ã€ŠMarked Twice by the Alpha Kingã€‹


 Chapter 1

    Chapter 1: When Alpha King Tastes Like Sin

    Ava''s POV

    The room froze when I saw him kiss her. One second I was hidden in the

    shadows, and the next my ws were digging into my palms, blood dripping onto the marble floor.

    Control, Ava. You can''t shift here.

    I stood in the darkest corner of Moonlight Lodge''s ballroom. My champagne

    tasted like cardboard. Shadow Creek pack was still a mess after our Alpha''s deathst month. Not the time or ce for me to lose control.

    Jackson and Sophia swayed on the dance floor. My ex-fated mate couldn''t keep his hands off the Silverpeak princess. When sheughed at whatever he whispered, pain shot through my mark.

    My neck burned where he''d marked me. Four months ago, he swore we were meant to be. Now he''s chasing power instead of love. His n was simple: marry the Alpha King''s daughter, be Shadow Creek''s next Alpha. Easy upgrade from dating a nobody like me.

    My fangs were already pressing against my lower lip. No amount of breathing exercises would stop this shift if I stayed watching them another minute.

    I set down my champagne and made a beeline for the bar. Maybe alcohol could drown the rage before I fully transformed in a room full of elites who''d eat me alive for the entertainment value.

    "Double whiskey," I growled, not bothering to hide the gravel in my voice. The bartender''s eyes widened at what must have been the yellow glow of my irises.

    "Make that a Moonlight Martini for thedy," a deep voice cut in. "And the whiskey for me."

    My wolf froze mid-snarl. Just... stopped. Like someone had hit pause on her fury.

    I turned and looked up-way up-into eyes the color of a storm-tossed sea. They weren''t just looking at me; they were seeing through me.

    He wasn''t pretty-boy handsome like Jackson. This man''s face had character-ugh lines at the corners of his eyes, a slight crease between his brows from frowning too much. Dark hair with silver at the temples. His suit fit him like a second skin, but couldn''t hide the raw power underneath.

    But his scent-fuck. Rain-soaked pine trees, woodsmoke, and something wild that made my wolf sit up and beg. Theplete opposite to Jackson''s cologne- masked scent that never made my wolf react like this.

    "I didn''t ask for your input," I said, trying to sound tough while my wolf was practically rolling over.

    One corner of his mouth kicked up. "You''re about thirty seconds from shifting in a roomful of pack leaders. The drink has wolfsbane extract. It''ll help.¡±

    I nced down at my hands. ws, not fingernails.

    "Whatever," I muttered.

    The bartender slid over the martini-swirling silver-blue like moonlight on water.

    The stranger leaned closer. "Drink up. Your eyes are giving you away."

    I knocked it back in one go, grimacing at the bitter aftertaste.

    "Better?" he asked, voice so deep I felt it in my chest.

    The effect was almost immediate. My wolf settled, ws retracting, teeth returning to normal.

    "Thanks," I said reluctantly. "Though I''m not sure why you give a damn if I make a scene."

    His eyes flicked to the dance floor, then back to me with unexpected heat. "Let''s just say I have a soft spot for underdogs."

    Before I could respond, people started moving aside, stepping back to clear a path. For him. The penny dropped.

    "You''re ke Morgan," I said, my stomach doing a backflip. "The Silverpeak Alpha."

    The Alpha King. The one who could destroy every Alpha in the world with a singlemand.

    My wolf cowered and preened at the same time, a confusing mix.

    "And you''re wearing a mate mark that''s being rejected." His gaze dropped to my neck where the silver-white mark throbbed. "Who did that to you?"

    The question hung between us. Telling the Alpha King that his future son-inw had marked and abandoned me seemed like a bad idea.

    "Someone who decided power was more attractive than keeping his word," I said instead.

    His eyes narrowed slightly. "Your control is slipping again. Come with me."

    It wasn''t a suggestion. The words carried the weight of Alphamand, pressing against my will. My wolf, weirdly, didn''t mind.

    He guided me toward a private elevator, not touching me but close enough that his body heat reached across the inches between us. My skin prickled like I''d stuck my finger in an outlet.

    The top floor suite was bigger than my entire house. Floor-to-ceiling windows framed the forest and mountains beyond, silver moonlight pouring across dark furniture.

    He went to a cab, returning with a ss of water and some dried herbs. "Chew these," he instructed.

    I raised an eyebrow. "You always carry herbs for random werewolves having meltdowns?"

    "Only the interesting ones." Something dangerous shed in his eyes. "The mark on your neck-it''s making you lose control, isn''t it?"

    I touched it reflexively, wincing. "They never covered ''what to do when your fated mate dumps you'' in werewolf school."

    "It''s strange to see a marked wolf without their mate present." His voice dropped lower. "Especially at an event where that mate might be."

    The gears turned behind his eyes. He was connecting the dots-my reaction downstairs, the mark, his daughter''s fianc¨¦.

    "It''s Jackson, isn''t it?" he asked quietly. "My daughter''s fianc¨¦ marked you."

    I couldn''t speak, but my silence said it all.

    "When?"

    "Four months ago," I said, tasting the bitterness. "Right before he decided being the next Shadow Creek Alpha was worth more than honoring a fated mate bond."

    ke''s jaw tightened, the only sign that my words hit home. "And he never tried to break the mark properly?"

    "Apparently dumping me in a coffee shop with ''it''s not personal, it''s politics'' counts as closure in his book."

    ke moved closer, his scent wrapping around me like a warm nket. My wolf, who should have been cowering before the most powerful Alpha in our world, was instead practically purring.

    "May I?" His fingers hovered near my neck, not quite touching the mark.

    I should have said no. This was Sophia''s father. Jackson''s future father-inw.

    But my wolf pressed forward, tilting my head to expose the mark.

    When his fingertips brushed my skin, lightning shot through me. His eyes darkened, pupils expanding.

    Something shed in his expression-surprise, confusion, then interest.

    Instead of pulling away, he traced the outline of the mark. Heat bloomed from his touch, not the burning pain I''d gotten used to, but something warm and sweet that pooled low in my belly.

    I couldn''t deny it. My wolf was straining toward him like he was thest steak on earth.

    "Why?" I whispered.

    Why am I reacting to my ex''s future father-inw?

    He shook his head slowly, still touching my neck. "I don''t know what this is. But I want to find out."

    The pull between us grew stronger with each heartbeat. When he finally leaned down, it felt inevitable-his mouth meeting mine with a hunger that matched my own. My hands grabbed his shirt, dragging him closer. His arms wrapped around me, lifting me effortlessly against him.

    It was crazy. Completely nuts. He was the father of the woman who''d stolen my mate. The most powerful werewolf alive. And I was nobody-just a Delta''s adopted daughter with a worthless mate mark.

    My wolf didn''t care. She recognized something in him that cut through all that human BS.

    Just as his hands slid lower, a voice sliced through my mind:

    Ava... they took your father...

    I gasped, color draining from my face. My mother''s voice, shaky and terrified,

    crashed through our mindlink with an urgency that chilled my blood.

 Chapter 2

    Chapter 2: When Second Chances Don''t Exist

    Ava''s POV

    I jerked away from ke, the moment shattered. ¡°Damn. I have to go."

    His hands lingered on my waist before dropping reluctantly. Something flickered in those storm-gray eyes-disappointment, maybe frustration.

    "Walk out that door, and this moment ends." No question, no plea. Pure Alpha statement of fact.

    My wolf actually whimpered, wing to stay. The human part of me¡ªthe part that remembered every sacrifice my adoptive parents made-knew better.

    "This is your only chance." His voice went deeper, rumbling through my chest.

    One chance. That was ke Morgan''s notorious rule. The Alpha King never chased, never begged, never offered second helpings. Hell, women practically lined up for their single shot at him.

    "I get it." I stepped back, each inch between us physically painful. "But my dad needs me."

    Just like that, his face shut down. The man who''d kissed me vanished, reced by the imprable mask of the Alpha King. "Then I wish you luck."

    I bolted before my wolf could convince me to stay, the taste of him still on my lips.

    I practically kicked our front door off its hinges twenty minutester. Mom''s scent led me straight to the kitchen. Our house-once the proud home of respected Delta William Rivers-now screamed neglect from every creaky floorboard.

    Mom hunched at the kitchen table, gripping a mug of cold tea, her shoulders quivering.

    "Mom?" My voice cracked. "What the hell happened?"

    She looked up with puffy, red-rimmed eyes. "Shadow Creek guards took him. Right from his office."

    "On what grounds?" My ws slid out before I could stop them.

    "Treason." The word hung between us like poison. "They''re saying he betrayed our Alpha. Got him killed in that border shst month."

    My ws dug into the counter. "That''s bullshit! Dad worshipped Alpha Carter! Where''s the evidence? The trial?"

    Mom''sugh was hollow. "Evidence? Trials?" She shook her head. "The Council just needs someone to me. Your father was convenient."

    I paced the kitchen, my wolf thrashing beneath my skin. "This can''t be happening."

    "Unless someone with rank uses the Blood Protection Right..." Her voice trailed off. "His execution is set for the next full moon."

    Blood Protection Right. Our world''s version of a get-out-of-jail-free card. Only problem? You needed influence to use it. Something our family no longer had.

    My phone buzzed. I nced at the screen and nearly chucked it across the room.

    Jackson.

    I hovered my thumb over "decline," then hesitated. If that asshole could help Dad...

    "What?" I snapped, epting the call.

    "Heard about William." His voice oozed fake concern. "I might have a solution. But

    not over the phone. Come outside."

    My wolf snarled, but I swallowed my pride. "Fine."

    I squeezed Mom''s shoulder. "I''ll fix this. Somehow."

    Jackson lounged against his shiny ck SUV in our driveway, looking like a goddamn cologne ad. My stomach knotted. His scent hit me-expensive aftershave masking calcted ambition. Nothing like ke''s raw thunderstorm- and-pine smell that had my wolf drooling.

    The mate-mark on my neck pulsed, a constant reminder of Jackson''s betrayal. Two years of promises. Two years of "you''re my everything" and "we''re meant to be." Then he traded me for a power y faster than most people change socks.

    I stopped ten feet away, arms crossed. "What do you want?"

    "Your father''s in trouble.¡± He stated the obvious, examining his manicured nails. "No shit. Why are you here?"

    Jackson''s practiced smile appeared the one that used to make my knees weak. I looked away, focusing on a crack in the driveway.

    "I can help.¡± He pushed off the car. "As future Alpha of Shadow Creek, I have the authority to use the Blood Protection Right. I could save William from execution."

    I snapped my gaze back to his. He looked so damn pleased with himself.

    "And what would that cost us?" The bitter taste of suspicion filled my mouth.

    His smile widened into something predatory. "Just one small condition."

    I waited, jaw clenched.

    "After I marry Sophia, you be my secret lover." He said it like he was offering me a job promotion.

    I actuallyughed. "Excuse me?"

    "I''ve already set up a ce for us." He stepped closer, his voice dropping to a seductive murmur. "Private. Comfortable. I''ll take care of everything-your father''s pardon, your needs, all of it."

    The Alpha King could silence a room with a look. Jackson needed this pathetic bargain to flex his so-called power.

    "You''re seriously asking me to be your side piece while you y happy family with Sophia?" My voice wavered despite my best efforts.

    He moved closer, and my body betrayed me with an involuntary shiver. The bond forcing a response even while my mind screamed in revolt.

    "We were magic together, Ava." His fingers brushed my neck. "Even after I mark Sophia, we''ll have this connection. Your father lives. You get taken care of. Win- win."

    I jerked away, breaking through the invisible hold. "Screw. You."

    His eyes shed amber. "Think about what you''re turning down. I''m offering your father''s life."

    "I''ll find another way." I backed toward the house. "Now get off our property."

    "You''ll change your mind." He smirked, walking backwards to his car. "Meanwhile, Daddy''s execution clock keeps ticking."

    "We don''t need you!" I shouted, my fists clenched so tight my palms bled.

    He paused with his hand on the car door. "To save him, you need the Alpha King''s direct intervention. Nobody but me has ess to ke Morgan. Nobody risks their neck for a traitor."

    His smile turned cruel before he slid into his car and peeled out, leaving me choking on exhaust and rage.

    I waited until his taillights disappeared before I crumpled. My knees hit the gravel and a sob ripped through me, raw and ugly.

    Jackson wasn''t wrong about one thing-only the Alpha King could override a treason charge. But I''d rather eat ss than be Jackson''s dirty secret.

    My wolf thrashed beneath my skin. I touched the side of my neck, remembering ke''s fingers there-how his touch had calmed something wild inside me.

    I needed to see him again. Even if the he never offered second chances.

    The next morning, Warrior Academy buzzed with the usual chaos of werewolf students.

    "Holy shit, you look wrecked." E, my best friend, dropped her backpack next to me under our usual oak tree.

    I flipped open my tactical manual, pretending to care about nking maneuvers. "Thanks. Just what every girl wants to hear."

    She nudged my boot with hers. "Seriously, what happened? One minute you were

    at Moonlight Lodge, the next-poof. Ghost mode."

    I chewed my lip. Lying to E was pointless. The girl could sniff out my bullshit faster than a bloodhound on cocaine.

    "Almost wolfed out in the ballroom." I kept my eyes on the book. "Someone helped me get it under control."

    "Someone?" She snatched my manual away. "Spill it. Your ears are turning red."

    I sighed, meeting her eyes. "ke Morgan."

    Her jaw actually dropped. "The Alpha King took you... where exactly?"

    "His suite," I mumbled.

    E''s eyebrows shot up. "And?"

    "And nothing," I lied.

    She grabbed my arm, fingers digging in. "Ava Rivers, your heart rate just spiked.

    What. Happened?"

    I cracked. "We might have kissed. A little."

    "A little?" She whisper-screamed. "There''s no ''little'' kissing with the Alpha King!

    That''s like saying you were ''a little'' on fire!"

    I smacked her arm. "Keep your voice down! It was just "

    "Just what? Earth-shattering? Life-altering? Panty-melting?"

    Despite everything, Iughed. ¡°All of the above? But it doesn''t matter now. I need

    to see him again."

    Her smile vanished. "But everyone says he never-"

    "I know." I cut her off, determination settling in my chest. "But my dad''s life

    depends on it."

 Chapter 3

    Chapter 3: Not the Only Reason

    Ava''s POV

    "Your father?" E''s smile vanished instantly, concern flooding her eyes. "What happened? Anything I can do?"

    I took a deep breath, gripping my tactical manual tightly. "Shadow Creek guards arrested my dadst night. They''re calling him a traitor, saying he caused Alpha Carter''s death."

    E gasped. "What? William? No way! That''s impossible! He''s the most loyal person in the entire pack!"

    "I know. But if I can''t prove he''s innocent, he''ll be executed at the next full moon." My voice cracked.

    "Have you seen him? What did he say?"

    I shook my head with a bitterugh. "Treason is the worst offense. They won''t even allow family visits. Mom''s falling apart."

    E squeezed my hand, giving me space to collect myself. When she spoke, her voice was gentle but firm. ¡°So that''s why you want to see ke again? You think the Alpha King can help?"

    "He''s the only one with the power to step in on another pack''s treason execution." I sighed. "Jackson showed upst night. Said he could use the Blood Protection Right to save my dad."

    "Really? That''s great! What''s he want in return?" E asked, but seeing my face, immediately caught on. "That jerk."

    "He wants me to be his secret lover," I hissed, my eyes shing. "After he marries Sophia, I get to be his underground mistress."

    "That dirty, scheming son of a¡ª¡± E unleashed a string of curses that would make a sailor blush. "How dare he? He dumps you, rejects the fated mate bond, and now wants to turn you into his side piece?"

    We fell quiet for a moment. Suddenly, E perked up. "Wait, back to ke. You said he gave you calming herbs and then kissed you?"

    I nodded, cheeks warming.

    "Ava, ke Morgan doesn''t give a damn about strangers. He must be into you." E said excitedly. "If Jackson can use that Blood Protection thing, then the Alpha King can definitely do more."

    "I can''t use that kiss as leverage," I said firmly. "I need to ask for his help straight up."

    E''s expression softened. "It''s not leveraging, Ava. It''s giving him another shot to get to know you. For both of you."

    The Shadow Creek prison stood at the edge of the territory, its gray stone walls embedded with silver to weaken werewolf strength. I stood before the heavy iron doors, stomach in knots.

    "I''m here to see William Rivers," I told the guard.

    The guards exchanged looks. "Not happening, Rivers. He''s charged with treason. No visitors allowed."

    ¡°I''m his daughter," I insisted, stepping forward. "I have a right to know what''s going on."

    An older guard shook his head. "Packw is clear. Treason cases mean no contact before trial, even family."

    "Can you at least tell me if he''s okay?" I pleaded.

    The guard nced at the faded mark on my neck, eyes shing with a hint of sympathy. "He''s hanging in there. But find someone with pull to help, girl. Clock''s ticking."

    As I left, I found my mother Sarah waiting in the parking lot, eyes swollen.

    "They turned me away too," she said softly. "Won''t even let me bring him clean clothes."

    I hugged her tight. "Mom, Jackson offered to help Dad, but his conditions are awful."

    Sarah nodded wearily. "Your father wouldn''t want that, either." She paused. "Any other options?"

    I thought of ke''s kiss and the storm in his eyes. "Maybe. But it''s a long shot." "Are you sure this is a good idea?" E asked nervously, watching me adjust my Shadow Creek warrior uniform.

    "No, but it''s the only card we''ve got," I replied, braiding my hair tightly.

    The bulletin board at Warrior Academy had posted a surprise announcement: Alpha King ke Morgan would visit today to observe a warrior skills exhibition. The best performer would earn the honor of presenting their pack''s gift to the Alpha King.

    The training grounds swarmed with eager students. Serena Evans and her followers had already imed the prime spots, her golden curls catching the morning light.

    ¡°Heard he''s looking for abat teacher for his son," someone whispered nearby. "Apparently Lucas is a handful."

    My wolf stirred with excitement. This was my chance. When thepetition rules were announced, my heart sank-we''d need to solve tactical challenges within a time limit, includingplex written instructions.

    My dyslexia would kill my chances.

    "You''ve got this, Ava," E squeezed my shoulder. "y to your strengths."

    When ke Morgan entered, everyone went silent. He seemed even taller than I remembered, his gray eyes sharp as daggers. He spotted me immediately, his pupils widening slightly before his expression went neutral.

    The exhibition began, and I struggled with the tactical instructions. Watching Serena breeze through them, I felt desperation creeping in. But in thebat portion, my instincts took over. My movements were precise and powerful, showing off years of training.

    For the final challenge-staying human while facing emotional triggers-I used my father''s meditation techniques. ke''s gaze never left me; I could feel his assessment and... interest?

    When it ended, the judges huddled together. My heart hammered in my chest, Serena''s hateful re burning into my back.

    "The student earning today''s honor presentation is..." the Dean paused, "Ava Rivers."

    The Honor Hall stood empty except for me and the soon-to-arrive Alpha King. I regted my breathing, trying to calm my racing heart, clutching a small leather pouch-the symbolic gift I''d prepared.

    Heavy footsteps approached, and ke Morgan walked in alone, his gaze locking onto me.

    "Miss Rivers," his voice was deep and powerful, "congrattions on your performance.¡±

    I bowed. "Thank you, Alpha Morgan."

    "You struggled with the tactical questions," he stated directly, "but yourbat skills were wless. Interesting mix."

    I met his gaze. "I have dyslexia, Alpha. But I never let it stop me from bing an excellent warrior."

    His expression softened slightly, and he nodded. "Courage and honesty. Good traits."

    Silence stretched between us. This was my only shot.

    ¡°Alpha Morgan, I''m not here to present a gift,¡± I said, looking directly into his eyes. "I''m here to ask for your help. My adoptive father, William Rivers, has been falsely used of treason. He''s innocent."

    ke''s expression became unreadable. "I recall you mentioned being marked and abandoned. Now a traitor father." He stepped closer. "Your life seems full of drama, Miss Rivers."

    "Not drama I asked for, Alpha," my voice remained steady.

    He studied me for a moment, then gently touched the mark on my neck. That

    electric feeling shot through my body again.

    "You came to me just for your father?" he asked quietly.

    I hesitated.

    His finger brushed my mark, sending heat through my veins.

    "Is that the only reason, Miss Rivers?" His voice dropped lower, almost intimate.

    When I didn''t answer, his lips curved into the barest hint of a smile.

    "Some prices," he murmured, "are higher than others. Are you certain you want to know mine?"

 Chapter 4

    Chapter 4: When Alpha Kings Say No

    Ava''s POV

    "Some prices," ke murmured, his finger still tracing the mark on my neck, "are higher than others. Are you certain you want to know mine?"

    My heart hammered against my ribs, his touch sending waves of pleasure through my mark instead of the usual burning pain. The difference was so stark I nearly gasped.

    "Yes," I met his gaze head-on. "I''ll pay anything to save my father."

    ke studied me, those storm-gray eyes giving nothing away. Finally, he jerked his chin toward the door. "Follow me."

    We slipped through a hidden corridor I''d never noticed before, winding our way to ckwood Manor inplete silence. The air between us crackled with unspoken tension, making the hair on my arms stand up.

    His office sprawled across the top floor, with wall-to-wall windows framing an endless vista of Silverpeak territory. Miles of ancient forest stretched to snow- capped mountains under a cloudless sky. The kind of view that reminded you just how tiny your problems were in the grand scheme of things.

    Dark wooden panels lined the walls, adorned with ancient weapons and pack artifacts. The distinct scent of cedar and old leather permeated the air, a stark contrast to the sterile conference rooms at Warrior Academy.

    ke didn''t hide behind his massive oak desk. Instead, he leaned against it, arms crossed, watching me. His dark shirt had the sleeves rolled to his elbows, revealing corded forearms.

    Everything about him screamed power-not the showy, look-at-me kind Jackson loved, but something bone-deep and unquestionable.

    "Let''s cut to the chase, Alpha King," I broke first, meeting his eyes directly even though it was basically daring a wolf to bite.

    His mouth quirked up. "Tell me why you''re so damn sure your father''s innocent first."

    "Because I know him," I shot back. "He practically had a shrine to Alpha Carter in our basement. The man worshipped him."

    "Feelings don''t trump evidence," ke said, voice t. "Even the most loyal dogs can bite."

    I flinched. This wasn''t going anywhere near where I''d expected. "Just tell me what you want in exchange for helping him.¡±

    ke went quiet, watching me with unnerving intensity.

    Fuck it. I stepped closer and popped the top sp of my warrior uniform, revealing

    a hint of skin and my tank top underneath.

    "Maybe I could..." My voice dropped to a husky whisper. "Make it worth your while." I reached out, fingers brushing his forearm.

    His eyes shed gold instantly, his breathing going ragged. His scent changed too ¡ªthat pine and smoke smell taking on a spicy edge that made my wolf sit up and beg.

    For a heartbeat, his gaze dropped to my exposed corbone, his throat working as he swallowed hard.

    Then he blinked, took a deep breath, and gently pushed my hand away, refastening my top sp with surprisingly gentle fingers. His knuckles brushed against my corbone, lingering a fraction longer than necessary, betraying the struggle behind hisposed expression.

    "Really? That''s what you think of me?" Despite his words, the lingering gold in his eyes gave him away, and his jaw clenched as he fought to maintain control. "If I wantedpany in my bed, I wouldn''t need to extort it."

    My face burned hot enough to melt steel. "I never actually-with Jackson-I just thought-"

    "You thought I''d trade my help for your body." The disappointment in his voice stung worse than any insult. "You should value yourself more than that."

    He sighed, voice softening. "I have a daughter your age. I''d kill any man who tried

    to make her bargain with herself like this. I expect better from you."

    His fingertips traced my mark again, sending warm ripples through me instead of the usual stabbing pain. My wolf practically purred, leaning into his touch before I could stop myself.

    The door opened and Tyler Reed appeared, his expression carefully neutral. ke dropped his hand from my neck.

    "See Miss Rivers out," ke said, turning away.

    "Right away, Alpha." Tyler nodded.

    "Thanks for nothing," I muttered, pride forcing the words out even as my wolf howled in protest.

    I felt ke''s eyes burning into my back all the way to the door.

    Outside ckwood Manor, I copsed onto a boulder, letting shame and frustration wash over me. My wolf paced restlessly, agitated about walking away from the Alpha King.

    I closed my eyes, reaching for E through our mindlink. After a moment of static, her consciousness brushed against mine.

    So? Her thoughts came through eager and hopeful.

    Epic fail. I let her feel my mortification. I offered myself to him like some desperate groupie, and he basically patted me on the head and sent me home.

    Oh shit, Ava. Her sympathy flowed through our connection. Look, there''s an inter- pack thing at Moonlight Lodge tonight. All the bigwigs will be there. We might find someone who knows something about your dad''s case.

    I straightened up, my embarrassment hardening into resolve. Meet you in thirty.

    Breaking the mindlink, I pushed off the boulder. The connection with E came as easy as breathing after all our years of friendship, a smallfort in the chaos my life had be.

    "You clean up nice," E grinned, eyeing my Shadow Creek formal wear when we met outside Moonlight Lodge. "That blue makes your eyes pop."

    I smoothed down the ceremonial dress, ufortable in the formal attire after years of preferring practical battle gear. But tonight was about information, notfort.

    "Let''s just get what we need and leave," I muttered, adjusting the high cor that barely hid Jackson''s fading mark on my neck.

    I scanned the packed hall, taking in the mix of packs in their ceremonial attire. Moonlight Lodge had transformed for the evening-crystal chandeliers cast a soft glow over polished marble floors, and intricately carved wooden panels depicting ancient pack histories lined the walls.

    The neutral territory venue was designed to impress, with subtle touches honoring each major pack without favoring any.

    "Who might actually know something about the border sh? Someone not afraid to talk?"

    "Those guys over there-Northern territory delegates," she pointed discreetly. "The fight happened practically in their backyard. And they''ve been drinking heavily. Perfectbination for loose lips."

    "Let me handle this," I said, grabbing an empty tray from a passing server. "I''ll pose as staff to get closer."

    E raised an eyebrow. "Clever. I''ll keep watch."

    I turned and my stomach dropped. Jackson Hayes stood in the entrance like he owned the ce, draped in his formal Shadow Creek robes with silver embroidery marking his status as Alpha-in-waiting. He was surrounded by his entourage of elite warriors, allughing too loudly.

    His eyes found mine instantly, his mouth curving into that smug smile that used to make me weak but now just made me nauseous.

    And clinging to his arm, looking like a walking diamondmercial in her flowing silver gown, was Sophia Morgan-ke''s daughter and Jackson''s ticket to power.

 Chapter 5

    Chapter 5: Alpha Aura and Secrets Exposed

    Ava''s POV

    I grabbed the empty tray and smoothed down my Shadow Creek formal wear, the deep blue fabric catching the light under Moonlight Lodge''s chandeliers. The n was simple-y waitress, get close to the Northern territory delegates, and dig up dirt about the border sh that supposedly implicated my father.

    Before I could reach my targets, a group of Jackson''s warrior buddies spotted me. Their eyes tracked me like I was thest steak at a barbecue as I approached with my fake server smile stered on.

    "Look what the cat dragged in," one warrior chuckled, eyeing me up and down. "Fancy clothes can''t hide what she really is."

    I kept my poker face, refusing to give these jerks the satisfaction of seeing me rattled.

    "Hey, unmarked," another called out, the slur hitting me like a p. "Got any drinks, or are you just gonna stand there looking like roadkill?"

    Unmarked. The word made my skin crawl. It''s what they called wolves whose mates had rejected them-damaged goods in pack hierarchy. I bit back a growl and stepped forward.

    "Mind your manners. This is neutral ground," I said, keeping my voice steady while pouring drinks for each smirking warrior.

    As I leaned over to serve thest ss, a hand grabbed my waist. I froze, every muscle in my body going tight as a bowstring.

    "That dress is doing you favors," he murmured, his breath hot on my ear. "But I''d rather see it on my floor."

    My wolf nearly broke free, teeth aching to rip out his throat. I stepped back, shaking off his hand like it was something gross I''d found in my food.

    "Touch me again and lose the hand," I warned, my voice dropping to that dangerous ce that made smarter wolves back up.

    Another warrior leaned in, eyes gleaming like he''d found a new toy. "C''mon, Ava. Since Jackson tossed you back in the pond, why not have some fun? Have a drink with real wolves."

    I clenched my jaw so tight I heard teeth crack, feeling that telltale heat in my eyes that meant my wolf was surfacing.

    "I''m here for information, not to entertain frat boys with badges," I snapped.

    The first warrior snorted. "Cut the crap. Nobody buys you''re here to ''investigate.'' You knew Jackson would parade his new trophy tonight. You''re just trying to catch his eye."

    His words hit a nerve. I nced across the hall where Jackson had just walked in, Sophia hanging off his arm like designer jewelry. His eyes found mine through the crowd, a dangerous glint in them as he watched this mess unfold. Once upon a time, he''d have torn apart any wolf who even looked at me sideways. Now he was enjoying the show.

    "Come here, leftover," the warrior raised his ss, eyebrows doing a sleazy dance. "We''ll help you forget that mark.¡±

    I stared, speechless. These were supposed to be elite pack warriors-honor- bound protectors-acting like drunk college boys on spring break.

    "If you ditch this stuffy party ande with us down to Moonlight Lake," one said, leaning so close I could smell the whiskey on his breath, "I''ll spill everything about the border sh."

    My heart skipped. This was exactly what I needed.

    "What did you say?" I asked, not bothering to hide my surprise.

    "You heard me. Come with us, get the info you want."

    Another wolf smirked. "And if you make it worth our while, we might even tell you what really went down that day and who actually stabbed your Alpha in the back."

    I weighed my options, then nced back at Jackson and Sophia. My eyes locked with his; he raised an eyebrow, watching everything with that smug little half-smile that used to make my heart race but now just made my stomach turn.

    If suffering through these wolves'' bullshit meant saving Dad, I''d pay the price.

    "Fine. We can talk on the terrace. It''s quieter there," I said, setting down the tray. The warriors exchanged looks that screamed "jackpot" as they followed me. Passing the bar, I caught E''s eye, giving her our old signal for "backup n ready."

    The moment we stepped onto the terrace, moonlight washed over us, making the deep blue of my dress shimmer like water. One warrior immediately blocked my path, his gaze crawling over me like hands.

    "Now that we''ve got some privacy," he said, stepping closer, "let''s see that rejected mark. We''re all dying to know what Jackson''s stamp looks like."

    Before I could tell him where to shove his curiosity, they started closing in, one reaching for my high cor. Rage exploded inside me like a grenade, my wolf howling for blood. I felt my eyes shifting, the silver-gray of my wolf form taking

    over.

    Just as my ws began extending, a strong hand yanked the warrior back. I looked up to see Jackson standing there, amber fury zing in his eyes. "Back the fuck off before I rip out your spines," he growled, voice deadly quiet. The warriors scattered like cockroaches under a light. Jackson grabbed my wrist, dragging me to a corner of the terrace.

    "You always did love making a scene," Jackson''s voice was Arctic cold, his face harsh in the moonlight. "The traitor''s daughter, center of attention again."

    I straightened up, meeting his re. "My father is innocent. I''m here to prove that, not listen to your garbage."

    "Prove it?¡± he snorted. "By letting Northern wolves drool all over you? That''s your master n?"

    "At least I''m doing something," I shot back. "While you stand there smirking as my father gets framed."

    Jackson moved closer, his breath hot on my face, eyes shing amber. "Wake up, Ava. William betrayed Alpha Carter. He was passing information to enemies across the border. The evidence is rock solid."

    My eyes widened. "What evidence?"

    A twisted smile curled his lips. "I could tell you... if you take my offer."

    My gaze hardened. "I''d rather watch my mark rot off than warm your bed behind your wife''s back."

    "That mark," he growled, crushing my wrist in his grip, "is my im. Hate me all you want, but you''re mine."

    "Let go," I hissed, fighting his hold. "That mark is as meaningless as your promises."

    He mmed me against the wall, one hand at my throat, the other ripping down my dress cor.

    "What the hell...?" His eyes bulged with shock.

    He stared at my neck, where the silver-white imprint now had threads of gold weaving through it.

    "This is... an Alpha mark," he whispered, voice cracking. "Who touched my mark? WHO?"

    "Someone who''s twice the wolf you''ll ever be," I taunted, despite the pressure on my windpipe.

    His eyes fully shifted to wolf now, rage swirling in their amber depths. "WHO? Tell me who dared touch my fated mate!"

    I met his gaze directly. "ke. Your future father-inw''s fingers traced every inch of my skin."

 Chapter 6

    Chapter 6: We Won''t Meet Again

    Ava''s POV

    Jackson''s face went white as a sheet. He dropped his hands and stepped back like I''d burned him.

    "Bullshit," he spat, but doubt flickered across his face.

    "You never knew me, Jackson. I don''t need lies for protection. You just can''t stand that someone could make me forget the pain your pathetic mark causes."

    The warriors exchanged nces nearby, whispering among themselves.

    "The Alpha King?" one scoffed in disbelief. "No way. He wouldn''t touch damaged goods."

    "She''s bluffing," anotherughed. "ke wouldn''t piss on his future son-inw''s territory."

    Jackson''s expression twisted ugly as he advanced again.

    "You think you''re clever?" he snarled, teeth bared. "Dropping the Alpha King''s name like some magic shield?"

    His hand locked around my throat again, tighter this time, fingers digging into flesh.

    "Listen up, Ava. Your father''s as good as dead. Take my offer, or lose everything¡ª not just daddy dearest."

    As ck spots danced in my vision and my lungs screamed for air, my wolf thrashed wildly beneath my skin. Suddenly, a wave of power hit the terrace like a tsunami, making every wolf present shake like leaves in a storm.

    Alpha aura-thick enough to choke on-flooded the space. Jackson''s hand flew off my throat as if yanked by an invisible force. He whipped around, face draining of all color.

    ke stood at the entrance, his massive frame outlined by moonlight, eyes burning gold like molten metal. He didn''t make a sound; he didn''t need to. His mere existence in the space was enough to silence everyone. The power radiating from him went beyond mere Alpha-this was the Alpha King, the supreme ruler of all packs.

    "Care to exin what I''m seeing, Mr. Hayes?" ke asked, his voice deceptively soft.

    Jackson immediately ducked his head, body instinctively backing away. Future son-inw or not, he was nothing before the Alpha King.

    "Alpha King, just... handling a personal matter," Jackson stammered.

    ke''s eyes flicked from Jackson to the angry red marks blooming on my neck, then back to Jackson''s face. His expression remained neutral, but the pressure in the air intensified until breathing became difficult.

    "Strange way to handle ''personal matters'' in my neutral territory," ke observed, each word like a silk-wrapped knife.

    Jackson''s face cycled between terror and embarrassment as he realized how badly he''d messed up in front of his future father-inw.

    "I apologize, Alpha King. Lost my temper," he muttered.

    ke gave a slight nod, seemingly epting the apology, though his eyes remained cold. He extended his hand toward me.

    "Ava,e here," hemanded.

    My feet moved almost on their own, pulled by something deeper than conscious thought. His Alpha aura created a shield between Jackson and me, solid as steel thoughpletely invisible. Through it all, ke''s face remained perfectlyposed, but everyone felt the raw power rolling off him in waves.

    "The gathering continues inside," ke told Jackson and the others. "I''m sure you have guests to attend to."

    Though spoken politely, no one missed the dismissal. Jackson hesitated, then nodded respectfully.

    "Of course, Alpha King," he conceded before retreating with his warriors, leaving ke and me alone on the moonlit terrace.

    When they disappeared, ke gently tilted my chin up, examining the red marks on my neck. His touch was warm and careful, like someone inspecting a fragile treasure. When his fingers identally brushed my mark, an electric current shot through my body, making me shiver.

    "Using the Alpha King against your ex?" ke''s voice dropped lower. "That''s a dangerous game you''re ying, Ava."

    I swallowed hard, my heart drumming against my ribs. The moonlight caught in his dark hair, highlighting the silver at his temples. His scent-pine forests after a thunderstorm-wrapped around me like the world''s most intoxicating nket.

    My wolf sat up and begged, silently pleading for more of his touch. Some rational part of my brain knew this was crazy-he was Jackson''s future father-inw, for Moon''s sake-but my wolf didn''t give a damn about humanplications.

    "How did you know toe here?" I asked, voice barely audible. Was he here for me? The thought made my chest tight with hope.

    His strong jawline tensed, and his full lips pressed into a thin line as his fingers lingered on my skin longer than necessary, sending warm pulses through my mark.

    Memories of our first night invaded my mind, and I couldn''t stop thinking about how his lips had felt against mine. The perfectbination of softness and demand, the way he''d kissed me with such raw hunger. I caught myself licking my lips at the memory.

    Without thinking, my fingers reached up to where his hand cradled my neck, the spot we''d connected.

    "You haven''t answered my question," he said, voice carrying that unmistakable Alphamand that made my knees weak.

    I straightened, finding my voice. "I didn''t n this. Jackson was "

    "-trying to strangle you. I saw." His eyes darkened like storm clouds. "My question is about what you told him."

    "That..." Heat crawled up my neck. "I needed something to knock him off- bnce."

    ke''s thumb traced the line of my jaw, surprisingly gentle from someone who could probably shatter mountains with his power. "So you used me."

    It wasn''t a question, and I couldn''t tell if he was pissed or impressed.

    "It worked, didn''t it?" I tried for confident, but my voice betrayed me with a slight tremor.

    The corner of his mouth twitched. "Indeed it did. Though now you''ve started something you might not be able to finish."

    His hand dropped from my face, and I immediately felt cold, like someone had thrown open a window in winter. He stepped back, creating proper distance between us. My wolf whined, already missing his warmth.

    "Ava," he said, voice now filled with authority. The way my name rolled off his tongue sent shivers down my spine. "We won''t be meeting again. Understood?"

    The words hit me like a sucker punch. I stood there, stunned and hurt in a way that made no sense. We''d met exactly twice-why did this feel like losing something important?

    I swallowed the lump forming in my throat and managed a curt nod.

    ¡°Understood,¡± I whispered, hating how small my voice sounded.

    He held my gaze a moment longer, something shing in his storm-gray eyes that

    I couldn''t read. Then he turned and walked away, his broad shoulders silhouetted against the silver moonlight.

    I stood frozen, watching him leave. It was bizarre to feel this hollow after barely knowing someone, but his absence left me cold as if I''d suddenly lost a coat in a blizzard.

    My wolf howled in protest, but I shoved her down. I had a father to save from execution. I couldn''t afford to moon over an Alpha who''d just made it crystal clear he wanted nothing to do with me.

    I squared my shoulders, took a deep breath that still carried traces of his scent, and headed back inside. There were still Northern delegates with loose lips to question, and I wasn''t leaving until I got what I came for-no matter what ke thought of me.

 Chapter 7

    Chapter 7: Get Out of My Brain

    Ava''s POV

    "Where the hell have you been?" E popped up beside me, grabbing my arm as I slipped back into the crowded ballroom. "I was about toe looking for you after that scene with Jackson on the terrace."

    "ke showed up just in time," I muttered, yanking my cor up to hide the fresh marks. "Sent Jackson packing with just a look."

    "Thank the Moon Goddess," she sighed, clearly relieved. "You okay?"

    "I will be once we find those Northern wolves again. They know something about the border sh that could help Dad."

    She tilted her head toward the east side. "Over there. They''re five drinks deep already." She dropped her voice. "Heads up though. Caroline and her groupies are lurking in the corner like they''re waiting to pounce. She''s been shooting daggers since you scored that honor thing with ke."

    I caught Caroline''s golden curls gleaming under the lights. Her eyes locked onto mine, cold as ice.

    "She''s always trying to one-up me," I said, straightening my formal wear. "Don''t have time for her high school drama right now."

    "I''ll cause a distraction if needed," E offered.

    I grabbed an empty tray from a nearby table and made my way over. The Northern delegates huddled by the windows, their fancy blue threads marking them as bigwigs, though their loudughs told me they were well into the bottle.

    I slipped into server mode, offering drinks while making myself practically invisible. They barely looked my way, deep in their chat.

    "¡ªtotal setup," a stocky wolf with salt-and-pepper hair was saying. "Carter walked right into it."

    His buddy with the face scar nodded. "That sh was too perfectly timed. Someone leaked his route."

    My heart jumped, but I kept it cool, topping off sses without missing a beat.

    "That ambush was too on the nose," the first wolf slurred. "Someone from Shadow Creek sold out the Alpha''s travel ns... but no way it was Rivers. He and Carter were tight as thieves." He crossed his fingers to show just how tight.

    "Zip it!" Scar Face hissed, finally noticing me. "Not here."

    I yed dumb, but inside I was doing cartwheels. Dad was innocent! Someone else had ratted out Alpha Carter.

    Before I could dig deeper, the air shifted. The hairs on my neck stood up as my wolf sensed troubleing from behind.

    "Well, well. ying waitress tonight?" Caroline''s voice sliced through the conversation. "The traitor''s daughter trying to blend in."

    I turned slowly, keeping my face nk despite the fire in my veins. Caroline stood there in her fancy designer dress, showing off curves and her family crest. Her three cronies nked her, smirking like they''d found fresh meat.

    ¡°Caroline,¡± I said tly. ¡°Didn''t realize the waitstaff was your concern.¡±

    Her glossy lips curled up. "Just letting everyone know you''re a fraud. A reject pretending to be useful." She raised her voice. "Check it out! It''s the marked leftover who thought fancy fighting would impress the Alpha King!"

    The Northern wolves shifted ufortably, realizing they''d been overheard by the wrong person.

    "At least I earned my showcase spot with actual skill," I fired back. "Not daddy''s connections or mommy''s designer battle pajamas."

    Caroline''s face went red. "Your dad was the connection king. Too bad he backed the wrong horse. My father says William was Carter''spdog, never saw which way the wind was blowing."

    I caught something in her words-a thread I needed to pull.

    "What wind?" I pressed, stepping closer.

    Her smile turned smug. "The smart wolves knew when to jump ship. My father says Hayes was at the border that day¡ª" She froze, color draining from her face. "I mean, Hayes told my father that day..."

    My stomach dropped. "Hayes was at the border during the attack? That''s not what the pack records show."

    "I didn''t say that!" she snapped, panic shing in her eyes. "You''re twisting my words!"

    Her scent flipped from smug to scared in a heartbeat. She''d let something slip, and she knew it.

    "You totally did," I said quietly. "And we both know it."

    Caroline backed up, her posse closing ranks. "You''re pathetic. Nobody will believe a word from you."

    As they retreated, my mind raced at warp speed. Jackson''s dad was supposedly

    in meetings when the border sh happened-every report said so. If he was actually there...

    I needed to find E.

    She was waiting by the garden door, reading my face like a book.

    "What happened? You look like you just struck oil," she whispered, pulling me into the shadows of some fancy trimmed bushes.

    "Caroline fucked up," I exined quickly. "She identally spilled that Hayes was at the border when Carter got ambushed."

    E''s eyes went wide. "But the official story has him at council meetings!" "Exactly. If Hayes is lying-"

    A roar from inside cut me off. Jackson''s voice, pissed as hell.

    "Time to bounce," E grabbed my arm. "Caroline''s probably tattling to Jackson right now."

    We ducked through the garden, taking the back path toward the parking lot. Near the edge, I yanked E behind a huge hedge.

    "Hold up," I whispered, catching a familiar scent. "Jackson''s out here."

    Through the leaves, I spotted him arguing with an older man-Hayes himself. They stood by arge ck vehicle, Hayes jabbing a finger into Jackson''s chest like he was punching buttons on a remote.

    "Can''t keep your marked bitch in line?" Hayes snarled. "She''s digging into that day!"

    Jackson straightened his fancy clothes. "She''s clueless. Just trying to save daddy."

    "The Alpha King stepped in tonight. If he starts poking around="

    "He won''t," Jackson cut in. "I''m practically family now."

    Hayes dropped his voice, but my wolf hearing caught every word. "Make sure she backs off. I''ve blocked all her warrior position requests. A lone wolf can''t cause much trouble."

    My blood turned to ice. They were systematically destroying my future.

    E and I split up at the forest path, promising to connect tomorrow. I took the hidden trails home, my head spinning with everything I''d discovered. Dad was innocent. Hayes had lied. And they were cutting off all my options one by one.

    Halfway home, my neck exploded with pain. I crashed against a tree, clutching my mark as it burned like someone had pressed a hot poker to my skin.

    Having fun ying detective, Ava?

    Jackson''s voice oozed into my mind, forcing open our mindlink through the mate bond. God, I hated that he could still do this-barge into my head whenever he felt like it.

    Get out of my brain, I pushed back, trying to m the door on him.

    You''re dancing with the devil. Stop digging, or daddy won''t be the only one hurting.

    I kept walking, trying to ignore him, but he clung like a bad smell.

    Think you''llnd a position? Find another pack? My dad made sure every request

    you send gets trashed. No pack wants a traitor''s kid.

    I stumbled, his words hitting home. So that''s why all my recent applications had

    gone nowhere.

    One way forward, Ava. Take my offer. After your dad''s gone, you and your mom

    will have nothing. No home, no pack, nowhere to go.

    I''d rather sleep in dirt than be your side piece, I shot back. Something shifted then-my mark suddenly pulsed warm instead of painful. A strange power flowed through it, pushing against Jackson''s presence. What... what''s happening? His voice wavered. What is this?

    The gold threads from ke''s touch seemed to wake up, shoving Jackson''s influence away. In seconds, the mindlink snapped shut, leaving sweet silence in my head.

 Chapter 8

    Chapter 8: The Changing Mark

    Ava''s POV

    I sprinted the rest of the way home and raced straight to my bathroom mirror. Tilting my head, I checked my neck.

    The mark had changed even more. What was once silver-white now had golden threads running through it like sunlight cracking through storm clouds. I touched it gently, remembering the electric jolt when ke''s fingers had been there.

    "What the hell does this mean?" I whispered.

    A strange heat tingled from the spot, traveling down to my chest and spreading outward. My fingertip traced the new golden pattern, sending shivers down my spine.

    Through the window, the fat moon hung heavy in the sky, nearly full. Dad''s execution date. Days, not weeks, to save Dad.

    I gripped the sink edge, remembering how Hayes and Jackson were

    systematically burning every bridge I had. No pack would hire me. No position would open for me. They were boxing me in from every angle.

    We won''t be meeting again. Understood?

    ke''s words echoed, but my mark pulsed warm against my skin, contradicting his dismissal. My wolf scratched beneath the surface, restless and insistent.

    "I don''t care what he said," I told my reflection, jaw tight. "Dad''s life is worth whatever helles after."

    "You look almost human today," E said, sliding into the chair across from me at our usual tea shop the next morning.

    I''d arrived early, watching the pack messenger pin fresh notices to the wall. The newest one detailed Shadow Creek''s "traitor trial" procedures-Dad''s name right at the top.

    "High praiseing from you," I muttered, absently touching my neck where the mark radiated warmth like a hidden ember.

    E leaned forward, eyes narrowing. "Something''s different. Spill.¡±

    After checking that no one was eavesdropping, I tugged my cor aside.

    E''s teacup ttered against the saucer. "Holy- What are those gold streaks?"

    "Happenedst night," I whispered, letting my cor fall back. ¡°Jackson forced a mindlink, threatening me as usual, then suddenly..." I snapped my fingers. "The mark kicked him out."

    "Kicked him out?" Her eyes widened. "No way."

    "Those gold threads went into battle mode. It was like they were shoving him out." I nced around before continuing. "Ever since ke touched it, everything''s different. It''s warm now instead of burning."

    ¡°Hold up.¡± E leaned close enough that I could smell her mint gum. "That''s not normal, Ava. A rejected mark doesn''t just change because someone else touched it. Unless..."

    I nudged her knee under the table. "Unless what?"

    "Unless it''s what the old stories call a ''Mark Summoning," she whispered, her face dead serious.

    "A what now?"

    "It''s in those dusty pack histories nobody reads. Super rare, but it happens."

    I rolled my eyes. "Come on, fated mate marks are one-shot deals. You can''t trade up for a better model."

    E tapped her finger against her cup. "The old books say wolves only mark once, but in crazy-rare cases, a mark might choose wrong. If you stumble across your actual perfect match..." She made a jumping motion with her hand. "The mark tries to switch teams."

    "That''s insane," I said, though my fingers still drifted to my neck. "ke can''t be my fated mate. He''s literally going to be Jackson''s father-inw."

    "Just telling you what the books say." She shrugged, then lowered her voice. "So what''s the n for your dad? We know Hayes lied about where he was during the attack."

    "And that helps us how?" I sighed, rubbing my temples. "Jackson''s made sure no one will touch me with a ten-foot pole. Without actual pull, I can''t even get someone to listen."

    E suddenly straightened, eyes fixed on something behind me. "Ava, look."

    I turned to see a pack messenger pinning a new notice to the board-expensive

    parchment with the Silverpeak seal gleaming at the top.

    POSITION AVAILABLE: COMBAT INSTRUCTOR

    FOR LUCAS MORGAN, SON OF ALPHA KING BLAKE MORGAN

    GENEROUS COMPENSATION - SPECIAL ACCESS TO SILVERPEAK TERRITORY

    IMMEDIATE START REQUIRED

    My heart stuttered. A way into ke''s household?

    "This is..." I couldn''t finish the sentence.

    "Way too convenient," E grabbed my wrist. "ke tells you to stay away, and

    suddenly there''s a job opening at his ce? Smells like a trap."

    I touched my mark, feeling that warm buzz pulse through me. "Or my only shot. If I can get my foot in the door..."

    "If he straight-up told you to back off, this could seriously piss him off," E warned, eyebrows raised.

    My fingers traced the warm mark. "Rock bottom means there''s nowhere to go but up."

    For the first time since this nightmare began, something like hope flickered in my chest.

    The intimidating oak doors of Warrior Academy''s admin hall loomed before me. I yanked my uniform straight and pushed through.

    Inside, several applicants already waited, including Serena Evans in her custom- made battle gear that probably cost more than my entire wardrobe.

    Her lips curled when she spotted me. "Look what the cat dragged in," she said, voice carrying across the room. "The traitor''s daughter thinks she can teach the Alpha King''s son?"

    I kept my mouth shut, digging my nails into my palms. The other applicants¡ªall elite warriors with impressive credentials-whispered among themselves, eyes flicking between my face and my cor.

    Tyler Reed, ke''s Beta, sat at the evaluation desk, his expression unreadable as he scanned the room. His gaze lingered on me a beat longer than the others. "Serena Evans," he called first.

    She brushed past me, smirking. "Don''t get your hopes up," she whispered. "This job already has my name on it."

    I sized up thepetition while waiting-decorated warriors with medals covering their chests,bat experts with famous Alpha bloodlines. When Serena returned, her face screamed triumph.

    "They practically offered me the job on the spot," she announced loudly. "They need someone with breeding, not strays."

    My name camest. My confidence had evaporated, but that strange warmth from

    my mark pushed me forward with my head high.

    To my shock, Tyler dismissed the other applicants.

    "Let''s cut to the chase," he said once we were alone, his voice matter-of-fact.

    "I know my background isn''t ideal," I started, desperate to make my case, "but mybat skills-"

    "The Alpha King''s already decided," Tyler interrupted, pulling out an ornate scroll from a wolf-skin tube.

    My stomach dropped. Of course.

    But Tyler held the document out to me. Confused, I epted it, unrolling thick parchment to find a contract with official Silverpeak seals.

    "What...?" Words failed me.

    "Lucas needs someone special," Tyler exined. "Someone who understands rebellion. Someone who knows how to fight with everything stacked against them."

    I looked from the contract to Tyler. "He chose me? Why?"

    A hint of amusement touched Tyler''s face. "Sunrise tomorrow, ckwood Manor. Don''t bete."

    Outside, Serena and her entourage waited, their faces darkening at the contract in my hand.

    "You''ve got to be kidding me," Serena hissed, her perfect skin flushing red. "What you do? Sleep with someone?"

    did

    I touched my mark, feeling that warm buzz spread through me. For the first time since Jackson had ripped my world apart, I felt something like confidence.

    "Guess the universe works in mysterious ways," I said, meeting her re head-

    on.

    Walking away into the sunlight, I felt something shift inside-like puzzle pieces clicking into ce. Tomorrow I''d walk into ckwood Manor and face ke Morgan again, whether he liked it or not.

 Chapter 9

    Chapter 9: At a Loss for Words

    ke''s POV

    The carved oak carriage bearing the Silverpeak crest raced through the night, moonlight gleaming off its polished surface. Tyler handled the reins with practiced ease, asionally ncing through the small window at me. I hadn''t spoken since we left Moonlight Lodge, my mind racing with what had just happened.

    "So," Tyler broke the silence, "are you gonna tell me what happened, or are we just riding in dead silence all the way back?"

    "She told Jackson I touched her mark,¡± I replied, my voice low.

    Tyler nearly yanked the reins to a stop. "Wait, what? She actually told him?"

    I nodded, remembering the scene on the terrace. "More than told him. She used me as a weapon against him."

    "Ballsy. I like her style," Tyler said with a hint of admiration.

    "It''s dangerous," I countered without humor. "A male wolf can ept being abandoned, but not being reced. Especially when the recement is his future father-inw."

    Jackson''s anger could put Ava in danger. And if Sophia heard anything about this... my daughter''s happiness was just one moreplication I didn''t need.

    "About that..." Tyler ventured, "her mark actually changed, didn''t it?"

    I tensed up. "How''d you know?"

    "I saw it. Golden threads, same color as your Alpha mark. You know what that means."

    I turned to look out the window, watching the trees rush by in the moonlight. "It can''t be," I muttered.

    "The old books mention a few cases like this. A wolf whose mark starts responding to someone new. The elders call it a ''Mark Summoning.""

    My fingers tapped against the window frame as I remembered those dusty werewolf texts from my training days. The Moon Goddess had a twisted sense of humor sometimes.

    I closed my eyes, and Elizabeth''s face appeared in my mind¡ªherst moments after Lucas was born. I''d been young and hopeful then, holding her hand while she struggled to breathe.

    "Promise me..." she''d whispered, "you''ll find happiness again..."

    I''d promised to raise our kids and keep Silverpeak safe. Never thought I''d meet someone who made my heart race again.

    "Can''t go there," I whispered, mostly to myself.

    A gray pigeon swooped through the window,nding on Tyler''s shoulder with a tiny scroll tied to its leg. He read it and let out a huff.

    "Wilson says Lucas chucked his training gear into theke again. Third time this month."

    I rubbed my face, the father in me pushing aside the Alpha for a moment. "Every teacher I findsts about a week before quitting."

    "Maybe it''s not the teachers that''s the problem," Tyler suggested. "Maybe it''s what you''re expecting from them."

    "The kid partially shifted at seven," I said tly. "That kind of power showing up so early is trouble waiting to happen. He needs someone to teach him control."

    I felt proud of Lucas''s gift but scared for him too. If he couldn''t handle it, he might end up like others in Elizabeth''s family.

    "His wolf blood is waking up," I continued. "Without control, he''ll fully change before he''s ready for it."

    Tyler went quiet for a second. "Thest kid who changed that early was Elizabeth''s great-grandfather. Didn''t end well for him."

    I clenched my fist. "Not happening to my son."

    "You need someone special," Tyler said carefully. "Not just good at fighting, but someone who gets what it''s like to be angry at the world."

    An idea hit me like a lightning bolt.

    "Tyler, need you to do something."

    He raised an eyebrow. "Why do I suddenly have a bad feeling about this?"

    "Find Lucas a new teacher."

    "That quick? You already have someone in mind?"

    I nodded, my mind made up. "Ava Rivers."

    Tyler whipped around so fast he almost dropped the reins. "Hold up. You just told

    her ''we''re done'' and now you want her teaching your kid?"

    "Yep," I said simply.

    Something in my gut-call it instinct-told me Ava was exactly what Lucas needed.

    The next evening, I sat at my desk in ckwood Manor, looking over documents about William Rivers'' case. Moonlight spilled through the windows onto the thick carpet. My tea sat cold and forgotten. Elizabeth''s portrait hung on the wall nearby, her smile seeming to watch over everything I did.

    As I flipped through the border incident records, I frowned. "These witness statements don''t line up..."

    Hayes'' location report had holes big enough to drive a truck through. It contradicted what the northern hunting party imed they saw. As Alpha King, I was supposed to make sure justice happened, but sticking my nose in another pack''s business was asking for trouble.

    I heard that Ava had gone to the Warrior Academy earlier today to apply for the teaching position. Seeing the determination in her at Moonlight Lodgest night, I wasn''t surprised she''d jumped at the opportunity so quickly.

    The door creaked open, and Lucas stood there in his pajamas, holding Hunter close.

    "Dad? Still working?" he asked, stifling a yawn.

    I set down the papers and waved him over. "Come here, buddy."

    Lucas padded over with Hunter right on his heels, the dog''s eyes glowing in the darkness. I pulled my son onto myp, feeling the wolf energy buzzing under his skin-too strong, too soon.

    "Is that about the traitor?" Lucas asked, looking at the papers.

    "How''d you know that?" I asked, surprised a seven-year-old would pick up on it.

    He shrugged. "Heard the staff talking. They said his daughter came by today to try and be my teacher."

    "What do you think about that?" I asked, curious what he''d say.

    Lucas thought about it seriously. "If Hunter likes her, I''ll like her. Hunter always knows the good people from the bad ones."

    Iughed, ruffling his hair. "That''s a pretty good system, actually."

    After Lucas went back to bed, I stood by the window looking at the moon. My fingers still felt warm where I''d touched Ava''s mark.

    I made up my mind: I''d look into William''s case and let Ava teach Lucas.

    I went back to my desk and wrote up a contract in silver ink that would set clear boundaries for both of us.

    Early the next morning, I walked through the stone hallways of ckwood Manor on my way to the pack meeting. Tyler was waiting in the courtyard with the contract in hand. Morning sunlight filtered through the trees, making patterns on the ground.

    I handed the scroll to Tyler. "Make sure she gets what she''s signing up for. If she has second thoughts, that''s it-offer''s off the table."

    Tyler took it, looking thoughtful. "She''s definitely the best fighter I''ve seen apply."

    I nodded. "Lucas needs more than someone who can throw a punch. He needs someone who knows what it''s like to have the world kick you when you''re down." Tyler looked me straight in the eye. "So... is this because she''s the best person for the job, or because you want to see her again?"

    I stopped and turned to face him. We just looked at each other for a moment, neither of us saying anything.

    I didn''t have an answer. Not one I was ready to say out loud, anyway.

 Chapter 10

    Ava''s POV

    The Silverpeak car rolled to a stop, and I stepped out, my boots crunching on the gravel path leading to ckwood Manor. The silver wolf emblems embedded in the stonework seemed to watch me approach, like they knew something I didn''t.

    My mark tingled as I approached the massive estate. Last time I''d been here, I''d practically thrown myself at ke Morgan. Not my finest moment.

    I tugged at my cor, trying to ignore the memory of his gentle rejection. The golden threads in my mark seemed to pulse with each step closer to his

    territory.

    The massive oak doors swung open before I could knock. Mr. Wilson stood there, silver hair perfectlybed, eyebrows slightly raised as he took me in.

    "Miss Rivers." No smile, just assessment. "Right on time."

    "Thanks for not making me wait outside," I said, stepping past him into a foyer bigger than my entire house.

    His lips twitched, almost amused. "The contract awaits your signature, but first, let me show you to your... battlefield."

    we walked through corridors lined with weapons old enough to have tasted blood in wars humans had forgotten. My fingers itched to touch them.

    "Is the Alpha King here?" I asked, pretending my heart wasn''t doing gymnastics in my chest.

    "Council meeting. He typically returns by nightfall." Wilson paused at a massive portrait-ke standing tall beside a seated blonde woman holding a baby. "You should know that Master Lucas has dispatched eight instructors already. Onested exactly forty-seven minutes."

    I couldn''t help but grin. "So I need to hit forty-eight to win?"

    Wilson didn''t smile, but something in his eyes lightened. "That would be a record."

    A crash echoed from somewhere ahead, followed by a woman''s voice raised in frustration.

    "Ah, Wilson sighed. "It seems today''s dismissal is right on schedule."

    The training ground was impressive-a circr arena surrounded by ancient pines, equipped better than Warrior Academy''s facilities. In the center stood a small boy with dark hair twirling a training dagger between his fingers while a woman in expensive battle gear stuffed equipment into a bag.

    "Impossible!" she spat when she saw us. "Completely impossible! He deliberately ruined every exercise!" She stormed past without looking at me. "Good luck. You Il need it."

    Lucas Morgan looked me up and down, unimpressed. His eyes were storm- gray like his father''s but flecked with gold that seemed to analyze my every

    move.

    "Another one?" He sounded bored. "Where''d father dig you up from?"

    "Warrior Academy." I matched his stare. "I hear you''re collecting fired instructors like trophies."

    His eyebrows shot up, clearly not expecting my directness.

    "They sucked," he said with a child''s bluntness. "Dad keeps sending me babysitters instead of real warriors."

    From the corner of my eye, I noticed staff members lingering nearby. Apparently, "Watch the Alpha''s son terrorize another instructor was their favorite entertainment.

    Lucas attempted aplex knife maneuver, his small face scrunching with concentration. He botched the final twist, frustration shing across his features.

    "Want to see it done right?" I asked.

    His pride warred with curiosity before he extended the de. "If you can."

    I took the knife, feeling its perfect bnce, and flowed through the sequence that had given him trouble. My body moved from memory, dust swirling at my feet. I added a flourish at the end-a high-level variation that made the staff members whisper among themselves.

    Lauras''s saw tightened as he tried to look unimpressed, but his widened eyes gave him away.

    2:49 PM

    "Not bad, he shrugged. "For basic moves."

    Basics are why your father can drop any wolf who challenges him," I said, handing back the de. "Even the Alpha King practices fundamentals daily."

    His expression shifted. "You know my father?"

    "We''ve met." I kept it vague, feeling Wilson''s attention sharpen. "He must have had reasons for picking me."

    Lucas twirled the dagger. "Thest instructor who imed to know my dadsted less than a day."

    Wilson sighed softly behind me, already anticipating another failure.

    "So, I rested my hand on my hip, "how are you going to test if I''m worth keeping around?"

    Lucas grabbed two wooden des from a rack, tossing one at me with surprising force.

    ''Combat," he said simply, moving to the center of the circle. "The others were too scared to fight me. Afraid of hurting the precious Alpha heir."

    Wilson stepped forward. "Young master-*

    "It''s fine, I caught the de, testing its weight. "Some kids need to get their asses kicked before they learn respect."

    Lucas''s mouth twitched, almost smiling. His stance was good-feet positioned correctly, weight bnced, guard up.

    "Let''s see what you''ve got," he challenged.

    He lunged without warning, moving faster than any seven-year-old had a right to.

    I blocked easily but made it look like effort, assessing his skill level.

    As we exchanged blows, he incorporated increasingly advanced techniques. This wasn''t just natural talent-someone had taught him well. I started paying closer attention when he nearly broke through my guard with abination that adult warriors would struggle to execute.

    Still think I need basics?" he taunted, a smirk ying on his lips.

    I stepped up my game, introducing counters that would challenge an academy graduate. Lucas adapted quickly, his eyes tracking my movements with unnerving focus. Once or twice, he even attempted to copy techniques I''d just demonstrated.

    My wolf stirred, recognizing the raw potential in this pup.

    After a few minutes, I decided it was lesson time. I created a deliberate opening-a

    trap disguised as a mistake. Lucas pounced immediately.

    In one fluid motion, I twisted away, disarmed him, and tapped the training de

    against his shoulder, side, and knee in rapid session.

    "Dead, dead, and crippled," I said quietly. "Three openings you left me."

    Lucas stared at his empty hand, momentarily speechless. For the first time, genuine respect flickered across his face.

    "Nobody''s ever caught those," he admitted.

    ¡°That''s the difference between people afraid of offending an Alpha''s son and someone who actually wants to teach you something useful."

    As we finished, Lucas returned the training weapons with unexpected care. His earlier bratty attitude had mellowed into something thoughtful.

    "You''re different," he said, studying me. "The others saw a problem to fix. You see something else."

    I brushed dust from my sleeve. "Talented students are the hardest to teach. They don''t need controlling-they need challenges."

    A small smile tugged at his lips. "Dad said you''d be different. He was right."

    My mark warmed at the mention of ke. "Your father... talks about me?"

    He said you have wolf''s spirit." Lucas''s expression turned mischievous. "But that''s not enough to pass my final test."

    I nted my feet firmly, crossing my arms with a confident smile. My mark tingled under my cor, but my voice came out steady and strong.

 Chapter 11

    Ava''s POV

    Lucas''s lips quirked into that smug little half-smile kids get when they''re about to drop a bomb on you.

    ¡°Final test time,¡± he announced, eyes glinting with mischief. ¡°Let''s see if you really have what Dad calls ''wolf''s spirit."

    Before I could ask what the hell that meant, he stuck two fingers in his mouth and let out a whistle sharp enough to pierce eardrums.

    The growl that answered from the forest edge raised every hair on my body.

    A ck blur burst from the treeline-all muscle, fur, and teeth. The beast skidded to a halt between Lucas and me, golden eyes fixed on me like I was dinner. This wasn''t just some overgrown puppy-this thing looked ready to tear out my throat if I breathed wrong.

    My mark tingled as I sized up the wolf-dog. I didn''t back up. Didn''t flinch. Somehow I knew this test wasn''t about fighting-it was about connection.

    I touched my neck where the mark hummed warm against my fingertips, then slowly crouched lower.

    Im not a threat. I''m a friend. The words repeated in my head like a mantra.

    "Hey there, big guy," murmured, palm up and fingers rxed. "Not here to hurt your boy. Promise."

    The wolf-dog''s ears flicked forward, nostrils ring as he caught my scent. Wilson gasped somewhere behind me as the creature inched closer, his massive head level with my chest.

    One wrong move and I''d be sporting a new set of scars-if I was lucky.

    The beast sniffed my fingertips, his breath hot against my skin. Then his rough tongue swept across my hand, and just like that, the tension snapped.

    "Well, damn," I whispered as the wolf-dog flopped onto his side, practically begging for belly rubs.

    "What the Lucas''s jaw dropped. "Hunter hates strangers! Thest instructor needed stitches!"

    I scratched behind Hunter''s ears, his leg thumping against the dirt in pure bliss. "Wolves and I just... get each other."

    "For real?" Lucas crept closer, eyes wide.

    "Back in Shadow Creek, I used to sneak out to the boundary forests." I smiled, remembering. "Found a wild pack there. Ran with them some nights when the moon was high."

    "You ran with actual wolves?" Lucas dropped onto his knees beside me, voice hushed with awe. "And they didn''t attack you?"

    "Nope. I watched Hunter roll onto his back, exposing his vulnerable belly. "My dad-William-freaked when he found out. But they never hurt me. Guess they knew I wasn''t a threat."

    Something flickered across Lucas''s face-longing, maybe envy. "Could you teach me how?"

    ''Sure. Someday."

    Lucas''s small hand stroked Hunter''s massive head. "Dad''s always buried in Alpha stuff," he muttered, voice suddenly small. Sometimes I don''t see him for days."

    The raw loneliness in those words hit me like a sucker punch. Not a spoiled brat- just a kid starving for attention.

    ''My dad was pretty important too, but he always carved out time for me," I said, throat tightening. "Even on his craziest days, we''d train together for at least an hour."

    Lucas looked up, eyes shimmering with unshed tears. "You really love your father, don''t you?"

    I nodded, my throat so tight it hurt to swallow. "Yeah. He taught me everything I know... and now he''s in trouble, and I have to help him."

    "Dad says he''ll teach me when I''m older," Lucas said, fingers tangling in Hunter''s fur. "But I need to be stronger now."

    Wilson''s shoes crunched on gravel as he approached. "Perhaps Hunter should return inside before training begins, young master."

    When he reached for Hunter''s cor, the wolf-dog''s head snapped up, teeth

    bared in a snarl that would make grown wolves piss themselves.

    Lucas jumped between them, shoulders tense. "Hunter stays."

    Wilson''s lips pinched. "Your father''s orders were quite clear-

    "Actually,¡± I cut in, catching the weird tension, ¡°having Hunter here helps. Warriors need to learn focus with distractions."

    Wilson''s stare could''ve freeze-dried coffee, but he backed off.

    "Thanks, Lucas whispered once Wilson was out of earshot. ''He never lets Hunter train with me. Says it''s ''unsafe.""

    "So, Lucas studied me, suddenly all business again. "You get wolves. You any good with humans?"

    I snorted. "Topped everybat ss at Warrior Academy. But the real skill is adapting to your opponent."

    "Can you teach me to fight bigger enemies?" There was something urgent in his voice, something beyond normal kid stuff.

    "First lesson: real strength isn''t about size-it''s about brains and technique."

    Lucas''s face lit up. "Like how a little wolf survives before getting its fangs?" ''Exactly. Want me to show you?"

    His eyes gleamed. "Let''s y Wolf Cub Escape! Dad taught me this game. You''re the hunter, I''m the wolf cub trying to get away."

    "That''s usually for older warriors," I said, recognizing the Silverpeak training exercise.

    "I can handle it," he insisted, chin jutting out. "Give me ten minutes?"

    Looking at this kid trying so hard to be grown, something tugged in my chest. "Fine. But I won''t go easy. Real enemies never do."

    Relief washed over his face. "Good. Everyone treats me like I''ll break."

    We started training, and despite his impressive skills for a kid his age, I had him pinned within minutes.

    ''Dammit, he muttered into the dirt. "I''ll never be strong enough..."

    "Hey," I said, easing my grip. "You''re special, Lucas. You''ve got wolf potential-just need the right guide."

    Hope flickered in his eyes. "You think I could ever be as strong as Dad?"

    I helped him up, meeting that too-serious gaze. "I think you''ll find your own kind

    of strength. And yeah, I''ll help you get there."

    For the first time, Lucas smiled-a real kid smile, not that practiced prince crap. ''Guess you passed all my tests, then."

    Something warm bloomed in my chest that had nothing to do with my mission. Maybe I actually liked this kid.

    As Lucas practiced a move I''d just taught him, heat surged through my mark like someone had pressed a hot coal against my skin. A wave of pure power rolled across the training ground, nearly knocking me sideways.

    Lucas''s head snapped up, face splitting into a grin. "Dad!"

    My stomach dropped as I turned slowly, every nerve ending suddenly awake.

    ke stood at the edge of the training ground, power radiating off him in waves. His eyes locked onto mine, unreadable but intense.

    Lucas bolted toward him. "Dad! Hunter likes her! And she showed me this awesome move!"

    ke ruffled his son''s hair, gaze never leaving my face. "Miss Rivers, seems you

    and my son are getting along well."

 Chapter 12

    Ava''s POV

    Lucas bounced like he''d chugged ten energy drinks, yanking his dad''s sleeve while his eyes lit up. "Dad! She has to stay! She''s the only one who doesn''t treat me like I''m five!" He shot me a quick grin before locking those pleading eyes on his father.

    1 bit my lip to keep from smirking. The kid had game.

    ke''s hard edges softened when he looked at his son, then sharpened again when his eyes cut to me. "My son usually sends instructors packing within days. Seems you''ve made quite the impression."

    My neck tingled where Jackson''s mark sat, warm instead of its usual burn. Not exactly roses and choctes from the Alpha King, but I''d take it.

    "Just doing my job," I said with a casual shrug, though my wolf preened like she''d been handed a steak.

    Lucas''s fingers dug into ke''s sleeve. "Dad? Just one word, but packed with all the worry a seven-year-old could muster.

    ke ruffled his son''s hair. "Go with Wilson. I need to talk to Miss Rivers."

    The boy''s eyes darted between us like he was watching a tennis match. He nodded reluctantly and trudged after the stiff-backed manager, throwing onest "don''t-mess-this-up" nce my way.

    The moment we were alone, my wolf practically rolled over. Ridiculous. I''d faced down feral rogues without flinching, but one look from this guy and my inner wolf turned to mush.

    My mark hummed warm against my skin-not the usual ice-pick-to-the-neck pain, but something almost... pleasant. I couldn''t stop noticing the little things about him-the muscle that jumped in his jaw when he clenched his teeth, the way his shoulders filled out his shirt, hands that could probably snap trees in half.

    Why this man? Why freaking now? The universe isughing its ass off.

    My wolf wed to get closer while my brain screamed to run in the opposite direction. Focus, Ava. Dad. Prison. Execution. Not tall, dark and Alpha.

    "You can keep the job, ke said, crossing his arms. "Lucas needs someone who won''t quit when he gets difficult."

    Relief hit me like a cool breeze. "Thanks. That''s- I stuck my hand out like an idiot before remembering who I was talking to.

    ke just stared at my offered hand. One dark eyebrow ticked up as his Alpha presence leaked into the space between us, subtle as a sledgehammer.

    Way to look desperate, Ava.

    I dropped my hand and shoved it in my pocket.

    "Ground rules," he finally said, breaking the awkward silence.

    "Let me guess-no fun allowed?"

    His mouth twitched. Almost a smile? Nah.

    Stay in the training grounds andmon areas," he said. "The west wing and second floor are off-limits. Period."

    A smart person would''ve nodded and shut up. Instead, I heard myself say, "Worried I''ll sneak into your bedroom, Alpha King?"

    Jesus Christ, what''s wrong with me?

    Heat shed up my neck as ke''s eyes darkened to thundercloud gray.

    "Careful,'' he said softly. "You''re an employee now. Not a guest."

    The razor edge in his voice snapped me back to reality. I needed this job. Dad needed this job.

    I forced my face into neutral territory. "You''re right. Sorry. I''ll stick to the training areas and wear the Silverpeak gear."

    450 PM d

    ke watched me like he was trying to decide if I meant it. After what felt like forever, he nodded once.

    "Let''s go over the contract details."

    He turned toward the house. I fell in step behind him, watching the subtle shift of muscle beneath his shirt.

    The snap of twigs jerked my attention to a nearby hedge. Before I could blink, Lucas burst out like he''d been shot from a cannon, clutching something silver.

    "Think fast!" he yelled.

    He flung his arm forward. A cloud of glittering dust exploded toward me.

    ke moved so fast he blurred. One second I was about to get a faceful of whatever-that-was, the next he was standing in front of me. But he wasn''t quick enough-the dust settled over both of us like metallic snow.

    ke snagged Lucas by the wrist. "What did you do?

    The kid twisted free with augh that was pure trouble. "Gotta run! Homework calls!" He bolted around the corner.

    The silver dust twinkled harmlessly on our clothes. Pretty, actually.

    ke''s face darkened. "Lucas! Get back here!" But the kid was long gone.

    He ran a hand through his hair and turned to me. "Sorry. He needs a firmer hand.¡± Something about his tone rubbed me wrong. "Or maybe he just wants five minutes of your time."

    His eyes snapped to mine. "You know nothing about my son or our situation."

    "I know kids act out when they''re invisible," I fired back. "Even Alpha princes." ke''s jaw clenched. "Don''t lecture me on-"

    He froze mid-sentence. Heat bloomed everywhere the dust had touched-a slow burn that started as warmth and cranked to scorching in seconds.

    ke''s eyes widened. "Fuck. Moon shadow dust."

    Suddenly my skin felt electric. The brush of fabric against my arms sent jolts down my spine. Every sensation amplified like someone had cranked all my senses to maximum.

    ke''s scent hit me like a physical force-pine needles, thunderstorms, and raw male power. My mouth actually watered.

    My wolf thrashed wildly, trying to w her way out. Closer. Need closer.

    ke wasn''t doing much better. His eyes shed gold, pupils blown wide. "Training dust," he ground out, each word dragged through gravel. "Enhances senses. Hours."

    The mark on my neck pulsed hot, golden threads lighting up beneath my skin. I pped my hand over it before he could notice.

    "We need to get this off." ke swallowed hard, his throat working. "Before things get... messy."

    He reached to brush dust from my shoulder. That simple touch sent lightning straight to my core. Don''t lean in. Don''t lean in.

    I leaned in.

    Heat pooled between my legs, an instant, visceral response to his Alpha scent. My underwear went damp in seconds. If his nose was half as enhanced as mine

    right now, he''d smell exactly how much trouble I was in.

    "My quarters," he rasped. ''I have herbs that can fix this."

    As he led me toward the exact areas he''d just dered forbidden, I wondered which would kill me first-the moon dust or the way his back muscles shifted under his shirt as he walked.

    DOB

 Chapter 13

    Ava''s POV

    ke''s quarters hit me like a punch to the gut the second we stepped inside. Dark wood, leather, and his scent-everywhere. The mark on my neck burned with each step, pulsing under my skin.

    "Crap, I muttered, pressing my back against the nearest wall. Even across the room, his scent crawled inside me-pine and storm clouds and something wild that made my wolf pace like a caged animal.

    ke yanked open a cab door, his movements jerky. ''Need to find the herbs."

    "So this dust-it''s basically werewolf cocaine?" I asked, biting my lip as another wave of heat crashed through me.

    A muscle jumped in his jaw. "Training tool. Makes senses sharper." He kept his words short, like talking hurt.

    I hugged myself tight, my clothes suddenly feeling like sandpaper on my skin. ke''s shoulders bunched under his shirt as he dug through bottles, and I couldn''t look away.

    "Got it," he muttered, pulling out a small vial.

    When he turned, his eyes had changed from stormy gray to molten gold. His chest rose and fell in deep breaths-the Alpha fighting for control.

    "Water, he said, moving to a crystal pitcher. "Have to mix it."

    I pushed off the wall, taking wobbly steps forward. "How long till it kicks in?"

    "Thirty minutes. Maybe more." His voice dropped so low it rumbled. "Just... keep your distance."

    Toote. As he handed me the vial, our fingers brushed.

    The contact zapped through me like lightning. My hand grabbed his wrist before my brain could catch up. His skin burned against mine, sending heat straight to my core.

    ke froze. The muscle in his jaw twitched, but he didn''t pull away. Didn''t speak. Just watched me with those gold eyes as I held onto him.

    My fingers moved on their own, sliding up his forearm to where he''d rolled his sleeves. His pulse raced under my touch.

    ke remained silent, jaw clenched tight as he stared down at me. The control in his body was obvious-like someone holding their breath underwater.

    I stepped closer, drawn by something I couldn''t fight. My hand pressed against his chest, feeling his heart hammer against my palm. His scent wrapped around me-deeper now, mixed with something that made my mouth water.

    He didn''t stop me. Didn''t push me away. Just stood perfectly still, every muscle tight.

    I rose on tiptoe, pulled to his neck by some weird instinct. My lips brushed his throat, tasting salt and heat. A low sound rumbled in his chest, vibrating against my mouth.

    His hands finally moved, gripping my waist-not pushing away, but holding on like I was a life raft. "Ava..."

    I nipped at his neck, and his fingers dug into my sides. One of his hands slid up my back, tangling in my hair, not directing, just hanging on.

    The herbs sat forgotten as I traced my tongue along his throat. His breathing turned rough, his control hanging by a thread.

    We were one heartbeat from the point of no return when a sharp knock broke through the room like a gunshot.

    We jumped apart. ke dragged a hand through his hair, breathing like he''d run up a mountain.

    "Yeah?" His voice sounded like gravel.

    "Sir, we found Lucas, Wilson called through the door.

    ke squared his shoulders, Alpha mask sliding back into ce. "Bring him in."

    He stepped away without a word, jaw locked tight.

    Wilson walked in with Lucas, who shuffled in with his eyes glued to his shoes. No

    Hunter this time. Just a kid looking suddenly very small.

    "Where''d you get the dust? ke asked, all business now,

    Lucas shrugged one shoulder. "Your cab."

    You went through my stuff? ke''s voice had an edge.

    Chapter Comments

 Chapter 14

    "Just wanted something cool to show Miss Rivers, Lucas mumbled, scuffing his shoe on the carpet. "Everyone else bails. Thought she might stick around if..."

    "That dust is for trained warriors,'' ke cut in. "It''s dangerous for kids whose bodies can''t handle it."

    Lucas''s head snapped up, eyes shing. "You never let me try the real stuff! How am I supposed to get better with baby toys?"

    By nailing the basics first, ke said, crossing his arms. "Three months. No weapons. Back to square one."

    "What?" Lucas''s face fell. "No way! That''s not fair! I need-"

    "Watch it, ke warned.

    Tears filled Lucas''s eyes, but his chin jutted out. "You don''t even see me anymore. You''re just... gone. All the time. His voice caught. "I just wanted you to look at me for five seconds."

    Something flickered across ke''s face-a sh of hurt before the Alpha mask locked back in ce. "This isn''t how you get my attention."

    I bit my tongue, the words he''s just a kid pushing to get out. I caught ke''s quick look my way and remembered our argument. Not my ce to step in. Not yet.

    "Medical, ke told Wilson. "Make sure he''s okay."

    "Yes, Alpha. Wilson guided Lucas out with a gentle hand on his shoulder.

    ke grabbed the forgotten herbs, quickly mixing them with water. He handed me a ss without looking at me. "Drink up."

    The stuff tasted like dirt mixed with old socks. I choked it down while keeping my distance, the dust''s effects already fading.

    The door opened again. "Dad? Is Lucas okay? The staff said something about moon dust?"

    A woman walked in, and my stomach dropped. This was Sophia, ke''s daughter. The girl Jackson had chosen over me.

    Sophia made me want to hate her on principle, but dang it-she was hard to dislike. Tall and graceful in a flowing blue dress, with golden hair in some fancy braid that probably took hours. Her face was like a softer version of ke''s-pretty without being sharp. She was everything I wasn''t-polished, put-together, perfect. Jackson''s perfect trophy.

    My mark ached dully as she entered. Even with the herbs working, I picked up her scent-flowers with an undercurrent of Alpha power.

    Her eyesnded on me with friendly curiosity before turning to ke, "What happened?"

    "Lucas found my training dust," ke said, sounding normal again. "Decided to try it out on us," He added, looking at me.

    Sophia looked at me with concern. "You okay? First time can be rough."

    I touched my neck where the mark now hummed. "Yeah, I''m good. The herbs helped."

    Sophia studied me for a moment, a curious smile ying on her lips. "Dad, is she your new girlfriend? You never bring women home."

    ke actually looked startled. "What? No. This is Lucas''s newbat teacher."

    "Thank goodness," Sophia said with augh. "That kid needs someone who won''t bail after a day."

    Footsteps sounded from the hall. I should''ve known he''d be right behind her- Jackson followed Sophia everywhere like her shadow these days. Every muscle in my body locked up as he rounded the corner.

    He froze mid-step when he saw me, raw anger shing across his face before his politician mask clicked back into ce. My mark red with sudden pain, the old burning kind I knew too well.

    Jackson and I locked eyes in a silent standoff. His rage simmered beneath his perfect smile, but I knew him too well to miss it.

    Sophia caught the tension, her gaze bouncing between us. She crossed her arms, frowning slightly.

    "Jackson," she said slowly, "do you know her?"

    Chapter Comments

 Chapter 15

    Ava''s POV

    "Jackson, Sophia said when he didn''t answer, squeezing his arm gently. "Do you know her?"

    Heavy silence nketed the room. My heart nearly stopped as I waited for his answer. My wolf thrashed inside me, sensing the danger approaching.

    Jackson''s expression shifted from shock to cold indifference in seconds, his eyes deliberately avoiding mine. "No, I don''t know her," he said calmly, his tone calcted and distant. "She just looks like someone I might have seen around.

    The words cut through me like a de. Two years of promises, of sworn devotion-all reduced to "I don''t know her." The mate mark still throbbed on my neck, a physical reminder of how ridiculous his lie was.

    My hand instinctively moved to my neck, trying to cover the mark that began to burn with his denial. When our eyes finally met, I saw the warning sh in his gaze.

    Sophia''s eyes darted between us, clearly sensing the tension. "Strange," she said slowly. "There''s something... peculiar about the energy between you two."

    ke''s handnded on my shoulder, warm and steady. "I''m afraid the moon shadow dust hasn''t fully worn off," he stated calmly, his voice carrying Junquestionable authority. ''It can cause emotional fluctuations."

    Jackson''s gaze fixed on ke''s hand, his jaw visibly tightening. "Of course," he nodded, his perfect smile firmly in ce. "Moon shadow dust is known to be... unpredictable.

    After an awkward pause, Sophia turned to me with a smile. "Anyway, I''m d Lucas finally has an instructor he won''t chase away on day one. You must be special."

    Suddenly, the sound of urgent paws broke the tense atmosphere. Hunter-Lucas''s massive wolf-dog-burst into the room, golden eyes gleaming.

    When he spotted Jackson, he froze, a deep growl rumbling from his throat. His fur bristled as he fixed his gaze on Jackson, as if sensing a threat.

    "Hunter!" kemanded sharply, but the wolf-dog continued growling, ignoring his master''s order.

    To everyone''s surprise, Hunter then turned to me, and the growling immediately stopped. He approached slowly, sniffed my hand, then unexpectedly licked my fingertips like we were old friends.

    "That''s highly unusual, Sophia remarked, eyebrows raised. "Hunter is never friendly with strangers, especially... non-pack members."

    "She must have a special gift," Sophiaughed. "No wonder Lucas likes her."

    Jackson''s eyes narrowed, the surface smile failing to mask the jealousy and anger in his eyes. He stepped forward, and Hunter immediately returned to a defensive posture, growling low in warning.

    "So, Jackson forced himself to look at ke, "Miss Rivers is here as Lucas''sbat instructor? That''s... unexpected."

    "What''s unexpected about it?" ke asked evenly, his voice low with a hint of challenge.

    Jackson shrugged. Just some recent... matters concerning the Rivers family." He paused deliberately, letting the word hang in the air.

    "What?" I finally spoke, my voice stronger than I''d expected, knowing exactly what he was trying to do.

    Jackson''s gaze settled on me, with the pleasure of a cat toying with a mouse. "About your father, Ava. They''re saying he betrayed the pack, that he''s responsible for Alpha Carter''s death."

    "Enough, ke''s voice wasn''t loud, but it carried the full weight of Alpha authority. "I won''t have unfounded usations in my home."

    Jackson immediately lowered his head, but I caught the satisfied smirk that shed across his face-he thought he''d sessfully nted seeds of doubt.

    Sophia looked ufortable, gently touching my arm. "Don''t mind those ridiculous rumors. If my father trusts you, that''s enough." She turned to Jackson,

    Honey, shouldn''t we check on the wedding preparations?"

    Jackson nodded, but before leaving, he reached out, pretending to adjust his pack emblem. As he passed by me, he whispered, "Looks like you found yourself

    a new protector."

    Sophia suddenly turned back toward ke and me. "Oh! Father, I haven''t shown you the new ring Jackson gave me!" She excitedly returned to us, extending her left hand to disy an exquisite silver wolf-head ring on her finger, with sapphire eyes surrounded by glittering moonstones.

    "It''s the Eternal Loyalty symbol from pack tradition," she exined proudly, eyes shining. "Jackson had it custom-made for me. The wolf cisman spent three months creating this masterpiece."

    When Jackson''s gaze met mine over Sophia''s shoulder, the cold satisfaction in his eyes nearly suffocated me. He knew exactly what this meant to me he hadn''t just abandoned me, he''d deliberately given the sacred symbol that should have been ours to another woman.

    My throat tightened, feeling as if a silver knife had pierced my heart. My wolf howled internally, from both the pain of betrayal and the rage I couldn''t

    express.

    Jackson smiled triumphantly, kissing Sophia''s cheek while keeping his eyes fixed on me. "Only a true fated mate deserves such a symbol," he said softly, words clearly meant for me.

    Once they left, the room fell silent. Hunter settled at my feet as if guarding me. "Alpha Morgan," I started, my voice low. "About my father-is there any way you could-

    "Not now." His tone was firm, final. The Alpha King had reced the man who''d touched my mark moments before. "These walls have ears, Miss Rivers."

    swallowed hard, the reminder of our different positions hitting me like cold water. I was just an employee-abat instructor from a disgraced family. He was the Alpha King.

    "Understood, sir," I replied, forcing my voice steady.

    As he turned to leave, my mark warmed briefly when he passed. I pressed my hand against it, confused by the reaction. Hunter nudged my fingers gently with his muzzle, offering silentfort.

    Third Person POV Jackson

    Jackson strode down the corridor of ckwood Manor, his fingers clenched into fists. The scene reyed in his mind-Ava in ke''s quarters, bonding with his wolf-dog, ke''s protective stance, and most disturbing of all: the change in Ava''s mark.

    He was certain he''d glimpsed golden threads running through what should have been a silver-white mark. It was unheard of-rejected marks were supposed to fade slowly, not change color.

    "You seem troubied, Sophia''s voice pulled him back to reality. "Was she really just familiar?"

    jackson shed a charming smile, gently taking her hand. "Of course, sweetheart. I was just thinking about our bonding ceremony."

    He knew Ava had hinted multiple times about wanting such a ring, but he''d never bought it for her. He always made excuses, telling her loyalty should be proven through actions, not symbolized by objects.

    Ava eventually stopped mentioning it, but he knew she still yearned for it. Now, he had given this highest symbol of loyalty to another woman-one he didn''t even love.

    Seeing Ava''s expression, he felt a perverse satisfaction. He knew this hurt her more than any words could.

    Now, Jackson needed to formte a n. Ava''s presence at ckwood Manor was a threat. There was clearly some connection between her and ke, and Hunter''s eptance of her was unusual-it meant wolf instincts recognized her. His father''s situation was just the beginning. He would use his political connections to ensure everyone ostracized the woman who had refused to be his secret lover.

    Jackson clenched his fist. Ava Rivers had only two choices: either return to him, secretly epting his "protection, or faceplete rejection from werewolf society.

 Chapter 16

    Ava''s POV

    1 paced at the edge of ckwood Manor''s training grounds, digging my nails into my palms to keep my wolf in check. Every pulse of anger threatened to push ws through my fingertips Jackson had won this round that smug disy with the Eternal Loyalty ring was calcted to cut me where it hurt most.

    The centuries-old tradition wasn t lost on me, Wolves only gave that ring once in their lifetime. Id watched my mother trace her finger over my father''s matching band countless times, the symbol of their unbreakable bond Now I''d have to stomach seeing it on Sophia''s hand at every pack gathering, a constant reminder that Jackson had saved it for someone worthier."

    I inhaled deeply, willing my ws to stay put. Shifting on Silverpeak territory out of rage? Not the smartest move,

    ''You''reing back tomorrow, right?"

    Lucas voice yanked me back to reality. He stood a few feet away, Hunter shadowing him like a furry bodyguard, those golden eyes locked on me with unsettling focus.

    I dropped to one knee, meeting him at eye level. "Course I am. If your dad''s cool with it."

    Will you show me how to talk to real wolves? His face lit up, practically vibrating with excitement. "Like you said?"

    Something warm bloomed in my chest despite everything. This serious little kid with his desperate need to prove himself was worming his way into my heart at record speed.

    "I will, I promised. "But basics first, remember? Your dad''s three month no fancy stuff rule is still on."

    Lucas scrunched his nose but nodded. ''Fine. Just don''t bail like everyone else."

    "Not going anywhere, I said, surprised by how much I meant it.

    "Lucas, Wilson''s looking for you."

    ke''s voice carried across the yard without him needing to raise it just pure Alpha authority wrapped in those few words. His scent reached me before he did, that now-familiar mix of pine and storm clouds.

    "But Dad Lucas started.

    "Now, Lucas. ke''s tone left zero wiggle room. Finish your studies. Ava will be back tomorrow."

    Lucas sighed dramatically in that universal kidnguage of protest. "Tomorrow?" "Tomorrow, I confirmed with a firm nod.

    Hunter gave my hand a quick lick-still weird-before trotting after Lucas toward the main house.

    1 turned to ke, my mark warming slightly as our eyes met. "Should probably head out," I said, carefully avoiding Jackson''s re from across the yard. "Thanks for the job, Alpha King. We could maybe set up a time to talk about Lucas''s training? I can sign that Blood Oath when I''m back on my turf."

    ke watched me, face unreadable. "Wilson has your address. I''ll send someone."

    "Father, why not have someone escort Ava home?'' Sophia appeared beside us,

    all sunshine and good intentions, "She walked here, didn''t she?"

    I caught Jackson watching us, his expression stormy as a hurricane.

    That''s really not- I started quickly.

    "Yes, my warrior chief will escort her, ke cut in, surprising me.

    Our eyes locked, and something electric passed between us.

    "Actually, I''ll take her myself, he added. "We have matters to discuss."

    I opened my mouth to protest, but ke''s eyes shed that unmistakable Alpha gold that said arguing was pointless, I shut my mouth and nodded.

    Flead to

    Perfect pha pped her hands together liguly Lovely meeting yon, Ava. Hope we can be friends anon. I''m dying for some real girl time smund here.

    I haved a smile and abled, though bing besties with Jacksons fianc¨¦e ranked somewhere between getting a treath pulled and swimming in silver dust

    on my to do list still, het warmth seemed genuine, and pissing off the daughter of the only man who might save my dad wasn''t exactly strategie

    Chapter Comments

    POST COMMENT NOW

    SHARE

    212

 Chapter 17

    Tyler Reed appeared at the entrance holding a scroll stamped with Silverpeaks wolf emblem.

    Got that Blood Oath contract, he said to ke, handing over the document.

    He nodded at me, respect evident in his stance. ''Heard you passed Lucas''s gauntlet. Not many do."

    ¡°Thanks,¡± I said. "Hunter seems to think I''m alright."

    That beast trusts about three people in the entire world, Tyler''s mouth quirked. "Make that four now."

    Let''s move, ke tucked the scroll into his jacket, his tone clipped.

    I noticed how his shoulders rxed slightly around Tyler-interesting-as he guided

    me toward a sleek ck carriage marked with silver wolves.

    A guard jumped down, quickly opened the door and bowed his head to ke. I slipped inside with a quick smile to the guard, ke following close behind.

    Where to, Alpha King? the guard asked.

    Moonlight Lodge, ke replied.

    1 whipped my head toward him. "Thought you were dumping me back at Shadow Creek?"

    "Need to talk, ke said, keeping his voice low. And you haven''t eaten. I can hear your stomach."

    I almost asked about my father several times, but the guard''s presence made me swallow my questions. William''s clock was ticking-the full moon and his execution date edging closer by the hour.

    The carriage pulled up to Moonlight Lodge, my stomach knotting. Last time I was here, Jackson''s goons had humiliated me, and Jackson himself nearly crushed my windpipe.

    Inside, the staff practically tripped over themselves greeting ke. Other patrons bowed respectfully, but when they spotted me, the whispers started like wildfire.

    "Traitor''s daughter` and `marked leftover floated around the room. I kept my chin up, refusing to shrink. Nothing I hadn''t heard before.

    "Evening. Mr. Morgan, the host smiled. "Your usual spot is ready."

    Thanks, ke nodded.

    We followed him through the main dining area with its weapons and pack totems toward a secluded corner overlooking moonlit forests and mountains.

    A drunk wolf suddenly stepped into our path, swaying slightly.

    "Well, well," he slurred, bloodshot eyes fixed on me. "Alpha King''s got himself Shadow Creek trash. Didn''t know you liked damaged goods."

    The room went dead silent. You could ve heard a pin drop.

    ke didn''t speak, but his Alpha aura hit the room like a physical wave. Several wolves automatically lowered their heads, the drunk included, their bodies recognizing supreme authority before their brains caught up.

    "Sit. Down." Just two words, whisper-quiet, and the drunk copsed into his chair like his legs had turned to jelly.

    ke''s hand settled lightly on my lower back, guiding me forward. The protective gesture might as well have been a neon sign to everyone watching.

    In our private booth, I sighed. "Sorry about that. Not exactly great for your image."

    "Couldn''t care less," ke replied, surprising me with his tone.

    A waitress appeared, practically tripping over herself to serve ke while shooting daggers at me.

    What would you like? ke asked.

    "Just a sd, I said, handing back the menu.

    "She''ll have the venison," ke corrected. "And a bottle of Silverpine."

    "Right away, Alpha King," she breathed before scurrying off.

    "You need protein, not rabbit food, ke said when he caught my raised eyebrow.

    Once alone, ke leaned forward, his voice dropping.

    "About your father," he said quietly. "I''ve been digging into his case."

    My heart stuttered. "And?"

    "Numbers don''t add up," ke''s eyes darkened. "Hayes'' story has holes big enough to drive a truck through. I need more proof, but I think someone set your father up.

    ke cleared his throat.

    "But first," he said, studying me with those storm-cloud eyes, "we need to talk about you and Jackson."

    Chapter Comments

    16

    POST COMMENT NOW

 Chapter `18

    Ava''s POV

    "We need to talk about you and Jackson, ke said, drumming his fingers on the table.

    1 gulped some water, the ice clinking against my teeth. ke''s Alpha presence made the booth feel like a shoebox.

    "Dead topic," I shrugged, trying to sound casual while my neck tingled. Seeing that loyalty ring on Sophia''s finger pretty much killed any lingering feelings."

    Weird thing was, it hurt way less than it should have. My mark hummed warm instead of stabbing me with its usual ice pick pain.

    ''Look, can we skip the ex talk?" I leaned forward. "You said Hayes''s story had holes?"

    ke checked for eavesdroppers before answering. "Hayes wasn''t at that council meeting during the border sh. Three witnesses put him elsewhere."

    Hope bubbled up so fast I nearly choked on it. "So Dad-

    "I can dy the execution," ke cut in. "Full moonse every month. One postponement buys us time to dig deeper."

    My lungs forgot how breathing worked. "For real?"

    ke''s face stayed neutral, but his eyes softened like storm clouds parting. ''Someone set your father up. I smell it."

    I bit my lip to keep from grabbing his hand. ¡°Thanks. Just... thanks.¡±

    The waitress swooped in with our food, practically purring at ke while silently murdering me with her eyes. She slid the venison in front of me and poured ke''s wine with practiced precision.

    After she left, ke switched gears. "Ground rules for your new job."

    "Don''t worry," I said quickly, stabbing a piece of meat. "I''ll be the picture of professionalism. No funny business."

    ke cocked an eyebrow, something dangerous lurking behind his gaze. "And me?"

    His voice dropped so low it rumbled, sending heat straight to ces it had no business going. My mark pulsed under my cor.

    "Same deal for you, Alpha King," I managed, voice steadier than my pulse.

    ke''s mouth quirked up at one corner. "We''ll see how long thatsts."

    My wolf practically melted at the challenge in his voice. Thank god for sturdy chairs.

    He pulled out a scroll with Silverpeak''s wolf seal and slid it across the table. "Blood Oath contract. Read before signing."

    I skimmed the fancy silver writing, eyebrows climbing. "This looks more like a magical gag order than employment paperwork."

    "It is," ke nodded. ''Break ckwood Manor confidentiality, face wolf consequences."

    "Harsh terms for a teaching gig."

    "It protects pack secrets," ke said. "And Lucas."

    I weighed my options. Dad''s life versus keeping secrets? No contest.

    "Where do I sign?" I asked, pushing the parchment back.

    Over dinner, ke opened up about Lucas. He started shifting at seven. Way too early."

    "That''s why you''re riding him so hard? Afraid he''ll wolf out?"

    ke''s jaw tightened. "His wolf is too strong for someone so young. Without control-

    He could hurt himself or someone else, I finished, pieces clicking. ''Dad told me early shifters are walking time bombs without proper training.

    03

    "Your father taught you well, even with your challenges, ke said.

    I smiled despite myself. Dyslexia meant learning differently, not giving up. Dad wouldn''t let me use it as an excuse. Made me recitebat moves till my muscles remembered what my brain struggled with."

    Something shifted in ke''s expression. Not pity-respect. Our conversation loosened up from there, with ke actually asking about my teaching methods and seeming interested in my answers.

