The Alpha Who Lost His Fated One

The entire wolf realm envied the flawless bond Luna Freya Ashenfell shared with her mate and their pup. Yet only she knew the truth. Her Alpha mate had formed another pack-nest far from homewith their pup standing proudly at his side.

On the night Alpha Riven Corvath took their young heir to honor his unforgettable first mate bond, who had just won the Moonlit Best Shifter Star Award at the Silverfang Festival, Freya made her choice.

She would vanish.

She would fake her death within one lunar week and leave their territory forever. Neither mate nor pup would follow her into her new life. She wanted no trace of them.

Luna Freya, are you certain you want to stage your own death during the moon-crossing on the fourteenth? A staged carriage crash at the border road?

Freya paused. But the memory of her mate and pup laughing beside another she-wolf hardened her resolve. She nodded.

I have one more condition, she said. The illusion of me must die right before Rivens eyes. Ideally he should be the one whose carriage collides with mine.

If she couldnt have his loyalty, she would leave him with a guilt that gnawed deeper than any wolfs bite.

That is a grave request, the voice on the crystal-comms murmured.

Payment wont be an issue, Freya cut in.?

After ending the call, she looked at the carved stone portrait of their familythree wolves smiling in harmony. Her gaze dimmed.

She still remembered the day he marked her. The moment Riven had trembled so hard he nearly botched the ritual.

During their union ceremony, hed cried openly before the gathered packs, swearing eternal devotion under the Moonstone Oath.

When their pup was born, he had kissed the sweat from her temple and promised one pup was enough. He had even secretly undergone a spellbinding to ensure it.

They had been the perfect pack. The family everyone envied.

No matter how busy he was, Riven always returned with moon-petals in his hands. Hed tell her, Loving you is like tending a sacred grove. I want to watch you bloom every dawn.

Even little Kael mimicked him. He carried her satchels on tiny arms, insisting he was her little wolf knight. His small face flushed with effort, but he never let her lift a claw.

Who would have imagined that the mate and pup the world praised for their devotion were secretly worshipping another she-wolf?

The nights Riven claimed to be on patrol, he was whispering sweet promises to someone else.?

Even their pup, Kael, had begun calling the woman Sister, nuzzling her with puppy-like trust.

That father and pup had built a hidden life beyond the territoryconcealing it from Freya for three long years.

After surviving young love, trials of ascension and building a home together, she never imagined their bond would crumble under the cursed seventh-year mark the Moon Priestesses warned of.

Opening her crystal-mirror, Freya saw the trending howl-news. The rising star, Sorenna Ashfend had claimed the Moonlit Best Shifter Star trophy. A shimmering image showed the radiant she-wolf in a crimson gown, full of youth and charm.

Behind her walked Riventhough he had sworn he was at the council hall. And he wasnt alone. He held Kaels hand, their five-year-old pup trotting excitedly beside him.

The gentle look Riven gave the Shifter Star was the same tender gaze he once reserved only for Freya.

Tonight was their seventh mating anniversary. Freya had spent all day preparing sacred dishesRivens favorite moon-beast stew and Kaels beloved ember-ribs.

Yet neither father nor pup came home.

She waited from six until ten, only to receive a short, cold mind-link, [Urgent pack business. Not returning tonight. Kael is with me.]

Remembering that, Freya felt her final tether snap. She no longer wished for explanations.

She no longer wanted themneither the mate who betrayed her nor the pup she nearly died to bring into the world.

She rose, swept the lovingly prepared meals into the trash bin, turned their family portrait face-down and went upstairs.

Over the years, father and pup had given her countless giftsespecially Kael.

Pup expressed their love in simple, earnest ways.

The leaves Kael gathered from the forest paths, the moon-blooms he plucked along the way, or the crooked stick-wolf drawings he made in pup schoolanything that caught his eye, he would proudly present to Freya like rare treasures.

But ever since she forbade him from eating sweet moon-berries because of his worsening fang decay, the warm bond between mother and pup had quietly begun to fray.

Thinking of this, Freya swallowed her tears and packed all those little keepsakes away.

When the courier from the Pack arrived, she handed him the bundle and instructed calmly, Deliver this to Manor Fourteen exactly one lunar week from today. The recipient is Sorenna. Tell her she may enjoy the mate and heir now. Im throwing out this worthless pair.

What pair are you throwing out, Freya?

As the words left her lips, Alpha Riven approached, holding Kael in his arms. The boy clutched a bouquet of bright crimson fire-roses.

