanting to meet my gaze. She clearly hated me. She couldn't even turn to look at me this time after I took my seat at the right hand of her father.

I could only turn to look at Alpha Theron and give him a small smile when I saw his sombre expression.

Alpha Theron took a deep breath, his

eyes turning misty and nostalgic as he looked at us. "My dear children, he began with joy in his face. "It brings me joy to have you all here together and complete," he paused as he looked at each one of us with gladness on his face.

All of his children are here. I am now here.

"Father, now don't make yourself cry," Andros spoke up with concern towards his father.

Alpha Theron's gaze settled on me, his expression softening with a hint of wistfulness. "Astrid, my dear," he spoke, his words measured and sincere. "I'm so glad you are finally here with us." His eyes crinkled at the corners as he offered me a

small, almost bashful smile.

I could only reply to his words with a small smile; I did not know what to say. I've been here for more than three years, but Alpha Theron is still so grateful to have me back.

Every time he looked at me, there was always that wistfulness in his eyes. I don't know why, but he is acting much worse today.

As Alpha Theron's heartfelt words lingered in the air, the sound of footsteps echoed through the grand hall, signalling the arrival of our food.

Servers, clad in crisp uniforms, emerged from the kitchen, their arms laden with magnificent platters overflowing with an array of tantalizing dishes.

The scent of savoury meats, fragrant spices, and freshly baked bread wafted through the room, making my mouth water.

As the foods were served, a feast was laid before us, and we began to eat. I was enjoying the food, and I couldn't be bothered by anything else.

 

Chapter 185: Special Announcement

Astrid's POV

I was just silently eating when Andros suddenly broke the silence. "You know, Astrid," Andros spoke, catching my attention.

"Father has been telling me a lot about you recently. He couldn't stop giving you praises for the job you have done as the Pack's acting Beta," he tells me casually, with his voice tinged with a hint of pride. I felt a surge of surprise when his words washed over me. I wasn't expecting my brother to talk to me and even compliment me.

Andros had always been out of Pack. He only comes back once a year and leaves as soon as he arrives.

The first time that we met, we did not leave a good impression on each other either. I didn't expect that he would mention something like this in front of everyone.

I thought he also felt the same way as his sister towards me. I thought he also hated me, but I was surprised that he initiated to talk to me.

Alpha Theron suddenly laughed in glee and pride when he heard his son's words. "That's true," he confirmed as he glanced at me.

When I glanced back at him, he met my gaze steadily. "The Pack flourished under your leadership, you know. Everyone could see how dedicated and capable you are."

I glanced down at my food, not used to getting compliments. I did not know what to say, and I felt uncomfortable being placed under the spotlight.

When I was a Luna, I never got any praise or compliments for doing a great job. No matter what I did, Killian and his mother would always find faults in me. I was never good enough for them.

I would bring in good results, and they would never be satisfied with it.

As I thought of what to say, my eyes instinctively landed on Asha, who had been terribly silent the whole time. I watched as she took a sip of her drink and stuffed down her food with disdain on his face.

"It's really a good thing that you were here to keep things running, Astrid. Just imagine how hard would it be for father if he had to work for three years without a Beta," Andros paused, his expression sobering slightly. "We're lucky to have you, Astrid." Asha suddenly scoffed, unable to keep her silence anymore. "With or without her, the Shadowfang Pack would do just fine. You are exaggerating what she did," she spoke with a scowl as she poked at her food.

"Asha," Andros called out to her sister with shame. "We should be grateful to Astrid for filling Beta Alek's position, without her our Pack wouldn't have stayed this stable," Andros rebuked his sister calmly, hoping that she would listen to him.

"Tsk," Asha clucked her tongue and rolled her eyes, but she didn't say a word to contradict her brother.

"I'm sorry, Astrid. I hope you would understand," Andros muttered towards me with a sense of contriteness.

I gave him a warm smile to ease his worries; I was already used to Asha's attitude towards me. Her treatment towards me is nothing new and nothing compared to the treatment I had received from other people before.

"Asha is right," spoke up, agreeing

with Asha's words, making her look at me in surprise. "My contributions to the Shadowfang Pack is not that much. I'm only lucky to have an experience as a Luna. I only applied what I know," I answered humbly.

Asha's scowl deepened when she heard my answer, but she remained painfully quiet in her seat and continued eating.

After a couple of small conversations and after we had our fill, Alpha Theron cleared his throat, drawing all our attention before the night ended.

"I'm sure you all are wondering why I asked you all to gather here today," Alpha Theron began, his gaze settling warmly on each of us in turn.

I never wondered about this. I thought this special gathering was for Andros, who arrived at the Pack. Is there another reason behind this?

Andros and Asha exchanged a curious glance while I leaned forward as Alpha Theron's words fully grasped my attention. Now I wonder what more Alpha Theron would wish to say.

Alpha Theron took a deep breath, and I could feel the heaviness that weighed in his heart before he could even open his mouth to speak. "For too long, we had kept Astrid's identity as my daughter a secret, I think it's time that we change that." Asha's eyes widened in shock, her face flushing with a mixture of confusion and anger. "What do you mean, father?" she demanded, even though she already had an idea of what her father was about to say.

Andros shifted uncomfortably. The tension in the room was palpable.

"All of you know the rumor going ameound about Astrid and I for years. Astrid has been receiving hate because of it, no one could dare

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blame me as the Alpha of the Shadowfang Pack," Alpha Theron explained, hoping that his children, especially Asha, would understand.

"Astrid is my daughter, she is your sister. Everyone should know that," Alpha Theron spoke firmly.

Asha's mouth fell open in disbelief. Fury burned in her eyes as her gaze darted from me and her father. "So this is how it is, huh? You turned Astrid into the Pack's Beta to win the people's hearts, and now you are going announce her identity and formally accept her into the family?! What's next? You're going to appoint her as the next Alpha?!" Asha questioned violently.