    When I excused myself to pee, I felt his eyes tracking me across the room.

    The hallway was blissfully quiet until someone mmed into my shoulder hard enough to spin me sideways.

    "Oops, came a voice dripping with fake sweetness.

    I turned to face a woman with golden brown hair and ice-blue eyes. Everything from her designer dress to her posture screamed money and status. The silver medical emblem around her neck caught the light.

    Her scent hit me-fancy perfume barely masking medicinal herbs. My wolf bristled instantly.

    "No worries," I said evenly, stepping around her.

    Her eyes narrowed, zeroing in on my mark peeking above my cor. "Interesting," she murmured before strutting away.

    When I returned, ke was standing, looking tense. The woman from the hallway faced him, practically vibrating with anger.

    "This is why you''re ghosting me?'' she demanded loudly. "Because you''re screwing around with some nobody?"

    ke''s voice stayed level but carried a warning. "Amber. Public ce."

    "Answer me, she pressed, hurt leaking through her anger. ''Is she special?''

    ke spotted me then. He moved to my side, his hand settling on my shoulder. My mark flooded with warmth instead of pain.

    "What if she is?" he asked quietly.

    Amber''sugh could''ve frozen hell. "You''ll regret this mistake. Her family''s a joke."

    ''I don''t remember asking for your opinion," ke replied, voice hardening.

    I stood tall beside him, refusing to shrink under her re.

    "Watch yourself with those marks, ke,'' Amber warned, eyeing my neck. "Some stains nevere out. She stalked off, heels stabbing the floor.

    ke''s hand dropped from my shoulder. His face went nk again, Alpha mask firmly in ce

    "Who was that?" I asked, rubbing my shoulder where she''d bumped me.

    "Amber Collins. Myte wife''s sister. Runs our medical team."

    ''She seemed... territorial."

    "My mother wants us to merge bloodlines, ke said tly. "Keep it in the family."

    I noticed he didn''t offer his own opinion. Just cold facts.

    Back at our table, ke pulled out the contract. "Blood Oath time," he said, producing a silver needle. "Still in?"

    "For Dad and Lucas," I nodded.

    The ritual was simple-we pricked our fingertips, letting blood drops fall onto the parchment. The crimson beads shed silver before sinking into the document, binding our agreement.

    ke handed me a pouch that jingled with the sweet sound of money. "Tomorrow morning. Don''t bete."

    Outside, Tyler waited with a Silverpeak carriage. ke bailed, iming pack business.

    08

    As we rolled through the night, Tyler broke the silence. "Lucas actually likes you.

    That''s rarer than a vegetarian wolf."

    "He''s a good kid," I said. ''Just needs someone who gets him."

    "His abilities scare people," Tyler nodded. "Seven-year-olds shouldn''t be able to half-shift."

    ''What happened to his mom?" I asked.

    "Died giving birth to him," Tyler''s voice softened. "Poor kid spends hours staring at

    her portrait. Never even knew her."

    I thought about that lonely little boy desperate for his dad''s approval.

    When we reached my house, my mark flickered between warmth and pain. I thanked Tyler and headed inside, my mind buzzing with thoughts of Blood Oaths and ke''s unexpected help.

    Voices drifted from the living room-Mom''s sounding tense. A familiar scent hit me, sending my mark into instant fire-poker agony.

    I froze in the doorway as my wolf snarled beneath my skin.

    "What the hell are you doing in my house?" I demanded.

    Chapter Comments

    4

 Chapter 19

    Ava''s POV

    Jackson sat on our worn sofa like he owned the ce, that fake smile stered on his face as he turned toward me. My mark burned the second I saw him- the familiar knife-in-the-neck pain I''d gotten used to since he''d kicked me to the curb.

    But what really twisted the knife was Mom''s face. She was smiling for the first time since Dad had been dragged away to Shadow Creek prison. Her eyes shone with something I hadn''t seen in weeks-hope.

    "Ah, Ava, you''re home, Mom said, her smile widening as she gestured toward Jackson. "Look who''se to visit us. He''s been telling me that he can help get William released if you''ll just cooperate with him."

    Talk about a low blow. This snake had slithered straight to my vulnerable mother, making me look like the bad guy standing in the way of Dad''s freedom. Feeding her just enough truth to pull her strings, but conveniently skipping the part where I''d have to warm his bed behind Sophia''s back.

    I was dead on my feet-wiped out from training Lucas, emotionally drained from everything with ke and that Blood Oath contract. Thest thing I needed was Jackson''s mind games.

    My hand went to my neck where the mark throbbed. I crossed my arms tight, like I could build a wall between us.

    "What is he doing here, Mom?" I asked, my voice tight as a drum.

    Sarah''s smile dropped, her brow furrowing. "Is that any way to speak about a guest? I didn''t raise you to be rude, Ava. Jackson has always been a friend to our family. He''s your fated mate, and now he''s offering help when we need it most. You should show him more respect."

    I pressed my lips into a thin line, fingers finding the changing mark on my neck. "Do I need to remind you that we broke up?" I asked coldly, looking between Jackson and my mother.

    "That doesn''t mean you can''t still be friends," Sarah replied, her voice taking on that mom-knows-best tone. "He could be the next Alpha of Shadow Creek. He deserves our respect regardless."

    Jackson stood up, his eyes shing amber-a warning sign my wolf couldn''t miss.

    "I apologize for dropping by unannounced," he said, his smile faker than a three- dor bill as he looked at me. "I was just hoping for a quick chat with you."

    The anger and jealousy rolled off him in waves, cutting through his expensive cologne. My wolf wanted to be anywhere but near him.

    "Not happening, Jackson," I said coldly, turning on my heel and heading for the stairs. All I wanted was my bedroom, to process the day''s chaos at ckwood Manor.

    I climbed the stairs hugging myself, the mark on my neck flip-flopping between burning pain and weird warmth. As I pushed open my bedroom door, a hand shoved against my back, sending me stumbling inside. The door mmed shut, and I spon around, eyes shing silver-gray, ready to throw down.

    "What the fuck are you doing in my room, Jackson?" I snarled, keeping my voice low enough that Mom wouldn''t hear us.

    "Funny, I should be the one asking questions," he shot back, voice dripping with bitterness. "What''s your game, ying all cozy with ke Morgan?"

    My eyebrows shot up, shock turning to anger faster than a match to gasoline. "How''s that any of your business? Aren''t you the one wearing matching jewelry with his daughter? That Eternal Loyalty'' wolf ring must have cost a pretty penny."

    "You really think jumping into bed with the Alpha King will get daddy out of jail?" Jackson sneered. "If you think he sees you as anything but a quick roll in the hay, you''re kidding yourself.

    "Notice anything different about my mark?" I asked, deliberately poking the bear. "Those golden threads? Even you know what that means."

    Jackson: face darkened like a storm cloud. He stepped toward me, eyes fully wolfed out as anger poured off him. I backed up a step, not wanting him in my bubble, but refused to show fear.

    Word on the street is ke was high as a kite on moon shadow dust that day," he said, voice low and dangerous. "You must have taken advantage."

    "Are you out of your mind?" I asked, narrowing my eyes. ''I didn''t do jack!"

    ''Save the innocent act, Ava. I see right through you. I know exactly what makes you tick, what you''d do for family, even if it means spreading your legs. Why not just take my offer and call it a day?"

    abcd

    "Because I won''t be your side piece, Jackson," I hissed. "It''s a p in the face to everyone, including Sophia. Don''t you give a damn about her? How can you ask this of me knowing it would crush her?"

    He rolled his eyes. "Don''t act like you care about her, he shot back.

    "Well, somebody should, I growled, my fingers inching toward the knife in my boot.

    Jackson let out a coldugh. Then without warning, he grabbed my wrist, yanking me toward him hard enough to leave marks. One arm locked around my waist while his other hand twisted in my hair, forcing my head back to expose the mark on my neck.

    My heart hammered like a drum, my wolf howling as I realized what he was about to pull.

    He leaned toward my neck, teeth growing longer as he prepared to mark me again.

    "Time to remind you who you really belong to," he growled, his breath hot against my skin.

    Fear shot through me, but anger burned hotter. I called on every bit of my Warrior Academy training, driving my knee hard into his gut. shes of memory hit me¡ª how over-the-moon happy I''d been when he first marked me, believing we''d be together forever. Now the thought of his teeth anywhere near me made my skin crawl.

    Just as he started to recover, the mark on my neck fired up like a hot coal. The golden threads seemed to wake up, forming some kind of protective barrier. Jackson reached for me again, but when his fingers got near my neck, he got blown backward like he''d touched a live wire.

    He stumbled back, eyes wide as dinner tes. "What the hell...¡±

    I yanked the knife from my boot and pointed it dead at him, hand steady, eyes cold as ice.

    "Get out of my house," I said, my voice deadly calm. "Or I swear to the Moon Goddess, you''ll leave in pieces."

    Jackson stared at the knife, then at my neck where the golden threads now visibly pulsed beneath my skin. He backed up a few steps, his eyes never leaving mine.

    "You think this will free you from me?" he snarled. "You can only be mine." Chapter Comments

    POST COMMENT

    Mike

    how can she be someone teaching but the moment she is with jackson, she''s practically helpless? knee him in the balls or something?? Visitor

    4

    What the hell did she ever see in that idiot!? Mate bond be damned no way.

    2

    View All 2 Comments >

    6

 Chapter 20

    Ava''s POV

    "Interesting trick, Jackson said, circling me like a shark. "But there are other ways to remind you who you belong to."

    Before I could tell him to go to hell, his eyes half-closed, and a splitting pain exploded in my head. It felt like someone was taking a sledgehammer to my skull, cracking it open one hit at a time.

    I dropped to my knees, the knife slipping from my grip. The mindlink between us- dead since he''d kicked me to the curb-roared back to life like a hurricane.

    "Stop!" I screamed, grabbing my head.

    My wolf thrashed wildly inside me, trying to shield my thoughts, but the mate bond gave Jackson a VIP pass into my mind that I couldn''t block.

    Think that gold decoration can protect you? His voice filled my head, cold as ice. Wake up, Ava. You''re mine. Always have been, always will be.

    I fell on all fours, my nails digging into my palms until blood spotted the carpet. This was worse than any beating-he was rummaging through my thoughts like they were his personal junk drawer.

    Get out of my head! I pushed back with everything I had.

    Hisugh bounced around my skull. Fat chance. The mark means you can never ditch me. Not really.

    I felt him digging deeper, hunting for specific memories-anything with ke. When he found the moment ke''s fingers had traced my mark, his rage hit me like a truck.

    Maybe I''ll tell Sophia how her daddy''s been feeling you up, he taunted. Wonder how she''d take knowing daddy dearest is ying with my leftovers?

    I copsed, my body shaking like I was having a seizure. Mindlinks weren''t supposed to work this way-as weapons instead of bridges.

    Suddenly, Jackson''s face changed. His focus wavered as another signal tried to connect with him. Through our forced link, I knew instantly who it was.

    Sophia.

    Jackson''s mental presence flipped from razor-sharp to honey-sweet so fast it was nauseating.

    Hey babe, he projected to her, throwing up a wall between us.

    I grabbed the chance, fighting to m down my own mental barriers, but the damn mark kept a thread of connection open. I caught snippets of emotional tone rather than words-affection, reassurance, sweet nothings.

    Yes, heading over soon... Just wrapping up... Got a surprise for you... Miss you too...

    Each fake sentiment made my stomach turn. I dragged myself to the bed, using it to pull my jelly-legged body upright. My wolf instincts screamed for a weapon, an exit, anything.

    Ava? Mom''s tentative mindlink brushed against me. You okay in there? Heard somemotion...

    I mmed that door shut immediately. No way was I letting Mom see this train wreck.

    Through our lingering connection, I caught fragments of Jackson''s promises: "Got something special for you"... "Be there in twenty"... "Love you too, babe."

    Each sweet nothing drove a nail into my chest-not from jealousy, but disgust at how easily he could mess with my head while sweet-talking her.

    When their chat ended, Jackson''s focus snapped back to me, the mental pressure cranking up again.

    Clock''s ticking for daddy dearest, his thoughts slithered through my mind. The Alpha King''s just using you as a ything.

    Despite feeling like my brain was in a vise, I fought back. You''re full of it. ke said-

    ke said? Jackson''s mentalugh cut like ss. First-name basis with the Alpha King? How cute.

    I struggled to stand, fighting on two fronts. But the mindlink kept me chained to him no matter how hard I thrashed against it.

    Here''s the deal, Jackson nted his ultimatum directly in my thoughts. Door number one: you keep fighting me, William dies, and you and mommy get kicked to the curb forever. Door number two: you be my little secret, and William walks free.

    Go to hell, I pushed back, the effort making ck spots dance in my vision.

    Quit fighting what you can''t change, his voice crawled through every corner of my mind. Like your body, your thoughts will always be mine to y with.

    My resistance grew more desperate as the golden threads in my mark flickered weakly, like a shlight with dying batteries.

    Never forget, Jackson''s final shot hit home, wolves mark once. You''re stuck with

    me.

    With that parting gift, he cut the mindlink, leaving me to crumple on the floor like someone had pulled my plug.

    The door clicked shut, and momentster, a gentle knock broke the silence. Mom peeked in, her face a mix of hope and confusion.

    "Jackson left?" she asked, stepping inside. "How''d your talk go?"

    I scrambled to pull myself together. Mom had enough on her te.

    "He mentioned helping Dad," I croaked, my throat raw.

    Mom''s face lit up like Christmas morning. "That''s what he told me! This could be our lucky break, honey."

    My stomach twisted. Jackson had yed herpletely, never showing his real hand.

    Her eyes caught on my neck, noticing the weird mark. "You two patched things up? That would do William a world of good."

    I bit my tongue till I tasted blood. Mom was barely hanging on; I couldn''t crush herst hope, even if it was built on quicksand.

    "Need some time to think it over," I mumbled, avoiding her puppy-dog eyes.

    She squeezed my hand. "Don''t be so hardheaded, sweetie. Sometimes familyes first, you know?"

    That innocentment cut deeper than any knife. If only she knew what kind of "family first Jackson was demanding.

    After she left, I finally broke. Tears came hot and silent as I realized I was caught between a rock and a hard ce-Jackson''s evil games and Mom''s blind hope.

    The mark throbbed dully, but I felt vited in a way no shower could wash away. My wolf whimpered deep inside, mourning what should have been sacred.

    I traced the mark with shaky fingers, feeling the golden threads pulse weakly. They were my only allies in this nightmare.

    Even if I caved to Jackson''s demands, he''d never keep his word. He''d use me up, then toss Dad aside anyway once he got what he wanted.

    I curled into a ball on my bed,pletely drained. I''d find another way to save Dad, whatever it took. No way in hell would I y Jackson''s sick game.

    Sleep finally dragged me under, but even unconsciousness wasn''t an escape.

    A searing pain jolted me awake in the dead of night. Fire exploded from my mark, racing through my body like I''d been injected with acid.

    I hit the floor hard, my back arching as I wed at my neck. The golden threads flickered once before fading, leaving me defenseless.

    My nails dug into the mark, drawing blood as I fought against the torture.

    My wolf''s voice screeched inside me: Mate... other... woman!

    Horror dawned as I realized what was happening. The true cruelty of the mate

    mark revealed itself-I was being forced to feel Jackson having sex with Sophia.

 Chapter 21

    Ava''s POV

    1 bit my lip hard as the sensation intensified, every nerve ending on fire. The mark wasn''t just causing pain anymore-it was transmitting every touch, every sensation between them.

    My wolf thrashed wildly inside me as wave after wave of unwanted feelings flooded through our connection.

    I curled up tight on the floor, fighting to stay quiet as their intimate moments invaded my mind and body. Every caress, every kiss, every whisper-all forced upon me through this twisted bond.

    "Stop," I whispered, tears streaming down my face. "Make it stop."

    But the mark didn''t care about my pleas. It had done its job too well, binding us sopletely that even his rejection couldn''t sever the connection.

    I could feel his fingers tracing patterns on her skin. Could taste the salt of her skin on my tongue. Could hear every sound, every word that should have been private.

    You''re so beautiful, Sophia.

    His words hit me like a punch to the gut. I dragged myself to the bed, burying my face in the covers to muffle my misery. My body betrayed me, responding to the phantom sensations even as my mind recoiled in horror.

    I pressed my face deeper into the mattress, desperate to block everything out. My tears soaked through the fabric as the sensations built, his movements growing more urgent.

    I rubbed at the mark until my skin went raw. The physical difort was nothingpared to the emotional torture of experiencing every moment of their intimacy against my will.

    She gets everything while I get this hell.

    Each movement sent waves of torment through my body. I gripped the sheets, twisting them between my fingers as I fought for any distraction from this vition.

    When he reached his peak, the explosion of sensation nearly knocked me unconscious. I muffled my cry against the mattress, my body convulsing as the mark burned white-hot against my neck. Pleasure and pain twisted together until I couldn''t separate them anymore.

    I copsed, trembling and gasping, as sweat and tears mingled on my skin.

    "Just let me die," I whispered, curling around myself as another wave of their shared bliss hit me.

    Just when I thought I''d break for good-when I was sure my mind would shatter- something shifted within the mark.

    The golden threads suddenly red to life like tiny lightning bolts beneath my skin. They pulsed and began spreading through the silver-white mark like cracks in ice.

    Heat bloomed from those golden lines, but not the searing pain from before. This warmth felt like sunshine after a storm, like a shield rising up to protect

    1. me.

    The silver connection to Jackson dimmed as the gold brightened, creating a barrier between us. The sensations faded until they were distant echoes rather than immediate torture.

    Relief washed over me as the gold threads continued their advance. They reminded me of ke''s touch-how his fingers against my mark had sent warmth instead of pain through me.

    As the golden threads worked their magic, the pain receded enough for exhaustion to im me. I tumbled into darkness, grateful for any escape.

    I found myself in Moonlight Lodge''s top-floor suite where ke and I had first kissed. But this wasn''t memory-this was something else entirely. Everything felt heightened, more vivid, more real than reality itself.

    Moonlight poured through the windows, painting the room silver. A fire crackled in the hearth, casting dancing shadows across the walls. The air smelled of pine after rainfall and burning cedar-ke''s scent, but stronger, more alluring.

    He stood watching me, weating a ck button-down shirt, half-open to reveal

    his chest. His dark hair looked tousled, his storm-cloud eyes now molten gold

    as they fixed on me.

    My wolf, so wounded moments before, now pressed eagerly against my consciousness, drawing me toward him with undeniable need.

    "Ava," he said, my name like velvet on his lips.

    He moved toward me with that predatory grace, backing me against the wall without touching me. Heat radiated between us, making my skin tingle with anticipation.

    His palm cupped my cheek, thumb brushing across my lower lip. "I''ve been waiting for you."

    His mouth imed mine in a hungry kiss that had nothing to do with caution. His body pressed mine against the wall, not an inch of space between us as his tongue swept into my mouth.

    My hands clutched his shirt, pulling him closer as fire raced through my veins. He growled against my lips, the sound vibrating through my chest and settling low in my belly.

    His lips traced down my jaw to my neck, finding the mark with perfect aim. When his mouth closed over it, my legs nearly gave out. He caught me easily, one arm around my waist while his lips worked magic against my skin.

    I felt the mark change beneath his touch, silver fading as gold took its ce. The sensation was incredible-pleasure so intense I could hardly stand it.

    "ke," I gasped as his hands slipped beneath my shirt, his fingertips tracing patterns on my skin,

    He lifted me like I weighed nothing, my legs wrapping around his waist as he carried me to the bed. He followed me down, his body covering mine. His eyes zed gold as he hovered above me.

    When he lowered his head to my ear, his voice was rough. "You''re mine."

    I shot upright, heart pounding, the dream still clinging to me like a second skin. Sunlight filtered through my curtains, lighting up my tangled sheets.

    My body hummed with leftover desire, skin sensitive to the slightest touch, breathing fast. The room smelled of arousal-my arousal-proof that the dream had been more than just a fantasy.

    My wolf paced beneath my skin, restless and eager, as if she''d won some battle I didn''t know I was fighting.

    I reached up with trembling fingers, expecting the usual knife-edge pain when I touched my mark.

    Instead, I felt warmth-pleasant,forting warmth that spread from my fingertips through my body.

    The rm clock''s beep snapped me back to reality. I had barely fifteen minutes to get ready for my first day at ckwood Manor.

    I showered quickly, careful not to linger on still-sensitive skin. The dream''s effects hadn''t fully faded, and I couldn''t afford distractions today.

    As I dressed in my best training clothes and packed my bag, my thoughts kept returning to what waited for me at ckwood Manor-a chance to help Dad, to teach Lucas, and to face ke after that intensely vivid dream.

    In the mirror, the gold-and-silver mark caught the morning light. Whatever this meant, whatever was happening between ke and me, things had just gotten a whole lot moreplicated.

    I squared my shoulders, drawing strength from the mark''s warmth. One step at a time. First Lucas, then Dad, then... whatever this was.

    I stepped into the morning light, heading toward ckwood Manor with equal

    parts dread and hope twisting in my chest.

    Chapter Comments

    63

    POST COMMENT NOW

    RO

 Chapter 22

    Ava''s POV

    The morning air carried a chill as I approached ckwood Manor. My mark hummed with warmth the closer I got to ke''s territory, those golden threads beneath my skin responding to the unmistakable energy of an Alpha''s domain.

    I reached the massive oak doors before they swung open. Mr. Wilson stood there, his silver hair perfectlybed, his face set in professional neutrality that didn''t quite hide his skepticism.

    "Miss Rivers," he said coolly. "Punctual. At least there''s that."

    I offered a tight smile. "Morning to you too."

    Wilson closed the door behind me. "Light is not what''s needed today, I''m afraid. Master Lucas has... created a situation."

    "What kind of situation?"

    Wilson''s lips pressed into a thin line. "He''s managed to get his hands on something he shouldn''t have. A Moonstone Scroll."

    stiffened. Even in Shadow Creek, we knew about those-ancient texts containing forbidden wolf techniques passed down through the oldest bloodlines.

    "How the hell did a seven-year-old get a Moonstone Scroll?" I asked, already moving toward the stairs.

    "That''s precisely what I''d like to know. The Alpha King keeps such items locked in his private study."

    As we climbed the stairs, I felt the shift in the air-a crackling energy that made the hair on my arms stand up.

    "He''s been in there since dawn, Wilson said, his voice dropping. "I heard chanting earlier. When I tried to enter, he..." The manager trailed off, and for the first time, I noticed the thin scratch along his jawline. Fresh.

    "He shifted?" I asked, rmed.

    "Partially. His eyes, ws..." Wilson hesitated. "No child his age should be able to do that. The previous instructors fled the moment they saw his eyes change color.

    We reached the second floor. The energy grew stronger as we approached Lucas''s door-wild, untamed power pulsing from inside.

    Wilson ced himself between me and the door. "Perhaps I should call for the Alpha King. Master Lucas in this state is... unpredictable."

    I shook my head. "ke hired me to handle Lucas. First day on the job isn''t the time to prove I can''t."

    I stepped forward and knocked firmly on the door. "Lucas? It''s Ava." Silence answered me, but I could feel movement inside. He was listening. "Lucas, I know you''ve got a Moonstone Scroll. Those aren''t meant for cubs." A small voice, defiant despite its youth, responded: "I''m not a cub! Go away!"

    I tried again, gentler this time. "Lucas, your dad hired me to help you, remember? To teach you the fighting skills you want to learn.¡±

    "I don''t need you anymore!" His voice cracked slightly. "I found something better!"

    The doorknob rattled. I heard a thud against the door and a snarl-a young wolf''s snarl, but with an edge that shouldn''t be there in someone so young.

    Wilson ced a hand on my shoulder. "Perhaps we should-

    I shrugged him off, my patience evaporating. Lucas Morgan, open this door right now!"

    When silence was my only answer, I made a split-second decision. I took three steps back, centered my weight, and kicked the door with enough force to crack the frame. The wood splintered, the door flying open and banging against the wall inside.

    "Miss Rivers!" Wilson gasped, his professional mask cracking with shock.

    Wilsons protests faded into background noise as I stepped through the broken doorway, fullymitted to whatever consequences awaited on the other

    side.

    Third Person POV

    That same morning. Jackson Hayes stood in Mr. Wilson''s office at ckwood Manor, his expression carefully controlled despite the anger simmering beneath. He hade under the pretense of delivering wedding invitation details from Sophia, but his true purpose was far less innocent.

    Chapter Comments

    Ellie Bluts

    what a jellous ass(mayby wrong typing, but you know what u mean)

    ww1 Comment >

    POST COMMENT

 Chapter 23

    We appreciate your attention to these matters, Wilson said, reviewing the paperwork Jackson had brought. "Miss Sophia has always had impable taste)

    Jackson smiled, the picture of a devoted fianc¨¦. "She''s quite excited about the ceremony. By the way, I heard ke hired a newbat instructor for Lucas." Wilson nodded stiffly. Indeed, Miss Rivers started this morning."

    "Rivers?" Jackson feigned surprise, though he''d learned of Ava''s employment days ago through hiswork of informants. As in William Rivers daughter? The traitor from Shadow Creek?''

    Wilson''s head snapped up. "The very same. Why do you ask?"

    Jackson leaned forward conspiratorially. I''m surprised ke would allow someone with such... questionable connections near his son. Especially given her history

    "History?" Wilson''s eyebrows rose with interest.

    I''ve known Ava for years, Jackson said smoothly. "She''s quite troubled. Brilliant fighter, certainly, but unstable. She suffers from a serious learning disability that affects her judgment. She once confessed to me that she struggles with basic instructions and reading-hardly qualities you want in an instructor for the Alpha King''s heir."

    Wilson''s frown deepened. "The Alpha King seemed confident in her abilities."

    "ke sees herbat skills, which are admittedly impressive," Jackson conceded with calcted reluctance. "But her impulsiveness makes her dangerous. I''d keep a very close eye on her interactions with Lucas. For the boy''s safety, of course."

    Wilson nodded slowly, doubt clearly taking root. ''I appreciate your concern, Mr. Hayes. I''ll certainly monitor the situation carefully."

    "I should mention, Jackson added, lowering his voice further, ''she has a history of... unconventional methods. At the Academy, she frequently disregarded established protocols. imed they were limiting or some nonsense."

    "Disregarded protocols?" Wilson looked genuinely rmed now. "In what way?"

    Jackson feigned hesitation. "Let''s just say there were incidents. Training idents. Nothing that could be definitively pinned on her, but patterns emerged. The Academy records would show it, if you have ess."

    I''ll speak with the Alpha King about obtaining those records, Wilson said, making a note in his leather-bound nner.

    "I wouldn''t, Jackson cautioned. "ke might see it as overstepping. Perhaps it''s better to watch her carefully first, gather your own evidence. If she behaves erratically or endangers Luca''s in any way, then approach ke with concrete concerns."

    Wilson considered this, nodding slowly. "A prudent approach. I''ll document any concerning behavior."

    "Perfect," Jackson said, rising from his seat. "And perhaps don''t mention our conversation to anyone. I wouldn''t want to interfere with ke''s decisions or appear biased due to my connection with Shadow Creek matters."

    "Of course," Wilson agreed. "This conversation never happened."

    As Wilson escorted him to the main entrance, Jackson spotted a maid carrying fresh linens toward the west wing. He made a mental note-Ava would be staying in the east wing, where all staff quarters were located. Perhaps he could arrange for some of his more loyal pack members to be hired at ckwood Manor. Having eyes and ears within the household would prove useful.

    Td better be going," Jackson said, shaking Wilson''s hand firmly. "Sophia''s expecting me for lunch. But please, if you notice anything concerning about Miss Rivers, don''t hesitate to send word. For Lucas''s sake."

    "Certainly," Wilson replied. "The young master''s safety is my primary concern."

    As Jackson departed ckwood Manor, satisfaction coursed through him. Wilson was already predisposed to distrust Ava-his seeds of doubt would only reinforce that suspicion The more obstacles in Ava''s path, the faster she''d fail and return to Shadow Creek... where she belonged.

    And where she would have no choice but to ept his offer to save her father. The full moon-and William Rivers execution date-drew ever closer. Time was on Jackson''s side, and he knew exactly how to use it.

    Chapter Comments

    Ellie Blub

    what a jelious ass(mayby wrong typing, but you know what u mean)

    View 1 Comment >

    5

    12

 Chapter 24

    Ava''s POV

    I strode into Lucas''s room with purpose, ignoring Wilson''s shocked protests behind me. The air inside was thick with magic-ancient power that smelled like ozone and earth and blood. It made my nose itch and my wolf stir uneasily.

    Lucas sat cross-legged in the center of his bed, a yellowed parchment spread before him. Silver symbols glowed faintly on the surface, casting eerie shadows across his small face. His eyes flickered between normal gray and wolf gold, the change happening faster than it should be possible.

    "How dare you break my door!" he growled, his voice carrying an echo that wasn''t entirely his own.

    "Fancy light show you''ve got going on there," I said casually, leaning against his desk like I wasn''t worried at all. "Where''d you get the scroll?*

    Lucas blinked, clearly not expecting this reaction. "None of your business."

    "Actually, it is my business. Your dad hired me to teach you control, not watch you fry your wolf brain with ancient magic."

    His eyes shed fully gold now, the scroll''s symbols pulsing in time with his anger. "I don''t need control! I need power!"

    took a step closer, carefully gauging the distance between us. "Your wolf is still developing. Push it too hard now, and you could damage it forever."

    "You don''t know anything!" he snapped, but uncertainty flickered across his face.

    I inched closer. "I know that scroll is feeding off your energy, not the other way around. Look at your hands, Lucas."

    He nced down at his trembling fingers, the ws extending and retracting randomly as he lost control of the partial shift.

    "This is supposed to happen, he insisted, but fear crept into his voice. "The scroll says the poweres with-with transformations."

    "And headaches?" I asked, noticing how he squinted against the light. "Muscle spasms? Your body fighting to change when it''s not ready?"

    Lucas''s bottom lip quivered slightly before he caught himself. "Leave me alone! I have to do this!"

    "Why? What''s so important that you''d risk hurting yourself?"

    His eyes dropped, the gold fading momentarily. "Everyone thinks I''m just a stupid kid."

    "Lucas," I said softly, "your dad hired me specifically because he wants what''s best for you."

    "Liar!" he snarled, the gold ring back in his eyes. "He just wants me out of the way!"

    The scroll''s symbols brightened as his emotions spiked. I knew I had seconds before the situation escted. Time for a different approach.

    "That scroll''s pretty advanced," I said casually. "Bet you can''t even understand half of what it says."

    Lucas''s head snapped up, indignation overriding his anger. "I can too! It''s about channeling your inner wolf''s strength through the phases of the moon!"

    "Really?" I raised an eyebrow, projecting skepticism. "And you''re doing that how exactly?"

    "By-by focusing on the symbols and reciting the words,¡± he stuttered, suddenly less confident.

    I crossed my arms. And how''s that working out for you? Because from where I''m standing, it looks like you''re letting the scroll control you instead of the other way around.

    His face crumpled slightly. "I''m trying! It''s harder than it looks!" Isoftened

    my voice. "Of course it is. Because it''s not meant for cubs."

    "Im not a cub!" he protested, but the fight was leaving him.

    "Prove it, I challenged. "A real wolf knows when to walk away from a fight they''re not ready for. It takes more strength to admit you need help than to stubbornly keep trying something dangerous,"

    Lucas looked down at the scroll, then at his trembling hands. The ws were receding, but he looked exhausted-dark circles under his eyes, skin pale.

    If I give it to you," he said quietly, "will you tell my dad?"

    "Eventually, yes. He needs to know his security''s beenpromised. But I''ll make

    sure he understands you weren''t trying to cause trouble."

    Chapter Comments

    µ±

    ¡Þ0 5

    POST COMMENT NOW

 Chapter 25

    Lucas bit his lip, looking so young and vulnerable it hurt my heart. "He''ll be mad."

    "Probably, I agreed. "But he''ll also be relieved you''re okay."

    After a long moment, Lucas carefully rolled up the scroll, his small hands still shaking slightly. The symbols dimmed as it closed, and the oppressive energy in the room began to dissipate.

    He held it out to me. "You won''t tell him today?"

    I took the scroll, feeling ancient power tingle against my fingertips. "Not today. First, we''ve got training to do."

    Some of the tension left his shoulders. ''Yeah. You said you''d teach me the real stuff."

    I nced back to find Wilson still hovering in the doorway, his expression osciting between disapproval and amazement.

    "Mr. Wilson," I called over my shoulder, "could you have someone repair this door? I''ll cover the cost."

    "That won''t be necessary," he replied stiffly. "I''ll have it seen to immediately."

    I tucked the scroll safely into my training bag and turned back to Lucas. "Now, why

    don''t we head to the training grounds and start our actual lesson?"

    "Can we do something cool? Like w techniques?" His eyes brightened with hope.

    "First, I need to make sure that scroll didn''t do anysting damage." I held out my hands. "Come here."

    He approached cautiously. I could still see faint gold flickering in his eyes-residual energy from the scroll.

    "Sit, I instructed, pointing to the floor. When heplied, I sat cross-legged across from him. "Give me your hands."

    Lucas hesitated, eyeing my outstretched hands with suspicion. "What are you going to do?"

    "The scroll''s energy is still affecting you. I can help your system process it."

    After a moment''s hesitation, he ced his small hands in mine. The contact was like touching a live wire-residual energy from the scroll zapped between us, making my mark tingle strangely.

    ''Close your eyes," I said, keeping my voice steady despite the ufortable sensation, "and imagine pushing that buzzing feeling out through your palms." Lucas squeezed his eyes shut, his face scrunching with concentration. For several long moments, nothing happened. Then I felt it-a pulse of wild energy traveling from his hands to mine. It stung, but I absorbed it, grounding it through my connection to the earth beneath us.

    "That''s it, I encouraged, watching the gold fade from his irises behind his closed lids. "Keep going."

    We sat like that for nearly ten minutes, Lucas gradually rxing as the scroll''s influence drained from his system: When he finally opened his eyes, they were their normal stormy gray-just like his father''s.

    "Feel better?" I asked, gently withdrawing my hands.

    He blinked, looking surprised. "Yeah. The buzzing stopped." He flexed his fingers, examining his now-normal nails. "How did you do that?"

    "I didn''t," I smiled. "You did. You controlled the energy flow."

    Pride bloomed across his face. "Really? I did that?"

    "Yep. Your first real lesson-control."

    Wilson cleared his throat from the doorway. "Perhaps you should continue this

    lesson in the proper training area, Miss Rivers."

    I nodded. "Good idea. Ready for some real training, Lucas?"

    Lucas jumped to his feet, suddenly energized. "Yes! Let''s go!"

    RO

    As we followed Wilson down the corridor, Lucas stayed close to my side, watching me with newfound respect. The scroll weighed heavy in my bag, but at least for now, its danger had been contained. Whatever Lucas had been looking for in that ancient magic, I was determined to help him find it through proper training instead.

    The real challenge would be exining the broken door to ke. But that was a problem forter. Right now, I had a young wolf to teach.

    Chapter Comments

    5

    POST COMMENT NOW

 Chapter 26

    Ava''s POV

    The training grounds stretched before us, a circr arena surrounded by ancient pines. Morning sunlight filtered through the branches, casting dappled patterns across the stone floor. Various weapons hung on racks along the perimeter- practice swords, wooden staves, and training daggers sized for both adults and childdren.

    Lucas bounced on his toes in the center of the circle, eyes bright with excitement. "What are we starting with? w techniques? Defensive maneuvers?"

    I set my bag down carefully, making sure the scroll was secure and out of sight. "We''re starting with the foundation."

    His face fell. "That sounds boring."

    "The most powerful techniques build on the simplest foundations," I replied, pulling a small leather pouch from my training bag. "Your father mastered these basics before he became the fighter he is today."

    Lucas''s eyes widened slightly at the mention of his father. "Really?"

    "Really, I confirmed, opening the pouch to reveal a handful of small river stones, polished and t. "Bnce, focus, and awareness-the three pirs ofbat mastery.

    Wilson hovered at the edge of the training ground, watching with skeptical eyes. "I''ll return in an hour to check on your progress. Try not to destroy any more property, Miss Rivers."

    After he left, I turned my full attention to Lucas. "First exercise is simple." I ced one stone on the back of my hand, then flipped my palm with a quick motion, catching the stone before it fell. "Your turn."

    Lucas tried, the stone immediately tumbling to the ground. He frowned and tried again, with the same result.

    "This is stupid," he muttered after his fifth attempt. "How is this going to help me fight?"

    ¡°Combat isn''t just about strength, I exined, demonstrating the move again. ¡°It''s about precision. Timing. Being exactly where you need to be, exactly when you need to be there."

    He tried again, his small jaw set with determination. The stone wobbled but stayed bnced a fraction of a second longer.

    "Better," I encouraged. "Again."

    We continued like this for nearly half an hour, Lucas growing more focused with each attempt. His frustration gradually gave way to concentration as he began to understand the purpose of the exercise.

    "Got it!" he eximed as he sessfully flipped and caught the stone for the first time. His face lit up with genuine pride.

    "Weil done," I smiled. "Now let''s make it harder." I ced the stone on the back of his hand again. "This time, I want you to walk the perimeter of the circle while maintaining bnce."

    Lucas''s brow furrowed in concentration as he took careful steps, eyes fixed on the stone perched on his hand. He made it halfway around before the stone slipped, but I caught it before it hit the ground.

    "Good first attempt," I said. "What did you notice?''

    He thought for a moment. "It''s harder to keep bnced while moving."

    ''Exactly. In a real fight, you''re never standing still. You need to maintain awareness and control while in motion."

    For the next hour, we progressed through variations of the stone exercise- bncing while moving, adding a second stone, changing speeds. Lucas approached each challenge with growing confidence, hispetitive nature driving him to master each level.

    "impressive progress,¡± I noted when he sessfully bnced two stones whilepleting a full circuit of the training ground. "Most students take days to get this far

    Lucas beamed with pride, his earlier tantrum forgotten "What''s next?''

    "Defensive stance work," I replied, putting the stones away. The foundation of allbat techniques."

    I demonstrated a basic defensive position-feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, weight centered. "This stance gives you stability while allowing quick movement in any direction."

    Lucas mimicked my position, remarkably precise for his age. I made small adjustments to his form, careful not to overwhelm him with too many details at

    once.

    "Good, I nodded. ''Now, I''m going to push against your shoulders. Try to maintain your position."

    I applied gentle pressure, and Lucas resisted surprisingly well, his small frame holding firm against my push.

    "Excellent bnce, I praised. "Now let''s add movement."

    I taught him how to shift from defensive to offensive stances, emphasizing smooth transitions rather than speed. Despite his eagerness to learn shier techniques, Lucas followed my instructions with growing respect, sensing the value in these foundations.

    As we worked, I caught glimpses of his natural talent. His reflexes were exceptionally quick, and he possessed an intuitive understanding of body mechanics rare in someone so young. No wonder ke was concerned about his early shifting-this kid had raw potential that could easily spiral out of control without proper guidance.

    "Miss Rivers, Wilson''s voice interrupted our session. "Master Lucas has mathematics lessons scheduled now."

    Lucas groaned loudly. "But we just got to the good part!"

    I gathered our training gear, tucking everything back into my bag. ¡°Wilson''s right.

    Learninges in many forms, Lucas."

    "But this is way more important than stupid math, he protested.

    ''Actually, mathematics is essential forbat," I countered. "Every move I showed you today involves calcting angles, distance, and timing-all math."

    Lucas looked skeptical, but less resistant. "Really?"

    "Absolutely. The best warriors understand geometry better than anyone. How else would you calcte the perfect angle for a defensive counter?"

    He considered this, then sighed in resignation. ''Fine. But we''ll continue tomorrow, right?"

    "Same time, same ce, I promised.

    As Wilson prepared to lead Lucas away, the boy hesitated. "You''lle back tomorrow? You won''t quit like the others?"

    The vulnerability in his question caught me off guard. Beneath the bravado and defiance was just a kid afraid of being abandoned again.

    "I''ll be here, I assured him.

    "Miss Rivers passed your little test admirably," Wilson said to Lucas, his tone surprisingly gentle. "Unlike your previous instructors."

    Lucas s expression brightened suddenly. He looked at me with hopeful eyes, then blurted out:

    "Will you stay for dinner tonight? Please? Dad''s noting home untilte, and I hate eating alone."

    Chapter Comments

 Chapter 27

    Ava''s POV

    "Dinner? With me?'' I blinked, caught off guard by Lucas''s invitation.

    Wilson''s mouth pinched like he''d bitten a lemon, but he nodded. "Kitchen''s already set a ce for you." The don''t-screw-this-up undertone in his voice couldn''t have been clearer.

    Lucas scuffed his boot against the floor, his tough-guy mask slipping. "Dad''s always stuck in meetings. Sophia''s never around since Jackson put that ring on her finger. His shoulders hunched. "Wilson usually sits with me, but he''s busy tonight."

    He lowered his voice. "This ce is huge when you''re eating alone."

    My chest tightened. After this morning''s scroll incident, I could see beyond the bratty exterior. This wasn''t just some spoiled Alpha kid - he was a lonely boy desperate for attention.

    "Count me in,'' I said, giving his shoulder a squeeze. "After we eat, I''ll show you some kick-ass wolf tactics."

    The kid lit up like I''d handed him Christmas. He grabbed my arm and practically dragged me toward the dining hall, his excitement rolling off him in waves.

    Wilson''s suspicious re followed us out. Clearly, he wasn''t thrilled about Lucas''s instant trust in me.

    The dining room was ridiculous - all vaulted ceilings and stone fireces straight out of a medieval castle. An oak table that could seat thirty had exactly one ce setting at the far end. The sight of that lonely little te hit me harder than expected.

    A server hurriedly set another ce beside Lucas''s, shooting me a nervous smile. At the head of the table loomed ke''s empty chair - bigger than the others, a not-so-subtle reminder of who really ran this show.

    The meal came - fancy bison with roasted roots, traditional pack food loaded with protein and whatever else growing werewolves needed. My stomach growled so loud the server probably heard it.

    First bite, and I couldn''t hold back a groan of satisfaction. Meanwhile, my mark hummed warm against my skin, way different from its usual burning pain. Being in ke''s territory felt weirdly... right.

    "Kids at Academy can''t even half-shift," Lucas said between bites. "Dad says I''m special, but that means no ying like normal cubs."

    "No fun allowed, huh?" I asked, savoring the perfectly cooked meat.

    ''Alpha''s kids gotta act proper. He rattled it off like a line he''d memorized. "Setting examples and stuff."

    I put down my fork. "That''s bullshit. His eyes widened at mynguage. "Even the toughest wolves need to cut loose sometimes. My dad always said bnce matters most ¨C be a warrior when it counts, but don''t forget to actually live."

    Lucas chewed on that thought along with his food. Watching him enjoy havingpany made me realize I actually wanted to help him - not just to get closer to his dad and save mine.

    After dinner, I stood to help clear tes - force of habit from home. The server looked horrified.

    "We handle that, Miss Rivers, she insisted.

    Lucas nodded. ''Everyone''s got their job here."

    ''Sure,'' I said, ¡°but saying thanks never killed anyone. Respecting people''s work is

    what makes a good warrior, not just knowing how to fight."

    Lucas mulled this over before bouncing up. "Can we do those tactics now?" He practically vibrated with excitement.

    ''Definitely. But we''re learning the fun way."

    The sitting room looked like a cozy museum - ancient weapons on walls, stupidlyfortable leather furniture, and an borate ''Wolf Hunt board game in the center. Not your average Monopoly - this was how pack leaders had trained young warriors for generations.

    I flopped onto the couch beside Lucas and grabbed a ying piece. "See this? Alpha - moves slow but packs a punch. These fast ones are Gammas - quick but need backup. And these little guys?" I picked up smaller pieces. "Regr pack wolves. Weak alone, deadly together."

    Hunter sprawled at Lucas''s feet, those golden eyes tracking our every move.

    I showed Lucas how to surround a stronger force with fewer pieces. The kid caught on instantly, way beyond what most seven-year-olds could grasp. No wonder that dangerous scroll tempted him ¨C regr lessons probably bored him to tears.

    When Lucas nailed aplex strategy and won a round, he shot up like he''d been electrocuted.

    "Got ''em!" he crowed, arms raised. "Just like a real Alpha!"

    Before I could respond, heunched himself at me in a hug that nearly knocked me backward. His small armstched around my neck, face buried against my shoulder.

    One more game?" he mumbled against my shirt. "Nobody ys this with me for real... they just let me win."

    I hesitated, then ruffled his hair. "You''ve earned it, champ. But tomorrow we''re back to the sweaty stuff before any more games. Deal?"

    He nodded, face still glowing.

    "Can you teach me tracking too?" he asked. "My nose isn''t sharp enough yet." "That''s my specialty. I''ll show you how to use wind and terrain to your advantage." Lucas dove back into the game, rearranging pieces with scary focus. The kid had serious leadership potential ¨C just needed someone to nurture it right.

    We yed another half hour,ughing at bold moves and sneaky traps. Hunter asionally grumbled his "expert" opinions from the floor.

    Wilson never showed up to check on us, but I felt eyes watching periodically from the hallway.

    Midway through our third game, Hunter''s head snapped up. A deep growl vibrated from his chest, eyes locked on the door.

    Wilson''s voice drifted in from outside. -ying games instead of proper training. Alpha King, her methods arepletely inappropriate. No instruction in pack history or etiquette! And I question her ability to interpret tactical materials given her... learning disability."

    My jaw clenched. How the hell did Wilson know about my dyslexia?

    The door banged open. ke filled the doorway, power radiating off him in waves that hit me like a physical force. His formal council clothes screamed ''important meetings" - silver threads in his cor catching the light.

    Lucas jumped, nearly toppling the board. I steadied the pieces with a quick hand. "Father!" Lucas''s smile looked stered on. "We''re... studying." His expression already braced for disappointment.

    ke''s eyes swept over the board, taking in theplex arrangement. The air thickened with his presence like a summer storm rolling in.

    "Miss Rivers, his deep voice could''ve frozen fire, is ying games your idea of warrior training?"

    Chapter Comments

    4

    POST COMMENT NOW

    SHARE

 Chapter 28

    Ava''s POV

    Hunter positioned himself between us, sensing the tension crackling in the air.

    "Dad, I asked for this," Lucas piped up. "She taught me real stuff! Look!" He pointed to the board. "Alpha encirclement ¨C for trapping bigger enemies with your best fighters."

    Surprise flickered across ke''s face as he recognized the advanced formation.

    ke''s eyebrow ticked up just a fraction-the Alpha King equivalent of shock. He recognized the formation.

    "Kids learn better when they''re having fun," I shrugged. "Tactics sink in when they don''t feel like homework.

    I snatched Lucas''s training notebook off the side table and held it out. "Check out today''s progress yourself.

    ke took the notebook, his fingers barely brushing mine. He flipped through pages of Lucas''s chicken-scratch diagrams and notes, his expression shifting subtly.

    -You wrote all this?" he asked Lucas, genuine surprise coloring his voice.

    I crossed my arms, weight on one hip. "Everyst bit. Bnce stone exercises, defensive stances, basic tactical study-the works."

    "You should''ve seen her, Dad!" Lucas jumped in, practically bouncing. ¡°I can bnce two stones while walking the whole circle! She said most kids need like a week to get that far!"

    ke moved toward the game board, studying the arrangement of pieces. His presence filled the room like thunder before a storm, but I nted my feet and didn''t budge.

    "This is the Forest Shadow pattern," ke said to Lucas, his voice noticeably softer. "We don''t usually teach this until third-year tactical sses."

    Lucas nodded, his eyes lighting up. "Ava said this is one of your specialties! She''s been teaching me about your famous tactics."

    ke turned to me, surprise flickering in his eyes. "You''re familiar with my tactical history?"

    "I studied several of your major campaigns at Warrior Academy," I admitted. "As a warrior, it''s smart to understand the fighting style of the strongest Alpha."

    ke turned to Wilson, Alpha anger practically solidifying in the air.

    "Wilson," he said, each word clipped, "you told me Rivers wasn''t doing her job. Yet I find my son more engaged with his training than he''s been in months."

    Wilson''s head ducked so fast I thought he might get whish. His face went sheet-white.

    ''I merely thought traditional methods might better-

    ¡°Enough.¡± ke didn''t raise his voice. He didn''t need to. ¡°Keep your ''expert

    opinions'' to yourself for the next month. Now get out."

    Wilson bowed like he was copsing in on himself. "Yes, Alpha King." He scurried out, practically leaving skid marks.

    "Lucas, ke''s tone shifted gears, pack up and get ready for tomorrow."

    Lucas nodded quickly. "Okay." He nced up at me, eyes bright. "More tactics tomorrow, right?"

    "After you nail the basics," I winked. "No shortcuts."

    Lucas grinned, scooped up Hunter, and bolted from the room, leaving me alone

    with ke. The air suddenly felt thick enough to slice.

    ke stepped closer, his jaw tightening. His nose twitched twice, and his eyes narrowed.

    "You smell like Hayes, he stated bluntly.

    My stomach dropped. Didn''t expect his nose to be that good.

    "He showed up at my cest night, I admitted. "Wanted to talk to my mom about Dad."

    ke''s eyes shed gold for a heartbeat. "That scent says more than casual conversation."

    Heat crawled up my neck as I remembered Jackson trying to force himself on me. ke had caught the scent markers but jumped to all the wrong conclusions.

    "Trust me, it''s not what you''re thinking." I said quietly.

    Your personal life isn''t my business, ke said, his tone suddenly arctic. "Just keep it away from my son''s training."

    The whish between how he''d just defended me to Wilson and this cold shoulder left my head spinning. Meanwhile, my mark kept pulsing with warmth, totally disconnected from his icy attitude.

    Last night''s dream shed through my mind-ke''s hands on my skin, his mouth at my ear whispering that I was his. Dream ke had looked at me like I was water in the desert, nothing like this closed-off stranger standing before me.

    "Got it," I replied, keeping my voice level despite the confusion churning in my gut.

    An awkward silence hung between us before ke checked his watch.

    It''ste. My driver will take you back."

    I hitched my bag higher. "Thanks, but I''m good. Could use the fresh air.¡±

    ke''s eyes shed gold. "On my territory, I decide how guests travel. Especially those who spend time with my son." His voice dropped an octave, heavy with that unmistakable Alphamand. "You''ll take my car. That''s not up for debate."

    Third Person POV

    ke watched as Ava walked out of ckwood Manor.

    For some reason, detecting Jackson''s scent on her thoroughly irritated him. It was a feeling he couldn''t quite understand, but he didn''t like sensing another man''s scent on her.

    He remembered when his own fingers had traced her mark, leaving his own subtle scent markers. There had been a small satisfaction in his chest then.

    But his influence was fading, and now it was overshadowed by Hayes''s scent. Who was Hayes to her, really? On second thought, it was probably better if he didn''t know.

    "Why are you so mean sometimes?" Lucas asked, bringing ke out of his thoughts.

    ke blinked a couple of times before looking down at his son, a frown settling on his face.

    "I wasn''t mean," ke denied.

    Lucas rolled his eyes and slumped down on the couch.

    "Yes, you were," be murmured. "We were having a good day, and she left upset."

    ke raised his eyebrows as he watched his son. For a moment, he wasn''t sure what to say. He sighed and decided to sit on the couch beside him.

    It had been a while since he''d spent any real time with Lucas; Ava''s words about how his son needed attention kept reying in his mind. He wondered if her observations were true.

    "You had a good day?" ke asked him.

    Lucas nodded, his eyes fixed on the floor.

    Yeah, he said softly.

    Tm assuming you like your new instructor?" ke asked.

    Lucas brightened instantly as he looked up at his father.

    "She''s really different, Dad,'' he said, excitement returning to his voice. "Not like

    the others who just treat me like a little kid. She shows me real stuff and actually exins why it works."

    "She also ate dinner with me tonight, Lucas added. "I liked having someone there."

    ''I wouldn''t mind if she became my new mom!" he finished.

    ke''s eyes widened at his son''s enthusiasm.

    "Don''t get ahead of yourself," ke said, shaking his head and avoiding his son''s

    gaze.

    I''m serious though, Lucas said, grabbing ke''s arm. "If I had someone like Ava around all the time, I would be so happy."

    ke watched his son''s eager face, unsettled by the unexpected longing he saw there. A new mom? The idea should have been ridiculous. Elizabeth had been gone for years, and no woman had evere close to filling the void she''d left. Yet Lucas had bonded with Ava in just one day more deeply than with all his previous instructorsbined.

    What troubled ke more was his own conflicted reaction-part rm at his son''s quick attachment, part strange satisfaction at the thought of Ava''s continued presence in their lives. Despite the Hayes scent that clung to her, something about Ava Rivers felt oddly... right.

    Chapter Comments

    ? 8

 Chapter 29

    Marked Twice by the Alpha King

    Ava''s POV

    After putting the Delta warrior on his back for the third time this morning, I dragged my aching body to the rest area My muscles protested with every step. but teaching Lucas had given me a strange new energy and focus in my own training.

    E sat at our usual bench, attacking a jerky stick while flipping through a dog eared tactics manual. Some constants in life kept me sane.

    "Look what the cat dragged in," she called, snapping her book shut. She nudged a steaming mug toward me. Recovery brew. Heard you were sparring with the Delta warriors today."

    I copsed across from her, bones practically melting into the bench. "E, I could kiss you right now. The mug warmed my palms as 1 inhaled herbs that smelied like forest and healing.

    "Drink up," she said, kicking my shin lightly under the table. "You look like death warmed over."

    The first sip hit my system like lightning, dulling the screaming in my muscles. I closed my eyes, sighing as the tension uncoiled.

    ¡°So, E leaned forward, elbows on the table, ''you ghosted mest night. Thought we had a mindlink date?"

    I winced mid-sip. "Sorry. Lucas ran me ragged at ckwood. Fell face-first into bed the second 1 got home,

    "That bad? E raised an eyebrow. "Kid must be a nightmare."

    My fingers tightened around the mug. The Blood Oath with ke tingled at the back of my mind-a silent warning. One slip about what really happened with Lucas and that magical scroll, and I''d be in serious supernatural trouble. High- paying job? Gone, Worse, Blood Oath bacsh could literally fry me from the inside out.

    "It''s... I searched for safe words, plicated."

    "Complicated how? Is he setting things on fire? Her eyes gleamed with mischief.

    I snorted. "Lucas is actually scary smart. Kid''s like a sponge. He''s just..." My tongue felt heavy, the Oath keeping certain truths locked behind my teeth. "His wolf abilities are showing way too early. He needs someone who gets what that''s like. I traced the rim of my mug. Plus the payment helps to ease my way."

    ''Sounds perfect! E''s face brightened. "Nobody better for the job. You taught my hopeless ass to fight, and I''ve got two left paws."

    ''Please,'' I rolled my eyes. "You''re not that bad."

    She pressed a hand to her chest in mock offense. Name one warrior thing you suck at. Just one."

    I thought for a second. "Herbal remedies. Can''t mix them worth a damn."

    "That''s because you''re too busy being perfect at everything else, sheughed, throwing her jerky wrapper at me. "Even when you mess up, you still follow the recipe exactly. It''s annoying as hell."

    I grinned, something tight in my chest easing for the first time in days. God, normal felt good-just two friendsughing like the world wasn''t burning downs around us.

    A sickly-sweet scent hit my nose-designer perfume trying to mask the sharp bite of weapon oil. My smile dhed as Serena Evans sauntered over, trailed by her pack of wannabes.

    I''d known Serena since we were pups fumbling through our first battle stances. Our rivalry sparked when I knocked her on her ass during our first youth tournament, but what started as healthypetition had rotted into something ugly over the years.

    Every day was a battle for Academy rankings. Serena rode her family connections like a free pass, while I wed my way up through sheer grit. As much as 1 hated her, she was good-lightning-fast reflexes, killer instincts, and a tactical mind that made her dangerous, Ice-blue eyes that caught every weakness, sunshine-blonde hair always woven into those perfect battle braids even during the bloodiest fights.

    Her battle gear-custom made by her famous designer mother-fit like she''d been poured into it. The ideal warrior princess for breeding perfect wolf cubs. Too bad all that packaging hid a heart pumping pure venom.

    Well, well, Serena stopped at our table, lips curling like she''d smelled something foul. "Traitor''s daughter still has the nerve to show her face here."

    Her followers fanned out behind her, sneering down at us.

    ¡°Serena,¡± I said tly. "What a surprise. Usually, you''re hiding in the advanced training room when I''m around."

    Her eyes narrowed Heard Jackson finally wised up and dumped your ass. What was it he said?" She tapped her chin. Something about preferring a mate with actual prospects?"

    Her cronies snickered, the sound setting my teeth on edge.

    "Wolves never reject fated mates unless they''re fundamentally broken, one girl with too much eyeshadow piped up.

    Seriously defective goods," another added. ''Even Jackson-Mr. Bloodline Obsessed-would rather tick off the Moon Goddess than stick with her."

    My ws pricked my palms, drawing tiny beads of blood. ''Don''t you have better things to do? Or is mommy''s reputation the only thing keeping you in the advanced ss these days?

    E leaned back, crossing her arms. ''Aren''t we a little old for yground bullying? Or do they not teach manners in your special rich girl sses?

    Serena''s face hardened. If it weren''t for your little shadow here- she flicked a dismissive nce at E, always following you around like a lost puppy. What, Rivers, can''t fight your own battles anymore? She turned back to me, voice dropping. "Everyone knows your daddy''s execution date is set. What''s your n after, Rivers? Begging for scraps in Shadow Creek? Or just going full rogue?" Something snapped. I stood so fast the bench scraped against stone, my eyes burning silver. "Are you trying to make up for the fact that I''ve kicked your ass in everybat assessment for three straight years bying after my family?" My voice dropped to a growl that wasn''t entirely human.

    Serena''s face went chalk white. Her followers took an instinctive step back, suddenly finding the ceiling fascinating,

    E sprawled back on the bench, lips twitching with barely contained glee.

    Your luck''s running out, Rivers, Serena hissed, voice shaking slightly. ''Soon you''ll learn what a wolfless really is without family backing. Let''s go, girls."

    She whipped around, golden hair swinging like a weapon as she stalked off, her pack scrambling to keep up.

    The tension drained from my shoulders once she disappeared. I dropped back onto the bench, suddenly tired again.

    "Damn, E whispered, eyes wide. I was hoping you''d rearrange her face. Can you imagine her perfect nose all crooked?"

    I rubbed my temples. "Not worth it. Bigger fish to fry."

    Shell find another way to make your life hell, E muttered.

    "Always does, I agreed.

    E stretched, deliberately changing subjects. "Hey, you going to the Honor Ceremony tomorrow? Winner gets full training subsidies next quarter and pack exchange privileges."

    I jolted upright. "Ipletely forgot! Got the invitation weeks ago, but with everything..." I trailed off, suddenly remembering the humiliation of begging those drunk Northern wolves for information at Moonlight Lodge. I need to be there. Exchange privileges mean ess to intel without the groveling. Could be huge for Dad''s case.

    The sundial''s shadow caught my eye. ''Crap, I''mte for weapons training,'' I said, gulping down thest of my tea. "Later, E."

    "Kick some ass!" she called as I jogged away.

    After ss, I stood in the assembly area nning my mad dash home. I needed

    to change before heading to ckwood Manor for Lucas''s training. Just as I took my first step, a gleaming ck carriage pulled up, the silver wolf enablem of Silverpeak catching the sunlight like a warning.

 Chapter 30

    Ava''s POV

    I froze mid-step as a gleaming ck carriage pulled up at the Academy entrance, the silver wolf emblem of Silverpeak catching sunlight like a warning re. My ns to rush home and change before heading to ckwood Manor evaporated in an instant.

    The carriage door swung open, revealing ke''s warrior chief Tyler Reed. His broad shoulders filled the doorframe as he nodded a greeting.

    "Good afternoon, Miss Rivers," he said, voice carrying easily across the yard. "Alpha King sent me to escort you to ckwood Manor."

    Heads turned. Whispers rippled through the training yard like wind through tall grass. Great-exactly what I needed after Serena''s little scene earlier.

    "Thanks, though it wasn''t necessary," I muttered, climbing into the carriage.

    As I settled onto the plush leather seat, my neck tingled with the sensation of being watched. My wolf''s senses snapped to attention, but Tyler had already closed the door, and the carriage lurched forward.

    The interior smelled of leather and pine, with faint traces of ke''s scent lingering in the cushions. My mark responded instantly, pulsing with warmth instead of the knife-edge pain I''d grown used to since Jackson''s rejection.

    Tyler studied me with those calm, assessing eyes that missed nothing. As Beta to ke''s Alpha, he had that watchful quality of someone constantly scanning for threats.

    "Will you be attending the Honor Ceremony tomorrow?" he asked, breaking the silence.

    I nodded, trying to keep my face neutral. "I should be. I need those exchange privileges."

    His mouth quirked up slightly. "The Alpha King will be lead judge, as you might know."

    My hand automatically went to my neck where the mark hummed beneath my fingertips. ''Is that so?" I forced my voice to stay steady, but it sounded strained even to my own ears.

    Tyler inhaled deeply, his nostrils ring slightly-reading my emotional scent markers as easily as words on a page. He just smiled knowingly and said nothing

    more.

    Silence settled between us, punctuated only by hoofbeats and the crunch of wheels on gravel. I turned toward the window, watching thendscape blur past while my thoughts raced ahead.

    Tomorrow''s ceremony wasn''t just about honors anymore. The exchange

    privileges meant direct ess to other packs'' archives and resources-a golden ticket to find evidence clearing Dad''s name without having to beg or bribe like I''d been forced to do recently.

    I just had to keep my focus. Nothing could go wrong tomorrow.

    Third Person POV

    Serena paced along the edge of the Academy training grounds, golden wolf eyes shing as she fumed over Ava''s earlier challenge. She''d quickly ditched her followers, preferring to seethe alone.

    "How dare that worthless lone wolf speak to me like that," she hissed through clenched teeth. "A traitor''s daughter! A marked reject!"

    Her nose caught a familiar scent-expensive cologne barely masking the sharp notes of ambition and power. She rxed her guard instantly, turning toward the source.

    Jackson emerged from the shadows of the trees, his ck cloak making his approach seem like darkness itself taking form. His movement had the fluid grace of a predator sizing up its territory.

    Serena''s lips curved into a knowing smile. "She is getting more insufferable by the day," she said, tossing her perfect blonde battle braids over her shoulder. "She actually had the nerve to challenge me publicly, implying she''s better inbat. Ridiculous."

    "What else would you expect?" Jackson''s voice was cool and controlled. "Arrogance has always been her defining trait. It''s one of many reasons I couldn''t tolerate her."

    "It''s risky for you to be seen here,'' Serena remarked, fixing him with a sharp stare. "Isn''t this beneath your station, as you always say?"

    08

    Jackson raised an eyebrow, his voice dropping lower. "I need your assistance. Specifically, I need you to find anything-weaknesses, secrets, transgressions- on Ava.

    ''She''s caught ke''s attention, Serena sneered, eyes tracking the Silverpeak carriage as it pulled away with Ava inside. "Everyone''s seen the royal transport picking her up. What''s so special about her?"

    Jackson''s eyes shed dangerously as he stepped closer, voice barely above a whisper now. "We have amon enemy. Help me, and I can provide what you desire.

    "And what would that be?" Serena asked skeptically, crossing her arms.

    jackson smiled, revealing the sharp tips of his canines. ess to Shadow Creek''s elite warrior training. We have certain techniques not taught at the Academy. As future Alpha, I can arrange it."

    Interest sparked in Serena''s eyes, her wolf fully present now in those golden irises. Shadow Creek warriors were legendary for their unique fighting methods, techniques typically reserved for the pack''s inner circle.

    I''ll watch her every move," Serena agreed with a nod. "Especially at tomorrow''s Honor Ceremony."

    "Tomorrow is crucial," Jackson said. "Ensure she doesn''t receive exchange privileges. I''ve arranged certain... incidents. But I need someone on the inside to help things along."

    Their eyes locked in silent agreement as Serena watched Ava''s carriage disappear down the road, her jealousy and hatred reaching new heights.

    Night had fallen by the time Jackson took his seat in a secluded booth at Moonlight Lodge. The untouched ss of Silverpine before him caught the soft light from overheadnterns as he stared into its depths, mapping out tomorrow''s strategy.

    His mindlink suddenly hummed to life, breaking his concentration. "Everything is in ce," his subordinate''s voice whispered through the connection. "At tomorrow''s Honor Ceremony, Ava will be used of cheating during herstbat assessment. We''ve bribed one of the judges and prepared ''evidence''."

    A satisfied smile spread across Jackson''s face. "Excellent. Make sure the timing is perfect-right as she''s about to receive exchange privileges. Preferably in front of the Alpha King."

    "Perfect," Jackson replied, malicious pleasure evident in his voice. "She thinks she''s making progress, but she has no idea how disastrous tomorrow will be." He severed the mindlink and rose to stand by the window. Tomorrow would be Ava''s most difficult day yet-public humiliation, family scandal, and she wouldn''t even know who orchestrated it all.

    Jackson lifted his ss toward the moonlight visible through the window. Though not yet full, it served as a reminder that William Rivers'' execution date approached rapidly. Time was on his side, and Ava''s options were dwindling by the day.

    He took a small sip of the expensive wine, savoring both its taste and the sweet anticipation of revenge. Soon, very soon, Ava would have no choice but to ept his offer.

    And even ke Morgan, Alpha King or not, wouldn''t be able to protect her.

    Chapter Comments

    Carolyn Balldwin

    How many more tirnes are we going to be told about the feelings she gets from Jacksons mark?

    View All 2 Comments >

    3

    POST COMMENT

    1

    212

 Chapter 31

    Chapter 31: Old Enough to Be Her Father

    ke''s POV

    I stepped closer, my eyes turning golden as my wolf fought for control. "Last warning, Maxwell. Put her down, or you lose your Alpha status tonight, and Moonstone Pack gets new leadership by morning."

    Maxwell''s entire body began to tremble as my Alpha King aura crushed against him. His knees started to buckle under the weight of my authority. I watched with savage satisfaction as the arrogant prick instinctively lowered his head in submission¨Chis body recognizing the hierarchy even if his mind resisted

    "L... I was just...

    Maxwell stammered, his grip on Ava loosening.

    I closed the distance in one fluid stride and pulled Ava from his arms, cradling her protectively against my chest. The smell of the drug mingled with her natural scent-forest rain and wildflowers with an undercurrent of steel. Even contaminated by the drug, her scent called to something primal in me.

    Against my chest, Ava stirred slightly, her face pressing into my shirt as if seeking safety. I could feel the mark on her neck heating in response to my proximity, the golden threads within it pulsing with each of her heartbeats.

    Maxwell lowered himself further, practically groveling now. "Alpha King, I... I deeply apologize... I didn''t realize she was under your protection

    ice like ice. "Now get out of my sight."

    The Council will deal with you, I cut him off, voice

    He retreated backward, never turning his back on me-smart enough to show proper deference to an apex predator ready to strike. The crowd parted silently as I carried Ava toward the exit, her slight weight almost nothing in my arms.

    Tyler materialized at my side, reading the situation instantly. "Your carriage is waiting, Alpha."

    Outside, the night air hit us with crisp coldness, making Ava shiver against me, I tightened my hold instinctively, drawing her closer to my warmth. Her breathing was uneven, her skin flushed with unnatural heat. What the hell did Morwell give her? Standard Mone Whisper shouldy''t cause this much disorientation.

    The Silverpeak royal carriage waited by the curb, door already open. I climbed in carefully, settling Ava onto the plush seat before taking my ce beside her. Tyler gave me a knowing look before closing the door.

    "Her home," I ordered through the window. "Fastest route"

    As the carriage moved away, I looked at Ava''s face in the moonlighting through the window. Her cheeks were flushed, her breathing shallow. The drug was hitting her hard now. Even like this, she kept a warrior''s dignity-her hand had moved to where a weapon would normally be, her body ready to defend even while unconscious.

    She''s too young for you, my rational mind argued. Barely older than Sophia. And she''s been drugged, I forced myself to look away, disgusted that any part of me could be attracted to someone in such a vulnerable state. I was old enough to be her father, for Moon''s sake

    The carriage hit a bump, and Ava tumbled sideways, her body pressing against mine. Her eyes uttered open, unfocused and dted, but somehow finding mine withser precision.

    "Alpha," she whispered, the word slipping from her lips like honey.

    Before I could react, she''d twisted toward me, her hands suddenly alive and exploring my chest with drugged fascination. The scent of her arousal hit me like

    physical blow, my wolf howling in response. I could smell the drug in her system, but beneath ity genuine desire-her body''s honest reaction to mine.

    I grabbed her wrists gently but firmly, "Ava, stop. You don''t know what you''re doing."

    She looked up at me through half lidded eyes, a sultry smile curving her lips. "I know exactly what I''m doing."

    One hand broke free, trailing up my chest to the silver wolf emblem at my cor. Her lingers worked at the sp with surprising dexterity for someone so intoxicated.

    "Axa," I warned, voire rougher than intended. "You''ve been drugged."

    He other hand freed itself and found my face, thumb tracing along my jaw. The contact sent electricity racing down my spine, my control fraying at the

    need you," she breathed, voice husky and unfamiliar yet undeniably hers. "I know ant me too, My Alpha....

    you

    My eyes shifted instantly to wolf gold at the possessive ims in her words. My control bnced on a knifes edge, my wolf surging forward, demanding I im what it already considered mine.

    Just as her face tilted up toward mine, lips parted in invitation, my mother''s mindlink mmed into my consciousness with all the subtlety of a haltering

    ke? Why havent you responded to my links?

    1 terked back from Ava, forcing myself to focus on the intrusion while she continued to trail her fingers along my thigh, each touch threatening what remained of my restraint.

    What on it. Mother? I managed, my mental voice strained.

    on my thigh, dangerously close to proving past

    Ava shifted closer, nestling her head against my neck, her breath hot against my

    skin. Her hand t higher on my how affected I was by her proximity.

    Is that how you address your mother? Victoria''s disapproving tone cut through my distraction. Such disrespect.

    I''m handling an urgent matter, I replied, attempting to keep my thoughts clear while gently removing Ava''s wandering hand from my chest.

    my links, my mother continued, blind to my situation. You''re neglecting your pack duries.

    Ava pressed herself against my side, her lips finding the sensitive spot beneath my jaw. I nearly severed the link there and then, my control splintering-

    do you need. Mother Lasked, struggling to keep the frustration from bleeding into the link..

    I''m simply reminding you about tomorrow''s quarterly pack meeting, she replied primily. All the elders will be present. Its important.

    Ava''s mouth moved lower, her teeth grazing my corbone as her hands resumed their exploration. My breathing became ragged, my thoughts fragmenting.

    ... know. Fil... be there, I managed, the words disjointed even in my mind.

    You should bring Amber, my mother continued, shifting topics with practiced ease. She''s returned specifically to see you,

    Why would I do that? I asked, distracted as Ava''s nimble fingers began working on my shirt buttons, I captured her wrist, holding it firmly away from me

    She Elizabeth''s sister, and you re well-suited, my mother pressed. The pack needs a new Luna, and your children need a mother, Amber has impable bloodlines.

    tional healing skill-she''s the perfect choice.

    Amber Collins. Myte wife''s sister. Victoria had been trying to push us together for years, never epting that I had no romantic interest in the woman who looked so much like my departed mate

    Ava broke free of my grip and pressed her lips against my throat, a soft moan escaping her that nearly shattered my restraint. My wolf was howling. demanding I stop fighting the inevitable.

    won''t bring her, I replied, my mental voice hardening. I don''t feel that way about her.

    Elsbeth has been our for seven years, my mother''s voice grew stern. It''s time you considered the pack''s needs and found a new mate

    "Alpha... Ava whispered against my ear, the single word loaded with need. My

    wolf nearly broke through, ready to answer her call.

    My personal life is my decision. I''ll see you tomorrow, I cut across my mother''s

    next thought, severing the mindlink with more force than necessary.

    The carriage slowed to a stop. Through my desire-fogged mind, I realized we had reached her home.

    Chapter Commenta

 Chapter 32

    POST COMMENT NOW

    Chapter 32: Someone Nobody Saw Coming

    My mother''s voice vanished from my head, leaving me alone with the warm, drugged woman curled against me. Ava had finally passed out, her face ck with sedations as she slumped against my shoulder

    I let out a breath I didn''t know I''d been holding. Part relieved, part.. something I didn''t want to name.

    Bass, were hete, Tyler called from outside. "Need a hand?

    ?pot fer,¡± I said, my voice sharper than intended. The mere ilsight of anyone else''s hands on Ava maile my wolf bristle like a damn teenager

    night au hit me as I pushed the door open-cold and rifying. I shifted Ava''s weight, suprised again by low someone who fought like a demon could

    ight. As I stepped out, she muzzled into my neck, her lips identally grazing my throat.

    im her right there in the street.

    My eyes shed hot gold before I could stop them, I hit my cheek until I tested copper, fighting the wolf that wanted to im

    "Jesus Christ," I muttered, "Get a grip. She''s Lucas''s teacher, she works for nr. The excuse sounded hollow even to my own ears. The truth was far money disturbing - she was half my age, bom a disgraced family, with my enemy''s mark on her neck. Everything about wanting her was wrong. Forbidden. And that Jonly made my wall want her more.

    1 sdug through herbat gear one-handed until I found a key tucked in a hidders pocket. Theck clicked open with a soft smick, and I stepped into

    The leone smelled wrong-full of fears and worry, Sarah Rivers'' scent lingered, but hours old.

    "Nice patenting," I growled under my breath. "Your kid doesn''te home and you, what, po hat hopping?

    I followed Ava''s scent upstairs, each step testing my control as her sleeping form pressed against me, her mark pulsing silver and gold just at the edge of my 00000,

    Het bedusom door swung open, and I froze. Like stepping into her head..

    Combat medals and certificates stered the walls¡ªnot disyed for show, but stacked like necessary proof, Battle-wors trophies lined a shell. A weapons tack held daggers and short swords that had seen teal use, not just practier.

    Her desk told the real story tactical manuals covered in notes with letters that sometimes flipped and twisted. A dyslexic fighter who''d wed her way up through sheet stubbornness.

    But it was the photos that caught me. One showed William with his arm around a teenage Ava, both grinning with matching dimples I''d never seen on her. Another showed her midugh with that friend of hers, E, looking young and unburdened.

    fixa stirred in my arms, her fingers tracingzy patterns on my chest that sent heat straight to ces it shouldn''t go.

    The golden threads in her mark seemed to answer my wolf, brightening as if reaching for me.

    drugged, you ass,'' I told myself, stepping back, "What kind of sick fuck would I be?

    on the bed and tacked the covers around her, backing away i

    y immediately. I turned to leave when war fingers wrapped around my wrist with

    Ja ees were half open, unfocused but somehow finding mine in the dark,

    the shitpeted, voce small and raw

    I took everything I had to gently untangle her fingers. Tomorrow, warrior,'' I managed, voice like gravel.

    fait, shutting the door with a quiet click, feeling like Ed just outrun a forest fire. chamber night at no

    Every

    y elder and family rep was already seated, my mother Victoria at the right hand of my emply

    Chapter 32 Someone Nobody Saw Coming

    Tifteen minutes we''ve been waiting, ke," she said, all ier and judgment.

    I pointed to the moonlight timepiece. "Meeting was called for noon. It''s noon."

    Victoria''s perfectly sculpted eyebrow rose. "A real Alpha King arrives before everyone else. That''s basic respect."

    Before I could tell her where to stick her lecture, Sophia jumped up with that peacemaker smile of hers. "Dad, we were just talking about wedding stuff." Victoria''s face softened instantly. "Sophia''s always so considerate."

    She turned to me. This wedding will cement crucial alliances. The bloodlines couldn''t be more perfect.

    Sophia tugged jackson to his feet. ''Daddy, Jackson wants to run something by you."

    Jackson dipped his head like a good little subordinate. "Sir, I think we should invite the three Northern packs to the wedding. It would strengthen our position up north."

    "See that strategic thinking? Victoria practically purred. "What an excellent future leader."

    Sophia beamed while Jackson smiled, a quick calction shing behind his eyes that my daughterpletely missed.

    I caught Lucas squirming in his chair, his eyes darting to the door every few seconds like he was expecting someone. Victoria noticed too.

    "Sit still," she hissed. "Alpha blood doesn''t fidget likemon wolves."

    He crushed hisbat training yesterday," I cut in "Cut him some ck." ly how my wife.

    Before she could snap back, the doors swung open, Amber Collins swept in wearing formal medical robes, her golden-brown hair braided exactly used to wear hers. Tyler followed, catching my eye with a look that said we needed to talk.

    Victoria smiled like she''d won something. "Our Chief Medical Officer arrives atst."

    Amber made a beeline for the empty seat beside me. "Sorry I''mte," she murmured, brushing my arm as she sat. The intimate tone made my skin crawl.

    I shifted away. "Meetings in session. First up-Shadow Creek border situation." Throughout the briefing. Amber kept pulling Elizabeth moves. Suggesting policies Elizabeth would have backed. Leaning in too close with documents. Even wearing some herb concoction that mimicked my dead wife''s scent. She kept dropping little "remember when Elizabeth and you handled that wolf territory dispute bombs like I wouldn''t notice.

    During a break, Victoria stool up. "We''re having family dinner tonight. To celebrate Sophia''s engagement and Lucas''s training."

    She turned to me. Amber will join us, of course. As our medical chief and family friend."

    Her eyes narrowed. "Seven years of mourning is enough, ke. The pack needs

    to see you with a suitable woman."

    My eyesshed before I could stop them. TI think about it."

    "Is Avaing?" Lucas perked up. "She promised me special training today."

    Victoria''s lips

    s thinned. That Rivers girl? She''s staff, Lucas. This is family."

    Lucas slumped, but stuck to his guns. "She''s better than all my other teachers. Combined."

    My mind drifted to

    ost night-Ava''s weight against me, that wildflower-and-steel scent, her breath hot on my neck. I could almost feel her all over again.

    "You look exhausted," Amber cut in. "Rough night?" The question dripped with suspicion.

    1 snapped back to reality. "Pack business, ? said tly, shutting her down.

    As everyone filed out, Tyler hung back. "How is she?" he asked quietly. "The girl fromst night."

    "¡°Safe,¡± I said, though whatever showed on my face made him study me harder.

    Tyler scratched his stubbled jaw. "Elizabeth''s been gone seven years," he said carefully. "Maybe fate''s trying to tell you something. Even if it picked someone Chapter 32 Someone Nobody Saw Coming

    nobody sawing."

    I didn''t answer, but his words followed me long after the chamber emptied. Chapter Comments

 Chapter 33

    Chapter 33: Keep His Scent On You

    I woke up feeling like I''d been hit by a truck-head throbbing, mouth dry as sand, room tilting like a damn carnival ride. Squinting against the morning light. I found myself sprawled across my bed still wearing yesterday''s clothes.

    "What the actual hell?" My voice came out as a croak.

    1 pushed myself up on wobbly arms. My uniform was twisted and wrinkled beyond repair, one boot still on my foot while the othery kicked off by the bed. The silver Honor medal sat neatly on my nightstand-the only orderly thing in this mess.

    near my bed.

    Then it hit me-a scent that didn''t belong. Rain and pine mixed with something wild, like lightning struck earth. It hung in the air, strongest near

    ke.

    My stomach flipped as memory fragments crashed back. The ceremony. Serena''s setup. ke proving my innocence. Thenter, Maxwell and his special Northern "drink"...

    "Shit," I muttered, massaging my temples. Fucking Northern wolves and their moonshine.

    I stumbled to the bathroom, catching the wall when my legs tried to bail. The mirror didnt sugarcoat things-tangled hair, roon eyes, pasty skin with fever spots. Drug hangover chir.

    Leaning closer, I traced the golden threads that had been appearing in my marktely. They''d grown overnight, spreading further through Jackson''s silver im. The warm feeling under my fingertips had reced the knife-edge pain I''d gotten used to.

    "Great. Now I actually look like I''m on Moon Shadow Dust. The irony wasn''t lost on me

    Cold water shocked my face as memories flooded back-Maxwell''s hands where they shouldn''t be, his whispers, feeling paralyzed as he half-dragged me toward the exit.

    Then ke''s voice, pure danger wrapped in sound: "Put. Her. Down. Before I tear your throat out myself"

    ly safe despite being drugged out of my mind.

    More shes hit-being cradled against ke''s chest, his scent like a shield, feeling weirdly sa

    Then the carriage ride.

    "Oh no." Horror crawled up my spine. "Please tell me I didn''t...

    But I had. The drug stripped every filter, leaving just raw inst. My hands on his chest. My lips on his neck. Practically climbing into hisp while saying things that made me want to crawl under a rock just remembering.

    I gripped the sink edge. I felt up the Alpha King while high as balls. Awesome."

    My wolf clearly disagreed with my assessment. The traitor actually preened at the memory of kes scent, his strength, how he''d protected me. The golden threads in my mark pulsed like they were giving me a thumbs-up.

    Back in my bedroom, the evidence piled up-medal and pin carefully ced, ke''s scent everywhere. He''d been here, in my space, seeing my weapons, my trophies, and-kill me now-yesterday''s dirty clothes scattered across the floor.

    A mental poke tickled my brain. E. I dropped my barriers, letting her in.

    "Finally!" Her voice exploded in my head. "Been trying to reach you for friggin'' hours!""

    "Sorry," I sent back. "Last night was a total shitshow."

    "No kidding! Academy''s buzzing like kicked hormets Word is that Northern creep Maxwell dragged you, then ke went all apex predator and carried you off like his dinner."

    My heart skipped remembering his arms around me, solid chest against my cheek.

    "Prople say you were snuggling in his arms like a pup," E continued. "Someone even imed you showed him your neck. Tell me that''s bullshit!"

    "Of course 1-" I stopped cold, shes hitting me-head tilted back, throat exposed, ke''s eyes burning gold.

    10

    Chapter 33 Keep His Scent On You

    The details are furry." I admitted. "Maxwell gave me something to drink, then everything went sideways..."

    "And? Did ke actually take you to his ride?"

    "Yeah. And I think I made an absolute ass of myself. That drug killed every boundary I had."

    "How bad we talking?" Her excitement buzzed through our connection. "Please

    tell me you didn''t lick his chin. That''s basically wolf for let''s hook up."

    Heat rushed to my face. "God, no! But I might ve... gotten handsy...

    Silence, I could practically hear E''s jaw hitting the floor.

    "Handsy" she squeaked. "Like, feel-him-up handsy?"

    "My hands were definitely on his chest," I confessed, wanting to die. "Maybe trying for more."

    "Holy shit!" Her thoughts radiated shock mixed with admiration. "Then what?"

    "He stopped me. Someone mindlinked him his mom, I think? After that, I passed << d out and woke

    up

    here."

    Wait-the fucking Alpha King carried you to

    to bed himself?-

    I groaned. "Don I make it sound dirty! I woke up fully dressed with n boots still on, looking like roadkill."

    "Boring." E''s disappointment leaked through. "I wanted scandalous Alpha gossip."

    I banged my head lightly against the wall. "What am I gonna do

    do? I molested the Alpha King while high off my

    y ass."

    "Chill out," E''s thoughts softened "You were drap

    were drugged, not some creep. Besides, he personally brought you home instead

    of pawning you

    ou off on

    on some

    flunky. Think about it."

    "That he''s decent enough not to dump drugged women on the street?"

    ¡°That he doesn''t hate your guts, she insisted, Alphas are weird about their space.

    If he couldn''t stand you, no way he''d let your scent near his carriage, much less carry you home himself."

    I sighed. "Whatever. Total nightmare."

    E switched gears: "Hey, it''s our day off! Little terror Lucas doesn''t have lessons,

    right?"

    "Thank god, no.

    ke''s p

    got pack stuff today.

    den! Her excitement bubbled through ''Let''s hit the Trading Zone!"

    I scoffed. "With what money? Dad''s defense cleaned me out, remember?"

    "Who needs money?" she countered. "We just watch the Northern traders. They gossip worse than old Indies. Might catch something about your dad''s border

    That caught my attention. "Huh...¡±

    "Plus," she added slyly, ''word is some Northern representatives will be there. Remember those questions you never finished at Moonlight Lodge?"

    A spark of hope lit up. "You''re right... could be perfect for digging up dirt."

    "Its settled" E cheered. "I''ll grab you in an hour. Look decent but not try hard- we''ll be mixing with the fancy wolves,"

    Despite everything, I smiled. Fine. Let me shower this drug stink off first."

    "Definitely scrubs up," the agreed, "though a hint of Alpha King smell might

    1 keep th

    the grabby wolves away.

    Tilt I snorted, unable to helpughing

    Her amusement faded as she disconnected.

    33. Keep His Scent On You

    elf up, feeling oddly lighten. Yeah, I''d embarrassed myself epically, but maybe this

    trip would turn up something useful for Dad.

    That shown

    wash off an Alpha King ? scent-even if my wolf sulked about it the whole time...

    Chapter Comments

 Chapter 34

    Chapter 34: Girls Day Out

    Ava''s POV

    I rushed to adjust my simple warrior training gear in the mirror, the mark on my neck radiating warmth beneath my cor. I carefully made sure the silver- and gold interwoven pattern stayedpletely hidden-no need for unwanted attention. E''s familiar whistle drifted through the window, signaling her arrival. 1 stuffed the Honor medal into my pocket, making sure I had my wallet-though it contained next to nothing.

    Before leaving. I gave a reassuring pat to the small dagger tucked into my boot. In this world, a wolf warrior never goes anywherepletely defenseless.

    "Coming!" I called out, casting onest nce at my foster mother Sarah''s firmly closed door with a sigh. She''d barely left that rooms since William was taken.

    E leaned against a pine tree outside, dressed in casual warrior clothes with definitely a few weapons stashed in her hidden pockets. Her face broke into bright smile when she saw me.

    "Ready to hunt for treasures and trouble?" she asked, high-fiving me in greeting. "Northern tribe merchants are swarming the Trading Zone today. Perfect timing."

    We followed the forest path toward the trading area, trees casting dappled shadows in the sunshine. The air smelled of pine resin and wildflowers, a temporary escape from our troubles

    ¡°How''s Sarah holding up?¡± E asked carefully, jumping over a fallen log across the path.

    I bit my lip and shook my head. "She''s fading a little more each day. Barely cats, won''t leave her room. It''s like watching someone slowly disappear."

    "The mate bond is brutal when broken," E said softly, her voice respectful and sympathetic.

    I nodded to confirm. "Yes. I don''t me her for being miserable. I just wish there was something I could do to help. Fated mates being forcibly separated... that kind of pain is unimaginable to regr wolves."

    E squeezed my arm in sympathy. "We''ll find a way to help both of them. Today might bring answers. These Northern merchants gossip like old women over Tea- someone knows something useful.

    As we crossed an open stretch, the Trading Zone entrance marker came into view-a massive wooden arch carved with the totems of all the major packs, marking this as neutral territory. Two guards with neutral badges stood at the entrance, checking everyone''s pack identification.

    We presented our Shadow Creek tribal passes, and the guards nodded us through. Inside, the trading area buzzed with activity, stalls disying goods from different packs-rare herbs from the North, exquisite weapons from the West, mysterious rune stones from the South, and delicate crafts from the East,

    "So what''s our actual target here?" I asked, scanning the bustling marketce, instinctively noting possible escape routes and hiding spots.

    E''s face lit up with excitement. "My sister Tiffany ising back next month for her birthday. She''s throwing one of her famous penthouse parties. I need a gift that won''t embarrass me in front of her fancy friends."

    "Tiffany''s still dominating the human modeling world?" I asked, remembering how E asionally mentioned her sessful sister.

    E nodded. "Queen of the runway. Multiple mansions, celebrity friends, the works, But she never misses full moon festival. Says the human world has nothing on Moonlight Lodge gatherings."

    I could hear theplex emotions in E''s voice-pride mixed with a hint of jealousy. Tiffany seemed to effortlessly get everything she wanted, leaving E both proud and somewhat lost in her shadow.

    "While we re here, we should find something decent for you to wear, E continued, pulling me toward a fabric stall. "You need toe with me to this party. Northern pack elders will be crawling all over the ce-perfect for digging up dirt on your dad''s case."

    I frowned, instinctively touching my nearly empty wallet. "Myst coins went to bribing that drunk Northern betast week. I''ve got nothing left for fancy

    E made an exaggerated pleading face, eyes wide. "Ava, this matters for both of us. Many Northern pack bigwigs will be there, and you need to look like a warrior with status if you want them to talk to you,"

    I shook my head, my tone firm. "I''d rather spend myst dor on silver bullets than party clothes. My priorities are clear-Dades first."

    We used several stalls when my attention was caught by a Northern merchant selling wolf herbs. Just as I was about to approach him to ask if he knew

    Chapter 34 Girls Day Out

    anything about the Northern border situation, E suddenly froze, her fingers digging into my arms, her gaze locked ahead.

    "Wolf shat," I followed her line of sight and my heart sank

    Sophia Morgan was walking out of a wolf-hide craft shop, carrying several elegantly wrapped packages. She wore simple but elegant casual clothes, her golden hair braided intricately, perfectly showcasing her Alpha family''s elegant bloodline. Sunlight seemed to give her an almost ethereal glow,

    "Ava, is that you?" She spotted us and her face lit up with a genuine smile, her voice gentle as a spring breeze.

    "Sophia," I greeted, trying to keep my voice steady while my woll''s ears perked up in alertness. ¡°I didn''t expect to see you here."

    "Oh, I''m just picking up some things for the uing wedding," she disyed her shopping bags traditional elements. Jackson thinks we should honor both packs traditions."

    s with undisguised joy in her voice. "Incorporating some

    At the mention of Jackson''s name, my mark stung slightly, that familiar sense of betrayal washing over me again. I adjusted my cor instinctively, making sure the mark stayedpletely covered.

    Sophia''s gaze shifted to E, curiosity and friendliness in her eyes. "And who is this? Have we met before?"

    I felt myself growing inexplicably protective, somehow worried that Sophia might take an interest in E, just as Jackson had "taken" everything that was once mine. The protective instinct was almost primal, though rationally I knew it was absurd.

    "This is

    is my best friend, E West, I introduced briefly, my tone carrying a hint of defensiveness.

    Sophia extended her hand gracefully. "Pleased to meet y Hayes."

    you, E. I''m Sophia Morgan, daughter of ke Morgan, Alpha of Silverpeak, and fianc¨¦e to-Jackson

    E hesitated before taking her hand, and I could feel her entire body tensing, her scent broadcasting difort and wariness. "Charmed, I''m sure," her tone as brittle as thin ice.

    Sophia either didn''t notice (or chose to ignore) E''s difort. "What brings you two here? Catching the Northern trading day?"

    I nced at Ells, who shrugged slightly, her eyes wary, as if saying "this is your mess, you handle it."

    "We''re just browsing the t

    trading area." I answered, keeping my tone neutral, revealing nothing of our true purpose.

    E added, ¡°Sort of a girls'' day out." Her tone remained guarded, afraid of revealing our real intentions.

    Something shed in Sophia''s eyes that I couldn''t quite interpret-longing? Envy? Loneliness? Her scent suddenly became moreplex.

    Chapter Comments

 Chapter 35

    Chapter 35: Challenging the Guards

    Ava''s POV

    "Girls day out..." she repeated thoughtfully, her voice growing softer, "That sounds nice. I''ve never had anything like that. I guess I''ve never really had true friends to do that kind of thing with. Being an Alpha''s daughter, my social circle has always been... specific."

    1 couldn''t help raising an eyebrow, finding it hard to believe this Silverpeak princess had never had friends, considering she was Sophia Morgan, possessing everything I had once yearned for-status, wealth, family, even the man I''d once thought destined to be mine.

    "You''ve never had friends?" E asked directly what I was thinking, skepticism evident in her tone.

    Sophia shrugged casually, but a sh of sadness crossed her face, the pain looking so genuine that I almost believed her. "Not real ones, no. People see the Alpha''s daughter, not me. They want connections, favors, power... nobody sees just Sophia."

    She bit her lip, looking down at the ground, suddenly appearing vulnerable, like any lonely girl craving genuine connection. That moment of vulnerability surprised me. An Alpha''s daughter, future Luna of a powerful pack, showing such a lonely expression.

    I looked at E again, who shook her head almost imperceptibly-clearly unwilling to spend time with Jackson''s fianc¨¦e. I understood her concerns; after all, Sophia represented everything that had taken my life away. Besides, we were here on a mission, not to make friends

    I grabbed E''s arm and turned back to Sophia, trying to sound polite but firm: "It was nice seeing you, Sophia, but we have some things to take care of, so we should get going."

    "Oh." Sophia''s voice carried obvious disappointment, her expression momentarily dimming. "Of course. Everyone always has somewhere more important to br. Maybe... see you around sometime?"

    1 nodded acknowledgment without making any promises and quickly pulled E away. Though I didn''t look back, I could feel Sophia''s gaze following us like an invisible dagger in my back

    That was painfully awkward," E muttered when we entered an herb shop, sarcasmcing her voice. Poor little princess in her golden tower, so alone with ell her money, power, and your ex-mate. My heart bleeds."

    "I know, right?" I responded shortly, but inwardly I wasn''t as certain. That moment

    of vulnerability had looked incredibly genuine, almost making me empathize¡ªafter all, I knew what loneliness felt like. But regardless, Sophia Morgan wasn''t my friend; she was Jackson''s fianc¨¦e, representing opposing

    forces.

    We spent the entire afternoon browsing the trading area, trying to forget the mkward encounter. E shopped for her sister''s birthday gift, constantlyparing prices and quality across various stalls before finally settling on a silver amulet iid with a ruby, engraved with Tiffany''s name and the pack protection spell. The shopkeeper engraved her name on the spot, the ruby glinting in the sunlight like a drop of crystallized blood.

    "Thanks for not ditching

    and reassuring.

    g me for the princess," E said as she walked me home that evening, hugging me goodbye at my door, her body warmthforting

    "As if I''d ever," I replied, feeling tired but grateful. "Friends since pup training, remember? That''s forever in my book."

    She smiled as she released me, friendship shining in her eyes. "Hit me up afterbat ss tomorrow? We could try those new throwing techniques Tyler was showing the Betas."

    "I''m in," I nodded, watching her leave before turning to enter my dark, quiet house.

    Since Dad was taken away, the house had be unnaturally silent, like a tomb awaiting a storm. I checked on Sarah, gently knocking before entering her room. Shey on the bed, staring vacantly at the ceiling, barely registering my presence.

    "Hey, Mom," I called softly, sitting on the edge of the bed. "I brought those berry tarts you used to love. Maybe try a few bites?"

    She just shook her head slightly, not even looking at me. This had gone on too long: if she was still like this tomorrow, I might need to call a doctor for a home visit. She couldn''t continue like this-she was growing thinner by the day, and I felt powerless.

    After dinner, E contacted me through our mindlink, her voice echoing in my head,

    "Ive been thinking about Sarah. What if you went straight to the source? Your dad probably knows how to reach her through their bond, even sep

    even separated."

    It was a good idea, though I wasn''t sure if I was ready to face the reality of his imprisonment. Thest time I tried to visit, the guards wouldn''t even let me through the door, citing "special instructions. But that was before I earned my Honor medal. Things were different now.

    sapter 35 Challenging the Guards

    The next day after school, I decided to try again. Whatever happened, I needed to do something for Sarah. So I went directly to the Shadow Creek prison, that ancient stone building at the edge of the pack territory, surrounded by silver grass to suppress werewolf abilities.

    "ess denied, Rivers, a guard at the prison''s front entrance said, arms crossed over his chest, expression hard as granite.

    I frowned, looking at him in confusion. I''m here to see my father during standard visiting hours. What''s the problem?"

    The guard''s brow furrowed deeper as he looked at his clipboard, then shook his head, his expression resolute.

    "Direct orders from above. No contact between William Rivers and his daughter. Don''t make me say it twice, kid.

    I clenched my jaw and pulled out my Honor medal, letting it gleam in the sunlight. "This medal grants me ess to all pack facilities, including prison visiting atras, Check your rule book, guard. Or should I quote section twelve for you?" The guard clearly recognized the medal but still shook his head. Tules change when Alphas say they do. Medal or not, you''re not getting through these

    I was about to protest when another voice rang out from behind me, clear and authoritative.

    By whose authority are you

    are you blocking an Honor Medal holder? I''d love to know which Alpha thinks they can override the sacred traditions of our people.

    I turned around, surprised to see Sophia standing there, arms scrossed over her chest, her expression fierce. Her golden hair shimmered in the afternoon sun, the natural authority of an Alpha family radiating from her.

    "Tell me, guard, does a daughter not have the right to see her father? Or has Shadow Creek abandoned even the most basic wolf principles?" she dechanded, her voice cutting through the air like a steel de.

    Chapter

    Vader

    Definitely like Sophia more as a friend than I do E. Sophia ispletely in the dark about what''s going on so she can''t be held ountable for it

    Vw 1 Commenti

 Chapter 36

    Chapter 36: How''s the Air Out East?

    "M-Miss Morgan," the guard stammered, chin dropping like he''d been smacked, "What brings you here?"

    "Save Ava looking it from Moonlight Lodge and got curious," Sophia said, voire carrying that can''t-touch-this confidence only Alpha blood could give. "Mind exining why she can''t see her own father with the full moon breathing down our necks?"

    I froze, huair short-circuiting at Sophia''s surprise appearance and even more at her jumping in to help me. Jackson, that snake, must have greased some palms to keep me out.

    The guard''s reaction said it all-Sophia''s word might as well have been carved in stone. With her rocking that Silverpeak Alpha''s daughter status and being engiged to Shadow Creek''s next Alpha, crossing her would be career suicide.

    Sweat beaded on the guard''s forehead as his eyes pinballed between us. "Didn''t realize you two were tight," he said with a nervous chuckle. "Just a

    misunderstanding, Miss Rivers, you''re good to go."

    He practically leapt aside. I met Sophia''s gaze, those stormy gray blue eyes so much like kes, it was eerie. Words failed me, so I settled for a grateful nod before slipping past the guard.

    A silver badged escort led me to visitation-all coll metal and silver bars. I drummed my fingers on the table until the door creaked open and Dad shuffled

    "No touching," the guard barked. "Traitors don''t get perks."

    Myeback died when I got a good look at Dad. His face was a road map of purple bruises and dried blood. Silver shackles had burned deep trenches into

    his wrists and neck.

    "Ava..." His voice sounded like tires on gravel. "You came."

    "Oh, Dad..." My eyes stung "Like I''d ever give up on you."

    He managed a crooked smile as he eased into the chair. Something broke inside me seeing him like this-the man who''d stood like a rock in council meetings, who''d taught me to fight and survive, now a battered shell of himself.

    "Thought I might never see you again, he whispered.

    "I trieding sooner

    He shook his head, concem flooding his eyes. This isn''t a ce you should be. A traitor''s mark doesn''t help your rep."

    Tears slid down my cheeks despite my best efforts. Damn it.

    "How''s Mom?" he asked, drugging me back to reality

    "Not good," I admitted. That''s mainly why I came. She barely eats, locks herself away all day. It''s like she''s vanishing, and I don''t know what to do."

    Pain shed across Dad''s face. I knew it killed him that he couldn''t reach Sarah through their connection, couldn''t be there when she needed him most. Fated mates weren''t built to be separated like this.