The moment Riven set him down, Kael sprinted toward her. Mother, I picked these just for you! Do you like them?

He tiptoed, offering the roses with both handshis eyes sparkling with anticipation, desperate for her praise.

Rivens gaze followed the leaving courier. His wolf sharpened with suspicion. What did you send just now?

Freya offered no detail. Nothing important. Just some useless clutter.

You shouldve let the house servants handle that, Riven chided softly, brows knitting as if deeply concerned. Your health isnt strong. You need more rest.

Im not crafted from moon-glass. A bit of lifting wont break me, she replied.

Riven exhaled helplessly. Always stubborn. Leave those tasks to me from now on.

Then he added, For our anniversary, Kael and I picked a jade moon-bracelet for you. Do you like it?

He handed her a small bag, his expression full of apology.

I wanted to take you out for a proper feast tonight, but something urgent came up in the Alpha Courts. I had to bring Kael with me. Lets reschedule for next lunar week, all right?

Kael nodded eagerly. Daddy was super busy! I even fell asleep waiting for him at the office!

Freya studied Rivens face long and hard. The look he wore was the same tender devotion he used to show hernot a flicker of guilt, not a shadow of remorse.

As for his so-called dinner plans, she already knew he had taken Kael to visit Sorenna. There was no way he could divide his time to celebrate with hereven if he tried to pretend otherwise.

Freya let out a soft, cold laugh. She glanced briefly at the bracelet and said lightly, I understand. Lets go in. LookKaels freezing.

Once, she would have wrapped her little wolf in her own cloak, shielding him from the icy wind. Now she didnt bother. The excuse simply helped her shift the topic.

Inside, the moment father and pup stepped into the den, their confusion deepened. The living chamber looked noticeably emptier.

Rivens brows lowered. His voice steadied, cautious. Freya was something removed from the house?

Kael noticed it toothe absence of the framed drawing hed given her. He tugged at her sleeve, panic rising. Mother, wheres my picture? Where did it go?

Freya gently shook off his hand. She took a drink of water before replying, unhurried, Those things were cluttering the place. I sold them to the scrap collectors.

Hearing that, Riven quietly exhaled in relief. As long as his secret stayed buried, nothing else mattered. Even if he betrayed her, in his heart Freya was still the only Luna he acknowledged.

His expression eased. He leaned down and lightly pinched Kaels somber cheeks.

This little saying means Clear away the old to welcome the new, Riven told him gently. Your mother is simply encouraging you to draw a fresh family portrait. After all, our little Kael has grown so much.

Kael believed every word. He threw himself into Freyas arms and chirped, Mother, Ill make lots and lots of new portraits for you!

Well! Clear away the old to welcome the new, huh?

Freyas eyes filled with quiet mockeryso this old Luna and old mother was meant to be cleared aside for young, radiant Sorenna.

A faint scent of food lingered in the den, catching Rivens attention. His gaze fell on the pot of moon-beast stew still warm in the trash bin and surprise flickered across his features.

Freya, he murmured, did you prepare dinner last night?

I havent cooked in a while, she replied coolly. It tasted terrible, so I threw it out.

She could not fathom why he cared. Even Kael clinging to her leg felt suffocating.

She abruptly stood and brushed them off, claiming she felt unwell before heading upstairs.

The moment she closed her bedchamber door, her crystal comms buzzed relentlessly. Opening it, she saw three images from Sorenna.

The first one was Sorenna holding a bouquet of crimson fire-roses, posing beside Riven and Kael.

The second one showed the trio sharing a meal in the Moonfeast Restaurantthe one Freya had reserved weeks ago.

The last one was a close-up of an emerald moon-bracelet on Sorennas wrist.

As Freya stared at the intimate warmth in those photos, the dull ache in her chest sharpened into something mercilesseach beat of her heart felt like a claw raking her from within.

A memory surfaced through the haze.

Twenty years ago, when she was nine, her parents died in a glider crash. While her relatives fought viciously over her guardianship to steal the Hamilton Pack inheritance, only Rivenjust fourteen at the timetook her hand and brought her into his home.

Back then he had promised, Freya, Ill protect you. Youll never suffer again.

That vow became the guiding moonlight of her life. No matter how many times she stumbled, she always followed him.

When she learned of his weak stomach, she studied foodcraft magic and perfected nourishing dishes just for him.

When he left to study overseas in the Northern Crescent, she forced herself to master the language and travel there just to enroll in the same academy.

Highborn circles gossiped that Freya was nothing but a little wolf raised to be Corvaths future Luna. She didnt care. She believed their love would endure all storms.

But in the world of powerful packs and shifting alliances, genuine affection faded faster than moon phases. Riven had a new loverand still showered Freya with lies.

As Freya wiped her tears, another message from Sorenna arrived. [I assume you received your anniversary gift? The jade moon-bracelet was too large and outdated for me, but it should suit you just fine.]

Arrogance oozed through every word, thinly veiled insults about Freyas age and fading beauty.

Freya turned off the crystal comms and drew in a long breath, trying to steady herself. She wanted desperately to pretend none of this mattered. But she couldnt lie to her own heart.

The crimson fire-roses the jade moon-bracelet every gift from Riven and Kaeleach of them had first been Sorennas cast-offs.

The realization crushed her. It made her question every present from the pasthad they all been discarded by other women? Had she been foolish enough to believe she was treasured?

Just then, Riven entered with Kael, who wore his bear-print sleepwear. Kael insists on sleeping with us tonight, he said.

Riven settled their pup into the den-bed, then slipped beneath the covers andout of habitdraped an arm around Freyas waist.

You seem troubled tonight, he murmured softly. An anniversary isnt about the date. Its about who you spend it with.

A faint smile tugged at his lips as he thought of the surprise he was saving.?

On her upcoming moon-birthday, he planned to unveil a new brand under the Corvath trade bannersone named after her, Freya.

Hed reveal it in a week. He wanted it to be perfect.

Freya stayed silent, afraid that if she spoke even a word, her voice, raw and trembling, would betray every secret fracture in her heart.?

She lay stiff in his hold and gave only a faint, muffled sound of acknowledgment.

By the time Riven thought to say more, he noticed she had already drifted off. Kael, worn out from playing, slept soundly curled against her.

Then Rivens crystal-crystal comms lit up.

It was Sorenna.

He slowly slid his arm from beneath Freyas neck and turned away from her before opening the messageguilt guiding his movements.

The moment Sorennas image appeared, wearing little more than silver moon-silks, he cleared his throat awkwardly.

Her text followed, [Alpha, want to come out and play tonight?]

Just as he prepared to decline, a video call flashed across the screen.

Are you sure youre not coming? Sorenna purred. Winterfest is approaching. I could grant you a wish perhaps as a Winter Fairy who gives you anything you desire.

Rivens pulse surged.

She always knew how to pull him in. But tonight was his wedding anniversary. Sneaking off to meet another she-wolf at this hour would be crossing a lineeven for him.

And yet

As Freya slept quietly beside him, Sorenna slowly peeled off the final layer of moon-silk. Rivens restraint frayed thread by thread.

He rose from the bed, convincing himself this would be the last time before Freyas birthday. Just once more. Just tonight.

But the moment he reached for his coat, Freya stirred awake.

Their eyes met.

Riven steadied himself and forced an easy smile. Urgent matter at the Alpha Court. Did I wake you?

He bent down and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead, as though he were the model of a loving mate. Without waiting for her reply, he grabbed his coat and left.

The door slammed shut. Silence swallowed the chamber.

Kael jolted awake, rubbing his eyes.

When he realized Riven was gone, he whispered drowsily, Daddys sneaking out to meet Sorenna again next time Ill try to follow.

Freya froze.

Her heart cracked, splinter by splinter, as her gaze fell upon her young pup.

Realizing what he had just revealed, Kael clapped a hand over his mouth and hugged her tightly.

Mother Daddy must be working, he murmured, trying to comfort her. But Ill stay with you. Ill never leave.

Even so, regret flickered in his golden eyes.

Freya said nothing. She didnt stroke his hair or tell him he was a good pup, as she once would. She only pulled the blankets over him and stared blankly at the ceiling.

When the sound of Rivens carriage echoed from below, she curled into herself, covering her ears.

Maybe if she blocked out the noise, maybe she could pretend he truly was working and not wrapped around another she-wolf.

Riven never returned that night. Nor the next morning.

As Freya sat for breakfast, her crystal-comms chimed with a message.

[I instructed Jane to prepare warming chicken broth for you. Make sure to drink some. Let the nanny take Kael to pup school. You should rest more and avoid tiring yourself.]

Riven had arranged every detail of her day, the perfect image of a caring mate.