    Dad lifted his arms, disying silver restraints that had eaten into his flesh. I sucked in a breath,

    "They''re using this to block my mindlink with Sarah," he said, voice raw. "Fated mates aren''t wired to be cut off like this. Her wolf''s in agony, dragging her spirit down with it." He sighed. "Just be there for her. Remind her our love hasn''t changed."

    I nodded, swallowing hard. No way was I telling him Mom only wanted to talk about how Jackson was a "good Alpha" and I shouldn''t "waste my fated mate opportunity." Or that said mate was engaged to another woman for political gain. Or that I''d signed a Blood Oath with ke Morgan to save Dad''s skin. Talk about piling on the pain.

    "Love you, Dad," I managed, forcing a smile.

    "Love you too, little wolf," he answered, using my childhood nickname,

    He reached toward my hand on the table, but the guard stepped forward instantly.

    "No contact with the traitor. Final warning."

    Chapter 36 How''s the Air Out East?

    Dad settled back, shoulders slumping.

    "How''s the Air Out East?" he asked with a ghost of his old humor. Our code for asking about Warrior Academy.

    I bit my lip, head tilting-my thinking tell. God, I wanted to spill everything: my gig

    at ckwood Manor, ke defending me, my growing suspicions about Jackson.

    But any hint about who the real traitor might be could torpedo ke''s investigation, maybe even fast track Dad''s execution. Everyone here would report my words back to Jackson.

    "The air''s refreshing." I answered in code. "I''ve picked up a tutoring job, teachingbat to a... gifted young wolf" Carefully avoiding anything that might identify Lucas.

    Pride flickered in Dad''s eyes. "Teaching the young develops your wolf nature. Highest responsibility in our traditions. His voice was sandpaper-rough, but ryes sparked with meaning. "Some bloodline clues hide in ancient texts. Someone with ess would be key"

    I caught his drift immediately-other packs records might have evidence to clear his name.

    "Time''s up." the guard announced.

    "Tell Sarah 1 love her always, and we''ll be together again soon, Dad said, rising

    st

    g stiffly. "Sorry I can''t do more right now."

    Tears threatened again, but I locked them down tight. "I will. Stay strong. I''ll find a way?

    He nodded, trust written across his battered face, before the guards led him away.

    Another guard appeared, hand resting on his silver wolf-repellent gear like I might go full traitor any second. He hustled me out, practically shoving me toward the exit.

    The spring sunlight hit my face like a p after the prison''s darkness. I sucked in clean air, trying to flush the silver dust and fear from my lungs

    That''s when I spotted her-Sophia leaning against a gleaming Silverpeak vehicle, sunlight turning her hair into a golden crown. I froze, unsure how to deal with my ex''s fianc¨¦e after everything.

    Sophia looked up, her eyescking the contempt I''d expected, instead holding something like... understanding?

    "Let me give you a ride," she said, sincerity bleeding through her words. "You look like you could use a friend."

    My wolf paced nervously inside me, thrown by this unexpected kindness. I touched the mark on my neck, where silver and gold threads seemed to whisper something I couldn''t quite hear.

    For a second, I nearly asked why she was helping me, but something in her

    eyes-a genuine warmth that echoed ke''s-stopped me.

    Maybe, I thought, I wasn''t the only piece being moved in this power game. Maybe Sophia too was caught in a story she hadn''t chosen either.

    Chapter Comments

 Chapter 37

    Chapter 37: A Sudden Honesty Bomb

    Ava''s POV

    "Need a lift to ckwood Manor?" Sophia called out, leaning against a sleek carriage that screamed money. Sunlight caught her golden hair, giving her that perfect princess vibe that made my stomach knot.

    I blinked twice, definitely not expecting to see her here of all ces. "Yes, but-

    "I knew you were training Lucas today," she cut in, tapping the carriage door. Thought you might want a ride instead of hoofing it through the woods. We could catch up,"

    My fingers brushed the mark on my neck before I could stop them. It tingled-not quite pain, not quite pleasure. The thought of being trapped in a fancy box with Jackson''s fianc¨¦e made my skin crawl, but I didn''t have the heart to be cold to her. Whatever was happening betweenckson and me wasn''t her fault, and starting drama with the Alpha''s daughter seemed like a spectacrly had idea.

    "Thanks," I managed, the word sticking in my throat like a half-swallowed pill. "Been a day already."

    The carriage was next-level bougle-butter-soft leather seats with actual silver wolf head designs pressed into them. Fresh flowers sat in the corner, scent strategically masking the subtle markers most wolves could pick up on. Nothing left to chance in Alphand.

    Sophia caught me eyeing the over the top interior and actually winced. "Dad''s thing, not mine. He says image matters or whatever."

    their

    As the wheels started rolling, she drummed her fingers on her knee. "So Lucas hasn''t scared you off yet? You''re officially the record holder. Last teacher literally forfeited a whole season''s pay just to escape."

    "He''s just a kid with too much power in a too-small body." I said, watching the trees blur past. "Everyone expects him to be mini-ke, but nobody actually sees him. ke''s drowning in Alpha crap, you''re nning your big day... kid''s basically raising himself,"

    Something flickered across Sophia''s face-guilt, maybe. She tugged at a loose thread on her sleeve. "Yeah, I''ve been pretty useless in the big sister

    he big departmenttely. It''s weird though-since Jackson and I got engaged, my wolf goes nuts when he''s not around. Like, physical pain level attachment, Never felt anything like it."

    "Your woll?" My voice went sharp enough to cut ss.

    "Mmhmm." Her eyes went all dreamy, which was exactly what I didn''t need to see. "We both know he''s not my fated mate or anything. No destiny marks or whatever. But Jackson''s just so... focused. My wolf practically rolls over whenever he walks in the room. Like he''s exactly what we need,"

    I twisted toward the window, jaw clenched tight enough to crack nuts. My fingers found the mark again, tracing the weird gold threads that had been spreading through Jackson''s silver im. The universe''s idea of a practical joke-carrying the physical ache for someone else''s man.

    "You ever been in love, Ava? Like, the real deal?" Sophia asked, watching me with those stormy gray-blue eyes that reminded me too much of her father.

    "Thought I was," I muttered, focusing on a passing oak tree e like it held the secrets of the universe. "Turns out power and status beat destiny for some people."

    The carriage rolled through a checkpoint where guards practically folded themselves in half bowing to Sophia while giving me the stink eye. Traitor''s kid. Walking reject. Just another Tuesday.

    "Their loss, Sophia said, her voice suddenly missing its usual polish. "You''ve got something most people would kill for, Ava. Not just the fighting skills. Lucas wouldn''t shut up about you for three whole days after your first lesson."

    When the carriage finally stopped at ckwood''s entrance, I nearly face-nted in my rush to escape. "Thanks for the ride. Wouldn''t want to keep you-"

    "I''ve literally got nothing else today," she admitted, picking at her perfectly manicured nails. Jackson''s doing pack stuff. Funny how being the Alpha''s daughter means I''m surrounded by people but nobody''s actually there, you know?"

    I had no clue how to handle this

    sudden honesty bomb, so I just nodded and bailed toward the house before things got even weirder.

    Wilson was hovering by the door like a bad smell, back straight enough to use as a ruler. "Miss Rivers. Early today." Three words carrying seventeenyers of disupproval.

    Ever since ke shut him down in front of Luces, Wilson had been watching me like I might sprout a second head and eat the silverware. Our silent war continued with every perfectly clipped sentence.

    Chapter 37: A Sudden Honesty Bomb

    "Where''s Lucas?" I asked, not bothering with the social niceties neither of us meant.

    "Back training yard," he replied, nostrils ring slightly. ¡°Alpha King has requested he pass basic warrior testing next week. Quite the challenge for one so.....

    I brushed past him, the implied criticisms bouncing off my back like a dull arrow.

    Hunter spotted me first, the massive wolf dog''s head priking up, golden eyes brightening. Lucas was iling at a training dummy with a wooden tened, all power and zero finesse, like watching someone try to kill a fly with a baseball bat.

    "You''re strangling that sword,¡± I called out, making him jump: ¡°It''s a weapon, not a hostage. Lotsen up."

    "Ava!" His face lit up like I''d brought Christmas in July. These moves are so boring. Can''t you teach me something cool? Like w fighting or mind control

    ster this boring stuff

    "Basics first, badasster, I cut in, stepping over to fix his stance, Hes feet were all wrong, his bnce shot to hell. Your dad had to master Too. Alpha blood doesnt mean skipping the hard parts.

    The kid was a sponge-soaked up three defensive stances in an hour t, progress that would take most kids a week. When he really locked in, his eyes would sh gold for a split second-the Morgan bloodline power simmering just under the surface. The reason ke pared the floor at night,

    "Not bad for a shorty," I said, ruffling

    g his h

    i hair. "Let''s see how you handle the real deal. Remember-defense first. No hero moves."

    With each passing minute, Lucas sank deeper into the flow. His movements quickened, his eyes shed gold more often, and I could practically feel the Alpha energy trackling around him like static before a storm.

    "Dial it back a notch, I warned softly, spotting his fingernails starting to lengthen. "You control the wolf, not the other way around. Alpha 101-

    He blocked my strike perfectly and bounced on his toes like he''d just won the lottery, "I did it he shouted, pumping his fist in the air.

    That''s when it happened his excitement sent his partial shift into overdrive. His eyes locked into full wolf gold, no more flickers.

    Shif

    His fingertips morphed before my eyes, nails extending into re-sharp wn. O twice his age.

    On a seven-year-old. The kind of shift that shouldn''t be possible for someone "Lucas, breathe," I dropped my training sword, reaching for his shoulders. Remember the center point. Find

    But he was riding the high of sess, lost in the moment, his body responding to emotions his mind couldn''t yet control.

    He spun around, wanting to show me his new stancepletely oblivious to the lethal weapons his fingers had be.

    White-hot pain scared across my back as his ws connected, slicing through mybat gear like it was tissue paper. I hit back a scream as warm blood trickled down my spine, my suit hanging open from shoulder to hip, skin exposed to the cool ain

    Chapter Comments

    Why are we in carriage days? Earlier ke said his car but the book repeatedly refers to riding in carriages.

    The rich use carriages for transport, but in chapter 2 page 6 Jackson (not yet an Alpha) arrived at Ava''s house with his ck SUV...

 Chapter 38

    Chapter 38: Need to Get That Top Off

    "Lucas! Put those ws away! This isn''t the wild on a full moon night!"

    Sophia''s voice cracked through the air like a whip. I froze mid-stance, suddenly aware we had an audience. She stood on the stone steps at the edge of the training grounds, bait catching the afternoon sun. How long had she been watching us?

    Lucas''s face went ghost white, the golden wolf glow instantly snuffed out. His ws slid back with that soft shik sound as pure terror crawled across his face. "Awa..." his voice shrank in almost nothing. My wolf wouldn''t listen. It just came out. His eyes went ssy with tears he was fighting like hell not to shed.

    through mybat gear like wet paper. But looking at this kid-this terrified little boy trapped in a body that could kill-1 couldn''t bring myself to make it worse.

    Tie bloomed across my back where his ws had to

    1 dropped to his level, pushing past the bum. "Hey, every wolf cub screws up while learning the ropes. Your juice is stronger than most, so the control part''s

    "Dad s gonna kill me... His voice bottomed out, real fear shing in those stormy eyes.

    I ruffled his hair. "Your dad definitely lost his shit before he was ten. There''s not an Alpha in history who hasn''t wed something they shouldn''t have."

    Hope flickered across his face. "For real? You won''t tell him 1 wigged out again?¡±

    Warriors secret." I squeered his shoulder, fighting to keep my face neutral despite the warm trickle down my spine. "Now go get Hunter and wash off that training funk. Real warriors know when to chill too."

    Lucas swiped at his face, shoulders straightening a bit. "Thanks for not freaking, Awa. He took off toward the house, Hunter padding after him with onest golden-eyed nce my way.

    I stood carefully, teeth gritted against the fresh wave of pain that sliced through

    me.

    Sophia crossed the yard, silver cloth in hand. "Your blood''s gonna draw every stray wolf within miles. She held out the fabric. "This''ll mask some of it, at

    I took it, eyeing her warily. "Didn''t peg the Alpha''s daughter for a training session stalker."

    She tilted her head, those silver-blue eyes-so like her father''s-catching the light. "Lucas hasn''t shut up about you for days. Had to see who actually got my little tornado to focus for more than five minutes."

    I gathered my gear

    everyone expects"

    ir one-handed, keeping pressure on

    sure on my wound with the other. "He''s a good kid. Just needs someone to actually see him, not the mini-Alpha

    Something like guilt shed across her face. Few years back, I was with him constantly. Now..." She sighed. "Wedding stuff eats up everything. Sometimes

    My mark twinged at her words, but I kept my poker face. "Lucas doesn''t need 24/7. Five quality minutes beats hours of half-assed attention.¡±

    Sophia studied me, head slightly corked. "You''re really not what I expected, Ava Rivers."

    I shouldried my bag, feeling blood soaking through my suit. "Better jet. This marked blood''s gonna be a ma for trouble."

    Her eyes dropped to my back, widening, "Holy shit! Are his ws that sharp already?" She grabbed my arm. "I''ve got herbs for that. Without t

    treatment, you''ll be sporting some nasty permanent souvenirs."

    tried pulling forg. Tvr patched up worse back in Shadow Cjerk. Nothing some bootleg meds can''t fix."

    Sophia''s grip stayed form. "This isn''t some regr scratch. Morgan blood ws need special treatment. If you lose fighting juice because my brother sliced you up, my father''s gonna have question."

    DATE ME.

    wave of dizziness crashed overt

    Sophia guided me through

    the wound apparently deeper than I''d thought. ¡°Tine. Make it quick. Gotta check on my moms tonight."

    manor hack entrance, avoiding the main hallways. "Dad''s stuck in elder council meetings all day. Wilson''s riding herd on

    Chapter 38 Need to Get That Top Off

    As we climbed toward the family wing, my stomach knotted. This is family turf. I shouldn''t be up here."

    Sophiaughed, soft but genuine. "I don''t need a permission slip to bring whoever I want. Ava. Morgan blood has its perks."

    When we passed a massive door carved with running silver wolves, my mark jumped like itd been rapped. Sophia caught

    "His energy affects other wolves, especially wounded ones.

    "Dads room," she exined. "H

    We finally reached a door decorated with intricate moon patterns. "Mi casa." Sophia said, pushing it open. "No one gets in without an invite"

    The second I stepped inside, Jackson''s scent sucker-punched me, tangled up with Sophia''s in a way that made my mark re hot and angry. The room screamed Silverpeak royalty-tapestries showing the Moon Goddess, silver-blue everything, and books scattered across a thick carpet. Wedding samples and tribal ceremony papers covered her desk.

    My eyes snagged on a photo-Jackson and Sophia by Moonlight Falls, looking picture-perfect. My mark burned like someone had pressed a hot coin to m

    skin.

    Sophia pulled an ancient wooden box from her closet. "Family healing herbs. Perfect for wolf blood infections.

    The box opened, releasing a scent that partially drowned out Jacksons, giving me

    a second to breathe.

    You really don''t have to y nurse." I said, backing toward the d door. "I can patch myself up."

    n''t leave this ce dripping-Dad would notice in a heartbeat"

    "Don''t be stupid," she insisted. "Lucas did this, so I''m helping gfix it. Plus, you

    can''t

    She rummaged around, producing herbs and a deep blue shirt with silver embroidery.

    "My pants are fine. Just need something thats not shed to hell."

    This I make you look like a normal visitor instead of a wounded warrior sneaking

    out," she countered. "Dad''s big on appearances."

    "Got anything less... princess?

    She held it up against me. Just try it. You''d kill in this blue."

    I gave in, the throbbing in my back sapping my will to argue. Hated admitting it was gorgeous fabric-and hated even more that I was starting to like Sophia

    "III grab bandages," she said, slipping out.

    Alone in her room, Jackson''s scent pressed in from all sides, making my mark throb like a bad tooth. A photo of them together sat on her nightstand like a cruel reminder

    Sophia returned with bandages and mixed herbs into green paste. Turn around. Need to see what we''re dealing with."

    I hesitated. "I got this. Just tell me how."

    She raised an eyebrow. "nning to grow eyes in the back of your head? Don''t sweat it, I did medical training."

    Reluctantly, I turned, easing up my shredded top.

    She sucked in a breath. "Three full Alpha w marks... Lucas is developing way

    too f fast. Her fingers ghosted near the wound. Already hot. Not good."

    I but my lip. "Just scratches. Been through worse."

    Regr wolf marks are nothing like Alpha bloodline damage," she countered. These literally eat your healing mojo. We need to jump on this now.

    She coated her hands with the mixture. This II sting like a bitch, but it kills the infection. Deep breath."

    fire

    the herba hit open flesh, it felt like someone had poured liquid fire down my back.

    I hat my lip hard enough to taste copper.

    wrning faded to weird numbness.

    Need to get that top offpletely," Sophia said, rying the ruined fabric. Il lend

    you something"

 Chapter 39

    Chapter 39: Forbidden Territory

    ke''s POV

    I massaged my temples as the council chamber door finally closed behind me. Six hours of circr arguments had left me with a splitting headache and exactly zero solutions. Every elder had pitched their opinion like it was gospel, while my mother Victoria had somehow worked my love life into every other Topic

    "ke needs a Luna by his side during these negotiations."

    "A united front with a

    ha proper mate would strengthen our position."

    "Amber has excellent bloodlines and healing skills.¡±

    When I finally escaped, the evening air hit my face like sweet mercy

    Tyler waited at ckwood Manor''s entrance, leaning against the stone column with deceptive casualness. His eyes never stopped scanning, even here in the heart of our territory. That constant vignce was exactly why I''d made him my Beta and why I trusted him with my life.

    "From your face, I''d say the old wolves were in rare form today," he said, straightening up.

    "Six hours of my life I''ll never get back, I muttered.

    He tossed me a small velvet box. "At least something went right. Jeweler finished early."

    The box felt reassuringly heavy in my palm. I cracked it open to reveal the family sapphire ne, newly reset with diamonds that caught the light. The central stone-deep blue and wless-had graced the necks of brides in our family for generations.

    ¡°Perfect,¡± I said, snapping it shut. "Sophia will be pleased." "Your mother

    will approve, Tyler remarked. "At least about this tradition.

    His eyes flickered with something knowing, studying my face a beat too long. "Rough meeting?"

    "Victoria''s still pushing Amber at every turn." I rolled my shoulder, trying to release the tension. "Seven years since Elizabeth, and suddenly I need a

    recement yesterday,"

    Tyler''s mouth quirked. "Maybe fate has other ns."

    I shot him a look. He''d been making crypticments ever since the night I''d brought Ava home from the Academy. Like he knew something I didn''t.

    "Get some rest," I said, cutting off that line of discussion. ''Border patrol at dawn."

    He nodded and slipped away as I pushed through the heavy oak doors. The manor seemed unusbelly quiet for this time of evening. I figured Sophia was probably out with Jackson-those two had been practically inseparable since the engagement. I''d just leave the ne in her room with a note and be done with

    it.

    1 headed for the stairs, taking them two at a time. She needed to see it before her dress fitting tomorrow.

    As I approached her room, an unexpected scent stopped me cold. Wildflowers and steel, mixed with the sharp tang of blood. I knew that scent instantly-had dreamed about it more than I cared to admit.

    Awa Rivers. In Sophia''s room. Bleeding.

    I pushed the door open without knocking-mistake number one.

    The scent hit me like a physical blow, a hundred times stronger inside. But it was the sight that knocked the air from my lungs. Ava stood with her back to me, half- naked, herbat gear in tatters around her feet. Three angry w marks raked across her back from shoulder to hip, the edges already inmed

    Not ordinary w marks-Alpha w marks. My blood ran cold. Lucas.

    She spun at the sound of the door, green eyes ring wide, For one suspended moment, neither of us moved. My gaze betrayed me, dropping to her exposed breasts, full and firm against her warrior''s frame.

    My wolf surged forward, howling with such forte I nearly staggered.

    ID!

    Chapter 39. Forbidden Territory

    She grabbed for a shirt on the bed, holding it against her chest. "Jesus! Don''t you knock?"

    "What the hell are you doing in my daughter''s room?" I asked, voice rougher than I intended.

    Her chin lifted, defiance shing despite her vulnerable position. "Do Alphas always barge into rooms like they own them?" A pause. "Wait. I guess you da

    own this one."

    The bathroom door opened before I could respond. Sophia emerged carrying a bowl of green paste, freezing when she saw me.

    "Dad!" Her eyes darted between us. "What are you doing home so early?"

    "I could ask why Ava is half-naked in your bedroom." The words came out harsher than I intended, my control slipping with each breath of her blood-ting

    scent.

    Sophia''s eyes narrowed. "Lucas lost control during training. His ws came out- Alpha ws-and Ava needed immediate treatment. She held up the bowl "Morgan w wounds need special herbs or they li fester. 1 brought her here to help."

    My eyes locked on those three angry lines marring Ava''s skin. My son had done this-his untrained Alpha nature breaking through too early. Anger warred with

    concer

    "You should have reported this immediately," I said, struggling to keep my voice level.

    "She did nothing wrong, Sophia cut in, stepping

    ping between us protectively. "I brought her up here.

    "Alpha," Ava''s voice was steady despite everything. "He''s seven. It was an

    ident. I''ve had worse in training,

    I could smell the pain she was hiding, see it in the tight line of her jaw. My wolf whined, wanting to soothe rather than challenge.

    "Our agreement was clear," 1 said, falling back on formality when emotions threatened to overwhelm me. "Second floor is off-limits."

    Regret hit me the moment the words left my mouth. Sophia''s face flushed with anger,

    "Are you serious right now?" she demanded. "She''s bleeding because of Lucas, and you''re worried about territory vitions?"

    Ava''s expression shuttered, all emotion wiped clean. "My mistake, Alpha King. II leave immediately."

    She started to pull on Sophia''s borrowed shirt, moving stiffly. My eyes followed the curve of her spine, the subtle shift of muscle beneath skin. I found myself suddenly, intensely aware of her in ways that had nothing to do with Alpha authority and everything to do with the man beneath the title.

    "Wait." I pulled out the velvet box, suddenly desperate to change the subject. "This is for your wedding. Sophia. The sapphire ne-I had it reset with diamonds to match your ceremony colors."

    Sophia''s anger melted as she opened the box, gasping at the contents. The family sapphire! Dad, it''s stunning!" She turned to Ava, momentarily forgetting the tension. "This has been in our family forever. Each bride wears it on her wedding day."

    Something Nickered in Ava''s eyes-gone before I could identify it

    "Il mindlink Jackson," Sophia said, excitement bubbling through her irritation with me. ¡°He''s been asking what jewelry I''d wear." She nced at Ava. "Keep those clothes. That blue suits you."

    Sophia moved to her bed, closing her eyes to establish the mindlink, leaving Ava and me in ufortable silence.

    ¡°I should go,¡± she said quietly, fully dressed now in Sophia''s deep blue top.

    I stepped aside to let her pass through the doorway. The narrow space meant she had to brush past me, her scent washing over me in a dizzying wave. Our eyes met briefly, and something electric passed between us-something that made my wolf strain toward her like apass finding north.

    I trailed her downstairs, keeping a cautious distance, but my eyes betrayed nie, locked on her every move. Sophia''s clothes reshaped her, smoothing the hard edges of a warrior into something softer, yet sinfully enticing-each sway of her hips entuating curves herbat gear had hidden. My mind spiraled into forbidden territory, consumed by the thought of those curves molded against me, her heated skin yielding under my hungry hands, my teeth grazing the pulsing mark on her neck, tasting the shiver of her surrender as desire wed through my restraint...

 Chapter 40

    Chapter 40: All Bark, Inner Softness

    ke POV

    did.

    I leaned against the stair railing, my eyes glued to Awa as she headed for the door. Sophia''s blue top hugged her body in ways herbat gear never di highlighting curves I''d been trying not to notice. My wolf didn''t share my reservations, practically drooling at the sight.

    Jesus, pull yourself together.

    Moonlight caught her as she crossed the hall, turning her into a silver-edged silhouette that kicked my memory into overdrive. The carriage ride. Her hands, exploring my chest. Her mouth hot against my neck. Back then she had drugs as an excuse-what the hell was mine?

    Five more steps and she''d be gone. Problem solved. Life returns to normal. My rational side knew this was the right y, but my wolf had other ideas, throwing a full-blown tantram at the thought of her walking away.

    "Ava." My voice came out like gravel over ss. ¡°Stop.¡±

    I hadn''t meant to use the Alphamand, but it slipped out anyway. She froze mid-stride, her body going rigid. The mark on her neck lit up with that strange golden glow the moment I got closer, like it knew something she didn''t,

    When she turned, those green eyes shed with a challenge that hit me harder than any submission ever could

    "Need something else?" No sir" or "Alpha'' tacked on. Just Ava being Ava.

    I took thest few stairs, closing in until her scent hit me in waves-wildflowers after rain, steel, fresh blood, and a trace of Sophia''s perfume. The mix went straight to my head like good whiskey.

    "Those w marks need proper treatment." I fought to keep my voice level. "Alpha wounds don''t heal like regr scratches. They eat away at your healing magic. You''ll be feverish before you hit the main road."

    She tipped her chin up, that tiny rebellion making my wolf pace faster. Tve patched up worse with less."

    I stepped closer, catching how her breath hitched. That borrowed top showed off curves her usual gear concealed, her chest rising and falling in a rhythm that made focusing on words nearly impossible.

    "Not asking." I let my Alpha energy seep into my tone. "As your boss and the guy whose kid sliced you open, I''m telling you to stay and get fixed up."

    Something fierce shed in her eyes when a voice cut through our standoff

    "Ava! You''re leaving?"

    Lucas barreled in from the gardens with Hunter trotting behind. My son''s face went from excited to deer-in-headlights when he spotted me. His eyes darted between us, taking in Ava''s new clothes, putting the pieces together.

    "You ratted me out?" Has voice crocked, eyes getting ssy.

    Heat surged through me. "Lucas Morgan," I growled, the sound rumbling up from my chest, since when do we keep secrets from our Alpha?"

    My son''s shoulders hunched as he stared at the floor. Before I could reallyy into him, Ava did the unthinkable-she physically stepped between us, cing herself as a barrier protecting my son from me.

    "Don''t me him," she said, calm but unmovable. "My training methods screwed up. I didn''t see his emotions spiking before the wse out. That''s on

    I couldn''t believe what I was seeing. Nobody gets between an Alpha and his kid

    it''s pack low written in blood. Yet here stood this Shadow Creek with her tejection mark, doing exactly that.

    As future Alpha, he needs to learn=" I started.

    warrior

    "He a seven, ke." She cut me off, using my name like we were equals "Seven. With Alpha blood making him feel like he''s being ripped apart from the inside. He needs someone in his corner, not another lecture,"

    My woll should''ve been furious at the challenge, but instead it perked up, intrigued Watching her shield Lucas, I suddenly saw Elizabeth standing there instead my wife had done the same thing countless times, putting herself between my anger and little Sophia.

    Chapter 40 All Bark, Inner Softness

    While I was n

    processing this, Hunter-my sons wolf-dog-sidled up to Wa and pressed against her leg like they were old friends.

    "I''m sorry," Lucas whispered, chin quivering but voice strady. "I didn''t mean to, Aca. Im sorry, Dad."

    Her face softened as she ruffled his hair, a gesture so natural and warm that it made my chest ache. When was thest time it touched my son like that? I realized with a jolt that Ava might understand him in ways I''d failed to.

    Footsteps on the stairs broke the moment, Sophia descended, beaming like she''d just won the lottery.

    "Dad!" She practically skipped over. The ne is perfect! That sapphire looks even better with the new setting!"

    I nodded, forcing my attention away in

    "Jackson''s over

    away from Ava. "Every Morgan bride wears it."

    s over the moon about it," she gushed. "Says it means you''re finally on board with us."

    Her words reminded me of myplicated feelings about this match. While Jackson as Shadow Creek fiature Alpha made him an ideal political choice, something about him left me unable to fully trust him. After all, he had betrayed Ava. I wasn''t sure whether that was good or bad; still, Sophia had chosen him, and the alliance benefited both packs.

    "Dad?" Lucas tugged my sleeve. "Can Ava stay for dinner? Please?

    I looked from my son to Awa, who was nibbling her lower lip, clearly ufortable. That blue top clung to her in ways that made looking directly at her dangerous territory.

    "She probably has ns, Lucas," I said, my voice ruugher than intended.

    "But I need to show her my new takedown move!" He bounced on his toes. "And

    I hurt her. We should help fix it."

    That "we" caught me off guard. Lucas almost never included himself in family obligations. Now here he was, stepping up for someone else-showing the first flicker of the Alpha he might be.

    Sophia smiled warmly. "Stay, Ave. Wilson''s gone overboard with dinner anyway, and we still need to finish with those herbs for your back."

    Ava nced between them before her eyes locked with mine, asking a silent question. The air between us crackled with something neither of us was ready to "You have a choice," I said, offering her an out while my wolf practically begged her to stay.

    She met my gaze head-on, something unreadable flickering in those green depths. "If that''s the Alpha King''s wish....

    Lucas whooped and grabbed her hand. "You can sit by me! I found this awesome secret tunnel today-it goes all the way to the old oak!"

    Watching my son''s face light up, I felt something warm crack open in my chest. Maybe Aya Rivers wasn''t aplication to fight against. Maybe she was exactly what my broken little family needed.

    Chapter Comments

    Wisdor

    Some things are confusing. Earlier it was mentioned Elizabeth died giving birth to

    Lucas but this chapter he speaks of Elizabeth guarding their children from him I feel like the writer didn''t keep track of earlier parts in the book.

    06

 Chapter 41

    Ava''s POV

    id yes 1

    to dinner, ke snapped his fingers at Wilson, "Set a ce for our fourth guest. Right at my side."

    The second I said

    So much for having a choice. Where I''d sit apparently wasn''t up for debate.

    "Yes, Alpha King." Wilson howed so low I thought he might kiss the floor. When he straightened, his eyes caught mine-pure disapproval thinly masked behind servant neutrality.

    My fingers brushed the mark on my neck, the damn thing warming up like a hot penny whenever ke got within ten feet. This dinner ambush wasn''t exactly on my to-do list, but Lucas had turned those poppy-dog eyes on me, and-well, shit. Here I was.

    ''She''s staying! For real!" Lucas bounced like he''d mainlined sugar, grinning so hard it looked painful. "This is gonna be awesome!"

    ke watched him, face locked down tighter than a silver vault. Just another Tuesday in Alphand,

    Finally someone interesting at our dreary table. Sophia hip-checked her brother yfully. "Come on, squirt. Let''s go terrorize

    e the for extra food."

    hen st

    Lucas tore off down the hall with Hunter hot on his heels. Sophia followed with that effortless grace, leaving me alone with the human cier.

    The silence stretched between us like taffy, thick and ufortable. I suddenly found my boots fascinating.

    "Miss Rivers." His voice cut through the quiet.

    I looked up to find those storm gray eyes nailing me to the spot. Predator eyes.

    "That seat is reserved for guests of honor," he said tly.

    "I''m just Lucas''sbat coach." I Fidgeted with my cor. "Not exactly royal material."

    ke stepped closer, and the air instantly went thick with Alpha energy, making my knews waver. "In my house, I decide who deserves respect."

    My mark red hot, gold threads pulsing under my skin. My wolf wanted to roll over and show throat. I told it to shut up.

    "You''ve done more for my son than anyone, be continued, voice cool and even "That earns you a ce."

    I stood there blinking, caught off-guard. "Just doing what you''re paying me for."

    His eyes narrowed slightly. "No. You''re not.

    Something in his tone sent my pulse skittering. Not exactly praise, but... recognition?

    My heart hammered against my ribs. Why did he affect me like this? What sick cosmic joke made my mate-rejection mark respond to this man?

    "Don I overthink dinner," ke said, eyes still locked on mine. Lucas wants you

    The mention of Lucas reset my brain. The kid deserved a few hours of normal. If that meant surviving a meal with his ice-block father, so be it.

    "Fine," I muttered, "Next time, ask first."

    "I don''t ask, Miss Rivers. I decide. He jerked his head toward the dining room. "This way."

    I bit back a retort and followed him, focusing on keeping my breathing steady as his scent-pine and rain and something untamed-wrapped around me.

    The dining room knocked the wind right out of me. Actual moonlight crystals dripped from chandeliers overhead, their glow casting silver shadows across the kind of table that could seat a small army. Generations of Morgan Alphas stared down from portraits, their eyes following me like I was trespassing. Which, honestly, I was.

    Lucas and Sophia were already seated, twin expressions of anticipation as we entered. ke took his Alpha-throne at the head, and my spot-sure enough- waited at his right hand.

    Chapter 41 Right Al My Side

    "Come on!" Lucas smacked the chair next to him. "Hurry up! Wilson said we''re getting ribs tonight and they''re gonna be bloody!"

    I slid into my seat, hyperaware of ke watching my every move with those unreadable yes. When I finally settled, he sank into his chair with that fluid power that came so naturally to him-like he was born knowing how to intimidate just by existing.

    Wilson materialized with a pack of servers in tow, First came some fancy soup that smelled like a midnight forest¡ª¨CMoonlight Herb, apparently. One whiff and my senses sharpened to knife-point, picking up heartbeats and breathing patterns I''d never have noticed before.

    "Fresh picked three days before full moon, Sophia exined, taking a delicate sip. "Our harvesters track the lunar cycle religiously."

    ke watched me over his spoon. "First time?"

    "Shadow Creek''s more salt-of-the-earth," I tasted the soup, fighting to keep my face neutral as vors exploded across my tongue. "We''re not big on fancy herbs,

    "Morgan bloodlines have traded with the North for centuries," he said, voice t but eyes tracking my every reaction. These herbs don''t grow in our territory."

    Main course arrived-ribs so rare they practically mood, glistening red and smelling of iron and earth, Vegetables on the side shimmered with silver leaf oil that made my skin tingle just being near it.

    cost more than I made in a month. He

    Jaltake poured himself something that looked like liquid gas-Blood Moon wine, an Alpha-only indulgence that cost

    paused, then nced at me, "Want some?"

    "Water s fine." No way was I getting buzzed in the lion''s den.

    Sophia cocked her head. "You''re passing on Blood Moon? It''s practically sacred."

    "Still on Lucas''s clock," I said, tapping the table. "Need my reflexes." ke studied me. "Smart,"

    Lucas piped up, mouth already smeared with rib sauce. ¡°Dad, can we go hiking this weekend? You promised ages ago!¡± ke''s knife paused mid-cut, his face giving nothing away. "We''ll see."

    "That means no," Lucas muttered, stabbing a vegetable.

    Dinner drifted forward, Lucas chattering about random kid stuff. Sophia making asional weddingments, ke watching-with those prating eyes that seemed to see straight through my skin.

    e mostly silent but watching-always

    By the time some fancy strawberry dessert arrived, I was stuffed to bursting. Every bite had carried wolf magic that normal food never contained, leaving my body humming with energy-

    "You have your own ce in Shadow Creek, right?" Sophia asked, expertly changing the subject.

    "Yeah," I nodded. "With my foster mons. Shes... struggling since Dad was locked

    up."

    The air thickened. ke set his ss down, face entirely unreadable.

    "Your father''s case isn''t closed," he said, voice low but clear. "The investigation continues. Nothing is final."

    His words hit me like a physical blow. A tiny thread of hope I hadn''t allowed myself to feel. Was he actually looking into Dad''s case?

    ¡°Thank you,¡± I managed, voice embarrassingly tight. ¡°That means everything.

    ke gave a si

    single, sharp nod, Lucas started drooping despite his best efforts to keep his eyes open.

    "Bedtime, ruh," Sophia said gently. School waits for no wolf."

    "But Avas still here!" h

    he protested through a massive yown.

    "Shell be back tomorrow, ke voice brooked no argument, though it softened

    around the edges. "Listen to your sister."

    The kids shoulders slumped, but then heunched himself at me, wrapping me in

    a hug that nearly toppled my chair. "Gnight,

    1. ht. Aval Se

    See you tomorrow,

    Chapter 41: Right At My Side

    right?

    My hands hovered awkwardly before settling on his hack. "Count on it, kiddo. Rest up-tomorrow I''m not going easy on you."

    grinned sleepily and shuffled after Sophia, leaving me alone with ke.

    "I should head out, I stood, suddenly deeply aware of being alone with him. Thanks for dinner. It was... intense."

    ke rose to his full height, towering without even trying. Tyler will drive you. These woods aren''t safe after dark."

    Not a request. Not even close. Just ke Morgan deciding how the world would work tonight. Weirdly, it didn''t piss me off this time.

    "Thanks," I mumbled, heading for the door.

    I felt him behind me, his presence like a physical force at my back, his eyes

    burning into me with each step. At the hall entrance, I couldn''t help looking back, finding his gaze still fixed on me-intense, unblinking, filled with something I couldn''t name and wasn''t sure I wanted to

    Chapter Comments

    Tracy Gordon

    what happened to treating jer wounds? souch for getting an infection and fever i

    guess

    These 2 are honestly just getting annoying and dragged out.

 Chapter 42

    Chapter 42: What matters more

    Sophia''s POV

    When Dad and Ava left the dining room, they didn''t notice Lucas and I watching their retreating forms with matching expressions. There was something about the way my father moved in Awa''s presence-a slight change in his pasture, a different rhythm to his step-that caught my attention immediately.

    I couldn''t help being curious about Ava Rivers. Lucas obviously adored her, the first time he''d ever felt that way about any instructor. It made me wonder what made her special. What was it about Ava that set her apart?

    Truthfully, even with our limited interactions, Ed started to like her too. There was something refreshingly direct about her-no pretense, no ulterior motives. But I sensed she was hiding something, a secret I couldn''t quite unravel.

    During dinner, I''d noticed Dad''s gaze repeatedly drifting to Ava while he ate. He probably didn''t even realize he was doing it. In that moment, I suddenly understood what Ava was hiding-there was definitely something between her and my father. Some kind of connection neither of them was ready to acknowledge.

    Watching them leave, I felt my lips curve into a small smile. I turned to Lucas and found his eyes sparkling with hope. When he looked my way, we shared identical knowing expressions. No words needed.

    Hourster, I curled up on the plush sofa in ckwood Manor''s grand hall, nervously twisting the wolf ring on my finger-Jackson''s engagement gift. "Hed promised to mindlink with me at moonrise, but the moon had already painted the windowsill silver, and still nothing.

    Half an hour ago, I''d attempted to reach him several times, calling his name in my mind, but received only suffocating silence in return. This wasn''t normal. He''d never cut our connection for this long before. A sharp ache spread through my chest, my stomach churning with unease.

    I wished I had someone to talk to, but I didn''t have real friends. Sometimes I joined other female wolves from our tribe for ceremonies, but I was smart enough to know when I was being used. Most people wanted to be around me because I was ke Morgan''s daughter-either seeking power or trying to get closer to my father

    Ironically, the person I felt closest to right now might be Ava, but I didn''t have her mindlink Frequency, and I wasn''t even sure if she wanted to be friends with me.

    I hugged myself tightly, as if that could keep me from falling apart.

    "Still awake?"

    e?" Dad''s voice came from the doorway.

    He wore simple casual clothes, without his Alpha insignia. A rare sight I almost never saw my father without his formal tribal attire. He was always properly. dressed, even just moving around the pce, and he rarely had time to lounge at home.

    "Waiting for Jackson to link," I lifted my hand, letting the wolf ring catch the moonlight. ''But he seems to have forgotten our ns tonight."

    A dismissive snort escaped from my father''s throat, quiet but unmistakable. He never hid his skepticism about my fianc¨¦, even though he''d officially epted

    our match.

    My mind drifted back to when I first met Jackson. It was on a night when the moon shone especially bright, with representatives from all packs gathered at Silver Lake for a memorial service for the deceased Alpha Carter.

    I stood at the edge of the crowd, observing the delegates from various tribes. Dad, as Alpha King, was engaged in conversation with several elders. That''s when a young wolf in deep blue tribal formal wear approached me, his posture straight and confident. His gaze held a warmth and focus different from others, making my heart race.

    The princess of Silverpeak all alone?" He bowed politely before offering me a ss of moonlight spring water. "Jackson Hayes, next Alpha candidate for Shadow Creek."

    His introduction was direct and confident,pletelycking the deliberate ttery and pretense others disyed around me. Throughout the ceremony, we stood by theke talking, discussing our views on the future of our packs, how to bnce tradition with innovation. His ideas were so unique and visionary that I found myself deeply drawn to him.

    As the ceremony ended, he boldly asked, "Would you mind linking minds with me tonight? I''d love to continue our conversation." This was an intimate gesture in our culture, usually only done between close family or lovers. To my own surprise, I agreed.

    That night, when his voice first resonated in my mind-gentle yet firm-our mindlinksted until the moon set in the west. The depth andplexity of his thoughts fascinated me, as if I''d found someone whose soul resonated with mine.

    When I revealed my feelings for Jackson to my father, he immediately objected. He warned me that Jackson might have ulterior motives, especially since he Chapter 42: What matters more

    was seeking Dad''s approval to be Shadow Creek''s new Alpha. We argued for weeks until I finally dered that if he wouldn''t ept my choice, I''d rather give up everything in Silverpeak.

    Faced with my determination, Dad finally relented. Soon after, on a full moon night, Jackson knelt on one knee and proposed, and I epted his proposal without hesitation.

    I looked up at my father, his profile outlined by moonlight, strong and unyielding. Silence stretched between u

    "When you met Mom, I suddenly asked, "did you know immediately she was your fated mate? What did it feel like?"

    Surprise shed in his eyes, as if he hadn''t expected such a question.

    "It was an inesistible pull, he said slowly, his voice carrying a softness I rarely heard. ¡°Like the moon calling to the tides, needing no reason, allowing no

    resistance."

    "So fated mates are souls destined for each other? No choice in the matter?" I pressed.

    Dad thought for a moment, his gaze turning to the moonlight outside. The mark has its significance. But how love develops after that, still involves our own choices."

    "But after the mark bound you together, did lovee naturally, or were you already drawn to

    n to her? Wh

    What matters more-destiny or choice?"

    Chapter Comments

    2

    POST COMMENT NOW

 Chapter 43

    Chapter 43: Someone Much Younger

    Sophia''s Pov

    The question seemed to touch something in him. My fathers eyes suddenly became distant, lost in thoughts I couldn''t understand. I observed his reaction curiously-why would a simple question about fated mates make him so distracted?

    I continued, mostly thinking aloud: "Honestly, I''m not sure why I''m suddenly so concerned about this. Maybe because I want proof that the fated mate bond isn''t an irresistible force,ckson and I don''t have a mark from the Moon Goddess, but what if one day we each meet our fated mates? Could we still honor ourmitment to each other? Or would we be involuntarily pulled toward someone else by the mark?"

    The thought made my wolf pace anxiously inside me. If I imed I''d never worried about Jackson someday finding his true fated mate and abandoning me, I''d be lying to myself.

    I looked up at Dad, noticing his distant gaze again, his brow slightly furrowed, as

    if caught in thoughts I couldn''tprehend. His reaction puzzled me even more-

    why would this topic trigger such an unusual response from him?

    "I was just wondering how powerful the fated mate mark really is," I said softly, twirling a strand of golden hair around my finger. "Can anyone truly resist

    Dad''s gaze suddenly lost focus, as if his thoughts had drifted far away. I noticed the change in his expression but couldn''t understand why a simple question would make him so distracted. After a few seconds, he came back to himself, taking a deep breath

    "That band is more profound than anyone imagines, se finally spoke, his voice softer than usual. It''s like a forest fire under moonlight-seems controble. but is actually wild and ustamable. The moment the mark forms, your wolf has already determined its belonging. It will pull you, even if your reasm resists, You''ll feel an unprecedented longing, as if your soul has been torn in two, onlyplete when with your mate. Trying to sever this connection is like trying. to stop the tides ultimately torturing both your spirit and body."

    He paused, his gaze softening. And she gave me the most precious gifts of my life,"

    "Me and Lucas," said softly. It wasn''t a question, but Dad nodded in confirmation

    I hesitated a moment, unsure whether to mention this, but my curiosity won over caution. "I saw Ava visiting her father at the prison today."

    Father''s expression suddenly became alert, his body leaning slightly forward. "You followed her?"

    "No, of course not," Iughed softly, "pure coincidence. I was heading home after buying wedding supplies at the trading zone when I saw her being denied entry. Those guards were so rude to her, treating her as if her father''s alleged crimes had somehow infected her."

    Something shed in father''s eyes that I couldn''t quite read-

    1-a mixture of anger and something protective.

    "I helped her get in, I continued, watching his reaction, used Silverpeak authority. Those guards backed down immediately when they saw the Morgan family emblem."

    Father''s fingers tapped lightly on the armrest, a habit he had when considering something important. "The Rivers case is moreplicated than it appears on the surface."

    "She''s willing to do anything to save her father," I said quietly. "That kind of loyalty is rare. She doesn''t care about herself-not her safety, not what others think. Only her family matters."

    I looked up at my father and found his gaze had deepened. "Status, bloodlines, family reputation... these things don''t really matter in the face of true feelings, do they?"

    "Father," I hesitated before gathering my courage, "I know y

    "What do you mean? His brow furrowed slightly.

    you''ve been focused on tribal matters, but perhaps... it''s time to consider your own happiness too."

    "Lucas and I just want you to find true happiness, no matter what kind of partner you choose,¡± I said carefully, "even if that person doesn''te from a prestigious background, orcks political status. Even if she is much younger than you. Real feelings are far more important than a suitable alliance."

    His eyes narrowed, the wolf light flickering briefly. "Much younger?" His voice suddenly deepened, his gaze sharp as an eagle''s as he stared at me.

    I pretended to shrug casually, though I was secretly pleased he''d caught my hint. "I''ve noticed you''ve been particrly interested in my personal lifetely. Is that a coincidence?" He said slowly, looking at me.

    Chapter 43 Someone. Much Younger

    perceptive than I''d anticipated.

    I bit my lip to hold back the smile that threatened to escape, but decided not to pursue this dangerous topic. He was more p

    "The moon is setting. I should get back to my room," I stood up, smoothing my dress. "It seems Jackson really wont be linking with me tonight."

    1 deliberately let disappointment seep into my voice, eliciting a barely audible sigh from my father. He could never remain unmoved by our sadness,

    "Goodnight, Father. Thank you for sharing tonight. Much better than your usual orders and rules."

    He didn''t respond, only watched me with an inquiring gaze until I turned and left the hall, disappearing into the shadows of the corridor.

    When I walked through the moonlit hallway, my thoughts were more chaotic than my shadow. Dad''s words echoed in my mind-about how the fated mate mark could shake a person''s soul, about how choice and destiny intertwined.

    1 touched my neck, where there was no mark, only smooth skin. My union with Jackson would be built on choice, not destiny''s arrangement. This should have made me proud and secure, but tonight''s conversation had nted seeds of unease in my heart.

    If the Moon Goddess suddenly decided to assign each of us a fated mate, could we still honor our vows? Worse, was Jackson''s absence tonight a sign of deeper problems? My fingertips traced the raised wolf emblem on my ring-once a symbol of his loyalty, now more like an unanswered question.

    I needed to figure it all out. Aboutckson''s true feelings, about my own heart, and why, whenever Ava Rivers appeared at ckwood Manor, my father''s eyes held a light I''d never seen before.

 Chapter 44

    Chapter 44: y Perfect Son-inw

    Ava''s POV

    Night had fallen by the time I finally made it back from ckwood Manor, my fingers still tingling from the fancy moonstone chopsticks they d used instead of normal cutlery, Lucas''sughter echoed in my ears, and ke''s hawk-like stare seemed to follow me still, making my skin prickle.

    I shoved open our front door and hit a wall of silence. Damn, Our once-lively home now felt like walking into a freezer-cold and lifeless. I tossed my jacket unto Dad''s hand-carved wolf-fang hook. "For protection, he''d always say with that crooked smile. Fat lot of good that charm did us.

    "Mom?" &

    My voice bounced around like it was looking for someone to answer. Nothing.

    My wolf perked up instantly-hackles raised, nostrils ring. The house reeked of misery, that sharp, acrid scent of someone slowly giving up. I bounded up the stairs and skidded to a stop at Sarah''s door. Pitch ck inside.

    My gut clenched. Not again. My wolf pawed anxiously at my insides, practically shoving me to check on her. Last time I''d found her curled up, hadn''t moved for almost two days.

    I nudged the door open, wincing at the squeak that normal ears would miss but hit mine like nails on ss. The smell hit me first-unwashed sheets and stale air that had me breathing through my mouth.

    Curtains pulled shut tight-no moon allowed. For wolves, that''s like humans boarding up the refrigerator. Nobody blocks moonlight unless they''re seriously messed up.

    "Mom?" I fumbled for themp, knocking over something that ttered to the floor.

    The weak yellow light revealed Sarah curled up like a forgotten sweater. Her skin looked paper-thin, with roon circles under her eyes so dark they could''ve been bruises. But it was her expression that gut-punched me that thousand-yard stare I''d seen in wolves whose mates had died. Like someone had switched off half her soul.

    I bolted to the bed, heart pounding so hard I could taste it. My fingers pressed against her neck, searching for-there it was. Thank fuck.

    "You''re... back," she croaked, voice like tires on gravel.

    "Yeah, it''s me." I pushed stringy hair from her forehead, something hot and painful lodged in my throat. The untouched soup from this morning sat there mocking me. Crusty bread that could probably break a window now.

    Her eyes finally locked onto mine. "What time is it?"

    "Just after nine," I said, my fingers automatically finding that spot on my neck where Jackson''s silver mark was now threaded with gold, like some weird metallic invasion. "Mom, you can''t keep skipping meals like this. You''re wasting away,"

    "What for?" She rolled away, but not before I caught the shimmer in her eyes. "He''s in that hellhole with silver burning into his skin, and I can''t even feel him anymore. Our connection''s just... gone."

    I squeezed her hand, feeling nothing but bird bones wrapped in skin. "Dad wouldn''t want this. He''d want you fighting. Her face twisted. "I saw him today."

    Those words zapped her like a cattle prod. She jerked upright, suddenly alert. "William? Is he okay? What did they-

    "He''s hanging in there," I lied through my teeth. No way I was telling her about the silver burns eating into his wrists or the bruises blooming across his face. "Said to tell you he loves you. That you''ll be together soon."

    Hope flickered in her eyes like a dying match, then sputtered out. "They won''t let him go unless. Her eyes dropped to my neck, where my cor hid the

    Theres no deal to make," I said, standing up. "I''m getting evidence that clears his name, fair and square. Now please eat something. Even just toast. For

    She gave me a weak nod as I helped her sit up. We both knew she''d probably copse back into bed the second left, but hell, I had to keep trying.

    Ten minutest

    My hands had been shaking so bad when I grabbed it, thinking about Dad locked up, about Sarah withering away upstairs, and just like that-crash. Gone. Chapter 44 y Perfect Son-inw

    The back door creaked open, and a scent hit me like a p. My wolf went rigid, ears t, but my traitorous body shivered in recognition.

    Jackson fucking Hayes.

    "Well, ain''t this a sight," he drawled, voice dripping fake pity. "Shadow Creek''s toughest bitch, blubbering on the kitchen floor"

    I swiped at my face, hating that he caught me like this. "Get the hell out, Jackson. Door''s right where you found it.¡±

    He ignored mepletely, walking over and crouching down like we were still on speaking terms. "That stuff costs more than you make in a month. Nice job."

    When he reached for my arm, I tried shoving him off, but my muscles felt like wet paper. The second his fingers touched my skin, my mark seared like hed pressed a hot poker to it.

    "What part of "fuck off confused you?" I snarled. "Come to gloat over the mess you made?"

    His lips quirked up in that smug smile I used to love. "Little Miss Badass. Always so tough, so damn superior. Look at you now can''t even hold it together long enough to take care of your mommy."

    1 yanked away and scrambled up, trying to look like I hadn''t just been having a meltdown. "If the grand tour of my misery is over, the exit''s thataway."

    "Misery 1 caused?" He had the nerve tough, then reached up and brushed a tear off my cheek with his thumb. "If I didn''t give a shit, would I be here? You really think those scraps ke threw you-those pathetic exchange privileges-will save your dad? He''s just stringing you along"

    The mention of ke lit my fuse. "Don''t you dare say his name. He''s twice the wolf you''ll ever be!"

    Something dangerous shed in Jackson''s eyes, but before he could spit back, the kitchen door swung open.

    Sarah stood in the doorway, skeleton thin but with something flickering in her eyes I hadn''t seen in forever-a spark of actual life.

    "Jackson?¡± Her voice suddenly had strength. "I thought that was you!"

    Before I could say anything, her eyes locked onto Jackson''s hand on my arm,

    and her face lit up like someone had flipped a switch.

    "You two... worked things out? The hope in her voice made my skin crawl. "Mom, absolutely not-

    "Ava''s had a rough night, Mrs. Rivers," Jackson smoothly cut me off, his voice transforming into warm honey. The lying prick. "Tust helping clean up this mess, then I thought I''d fix you both something to eat."

    Sarah''s face bloomed with the first real smile I''d seen since they dragged Dad away. "Such a thoughtful boy. I always said you had a good heart."

    Then she turned to me with that look-part disappointment, part scolding. "Awa! How can you be so cold to him? He''s our only chance! Shadow Creek''s future Alpha!"

    I bit my tongue so hard I tasted copper. "Mom, you should rest-

    "No." She straightened her shoulders. "I''m staying down. Eating. With both of you."

    Chapter Com

    POST COMMENT

    what is wrong with her mom? she can''t get up at all but jackson shows up and

    she has no problem being strong all of th and avain on girl, you''re stronger then that!

    all of the sudden??

    what is wrong with ave? stop lying to you mom! stop lying to everyone and protecting that monster maybe you like being abused by him

    SHARE

 Chapter 45

    Chapter 45: Cut the Caring-about-Sarah Act

    Avax pow

    Jackson, the opportunistic bastard, jumped tight in "Perfect idea. Why don''t you getfortable in the listing rooms while we sout this nut?

    Sarah beamed at him, like her bong the moon, Hoen shuffles off, I waited till her footsteps faded before rounding on him, beeping my voicer for a hissing whisper

    What the bell are you ying al

    the shrugged, mopping up water with initating precision. "host lending a band to me mate''s midler. That a calme now

    "Bullshit. You breathe with an agenda." I grabbed a towel to help, batting fine liis sent still sued with my head.

    s your angle this time?!

    Lackson stopped, those blue eyes locking a mine. Eyes that used to make me dizzy nem just made me want to pranch something. "Maybe I''ve been thinking about us. About what I threw away."

    1 snotted: ¡°Right. After you ditched me for your fancy polical matge tear thy performance, by the way. Almost believed your loved

    His face went dead serious. I never faked anything. The mark doesn''t bullshit, Ava

    My fingers automatically went to my neck where the mark posed was. His eyes trockent

    "Something''s different. I can feel it. Smell it on you," he murmured, voice low and strange.

    I chucked the wetg in the sink and stepped back. "You mean the bool you

    cropped on go y perfect son inw for Sarah, I''m shouse here."

    I could feel his sta

    At least t

    a predator.

    -hell happened to out band?"

    left har dead? Nothing happened except you walking out. Now

    stare buning boles in my back as I left, but didn''t give him the satisfaction of looking back. Whatever game he was rimning, I wasn''t ying.

    that''s what I told myself,

    I leaned against the kitchen doonway, as crossed, watching Jackson pull pots and bowls from our cupboards like he owned the damn ce. From somewhere, hed conjured a packet of herbs that filled the kitchen with the rich, earthy scent of wolf healing magic. Way more expensive than the Moonlight Spring water Id just destroyed.

    "You can go upstairs if you want," he said without turning around, cocky bastand so sure I wouldn''t leave. T''ve got Sarah covered. Not like I''m the one who Just rolled in from someone else''s fancy duwen."

    That stopped me cold. How the hell did he know? Cosilil he smell ckwood Manor on me? 1 kept my mouth shait, just watched his every move to make sure he didnt slip anything weird into the food.

    Within minutes, an aroma khadn''t smelled in forever drifted through the house- tonditional weltfort soup. The tribe called it "Soul''s Embrace," supposedly rased the pain when fated mates got separated, Only elders and bealers knew how to make it right, yet here was Jackson, mixing it like a pro.

    I perked into the living room where Sarah sat staring at Dad''s photo on the mantle. Her whole holy rxed as the smell reached her, tension melting off her like ice in summer. When Jackson appeared with a steaming bowl, her eyes actually lit up.

    "Is that... Souls Embrace?" she asked, voice tinged with disbelief.

    "Fresh made," Jackson said, all gentle and respectful as he sat beside her. Try it, Mrs. Rivers, I added northern cedar needles-should take the edge off for a

    I hung back, watching this bizarre scene unfold, trying to figure out his angle. Why the hell was Jackson ying muse to my mom?

    Sarah took a sip and practically melted. "God, that s incredible," she whispered. "I can feel him... closer somehow. Like those silver chains loosened a bit

    Us temporary," Jackson said, hitting that perfect mix of professional and sympathetic. ¡°But I can teach you how to make it. For the times I''m not around.'' He shot me a smug little victory nce over Sarah head. Aushale. He was winning

    og her over, and it w was working like a charm.

    Dinner went

    went weirdly smooth. Jackson ying perfect gentleman while I avoided looking at him directly. Saral actually cleaned her te for the first time in weeks and even started sharing memories of Dad I hadn''t heard in years.

    Chapter 45 Cut the Caring about Sarah Act

    "When Williams is released, would you consider going back to focusing on your Academy studies full-time?" Sarah suddenly asked, shattering our awkward. peace. Jackson could help arrange better schedules for you,"t

    I nearly choked on my water. "I don''t need anyone arranging my schedule, Mom, I''m managing both just fine. Plus I''ve got the Honor Medal now, remember?

    "Of course, of course," Jackson chimed in, smooth as butter. "Wea''s a natural warrior, Mrs. Rivers. Always finds her path, no matter how rough the terrain. I''ve always admired that about her."

    y stare.

    I red daggers at him, but he just sipped his water with this innocent smile like he couldn''t feel the heat of my

    After dinner, Jackson actually offered to help Sarah with her bath. This was getting seriously weird-ven when we''d been together, he''d never shown this caring side. My walf paced nervously, just as confused about his game as I was,

    He even pulled a tiny bottle of oil from his pocket and handed it to Sarah. "Moon silver pine," he exined, "A few drops in hot water will help your nerves settle. Might even let you get some real sleep for once."

    Sarah took the bottle with tears in her eyes. Thank you, Jackson. You''re such a good boy. If everyone could see this sale of you..."

    "Not everyone needs to," he said softly, but his eyes stid to me. Message received, jackass..

    After getting Sarah bathed and tucked in, I dragged myself back downstairs, hoping Jackson had taken the hint and left. But of course, he was lounging on our couch like he owed it, one arm stretched across the hack, wearing that smile I used to love and now wanted to punch off his face.

    "Nice performance," I said coldly, staying across the room. "Why not just tell me what you want? Cut the caring-about-Sarah.act."

    "Act?" His face went serious in a sh. "You really think I don''t care about her pain? She''s my mother''s age, Ava. Seeing any woman tortured by fated mate separation isn''t exactly fun."

    "How touching," I said tly. "If you weren''t pulling strings behind the scenes, she wouldn''t be suffering in the first ce. We both know you had something to do with Dad''s arrest."

    He sighed and stood, moving toward me. I automatically stepped back, watching him like you''d watch a snake.

    "You deserve better, Ava," he said with what sounded like actual sincerity. Evasion to my words. "I know you''re angry about my choice. Betrayed. But it was for the greater good. You and I both know sometimes personal feelings have to take a backseat to what''s best for the pick."

    "Don''t feed me that political bullshit," I snapped. "You dumped me and proposed to a woman you don''t even love just because she''s ke Morgan''s daughter! Do you have any idea how unfair that is to Sophia? She''s a good person who shouldn''t be used like that!"

    Jacksons eyes widened slightly, like he hadn''t expected me to defend Sophia. "Sounds like you two got cozy during your time at the Morgan house?"

    Chapter Comments

    Say what now? He offered to help is ex mother inw with a bath?

 Chapter 46

    Chapter 46: Don''t Twist History

    Ava''s POV

    I said nothing, but my silence told him enough. He stepped closer, and this time I

    stood my ground.

    "It didn''t have to be this way, Ava, If you''d epted our fated mark from the beginning, everything would be different. But you fought it, wanted your own life, remember"

    The memories flooded back-me at eighteen, panicking when the mark first appeared, not wanting to be tied down by destiny. I''d never rejected Jackson or our bond-just wanted a few years to finish my warrior training before settling down. Hell, we were practically inseparable back then. All I''d asked for was time to be the fighter I was meant to be.

    "Don''t twist history, Jackson, I snapped, anger burning through me. ¡°I never rejected you-l epted the mark and we were together for three years. All I wanted was to finish my training before making it official. You''re the one who couldn''t handle me having ambitions beyond being your mate. You''re the one who sold us out the second a better political opportunity came along."

    I hated saying it out loud. The truth stung.

    He shook his head, something unreadable crossing his face. I never sold anything. Just made necessarypromises to preserve our shared fature,"

    "Those dirty deals, those secret meetings, those threats... all necessarypromises?" My voice shook slightly with anger.

    Jackson moved closer until I could smell the herbs clinging to him, with the wild scent of wolf lurking underneath. My mark started to burn, that hateful mix of yearning and pain that made me despise my own weakness.

    "I appreciate what you did for Sarah tonight, I managed steadily, "but it changes nothing. You made your choice. I made mine."

    His expression hardened. "Did you? What exactly have you chosen,

    Awa?

    Or should I say, who?"

    I pressed my lips together, refusing to answer.

    "Your mark is changing," he continued, voice d

    dropping low. "That''s impossible without another Alpha''s influence. I can smell him on you. You expect me to believe you''re just teaching his kid?"

    ''I don''t care what you believe," I said coldly. "Now get out of my house."

    Jackson didn''t move. He just kept staring, tracking me like I was prey. "You think he''ll help save William? You think he actually cares about the fate of some insignificant Shadow Creek woll?"

    "ke isn''t like that," I said firmly. "He''s investigating the truth."

    Jackson let out a harshugh that was more bitter than amused. "God, Ava, he''s really got you fooled, hasn''t he? The Alpha King wouldn''t risk his ass for an used traitor unless... he had other motives."

    "Stop," I cut him off sharply. "What are you getting at? No word games."

    Jackson walked to the firece, picking up Dad''s photo and studying it for a moment. "William was a damn good Delta, Ava. Ever wonder why he suddenly gotbeled a traitor?"

    I stared hard at Jackson, saying nothing. Dad''s case had always been shrouded in mystery, the specific charges barely made public.

    Northern patrol records," Jackson said quietly, his calm tone more unnerving than any shout "Your father found something he wasnt supposed to see. Something about secret deals happening inside Shadow Creek."

    "What deals?" I asked, voice low.

    "Resource distribution. He set the photo back exactly where it had been. "Pack leaders diverting hunting grounds and resources for themselves. Your father identally discovered evidence of these transactions, nned to expose them at the pack meeting. Next day, he''s branded a traitor and locked in a silver

    I shook my head. "If that''s true, why didn''t you help him? You had the power." "Because I''m being watched too, Ave," Jackson''s voice dropped. "You think bing an Alpha candidate was easy? I have my own chain."

    Chapter 46: Don''t Twist History

    "So you know who framed my father?" I pressed.

    Jackson didn''t answer directly. ''Power games areplicated. I''m guessing ke figured this out too, which is why he''s letting you work for him. Maybe he genuinely wants to help, but understand this, Ava-no matter how good his intentions, Silverpeak''s interests will alwayse first."

    He moved closer, steps slow and careful. Im just worried you trust him too much. Even if ke wants to help, he won''t put Shadow Creek''s internal conflicts above his own pack''s interests. Ask yourself why he hasn''t given you any concrete information about your father''s case yet."

    I wanted to argue that ke was investigating quietly, but I realized I didn''t know any specific progress.

    "He makes you feel special, doesn''t he?" Jackson continued, voice softening "Makes you feel like more than just a warrior with a rejected mark. Someone worthy of the Alpha King''s attention."

    My lists clenched. "You don''t know him. You don''t know what''s between us." "Between you?" Jackson raised an eyebrow, voice sharpening. "What exactly do you thi

    think is between you? He''s the Alpha King, his daughter''s about your age, and

    you re

    ''re just a Shadow Creek warrior hired to teach his son. Do you really think your concerns are his priority?"

    I didn''t answer immediately. Jackson''s words hit something deep-that nagging feeling I''d been trying to ignore: maybe ke was just helping out of Alpha responsibility, not because he actually cared about me or my father''s fate

    If what you''re saying is true," I finally said, voice controlled, "why tell me? What''s in it for you?"

    Jackson''s eyes softened as be set Dad''s photo back on the mantle. "I know this is hard to hear. But I''m still offering you III make sure William walks free."

    way out. Be with me secretly, and

    "And then what?" My voice came out sharper than I intended. "I hide in the shadows while you and Sophia y happy couple in the sunshine? That''s your idea of love?"

    "That''s how you survive in this world," he replied. "You know better than anyone that we don''t live in a fairy tale. It''s cruel, dark, full of power games. At least with me, you''ll know where you stand."

    Just as I was about to order him out again, Jackson''s expression suddenly sharpened. He tilted his head slightly, like he was listening to something, and then I felt it-that subtle vibration in the air that meant someone was trying to mindlink him.

    This

    WH

    the third or fourth time tonight. I watched him close his eyes, obviously blocking

    the connection. When he looked back at me, I seized the moment.

    "It''s Sophia, isn''t it?" I asked, pieces suddenly clicking together. "She''s been trying

    to reach you all night, and you''ve been ignoring her."

    Jackson''s face slipped for just a second before his mask snapped back into ce. "That''s none of your business."

    "Oh, I think it''s very much my business," I shot back, anger reigniting. "You''re standing in my house trying to talk me into being your secret side piece whilepletely ghosting your fianc¨¦e? You''re a real piece of work, Jackson."

    Chapter Comments

 Chapter 47

    Chapter 47: Clearer Picture?

    AV POV

    I remembered Sophia mentioning Jackson was supposed to be with her tonight. for some event, Instead, he was here manipting me while leaving the girl who adored him waiting alone, confused.

    "I don''t owe you exnations for my actions," he said coldly.

    "No, you don 1." Iughed without humor. But it gives me a clearer picture of who you really are. You betrayed me not for pack interests but for your own ambition. Now you''re doing the same to Sophia, At least she doesn''t know yet what kind of man she''s fallen for

    Jackson''s eyes shed with anger. "You don''t understand what''s between Sophia and me. Don''t pretend you care about her."

    "Maybe I do care," I met his gaze directly. "She''s a good person, Jackson. She doesn''t deserve to be used any more than I deserved to be betrayed."

    Jackson''s expression turned dangerous as he stepped forward, voice dropping low. "You should understand, Awu, there are no innocents in this game. Not everyone has the luxury you do, clinging to ideas like tight and principles. Some of us have to make hard choices to protect the people we love."

    "Don''t dress up your selfishness as nobility." I spat the words out. "Now get out of my house. I won''t ask again."

    Jackson didn''t leave immediately. Instead, he suddenly turned toward the door, then stopped with his back to me. "You still don''t get it, do you?" His voice was ice cold. "I''m your only hope, Ava. Only I can save your father."

    I didn''t respond, just stared at his back, trying to decode the threat behind his words.

    turn to ashes. I could have helped you,

    "The Honor Ceremony was just the beginning," he continued, with disturbing certainty. "Your victory today will soon tu but you chose to trust a man who''s using you as a pawn

    "ke isn''t using me, I reflexively defended.

    Jackson slowly turned around, a chilling smile spreading across his face. "Then prove it. Ask him about the progress on William''s case. Ask him why William is being held in a special cell with even basic visitation rights revoked. Ask him who ordered that you be kept away from your father."

    Those questionsnded like punches to my gut. I didn''t have answers to any of them, and ke had never volunteered the information.

    Seeing my hesitation, Jackson walked back to me, his voice softening. I know you, Ava. Better than anyone. I know your heart aches, know your wolf is struggling. It''s not your fault. The bond between fated mates isn''t easily broken"

    He raised his hand and lightly touched my cheek. I should have pulled away, but my body betrayed me, staying rooted to the spot. "Even with Sophia, I still feel you. Every night, my wolf calls your name. Yours calls for me too, doesn''t it?"

    I wanted to deny it, but the mark suddenly red hot, as if responding to his words. I gritted my teeth and forced myself to step

    "Get out," I said, my voice shaking.

    back

    He sighed and turned toward the door. Before opening it, he paused without looking back. "Think about what I said, Ava. And remember, whatever happens, I''ll be here. When everyone betrays you, when you discover the truth, I''ll be waiting."

    The door closed behind him, and I finally copsed, sliding down to the floor. Tears slipped silently down my face as the mark burned on my neck, half agony, half longing.

    Jackson''s words echoed in my mind. Was he lying? Or was I really being used by ke? My fingers instinctively traced the mark on my neck, feeling those strange golden threads interwoven with the silver.

    Deep inside, my wolf whimpered-confused, hurting, yet yearning. I didn''t know who to trust or where to turn, only that nothing mattered if I couldn''t save Dad.

    Third Person POV

    Jackson didn''t drive away immediately after leaving the Rivers house. He sat in the driver''s seat, fingers drumming against the steering wheel, mind racing Tonight''s n hadn 1 gone perfectly, but he''d nted the seeds of doubt. Ava''s trust in ke Morgan was beginning to waver-a good start.

    The herbs still clinging to his clothes would help mask his scent trail, making it harder for anyone to track his movements tonight if they tried.

    Just as he was about to start

    the ca

    car, another mindlink request pulsed through, stronger and more urgent than before. Sophia. The seventh time tonight

    Chapter 47 Cleater Picture?

    Jackson hesitated, then finally epted the connection, Instantly, Sophia''s anxious voice filled his mind.

    "Jackson! Thank the Moon Goddess you finally answered! Are you alright? I''ve been trying to reach you all night, I was

    worried sick

    Jackson closed his eyes, quickly adjusting his emotional output, ensuring the link only conveyed what he wanted her to feel. "Sorry, love. Shadow Creek council meeting ran longer than expected, then I had to handle some urgent business."

    What

    was so urgent youpletely ignored my links?" Sophia''s voice held hurt, but mostly concern. "Dad asked about you tonight, wanted to know why you weren''t with me at the family dinner."

    Jackson''s grip tightened on the steering wheel. Ava hadn''t mentioned this-she''d had dinner at ckwood Manor as part of a family gathering? That level of intimacy far exceeded a normal employee rtionship. His suspicions were being confirmed.

    "Family matters," he answered vaguely. "Some arrangements about my father. I went there straight after the meeting, no time to let you know. Forgive me?"

    Sophia''s voice softened. "Of course. Just... next time could you at least answer my link? Even just to tell me you''re busy? I was really worried."

    "I promise," Jackson said, injecting just the right amount of tenderness andke." sorse into his voice. I pick you up tomorrow, okay?

    y? We can walk b

    by the

    Feeling Sophia''s emotions rx, Jackson ended the mindlink and sank back into thought. He needed to elerate his ins. The Honor Ceremony scandal had been neutralized, with ke unexpectedly protecting Ava. The next move needed to be more aggressive, directly severing Ava''s connection to the Morgan family.

    Jackson closed his eyes, concentrating as he initiated a hidden mindlink. This deep-level connection was a skill he''d carefully mastered, nearly undetectable to other wolves.

    "Begin the next phase," he transmitted briefly, then cut the link with satisfaction.

    Before he opened his eyes, Jackson''s lips curved into a slight smile. No matter how much Ava resisted now, she would return to him eventually. Fate, the mark, and his ns would make sure of it.

    Chapter Comments

    POST COMMENT NOW

 Chapter 48

    ophia nodded and slipped out, but not before Jackson pulled her back for one more kiss. He whispered something in her ear that made her blush crimson before she hurried away. The moment the door clicked shut, the temperature in the room seemed to drop ten degrees.

    ''ying house pet for ke suits you." [ Jackson''s voice lost all its warmth. "Makes you almost respectable."

    1 slung my gym bag over my shoulder. "If you don''t have anything useful to say, I''m out. Sarah needs me."

    ¡°Poor Sarah,¡± he said with exaggerated concern. "How''s she doing with those northern herbs I brought? Working their magic?

    "Drop the concerned act," I snapped. "We both know you only showed up to manipte her, Make me the bad guy for not falling at your feet."

    He shrugged one shoulder, leaning against the equipment rack. "Can''t a guy worry about a wolf going through mate-separation? That pain''s no joke."

    "Spare me." I rolled my eyes. "What''s next-paying Wilson to make my life hell? Oh wait, you already did that."

    own issues with you. Maybe he just sees what Sophia

    Something shed across his face-surprise?-before his mask slipped back into ce. "Wilson has his own is dorin L

    Chapter 49: Going To Be Family

    "And what exactly would that be?" I challenged,

    "A rejected mate ying both sides." He stepped closer. "Getting cozy with ke while your mark still carries my signature."

    I stood my ground. "You lost any right to that mark when you traded me for a political marriage."

    Speaking of trading up... His eyes narrowed. "kes got you wrapped around his finger, doesn''t he? Tell me, do you think of him when you''re alone at night?"

    Heat rushed to my face. "What the hell are you talking about?"

    "Come on, Ava." His voice dropped low. "Your mark is changing. Gold threads creeping through my silver. Only happens one way-another Alpha''s influence.

    "That''s just your mark fading," I shot back, fingers instinctively brushing my neck. "Because you broke the bond."

    Heughed-a short, harsh sound. "Marks don''t lie, sweetheart. Especially fated mate marks. Your wolf knows who you belong to, even if you''re ying hard to

    get.

    I moved toward the door. "We''re done here.

    His hand shot out, grabbing my wrist and yanking me backward. Before I could react, he had me pinned against the wall, his body blocking any escaple

    "Get

    your hands off me!" I growled, struggling against his grip

    "Your body remembers me," he breathed, his fingers digging into my wrists. "Your well''s practically howling beneath the surface. Can''t you feel it?¡±

    I twisted, trying to knee him where it counts, but he pressed closer, using his weight to immobilize me.

    *Remember how it felt?" His lips brushed my ear, sending an unwanted shiver down my spine. "When I''d touch your mark and you''d melt? Let''s see if that connection''s still there."

    His fingers inched toward my neck. I jerked my head away, but his other hand caught my jaw, forcing me to face him.

    "Don''t," I warned through clenched teeth.

    But my traitorous mark warmed at his proximity, the sensation making my stomach turn. He noticed-of course he did his lips curving into that smug smile I''d grown to hate.

    Ce-Tour

    mouth says no, but this- his thumb brushed just below my mark, this doesn''t lie.¡±

    is face lowered toward my heck, and panic surged through me. Just as his lips nearly brushed my skin, the door crashed open like it had been hit by a wrecking ball

    His

    The room suddenly filled with an Alpha aura so dense it felt like breathing underwater. My lungs seized as raw power flooded every

    corner of the space.

    Jackson froze, smug confidence evaporating instantly.

    ke stood in the doorway, eyes zing molten gold, fury radiating off him in waves that made the air itself seem to tremble.

    "What. The. Hell." Each word dropped like a stone into deadly silence. "Is happening here?

    Chapter Comments

    Isn''t she supposed to be one of the best warriors, or the best? Why is she struggling with Jackson- or is this a mate bond thing?

 Chapter 49

    Chapter 49: Going To Be Family

    Ava''s POV

    Golden sunset light spilled through the training room windows, turning ckwood Manor''s worn oak floor into a pool of honey. I wiped sweat from my forehead, watching Lucas''s small figure bounce down the hallway, all gangly limbs and endless energy.

    "Hit the shower, kiddo!" I called after him. "Tomorrow I''ll show you how to flip someone twice your size."

    "Promise?" His eyes lit up like it was Christmas morning.

    "Scouts honor. Now scrum."

    He shot me a gap-toothed grin before disappearing around the corner. The room fell quiet except for the soft clink of metal as I gathered scattered training daggers. My thoughts drifted to Sarah-probably still in bed, curtains drawn, lost in that dark fog that had swallowed her since Dad''s arrest. I needed to get home, make sure she at least drank some water. Jackson''s special herb soup had helped, I couldn''t deny that, but his games made my skin crawl.

    The training room door creaked open just as I slid thest practice de into its rack.

    "There you are!" Sophia''s voice chimed like a bell. "Did Lucas master that defensive stance?"

    I turned to find her standing there, golden hair catching the sunset, arm looped through Jackson''s like they''d stepped out of some fancy pack mating ceremony advertisement. Her face glowed with that soft happiness that made it impossible to hate her.

    And then there was Jackson.

    His eyes locked onto me like a predator sizing up wounded prey, his mouth curled in that barely there smirk that made me want to punch teeth. He tugged Sophia closer, nuzzling her neck before nting a lingering kiss just below her ear. She giggled, leaning into him.

    ¡°Kid''s a natural,¡± I said, keeping my voice casual while pretending I hadn''t seen their disy. "Picked up in an hour what takes most beginners a week."

    "I knew you d click with him!" Sophia beamed, her fingers intertwined with Jacksons. "Dad has this crazy sixth sense about people."

    Jackson brushed his lips against her temple, eyes sliding to meet mine over her head. Your father certainly knows how to... pick the right person for the job."

    I busied myself with my gym bag, desperate for an escape route asckson''s hand slid possessively down Sophia''s back,ing to rest against her hip.

    Lucas just hit the shower," I said. "Should be out soon."

    "Ill go check on him," Sophia said, turning to face Jackson. He immediately cupped her face, kissing her deeply like I wasn''t even there. She melted against him, sighing softly when they broke apart. "Plus make sure Wilson isn''t terrorizing the kitchen staff again. Coming with?"

    "You go ahead, babe," Jackson said, thumb caressing her cheek. "I need a quick word with Ava about Lucas''s progress. know him more."

    We''re going to be family. I want to

    Family. The wordnded like a rock in my gut.

    Sophia nodded and slipped out, but not before Jackson pulled her back for one more kiss. He whispered something in her ear that made her blush crimson before she hurried away. The moment the door clicked shut, the temperature in the room seemed to drop ten degrees.

    ''ying house pet for ke suits you." [ Jackson''s voice lost all its warmth. "Makes you almost respectable."

    1 slung my gym bag over my shoulder. "If you don''t have anything useful to say, I''m out. Sarah needs me."

    "Poor Sarah," he said with exaggerated concern. "How''s she doing with those northern herbs I brought? Working their magic?

    "Drop the concerned act," I snapped. "We both know you only showed up to manipte her, Make me the bad guy for not falling at your feet."

    He shrugged one shoulder, leaning against the equipment rack. "Can''t a guy worry about a wolf going through mate-separation? That pain''s no joke."

    "Spare me." I rolled my eyes. "What''s next-paying Wilson to make my life hell? Oh wait, you already did that."

    own issues with you. Maybe he just sees what Sophia

    Something shed across his face-surprise?-before his mask slipped back into ce. "Wilson has his own is dorin L

    Chapter 49: Going To Be Family

    "And what exactly would that be?" I challenged,

    "A rejected mate ying both sides." He stepped closer. "Getting cozy with ke while your mark still carries my signature."

    I stood my ground. "You lost any right to that mark when you traded me for a political marriage."

    Speaking of trading up... His eyes narrowed. ¡°kes got you wrapped around his finger, doesn''t he? Tell me, do you think of him when you''re alone at night?"

    Heat rushed to my face. "What the hell are you talking about?"

    "Come on, Ava." His voice dropped low. "Your mark is changing. Gold threads creeping through my silver. Only happens one way-another Alpha''s influence.

    "That''s just your mark fading," I shot back, fingers instinctively brushing my neck. "Because you broke the bond."

    Heughed a short, harsh sound. "Marks don''t lie, sweetheart. Especially fated mate marks. Your wolf knows who you belong to, even if you''re ying hard to get.

    I moved toward the door. "We''re done here.

    His hand shot out, grabbing my wrist and yanking me backward. Before I could react, he had me pinned against the wall, his body blocking any escaple

    "Get your hands off me!" I growled, struggling against his grip

    "Your body remembers me," he breathed, his fingers digging into my wrists. "Your well''s practically howling beneath the surface. Can''t you feel it?"

    I twisted, trying to knee him where it counts, but he pressed closer, using his weight to immobilize me.

    *Remember how it felt?" His lips brushed my ear, sending an unwanted shiver down my spine. "When I''d touch your mark and you''d melt? Let''s see if that connection''s still there."

    His fingers inched toward my neck. I jerked my head away, but his other hand caught my jaw, forcing me to face him.

    "Don''t," I warned through clenched teeth.

    But my traitorous mark warmed at his proximity, the sensation making my stomach turn. He noticed-of course he did his lips curving into that smug smile I''d grown to hate.

    Ce-Tour

    mouth says no, but this- his thumb brushed just below my mark, this doesn''t lie.¡±

    is face lowered toward my heck, and panic surged through me. Just as his lips nearly brushed my skin, the door crashed open like it had been hit by a wrecking

    ball

    His

    The room suddenly filled with an Alpha aura so dense it felt like breathing underwater. My lungs seized as raw power flooded every

    corner of the space.

    Jackson froze, smug confidence evaporating instantly.

    ke stood in the doorway, eyes zing molten gold, fury radiating off him in

    waves that made the air itself seem to tremble.

    "What. The. Hell." Each word dropped like a stone into deadly silence. "Is happening here?

    Chapter Comments

    Isn''t she supposed to be one of the best warriors, or the best? Why is she struggling with Jackson- or is this a mate bond thing?

 Chapter 50

    Chapter 50: Between Her and the Wolf

    ke''s Po

    POV

    The tribal council had sucked the life out of me. I kicked the manor door shut behind me, savoring the heavy thud.

    My shoulders dropped an inch. Here, at least, I didn''t have to be the unshakable Alpha King. Just tired, cranky ke Morgan with a pounding headache.

    I closed my eyes, letting my senses map the house. Lucas was probably in the training room, Sophia likely out or perhaps in her room preparing for the wedding. And Ava... I wondered if her back had healed.

    My eyes snapped open and I felt confused, agitated. Why did I care?

    "Everything satisfactory, Alpha King?"

    Wilson stood at the foot of the stairs, spine rigid as a silver pole, eyes carefully nd.

    "Fine," I muttered, the word clipped. "Lucas still training?"

    "Indeed, sir. With Miss Rivers." The way he said her name-like picking up something distasteful-made my jaw tighten.

    I''d deal with Wilson''s attitudeter. Right now, checking on Lucas seemed as good an excuse as any to stretch my legs. Just routine Alpha business, making sure the heir was progressing.

    That''s what I told myself, anyway.

    Halfway down the corridor, my hackles rose. The air changed-tension, anger, fear. My pace quickened automatically, instincts shifting into high alert. Through the heavy oak door came muffled sounds: harsh whispers, the thud of bodies, a breathless "let go."

    And smells-Ava''s scent spiked with adrenaline and fury. And intertwined with it, a scent that had no business being here.

    Jackson Hayes.

    The door mmed open under my hand.

    Jackson had Ava pinned against the stone wall, one hand mped around her wrists, the other gripping her jaw, forcing her head to the side. His mouth hovered over her neck where I knew her mark sat, his body pressed against hers. She was twisting, fighting, but caught at the wrong angle.

    My vision washed red.

    "What the fuck is happening here? The words came out barely human.

    Jackson froze like prey in headlights. The pressure of my Alpha energy hit him physically, making him stumble back from Ava. His face went ck with terror as his knees buckled, body responding to primal instinct. Head down, neck exposed-submission

    Too little, toote.

    I crossed the room in three strides, grabbed him by the throat, and mmed him into the wall hard enough that mortar dust rained down. The stone cracked behind him with a satisfying crunch.

    "I warned you." Each word dripped from my mouth like venom.

    Jackson dangled from my grip, choking, his feet scrabbling against the wall. His face purpled as he fought for air, eyes bulging. The wolf in me howled for blood, Break his neck. Tear him apart. Show him what happens when he touches what''s mine-

    A warm hand touched my back.

    "ke, stop." Ava''s voice cut through the red fog. "He''s not worth it."

    tightened my grip, feeling Jackson''s pulse flutter under my fingers.

    "Sophia would be devastated," Ava added softly. "Don''t make her pay for his stupidity."

    The reminder of my daughter hit like e ice water. I dropped Jackson like garbage, watching him crumple to the floor in a pathetic heap, wheezing and

    Chapter 50 Between Her and the Wolf

    clutching his throat.

    up," I snapped.

    He struggled to his feet, weaving like a drunk, eyes fixed on the floor.

    "Touch her agam," I said, each word precise, and Sophia''s feelings won''t save you. Alpha or not, I''ll tear y

    your spine out through your

    throat. Understand?"

    Jackson nodded frantically, still not looking up.

    "Now get the fuck out of my sight."

    He stumbled toward the door, half-crawling, the smell of fear pouring off him like sweat..

    When the door closed behind him, the silence felt electric. Awa stood watching me, chest rising and falling rapidly, face flushed. Her hair hade loose from its practical braid, wild strands framing her face. Something primitive curled in my gut at the right.

    okay?" I managed, trying to sound normal and failing.

    Her chin jerked up in that stubborn way that drove me crazy.

    My temper red. "Fine? That''s it? I walk in and find Jackson manhandling you, and all you''ve got is Tine''?"

    "What do you want me to say?" She yanked herbat jacket straight. Thanks for the save, now 111 get back to work?"

    1 stepped closer, crowding her space. "I want to know why my daughter''s fianc¨¦ had his hands all over you.":

    Her eyes shed, bright green fire. "You think I wanted him to touch me? Are you serious right now?"

    "You must have given him some reason-

    "Oh, that''s rich." She jabbed a finger at my chest. "me the victim Real Alpha

    move

    I caught her wrist. "A trained warrior like you could have broken free if you really wanted to."

    The second the words left my mouth, I regretted them. Her face went nk with shock, then flooded with hurt before hardening into fury.

    "Fuck you, ke." Her voice dropped dangerously low. "Let go of me."

    I released her wrist like it burned. What the hell was wrong with me? I knew Jackson was the aggressor. I''d seen it with my own eyes.

    "Ava, I didn t mean-

    The door swung open. Sophia walked in first, her smile bright, followed by Lucas and-goddamnut-Jackson. How had that snakeposed himself so quickly? He slunk in behind my children, keeping Sophia between us like a shield.

    "There you are!" Sophia beamed. ¡°We''ve been looking everywhere." Her eyes darted between me and Ava, picking up on the tension crackling in the air. "Everything okay?"

    Lucas peered around his sister. "Dad? What''s wrong? Your eyes are still gold." I forced myself to breathe. My wolf pulled back reluctantly, ws retracting.

    Training discussion got heated," I lied, watching Jackson hover near the door, unable to meet my gaze. Good. At least he knew his ce now.

    Sophia nudged Lucas, Tell Dad what the kitchen said,"

    Lucas bounced on his toes, momentarily distracted. ''Chef says dinner''s gonna be superte ''cause they messed up the moonlight herbs!" His disappointment quickly shifted to hope. "Hut maybe we could go somewhere instead? All of us? Like old times?"

    The naked longing in his voice made my chest ache. When was thest time I''d taken my son anywhere that wasn''t pack business?

    "Moonlight Lodge," I decided. "Tell Wilson to call ahead for the private dining room."

    Lucas whooped and sprinted toward the door, nearly bowling overckson in his excitement.

    Sophia smiled, gemine surprise in her eyes. "That

    really nice, bad."

    I noticed Ava quietly

    her things, clearly nning to slip away.

    My voice came out harder than intended.

    She paused, egelrow raised in challenge.

    That''s

    ''s not necessary, Alpha King" Her suire dopped formality, emphasizing the title, "Sarah''s waiting

    "Lucas would be disappointed," I countered, ignoring the tral reason I wanted lier there. And we have unfinished beasiness."

    A flicker of something crossed her face-wariness, curiosity, maybe a hint of that attraction she tried so hard to hide, She nced at Lucer''s hopeful expression and sighed.

    Tine. But I need to get home at a decent hour."

    "I''ll have Tyler drive you after." I let my goze shift pointedly to Jackson. "We''ll drop Sophia and Jackson at their house first."

    Jackson paleid even farther, if that was possible. Mestage received,

    As we filed and, I ced myself deliberately between Ava and Jackson. My will puced restlessly, staking its im on territory that was mine to mark. The tational part of me knew this possessiveness was dangerosas-Ava Rivers wasn''t mine to protect. She wasn''t mine at all.

    The woll disagreed.

    Chapter Comments

    its like they dont want to acknowledge what their wolves already know lo

 Chapter 51

    Chapter 51: Warm Cape

    Ava''s POV

    I never thought ke would personally drive me home

    When dinner at Moonlight Lodge wrapped up and ke said Tyler would take Jackson and Sophia back to ckwood Manor, I caught fear sh PICTOSS Jacksons face. For all his tough guy act, he turned into a scared puppy in front of the real Alpha King.

    Now I sat in ke''s fancy carriage with Silverprak wolf designs everywhere. Moonlight poured through the windows between us. Since dinner, ke had barely said a word. He just sat there like a rock, stealing nces at me with those stormy eyes before quickly looking away.

    The silence was getting under my skin more e than any awkward conversation would

    You really didn''t need to do this," I finally broke the quiet. "I can handle myself.¡±

    ke''s eyes locked on mine. "Walking alone before a full moon? Even the best fighters shouldn''t mess with that."

    Dangers nothing new to o me," I said, though part of me was actually grateful. The night before full moon always brought out the crazy wolves, especially

    near the northern woods..

    "Just because you re used to getting burned doesn''t mean you should y with fire," he said with that unmistakable Alphamand in his voice. "That''s not brave, it''s stupid,"

    1 turned to the window, watching shadows race by, not wanting him to see I actually cared what he thought. Nobody, not even Sarah or Dad, had ever straight-up worried about me like this.

    "Why were you with him?" ke suddenly asked, voice hard. "Why would he think he could put his hands on you?"

    I turned back fast, anger bubbling up. "Like I told you, he forced himself on me. I didn''t ask for it or want it."

    "He acted like there was still something between you." ke''s eyes gleamed dangerously in the moonlight

    The only thing between us is this mark he pped on me years ago before dumping me for a better deal," I said, trying to keep the hurt out of my voice. The mark stuck around. Not exactly my choice."

    read. "That mate mark..... his voice dropped low. "It messes with your fighting." kes jaw clenched, something shing in his eyes I couldn''t re

    Not a question-a fact. He''d figured out how the mark strewed with my abilities, which caught me off guard.

    "Yeah," I admitted, "when he''s close, the mark... it throws me off. Makes me weak." Saying it out loud made me feel naked and ashamed, especially to an Alpha from another pack.

    ke went quiet, his eyes thoughtful. "A mark shouldn''t hurt like that, he finally said, softer than usual. "A real mate bond should make both stronger, not hold one down."

    "Maybe in a perfect world," I gave a half-smile.

    1. e. "But we''re stuck in this

    Our eyes met in the darkness, something electric crackling between us. His eyes looked like a storm-tossed ocean in the moonlight, impossible to read.

    "Back in the training room, ke suddenly said, voire low, ''I lost it."

    That knocked me speechless. The mighty Alpha King admitting he lost control?

    "You had every right to be pissed," I said carefully. "He broke your house rules.""""

    "it wasn t just about rules." ke''s eyes bored into mine. "He shouldn''t have touched you..."

    He trailed off, but what he didn''t say hung between us like a live wire.

    The air in the carriage got so thick you could cut it with a knife-something

    ng dangerous but tempting pulling us together, like we were both on thin ice about

    "Why?" I whispered before I could stop myself. "Why would you care who touches me?"

    Chapter 51 Warm Cape :

    ke''s eyes shed wolf gold for a split second, "I don''t know," he admitted roughly. "But seeing his hands on you made me want to tear him apart."

    shiver ran through me hall warning, half something else entirely. An Alpha King shouldn''t give a damn about some nobody wolf with another man''s mark.

    e ying with fire here," I said softly, not sure if I was warning him or myself.

    "Yeah, he agreed, eyes locked on mine. ¡°Big time."

    The air felt heavy, like right before lightning strikes. The carriage hit a bump, throwing our shoulders together. Even through our clothes, that split-second touch sent electricity through me. I noticed ke white knuckling the seat edge He was fighting whatever this was. So was t.

    The carriage jerked to a stop, breaking the spell. We''d reached my ce.

    ke hopped out with that natural grace alpha wolves have, then opened my door. That old-school gentleman move wasn''t something you saw much these days, especially for a nobody like me.

    As I stepped down, the night wind cut right through me, making me shiver. Pre- full moon nights always carried this weird chill, like the Moon Goddess giving us a heads-up about tomorrow''s wildness.

    -You Le

    be dressed way too light." ke frowned. "You should be wearing something warmer this close to full moon"

    "It''s fighting gear, not a fashion statement," I shrugged, "Practical over pretty."

    He went quiet, then unsped his woll skin cape. This wasn''t just any cape-it was an Alpha King symbol, made from rare silver-backed wolf for with Morgan family designs sewn into the edges.

    Take it," he held it out, his tone saying he wouldn''t take no for an answer. The cold before full moon hits different."

    I hesitated. Taking an Alpha King''s cape wasn''t small potatoes-people would read all kinds of things into it

    "I can''t," I said, even as my hand reached for it anyway. "This is part of your Alpha stuff.

    It''s just a danin cape," he snapped impatiently. "Don''t make it weird."

    His words stung, but his eyes, told a different story. ke Morgan was one big contradiction-saying he didn''t care while doing everything to show he did.

    I finally took the cape and wrapped it around me. Instantly, warmth seeped in, along with his scent-rain-soaked pine trees and lightning struck earth, powerful but somehowforting.

    "Bring it back tomorrow, he ordered, switching back to Alpha mode. "Don''t bete for training"

    "Yes, Alpha King," I nodded, deliberately using his full title to match his bossy tone.

    I walked to my door, feeling his eyes on my back. When I dug out my key, I couldn''t help ncing back.

    ke stood there in the moonlight, a powerful shadow refusing to budge, making sure I got in safe.

    That small thing-that unasked-for protectiveness-sparked something warm in my chest.

    "Thanks," I said quietly, "not just for the cape,

    He just nodded, face hidden in shadow. "Night, Ava."

    *Goodnight, ke

    I pushed inside the dark house and closed the door, hearing his carriage pull

    away.

    I leaned against the door, breathing deep. His cape smelled like him-strong, wild, like storms and forests mixed together. For some reason, it made me feel saler than I had in ages.

    Id meant to ask about Dad''s case,

    there was zero

    was zero progress, but the timing felt wrong. Somehow I trusted him, even though

    we barely knew each other and came from different worlds. Jackson''s warning bells kept singing-that ke was just using me. But those gray-blue eyes made me want to believe

    Chapter 51 Warm Cape

    otherwise.

    My fingers touched the mark on my neck, feeling it was different tonight. Golden threads had started showing uptely, weaving through Jacksons silver mark. Tonight, with ke nearby, it felt warmer, almost... right.

    1 hung his cape on Dad''s wolf-fang hook, my fingers lingering on the fabric, not wanting to let go of his scent.

    Tomorrow I''d have to give it back. But tonight, I let myself enjoy this bubble of safety, like the Alpha King''s protection still wrapped around me even miles

    Chapter Comments

 Chapter 52

    The name felt

    strange on

    on my tongue - foreign yet oddly right, which disturbed me even more.

    Her eyebrows shot up as she stood, giving me a once-over that made me feel like week-old roadkill. ¡°Stepmother? That''s news to everyone at this academy"

    "We''re keeping it quiet," I said, amazed my voice wasn''t shaking. Thank god Sophia had loaned me this blue dress instead of my showing up in battle-worn leather. "Pack politics. You know how it is."

    Her eyes dropped to the cape, widening slightly. "That''s the Alpha King''s personal cape."

    I nodded, trying to look like I borrowed my husband''s clothes all the time.

    "Wait here," she said, skepticism dripping from every syble. She disappeared through a side door, probably to report the crazy

    y woman iming to be married to the most powerful wolf in three territories

    Minutes stretched like torture. Just as I was considering a strategic retreat, a stocky wolf with a mean scar slicing through his left eye appeared. He carried himself like someone who''d seen a hundred battles and expected a hundred more.

    "Mrs. Morgan?" He managed to pack a ton of disbelief into two words. "Im Instructor Silver. Lucas''sbat teacher."

    "Nice to meet you,'' I smiled, trying to mimic Sophia''s polished tone. I''m here about what happened yesterday."

    Silver''s gaze lingered on the cape, his eyes calcting. I could practically hear him thinking: This doesn''t add up.

    "This way," he finally grunted, "Headmaster''s waiting."

    As we walked, I got perks into training rooms where little wolves some barely older than toddlers - were

    ere already leaming to fight. I caught myself wondering if Lucas felt as alone among these privileged cubs as I did walking these halls,

    Silver kept ncing sideways at me.

    "Funny thing," he said casually, "Alpha King''s never mentioned having a new mate. Especially one who looks barely out of training herself."

    That''s the point of keeping it quiet," I replied, fighting the urge to fidget. "Sometimes the best moves are the ones nobody seesing."

    He grunted nomittally as we stopped at a massive door carved with snarling wolves. He knocked twice before pushing it open. "Headmaster, Morgan''s...

    Chapter 53 The Cape Doesnt Lie:

    parent is here."

    I stepped into what could only be described as a trophy room for wolf-kind. Ancient weapons hung on walls alongside battle gs. A white-haired man with shoulders like small mountains stood by the window, his back to us. The air in the room felt heavy with authority, sending my wolf into an instinctive

    crouch.

    When he turned, the Beta power rolling off him hit me like a physical wave. His eyes weren''t just old - they carried the weight of decades of judgment and decision-making. The kind of eyes that had sentenced wolves to death and watched the sentences carried out.

    Headmaster Moonshadow," Silver said, "this is the woman saying she''s Mrs. Morgan."

    "Mrs. Morgan?" The headmaster''s voice carried weight as his eyes dissected me piece by piece. His nostrils red slightly, taking in my scent and the much stronger Alpha scent surrounding me. "Strange. Tve attended every tribal council for thirty years. Never heard the Alpha King mention remarrying."

    My palms were sweating beneath ke''s cape. I smoothed down Sophia''s borrowed dress nervously. "We''re keeping it private until the right moment."

    "You seem awfully young," he continued, circling me slowly. "Barely out

    I lifted my

    chin. "Some of us grow up faster than others."

    of

    your first full moons, Id guess

    "True enough," he conceded, but his eyes never lost their suspicion. "That cape, though........interesting choice. An Alpha''s cape carries their most concentrated scent." He leaned closer, sniffing subtly, making my wolf bristle with difort. They generally only loan it to mark their mates with their scent, warding off other wolves. His eyes narrowed. "But a true mate wouldn''t need such obvious marking unless...

    The air in the room suddenly felt too thin as understanding dawned in his eyes.

    -Unless you''re not his mate at all," he said, voice dropping dangerously low. "Just a thief stupid enough to steal from the Alpha King himself. Do you know what the punishment is for that?"

    My stomach bottomed out, Game over. Loras would never forgive me, and ke... I didn''t even want to imagine his reaction.

    "Guards!" Moonshadow barked at Silver. This woman is an impostor.""

 Chapter 53

    Ava''s POV

    The carriage jolted to a stop by the moonstone path leading to Silverpeak Elite Academy. I tugged ke''s cape tighter around my shoulders, fighting the urge to bolt. Silver gates loomed ahead, tribal gs snapping in the breeze like they wereughing at my stupid n.