Yet, this kind of care was nothing more than a guilty consciencean empty, pathetic gesture to cover up his infidelity.

Every time Rick cheated, he drowned Freya with attention, as if flowers and sweet words could erase the scent of another woman on his skin.

Those late-night messages, they always came at odd hours. Maybe he sent them right after finishing with herwhile adjusting his clothes.

Or perhaps

The thought made Freyas stomach twist violently. She bolted to the bathchamber and vomited until her knees trembled and her body felt hollow.

When she finally stepped out, Kael had already finished his breakfast and was waiting by the door, backpack in hand.

The moment he saw her, he hurried over and instinctively grabbed her hand. Mommy, if you dont take me to school soon, Ill be late.

Freya pulled her hand away, her voice flat. Jane will take you today. Im tired.

I want you, Mommy. Kaels eyes widened, pleading. Please.

No. I said Im tired. Her tone was colduncharacteristically sharp.

Kael froze. His little mouth clamped shut, confusion and hurt flickering in his eyes.

His mother never denied him before. He swallowed hard, forcing back tears.

Jane sensed the tension immediately and quietly ushered Kael out of the house.

Freya didnt even have the strength to comfort him. She couldnt. Not today.

At the front desk of the service center, the front-desk hesitated when she looked up. Disbelief flashed in her eyeshere stood Luna Freya, the woman everyone believed to be living the perfect fairy tale.

But she quickly hid her shock and directed Freya to Chamber 302.

Inside, a masked man confirmed her details, such as the time, the method and the logistics of her death.

After she gave her final answers, he spoke again, voice low and grave. Once you sign, theres no turning back. Seven moon days from now, Freya Corvath will cease to exist.

She nodded. Her hand didnt even shake as she signed her name.

Then she removed her sandalwood braceletthe one thing she never took off. If Im going to die, she murmured, make it convincing.

The bracelet meant everything. After giving birth to Kael, Freya had fallen into a mysterious coma.

In desperation, Rivenwho never believed in the Moon Goddess or destinyhad traveled all the way to another territory. He knelt every three steps in the freezing wind, praying for her return.

His devotion had moved her so deeply that she promised never to remove the bracelet, not even in death.

And now she was fulfilling that promise in the cruelest way.

As she exited, she overheard whispers from the front-desk, They say Alpha Riven treats Luna Freya like shes his whole world. Yet she just signed up for a fake death service.

So even the most beautiful mating can be wrecked behind the scenes.

I used to root for their love story. Turns out it was all a lie.

Freya didnt stay to hear more. Maybe Riven once loved her in these seven years. But love, to him, always burned fast and died faster.

Outside the center, she wandered into a nearby market, desperate for distraction.

But fate had sharper claws.

She froze when she spotted Kael, who was supposed to be in school, walking hand-in-hand between Riven and Sorenna. The three of them looked like a perfect little family.

She froze and stayed in her place silently. Her mind went completely blank.

It wasnt until Sorenna noticed her that the world snapped back into cruel clarity.

Luna Freya, why are you here? Sorenna covered her mouth in pretend surprise as she clicked toward Freya in her high heels. Not the slightest hint of guilt crossed her face.

Please dont misunderstand, she said sweetly. Alpha Riven was just being kind. I wanted to be a mother so bad and he thought spending time with Kael would help me prepare.

She clasped her hands together, feigning remorse. If youre upset, please direct it at me. Its my fault. Alpha Riven and Kael are completely innocent.

Sorenna played the helpless maiden to perfection, her amber eyes shimmering like a does.?

But while pretending to be fragile, she made sure Rivenlooming right behind hercould see the faint bite-marks peeking from her collarbone.

Enough. Freya isnt the kind who clings to petty jealousy, Riven muttered, rubbing his temples as irritation seeped into his voice. Theres nothing here for her to misinterpret. Nothing happened.

Before Sorenna could feign another excuse, he cut her off sharply, Dont you have a summit with the pack member? You should go now.

Alpha Riven but you said youd today you promised you would

Seeing she was about to reveal something dangerous, Rivens tone dropped into a cold growl, Sorenna, thats enough. Dont test my patience.

Her lips tightened into a small defiant pout, but one look at his expression made her back down.?

As she slipped on her veil, she cast a concealed glare at Freya before leaving, reluctance written all over her movements.

Kael, using his youthful charm, hurried to Freyas side. Mom, Sorenna came to help me pick a gift for you! I wanted to give you the most amazing present in the whole Moonlands.

Freya replied evenly, Im not upset. Its simply unexpected to run into the three of you here.

She appeared distant. If you dont need anything else, Ill return to the packhouse.

Its rare for the three of us to be out together, Riven said in a softer tone. Theres a charity gathering tonight at the Alpha Council. Will you accompany me?

Freya stayed silent, but her silence was enough for him to assume shed agreed.

Without hesitation, he slid an arm around her waist.

Youve gotten fuller, he murmured absently, then corrected himself, Thats good. You used to be too thin. No matter how you look, I love you just the same.

A cold, faint smile touched her lips, yet she didnt reply.

Her figure hadnt changed in years. The comment came only because his hands were used to tracing Sorennas narrow waist.

Perhaps driven by guilt, Riven took her to one of the elite boutiques reserved for high-ranking wolves and personally chose a crimson gown for her.

When Freya stepped out wearing the tailored dress, hair styled and makeup done, a flicker of astonishment crossed his gaze.

Kael clapped excitedly, Mommy, you look so beautiful!

But as Freya looked in the mirror, the image of Sorennarecently seen on the Pack Broadcast wearing a similar red gownflashed in her mind. In all these years, shed never worn red.

Yet when choosing a dress for her, Riven had instinctively picked Sorennas favored color.

In the past, she would have confronted him directly, demanded answers, maybe even threatened separation within the pack. But now she couldnt be bothered.

With less than a moon cycle left, she let him do as he pleased.

At the evening auction hosted by the Alpha Council, Freya wasnt surprised to see Sorenna again.

This time, she stood on the stage as the hostgraceful, confident and adored. Her witty lines earned laughter from the entire hall.

When she stepped down, Sorenna deliberately took the seat beside Riven and even pinched Kaels cheek with sickening intimacy.

Freya, seated slightly apart, remained utterly detached from the father and pup. She paid no mind to Sorennas provocations.

Her attention drifted to the stageher eyes slowly reddening as she recognized the final item displayed Beneath moonlight crystal lamps.

If she wasnt mistaken It was her mothers necklacethe Eternal Heart.

The gem symbolized the purest, eternal bond blessed by the Moon Goddess.

Her mother once teased her, saying she would pass it down as Freyas mating heirloom.

Noticing her strange expression, Riven was the first to raise his bidding paddle. Seven hundred and fifty thousand moon credits.

But immediately after, a crisp female voice echoed, One thousand five hundred.

Rivens brows knit together; clear displeasure flashed in his eyes at Sorennas recklessness.

Yet the spoiled beauty pretended envy and sweetness, Luna Freya lives such a blessed life now. Alpha Riven adores you endlessly. You wouldnt mind me taking this necklace, right?

When Sorennas provocative words rang out, Kael clutched the hem of Freyas cloak. Mom why dont we just let Sorenna take that necklace? We already have so many treasures in the Manor.

Freyas lips curved in a strained smile. What if this is the only one my heart refuses to yield?

She had never cared for adornments blessed by the Moon Goddess, but this time she would not retreat.

Riven gave her hand a reassuring squeeze before flicking Kaels forehead with gentle reprimand.

In this family, we honor what your mother wants. How could you ask to give away the item she desires?

He lifted his bidding token once more. In the end, Riven won the Eternal Heart for seventy-five hundred thousand moon credits.

Sorennas cheeks flushed crimson. Her eyes shimmered with angry tears as she stormed out of the grand hall.

Riven exhaled deeply, rising as if to chase after her. Before leaving, he bent and pressed a kiss to Freyas forehead. Ill collect the necklace and get Kael some warm moon-milk on the way.

Kael, who had been ready to run after his father, paused, turning back to Freya and tugging her hand. He began pestering her for a bedtime tale. It was the old routine, the silent collusion between father and pup.

For years, Riven had used this distraction to slip away unnoticed, giving himself a perfect excuse to indulge in his forbidden appetites under the cover of night.

But a pup was still a pup and Freya uncovered his ploy effortlessly. Feigning the need for fresh air, she excused herself. Kael sensed her mood and didnt stop her.

She followed Rivens scent trail through the corridors until it led her to the secluded washchamber hall, where Sorenna stood crying into Rivens chest.

From behind the stone wall, their voices reached her ears clearly.

This is your fault! Sorenna sobbed. You humiliated me in front of that woman. You clearly care more about her. If I had met you sooner, you never would have mated with her!