    "You can do this," I muttered to myself, fingers tracing the expensive silver embroidery on the cape''s edge. Just channel your inner Alpha''s wife."

    My fingers drifted to my neck, where Jackson''s mark sat. It felt unusually warm today, pulsing slightly as if warning me this was a terrible idea. But Lucas''s desperate face shed in my mind, and I squared my shoulders. The kid needed someone in his corner.

    I''d never set foot in here before - Lucas and I always stuck to ckwood''s grounds. Taking a deep breath, I pushed through the massive doors into a hall where dead Alpha eyes tracked me from gold-framed portraits, plush silver-fur rugs cushioning each hesitant step. Everything about the ce screamed old power and older money.

    A group of

    young wolves in training gear passed by, their steps faltering as they caught ke''s scent on me. They exchanged confused nces, some instinctively lowering their eyes before hurrying away, whispering furiously.

    A tight-faced receptionist looked up, her nostrils ring slightly as she caught the mixture of scents - mine and ke''s intertwined. "Can I help you?" The words might as well have been "what are you doing here?"

    I squared my shoulders. "I''m here for Instructor Silver. About Lucas Morgan."

    The Morgan name worked like a mini spell. Her face didn''t saften, but her eyes sharpened with caution.

    "And you are?"

    My heart hammered against my ribs. ¡°Ava Morgan Lucas''s stepmother. The name felt

    strange on

    on my tongue - foreign yet oddly right, which disturbed me even more. Her eyebrows shot up as she stood, giving me a once-over that made me feel like week-old roadkill. "Stepmother? That''s news to everyone at this academy" "We''re keeping it quiet," I said, amazed my voice wasn''t shaking. Thank god Sophia had loaned me this blue dress instead of my showing up in battle-worn leather. "Pack politics. You know how it is."

    Her eyes dropped to the cape, widening slightly. "That''s the Alpha King''s personal cape."

    I nodded, trying to look like I borrowed my husband''s clothes all the time.

    "Wait here," she said, skepticism dripping from every syble. She disappeared through a side door, probably to report the crazy

    y woman iming to be married to the most powerful wolf in three territories

    Minutes stretched like torture. Just as I was considering a strategic retreat, a stocky wolf with a mean scar slicing through his left eye appeared. He carried himself like someone who''d seen a hundred battles and expected a hundred more.

    "Mrs. Morgan?" He managed to pack a ton of disbelief into two words. "Im Instructor Silver. Lucas''sbat teacher."

    "Nice to meet you,'' I smiled, trying to mimic Sophia''s polished tone. I''m here about what happened yesterday."

    Silver''s gaze lingered on the cape, his eyes calcting. I could practically hear him thinking: This doesn''t add up.

    "This way," he finally grunted, "Headmaster''s waiting."

    As we walked, I got perks into training rooms where little wolves some barely older than toddlers - were

    ere already leaming to fight. I caught myself wondering if Lucas felt as alone among these privileged cubs as I did walking these halls,

    Silver kept ncing sideways at me.

    "Funny thing," he said casually, "Alpha King''s never mentioned having a new

    mate. Especially one who looks barely out of training herself."

    That''s the point of keeping it quiet," I replied, fighting the urge to fidget. "Sometimes the best moves are the ones nobody seesing."

    He grunted nomittally as we stopped at a massive door carved with snarling wolves. He knocked twice before pushing it open. "Headmaster, Morgan''s...

    Chapter 53 The Cape Doesnt Lie:

    parent is here."

    I stepped into what could only be described as a trophy room for wolf-kind. Ancient weapons hung on walls alongside battle gs. A white-haired man with shoulders like small mountains stood by the window, his back to us. The air in the room felt heavy with authority, sending my wolf into an instinctive

    crouch.

    When he turned, the Beta power rolling off him hit me like a physical wave. His eyes weren''t just old - they carried the weight of decades of judgment and decision-making. The kind of eyes that had sentenced wolves to death and watched the sentences carried out.

    Headmaster Moonshadow," Silver said, "this is the woman saying she''s Mrs. Morgan."

    "Mrs. Morgan?" The headmaster''s voice carried weight as his eyes dissected me piece by piece. His nostrils red slightly, taking in my scent and the much stronger Alpha scent surrounding me. "Strange. Tve attended every tribal council for thirty years. Never heard the Alpha King mention remarrying."

    My palms were sweating beneath ke''s cape. I smoothed down Sophia''s borrowed dress nervously. "We''re keeping it private until the right moment."

    "You seem awfully young," he continued, circling me slowly. "Barely out

    I lifted my

    chin. "Some of us grow up faster than others."

    of

    your first full moons, Id guess

    "True enough," he conceded, but his eyes never lost their suspicion. "That cape, though....interesting choice. An Alpha''s cape carries their most concentrated scent." He leaned closer, sniffing subtly, making my wolf bristle with difort. They generally only loan it to mark their mates with their scent, warding off other wolves. His eyes narrowed. "But a true mate wouldn''t need such obvious marking unless...

    The air in the room suddenly felt too thin as understanding dawned in his eyes.

    -Unless you''re not his mate at all," he said, voice dropping dangerously low. "Just a thief stupid enough to steal from the Alpha King himself. Do you know what the punishment is for that?"

    My stomach bottomed out, Game over. Loras would never forgive me, and ke... I didn''t even want to imagine his reaction.

    "Guards!" Moonshadow barked at Silver. This woman is an impostor.""

    The mark on my neck suddenly red hot, sending a wave of heat through my

    body. My wolf perked up, sensing something I couldn''t yet.

    Silver Junged for the door, but it flew open before he reached it. A squad of Silverpeak warriors poured in, led by none

    e other than Tyler Reed.

    Shit. Double shit. Triple shit.

    "Captain Reed," Moonshadow acknowledged. "What brings you here?"

    Tyler''s eyes flicked to me, then to the cape, his face impressively nk.

    "Got word someone was pretending to be family at the academy," he said mildly. "Looks like our source was right."

    I closed my eyes, mentally saying goodbye to my job, my freedom, and whatever shred of trust ke had in me. Lucas would never forgive me.

    This won

    woman ims to be Mrs. Morgan," Moonshadow exined. She''s obviously lying¡ªand stealing. That''s the Alpha King''s personal cape.¡±

    Tyler tilted his head slightly. "The cape?"

    "I lent it to herst night."

    That voice cut through the room like thunder - deep and absolute. Every wolf

    instinctively froze, the air suddenly thick with Alpha presence.

    ke stood in the doorway, his storm gray eyes fixed directly on mine,

    §±

    Chapter 53: The Cape Doesn''t Lie

    Chapter Comments

 Chapter 54

    Chapter 54: Beneath the Costume

    Ava''s POV

    That vier cut through the room like a knife, deep and heavy with power. guards froze like deer in headlights, leads dropping as Alpha energy hit

    a heartbeat, the ait went thick as mud, Everyone-headmaster,

    Tyler, even the

    1 spun around, heart in my throat.

    ke stood in the doorway, all broad shoulders and dangerous eyes leucked straight on me.

    I opened my mouth, then closed it. What could I possibly say? I was screwed-not just jobless, but possibly dead meat. Faking being the Alpha King''s Laura, using his tribal cape with permission, dragging his son into my lies... Moon Goshless, hail Ipletely lost my mind?

    The headmaster finally found his voice, though it shook like a leaf: "Alpha King Morgant What a surprise. I was just catching this impostor. She ims to be Lucas & mother and stole your cape. I was about to punish hier ordingly.

    ke walked in, his eyes-sliding from my face to where the beadmaster''s fingers were still digging into my wrist...

    "What''s that?" ke''s voir dropped low, dangerous as a growl,

    The headmaster blinked. "What, sir?

    "Your hand," ke said slowly, "om myna''s wrist."

    The room went dead quiet. My heart skipped, then raced like I''d mainlined caffeine. The headmaster went white as a sheet and dropped my wrist like it

    barned.

    "Your... Lana?" be choked out, eyes bouncing between us. "But after Elizabeth... we never brand -"

    ke stepped closer, and the headmaster scrambled back. Alpha power flooded the room, making it hard to breathe. My wolf practically rolled over inside. me, instinctively submitting to the strongest Alpha,

    *You questioning me? ke asked, voice quiet but deadly,

    The headmaster bowed so fast he nearly fell. "Never, Alpha King.

    ke held his hand out to me, I stood there like an idiot, not sure what to do. His eyes flickered, fingers giving a little curl. Then it clicked-he wanted me to y along.

    I grabbed onto whatever courage I had left and put my hand in his. He wrapped his fingers around mine and pulled me next to him. His thumb brushed the red marks on my wrist, his touch gentle but questioning.

    "We''re keeping things quiet," ke told the headmaster. "Pack politics. You get

    He turned to me, something shing in his eyes I couldn''t read. "Hale, why didn''t you tell me Lucas was in trouble at school?"

    I froze, brain spinning. He doesn''t even know about the fight. How''s he bringing it up? And why the hell is he backing my crazy le?

    When I just stood there, ke

    1. r. ke slipped his arm around my waist and tagged me closer. He bent to my ear: "Go with it." His breath tickled my neck, sending goosebumps down my am.

    Thought you had your hands full with tribal si

    stuff," I managed. "Didn''t wanna pile on.

    ke squeezed my waist slightly-apparently I''d said the right thing I caught Tyler by the dont looking thoughtful-clearly in on the truth but ying aling

    The headmaster looked like someone had just rewritten reality. "Alpha King, Luna Morgan, please forgive my mistake. I had no idea about your..... connection."

    ke just nodded, then looked at m "My cape?"

    That''s when it hit me I was still wrapped in his Alpha cape. The thing smelled like him-pine and rain-soaked earth. My face went hot, like I''d been caught

    Chapter 54 Beneath the Costume

    "Yeah, figured I should give it back, I said, bambling with the re

    ke watched me, not saving a

    g a wond. When I finally got it off, I can my fingers over the mudt for story. This wasn''t just a fancy jacket foot a badge of power. Aiud I''d been paroding around

    I held it out to him, but instead of taking it, he tomed

    ghtly, showing me his back

    He wanted me to put it on him.

    This was the kind of thing mates did fou rachother. My heart hammereil,

    I stood on tiptoe, spread the cape open, and settled it over his shoulders. The silver bar emight slipping on the sps, shaking like 1 hind too much coffer.

    light, making him brod even bigger My lingnes bege

    ke nced down, eyes sparkling with something like an

    amusement at my chamsiness. He covered my hands with his, helping me palm against mine sent little jolts through my skin. I stared at the embroidery, afraid the food top

    -"Thanks, honey," he said, then whispered where only I could hear: "Nice work." When I finally looked up, I saw more than ju what it was

    I backed up a step,

    just the expected smineness in his eyes-something deeper that made

    ke kw

    kept his hand on my waist

    on my waist like it belonged there.

    The mood in the room had done aplete 180. Now everyone looked at us with

    a mix of shee and respect. The w marks on me this was all fake, but my wolf practically wagged its tail at om little game.

    Fill me in on Lucas''s problem," ke said to the headmaster. I isoticed bone carefully he wonded it-Fishing for info siner he had no else what had happened.

    The headmaster straightened up. "Yes, sir. Locas got into a fight with another student yesterday. Given who he is, we didn''t punish film immediately, let school rules say we need a parent to discuss it."

    ke nodded, giving nothing away. His hand tightened on m waist just slightly-a silent question. He was trying to get more details from me. He really didn''t know what had happened.

    Maybe we should talk somewhere private the headmaster suggested. "My office?"

    As we followed him through the halls, it felt like the whole school stupped to stare. Kids whispered and teachers did double-takes at the sight of the Alpha King and his mystery "wile."

    I felt like I was walking on a high wire without a. I nced atke and found him looking totally at ease, like he really was just a husband handling his kid''s school trouble. Meanwhile, I was wound so tight. I could barely breathe, Weird thing was, despite freaking out inside, I felt strangely safe. ke''s hand stayed at my waist, warm and steady, like he was saying: Epot por

    The mark on my neck seemed to wake up, silver and gold threads tangling together, warm against my skin. I had no idea what it meant or how this crazy act would end, but for now, I''d follow his lead.

    We were both ying parts-1 just couldn''t tell where the masks ended and reality began.

    Chapter Comments

    didn''t expect that, love it though, curious how they knew about it though? the assistant listening in maybe?

 Chapter 55

    Ava''s POV

    "Please sit, Alpha King, Morgan Luna." The headmaster yanked out chairs for us, bowing so low I thought he might fall over.

    ke guided me to a chair, his fingers brushing my knuckles as I sat. A jolt shot up my arm, and I couldn''t tell if it was panic or something I didn''t w

    want to

    The headmasterced his fingers together. "About Lucas''s incident-we have strict fighting policies, even for Morgan cubs."

    just ying house, or something else? His warm grip anchored me when

    Under the table, ke''s hand found mine and squeezed. My pulse skipped-was this ju I was about to float away on a sea of panic.

    "Cut to the chase,¡± ke said, lounging back. "What exactly happened?"

    "Yesterday, Lucas attacked an older student named Tobby. Witnesses say Lucas threw the first punch and injured the

    ke''s muscles tensed against my arm. He nced sideways at me, one eyebrow up. "You knew about this?"

    crap. I only knew Lucas had mentioned someone trash-talking his mom

    "Just hits and pieces," I hedged. "Lucas said a kid said something nasty, but no details."

    boy''s

    ''face."

    ke''s focus swiveled back to the headmaster. "My son doesn''t start fights without a good reason. What did this Tobby say to him?"

    The headmaster tugged his cor. "We didn''t actually ask... we were focused on the injury

    "So you''re telling me," ke''s voice dropped to that scary-quiet level, ''you pped me on a seven-year-old without getting the whole story? That''s how this fancy school operates?"

    The headmaster''s face went the color of old paper. "I assure you, Alpha King, we''ll investigate fully

    "Get Lucas. Now." ke didn''t raise his voice, which somehow made it worse.

    Heavy

    silence fell. I snuck nces at ke-jaw tight enough to crack nuts, eyes flickering with something fierce. Why was he backing my crazy lie instead of busting me on the spot?

    "That wrist still hurt?

    I blinked down at the purple fingerprints on my skin. "It''s nothing."

    His eyes dropped to my neck where Jackson''s mark sat. "Interesting."

    "What?" My hand flew up to cover it.

    "You." His voice dropped to a murmur. "You could w

    I''vee clean when I showed up, begged for mercy. Instead, you doubled down."

    I don''t know what i wrong with me, but I met his gaze head-on, "Pot, meet kettle,"

    I whispered back. "You could''ve exposed me in two seconds t. Instead, you jumped in like we''ve been rehearsing this y for weeks. I don''t know what''s wrong with me, but I

    Our eyes locked, something electric crackling between us. His mouth quirked up at one corner, like he was impressed I''d called his bluff.

    A soft knock broke our staring contest. The headmaster barked, "Come in!"

    Lucas preked through the door, fear written all over his face. Hunter slipped in behind him. When Lucas spotted ke, he froze like a rabbit who''d just seen

    "Dad?" His voice barely carried as his eyes ping-ponged between us. ''Ava''s here too?"

    ke held out his hand. "Cmere, kid."

    Lucas inched forward like the floor might bite him. Hunter stuck to his heels, tail hangingw,

    Chapter 55. ying House

    "Park it," ke nodded to the chair beside me.

    Lucas climbed up, looking like we''d grown extra heads overnight.

    "Heard you decked a kid yesterday," ke said, voice neutral.

    Lucas''s face went for

    tomato-red as his eyes dropped to his speakers. "Sorry, Dad."

    Not looking for sorry. Looking for why,"

    Lucas shot me a desperate nce. "It wasn''t that big a deal..."

    I touched his shoulder. "Hey, Just tell

    ell us what happened. For real.

    He looked up with such trust it made my chest ache.

    "This kid Tobby," Lucas finally said. "He''s always on my case about not being Morgan material. Yesterday he started talking about... about Mom."

    ke''s face hardened. What exactly did he say?"

    Lucas bit his lip. ke''s voice softened just a fraction. It''s okay, son, Let it out."

    dod

    "He called me a motherless runt," Lucas said, each word dragged out like it hurt. "Said Mom would rather die than have a worthless p

    like me.

    The temperature seemed to drop twenty degrees. Alpha energy rolled off ke in waves that made my wolf curl up. Even the headmaster shrank back in his chair.

    Keep going."

    -ke growled

    I tried walking away, Lucas''s voice trembled. But he blocked me and said Mom died because she gave birth to a useless heir. That''s when I hit him. I know I shouldn''t have, bur

    ke''s fingers dug into the chair arms so hard I heard wood crack. Without thinking, Iid my hand over his, squeezing gently. The move felt as natural as breathing.

    He turned to me, his eyes wolf-gold and zing with rage-but also a sh of surprise. His hand flipped over, catching my fingers in a grip that was both fierce and careful. I caught Lucas noticing, a tiny smile lifting one corner of his mouth.

    "That''s enough," ke said, voice deadly quiet.

    Lucar''s eyes pooled with tears. I messed up, didn''t I?¡°.

    To my shock, ke moved around me and dropped to one knee in front of Lucas.

    His massive hand rested on his son''s tiny shoulder.

    "You didn''t mess up," he said, his voice softer than I''d ever heard it. "Standing up for family is never wrong."

    Lucas blinked, tears spilling over. "For real?"

    ke nodded, thumb gently wiping a tear from his son''s check. "For real. But next time,e to me first. Some fights are mine to handle,¡±

    Something warm unfurled in my chest watching them. This wasn''t ice-king ke- this was a father who''d burn the world down to protect his son. For a second. I almost forgot I was just an imposter in their family portrait

    rose to his full height, turning to the headmaster with wolf-gold still swirling in his eyes. "What punishment did you give the kid who trashed myte mate and bullied my son?"

    The headmasters throat bobbed. "He received medical attention:

    "A bandage in I punishment," ke cut in with arctic coldness. That little shit insulted the Morgan legacy, disrespected my fated mate, and verbally attacked my son. By tribalw, thats grounds for his whole family to be kicked off packnds,"

    The headmaster went chalk white. "We had no idra=

    ''Now you do? kes tone mmed the door on further excuses. "I want a full report on what happens to this kid. Handle it wrong, and Silverpeak Academy might find itself without Morgan backing. Clear?"

    Chapter 55 ying House

    The headmaster nodded frantically. "Crystal clear, Alpha King"

    ke held his hand out to Lucas. "You''reing home with us today."

    Lucas nced at me, checking if "us" included me. I nodded with a reassuring smile.

    ke extended his other hand to me. "Ready to go, habe?"

    That casual endearment echoed in my ears as I slid my hand into his waiting palm. His fingers closed around mine with familiar ease, like we''d been doing this dance for years.

    "Yeah," I said softly, then reached for Luras''s hand. "Let''s blow this joint."

    Lucas beamed like Christmas hade early, his eyes bouncing between us with pure joy. A strange warmth spread through me-almost making me believe this wasn''t just an act.

    Walking through the academy halls, our little trio plus Hunter drew every eye. Students and teachers froze as we passed, whispering furiously: That''s the new Morgan Langa? She looks perfect with the Alpha Kioje, Liens finnily has a mom again...

    At the entrance, sunlight hit us like a spotlight. ke suddenly halted, eyeing Tyler

    and the guards waiting outside. His grip on my hand tightened as he leaned close

    to my ear.

    "Show''s not over yet," he murmured. "Stay with me.

    Chapter Comments

 Chapter 56

    Chapter 56: After the Masquerade

    Lucas darted behind us, taking two quick steps for every one of ours. My adrenaline was crashing, that fake confidence I''d conjured up dissolving with each heartbeat, leaving nothing but raw panic in its wake.

    I''d just pretended to be ke Morgan''s wife. The Alpha King''s Luna. While wearing his ceremonial cape. That kind of stunt could get me kicked off packnds or worse.

    Tyler waited by a sleek carriage near the gates, guards creating a careful perimeter-close enough to pounce if needed, far enough to give us privacy. ke dropped my hand the moment we were out of view, like he''d just realized it was still in his grasp.

    -What

    were you two thinking?" His voice was quiet but packed a punch.

    "It''s on me, Dad." Lucas wedged himself between us like a tiny shield. I begged Ava to help. Thought you''d lose it if you found out what happened."

    ke''s eyes flicked to me, cold enough to give me frostbite. "And you just rolled with this crazy idea??

    "I messed up," I said, my voice wobbling like a newborn calf. "Should''ve pumped the

    1. s. Just wanted to get the kid out of hot water.¡±

    He dragged a hand down his face. "Did it cross your mind what would happen if someone called your bluff? An Alpha King getting hitched isn''t exactly under-the- radar news.

    I chewed my lip raw. "Yeah, I dropped the ball big time."

    "Dad,e on! Don''t take it out on Ava!" Lucas tugged his sleeve, eyes getting watery. "The whole dumb n was my idea. She just had my back."

    Du

    "Tast I checked, she''s old enough to vote," ke shot back, voice hard as nails..

    "Look, if you want to fire me, just spit it out," I said, finally meeting his eyes. "Till be gone before the rooster crows."

    ke studied me long enough that I started counting heartbeats. His face gave nothing away, those storm-gray eyes swirling with something I couldn''t name. Then he just turned.

    I froze in ce, Was that my dismissal? A non-answer?

    Lucas looked back at me with raised eyebrows, then gave a tiny shrug and trailed after his dad. I stood there like an idiot, wondering if I was supposed to follow or just start walking home.

    ke paused at the carriage door and nced back. "Youing or not?"

    I hurried over, slipping into the backseat. Tyler closed the privacy screen betweenpartments with a soft click. The silence felt thick enough to choke on.

    Traffic clogged the city streets, stretching minutes into what felt like hours, Lucas eventually corked out against my arm, his face peaceful in sleep. The day''s drama had wrung him dry.

    ke watched his son

    on with

    a softness I rarely got to see.

    I murmuted, not wanting to wake Lucas. Today was a clusterfuck. Won''t happen again."

    sorry, I murm

    "Damn right it won''t," he replied, but without the bite I expected.

    turned to the window, watching buildings blur past, figuring the conversation was

    over.

    That said.... thanks." The word sounded rusty, like he didn''t use it much.

    1 whipped my head back. For what?"

    mother. When he needs someone in

    Do I push it," he warned, but a ghost of something almost like humor flickered in his eyes. Lucas doesnt have a mother

    Chapter 56: After the Masquerade

    I tried and failed to stop the corner of my mouth from lifting. He a good kid. Just needs someone to actually see him, not just the Alpha heir."

    Makes gaze drifted to his sleeping son, his mask slipping just enough to reveal a crack of vulnerability. "Back there, watching you defend him... it was like sering Elizabeth''s ghost"

    hit the flo

    My jaw nearly hit the floor. He never talked about his wife.

    "She''d have pulled the same stunt," he continued, his voice sandpaper rough. "Jumped in headfirst if Lucas needed her, no questions asked." His fingers drifted through Lucas''s hair with a touch so gentle it made my chest hurt. "She missed everything. His first shift. His first hunt. All the times he needed someone in his cover?

    I didn''t dare breathe too loud, like 1 might scate away this rare glimpse of the man behind the Alpha mask.

    Seven years is a long time flying solo, You forget what it''s like having someone share the load." Something shed across his face, there and gone like lichtning. "Seeing you step up for him today....... knocked me sideways."

    I wanted to reach out, but my courage stalled hallway. "Lucas says she was one in a million."

    "Understatement of the century, ke said, his voice warming a few degrees. "She would''ve gotten a kick out of you, Would ve ripped you a new one for today''s circus act, then poured you a drink after,"

    His almost-smile hit me harder than any Alphamand ever could,

    He cleared his throat, mask sliding back into ce. About your dad''s case,"

    My spine stiffened instantly. "What about it?".

    "Been poking around the case files, he said, watching trees zip by outside. "Something smells fishy. The way Alpha Carter died... your dad might not have blood on his hands like everyone thinks?

    Hope hit me like a sucker punch, stealing my breath. "You serious?"

    "Let''s just say I might have enough to dy his execution," he said, his eyes catching mine. "Still.connecting dots, but rushing to off him would be a dumbass

    My world span like I''d chugged a bottle of mounshine. After weeks of nothing but crumbs, someone was finally throwing me a bone.

    "Sa you''ll help?" The words squeaked out pathetically.

    Ill see what I can do," he said, choosing his words like he was disarming a bomb. "Don''t throw a parade yet, Ava. He''s no saint, but he might not deserve siber bullet, either,"

    Even that tiny ray of hope felt blinding after weeks of darkness. I looked down at Lucas''s head on my shoulder, my throat too tight for words.

    The carriage finally rolled to a stop

    p outside ckwood Manor. I gently nudged Lucas.

    "Hey, sleepyhead. We''re back," I said softly.

    He blinked awake, yawning. "We there yet?"

    "Yep ke and I answered in stereo, our voices colliding.

    Our eyes locked, and something zapped between us like I''d stuck my finger in an

    outlet. My neck suddenly felt hotter than a fever.

    Thanks for sticking your neck out for me, Lucas mumbled, throwing his arms

    around me. "You''d make a hadass mom."

    My cheeks med redder than a stop sign, especially when I caught ke fighting a smile. This bizarre ying-house moment made my skin tingle in ways

    I didn 1 want to examine too closely.

    Totta hit the training ground," stammered, nearly falling out the door in my rush. "Day''s half shot already."

    Behind me, Lucas cracked up while ke said something too low to catch, I berlined for the training area, trying to outrun the swarm of butterflies doing

    ching a lifeline for Dad. But it had

    Today had been one hell of a ride-scared out of my mind one minute, drowning in secrets the next, then suddenly catching a

    Chapter 56. After the Masquerade

    also busted open a door I''d been pretending wasn''t there. For those few minutes

    in that carriage, with Lucas snoozing between us, we''d felt like the real deal.

    And that scared me more than staring down a rabid Alpha with nothing but a toothpick.

    Chapter Comments

    why isnt she sharing what she knows about her dad''s imprisonment, it may help c

    Michele Jones

    connect the dots

    Confused. They are riding in a carriage, but referencing cars by pumping the

    brakes???

    < SHARE

 Chapter 57

    ke''s POV

    "You really gonna go through with this? Tyler leaned against the window in my study, eyebrows raised. "Shadow Creek''s gonna have a field day with this

    I dropped my pen on the desk and drummed my fingers against the wood. The paper I''d just signed was nothing short of a bomb-ordering Carter''s case

    reopened and putting the brakes on William''s execution. Once I pped my seal on it, nobody could argue.

    "Let them talk," I shot Tyler a look. "This case has more holes than a target dummy after training day."

    "The whole thing stinks," he nodded, "but William had his hands in it somehow. Guy''s no angel."

    I pushed back from the desk and wandered to the window. Down in the training yard, Lucas was working with Ava. She was behind him, guiding his arms into some defensive move, her face a mask of concentration. Something about watching them sent a weird ache through my chest.

    "Never said he was wearing a halo, I muttered. "But you don''t put a wolf down without rock solid proof. That crime scene was messed with-like someone trying to cover their tracks."

    Tyler shifted, watching me watch them. "This wouldn''t have anything to do with a certainbat instructor, would it?"

    I turned my back on the window, dodging thatndmine. ''Get this to Shadow Creek s Elders ASAP, then make sure Rivers knows. Tell them I''m showing up tomorrow to hash this out myself."

    Tyler scooped up the paper with a smirk that said he knew exactly what I wasn''t saying: "Whatever you say, boss."

    After he ducked out, my eyes drifted back to the window, Locas nailed the move Ava had been teaching him, and she pped him on the shoulder. The kid lit up like a firecracker-hadn''t seen him smile like that in forever.

    I''d never it out loud, but that whole school stunt the other day... it did something to me. Since Elizabeth died, this ce has been like a clock with missing gears. Functional, but lifeless.

    Then Ava crashed into our world, and somehow the damn thing started ticking again.

    Shadow Creeks council hall looked like it belonged in another century-all rough wooden beams and stern-faced Alpha portraits judging you from every wall. When I walked in, the room went quiet, the elders'' faces ranging from fake smiles to guys who looked ready to chew nails.

    "Alpha King Morgan," Elder Michaels practically spat my title, mind telling us why you''re sticking your nose in Shadow Creek business?"

    I dropped the document on the table between us, keeping my voice level. "This isn''t me butting in. This is me doing my job. Rivers death sentence is built on evidence that wouldn''t convince a pup, let alone justify killing a wolf."

    We caught him red-handed," another elder shot back, face flushing. "Literally-the guy was covered in Carter''s blood at the scene!"

    "Yeah, and that''s the problem," I cut in, locking eyes with him. "The blood spray doesn''t match an attacker. It matches someone who tried to help. And someone else was there-someone you all conveniently forgot to mention in your reports."

    The

    room erupted in angry whispers. I took my time looking at each face, lingering on Jackson Hayes in the corner, ying it cool like this was just another Tuesday.

    "Alpha King Morgan, Council Chairman Drake pushed to his feet, the only elder with enough balls to speak directly. "With all due respect, we handle our own dirtyundry. William broke packw-"

    Pack Law in worth spit if its not fair," I cut him off, not raising my voice but making damn sure everyone heard me. That''s what being Alpha King means -making sure we don''t start killing wolves because its convenient."

    The room went dead silent. I could practically hear them grinding their teeth. Nobody had the guts to challenge me openly, but this wasn''t exactly winning

    "So where this supposed evidence? Jackson piped up suddenly, drawing every eye in the room. "All I''m hearing is theories. Where''s the beef?"

    Smooth move-making himself look like the rational one while painting me as some crusader with an agenda.

    "Funny you should ask." I pulled out what Tyler dug upst night-a small silver container scratched all to hell with pack symbols. When I cracked it open,

    Chapter 57 Blood On His Hands

    the

    etallic tang of old blood hit the air.

    You couldve heard a pin drop as the elders crowded in for a look, eyebrows shooting up.

    This was buried half a mile from where Carter died," I said, tilting it so they could peek inside. "Got two different sets of w marks on it, and neither matches William

    I ran my thumb over the gouges, giving them all a good look. "This has Shadow Creek written all over it¡ªbut it''s not your garden-variety potion. It''s the souped- up version made for Alphas. Gives you a hell of a power boost, but turns your brain to mush-makes you fly off the handle at nothing."

    The room temperature seemed to drop ten degrees as the elders started trading looks that said more than words ever could.

    "Someone slipped this to Carter, then used his rage episode to set the whole thing up." I continued. "William wasn''t the killer-he was just ce at the wrong time. The blood spray shows he was trying to stop it, not make it happen.¡±

    ust in the wro

    Wrong

    "It''s not a smoking gun pointing at our killer, but it blows a hole in your death sentence, I pressed on. "William was just some poor bastard who saw something he shouldn''t have."

    "Made him the perfect fall guy," Ladded. "The evidence says be got a raw deal."

    Chairman Drake turned the container over in his hands, his tough-guy act cracking around the edges. Thisplicates things, he admitted, frowning. "But William still kept his mouth shut and got mixed up in this mess."

    Not saying he''s walking away clean, I conceded. "But you don''t put a wulf down unless y ire damn sure. Keep him locked up while we dig deeper, but take

    execution off the table."

    The elders huddled up with their eyes, having one of those silent conversations where nobody wants to be the first to back down. Finally, Drake cracked.

    "In light of what Alpha King Morgan''s brought to the table," he forced the words out like they hurt, "we''ll hold off on William''s execution. He stays locked up until we get to the bottom of this

    My teams joining the investigation, I added, making it crystal clear

    ar this wasn''t up for debate. And fix his cell situation-lose the silver restraints and

    get him some basic care. Gay looks like death warmed over."

    Drake''s face went sour, but he gave a stiff nod, "Consider at done"

    As everything wrapped up, Jackson glided over like we were old buddies, Alpha King Morgan," his voice smooth as butter, "you''ve got myplete backing on reopening this case. Finding the truth matters above all else, wherever it leads."

    His face was the picture of sincerity, but his eyes were dead as stones. Behind that perfect mask, wheels were turning.

    "Truth''s a funny thing, Jackson," I said, watching him closely. "Tends to hide in the ces people don''t want you looking"

    smile ever faltered-picture perfect. "Couldnt agree more. Justice is all any of us want,

    Outside, Tyler fell in step beside me, voice low: "That was one hell of an act he put on."

    "Yeah," I muttered, eyes forward. "When someone tries

 Chapter 58

    Chapter 58: Gold Against the Silver

    finishing up in the training yard, sweaty and satisfied after a solid session with Lucas, when Tyler appeared in the doorway, his usual stone face rarrying something different.

    Tyler appeared in the doorway, his usual stone faced expression softened around the edges. Something was different.

    "Got news," he said, holding out a folded piece of parchment, "Alpha King wanted me to hand this to you personally."

    My fingers trembled slightly as I took it, recognizing the official seal before I even unfolded it-the intricate silver wolf head and moon symbol that only

    "This is...?" I couldrat [

    finish the question, heart suddenly racing-

    "Official modification of William Rivers sentence, Tyler answered, watching my face carefully. ¡°Death penalty''s been revoked, reced with indefinite imprisonment pending further investigation "

    I had to take several deep breaths just to keep standing. "This is real? He''s not going to be executed?

    Tyler nodded, his eyes showing a rare glimpse of warmth. "Alpha King showed up at Shadow Creek himself. The Elders didn''t have much choice but toply. Your father stays locked up, but the conditions will improve drastically. Regr visitation rights included."

    I clutched the document tightly, the parchment crinkling under my grip. This paper¨Cthis simple piece of paper meant my father would live.

    "How did ke-I mean, the Alpha King-manage this?" I asked, still processing the sudden shift in my w

    world.

    "He has his ways," Tyler''s mouth curved in a small smile. "Authority, evidence, and a certain... persuasiveness that even the most stubborn Elders can''t Ignore."

    "I need to thank him," I said, feeling overwhelmed by gratitude and shock.

    Hes back at the manor," Tyler replied. "But I''d suggest you share this news with your mother first. After all, we both know what this means for her."

    I nodded, eager to get home. "Lucas''s training

    "Alpha King says pick it up tomorrow, Tyler cut in "Tonight is for family."

    I nearly sprinted all the way home, document clutched against my chest like a lifeline. When I pushed open our front door, Sarah was sitting by the window, staring vacantly at the moonlight outside. The same position I''d found her in countless times since Dad''s arrest.

    "Mom!" I called out, my voice vibrating with barely contained excitement,

    She turned, her fare still etched with the weariness and worry that had be her constantpanions. "Awa? What''s happened?"

    I thrust the document toward her, barely able to control my voice. "Dad''s not going to be executed! The Alpha King intervened personally. The sentence has been changed to indefinite imprisonment!"

    Sarah''s hands shook as she took the parchment, her eyes rapidly scanning its contents. With each line she read, her expression transformed-from disbelief to tentative hope, then to joy. By the time she finished, tears were streaming down her hollow cheeks.

    "Is this real?" she whispered, her voice trembling. "William is really... not going to die?"

    ey had no choice but to ept it. Dad

    It''s real," I confirmed, kneeling beside her and taking her hands. The Alpha King went to Shadow Creek himself. They till has to stay in prison, but things will get better, and we can visit him regrly."

    Sarah gripped my hands tightly, her tears flowing freely now. But these were different from the tears of despair I''d grown ustomed to seeing. These were Thank

    k the A

    Moon Goddess, the murmured. "And thank that Alpha King"

    silence for a few moments, sharing this sliver of showing a spark of life I hadn''t seen in forever.

    of hope that had broken through months of darkness. Then, suddenly,

    nly, Sarah lifted her head, her eyes

    Chapter 511 Gold Against the

    "I need to prepare some things," she said, her vice carrying a determination Tal almost forgotten she pourised. ''If we con visit your father, him some moonlight herb tea. Ta help hisa teavet

    I watched in antarement as she rose to her feet and moved to the kitchen, beginning to examina

    things. Now, bet movements were tentative but purposeful

    "Twant to see him tomattow," she decided, looking up at more. "Will yangan with me?!

    Of course, I promised, feeling a warmth spreading through my chest. ''Irrange H Later that ingli, after Sarah had me to bed,

    months, shed barely touched these

    im ama potchi steps, gazing he distant momen. ke Morgan, an Alpha who was practically a stranger

    months ago, had risked angeting an eistite pack to sate maythion s life. Why? Was it his sense of justice? Appreciation for my work withicas? ¨¹c., something else enthiely?

    Whatever his motivation, I found myself feeling a trust and gratitude I''d never expected. In a world of wolf politics and power ys, his ar beyond any formal contract or obligation.

    Il be asked for anything in retum, I''d give

    of in wolf society.

    This kind of new conditional help was almost unheard

    The mounlight fell warm and bright no my skin. Two training Lucas, but Tal alsin find a mat Thank Make personally. Not at an employee to an employer, but as one wolf to another who had shown the dignity and conitage.

    Jackson''s POV

    Jackson paced the length of his study, fury aming though him like wildfire. The execution under the cur he''d carefully achestrated officially canceled. William Rivers would live, which meant the truth could stille suit.

    "That infrifeung bastard," he muttered, mmung bis list against the

    Make Morgan. The almighty Alpha King, sticking his nose where it didn t belong. Everything had been perfectly arranged-Williams taking the tall, his eventual execution erasing ane loose ends, and Ava, devastated and vulnerable, would have had ina chuiler but to turn to Jackson forfort,

    He forced himself to take a deep breath. No, this wasn''t the end. Just a setback, Rushing things had been his mistake. Ava wasn''t some conquest to be imed overnight.

    She was a mate his mate. Their connection was written in silver mark upon her skin. No Alpha King could erase that, no matter how much power he

    Jackson moved to the window, staring at the moon, Perhaps this idevelopusent could work in his Livor, William''s continued existence would keep Ava engaged with Shadow Creek politics. She wouldn''t be able to fullymit to whatever was brewing between her and ke.

    ies still mine,¡± he whispered to the night. "Every part of her belongs to me, whether the epts it or not.

    The bond between true mates couldn''t be severed only redirected, temporarily. She could y trainer to ke''s spoiled brat, maybe even warm his bed if things went that far. But in the end, she''d return to where she belonged.

    A cruel smile spread across Jackson''s face. ke Morgan could enjoy his little songbird for now, that the cage was

    s still his to close whenever he chose.

    Chapter Commenta

    grote lul

 Chapter 59

    Chapter 59: Paychecks

    ke''s POV

    I drummed my fingers against the smooth oak desk, weighing the next steps. Rivers didn t deserve to die, but he wasn t exactly innocent either. No matter how you sliced it, Shadow Creek had every right to keep him locked up until the whole truth came to light,

    "How much are you nning to tell ?wa?" Tyler asked, concern threading through his usually neutral tour,

    "The rough truth,"" I replied, stretching my shoulders against the tension building there. Her father shouldn''t die, but he''s nod meles kept secrets that Landed him in this mess."

    "She''s scheduled to see him this afternoon, Tyler reminded me. "First visit since your intervention

    wont apprciate us

    I nodded, already mapping contingencies in my head. "Have Gamma guards keep a distant watch, Make sure she''s sale. Shadow Creek won meddling in their affairs."

    "Already got word that Sarah Rivers has improved dramatically," Tyler added, shifting his weight, "Almost a different person now that she knows bet husband''s temporarily safe."

    Good," I said, my mind already racing ahead. "Keep the moonlight remedy deliveries flowing. Enough to help, not enmagls to raise eyebrows."

    Tyler gathered the evidence container, preparing to leave, but paused at the doorway. "Normally an Alpha King woit risk challenging another pack for an ordinary wolf from outside his tribe."

    1 raised an eyebrow. "Your point?!

    "No point," he said with a quietugh. "Just an observation."

    After Tyler left, I stood alone by the window, watching raindrops hammer against the ss. How would Ava take this news? Her father escaped execution. but the truth might be messier than she imagined.

    Before sunset, a border patrol alert came through Unknown wolves had been spotted along the muthern boundary-likely scouts testing our defenses. As Alpha King, I couldn''t ignore any potential threat.

    Before heading out, I found Ava in the training yard with Luras, her voice carrying clear across the space.

    "When you''re in closebat, keep your center of gravity low," she corrected Lucas''s stance, her hands confidently adjusting his posture. "Don''t put all your weight on your front foot. You''ll topple with the first good hit.

    Lucas adjusted with serious concentration, focused on every detail. His progress was undeniable-far beyond anything previous instructors had achieved.

    "Ava," I called softly, not wanting to interrupt their rhythm. "Got a minute?"

    She turned, sweat beading her forehead in the sunlight, "Sure, Alpha King. Lucus, practice that defensive stance-I''ll be right back.

    We walked to the edge of the yard where shade from ancient oaks cooled the air. Her scent carried sunshine and the vibrance ofbat training¡ªa strange, maic pull tugging at something in my chest.

    "I need to leave for a few days," I said without preamble. "Situation on the northern border requires my personal attention."

    She nodded, unsurprised. "Should Lucas''s training continue, or do you have other arrangements?"

    "Keep training." I confirmed." "Tyler''s staying behind. Contact him if anything con

    Her

    gaze

    drifted toward the distance. "I have clearance to see my father today."

    know," I said. "I''ve arranged guards to watch from a distance, ensure your safety."

    She looked back at me, surprise flickering across her face. "Didn''t expect you to think of that."

    "My intervention put you in this position," I exined. "Your safety my responsibility."

    Post-rain sunlight broke through the clouds, spilling across the training yard. Lucas practiced the moves she''d taught him, each position executed with determination. Watching my son so engaged sent an odd surge of pride and gratitude through me,

    Chapter 59 Paychecks

    "We found evidence," I continued, getting back to business. "Shows your father was there, but not as the primary killer. Maybe a witness, VE DAMAL E something be shouldn''t have been."

    She caught her breath slightly. "What does that mean?

    "Means he shouldn''t be executed, but Shadow Creek has the right to keep him locked up until all the factse out." I tried to miten the harshness. The not innocent, Ava. But he shouldn''t die for crimes he didn''tmit."

    She epted this reality with moreposure than I''d expected, nodding slowly.

    I understand. At least he has time now and hoo

    "I''ll keep digging," I promised. "But it I take time. Truth doesn''t always float to the surface.

    Ava looked up at me, trust and gratitude shi

    shining in her eyes with an intensity I''d never seen directed at me before. "Thank you, ke. Senously."

    Hearing my name instead of my title sent an odd warmth through my chest.

    "Heard your mother''s improved," I said.

    Yeah, she nodded, a genuine smile lighting up her face. ''Since learning Dad''s temporarily safe, she''s almost a different person. Even took a walk yesterday- first time in months.

    I''m gone

    "I''ve arranged for regr moonlight remedy deliveries to your home," I added. They''ll continue even while I

    You don''t have to do all this," she said quietly.

    "I know," I answered simply, "But I choose to."

    Silence stretched between us, filled only by the distant sounds of Lucas''s training.

    "Be careful,¡± she suddenly said, genuine concerncing her words. "Border patrol is routine business

    I gave her a slight smile. "Worried about me, Awa?"

    She rolled her eyes, but couldn''tpletely hide the amusement in them. "Just worried about who''ll sign my paychecks if you don''te back."

    The joke lightened the moment. Lucas called for her from across the yard, clearly eager to show off his progress.

    "Go on," I said. "I leave at dawn tomorrow. Back in three days,test."

    She nodded and turned toward Lucas. I watched her walk away, a strange emotion rising in my chest. This warrior from Shadow Creek had somehow be

    essential to ckwood Manor.

    And to me, she was bing something moreplicated and dangerous than

    I cared to admit.

    Chapter Comments

    2

 Chapter 60

    Chapter 60: Peace

    Ava''s POV

    "Get low! Elbows in!" I shouted across the yard, watching Lucas dodge an imaginary attacker. Tighting isis I just muscle-it''s alisait being steaky fast-

    Lucas adjusted mid-move, his eyes lighting up when he got it right. Three days since Make took off for the bonder, and Ed settled into a wind kind of normal at ckwood. Training this kid had be the highlight of my days.

    "Better?"

    tried again. this time flowing through the move like water.

    -Way better." I flicked a towel at him, bitting his sweaty face dead center. "You''re a natural, squirt,"

    Lucas beamed, and for a second, I remembered he was just a kid ying at being a warrior. "Think I could kick butt at Junior Qualifiers?

    "Crush it," I nodded. "Keep this up and you''ll make wolves twice your age look like puppies."

    Hunter huffed beside him, practically rolling his eyes in agreement.

    Lucas kicked at the dirt. Dading back today?" His voice wobbled between hopeful and bracing for disappointment.

    "Should be." My stomach did a stupid little flip at the thought. Three days, he said,"

    "He never sees the cool stuff." Lucas muttered, shoulders slumping. "Always misses when I nail something big."

    I ruffled his hair, surprising myself with how natural it felt. "We''ll show him together. Make him eat his words about missing mat

    The door creaked, and Tyler appeared, jingling his keys. "Alpha''s inbound. Sunset ETA

    Lucas shot up like he''d been electrocuted. "G

    "Gotta practice my finale moves!

    eat He bolted with Hunter hot on has heels, dust cloud in their wake.

    Tyler''s face softened when the kid disappeared. "Border mess was hairier than we thought. ke handled it, though. Everyone''sing home."

    Relief hit me harder than I wanted to admit. I''d been counting hours, not that I''d tell a soul.

    "The kid''s different now, Tyler said, his usual poker face cracking into something almost friendly. "Never seen him this fired up about training."

    "He makes it easy," I said, surprised to find I meant it. "Kid''s all heart."

    Prison had a new smell today-less like despair, more like industrial cleaner. Third visit since ke pulled rank, and each time the ce felt less suffocating. Guards still weren''t throwing me wee parties, but at least they''d dropped the death res

    "Kiddo!" Dad''s face split into a grin that erased years from his face. The silver cuffs that had been burning raw wounds were gone, reced with something that didn''t make his skin bubble and smoke.

    "Looks like someone got the memo about not torturing prisoners," I said, eyeing his healing wrists.

    Dad snorted. "Amazing what happens when the Alpha King gets personally pissed off. Got daily check-ups now and everything."

    like a lusury V''d

    We sat across a metal table, no guard breathing down our necks for unce-just a couple hored-looking patrols at the far end. Privacy felt li forgotten existed.

    "So what really went down?" I kept my voice low. The question had been burning a hole in my tongue for months.

    Dad''s eyes darted around before settling on mine. "I was there that night," he admitted, voice barely shove a whisper. "Found files-dirty deals going down in Shadow Creek leadership. Was heading to tell Carter when I found him... already down."

    "You saw who did it?

    Just the aftermath. Tried stopping the bleeding. He rubbed his palms like he could still feel the blood. "Then they found me with a dead Alpha and jumped to conclusions."

    "So they pped traitor on you and called it a day."

    Chapter 60 Peace

    "He sighed. "I screwed up, keeping quiet about those documents. Made me look guilty as hell, especially with Carter''s blood all over me.

    I reached across and squeezed his hand. "Il get you home. Whatever it takes."

    Something shed in his eyes-hope mixed with fear. "Sarah?!==

    "Night and day different," I grinned. "Got her color back. Yesterday she even dragged Mrs. Peterson out hunting moonlight flowers.

    Dad & face softened. "Those damn flowers, First thing I noticed about her-arms full of silver blooms, moonlight in her hair."

    We drifted to easier topics-Lucas''s training, Sarah''s cooking again, neighborhood gossip. When I left, Dad hugged me awkwardly across the table, his arms still solid despite everything

    When I got back, the setting sun painted ckwood guld. Guard shouts and hoofheats

    carried on the wind-ke was home.

    Lucas tore into the training yard like his pants were on fire. "Dad''s back! Wants to see what we ve been doing!"

    ere on

    "Then let x blow his mind." I grabbed practice staffs, tossing him his favorite.

    Take filled the doorway momentster, road dust still clinging to his boots. He looked beat, but his eyes sparked to life when he spotted us. \\"Missed all the action, did 17'' His voice had a new softness around the edges. "Dad! Watch this!" Lucasunched into his routine-fluid movements chained together with precision no seven-year-old should possess.

    ke went dead still, tracking every move. When Lucas stuck thending on his finale, ke crossed the yard and dropped to one knee, eye-to-eye with his

    That was..." He paused, searching for words. "Incredible. You''re miles beyond where I thought you''d be."

    Lucas lit up like someone d flipped a switch inside him. He spun toward me, practically vibrating. "Ava taught me everything! She doesn''t yell when I mess

    up!

    ke''s eyes found mine, something unreadable burning in them. "Lucky kid," he said simply, but the weight behind those two words hung in the air between

    Dinner was surprisingly chill Wilson had gone all-out, and locas bounced between wolfing down food and demonstrating moves with his fork. ke actually smiled twice-l counted-and asked real questions about the training, soaking up every detail. Even with Sophia out wedding-nning, the room felt wrindly... tight.

    After Lucas crashed from his excitement high, ke walked me toward the main gate. The almost-full moon painted everything silver, a reminder that primal forces were always just beneath the surface.

    "Border mess bad?" I asked, kicking a stray pebble.

    "Messy, not deadly." He shrugged. "Northern wolves getting bold, but nobody''s looking for a war?

    I dog my

    nails into my palm, working up nerve. "Thanks-for Dad, for the medicine, for everything."

    ke walked a few steps in silence. "Lucas is different now. Happier. More himself." He nced side

    "Just business then?" The words tumbled out before my brain could catch up with my mouth.

    at me. That''s worth something."

    ke stopped dead, his eyes catching mine like hooks. Something electric crackled between us, dangerous and alive. Then he blinked, breaking the spell.

    "Gettingte. Training Tomorrow?"

    Thi non answer felt heavier than any confession. I nodded and turned away.

    "Night. Alpha "

    "Night, Ava

    ??

    Chapter 60. Peace

    Walking out, moonlight stretching my shadow across the grounds, I realized how easily I''d slipped into this new normal-training Locas, visiting Dad, returning to ckwood like it was where I belonged.

    But something had shifted beneath the surface, quiet but seismic. Every time

    ke

    e looked at metely, every time I caught myself scanning rooms for him¡ª it was

    like ying with matches near gunpowder.

    Chapter Comments

    POST CO

    COMMENT NOW

    SHARE

 Chapter 61`

    ke''s POV

    The tribal council had sucked the life out of me. I kicked the manor door shut behind me, savoring the heavy thud.

    My shoulders dropped an inch. Here, at least, I didn''t have to be the unshakable Alpha King. Just tired, cranky ke Morgan with a pounding headache.

    I closed my eyes, letting my senses map the house. Lucas was probably in the training room, Sophia likely out or perhaps in her room preparing for the wedding. And Ava... I wondered if her back had healed.

    My eyes snapped open and I felt confused, agitated. Why did I care?

    "Everything satisfactory, Alpha King?"

    Wilson stood at the foot of the stairs, spine rigid as a silver pole, eyes carefully nd.

    "Fine," I muttered, the word clipped. "Lucas still training?"

    "Indeed, sir. With Miss Rivers." The way he said her name-like picking up something distasteful-made my jaw tighten.

    I''d deal with Wilson''s attitudeter. Right now, checking on Lucas seemed as good an excuse as any to stretch my legs. Just routine Alpha business, making sure the heir was progressing.

    That''s what I told myself, anyway.

    Halfway down the corridor, my hackles rose. The air changed-tension, anger, fear. My pace quickened automatically, instincts shifting into high alert. Through the heavy oak door came muffled sounds: harsh whispers, the thud of bodies, a breathless "let go."

    And smells-Ava''s scent spiked with adrenaline and fury. And intertwined with it, a scent that had no business being here.

    Jackson Hayes.

    The door mmed open under my hand.

    Jackson had Ava pinned against the stone wall, one hand mped around her wrists, the other gripping her jaw, forcing her head to the side. His mouth hovered over her neck where I knew her mark sat, his body pressed against hers. She was twisting, fighting, but caught at the wrong angle.

    My vision washed red.

    "What the fuck is happening here?" The words came out barely human.

    Jackson froze like prey in headlights. The pressure of my Alpha energy hit him physically, making him stumble back from Ava. His face went ck with terror as his knees buckled, body responding to primal instinct. Head down, neck exposed-submission

    Too little, toote.

    I crossed the room in three strides, grabbed him by the throat, and mmed him into the wall hard enough that mortar dust rained down. The stone cracked behind him with a satisfying crunch.

    "I warned you." Each word dripped from my mouth like venom.

    Jackson dangled from my grip, choking, his feet scrabbling against the wall. His face purpled as he fought for air, eyes bulging. The wolf in me howled for blood. Break his neck. Tear him apart. Show him what happens when he touches what''s mine-

    A warm hand touched my back.

    "ke, stop. Ava''s voice cut through the red fog. He''s not worth it.¡±

    I tightened my grip, feeling Jackson''s pulse flutter under my fingers.

    "Sophia would be devastated," Ava added softly. "Don''t make her pay for his stupidity."

    The reminder of my daughter hit like ice water. I dropped Jackson like garbage, watching him crumple to the floor in a pathetic heap, wheezing and

    clutching his throat.

    "Get up, I snapped.

    He struggled to his feet, weaving like a drunk, eyes fixed on the floor. "Touch her again," I said, each word precise, "and Sophia''s feelings won''t save you. Alpha or not, I''ll tear your spine out through your throat. Understand?"

    Jackson nodded frantically, still not looking up.

    "Now get the fuck out of my sight."

    He stumbled toward the door, half-crawling, the smell of fear pouring off him like sweat.

    When the door closed behind him, the silence felt electric. Ava stood watching me, chest rising and falling rapidly, face flushed. Her hair hade loose from its practical braid, wild strands framing her face. Something primitive curled in my gut at the sight.

    Chapter Comments

    Mike

    its like they dont want to acknowledge what their wolves already know lol

    View 1 Comment >

    Bad Husband 6

 Chapter 62

    "You okay?" I managed, trying to sound normal and failing.

    Her chin jerked up in that stubborn way that drove me crazy. "Fine.¡±

    My temper red. "Fine? That''s it? I walk in and find Jackson manhandling you, and all you''ve got is fine''?"

    "What do you want me to say?" She yanked herbat jacket straight. "Thanks for the save, now I''ll get back to work?"

    I stepped closer, crowding her space. "I want to know why my daughter''s fianc¨¦ had his hands all over you."

    Her eyes shed, bright green fire. "You think I wanted him to touch me? Are you serious right now?"

    "You must have given him some reason-

    "Oh, that''s rich." She jabbed a finger at my chest. "me the victim. Real Alpha move."

    I caught her wrist. "A trained warrior like you could have broken free if you really wanted to."

    The second the words left my mouth, I regretted them. Her face went nk with shock, then flooded with hurt before hardening into fury.

    "Fuck you, ke." Her voice dropped dangerously low. "Let go of me."

    I released her wrist like it burned. What the hell was wrong with me? I knew Jackson was the aggressor. I''d seen it with my own eyes.

    "Ava, I didn''t mean-"

    The door swung open. Sophia walked in first, her smile bright, followed by Lucas and-goddammit-Jackson. How had that snakeposed himself so quickly? He slunk in behind my children, keeping Sophia between us like a shield.

    "There you are!" Sophia beamed. "We''ve been looking everywhere." Her eyes darted between me and Ava, picking up on the tension crackling in the air. "Everything okay?"

    Lucas peered around his sister. "Dad? What''s wrong? Your eyes are still gold."

    I forced myself to breathe. My wolf pulled back reluctantly, ws retracting.

    "Training discussion got heated," I lied, watching Jackson hover near the door, unable to meet my gaze. Good. At least he knew his ce now.

    Sophia nudged Lucas. "Tell Dad what the kitchen said."

    Lucas bounced on his toes, momentarily distracted. "Chef says dinner''s gonna be superte ''cause they messed up the moonlight herbs!" His disappointment quickly shifted to hope. "But maybe we could go somewhere instead? All of us? Like old times?"

    The naked longing in his voice made my chest ache. When was thest time I''d taken my son anywhere that wasn''t pack business?

    ''Moonlight Lodge," I decided. "Tell Wilson to call ahead for the private dining room."

    Lucas whooped and sprinted toward the door, nearly bowling over Jackson in his excitement.

    Sophia smiled, genuine surprise in her eyes. "That''s... really nice, Dad."

    I noticed Ava quietly gathering her things, clearly nning to slip away.

    "Rivers. My voice came out harder than intended.

    She paused, eyebrow raised in challenge.

    "Join us." Not a request.

    "That''s not necessary, Alpha King." Her voice dripped formality, emphasizing the title. "Sarah''s waiting for me."

    Lucas would be disappointed," I countered, ignoring the real reason I wanted her there. "And we have unfinished business."

    A flicker of something crossed her face-wariness, curiosity, maybe a hint of that attraction she tried so hard to hide. She nced at Lucas''s hopeful expression and sighed.

    "Fine. But I need to get home at a decent hour."

    "I''ll have Tyler drive you after." I let my gaze shift pointedly to Jackson. "We''ll drop Sophia and Jackson at their house first."

    Jackson paled even further, if that was possible. Message received.

    As we filed out, I ced myself deliberately between Ava and Jackson. My wolf paced restlessly, staking its im on territory that wasn''t mine to mark. The rational part of me knew this possessiveness was dangerous-Ava Rivers wasn''t mine to protect. She wasn''t mine at all.

    The wolf disagreed.

    Chapter Comments

    Mike

    its like they dont want to acknowledge what their wolves already know lol

    View 1 Comment >

    2

 Chapter 63

    Ava''s POV

    I never thought ke would personally drive me home.

    When dinner at Moonlight Lodge wrapped up and ke said Tyler would take Jackson and Sophia back to ckwood Manor, I caught fear sh across Jackson''s face. For all his tough guy act, he turned into a scared puppy in front of the real Alpha King.

    Now I sat in ke''s fancy carriage with Silverpeak wolf designs everywhere. Moonlight poured through the windows between us. Since dinner, ke had barely said a word. He just sat there like a rock, stealing nces at me with those stormy eyes before quickly looking away.

    The silence was getting under my skin more than any awkward conversation would.

    "You really didn''t need to do this," I finally broke the quiet. "I can handle myself."

    ke''s eyes locked on mine. "Walking alone before a full moon? Even the best fighters shouldn''t mess with that."

    "Danger''s nothing new to me," I said, though part of me was actually grateful. The night before full moon always brought out the crazy wolves, especially near the northern woods.

    "Just because you''re used to getting burned doesn''t mean you should y with fire," he said with that unmistakable Alphamand in his voice. "That''s not brave, it''s stupid."

    I turned to the window, watching shadows race by, not wanting him to see I actually cared what he thought. Nobody, not even Sarah or Dad, had ever straight-up worried about me like this.

    "Why were you with him?" ke suddenly asked, voice hard. "Why would he think he could put his hands on you?"

    I turned back fast, anger bubbling up. "Like I told you, he forced himself on me. I didn''t ask for it or want it."

    "He acted like there was still something between you." ke''s eyes gleamed dangerously in the moonlight.

    "The only thing between us is this mark he pped on me years ago before dumping me for a better deal," I said, trying to keep the hurt out of my voice.

    "The mark stuck around. Not exactly my choice."

    ke''s jaw clenched, something shing in his eyes I couldn''t read. "That mate mark..." his voice dropped low. It messes with your fighting."

    Not a question-a fact. He''d figured out how the mark screwed with my abilities, which caught me off guard.

    "Yeah," I admitted, "when he''s close, the mark... it throws me off. Makes me weak.¡± Saying it out loud made me feel naked and ashamed, especially to an Alpha from another pack.

    ke went quiet, his eyes thoughtful. "A mark shouldn''t hurt like that," he finally said, softer than usual. ¡°A real mate bond should make both stronger, not hold one down."

    ''Maybe in a perfect world," I gave a half-smile. "But we''re stuck in this one."

    Our eyes met in the darkness, something electric crackling between us. His eyes looked like a storm-tossed ocean in the moonlight, impossible to read. "Back in the training room," ke suddenly said, voice low, ''I lost it."

    That knocked me speechless. The mighty Alpha King admitting he lost control?

    "You had every right to be pissed," I said carefully. "He broke your house rules.

    "It wasn''t just about rules." ke''s eyes bored into mine. "He shouldn''t have touched you..."

    He trailed off, but what he didn''t say hung between us like a live wire.

    The air in the carriage got so thick you could cut it with a knife-something dangerous but tempting pulling us together, like we were both on thin ice about to crack.

    "Why?" I whispered before I could stop myself. "Why would you care who touches me?"

    ke''s eyes

    shed wolf gold for a splitt second, don''t know," The admitted roughly.

    "But

    seeing

    his hands on you made me want to tear him

    apart.

    A shiver ran through me-half warning Hailfsshing else entirely. An Alpha King mark.

    shouldn''t

    give a

    damn

    about some

    nobody

    wolf with another

    man''s

 Chapter 64

    "We''re ying with fire here," I said softly, not sure if I was warning him or myself.

    "Yeah," he agreed, eyes locked on mine. "Big time."

    The air felt heavy, like right before lightning strikes. The carriage hit a bump, throwing our shoulders together. Even through our clothes, that split-second touch sent electricity through me. I noticed ke white-knuckling the seat edge.

    He was fighting whatever this was. So was I.

    The carriage jerked to a stop, breaking the spell. We''d reached my ce.

    ke hopped out with that natural grace alpha wolves have, then opened my door. That old-school gentleman move wasn''t something you saw much these days, especially for a nobody like me.

    As I stepped down, the night wind cut right through me, making me shiver. Pre- full moon nights always carried this weird chill, like the Moon Goddess giving us a heads-up about tomorrow''s wildness.

    "You''re dressed way too light, ke frowned. "You should be wearing something warmer this close to full moon."

    "It''s fighting gear, not a fashion statement," I shrugged. "Practical over pretty."

    He went quiet, then unsped his wolf-skin cape. This wasn''t just any cape-it was an Alpha King symbol, made from rare silver-backed wolf fur with Morgan family designs sewn into the edges.

    "Take it," he held it out, his tone saying he wouldn''t take no for an answer. "The cold before full moon hits different."

    I hesitated. Taking an Alpha King''s cape wasn''t small potatoes-people would read all kinds of things into it.

    ''I can''t," I said, even as my hand reached for it anyway. "This is part of your Alpha stuff."

    "It''s just a damn cape," he snapped impatiently. "Don''t make it weird."

    His words stung, but his eyes told a different story. ke Morgan was one big contradiction-saying he didn''t care while doing everything to show he did.

    I finally took the cape and wrapped it around me. Instantly, warmth seeped in, along with his scent-rain-soaked pine trees and lightning-struck earth, powerful but somehowforting.

    "Bring it back tomorrow," he ordered, switching back to Alpha mode. "Don''t bete for training."

    "Yes, Alpha King," I nodded, deliberately using his full title to match his bossy tone.

    I walked to my door, feeling his eyes on my back. When I dug out my key, I couldn''t help ncing back.

    ke stood there in the moonlight, a powerful shadow refusing to budge, making sure I got in safe.

    That small thing-that unasked-for protectiveness-sparked something warm in my chest.

    "Thanks," I said quietly, not just for the cape."

    He just nodded, face hidden in shadow. "Night, Ava."

    "Goodnight, ke."

    I pushed inside the dark house and closed the door, hearing his carriage pull away.

    I leaned against the door, breathing deep. His cape smelled like him-strong, wild, like storms and forests mixed together. For some reason, it made me feel safer than I had in ages.

    I''d meant to ask about Dad''s case, about why there was zero progress, but the timing felt wrong. Somehow I trusted him, even though we barely knew each other and came from different worlds. Jackson''s warning bells kept ringing-that ke was just using me. But those gray-blue eyes made me want to believe

    otherwise.

    My fingers touched the mark on my neck, feeling it was different tonight. Golden threads had started showing uptely, weaving through Jackson s silve mark. Tonight, with ke nearby, it felt warmer, almost... right.

    I hung his cape on Dad''s wolf-fang hook, my fingers lingering on the fabric, not wanting to let go of his scent.

    Tomorrow I''d have to give it back. But tonight, I let myself enjoy this bubble of safety, like the Alpha King''s protection still wrapped around me even miles

    away.

    Chapter Comments

    3

    POST COMMENT NOW

    SHARE

 Chapter 65

    Ava''s POV

    Sunlight cut through the trees as Lucas nailed the defensive move I''d taught him. ke''s cape had worked magic on my sleepst night, and now sat folded in my bag, waiting to go home.

    "Drop your weight lower," I said, fixing his wrist position. "Right arm''s like a board."

    "Better?" He tried again, eyes lit up.

    "Way better. One more time, but get that elbow up."

    Lucas beamed and nailed it on the next try. No way around it - the kid had serious skills. ke''s blood running strong.

    "You''re picking this up crazy fast,¡± I said.

    "Dad always says Alpha bloodes with bigger responsibilities," Lucas puffed his chest, then deted. "Too bad he never watches me practice."

    I passed him some Moonlight water and plopped down beside him. "Your dad''s juggling the entire wolf world. Cut him some ck."

    "Yeah, I get it." Lucas took a gulp, voice going quiet. "Just wish he''d show up once in a while."

    I couldn''t help studying him ¨C those storm-gray eyes exactly like ke''s, carrying way too much weight for a seven-year-old.

    "He''d flip if he saw how good you''re getting," I said, wondering if I was overstepping.

    We fell quiet for a bit, just catching our breath. Lucas started twisting his empty bottle, suddenly looking like something was eating at him.

    "What''s up?" I finally asked.

    He nced up, mouth tight, eyes nervous. "Ava..." his voice barely audible, ''I screwed up at school yesterday."

    "What happened?" I sat up straight, wolf instincts kicking in.

    Lucas sucked in a breath. "Some older kids were trash-talking Mom in the training yard. Said she was weak and that''s why she died. Said Dad shouldn''t have picked such a pathetic mate.", His voice cracked. "I lost it. Started shifting right there."

    "Did you hurt anyone?" My stomach dropped.

    He shook his head. "Almost. Teacher jumped in. But I wed this one kid''s face parent toe in."

    My blood went cold. "Does your dad know about this?"

    turns out he''s the Northern pack leader''s son. Now Instructor Silver wants a

    "No way," Lucas looked up, panic written all over his face. "Please don''t rat me out, Ava. Dad''s always hammering me about controlling my wolf, says future Alphas can''t flip their shit just ''cause someone pushes their buttons. If he finds out I wolfed out over Mom..."

    He trailed off, but I got it. ke set the bar impossibly high for himself for his kid, it''d be in the stratosphere.

    ''So what''s your n? They want a parent there," I reminded him.

    Lucas''s face brightened slightly. "What if... what if you pretend to be my stepmom? Just for the meeting?"

    I nearly choked. "Are you kidding? Everyone knows your mom died, and I''m way too young. Nobody''s buying that."

    "You could be Dad''s secret wife!" he pushed, suddenly animated. "Tell them you guys got hitched on the down-low because of pack politics!"

    "That''s insane," I said tly. "If we get busted, I''m toast and you''re in even deeper shit."

    "Just this once, Ava.'' He grabbed my hand, eyes burning with desperation. "Silver''s never even met Dad. The school staff don''t know our family stuff. If you sell it right, they''ll totally buy it!"

    His puppy dog eyes melted my resolve. This kid had lost his mom and was desperate for his dad''s approval. ke wasn''t being a hardass for no reason he

    wanted Lucas strong enough to handle the Alpha life someday. But right now, he was just a little boy who needed someone in his corner.

    "When exactly is this meeting?" I asked.

    "Today. After lunch, he answered, hope lighting up his face.

    "Today? You''re kidding me. I blinked.

    He nodded frantically. "They want it over with fast. Please, Ava. If Dad hears I wolfed out because someone dissed Mom..."

    I caught myself actually weighing this crazy scheme. If ke found out, he''d be beyond pissed - might even tear up our Blood Oath. But looking at Lucas''s desperate face, I couldn''t say no.

    ¡°Alright,¡± I said, barely believing what wasing out of my mouth. "Just this once. After this, we tell your dad everything."

    Lucas nearly tackled me with excitement before remembering his ''future Alpha" dignity. "Thank you. Seriously."

    Hold your horses," I warned. "I still don''t have a clue how to convince anyone I''m ke Morgan''s wife."

    A sly grin spread across his face. "I''ve got just the thing...

    Standing in front of my mirror at home, I barely recognized myself. I was dolled up in a deep blue dress Sophia had loaned me when I mumbled something about needing "formal clothes." It hugged curves I usually kept hidden under battle gear. But what really had me speechless was draped over my shoulders - ke''s Alpha cape. He''d lent it to mest night as a windbreaker, and now I was wearing the damn thing. Made from rare silver-back wolf hide with the Morgan family crest, it practically screamed ''property of the Alpha King. Even a wolf with a stuffed-up nose would know what it was.

    "I''ve lost my mind, I muttered, running my fingers over the fancy embroidery. Using the Alpha King''s cape to fake being his wife had to break about a dozen packws.

    I heard movement downstairs and found Sarah actually cooking in the kitchen ¨C something I hadn''t seen since Dad got locked up.

    "Mom?" I couldn''t hide my shock.

    Sarah turned with a smile I''d forgotten existed. "Morning, honey. Made some moon tea. Want some?"

    "You''re making tea?" I approached cautiously.

    She nodded. "Those herbs Jackson brought really did the trick. I feel... alive

    again."

    Hearing Jackson''s name set off rm bells, but seeing color in Sarah''s cheeks for the first time in forever, I bit my tongue.

    "You look gorgeous, she noticed my outfit. ''Hot date?"

    "Work thing, I mumbled.

    Her eyes narrowed at my shoulders. "Is that-*

    "E''s," I cut her off. "Borrowed it." Sarah kept staring but didn''t push. Thank god. She''d been hounding me daily about Dad''s case, and I had zero progress to report.

    "Gotta run," I said, backing toward the door.

    Before leaving, I took onest look at Sarah standing there, holding her tea, looking halfway human again. Even if Jackson was behind it, I couldn''tin about the results.

    The carriage was waiting outside. I took a deep breath, adjusted the cape, and climbed in, immediately surrounded by ke''s scent - rain-soaked pine and lightning-struck earth. It wrapped around me like a security nket. I hated how my body responded to it, like some kind of Wolf Prozac.

    As we rolled toward Silverpeak Academy, my pulse went wild. This n was batshit crazy. But for Lucas, I''d give it a shot.

    I closed my eyes and sent up a quick prayer to the Moon Goddess. If ke caught me posing as his wife while wearing his cape... I was dead meat, in

    and simple.

    213

    Marked Twice by the Alpha King

 Chapter 66

    Ava''s POV

    The carriage jolted to a stop by the moonstone path leading to Silverpeak Elite Academy. I tugged ke''s cape tighter around my shoulders, fighting the urge to bolt. Silver gates loomed ahead, tribal gs snapping in the breeze like they wereughing at my stupid n.

    "You can do this, I muttered to myself, fingers tracing the expensive silver embroidery on the cape''s edge. "Just channel your inner Alpha''s wife."

    My fingers drifted to my neck, where Jackson''s mark sat. It felt unusually warm today, pulsing slightly as if warning me this was a terrible idea. But Lucas''s desperate face shed in my mind, and I squared my shoulders. The kid needed someone in his corner.

    I''d never set foot in here before Lucas and I always stuck to ckwood''s grounds. Taking a deep breath, I pushed through the massive doors into a hall where dead Alpha eyes tracked me from gold-framed portraits, plush silver-fur rugs cushioning each hesitant step. Everything about the ce screamed old power and older money.

    A group of young wolves in training gear passed by, their steps faltering as they caught ke''s scent on me. They exchanged confused nces, some instinctively lowering their eyes before hurrying away, whispering furiously.

    A tight-faced receptionist looked up, her nostrils ring slightly as she caught the mixture of scents mine and ke''s intertwined. "Can I help you?" The words might as well have been "what are you doing here?"

    I squared my shoulders. I''m here for Instructor Silver. About Lucas Morgan."

    The Morgan name worked like a mini spell. Her face didn''t soften, but her eyes sharpened with caution.

    "And you are?"

    My heart hammered against my ribs. "Ava Morgan. Lucas''s stepmother."

    The name felt strange on my tongue - foreign yet oddly right, which disturbed me

    even more.

    Her eyebrows shot up as she stood, giving me a once-over that made me feel like week-old roadkill. "Stepmother? That''s news to everyone at this academy." "We''re keeping it quiet," I said, amazed my voice wasn''t shaking. Thank god Sophia had loaned me this blue dress instead of my showing up in battle-worn leather. "Pack politics. You know how it is."

    Her eyes dropped to the cape, widening slightly. "That''s the Alpha King''s personal cape."

    I nodded, trying to look like I borrowed my husband''s clothes all the time.

    "Wait here," she said, skepticism dripping from every syble. She disappeared through a side door, probably to report the crazy woman iming to be married to the most powerful wolf in three territories.

    Minutes stretched like torture. Just as I was considering a strategic retreat, a stocky wolf with a mean scar slicing through his left eye appeared. He carried himself like someone who''d seen a hundred battles and expected a hundred

    more.

    ''Mrs. Morgan?" He managed to pack a ton of disbelief into two words. "I''m Instructor Silver. Lucas''sbat teacher."

    "Nice to meet you," I smiled, trying to mimic Sophia''s polished tone. ¡°I''m here about what happened yesterday."

    Silver''s gaze lingered on the cape, his eyes calcting. I could practically hear him thinking: This doesn''t add up.

    "This way," he finally grunted. "Headmaster''s waiting."

    As we walked, I got peeks into training rooms where little wolves some barely older than toddlers wondering if Lucas felt as alone among these privileged cubs as I did walking these halls.

    were already learning to fight. I caught myself

    Silver kept ncing sideways at me.

    ''Funny thing," he said casually, "Alpha King''s never mentioned having a new

    mate. Especially one who looks barely out of training herself."

    "That''s the point of keeping it quiet," I replied, fighting the urge to fidget. "Sometimes the best moves are the ones nobody seesing."

    He grunted nomittally as we stopped at a massive door carved with snarling wolves. He knocked twice before pushing it open. ¡°Headmaster, Morgan s...

    parent is hey

    1 stepped into what could only be decred trophy room for wolf band. hocent weapons hung on wells alongside battle gs. A white-haired man with shoulders like small mountains stood by the window, his back to us. The air in the room telt heavy with authority, sending my wolf into an instinctive

    ch

    When he turned, the Beta power rolling off ham hit me like a physical wave. His eyes weren''t just old they carried the weight of decades of judgment and decision-making. The kind of eyes that had sentenced wolves to death and wetched the sentences cerried out.

    Headmaster Moonshadow, Silver said, this is the women seying ches Mrs. Morgen."

    ''Mrs. Morgan? The headmaster & voice carried wide as his eyes dissected me piece by piece. His nostrils red slightly, taking in my scent and the much stronger Alpha scent surrounding me. "Strange, 1''ve attended every tribal council for thirty years. Never heard the Alpha King mention remarrying."

    My palms were sweating beneath kers cape. 1 smoothed down Sophie''s borrowed dress nervously. "We''re keeping it private until the right moment."

    You seem awfully young, he continued, circling me slowly, Rarely out of your first full moons, I''d guess."

    1 lifted my chin. "Some of us grow up faster than others?

    "True enough," he conceded, but his eyes never lost their suspicion. That cepe, though..... interesting choice. An Alpha''s cape carries their most concentrated scent. He leaned closer, sniffing subtly, making my wolf bristle with dixondon. They generally only loen it to mark their mates with their scent, warding off other wolves. His eyes narrowed. But a true mate wouldn''t need such obvious marking unless...

    The air in the room suddenly felt too thin as understanding dewned in his eyes,

    Unless your''re not his mate at all," he said, voice dropping dangerously low. "Just a thief stupid enough to steal from the Alpha King himself. Do you know what the punishment is for that?''

    My stomach bottomed out, Game over, Lucas would never forgive me, and Wake... I didn''t even went to imagine his reaction.

    "Guards! Moonshadow barked at Silver. This woman is an impostor?

    The mark on my neck suddenly red hot, sending a wave of heat through my body. My wolf perked up, sensing something I couldn''t yet.

    Silver lunged for the door, but it flew open before he reached it. A squad of Silverpeak warriors poured in, led by none other than Tyler Reed.

    Shit. Double shit. Triple shit.

    "Captain Reed, Moonshadow acknowledged, "What brings you here?"

    Tyler''s eyes flicked to me, then to the cape, his face impressively nk.

    "Got word someone was pretending to be family at the academy, he said mildly, "Looks like our

    source was right!

    I closed my eyes, mentally saying goodbye to my job, my freedom, and whatever shred of trust ke had in me, Luces would never forgive me.

    "This woman ims to be Mrs. Morgan, Moonshadow exined. "She''s obviously lying-and sealing That''s the Alpha King''s personal cape."

    Tyler tilted his head slightly. "The cape?"

    1 lent it to herst night."

    That voice cut through the room like thunder deep and absolute. Every wolf instinctivaly froze, the air suddenly thick with Alpha presence.

    ke stood in the doorway, his storm-gray eyes fixed directly on mine,

 Chapter 67

    Ava''s POV

    That voice cut through the room like a knife, deep and heavy with power. In a heartbeat, the air went thick as mud. Everyone-headmaster, Tyler, even the guards¨Cfroze like deer in headlights, heads dropping as Alpha energy hit them like a truck.

    I spun around, heart in my throat.

    ke stood in the doorway, all broad shoulders and dangerous eyes locked straight on me.

    I opened my mouth, then closed it. What could I possibly say? I was screwed-not just jobless, but possibly dead meat. Faking being the Alpha King''s Luna, using his tribal cape with permission, dragging his son into my lies... Moon Goddess, had Ipletely lost my mind?

    The headmaster finally found his voice, though it shook like a leaf: "Alpha King Morgan! What a surprise. I was just catching this impostor. She ims to be Lucas''s mother and stole your cape. I was about to punish her ordingly."

    ke walked in, his eyes sliding from my face to where the headmaster''s fingers were still digging into my wrist.

    "What''s that?" ke''s voice dropped low, dangerous as a growl.

    The headmaster blinked. "What, sir?"

    "Your hand, ke said slowly, "on my Luna''s wrist."

    His Luna?!

    The room went dead quiet. My heart skipped, then raced like I''d mainlined caffeine. The headmaster went white as a sheet and dropped my wrist like it burned.

    "Your... Luna?" he choked out, eyes bouncing between us. "But after Elizabeth... we never heard-

    ke stepped closer, and the headmaster scrambled back. Alpha power flooded the room, making it hard to breathe. My wolf practically rolled over inside me, instinctively submitting to the strongest Alpha.

    "You questioning me?" ke asked, voice quiet but deadly.

    The headmaster bowed so fast he nearly fell. "Never, Alpha King."

    ke held his hand out to me. I stood there like an idiot, not sure what to do. His eyes flickered, fingers giving a little curl. Then it clicked-he wanted me to y along.

    I grabbed onto whatever courage I had left and put my hand in his. He wrapped his fingers around mine and pulled me next to him. His thumb brushed the red marks on my wrist, his touch gentle but questioning.

    "We''re keeping things quiet," ke told the headmaster. "Pack politics. You get it."

    He turned to me, something shing in his eyes I couldn''t read. "Babe, why didn''t you tell me Lucas was in trouble at school?"

    I froze, brain spinning. He doesn''t even know about the fight. How''s he bringing it up? And why the hell is he backing my crazy lie?

    When I just stood there, ke slipped his arm around my waist and tugged me closer. He bent to my ear: "Go with it.'' His breath tickled my neck, sending goosebumps down my arm.

    "Thought you had your hands full with tribal stuff, I managed. "Didn''t wanna pile

    on."

    ke squeezed my waist slightly-apparently I''d said the right thing, I caught Tyler by the door looking thoughtful-clearly in on the truth but ying along

    The headmaster looked like someone had just rewritten reality, ''Alpha King, Luna Morgan, please forgive my mistake. I had no idea about your... connection."

    ke just nodded, then looked at me. ''My cape?"

    That''s when it hit me¡ªI was still wrapped in his Alpha cape. The thing smelled like him-pine and rain-soaked earth. My face went hot, like I''d been caught raiding his closet.

    "Yeah, figured I should give it back," I said, fumbling with the sp.

    ke watched me, not saying a word. When I finally got it off, I ran my fingers over the soft fur and silver stitching-every thread telling a Morgan family story. This wasn''t just a fancy jacket but a badge of power. And I''d been parading around in it, pretending to be his wife. What fresh hell had I created?

    I held it out to him, but instead of taking it, he turned slightly, showing me his back. He wanted me to put it on him.

    This was the kind of thing mates did for each other. My heart hammered, and Jackson''s mark heated up on my neck like a warning.

    I stood on tiptoe, spread the cape open, and settled it over his shoulders. The silver fur caught the light, making him look even bigger. My fingers kept slipping on the sps, shaking like I''d had too much coffee.

    ke nced down, eyes sparkling with something like amusement at my clumsiness. He covered my hands with his, helping me fix thest sp. His rough palm against mine sent little jolts through my skin. I stared at the embroidery, afraid to look up..

    "Thanks, honey," he said, then whispered where only I could hear: "Nice work."

    When I finally looked up, I saw more than just the expected smugness in his eyes-something deeper that made my stomach flip. I couldn''t put my finger on what it was. what

    I backed up a step, but ke kept his hand on my waist like it belonged there.

    The mood in the room had done aplete 180. Now everyone looked at us with a mix of shock and respect. The w marks on my back stung, rearinding me this was all fake, but my wolf practically wagged its tail at our little game.

    "Fill me in on Lucas''s problem," ke said to the headmaster. I noticed how carefully he worded it-fishing for info since he had no clue what had happened.

    The headmaster straightened up. "Yes, sir. Lucas got into a fight with another student yesterday. Given who he is, we didn''t punish him immediately, but school rules say we need a parent to discuss it."

    ke nodded, giving nothing away. His hand tightened on my waist just slightly- a silent question. He was trying to get more details from me. He really didn''t know what had happened.

    "Maybe we should talk somewhere private?" the headmaster suggested. "My office?"

    As we followed him through the halls, it felt like the whole school stopped to stare. Kids whispered and teachers did double-takes at the sight of the Alpha King and his mystery "wife."

    I felt like I was walking on a high wire without a. I nced at ke and found him looking totally at ease, like he really was just a husband handling his kid''s school trouble. Meanwhile, I was wound so tight I could barely breathe.

    Weird thing was, despite freaking out inside, I felt strangely safe. ke''s hand stayed at my waist, warm and steady, like he was saying: I got you.

    The mark on my neck seemed to wake up, silver and gold threads tangling together, warm against my skin. I had no idea what it meant or how this crazy act would end, but for now, I''d follow his lead.

    We were both ying parts-I just couldn''t tell where the masks ended and reality

    Chapter Comments

    Mike

    didn''t expect that, love it though. curious how they knew about it though? the

    assistant listening in maybe?

    View All 2 Comments >

    & 3

 Chapter 68

    Ava''s POV

    "Please sit, Alpha King, Morgan Luna." The headmaster yanked out chairs for us, bowing so low I thought he might fall over.

    ke guided me to a chair, his fingers brushing my knuckles as I sat. A jolt shot up my arm, and I couldn''t tell if it was panic or something I didn''t want to

    name.

    The headmasterced his fingers together. "About Lucas''s incident-we have strict fighting policies, even for Morgan cubs."

    Under the table, ke''s hand found mine and squeezed. My pulse skipped-was this just ying house, or something else? His warm grip anchored me when I was about to float away on a sea of panic.

    "Cut to the chase," ke said, lounging back. "What exactly happened?"

    "Yesterday, Lucas attacked an older student named Tobby. Witnesses say Lucas threw the first punch and injured the boy''s face."

    ke''s muscles tensed against my arm. He nced sideways at me, one eyebrow up. "You knew about this?"

    Crap. I only knew Lucas had mentioned someone trash-talking his mom.

    "Just bits and pieces, I hedged. ''Lucas said a kid said something nasty, but no details."

    ke''s focus swiveled back to the headmaster. "My son doesn''t start fights without a good reason. What did this Tobby say to him?"

    The headmaster tugged his cor. "We didn''t actually ask... we were focused on the injury-

    "So you''re telling me, ke''s voice dropped to that scary-quiet level, you pped me on a seven-year-old without getting the whole story? That''s how this fancy school operates?"

    The headmaster''s face went the color of old paper. I assure you, Alpha King, we''ll investigate fully-"

    "Get Lucas. Now." ke didn''t raise his voice, which somehow made it worse.

    Heavy silence fell. I snuck nces at ke-jaw tight enough to crack nuts, eyes flickering with something fierce. Why was he backing my crazy lie instead of busting me on the spot?

    "That wrist still hurt?"

    I blinked down at the purple fingerprints on my skin. "It''s nothing."

    His eyes dropped to my neck where Jackson''s mark sat. "Interesting."

    "What?" My hand flew up to cover it.

    "You." His voice dropped to a murmur. "You could''vee clean when I showed up, begged for mercy. Instead, you doubled down."

    I don''t know what''s wrong with me, but I met his gaze head-on. "Pot, meet kettle,"

    I whispered back. "You could''ve exposed me in two seconds t. Instead, you jumped in like we''ve been rehearsing this y for weeks." I don''t know what''s wrong with me, but I

    Our eyes locked, something electric crackling between us. His mouth quirked up at one corner, like he was impressed I''d called his bluff.

    A soft knock broke our staring contest. The headmaster barked, "Come in!"

    Lucas peeked through the door, fear written all over his face. Hunter slipped in behind him. When Lucas spotted ke, he froze like a rabbit who''d just seen a hawk.

    "Dad?" His voice barely carried as his eyes ping-ponged between us. "Ava''s here too?"

    ke held out his hand. "C''mere, kid."

    Lucas inched forward like the floor might bite him. Hunter stuck to his heels, tail hanging low.

    "Park it," ke nodded to the chair beside me.

    Lucas climbed up, looking like we''d grown extra heads overnight.

    "Heard you decked a kid yesterday," ke said, voice neutral.

    Lucas''s face went tomato-red as his eyes dropped to his sneakers. "Sorry, Dad."

    "Not looking for sorry. Looking for why."

    Lucas shot me a desperate nce. "It wasn''t that big a deal..."

    I touched his shoulder. "Hey. Just tell us what happened. For real."

    He looked up with such trust it made my chest ache.

    "This kid Tobby," Lucas finally said. "He''s always on my case about not being Morgan material. Yesterday he started talking about... about Mom.¡±

    ke''s face hardened. "What exactly did he say?"

    Lucas bit his lip. ke''s voice softened just a fraction. "It''s okay, son. Let it out."

    all p

    Chapter Comments

    Lee Ann Hall

    Squeeze

    View 1 Comment >

    SHARE

 Chapter 69

    ¡°He called me a motherless runt," Lucas said, each word dragged out like it hurt. "Said Mom would rather die than have a worthless pup like me."

    The temperature seemed to drop twenty degrees. Alpha energy rolled off ke in waves that made my wolf curl up. Even the headmaster shrank back in his

    chair.

    "Keep going," ke growled.

    "I tried walking away," Lucas''s voice trembled. "But he blocked me and said Mom died because she gave birth to a useless heir. That''s when I hit him. I know I shouldn''t have, but-

    ke''s fingers dug into the chair arm so hard I heard wood crack, Without thinking, Iid my hand over his, squeezing gently. The move felt as natural as breathing.

    He turned to me, his eyes wolf-gold and zing with rage-but also a sh of surprise. His hand flipped over, catching my fingers in a grip that was both fierce and careful. I caught Lucas noticing, a tiny smile lifting one corner of his mouth.

    "That''s enough," ke said, voice deadly quiet.

    Lucas''s eyes pooled with tears. "I messed up, didn''t I?"

    To my shock, ke moved around me and dropped to one knee in front of Lucas. His massive hand rested on his son''s tiny shoulder,

    "You didn''t mess up," he said, his voice softer than I''d ever heard it. "Standing up for family is never wrong."

    Lucas blinked, tears spilling over. "For real?"

    ke nodded, thumb gently wiping a tear from his son''s cheek. "For real. But next time,e to me first. Some fights are mine to handle.

    Something warm unfurled in my chest watching them. This wasn''t ice-king ke- this was a father who''d burn the world down to protect his son. For a second, I almost forgot I was just an imposter in their family portrait.

    ke rose to his full height, turning to the headmaster with wolf-gold still swirling in his eyes. "What punishment did you give the kid who trashed myte mate and bullied my son?"

    The headmaster''s throat bobbed. "He received medical attention-"

    Bill

    "A bandage isn''t punishment," ke cut in with arctic coldness. "That little shit insulted the Morgan legacy, disrespected my fated mate, and verbally attacked my son. By tribalw, that''s grounds for his whole family to be kicked off packnds."

    The headmaster went chalk-white. "We had no idea-"

    "Now you do." ke''s tone mmed the door on further excuses. "I want a full report on what happens to this kid. Handle it wrong, and Silverpeak Academy might find itself without Morgan backing. Clear?"

    The headmaster nodded frantically. "Crystal clear, Alpha King."

    ke held his hand out to Lucas. ''You''reing home with us today."

    Lucas nced at me, checking if "us" included me. I nodded with a reassuring smile.

    ke extended his other hand to me. "Ready to go, babe?''

    That casual endearment echoed in my ears as I slid my hand into his waiting palm. His fingers closed around mine with familiar ease, like we''d been doing this dance for years.

    "Yeah, I said softly, then reached for Lucas''s hand, Let''s blow this joint."

    Lucas beamed like Christmas hade early, his eyes bouncing between us with pure joy. A strange warmth spread through me-almost making me believe this wasn''t just an act.

    Walking through the academy halls, our little trio plus Hunter drew every eye. Students and teachers froze as we passed, whispering furiously: That''s the new Morgan Luna? She looks perfect with the Alpha King. Lucas finally has a mom again...

    At the entrance, sunlight hit us like a spotlight. ke suddenly halted, eyeing Tyler and the guards waiting outside. His grip on my hand tightened as he leaned close to my ear.

    "Show''s not over yet," he murmured. "Stay with me."

    Chapter Comments

 Chapter 70

    Ava''s POV

    Lucas darted behind us, taking two quick steps for every one of ours. My adrenaline was crashing, that fake confidence I''d conjured up dissolving with each heartbeat, leaving nothing but raw panic in its wake.

    I''d just pretended to be ke Morgan''s wife. The Alpha King''s Luna. While wearing his ceremonial cape. That kind of stunt could get me kicked off packnds or worse.

    Tyler waited by a sleek carriage near the gates, guards creating a careful perimeter-close enough to pounce if needed, far enough to give us privacy. ke dropped my hand the moment we were out of view, like he''d just realized it was still in his grasp.

    "What were you two thinking?" His voice was quiet but packed a punch.

    "It''s on me, Dad." Lucas wedged himself between us like a tiny shield. "I begged Ava to help. Thought you''d lose it if you found out what happened."

    ke''s eyes flicked to me, cold enough to give me frostbite. "And you just rolled with this crazy idea?"

    "I messed up,¡± I said, my voice wobbling like a newborn calf. "Should''ve pumped the

    1. s. Just wanted to get the kid out of hot water."

    He dragged a hand down his face. "Did it cross your mind what would happen if someone called your bluff? An Alpha King getting hitched isn''t exactly under-the- radar news."

    I chewed my lip raw. "Yeah, I dropped the ball big time."

    Dad,e on! Don''t take it out on Ava!" Lucas tugged his sleeve, eyes getting watery. "The whole dumb n was my idea. She just had my back."

    "Last I checked, she''s old enough to vote, ke shot back, voice hard as nails.

    "Look, if you want to fire me, just spit it out," I said, finally meeting his eyes. "I''ll be gone before the rooster crows."

    ke studied me long enough that I started counting heartbeats. His face gave nothing away, those storm-gray eyes swirling with something I couldn''t name. Then he just turned.

    I froze in ce. Was that my dismissal? A non-answer?

    Lucas looked back at me with raised eyebrows, then gave a tiny shrug and trailed after his dad. I stood there like an idiot, wondering if I was supposed to follow or just start walking home.

    ke paused at the carriage door and nced back. "Youing or not?"

    I hurried over, slipping into the backseat. Tyler closed the privacy screen

    betweenpartments with a soft click. The silence felt thick enough to choke

    on.

    Traffic clogged the city streets, stretching minutes into what felt like hours. Lucas eventually conked out against my arm, his face peaceful in sleep. The day''s drama had wrung him dry.

    ke watched his son with a softness I rarely got to see.

    "Look, I''m sorry," I murmured, not wanting to wake Lucas. "Today was a clusterfuck. Won''t happen again."

    "Damn right it won''t," he replied, but without the bite I expected.

    I turned to the window, watching buildings blur past, figuring the conversation was over.

    "That said... thanks." The word sounded rusty, like he didn''t use it much.

    I whipped my head back. "For what?"

    "Don''t push it," he warned, but a ghost of something almost like humor

    flickered in his eyes. "Lucas doesn''t have a mother. When he needs someone in his corner... I''m d he wasn''t alone."

    I tried and failed to stop the corner of my mouth from lifting. "He''s a good kid. Just needs someone to actually see him, not just the Alpha heir."

    ke''s gaze drifted to his sleeping son, his mask slipping just enough to reveal a crack of vulnerability. "Back there, watching you defend him... it was like seeing Elizabeth''s ghost."

    Chapter Comments

    Mike

    why isnt she sharing what she knows about her dad''s imprisonment, it may help connect the dots

    Michele Jones

    Confused... They are riding in a carriage, but referencing cars by pumping the brakes???

    View All 3 Comments >

    3

 Chapter 71

    My jaw nearly hit the floor. He never talked about his wife.

    "She''d have pulled the same stunt," he continued, his voice sandpaper-rough. "Jumped in headfirst if Lucas needed her, no questions asked." His fingers drifted through Lucas''s hair with a touch so gentle it made my chest hurt. "She missed everything. His first shift. His first hunt. All the times he needed someone in his corner."

    I didn''t dare breathe too loud, like I might scare away this rare glimpse of the man behind the Alpha mask.

    "Seven years is a long time flying solo. You forget what it''s like having someone share the load." Something shed across his face, there and gone like lightning. "Seeing you step up for him today... knocked me sideways."

    I wanted to reach out, but my courage stalled halfway. "Lucas says she was one in a million."

    "Understatement of the century," ke said, his voice warming a few degrees. "She would''ve gotten a kick out of you. Would''ve ripped you a new one for today''s circus act, then poured you a drink after."

    His almost-smile hit me harder than any Alphamand ever could.

    He cleared his throat, mask sliding back into ce. "About your dad''s case."

    My spine stiffened instantly. "What about it?"

    "Been poking around the case files," he said, watching trees zip by outside. "Something smells fishy. The way Alpha Carter died... your dad might not have blood on his hands like everyone thinks."

    Hope hit me like a sucker punch, stealing my breath. "You serious?"

    "Let''s just say I might have enough to dy his execution," he said, his eyes catching mine. "Still connecting dots, but rushing to off him would be a dumbass

    move."

    My world spun like I''d chugged a bottle of moonshine. After weeks of nothing but crumbs, someone was finally throwing me a bone.

    "So you''ll help?" The words squeaked out pathetically.

    "I''ll see what I can do," he said, choosing his words like he was disarming a bomb. "Don''t throw a parade yet, Ava. He''s no saint, but he might not deserve a silver bullet, either."

    Even that tiny ray of hope felt blinding after weeks of darkness. I looked down at Lucas''s head on my shoulder, my throat too tight for words.

    The carriage finally rolled to a stop outside ckwood Manor. I gently nudged Lucas.

    ''Hey, sleepyhead. We''re back,'' I said softly.

    He blinked awake, yawning. "We there yet?"

    "Yep." ke and I answered in stereo, our voices colliding.

    Our eyes locked, and something zapped between us like I''d stuck my finger in an outlet. My neck suddenly felt hotter than a fever.

    "Thanks for sticking your neck out for me," Lucas mumbled, throwing his arms around me. "You''d make a badass mom."

    My cheeks med redder than a stop sign, especially when I caught ke fighting

    a smile. This bizarre ying-house moment made my skin tingle in ways I didn''t want to examine too closely.

    "Gotta hit the training ground, I stammered, nearly falling out the door in my rush. "Day''s half shot already."

    Behind me, Lucas cracked up while ke said something too low to catch. I beelined for the training area, trying to outrun the swarm of butterflies doing aerial stunts in my gut.

    Today had been one hell of a ride-scared out of my mind one minute, drowning in secrets the next, then suddenly catching a lifeline for Dad. But it had also busted open a door I''d been pretending wasn''t there. For those few minutes in that carriage, with Lucas snoozing between us, we''d felt like the real deal.

    And that scared me more than staring down a rabid Alpha with nothing but a toothpick.

    Chapter Comments

    Mike

    why isnt she sharing what she knows about her dad''s imprisonment, it may help connect the dots

    Michele Jones

    Confused... They are riding in a carriage, but referencing cars by pumping the brakes???

    View All 3 Comments >

    3

 Chapter 72

    ke''s POV

    "You really gonna go through with this?" Tyler leaned against the window in my study, eyebrows raised. "Shadow Creek''s gonna have a field day with this

    one."

    I dropped my pen on the desk and drummed my fingers against the wood. The paper I''d just signed was nothing short of a bomb-ordering Carter''s case reopened and putting the brakes on William''s execution. Once I pped my seal on it, nobody could argue.

    "Let them talk," I shot Tyler a look. "This case has more holes than a target dummy after training day."

    "The whole thing stinks," he nodded, "but William had his hands in it somehow. Guy''s no angel."

    I pushed back from the desk and wandered to the window. Down in the training yard, Lucas was working with Ava. She was behind him, guiding his arms into some defensive move, her face a mask of concentration. Something about watching them sent a weird ache through my chest.

    "Never said he was wearing a halo, I muttered. "But you don''t put a wolf down without rock-solid proof. That crime scene was messed with-like someone trying to cover their tracks."

    Tyler shifted, watching me watch them. "This wouldn''t have anything to do with a certainbat instructor, would it?"

    I turned my back on the window, dodging thatndmine. "Get this to Shadow Creek''s Elders ASAP, then make sure Rivers knows. Tell them I''m showing up tomorrow to hash this out myself."

    Tyler scooped up the paper with a smirk that said he knew exactly what I wasn''t saying. "Whatever you say, boss."

    After he ducked out, my eyes drifted back to the window. Lucas nailed the move Ava had been teaching him, and she pped him on the shoulder. The kid lit up like a firecracker-hadn''t seen him smile like that in forever.

    I''d never say it out loud, but that whole school stunt the other day... it did something to me. Since Elizabeth died, this ce has been like a clock with missing gears. Functional, but lifeless.

    Then Ava crashed into our world, and somehow the damn thing started ticking again.

    Shadow Creek''s council hall looked like it belonged in another century-all rough wooden beams and stern-faced Alpha portraits judging you from every wall. When I walked in, the room went quiet, the elders'' faces ranging from fake smiles to guys who looked ready to chew nails.

    "Alpha King Morgan, Elder Michaels practically spat my title, ''mind telling us why you''re sticking your nose in Shadow Creek business?"

    I dropped the document on the table between us, keeping my voice level. "This isn''t me butting in. This is me doing my job. Rivers'' death sentence is built on evidence that wouldn''t convince a pup, let alone justify killing a wolf."

    We caught him red-handed," another elder shot back, face flushing. "Literally-the guy was covered in Carter''s blood at the scene!"

    "Yeah, and that''s the problem," I cut in, locking eyes with him. "The blood spray doesn''t match an attacker. It matches someone who tried to help. And someone else was there-someone you all conveniently forgot to mention in your reports."

    The room erupted in angry whispers. I took my time looking at each face, lingering on Jackson Hayes in the corner, ying it cool like this was just another Tuesday.