Then her voice sharpened, dripping with jealousy. The only reason she still holds the Luna title is because the mate bond you two get since puphood.

Sorenna cried for quite a while. Riven didnt interruptnot a word.?

And when her sobs finally quieted, he chuckled softly. Look at you crying like a newborn wolf pup. What a mess you are.

His teasing only deepened her pout. She planted her fists on her hips. I dont care! Your Luna snatched the treasure I wanted. You owe me tonight!

The air thickened between them, charged with feral desire.

Rivens voice dropped to a low growl. You said it yourself. Dont beg me to stop later.

The self-controlled Alpha he was in front of Freya vanishedreplaced by the ravenous wolf he became with Sorenna.

Freya stood frozen as she listenedevery sound, every gasp, every muffled moan slicing into her chest like fangs.

It was unbearable. When their lovemaking reached its peak, she fled, unable to endure another second.

What she didnt witness was Sorennas next question, asked in a trembling voice, Do you love me?

If I didnt, why would I be here with you? Riven replied, lust still clouding his gaze.

Emboldened, she pressed on coyly, If you had to choose between me and that old she-wolf who would you pick?

Obviously you, he said without hesitation.

Then divorce her. Become my rightful mate, Sorenna whispered.

At those words, Rivens face turned instantly cold. Youre stepping over the boundary.

Seeing her fright, he softened again and gathered her into his arms. You know I barely lay a hand on her anymore. Isnt that proof enough of how much you mean to me?

Sorenna cried softly. But affection wasnt enough. She wanted the Luna crown.

She was tired of lurking in the shadows like a thief.

Her gaze dropped to her flat stomach. One moon day, she would give Riven a reason to cast Freya aside willingly and do the mating ceremony with her.

Meanwhile, Freya wandered aimlessly through the Alpha Councils labyrinthine halls, not knowing where to go.

Eventually, she pushed open an unused chamber door and stepped insidethe darkness within mirroring the hollow ache consuming her heart.

Tears streamed uncontrollably down Freyas cheeks. Seeing the truth with her own eyes was far more devastating than any whispered rumor or stolen image.

Ever since she had given birth, her intimacy with Riven had dwindled into near nonexistence.?

She once foolishly believed it was because he was protecting her fragile post-shift body after pupbirth.

But now she understoodhe had simply been satisfying his wolf elsewhere and no longer bothered to pretend with her.

Her crystal comm-stone vibrated. Another taunting message from Sorenna lit up its surface.

This time, it was a photo of the bathchamber in complete disarrayand a pair of ripped obsidian-silk thigh stockings tossed beside the wolf-mark mirror.

Sorennas words followed, [Guess what your Alpha just did? Its only a necklace. Take it if you want. His heart and everything else are with me now.]

Freya didnt block her. Sorenna still had a role to play in the coming days.

Her bitter thoughts were shattered by a distant, desperate wail echoing through the Moon Manor corridors. Mommy! Mommy, where are you?!

The heartrending cries jolted her back to reality. Freya wiped her tears and stepped out of the chamber.

Kael sprinted toward her, leaping into her arms like a frightened wolf pup. I thought Mommy didnt want me anymore!

He burst into sobs, burying his face in her shoulder. Promise mewherever you go, you have to take me with you!

Hearing the commotion, Riven arrived in haste. He froze, watching the mother and pup cling to each other, but a strange unease crept up his spine.

He approached and offered Freya the Eternal Heart. I ran into a pack elder, he said evenly. We ended up talking longer than expected.

Freyas trembling fingers brushed across the necklace, her mothers final treasure.

She once believed that bonding with Riven would give her the loving pack family her father had always given her mother.

But not all males were like her father, devoted to one mate for life. Most were like Riven.

After all, wolves were good at lying, good at loving two worlds, good at maintaining an illusion.

Perhaps pushed past her limits, Freya collapsed with fever the moment they returned to Manor.

Feeling the heat burning off her skin through the night, Riven panicked. He immediately carried her in his arms and raced to the Healers Ward.

When she finally awoke, a healer greeted her warmly and offered a cup of moon-water.?

Luna Freya, thank the Moon Goddessyoure awake! Youve been burning with fever for three days and three nights. Alpha Riven and your pup havent left your side once.

She added with a sigh, I dont know what troubles you, Luna. If I had a mate and pup who guarded me so fiercely, I would be glowing with joy.

After advising Freya to release her worries, the healer slipped out of the chamber.

Freya glanced at the lunar calendar beside her bedand her breath caught.

Just then, Sorenna strutted into the ward, her belly visibly round, her scent thick with early-pregnancy hormones.

Im pregnant, she announced coldly, tossing a moon-clinic report onto Freyas bed. The pup belongs to Alpha Riven.

So? Freya replied softly. Her voice was hoarse from illness.

The pup needs a father, so kindly step aside and sever your bond with him, Sorenna demanded.

She hadnt expected to become pregnant either, but now she possessed the perfect weapon to drive Freya out.

Does Riven know? Freya asked.

He will, Sorenna smirked. Im just giving you the courtesy of hearing it first.

Remembering Rivens warning not to push her luck, Sorenna swallowed hard.

Freya spoke quietly, My birthday is on the fourteenth. If you can call him away from his press gathering that day, Ill sever our mate bond.

Sorenna blinked. Youre serious? You wont trick me?

I dont lie, Freya said. And she meant it.

It wouldnt merely be a mate bond severance. It would be her disappearance from his worldforever.

Not long after, Riven saw Sorenna in the hallway. His gaze darkened.?

What are you doing here? he asked coolly.

Alpha Riven, she said in a humble tone, its my first pregnancy and I heard Luna Freya has experience giving birth. I came to seek her advice

After all, its my first time carrying a pup, she said sweetly, stroking her still-flat belly with an exaggerated tenderness meant to draw every eye.

My mate didnt want pups yetsaid it would ruin my form. Im still deciding whether to keep it. Her sigh floated like perfume, soft and poisonous.

Kaels golden wolf eyes grew huge. Sorenna, I want a baby sister to play with! he blurted, tail swishing in excitement.

Sorenna laughed behind her hand, demure and wicked all at once. Then you must guard her well when shes born. Dont be certain unworthy females torment her.?

She glanced sideways at Freya, letting the implication drip like venom.

Kael nodded earnestly, oblivious, but Freya felt the barb sink straight into her bones. A slow chill crept into her voice. Luna Freya isnt well. You should take your leave now.

Sorennas perfect face blanched, then flushed in blotches of red. She bit her lipan act of wounded innocencethen spun sharply on her heel and swept out.

The chamber softened after her departure. Riven entered carrying bowls of warm moonroot broth and freshly washed spirit-berries.?

Shes careless by nature, he said lightly as he set the food down. Speaks before she thinks. Dont take it to heart.

When he reached to smooth a loose strand of hair from Freyas forehead, she flinched back. Just barelybut enough.?

Im sweaty I feel unpleasant, she murmured, refusing to meet his eyes.

Riven stilled, startled, then his expression gentled. He took her cool hands in both of his.?

How could you ever be unpleasant? You always carry the scent of my moon-mate. His thumb brushed her knuckles. I could never despise you.

He lifted her hand and kissed it softly.

Kael squealed, covering his eyes dramatically. Ewww, so mushy!?

But he wriggled closer, looping his arms around Freyas arm. Then Ill keep Mommy warm too!

Outside the glass wall, passing pack members slowed, catching a glimpse of what looked like a perfect Alpha familythe strong Alpha, the gentle Luna, their bright cub.?

Eyes shimmered with envy.

But the illusion cracked the moment Rivens crystal comms chimed.

He glanced at it. Freya caught a flicker of the contact name before the screen dimmed, My Darling.

A tiny, sharp silence fell.

Riven rose abruptly, smoothing his expression into something neutral. Freya, the council summoned me. His voice was practiced, steady. Ill bring back your favorite lunar pastries.

He ruffled Kaels hair. Be a strong little wolf. Protect Mommy.

I want to go with Daddy! Kael whined, reaching for him.

Riven hesitated, torn for a breath. Maybe I should bring him

Go, Freya interrupted, calm and deceptively steady. Take him. Itll be easier for me.

Riven blinked, surprised, but didnt push. He lifted Kael into his arms and headed for the door. Just before stepping out, he paused, glancing back.

The dusk-light seeped through the enchanted windows, washing Freya in muted silver. She looked fragile. Drained. Almost fading.

And she didnt look at himnot once. Her gaze stayed fixed on the barren horizon beyond the Corvath Packs borders, as though she were bracing herself against something only she could see.

Hours passed.

No council summons came. No report. No pastries.

Instead, a crystal comms chimed beside her bed.

A message from Sorenna.

The screen flickered to liferevealing Kael in a lavish den, crumbs smeared across his cheeks as he laughed and played with shiny toys clearly not his.?