    "Alpha King Morgan, Council Chairman Drake pushed to his feet, the only elder with enough balls to speak directly. "With all due respect, we handle our own dirtyundry. William broke packw-

    "Packw isn''t worth spit if it''s not fair," I cut him off, not raising my voice but making damn sure everyone heard me. "That''s what being Alpha King means - making sure we don''t start killing wolves because it''s convenient."

    The room went dead silent. I could practically hear them grinding their teeth. Nobody had the guts to challenge me openly, but this wasn''t exactly winning me any fans.

 Chapter 73

    "So where''s this supposed evidence?" Jackson piped up suddenly, drawing every eye in the room. "All I''m hearing is theories. Where''s the beef?"

    Smooth move-making himself look like the rational one while painting me as some crusader with an agenda.

    "Funny you should ask. I pulled out what Tyler dug upst night-a small silver container scratched all to hell with pack symbols. When I cracked it open, the metallic tang of old blood hit the air.

    You could''ve heard a pin drop as the elders crowded in for a look, eyebrows shooting up.

    "This was buried half a mile from where Carter died," I said, tilting it so they could peek inside. "Got two different sets of w marks on it, and neither matches William."

    I ran my thumb over the gouges, giving them all a good look. "This has Shadow Creek written all over it-but it''s not your garden-variety potion. It''s the souped-up version made for Alphas. Gives you a hell of a power boost, but turns your brain to mush-makes you fly off the handle at nothing."

    The room temperature seemed to drop ten degrees as the elders started trading looks that said more than words ever could.

    "Someone slipped this to Carter, then used his rage episode to set the whole thing up,¡± I continued. ¡°William wasn''t the killer-he was just in the wrong ce at the wrong time. The blood spray shows he was trying to stop it, not make it happen."

    "It''s not a smoking gun pointing at our killer, but it blows a hole in your death sentence," I pressed on. "William was just some poor bastard who saw something he shouldn''t have."

    "Made him the perfect fall guy," I added. "The evidence says he got a raw deal."

    Chairman Drake turned the container over in his hands, his tough-guy act cracking around the edges. "Thisplicates things," he admitted, frowning. "But William still kept his mouth shut and got mixed up in this mess."

    "Not saying he''s walking away clean," I conceded. "But you don''t put a wolf down unless you''re damn sure. Keep him locked up while we dig deeper, but take execution off the table."

    The elders huddled up with their eyes, having one of those silent conversations where nobody wants to be the first to back down. Finally, Drake cracked.

    "In light of what Alpha King Morgan''s brought to the table," he forced the words out like they hurt, "we''ll hold off on William''s execution. He stays locked up until we get to the bottom of this."

    "My team''s joining the investigation," I added, making it crystal clear this wasn''t up for debate. "And fix his cell situation-lose the silver restraints and get him some basic care. Guy looks like death warmed over."

    Drake''s face went sour, but he gave a stiff nod. "Consider it done."

    As everything wrapped up, Jackson glided over like we were old buddies. "Alpha King Morgan," his voice smooth as butter, "you''ve got myplete backing on reopening this case. Finding the truth matters above all else, wherever it leads."

    His face was the picture of sincerity, but his eyes were dead as stones. Behind that perfect mask, wheels were turning,

    "Truth''s a funny thing, Jackson," I said, watching him closely. "Tends to hide in the ces people don''t want you looking."

    His smile never faltered-picture perfect. "Couldn''t agree more. Justice is all any of us want."

    Outside, Tyler fell in step beside me, voice low: "That was one hell of an act he put on."

    "Yeah, I muttered, eyes forward. "When someone tries that hard to look clean, you can bet they''re dirty somewhere. Keep digging-and watch our backs." Chapter Comments

    ?5

 Chapter 74

    Ava''s POV

    I was finishing up in the training yard, sweaty and satisfied after a solid session with Lucas, when Tyler appeared in the doorway, his usual stone face carrying something different.

    Tyler appeared in the doorway, his usual stone-faced expression softened around the edges. Something was different.

    "Got news," he said, holding out a folded piece of parchment. "Alpha King wanted me to hand this to you personally."

    My fingers trembled slightly as I took it, recognizing the official seal before I even unfolded it-the intricate silver wolf head and moon symbol that only ke could

    use.

    "This is...?" I couldn''t finish the question, heart suddenly racing.

    "Official modification of William Rivers'' sentence, Tyler answered, watching my face carefully. "Death penalty''s been revoked, reced with indefinite imprisonment pending further investigation."

    I had to take several deep breaths just to keep standing. "This is real? He''s not going to be executed?"

    Tyler nodded, his eyes showing a rare glimpse of warmth. "Alpha King showed up at Shadow Creek himself. The Elders didn''t have much choice but toply. Your father stays locked up, but the conditions will improve drastically. Regr visitation rights included."

    I clutched the document tightly, the parchment crinkling under my grip. This paper-this simple piece of paper meant my father would live.

    ¡°How did ke¡ªI mean, the Alpha King-manage this?¡± I asked, still processing the sudden shift in my world.

    He has his ways, Tyler''s mouth curved in a small smile. "Authority, evidence, and

    a certain... persuasiveness that even the most stubborn Elders can''t ignore.

    ''I need to thank him, I said, feeling overwhelmed by gratitude and shock.

    "He''s back at the manor," Tyler replied. "But I''d suggest you share this news with your mother first. After all, we both know what this means for her."

    I nodded, eager to get home. "Lucas''s training-

    "Alpha King says pick it up tomorrow," Tyler cut in. ¡°Tonight is for family."

    I nearly sprinted all the way home, document clutched against my chest like a lifeline. When I pushed open our front door, Sarah was sitting by the window, staring vacantly at the moonlight outside. The same position I''d found her in countless times since Dad''s arrest.

    "Mom!" I called out, my voice vibrating with barely contained excitement.

    She turned, her face still etched with the weariness and worry that had be her constantpanions. "Ava? What''s happened?"

    I thrust the document toward her, barely able to control my voice. "Dad''s not going to be executed! The Alpha King intervened personally. The sentence has been changed to indefinite imprisonment!"

    Sarah''s hands shook as she took the parchment, her eyes rapidly scanning its contents. With each line she read, her expression transformed-from disbelief to tentative hope, then to joy. By the time she finished, tears were streaming down her hollow cheeks.

    "Is this real?" she whispered, her voice trembling. "William is really... not going to die?"

    "It''s real,'' I confirmed, kneeling beside her and taking her hands. "The Alpha King went to Shadow Creek himself. They had no choice but to ept it. Dad still has to stay in prison, but things will get better, and we can visit him regrly."

    Sarah gripped my hands tightly, her tears flowing freely now. But these were different from the tears of despair I''d grown ustomed to seeing. These were tears of relief.

    "Thank the Moon Goddess,'' she murmured.

    thank that Alpha King."

    We sat in silence for a few moments, sharing this sliver of hope that had broken through months of darkness. Then, suddenly, Sarah lifted her head, her eyes showing a spark of life I hadn''t seen in forever.

    "I need to prepare some things," she said, her voice carrying a determination I''d almost forgotten she possessed. "If we can visit your father, I want to bring him some moonlight herb tea. To help him recover."

    I watched in amazement as she rose to her feet and moved to the kitchen, beginning to examine the herb cab. For months, she''d barely touched these things. Now, her movements were tentative but purposeful.

    "I want to see him tomorrow," she decided, looking up at me. "Will youe with me?"

    "Of course," I promised, feeling a warmth spreading through my chest. "I''ll arrange it."

    Later that night, after Sarah had gone to bed, I sat on our porch steps, gazing at the distant moon. ke Morgan, an Alpha who was practically a stranger months ago, had risked angering an entire pack to save my father''s life.

    Why? Was it his sense of justice? Appreciation for my work with Lucas? Or... something else entirely?

    Whatever his motivation, I found myself feeling a trust and gratitude I''d never expected. In a world of wolf politics and power ys, his actions had gone far beyond any formal contract or obligation.

    If he asked for anything in return, I''d give it without hesitation. But strangely, I knew he wouldn''t ask. This kind of unconditional help was almost unheard of in wolf society.

    The moonlight fell warm and bright on my skin. Tomorrow, I''d return to training Lucas, but I''d also find a moment to thank ke personally. Not as an employee to an employer, but as one wolf to another who had shown true dignity and courage.

    Jackson''s POV

    Jackson paced the length of his study, fury burning through him like wildfire. The execution order-the one he''d carefully orchestrated-officially canceled. William Rivers would live, which meant the truth could stille out.

    "That interfering bastard," he muttered, mming his fist against the wall.

    ke Morgan. The almighty Alpha King, sticking his nose where it didn''t belong. Everything had been perfectly arranged-William taking the fall, his eventual execution erasing any loose ends, and Ava, devastated and vulnerable, would have had no choice but to turn to Jackson forfort.

    He forced himself to take a deep breath. No, this wasn''t the end. Just a setback. Rushing things had been his mistake. Ava wasn''t some conquest to be imed overnight.

    She was a mate-his mate. Their connection was written in silver mark upon her skin. No Alpha King could erase that, no matter how much power he wielded.

    Jackson moved to the window, staring at the moon. Perhaps this development could work in his favor. William''s continued existence would keep Ava engaged with Shadow Creek politics. She wouldn''t be able to fullymit to whatever was brewing between her and ke.

    ''She''s still mine," he whispered to the night. "Every part of her belongs to me, whether she epts it or not."

    The bond between true mates couldn''t be severed-only redirected, temporarily. She could y trainer to ke''s spoiled brat, maybe even warm his bed if things went that far. But in the end, she''d return to where she belonged.

    A cruel smile spread across Jackson''s face. ke Morgan could enjoy his little songbird for now. But the cage was still his to close whenever he chose.

    Chapter Comments

 Chapter 75

    ke''s POV

    I drummed my fingers against the smooth oak desk, weighing the next steps. Rivers didn''t deserve to die, but he wasn''t exactly innocent either. No matter how you sliced it, Shadow Creek had every right to keep him locked up until the whole truth came to light.

    "How much are you nning to tell Ava?" Tyler asked, concern threading through his usually neutral tone.

    "The rough truth," I replied, stretching my shoulders against the tension building there. "Her father shouldn''t die, but he''s not meless. He knew things- kept secrets thatnded him in this mess."

    "She''s scheduled to see him this afternoon," Tyler reminded me. "First visit since your intervention."

    I nodded, already mapping contingencies in my head. "Have Gamma guards keep

    a distant watch. Make sure she''s safe. Shadow Creek won''t appreciate us meddling in their affairs."

    "Already got word that Sarah Rivers has improved dramatically," Tyler added, shifting his weight. "Almost a different person now that she knows her husband''s temporarily safe."

    "Good," I said, my mind already racing ahead. "Keep the moonlight remedy deliveries flowing. Enough to help, not enough to raise eyebrows."

    Tyler gathered the evidence container, preparing to leave, but paused at the doorway. "Normally an Alpha King wouldn''t risk challenging another pack for an ordinary wolf from outside his tribe."

    I raised an eyebrow. "Your point?"

    "No point," he said with a quietugh. "Just an observation.marin.n

    After Tyler left, I stood alone by the window, watching raindrops hammer against the ss. How would Ava take this news? Her father escaped execution, but the truth might be messier than she imagined.

    Before sunset, a border patrol alert came through. Unknown wolves had been spotted along the northern boundary-likely scouts testing our defenses. As Alpha King, I couldn''t ignore any potential threat.

    Before heading out, I found Ava in the training yard with Lucas, her voice carrying clear across the space.

    "When you''re in closebat, keep your center of gravity low," she corrected Lucas''s stance, her hands confidently adjusting his posture. "Don''t put all your weight on your front foot. You''ll topple with the first good hit."

    Lucas adjusted with serious concentration, focused on every detail. His progress was undeniable-far beyond anything previous instructors had achieved.

    "Ava," I called softly, not wanting to interrupt their rhythm. "Got a minute?"

    She turned, sweat beading her forehead in the sunlight. "Sure, Alpha King. Lucas, practice that defensive stance-I''ll be right back."

    We walked to the edge of the yard where shade from ancient oaks cooled the air. Her scent carried sunshine and the vibrance ofbat training-a strange, maic pull tugging at something in my chest.

    ''I need to leave for a few days,¡± I said without preamble. ¡°Situation on the northern border requires my personal attention."

    She nodded, unsurprised. ''Should Lucas''s training continue, or do you have other arrangements?"

    ''Keep training," I confirmed. ¡°Tyler''s staying behind. Contact him if anythinges up."

    Her gaze drifted toward the distance. "I have clearance to see my father today."

    ''I know, I said. "I''ve arranged guards to watch from a distance, ensure your safety."

    She looked back at me, surprise flickering across her face. "Didn''t expect you to think of that."

    "My intervention put you in this position," I exined. "Your safety''s my responsibility."

    Post-rain sunlight broke through the clouds, spilling across the training yard. Lucas practiced the moves she''d taught him, each position executed with determination. Watching my son so engaged sent an odd surge of pride and gratitude through me.

    "We found evidence, I continued, getting back to business. "Shows your father was there, but not as the primary killer. Maybe a witness, maybe involved in something he shouldn''t have been."

    She caught her breath slightly. "What does that mean?"

    "Means he shouldn''t be executed, but Shadow Creek has the right to keep him locked up until all the factse out." I tried to soften the harshness. "He''s not innocent, Ava. But he shouldn''t die for crimes he didn''tmit."

    She epted this reality with moreposure than I''d expected, nodding slowly.

    "I understand. At least he has time now... and hope."

    "I''ll keep digging," I promised. "But it''ll take time. Truth doesn''t always float to the surface."

    Ava looked up at me, trust and gratitude shining in her eyes with an intensity I''d never seen directed at me before. "Thank you, ke. Seriously."

    Hearing my name instead of my title sent an odd warmth through my chest.

    "Heard your mother''s improved," I said.

    "Yeah," she nodded, a genuine smile lighting up her face. "Since learning Dad''s temporarily safe, she''s almost a different person. Even took a walk yesterday- first time in months."

    "I''ve arranged for regr moonlight remedy deliveries to your home, I added. "They''ll continue even while I''m gone."

    "You don''t have to do all this," she said quietly.

    "I know," I answered simply. "But I choose to."

    Silence stretched between us, filled only by the distant sounds of Lucas''s training.

    "Be careful," she suddenly said, genuine concerncing her words. "Border patrol isn''t routine business."

    I gave her a slight smile. "Worried about me, Ava?"

    She rolled her eyes, but couldn''tpletely hide the amusement in them. "Just worried about who''ll sign my paychecks if you don''te back."

    The joke lightened the moment. Lucas called for her from across the yard, clearly eager to show off his progress.

    "Go on," I said. "I leave at dawn tomorrow. Back in three days,test."

    She nodded and turned toward Lucas. I watched her walk away, a strange emotion rising in my chest. This warrior from Shadow Creek had somehow be essential to ckwood Manor.

    And to me, she was bing something moreplicated and dangerous than

    I cared to admit.

    Chapter Comments

 Chapter 76

    Ava''s POV

    "Get low! Elbows in!" I shouted across the yard, watching Lucas dodge an imaginary attacker. "Fighting isn''t just muscle-it''s about being sneaky-fast."

    Lucas adjusted mid-move, his eyes lighting up when he got it right. Three days since ke took off for the border, and I''d settled into a weird kind of normal at ckwood. Training this kid had be the highlight of my days.

    "Better?" He tried again, this time flowing through the move like water.

    "Way better." I flicked a towel at him, hitting his sweaty face dead-center. "You''re a natural, squirt."

    Lucas beamed, and for a second, I remembered he was just a kid ying at being a warrior. ¡°Think I could kick butt at Junior Qualifiers?"

    ''Crush it," I nodded. "Keep this up and you''ll make wolves twice your age look like puppies."

    Hunter huffed beside him, practically rolling his eyes in agreement.

    Lucas kicked at the dirt. "Dading back today?" His voice wobbled between hopeful and bracing-for-disappointment.

    "Should be. My stomach did a stupid little flip at the thought. ¡°Three days, he said."

    "He never sees the cool stuff, Lucas muttered, shoulders slumping. "Always misses when I nail something big."

    I ruffled his hair, surprising myself with how natural it felt. "We''ll show him together. Make him eat his words about missing out."

    The door creaked, and Tyler appeared, jingling his keys. "Alpha''s inbound. Sunset ETA.

    Lucas shot up like he''d been electrocuted. "Gotta practice my finale moves!" He bolted with Hunter hot on his heels, dust cloud in their wake.

    Tyler''s face softened when the kid disappeared. "Border mess was hairier than we thought. ke handled it, though. Everyone''sing home."

    Relief hit me harder than I wanted to admit. I''d been counting hours, not that I''d tell a soul.

    "The kid''s different now, Tyler said, his usual poker face cracking into something almost friendly. "Never seen him this fired up about training."

    "He makes it easy," I said, surprised to find I meant it. "Kid''s all heart."

    Prison had a new smell today-less like despair, more like industrial cleaner. Third visit since ke pulled rank, and each time the ce felt less suffocating. Guards still weren''t throwing me wee parties, but at least they''d dropped the death res.

    "Kiddo!" Dad''s face split into a grin that erased years from his face. The silver cuffs that had been burning raw wounds were gone, reced with something that didn''t make his skin bubble and smoke.

    ''Looks like someone got the memo about not torturing prisoners," I said, eyeing his healing wrists.

    Dad snorted. "Amazing what happens when the Alpha King gets personally pissed off. Got daily check-ups now and everything."

    We sat across a metal table, no guard breathing down our necks for once-just a couple bored-looking patrols at the far end. Privacy felt like a luxury I''d forgotten existed.

    ''So what really went down?" I kept my voice low. The question had been burning a hole in my tongue for months.

    Dad''s eyes darted around before settling on mine. "I was there that night," he admitted, voice barely above a whisper. "Found files-dirty deals going down in Shadow Creek leadership. Was heading to tell Carter when I found him... already down."

    "You saw who did it?"

    "Just the aftermath. Tried stopping the bleeding. He rubbed his palms like he could still feel the blood. "Then they found me with a dead Alpha and jumped

    to conclusions.''

    "So they pped traitor on you and called it a day."

    "More or less." He sighed. "I screwed up, keeping quiet about those documents. Made me look guilty as hell, especially with Carter''s blood all over me."

    I reached across and squeezed his hand. "I''ll get you home. Whatever it takes."

    Something shed in his eyes-hope mixed with fear. "Sarah?"

    "Night and day different," I grinned. "Got her color back. Yesterday she even dragged Mrs. Peterson out hunting moonlight flowers."

    Dad''s face softened. "Those damn flowers. First thing I noticed about her-arms full of silver blooms, moonlight in her hair."

    We drifted to easier topics-Lucas''s training, Sarah''s cooking again, neighborhood gossip. When I left, Dad hugged me awkwardly across the table, his arms still solid despite everything.

    When I got back, the setting sun painted ckwood gold. Guard shouts and hoofbeats carried on the wind-ke was home.

    Lucas tore into the training yard like his pants were on fire. "Dad''s back! Wants to see what we''ve been doing!"

    "Then let''s blow his mind." I grabbed practice staffs, tossing him his favorite. ke filled the doorway momentster, road dust still clinging to his boots. He looked beat, but his eyes sparked to life when he spotted us.

    "Missed all the action, did I?" His voice had a new softness around the edges. "Dad! Watch this!" Lucasunched into his routine-fluid movements chained together with precision no seven-year-old should possess.

    ke went dead still, tracking every move. When Lucas stuck thending on his finale, ke crossed the yard and dropped to one knee, eye-to-eye with his

    son.

    "That was..." He paused, searching for words. "Incredible. You''re miles beyond where I thought you''d be."

    Lucas lit up like someone had flipped a switch inside him. He spun toward me, practically vibrating. "Ava taught me everything! She doesn''t yell when I mess up!'' ke''s eyes found mine, something unreadable burning in them. "Lucky kid," he said simply, but the weight behind those two words hung in the air between

    1. us.

    Dinner was surprisingly chill. Wilson had gone all-out, and Lucas bounced between wolfing down food and demonstrating moves with his fork. ke actually smiled twice-l counted-and asked real questions about the training, soaking up every detail. Even with Sophia out wedding-nning, the room felt weirdly... right.

    After Lucas crashed from his excitement high, ke walked me toward the main gate. The almost-full moon painted everything silver, a reminder that primal forces were always just beneath the surface.

    "Border mess bad?" I asked, kicking a stray pebble.

    "Messy, not deadly." He shrugged. "Northern wolves getting bold, but nobody''s looking for a war."

    I dug my nails into my palm, working up nerve. "Thanks-for Dad, for the medicine, for everything."

    ke walked a few steps in silence. "Lucas is different now. Happier. More himself." He nced sideways at me. "That''s worth something."

    Just business then?" The words tumbled out before my brain could catch up with my mouth.

    ke stopped dead, his eyes catching mine like hooks. Something electric crackled between us, dangerous and alive. Then he blinked, breaking the spell. "Gettingte. Training tomorrow?"

    His non-answer felt heavier than any confession. I nodded and turned away.

    "Night, Alpha."

    "Night, Ava."

 Chapter 77

    Third Person POV

    Moonlight spilled over ckwood Manor''s hunting grounds as Jackson watched Sophia ordering guards around. They hung silvernterns from oak branches while others set up stone benches around fire pits stacked with pine logs.

    "All this fuss for one guy?" Jackson asked, tapping the railing. "Your dad doesn''t even get this royal treatment."

    Sophia stopped mid-instruction, her face lighting up. "Not just ''some guy," she corrected, practically bouncing. "It''s Steven! My cousin from Dark Moon pack. Growing up, I''d follow him around like a lost puppy during every Northern Moon bash."

    "First I''m hearing about him," Jackson said, eyebrows raised.

    Sophia slipped her arm around his waist. "He''s been up north, tracking down old pack stories. Total history buff-knows the dirt on every major pack''s beginnings and battles."

    "So what''s his deal? Alpha-in-waiting, bookworm, or what?" Jackson asked, not bothering to hide his curiosity.

    "My dad''s brother''s kid," Sophia exined, eyes bright with memories. "Uncle James ditched everything Silverpeak offered for a Dark Moon she-wolf. Fated mates-the real deal, not the arranged crap most packs pull."

    "He walked away from the Morgan name in Silverpeak?" Jackson couldn''t mask his surprise. "For some out-of-pack girl?"

    "Feel a true mate bond once, and you''d get it," Sophia said, fingers brushing his wrist. "So Steven got the Morgan blood but grew up Dark Moon, turned into this keeper of wolf history."

    Before Jackson could dig deeper, a sharp wolf-whistle cut through the night.

    Guard howls echoed-three long, one short-the Alpha visitor signal. Sophia grabbed Jackson''s hand and practically dragged him toward the front yard.

    "Holy shit, he''s here!" she squealed.

    The courtyard zed with torches. Tyler stood at the gate with armed guards nking him. From the forest path emerged a massive silver-gray wolf, leather bags slung across its back, ancient symbols catching the firelight.

    The wolf''s body twisted and cracked as bones rearranged. Secondster, a tall guy with movie-star looks stood in the wolf''s ce. He threw on the robe a guard handed him, shing a smile that screamed Morgan family-confident but not cocky.

    "Sophie-wolf!" he called, arms wide, his voice carrying a rough northern ent. "Steve!" Sophia sprinted across the yard like a kid on Christmas morning. "You made it! Thought you''d bail till after the moon crashed."

    Steven caught her mid-leap, spinning her around before setting her down. "And miss my favorite cousin''s hunt ceremony? Fat chance." His eyesnded on Jackson. "So this is the famous Hayes kid."

    Jackson stepped up, extending his hand with a subtle pulse of Alpha energy. "Jackson Hayes. Shadow Creek''s next Alpha. Heard plenty about your history gig.

    "Steven Morgan. Dark Moon''s next in line," he returned the handshake with equal pressure. "Sophie''s letters make you sound better than sliced bread."

    Tyler cleared his throat. "Master Steven, Alpha King''s handling some border mess. Asked me to show you around. Your room''s all set."

    Blue fire crackled in the ancestral hall, lighting up stern-faced Morgan Alphas watching from their portraits. The three sat around a carved table, drinking wine that glowed like liquid moonlight.

    "So the whole northern territory''s cool with you taking over?" Jackson swirled his drink. "Even though your mom''s side had the original Alpha juice?''

    Steven smiled, unfazed. "Up north, we care more about what you can do than whose blood you''ve got. Dad earned respect through actions, not family trees." He sipped his wine. "And I''ve gotta prove I deserve that spot, same as any real Alpha."

    Sophia patted his arm. "Steve''s collected stories from every northern pack. Sees patterns nobody else catches."

    "It''s just what I do," Steven shrugged, then turned to Jackson. "Some stories need keeping, Some truths shouldn''t disappear." His tone carried weight.

    Jackson opened his mouth to respond when Sophia suddenly jumped up. "Crap! Promised Lucas some sleep herbs. Keep the bromance going-back in five."

    Once Sophia left, the air thickened. Steven leaned forward, voice dropping. "Word is Shadow Creek''s been a hot messtely. Dead Alpha, supposed traitors, power grabs..."

    "Every pack hits rough patches," Jackson said smoothly. "But you''re more interested in me and Sophie, right?"

    Steven chuckled. "Sure, sure. Though I''m curious about this Rivers family. Heard William Rivers supposedly offed your former Alpha?"

    Jackson''s fingers stilled on the table. "Pack business gets messy. Rivers fucked up. Had to pay."

    "Fucking up and actual guilt aren''t always the same thing," Steven said, eyes sharp. "In my line of work, truth beats rumors any day."

    Walking toward the guest wing, they discussed tomorrow''s hunt when sharp metallic ngs rang out, mixed with heavy breathing.

    "What''s that?" Steven perked up.

    Sophia smiled. "Probably Ava. She''s Lucas''sbat coach-trains like a demon."

    Steven''s eyes lit up. "Combat coach? Thought that was Tyler''s gig."

    "ke found fresh blood," Jackson said tly. "Shadow Creek fighter. Some moves, not much experience."

    "That right?" Steven''s interest was obvious. "Gotta see what passes for warrior material around here. Up north, we live for good fighters.¡±

    He headed toward the sound before anyone could answer. At the training deck, they watched Ava facing three practice drones, her body a blur of motion. Every strikended perfectly, her movements both powerful and graceful.

    "That''s Ava," Jackson muttered. "ke hired her for Lucas."

    Steven''s breathing quickened as he watched her. "That fighting style... never seen anything like it. Northern power with southern flow."

    Ava grabbed a water bottle, gulping half of it in one go. Droplets traced her jawline, catching the light. She wiped her forehead and nced up, spotting them.

    Her eyes found Jackson first-cold as ice; then Sophia-a quick, friendly nod; finallynding on Steven-sizing him up without backing down.

    "Hunt tomorrow," Sophia called down. "You bringing Lucas?"

    Ava sheathed her knife. "If ke says it''s cool. Kid needs real tracking practice." "Looking forward to seeing how he''s doing," Steven said, his voice dropping an octave. "Maybe we could swap some northern fighting tricks."

    Ava gave a simple nod before walking away, disappearing down the hallway.

    Steven took a deep breath, still staring after her. "Damn," he said under his breath. "Your warriors are something else."

    Chapter Comments

 Chapter 78

    Bad Husband 78

    Ava''s POV

    The dagger flipped between my fingers, catching sunlight as I stared at the wooden target. All morning I''d tried to keep my mind off Dad''s case. Since ke stepped in to stop Shadow Creek''s execution ns, the weight crushing my shoulders had finally lifted a bit. Still just a temporary win-Dad remained locked up, with the truth buried somewhere.

    "Again," I told Lucas, watching his form. "Keep low. Don''t rush it."

    He nodded, those gray-blue eyes so much like ke''s shing with focus. Hunter sprawled nearby, gold eyes following his master''s every move. The kid hade so far these past weeks, giving me a strange sense of pride.

    "You''re quiet today," Lucas said, passing me water. Something in his eyes made him seem older than seven. "Because of your dad?"

    I drank deep, the cold sliding down my throat. ¡°Just beat. Saw him yesterday. He''s doing better now. Your dad made that happen."

    My chest tightened saying those words. What ke did went miles beyond our Blood Oath. He''d risked Shadow Creek''s anger by stepping in. Could''ve stayed clear, but didn''t. I still hadn''t sorted out how that made me feel.

    "By the way," Lucas said, "I saw some guy talking to Sophia when I went for water. New visitor?"

    His eyes lit up instantly. Even Hunter raised his head.

    "Has to be Cousin Steven! He''s been gone forever! Heard he wasing today."

    Right on cue, Sophia called from the training yard entrance. "Look who I found- training time!"

    She walked over with a stranger beside her. He had the Morgan look-tall with that natural grace-but younger than ke, probably my age. Silver-gold curls caught the sun, framing a face straight out of wolf legends. Movie-star handsome with confidence that didn''t quite cross into cocky.

    Lucas bounced up. "Steven!"

    "Ava, meet my cousin, Steven Morgan, next Alpha of Dark Moon pack," Sophia beamed. "Steven, this is Ava Rivers, Lucas''sbat teacher."

    Steven''s eyes moved from Lucas to me, taking a slow inventory that made me stand straighter, feeling sized up like prey.

    ¡°Mr. Morgan, wee to ckwood, I kept it business¨Clike.

    Instead of a handshake, he gave a slight bow-northern style. "Steven, please. Your southern fighting methods fascinate me. Totally different from up north."

    "Steven collects pack histories, Sophia exined. "From all over."

    "And southern fighting techniques," he added, eyes fixed on me. "I heard about your Honor Medal at Warrior Academy."

    The Shadow Creek mention put me on guard. Since Dad''s traitorbel, any reference to my pack made me tense. How''d he know my background?

    "Just basic stuff," I cut it short. "Lucas, back to work?"

    Steven caught my difort but pushed anyway. "I''m tracking inter-pack conflicts," he lowered his voice. "Shadow Creek''s recent... troubles might make an interesting chapter."

    My pulse jumped. Was he fishing for info about Dad?

    "Wrong person for pack politics," I said coolly. "I just teach fighting."

    "Speaking of which, Sophia jumped in, "Steven''s archery is unbeatable! No one up northes close."

    "Really?" Lucas''s eyes widened. ''Show us!"

    Steven winked. "If Miss Rivers doesn''t mind a quick break?"

    Smart move. Using Lucas''s excitement made refusing look petty. I nodded. ''Range is there."

    I nned to slip off, but Lucas grabbed my sleeve. "Ava, you gotta see this!" His eager face made "no" impossible.

    Steven moved to the range with easy grace, selecting a bow and testing its pull before nocking an arrow.

    First shot: dead center.

    "Big deal," Lucas muttered. "Ava does that too."

    I couldn''t help smiling at his loyalty. Then Steven truly impressed us. He backed further away with each shot, arrows still finding bullseye with deadly aim. He split his previous arrows down the middle.

    "Holy moon," Sophia whispered.

    His final shot came from so far I barely saw him. The arrow hit with enough force to knock the entire target over.

    "That was sick!" Lucas shouted. "Teach me!"

    Steven walked back, casually running a hand through his hair. "Old northern tricks," he said, eyes finding mine again. "Wonder what Miss Rivers could show us about hand-to-hand?"

    The challenge hung in the air, unmistakable.

    I bit my lip, thinking of refusing. The mark on my neck warmed in the sun-

    Jackson''s silver linestely threaded with gold. Taking on another Alpha probably wasn''t smart, especially with my mixed feelings about ke''s help still churning inside.

    But everyone looked so expectant.

    "I could show some basic defense moves," I finally said. "Teaching is my job, after all."

    We moved to the mats. I stretched quickly, nning which beginner moves to demonstrate. Steven shrugged off his jacket, showing off well-trained muscle. The air between us shifted as the scent of pine and northern mountains rolled off him-stronger than normal for a casual training session. His stance screamed formal training, but something in his eyes felt too familiar for someone I''d just met.

    "Don''t worry," he murmured for my ears only, leaning in slightly. "I''ll take it easy on you."

    That lit a fire in my warrior blood. I tensed, ready to teach him just enough of a lesson to show southern wolves weren''t pushovers.

    But Steven''s first move blindsided me. Instead of a standard approach, he moved lightning-fast behind me, grabbing my arm and spinning me around before I could blink.

    Suddenly I was pinned face-down, his body pressing against my back, one leg between mine to lock me down. The position was too close forfort. The heat of his skin registered through my training clothes, his breath warm against my neck. His scent intensified with exertion. Gasps echoed around us, especially Lucas''s worried yelp.

    This wasn''t training-it was a realbat takedown. Northern wolves yed rougher than I thought.

    Sweat beaded on my forehead as I focused. This match had shifted from demonstration topetition. I stayed calm, waited for my chance, then kicked back hard, hitting his knee perfectly. As his bnce broke, I flipped us, pinning him with my knee on his chest.

    "Nice," Steven grinned, admiration in his eyes. A thin sheen of sweat made his face glow, but he didn''t seem winded at all. "Not just rumors then."

    His hands gripped my waist, fingers pressing in with unexpected familiarity, clearly ready for round two. Ladjusted my position, maintaining professional distance. I braced myself-

    That''s when a thunderous roar shook the training yard.

    "What the FUCK do you think you''re doing?!"

 Chapter 79

    Ava''s POV

    ke''s voice cut through the air like a knife, turning the training yard''s

    atmosphere heavy as lead. I scrambled up from the mat as Steven got to his feet, brushing off dust with a half-smile that walked the line between friendly and challenging.

    "Hey, long time no see, Uncle. Just-

    ke crossed the yard in three powerful strides, his Alpha presence rolling off him

    in waves that made the nearby trees tremble. I backed away instinctively, putting space between myself and the two wolves.

    "I let you onto my territory as family," ke growled, voice dropping to a dangerous rumble, "not so you could put your hands on my fighter!"

    Steven held up his palms. "Whoa, easy. Just sharing some moves. North and south have different styles-thought Ava might want to see what we do up north."

    "Wait!" Lucas''s voice piped up from the sidelines where he, Sophia, and Jackson had been watching. "Steven wasn''t being mean, Dad! He was teaching Ava cool moves. If he hadn''t surprised her, she would''ve totally kicked his butt!"

    Steven nced my way, one eyebrow raised. "That sure of yourself? Won''t be that simple next time."

    Steven

    That casual challenge lit ke''s eyes with fury. He stepped forward, his Alpha pressure hitting Steven like a brick wall. The younger wolf''s breathing hitched as ke''s hands curled into fists, veins standing out along his forearms.

    "You''re on mynd, each word dropped like stone, ¡°touching someone under my protection. Don''t forget who keeps Dark Moon in the Alphas'' good graces."

    Steven''s face drained of color as he bent forward, fighting against ke''s dominance. I''d never seen ke lose control like this-this wasn''t just anger but something wild and primal.

    "Hey, calm down," I said, stepping forward without thinking. "It was just practice. Nothing serious."

    ke''s burning gaze snapped to me, his jaw clenched tight.

    "From now on," he pointed at me, voice winter-cold, "you focus on Lucas. Nothing else." Then to Steven, Alpha energy surging, "And you-keep your distance

    from her."

    When ke pulled back his power, Steven gasped like he''d been underwater. I moved to check on him, but Sophia caught my arm with a slight head shake-a clear warning not to make things worse.

    "Training''s done," ke dered. "Tyler will get you all home."

    With that, he stormed toward the manor, his cloak snapping behind him like a g in a gale.

    The yard fell quiet except for Steven''s ragged breathing.

    "What''s his problem?" Steven finally asked, rubbing his neck..

    I stared at the ground, feeling heat creep up my neck. "Just Alpha stuff. They get territorial."

    "That wasn''t just territorial," Sophia said with meaning in her voice.

    ''What do you mean?" I looked up at her.

    A knowing smile touched her lips. "Dad never cares how warriors train. But with you... this is different."

    "Yeah, Lucas nodded like he understood adult things, st time Tyler''s group was training, there was blood everywhere, and Dad just told the healers to be ready. Never seen him go nuclear like that."

    I caught Sophia and Lucas trading a look that said they knew something I didn''t. It made my skin itch with weird irritation.

    "You''re reading too much into it," I said tly. "Probably just because I''m teaching Lucas so well."

    "We should go, Lucas," Sophia said, taking her brother''s hand and reaching for Jackson with her other. But Jackson''s eyes were locked on me, that dangerous look I knew all too well shing across his face.

    "What''s wrong?" Sophia asked, confused. "Jackson?"

    Jackson''s mouth tightened, his stare still fixed on me. I knew exactly what was happening-he could smell Steven''s scent on me, and for a marked wolf, that was practically a p in the face.

    I cleared my throat loudly. "Sophia''s waiting. Got a problem?"

    Jackson blinked like someone had snapped fingers in his face. "What is it, babe?" he turned to Sophia, voice suddenly honey-sweet.

    Sophia looked from him to me, her expression shifting from concern to suspicion. "I said we should go. Her eyes narrowed slightly, like she was seeing something for the first time.

    Before Jackson could answer, Sophia pulled Lucas away. Jackson''s face fell as

    he realized his mistake and hurried after them.

    "So there''s a story between you two, huh?"

    I turned to find Steven watching me, leaning against the training rack with curiosity written all over his face.

    "You''re seeing things," I lied, my hand automatically going to my neck where the mark sat. "He''s just Sophia''s fianc¨¦. I barely know him."

    Steven studied me for a beat, clearly catching my scent and reaction. But he just nodded, letting it drop.

    "Hope I didn''tnd you in hot water," he kicked a pebble. "My uncle was pretty intense."

    "Bit of an overreaction," I admitted, gathering up the training gear.

    "Don''t make excuses for him," Steven moved closer. "I wasn''t trying to hurt you, just showing you some moves."

    "I get it," I nodded. "Anyone with sense would see that."

    "Hope this doesn''t ruin your impression of me, Steven''s voice softened. "Would suck if you started dodging me in hallways."

    I raised an eyebrow. "Aren''t you worried about your uncle''s threats?" Steven chuckled. "For all his bluster, I walk my own path. Family politics doesn''t appeal to me-1 care more about our kind''s history and legends." He paused. "What I''ve achieved in the Northes from hard work, not the Morgan name." "He''s the Alpha King," I reminded him. "The man who controls every pack''s fate." "Big deal," Steven shrugged with a sh of rebellion. "Power doesn''tst forever. I''ve studied enough history to know even the mightiest can fall."

    A chill ran through me as I slung my bag over my shoulder. As I turned to leave, Steven spoke again:

    *Can I mindlink you sometime?"

    I looked up, caught off guard by how direct he was. "You think that''s smart after what just happened?"

    "Probably asking for trouble," he admitted with a crooked smile. "But I''d like to keep sharing techniques. Maybe... talk about other interesting stuff too."

    He stepped closer, touching my arm lightly.

    ''Like what?" I asked, curious where he was going with this.

    ''I''ve collected lots of inside information about Shadow Creek," Steven leaned in, lowering his voice, "Including power ys most don''t know about. Your father''s case... it might be connected.

    My heart jumped, With Dad''s situation just starting to look better, any new leads could make all the difference. "What do you know?"

    Not here, Steven shook his head, his fingers gently lifting my chin to meet his eyes. ¡°Let me take you to Moon Lake. It''s neutral ground."

    Steven''s face brightened with a wide smile as he leaned closer. His scent was all pine and northern snow, nothing like the wolves I grew up with.

    I felt torn in two. ke had just saved my father from execution, and I owed him

    for that. But if Steven really had information that could help Dad, I couldn''t turn it down. Saving my father came before everything.

 Chapter 80

    Ava''s POV

    I kicked off my boots and flopped onto my bed, ke''s fury and that crushing Alpha presence still buzzing in my head. After the whole Steven showdown,

    Tyler had barely dropped me off before I was already thinking about a hot shower to wash away the day''s chaos.

    *nning for tonight already, Miss Rivers?"

    I bolted upright. Steven''s voice slid into my thoughts uninvited, using mindlink without permission.

    "Who said you could pop into my head?" I fired back.

    *Uncle ke said we couldn''t meet in person," his voice carried a smirk I could practically feel, but he never mentioned mind-talking. How about I send a car at eight?"

    I massaged my temples. I''d agreed to hear about Dad''s case, but ke''s warningplicated everything.

    "Can''t you just tell me what you know now?" I asked. "Why the dinner date?"

    Some things shouldn''t be shared through mindlink," his tone suddenly dropped serious. "Shadow Creek''s power games run deeper than you think. I''ve got proof, but you need to see it yourself."

    That caught my interest. Since ke stepped in to stop Dad''s execution, Shadow Creek''s elders had been fuming but nobody dared challenge the Alpha King openly. If Steven really knew something...

    "Fine. Moon Lake it is, I agreed, remembering his earlier suggestion about neutral ground.

    "Perfect, he sounded pleased. "Though they''re sticklers about dress code. Got anything suitable?"

    I nced at my closet - training gear,bat pants, and exactly zero fancy dresses.

    "That might be a problem," I admitted.

    "I could help, he offered. "Brought some designers with me-

    "No thanks," I cut in. "I''ll figure it out."

    "Eight o''clock then, he recovered smoothly. "My car wille by."

    "Nothing shy," I warned. "Don''t need all of Shadow Creek gossiping."

    "Morgans aren''t known for subtle, heughed. "But I''ll try. See you tonight, Miss Rivers."

    After he dropped the connection, I weighed my options. As much as I hated to admit it, I needed help looking like something other than a fighter ready for battle.

    I closed my eyes and concentrated on another mindlink.

    "E?" I called out to my best friend.

    "Ava using mindlink?" Her bright voice bounced back. ''Is the apocalypse happening?"

    "Emergency situation," I said bluntly. "Can you bring... dresses to my ce? Like, now?"

    The connection went quiet before E burst outughing. "Say that again? Did you just ask for dresses?"

    "Don''t start," I growled. "Going to Moon Lake tonight. Need to look non-lethal for once."

    "Moon Lake?!" Her voice shot up. "With who? What''s going on?"

    *Steven Morgan. Says he has information about Dad''s case."

    ''Holy crap! She nearly squealed. "Dark Moon''s heir? The walking werewolf history book?"

    "Purely business," I stressed. "He''s picking me up at eight. Need to not look like I just stepped off a battlefield."

    "Fifteen minutes, she promised. "Don''t touch anything. I''m on my way!"

    Twenty minutester, E burst through my door juggling bags and covered hangers.

    "So," she dumped everything on my bed, eyes sparkling with mischief, "a date with Steven Morgan? Mr. Collects-Every-Pack-Secret?"

    "Not a date, I corrected. "He knows stuff about Shadow Creek politics that might help Dad."

    "And just happened to pick the most romantic spot in three territories?" She raised an eyebrow.

    "It''s neutral ground," I shrugged. "Safe for cross-pack talk."

    "Right, she grinned while unpacking. "Nothing to do with getting you alone under mood lighting."

    "E, I warned with a re.

    "Fine, fine," she pulled out the first dress. "But think about it - ke''s been great, but Steven''s another ally. One with serious connections and information."

    didn''t answer right away. My feelings about ke were a tangle I wasn''t ready to sort through. He''d helped Dad when he didn''t have to, and sometimes the way he looked at me made my skin tingle... but that wasn''t today''s problem.

    "What''d you bring?" I asked, changing subjects.

    *This," she held up a sleek emerald dress, "will make every wolf''s jaw hit the floor."

    I studied it skeptically. Beautiful but impractical. "Too much. Not exactly ''serious business'' material."

    "Men spill secrets faster when they''re distracted," she winked.

    "Not happening," I said firmly.

    She rolled her eyes and pulled out a navy blue outfit. "More professional?"

    Before I could answer, she suddenly tossed both aside and dug into another bag. "Actually, this is perfect for you.

    She pulled out somethingpletely different a deep green dress with clean lines, somehow both feminine and powerful.

    "My sister''s newest design," she exined. "Made for ''women with attitude."

    I stepped closer, surprised to find it surprisingly practical. Sturdy fabric, freedom of movement, and

    best part hidden pockets for weapons.

    "This might work, I admitted.

    "Jackpot! E beamed. "Shower time. Let''s transform you!"

    Thirty minutester, I hardly recognized myself in the mirror. The dress fit perfectly, showing off my strength while still looking elegant. The color made my eyes pop.

    "See?" E said proudly. "Badass can be beautiful."

    I turned slowly, actually liking how I looked. Not frilly or fussy, just clean, powerful lines.

    "One final touch," she added a ck leather jacket with silver ents. "So you keep some edge."

    I slipped it on, discovering more hidden pockets inside. "You modified this?" "Know you too well," she winked. "Never unarmed, right?"

    She styled my hair halfway between warrior braid and elegant updo, adding small moonstone clips that matched my new earrings, Her makeup touch was light - just enough to brighten my eyes and lips without making me feel like a stranger.

    "Remember," she warned while making final adjustments, "charming doesn''t mean trustworthy. Northern wolves y by different rules."

    "I can handle myself," I reminded her.

    "Inbat, sure. In that dress? Different game, she countered. "If ke finds out-

    "He won''t, I cut her off. "This is just for Dad."

    The doorbell rang. E''s face lit up with mischief. "Warrior to princess in thirty minutes t. Go knock him dead."

    "It''s not like that- I started, but she was already shoving me toward the door. silver-gray and deep blue, with his family crest

    I took a breath and opened it to find Steven standing there in traditional northern Alpha formal wear catching moonlight. His silver-gold hair was mostly slicked back, except for a few stubborn strands falling across his forehead.

    When he saw me, his blue eyes went wide. His mouth opened, then closed without words.

    "Wow..." he finally managed, his gaze traveling up and down. "You look like..."

    "Don''t look so shocked," I tried for casual but my voice betrayed me. "I can dress up when needed."

    "A battle goddess straight from Moon Goddess legends," he finished, ignoring myment. "Southern wolves are full of surprises."

    His straightforward admiration caught me off-guard - no games, no calction, just genuine appreciation. Nothing like Jackson''s practicedpliments.

    "You clean up nice yourself," I nodded at his outfit. "Standard northern fancy dress?"

    "Traditional Alpha attire," he smiled. "Future Alpha, anyway. May I escort this beautifuldy to dinner?"

    He offered his arm with a slight bow.

    I hesitated before lightly resting my hand on his sleeve. "This is a one-time thing,

    Mr. Morgan. Just for information."

    Chapter Comments

    Mike

    i feel like this is going to end wrong...

    also feels like steven is behind the scenes helping jackson, probably to take over

    himself

    View 1 Comment >

    3

    SHARE

    POST COMMENT

 Chapter 81

    Ava''s POV

    When I slid into the backseat, the driver up front turned around. A young guy with sharp features, friendly but alert-clearly a trained warrior.

    "Ava, this is my assistant, friend, and future Beta, Dominic," Steven introduced as he settled in beside me, sitting closer than necessary.

    "Call me Dom," he smiled, eyes meeting mine in the rearview mirror. ¡°Nice to finally meet you. This guy hasn''t shut up about you since he saw you training

    this afternoon."

    Steven shot him a warning look but didn''t verbally object. "Dom exaggerates. I merely mentioned your impressive fighting style,"

    "Right, Dom smirked, pulling away from the house. "Five or six times."

    I shifted toward the door, ufortably aware of how the dress hugged my body. Combat gear was my second skin; this felt like wearing someone else''s.

    "So, Moon Lake," I cut in, bringing us back to business and ignoring Steven''s appreciative nces. "You mentioned information about Shadow Creek politics."

    Steven''s expression sobered, though his eyes still held that gleam of interest. "Not just politics-power ys that go back generations. Might exin why your father took the fall for something he didn''t do."

    My pulse quickened. "You actually think he''s innocent?"

    "Let''s just say the timing of Alpha Carter''s death was suspiciously convenient for certain parties," Steven replied, his voice dropping as he leaned closer. "But first, let''s enjoy dinner. Talking pack secrets on an empty stomach never ends well."

    I studied him as moonlight filtered through the trees. Unlike other wolves from powerful bloodlines, Steven didn''t seem to take himself too seriously. There was something different about him, though I couldn''t quite ce it.

    "How do you know about my father anyway?" I asked, maintaining my distance.

    "My job is collecting stories," he exined, turning fully toward me, his knee brushing mine. "Not just the glory tales everyone knows, but the messy, ufortable ones too. Truth is rarely neat and tidy."

    I shifted my leg away subtly, which didn''t escape his notice, though he merely smiled.

    The carriage arrived at Moon Lake, where a floating structure sat connected to shore by a silver bridge. Dom pulled up to the entrance, and before I could reach for my door, Steven was already outside, extending his hand to help me out.

    "Miss Rivers," he said with exaggerated formality that didn''t quite hide his obvious interest.

    I took his hand reluctantly, feeling calluses that matched my own. A fighter''s hands, not just some privileged heir''s. He held on a moment longer than necessary before I pulled away.

    The host recognized Steven immediately. "Master Morgan, your table is ready."

    We were led to a private alcove overlooking theke. The table was clearly meant for romance, not business.

    "Too much?" Steven asked, noticing my hesitation as he pulled out my chair, standing closer than needed.

    "Just not my usual scene," I admitted as I sat, ensuring there was space between us. ¡°I''m more quick meals between training sessions."

    "Honest," he smiled, taking his seat but leaning forward immediately. "I like that about you."

    Once we ordered, I leaned forward with purpose. "Enough small talk. You promised information."

    Steven nodded, his expression turning serious though his eyes still watched me with undisguised interest. ''What do you know about Shadow Creek''s previous leadership transitions?"

    "Not much,'' I admitted. "Carter was Alpha when I was growing up. Everyone loved him."

    "That''s the public story," Steven said, voice lowering as he leaned closer. "But Carter had enemies-powerful ones who felt he was too progressive. He wanted to modernize Shadow Creek, strengthen ties with other packs through means other than arranged marriages."

    My mind immediately went to Jackson. "Like Jackson Hayes?"

    Steven''s eyes narrowed slightly. "Hayes is a perfect example. His father Richard has always been Shadow Creek''s most traditional elder."

    "So you''re saying Jackson''s father had something to do with Carter''s death?" I whispered, blood running cold.

    Steven pulled out a small leather journal from his jacket. "I''ve been tracking pack conflicts for years. This contains records of unusual meetings and power shifts. He slid it across the table, his fingers brushing mine deliberately. "Look at the dates."

    I pulled my hand back quickly and flipped through the pages, finding a timeline of events. One entry jumped out: Three days before Carter''s murder: Richard Hayes meets privately with William Rivers. Witness report: heated argument heard.

    "My father argued with Hayes?" I looked up, confused. "He never mentioned this."

    "Because afterwards, Richard threatened him," Steven exined, taking back the journal as our appetizers arrived, his fingers once again finding an excuse to touch mine. "I think your father discovered something that would''ve damaged Hayes''s standing."

    We paused as the server poured wine. When we were alone again, I pressed on, ignoring his attempts at physical contact.

    "So my father knew something dangerous, but why would he be at the murder scene?"

    "That''s what I''m still piecing together, Steven admitted, watching me over his wine ss. "But the timing is suspicious. If your father goes down for this, Hayes''s path to controlling Shadow Creek through his son bes clearer."

    The warmth of Steven''s hand deliberately brushed mine as he reached for his wine, testing my boundaries. I pulled back, keeping my hands firmly in myp. "Why help me?" I had to ask. "What''s in it for you?"

    Steven''s expression softened, his eyes bing more intense. "Because truth matters. Because pack politics has destroyed too many innocent lives. And..." he paused, eyes meeting mine directly, "because I''ve never met anyone quite like you, Ava Rivers."

    I shifted in my seat, ufortable with his directness. "Don''t make this something

    it''s not. I''m here for information about my father, nothing more."

    He leaned back, epting the boundary but looking far from deterred. "For now, perhaps."

    As our main course arrived, conversation shifted to safer topics. Steven told stories of northern packs, their strange customs and beliefs. Despite my reservations, I found myself interested in his tales of tracking down obscure wolf legends in remote mountains, though I remained alert to his frequent attempts to close the distance between us.

    "You really climbed all that way for one old book?" I asked incredulously after a particrly wild story.

    "Knowledge is worth the effort," he shrugged, watching me intently. "Besides, the view was spectacr. Though not as spectacr as presentpany."

    I ignored thepliment. "You''re different from other Alphas," I observed coolly. "Less..."

    "Arrogant? Power-hungry? Controlling?" he offered with a smile that suggested he knew exactly what I meant.

    "All of the above, I admitted. "Though ke''s not like that either, at least not all the time."

    Steven''s brow furrowed slightly at ke''s name.

    As we finished our meal, Steven stood and extended his hand, his eyes holding a

    challenge. "Dance with me?"

    Chapter Comments

 Chapter 82

    Ava''s POV

    "Dance with me?" Steven''s voice was moremand than question, his hand extended toward me with confidence.

    I hesitated. Dancing meant closer contact-something I''d been actively avoiding all evening. But the information he''d shared about Dad was valuable, and abruptly ending our meeting might cut off future insights.

    "I don''t really dance," I admitted. "I didn''t realize wolves indulged in such human entertainment."

    "Northern wolves believebat and dancing share the same soul," he insisted, hand still extended. "Consider it warrior training."

    I sighed and took his offered hand. "One dance. Then I need to head back."

    He guided me to the small dance floor where other couples moved to the soft strings of a quartet. His hand settled at my waist, firm but careful, as if testing boundaries.

    "Just follow my lead," he murmured, pulling me closer than necessary. "Like fighting, but with rhythm."

    To my surprise, my body responded naturally to his movements. Years ofbat had taught me bnce and quick adaptation. Steven''s eyebrows raised slightly as I kept pace with him.

    "A natural," hemented, eyes never leaving mine.

    "Training transfers," I replied, keeping my tone neutral despite our proximity.

    As he turned me in a slow circle, my gaze drifted across the room-and froze on two familiar faces.

    Sophia and Jackson sat at a table near the far wall. She wasughing at something he''d said, her golden hair catching the candlelight. He was leaning close to her, the picture of devoted fianc¨¦.

    My spine stiffened. Of all the ces, all the nights... what were they doing here?

    ¡°I need to go,¡± I said abruptly, pulling away from Steven.

    "What''s wrong?" His eyes followed my gaze. "Ah. The happy couple."

    Before I could retreat, Sophia looked up and spotted us. Her eyes widened in recognition, and she lifted her hand in greeting.

    "Toote, Steven murmured. "They''ve seen us."

    I forced my feet to move as Steven guided me toward their table, his hand resting lightly at the small of my back. My mind raced for exnations. This wasn''t supposed to happen.

    "Ava?" Sophia''s voice held surprise. "I didn''t expect to see you here."

    I managed a tight smile. "Just discussing some... training matters."

    Her eyes flickered between Steven and me, curiosity evident. "At Moon Lake?"

    *Best salmon in three territories, Steven interjected smoothly, his arm sliding around my shoulders with casual possessiveness. Thought I''d show Ava some northern hospitality."

    Sophia nodded politely. "I see. Her expression was carefully neutral, though something knowing flickered in her eyes.

    Jackson remained silent, his gaze steady on me. Nothing in his expression betrayed his thoughts, but the slight tension in his shoulders told me enough.

    I wouldn''t call it - I began.

    "We''re enjoying each other''spany, Steven cut in. "Sometimes the most interesting wolves appear when you least expect them."

    I wanted to correct him, to rify this was purely about getting information, but something about the situation made me hold my tongue.

    "Well, don''t let us interrupt your evening." Sophia said diplomatically. ''It''s nice to see you both."

    Jackson finally spoke, his voice measured. "Interesting choice of venue for discussing training."

    ,

    The subtle implication hung in the air, but his tone remained conversational.

    "We should let you enjoy your meal," I said, eager to escape this awkward encounter. "We were just leaving, actually."

    "So soon?" Sophia asked, her tone polite but not pressing.

    Othermitments," Steven replied smoothly. ¡°But it was lovely seeing you both.¡±

    As we turned to leave, I felt Jackson''s eyes following us. We made our way toward the exit, Steven''s hand still at my back, guiding me through the crowded

    room.

    I couldn''t help ncing back onest time. Jackson had leaned close to say something to Sophia, his expression unreadable. Whatever path I''d chosen tonight, there would be consequences tomorrow.

    Third Person POV

    Jackson didn''t hear a word Sophia was saying as she discussed wedding arrangements. His attention remained fixed on the retreating figures of Ava and Steven.

    He hadn''t expected to see her tonight, especially not with ke''s nephew. The sight of her in that elegant dress, moving with practiced grace across the dance floor, had awakened something he thought safely buried.

    "You''re distracted, Sophia observed quietly, following his gaze.

    "Just surprised," he replied,posing his features. "Didn''t think Ava was the Moon Lake type."

    Sophia studied him for a moment. "She and Steven seemed...fortable together."

    "Your cousin should be more selective about his associates," Jackson said carefully, taking a sip of wine. "Given his position."

    "I think Ava is perfectly respectable, Sophia countered mildly. "Father hired her himself."

    She paused, watching Jackson''s face with unexpected attentiveness. "You seem unusually interested in her. Is there something I should know about you two?" Jackson nearly choked on his wine, quickly recovering with a practiced smile. "Of course not. I''m simply concerned about who influences Lucas''s training."

    "Hmm, Sophia hummed nomittally, clearly not entirely convinced. "It''s just that whenever we see her, you get this look. Almost like you knew her before." *Shadow Creek isn''t that big," Jackson deflected smoothly. "Most wolves cross paths eventually."

    Sophia seemed to ept this exnation, but a seed of doubt had clearly been nted.

    Jackson merely nodded, not trusting himself to speak further on the subject. His wolf stirred restlessly beneath his skin, unsettled by the evening''s unexpected turn.

    It shouldn''t matter. He''d made his choice when he''d epted Sophia''s hand in marriage. The path to Alpha statos required sacrifice.

    But he''d never intended for Ava to move on. She was meant to remain avable- waiting-for when he eventually imed her. Having her appear with a Morgan wolfplicated matters considerably.

    Later, as their carriage rolled through moonlit forests, Jackson found himself nning his next moves. Ava belonged in his future ns-on his terms. And nothing, not even a Morgan wolf, would stand in his way.

    Meanwhile, on the road back to Ava''s home, Steven sat silently in the carriage, watching her profile in the moonlight. Seeing Jackson''s reaction to Ava had raised questions-the possessiveness in the other wolf''s eyes seemed excessive for someone who was merely his fianc¨¦e''s father''s employee.

    There was history there. Something unspoken.

    While Ava gazed out the window, lost in thought, Steven opened a mindlink with his Beta.

    "Dom, I need you to find out everything about Ava and Jackson," he sent through the link. ¡°Their connection seems...plicated."

    "On it, came the immediate response. "Anything specific I should look for?" "The way he looked at her tonight-like she belonged to him. Find out why." "Consider it done. By the way, your uncle''s going to have your hide for this." Steven closed the link with a slight smile. "Some things are worth the risk."

    He turned his attention back to Ava, studying her thoughtful expression. Whatever secretsy between her and Jackson, he intended to uncover them all. Not just for his historical records, but because the woman herself had captured his interest in a way few ever had.

    ke''s disapproval was merely an obstacle to ovee. And Steven had never been one to back down from a challenge.

    Chapter Comments

 Chapter 83

    Ava''s POV

    I stopped at my doorstep and turned to face Steven. He carried himself with that typical Morgan confidence-like the world was his yground and everyone else just lived in it. So different from what I was used to with Jackson, who''d barely wait for me to get out of sight before racing off, like spending an extra minute with me was torture.

    My thoughts drifted to ke. He always made sure I got inside safely before leaving. That night he lent me his Alpha cape, still warm from his body and smelling like him... If ke were standing here instead of Steven, would he-

    Damn it. The mark on my neck red hot, and I pushed the thought away. Thinking about ke while with another wolf? Bad move, Ava.

    ¡°Thanks for the information about my father," I said, yanking myself back to reality.

    Steven smiled, moonlight catching his silver-gold hair. "Just the beginning. Shadow Creek''s power games run deeper than most realize."

    I nodded. "It could make all the difference for Dad."

    "So," Steven leaned closer, "tomorrow, after you finish with Lucas-want to check out Shadow Creek''s boundary? There''s an old tribal relic there that might Jhelp your father''s case."

    I frowned. "I''ve got Lucas in the morning, then Sarah to check on."

    "The days before full moon make hidden marks visible," he pressed, eyes bright with something between excitement and hope. "The ancestors left clues in stone that only show when the moon''s nearly full."

    If Steven had information that could help Dad, turning him down seemed foolish. But getting tangled with ke''s nephew? Talk about jumping from the frying pan into the fire.

    "Fine," I finally said, "but strictly for research."

    "Of course," he grinned, dimples forming that reminded me eerily of ke, though softer somehow. In my mind, ke was like granite-solid, unmovable, steady. Steven was more like running water-fluid, adaptive, but powerful in his own way. He moved forward so smoothly I didn''t have time to react. When his lips nearly touched mine, I turned my head instinctively. His kissnded on my cheek instead, his breath warm against my skin.

    The mark on my neck burned fiercely, like it was protesting the almost-kiss. The reaction confused me-it wasn''t loyalty to Jackson (that ship had sailed long ago), and it wasn''t just about Steven.

    "See you tomorrow, warrior girl," he said softly as he pulled back, disappointment shing across his face before his easy smile returned.

    "Tomorrow," I echoed, turning to unlock my door.

    Steven waited until I was inside before leaving. I leaned against the door, my chest tight with confusion. ke, Steven, Jackson-they were turning my life upside down.

    "Moon Goddess help me, I muttered, "Morgan men will be the death of me." I shook my head. "At least Lucas isn''t like this. One Morgan male who doesn''t make my head spin."

    Third Person POV

    As Ava disappeared inside, Dominic stepped from the shadows to join Steven. ''Got what you asked for,¡± he said quietly.

    ''Let''s hear it," Steven replied, though he already suspected the truth. Understanding Ava''s past was key to helping her-and to uncovering Shadow Creek''s corruption.

    It''s confirmed. Ava and Jackson Hayes are fated mates," Dominic said. "Tribal records show they discovered their bond after Ava''s maturity ceremony. Shadow Creek celebrated for days."

    Steven frowned. "What broke them apart? Fated bonds aren''t easily severed."

    "From what I found," Dominic''s voice dropped lower, "he met your cousin Sophia shortly after marking Ava,"

    "Sophia?" Steven''s brow furrowed. She was lovely, but worlds apart from Ava''s warrior spirit. Abandoning a fated mate vited one of their oldest traditions. "Doesn''t make sense, right?" Steven''s jaw tightened. "Dig deeper." "Records get murky," Dominic admitted. "But here''s something interesting: Jackson''s engagement to Sophia happened right after William Rivers'' treason usation. After that, Jackson became Shadow Creek''s Alpha heir frontrunner."

    Steven''s eyes shed as understanding dawned. Sophia was ke Morgan''s daughter-Alpha of Silverpeak and Alpha King himself. Jackson wanted Shadow Creek''s Alpha position, and the Morgan family''s backing would make him untouchable.

    "Trading his fated mate for power," Steven said, disgust evident in his voice. "Spitting on our most sacred bond."

    "There''s more," Dominic added. "William''s case was rushed through. Evidence suppressed, witnesses silenced. The investigation was led by Richard Hayes- Jackson''s father."

    Steven''s expression hardened. This wasn''t just about an abandoned mate anymore. It was conspiracy. Ava and her father were pawns sacrificed in a power

    y.

    "Does Ava know the full story?" Steven asked. "Does Sophia realize she''s just a piece in Jackson''s game?"

    "Doubtful," Dominic shook his head. "The Hayes family buried these connections deep."

    Steven fell silent. Telling Sophia outright would hurt an innocent girl. And Ava clearly had her ownplicated feelings-especially that unmistakable pull toward ke.

    "Keep looking," he finally decided. "I need more proof before acting. Meanwhile, I''ll help Ava find the truth.

    The next evening, Lucas burst into ckwood Manor''s kitchen, sweat-drenched from training. Sophia sat eating moonberries while Jackson looked over wedding ns beside her.

    Things had been tense between themtely. Sophia had noticed Jackson''s fixation on Ava, but he always had ready exnations-concerns about Lucas''s safety, studying Ava''sbat techniques for Shadow Creek''s warriors. After a few ufortable conversations, Sophia chose to believe him. The uing wedding had her overwhelmed anyway.

    "Learn anything cool today?" Sophia asked, passing Lucas some fruit.

    "Ava taught me this awesome counter move!" Lucas took a big bite. "We finished early though. She''s got ns tonight.*

    Jackson set down the papers he''d been reviewing. "What ns?" His voice aimed for casual but missed.

    "Something about checking out old tribal markers with Steven," Lucas said between bites. "Stuff that only shows up near full moon. Sounds pretty cool!"

    Soph¨ªa brightened. "Steven''s always loved those old legends. I''m d he found someone to share that with. They seem good together."

    Jackson''s eyes darkened momentarily before he controlled his expression. "Does ke know about this little expedition?"

    Lucas shrugged. "Dad''s not back yet. Steven said he''d tell him." A mischievous grin spread across his face. "Though Dad gets weird about Ava stufftely. Who knows how he''ll take it?"

    "Need to use the bathroom," Jackson stood abruptly. "Back in a minute." After leaving, Jackson headed straight for the main hall, nostrils ring slightly as he tried to catch Ava''s scent. Too faint-she must have already left. "Looking for someone?" A northern-ented voice cut through the silence. Jackson turned to find Steven leaning against the wall, arms crossed. "None of your business," Jackson said coldly.

    "When I know who you''re looking for, it bes my business," Steven pushed off the wall and approached. "Tell me, Hayes, how did it feel abandoning your fated mate for a political marriage?"

    "What the hell are you talking about?" Jackson red, though his heart raced.

    Stevenughed coldly. "Drop the act. Did you think your secret would stay buried forever?" He stepped closer, voice dropping. ''Does Sophia know? Does she

 Chapter 84

    ke''s POV

    I sank back into the leather seat, shutting my eyes against the throbbing in my head. Today''s tribal meetings had dragged on like a bad hangover, each decision heavy with consequences. But even these headaches couldn''t drown out the image haunting me-Ava Rivers, with those deep green eyes and that iron-core strength.

    Tyler drove through the night forest, moonlight dappling the road through

    branches. My wolf paced inside me like a caged animal, pushing against my skin, demanding I im what it saw as mine. The raw intensity of this feeling made me sick.

    Since hearing about Ava and Steven''s dinner at Moon Lake, my mind kept

    painting pictures I didn''t want to see-Ava in something fancy instead of her usual battle gear, her wild beauty lit up by moonlight. Steven-my nephew-standing next to her with hunger in his eyes. The same hunger I fought back every damn day. Just thinking about it made my wolf bare its teeth.

    "Boss, Tyler broke the silence, his voice careful, "there''s something you should know."

    I opened my eyes, feeling them sh gold in the dark. "What now?"

    Tyler kept his eyes on the road, his fingers tightening on the wheel. This hesitation wasn''t like my right-hand man at all.

    "About Ava and Steven."

    Just those names together made my wolf thrash against its cage. I had to work to keep the growl out of my voice. "Spit it out."

    "Lucas let it slip after training today," Tyler continued evenly, though I caught the caution in his tone, "Steven''s taking Ava to Shadow Creek''s boundary. Something about tribal marks that only show up right before full moon."

    I shut my eyes again, trying to get my breathing under control. Hot anger bubbled

    in my chest. Tribal marks? Was that Steven''s line, or something real? And why the hell would Ava agree to go somewhere that dangerous with him? The boundaries before full moon were a powder keg-any outsiders might run into wolves with more teeth than sense.

    "She said yes?" My voice came out rough as gravel.

    Tyler paused for a heartbeat. "Yeah. Looks like it connects to her dad''s case. Those boundary marks might have proof that could clear William Rivers."

    Cold understanding hit me like ice water. Of course. For her father, Ava would walk through fire. That bone-deep loyalty was one thing I admired about her. But this time, that loyalty could get her hurt..

    My Alpha wolf howled, demanding I take action-lock her somewhere safe, away from all threats, away from Steven''s hungry eyes. But the part of me that had ruled alone for seven years, making the tough calls, knew I had no right.

    "Step on it, I finally said, my voice deadly calm. "I need to get back to ckwood. Now.

    Tyler didn''t ask questions, just nodded and hit the gas. The silence between us said plenty. I stared into the rushing darkness, turning over how to handle this mess. How to keep Ava safe without showing my hand. How to face my nephew, another Alpha cut from the same cloth.

    Hardest of all, how to fight what was growing inside me? That primal need to mark her as mine, to tear apart any man who got too close? For seven years, I

    thought that part of me was buried with Elizabeth. Now it seemed it had just been sleeping and Ava Rivers had woken it up.

    I strode through ckwood''s entrance, every step radiating don''t-mess- with-me authority. My Alpha presence filled the air like smoke, making every passing warrior duck their head and look away. Wilson materialized from the shadows, about to speak, but I cut him off with just a look.

    "Training room, Alpha King, Wilson answered what I hadn''t asked, worry flickering across his face. "Young Master Steven and Mr. Hayes are in there. Things are... heating up."

    I headed straight for the training room without a word. I''d expected to find Ava working with Lucas, but instead walked into a powder keg-Steven had Jackson pinned against the wall, anger crackling between them like electricity.

    "Tell me the damn truth, Steven was practically growling, "a mate mark is sacred as it gets, but you tossed her aside like yesterday''s trash. Why? What was worth that?"

    Jackson fought against the hold, but Steven had him locked down tight. "I love Sophia, Jackson shot back, though I could smell the lies pouring off him from across the room. "I don''t owe you any exnations."

    "You stink of bullshit, Steven hissed, his eyes wild. "You dumped your fated mate to climb thedder, to snag the Alpha spot by marrying into the Morgan bloodline."

    "Think whatever you want," Jackson''s voice turned cold and sharp, "what Sophia and I have is real. You''re just pissed I got what you''re after."

    "She was your fated mate!" Steven sounded genuinely stunned, like he couldn''t wrap his head around someone spitting in the Moon Goddess''s face like that. "Your wolf must be tearing you up every day for what you did. Unless..." his eyes suddenly went wide, "unless you never gave a damn about that mark. Unless she was just a stepping stone from day one."

    Jackson''s face darkened to something dangerous. "What do you know about real choices? You get to y history detective up north while I''ve got a pack to think about! I picked Sophia, and Ava... she''ll deal with it. Sophia doesn''t know about me and Ava, and that''s how it''s staying."

    "Right, my voice sliced through the room like a de, ¡°because it no longer matters."

    They both whipped around, surprise and fear shing across their faces. My Alpha energy flooded the space instantly, making the air heavy as lead. Steven let go of Jackson, stepping back and running a hand through his hair, trying to y it cool.

    "Uncle," he got his voice under control, though his eyes still burned, "just clearing up some... historical facts."

    "I can see that," I replied, looking between them, "you''ve dragged your personal crap onto my territory. Into my home."

    walked toward Jackson, each step making him breathe harder. Fear flickered in his eyes before he masked it. I stopped close enough to see the sweat beading on his forehead, tension crackling between us.

    "If you''re not sincere about my daughter," my voice was as deep as a volcano preparing to erupt, "if you see her as a stepping stone to power, then now is the time to walk away. Once you''re mated, if you hurt her, I''ll make sure you never find peace under the moonlight again."

    Chapter Comments

    4

    POST COMMENT NOW

 Chapter 85

    ke''s POV

    Though ke knew ending this rtionship would break Sophia''s heart, letting her marry a man who saw her as a pawn would cause deeper wounds. As a father, he''d rather see his daughter suffer briefly than be betrayed for a lifetime.

    "I really do love her, Alpha King," Jackson lowered his head, but ke could hear the rhythm of lies in his heartbeat, "I would never hurt Sophia."

    "He''s lying through his teeth," Steven practically spat the words, "Last night at Moon Lake, every time Ava walked by, his eyes stuck to her like mas. That''s not old love-that''s possession."

    Steven''s words sent a jolt through ke, though his face remained

    expressionless. He hadn''t expected Steven to openly discuss his date with Ava, especially after ke''s clear warning.

    "I believe I warned you to stay away from her," ke''s voice was like deep water covered with thin ice-calm on the surface, dangerous currents beneath.

    Steven met ke''s eyes directly, a challenge that both surprised and impressed ke. His nephew had guts, refusing to back down even facing the Alpha

    King.

    "I know, Uncle," Steven''s voice was soft but firm, "but some things go beyond orders. She reminds me of the shadow warriors from the legends-tough, loyal, stubborn to the point of bravery. There''s a... resonance between us. I think she feels it too."

    Hearing him describe Ava this way nearly brought ke''s wolf to the surface. Each word stabbed like a de into his chest. But reason told him he had no right to interfere. Ava wasn''t his property; she had the right to choose her own path, her own mate.

    "We''re nning to check out the ancient boundary marks tonight," Steven continued, his gaze steady, "I''m not hiding this from you. Those marks might contain Shadow Creek pack secrets that could help prove her father''s innocence."

    ke''s mind was a battleground. Part of him wanted to forbid this adventure, but that would expose his feelings. Another part reminded him that as Alpha King, he should respect others'' right to choose.

    "You''ve got some nerve," Jackson sneered, crossing his arms, "but don''t act so high and mighty. I saw how the servers at Moon Lake were throwing themselves at you. You barely did anything to discourage the attention."

    Steven frowned. "That''s my private business, nothing to do with you. Ava and I have been honest with each other; she understands where I stand," his tone was confident and firm.

    Jackson rolled his eyes, shaking his head with jealousy shing in his gaze. "Ava isn''t easily fooled. She''ll see through your act, just like she eventually sees

    through everyone."

    "Enough!" ke''s voice wasn''t loud but it shook the room like thunder, his Alpha presence forming visible ripples that made both men instinctively lower their heads, "You''re bringing your personal grudges into my territory, disrupting my household peace. This isn''t about Ava or yourpetition. Jackson, this is about Sophia-my daughter, your fianc¨¦e. I swear by the Moon Goddess, if you hurt her, I''ll make sure you never mark another wolf again."

    ke knew his Alpha energy was creating an oppressive field, and seeing Jackson tremble slightly gave him a cruel satisfaction.

    ''I would never hurt her," Jackson promised again, but his heartbeat and scent betrayed the lie.

    "You don''t seem surprised about Jackson and Ava being fated mates?" Steven suddenly asked, sharp intelligence shing in his eyes.

    "Because I already knew," ke''s gaze remained locked on Jackson, his voice terrifyingly calm, "Ava and I signed a Blood Oath that included an understanding that her past with Jackson wouldn''t affect Lucas''s training or interfere with Sophia''s wedding. I expect Jackson to understand this as well."

    ''Ava knows you''re aware of all this?" Jackson frowned, unease clear in his tone, "She never mentioned..."

    "That wasn''t her responsibility," ke replied coldly, "nor is it your concern. Your only concern should be how you treat my daughter."

    Jackson swallowed hard, his gaze flicking between ke and Steven. His posture shifted from defiant to submissive, instinctively responding to the Alpha presence. "Yes, Alpha King. My loyalty belongs only to Sophia."

    "Good, ke nodded, the threat still lingering in his eyes, "you may leave now." Yes, sir," Jackson replied, almost relieved.

    "Perhaps you should get back to my cousin," Steven suggested, obvious contempt in his voice, "exin why you''re stalking her trainer behind her back.

    Jackson gave them both onest look before turning and hurrying away. When the door closed behind him, the tension in the room remained thick.

    "I know you don''t want me near Ava, Steven broke the silence, his voice calm and determined, ¡°but some things are beyond the reach ofmands. Some connections can''t be severed by an Alpha''s order."

    "Why are you so concerned with her fated mate situation?" ke asked, dangerous calm in his voice, "What does this have to do with your family history collection work?"

    Steven looked at ke, his eyes sharp as if seeing through ke''s facade. "I hate seeing the Moon Goddess''s blessing treated so carelessly. Fated mates are our most sacred tradition, and Jackson tossed Ava aside like worn-out clothes." He paused, then added, "And I believe she deserves better. Someone who truly respects her warrior spirit."

    "And you think you''re that better option?" ke''s voice was tight with suppressed emotion.

    "I didn''t say that," Steven responded, his gaze equally firm, "but I know I would never betray a moon connection for political gain like Jackson did."

    ke stepped forward, his Alpha presence intensifying: "Nephew or not, Steven. If you hurt her in any way, I won''t show mercy."

    Steven met ke''s eyes directly, a challenge that surprised ke. "If I truly care for her, why would I hurt her?" Steven countered, his voice low and sincere, then added without waiting for ke''s answer, "Uncle, your belief that you have the right to interfere in her personal life-does that mean your feelings for her have crossed the employer-warrior boundary?"

    ke felt an internal shock, as if Steven''s question had pierced through his carefully constructed mask. His wolf howled, demanding he acknowledge the truth-he did have feelings for Ava beyond their professional rtionship. But outwardly, he only said coldly: I''m only concerned that she remains effective for Lucas''s training. Don''tplicate things."

    "As you wish, Alpha King," Steven gave a slightly mocking bow, superficially respectful but with challenging sparks in his eyes, "but tonight''s excursion will proceed. Those ancient marks might be the key to saving her father."

    ke wanted to stop him but realized doing so would only further expose his true feelings. Finally, he simply said: "Keep her safe."

    Chapter Comments

    3

 Chapter 86

    ke''s POV

    In the dead of night, ckwood Manory silent and dark, except for the training room light still burning. I stood in the center, shirtless, sweat coating my muscles. Each strike against the training dummy carried enough force to cripple an ordinary wolf. This had been my ritual for years-when my mind was restless, my body paid

    the price.

    Tonight, though, the dummy wasn''t enough to drain what was building inside me. "Thought you''d hit the sack early tonight, Tyler''s voice came from the doorway.

    I didn''t break rhythm, continuing to pound the dummy. "Can''t sleep."

    Tyler stepped into the room wearing simple training gear. "Obviously. Your sleep''s gone to hell since that girl showed up."

    I stopped mid-punch, turning to face him. "It''s not about her."

    Tyler raised an eyebrow. "How long have we known each other? Twenty years? Thirty? You can bullshit the council, the elders, even yourself, but you can''t bullshit me."

    I stayed quiet for a beat, wiping sweat from my forehead. "Spar with me."

    No more words needed, Tyler instantly dropped into fighting stance. Weunched into an intense match-no weapons, just pure physical confrontation. This wasn''t training; it was two wolves testing each other. Tyler was one of the few who could hold his own against me. Though he couldn''t match an Alpha King''s raw power, his technique and experience made him a genuine challenge.

    Sweat flew as we fought to exhaustion. Finally, I swept Tyler''s legs out from under him, but he rolled immediately back to his feet, and we locked up again.

    "You''re worried about Steven and Ava," Tyler said during a brief pause, ¡°or are you worried about what you feel for her?"

    I didn''t answer, but my attacks grew fiercer. Tyler was forced back, yet he didn''t yield. "Elizabeth''s been gone seven years, ke. She wouldn''t want you alone forever."

    "Enough!" I growled,nding a punch to Tyler''s chest that sent him sliding several meters. "Don''t bring her into this."

    Tyler sat on the floor, breathing hard. "Then face what you''re feeling now. This isn''t about Lucas''s training. You''re scared Ava might turn to Steven."

    "She wears Jackson''s mark," I turned toward the water jug, pouring myself a drink. "Whatever I feel doesn''t matter. She belongs to someone else."

    "Marks can change, Tyler stood up. "Her connection with Jackson is already broken. You said it yourself-her mark is changing."

    I downed the water in one gulp. ¡°So what? I''m the Alpha King. She''s a temporary employee. My daughter''s about to marry her ex-fated mate. There are too manyplications."

    "So you''d rather watch her end up with Steven?" Tyler asked.

    My grip tightened around the cup until it nearly shattered. "She has the right to choose her own life."

    "You''re a terrible liar," Tyler chuckled. "At least to me."

    I set down the cup and walked to the window. Moonlight cut across my face, highlighting harsh angles. "I can''t mess everything up because of selfish desires. Sophia''s wedding, Shadow Creek''s stability, Lucas''s training-none of it can be disrupted."

    "Elizabeth," I whispered to the moon hanging in the night sky, "forgive my weakness."

    "Have you considered that maybe your happiness matters too? Tyler came to stand beside me. "As Alpha King, you''re always thinking about others, but you''re still a wolf, ke. You have the right to chase what you want."

    I stared out at the moonlit forest, peaceful and beautiful. "What I want and what I should do rarely line up."

    "So you''ll just watch her be your nephew''s mate?"

    I didn''t answer, but my silence was loud enough,

    Third Person''s POV

    Lucas should have been fast asleep, but something woke him. Hunter''s ears perked up too, dark eyes fixed on the door.

    "What is it, buddy?" Lucas whispered.

    Hunter growled softly, getting up to approach the door. Following his dog''s instincts, Lucas quietly opened it and peeked out. The hallway was empty, but sounds came from the training room.

    Curiosity pulled him down the corridor, Hunter padding behind him. As he neared the training room, he caught his father''s conversation with Tyler. He''d never heard his dad speak so openly about his feelings, especially regarding his mother. "Ava?" Lucas raised his eyebrows when he heard her name. He knew his father valued her as his trainer, but never imagined deeper reasons.

    When the conversation shifted to Steven, Lucas focused harder. Steven was his favorite cousin, but if he took Ava away, Lucas wasn''t sure how he''d feel. Ava had be an important part of his life, almost like family.

    The brief silence from the training room made Lucas nervous. He backed away, not wanting to be caught eavesdropping. But his foot knocked against a hallway vase, making a soft noise.

    "Someone''s out there," Tyler''s voice instantly turned alert.

    Lucas quickly ducked into the shadows around the corner, Hunter pressed against him. Momentster, the training room door opened, and ke and Tyler scanned the area but found no obvious intruder.

    Probably a guard on night patrol," ke said. "Let''s head back."

    After they returned to the training room, Lucas exhaled in relief. But his mind swirled with questions. Did his father have special feelings for Ava? Could Steven and Ava be a couple? It was all tooplicated.

    Just as he was about to return to his room, he noticed Sophia and Jackson in outdoor clothes, sneaking out through the manor''s side entrance. Where were they going at this hour? Lucas was curious but didn''t dare follow, only watching as they vanished into the night.

    Back in bed, Lucas stared at the ceiling, thoughts racing. His father, Ava, Steven, Sophia, and Jackson-everyone seemed caught in aplex web of rtionships he was too young to fully grasp.

    "Adults are weird, Hunter," Lucas whispered to his wolf-dog, "but I hope Ava stays. I don''t want to lose anyone else."

    Hunter gently licked his hand as ifforting him. Lucas closed his eyes, but dawn was breaking before he finally fell asleep.

    Chapter Comments

    5

    POST COMMENT NOW

 Chapter 87

    Ava''s POV

    1 yanked my jacket tighter as a breeze hit my neck. The Moon Art Festival buzzed around us, way wilder than I''d bargained for. Wolves from every pack crammed the neutral zone, downing moon drinks and howling along to tribal beats while neon art glowed overhead.

    "Remind me why we''re wasting time here? I nudged Steven, keeping my eyes moving. Our forest keeper''s gonna bail if we''re hanging out at a party instead."

    Steven shot me that crooked grin that made him look like trouble in wolf form. "Keeper won''t show till midnight. Why rush? All this pre-moon energy might actually help uster. He gestured to the chaos around us. Loosen up, warrior girl."

    I bit my lip. Since agreeing to this little adventure for Dad''s sake, I''d felt like Steven was calling all the shots. But if this helped clear Dad''s name, I''d put up with the detour, ke had okayed it anyway,

    ke. Just his name in my head made something flutter in my chest. Would he care that I was out here alone with Steven? Would he-

    Stop it. I mentally pped myself. I was here for one thing: evidence. Not to obsess over what my boss might think.

    "One hour," I conceded, tapping my watch. "Then we''re gone."

    Steven reached for my hand, but I sidestepped him, pointing at a glowing sculpture. "What''s that supposed to be?"

    "Moon Goddess,¡± he said, sliding next to me close enough that I caught his pine- and-snow scent. "Story goes she''s why we can shift and why some of us get stuck with fated mates."

    The half-wolf, half-woman figure gleamed silver in the moonlight. Without thinking, my fingers drifted to my neck where Jackson''s mark sat, a dull throb pulsing under my skin.

    "Speaking of, Steven''s voice dropped lower, "what''s your take on the whole fated mates thing?"

    My shoulders tensed automatically. "Pretty fairy tale. Real life''s way messier." Before he could dig deeper, drums exploded around us. The crowd surged toward an open space, forming dance circles as wolves howled and stomped.

    Steven''s eyes lit up like a kid at Christmas. "C''mon! Moon dance brings good luck. Exactly what we need tonight.

    ¡°Not happening,¡± I shook my head. "We''re here to-

    "One dance, he cut in, hand outstretched. "Then straight to business. Promise."

    I hesitated. What would ke say? Then a sharper thought: why the hell should I

    care what ke thinks? He''s just signing my checks.

    "Fine. One." I took his hand, surprised by its warmth.

    The drum''s rhythm hit me like a physical thing. My body remembered steps I didn''t know I knew, moving with the circle of dancers. Steven matched me perfectly, his moves sharp but fluid, guiding without pushing.

    "You''re full of surprises," he said after spinning me. His eyes reflected the torchlight. "Warrior on the battlefield, dancer under the moon."

    I didn''t answer, but felt my face warm. When was thest time someone saw me as more than just a fighter? As a woman?

    When the music stopped, Steven''s hand stayed on my waist. For once, I didn''t immediately knock it away. Something about the night, the music, the break from constant vignce felt... good.

    ''Need a drink? His thumb brushed my hand.

    I nodded, watching him weave through the crowd. Steven was trouble, but a

    different kind than Jackson. More honest about it, somehow.

    He returned with cups of something that glowed like liquid moonlight.

    "Moon herb brew,'' he handed me one. Makes your senses sharper. Mighte in handyter."

    I took a sip. It tasted wild-herbs and something ancient I couldn''t name. "Different. Not terrible."

    "Like you," he smirked.

    I snorted, but couldn''t stop a reluctant smile. ¡°Does that cheesy line actually work on northern girls?"

    "You tell me," he shot back, eyes never leaving mine.

    I pretended sudden interest in a nearby fire dancer. "Gettingte. Shouldn''t we-" "One more stop," he touched my elbow lightly. "Something worth seeing." Against my better judgment, I nodded. "Last detour. Then we stick to the n."

    He led me away from the noise to a hidden path. Few minutester, we stood before a small waterfall that caught the moonlight and broke it into rippling silver fragments.

    "Moon Falls," Steven said, voice quieter now. "They say wishes made here on pre-moon night actually happen."

    The air felt different here-charged but peaceful. Just the ssh of water and distant festival drums.

    "Try it," Steven nudged me. "Can''t hurt, right?"

    I hesitated, then closed my eyes. Dad''s face came first-free, name cleared. Then,

    uninvited, ke appeared. Those storm-gray eyes studying me, seeing more than I wanted anyone to see.

    I snapped my eyes open to find Steven watching me, standing closer than before.

    ¡°So?" he asked. "What''d you wish for?"

    "You know the rules," I dodged. "Tell and it won''t happen."

    Moonlight caught in his hair, turning it silver-gold. For a second, he looked like something from an old wolf tale, not quite real.

    "We should go soon," I said, my voiceing out rougher than intended. Steven watched me for a beat, then nodded. "Few more minutes. We''ve got time."

    We sat on smooth rocks by the falls. The silence between us wasn''t awkward, which surprised me. My mind wandered to weird what-ifs: What would life be like if Dad wasn''t locked up? If Jackson hadn''t burned me? Would I know how to let someone in?

    "You look miles away," Steven said.

    I shrugged. "Just thinking."

    He let it drop, just sitting beside me. Then: "Need to tell you something."

    His tone changed, and instantly my guard went up. ¡°What?¡±

    "Talked to ke about tonight," he said, watching me carefully. "Told him exactly where we''re going and why."

    My pulse jumped. "You told ke? What''d he say?"

    Steven''s eyes held mine. "Nothing much. Just said keep you safe, don''t get hurt." "That''s all?" The words came out too fast. "No... objections? Nothing else?" Steven shook his head. "Nope. Didn''t seem to care that we''re out together." Something sharp twisted in my chest, stealing my breath. ke didn''t care? Not even a little? I''d thought...what? That he might be jealous? Worried?

    Stupid. So fucking stupid. I was just staff to him. Receable. Meanwhile, I''d been tiptoeing around, afraid to disappoint him.

    "Ava?" Steven''s voice pulled me back. ''You good?"

    I forced a shrug. ''Yeah. Just surprised the great Alpha King isn''t micromanaging

    for once,"

    "Were you hoping for a different reaction?" His question hit too close.

    "No," I lied. "Just expected more control-freak behavior."

    Pain shot through my mark, making me flinch. These jolts keptingtely, especially when thoughts of ke popped up.

    The falls seemed to glow brighter suddenly, like they knew something I didn''t. A strange rity washed over me.

    He doesn''t give a damn.

    So why am I holding back?

    "We should go," I stood abruptly, surprised by how steady my voice sounded. "Keeper''s waiting."

    Steven rose beside me. When his fingers brushed my lower back, I didn''t move away.

    Chapter Comments

 Chapter 88

    Ava''s POV

    Sad. Maybe...

    I trudged after Steven through the moonlit woods, pushing those thoughts down where they belonged. The path narrowed between thick pines, but strips of silver moonlight still found their way through, lighting our steps.

    "Much further?" I asked, my voice steadier than the mess in my head.

    "Almost there," Steven nced back, concern written all over his face. "You hanging in okay?"

    "Yeah," I forced a quick smile. "Just don''t want to miss this guy."

    Truth was, ke''s whatever-attitude stung, but not nearly as bad as it should''ve.

    I had bigger fish to fry-Dad''s freedom, Mom''s health, the kid''s training. No time for hurt feelings.

    "This is it," Steven announced.

    A small cabin sat nestled between massive trees, a weak yellow light leaking through its single window.

    "Keeper should be waiting," Steven said, but something in his voice hit a wrong note.

    I followed him toward the cabin when my gut kicked in with a warning. "What exactly does this guy know about my dad?"

    Steven stopped and turned. The patchy moonlight made his face look like one of those half-masked theater props.

    "Ava," his voice dropped, "I need to tell you something."

    Mybat radar pinged loud. "What''s going on?"

    He took a deep breath. "There''s no keeper. No new evidence about your dad."

    I froze, cold spreading through my limbs. "Come again?"

    "I lied," he admitted, meeting my eyes head-on. "I needed an excuse to get you alone."

    The betrayal hit like ice water. I stepped back. "So this whole night was bullshit? Just to get me out here with you?"

    "Not exactly," he stepped toward me. "I am working on your dad''s case, and I do think he''s innocent. There''s just... no keeper meeting tonight."

    Then what''s with the cabin?" I asked, voice dropping several degrees.

    "Hunter''s lodge I use for border research, he exined. "I wanted us away from everything. Just to talk."

    1

    Disappointment mixed with anger, but not as much as I expected. "So using my dad as bait seemed like a great n?"

    "It was shitty," he owned it, regret filling his eyes. "But I couldn''t figure out another way. Every time I get close, you back away. Every time I try to tell you how I feel, you change the subject."

    ''Because I''ve got actual problems!" I shot back, surprised at how calm I sounded. ¡°Dad in prison, Mom falling apart, Lucas counting on me-ring any bells?"

    "Is that it?'' he asked quietly. "Or is it because you''re hung up on what ke thinks?"

    That shot hit the bullseye. Had I been that obvious? Those moments my pulse raced when ke walked in, the way I held my breath waiting for his reaction?

    "My feelings aren''t the issue," I deflected. "You using Dad''s situation to trick me- that''s the problem."

    ''I screwed up," he said simply. "But what I feel for you is real. Since that first day watching you fight, I haven''t been able to get you out of my head. I will help find evidence for your dad-that''s a promise."

    I took a breath, feeling my anger starting to fizzle out. His lie was wrong, but at least he came clean, and those eyes weren''t faking that remorse.

    "How are you so sure ke doesn''t care?" I asked, curiosity winning over pride.

    "Because I t-out told him I was into you," Steven confessed. "Said I wanted you alone at the border. If he felt anything beyond boss-employee stuff, would''ve reacted."

    The truth stung, but less than I''d feared. Maybe I''d built castles in the air. Maybe what felt special to me was just Tuesday to him.

    "It sucks being disappointed," Steven said softly, stepping closer. "But someone does care about you-really sees you."

    Moonlight pooled around us, the forest quiet like it was listening in.

    The mark on my neck warmed, but without its usual bite. Like it was saying old wounds shouldn''t dictate new chances.

    "I hate that I lied," Steven broke the silence. "But I''m not sorry for how I feel about you."

    He moved forward carefully, like I might bolt any second. ''I''m not asking for anything massive. Just a chance to show you there''s life beyond old hurts.

    Under the silver light, the honesty in his eyes sparked something warm. Maybe ke didn''t care like I''d hoped, but that didn''t mean I wasn''t worth caring about.

    "I need time," I said quietly. "Dades first."

    "No rush," he replied, his fingers barely grazing my cheek. "We''ve got time. Tonight, just try breathing without carrying the whole world, okay?"

    His touch was warm, his scent like pine and fresh snow. For a moment, I let my guard slip. ke''s indifference hadn''t wrecked me-it just meant adjusting

    course.

    "Ava," my name was a whisper on his lips. "Can I kiss you?"

    I studied his eyes and saw nothing but respect mixed with want. Right then, I decided not to run from what could be, just because of what had been.

    I nodded once.

    Steven leaned in slowly, giving me every chance to back out. When his lips touched mine, it wasn''t fireworks-just something gentle and real. Not mind- blowing, but genuine. I didn''t lose myself in it, but I didn''t pull away either. The mark heated gently, like it was recalibrating.

    Maybe ke would never see me like I''d stupidly hoped, but my world wouldn''t end. Too much still needed doing, too many doors stood open. And who knew? Maybe someday he''d look at me differently. But right now, I needed to breathe for myself.

    Third Person POV

    At the forest''s edge, a dark figure stood motionless, eyes locked on the distant cabin.

    Jackson''s fists clenched tight, nails cutting half-moons into his palms. Every bit of his focus zeroed in on the scene-Steven and Ava kissing in the moonlight, the sight making his blood boil.

    "Fucking bitch, he hissed. "Letting another man touch what''s mine."

    Rage burned through him like wildfire. Though he''d dumped Ava for Sophia to climb the packdder, in his twisted mind, Ava''s body remained his property. His mark meant she belonged to him, no matter how he''d treated her.

    He ran his tongue over his lips, remembering the taste of her, the rush of having her under his control. He''d marry Sophia for position, sure, but Ava should be waiting in the shadows, avable whenever he snapped his fingers. How dare she refuse? How dare she move on?

    "When I''m Alpha, you''ll pay for this," Jackson whispered, smiling coldly. "Marked women don''t just walk away. I let you say no, but never goodbye."

    His eyes gleamed with something sick in the darkness, possession twisting his handsome face into something ugly. In his world, women were game pieces- Sophia for status, Ava for pleasure. Nothing more.

    Jackson melted back into the trees, mind already plotting punishment. The full moon wasing, and he''d make sure Ava remembered exactly who owned

    her mark.

 Chapter 89

    Ava''s POV

    "He KISSED you?!" E''s voice exploded in my head like a mental firecracker. I winced and cranked the mindlink volume down before my skull could crack open.

    "Yeah, no big deal." I kept it breezy whilest night''s memory yed on repeat - Steven''s lips finding mine under that stupid romantic moonlight. Just your ssic heat-of-the-moment thing.

    The carriage hit another pothole, jostling me as tree shadows danced across myp. I rubbed the mark on my neck, noticing how it barely stung anymore.

    "Spill everything! Was it hot? Did your knees go weak? Sparks? Fireworks? Anything?"

    "E, chill," I blew out a breath. "It was just a kiss, not a marriage proposal. What I didn''t mention was that while it felt nice enough, that''s where it ended. No racing heart. No breath catching. None of the stuff I sometimes caught myself imagining with... nope, not going there.

    "Fine, but you owe me the uncensored version when you''re back," E grumbled.

    Yeah, yeah. Pulling up to ckwood now. Later." I cut the connection, tossed some coins at the driver, and hopped down.

    Standing in front of ckwood''s massive entrance, I found my brain betraying me by reyingst night''s kiss - except it kept switching faces. Steven had been gentle, sure, but why did ke''s face keep barging into my thoughts? That brooding mountain of an Alpha with those damn storm-gray eyes that seemed to strip away all my defenses. Every time he popped into my head, my mark tingled and my wolf paced restlessly, like she was waiting for something.

    Stupid. So freaking stupid. I mentally kicked myself. Sure, ke saved Dad from execution, but that was just Alpha King 101 - upholding justice. I wasn''t special. Just some Shadow Creek nobody teaching his kid how to throw a punch without breaking his thumb. He couldn''t care less who I kissed or where I spent my nights.

    Steven had made that crystal clear. ke didn''t give a rat''s ass about us going out gether. That truth shouldn''t feel like a knife twisting in my gut, but here we were. I should be grateful someone actually gave a damn about my problems.

    "Miss Rivers." Wilson''s voice could''ve frozen hellfire. Dude had hated my guts since I embarrassed him in front of ke. Now he wasn''t even allowed to talk about me to the Alpha King.

    "Young Master Lucas awaits in the training yard." His tone suggested I was runningte, though my watch said I still had ten solid minutes.

    "Thanks, Wilson." I brushed past him and headed straight for training.

    I still couldn''t crack why this guy had it out for me when I was just doing my job. Maybe he had a built-in Shadow Creek detector that triggered his asshole reflex. Whatever. Everyone''s got their own agenda.

    In the yard, Lucas was hammering through basic stances I''d drilled into him, his face scrunched in concentration. Kid worked harder than wolves three times his age. Then I spotted Sophia perched on a bench at the edge of the yard, and my smile vanished.

    "Hey Ava.¡± Her voice sounded like she''d been dragged through hell backward.

    "Sophia." I nodded, trying for friendly. At least she''d left Mr. Perfect Fianc¨¦ at home.

    I debated asking about Jackson but ditched the idea when I clocked her exhausted eyes. Definitely another fight. Tyler had mentioned they''d been at each other''s throatstely - Sophia had even ducked out of pack gatherings to avoid him.

    Just thinking about Jackson sent a weird cocktail of emotions sloshing through my stomach. Bumping into him and Sophia at Moon Lakest night was a shock, but even weirder was him not starting shit with me. Maybe he finally got the memo that we were done? Or maybe he was just ying Mr. Devoted in front of Sophia.

    "Mind if I hang out and watch?" Sophia asked, picking at a loose thread on her sleeve. "Been ages since I''ve seen Lucas train. Could use something else to focus on."

    I nced at Lucas, who''d spotted his sister and lit up like a full moon. "Sure, if you don''t mind getting dusty."

    She slumped back against the bench, tension visibly draining from her shoulders as I kicked off today''s session.

    We burned through an hour of basic drills before tackling the trickier defensive moves. Lucas was soaking it up like a sponge - his reaction time had sharpened since ourst go-round. Every now and then, I''d catch Sophia actually watching, her eyes tracking Lucas with genuine interest. Weird. I''d figured

    Chapter $9

    she just needed somewhere to hide out.

    "That''s a wrap, squirt, I finally tapped Lucas''s shoulder. "Practice that defensive crouch daily or I''ll know. Your bnce is still webbly

    "On it?" Lacas grinned, puffing his chest out. "Next time I''ll totally take Steven down!"

    Steven''s name triggered an instant rey in my head - his lips meeting mine, nice enough but missing that electric jolt. Nothing like what I sometimes caught myself wondering about with ke...

    What the hell, brain?