Behind him, Sorenna lounged with a satisfied gleam in her eyes.

I love Sorenna the most! Kael chirped, giggling.

The video ended.

An audio file began.

A mans voicehusky, low, breathless with desireechoed through the quiet chamber.

Whats wrong? Didnt you say I could do anything I wanted? Regretting it now?

Wet, heated sounds followedlips meeting, breaths tangling, the unmistakable rhythm of bodies pressed together.

Sorennas next message appeared in Freyas crystal comms, glowing with taunting lunar light, [Alpha Rivens in the showers of my den. For the coming moons, whether its the Alpha or your pup, Ill keep them by my side. Youll be the one losing face at the public hearing.

Her confidence was unmistakably bold and the moon days that followed proved she had every reason for it.

Riven and little Kael never once returned to the Moonstone Healing Hall. Not even to check on Freya.

Yet Freya remained outwardly calm, as if nothing could shake her.

Sorenna, assuming it was all an act, continued sending her daily goading messages with clockwork precision.

Riven smothered Sorenna in luxuries befitting a Luna-titled mistress, new estates across pack territories, enchanted fireworks under full-moon skies, chests of rare gems infused with moon magic.

He even cleared out an entire trading plaza so she could shop without disturbance during her sacred expectancy.

Soon, rumors of the mysterious Golden Patroness behind Alpha Riven spread through the Alpha Hall like wildfire. Her name soared to the top of every wolfnet ranking.

The Corvath Packs Beta team released a statement within the hour, Yes. Alpha Riven is expecting a new pup.

The simple claim plunged the entire supernatural realm into chaos.

However, Freya didnt bother with the uproar. She took a carriage straight to the Corvath ancient Manor.

Since she would be leaving the territory soon, she felt obliged to bid farewell to the Corvath elders who had raised her. Despite being a foundling, the pack had sheltered her like true blood.

After she married Riven, the Gordons had even advised the newlyweds to move out of the ancient manor so they wouldnt feel constrained by ancient Luna traditions.

But the moment she reached the arched entrance, she froze.

From within came soft laughter and warm conversation.

Mother, relax, a womans voice said brightly. Well give the Corvath bloodline two pups within three years. I wont let this lineage end with me.

Ivora Corvath, Rivens mother, chuckled with joy. Good girl. Thats all this old wolf hopes for. I dream of seeing this house lively again.

Then she sighed with sympathy.

As for Freya shes kind-hearted, but damaging her core while birthing Kael was such a misfortune. Thankfully, we still have you. If you carry this pup to term, youll be the Corvath Packs savior.

The gift bag in Freyas hands suddenly felt scorching against her palms.

Inside were the farewell presents she had chosen so carefully.

Ivora loved moon-card games but often tired easily, so Freya had traveled far to a healer-witch to craft vitality tonics for her.

Jareth Corvath, the retired Alpha, adored fishing by the Lunar River. Freya had spent weeks securing a rare, spirit-forged fishing rod for him.

But now all of it felt unnecessary.

She quietly passed the tonics and fishing rod to the nearby housekeeper, swallowing down the sting in her throat.

She still remembered the night after her mating ceremony, Ivora had clasped her hands tightly. If Riven ever strays, come to me. Ill tear his ears off myself.

Jareth had vowed solemnly, No matter what, youll always be the next Luna I acknowledge.

Yet today, Freya heard them calling another woman next Luna with genuine affection.

Riven was their blood. She, at best, was a wolf adopted into the family a Luna with no blood ties.

Forever an outsider.

Freya stumbled back to her chamber, dazed.

Only when night cloaked the manor and wolves slept did her muffled sobs echo from her closet, where she curled tightly into herself.

This time, Riven wasnt there to pull her into his arms, whispering that she still had him.

She didnt even remember when she fell asleep.

When she woke, she found herself back on the soft bed and Riven, whom she hadnt seen in days, sitting beside her.

He held her crystal comms, his eyes calm yet unreadable.

Freya, he said quietly, someone just sent you a message saying, Everything proceeds according to plan. What plan are you hiding?

Freya jolted upright, her mind snapping clear. She snatched the crystal comms and exhaled shakily when she saw it was still locked.

Its a surprise, she said quickly. You said you had a gift for me today. I wanted to give something back.

Riven chuckled softly, tapping her forehead.

Silly Luna, he murmured, you dont owe me anything. Its my duty to cherish my Luna.