    "Keep dreaming, kid," I snorted, shaking off those ridiculous thoughts. "Fix your footwork first or you''llnd on your butt again."

    Lucas stuck his tongue out before darting off to shower. I started gathering training gear, tossing knives back into their slots and stacking pads. The hairy on my neck suddenly stood up - someone watching me. I nced up to find Sophia still nted on that bench, eyes boring into me.

    I pretended not to notice and kept cleaning. Ball''s in her court.

    When I finally turned around, I nearby mmed into Sophia hovering right behind me. Pure reflex almost dropped me into battle stance before I caught

    "Shit-sorry," she mumbled, gnawing her lower lip raw. Her fingers twisted nervously around her pack totem, shoulders hunched like she was bracing for impact.

    "You okay?" I eased up, noting the dark circles under her eyes. "You look like you''ve been through the wringer."

    "Not reality sure," she exhaled slowly. Just feeling lost about some stuff."

    She paused, seeming to search for words. "Ava, would you maybe want to take a walk with me tonight?"

    The question bindsided me sopletely I nearly choked. "Me? You sure about that?"

    "Nothing fancy, she rushed to add. Just find somewhere quiet to talk. Just us girls."

    I hesitated. Any particr reason you''re asking me?"

    "Not really her gare drifted toward the mountains, voice dropping. Just need someone to talk to. Someone not all tangled up in pack politics."

    "Look, I''m probably not your best option," I tried to let her down easy. "I''m Shadow Creek, remember? We barely know each other."

    Tve got nobody else right now, Axn," her voice cracked slightly. "Just need a break from... everything. Please?"

    Looking into her eyes, I caught a sh of something genuinely raw and vulnerable. Made it damn near impossible to brush her off. I finally sighed. "Alright,

 Chapter 90

    "But I need to change first, I nced down at my sweat-naked training gear. ''Cant earth

    out looking like I worelled a bear

    "Bomes mine?" Sophia''s eyes anddenly lit up like someone had flipped a switch. "Were hasically the same size, Come on!"

    She begged at my arm, dragging me through the hallway. The liden of parailing anmind in the Alpha King''s daughter''s clothes felt weird as hell, but her farr had that puppy-rigen look that made saying so feel like kicking something small and fluffy

    I watched Sophia as she led the was, wondering how someone su geminely sweet had ended up with Jackson. It didn''t make sense the deserved some who actually chrished her, not a maniptive jerk using bes for pack status. The part was she had no idea the looked at Him like he hung the moan, while he was plotting behind her back.

    We rounded the corner and nearly mmed straight iska ke stepping out of his study. He from mid stride, his eyes darting between us before locking on Sophia''s fingers wrapped around my wrist. His expression shifted in somethingpletely untradable.

    Shit. His Alpha prevence hit me like a physical wave, making my wall instincts snap to attention. My pale jumped, and the mark on my neck gave a sharp sting what the hell was with these bizante reactions? My mark always acted weird around him.

    "Where are you two headed?" His voice dropped an octave lower than usual.

    ¡°Taking to find something to wear." Sophia jumped in before I could open my mouth. "We''re going out for a walk and some girl talk"

    kes banched up, his gaze sliding from his daughter to me. "Is that so?"

    Te, Alpha King I nodded, fighting to keep my voice steady but hearing ite out all strained anyway.

    I hated this about myself. Withckson, I could bum with righteous fury; in battle,

    I stayed ice-cold, but around ke Morgan, I got this inexplicable nervous energy, like he could see through every wall I''d bulle.

    Sophia tugged me

    neforward, ready to continue our mission, but as we passed. ke, his handnded lightly on my shoulder.testant electricity cupped from the contact point, racing through my body like a current. My skin prickled with goosebumps, Moon Goddess, how embarassing

    "She''ll meet you upstairs," ke told Sophia

    Sophia shot me a worried nce, then looked at her father. After a moment''s hesitation, she nodded and released my arm, heading up the stairs.

    I turned to ke, his hand still resting on my shoulder. "Something on your mind, Alpha KingTM"

    "I don''t know what game you''re ying," his voice dropped to nearly a growl, "but tread carefully with Sophia''s situation."

    The usation stung like a stap. 7 don''t follow"

    "Sophus vulnerable right now," he stepped closer, almost ending me. His Alpha aura pressed down like a weighted nket, making it hard to breather normally. "I know how things are progressing with Steven, that''s your choice. But if this is about gaining Shadow Creek information by using my daughter,

    that won''t y

    How did he know about Steven? Had Steven actually fold him everything, including our kiss? And he didn''t care? That knowledge lodged like a stone in my

    chest.

    "You already

    ly have my word about your father," he continued. "I won''t go back on it. But if you hurt Sophia, for any reason, there will be consequences.

    The ALLU

    The usationnded the a sucker punch.

    Was that what he thought of pe? Some cold blooded schemer who''d use his daughter as a pawn? I''d been builing ing ata to save my and somehow keep my own sanity intact. Plotting we exactly on my to-do list

    father,

    That was more Jackson''s specialty anyway.

    Something snapped inside me. I was done bring the Skadom Creek chinity case, the marked

    I yanked away from his truch, the loss of contact leaving my skin eddly cold. When locked yet wy

    ceryna pitied ne distrusted.

    (up Frastration pharm

    Contrary to what you believe, Alpha King," my trice came out steady, despite the right of his power pressing against me. I can actually be friends someone without an ulterior mother. If the idea of me spending time with Sophia is an offensive, take it up with her. This won her idea, not

    Something shed across ke''s face-sorptive? Respect? Irritation? I couldnt tell

    Suddenly his expression softened just a fraction. One more thing." he added, avoid the days around the hill moon

    df "Next time you go out with the

    1 blinked, processing his words. So he definitely knew about me and Steven, and

    he was totally fine with it. Fine enough to give dating advice. The confirmation shouldn''t have hurt, but it did-a shaap little pain right below my ribcage.

    "I''ll keep that in mind." I managed to say, my voice carefully neutral.

    I didn''t hang around to hear more. I spun on my heel and marched up the stairs, spine rigid, shoulders squared. His stare tracked me the entire way, enough to leave scorch marks on my back..

    was churning in that impossible-to-read head of his? Had I convinced him? Did he see me as anything beyond a hability to managet

    At the topnding. I paused to steady my breathing. ke Morgans opinion shouldast matter talking. His suspicions werepletely off-base

    This outing with Sophia was harmites-just two women

    Yet his warning about Steven and the full moon nagged at me. Not because I was concerned about the advice itself, but because it confirmed what had said-ke truly didn''t care who I spent time with. Hed epted whatever was happening between Steven and me without batting an eye.

    Why did that bother me so much?

    Poet Sophia though. Here she was, about to marry Jackson Hayes-the wolf who''d macked me then tassed me aside without a second thought. ke probably knew what kind of man Jackson really was-he was the Alpha King after all, not much escaped his notice. But what could he do? Force his daughter to break off an engagement she believed in? Tell her the man she loved was using het? That would shatter her.

    In a twisted way, maybe that''s why he was so protective of her now. Ife couldn''t save her from Jackson without breaking her heat, he was determin shield ber from any other potential pain. Even if that meant seeing threats where none existed-like in m.

    I shook off the thoughts. Tonight wasn''t about jackson or ke or even Steven. It was about Sophia, who clearly needed someone to talk to. I couldn''t fix her engagement to a jerk, but I could at least be there to lister.

    So why was I still hung up on the fact that

    ke seemed totally unbothered by whatever was happening between 5

    Stour and me

    Chapter Comments

    Mike

    why do the people in these stories always ignore their wolf halves

    View 1 Comment

    POST COMMENT

 Bad Husband 91

    Ava''s POV

    Ifore at Sephia''s bedmom doo, it be of the fancy digs-alter werks at Ward, Ed gutten used in the stupid expensive everything. It was because she was Jackson''s fianc¨¦e, and hanging out with her felt like stepping into quicksand

    Sophia nced up from her cleart, sunlight ratching her blonde hair.

    "Dat give you the third degree?" she asked, eyeing my stiff shoulders...

    I straightened up. ke''s warning still rang in my ears-head courfully with Soph''s situation." Like I on some criminal mastermind instead of a glorified babysitter with a knife collection,

    Nah, just Lucas staff." I lied throgh my teeth.

    Sephia''s mouth garked, clearly not trying it, but she let it allide. She tumed back to her closet, holding clothes against me.

    This one you she decided, tossing me a silver-gray top and dark pants, "Let''s hunt out of here like normal girls for once."

    I caught the clothes. My stomach knotted thinking about Jackson. My feelings for him had curdled into something bitter, but seeing Sophia still made me feel like crap. She was so dann genuine while beingpletely clueless her soon-to-be hubby was my ex

    I ducked into her bathroom to change. The top hugged tight-Sophia was built like a dancer while I had more of a "could-snap-your-neck-with-these-biceps" thing going on. I yanked my hair free, sshed water on my face, and raided Sophia''s perfume to cover up my "just threw fifty punches smell

    When I came out, Sophia sat by the window, sunlight outlining her. She smiled- that open, no ulterior-motives unile that doubled my guilt. She had zero clue her fiance Gas obrised with controlling me instead of loving her.

    "Danin, that looks good on you," she nodded. "Makes your eyes pop."

    "Thanks," I mumbled, thrown by thepliment. Why was she being so nice?

    "Just to your staff in there," she pointed at a basket. "Staff will handle it."

    1 besitated, not used to others doing myundry, but dropped my gear in the basket.

    "Cmon," she looped her arm through mine like wed been besties for years, before Dad locks me in a tower or something

    In the main hall, ke and Tyler stood by the entrance. ke turned, his storm- gray eyes scanning us like security cameras. His jaw tightened. I automatically stepped back.

    "What now?" Sophia sighed, crossing her arms.

    "Tyler''s driving you," ke stated, his tone leaving room for debate

    Sophia rolled her eyes. "I was gonna take my horse. I''m twenty-four, not twehre."

    "Not happening," ke''s eyes shed gold-Alpha temper rising to the surface

    I felt his power ripple through the air and kept my mouth shut, not eager to get caught between Alpha dad and frustrated daughter

    "Whatever." Sophia huffed, surrendering to her father''s Alpha mojo. She turned to Tyler, "Ready!"

    Tyler modded. "All art

    I raked ncing atke. His face couldve been carved from se, pe calcting as they locked on mine. It threw me back to day one in his office-being

    up like a threat rather than a perio

    31/3

    spun away, following Sophia who son streedy streming toward the door, Hated that

    Geared what he thought. He was just the pay signing my checks,

    Outside, a Silverpeak-crested cage waited. I''d ridden in these before-mally for prisen visits or ke''s missions. Weird how different it felt this time.

    Following Sophia inside, my brain kept spinning. Was this a terrible idea? Would Jackson ip if he found out I was al with his fianc¨¦er Then again, Sophia had always been decent to me, never treating me like Shadow Creek trash. Saying no felt like kicking a puppy, especially with how excited the seemed about tonight.

    The carriage lurched forward, dragging me toward whatever mess waited ahead, my thoughts ping ponging between loyalty, friendship, and secrets I wasn''t wee I could keep.

    I sat by the window with Sophia across from me, while Tyler demer up font lehind a carved divider,

    "Tyler, privacy please? Sophia''s voice was sweet but had steel underneath.

    Tyler hit a button that raised the wooden partition. Once sealed off, Sophia''s shoulders dropped like she''d ditched a heavy backpack.

    We rode in silence, passing through Silverpeak territory with its fancy houses and patrolling guards. Normally, a Shadow Creek wolf-especially a "traitor" daughter¨Cwould get death res here. But inside a Morgan carriage, reality med, like I''d identally stumbled into someone else''s dr.

    you hanging in there? I finally asked. Sephia looked miles away, nothing like her usual sunshine self.

    She turned, chewing her lip, her eyes showing cracks. I''d never seen before.

    Just needed to breathe without being watched for five minutes," she said quietly. "Hard to do when Dad''s got his wolves tracking my every move."

    "It''s just Tyler," I shrugged. "He''s practically furniture."

    snorted. "God, you''re clueless. Look behind us."

    I twisted arod, peering through the back window. In the fading light, I spotted it-a smaller carriage pulled by dark horses, keeping perfect distance. ke''s elite guards, dressed caval but armed to the teeth, trying way too hard to look like they weren''t following us.

    Your u

    dad''s guys?" I asked:

    "Yep," Sophia exhaled. "He never lets me breathe. I hoped bringing you might mean fewer babysitters, but seems like he doubled down instead."

    The words stung. "So that''s why you imited me? Thought Id help you ditch your security detail?"

    So much for new friendship-just being used as cover to shake Daddy''s watchdogs. Maybe ke was right after

    at? No! Sophia''s head snapped up, eyes wide. "God, no, I asked you because I need someone to talk to who''ll actually listen. I need to know if some things are real or if I''m losing my mind. "

    but only saw genuine worry. I didn''t know Sophia that well, but enough to know she wasnt the 1studied her face, hunting for any sign she was ying me, maniptive type. Her kindness was real "What''s eating at you?"

    She stared at her hands, twisting her fingers together, clearly wrestling with whether to spill.

    "Not yet," she finally said. "Let''s just have a normal right first. We''ll talk over dinner.

    I nodded, Backing off. If she wasn''t ready to open up, pushing would only make her m up tighter. I knew firsthand how that left.

    The camage rolled on, scenery shitting from Sihverprak''s perfect pines and stone maroons to the livelier neutral pre-where wolves bon every pak traded without Alpha politics getting in the way

    I nced at Sophia again. She was watching the secreto, but her eyes were empty, mind clearly somewhere ele. I''d bet myst silver coin her troubles involved Jackson. I couldn''t stop wondering if she knew the truth about us, would she hate me? Or maybe she already suspected something wasn''t right?

 Bad Husband 92

    Am''s POV

    The tension in my shoulders red as our carriage rolled into neutral territory. This patch ofnd belonged to no pack, where woes from anywhere could meet without Alpha politics micking things up. Back in training days, I''dpeted here before I was traitor''s daughter" - just a kid with decent fighting skill and something to prove.

    Our ride stopped outside Moonlight Arena, one of the oldest wattice pathering spots in the neutral zone. When Tyler opened the door. I shot Sophia a centred look

    "A fighting arena?" Last ce I''d expect Moss Designer Clothes to pick.

    Her eyes sparkled with mischief. "Wanted to catch tonight''s matches. Heard some northern wohen arepeting their style''spletely different from

    My eyebrow shot up. Sophia Morgan, interested inbat techniques? Seeing my surprise, sheughed.

    "What thought I only shopped for pretty dresses?"

    "Honestly? Yeah, I admitted, following her out.

    Weindly, Tyler stayed put, just mentioned he''d wait for us. But I clocked ke''s two Gamma guards slipping out of their carriage, trailing us with practiced casualness. They wore civilian clothes trying to blend in, but their posture screamed "ready to attack." Not to mention their hyper-alert eyes, scanning for threats even in neutral territory.

    "Your dad''s watchdogs are still on us." I mattered to Sophia. Just keeping their distance."

    She sighed. Figures, Wee to my life-trapped in an invisible cage. For a split second, I caught a glimpse of loneliness in her eyes that mirrored my own. Maybe being an Alpha''s daughter wasn''t the golden ticket I''d imagined.

    Moonlight Arena was more picked than I remembered. Hundreds of wolves crammed the curved stands, surrounding the central fighting tform. The air teeked of sweat, excitement, blood, and the distinct spices from different pack territories. Music, howls, and apuse created a wall of noise that hit you like a physical thing-

    I nced at Sophia, expecting her to cringe at the rowdy atmosphere. Instead, her eyes lit up-she looked more rxed, more alive than I''d ever seen her

    "Nobody ever wants to bring me to these ces," she shouted over the noise. Tos unbing for an Alpha a daughter,"

    We pushed through the crowd, hunting for a decent view, Sophia navigated the chaos with surprising ease, leading us away from the most crowded sections toward a slightly elevated spot

    Listed

    "Youe here a lot? 1 a

    Her smile turned secretive. "Sneak out sometimes. Tyler used to cover for me until Dad found out

    Well, damn. Princess had some rebellion in her after all.

    Just as we nearly teached our destination, a group of wolves in Shadow Creek colors blocked our path. My muscles instantly coiled tight,bat-ready-

    "Look who it is, neered a tall male wolf I recognized as Brock, one of Jackson''sckeys. "Rivers the traitor''s little girl."

    My blood heated, but I forced myself to stay cool/Starting shit in neutral territory could get you banned

    -or wome

    "Move aside," 1 said evenly. "Were just here for the Eights."

    "What gives you the right to stand here? A female wolf joined in, her eyes crawling over me with disgust. "Your father''s betrayal got my cousin killed in

    battle."

    My heart hammered, rige boiling under my skin. Dad never betrayed anyone, but

    I had no proof to shut these assholes up. "Not looking for trouble,¡± I

    epier H

    managed through clenched teeth.

    "Too bad it found you," rock stepped formand, deliberately bumping my shoulder. His scent screamed challenge. Traitor''s blood should walk with ever down, not watching matches like nothing happened."

    People started gathering, swelling potential conflict. Some recognized me, whispers spreading!

    cading through the cred. My wolf and inside me, but I knew better than to them down here- Fid not only get myself hurt but trash the chance ke had given me.

    host as things were about to snap, Sophis glided in front of me, her entire presente transforming. Straight spine, lifted chin, and a bone-deep authority that radiated from her. Suddenly, the wasnt bast some sich girl she was Alpha lnd made flesh.

    "Is there a problem? Her voice wasn''t lood, bot each wood carried undeniable weight.

    Brock and his friends hadn''t recognized her, still wearing their mocking smiles. "None of your business, beautiful. Unless you want to get kicked out with Traitor cul here."

    I watched Sophia''s eyes sh icy blue, Alpha energy pulsing from her in subtle waves-just like her father''s when pissed, only poonger and less contrilled.

    "Tho you know who you''re speaking to she asked, her voice dropping dangerously low.

    The crowd backed up feeling the suddenly heavy air. Brock''s smirk faltered as realization dawned that this wasn''t just some random rich girl.

    "I''m Sophia Morgan, daughter of ke Morgan, Alpha of Silverprak," she dered, vach wordnding like a hammer blow. "And this my friend, under the protection of the Alpha King himself."

    The Shadow Creek wolves went pale, their postures shifting from aggressive to terrified. Picking on a traitor''s daughter was one thing, but insulting the Alpha King''s daughter? Practically suicide.

    "Miss Morgan... we didn''t know..." Brock stammered, horror washing over his face,

    "Clearly," Sophia replied coldly. "You not only tried to start trouble in neutral territory, but you insulted a guest weed by my family. Is this Shadow Creek''s idea of hospitality?"

    They exchanged panicked looks. If the Alpha King took offense with Shadow Creek over this, the consequences would be brutal-especially when their pack desperately needed powerful allies.

    ¡°A misunderstanding. Miss Morgan, the female wolf rushed to exin. "No offense intended."

    "Then apologize," Sophia''s voice left to room for argument. "Now. To my friend."

    They practically fell over themselves bowing. "Sorry, Miss Rivers, they mumbled, barely audible over the arena naise

    ed, satisfied. ¡°Now, we''d like to watch the matches. Unless you object?"

    Sophia nodded,

    They scrambled to clear a path, even giving up their prime viewing spots. As I followed Sophia past them, 1 felt their states no longer contemptuous, but weird mix of fear, respect, and confusion at my apparent rise in status.

    Once seated in our new spots, I whispered to Sophia: "Thanks for sticking up for me."

    Sophia shook her head. "Don''t mention it." Her eyes niet mine with genuine fire. "The way they treated you pissed me off."

    I studied her profile, realizing her anger wasn''t put/un. Not some obation or duty, but real emotion.

    Im used to it," I admitted. "Happens all the time since Dad got locked up

    "It''s not right," she said, sympathy in her eyes, ''You shouldn''t pay for someone else''s actions. And honestly, I''m starting to doubt your father did what they

    That hit me like a sucker punch. I stared her, stunned, "What do you mean?''

    But she didn''t get to exin-the match in the center ing finished, and the crowd erupted in thunder cheers. The announcer bellowed about the fight, pulling everyones attention back to the action.

    "Later," she whispered close to my est. "Let''s watch now."

    Chapter Comments

 Bad Husband 93

    For the next hout, we lost ourselves in the houtal beauty ofbat. Northern welers shonecased impressive ice based techniques, while western pack fighters dazzled with speed and agility. I got swept up in the pane artistry of it all, temporarily forgetting everything else.

    When the final match ended and crowds started thirming, we stood to leave. The Shadow Creek wahres had vanished, probably terrified of offending Sophia

    Outside, stars speckled the night sky. Tyler waited by the carriage, the two Ga Gamma guards maintaining their practiced distance,

    Sophia nced their way and sighed. "Can you guys give us one hour alone during dinner?'' she asked the gards.

    "We have orders to protect you- one began, tone polite but firm.

    "I know the enders," she cut him off impatiently. But surely we can have one quiet

    meal without surveince? Please... I just need some privacy."

    "Where should we be?" the other guard asked, clearly reluctantly be

    Lending.

    "Nearby, with Tyler," she suggested. "Close enough to reach us if anything happens.

    The guards exchanged looks, finally nodding. "Fine, but we''ll intervene immediately if anything seems off."

    Sophia shed a sweet smile, then turned to me. I got the feeling this wasn''t her first time negotiating for breathing room.

    We entered a quiet hunting lodge restaurant, away from the arena''s chaos. The ce mixed decorations from various packs, with portraits of legendary hunters and trophies lining the walls. A server immediately recognized Sophia, bowing respectfully as he led us to a secluded corner.

    After ordering-Sophia chose some dainty vegetarian dish while I went for a serious meat tter-we fell into brief silence. Sophia sipped her moonwine. seemingly gathering courage.

    She took a deep breath, her expression tuming serious. "Wa, I need to ask you something, and I hope you''ll be honest."

    "What is it?" I asked cautiously.

    "Is there something happening between you and Jackson?" the blurted out.

    1 blinked, confused. "What?"

    "Are you sleeping

    with him? The words rushed out like she couldn''t hold them back.

    I nearly choked on my water, barely stopping myself from jumping to my feet. I stared at her,pletely blindsided

    Why would she think...? Had I done something to give her that impression? When

    I didn''t immediately answer, Sophia winced.

    "I''m sorry, but I need to know if you''re sleeping with my fianc¨¦, Ava:

    "Absolutely not, I hissed, keeping my voice low but firm. "Why would you

    She bit het lip nervously. "Because you both act weird around each other. You get all tense, and Jackson... he can''t seem to stop watching you,

    Heat rushed to my face. She was more observant than I''d given her credit for

    "I''m not sleeping with him," I promised. "I knew him from Shadow Creek before zuur engagement, but that''s it. I would never hook up with someone in a rtionship-especially not with you."

    She held my gaze, ryts searching mine like she was trying to read my soul. The silence stretched between v

    "I believe you, the finally said, her shoulders dropping an inch. "I''x jant-every time you two are in the same room, It''s like watching a storm about to break.

    "Bad blood," I said, trying to sound cessal. "Shadow Creek in''t exactly big on forgive-and-forget."

    Dun food arrived, giving me a moment in collect myself. I''d never felt more coelicted. Lying to her made me sick, especially after she''d stuck her neck out for me, but the truth would shatter her..

    "Can I confess something ridiculous?" she asked, pushing food armand het te. "Sure," I nodded.

    "Sometimes I wish I was just normal. Not an Alpha''s s daughter. Not engaged to someone reryone has an opinion about. She stabbed a piece of food. "Jutt... free

    I understood that feeling all too well.

    When we finished rating, Sophia smiled conspiratorially. "Want to take the long way back?"

    "Tyler will lose his mind." I warned.

    "Good," she replied with a grin that transformed her face. He''s been glued to my shadow since I was fourteen."

    Part of me knew this was a terrible idea. But the way her eyes lit up, like a kid nning a jailbreak-it was hard to refuse.

    "Tine, but when your dad murders me, I''m haunting you forever."

    We paid and slipped out through the kitchen, dodging a confused cook and emerging into a narrow back alley, Sophia''sughter echoed off the brick walls as we jogged away from the restaurant, both feeling stupidly rebellious,

    "I haven''t done this since I was sixteen," she admitted breathlessly as we turned onto a wider street.. "Tyler caught me trying to sneak into a pack dance. Dad grounded me for a month."

    "Seriously? A munth for a dance?"

    "ke Morgan doesn''t do hall-measures," she rolled her eyes. "Besides, there were boys there."

    I couldn''t helpughing. The mental image of ke patrolling his daughter a social life was both amusing and strangely endearing.

    We wandered through quiet streets, Sophia pointing out shops she liked. For a few precious minutes, we weren''t Alpha''s daughter and traitor''s kid-just two women enjoying the night air.

    "We should head back." I finally said, noticing how far we''d gotten from the main street. Before Tyler calls in the cavalry."

    Sophia nodded reluctantly. "Thanks for this. For not treating me like I''m made of ss."

    Just as we turned to head back, I caught an unfamiliar scent on the wind-wolves, but with something off about them. Mybat instincts red:

    "Let''s move," I said sharply, grabbing Sophia''s arm.

    "What''s wrong?" Her smile vanished instantly.

    "Not sure. Just-"

    A group of massive wolves burst from the shadows of a nearby alley, moving with unnatural speed. More appeared from behind us, cutting off our escape. All were tribal masks that concealed their identities.

    1 shoved Sophia behind me, dropping into fighting stance. "Hun if you see an opening." I whispered.

    Dor lunged at me¡ªfast, but predictable. I dodged andnded a solid kick to his

    ribs, feeling bone crack. Another grabbed for Sophia. Isput, catching him.

    with an elbow to the throat that sent him staggering.

    "Ava!" Sophia screamed as a third attacker grabbed her from behind.

    I pivoted to help hei, but something sharp pierced my shoulder. Burning heat spread through my veini-moon venom, the paralyzing tosin from silver spiders. My limbs tumed heary instantly, muscles refusing to obeymands.

    Through blurring vision, I saw them holding Sophia down, pressing something against her neck. Her struggles weakened, then stopped entirely

    "Let her go," I tried to say, but my tongue felt enormous, my words slurring together.

    Rough hands grabbed me, lifting me like I weighed nothing. My head rolled bark,

    the night sky spinning above me. Stars blurred into streaks of light as darkness crept in from the edges of my vision.

    Thest thing I saw was Sophia''s limp body being carried away.

    Then nothing but ck,

 Bad Husband 94

    WAY POT

    Pain crashed through my skill like thunder, my eyes struggling to focus in the thick darkness. Every muscle arrested as if I''d been hit by a truck+ (N = Treling was wase than those ten hour externe training sessises at Academy Hied to move, only to discover cold metal biting into my wrists.

    Silver chaine, lock.

    The distinctive burn of silver against self skin sent memories flooding back-the masks, Sophias scream, the needle in my shoulder. Moon vertom from silver spiders.

    I beach conscious? Normal wolves stayed under at least twelve hours after a full dose.

    My racing thoughts were interrupted be silver''s scorching pain as I shifted position. I forced myself in breathe through it, falling back on Academy training.

    The room slowly came into focus some kind of underground dungeon with stone walls, ancient tribal symbols carved into the rock, and iron torches casting wette shadows. I was exged like an animal in a nussive silver enclosure.

    Who the hell has this much high-grade siber? My foggy brain started calcting. Only major packs could afford containment this borate.....

    1 squinted through the semi-darkness, my wolf senses dulled by the silver but still sharper than a human''s. That''s when I saw her-Sept, lying motionless on the stone floor just feet away, her golden hair matted with dirt, face unnaturally pale.

    My heart lurched. Shit, ke trusted me to keep his family safe, and now his daughters locked in some fucking dungeon because of me.

    I dragged myself toward her, each movement sending fire through my veins as the silver chains scraped against my skin. Swallowing the pain, I reached her side and gently checked for a pulse. Weak but steady. The relief nearly made me diary.

    "Sophia?" I whispered, carefully brushing hair from her face. "Can you hear me?" Nothing. The needle ark on her neck was swollen and bruised-they''d given her a full dose. She wouldn''t wake for hours.

    I should''ve protected her. I''m a faire es warrior. First Dad, now Sophia...

    I closed my eyes, trying to collect myself. The silver was blocking my ability to shift, to heal, even to mindlink. No way to contact ke or Steven, no way to howl for help

    Low voices filtered from somewhere beyond our cage-rough, unfamiliar tunes that set my instincts on edge.

    "Mission said grab one girl, nobody mentioned two." The voice was raspy, mal

    "Extra girl means extra pay. Another nice, followed by a dark chuckle. "Especially this fancy one. Het she''s worth something."

    *Doesn''t matter who they are, a third nice cut in, deeper than the others. "We stick to the n. Get paid, clean up loose ends, disappear north."

    "I''m getting food first. Those girls won''t wake until tomorrow with the dose they

    got."

    Heavy footsteps faded away, followed by the grinding of what sounded like an iron door.

    I inhaled deeply, sorting through the scents despite my dulled senses. Smoke, mildew, unwashed bodies... and that distinctive smell of wolves who belonged nowhere Omegas, drifters, the bottom of woll berarchy. Wolves desperate enough to do anything for money.

    Focusing on Sophia face, I felt a wave of guilf crash ever me.

    1. e. She looked so fragile, nothing like the fierer woman who defended me at the arena

    "I''m so sorry," I murmured, gently arranging her into a morefortable position. "I should have protected you better."

    Her fare, so simr to her mother''s from the portraits at ckwood, made my chest tighten. ke would be devastated if anything happened to her. The thought of his pain hit me harder than I expected.

    1/3-

    I hadn''t agreed to go out with her, if I''d insisted we stick to the main street... fd been meer alert...

    I checked her breathing, relieved to find it steady. Then I carefully examined the needle mark on her neck - no infection yet, just bruising.

    "ke''s going to kill me." I whispered, wiping diet from her cheek with the corner of my torn shirt. "And he should."

    I forced my mind back in strategy. These rogues didn''t know I went awake that was an advantage. My Warning Academy extreme adaptation training had prepared my body in process toxins Easter than most wolves. If I could stay quiet and gather intelligence, maybe I could find a way best when they returned

    The silver chains had weakened me, but I emild feel strength slowly returning to my limbs. I tested the chains methodically, searching for weak links or manufacturing flows, falling back on escape drills from Academy.

    Ohuerve. Wait. Stole when they least expect it.

    Time crawled in the windowless dungeon. Minutes stretched into what felt like hours. I had no way to know if it was still night or already morning.

    "You''re stronger than you look, Sophia," I said softly to her unconscious form, partly to keep myself focused. ¡°Standing up for me at the arena... I didn''t expect that."

    carefully shifted her bead onto myp, making her asfortable as possible on the cold stone floor. My fingers gently worked through her tangled hair. picking out dirt and dued blood,

    "I promise I''ll get you back to your family," I whispered, "Back to ke and Luca." The unfamiliar tenderness of my own actions surprised me. I wasn''t ouactly the maturing type-more the "stab first, ask questionster" variety.

    ve gotten so used to keeping most people at a distance... except for Ello, almost everyone else gets the cold shoulder. Maybe that''s why connecting with Sephia caught me off guard

    My thoughts drifted to Steven''s words aboutke not caring who I spent time with. Why did that still sting? Why did I care so much aboutpleting his melons, earning his approval?

    Even if I don''t make it out, Steven and ke will find us. The thought brought strangefort. ke wouldn''t rest until he found his daughter, and I''d just be... coteral resour

    I heard footsteps approaching in the distance, faint but growing louder. My warrior senses snapped to attention despite the silver''s dampening effect.

    They''reing back

    I quickly assessed my condition. The silver burns on my wrists weren''t as painful now-my body was adapting. Good. One chance was all I needed, but timing would be everything.

    won''t let them but you," I whispered to Sophia, giving her hand a gentle squeeze. "I promise.

    Looking at her defenseless form reminded me of Lucas''s trusting eyes. Both of ke''s children had shown me nothing but kindness, and I''d failed them both.

    Manly one of us can escape, it has to be you, Sophus.

    I gentlyid her head back on the ground, arranging her asfortably as possible. Then I stretched out nearby, assuming a convincing unconscious pose L slowed my breathing to a deep, even rhythm, leaving my eyelids slightly parted so I could watch through myshes.

    Keys jangled. The iron door creaked open

    ke trusted me, I thought as footsteps approached. And I failed him. But I won''t fall again.

    I thought of my father''s calm eyes before batt, drawing strength from the memory, Moan Goddess, give me strength to protect

 Bad Husband 95

    A POV

    "You sure they be still out cold tue of the hired solves leaned against the bars, squinting at our motionles forms through the darkness,

    Monough to keep them under fit at least twelve hours, hispanim replied with a nasty grin. Tspecially two little females,

    1 ke pertly stall, forcing my breathing to remain slow and steady despite the rage building in my chest. Firle females. If these assholes knew what I was capable of, they wouldn''t be so sang

    "Brock said it has to be tonight." the first well fidgeted with a de, turning it so the allure edge caught what little light filtered into dungeon

    Instructions were clear the warrier hitch dies, and she needs to ke

    Gotta bring back the well fan ne a proot, his partner reminded him. The mention of my ne-Dad gift on my first sessful bunt-made my Hood bil

    "What about the blonde princess?

    "Just a bonus," the wolf''s grin widened, revealing unnaturally sharp canines. "Rest a few hours. We''ll finish when they wake up. Always more satisfying to watch your pres squirm."

    Their footsteps faded, followed by the heavy groan of metal as the iron door mmed shut. I waited, counting my heartbeats until I was certain they were gone, then slowly opened my eyes.

    The silver chains burned against my skin like acid, but I''d learned to push past the pain. I looked down at Sophia, still unconscious on myp, her golden hair matted with ditt. Her pulse was steadier than before, breathing more regr,

    I gently wiped sweat from her forehead with the torn edge of my shirt. Her eyelids fluttered slightly, a good sign she was fighting through the venom 1 effects At lept I wouldn''t be facing this alone

    Momentster, Sophia stirred with a pained moan, struggling through the fog of venom like swimming through mud. Finally, her blue eyes opened, clouded

    with monfusion and fear.

    Her voice cracked, dry as autumn leaves. Where where are we?

    "We''re in trouble," I said simply, keeping my voice level despite the anxiety grawing at my insides.

    Sophia tried to sit up, only to let out a sharp cry when the silver chains made contact with her skin.

    "Goddess!! She stared in horror at the angry red marks on her wrists, then back at me. "Are these... silver chains

    "We were attacked,'' I exined, eyes continuously scanning our prison for any advantage, any weakness. Someone ambushed us."

    "My father......... Teats gathered in her eyes. "Hell find us, right?"

    Something in her voice-the raw vulnerability-made my chest tighten. ke''s fierce, confident daughter reduced to this frightened girl. She didn''t deserve any of this.

    ¡°I tried to mindlink Tyler, but these chains are blocking my abilities, I admitted, hating how helpless 1 sounded.

    "Mindlink..." Sophia marmured thoughtfully. "We could try to link with each other."

    I looked at her in surprise. "You mean... between us?"

    Internal connections are easier than extenual ones, she exined, her voice weak but determined.

    "Worth a shot," I nodded, meeting her eyes directly. "If it works, we can at leastmunicate without them heating us."

    We pressed our foreheads together, closing our eyes to concentrate on forming a mental bridge. At first, there was nothing but static, jumbled thoughts crashing against each other. But slowly, like threads being semen inte fatale, a connection began to form.

    Can you hear me? Sophia''s voice whispered through my mind, faint as wind through leaves,

    Yes, barely, but Fcan hear wea, I responded, startled by the intimacy of the connection.

    "It wmkel," Sophia smiled weakly as she opened her eyes. At least we''re notpletely alone."

    "You''re tougher than I gave you credit for, Miss Morgan," I said honestly, feeling the distance between us shrink,

    mestly,

    are they nning to do with us? Sophia asked through our new link, miti

    new link, meniding speaking almal where guards might heat.

    I den i want to scare you, I admitted, but from ulur / brand, they re nning to kill

    us.

    Third Person POV

    Jackson had been explicit in his instructions to Brock: have some wandering Omegas kidnap Ava and hold her captive, but don''t harm her.

    "Trust

    scare her, dont actually hurt her, Jackson had emphasized. T''lle rescue her myself"

    "Once I save her, she''ll be so grateful shell crawl right back to me, Jackson had smiled confidently. "Even with Sophia as my angle, I can''t pass up the taste of my fated mate."

    "Oh, and don''t mark up her face," Jackson had added as an afterthought. "I like it the way it is."

    Eut

    Brock h

    had his own agenda

    Each night, be arranged stolen items belonging to Serena on his bedside table- her training gloves, headbands, photographs. His obsession with her had grown to pathological proportions, though she''d never spared him a second nce. Serena only had eyes for the strongest warriors and wolves of status. Brock was merely one ofckson''s ordinary Betas, not worthy of her attention.

    He''d heard Serena curse Ava countless times, calling het ''Shadow Creek''s disgrace¡± and ¡°the tractors daughter unworthy of being a warrior." In his twisted mind, Brock reasoned that eliminating Serena''s most hated rival would finally earn her gratitude-perhaps even her affection.

    "Kill the Rivers bitch and tell her she''s dying for Serena Evans, Brock had instructed the hired wolves. "Bring me her wolf fang ne and leave no evidence connecting me orckson."

    By the time Jackson arrived in the morning for his nned "rescue, it would be toote. All me would fall on nameless hired wolves who would be long

    In his office at ckwood Manos, ke''s Alpha energy had be nearly tangible, making the air heavy and difficult to breathe

    "Say it again, Tyler," kes voice was dangerously low. "You let my daughter and Ava leave on their own?"

    rstood at attention, cold sweat beading on his forehead. They insisted on dining privately. Sophia said we only needed to wait outside."

    Tyler

    y disappeared? ke''s voice cut like ice.

    "And you just stood there like logs until they

    "We thought they''d changed ns and headed home themselves," a guard exined nervously. "When we checked the restaurant, the owner said he saw twodies leave through the kitchen''s back door."

    "You are the most elite warriors Ive trained," ke''s anger butted controlled but intense. "Yet you couldn''t protect two women?"

    Tyler took a deep breath. 1... have no excuse, Alpha King. The fault is mine Make suddenly stood, his Alpha energy shattering a water ss on his desk.

    "Gather all warriors, lock down every et from the neutral zone, kemanded,

    his voice making the air vibrate. "Contact Shadow Creek, have them

    search their territory. If necessary, alert the northern packs."

    "My daughter and her friend must be found before sunrise and his eyes shed dangerously gold, I will personally hunt down every all who might have

    "Yes, Alpha king." everyone responded in unison, rushing to action.

    Alone, ke drove his fist into the wall, leaving a deep crack in the stone.

    "Sophia... Ava..." he whispered, unusual fear flickering in his eyes. "Hold on. I will find you,"

    Chapter Comments

    3

 Bad Husband 96

    Pear pulsed through oute

    op and cold. Why? Who would want su dead?

    I''m the main toget, I answered honestly. You were just... nnfortunate coteral.

    The guilt nearly cubed me, Sophia was in danger because of me because she''d wanted to be my frierid,

    "We need to find a way out, Sophia whispered, determination in her voice surprising me,

    Tint, we need to deal with these chains," I scanned the cell for anything useful.

    ait," Sophia said softly. My hairpin if it''s still theye...

    She awkwardly felt through her tangled hair, her face lighting up when her fingers found a small concealed pin.

    "This isn''t an ordinary hairpin," she exined in a whisper. "It''s a survival gift from my father."

    I took the delicate silver object skeptically. "Looks like a regr hairpin to me,

    "Twist the back end," she instructed. ¡°He careful not to touch the tip."

    I followed her directions, watching as the pin''s end rotated to reveal a tiny spike glowing faintly blur in the moonlight.

    "Moon silver paite, Sophia exined quietly. "A rare herbal mixture that temporarily neutralizes pure silver''s suppressive effects."

    "Not enough to break the locks, but it might weaken their power enough for us to... maybe regain our shifting ability"

    I stared at her with newfound respect. "Seems like the Morgan princess is more prepared than she looks."

    Dad insists we all carry survival tools," she gave a weak smile. "Never thought I''d need to use it in a situation like this."

    ¦¥¦°

    I carefully applied

    ed the paste to the chains binding Sophia''s wrists first, watching as the angry red burns began to fade. The small amount wouldn''tst long -we''d need to time this perfectly.

    We need a n, I said through our mindlink. Once we weaken the china, we might only have seconds of shifting ability before the silver

    Inch of a fighter, Sophia admitted, shame coloring her thoughts.

    But I are, I repled with fierce determination. You focus on getting free. I''ll handle the guards.

    Sophia studied my face. Why are you helping me? After how piciously my father treated you?

    resteres its effects.

    The question caught me off guard. Because it''s the right thing to do, I answered simply. And because your brother would never forgive me if I let anything happen

    to you

    What I didn''t say-couldn''t admit even to myself-was how the thought of ke suffering the loss of his daughter carved a physical pain in my chest. I might be just an employee to him, but he''d saved my father''s life. I owed him this much.

    They''ll be back soon, I warned, hearing distant footsteps. Get ready. When I give the signal, apply the paste to your chains.

    As the footsteps grew louder, I positioned myself to look semiconscious, watching through barely-opened eyes. My muscles coiled tight despite the silver

    a burn, ready to spring the moment opportunity presented itself.

    For Lucas, Sophia''s voice floated through pur link. And for my father,

    For both our families, I agreed, steeling myself for what wasing.

    1/31

    The door wing open. Our ment was approaching.

    Third Person POV

    Night had fallen deep and hegy across Sharlow Creek territory as Jackson paced restlessly in his quarters. Ever since his chance encounter with Ava and Steven at Moonlight Lodge, he''d been obsessively tracking Ava''s movements. When Benck, his right-hand man, informed him that everything was arranged, a cold smile had twisted his lips.

    Jackson''s lips curled into a predatory smile as he imagined how perfectly his scheme would y out. The fake kidnapping would break down Awa''s stubbern resistance once and for all

    His body tensed with anticipation at the thought of her submitting to him again- her fierce spirit finally crushed, those defiant green eyes looking up at him with the fear and respect he deserved. The mark on her neck will ze bright again, resturing what should have always been his

    By day, he''d be Sephia''s perfect fiance, enjoying the privileges of being connected to the Morgan bloodline and securing his position as Shadow Creek''s next Alpha. By night, he''d have Awa waiting in the shadows, his personal ything, a secret that would make his victory that much sweeter.

    Tonight was crucial for his ns. Everything needed to be perfectly timed-Sophia safely tucked away at ckwood Manor, ware and unsuspecting, while he yed savion to Ava. He needed to verify his fianc¨¦e''s whereabouts before proceeding to the "rescue" location.

    Jackson closed his eyes, attempting to establish a mindlink with Sophia

    "Sophia, where are you? Answer me," he pushed through the link.

    When only silence answered, he frowned, concentrating harder, forcing more power into the connection. Still nothing.

    "Strange," he thought, brow furrowing. "She never ignores my links."

    Truth be told, he didn''t genuinely care where Sophia was, but her unusual silence triggered his cautious instincts. He decided to head to ckwood Manor personally, ensuring his "Hanc¨¦e'' hadn''t discovered anything she shouldn''t know

    Jackson shifted into his wolf form, powerful muscles carrying him swiftly toward Silverprak territory. As he ran, he decided to check in with Brock through mindlink, venlying the kidnapping details.

    "Is Ava safe?" his mental voice was sharp. "Don''t tell me you''ve hurt her."

    "Uh, Mr. Hayes, about that. Brock''s besitation was immediately evident.

    Jackson skidded to a halt, rage boiling through him so intensely he nearly lost his wolf form.

    "Spit it out!'' he demanded.

    "We didn t capture her, sir. We went to the hunting ground border as agreed, but nobody was there. We thought you''d changed your mind...

    Brock was lying through his teeth. Every word that passed through their mindlink dripped with deception. He''d orchestrated his own deadly n behind Jackson''s back, driven by his obsession with Serena Evans. The thought of presenting Ava''s wolf Eang ne to Serena made his pulse quicken with anticipation. She would finally notice him when he eliminated her most hated rival.

    *If everything''s gone ording to n," Brock thought to himself, "that warrior bitch should be dead by now, Just need to stall Hayes a bit longer, and my men can finish the job and dispose of the body."

    What Brock genuinely didnt know was that Sophia had been with Ava. His hired wolves had been instructed to target Ava alone, not the Murgan princes Had he known Sophia was involved, he would nevel have risked it. In this, at least, he wasn''t lying tockson,

    What the hell are you talking about?" Jackson shared. "My instructions were crystal cleart"

    "We did receive your message..." Brock continged cautiously, "but when we arrived, she was nowhere to be found. We waited a long time, then left."

    Brock continued weaving his deception, while privately worrying about a more pressing concern-what would happen if Hayes discovered the truth? He needed to ensure the task waspleted and all evidence destroyed. For now, though, be could only keep stalling.

    "Tell me the exact location!" Jackson demanded.

    After severing the connection,ckann continued his journey with heightened anxiety. If his men hadnt kidnapped Ava, then who had? Why wasn''t Sophia responding to him? Could these two situations be connected?

    Chapter Comments

    3

 Bad Husband 97

    Third Person POV

    Jackson''s nose twitched as he slunk through the neutral zone. The ce crawled with activity, nothing like the usual midnight quiet. Keeping to the shadows, he tracked the fading scents in the air. Ava''s sharp and wild like crushed pine needles was growing faint.

    Then his nostrils red, catching something unexpected. Sophia''s scent, all summer flowers and honey, twisted together with Ava''s.

    What the hell? He paused, paw mid-air. Why were those two together?

    A branch snapped in the distance. He dropped low, belly brushing damp earth. Through the trees, moonlight picked out a group of wolves, and his heart nearly stopped. That massive silver-gray beast could only be one wolf-the Alpha King himself. The hulking brown wolf beside him had to be Tyler.

    He watched as the Alpha King shifted back to human form. Even from this distance, his fury was palpable, crackling in the air like lightning before a storm.

    "Widen the search, ke barked, running a hand through his hair. "My daughter and Rivers could be anywhere by now."

    Daughter and Rivers. Missing. Together.

    His stomach dropped. His neat little n to y hero with a fake kidnapping had just exploded in his face.

    He strained to catch more fragments.

    ...rogues spotted near the eastern caves..."

    ...increased activity sincest moon..."

    ...revenge for Shadow Creek incident..."

    Thest bit hit him like a sucker punch. Those rogues. Three years back, he''d led

    a raid against wolves squatting on Shadow Creeknd. He''d killed some, deliberately left others alive-ones he thought might be useful someday. They''d scattered, spitting threats he''d brushed off as meaningless.

    Not so funny now. Brock must''ve somehow found these rogues-the ones he''d secretly kept tabs on-and used them for whatever stunt he''d nned. Had they recognized Ava as Shadow Creek and grabbed Sophia too?

    but

    Shit. Shit. SHIT.

    If a hair on Sophia''s head got harmed, the Alpha King would personally tear his spine out. Worse, if anyone discovered he''d secretly let some of those rogues escape years ago, his Alpha dreams would vanish faster than morning mist.

    For a second, he considered stepping out, telling the Alpha about the caves where those rogues used to den up. But the thought died quick. If he learned about the original n for Ava...

    Gotta fix this myself.

    A n clicked together in his head: beat everyone to the caves, rescue both women, y the hero. Sophia would worship him. And Ava... His mouth curled into a smile. Ava would finally understand where she belonged.

    As for Brock-his lip curled, exposing a fang. That problem would solve itselfter.

    He backed away silently, certain the Alpha''s wolves hadn''t caught his scent. He knew exactly where those rogues would hole up-the same caves from years back, just where the three territories bumped edges.

    His muscles coiled, then released as he shot through the forest. Moonlight spilled through leaves, dappling his coat as he ran.

    Almost there, Ava. The thought burned like fire in his blood. You''ll be mine again soon enough.

    That faded mark on her neck would ze bright once more. His mark. His property. The way it was meant to be.

    The hell kind of security team loses two women? The Alpha''s voice stayed deadly quiet, but his energy crushed the air from the room,

    The ancient oak table beneath his hands had started to splinter. Warriors twice his size struggled to stand straight, their knees buckling under the weigh his rage. His eyes shed between storm-cloud gray and molten gold.

    Tyler stood nearby, face tight. "Found boot prints near the border. And this." He tossed something onto the table. Pieces of tribal masks, Witnesses say six, maybe eight attackers. Quick and organized, in and out."

    His finger traced the jagged edge of a mask fragment. "Masked strangers. Taking

    my daughter. And Rivers. The table cracked another inch.

    Wilson shifted his weight, cleared his throat. "Alpha King, if 1 may-Miss Sophia shouldn''t have been in that part of-

    "Shut it." He didn''t even raise his voice, but a stone cup across the room shattered into dust. Everyone flinched, eyes dropping to the floor.

    He pinched the bridge of his nose. Lucas was safe-he''d made sure of that. But Sophia and Ava...

    Tyler eased closer, sliding a scrap of chewed leather toward him. "Scent this."

    The Alpha lifted it, nostrils ring. Recognition sparked in his eyes. "The drifter

    pack. Same ones from that Shadow Creek mess years back."

    "Yep, Tyler nodded. ¡°That hotshot''s operation. He caught some,

    but-

    "Most got away." His eyes narrowed to slits. "And now they''ve got my daughter and... His jaw worked. "...and Ava.

    "Think he''s mixed up in this?" Tyler asked, watching carefully.

    "Don''t know yet. But I want him. Now."

    "Left this morning," Wilson cut in. "Said it was Shadow Creek business."

    The Alpha stalked to the window, moonlight carving harsh lines across his face.

    For a moment, something besides rage flickered in his eyes.

    ''Ava will keep Sophia safe," he muttered, almost to himself.

    Tyler caught the worry beneath those words. "If anyone can handle this, it''s that girl. Never seen someone fight like her since-

    ''She''s barely more than a kid," he cut in, voice rough. "A trainee. And I dragged her into this..."

    Tyler snorted. "Bullshit. That girl walked into your office ready to take on the world for her father. She knew exactly what she was getting into." He paused. "She''s stronger than you think."

    Something shifted in the Alpha''s expression. He straightened, hismanding presence sliding back into ce.

    "Get everyone ready," he ordered, "Check every cave and hollow for five miles around that border. Tell Shadow Creek I''ming through, whether they like it

    or not."

    The Alpha crossing into another pack''s territory was almost unheard of. But tonight, nothing would stop him.

    "And find him," he added, voice dropping to a grow. "He and I need to talk."

    "You''re going out there yourself? Tyler asked, brows rising.

    He turned, eyes now zing full gold. "Whoever took them better start praying. Because when I find them- He didn''t finish the sentence. He didn''t need

    1. to.

    He stalked out, warriors scrambling to follow. The Alpha was hunting tonight, and Goddess help anyone who stood in his way.

 Bad Husband 98

    Ava''s POV

    The footsteps grew louder, echoing off the stone walls. I exchanged a quick nce with

    Sophia, our newly established mindlink thrumming with remain. 24

    Now? Her mental voice trembled slightly.

    Not yet, I replied. Wait until they''re close enough.

    The iron door groaned open. Three wolves stepped inside, their faces half-hidden

    by shadows. I kept my breathing slow and steady, pretending unconsciousness while watching through barely-parted eyelids.

    "Still out cold," one of them grunted, kicking at the edge of my chain.

    ''Check them," another ordered. "Boss wants an update."

    Get ready, I sent to Sophia. When I say now, use the paste.

    The man closest to us leaned down, his breath hot on my face as he roughly grabbed my chin. "Hey pretty, wakey wakey

    NOW!

    Sophia''s fingers moved with surprising speed, smearing the moon silver paste onto her chains. I did the same, feeling instant relief as the burning sensation subsided. A surge of energy flooded back into my limbs, not full strength but enough.

    Before the wolf could react, I headbutted him with everything I had. The satisfying crunch of his nose breaking sent a jolt of savage pleasure through me. He stumbled backward, blood spraying.

    "What the- The second wolf barely got the words out before I was on him, using the chain between my wrists as a weapon, whipping it across his face.

    To my surprise, Sophia moved like water, twisting gracefully to knock the legs out from under the third attacker. Those delicate moves I''d seen at formal gatherings transformed into something deadly. Alpha blood ran true after all.

    "Back to back!" I shouted, positioning myself against her. "Don''t let them surround us!"

    "These bitches were ying possum!" one of them snarled, wiping blood from his face. "Get backup! NOW!"

    We formed a defensive circle, just like we''d been taught in Warrior Academy. Sophia''s breathing came quick and shallow, but her movements remained precise. I could feel sweat running down my back, the moon silver paste already starting to fade, my strength wavering.

    "Ava, your left!" Sophia warned through our link.

    I spun just in time to catch a wolf lunging for my throat, driving my knee into his

    stomach. He doubled over, but another took his ce. There were too many, and the silver was beginning to burn again.

    The door burst open as more wolves poured in-six, maybe eight

    more. My heart sank.

    ''I won''t let you touch her!" I snarled as two wolves grabbed for Sophia.

    "Take down the blonde first!" their leader shouted./She''s easier to handle!"

    Three wolves tackled Sophia to the ground, her golden hair fanning out across the filthy floor, mixing with dirt and blood. The sight m... something break

    inside me.

    "Get her the maximum dose!" one shouted. "Don''t let her wake up again!"

    I fought to reach her, but four wolves pinned me down, my face pressed against cold stone. All I could do was watch as they jabbed a needle into Sophia''s neck. Her body went rigid, then limp, eyes rolling back.

    ¡°Ava.................... I''m..... sorry... She whispered before goingpletely still.

    Let her go, you worthless mutts! I screamed, thrashing against their hold. You''ll pay for thist

    Sophia''s face was so peaceful in unconsciousness, her lips moving slightly as if trying to form final words. Tell Father and Luens I lose them. The data shattered my heart into a thousand pieces. I''d promised to protect her, and I''d failed.

    "Look at that," one wolf sneered, "seeing her friend knocked out finally shut the warrior bitch

    "Shut up my ass!" I snarled, feeling my fingers brush against the small knife hidden in my boot-the emergency de every Shadow Creek warrior carried

    While they focused on Sophia, I seized my moment. With a single fluid movement, I pulled the de free and drove it deep into the nearest wolf''s thigh, twisting hard to ensure maximum damage. Blood spurted as I hit the femoral artery, his howl of agony music to my ears.

    "She stabbed me! Fuck! I''m bleeding out!'' he screamed, clutching at the wound as blood pumped between his fingers.

    The brief satisfaction vanished as fists and boots rained down on me. I curled into

    a protective ball, shielding my head and vital organs. Each breath Brought stabbing pain from what felt like broken ribs.

    "Enough!" The leader''s voice cut through the chaos. "The client wants her alive, you idiots!"

    "But she just killed Renn!" one protested.

    "Then Renn was weak, the leader replied coldly. "We have a job to finish."

    The beating stopped, leaving me gasping on the floor. I tasted blood, but refused

    to show weakness, ring up at them through swollen eyes.

    "What do we do with her?" one asked. "Another dose of moon venom?"

    The leader''s face split into a cruel smile. "I have a better idea." He reached into

    his jacket and pulled out a syringe filled with glowing red liquid.

    My blood ran cold. I knew what that was-Moon Heat. The most degrading punishment in wolf society, forcing females into artificial heat cycles.

    "Know what this is, warrior bitch?" he waved the syringe, eyes gleaming with malice.

    ''Don''t touch me!" I spat, thrashing against the hands holding me down.

    One wolf nted his boot on my stomach, pinning me in ce. "This is Moon Heat," the leader continued. "Royal families use it to punish disobedient females. Soon you''ll be begging us to take you."

    ''You spineless, honorless mutts," I hissed, fighting with renewed desperation.

    The leaderughed. "The client just wanted you dead, but I think we should have some fun first."

    I bucked and twisted as the needle approached my neck, but it was useless. The sharp sting as it pierced my skin was nothingpared to the horror of knowing what would follow.

    ''Hold her tight," the leader instructed. "This gets interesting fast."

    The initial sensation was a spreading warmth from the injection site, almost pleasantpared to the silver''s burn. Then came the heat-a sudden, overwhelming wave surging through my body, pooling low in my abdomen.

    I bit down on my lip until I tasted blood, trying to focus on the pain instead of the unwanted sensations building inside me. My vision'' taking on a reddish tinge. "Look, her scent''s already changing," one wolf/said, inhaling deeply. ''Sweeter now."

    1, everything

    The heat intensified, bing unbearable/1 clenched my thighs together, but that only worsened the ache. Sweat beaded on my skin as my temperature

    soared.

    213

    She''ll be begging soon, the leaderughed. "Proud warrior reduced to a whimpering mess.

    The worst part wasn''t the physical reaction-it was the rity of mind. Moon Teat didn''t cloud consciousness; it left you fully aware of your body''s betr Every humiliating response, every involuntary reaction-you experienced it all, helpless to stop it.

    Tears of rage and shame burned in my eyes as I fought against my own biology. The wolves'' faces swam before me, their mockingughter distant through the roaring in my ears.

    As the drug took stronger hold, one desperate thought kept me anchored: ke will find us. He has to.

    POST COMMENT

    Chapter Comments

    Mike

    im sorry... but if she is a warrior why isnt she going for kill shot? she is just going

    for incapacitating or midly injured, till thest bit...

    View All 2 Comments >

    63

    < SHA

 Bad Husband 99

    Bad Husband 99

    Moonlight spilled through the trees as Jackson Hayes slipped through the forest in wolf form. His gray brown fur melted into the shadows hetween pines as he tracked the scent that had haunted him for years. Ava Rivers. His fated mate. The woman whose neck he''d marked with his teeth before tossing her side like she

    meant nothing.

    Third Person POV

    The mate bond tugged at him, sharper tonight than it had been in months. It was the danger-the mark always burned strongest when she was threatened. His wolf paced beneath his skin, wing to take controlpletely.

    Jackson dropped his muzzle to the ground, sorting through the mess of scents. Ava''s-sharp like pine sap after rain. Sophia''s-stupidly flowery and soft. And cutting through both, the unwashed stink of rogue wolves.

    Shit.

    Those same rogues he''d let slip through his fingers three years back during that border cleanup. He''d kept a few breathing on purpose-figured they mighte in handy someday. Talk about a n backfiring.

    A howl ripped through the night, making his ears twitch. ke was out there with his wolves, tearing apart the forest looking for his daughter. The Alpha King''s rage rolled through the trees like thunder before a storm. Jackson needed to move fast. If ke connected him to any of this, he was beyond screwed.

    He pushed through a tangle of brambles, and there it sat-a rundown cabin with light bleeding through cracked shutters. His wolf surged forward, recognizing Ava''s scent growing stronger. His heart hammered against his ribs as memories flooded back-the way she''d felt beneath him, the way she''d smelled when he''d imed her, the way she''d finally submitted to him. That silver mark on her neck- his mark-even if it was fading now.

    Jackson shifted, bones cracking as he stood on two legs again. He crept toward the cabin, keeping to the shadows. Rough voices leaked through the thin walls.

    "Look at her fight... ain''t seen nothing like it..." "Just wait till that Moon Heat really hits... she''ll be begging for it..." "What about the pretty blonde?"

    Moon Heat. The words hit him like a punch to the gut. They''d given his mate that sick shit? His ws shot out as rage surged through him, his wolf howling inside his head.

    He didn''t think-just moved. The door splintered under his weight as he burst through, shifting mid-leap back to wolf. Four rogues huddled around a bottle- littered table, their faces frozen in shock as 200 pounds of furious werewolf crashed into their party. Before the nearest one could even stand, Jackson''s fangs found his throat and ripped.

    Hot blood sprayed across the floor. The others scrambled to shift, but they were slow, drunk. These Omega rejects never stood a chance against a wolf of his bloodline. Thirty secondster, the cabin fell quiet except for the drip of blood from his muzzle.

    A trapdoor in the floor caught his eye. He nudged it open with his paw, shifted back to skin, and descended into darkness.

    The stink hit him first-sweat and blood and piss. Then something else-sickly sweet, like rotten fruit. Moon Heat. His stomach churned as his eyes adjusted to the darkness. Two iron cages stood in the center of the dirt floor.

    In the right cagey Sophia, out cold, her hair matted with dirt, face bruised but breathing steady.

    In the left...

    Ava.

    Silver chains wrapped her wrists and ankles, angry/red burns marking where metal touched skin. Her clothes hung in tatters, showing more burns beneath. But it was her eyes that stopped him cold-zed over but still aware, her body trembling uncontrobly. The Moon Heat working its way through her system, forcing her into a false heat while keeping her mind cruelly clear. Nothing in wolf society was considered more degrading.

    J-Jackson?¡± Her voice cracked, barely a whisper through parched lips.

    He froze, caught between them-his ticket to power and the woman the Moon Goddess had chosen for him. Outside, howls drew closer. Fresh rogues approaching. Brock''s backup n, no doubt. That idiot had hired more muscle than Jackson realized.

    Help me, Ava managed, dragging herself forward an inch, the chains scraping new burns across her skin.

    Jackson''s mind raced, Sophia would be fine-standard wolf venom, nothing fatal. And Ava... the Moon Heat would put her through hell, but protrahly wouldn''t kill her.

    Time was running out. The howls grew closer. In his current state, he couldn''t carry both women and outrun a pack of hungry rogues. He had to pick-

    The math wasn''t hard. Save Sophia, be the hero who rescued the Alpha King''s precious daughter. ke would practically hand him Shadow Creek. And Ava? She was damaged goods now-a traitor''s kid who couldn''t even hack it as Lucas''s trainer without falling for ke.

    His mind was made up before he''d even admitted it to himself.

    Jackson strode to Sophia''s cage and snapped the lock with one sharp twist. 11e gathered her up, her body limp against his chest, that pure Morgan bloodline scent filling his nose. This was his future. This was power.

    "Jackson?" Ava''s voice sharpened, sudden panic cutting through the drug haze. "What the fuck are you doing?"

    "Can only take one, Ava. His voice came out t, empty of the guilt he should''ve felt.

    "You can''t- Her words caught as realization hit. "You''re leaving me here? Break the chains at least! Give me a fucking chance!"

    Jackson looked down at her, taking in the sight of his once-proud mate. She''d always been a fighter-all lean muscle and sharp edges and deadly skill. Seeing her reduced to this-chained and drugged and helpless-triggered something dark and satisfied in him.

    "No time," he shrugged, not even bothering to fake concern anymore. "Maybe I''ll swing backter."

    "Fucking coward!" she spat, yanking at her chains until fresh blood ran down her wrists. "You''re betraying the bond twice! The Moon Goddess sees you, Jackson! She sees what you''re doing!"

    He was already halfway up the stairs, Sophia''s dead weight in his arms. Ava''s screams chased him-curses and threats and finally, worst of all, desperate pleading.

    At the top step, he paused, looking back onest time. All he could see in the darkness were her eyes-fierce green even now, burning with rage and betrayal and something that looked horribly like heartbreak.

    For half a second, guilt pricked at him. Then he thought of ke''s gratitude, of

    the Alpha position that would finally be within reach, and the feeling vanished like

    morning mist.

    In the future he was building, Ava Rivers had no ce at all.

    Chapter Comments

    Nicole ck

    oh Gosh! Jackson is evil! I hope Sophia finds her mate and dumps him!

    View 1 Comment >

    Í¹3

    SHARE

    POST COMMENT

 Bad Husband 101

    ke''s POV

    The night pressed down bike ink on 1ter through the words, my paws barely touching the ground. Each Irop hrought me closer in Ave, this weird pe tugging me for like someone had tied a tope mound my heart. I''d never felt anything like it¨Cher fear, her pain, een her damn body temperature, all hitting me in waves.

    I''d seen tons of well marks over the years, studied every ancient text I could get my hands on, but this connection? Between wolves who hadn''t marked each other? Unbrand of that silver mask on her neck threading with gold it was telling me mething couldn''t gaire grasp.

    The cabin finally came into view, light leaking through busteil windows. I slowed, nose working overtime. Six mercenaries inside. All Omegas-the kind who drifted so far from pack life they''d fat gotten what honor even looked like. They reeked of booze, blood, and that unmistakable sent of hunters ready to enjoy their prey.

    Then another smell hit me, making my hackles tise, Moon Heat. That restricted drag they use to punish female wolves who''vemitted serious crimes. It forces victims into artificial heat while keeping them fully conscious-making them experience every humiliating second of their bodies betraying their minds.

    They''d done this to a

    My vision edged with red. No thinking. Just action.

    Thurst from the shadows, catching the first guard mid-yown. His throat opened under thy ws before he even registered the danger. Hot blood sprayed across my far as the second guard fumbled for a weapon. Too slow. My teeth found his neck, the snap of his spine oddly satisfying.

    The lights inside shifted as the rest scrambled toward the door. I licked blood from my muzzle, letting my Alpha energy roll out like a tsunami. When the first guy stumbled outside, what greeted him was death on four leg

    "Alpha King!" someone screamed, backpedaling so fast he tripped. Recognition dawned toote.

    My ws tore through his chest, ripping out his still-pumping heart. The other three shifted simultaneously, thinking pack tactics might save them. Iden No wolf stands a chance against an Alpha King riding rage like this, especially not bottom-feeding Omegas.

    The fight-if you could call it that-ended in seconds. Six bodies scattered across blood-soaked ground, satisfying my wolf''s thirst for revenge. Only one thing mattered now.

    I charged into the cabin, my nose leading me straight to the basement. Moonlight spilled through shattered windows, lighting up stairs heading underground. Ava''s scent grew stronger, twisted with that sickly-sweet Moon Heat, firing every nerve ending I had.

    At the bottom of the stairs, I shifted back, bones cracking, muscles stretching. The pain barely registered. All my focus locked in that iron door where ra

    Now human, I stood naked, sweat and blood streaking my skin. My body had already responded to Ava''s scent in ways too obvious to hide. I dragged in a breath, willing control I wasn''t sure I had.

    I pushed the door open and finally saw ber.

    There in a silver cage, Ava curled against the corner, training clothes hanging in tatters. Moonlight painted her trembling body in silver and shade Even now, she tensed at the sound of my entrance, ready to fight. Always the warrior.

    "Ava," I called softly, my voice rougher than

    She lifted her head, eyes unfocused until they found me. Recognition shed. "ke?¡± Just my name, broken and weak, but it hit me like a punch to the

    chest

    I grabbed the silver bars, ignoring the burn against my palms. One hard yank and the lock shattered, door swinging wide.

    "Found you,¡± I knelt before her, careful not to touch The Moon Heat hit me like a wall, challenging every bit of restraint I had. Heat rolled off her in wires, desire and pain battling in her eyes.

    They infected- she tried, shame keeping her eyes both mis

    "I know," I cut im gently. "Moon Hest. Lean smell li

    Trats gathered but didn''t fall. That hurt worse than my physical mind seeing her humilistie

    "You shouldn''t see me like this," she whispered, arms scrapping around herself, trying to hide reactions the couldn''t corral.

    "Listen to mr," I forced stradiness into my voice despite my racing brat. "We need to get you out ckwood"

    "No..." she tried to back away. Tant let anyone see me like this..

    "They won''t," I promised. "Tyler''s cleared the note. No one will see you, I sweat."

    I hesitated, then offered my hand. "Let me help you, A. Trust me,"

    here. The drug will wear off, but first we ne

    Her eyes traveled from my face to my naked body, shame and desire warring in her expression, Moon Heat 1 cruelest trick-amplifying natural responses while keeping the mind brutally aware of everything happening. She could see me, smell me, even see my own reactions, while her body answered in wayn her mind fought against.

    Slowly, like each movement cast het, she reached out and touched my wrist. Her skin burned like fire, that small contact making i

    If howl for more.

    "I need to carry you." I said, voire strained with effort. ''Is that okay?"

    She nodded weakly, trust in her eyes nearly undoing me, Goddess above, she was suffering the worst humiliation imaginable, yet still trusted me not to take advantage. That knowledge both warmed and gutted me.

    I slid my arms under her knees and back, lifting her in one smooth motion. She weighed almost nothing, but her heat was shocking. When I pulled her against my chest, a small sound escaped her, immediately bitten back. I felt her struggle- instinct wanting closeness while her mind fought the drug''s influence.

    "Focus on my voice," I whispered near her ear as I headed for the stairs. "Think about cold water, about the forest, about anything that helps you stay centered "

    She nodded, face buried against my neck, her breath hot and quick. Her racing heart pressed against my chest, her scent-normally sharp and clean-now twisted into something sweetly intoxicating. Each step tested my control, especially when she shifted against me, unconsciously seeking more contact.

    We climbed the stairs and moved through the bloody front room. Any spotted the bodies, surprise flickering across her face, followed by understanding "You killed them for me," she said softly, voice carrying both shock and speething close to gratitude.

    "Anyone

    who hurts you pays," I answered simply, hiding the possessiveness surging through me.

    arms, from cold or drug effects, I could tell. Her arms circled my neck, fingertips

    Outside, moonlight spilled across bloodstained grass. Ava shivered in my arms, pressing into my shoulders.

    "Didn''t think you''de yourself," she murmured, voice dreamy. "The big, bad Alpha King...

    "I felt you," I admitted, somehow feeling like I was shaping a secret. Your mark... it''s changing."

    Her hand new to her neck, touching where Jackson''s silver mark now threaded with gold. "How''s that possible?" she asked, confusion momenta through the haze.

    "Not sure," I answered honestly. "Unless the original mark gets overridden, or." I hesitated. There are old legends about soulpatible murk tramfens..."

 Bad Husband 102

    ke''s POV

    I stopped three. Those ancient studies sounded crazy-destined mates somehow

    creating new connections across existing marks, best states, riglet

    "Test hang on, I changed the subject, spotting Tyler waiting at the edge of the clearing with my ment, see wee back at Maced, well get you cooled down. That !! help with the symptoms."

    Her fingers tightened on my shoulder as she looked up, meeting my eyes. In the moonlight, ething unreadable Mashed in those green depths. "Thank you," she said quietly. "For finding me.

    That simple gratitude hit deeper than she knew. Dur tileship had always beenplicated-teacher to my son, bound by Blood Chith, someone under my protection. But right now, in this moonlight, none of that seemed to matter, Just bet, trusting me to keep her safe.

    Tyler stood by the waiting horses, expression carefully neutral. When he saw Ava ?n my arms, his nose caught the Moon Heat, eyes widening slightly before his training kicked in

    "Everything''s prepared, Alpha King," be reported simply, helping arrange a nket across the saddle. "The path is clear of mated wolves."

    "Good," I nodded, cing Ava gently on my mount before swinging up behind her. She immediately leaned back against my chest, instinctively seeking my Alpha presence.

    nd looked

    Tyler mounted his own horse and looked back at me. To the healing chambers?" he asked, meeting my eyes.

    "No," I said firmly. "Straight to ckwood."

    Tyler hesitated, clearly noting my naked state and was obvious symptoms. "You sure?"

    I answered with a growl, needing no exnation. Tyler had known me long mouth to recognize when questions ended.

    Wir rode swiftly through the forest, moonlight filtering through branches as we traveled. Ava dosed against me, asionally making soft sounds, body unconsciously seeking contact. I focused on breathing, on ns-get her home, cool her down, wait out the drug

    But when her head rested against my chest, when her breath skimmed my skin, when her hand clutched my arm in sleep, I knew this would test me like nothing before.

    ckwood Manor appeared ahead, torches zing along the walls auf waiting for her return. I looked down at her, a thought hitting me with startling rity- whatever it took, I would protect her, mark her, make her mine,

    This realization filled me with both fear and hunger.

    1 carried Ava into my chambers,ying her on my bed like she might break. Moonlight poured through the windouci, Lighting up her curves against my dark. sheets. Her torn clothes barely covered her, skin glowing almost silver in the light.

    "Hot... so hot..." she mumbled, hand drifting across her Exce, down her neck, ?ver her chest, like she was trying to brush away mes.

    My throat went dry as I stood beside the bed,pletely naked and obviously affected. That mark on her neck pulsed with strange gold light, calling to something deep inside me. Whenever I got close to it, my wall settled-restless and hungry, but somehow... right.

    "wa," I said, barely recognizing my own rough voler, need to cool you down."

    Her eyes fluttered open, fog lifting briefly as she fought through the drug. Bake Her fingers reached for my arm, that small touch sending lightning through me.

    "Yeah, it''s me,¡± I managed, though every muscle screamed for more contact. "I won''t bet you.

    "Know that," she whispered, vulnerability shing

    raising gebumps. "Never have

    before

    the drug clouded them again. Her fingers trailed up my arm,

    tracing any shoulder,

    I lifted her carefully, feeling her scorching akin and breathing in her adent. My hands moved on their own arrow her back, tearing milele beaded a Even now, she was beautiful-all warrior grace wrapped in feminine curves.

    I headed for the bathing chamber, painfully aware of her breasts pressed against my chest, her hardened nipples orious through this tabele, she bared he face against my neck, lips identally brishing my skin, tending shockwaves through me.

    "ke she breathed against my eat, voice honry-sweet, "I want you..........

    The bathing chamber''s stone foot felt ice cold against my feet, a stark contrast to our burning bodies. I ut her on the wide marble betin, her legs parts instinctively to make peons for me. Her pants clung to her, soaked with west. Ermuddat hide my obvi¨¾u atonal, nding naked between her thig

    I turned to open the water spout, cold water rushing into therge stone bath, Just as I moved to face her again, her hands slid down my back, tracing each muscle line.

    "So strong." the med, her breath wami against my skin. I turned to find her eyes clearer, though desire still darkened them.

    "It''s the drug talking" I reminded myself uselessly, body already well past the point of no return.

    "Not just that," her fingers traced thy chest, eyes meeting mine directly. "Wanted this...

    Manted you.... for weeks.

    Self-control snapped, I kissed her, tasting wild berries and moonlight on her tongue. A satisfied moan vibrated from her throat, hardening me farther.

    Her legs wrapped around my waist, pulling me flush against her. Nothing between us but her tattered clothes. My hand slipped under her shirt, finding silk smooth skin. When my fingers brushed her nipple, she arched, head falling back to expose her throat and that changing mark

    My lips traced from jaw to neck, tasting salt and woman. When I reached her mark, something electric shot between us. She moaned, nails digging into my

    back

    "ke..... need you..... Her hand boldly found me, wrapped around my hardness. The touch nearly buckled my knees, breath catching.

    Itore away what remained of her shirt, revealing perfect breasts tipped with dusky pink. Moonlight painted her skin silver. I took one peak into my mouth, teasing with my tongue, feeling her shake and gasp

    "Look at me," Imanded, Alpha authority deepening my voice. Her eyes instantly found mine-desire burning bright, but rity there too. This wasn''t just the drug. She knew exactly who was touching her.

    My hand slid down her t stomach to her waistband, eyes locked with hers, silently asking. Her slight mod and lifted hips were all the permission I needed.

    My fingers slipped inside, finding her wet and ready. The knowledge early broke me. As I found that sensitive spot, she sighed, her grip on me tightening

    Our breaths mingled, heat building around us like aing storm I tugged her pants down, desperate to im herpletely. She helped eagerly, legs parting wider.

    "Like that," she whispered, head falling back to expose her neck. The mark shed gold in the darkness. "ke... mark me... now....

    Myst thread of control dangled. My mouth returned to her mark, teeth grazing the spot, making her whole body tremble. My fingers worked inside her. feeling her clench around them. Her nails raked my back, our need reaching fever pitch.

    Then the bath overflowed. Cold water sshed our tangled bodies, making her yelp in surprise and press closer for warmth. The shock cleared our heads slightly, but did little to cool the fire between us.

    Her eyes, clearer now but still dark with wanting, looked straight into my soul.

    "Don''t stop...

 Bad Husband 103

    The words escaped my lips, sounding like they belonged to someone else yet expressing my deepest desire. The ssh of cold water from the in bath hit our tangleil bodies like a shock, Instead of pulling away, I pressed closer to ke, chasing his wornth

    That icy inlt dented my head faster than any medicine. The fog of Moon Hest thinned, reced by something sharper-avarten. I would foil every cabbar on ke''s fingertips, smell his pine and cal scent, sense his pulse hammering against mine.

    ke pulled hack just enough to study my face, his storm gray eyes searching. "Youreing back to me,

    "Yeah," I nodded, somprised by my own rity. "But I still want you." No drug talking now-just me. The Moon Heat Engered in my system, but my mind had. wrestled back control.

    Something shifted in his expression. He lifted me gently let the water, his hands never breaking contact, like been afraid I might disobe if he let go. The water swirled around us, cooling my fees hot skin without billing whatever was sparking between us.

    As the currents washed over me, I felt the change-from that desperate, drug- driven need to something meal. Something mine, ke''s troch wasn''t just medicine anymore; it was exactly what I wanted.

    I reached for his face, my hand steadier than it had any right to be. This is me," I said, Hinning my thumb along his in "Not the drug."

    His eyes darkened. He cupped my face and kissed me-nothing like the hungry sh from before. This was gentle, careful, like i might break. But underneath, that same heat burned.

    The water cooled, and rity rushed in Memories pieced themselves together-the dank cell, Sophia''s unconscious farm, those masked wolves with their needles and crielughter.

    "Sophia," I said suddenly, sitting up straighter. Is she-

    "Sale," ke cut in, running his fingers through my wet hair. "Back at ckwood with the healers.

    Relief washed through me, but then another memory sliced in-Jackson appearing in that dungeon, the shock on his face when he saw us both, and how quickly he decided. How he didn''t men hesitate,

    "Jackson was there," I said, the words tasting bitter. "He took Sophia and just... left me chained up. Like I was nothing

    ke went rigid, his fingers freezing mid-stroke. "Hayes was in that, cer

    "Grabbed Sophia and ran." I couldn''t keep the venom from my voice. "Second time he''s thrown me away when something better came along."

    ke''s Alpha energy surged, turning the bathroom air heavy as lead. The water around us seemed to vibrate with his anger. Then he inhaled sharply, reining himself in.

    "What exactly did they inject you with?" he asked, voice too carefully controlled.

    ¡°Moon Heat,¡± admitted, something cold slithering through my gut despite the warm water. "They wanted to break me. Make me beg

    "They paid." His voice went t, deadly. "All of them.

    I thought of those bodies scattered across

    the clearing, throats tom out, and felt nothing but relief. Another day, that might have scan

    The drug''s grip loosened further, and I suddenly realized how exposed I was, skin hare except for scraps of what used to be clothes. Funny how that seemed like the smallest problem right now.

    "My clothes are trashed," I said, ncing down at thetters.

    "I''ll grab something." ke said, pulling back. His eyes lingered on me for a bear tou long before he stood.

    Mone in the moling water, I had my fint real chance to think. I should have been morished-nextty heg heat-crazed teenager. That wasn t me. Wesn''t supposed to be, anyway,

    The Alphe King to m

    But the shame didn''t hit like 1 expected. Yes, the ding had pushed me, but it hada

    i created anything that want abrendy there. Thet Numer

    alked into a room, that pull toward him I''d been fighting for terrks-thise were real, drive or no drug.

    My fingers found the mark on my neck. Inckson''s viber brand was changing, gold threads wearing through the pattern. Nothing in any wolt lejen this. ke said he felt de through it, tracked me when no one else could. How the hell was that possible?

    I ducked under the water onest time, letting it those away thest traces of that dungeon. Some things wouldnt with off so easily-the memory of thos men''s eyes as they held that needle, the humiliation as the dog look hold, But at least I could get clean,

    I was just getting up from the tob, water sliding off my skin, when my foot nearly slipped on the wet edge. My heart pounded like crazy, but before 1 mudd fall, ke was right there. His strong was wrapped around ine, palli tight against his warm, hare chest. The heat of him made my whole body tingl¨¦

    He didn''t have anything on, and my eyes-ols run, why cent 1 stop?-dated down to his... well, you know. My breath caught in my throat. He w¨¤o so big, so merwhelming, it made my cheeks burn and my stomach flip in a way I''ve never felt before, I couldn''t help it; my mouth went dry, and a hot, flottery feeling

    the wild rush in my chest. bloomed deep inside me. I swallowed hard, trying to ca

    He lifted me out of the tub like I was nothing, setting me down on shaky legs. His hands stayed on my hips, holding me steady until he knew I wouldn''t stumble. Every ce he touched felt like it was on fire, sparking this crazy, aching need that made my heart race even faster. When he let go to grah i towel, I felt so exposed-cold and desperate for his wath toe back. Why do I feel like this? I''ve never been this fluttered before.

    He

    draped the towel over my shoulders, covering me up, but his fingers brushed my skin, and my pulse went wild. I couldn''t stop staring at him. His body was unreal -every muscle, every sharp line looked so powerful. It was too much, too intense, and it made my insides twist with this sly, hungry feeling! didn''t know how to handle. Am I really this drawn to him? Oh pack, what''s happening to me?

    The steam had faded, but the heat in me hadn''t. It bubbled inside, a restless, needy ache that kept growing, tugging at every bit of control I thought I had

    "Keep looking at me like that, and I might not be able to hold back," he warned, his voice dropping to a deep, husky tone that sent shivers straight through me, making that ache even stronger.

    Then don''t hold back, I blurted out, the words slipping free before I could think twice, daring and full of a longing I couldn''t hide.

    Chapter Comments

    Tanya Gordon

    That''s right girl you tell him & hopefully he''ll listen.

    View 1 Comment >

    5

 Bad Husband 104

    I bridged the space between us, my body acting on pure instinct as my mouth imed his. For ons terrifying beartbeat, ke went right, and I feared onpletely misinterpreted the signals.

    Then tension melted from his muscles, and his palms aripped my waist, hauling me against his chest with a hunger that atole my breath.

    With effortless strength, he hoisted me pand. I locked my legs armand his waist, my howel slipping away forgotten. His bare skin scorched against mine, sending jolts of electricity racing along every nerve ending.

    My tongue traced the seam of his mouth, a silent plen, and schien he granted me entry, something moltes pooled in my chest. The fierce response in his lis told me everything he craved this moment as desperately i

    He navigated on through the doorway into his private sanctuary, where his distinctive essence enveloped me - forest after rainfall moord with something untamed that was purely ke. The mattress seeed my bo at he lowered me mida silk sheets that whispered cool promises against my heated Besh.

    Moonbeams yed across thendscape of his chiseled torso, highlighting valleys and ridges of muscle that practically bezzed for my touch.

    His reply came as hot kisses zing down my throat, teath grazing the thundering pulse point beneath my skin. A current of pleasure raced through me. polling sounds from my throat I scarcely recognized. Each caress sparked wildfires under my skin- nothing like the artificial heat from that damned drug. This inferno was authentic, unforced, entirely mine to surrender to.

    He ventured lower, his tongue circling my nipple before drawing it into the wet heat of his mouth. My spine bowed, a gap bearing free as he alterated between gentle suction and teasing nips. My fingers tangled in his hair, short nails scraping his scalp as pleasure coursed through me,

    The growl that vibrated from his throat when I tugged lightly awakened something feral inside me ¨C something that recognized its match

    He reimed my mouth, his kisses harder now, more demanding. I''ve wanted this since I first 57% "Let me taste every inch of you......

    "God, yes," I breathed, my thoughts scattered like leaves in a storm.

    *he murmured against my lips, his voice like gravel.

    A trail of liquid fire marked his journey downward, pausing to worship my beasts

    once more before descending further. Heat blossomed bath my skin not the cloying artificial fever of Moon Heat, but a delicious warmth born from his proximity, his attention, the torturous anticipation of what woulde

    As he positioned himself between my thighs, his breach ghosting over my most sensitive flesh, embarrassment should have flooded me. This level of intimacy was uncharted territory. With Jackson, I''d stubbornly maintained boundaries, insisting we wait for official mating

    Yet here Iy, offering ke a gift that could never be reimed, and strangely, I couldn''t summon a single regret.

    The first stroke of his tongue against my core wrenched a hoarse cry from my throat, my body arching off the bed. The vibration of his appreciative groan against my sensitive flesh sent shockwaves of pleasure radiating outward.

    My hips rose instinctively as he drew my swollen bud between his lips. I buried my face in the nearest pillow, muffling sounds I couldn''t control as tension roiled ever tighter within me.

    When the dam finally burst, his name tumbled from my lips in raped devotion. He ced onest reverent kiss against my quivering flesh before beginning his ascent, tracing the same path in reverse.

    His face hovered above mine, eyes dark with hunger. "Need protection?" he asked, his breathing ragged against my ear.

    "I''m on birth control," I panted, still trying to catch my breath.

    Something shed in his eyes, and a possessie growl rumbled from his chest.

    Marked I wice by the Alpha King

 Bad Husband 105

    "My periods... they get really had. Doctor''s unden."

    He rxed visibly, capturing my mouth again in a deep kiss orgasm of my life, I needed motr

    taste of myself on his tongue. Despite just experiencing the most pretul

    I proded his inside me,pleting me in ways rouldn''t fully understand.

    As if reading my thoughts, he positioned himself between my legs, the hard length of him pressing against my entrance. His kiss softened. "Tell me if I hart: you," he whispered, eyes searching mine: "We stop whenever you want."

    I nodded without hesitation, pulling him closer. He pushed forward slowly, giving me time to adjust to his size. When he reached the barrier, we both stilled. Once he broke through, there would be no turning back, I would no longer be a virgin.

    But in that moment, nothing felt more right.

    He leaned down to nibble my earlobe, his heavy breathing making my skin tingle. With one careful thrust, he pushed through the barrier, and hissed at the - sharp pain. He was bigger than I expected, stretching me in ways I hadn''t prepared for,

    "You good?" His fingers stroked my cheek, concern darkening his eyes.

    I nodded, taking deep breaths. "Gimme a sec, I managed through gritted teeth, adjusting to the familiar stretch.

    "Take all the time you need, sweetheart," he whispered, trailing soft

    kisses across my corbone.

    After giving my body time to adjust, I whispered, ''I''m ready," I whispered, rolling my hips against him. "Don''t hold back."

    He pushed deeper, my core stretching to amodate him. Then he withdrew almostpletely, the sudden emptiness making me whimper, before thrusting back in with enough force to make me yelp in surprise.

    The brief sh of pain quickly gave way to waves of pleasure as my body responded to his.

    When he was fully seated within me, he imed my mouth again, his tongue exploring every inch as he began to move. I wrapped my arms around his neck and my legs around his waist, drawing him impossibly deeper with each thrust.

    The feeling of fullness was overwhelming-I''d never felt soplete, so utterly possessed in my entire life.

    im intense

    My inner walls tightened around him as another climax built. I tried to hold back, wanting him to join me, but the pleasure was too

    He quickened his pace, the rhythm bing more urgent, and I felt him swelling inside me. His hand slipped between our joined bodies, fingers finding that sensitive bundle of nerves, and my control shattered

    "Let go for me," hemanded, voice husky

    by with need. "Show me

    good

    His words pushed me over the edge. I came apart around him, crying out his name as waves of ecstasy crashed through me. A few powerful thrustster, he followed, burying himself deep as he poured his release into me.

    We stayed connected, both trembling with aftershocks, as moonlight painted our sweat-slicked bodies silver. His weight pressed me into the mattress, but I weed it, not ready to let him go.

    For these precious moments, the world outside didn''t exist-no Jackson, no kidnapping, no pack politics. Just ke and me, tangled always belonged this

    way.

    His lips found my mark, kissing it gently. Even in my blissed-out state, I noticed something strange-the usual sting when anyone touched Jackson''s mark was gone. Instead, a pleasant warmth radiated from the spot, pulsing in time with my heartbeat.

    "Any regrets?" he asked, fingers tracingry patterns on diy

    "Only that we didn''t do this weeks ago," I confessed, surprising myself with my honesty.

    "We ve got all night to make up for lost time," he promised, eyes darkening as I felt him hardening Inside me again.

    Chapter Comments

    Ellie Blub

 Bad Husband 106

    Avm Poy

    I woke to something w

    warm and hard in my pals

    My brain struggled through fog as awareness trickled in - the wright an arm across my waist, skin pressing against skin, and my fingers wrapped

    Amund...

    My eyes flew open, instantly awake, Through hazy morning light, I realized my hand was intimately gripping Hakes moming frection. Wey tangled together, my naked body pressed against his, our legs intertwined benrail silky sheets. And instead of letting go, I was fromen, terrified any nowement would wake him.

    Heat rushed to myce as memonies fromst night Bonded hack - his mouth on mine, hands exploring every inch of me, the delicious weight of him abore me. My body instantly responded to the memory, a lipild wainith pooling low in my belly

    His scent was everywhere ¨C that distinctivebination of pine needles and rain that scored Alpha. It wrapped around me like a physical i my wall stir restlessly beneath my skin.

    Making

    I tried to gently release him, but discovered hisrger hand was cupped over mine, as if even in sleep he was preventing my escape. The pulse in my throat quickened as I realized my predicament trapped between wanting to pull away and the treacherous part of me that wanted to stay past like this a little longer.

    Stranger still, the mark on my neck-lockson''s mark wasn''t stinging the way it usually did around ke. Instead, it radiated a pleasant warmth that pulsed in rhythm with my heartbeat.

    I shifted slightly, trying to create space between us, but the movement just caused our bodies to slide together. A shiver ran through me at the contact

    ke''s eyshes fluttered, then slowly lifted, revealing storm-gray eyes that locked directly on mine. No confusion, no surprise ¨C just instant awareness and azy smule that sent my heart racing. He made no move to change our position. If anything, his body seemed to press closer.

    This is the bes

    s is the best wake-up service I''ve ever experienced," he murmured, voice rough with sleep.

    His hand tightened over mine, guiding a slow stroke that made my breath catch. His other hand came up to cup my cheek, thumb brushing across my lower lip.

    "You have no idea how badly I''ve wanted you," he whispered against my ear. ''Since the first day you walked into my office.

    His lips grazed my earlobe, sending electric currents racing down my spine. I couldn''t stop the small gasp that escaped me or the way my body instinctively arched toward him, seeking more contact.

    His mouth traveled from my ear to my neck, then down to my corbone, each kiss igniting another me under my skin.

    Suddenly, reality crashed through the haze of desire. What was I doing? I jerked my hand away and pulled back, hastily grabbing the sheets to cover myself.

    My brain fired waming shots: He was the Alpha King of Silverpeak. I was just a Shadow Creek warrior. He was Lucas''s father my studentt His daughter was engaged to my ex-fated mate. This wouldplicate everything.

    ke watched the panic ash across my face, something knowing in his expersion.

    "I can practically hear your thoughts racing a illion miles away," he said.

    lle sat up, not bothering to cover himself. Morning light yed across the defined muscles of his chest and abdomen. The sheet rode made no move to forse anything, just w?ited.

    his hips, but he

    When I tried to sit up, my body protested with unexpected soreness. ncing down, I discovered a trail of small love bites scattered across my chest and stomach. My inner thighs ached in a way that made heat rush to my face all over

    ag

    ke noticed my wince, his handing to rest gently on my back.

    ''Are you okay? I might have gotten carried away

    wayst night,¡± he said, concern recing the desire in his eyes.

    "I''m fine," I shook my head quickly."

    The admission hung between an, instantly recharging the atmosphere. ke''s eyes darkened as he leaned closer, me handing up to caress my med while the other settled on my waist, I could feel his breath against my lips.

    "Last night might have been a mistake," I whispered, the words slipping out almost involuntarily

    Make froze, pulling back slightly. "Is that what you really think?"

    I struggled to my feet, wrapping the sheet around me like arrone as I moved toward the minor. The reflection that greeted me was a stranger kiu marked skin, and confused eyes that couldn''t hide what had happened between us.

    "This is tooplicated, ke. My life is already a mess-" I stopped mid- sentence, noticing something strange about my reflection,

    The mark on my neck was chanting.

    wild fair.

    I stepped closer to the minor, eyes widening as I took in the transformation. What had once been Jackson''s silver mark was now almostpletely gold. with just traces of silver andund the edges.

    ke appeared behind me, his hare chest nearly touching my back through the thin sheet.

    "What is this?" I asked, shock evident in my voic

    "Mark transformation," he said quietly. "When a marked wolf meets their true soul mate, the original mark can be overridden. Gold is an Alpha''s imprint."

    His hand slid from my mark to my shoulder, turning me to face him. Our eyes locked, the air between us thick with unspoken tension.

    "Whatever you may think,st night wasn''t a mistake for me," he said, his voice deep and certain

    I took a deep breath, forcing myself to think logically despite every instinct urging me toward

    "No matter how the mark changes, reality hasn''t," I said firmly, "I need to save my father. You have a pack to rum, Lucas to raise, Sophia''s getting married

    I swallowed hard. "We can''t do this. Not right now, at least."

    ke studied me for a long moment, though something flickered briefly in his eyes. Then he nodded once, epting my decision without argument.

    He turned toward his closet, retrieving a meatly folded set of female warrior training clothes that looked suspiciously like they''d been prepared specifically

    for me.

    Wear these." he offered. "Your clothes fromst night are no longer serviceable." Our fingers brushed as I took the clothes, both of us pausing at the contact. "Thank you," I managed.

    ke nodded, pulling on pants before grabbing a shirt,

    "Ill go check on Lucas. Wilson has been instructed rot to speak about this. Don''t

    worry."

    When the door closed behind him, I turned back to the minor, fingers touching

    the golden mark that had reced Jackson''s silv ke''s presence, the connection stronger than before.

    Last night wasn''t just a physicall joining - it was the beginning of something ancient and powerful that had changed everything.

    I could still sense

    N Nowork ava

 Bad Husband 107

    ke''s POV

    my silver.

    Sunlight sliced through the Infekt canopy, ying hide-and-seek across my

    eaved between ancient usks. The fiberpeak henting moundi stretched ahead, rich with deer scent and fresh sail afterst night''s rain. Any other day, this would ve jolted my senses after, parked my wolf right to the

    Today, I might as well have been sleepwalking.

    A fat buck practically danced across our path mont beside me spoke volumes.

    wrapped prry-and Ipletely missed it before the animal vanished into the brush. Tylers disbelieving

    My bead was stuck at ckwood. Reying water sshing amund us. Sheets tangled between limbs. Axa''s green eyes darkening an I''d meed inside her, her lips forming my name like a sectel prayer. The memory bit so vivid. I could almost taste her-wild berries mixed with something uniquely her

    We hit a sun-drenched clearing, and I shifted without thinking, bones snapping and muscles flowing into human form with the casual confidence of someone who''d done this thousands of times, Tyler followed suit, fishing nur stashed clothes from behind a fallen log and tossing mine ment.

    "Well damn, Tyler smirked as I yanked on parts, "what happened to the big had Alpha who never misses? That deer practically offered its throat, and you didn''t even blink

    I grunted, not bothering to deny it. Tyler had stuck by me too long-any bullshit excuse would just confirm what he already knew.

    Thirty years I''ve known you," he continued, tugging on his shirt, and I''ve never seen you this distracted. Not since..." He left the rest unsaid. Not since Elizabeth

    I fumbled with buttons, avoiding his too-perceptive stare. Drop it. Reed."

    "Can''t do that," he shrugged,pletely unfazed by my warning tone. "I was there before anyone called you Alpha King, back when you couldnt even track

    wounded rabbit. If I can''t call you on your crap, who can?"

    I let out a breath, eyes drifting toward ckwood Mance, Even from here,

    something tagged at me-like fishing line hooked under my ribs, connecting me to that mark on her neck, that body Ed imed, that woman who''d somehow burmed under my skin when I wasn''t looking

    "It''s messy."

    4." I finally admitted, hating how pathetic it sounded. "She.

    "Life''s messy." Tyler said, leaning against a tree trunk. "Wolf Life''s meer. But some messes are worth jumping into face-fint."

    Binds chirped in the awkward silence while I wrestled with thoughts I hadn''t let myself fully form. "She made it crystal clear this moming-professional only," I said finally, "Better for everyone that way."

    "Better, or just safer?" Tyler shot back, eyes suddenly sharp. "Sometimes the best things are the ones that scare the hell out of you."

    A rumble built in my throat, but there wasn''t any real bite to it. "Enough," I said, mouth quirking despite myself. "Back to ckwood, Got actual problems to deal with today."

    "Right," Tyler''s grin spread like wildfire as he headed for the horses. Like pretending you''re not watching a certain green-eyed warrice kick your son''s bull all afternoon."

    I flipped him off, but hisughter chased me all the way to my horse.

    finally escaped the day''s political bullshit. The The moon was just peeking over the horizon, pairing ckwood''s imposing silhouette in siber when 1 second I pushed through the heavy oak doors, her scent hit me like a physical thing-that distinctive mix that was purely A-making my wolf pare restlessly under my skin. Lucas stood in the middle of the great hall, arma iling as he showed Ava some borate fighting move bed clearly invented on the spot. She watched with that half-smile that transformed het fare, making her look younger, soller Somehow. Sophia floated down the curved staircase, and trailing behind her-

    Steven.

    JA

    1 froze mid-step, binin stuttering to catch up. How the hell bad i forgotten my nephe today-something that hadpletely slipped my mind alterst night

    viting! The northern pack his had been scheduled to arrive

    developments.

    More surprising was watching Aca stillen when she spotted hits, like she''d alus forgotten this appointment, Steven, oblivious to the oddes drop, strede straight toward her with that easy confidence all Morgans seemed boom with. He pped her shoulder canally, and antjething hot and ugly trated up inside me, a warning growd building helme I could slim it back down.

    spun toward the window, needing a second to wrangle whatever tertitmial bullshit was happhing in my chest. Through the hall

    Steven''s animated voice telling Ava about some ancient northern pack legend. The story pulled that rare, throaty leigh from her the kind I''d only brand a handful of times, usually never directed at me.

    "Catch yots tomorrow, Ava said, gathering her training bag. She waved to Lacan and Sophia, then turned-and-our eyescked across the space. Something electric tapped between us. Her lips pasted like she might say something, anything, but then she just gave a quick nod and practically bolted, leaving me Feeling like scene had sucked all the oxygen from the mum.

    "Dinners

    ready.

    Wilson''s starchy voice cut to my thoughts.

    "Thank god. I''m starving, Sophia grinned, hending Loras found the

    Steven broke away

    dining room,

    way from the family migration, heading straight for me with an expression that set off every warning hell I had. My eyes fucked toward the dining room-definitely not the time or ce for whatever bomb he was about to drop.

    "Uncle ke, he spoke just above a whisper, making sure only I would hear, "aboutst-wight, I heard what happened:

    Every muscle in my body locked up, heart hammering against my ribs. Last night- Awa naked and willing beneath me, her scent permanently tattooed into my sheets-had someone talked

    "The condition you and Tyler found her in, Steven continued, his face darkening, "what those animals did to her..

    Relief hit me like a bucket of cold water. He only knew about the rescue. "We got there in time," I said tersely, not wanting to revisit those image

    "There''s no in time''.

    for something like that, Uncle, genuine emotion roughened his voice. If you''d shown up even ten minutester-

    "But we didn''t," I cut him off, "she''s safe now.

    "That''s exactly it," his eyes burned with an intensity I rarely saw in my easy-going nephew. "You don''t get what this means, Seeing her standing here today. still able to smile after what they put her through..."

    "You''ve got feelings for her," I stated tly, not bothering to wrap it as a question.

    Steven met my stare bead-on. "Never met anyone like her-builds walls ten feet high but still fights like hell for everyone else. Carries all that pain but doesn''t let it crush her."

    Something hot and possessive red in my chest, but I forced it down, keeping my face the nk mask expected of the Alpha King.

    "You should know," Steven suddenly dropped his voice even lower, "the full moon festival is approaching. I was thinking.....¡± he hesitated, uncertainty shing across his features, "I want to invite Ava as mypanion. Do you think she''d ept?"

    This by wie Hipna King

 Bad Husband 108

    Steven''s q

    uestion puncheil me in the gut, though I didn''t let it shows. The Full Moon Festival wasn''t just some dater-it was o where pack alliances shifted. potential mates were publicly imed.

    Him taking he would be like putting a neon sign ever her head Mine

    My well wed beneath my skin, demanding i stake my im first. I swallowed the growl building in my thent,

    "That''s up to her," I managed, my voler eroder than I de?L

    "Right," Steven nodded, eyes searching my face. Just wanted to check It woulds ... ruffle pour fur

    1 kept my expression nk-a skill mastered through

    our most sacred gathering.

    alplus polition-but my hands betrayed me, curling into fists at my sides. "Why the hell would

    "Because

    Steven shifted his weight, watching me like I was a bomb he might identally trigger, Tve seen how you look at her. Not the way you look at Tyler or Wilson or any other person who works for you.

    The hallway suddenly felt too small for two alphas dancing around an unspoken challenge. Moonlight cut shadows between us, itching our silhouette against the stone wall.

    "You''ve got it wrong." I said, words sharp enough to cut. "Rivers trains my son. That''s it. Who she spends time with in my business"

    Steven studied me, head slightly tilted. I could practically hear him sorting truth from bullshit. Finally, his shoulders rxed a fraction. "d to hear it. Thanks for being straight with me, Uncle."

    As he headed toward the dining room, I stayed frozen, my wolf raging against my ribs, howling trainor with every heartbeat. The logical part of my brain tried to justify it-Awa deserved someone uplicated. Someone whose life wasnt a political minefield. Someone like Steven, with his northern pack

    inheritance and easy smile.

    But logic couldn''t touch the raw ache spreading through my chest at the thought of her beside him, wearing his colors, carrying his scent.

    I dragged myself toward dinner, each step heavier than hauling a boulder uphill.

    By the time I walked in, the dining hall glowed with finelight that softened the edges of a brutal day. Lacas bounced in his chair like hed chugged ten sodas while Sophia and Steven huddled together whispering something that made them both smile. Tyler stood nearby, his stance casual bat eyes alent-always th protector, even during family time.

    ''Look what the wind blew in, Sophia teased, tossing her hair over one shoulder. "We were about to send a search party."

    I dropped into my chair, breathing in the small slice of normal life around me: "Got caught up with festival stall."

    Wilson appeared with servers carrying steaming tters. The rich smell of coasted meat cut through the tension I''d carried in from the hallway

    "How''d the rate you today?" I asked Lucas, carefully avoiding her name as I grabbed my wine ss.

    Lucas beamed, practically vibrating with excitement/She said I nailed my defensive stancet And Hunter found all three hidden targets without any help!"

    That dog follows her around like she''s made of baron," Sophiaughed. "Been that way since day one. Makes someone jealous."

    "Does not!" Lucas protested, his ears turning the color of fire truck.

    "Animals can spot the real deal," Steven remarked, twirling his wine ss. "They don''t fall for fake

    I stabbed my venison harder than necessary, focusing on the te instead of the hot spike of irritations at Steven''s obvious admiration.

    Festival prep going okay?" I changed subjects, ncing around the table,

    erd Lucas yfully

    "All set. Sephia nodded, sening down her silverware. My

    fummit in years. Pretty much may pork that matten i showing up

    "We''re bringing our vignature moonlight wine. Nesen added with a hint of pride. Chalybeaks for special asiona

    Thought this year''s theme Wall

    (70 Tyler chimed in, inching closer to the conversation.

    Sophia''s Ener lit up. "Each pack gets to show off their traditions and strengths. There''ll be rintal fights and bloodline ceremonies. She leaned forward, Inwering her visie. Words Said that it''s the biggest festival in forever could shake up who stands where in the pack order:

    1 caught Steven watching me, measuring my reactions. The conversation difted through pack politics and ceremonial detail, with Lucas jumping in about possibly demonstrating his tracking skills with Hunter.

    I mostly pushed food around my te, my dad stuck on an image of Ava in traditional festival clothes, her fence green eyes standing out against ceremonial paint. If she went with Steven, everyone would see it as a pairing announcement. The thought burned worse then silver against skin.

    As Wilson cleared dessert tes, Tyler bent near move, she might not be there anymore."

    chair, his voice harely a whisper. "Some doors don''t stay open forever, boss. By the time you make a

    I shot him a re that would make most wolves piss themselves, but he just raised an eyebrow, thirty years of friendship making him immune to my alpha

    After dinner wrapped, I escaped to the terrace alone. The forest stretched dark and silent under a half-moon, smelling of pine and earth and fallen leaves. The scent reminded me of her skin, of how it felt under my hands that night when everything changed.

    For just a moment, I let the Alpha King mask slip. No politics, no responsibilities, no centuries of tradition weighing me down, hast a man facing the truth he''d been dodging for weeks

    "Maybe some things matter more than duty." I whispered to the night air, tasting the dangerous freedom of those words.

    Then reality crashed back. The pack needed stability. The alliance with Shadow Creek was fragile. Lucas needed consistent parenting. And A... Ava deserved better than being dragged into myplicated life.

    My wolf snarled its disagreement, pating restlessly beneath my skin, refusing to ept the choice my human side had made.

    The next time I saw Ava, would the already be wearing Stevens colors, iming her

    in protest, a sound 1 buried deep within my chest where only I could hear it. ce beside the northern heir? The thought alone made my wolf howl

    My foot paused on the threshold, suspended between the freedom of the open night and the responsibility waiting inside. For just one heartbeat more, I allowed myself to imagine a different path-one where duty and desire weren''t opposing forces

    Then I stepped inside, back into the role I was born to y, leaving those dangerous thoughts outside under the watchful moon.

    Chapter Comments

    Tracy Gordon

    POST COMMENT

    seems this is definitely a freight train headed straight to hell. no stops or slow downs. all the angst is killing my desire to see these 2 get together. seems even true mates c...

    Mike

    welp never mind they''re both back tk deny, deny, deny and gling for heartbreak on

    a full speed out of control train

    View All 2 Comments

    5

 Bad Husband 109

    I double checked my rising bag, making sure all blinder meir focked away securely. Lall thing I needed was a dagger slicing through fabric and lea on the way home. The afternoon sun hit the Academy urtyard at that golden hour angle that turned everything out, a mark contrast to the brutalbat. drills we''d just wozpped upk

    H practically tackled me from behind, her arms locking around my waist. "Next week''s group testini -don''t faker"

    I spun armand, raising an rychres. "And what else am I supposedly not forgetting

    "Seriously?" She rolled her eyes with the dramatic ir only E could pull off "The Moon Festival everyone knows Steven''s back."

    and tall, Mond, and royalf Dort y dunch -

    My fingers twitched toward my cor, making site the mark stayed bilden. That damn thing had been shifting from Jacksons silver to unmething else wa warm gold that seemed to pulse whenever he got close.

    "We hung out a couple times. Nothing earth shattering." I muttered, shahing my bag to the other shoulder.

    E snorted. "Yeah, and I meenlight as the Goddess herself"

    If the only knew how messy things really were. Since that night with ke-God, that night that reyed in my head like a finvorite song stuck on repeat- we''d done this awkward dance around each other. Professionally polite in public, carefully distant in private. Then there was Steven, who''d kissed me before everything went to hell. Nice enough, but nothing like the wildline that zed through me when ke touched

    "Steven''s cool," I

    with a shrug. "But I''ve got enough on my te"

    "What-teaching some rich kid how to punch? E leaned in, lowering her voice to a conspiratorial whisper. ''Do you have any idea how many she wolves would trade ces with you in a heartbeat? Alpha heir material doesn''t just fall into yourp every day."

    I kicked at a loose pebble. Trust me, that spotlight burns more than it tters." ¡°Hopeless,¡± she sighed, giving my shoulder a light show. "Look, if he asks you to the festival, you''d be an idiot to say no. It''s only the most romantic night in wolf culture, but whatever."

    cause stuffy ceremonies are totally my scene," I shot back, shaking my head. "Plus, Lucas''s training"

    *Right, because

    "How are you holding up?" E cut in, her yful tone vanishing. "?nce... you know."

    My muscles locked up before I could stop them. The silver burns had healed fine, but the other scars-i

    -being drugged, feeling my body betray me while my mind screamed in protest, that bone-deep terror-those weren''t going anywhere soon.

    "Burns healed," I said simply. "Sleeps still a work in progress."

    "Whenever you want to talk..." She let the offer hang in the air.

    I nodded, grateful but eager to shift gears. "Gotta jet. Lucas is waiting."

    "One day," E''s face cracked into that mischievous grin 1 knew meant trouble, "you''re gonna spill what really goes on in that mansion that''s got you walking around in a daze."

    It crawled

    Heat

    I up my neck. "I teach a kid to fight. That''s the headline."

    "Sure," sheughed. "And that dreamy look you get has nothing to do with a certain stored Alpha with shoulders that don''t quit."

    "There''s nothing" I started 100

    A sleek ck carriage with the Silverpeak crest rolled up to the Academy gates, cutting me off. Instead of the mual stone faced driver, Sephia''s blonde hea popped out, bright as sunshine.

    "Aval" she called, waving Finally tracked you doen!"¡ª

    I watched, momentarily freeen, an kes daughter hopped garefully from the

    carriage and heated our way. After what and bed

    in that cer, facing death side by side-umething had shifted batire us. Something neither of us had expected.

    "Sophia?" I Blinked, "What are you doing here?

    She wrapped me is a quick hug, smelling of expensive perfume and safety.

    Tomised Father to let me y chauffeur instead of seriding the

    E''s eyebrows disappeared into her hairline, fascination written all over her face.

    I shot her a printed look.

    "See you next week," I said, my tone making it clear the conversation was over. She backed away, grinning. "Remember what i said?"

    Once

    e E was out of earshot, Sophia''s bright smile dimmed. Teels like we haven''t really

    "How''s recovery treating you?" I asked quietly, scanning our surroundings out of habit,

    "The physical stuff''s fine." She lowered her voice. "But I still wake up thinking I''m back in that cer sometimes. Her ble eyes-sol like her father''s searched mine. "If you hadn''t been there with me..

    "You''d have figured something out," I said, squeezing her hand. "You''ve got more steel in you than you know."

    "That ce changed things," she said, holding onto my hand. "Before that night, I didn''t have anyone I could really trust. Not like this."

    Something warme bloomed in my chest. For someone who''d built her life around staying detached, having Sophia friendship felt surprisingly right-plicated as hell given my feelings for her father, but genuine.

    "I had this idea," she continued, her eyes brightening again. "Instead of heading straight back to the mansion, we could take a little detour

    I nced at my watch. "Lucas is expecting me-

    in with a dismissive wave. "Told Father we needed to hit the trading zone. He

    rescheduled Lucas forter."

    "Already handled," she

    e cut in

    My eyebrow shot up.

    "ke actually agreed to that? He''s been watching you like a hawktely."

    She pointed toward a second carriage parked down the street. "Tyler and the security detail are our shadows for the day. After what happened... well, Father''s not taking chances."

    I spotted Tyler''s broad shoulders by the second carriage, his eyes constantly scanning for threats. Ar least ke was serious about keeping het safe.

    "Need to grab some things for the Moon Festival, Sophia exined, already steering me toward her carriage. "Could use a warrior''s perspective."

    "Why me?" I asked, not bothering to hide my suspicion.

    A sly smile curved her lips. "Because I need to look elegant but still battle-ready.

    Plus," she added casually, "Steven mentioned you''ll be hispanion for the evening."

    I felt my steps falter slightly. "Steven said what now? I asked, blinking in surprise.

 Bad Husband 110

    Ava''s POY

    "A few days ago," Sophia replied with a casual shrug. He ran it by Father, who gave it his stamp of

    "He''s nning to take me to the festival?" I tucked a strand of hair behind my ear, trying to process this news. "And he hasn''t bothered mentioning it to me

    "Wait-you didn''t know?" Sophia''s eyes widened. ''t just suumed he''d talked to you already."

    "We spoke briefly the morning after... I trailed off, guilt pricking at my conscience. "Hut nothing since then."

    "God, I''m so sorry." She bit her lip. "I wouldn''t have blurted it out like that if I''d koosen."

    "Don''t worry about it." I managed a small smile, though confusion swirled inside Steven before making any decision."

    like leaves caught in a whirlwind. I just need to have a chat with

    Something twisted in my chest-a jumble of feelings I couldn''t untangle if I tried. My fingers drifted to my neck where the mark pulsed warm beneath my touch. I''d been the one who''d told ke we needed to keep things strictly professional. So why did his blessing of Steven''s n feel like a pebble in my shoe?

    "ke''s on board with this?" I asked, keeping my tone light despite the circus in my head.

    "He seemed to think you''d be good together," Sophia nodded. "Called Steven a suitable choice, whatever that means."

    "Huh." I fidgeted with the strap of my bag. "Surprising, considering my training schedule with Lucas."

    Sophia studied me for a moment, her head tilted lightly. "Look, I know this in out of nowhere, but would you considering? We could make it foursome-you, me, Steven, andckson."

    My body tensed at Jackson''s name. The man who''d marked me, walked away, then left me chained in that cer when he chose to save Sophia instead.

    Sophia noticed my reaction immediately. "You two wouldn''t have to talk. You''d barely see each other in the crowd

    "I''m not sure it''s a great idea, Sophia."

    Her confident facade cracked, revealing something fragile underneath. "Ever since that night, I can''t sleep through the night. I close my eyes and I''m back there-the smell, the silver burning into my skin." She wrapped her arms around herself. "Father watches me like I might shatter. I''ve gone from daughter to ss figurine." Her voice warned. "You''re the only one who really gets it. Who was there."

    Looking into her eyes, I saw the same shadows that haunted my own reflection- that particr brand of fear that only survivors recognize in each other.

    "III think about it," I sighed, feeling my resolve crumble. "But I need to talk to Steven first."

    "That''s all I''m asking." Her face brightened like sunshine breaking through clouds.

    We fell silent as the carriage rolled through the trading zone. My thoughts ping- ponged wildly-Steven''s kiss at Moon Falls, that mind-blowing night with Make, and now this festival bombshell.

    What a mess I''ve made, I thought, watching buildings blur past the window. Kissing Steven one night, the falling into Maker''s bed the next. Some virus warrior I am. I almost smiled at the irony. The Academy''s top fighter, defeated by her own terrible judgment in men and from the same family, no lei.

    Our carriage stopped outside a shop draped with gs from every major pack. Inside, fabrics caught the light in ways that made it clear I couldn''t afford a handkerchief from this ce, let alone actual clothing.

    "Morgan Miss," a willowy shopkeeper practically folded herself in half with her how. "How may we serve you today?"

    "Festival preparations," Sophia answered with practiced grace. This is my friend Ava Rivers, Warr Academy champica fighter."

    The woman''s eyes widened. "Rivers? The Ava Riven? Three time trials champion?"

    I shifted my weight, i

    unmfortable v

    with the recognition. "That''s me

    "My niece brain at the Academy!" she gushed. "Has your poster on her wall!"

    While Sophia Bitted between rows of borate posens, I hing back, feeling as out of ce as a wolf in a chicken o

    "The festival''s our chance to flex." Sophia exined, holding up garments that probably cost more

    "I just need something that won''t make me stick mul," I mattered.

    Sephia''sugh bubbled up. "The opposite, actually. As Steven''s plus-one, you''re

    a reflection of his choice. You need to turn heads."

    The shopkeeper returned with what looked like liquid moonlight poured into fabric form. My stomach knotted when I spotted the neckline.

    That''s... pretty low-cut," I said, wring the silver warrior ceremonial dress

    Sophia tilted her head. You could always add jewelry. Maybe a choker?"

    "I''ve been into higher necklinestely," I said, trying to sound casual. "Since when?" Her eyes narrowed yfully. "Got a secret hiding under there?" The fitting room was bigger than my entire bathroom at home. Once alone, I carefully examined the mark in the mirror-gold had nearly consumedckson''s sher brand, with just traces of silver remaining at the edges. How could 1 possibly exin this to anyone?

    "Awa? Everything okay in there?" Sophia called after I''d been silent too long.

    1 hastily wrapped a scarf around my neck. "Fine! Just wrestling with all these weird sps."

    When 1 stepped out, Sophia''s jaw actually dropped

    "Holy-"She pressed her hand to her heart. "You look incredible."

    I turned to the mirror, barely recognizing the woman staring back. The silver dress somehow managed to honor both sides of me-the warriors strength in

    its clean lines, and a feminine grace I typically ignored. The fabric rippled with each movement, like I was wrapped in captured moonlight.

    "Warriors don''t typically essorize with scarves, Sophia noted, eyeing my makeshift cover

    adjusted it stubbornly. "I''m cold

    "You''ve been different since that night," she said softly.

    I tagged at the scarf. "Just like my neck warm these days."

    "Fathers changed too, she mused, almost to herself. "States into space during council meetings. Trains like he''s fighting ghosts. Even the Elders havemented on it "

    My pulse quickened. "Festival nning probably had him stressed."

    Her smile turned knowing, "Maybe. I just worry about you both

    I turned back to my reflection, fiddling with the dress. This would work, if I decide to go. But li

    1 need to talk to Steven first."

    "Of course," she nodded. "But please consider it? I cold use a friend who doesnt

    look at me like I might break.

    I studied my reflection this strange hybrid of warrior and woman, strength and vulnerability wrapped in silver and whispered, ''Ill think about it."

    I turned toward Sophia with a light smile. ¡°I''m supposed to be helping you, but

    somelone Tat (one ying dress-up. Your toen nov

    As I moved in step down from the fitting tform, I collided with a woman 1 helst

    noticed entering the fitting area

    Chapter Comments

    4

 Bad Husband 111

    Bad Husband 111

    Avan Poy

    1 stepped down from the bating tform and smarked right into someone. Sophia was still fossing with her dress hem when we both locked up.

    "Watch where you''re going, traitor''s brat, a mice like winter freat cut thenugh the shop

    stuck to her shoe. Her perfect mikrop couldn''t

    I found myself face to face with Amber Collins-Make''ste wife s sister looking at me like I was something stu hide the absolute loathing in her re

    We''d crossed paths before at ckwood, when the nd diggers at me while Risk and I discussed Lucas training. But today? The glenes were off

    "Hey, Ms. Collins," I said, my body automatically shifting into fight ready mode, Give me fangs and ss any day dealing with rich wolfdies with territory issues was way worse.

    Her eyes crawled over my silver dess, taking in how it hugged my warrior hame while still looking feminine. Her lip curled up like the tasted mething

    Your

    That dress is wasted on you," she purred with veinm beneath the sweetness. She snapped her fingers at the shopkeeper like summoning a dog. ''III take it."

    The shopkeeper hustled over, her customer-service smile straining at the corners while her eyes bounced between as the

    "How can I help, Ms. Collins?" she asked, voice tight

    "This dress." Amber jabbed a manicured finger toward me. "Find something more fitting for our Shadow Creek visitor" She spat my pack''s name like tasted bad.

    Sophia went rigid beside me. I could practically feel het hackles rising

    The shopkeeper tugged at her cor. "I''m sorry, but this is ourst piece, and Miss Rivers has already imed it."

    Amber''s face hardened. "Do you know who I am" She tossed her hair back. "Im Amber Collins, Morgan family, I don''t hear no very

    I nted my feet. "Well,

    1, hear it now. I''m wearing it. I''m buying in

    Her nostrils red as she circled me. "Who do you think you are? Some nobody warrior from that joke of a pack,peting with me? Her voice dropped to a stage whisper. "Your bloodline''s so watered down you probably can''t even shift properly anymore.

    My stomach dropped. Blood purity insults-the nuclear option in wolf society.

    "Can you even fully shift, Rivers? Or do you just sprout some pathetic half-fur like those metts Shadow Creek''s been letting in?" Her smile tumed nasty. "Maybe daddy betrayed your pack because you aren''t real wolves anymore,

    My wolf wed inside me, begging to rip her smug face off I dug my nails into only prove her right.

    my palms, forcing myself to breathe. Stuning shit in neutral territory would

    1 don''t need to prove my bloodline to you," I said, voice steady despite the rage bubbling underneath.

    "Amber Collins!" Sophia''s voice cracked like a whip, her father''s authority shing in her eyes. "Back eff. Now.

    Amber nked like she''d just noticed Sophia, her face instantly rearranging into fake sweetness. "Oh, Sophia honey, just having friend"

    chat with your

    "Chat?" Sophia''s voice went sub-zero. "You''re questioning her blood purity in public. Even i know that''s crossing the line here."

    in was actually defreding me. Around us, customers were turning to watch the drama, some with curious eyes

    Amber''s mask slipped when she realized Suphia was drinking in every detail.

    "Don''t you

    find it weird, Amber pressed, "how your father suddenly fixated on this traitor''s daughter?" She looked me up and down Training Luce, Marin

    her Into Blickweed, bringing hai in the Mam Festival." She fled her head. "Lakes you wonder what there wally offelna hlings

    Something snapped inside me. Involt me all day, but suggesting Bakre tippe?t wat herkute eft... that? My hands del inti Beri

    "I train Lucas because I can kick ass better than most,'' I gomiled. "I live at filschonend in die aty jobs. And as for the Monn festival - I bet my finger,

    realising Til nearly walked inin het trap.

    Her eyes lit up "67 Has ke asked you to be bispanion?

    progressive. The Alpha King with trash from

    "Tet mal." Sophia rolled her eyes. "Bad haan 1 asked anyone.

    "Then why the remonial dress?" Aimbes niched an eyelnos, "Going stag? Or

    perhaps metrone else has ns for her?

    Not your business, Nont Amber"

    * Sophia''s volge was sweet polson.

    Amber''s face cycled through shock, anger, and calction before settling onke civility. ¡°Just looking out for the family name, sweetie. We wouldn''t want certain... clements at the Moon Festival"

    "Nobody appointed you gatekeeper. Sophia''s words could''ve frozen fire.

    Amber looked between us, huffed dramatically, and flicked her wrist dismissively. "That dress is practically off-the rack anyway. Beneath

    She stalked off, heels stabbing the floor like she

    trying to kill it.

    I let out a breath I didn''t know I was holding. Fighting actual monsters took less out of me than these society showdowns

    "God, what a nightmare, Sophia muttered, watching Amber leave. "She''s been trying to w her way into Dad''s bed since Mom died."

    Thanks for the backup," I said, genuinely touched. "I didn''t expect that." "Please." Sophia bumped my shoulder with hers. That''s what friends do. Plus, watching her perfect Botox face crack? Priceless.¡±

    1ughed, feeling the tension leak away. "Park politics follows you everywhite, huh? Can''t even try on a dress in peace."

    "Tell me about it." She nudged me toward the changing room. "Hurry up and change. We''ve got ces to be, and Lucas a waiting for his ass-kickingter."

    Back in the changing room, I peeled off the dress and palled on myly training clothes. The dress was gorgeous, but damn, my worn-in gear felt like home. Fancy clothes or not, I was still e-Shadow Creek born and alsed, no matter what Silverpeak snobs thought.

    When we got to the counter, the shopkeeper had our things wrapped in tissue paper

    "Your totales to... She named a figure that made my eyes bug out.

    Holy shit. That was almost half a year''s sry for me. My hand instinctively patted my empty pocket.

    Sophia caught my expression and squeezed my arm. "Tyler''s covering it. Dad''s orders."

    "But that''s way too much, I whispered, feeling my face heat up

    "Oh stop." Sophia grinned. The look on Amber''s your A-game."

    I''d almost forgotten. "About that- I started.

    face was worth it. Besides," the added with a wink, "if you''re hitting the Moon Festival, you need to bring

    She put a finger to her lips and nced meaningfully around. "Save it for lunch. Tou masy ears here."

 Bad Husband 112

    The moment Sophia finished speaking. Tyler auf two Gamta quands strolled in, nodding briefly to the shopkeeper before pulling a small puch matord with the Bikesprak crest from inside his jacket. He exchanged a few hushed words with her, and the transaction wrapped up fast,

    The Gammas carefully gathered ontwerpped packages. I shot Tyler grateful look, which he acknowledged with a simple nod friendly flickreed in his eyes.

    Outside, Amber was nowhere to be seen-small mercies, Sophia suggested lunch at a quiet neutral zone restaurant, and we invited Tyler and his Gammas ta join us rather than hover at nearby tables,

    "After what happenedst time, nobody''s letting us wander off alone," Sophia said quietly, her eyes darkening momentarily, I knew exactly what she me that night we were kidnapped had forged a connection between us that most people couldn''t understand.

    Throughout lunch, Sophia avoided sensitive topics, but when we climbed back into the carriage bound for ckwood, the finally spokesp

    "Steven talked to my fatherst night," the said, veice Ins. "About asking you to the Moon Festival."

    My heart kicked up a notch. I gestured for her to continue,

    "Father... approved." Sophia watched my face carefully. Without much objection, actually."

    Something twisted in my chest that I couldn''t quite name.

    The Moon Festival is a big deal for wolves," she continued: "You don''t jest bring anyone. It''s usually... a statement about rtionships.

    I nodded, my throat suddenly tight. I understoodpletely-showing up with Steven would signal to the entire wolfmunity that we were together.

    "Steven will ask you formally," Sophia said, her eyes holding something I couldn''t read. Past wanted to give you a heads-up!

    Thanks, I murmured, not sure if I should feel excited or terrified

    Back at ckwood, I headed straight for the training grounds where Lucas was already waiting, eager to show off his archery progress. Watching this innocent kid brought a strange calm-at least here, my role was clear, unlike the tangled mess of my personal life.

    Dwa, I hit the bulkeye!" He pointed proudly of a target with an arroy dead center.

    work, little wanior," I sled, raffling his hair. "Keep that focus up and you''ll outshoot me soon."

    Nice w

    Halfway through training, I spotted Steven at the edge of the field. He wore the deep blue robes unique to northern packs, his blonde hair catching the sunlight. He approached us with an easy smile.

    "Afternoon, warriors, he greeted. How''s training going?"

    Lucas eagerly demonstrated a few new moves for his uncle before returning to his archery practice with intense concentration.

    Steven moved closer to me. Got a minute?"

    Seeing Lucaspletely absorbed in his practice, nodded. Steven gently took my

    wrist, leading me to the shade at the training ground edge.

    "I''m guessing you''ve heard," he started directly. The Moon Festival is this weekend."

    I nodded. "Sophia mentioned something."

    "I''d like to formally invite you as mypanion, he continued, his eyes bright with sincerity. It would be the perfect opportunity to show all the packs

    what''s between us."

    I hesitated. Though Sophia had told ine ke apprised this arrangement, my heart had been torn in tale that night in B should keep mir distance, but that decision was proving bander than Ed experiet.

    "Steven, I''m not sure this is a good idea..." I said sobily, booking an

    it because we don''t kume each eher well enough? Concern tinged his voice. "I thought after that night at Mon Falls,

    1 remembered his kas by the waterfall. 11 hadn''t been had, butpared to the soul-shattering feeling Make pase mer, it was barely a flip

    "It''s not that," I rushed to exin. "My situation''s just,plicated right

    Before I could borate, Sophia appeared at the edge of the field, walking toward

    un

    "Lucas is asking for you," she smiled. "I told him you were discussing the festival. Her eyes med between Steven and me. "So? Have you epted my cousin''s invitation, a

    Steven''s expression instantly tightened with anticipation.

    Sophia must have caught my hesitation because she leaned closer, lowering her voice. ''Come on, Av. It be fun. We can get ready together, make you the most stunning warrior there. Think about it- female wantor from Shadow Creek, invited by an Alpha family heir... it be a p in the face to everyone who''s looked down on you."

    I hadn''t considered that angle. Attending the festival could boost my standing, maybe even help people reconsider their doubts about my father.

    "Besides," Sophia added, her voice dropping further, "if you''re worried about... other things... I can promise Father won''t mind. He told me so himself

    A sharp painnced through my chest. ke wouldn''t mind? Those words stabbed like a knife. Maybe that night hadn''t meant to him what it had to me. I don''t believe it!

    Fine, I finally answered, my

    w voice steadier than I felt. "I''ll go."

    Steven''s face lit up like I''d just handed him the world''s most precious gift. That''s fantastic! I promise you won''t regret it, Ava."

    He leaned down to ce a chaste kiss on my cheek, the innocent gesture only confirming my heart no longer belonged to me

    "See you then," I nodded politely, watching him exchange a few words with Sophia before leaving, joy evident in his stride..

    Sophia turned to me, her expressionplicated. "Thank you for saying yes. It means a lot to him."

    "I hope I don''t disappoint him," I admitted. "But I''m not sure...

    "Don''t worry," Sophia reassured me. "The Moon Festival is just one night, not a lifetimemitment." She paused. "And I promise, you won''t face those noble wolves alone. We''ll stand together."

    dded gratefully, though the tangled knot in my chest didn''t loose one bit

    "I should get back to Lucas''s traming," I said, turning toward the field.

    "Ava," Sophia called after me. "Whatever you d

    decide, remember you''re Shadow Creek''s bravest warrior. Don''t let ampones opinions change that.

    I smiled at her, appreciating the support, then rejoined Lucas.

    The boy was still practicing intently, lost in his own world. My eyes drifted imvoluntarily toward the main building of the Man office. A figure seemed to stand there, quietly watching the training grounds, but when I blinked again, the window was empty,

    bat tall windowke

    Maybe just my imagination. Or maybe ke really had been there, watching me

    I didn''t know which possibility broke my heart more.

 Bad Husband 113

    Blur Games lined the path to the festival gemurda, dancing shadows across ancient will naties. My heart raced in Steven wooden carriage, caned with northern pack-symbols, rolled tin a stop. El pone for in for with more wolves and survived, but being surrounded by hundreds of wolves in Calley praps had me rating buller,

    "You''re a knockout, Steven whispered, his hand resting on my back as we walked

    in

    I stood taller, feeling eyes on us from every direction. The silver dress fit perfectly, but I stuck out like a sore thumb among these born with-a-silent-spon wolves.

    Two older guards stepped in our way, sizing me up.

    "Who''s this?" one asked, suspicious but not hostile.

    Before I could open my mouth, Sophia appeared out of nowhere, grabbing my hand with a smile,

    "Just smile and nod," she whispered. "OM traditions. Don''t overthink it."

    I rxed a bit with her beside me. Then Jackson showed up behind her, and my gut twisted. He shed some fancy emblem, and the guards practically fell over themselves clearing the way.

    Steven showed his northern pack token, and they bowed even deeper. They looked curious about me, but not mean Still I couldn''t shake feeling like I didn belong.

    Inside the main za, I couldn''t help but stare. A huge blue bonfire lit up wolves dancing to drum beats that seemed to vibrate is my bones. Something in the air made my wolf stir, like she wanted to break free and join them.

    "Wow," I breathed, looking up at the moon hanging impossibly close. "Feels

    could reach out and touch it.''

    Steven gently rubbed my hand. "First festival, huh?

    "Is it that obvious? Iughed, feeling like a rookie.

    He nodded toward the dancers. "Don''t sweat it. This is about cutting pose, not following rules."

    All around us, wolves from different packs mingled in outfits that told stories I couldn''t read.

    *Packs get together to make deals, catch up with old friends, sometimes find mates," Steven exined, watching everyone with practiced ease.

    I looked around, feeling lost. "I don''t know the first thing about how this works."

    "It''s not rocket science," he smiled. "Want a drink?"

    "Anything but that blue glowing stuff," I said, eyeing some weird liquid going around.

    Steven grinned. "Moon nectar? Not your thing?"

    "Last time I tried it, couldn''t feel my tongue for hours," I admitted.

    Heughed and gave my hand a squeer. "I''ll grab something taster. Hang tight."

    Alone in the crowd, I tried not to look as out of ce as I felt. I focused on the decorations-wolf symbols carved in stone,nterns hanging everywhere, strange flowers that seemed to glow

    "Ava!" Sophia''s voice snapped me back as the headed over, Jackson in tow. "There you are! Having fun!"

    Estreightened up, feeling barkson''s eyes all over nit. His unile sermed blendly enmal, but someth

    "It''s great," I lied. "Steven''s getting drinks."

    "That dress is amazing on viu, Sophia gushed. "Siher''s totally your ralert

    Jackson nodded. "You wew it well. Not many warriors could pull it off."

    His words sounded nice, but I caught the die drinath. Every syble from him was salt in old wounds.

    "You guys look great together," I managed, the words bitter in my mouth. "Comer again.".

    Jackson pulled Sophia closer. Thanks Lucklest guy in the world."

    Sophia beamed, gling against him. "We''re still figuring out wedding stuff. You have toe!!

    Guilt hit me like a truck. Here was Sophia, no clue about my history with Jackson-or worse, with her dad. Some friend I was.

    Steven showed up with drinks, saving me from my thoughts.

    "Hope I didn''t take too long, he said with a nod. "Hayes, Sophia"

    Jackson nodded back. "Morgan. Heard your northern festival was killer this year."

    "Maybe you''ll see it next time," Steven said smoothly

    The drums got louder, catching Sophia''s attention. "Look! The moon dance!" She lugged Jackson''s arm. "Come on,

    She turned to me with a smile. "Need anything, just holler, okay?"

    babe!"

    As they walked off, Jackson looked back at me a beat too long, sending chill down my spine despite the warm night.

    Steven

    handed me

    drink. "They look happy

    I nodded stiffly, not trusting myself to talk about Jackson. The drink was sort, and I hoped it might wash away the bad taste in my mouth.

    ke''s POV

    The crowd parted as I walked in, which only annoyed me more, Guards bowed low, like I might bite their heads off if they didn''t.

    "Morgan Alpha! Special seat?" The head guard bowed so low I thought he might fall over.

    "Other Alphas waiting, another added, voice dripping with respect.

    I waved them off without stopping. My dark blue robes with silver threading told everyone who I was better than any

    Tyler stuck close, watching for trouble. "Something''s off tonight. Too many packs in one spot always spells drama."

    introduction

    "You say that every month," 1 muttered. "Just I

    ned. "Just keep your eyes open."

    Young unmated females tilted their heads as I passed, their scents purposely sweetened. I ignored them all, just wanting to get through th

    "You could fake a smile, Tyler said under his breath. "Looking like you''d rather be getting a root canal"

    I grunted. "These things are all politics. Nobody''s having

    head home.

    As we neared the elders are N Nowork avable now, Please check your

    beacon.

    va stood there in that liver dress, showing off every curve of her waiter body: Among all the beautiful without trying:

    I stopped walking, raught off guard. "What the hell is she doing here!

    Tyler followed my gaze. "Looks like your nephew brought your warrior girl,"

    My eyes narrowed. "When did he invite her? Why didn''t I know?" "You signed off on it," 7

    Tyler reminded me, eyebrow raised. "He asked you directlyst week." vendrested pack mys.

    The memory clicked as sous as the wonds left my mouth. I had approved it, distracted by work and determined to keep my distance after that night.

    er like a predator.

    I looked from Steven at her side to Jackson watching her from across the za, his eyes fixed on her

    "Has that kid forgotten he''s marrying my daughter?" I growled, fist clenching.

    Tyler shrugged. "Young wolves. Thinking with the wrong brain."

    "Sophia should be the only woman he sees," I said though gritted teeth. "Or else..."

    I didn''t finish, but Tyler got it. So did my wolf, pacing inside me, wanting to cross

    that za and show everyone who was in change.

    And who Ava belonged with.

    Chapter Comments

    POST COMMENT

    Mike

    i welll woth how vague he was asking i can understand not being clued in on it

    haha. i do hope this wakes him up to her for real now though

    View 1 Comment

    5

 Bad Husband 114

    nded the elders council meeting with a fummand about bonder security. As the pack leaders filed mat, Tyler fell into step i

    You seemed a million miles away in there, he said, studying my face. That vein in your forehead been doing the che che all night

    Hinsernd Bim, my focus already on schon waited mutside.

    My eyes scanned the crowd motomatically, searching for silver-both the dren and that distinctive shade of moonlight caught in dark hair

    The elders are waiting for you at the big table," Tyler reminded me, nodding toward a raised tform where pack leaders gathered.

    I changed direction, heading toward

    refreshment area instead. "In a minite"

    Near the drink stations, I spotted Steven selecting beverages. The sight of my nephew reminded me instantly of his festivalpanion-Av. My jaw

    I followed Steven''s gaze and found her instantly. She stood alone near the edge of the gathering, wrapped in that silver ceremonial dress that hugged an curve of her warrior body. Unlike the other females with their fancy hairstyles and too much jewelry, Ann wer her hair in a simple updo with just a single se- positioned perfectly to hide her mark.

    Steven spotted me before I could slip away, his face lighting up as he approached, drinks in hand.

    Uncle! Didn''t think you''d be rubbing elbows with regr folks tonight," he joked, though I caught the nervous edge in his voice.

    I acknowledged him with a short nod, not trusting myself to sound normal.

    "About wa..." He shifted his weight slightly. I hope imiting her hasn''t stepped on any toes. She''s an amazing warrior, and I really admire her."

    1 arched an eyebrow, watching him squirm slightly under my stare.

    "She''s different," he continued, words tumbling out faster. Not just her looks- though she''s gorgeous-but her spirit. I think I might actually be falling for

    This kid falls for a new shelf every full moon, I thought, recalling his passionate derations about a tracker from the western packs just weeks ago.

    "She''s Lucas''s trainer," I answered evenly, hiding the possessiveness raging inside. She works for my family. Her choices are her own."

    Steven''s shoulders rxed slightly. "I''ll treat her right,'' he assured me. "She''s special"

    You have no idea how special, my wolf growled silently as Steven excused himself, heading back toward Ava with his drinks..

    I watched him go, shaking my head. Steven''s "true feelings changed direction fas

    Easter than a rabbit in a foxx chane.

    "Alpha King," a sultry voice called from behind me. Finally found you alone."

    I didn''t need to turn to reconize that voice, but I did anyway. Amber Collins stood there in a gold dress that left little to imagination, the neckline diving way too low while the back showed more skin than it covered. The medical team emblem hung from her neck-her only ticket to this gathering.

    "All by yourself?" she asked, moving closer than necessary. "I thought the Alpha King would have a date tonight."

    The festival is pack business," I replied, already looking for an escape route.

    kwarrior at your side? I''ve heard she''s quite special. Special enough

    Amberughed lightly, her fingers brushing my arm. "Not even that liule Shadow Creek.

    to score a room at ckwood Manor."

    My exp

    expression hardened. ''Ava is Lucas''s trainer. I don''t exin my decisions."

    "Of course not," she parted, pressing against my aim. ''Cosh me tone moon nectar? We muld drink and

    I mechanically returned two drinks, my attention already elsewhere. Across the clearing, Stevens had returned in Avax side. The sight of his resting her lower back sent a singe of aners through me that I barely contained

    Amber epted her dink with a practiced smile. Tve been thinking," she began, swirling the glowing.

    medical family joined with the Alpha line-it''s traditional, tight?

    Chapter Comments

    Mike

    Debbie Ward

 Bad Husband 115

    PAPERMIES

    in Lspotted Steven Trading Ava

    ward the dance area, his hand muting her with

    "Tine." I agreed shooils, allowing Amber in

    in pull me toward the e

    edge of the dance flone.

    In the center of the clearing. Ava moved with natural grace that mi wildest parts of our well souls. She kept careful distance from Steven,

    Hier movements were both powerful and floid, the wartier x strength showing in every controlled motion, tir malves were noticing tos, male gemi

    Amber practith glued hensell in me, her ser

    attention locked entirely on An

    attract, her body moving encar

    They say the moon nce shomi''s tjue ferling," Amber whispried. Thats why unmated wolves should be careful who they dance with "

    I nodded automatically, watching as the music slowed and Steven leaned down to whiter something in Avayar. She nidded, and be peroned a quick tien ten by hand before saving something and walking away.

    The relief in Avas posture was obvious. She waited until Steven disappeared into the crowd before slipping away toward the quiet terrace overlooking

    Gotta go.¡± I said abruptly, pulling away f

    from Ambers

    "ke?" Confusion filled her voice. The dance isn''t even over!"

    was already moving, following Ava''s path, my wolf practically howling beneath my skin. Every step away from the crowd eased something tight in my chest, every inch closer to her feeling increasingly right.

    I found her alone on the moonlit terrace, her face tilted upward to drink in the siber light. The moon transformed her dress into something magical, highlighting the strength in her shoulders and the curve of her neck where my mark waited beneath that strategic ne.

    Moving silently, I approached until I stood directly behind her, close enough to catch her scent-pine and wild berries and something uniquely Ava

    She sensed someone but didn''t turn. Finally back?" she murmured, still gazing up. This moonlight is beautiful..."

    She thought I was Steven. The mistake sent a thrill through me. Instead of correcting her, I let my fingers brush lightly against her bare shoulder, trailing

    down to her arm.

    The instant my skin touched hers, electricity sparked between us, the mark connection ring hot and demanding.

    around, eyes wi

    widening

    g when she saw me instrad of my nephew: "ke?"

    Before she could say another word, I pulled her against me, one hand settling at her waist while the other capped her cheek. The moon''s, magic make everything more intrise-her scent, the heat between in, the mark''s insistent pull.

    From the moment we touched, our wolves recupy each other, fighting to get closer. I could feel her mark burning beneath the aver pendant, gold threads pulsing with her racing heart

    "I thought you were Steven.." whispered, eyra darkening with confusion and want,

    "Forget him," I growled, voice dropping low, revealing how close my woll was to taking over.

    And then I was kissing her, iming her youth with all the hunger I''d been holding back. It had only been days since that night, but it felt like months of torture: Her taste-sweet and wild and perfect-filled my semes as the world around us disappeared unto nothing

 Bad Husband 116

    The moment ke''s lips leth mine, reality hit me like a bucket of cold water. The Alpha King of Silvespeak, ruler of all parks, Loras a father-kad nie under the moonlight. And 1, the daughter of a Shadow Creek traitor, had melted into itpletely, like I''d been dying of think my whole life. The way my heart raced screed de ball to death.

    My pulse went care, and the mark on my neck burned hat, each heathrat sending wares of pain and pleasure through my body. What the hell w happening? Bays ago in his bedroom si Machsenod, I''d told ke we needed to keep our distance. Nose here I was, kissing him under the meelight like tematres might never rome.

    1

    What was I doing? What about Lucas''s training? What would Sophia ilisk? I

    "Alpha King" a voice called out, interrupting us. A silver haired elder stod matters need your attention tight away

    feet away, stiff as a board. "The Northern Council is waiting. The border

    ke''s shoulders went right, his eyes shing gold. He was clearly pinned, but duty called-story of an Alpha King''s life

    "Don''t leave," he whispered, just to my ears. It wasn''t quite an order,

    r, not quite begging, but somewhere in between that made my heart

    ''71l be back

    As the elder led him away, I stood frozen, my fingers touching my lips where I could still feel his kiss burning like a brand.

    Alone on the moonlit terrace, my emotions swieled like a tornado. This was nuts. ke was the most powerful Alpha in the world. I was just a nobody from Shadow Creek, a woman with someone else''s fading mark, daughter of an used traitor. We were worlds apart.

    But why did his touch make me feel so safe, so whole? Why did his absence leave me feeling half-empty?

    I touched the mark on my neck, feeling that weird warmth. Jackson''s silver mark was fading away, reced by gold threads that seemed to be weaving

    themselves into my skin. It heated up whenever ke was nearby, like it was calling out to something I didn''t understand. The feeling was strange but somehow familiar.

    I adjusted my ne to hide the mark, afraid someone might see it-especially the wolf elders who''d know exactly what it meant.

    Lucas was my student, my job. Sophia had be my friend, still dealing with our kidnapping nightmare, ke was their father, the freaking Alpha King. And me? Just an ordinary girl caught up in this mess, a Shadow Creek warrior, I had no right wanting more

    "There you

    Stevens voice snapped me back as he stepped onto the terrace. Been looking all over for you."

    I forced a smile, hoping the shadows hid my flushed face. Just needed some air. The festivals amazing, but it''s a bit much."

    Steven looked me over, his eyes searching "You look... different. Something happen?"

    I looked away, scared he read too much in my eyes. "Nothing really. First festival bad taste in my mouth.

    and all-still getting used to so many Alphas in one ce." The lie left a

    loose strand of hair behind my ear. His fingers brushed against my neck by ident.

    He moved closer, reaching to tuck a k

    I couldn''t help

    shivering when he touched near the mark. It felt wrong, ufortable-nothing like the warmth I felt when ke touched ine.

    Steven noticed my reaction, his forehead creasing suspicion and confusion crossed his face.

    Too many was around here," he said, his tone changing "Why don''t we head over to Moonlight Lake? It''s quieter there

    1 hesitated, remembering ke asked me to say put. I felt guilty, like I was

    betraying him, but I didn''t want Steven getting suspicious.

    "Okay," I nodded. "But not too far.

    As we left the terrace, I nced back toward where ke had disappraed, a bad feeling settling in my gut. Should I have stayed? Waited for ke? But how

    would I exin that to Steven? Why did I suddenly feel torn in two different directions?

    The Moonlight Lake spread out before us like a giant mirror kissed by moonlight, stars dancing on its surfer. The shadows yed across the should have been the most romantic spot ever, but my heart wasnt in it.

    "Look," Steven pointed toward a Dower blooming in the middle of theke, its petals glowing. Tegend ways that fewer only blooms ???ng Most Fall Couples who see it together get the Moon Goddess''s blessing and protection."

    I gave a weak smile, my thoughts drifting in Make and nur moment on the terrace, that kim that shook me to my core. "It''s beatifit; I marnered, fot talking about the Bower at all.

    y am I even here? With Steven? When everything in me it screaming for someone ele. This form or to me.

    Why

    ed his tribal cloak ansund my shoulders. His fingers fingered on my

    Steven took a deep breath and wrapped

    knew you were something special, Ava."

    His eyes shone with sincerity in the moonlight. "You''re not like other wolf women I''ve met. There''s a strength in you... something that I can''t look away from."

    Unease crept up

    p my spine. "Steven... My voice barely made it above a whisper. I had no idea how to handle his intensity

    He gently touched my face, and my body instinctively wanted to back away. "I want you to be my mate, Ava. Not just for tonight''s festival for good. We could start fresh in the Northern Pack, away from all this political garbage.

    His words sound so good, so tempting A clean te, away from painful memories and responsibilities. But why does my heart feel nothing? Why don''t his priso spark anything in me? Why, when he touches me, do I think of someone else?

    I gently pushed his hand away, needing room to breathe. "You''re a great guy, Steven. But I can''t ept. The words were tougher to say than I expected.

    Hurt shed in his eyes, like I''d physically wounded him. "Why? Is it because of Jackson? That mark will fade with time. I can help you through it

    Chapter Comments

 Bad Husband 117

    Islock my brat, feeling four tied in a way Leonididit exin. "Tex not Jackson. I jint.

    qli h?n 1 avvided looking at him. "Tot the crap, Ark. I see it in your eyes. Did someone force you toe tonight? is someone threatening y

    "No," I said firmly. "But what I feel for you is friendship, I cant fake something more. I den i want to hurt you, Suven. You deserve better-somewhe low youpletely

    Meven k expiration cooled, disappoitmeni simphing into suspicion. "You hired me back at Moon Fall just days ago. What change

    The night wind suddenly gusted hander, Howing my hair munnd. My ne shifted, exposing the mark on my neck.

    Steven''s eyes dropped to it, widening in shock as he saw golden threads weaving though fark?nma silver mark.

    He grabbed my shoulders hard enough to fenise, his voice dropping to a dangerous pel "What the hell is this? Another Alpha mark ove That''s imposible...unless...

    I fed to cover it, but toote. He''d seen the transformation, and as an Alpha heit, he knew exactly what it meant.

    Steven''s eyes shifted to woll eyes, gold gleaming bright in the mounlight. "It''s my uncle, isnt it? ke. I saw you on the terrace. This is why you''re turning me down? You chose the Alpha King?

    Fear gripped me like a vise. He now ? Saw that is? What happens now? If word gets out, ke''s repitation takes a hit, and I look like some power-hungry

    ''Steven, it''splicated.. it''s not what you think... I tried to exin, knowing how empty my words sound

    He lost it, his voice turning rough with emotion. Complicated? You let me think we had something! While you were with my uncle... the Alpha King? Are you out of your mind?

    1 yanked free of his grip, anger ring at being manhandled. I never promised you

    a damn thing. I''m sorry you ne hurt, but this is my choice

    Steven''s eyes reddened, rage and jealousy twisting his handsome Care. You used me to get close to him? Or was it to save your traitor father? Was that your n all along? To sleep your way to the top?"

    Something snapped inside me, fury burning away all reason. "Don''t you dare talk about my father like that! He''s not a traitor!"

    Stevenughed calilly, revealing wolf fangs. "No wonder Jackun dumped you. Your hunger for power makes me sick. You''re thest person who deserves tu stand beside the Alpha King"

    Rape took over. My warrior instincts kicked in, and I punched bim square in the jaw-hard enough to make him stumble back. He clearly didn''t see thating

    Steven shifted halfway to wolf form in an instant, eyes fully gold, and pped me across the face with enough force to draw blood. I tasted copper as pain exploded across my cheek.

    Stunned, I touched my injured fore, feeling warm blood trickling from the corner of my mouth. I watched Stevens expression change from anger to honor i a sh

    My pride, my warrior dignity-trampled in the dist/Nobody gets to treat me like this, not even a pack hej

    Steven, seeing what he''d done, quickly shifted back to human form, fear flickering in his eyes. "Ava... I didn''t mean to..." Hi toward nie.

    books be reached

    I took a fighting staner despite the dizzying pain, anger making my eyes sh gold. "Get out of here. Now." My voice could have frozen fire,

    1/

    Steven tried to touch my wound, but I jerked back like his hand was made of sitere.

    just... I really care about you," he said, his malce tracking." "Leant believe your chose him instead

    The isnt about choing anyone, I said, ice cold. "You had no right to hit me. Nobody does, I don''t care who they are. How got

    Steven gave me onest link, regret and anger mixing in his eyes, before turning away. In cutline fooked lonely and borer ageinum ei

    Only when he disappeared in the trees did I let myself feel the pain, gently touching my swollen check. Mord dripped from my mouth only my dress, leaving dark red spots on the fabric.

    Is this what I pet for trying to here it both ways? fuct pair and Ameliners? Maybe this di pagback for being dumped by my fated mate-maybe I''m just not meant to find real love.

    Third Pensen how

    ke was deep in border talks with the Northern Tack elders when a sharp pain stabbed through his chest, like someone had driven a knife straight into

    beart.

    He frowned, pressing his hand against his chest, during concerned looks from the elders whood never seen the Alpha King show any weakness.

    Tyler immediately moved closer. You okay, Alpha King?" he asked quietly, just for

    It''s Ava." ke replied, his voice tight like he was holding back a roar. ''She''s in trouble." He didnt exin how he knew, but the golden sh in his eyes showed he was near shifting

    The elders exchanged confused nces, but none dared question the Alpha King''s instincts.

    What ke felt wasn''t just pain-it was an overwhelming urge to protect,ing through the iplete marking bond, telling him Ava was being hit

    The feelings of distress and fear grew stronger through the marking connection. He could sense where Ava was, like an invisible threadected them

    He gave the elders a quick apology: "Please excuse me. Something urgent needs my attention. His tone left no room for argument, and even the oldest alders knew when to back down

    A Northern Pack elder tried to dy him: "But we havent finalized the border agreement, Alpha King. This affects peace between two packs."

    Hakes eyes shed wolf-gold, his Alpha presence expanding around him, making the air hey. "I trust you can handle this." His voice was low and dangerous, suggesting amone who pushed further would regret it.

    Tyler followed him, whispering, ''Need backup? Is Sophia okay?"

    ke shook his head, looking grim. "No. Watch Sophia. I need to handle this myself. He didn''t mention wa, but Tyler saw something in his Alphas eyes he''d never seen before-worry that bordered on fear.

    ke strode toward Moonlight Lake, his Alpha aura making wolves scatter from his path, nobody daring to get in his way.

    The marking connection grew stronger with each step. Ava''s pain hit him as clearly as if the wound were his own

    His eyes fully transformed to wolt eyes, gold gleaming in slightly with each step. darkness. llis Alpha presence spread without him even trying, making the ground tremble

    He thoughts were

    were consumed with rage and protectiveness: If someone hurt her, tonight''s Moon Festival will see what happens when an Alpha King loves contral Nobody touches her. Nobody

    Under the moonlight, ke moved like a dark lightning bolt toward Moonlight Lake. Just one thought dominated his mind: Find wwa. Protect her. No matter

    what it costs

 Bad Husband 118

    1 samped onto a rock by theke, holding theolding check ni I tried in steady my breathing. Each inhale felt like a knife to my chest, though foreldurt tell if the pain was physical or emotional

    Steven''s fingerprints still bumed on my face like a silent brand of shume. An hour ago, I''d been standing in the center of the Moon Festival in this beautid silvet dress, finally feeling like I belonged somewhere. Now I was hark ta square one- hout, alone, an outsider nobody wanted.

    I stared at my reflection in theke''s surface, taking in the swelling on my cheek and the Hood at theer of my mouth. A bitter tough escaped me

    How fucking tretic, Me, Ava Rivers, Shader Creek''s best fighter, toket din by one angry ale from an Alpht hair. What would my father think? What would the Aondency say if they could see their champion now?

    I tried to stand, but dizziness forced me back down.

    "Damn, he hit hand," I muttered to myself, gingerly touching my cheek. "Is this what Alphas are really like? They show their true colors the second someone tells them no?"

    My fingers consciously drifted to the mark on my neck, feeling the unnatural heat radiating from it¡ªa stark contrast to the sharp pain in my face. I membered what they''d taught us at Warrior Academy: a fated maten mark was permanent unless the marker died or willingly released their im.

    But Jackson was very much alive. He hadn''t released me-he''d just... abandoned nie.

    So why hi. His mark fading? And why can ke sense my emotions, my pale!

    There was a connection I''d never experienced before, like an invisible thread linking me to ke, growing stronger by the day. I could almost physically feel it pulling me toward ckwood Manor.

    "Maybe I''m imagining this whole thing." I whispered to the night air. "Maybe this is just my way of refusing to ept being dumped. Maybe I''m just..... desperate to matter to someone

    My thoughts drifted back to that night at ckwood Manor-kes touch, his kiss, that undeniable maism between us that defied exnation

    But this breaks every rule in the book. He''s the Alpha King, and I''m just a girl abandoned by her fated mate, a traitor''s daughter. The gap between us is wider thum

    the moreke

    1 reyed ke''s kiss on the terme earlier tonight. Did he understand the consequences? Had he considered what this meant for Sophia, for Lucas, for his

    rule?

    "Maybe Steven''s right," I said bitterly, watching tipples spread across theke. "Maybe I''m just the Mpha King''s passing fancy. Maybe I''ve built this whole thing up in my head, and I''ll end up discarded just like Jackson left me,"

    I wiped the blood from the corner of my mouth and smoothed my rumpled dress, trying to reim some dignity.

    "Either way, I can''t stay here," I decided, pushing myself to my feet. "I need to go back to Shadow Creek. Back where I belong

    This time I stood steadie, taking a deep breath as prepared to leave.

    "Goodbye, ke," I whispered, taking onest look at the moonlitke. "Maybe in another life, in another world, we might have had a chance."

    A single tear fell into the water, creating ripples that spread outward. The sense of loss was overwhelming, but there was something else there too-lil at finally making a decision

    As I turned to leave, a sudden, searing pain shot from my neck through my entire body, nearly driving me to my knees. The sensation was unlike anything I''d ever felt-like someone had ignited a fire inside me, pulling me backward toward theke.

    "What the hell?" I gasped, my hand flying to the mark.

    Then I felt it-u presence. Approaching fast. And with abordate pretainly, I knew who it walL

    plebe. He''s mal?c. I can feel ku anger, his worry....... this ten i my imagivarten. Thly connection ti real,

    My wolf stirred restlessly beneath my skin, yearning toward that approaching Alpha energy, zaving thepleteness Fondy felt In his perstner,

    y warrior instincts kicked in as Thraced mpelt, though du pork lel? el charthy

    I heard movement in the trees-powerful footsteps approaching rapidly. My s who wasing

    Bake burst into the cleating by theke, his eyes glowing gold in the darkness. His Alpha presence was no powerful it gravity had suddenly doubled.

    When his gaze fixed on my injured face, his expression transformed from concern to pure, terrifying rage. Not the explosive kind that manifests in shosting. and wild gestures-no, this was something far more dangerous. A cold, deadly fury that promised retribution.

    I''d never seen ke lose control like this. His body began a partial shift-nails extending into ws, teeth elongating into fangs, waves of Alpha energr pulsing from him in a suffocating rhythm.

    "He touched you." His voice was barely recognizable, each word dragged from the throat of the beast within him. It wasn''t a question.

    I stood frozen, shocked by the intensity of his reaction. I''d seen alphas angry before, but nothing like

    "ke... you need to calm down. I''m fine. My voice sounded steadier than I felt. this raw, primal rage

    He moved toward me, his movements fluid despite his partial shift. Yet when he reached for my face, his touch was unexpectedly gentle. His fingers lightly traced the bruise forming on my cheek, and I couldn''t help flinching slightly.

    "He will pay for this," ke growled, his eyes shing brighter. "No one hurts you. No one."

    I could feel a subtle warmth flowing from his fingertips where they touched my injury the healing energy all Alphas possessed. The throbbing pain began to subside under his touch.

    "It''s not worth starting a conflict with Steven over," I said quietly. "The political fallout would beplicated."

    "You think I care about politics?" His voice dropped even lower. Look what he did to you?"

    The fierce protectiveness in his voice sent a wave of warmth through me that had nothing to do with his healing touch. "You really do care about me"

    Chapter Comments

    5

 Bad Husband 119

    Make cupped my face in his hands, forcing me to look directly into his eyes. Terr since you pealbed into my life, mergthing han mysell it was dui temporary attraction, but it so much more than that."

    The gold in ejes gradually troeded as his emotions stabilized. "This is my fault. I should have beemiled my impalen. That kin

    that in public. I put

    My throat tightened with emotion. How did you know? How did you find me

    ke''s fingers gently

    is traced over the mark on my neck, seiding warm thisers racing through my body.

    I felt your pain. Through that."

    "That''s impoule I whispered, though I already knew the truth. "Unless

    Bake nodded, his expression gase. "Unlen you''re my ite mate. Unless whats between it goes deeper then either

    Tears sprang to my eyes unbidden, years of built-up emotion suddenly breaking free. "Why me? You could have anyon

    King And In

    "Just what?" ke interrupted, his voice gentle but firm. The bravest warrior? The most loyal daughter? The best teacher n

    Ishock my head as tears slid down my cheeks. "I''m a traitor''s daughter. A woman rejected by her fated mate. Someone without family or status.

    ke carefully wiped away my tears with his thumb, "You''re the strongest person I''ve ever met. You face every

    y challenge without fear. You protected my daughter, you teach my son. You''ve shown me possibilities beyond being the Alpha King"

    My heart pounded against my ribs. "But Jackson''s mark....

    ke''s fingers traced the mark again, and I could feel energy flowing between us

    at his touch. "It''s changing. Gold is overtaking sver. You''ve felt it, haven! your ponsible. Fated mate marks are

    I nodded shakily. "It heats up whenever you''re near. I feel a connection,

    something I can''t exin. But this shouldn''t be pens permanent."

    "Theres an ancient legend," ke said, his expression intensifying. "When a marked wolf meets their true soul mate, the original mark can be overwritten. It''s incredibly rare, barely documented

    The implications made my head spin. "You''re saying we might be... true soul mates?

    ke''s gaze deepened. All I know is that since the day you walked into my office, my world hasn''t been the same. I tried to resist, tried to follow the rules. but every time I see you, touch you my soul feels like it''s found its missing piece."

    1 feel it too, I admitted, finally giving voice to what I''d been denying "Even when I tell myself it''s wrong, when I try to ignore it whenever you''re inear, my heart isn''t my own anymore.

    1 suddenly stepped back, rity breaking through the emotional fog. "But this is insane, You''re the Alpha King. You have responsibilities, obligations. You can''t throw everything away on a whim."

    Pain Hashed acros kege. ¡°Is that what you think this is? A whim? You think I haven''t considered the consequences?"

    Thit my lip. Tm thinking about Sophia, about Ludas. How would they feel about this? What about the alliances between packs? Your authority could be challenged."

    ke moved closer, erasing the distance between us. "You''re thinking about everyone except yourself. Tell me, Ava Rivers, li what do you want?

    The question hit me like a physical blow f''d never allowed myself to answer it before.

    "I want to not be alone anymore," I whispered, my voice braking. I want some who won abandon I want

    My voice dropped so low I could barely hear myself. ''I want you."

    ke''s expression softened, the golden glow in his eyes warming. From this day forward, you will never be alone again. I will never abandon p. Horter what changes, what challenges we face-that in my promise as an Alpha."

    Ha hand caressed my cheek, then moved to my neck, fingertips lightly toaching the maik. "I want toplete this. I want everyone tockova pon''t mine, and I''m yours. But only when you''re ready."

    Longing surged through me at his touch. If we do this, there''s no going back. Are you nate?"

    ke''s eyes held mine wils unshakable certainty. Tve never been more sine of anything. The question is, are you ready?

    I took a deep breath, looking at this powerful yet vulnerable man before me, an Alpha King willing to risk everything. Let me think about this. This decision affects more than just us."

    ke nodded, respecting my caution. "I wait as long as it takes"

    The moonlight seemed to intensity around us, as if the Moon Goddess herself was witnessing this moment. I felt drawn to him by a force I couldnt resist, taking a step closer.

    "But right now... right now there''s only one thing I want.

    ke''s eyes flickered with understanding as he gently pulled me into his arms, his scent enveloping me in warmth and safety. "Wh

    I looked up into his eyes, desire burning through me like wildfire. "Kiss me. Kiss me like there''s no tomorrow."

    His lips imed nine in a kiss unlike any we''d shared before-tender yet passionate, careful yet desperate, I surrenderedpletely, feeling the world disappear around us until there was only this moment, only us,

    As our lips met, the mark on my neck pulsed with warmth, golden light flickering beneath my skin like electricity racing through my veins, I felt apleteness I''d never known before, as if a missing piece of myself had finallye home. The sensation was so powerful it left me breathlen.

    His arms tightened around me as if he feared I might vanish, while my fingers dag into his shoulders, craving more contact, more of him. As the kiss deepened, all my doubts were swept away. In this moment, I knew only one thing with absolute certainty-this was what I wanted, what I needed. had intended all along. Chapter Comments

    Mike

    hope they dont crawl back into their shells again lol.

    also what''s the age gap lol

    View 1 Comment!

    5

 Bad Husband 120

    Marked Twice by the Alpha King

    I felt ke''s arms lighten and me, his lips leaving mine in trace a boning path along my jawline and down my neck, sing in on the mark that was mansorming with each passing second. The moment his lips tunched the sensitive spot, el¨¦ctricity shot through my entire body. My legs nearly buckled beneath me as a man tscaped my throat, unhidden and raw,

    My back pressed against an ancient oak tree, ke''s body pissing me there. The hand length of him pressed against my stomach left on doubt about his desire. My fingers tangled in his hair, reveling in its silky testine as I pulled him closer.

    "Make..." His name escaped me as a brathless

    He whispered against my ear, his voke husky and strained. "Come will me. It''s too exposed here?"

    Taking my hand, he led me through patches of silver moonlight and shadowy trem, moving deeper into the secluded area by thekeside. With nach step. the mark on my neck grew warmer, as if preparing for what was toe.

    My rational mind is screaming that this is out-tude, during the festival sight-hat my body, my wolf, they''re both healing for this, for him.

    We entered a small cleaning ringed by towering ancient trees. The gentlepping ofke water and darant festival music created a soundtrack just for us The moon hung directly overhead, spilling its light across the grass like a silver nket Sperad just for our pleasure.

    ke turned to face me, his eyes transformed to pure gold in the moonlight as his wolf rose closer to the surface. "Last chance," he growled softly. Tell me

    to stop

    stead of answering, i ted my hands on his chest, feeling the solid muscle beneath and his heart hammering a palm. My fingers slowly worked the fastenings of his ceremonial robes, revealing his perfect physique inch by inch as moonlight traced the contours of his muscles

    When my hands finally made contact with his boor skis, a deep growl aumbiled from his chest-a pure Alpha sound that made my knees weak. He tilted my chin up, forcing me to meet his gulden gaio.

    "Say it," hemanded softly. "I need to hear you say it."

    1 took a deep breath, my voice soft but certain. I want you, ke. All of you. Mark me, make me your "

    Those worth shattered whatever restraint, he''d been clinging to. He pulled me against him with a primal hunger I''d never witnessed before, his controlpletely abandoned

    His mouth found mine again, this kiss deeper and more demanding than before. His tongue swept into my mouth, iming me thoroughly as his hands moved to the straps of my dress. With a gentle bug, the silver fabric slipped down my body, pooling aroural my feet like liquid moonlight.

    Moonlight bathed my naked skin, and I felt Elde''s gate buming across every inch of me. His breathing grew heavier, mere ragged,

    "You''re so beautiful," he said, his voice rough with desire. "Even more perfect than I imagined."

    His hands cupped my breasts, thumbs brushing acro

    across my hardened nipples and sending shockwaves of pleasure through my body. I felt bold, empowered by his obvious desire, and let my hand drift down to his waistband, feeling the impressive hardness straining against the fabric. That knowledge sent a rush of heat pooling beteren my thight.

    When thest barriers of clothing fell away, we stood naked before each other, as natural as the wilderness around us, hiding nothing beneath the moon''s

    ke gently lowered me onto the soft grass, the moonlight painting my skin with a silvery glow. His traced a reverent path across my corbone and down to my breasts, each touch both worshipful and hungry

    When his mouth closed around my nipple, a jolt of electricity shot straight to my core. I arched my back, offering more of myself to him with a gop that echoed in the quiet clearing.

    His tongue circled my navel before moving lower, leaving a trail of fire in its wake. My heart pounded frantically as my fingers twined in his hair, half- nervous, half- desperate for what wasing next.

    under his skilled attention. "Make I''m going in

    (Ed ever imagined, wild and pirt, a confradet

    tightened in my hair as i

    desty tensed, signaling her appenacting climes. The knowledge sp?rred me on, my tongue working mea insisterly Her moans were the most beautiful sound I Eaver brand. As her thighs began to shake, I pripped her hips firmly, holding her in ne,

    Iravused her release, feeling her pulse against my

    as I gently sucked her sensitive hud, prolonging her pleasure ontil the squirmed from overstimtion. Shimely, I kissed my way back up her body, paying special attention to her t stomach, ber perfect breasts, and the elegent code of her neck before iming het mos

    my lips, and the intimacy of that moment made my already hard length throb painfully

    Fre never wanted a woman this badly. Each respouse, ruch touch from her neodly drives my wall or the edge. I want to mark her, possess her, make her

    I positioned myself at her entrance, feeling her heat and wetness before slowly, steadily pushing forward. When our bodies were fully . I had to regain control. The feeling was too perfect, too right-I feared I might lose myselfpletely

    I gazed into Ava''s eyes, seeing desire and absolute trust reflecting back at me. "You feel perfect," I whispered. "Like you were made for me."

    Her legs wrapped around my waist, pulling me deeper, and that invitation shattered my remaining self-control, I began to move, each thrust deeper that Last, each withdrawal only to retuin with more farce.

    1 felt my knot beginning to form the distinctive physiological response that werewolves experience during mating, typically only with fated matin. enuation was tverwhelming, primite, and utterly right.

    "Awa," I growled in warning, "my knot... if you don''t want this, tell me now. This was her final chance to back away.

    Chapter Comments

    4

    POST COMMENT NOW

    N Nowork avable

 Bad Husband 121

    Her response was to pull me into a fierce kiss while tightenling her legs atmund my walit "Give me everything she gasped against my Dips. "Mark a

    My movements grew more forceful, my Alpha instincts takingplete control. My eyes burn¨¦l gold, my canines elongating as I gave myself mer to the

    Each thrust drew delicious sounds from Ava''s lips, her nails digging into my back, marking me as I was shut to mark her, I felt her inner walls beginning to tighten around me-her second climas approaching, more powerful than the first,

    As she reached her peak, my knot fully formed, locking us together in nature''s most basic im. My teeth found her neck, where her mark now pulsed with golden light, ready to receive my im.

    In the moment of our shared climax, my teeth sank into her mark,pletely erasing any trace jackson had left behind. Golden light exploded from the mark, illuminating thekeside clearing as our souls merged, forming a bond that could never be broken.

    From this moment, she is mine,pletely mine. No force on earth could take her from me now. This lot merely a mark-it''s a soul bond, destiny fulfed

    We remained physically joined by my knot, a natural part of the werewolf mating process that wouldst for some time. I carefully rolled us over, positioning her on top for herfort while maintaining our intimate connection.

    I kissed her forehead, tasting the sweetbination of sweat and moonlight on her skin. "You''re mine now," I murmured. "Completely mine."

    My fingers traced the mark on her neck, now fully transformed into gold with theplex pattern unique to the Alpha King bloodline. I attempted to reach her through our newly formed connection.

    Can you hear me? When her response echoed clearly in my mind, I felt apleteness I''d never known before.

    This mental connection allowed us to share feelings and emotions-the most precious gift of the mating bond. My fingers traced every curve of her body. memorizing each detail, this moment of quiet intinary as valuable as the passion we''d just shared.

    Ava''s POY

    When ke''s knot finally receded and our bodies separated, the connection between us felt stronger than ever. I gently touched the mark on my neck, feeling a warm pulse beneath my fingertips. The sensation was entirely different from Jackson''s mark-that had been cold pain, while this was warm security,

    I tested our mindlink, still marveling at its existence. This connection... it''s so much stronger than I imagined.

    1 could feel his emotions flowing through our bond-satisfaction, pride, protectiveness, and something deeper, something that felt remarkably like love.

    This feeling of beingpletely understood is incredible. He doesn''t just bear my thoughts-he feels my emotions. No ding no pretending, justplete

    eptance.

    I nestled against his chest, our heartbeats gradually synchronizing-a physiological response unique to true mates that Elled me with unprecedented security.

    ke stroked my hair, his voice deep and gentle. "From now on, no one will hurt you. You''re my mate, my equal, my everything

    These weren''t just words but vous transmitted through our bond. I could feel the truth in every syble.

    I looked up into his eyes, no longer Alpha gold but returned to their story gray. "This changes everything, doesn''t it?"

    He nodded, his expression growing serious. "Tes, but we''ll face it together. Whatever happens, we''re one now."

    Theke''s surface reflected our image-two one-lonely souls, now connected. Despite knowing ipleteness I felt gave me confidence. I''d never known before.

    challenges ahead, I felt an unusual calm. The

    172

    Whores of Moonlight Lako had witnessed for union, the merging te bin beginning. The path ahead would be challenging, but we wouldn''t fare it alone.

    were onk now, boule

    The sounds of the Festival gradually faded in the distance, reminding of time passage. The meglel bubble around us began to this an

    "We should head back, shouldn''t we?'' I asked, reluctant to leve our private sanctuary.

    ke helped me back into my silver dress, each movement filled with reverence. "Yes, but first. He leaned In, pressing his lips against my new insi Warmth flooded through me, making me shiver despite the mild night air.

    We began straightening ourselves up, trying not to look like we''d just find wild sex under the moonlight-though that''s exactly what happened.

    ke draped his ceremonial coat over my shoulders, hiding my slightly disheveled appearance and the golden mark now zing on my neck.

    never imagined this night would turn my life upside down sopletely. Hours ago, I was just a girl with another man''s fading mark, abandoned and n, New my neck bears the Alphe Kings golden im, making me his mate... it feels surreal.

    I touched my neck, feeling the warm pulse of our connection. Through it, I could sense ke''s presence and emotions in a way that defied exnation.

    We took a hidden path back, ke keeping me protectively close, his warmth and scent providingfort. As we approached the main festival grounds, the implications of our actions began to sink in.

    "Are you sure about going back like this? People will notice... 1 nced around nervously,

    ke''s expression grew serious. "We need to be careful. At least for now,"

    ere the golden glow couldn''t be

    At the edge of the festival, Tyler stood waiting, his expression giving nothing away. Yet when his eyes flicked to my neck, wherepletely hidden, I knew he understood exactly what had happened.

    "Alpha King, the car is ready," he said with a curt nod. "Miss Sophia has arranged to return to ckwood Manor. His tone remained professional, though caught the sh of understanding in his eyes.

    My cheeks burned as I felt like a teenager caught sneaking out. Despite knowing I had every right to choose my mate, I couldn''t shake the feeling of impropriety.

    ke nodded briefly. Thank you, Tyler, Make sure our departure doesn''t draw attention."

    Tyler''s gaze shifted between us before settling on me, his expression softening. "A warrior needs a strong Alpha. Congrattions on finding each other." His simple acknowledgment helped ease my tension

    Chapter Comments

    Laura Tropeano

    yessssss. this chapter is EVERYTHING!!! well done!!!!6666

    Tanya Gordon

    Absolutely Beautiful

    View All 2 Comments >

    ?7

    Í¹

    POST COMMENT

    +

    9

 Bad Husband 122

    AYAN POY

    Inside the car beading back to Backwood, I felt the shin from our dreamlike encounter back in harth reality.

    Biste held my hand but maintained se

    distance. I could feel him mentally preparing for what came next

    The mark is permanent. Even if we wanted to hide our triationship, the golden imprint an my neck sell silently dance is every wolf who sees (1-1 am the Alpha King''s mate. But it also means I no longer belong in Shades Creek. My allegiance has shifted...

    I gazed at the moon through the window, thoughts Imming in my father and mother. There will th¨¦e affect niy father''s altuation? Will my position as the dipha King''s mate help him, or will our secretive rtionship onlyplicate things?

    My fingers absently traced the wom mark. This is just the beginning, but 117 Not the end.

    The car pulled up to a side entrance at ckwood Manor, svolding the main dones where we might be noticed.

    "Wilson will only appear if necessary," ke said quietly. The won''t ask questions or speak of what he sees."

    We entered the mansion like thieves, creeping through hallway I''d walked freely before. Everything felt different now.

    Hours ago, I was Lucas''sbat trainer, ke''s employee. Now I''m sneaking to this house bearing his mark, like some dirty secret that can''t see the light of

    do....

    As we carefully navigated the corridors, I realized this hiding might be the norm for our rtionship.

    Is this what I''ve chosen? To be the mote the Alpha King can''t publicly acknowledge? Hidden away like something shameful?

    Wilson appeared suddenly, startling me. His expression remained Impably neutral

    "Alpha King, everything is arranged," he said in a hushed tone. "Young Master Loras is asleep, and Miss Sophia has just returned to her room."

    When his gaze shifted to me, I instinctively adjusted ke''s cost to cover my mark, though his eyes told me he''d already noticed.

    "I''ve prepared hot water and ate supper for Miss Rivers, as instructed," Wilson continued without missing a beat.

    I felt a jolt of surprise. ke had arranged this beforehand? As if he''d been certain of tonight''s oue.

    ke nodded briefly. "Thank you, Wilson. About tonight..."

    Wilson cut him off. "Nothing I need to know, sir. I serve only your His words carried the weight of ancient loyalty.

    We reached the fork in the hallway-one path leading to my room, the other to ke''s master suite. Both of us hesitated.

    we can''t

    follow the

    After marking, wolf mates typically crave close contact to let the band stabilize. Separation creates an unnatural pulling sensation. But it seems we normal path... ke caressed my cheek. "You need rest. A lot happened tonight. His voice was low and gentle.

    I nodded, despite the disappointment i

    in my chest. "You''re right. We both need to think about what happens next."

    His fingertips traced my mark onest time, sending a warm shiver through me. "Tomorrow we need to talk. About everything"

    Alone in my room, I stood before the full-length mirror, finally getting a clear view of my neck, Jackson''s silver mark hadpletely transformed into brilliant gold, more intricate and beautiful than before.

    I touched it gently, feeling the connection to ke. If I concentrated, I could see his presence and emotions, as if he were in the room with me.

    lilipped out of the silver dress, kecing evlilence el tonight''s reckless decisi¨®n, . passt?nate encounter-light bruises from Maker Hobs and Dau dam da say d¨¤i Steam rose from the hath that had been prepared. I sank into the warm water, letting it enkele me, though it couldiri wah

    I closed my vyek, feeling the warmth and pull of the mark, knowing ke was feeling the same connection in his mom,

    After my bath, 1 pat on a nightgown and sat in the windows alere, staring at the moonlight while my mind cataloged potential consequen

    His will acas react? Learning hisbat trainer has be his father''s mate? Will Splits ept me as her... stepmother? God, that word sounds bizarre...

    I considered what this meant for my career. Can I will be Licore trainer? Can I return to Shadow Creek in fulfill my warrier duties? The Alpha Ringsmate typically has her men responsibilities and position...

    Most importantly, I thought about my father. Hale promised to help free him. But will our rtionship make this easier or moreplicated? Will people think" he''s showing favoritism for personal reasons, or will my connection to hini lead to a reevaluation of my fathers case?

    A sense of responsibility and pressure unlike anything I''d felt before settled on my shoulders. I''m no longer ountable just for myself. My decisions affect ke''s rule, the rtionship between two parks.

    My fingers traced the mark again. Yet despite all theseplications and

    challenges. I cut bring myself to regret tonight''s decision.

    A soft knock at my door broke through my thoughts. I opened it to find ke

    standing there, his expression sollemn.

    ut us, and how to handle this."

    "We need to talk," he said directly. "About

    He sat across from me and exined his thoughts. The marking is done, but we

    can keep a low profile for now. Only a few trusted people need to know."

    ke carefully outlined his suggestion. "Making our rtionship public might cause attack me or harm you I want to protect you from that."

    e unnecessary political turbulence right now. Enemies could use it to

    He continued. "This isn''t permanent. Just time to resolve your father''s situation, stabilize things, let Lucas and Sophia adjust."

    I listened,

    emotions churning. "So you''re suggesting me... see each other secretly? At least temporarily?"

    ke nodded, his face serious. "I won''t risk making you a target. Once things are stable, once y

    mate."

    your father is safe, I''ll announce to everyone that you''re my

    I considered his proposal, weighing the possibilities. "This means keeping

    g our distance in public, pretending to be just employer and employee?"

    His expression softened. ¡°Yes, in front of outsiders. But with trusted people, in private, you are my mate, my equal

    I took a deep breath and made my decision. "Alright. For my father''s safety, for Lucas and Sophia to have time to adjust, I''ll agree to this arrangement. But it''s not permanent, ke. I won''t be your secret forever."

    "The world won''t easily ept us," ke said, his voice tight with tension.

    I met his eyes, understanding the implications-an Alpha King and a Shadow Creek warrior would face countless obstacles and opposition.

    ke touched my cheek. "We need to be careful. At least for now, His words held both protection and regret

    I nodded,plex emotions swirling inside me, I understand. You have so many responsibtes, so many people depending on you."

    ke made a solemn promise. "I swear to you, Ana Rivers. When the time in right, I will announce to the entire world that you are my mate, the Luna of Silverprak Pack

    Marked Twice by the Alpha King

 Bad Husband 123

    Morning light work through a tinck in the heavy curtains, paiisting a golden line arrest Make''s sleeping fore, I blinked awake, monestar Where I was. The silky sheets felt nothing like the rough cotton I was med to, and the air smelled of pine and rain and 01 Together.

    1 carefully turned to look at ke''s peaceful face, no different from his ural stem Alpha expression. A strand of dark hair fell across his forehead, makint the untouchable Alpha King look surprisingly vulnerable.

    Memories ofst night fooded back, heating my cheeks, ke had promised that when the time was right, he would announce to everyone that I was  mate, the Luna of Silverpeak Park,

    And then, we didn''t need wonds anymore.

    In his bedroom, we''d lost ourselves in each other''s touch, as if the world had natrowed to just the two of us. His lips had ignited fires across my skin while my fingers had traced every line of his body.

    From the luxurious bed to the spacious windowsill, from the soft carpet in the massive bathroom, every corner of this room now held memories of our passion.

    Our connection wasn''t just physical-it was something deeper, something that resonated through our souls.

    Years of training had taught me how to take down three grown werewolves, but with him, I willingly surrendered. The feeling was so strange yet so right.

    I pulled myself from these memories and gently touched the mark on my neck. No longer Jackson''s silver brand, butpletely transformed to gold-ke''s mark, the Alpha King''s im.

    With a soft sigh, I started to carefully slip out of bed. We''d agreed to keep our rtionship secret, but if anyone caught me sneaking out of the Alpha King''s bedroom, any hope of privacy would instantly evaporate. But just as 1 lifted the covers, a strong arm wrapped around my waist.

    "Going somewhere?" ke''s voice was deep andzy with sleep.

    I turned to face him, finding his eyes already open, watching me with an almost tender expression,

    "Back to my usual role,¡± I answered softly. "We can''t let anyone find out I spent the night here."

    He nodded silently, but his fingers continued tracing small circles on my waist. "Give me ten more minutes," he said, his gaze dropping to my i

    what can y

    can you do in ten minutes?" I raised an eyebrow, feigning innocence.

    ke''s answer was to pull me closer, his lips brushing mine lightly before pressing more firmly. Heat spread froms, where our mouths connected, making me instinctively arch against him.

    When his hand slid to my back, tracing

    ng down my spine, I had to remind myself that Lucas''s training would start in an hour.

    "We agreed," I managed between kisses, "to keep this secret. for safety."

    "Right now it''s just the two of us, his voice was deeper than usual, "and I can''t wait another second to touch you."

    His mouth moved to my neck, teeth grazing the golden mark, sending shockwaves of pleasure through my body. My fingers tangled in his dark hair, pulling him closer.

    "Wilson mighte knocking." I tried to hold onto my rationality, but my voice was already frembling.

    "Wihon know not to disturb me without orders, ke looked up, his eyespletely gold now, wolf-bright and hungry. "Now stop talking."

    He rolled on top of me, his broad shoulders blocking the sunlight. I stared up at hismanding face, momentarily speechless. He was like a que Alpha woll- powerful, confident, impossible to refuse. And in that moment, I didn''t want to refuse

    At his hands t?plored my body, my ma dog into his back, marking Mim as mine. He chuckled softly, the ruined Kled with bride.

    "bline," he whispered, golden eyes Mashing with possession. "Completely mine." "Yours," I heard myself answer, voice barely audible, but I knew his enhanced well hearing would chi

    What happened after that... well, like our rtionship, it''s best kept secret,

    At noon, I dragend my tired body into the Warrior Academy''s student lounge. The morning training with taras had been more graeling than oval, partly because 1 wanted to prove I could separate my personal rtionship from my professional responsibilities. And partly because I needed to burn off energy and distract myself from thoughts of ke.

    "Look at you," E''s voice came from the corner. Eitherst night''s Moon Festival were you nut, or this mornings training was brutal."

    I turned to see her already upying the mostfortable couch, holding two steaming cups. Seeing that one was clearly meant for me, I couldn''t help but smile.

    ¡°Both,¡± 1 admitted, epting the offered drink. A rich herbal scent wafted up-her special energy concoction, supposedly perfect for quick secovery. I took a carchal sip.

    feeling the warm liquid slide soothingly down my throat.

    "So," E asked with fake casualness, how was the festival? Did cousin Steven sweep you off your feet?

    1 nearly choked on my drink, quickly setting it down. "Where did you get that idea?"

    "Please," she rolled her eyes. The whole Academy knows Steven from the Northern Pack took shining Awa Rivers to the Moon Festival. Give me details."

    1 sighed, thinking about how to exin without revealing too much. "Actually... things gotplicated."

    "Complicated?" She leaned forward, her expression suddenly serious. "What happened?"

    "Steven wasn''t exactly what he seemed," I said quietly, fingers absently tracing the rim of my cup. "He... made certain demands I couldn''t ept."

    E''s eyes immediately narrowed, like a mother wolf on alert. "What kind of demands? What did he do to you?"

    "He wanted me to be his mate, Lexined. "When I refused, he got really angry.

    "Angry?" She raised an eyebrow. "Because you said no? How childish."

    ing a chill at the memory. More than that. He... lost control for a moment. I

    actually thought he might I stopped, unwilling

    I shook my head slightly, feeling a To say the word.

    E suddenly sat upright, her expression turning dangerous. "Did he hurt you?" Her voice dropped to a threatening growl.

    I unconsciously touched my cheek where the bruise had been, but the memory lingered. That small gesture seemed to answer her question.

    *I''ll kill him,¡± E practically snarled through clenched teeth. "I don''t care what fancy wolf bloodline hees from, nobody treats my friend like that."

    "Calm down," I grabbed her wrist, stopping any rash action she might take. "It''s been handled."

    "Handled? By who?" Suspicion shed in her eye. I know you, Ava Rivers. You wouldn''t let anyoney a hand on you without fighting back. Unless-

    "ke took care of it," I cut her off, my voice softer than I intended.

    Her jaw nearly hit the floue, eyes wide as silver tters. "ke? ke Morgan? The Alpha King?"

    Marked Twice by the Alpha King

 Bad Husband 124

    E''s jaw dropped like shed berk hit with a stun gun. The air between us suddenly fell thick enough to cut with a knife.

    The Alpha King?" she whispered, eyes

    wide as saucers.

    "He has happened to be around," 1 shugged, trying to sound casual. "Part of the job description, I guess."

    E gave me a long look, then shook her head. "Whatever you say. Just d you''re okay. But if Steven shows his face around here again, I''ll knock some sense into him myself."

    lled, relieved she was letting it slide. Some things are better left unsaid, even to your bestie.

    "Forget about me," I said, smoothly changing the subject. "You should see Lucas these days. Kid''s on fire. Might end up the youngest elite fighter the pack''s ever had.

    E took the bait, though I might the skeptical nces she kept throwing my way. Crisis averted-for now.

    After wrapping up afternoon training, I did a quick sweep of the grounds as the sky turned dusty purple, Lucas had crushed it today, making me both proud and worried. What would happen to him if people found out about me and his dad? Lost in my head, I almost missed the ordinary car parked in the shadows until the window rolled down, revealing those storm-gray eyes I''d know anywhere-

    My pulse jumped. No fancy pack carriage with the Silverpeak emblem-st a regr human vehicle that wouldn''t catch anyone''s eye. Smart move.

    "Hop in,¡± ke said quietly.

    After a quick check for familiar faces, I slipped into the passenger seat.

    "Talk about ying with fire," I said, my body humming with the forbidden thrill of

    it

    God, I shouldn''t love this dangerous game so much, but the rush

    was addictive. "Could''ve just sent a mind-message instead of showing up."

    Needed to see you," he said, eyes on the road but voice soft around the edges. "Been thinking about you all day."

    His words hit me right in the chest. ying boss and employee whenever we crossed paths was worse than any training session I''d ever ren

    *Wah, me too," I admitted quietly,

    ke steeted us down a forgotten dirt path. "Human cars have their perks," he said. "Nobody looks awice at this thing"

    "Good thinking." I said, admiring how careful he was being about our secret meetings.

    "Found us somewhere," he added. "Somewhere safe."

    My heart did a little dance. Somewhere we could just be us, even for a little while. Over the past month, we''d gotten pretty good at stealing moments when nobody was looking, then snapping back into our roles. Exhausting, but worth every second.

    The car pushed deeper into the woods along a barely-there trail. Through the trees, I spotted a small cabin. Nothing fancy, nothing like the massive ckwood Manor, but it had that unmistakable feeling of security that followed ke everywhere,

    "What''s this ce?ked.

    "My hunting cabin." ke said, killing the engine. "Only Tyler knows about it."

    A warm feeling spread through me. Sharing his secret hideaway meant more than he probably realized.

    Before we reached the door, he pulled me against him, kissing me like a man who''d been drowning. Every muscle in his body was tight, ready to inap.

    watching you with Lucas very day, he murmured against

    Gozell me about it,, Fauld, ineliung inle him. Evity time there the wolven look at you like you''re dinner

    "Jealoun?¡± His mouth curved into that rocky smile I secretly loved.

    "Maybe, I nipped his bottom lip. "But mostly scared that someday you''ll wake up and wonder what you''re doing with someone like me?

    His face tormed serima, hands framing my face. ''Don''t ever think that. You''re everything, Ava. If i could, I''d tell the whole damn world you''re not? tomorrow." We Liced again, slow and deep, saying everything we couldn''t put into words,

    Inside, the cabin was simple but rury, with a crackling fler that filled the space with warmth. In the corner, I spotted my favorite clothes, even my forky training knife.

    "How long have you been setting this up?" I asked

    "Since we decided to keep things quiet; he said. ¡°Needed somewhere we could just be ourselves."

    Looking around our little sanctuary, something swelled Th my chest. Here, we weren''t Alpha King and Shadow Creek warrior-just ke and Ava, two prople who found each other against all odds.

    His fingers traced my cheek, eyes darkening. "We''ve got two hour."

    I wrapped my arms around his neck, smiling. "Better make them count, then."

    Third Person POV

    A month slipped by, bringing autumn''s first bite to ckwood Manor. Red and gold leaves dotted the grounds like nature''s way of saying nothing stays the same forever.

    Life at the manor looked normal enough, but anyone paying attention could spot the changes. ke moved through his duties with sharper focus, yet sometimes drifted miles away in his thoughts. Ava pushed harder in training, taking unusual pride in Lucas''s achievements. And Wilson''s knowing en flickered between them, face nk but missing nothing.

    In Jackson''s bedroom, tension hung in the air like sake. Sophia perched on the bed, hands twisted together, eyes red-rimmed.

    "Just disappeared," she said for the hundredth time that month. "Not even a goodbye note. Just packed up and left for the Northern Pack."

    Jackson rubbed her back automatically, barely listening to the familiarint about Steven''s sudden exit

    *Probably had his reasons," he repeated his standard line. "Pack stuff. He''ll reach out when he''s ready."

    But his mind was elsewhere. Something weird was happening with Ava. She''d changed since the Moon Festival-walked different, talked different, carried herself like someone who''d found something worth having.

    Even stranger was how ke looked at her. Not like an Alpha watching a subordinate something else entirely. When he thought nobody was watching, his yes followed her everywhere. And sometimes, shed nce back, just for a second.

    Mt Girst, Jackson chalked it up to imagination. No way would the Alpha King be into some warrior from Shadow Creek. But the pattern kept repeating until he couldn''t ignore it anymore.

    "Are you even listening?" Sophia''s voice snapped him back.

    "Sorry," be forced a smile. "Long day."

    Sophia frowned but let it go "Whatever. I''m going to talk to Dad about the wedding. We can''t keep putting it off with everything

    so tense between packs."

    Jackson nodded, watching her leave. The second the door closed, his face darkened. The wedding. The alliance. His carefullyid path to power, Sophia was pter 124

    his ticket up, and impressing ke was how he''d r¨¢n

    He wandered to the wimbo just in time to ter a in cat pull aimund ta cknooda ride entrance. Ift ever permed as te mapped out hone the driver''s side and Ava from the passengers. They immediately moved spuit, pretending to be strangers, but

    between them.

    "Well, well," he murmured, a dangerCous smile spreading across his face. "The Alpha Ring and my leftovers. Time this is getting

    Chapter Comments

 Bad Husband 125

    "Badi. Von tonna watch mir special training?: Imas hollered when he spotted Mike heating on way, benzina mi kia te

    I nced up mid stjelih, catching sig

    m din. Abg all their works, murd think

    - his exty, confident walk. My mark instantly i

    Living a double life is a hell of a tip. Tastime Avatar

    that ailsbat teacher, Shadow Corki golden mernice. Nighttime Ara, teraking

    That bakden cabin with ke, where I''m his mate, his fans, his everything. Talk about whish

    The semest part? Having to act normal armund him with other people watching. Not staring ton long, not letting met hands bruch when we part the training. dagers, fighting the urge to breathe him in when he walks by Every bit of self control during the day bes jet fuel for when we''re final

    Lucas was the biggest surprise in all this mess. This kid who are done all futurs now practically glows whenev? Make the

    Tid catch him stealing these litle nces at his dad, desperate for a nod or a wood of praise. Gets me right in the soft root every time.

    "If the instructor approves," ke tid, vice all business while liis eyes said something entirely different, for merk connection hummed like a plucked guitar string.

    1 shrugged, fighting a smile. "I think we can bend the rules today.

    "Yes" Lucas panched the air. "Training with Dad! Can we show him that shadow step thing? Please?"

    The kid''s excitement was contagious, making both ke and me crack smiles. For a second, we felt like something real-like family. My stomach did a weird Dip at the thought. Dangerous territory, Rivers, Get it together.

    Watching Lacas dart between like a hyperactive puppy, I felt this strange little pang. Here we were, putting on this whole charade for an innocent had no idea his teacher was sleeping with his dad. The guilt and the thrill tangled together in my chest. ying with fire while standing in gasoline

    "Change of ns today," I called out as ke and Lucas took their spots. "Father-sonbat drills-essential stuff in real fights¡°.

    I caught ke''s eye, both of us knowing damn well this was the perfect cover to get close to each other without raising eyebrows.

    "Alpha King, position yourself here," I said, all professional while boldly sliding my hands onto his shoulders to adjust his stance. My fingers lingered a heartbeat too long, soaking in the heat of him,

    "More like this? I murmured, barely audible.

    "Better?" he asked just as quietly, eyes flicking to mine when Lucas was

    distracted. Those gray eyes could melt steel.

    ¡°Perfect,¡± I said, meaning way more than his fighting stance.

    "You smell like Dad," Lucas blurted, head cocked like a confused puppy. "Weird." shit. ke and I locked eyes

    s for a split second before both looking anywhere else. My mark burned so hot I swear it must''ve been glowing through my

    Training in the same space; I stammered, voice jumping an octave. Scents rub off, you know?"

    "Eyes on the target, Lucas," Hake cut in smoothly. "Real warriors don''t get distracted by smells."

    I shot him a thank you nce before scrambling to reset my face. Note to sell: shower twice after cabin nights.

    While showing them a back-to-back defense muve, I had to physically position both of them. When I reached ke, he breathed against my ear: Tonight

    Labin

    ick nod before stepping back into trainer mode

    Two words. Thats all it took to make my pulse spike like I''d sprinted uphill. I gave a quick

    "Hold this position," I instructed, hoping nobody noticed the slight shake in my voice. "Trust is everything inbat."

    Lores showed off the "Mint Strike more ti fidalt him, dinding Ba

    -No f Fight is reel baille, p¨®p.," heughed, fingina Finding Lucara tiba.

    Locas hosted withughter, tepling to escape, "Chemteit tea, help!!

    Before I knew it. I was dragged into their y light. The three of us rolled around on the grass,ughing like idiots, post a normal, happy family having f The thought hit me like a worker punch.

    Soet him!" Lucas sqoraled, grabbing my hand as we ganged pm ke, We tackled him together, and our lighter ached arms the field.

    When we finally copsed on our backs, penting and staring at the clouds, Lanas said unmething that stopped my heart: "You know what, Dad? Since Ava came, this ce actually feels like hose."

    The kid might as well have dropped a bombs, ke and I went still, the weight of these innocent words hanging in the air between us

    ke''s eyes found mine, and through our mark flowed a current of emotion tooplex for words.

    "That''s a wrap for today," I said, clearing my throat. "Great job, Lucas,¡±

    "Did 1 do good, Dad?" Lucas asked, eyes hungry for approval.

    "Better than good," ke said, pride written all over his face, "Your tactles areing along nicely."

    Lucas litu

    up like a firecracker. "Can I show you my archery? Wilson says I don''t suck anymore! At the targets by the forest!"

    ke nced at me, a silent question in his eyes.

    "Go for it," I said, helpless against those p puppy-dog eyes. ''I''ll clean up."

    "You rock!" Lucas threw his arms around ke''s waist. ke froze for a split second clearly not used to spontaneous hugs-before awkwardly puttin son''s shoulder.

    Watching them, something warm unfurled in my chest. Whatever mess ke and I had created, seeing father and son finally connect made it worth something

    "We should discuss Lucas''s progresster," ke said, voice professional while h his eyes promised something entirely different.

    "Til stop by your study," I replied, equally proper while my heart raced at what might happen once that study door closed.

    He gave a barely-there nod before Lucas dragged him toward the archery range.

    chattering the whole way.

    When they disappeared from view, I let myself grin like an idiot. As I gathered practice weapons and daydreamed about ''discussing progress in ke''s study, a voice sliced through my thoughts

    "ying happy families now? How touching"

    I whipped around to find Jackson standing there, his smile sharp enough to cut.

    My mark instantly burned with warning

    his

    I know what you''re doing, Ava," he said, eyes attering. with

    something dangerous.

    My stomach dropped, but I kept my poker face. "No idea what you''re talking about."

    "Bullshit," he snapped, grabbing my wrist hard enough to bruise. "We need to talk. Now. Puvitely."

    He yanked me toward the trees, and I let high-I needed to know exactly what he

    knew. By the time ke''s concern pulsed through our mark, we were already too deep in the woods

 Bad Husband 126

    6

    hapter 126

    Jackson bouted me through the trees like I was some criminal, his fingers digging into my wirish hard enongk to braise. I could we broken hea I Shell, Treoldve put him on his ass is different ways¡ªbut I yed along. I needed to find out exactly what he knew about me and tule

    When we reached a clearing deep enough to muffle nor voiret, he shoved me against a marsive oak, getting rigti

    "What kind of sick game are you ying?" he suncled, eyes shing wolf gold in the dappled light.

    "Hands of," I said, voice level but edged with steel. Before 1 remove them myself" He sported but backed up a step. "Vsa dont wanna cause a stene. Tudi mne on "No clue what you''re on about," I replied, tracking his movements, muscles coiled and ready.

    "Knock it off," he hissed, crowding me again. "Your little thing with the Alpha King. You think nobody notices? Those looks across the room, how you both find excuses to touch each other, how your wents are all tangled up only aplete idiot would miss it."

    My pulse spiked, but I kept my face nk. "You drunk? That''s a dangerous usation to throw around."

    "If I''m such an idiot, exin this. He yanked my scarf down, exposing whaty beneath.

    His face contorted with shock when he saw his once-silver mark now swimming with gold. ''That''s not... that can''t

    "Give it back!" Lanatched the scarf from his grip, quickly covering the mark, but the damage was done.

    be...

    "Fated mate marks don''t change," he said hoarsely, like someone had punched him in the gut. "It''s impossible. Unless?

    "Unless you were never my true mate to begin with," I met his stare head-on, chin up. Tate lived its mistake.

    That hit a nerve. His hand shot to my throat, Fingers pressing hard enough to make spots dance in my vision. "You backstabbing bitch."

    "Listen real carefully, Ava," he whispered against my ear, hot breath making my skin crawl. Nothing''s gonna mess up my wedding. You care about daddy dearest staying alive? Want to make sure ke keeps his precious throne? Then keep your dirty little secret to yourself."

    Threats never worked on me before," I broke his hold with a quick juist of my wrist, voice dropping to a dangerous whisper. "Why start now?"

    "Not a threat. A promise," he sneered. "I know what you''re doing, and 111 use it when it works best for me.

    Something surged through my mark-power, rage, certainty-pushing me to fight back. I grabbed his wrist and rested until pain dropped him to one knee with a satisfying grunt.

    "You lost any im on me," I said, looking down at him, voice sharp as winter. "The second you tossed me aside for your political marriage, you gave up any right to an opinion about my life."

    "You''ll pay for this," he growled, struggling to stard

    The air around us suddenly thickened, like gravity doubled its pull. Leaves rustled without wind, and the ground seemed to vibrate beneath our feet.

    "Take your hands off her. ke''s voice was dead quier as he emerged from the trees, eyes burning pure Alpha gold

    Jackson dropped me like I''d caught fire, backing away instinctively, head lowering in submission

    "Hayes," ke''s voice rumbled like distant thunder, "exin why I''m watching

    you manhandle my son''s instructor."

    pores, ¡°just a misunderstanding. We were discussing Shadow

    "Alpha King" Jackson''s entire demeanor flipped

    ed like a switch, fear practically leaking from his po Creek business."

    Chabret 12

    ingreement, Jackson stammered. "Mashe 1 254 a little beated, but I meant no liarespect.

    ko proved closer, each step-making fickson shrink

    You expect me to swallow th

    "Please, Alpha King," Jackann''s voice dropped to a whimper. "I won''t happen again."

    "Daten sep, Hayes," ke''s volee tan cold as fre melt. "An Rivers belongs at ckened nose, Shes responsible for my son''s training and safety. Any her is a direct threat to my family."

    Jackson went pale as milk, beatly dropping to his knees. "Understandpletely, Alpha King."

    "Good," ke said, his Alpha presence dialing back slightly. "Now get lost, Sophia''s heen looking for you. How keep my daughter waiting."

    Jackson nodded, turning to leave, but before slipping away, his eyes locked with mine for a hat

    wed. The pure hate in that look would''ve froven hell

    The moment be vanished into the trees, ke was at my side. "Are you hurt?"

    "[1] live," I said, though the bruises were already forming on my neck. "Just running his mouth,"

    ke''s fingers traced the marks on my throat, eyes deepening to molten gold with barely contained rage. He touched your mark?"

    I nodded. "Saw the changes. He knows about us"

    "Does he understand what it means?" ke asked, his fingers still skimming my bruises, his Alpha touch making the pain recede like tide going out.

    "Enough to be dangerous, 1 admitted. "Said he''d use the Information when it suited him."

    A lethal glint shed in ke''s eyes. "He won''t dare. He can''t tell Sophia about your history without destroying his position. As for us. He passed "Sophia actually told me once she wouldn''t mind if I found someone younger...a wanlor. I realize now she was talking about you."

    His hand found mine, the touch saying more than words could. "Meet me in my study. I need to check that Lucas got home safe first."

    Third Person POV

    Sophia stood in ckwood''s long hallway, peering through the window toward the woods. Jackson had disappeared over an hour ago, and worry gnawed at her stomach. Lately, he always had reasons for vanishing, always some excuse for beingte or absent.

    As she neared the training grounds, low voices carried through the trees. She didn''t approach directly but circled to where she could see without being spotted

    Through the branches, she witnessed something that stopped her heart-Jackson roughly yanking Ava''s seat, his fingers touching what looked like a mark on her neck.

    Sophia covered her mouth to trap a gasp. Jackson''s movements carried an unsettling intimacy, and his expression mixed anger with something that looked disturbingly like possession,

    She''d never seen her fianc¨¦ touch another woman this way, especially not in such an intimate spot. Why was Jackson so fixated on Ava''s mark?

    Just as she moved closer to hear their words, guards approached from the main house, forcing her to retreat. When she found another viewpoint, Jackson was gone, leaving only her father and Ava standing in the clearing

    Watching her father ce aforting hand of Ava''s shoulder, confusion ripped through Sophia. What had she missed? What history connected Jackson and

    With questions churning like st

    storm clouds, Sophia quietly returned to the manor.

    She''d always known, there was bad blood between Jackson and Ava, but after today''s scene, she suspected she''d been kept in the dark about far more than

    just a simple rivalry. There was clearly a deeper story that no one had bothered to

    tell

    Chapter Comments

    5

 Bad Husband 127

    Sophia Shumped in an old leather chair, pretending to read while hei brain reyed yesterday''s scene on loop, Jackson gralibing Ava, Lisething something on her neck. Then Dad sppearing out of nowhere, eyes sing that freaky wolf gold. The weirdest part? How Jackson and

    eath her-like they hid hgory. The intimate kind.

    What the hell was that mark? And why did Bad look renity za rip saineone''s throat out!?

    Her fingers drummed against dusty pages until the click of heels on marble made for look up. Victoria Morgan-all allver hair and old-morier posture. glided into the library like she owned it. Which, techniently, she did.

    "You look like someone stole your dessert," Victoria said, seitlingoss from her granddaughter with a grace Sophia had never mastered.

    Sophia chewed her lip before diving in. ¡°Grandma, wrint question-can fated mate marks ever change?"

    Victoria''s eyebrow shot up. "Well, that''s out of left field. She leaned forward. "Marks are permanent unless the marker dies or releases the im. That''s Pack "But what about exceptions?" Sophia pressed, watching her grandmother''s face.

    Victoria''s eyes went distant, "Old stories mention rare cases where marks transform when a marked wolf meets their true soul mate. But that''s just campfire. talk-nobody''s seen it happen in forever." Her sharp eyes narrowed. "Why the twenty questions?"

    "Just curious," Sophia said quickly. "What makes it so rate?"

    "It spits in the face of Moon Goddessw-marks are supposed to be forever: Victoria squeezed Sophia''s hand. A mark changing would mean the Goddess basically admitted cops, I messed up." She tilted her head. "Trouble in paradise with Jackson?"

    "God, no," Sophia forced a smile, mind racing a million miles an hour.

    After her grandmother left, Sophia sat frozen. Dad and Ava? The pieces didn''t fit, yet somehow they did. And Jackson knew something. She needed answers.

    That afternoon, she spotted Ava drilling Lucas in the training yard, waiting until her brother tore off to y with his oversized furball before making her

    "Lucas is killing it these days." Sophia said, leaning against a wooden post. Ava spun around, shoulders instantly tight. "Kid''s a natural"

    Sophia didn''t miss how Ava''s scarf practically swallowed her neck today. She drifted closer. "Got a question for you."

    "Shoot," Ava said, stuffing practice knives into a bag with too much focus.

    "You know about Shadow Creek''s inheritance ceremony, right?" Sophia switched tracks.

    Ava''s shoulders dropped an inch. "Yeah. Standard stuff for Alpha wannabes."

    "Jackson''s is in three days, Sophin watched Ava''s face like a hawk. I''m supposed to show up and y perfect fianc¨¦e. Honestly? I''m freaking out a little

    "You? Nervous?" Aca snorted. "You''re literally royalty. They practically kiss the ground you walk on."

    "That''s the problem, Sophia''s voice dropped. "Iveryone watching, waiting for me to screw up. She swallowed hard. "Ever since... you know, the cer. crowds make me jumpy."

    Something flickered across Ava''s face-recognition. That underground bell had bound them together in ways neither expected. Ava had stood between Sophia

    and death that night,

    "Come with me," Sophia looked straight into Ava''s eyes. "I know it''s awkward as hell, but I need someone real there. Someone who gets it."

    Dve n?tkest you and Jackson ttlerity inarl at each other, Rophia puthed Whers with

    Ava''s Ongers twitched toward her scarf. "Ancient Histery. Not worth digging up.

    at I''m carrying the guy, don''t I deserve to know his ancient history''7" Soph pressed, letting an edge creep into her voler. "Expertally Hitory Shi my friend look like the wants to w his eyes 17

    Ava opened her mouth, closed it, then sighed. "Not my story to tell."

    Sophia bit her lip, shifting tactics. "Please, Ava. After everything. She raised her voice just enough. "We promised to have each other''s backs in that dungeon, remember?

    Heads turned across the yard. Ma''s eyes shed with recognition of the trap she''d just walked intu. Refusing now would make her look like an cath-breaker

    Fine," Ava muttered 111 be there."

    Sophia hugged het, victory buzzing under her skin. "You''re the best."

    Walking away, Sophia''s smile turned calcting. Three days until she''d uncover what everyone was hiding-what Jackson and Ava shared, why her father watched Ava like she might disappear, and why her fianc¨¦ seemed haunted by a woman who wasn''t her

    Ava''s POV

    Rain drummed overhead as I crept toward our cabin. Twice I doubled back, parannid about being followed. This sneaking around was getting old.

    1 found ke at the window, rain streaming down behind him. When he turned,

    his eyes shed gold that still made my stomach flip

    "Thought you''d stood me up," he said,

    1 kicked off my boots. "Yeah, well, Lucas wouldn''t stop talking about some well dream, and Wilson was lurking around every corner."

    ke''s hands found my face like he needed to make sure I was real. "Heard Sophia roped you into Hayes''s ceremony."

    "Word sure flies when you''re king of the mountain."

    "Think she''s onto us? His jaw tightened.

    "She grilled me about Jackson," I said, warming my hands by the fire. And her

    scarf was practically choking her today. Exact same style

    That girl misses nothing."

    mine."

    His fingers brushed my cheek, rough and warm. These stolen m moments had be my addiction-dangerous, necessary, never enough.

    "I''m scared," I admitted. "If someone sees the mark, if she connects the dots..."

    ke''s mouth crashed into mine, swallowing my words. This kiss wasn''t careful- this was raw need from days of pretending we were nothing to each other His fingers tangled in my hair, yanking out my tie.

    "We need a n," I gasped between kisses.

    "nter," he growled. "Need you now."

    He tugged my scarf away, exposing our mark. His fingers brushed it, and I felt the jolt-like touching a live wire.

    "It''s brighter," he murmured, lips recing fingers. "Any wolf will recognize an

    Alpha King''s mark soon."

    "Can''t y pretend forever,"

    I breathed.

    "Then let''s stop pretending. he pressed ine against the wall. Tat theni hii see when

    you belong le

    I knew it was just heat of the moment talk, bui dama if it didn''t kick my hear it d

    "Crisis first, I whispered. Life aliecing decisionsrei

    "Be careful at that cermons. Jackson is desperate."

    "I can handle myself," I promised, then pulled him heck

    trering his bottom lip with my tongue.

    kuri?ime godd against spalvom de ijk

    My back hit the mattress, his body riveting mine, firelight catching the hangry

    edges of his face

    Pack drama, Sophia v suspicions-screw it all. There was just this-his hands, my sighs, and the mark that tied as together

    Chapter Comments

    60

    POST COMMENT NOW

 Bad Husband 128

    A POV

    schel Sinh room wround the kitchen, her knife clicking against the cutting board like she was trai movements, excitement herred off her in waves.

    to it speed record. Rehind her practiera

    So," she s4, chopping vegetables with forced casualnes. "Who invited you to Shadow Creek a inheritance ceremony again?"

    I sipped my tea, ying along. "Sophia Morgan,"

    Sarah''s knife fore mid-slim. "The Alpha King''s dighter? Personally? Her voice jumped an octave, "I thought you were just some courtesy list os Lucas''s

    te went through some stuff together." I said, not seanting to revisit our kidnapping hell.

    She put down her knife and leaned forward, palms fat on the table. "Do you realize what this means? The Morgans are publicly supporting us. Calction glittered in her eyes. This could change everything for William''s case."

    ¡°It''s a Hayes ceremony, Sarah,¡± I reminded her. The same family that got Tad locked up."

    Sarah''s face burned serious. "Exactly why it matters. We need to show the Rivers women stand tall."

    She sat across from me, suddenly intense, ''Look, I know you hate pack politics, but sometimes we have to y the game. Every powerful wolf in Shadow Creek will be there tomorrow. This is our chance to remind them we still matter."

    I got it. Since William''s arrest as a traitor, wed be pack pariahs. Former friends crossed streets to avoid us, like treason might be contagious

    "Don''t read too much into it," I cautioned. "It''s just a friend thing."

    Sarah shook her head, returning to her vegetables with renewed energy. "You''re

    so naive. In our world, there are no simple invitations from power yers." Her voice softened. Just use this opportunity. Not for me-for William."

    Her wordsnded like a punch. Of course I wanted to help my father, but not by exploiting Sophia''s friendship¡ªand definitely not by revealing what was happening between me and ke.

    Tll wear my formal warrior pear," I said, changing subjects. "Won''t embarrass you."

    Sarah smiled.

    "That''s my girl."

    Later, I inspected my

    my ceremonial outfit. Deep blue leather with silver Shadow Creek runes-the only thing I owned worth wearing to this circus. As I pulled it from my closet, something small ttered to the floor. A silver wolf pendant on a chain-Jackson''s gift from when we first met.

    I hesitated before picking it up, the metal cold against my palm. He''d given it to me when things were new between is, before the mark, before he''d promised I was his destiny. Back when I believed him. Now he wore Sophia on his arm, political ambition shining brighter than any supposed fate.

    I closed my fingers around it, the edges biting into my skin. How quickly "destiny" had be disposable. Now ke''s mark was recing his, and I a caught between my past and a fature I couldn''t openly im.

    I tossed the pendant into a drawer and mmed it shut. My fingers traced the warm gold mark on my neck instead. I''d need to hide it perfectly, especially in Hayes territory

    I stared out the window, dread settling in my gut like a stone. The ceremony loomed ahead, a storm I couldn''t avoid. I adjusted my scarf, making sure it covered the evidence of ke''s im on me.

    Sarah borrowed a decent carriage for the trip to Shadow Creek. My fingers kept fidgeting with my scarf, checking and rechecking its position.

    "Rx,¡± Sarah squeezed my hand, misreading my anclety."You''re our pack''s finest female varrior. Nobody can look down on you."

    I forced a smile. If she knew what really had me sweating, she''d faint dead away.

    The Alpha King''s golden mark, my history with another pack''s groom-to-be

    intructed. But if you get a chance to speak with Important mi

    "Ten not hers toik, Barch: I''m supporting Sophia,"

    She sighed, ¡°Sometimes I don''t understand you. Bach an apportunity right in front of yoni, and you won''t grab it.

    The carriage slowed as we reached Shadow Creek''s main gates. Armed guards scrutinized each anival like they expected trouble. When we their faces hardened with contemjil.

    "Rivers?'' One guard sareed. Thought you''d have the sense to stay away from our retemonies."

    I straightened my spine, voice ice cold. "I''m Miss Morgan a personal

    They exchanged looks before reluctantly waving us through, Inside, I felt eyes

    tracking our every move. Each step hrought whispers and stares.

    "Ignore them," Sarah murmured. "Head high."

    We approached the ceremony grounds, an open area decked with Shadow Creek emblems. In the distance, Sophia''s golden hair caught the light as she chatted

    with older women. When she spotted me, she waved, beaming,

    I''d barely taken two steps toward her when a familiar voice

    voice cut in..

    "Well, look who showed up." Jackson materialized beside us, his gaze sliding from me to Sarah. "Mrs. Rivers. What an unexpected surprise."

    Sarah instantly switched on her charm. "Mr. Hayes, congrattions on your inheritance ceremony. An important day for Shadow Creek."

    Jackson nodded, but his eyes returned to me, cold and threatening. "I hope all guests remember their manners and avoid any..... inappropriate behavior."

    I met his stare, keeping my voice steady. "I''m here as Sophia''s invited friend, Hayes."

    "Friend," he repeated, his smile never reaching his eyes. "I

    "Interesting choice of words.

    Before things could get uglier, Sophia glided over. "Ava! Finally!" She hugged me,

    the embrace slightly stiffer than usual.

    She turned to Jackson, "Darling, the ceremony''s about to start. You should prepare."

    Jackson shot me one final warning look before leaving

    Sophia looped her arm through mine, pulling me toward the crowd. "Come, I need

    to introduce you to some people." Her voice was honey-sweet, but underneath ran a chill I''d never felt from her before.

    In that moment, I sensed ke through our mark. He hadn''t appeared yet, but he was nearby, watching. The knowledgeforted and terrified me in equal

    As Sophia led me deeper into the ceremony grounds, I couldn''t shake the feeling I was walking straight into a carefullyid trap. And there do but face whatever storm wasing.

    nothing to

    Chapter Comments

    4

    OST COMMENT NO POST COMMENT NOW

 Bad Husband 129

    AVON POV

    Soph. B''yanked me through the troid, her smile stered on like cheap makeup. We pothed past the

    ring of ancient stones loomed against the moonlit sky.

    VIP only past this point, she muttered, her voice suddenly cold and unfamiliar

    The sit reeked of burning berba, making my head hury. At the center of the stone circle, a freakishly blue fire crackled, throwing weird shadows actasi of Shadow Creek''s elite. Every eye locked unto us like we were fresh meat,

    "Say hello to our pack''s inner circle," Sophin said, dropping my sins like it burned her. "They''ve been dying to meet mir... special guest."

    She stepped back, creating a gap between us that felt miles wide. The transturme

    in her hit

    mcker punch.

    "Got Future-wife stuff to handle," she said, eyes suddenly empty. Have fun.

    Before I could spit out a response, she''d spin awry, golden hair catching blue firelight as she vanished into the crowd, leaving me stranded in shark-infested

    waters.

    What the actual fuck? My got clenched as I realized the Sophia who''d fought beside me in that cer hadpletely ghosted nit. This stranger had just thrown me to the wolves.

    I straightened up, scanning for a friendly face anding up empty. Just as I weighed making a run for it, a tall woman broke from the pack and strutted

    over.

    She moved like she owned the ce-shoulders thrown back, hips swinging way too much. Her outfit belonged in a nightclub, not a sacred ceremony, with a neckline that plunged to her navel. Her ice-blue Hayes eyes locked onto me like I had a target painted on my forehead.

    A Hayes family crest dangled from her neck, practically screaming "inner circle. Vanessa Hayes-Jackson''s cousin and Shadow Creek''s queen bitch.

    "Well, damn," she smirked, deliberately shoulder-checking me as she circled. "We bet un whether you''d show your face. Thanks for costing me twenty bucks.

    She flicked my warrior emblem with a blood-red nail. This little badge is garbage now. Just Eke your standing in this pack."

    I bit the inside of my cheek, ignoring the heat crawling up my neck. "Still a Shadow Creek warrior, no matter what crap you talk about my father."

    Vanessa cackled, the sound like nails on a chalkboard. A warrior? Give me a break. A warrior without a pack is like a dewed kitten-pathetic andpletely useless."

    Snickers rippled through the crowd that was gathering like vultures. My face burned, but I nted my feet wider, chin up-exactly how Dad taught me. Never let these assholes see you sweat, kiddo.

    The circle tightened around us. I frantically searched for Sarah but spotted her trapped in conversation across the grounds,pletely clueless to the ambush happening

    People I''d known forever-wolves I''d trained with, fought with, shared beers with- now stared at me like I was something gross stuck to their shoe. Not one stepped up.

    The crowd split apart as a silver-haired woman approached, spine straight as a sword despite her age. Eleanor Hayes, Shadow Creek''s oldest elder and Jackson''s grandmother-the pack''s scariest bitch after the Alpha

    She stood before the blue mes, the light carving deep shadows into her face. "Hivers girl. You''ve got some nerve."

    Her staff hit the ground with a crack that jolted through my bones.

    "Know how many warriors died because of your father''s betrayal? Her voice carried across the suddenly dead-silent crowd, "What makes you think you s stand on sacred ground during our celebration?"

    Chapter

    bkyther In thedrent. The truth.

    Eleanor''s mouth impeline shed vasted something retten.. "Layaink What a world on ''x Haltor.

    turned to address the citncl. 21ork in hers wenler dumped by fate, deughter of a haltar, thrown way by her out

    Her words cut deeper than the knew. 1 Hruggled in keep my poker face as another figure folded her-Richard Hayes, Lickson''s dad, in a seit 19 wealth and power.

    "I once thought a Rivers Hayes union might benefit ont park," he announced, looking at me like I was sometiding stuck to his thor. "Dodged this bullet, didn''t wel

    He moved closet, voice dropping low. An adopted nobody. You never got what bloodlines mean, did you? few can you rock?"

    stand here without crawling under

    The mark under my scarf pulsed warm, a painful tembider I didn''t belong here anyinute. In this ce I once called stranger. Weird how this pack used to be my whole world, but nine my heart pulled toward ckwood Manor.

    p your execution ns?"

    1 looked Eleanor dead in the eye. "My father is innocent. The Alpha King knows it-why else stop your

    Richard''s face twisted with disgust. "Nobody believes a unitor''s kid."

    I suddenly felt like aplete

    I squared my shoulders. "I''m a Shadow Creek warrior. Nothing changes that. And whoever framed my father might be standing right here with us.

    My words hit home. Vanessa''s face contorted with rage, veins popping in her forehead. "You question Jackson? You mention that mark he wasted on you? That ship has fucking sailed!"

    Before I could dodge, she snatched a ceremonial goblet from nearby. "You don''t deserve to breathe his name!"

    Ice-cold liquid pped across my face and chest, soaking my uniform. The alcohol stung my eyes and the bitter herbs clogged my nose as shocked gasps turned to mockingughter.

    I stood frozen, sacred wine dripping from my chin, staining the blue leather I''d spent hours polishing.

    Vanessa stepped closer, another goblet in hand. "Still not getting the message? Maybe another drink will help wash away that pathetic look."

    Eleanor''s mouth curved into a smug smile. "Seems you''ve worn out your wee, Rivers. Leave before you further embarrass yourself at my grandsons

    oremony.

    Richard nodded. "Consider this a lesson in knowing your ce, Shadow Creek in''t your home anymore."

    I stood there, drenched and humiliated, as theirughter swelled around me.

    Just as I debated between fighting back or walking out, the air suddenly changed-growing thick and heavy. The blue mes thrashed wildly, nearly going out. An eerie silence dropped over everyone.

    My mark red hot against my neck.

    "I thought Shadow Creek knew how to treat

    sat guests better than this."

    The deep, dangerous voice sliced through the silence. I knew that voice

    anywhere-ke.

    "Someone want to exin, he said, voice deadly quiet but vibrating with power,

    "why an invited guest is getting treated like this?"

 Bad Husband 130

    Elekrone and Vanessa whipped around toward the source of that voler, m¨®v hanging open. The red frose life theyd best hit with sonur i The crackling the mes suddenly seemed to how tway from the near arrival.

    "Who the he? are your Vanessa ced her hands on her hips, somelom stil nident enough to challenge. "Ther in a pick ceremony, th? Hotel the tier circle uninvited."

    adn''t hink you''d get beres fot, I sent through so mack, feeling the mind-link snap into ce instantly.

    I''ve been watching you, his voice echoed in my mind with a blot of moment. See Farted put in time,

    The intimacy of that connection sent warmth flooding through my chest. In the weeks since our marking under the nononlight, our mental link had been strengthening, but using it in public still made my heart face.

    ke approached slowly, dressed in understated ck formal wear with none of his Alpha Ring insignias. But every step he took radiated power, making nearby wolves instinctively back away, their eyes dropping in submission.

    "This woman," Eleanor jabbed a bony finger at me, voice dripping with contempt, "has no ce at an heir''s ceremony. Her father in a traitor, and she heat was abandoned by her fated mate-she pollutes our sacred ritual."

    Ha, these clueless old wolves, I mocked through our link as ke moved closer to me. They don''t even recognize you

    Ignorance is truly a blessing. Let them enjoy their courage for a few more minutes, he responded, his mental voice carrying dangerous

    humor.

    "Stranger, you''d better walk away," Richard snerred. "This is Shadow Creek business."

    ke came to stand beside me, one hand resting lightly on my shoulder. That simple touch made me feel safer than I had all night, like an invisible shield had been wrapped around me.

    "Interesting," ke smiled,

    1, calm as if discussing the weather. "I don''t recall drenching guests in sacred wine being part of any werewolf ceremony I''ve

    attended."

    See the olddy''s face? I asked through our link, watching Eleanors panicked eyes. Is she going to pop a blood vessel or what?

    It''ll be even better when she realizes the truth, ke replied, though his exterior remained perfectlyposed.

    "Hey, handsome," Vanessa sauntered closer, pushing her chest forward in what I could only describe as her "wolf-whore¡± stance. ¡°Why waste your time on this unwanted Omega? Her foster father''s a traitor, and even her fated mate rejected her. You look strong... you deserve better."

    I struggled not tough out loud. is the seriously hitting on you? Goil, this is painful to watch.

    Want me to keep ying along or reveal myself now? ke asked, amusement coloring his thoughts.

    Wait a bit longer, I responded, let''s see how deep hole she can dig herself

    "You have no idea the power our Hayes family holds, Vanessa continued, dragging a fingernail down ke''s chest. "I could make you forget this pathetic nobody even exists,"

    "You think I''d be interested in a girl younger than my daughter?" ke''s voice carried disgust, though his face maintained that cold smile.

    Nice one! I cheered mentally. Look at her farning red as a tomato

    "What daughter..." Eleanor''s eyes narrowed as she truly began to assess ke.

    I felt the exact moment ke decided to end this charade. His posture shifted subtly, shoulders broadening, stance straightening. The Alpha presence he been deliberately suppressing suddenly released, rippling outward like an invisible shockwave.

    "The whligettdreyes widening

    penile upurele,

    "Thank you for your warm hospitality tonight," ke''s vnice suddenly cantied the authority that only the Alpha Rina couldmand, making the air drielt - teriable: "Eleanor Hayes, is this how you always treat my daughter''s friends?"

    The entire gathering seemed to freeze. Vanessa nemily filpped inei herself hacking away. Richard looked like he''d seen a ghost, and Eleanora mouth opened. and closed like a fish out of water.

    This is even better than I imagined, I couldnt help thinking. Their entire family in collectively dying inside.

    It''s not over yet. Bake responded, satisfactioncing his thoughts

    "Alpha King... Eleanor stammeted, we didn''t know it was yin... we were just.

    Tust insulting my daughter''s guest? Drenching her in ceremonial wine? ndering her name?" ke raised an eyebrose,

    With each sentence, his aura expanded further, pressing down until everyone instinctively lowered their heads. I noticed more wolves gathering around the edges, watching this spectacle with shocked expressions.

    We.. we deeply apologize, Richard interjected, his voice shaking so badly I could barely make out the words. "We didn''t realize she had. connections to

    you

    Connections. Ha. If they only knew how deep our "connection" really goes... I teased through our link.

    ke''s mouth twitched slightly, a smile only I could detect. Want them to know?

    The suggestion made my heart skip a beat. Are you crazy? Not now. But seeing the terrified like this is pretty damn satisfying

    "Ava Rivers is an honored guest of Silverpeak Pack, ke announced, his voice camrying to every ear in the vicinity. "She came at my daughter Sophia''s. -the Alpha King." invitation. Any disrespect shown to her is disrespect shown to me ¡ú

    Eleanor dropped to her knees, others quickly following suit. "Please forgive our ignorance, Alpha King."

    win ke''s hand moved slowly from my shoulder to my wrist, the intimate gesture making everyone present draw in a collective breath

    "Miss Rivers," he addressed me publicly, his voice returning to normal but still filled with authority"Would you care to join me elsewhere? I believe this ceremony is no longer worthy of your presence."

    Now we''re having fun, Iughed through our link, feeling his amused response flow back.

    1 looked up at him, answering in the sweetest voice I could muster: "I would be honored, Alpha King."

    Eleanor looked like she

    Walking alongside ke through the Hayes inner circle, I couldn''t resist ncing back. Vanessa''s face had turned a sickly white, El might have a heart attack any second, and Richard seemed to wish the ground would open up and swallow him whole.

    Dramatic enough exit for you? ke asked, holding my hand as we headed toward the exit.

    Absolutely perfect. I responded, savoring the warmth of our palms touching. Just nous though, how did yw arrive so perfectly on time?

    When they threw that drink on you, I felt your shock and anger, his thoughts

    turned serious. Through our mark

    His answer understood.

    That feeling... I couldn''t ignore it.

    send warmth spreading through my chest. I was finally experiencing the true wonder of a mate connection, that feeling of being deeply

 Bad Husband 131

    apter 131

    Fai viske took my hand in lead ine kolky, Sophia suddenly poked through the crowd, her face night with worry.

    ?Father tail," the called out, slightly breathless.

    Rikke stopped bin kept his fingers firmly intertwined with mine. His expression remained series, though I right that ishaning around his eyet he reserved for his children.

    "What is it, Sophin?"

    She nced at me, somethingplicated flickering across her face before turning back to ke. The Hayes family behoved the assholes, but please don''t. bail on the ceremony.

    A knife twisted in my gut. Not one word of apology for my humiliation-just straight to defending the Hayes family. We''d huddled together in that underground cell, facing death side by side, and now she was choosing them.

    "This is Jackson''s big day," Sophia continued, golden hair falling forward. "Eleanor and Vanessa were just... you know how they get."

    ke''s saw tightened, though his voice stayed patient. "You know what they did was wrong, right?"

    Sophia lowered her head, using her hair as a shield. "Yes, Father. But this alliance matters for both packs. Please."

    ke sighed, reaching out to brush her hair back-pure dad energy in that simple gesture, I won''t wreck your day, but the Hayes family owes an apolog

    Through our mind-link came his thoughts: I have to think about Sophie, but I can''t let them disrespect you like that

    get it, she''s your daughter. But I think our friendship at crashed and burned, I replied, tasting bitterness. Another rtionship turning to ash

    "Go back to your fianc¨¦," ke told Sophia. "I''ll stick around."

    She hugged him gratefully before hurrying off without even a backward nce. I watched her disappear into the crowd, something hollow opening up inside me. The girl who''d fought beside me through hell had vanished.

    ke turned to me, voice dropping low, "I''d rather take you to our cabin. These people aren''t worth our time."

    The tenderness in his eyes hit me right in the chest-that look he saved just for mir

    I shook my head despite wanting nothing more than to escape. "I need to clean

    up and check on my mom. She''s probably freaking out.

    My wolf D

    paced restlessly-half wanting to follow ke, half worried about Sarah,

    studied me before he nodded:

    1. d. "Don''t make me wait too long."

    His gray-blue eyes st¨¹r

    Across the room, Eleanor and Vanessa exchanged looks that could curdle milk. Their faces still showed the aftershock of being publicly dressed down by the Alpha King

    The mark on my neck warmed beneath my cor a reminder of just how weird my situation was. An ordinary wolf with the Alpha King''s mark, swimming with political sharks.

    My foster mother Sarah appeared at my side, gently taking my arm. "Let me help you clean up."

    Her voice had that slight tremor it got when she was worried. Until she spoke, I hadn''t even noticed her hovering nearby, but her presence was like finding solid ground.

    I nodded, then turned to ke, forcing my voice to sound normal despite the emotional hurricane inside.

    Trapierka

    Ho theghu brashed mine: re kreponglu on pan. Anythiut happens, kat n? hamediately.

    i exught a glimpse of Sophia standing beside Jackson, her face lighting up as her father approached. That fiend whird meira nowpletely lost. In her men bubble,

    As ke walked away, I noticed the wolves armind me shift-their hostility morphing into wary, confused side eyes.

    We made our way through the ceremony hall. Through our link, I could feel ke''s attention partly on me even as he yed nice with the Reyes family

    The connection fell like wearing invisible amor in enemy teritory.

    Sarah remained quiet as we walked, but her shoulders were wound tight, her steps quick and pervous.

    We passed Richard Hayes and several elders who froze mid convertion, their faces hardening.

    "That Rivers girl..." one muttered, not bothering to lower his voice. nee of warrior training.

    Sarah''s grip tightened on my arm as I lifted my chin, channeling every ounce

    The second the cleaning room door closed behind us, Sarah spun to face me. "What''s going on with you and the Alpha King? Why would he stand up for you Her eyes were wide, fingers twisting together like anxious snakes

    ¡°He''s just Sophia''s dad," I kept my voice low. "He doesn''t like seeing guests disrespected."

    No way I was telling her about the mark hidden on my neck that bomb could wait.

    She sighed, her forehead creasing. She didn''t buy it but didn''t push.

    She dampened a fancy towel and began gently dabbing at my face, wiping away wine stains with motherly care.

    In the mirror, the red streaks on face looked like blood-a perfect visual for my position in this pack

    "wa," she said quietly, "before that wine incident, Jackson talked to me about something."

    Her voice wavered, eyes darting away from mine.

    My wolf instantly went on alert. Jackson talked to you? About what?"

    hadow Creek as a training instructor."

    As she worked on cleaning my dress, she said, "He suggested you could return to Shadow Creek

    There was a thread of hope in her voice that made my stomach clench. "What? With Dad''s situation? They''d never-the entire park thinks he''s a traitor." My voice jumped before I forced it back down, paranoid about eavesdroppers. Sarah shook her head, something like life returning to her eyes for the first time in months. Jackson said that''s not an issue. If he personally rmends you, the council will approve it."

    Her hand touched my cheek, the gesture straight from my childhood. "This could be our chance, Ava.

    I frowned, internal rms ring.

    1. ng. "Since when isckson Helpful? That doesn''t sound like him at all. He must have an angle."

    My wolf growled, sensing a trap that Sarah was unknowingly pushing me toward.

    the ware suddenly found steel 1 ritely heard. I already told Jackson you''d think

    about it. 114 said If you agree,

    Chapter Comments

    Mike

    POST COMMENT

    I do hope she isn''t going to let herself fall back into that snakespit like that... that

    is just asking for problems

    View 1 Comment

    4

 Bad Husband 132

    The cleaning room door clicked that behind us. I spin around to fare Sarah, my voler liarely above a whisper.

    Seriously? You''re buyingckson''s offer? This terks of bullshiE"

    Sarby shoulders slumped as she dropped onto a small stool in the corner. Dark circles shadowed her eyes, making her look ghostly under the birth Tuorescent lighting.

    "What choice do I have, Ava?" She rubbed her temples. "William''s losing weight. The guards are... they''re tist kind to him."

    My stomach knotted. I''d tried not to picture Dad in that concrete box they called a cell, tried not to imagine what "not kind" might look like.

    "But Jackson? Conit on.'' I grabbed a towel and scrubbed at the wise stains on my neck. "The sime jackest who tossed me aside like yesterday''s garbage? Who just stood there while his grandmother humiliated me? And now he''s Mr. Helpful?"

    "You think I don''t know that?" Sarah''s voice cracked. "You think I wouldst rather punch him in his perfect teeth thun

    his help?"

    That pulled me up short, Ed never heard her talk like that before.

    "The Blood Protection Right is real, Ava? Her fingers twisted in herp. "If you regain pack status as an instructor, you could invoke it. Even Hayes can''t ignore ancientw without losing fare."

    The wine had dried sticky on my skin. I ran the damp towel along my corbone, mind racing. This was ssic Jackson-dangling hope like bait in a trap.

    "Going back means giving up everything at ckwood," I said quietly. "Lucas''s training, the stability..."

    Bialy. I couldn''t say his name out loud, but he filled my thoughts. Our secret cabin. Hisugh in the darkness. The way his eyes turned molten gold when he wanted me.

    Sarah reached for my hand, her cool fingers squeezing mine. I know it''s not fair. None of this is. A tear slipped down her cheek. "But Will is running out of

    My throat tightened. Sarah wasn''t just my foster mom anymore-she was a woman watching her husband waste away in prison for a crime he didn''tmit. "What if it''s a trap?" I leaned against the sink. "Jackson doesn''t do favors. Ever." "Maybe he''s trying to look good to the pack" Sarah shrugged. "Magnanimous future Alpha forgives traitor''s daughter, Great PR.¡±

    I noted. "You really think Mr. Self-Absorbed grew a conscience overnight?"

    "Hell no." For a second, Sarah''s old spark shed in her eyes. "But if he wants to use us for his image, why not use him right back?"

    I blinked, caught off guard by her calcting tone. Turns out my sweet foster mom had ws when hacked into a corner.

    "Jackson wants an answer by tomorrow," she added, her voice softening again. "He needs time to submit the application before the council meeting

    "Of course he does." I rolled my eyes. "Heaven forbid I get five minutes to think."

    Sarah stood, smoothing her rumpled dress. "Ava, fil back whatever you decide. Just... please think about it. William needs us.

    I nodded, the weight of the decision pressing down like a mountain on my shoulders.

    "One more thing." Sarah paused at the door. "What''s ke Morgan really

    ally like? I saw how he stepped in for you."

    My pulse skittered. I busied myself with wiping w

    wine from my dress. "Just professional stuff. I barely see him. I''m with Lucas most of the time."

    my say his femper''s legendary (80) Surch lowered her wire. Last pick meeting. ht publicly destroyed inme peo

    * my mind. I saw ke''s controlled rage after my h¨²miliation-not the mark of a hothead, hot of someone protective to hites

    "Probaki g?nip, 1 shrugged, careful to keep iny expression neutral.

    Sarah qurd my arm. Just watch yourself, okay? Men like Mangan Just staff. Receable."

    with that kind of power-they don''t or people like us as epals. To him, you en

    If she only knew about the golden mak burning under my cor, about ke''s whispered promises, about how che looked at me like I was irreceable. She''d have a stroke on the spot.

    "I love you, kiddo." She kissed my cheek. "Thu going to work the room, see if there''s anyone else who might help. Meet you by the entrance in an hour?"

    After she left. I turned to the mirror, pushing aside my hair to expose my neck. The mark gleamed in the harsh light-nearly all gold now, Jackson''s silver imprint almostpletely overwritten by ke''s ims.

    The warmth of it pulsed in time with my he

    heartbeat. Going back to Shadow Creek meant giving this up. Giving up.

    The door swung open without warning. I yanked my hair down and whirled around, fists raised-only to find ke filling the doorframe, eyes buming like

    "Jesus!" I hissed, quickly checking the door was shut. "Are you trying to get caught?"

    "Nobody saw me." He crossed the tiny room in two strides. "1 checked."

    "That''s not the My protest died as he cupped my face in his hands.

    "They humiliated you," he growled softly, thumbs brashing my cheeks. "Took everything I had not to tear the ce apart."

    "I can handle a little wine to the face." I tried to sound tough, but found myself leaning into his touch. "Not my first rodeo with Hayes family hospitality."

    "I know you can handle it. The corner of his mouth lifted. "Doesn''t mean you should have to."

    His gaze dropped to my lips, and the air between us crackled like a live wire. I could feel his heartbeat picking up speed, our marks connecting in that weird way that still caught me off guard.

    Author''s Note: OMG guys! Talk about being stuck between a rock and a sexy Alpha Poor Ava''s got Jackson dangling her dad''s freedom like bait while ke''s over here making her heart race. What would YOU do? Choose family duty or follow your heart? And can we talk about Sarah dropping those ke rumors?! The tension is KILLING me! Will Ava make the right choice? See you in the next chapter! Drop your predictions below!

    Chapter Comments

    Mike

    if she is going back, only thing she will do of destroying herself.

    Visitor

    POST COMMENT

    It was previously written that the Kings mark fully changed the a*holes mark. Now

    you are writing old script where her mark still has silver.

    View All 3 Comments >

    b 3

    Marked Twice by the Alpha King

 Bad Husband 133

    When he lived me, it wasn''t gentle. This mouth alimed mi at my back hit. The cold

    til

    a hunger that knockid thevath froes nay longs

    dort, podling him cloter

    His hand al-2 in my waist, Impres digging in just

    to make me gap: Every coherent thinght scattered like leaves in a winddarm Jackson''s scheme, all of it. Momen away by the feel of Make''s body pressed against mine.

    He tasted my thighs

    whiskey and something wildet, something that made my wolf whimper with need. His teeth graced my bottom lip at his knee pashed between.

    "You drive me crazy," he mummed again my neck, voter tough Watching you acim room, not being able to touch you

    "Look who''s talking" I ran my fingers through his hair, tugging just hand enough to make him groan, "You and your stupid Alpha wagger:

    Its bough vibrated against my skin as he ripped at my corbone. "You like my swazzer

    Shut up and kiss me. I pulled his mouth back to mine, desperate to forget everything else, if only for a few stolen minutes.

    We crashed together like waves breaking on rocks, all hands and heat and breathless need. His fingers found the zipper of my dress, and I didn''t stop him, men though the rational part of my brain screamed that anyone could walk in

    Hn lips traveled down my throat to the mark on my neck. The moment he touched it, liquid fire raced through my veins. I bit my lip to keep from crying out, my body arching against his

    "We should go," he whispered, his voice strained with restraint.

    car''s nut back. The cabin''s only thirty minutes away.

    The thought of our little hideaway made my heart ache with longing. But reality came crashing back-Sarah waiting for me, the ceremony still in full swing. dozens of eyes that would notice if we both disappeared

    "I can 1." I said reluctantly, my hands still clutching his shoulders. "Not tonight."

    Instead of pushing or questioning, he just nodded, pressing his forehead against mine. That simple respect made my chest tighten in a way his kisses hadn''t.

    "Then I II take what I can get. He traced my jawline with his thumb. A stolen moment is better than none at

    This time when he kissed me, it was slower, deeper, like. was trying to memorize the feel of me. I melted into him, my wolf howling inside at the rightness of it all.

    His hand slid lower, hiking up my dress, and I forgot where we were, forgot everything except the feel of his skin against mine, the promise of more

    Footsteps echoed in the corridor outside. We froze, eyes locked, breathing hard.

    "Someone''sing," he murmured, reluctantly pulling away.

    aid she''d be back"

    "Probably Sarah." I quickly straightened my clothes, fingerbing my tangled hair. "She said

    ke pressed onest kiss to my temple. "When all this is over....

    He didn 1 finish, but I nodded anyway, understanding the promise in those unspoken words:

    "Wait for me." The plea slipped out before i could stop it, barely audibile even to my ow

    His

    eyes softened, the gold fading back to stermy blue. "As long as it

    Then he wa

    was gone, slipping out with the silent grace only an Alpha could manage. I sagged against the wall, heart still racing, lips still burning from his

    Tomorrow I''d have to choose between my family and... whatever this thing with ke was bing. The thunich

    Third Person POV

    Have youpletely foot your mind?" Richard Hayesered his son behind a decorative nak, vilce barely abuere a whisper. "Inviting the Rivers girl back as an instructor? After all the trouble we went through to get her father out of the way?"

    fackson''s mouth curled into that smile that had always made Bichand uneasy-lon caldating for someone so young.

    "s, Father. It''s perfectly thought out."

    "Thought out? The pack will slett

    "They''ll see apassionate future Alpha, Jackson corrected, adjusting his cufflinks. "One who believes in second chances, even for those who''ve made... unfortunate family connections."

    Richard studied his son''s face, looking for the truth behind the polished veneer. Cut the crap. What''s your real y here?"

    Something dangerous flickered in Jackson''s eyes. "Did you see Morgan back there? The Alpha King himself, rushing to defend some nobody from Shadow Creek?" He shook his head. "That''s not normal.

    "You think there''s something between them? Richard''s brow furrowed,

    1 don1 think, I know." Jackson a voice hardened. "She''s changed. I can feel it. She was mine, Father. I marked her."

    "You suspect... Richard couldn''t even finish the thought.

    1 need her here, on our territory, under my watch"rkson tapped his fingers against his thigh-the only sign of his agitation. "If what I suspect is true, we''d have the perfect leverage against Silverpeak"

    Richard pulled back, suddenly wary of his own son. "You''re ying with fire. If Morgan has imed her-

    "Then I''ll have proof of the Alpha King viting one of our most sacredws. Jacksons smile returned, sharper now. "Taking another wolf''s marked mate? Even the mighty ke Morgan couldn''t survive that scandal."

    1

    And your engagement to Sophia? The alliance we''ve spent years building?" Jackson waved dismissively. "Sophia is a means to an end. If a better opportunity presents itself, only a fool would igno

    Richard stared at his son, truly seeing him perhaps for the first time. The ambition he''d once fostered with pride had twisted into something darker. something that sent a chill down his spine.

    "Don''t drag us into something you can''t control," he warned.

    I''m always in control, Father." Jackson''s confidence never wavered. "Every possibility has been considered."

    What he didn''t say what he''d never admit aloud-was how he nned to use William Rivers as a permanent leash around Ava''s neck. The Blood Protection Right was just halt. She''d never get close enough to invoke it, but the hope would keep her dancing to his tune.

    And unce she was back in Shadow Creek, on his territory, under hismand... well, she''d learn quickly that second chances came with strings attached.

    Very light strings.

    The two men rejoined the ceremony, where the ceremonial torches cast long shadows across the grass. Like omens, they stretched toward the horizon, dark and foreboding.

 Bad Husband 134

    at the Hager voletention, enching a drink I wasn''t baiting.

    shuipened benind their bandit, eyes darling to her before they dissolved Into imati A deep bord spread through my Kipha Kmg, 1 tirely *elf helpless, but watching these wolves circle Ava like was wounded prey white politiet tied

    O The Telleritance ceremony had been had enough. Watching how these people treated someone who once fought for their park confioned what l¨¢

    the Hayes family was rothen straight to the marrow.

    crtical alliance for both packs, don''t you agree?" Michand donned on bedde me,pletely oblivious that I''d tuned him out five minutes ago.

    Richard was apposedly Shadow Creek''s second inmand, but the whole pack knew he was just a mouthpiece for his wife. My ge drifted across the reem to where Martha stood with the eldes, her spine straight as a de. She nced my way, her perfectly painted smile never reaching these calcting

    "Absolutely," I muttered, not giving a damn what I was agtering fo.

    1 focused my hearing instead, zeroing in on the group of semen who''dpered we by the refreshment table.

    "Got some nerve showing her face here," a blonde in a dress that probably cost more than most pack members made in a month said, her lip curled.

    Traitor''s daughter strutting around like she belongs."

    "Well, she''s Sophia''s pet project," another one snickered. "Poor thing has no idea how close her fianc¨¦ used to be with this... warrior."

    Something primal and dangerous rumbled up from my chest before I could stop it a sound that rolled through the air like distant thunder. Conversations within twenty feet went dead silent. Richard froze mid-sentence, a bead of sweat forming on his temple.

    "Alpha King?" he asked, tension threading through his voice. "Is everything alright?"

    I inhaled slowly, fighting back the Alpha energy that wanted to food the room. "Excuse me. Something needs my attention."

    I didn''t wait for his response. The crowd parted as I crossed the floor, nobody stupid enough to make eye contact. I moved with purpose, my focus narrowed to the women still surrounding Ava, too caught up in their own viciousness to notice the approaching storm.

    Ava stood among them, spine straight as steel, face carefully nk. But I knew her now-could read the fury in her clenched fists and the slight tilt of her chin. My warrior was holding herself back, honoring our agreement to avoid making waves.

    "She''s probably only here with Sophia to save daddy dearest, Vanessa sneered, ying with her silver bracelet like a cat with a mouse. "How pathetic. Still hanging around after being tossed aside like yesterday''s garbage."

    I reached them in three more strides, my handing to rest on Awa''s shoulder before I''d even thought about it. The temperature in our little circle seemed to drop ten degrees. The women''s vanished like they''d been pped.

    "Ladies," I said, keeping my voice deceptively soft. It didn''t matter-every wolf within hearing distance went still as prey. "Seems like you''ve found better entertainment than the ceremony itself"

    Eleanor-the family matriarch-recovered first, her face transforming from cruel to sickly sweet so fast it was almost impressive.

    "Alpha King Morgan! What a pleasant surprise," she practically cooed. "We were just catching up with our

    old... acquaintance."

    "Catching u up?" 1 raised an eyebrow, letting a hint of gold are in my eyes. Funny,

    it sounded more like you were being nasty as hell to my guest."

    Eleanor nched. Vanessa took a half-step back, eyes darting around for escape routes.

    "1-1 apologize, Alpha King, Eleanor stammered. That was never-

    "Save it 1 cut her off "Your apology isn''t for me."

    hold wide

    the walking crowd Mattles the held Phelt breath. Thayes widers didn''t apologize

    to anyone tally not in someone they considered kanapen

    ¡ü Hedded sneh, a kmall smile ying at her lips that didn''t quite reach her eyes. "Apology epted, Elder Hayes-

    3 kept nos band en Ava''s shoulder, using the slightest pressure to guide her away. "As will be joining me et my table. The Morgan familyndler host donnently

    No one mined my meshing. As we moved through the crowd, whispers tippled out like stones thrown in a pond.

    That ti start talk," Ayn mattered when we were far enough away.

    "Let them talk," I replied, not removing my hand. "They were already talking. At least now they I think twice about it."

    She nced up at me, a hint of a real smile tugging at her mouth, "My knight in shining silver, huh?"

    "More like your everprotective Alpha who can''t mind his nws business."

    That earned me a quickugh that hit me right in the chest. "I thought I was just your son''s instructor."

    "You''re..." I paused, lowering my voice so only she could hear. You know damn well you''re more than that."

    A flush crept up her neck, and she looked away, but not before I caught the warmth in her eyes. Something settled in my chest-a quiet satisfaction at bring the one who put that look there.

    We''d barely reached our seats when Martha glided up to the table like a shark smelling blood. She slipped into the chair across from me, her expensive perfume hitting my nose a second before she did. Martha was the power behind the Hayes throne-always impably dressed in clothes that cost more most pack members saw in a year, with the family medallion gleaming against her throat.

    Heres the exact same ice blue as her son''s-stid from me to Ava and back, calcting risks and opportunities with every nce.

    "Is everything to your satisfaction, Alpha King?" she asked, her voice smooth as honey but with a bite beneath the sweetness.

    BITE ME WEREWOLVES: Well hello there, pack members! ke just went full Alpha mode, and I''m here for it! The way he shut down those Hayes harpies? Pure. Alpha. Energy. Marthas calcting eyes miss nothing though....what secrets is she hunting? Don''t you DARE go anywhere because things are about to get seriously HOT in the next chapters! #Teamva

    Chapter Comments

 Bad Husband 135

    de Sip of my drink. Tout entailing all guests are treated with respect, Romething the Hayes faintly jenis to love

    Manha dide1 ch, but I caught the slight tightening at the corners of her eyes. Unlike most woftes, she didn''t immediately bow her bed. Instead, the eljastre her posture in some subtle way that acknowledged my stated while aintaining her dignity.

    1 deeply apologize for any... misunderstandings," the swil, fingers absently touching her family rest. The women can be a hit territorial at these events, but it''s nothing personal. We value your support of my son''s manage far too much to allow such petty behavior,t

    "Odd," I remarked casually. "It seemed extremely personal from where I stood." Martha''s perfect facade slipped for just a seconil. "Women''s squabbles,"

    wave. "You know how they get."

    "What I know," I said, letting my voice drop to that register that made other wolves'' knees go wesk, ¡°is that if my daughter is marrying into your family. I''m very interested in how you treat those with less power than yourselves. Shows character, don''t you think?"

    The messagended. Martha didn''t outwardly react, but a Hash of fear sparked in her eyes before she could hide it. As the true puppet master of the n, she understood better than anyone that I could destroy their entire family''s standing with a word,

    "You can trust uspletely, Alpha King," she assured me, leaning slightly forward. The movement wafted her designer perfume toward me-a calcted gesture meant to distract and disarm. "Il personally ensure it."

    "Good," I said, letting my gaze dritt

    pointedly to where Jackson stood across the room with his father. "I''d hate to be disappointed."

    Martha''s smile remained fixed in ce, but her pulse jumped at her throat. "You absolutely won''t be, Alpha King"

    Hourster, as the celebration began to wind down, I spotted Sarah Rivers making her way toward Axa.

    "I''m heading home, she said, exhaustion etched into the lines of her face. "Youing with

    Ava nced my way, just for a heartbeat, before turning back to her foster mother. "I need to get back to ckwood tonight. Lucas has an early session tomorrow, and I still need to prep."

    Sarah nodded, pulling Ava into a tight hug. "Think about what we talked about," she whispered, voice so low even my enhanced hearing barely caught it. "Your father needs you."

    Somethingplicated shed across Ava''s face, but she just nodded, watching Sarah merge into the departing crowd.

    I stood and turned to Richard, who''d been hovering nearby. "The ceremony was... educational"

    "Thank you for attending, Alpha King," he said, struggling to hide his relief that I was finally leaving. "Your p

    presence honored our family greatly."

    "Honor isn''t shown in ceremonies," I told him, holding his gaze until he looked away. "It''s proven in how you act when no one important is watching."

    The lesson clearly made him ufortable. Good.

    I turned to Ava, keeping my expression carefully neutral. Ava, I''m heading back to ckwood. Would you care for a ride? It''s on my way."

    I saw her hesitate, weighing options as Martha materialized at Richard''s side.

    1 can range for a pack car to take her back, Martha interjected smoothly, her tone pleasant but her eyes hard as river stones. "No need to trouble yourself, Alpha King."

    Ava lifted her chin slightly. "I appreciate the offer, Alpha King. I do need to get back to prepare for tomorrow''s training."

    Martha''s perfect brows drew together "What work do you do at ckwood, exactly?" The question seemed innocent, but I caught the disbelief in her voice-

    ''1 dee. Well then, good night in you both." He grze 15d between nu, searching for anything the could ose.

    Taubat getve han time to find it. With a curt and, I turned to leave, Ava falling into step beside me. As we walked toward the exit, I noticed her the Strop about an Inch¡ªa tiny tell that she was fearing tension behind

    Thank gooform that''s over," she muttried under her breath.

    "You took the words right out of

    my mouth.

    Tyler was waiting, his massive frame half hidden among the pines. His eyes constantly scanned our

    We reached the edge of the celebration area where Ty surroundings, missing nothing.

    "All clear?" he asked quietly, looking between i

    "Just perfect," I replied, the sarcasm not lost on him. "Hayes family''s living up to their reputation."

    Tyler nodded, a look passing between us that required no words after thirty years of friendship. Cleared the borders. No unwanted eyes or ears. Got two patrol teams making sure you get out clean."

    "Head back to ckwood," I told him. "Brief the council on tonight''s disaster. Ava and I need to check the northern boundary markers. Been some weird activity up there."

    Tyler''s face remained neutrall, but I caught the microscopic twitch at the corner of his mouth. He knew damn well there was no "weird activity anywhere Dear my private cabin.

    "On it, boss," he said. "Need me to swing by in the morning?"

    "We''ll manage," I replied. "III link you if anythinges up."

    Tyler gave Ava a small nod before melting back into the trees with surprising grace for a man his size. I gestured toward the ck SUV hidden among the shadows-my custom vehicle with all the reinforcements and privacy features an Alpha King could want

    "After you," I said, opening the passenger door.

    Ava d in, her silver dress catching the moonlight. I scanned the area once more before getting behind the wheel, starting the engine, and pulling onto the forest path that would take us far from prying eyes.

    The first blurred into streaks of shadow and silver outside the windows. Each passing second wound the tension between us tighter. I could smell her desite starting to bloom-cinnamon and wild honey mixing with her natural scent. My wolf wed beneath my skin, desperate to im what was mine.

    I took a sharp turn onto a forgotten service path, driving just far enough to bepletely hidden from the main road before mming on the brakes. The SUV

    slid slightly on fallen leaves beforeing to a stop.

    Ava turned to me, one eyebrow raised. "In a hurry?"

 Bad Husband 136

    Cilek Terusled, Angly sinsurkitsa my seatbelt and reaching for hun. Bret thinking Abent that all night,

    I pulled her to me, taring about the inninle between us. Our mouths crashed togeiber, all the frostration and destre of the

    dhe harted like freedom-wit and sweat kad ottelly addictive. Avax fingiri ted in my hair, tugging f¨¹nt hand annugh or make m

    Herrt, she gasped when we broke apa to breathe. "What if someone-

    "No onees this way, Lassured her, my hands abendy finding the sipper of her dress. ¡°tau ¨²s. Na polities, no pretending. Just you and i

    That was all the convincing the needed. Ava moved with startling speed, climbing over the entole to straddle myp as I hurriedly adjusted the seat back Her silver drei fell open at the top, revealing the soll swell of her breasts in the moonlight. Frouldn''t help but stare-she was magnificent, all smooth curves and wannier strength.

    "See something you like?" she whispered, a hint of mischief in her eyes,

    "Everything." I admitted, my voice rough with desire..

    I slid my hands up her sides, feeling the warmth of her skin through the thin fabric. When I reached her breasts, I cupped them reverently, my thumbs brushing over the hardened peaks. Ava''s head fell back, a soft moan escaping her lips. I couldn''t resist leaning forward to taste her skin, my mouth trailing hot kisses down her throat to the valley between her breasts.

    "Biske," she siched, arching into my touch.

    1 tugged the dress lower, exposing herpletely to the moonlight and my hungry gaze. Her skin practically glowed silver-blue in the darkness, making her look otherworldly and impossibly beautiful. I captured one rosy peak between my lips, swirling my tongue around it while my hand attended to the other. The sounds she made-soft gasps and breathless moans-drove me to the edge of sanity.

    Her hips rocked against mine instinctively, seeking friction. I slipped my free hand beneath her bunched dress, finding her already slick and ready. When my fingers found that sensitive bundle of nerves, she shuddered against me, clutching my shoulders for support.

    "I''ve been thinking about touching you all night," I murmured against her breast. "Watching you across that room, knowing what was underneath that

    "Then stop talking" shemanded, her voice husky with need. And do something about it."

    My mouth found her neck, seeking out the spot where my mark had all but erased Jackson''s. The gold practically glowed in the darkness, a physical reminder of our connection. When my lips touched it, 1 felt her shudder against me, her mind momentarily brushing against mine through our link¡ªa sh of desire so pure it stole my breath.

    "I need you," she whispered against my ear, her hands already working at my belt. "Now, ke."

    I helped her, lifting my hips slightly so she could pull my clothing out of the way. She positioned herself above me, our eyes locked together in the dim light. Then slowly, achingly slowly, she sank down, taking mepletely inside her. We both gasped at the sensation, her inner wall squeezing me in the most exquisite torture.

    "Incredible," I breathed, resting my forehead against hers for a moment, overwhelmed by the feeling of being joined with her.

    "Just getting started,"

    she replied with a wicked spile that set my

    blood on

    fire.

    She began to move, finding a rhythm that had us both gasping for air. My hands drifted everywhere-cupping h

    her breasts, gripping her hips, sliding up her back to tangle in her hair. Ava rode me with the same precision and focus she brought tobat training-each movement deliberate, controlled, aimed at maximum effect. Her breasts bounced gently with each motion, hypnotizing me until I couldn''t resist leaning forward to capture a nipple between my teeth,

    The windows steamed up around us, creating our own private world. Moonlight filtered through, catching on the sweat beading between her breasts and along her corbone, making her glow like something not quite mortal. My Luna, My mate,

    boilding in her body, rie

    my Thilch Urching her send live center with prerleed bain, Her Hhythm faltered at pleasure ever

    Thish spreading across her chest and the way h¨¦t eyes grew dark and unfocused.

    "Don''t stop, the breathed, moving faster. "Right there........ ke......."

    (On inst, I pulled her down, my mouth finding our mark. When my teeth geared that golden patch of skin, our connection exploded wide on her

    pleasure became mine, my desire flowed into her. The feedback loop of sensation pushed us both over the edge together.

    Ava cried out, her body clenching wound me as release are though her. I felt her funer w deep inside her, my vision temporarily whiting wat from the intensity.

    pulsing, milking my men release from me as I buried myself.

    In the aftermath, we stayed joined, foreheads pressed together, breathing each other''s air. My fingers tracedry patterns along her spine at her heartheat gradually slowed against my chest. She was soft and warm in my arms, her skin dewy with perspiration, her lips swollen from our kisses.

    ¡°You know,¡± I said quietly, I''ve never needed anyone the way I need you."

    It was as close as I could get to saying those three words-words an Alpha, especially on Alpha King, had been taught never to say fint. Showing weakness, even to a mate, went against everything hammered into me since childhood, But Ava understood. Her eyes softened as the brushed her thumb across my cheekbone. "Yeah," she whispered. "I know exactly what you mean."

    Eventually, we had to part. I helped her straighten her dress, my fingers lingering on her skin, reluctant to lose contact. She leaned forward to ce a soft Iss on my lips before sliding back to her seat. When I started the engine again, she reached over toce her fingers with mine, a simple touch that somehow felt more intimate than what we''d just shared,

    "So," she said, a smile ying at her lips. Think our bed at the cabin still remembers how we broke itst time?"

    ¡°I had it reinforced.¡± I promised, bringing her hand to my lips. ¡°Steel frame now,¡±

    "Good," she settled back into her seat, a satisfied glow about her. "Because I''m not nearly done with you tonight."

    Chapter Comments

    3

 Bad Husband 137

    Marked Twie

    focits trobar vanih inte the duties, the thing of betrayal mill frech. When

    the t?c h?i lip hard enough to taste blond, refusing to crumble, Mor here, Nar in front of there waters. She''d busted bar at ying the perfect "Mughter Mi there traditionalists. Na way was the breaking charactEL BOW,

    Martha Hayes sidled up bestile hes, expensive prfume announcing her rival before her designer heels even hit the grasi.

    "Don''t waste energy in that Rivers girl, sweetie, Martha said, patting Sophia''s arm. Her smile didnt reach her ice cold eyes. "Test desuged goods some threw away.

    Vanessa flipped her hair, snorting. Right? Jackson picked it, not her died, it''s gross watching herel back to him again

    Something clicked in Sophia''s brain. She whipped toward Vanessa, her smile vanishing. Hold up-ngal?"

    Vanessa Blinked. "What''

    "You said again. Like they had something before."

    Vanessa opened her mouth, but Martha''s ws suddenly dug into her wrist, making

    or the younger woman yelp.

    "Oh, ignore her," Marthaughed, the sound like nails on a chalkboard. "Wine talking.¡± She shot Vanessa a look that screamed shut up in universal wolfnguage.

    Vanessa''s face went tomato-red. "Yeah, totally misspoke. Too many drinks" Her smile was stic, but her eyes held secrets.

    Bullshit. Sophia nced back at jackson, who was still fixated on where Ava had disappeared, his nose twitching slightly-trying to catch lingering traces of

    d the growl building in her throat and turned back with a sugar-sweet smile. "We should totally hang out sometime. Girl time, you know?"

    swallowed.

    Martha and Vanessa perked up like puppies offered treats. "We''d love that," Martha gushed, her eyes calcting every advantage.

    "Great, Ill contact you guyster. Maybe Moonlight Lounge?"

    Their eyes widened-no wolf got into that exclusive Silverpeak hotspot without Alpha clearance. An invite from the Alpha King''s daughter was social gold.

    Before they could start nning outfits, Sophia slipped away toward Jackson. He was so zoned out she had to physically touch his shoulder to register on

    his radar

    I need to crash for a bit," she said quietly

    He nodded vaguely, eyes still drifting toward the exit. The pain on his face stoked

    the anger simmering under Sophia''s skin, but she locked down her scent, keeping her emotions hidden.

    enter her w

    voice. I''m talking to you."

    son," she said, letting a thread of Morgan power enter

    "Jackson,"

    He blinked, finally seeing her. "Sorry, what?"

    I''m tired. Can we find somewhere to chill?!

    He studied her face, reality finally clicking, He raked fingers through his hair,

    taking a deep breath that screamed I''m huling something

    "Yeah, sure. My old roum''s upstairs. I''ve gotta finish this ceremony crap, though."

    Almost. That werd-sem-kent erloing in her head

    Sperra head back down, he said, thumb grasing her threk but syai never quite meeting hert. ''Make yourself at hom

    The second his footsteps faded, Sophia''s well woke up that primal part that needed to be, to find threats, fe protect what was here.

    She sat on his bed, scanning the room. Not many personal photos, typical for wolves-except one picture frame on the nightstand with kinempe clearly

    She picked it up, heart, thumping Jackson with half a photo, the other person surgically removed. Her fingers traced the jeed edge where someone else should be

    Ava? It had to be. But why He? Jackson was supposed to be her person, her future. And Ava-shed saved Sophia''s life in that cer. Friends didn''t he to each other.

    But yesterday, seeing Jackson grah Ava''s wrist, touching her neck like he used it... her wolf had bowled a warning.

    She couldn''t sit still. She popped open his dresser drawers, rifling through old t- shirts and gym shorts. An Alphar''s fianc¨¦e deserves the truth, she told herself. Nothing but teenage leftovers. The nightstand yielded the same¡ªjust normal junk plus a silver knife (weird for a werewolf to own and some herbal potions Frustrated, she headed for the bathroom. Her wolf pushed her forward, insistent,

    Her nose twitched, hunting for scents. A forgotten shampoo bottle smelled of pine and rain-definitely not Jackson''s usual sandalwood. Avender deodorant, also not his style. She sniffed deeper, the scent tickling a memory she couldn''t quite ce.

    The bathroom gleamed too clean, probably scrubbed with scent neutralizer. Only wolves with something to hide used that stuff.

    Heading back toward the bed, her wolf senses tingled at something under it. That pure Alpha intuition made the hair on her arms stand up. She dropped to her knees, spotting a floorboard that didn''t quite match the others.

    aling a hiding spot beneath-ssic wolf behavior, especially teenagers keeping She eased a nail under the edge and pulled. The board popped up, revealing a secrets from parents.

    Inside sat a simple wooden box carved with two wolf silhouettes. No lock, just a worn keepsake box with signs of frequent handling.

    Heart hammering, she lifted it out and opened the lid. Not fancy documents-just teenage treasures, the stuff of first loves and broken hearts.

    On topy a photo unmistakably theplete version of the cut picture. Jackson and Ava by Moonlight Lake, full moon overhead. Ava wore silver-white, and there on her neck gleamed a silver mark that made Sophia''s stomach drop-a fated mate mark, Jackson''s arm wrapped possessively around Ava''s waist, both beaming like they''d won the lottery.

    She lipped it over

    1. r. Written

    in Jackson''s messy scrawl: "Celebrating our discovery ceremony at Moonlight Lake with my fated mate, our souls bound by the Moon Goddess herself. Forever, [&A."

    The floor seemed to tilt beneath her. Ava wasn''t just some random warrior. She was Jackson''s goddess-chosen fated mate.

 Bad Husband 138

    ackson tossed Repliky note solo his nightstand, Ceremony wild wonderful, hur exhausted Heading back to chvost, ket je

    think pod, he in Scried, Jonvening bu tie with a shaip fog. The pressure of ying devoted faned had been kultacause NIM ATLAlght: Hi Zend, but the ther didn''tst. Its wold paced beneath his skin, heckler raford an Image of Ave and ke lessing ingother yed on tre Chead

    His teeth clenched to hard his jaw ached. Months had passed since he''d marked her, since he''d walked away for the political gold Morgan. But in his gut, Ava still belonged to him. That silver mark on her neck was his im, bir territory.

    "Screw this," be growled, matching his jacket. The wall felt like they were closing he staped, he might put his fist through something-or

    The Moonlight Han stank of cheap logo and desperation, Perfect, Jackson shouldered through the door, and the ce went dead quiet like someone had big mute. Conversations died mid sentence. Heads dropped. Nobody dated look the future Alpha in the eye.

    tim appeared instantly, his massive belly preceding him by a good six inches. "Mr. Hayes'' The bartender''s smile was too wide, too eager. "Hell of a surprise, What can I get ya?"

    Jackson pped a heavy pack emblem on the bar. "Moonlight brew. Don''t let me see the bottom of my ss."

    Eight shotster, the room swayed pleasantly, but the alcohol hadn''t helped worth a damn. His reflection in the bar mirror flickered between human and wolf, control slipping with each drink. Instead of numbing the pain, the booze just sharpened the images: Ava''s fingersced through ke''s, her lips against the Alpha King''s mouth, her body under his, arching...

    "Well, look who''s drowning his sorrows."

    woman slid onto the stool beside him. Dark hair tumbling over bare shoulders, dress that left little to imagination, lips painted blood-red. For one dizzy second, Jackson''s alcohol-soaked brain registered Ava-but the scent was all wrong. Too floral, too sugary. Nothing like Ava''s clean smell of pine and rain.

    ''Shadow Creek''s golden boy," she added with a smile that promised trouble. "All alone on his big night.

    Jackson squinted at her. "Do I know you?"

    "Not yet." She gestured to the bartender. "Diana. Northern Pack. Just passing through."

    Jim slid her some pink concoction that smelled like fruit and flowers. She crossed her legs toward Jackson, her dress riding up just enough to make him forget what he''d been brooding about.

    She nodded toward his empty ss. "Rough night? Thought you''d be celebrating with your Silverpeak princess."

    "She went home." Jackson signaled for another shot. "Politics and pleasure don''t always mix."

    "Oh Diana''s fingers brushed his wrist, light as a feather. "So what does mix with pleasure, then?"

    Her touch sent beat straight through him. His wolf surged forward, already wound tight with jealousy and anger, hungry for an outlet. For payback.

    ''Risk," he said, letting his wolf show just enough to make his eyes sh silver. "Danger."

    Diana didn''t flinch. Instead, her own eyes glowed in response, her well rising to meet his challenge. "Your territory or mine?" she asked bluntly,

    "I''ve got a ce," he said, already standing. "Private,"

    The Hayes hunting cabin had gathered dust since his grandfather''s day. Jackson kicked the door open, not bothering with lights. Moonlight spilled through dirty windows, casting long shadows across forgotten animal heach and antique weapons.

    As be led Diana inside, a savage satisfaction coursed through him. Ava would feel this. Their bond might be fading, but it wasn''t gone. She''d feel the echo of

    dan equal ferocits, balti raking down his back hand enough to draw blooil rves through hir

    purred, eyra dabbing gold. Si like 16-

    jarkann didn''t answer. Words weren''t what he needed. He manhandled her to the dusty chich, flipping her mer without ceremony This pleksion n? Connection-it was about revenge, about making Avs Tnt the way he was hurting. Each heutel thrust was fueled by rage, by burning need to reims what he''d foolishly given up,

    And with every movement, he focused on their failing bond, making sure she''d feel every second of his betrayal,

    Moonlight snuck through the cabin window, throwing silver stripes across Binke''s thest. Itis arm curled around me, thumb drawingzy circles on my skin while I snuggled against him. After that nightmare ceremony, this felt like crawling into heaven.

    "You were something else tonight," he murmured, his voice rambling under my ear. "Standing in a room full of Hayes snobs like you owned the ce."

    1 propped myself up on one elbow, unable to stop the smile spreading across my face. "Look who''s talking. You walked in and the whole pack nearly pissed themselves."

    His mouth quirked up at one corner. "Comes with the territory."

    "What, rescuing wine-soaked warrior girls?" I traced the stubble along his jaw, loving how it tickled my fingertips.

    "Protecting what matters. His voice dropped an octave as his thumb brushed my lower lip. "Nobody treats you like that. Not while I''m breathing"

    He leaned in, his mouth just brushing mine when pain exploded through my neck, White-hot, searing agony like someone had pped a branding iron against my skin. I jerked back with a strangled yelp, hand flying to the mark.

    "Ava!" ke sat bolt upright, fingers gripping my arms. "What is it?" Chapter Comments

    Mike

    why is the mark only working one way? or is it cause she isnt focussed on it or something? seems kinda strange to me he never fell over with pain.

    View 1 Comment >

    4

 Bad Husband 139

    "The mark" - Chally choked on. Terly like sking Blver wins."

    "ke vanished and reappeared in bionds with ¨¤ enld washcloth. He pressed it gently against my neck, his other arm wripping stoned

    his chest. Atched onto his solid warmth like an anchor in a storm.

    "Easy," he murmured, his breath warm against my est. "Breathe with me. ?n... cent... thats it."

    1 tried fotuning on his chest rising and falling against my back, but another were crashed through me, worse than before. A pathetic whimper ripped t I dochind evET.

    "Shit," I gasped. "Never felt this bad before. Not even when he got engaged.

    ke''s chest expanded as he took a deep breath. I didn''t need to see his eyes to know they''d shed gold his wolf rising to the parface.

    old mate marks have weird connections," he said, voice tight as he pressed the cloth harder against my skin. "While my mark''s mill recing his, there can be... feedback. Especially when the first marker is getting physical with someone,

    My stomach dropped as his meaning sank in. "Wait-you think Jackson and Sophia are...?"

    "Maybe celebrating his big night, ke said, but his tone suggested he wasn''t buying it either. That would be the expected thing."

    Another jolt of pain shot through me, so intense I had to bite my lip bloody to keep from screaming. My fingers dug into kes thigh hard enough to leave

    "Your hand," I managed between gritted teeth. "When you touch it... hurts less," Understanding shed in his eyes. Without hesitation, he pulled me onto hisp, one hand at my waist while the other covered my markpletely. The pain immediately dialed down from unbearable to merely horrible. I instinctively curled into him, craving more contact.

    "Our marks are fighting it out," he said, breath warm against my ear. "Mine''s pushing his out. My touch strengthens our side."

    When his lips brushed the mark, the pain transformed into something wildly different-a hot electric current that shot straight to my core. I shuddered, my hrad dropping back against his shoulder.

    "Better?" he asked, voice rough as gravel.

    "Don''t stop," I breathed, twisting to face him.

    His eyes darkened. "Every time I see that silver on you," he growled, "I want to burn it off. Can''t stand knowing his teeth touched you."

    Despite everything, I smirked. "Is the big bad Alpha King jealous?"

    eyes shed gold. "Alphas don''t get jealous," he said with mock dignity. "We stake ims."

    So I''m a im now

    His palm cupped my face, thumb tracing my lip "You know I''m nothing like him,¡± he said, all humor vanishing. He threw you away. I''d tear apart anyone who tried to take you from me."

    The raw honesty in his voice stole my breath. Before I could find words, his mouth imed mine in a kiss that was both gentle and demanding, like he was trying to erase Hayes from my memory.

    Jackson never kissed me like that," 1,whispered against his lips.

    "he demanded, voler Wirk and dark, fail me he never made you feel this?

    Isis? under my khi?t, his palm hot against my rib. "Not once.

    its andle against my skin f¨¦ll almost predatory. "Just medicine," he murmured, pushing my shirt higher. "For the pain

    let out a breathless twogh, my body already melting for him. "Is that what they call it at Alpha schon??

    He pulled back just enough to meet my eyes, suddenly serious. "I hate seeing you butt, Ava. Don''t ever think otherwise." His fingers traced my cheek i might break. "B?t I''m not sorry his mark isding. Silver was never your color. Your were made for gold''

    Something cracked open in my chest, raw and vulnerable. I used my mouth against his, puuring every feeling Loouldn''t wine into that kiss. His hande tightened on my hips, pulling me closer as I straddled him.

    Our clothes disappeared in a frantic rush of hands and teeth and whispered encouragements. ke''s mouth never left my skin, trailing fire down my neck, across my corbone, between my breasts. Every touch was reverent yet desperate, like he couldn''t get enough of me. When his lips returned to my mark, the earlier pain transformedpletely into pleasure so intense it bordered on unbearable,

    Through our fading bond, I could sense an echo of Jackson''s experience - mechanical, disconnected, emptypared to what I was feeling with ke. "Whoever she is," I gasped as ke guided me over him, "she''s not feeling what I am."

    The thought slipped out before I could catch it-the fleeting, petty satisfaction that Jackson''s partner wasn''t experiencing the same depth of connection I fell with ke. Shame immediately followed. What kind of person takes pleasure in something like that?

    ke''s eyes caught mine, questioning, but I shook my head, silently begging him not to ask. Instead, 1 sank down on him slowly, taking him deep inside me. We both groaned at the connection, my body stretching to amodate him. His hands steadied my hips, guiding my movements while his mouth returned to my neck, teeth grazing the mark with deliberate pressure.

    The dual sensation-his body inside mine, his teeth on the mark-created a feedback loop of pleasure that made my head spin. Each touch, each thrust, each brush of his lips against my skin strengthened the golden threads of his mark while weakeningckson''s silver brand. When we finally copsed against each other, spent and trembling, I knew something fundamental had shifted. Hayes''s mark had never felt weaker, ke''s gold never stranger.

    After, as wey tangled in st

    sheets damp with sweat, ke brushed hair from my face. "How''s the pain now?" he asked, voice soft in the darkness.

    "Almost gone." I smiled up at him, feeling boneless and spent.

    His expression grew serious. "That reaction shouldn''t have been so strong. Something''s not right." He closed his eyes briefly, that little crease appearing between his brows that showed he was using mindlink.

    When his eyes opened, they were

    ry were troubled. "Tyler just confirmed Sophia got back to ckwood hours ago.

    She''s alone in her room. Nobody saw Hayese back with her."

    Ice flooded my veins. My fingers instinctively touched my neck, where the pain had settled to a dull throb,

    "If Jackson isn''t with Sophia... I whispered.

    ke''s eyes hardened, glinting gold in the moonlight. Then who the hell is he screwing?"

 Bad Husband 140

    night, the same trellish cycle. As darkness crept ov¨®t the forest, the mark on my neck would fare in lite

    I by skin. Only dawn braight relief, m ke a truth,

    The healing ender might have something stronger, ke momered, hit callused fingertips tralling over the warring gold and silver macka, Manolight spilled through the tahin windows, turning the sheets to liquid silver around us.

    I caught his hand, pressing it harder against my neck. "Where she gonna say? Stap Hayes from screwing random women or dest with it until ke gold. wipes not the silver? We''ve heard that song already

    What I kept to myself was Sophia''s froven treatment. Since the ceremony, shad been ducking aroundes when she saw meing, treating me like I had the gue. If I entered a room, she df find urgent business elsewhere. The girl whord onre grabbed my hand in that underground hell no couldn''t even look me in the eye.

    ke suddenly stiffened, his eyes briefly unfocusing as he received a

    "Let me guest-face-down in a toilet somewh

    His jaw tightened. Tyler''s got news. They found our boy Hayes-

    "Close. Moonlight Bat, drunk off his ass, with some Northern Pack chick in hisp."

    I squeezed my eyes shut. The mark connection made sure I''d felt everything- every sloppy kiss, every grope burning through my neck like acid. "Awesome The jackass couldn''t even keep it in his pants for a week."

    ke rolled off the bed, pulling on his clothes. "Ive had Tyler drag his sorry ass back to ckwood.

    "Back to ckwood?" I sat up, wincing. "Why bother?"

    "Two reasons. One-" he tapped my neck, to end your pain. Two-to keep that idiot from blowing up a two-pack alliance that took years to build." He yanked a shirt over his head. "They''ll be there in half an hour"

    Jackson barely resembled the polished prince of Shadow Creek His once- immacte clothes hung wrinkled and stained. Dark circles shadowed eyes that couldn''t focus properly. He reeked of whiskey and cheap perfume-a scent that made my wolf hate her teeth in disgust.

    Tyler and two boulder-sized guards kept him upright in ckwood''s grand hall, but just barely.

    Jackson squinted against the light, his gaze wandering until itnded on me. "Ava?" Recognition sparked through the alcoholic haze. "The fuck are you doing

    I leaned against the wall, keeping my distance. "Need a mirror, Hayes? You look like something the-cat dragged in, then dragged back out again."

    Augh bubbled up from his chest-ugly and raw. "You jealous, baby? That''s cute." He swayed, the guards tightening their grip. "Diana''s got skills, but she ain''t you. None of em are."

    My wolf growled deep in my chest. This pathetic mess was the man I once thought was my destiny?

    "Enough." ke''s voice was soft but sliced through the room like a de. He stepped from the shadows, golden eyes fixed on Jackson

    Jackson went still, animal instinct recognizing the predator in the room. "Alpha King," he slurred, attempting to straighten.

    "Exin yourself" Two simple words, delivered with such quiet menace that even Tyler shifted ufortably.

    "I was just Jackson started.

    ''Diana from Northern Pack territories, Tyler cut in "Provocative dresser,

    aggressive approach. She''s been shadowing him for nights, always pouncing when

    he''s most drunk."

    "Beal charmer you picked, huh?" I at ke, bitterness leaking through.

    he storied l?tlin like somethin

    ¨¦vel, grabbing at empty air for bnce. Not trying in... embarrast. They inst., femind me al..? Hii hand moved sugge reppling b?nkelt in the proces.

    something cold slithered down my spine. What?

    "That''s enough," Biske sipped. "Tyler, get him cleaned up. Guest quarters, with guards. Make sure Sophia doesn''t see him like thic

    Tyler nodded, gesturing for the guards to haul Imkson away. The room emptied, leaving just ke and me with the crackling hearth betweentos "His free had hardened fire the mask he wore for pack business - all angles and nuthority.

    "How''s the mark?" he asked, stepping close enough that his scent-pine and leather and something uniquely Ale-wrapped around me.

    His palm covered my neck before I could answer, and blessed relief flowed from his touch. "Better," I admitted, hating how my body instantly calmed "wor what did he mean by hisst words"

    ke''s thumb stroked my pulse point. "Drunk babbling."

    His lips said one thing, but his eyes said another. I stepped away, breaking contact. ¡°You''re seriously letting this train wreck continue toward the altar? After catching him red-handed?"

    ke''s expression grewplicated. "I can''t easily break thismitment, Ava. The stability of two packs depends on iL"

    "But he''s clearly not right for Sophia!" 1 said incredulously. "He''s cheating on your daughter with wolf-hookers!"

    "And she loves him!" ke''s voice cracked with unexpected emotion. "Sophia''s been broken since her mother died. She''s poured everything into this rtionship."

    "So you''ll feed her a pretty lie? Let her marry someone who''ll keep cheating?" I stared at him. ¡°That''s your big Alpha King n?"

    Chapter Comments

    3

    POST COMMENT NOW

 Bad Husband 141

    e poi hii shit tetthet Baker vilte ?ns? before he caught himself. "11 the linda ml.)

    thehi h¨¢tt, she''ll bagh, shell try, Usaid. "And then she get through it because then your daughter. She unsiger than you tak

    Meley shoulders dropped. "She told me this was her only chance at happiness. That she couldn''t lose this too, for aber her mother." Kao peltzed ho words. Then my daughter, Mrs. I can''t be the one to destroy het world."

    Those words pinced me like silver arrows. I fought to suppts the entions rising inside me, tralizing this imbnce had thways existed between us Just revised to see it.

    "Pamily," I repented quietly, my voice slightly shaky. "Yeah, family matters.

    ke stepped cloves, reaching in touch my shoulder. "Ava? Are you nikay?"

    I gently moved away, looking him straight in the eyes. "No. I''m wondering if my father had done something wrong, would you protect him this way? Be this Torgiving

    ke expression turned confused. "That''s different

    "Not to me,¡± I interrupted, my voice soft but firm. "I see you willing to hide the truth for Sophia, even protect someone who betrays her. Yet my father sits in prison-" I swallowed hard. "And all I hear is 1 need more evidence and these things take time."

    Something like realization Mashed in ke''s eyes, followed by guilt. I am investigating William''s case, but I can''t risk alerting the wrong people..."

    "I get it," I said, tears threatening to spill. "I really do understand the responsibility of protecting family. It''s just... watching you do all this for Sophia makes me malice... my family and I will alwayse second for you. Maybe that''s the truth about us

    "It''s not like that," Ike''s voice dropped, urgent. "You matter to me. Awal

    I gave a bitter smile. "I matter, but not enough. That''s okay, it''s what I signed up for. I just. I took a deep breath. "I thought this mark between us meant

    more."

    "I need to go home." I hurled away, tears blurring my vision.

    Wind whipped through the trees as I walked home, each step taking me further from the ce that had started to feel like a sanctuary. I scrubbed my face with my sleeve, determined not to let Sarah see me crying.

    ke''s choice had cut deep, but how could I me him? If forced to choose between him and my family, wouldn''t I pick blood every time? Of course he protected Sophia-she was his daughter. His priority.

    But where did that leave me? Was I just convenientpany until something more important came along? Was his mark ju

    The knowledge didn''t ease the ache, but at least the battle lines were clearer now just another way to pass the time?

    1 pushed open our front door and frome. Sarah sat in the living room, but she wasn''t alone. Martha''s perfectly coiffed figure upied our best chair, looking thoroughly out of ce among our modest furnishings,

    They both looked up, conversation dying instantly.

    "Ava!" She jumped up. "Where have you been? I''ve been worried sick."

    I shifted awkwardly. "Lucas''s training. Had to stay at ckwood a few nights." Half-truth at best.

    Martha took a prim sip of tea, her manicured fingernail tapping against the chipped mug like she might catch poverty from it. "Jackson speaks highly of your

    to the duale. I told Smith,nering Maritapletely. This

    "Precisely, Martha purred. Tady son har entrusted me with Bealising the datatie, as his duties krep him btherwise

    "bil ang tongue. Ceuspled Joening a wolf hooker, apparently,

    Sarah stopped forward, chitching a scroll tied with Shadow Creek''s silver bon. Ava, listen, Martha brought the official terms: Chief Gehat) ?nsition, Ara. Chief."

    Martha nodded, her jewelry catching themplight. "Complete with pack loosing, generous stipend, and most crucially-

    "Blood Protection Rights," I finished. "I remember. So what''s the actual price tag?"

    Sarah and Martha exchanged a look that made my skin prickle.

    "Wa," Sarah''s voice dropped to harply a whisper. I sold the house."

    The floor seemed to tilt beneath me. "Vou what?"

    Sarah''s hands twisted in her apron-a nervous habit from my childlinad. "It''s been impossible since Will was taken. The pack treats us like we''ve got the gue. My healing practice is dead. Prison guards want more ''gifts'' every time I visit Exhaustion etched lines around her eyes I''d never noticed before. "We have to be out by the fall moon."

    "If you ept my son''s generous offer,¡± Martha said with practiced sympathy, "Shadow Creek will provide immediate amodation. Sarah could live with you-closer to the prison, protected by packw."

    The pieces clicked together with sickening rity. "This isn''t an offer-it''s a trap. You''ve been nning this all along, cutting off every escape route to force me back."

    Martha''s expression didn''t change. "We''re providing options, dear. Every day sooner you quality for Flood Protection Rights, your father sits in that cell one day less"

    "Martha found the buyer," Sarah added, desperation threading her voice. This could be our chance, Ava. To be together again, to save Will-

    I looked into Sarah''s hopeful eyes-the woman who''d raised me, who''d loved

    me when no one else would. My chest tightened until breathing hurt.

    Tonight, I''d learned exactly where I stood with ke. Now my family needed me to choose.

    BITE ME WEREWOLVES: These two are KILLING ME! ke''s all daddy-bear protective was torn between heart and duty! NEITHER ONE THINKING STRAIGHT! And Martha buying the house? Pure. Evil. Genius. But don''t worry, loves and loyalty this strong don''t break easily... they just need to get their heads screwed on straight! The question is: Ava" CHOICE? Will ke realize what he''s about to lose? SO MUCH TENSION! See you in the next chapters!

    Chapter Comments

    POST COMMENT

    Marjorie Jerelds

    the Author thinks she creating/suspense but she is really destroying her character''s personality. I can''t tell if she is a bad ass warrior princess or a emotional twit

    View 1 Comment

    2

    12

 Bad Husband 142

    ke''s POV

    I paced outside Sophia''s door, my wolf crawling under my skin like an itch I

    couldn''t scratch. Ava''s words fromst night kept ying on repeat: my family and I will alwayse second for you. Maybe that''s the truth about us.¡± Talk about a

    gut punch. I''d been ying favorites and couldn''t even admit it to myself.

    My mouth tasted like I''d been chewing pennies. Some Alpha King I was- preaching fairness while protecting my kid and leaving Ava''s dad to rot.

    I knocked twice. The silence stretched so long I almost walked away. Then the

    door creaked open, and there stood Sophia, eyes puffy and red-rimmed. My wolf surged up ready to hunt whoever hurt her, even as I mentally cursed both Jackson and my own chicken-shit indecision.

    "We need to talk,'' I said, the words rough around the edges.

    Sophia let out a bone-tired sigh and stepped back. Her usually spotless room looked like a tornado hit it-clothes tossed everywhere, curtains drawn against the afternoon sun.

    ''Make it quick. I''m wiped," she said, drifting toward the window like a ghost.

    I shut the door with a soft click. "It''s about Jackson."

    She whipped around, her body suddenly a live wire. "What about him?"

    I dragged my hand through my hair. "Are you sure about marrying him? Because I''m not convinced he''s right for you."

    Her chin came up-ssic Sophia defensiveness. "He makes me happy, Father. He''s the only one who''s made me feel like I belong since Mom died."

    I nodded toward her tearstained face. "That why you''re crying alone in your

    room?" I softened my voice. ''I might suck at showing it, but I know when my kid''s hurting."

    She turned away, suddenly fascinated by something outside. "Just going through stuff... nothing to do with Jackson." The scent of her lie hung sharp in the air, but instead of calling her on it, I tried something new.

    "Sophia." I stepped closer, keeping my hands loose at my sides. "I''ve been a crappy father. After your mom died, I buried myself in Alpha crap instead of being there for you and Lucas. That''s on me." The confession felt like barbed wireing up my throat. ''But I do love you, and I just want to keep you safe."

    Something in her cracked open. "Now you want to be a dad?" The words shot out like bullets. "Since Mom died, you dumped us with staff while you yed Alpha King! You only care about my life now because you''ve got the hots for Lucas''s trainer. I''m a grown woman! I don''t need you butting in!" She took a shaky breath. "I wanted you in my life for years, but it was always sorry, pack business.'' You have no idea what it''s like living in your shadow. I''m tired."

    Each wordnded like a punch to the gut. But instead of getting defensive, I felt something shift-like finally seeing a picture that had been blurry for years.

    "You''re right," I said quietly. "I failed you and Lucas. I put pack bullshit before my own kids, and that was wrong." I took a step toward her. "I can''t undo that, but believe this one thing-I love you, and I don''t want to watch you get hurt."

    Tears welled in her eyes. "Your timing sucks. I finally found something good-why are you trying to ruin it?"

    I took a deep breath and went for brutal honesty. "Because Jackson''s cheating on you. He''s using you to get his hands on Silverpeak power. I kept my voice level. "I won''t force you to do anything, but as your dad, I can''t watch this train wreck in silence."

    "That''s impossible," she said, her voice cracking. "Jackson loves me."

    I didn''t push it, just gave a small nod. "I hope I''m wrong. But whatever you decide, I''ve got your back. Just... go in with your eyes open, I can''t make the same mistake twice-sacrificing people I love for some bullshit pack stability.""

    She stared at me, thrown by my candor. "You mean Ava''s father?"

    I nodded, walking to the window. "Yeah, I''ve been dragging my feet on his case, ying it too safe. Shame crept into my voice. I can''t keep hiding behind ''careful nning. I promised Ava I''d help her family, but I didn''t give them the same priority I''d give you. That wasn''t fair

    I turned back to face her. "I''m going to do better-be the dad you and Lucas deserve. And I''m done slow-walking William Rivers'' case. Both matter

    I headed for the door but stopped at the threshold. "One more thing. Jackson spentst night wasted at Moonlight Bar, all over some Northern Pack she wolf. Tyler dragged him back; he''s passed out in the guest wing."

    The color drained from Sophia''s face. I could practically hear her heart mming against her ribs.

    "No way... I need to see him." She bolted for the door.

    As she rushed past me, I said quietly, ''Whatever you decide, Soph, I''m here. I love you."

    She froze for a split second, looking back with surprise and something like gratitude, then hurried off to find Jackson.

    I watched her go, my chest tight with worry and a weird relief that I''d finally grown

    a pair and told the truth.

    That evening, I hung back in the shadows of the training field, watching Ava correct Lucas''s stance. Half of me figured she''d blow off training after our fight about Jackson and William. But here she was, putting the kid''s needs above her hurt feelings.

    My gut twisted watching her patient coaching. After a night of staring at the ceiling, I realized what an ass I''d been. I''d demanded she understand my responsibilities as a father without giving her the same respect as a daughter. I protected Sophia out of love-the same reason Ava fought for William.

    My wolf strained toward her, desperate to touch that mark that had almostpletely turned gold, washing away Hayes''s silver im. But she needed space. up. I owed her an apology-not as Alpha King, but just as a man who''d screwed

    Chapter Comments

 Bad Husband 143

    ke''s POV

    Movement caught my eye as Sophia floated past with Jackson, practically glowing as she clung to his arm. My stomach dropped. Whatever bullshit story he''d spun, she''d swallowed it hook, line, and sinker. My daughter waspletely under his spell, and something told me she''d never listen to reason now

    Still, I didn''t regreting clean. At least I''d tried, instead of keeping quiet to keep

    the peace.

    I noticed Ava tense when she spotted Sophia, before forcing her attention back to Lucas. It hurt seeing these two women-who''d once huddled together facing death in that cer-now acting like strangers. Although Sophia had thrown Ava under the bus for Jackson, I caught the sh of worry in Ava''s eyes. Even betrayed, she still wanted to protect Sophia. That kind of loyalty after being hurt-it hit me why her disappointment in me cut so deep. She''d expected better.

    Ava suddenly stopped mid-sentence, tilting her head-the ssic "iing mindlink look. She said something to Lucas, who nodded and kept practicing while she ducked away to a quiet corner.

    I hung back, giving her space. We needed to talk about fixing what I''d broken, but I wouldn''t intrude on her private conversation.

    Ava''s POV

    E''s mindlink hit me like a jolt of caffeine. After the past few days-fighting with ke, Sarah selling the house, me losing my shit with everyone-my nerves were shot. I was starting to see that maybe I''d asked too much from ke. I wanted him to move mountains for my dad while ignoring the fact he had his own shit to deal with.

    "Back in five," I told Lucas. "Mindlinking in. Keep working that block-your left side''s still open."

    He nodded solemnly. "Got it, boss."

    I ducked behind a training dummy and closed my eyes, letting E''s familiar

    presence wash over me. Connecting with her felt like slipping into your favorite hoodie.

    "What''s the emergency?" Her thoughts came throughced with exhaustion. "Rough shift?" I asked.

    "The worst. Some entitled wolf tried Alpha-intimidating me into ''special service,'' then whined to management when I told him where to stick it. My boss reamed me out again."

    My blood boiled. "What a dick! I''m sorry you''re dealing with that garbage."

    ''Hazard of neutral zone work. Gets old though." She paused. "How''s the demon child? Still terrorizing you?"

    "Actually improving," I thought back with a sh of pride. "Morgan blood''s something else. But he''s not the problem... Sarah''s selling our house."

    E''s shock hit me like static electricity. "She''s WHAT? Why? That''s yourst foothold in Shadow Creek!*

    "Martha''s pulling strings." I couldn''t hide my bone-deep fatigue. "Convinced Sarah to sell and move us to Hayes territory, promising it''ll fast-track Dad''s protection rights. Total trap."

    Anger surged through our connection. "Those sneaky bastards nned this! And Sarah fell for it?"

    ''She''s desperate." My thoughts wobbled with emotion. "Dad''s been locked up forever, and word is he''s getting worse. She just wants to save him. Can''t really

    me her.

    I suddenly realized why I''d been so pissed at ke-I expected him to magically solve everything, and when he faced an impossible choice like a normal person, I couldn''t cut him the same ck.

    "So what now? You can''t seriously live in yes territory. Her worry came through like a warm nket.

    I know. The house is already sold. We''re out in days. If I bail, Sarah will

    understand, but... I can''t let her face those wolves alone. My thoughts were a tornado of confusion and fear.

    "Ava..." Her concern wrapped around me. ''Got a n?"

    I went quiet, our connection humming with raw emotion-fear, confusion, helplessness.

    "I don''t know, E. I really don''t. Can''t live with the Hayes pack, can''t abandon Sarah. We''re out of time and options... I just know I have to figure something out for Dad''s sake."

    "Listen up." E''s thoughts firmed. "I know you-always putting everyone else first while stomping your own feelings into the dirt. Sometimes you gotta put yourself first. Maybe it''s time to ask ckwood for help? You can''t let the Hayes n drag you back to their yground."

    After a pause: "If I still had my ce, you''d be moved in yesterday. But staying with Tiffany''splicated-girl gets anxiety attacks if I mention having friends over."

    "No worries. Just needed to vent." I sent back gratitude.

    "Whatever you decide, I''ve got your back. But remember-sometimes being strong means letting other people help you. ke disappointed you, but maybe you both need to see each other''s side better."

    Her words hit like a bucket of cold water. I''d been demanding ke understand my family situation whilepletely ignoring his position as a father.

    "Thanks, E. You always cut through my bullshit."

    We exchanged warm goodbye vibes before disconnecting. I opened my eyes, feeling like my head had cleared.

    I turned back toward Lucas but froze when I spotted ke watching me, those storm-blue eyes no longer cold but full of regret.

    "Hey..." My voice caught. "Aboutst night... I was a jerk. Shouldn''t haveid into you like that."

    ke''s eyebrows shot up, clearly not expecting me to apologize first. He stepped closer, still keeping respectful distance.

    ''I''m the one who owes you an apology," he said, his voice gravel-rough with sincerity. "You were right. I''ve been ying both sides-protecting Sc dragging my feet on your father''s case.

    hile

    His honesty knocked me sideways. Alpha Kings don''t admit mistakes, especially not to people beneath them. But ke wasn''t talking to me as an Alpha now -just as a man trying to fix what he''d broken.

    I bit my lip, words failing me.

    "I caught bits of your situation," ke said. "Sarah''s really selling the house? You''re moving to Hayes territory?"

    I nodded, feeling like my shoulders might cave from the weight. "Martha found the buyer, Sarah thinks it''ll help Dad-get me qualified for Blood Protection."

    ke''s eyes shed gold. "Pure Hayes maniption. They want to drag you back under their thumb.

    I sighed. "I don''t want to live there, but I can''t throw Sarah to the wolves. She''s already lost her husband-she can''t lose me too."

    We both went quiet, no longer angry-just two people staring at an impossible situation.

    "There''s another option, ke said finally.

    I looked up, meeting his gaze straight on. "What?"

    "Move into ckwood Manor with me."

 Bad Husband 144

    Ava''s POV

    ''Move into ckwood Manor? I repeated, my brain struggling to catch up with ke''s bombshell.

    ke shook his head slightly, dropping his voice. ''Not the main building. I''ve got a ce in the northern forest, about an hour from here but still inside Silverpeak''s borders. Private butpletely secure."

    "Northern ce?" My gut tightened with instinctive caution. I looked him straight in the eye. ''So you''re asking me and Sarah to move to some... hidden location?"

    "Not hidden-private, ke corrected, his face dead serious. ''It''s tucked away but totally legit. My personal territory as Alpha King."

    The fragile peace we''d just patched together suddenly felt strained again, reced by a tension that hung between us like smoke. I dropped onto a stone bench, needing a second to wrap my head around this curve ball. Even though we''d just cleared the air, this suggestion still made rm bells ring.

    "So your brilliant solution is to stash me and Sarah away in your secret hideout?" I asked, my voiceing out more defensive than intended. "That sounds suspiciously like..."

    "Protection, not hiding," he cut in, sitting beside me but keeping enough space that we weren''t touching. "Martha''s ying you like a fiddle, Ava. She wants to drag you back to Hayes territory where she can use your dad as leverage."

    My eyes drifted to Lucas across the training field, his small figure working throughbat stances with total concentration. "Thises with risks though. If word got out... your reputation, my dad''s case, even the pack alliance could blow up in our faces." I looked back at him. "I don''t want to be the reason everything falls apart."

    ke''s face softened, the hard lines around his mouth easing. "Last night knocked some sense into me. I''ve been hiding behind ''pack stability'' while throwing the people who actually matter under the bus." He let out a quiet sigh that seemed to carry the weight of his position. "Including that whole mess with Sophia and Jackson-you hit the nail on the head. I''ve been using different measuring sticks."

    His honesty caught me t-footed. Alpha Kings don''t admit they screwed up, especially not to someone like me.

    "The ce is rock-solid secure," he continued. "Nobody would bug you there. You and Sarah would have the main house, and I''d give you all the space you need."

    I shook my head, my thoughts spinning like leaves in a storm. "Sarah would ask a million questions. She''d want to know why Mr. Big Ba suddenly gives a damn about us."

    1 King

    "Tell her it''s a bonus for whipping Lucas into shape, plus mymitment to clearing William''s name,¡± he suggested, uncertainty creeping into his voice in a way I rarely heard. ¡°It''s all above-board, packw-wise."

    I touched the mark on my neck, feeling it warm slightly as I weighed his offer. The solution solved one problem but opened a whole new can of worms. Things between us wereplicated enough without living on his private turf, which would make everything even more... messy.

    ''I need to sleep on it," I finally said, working to keep my voice steady. "This isn''t just my call. I''ve got Sarah to think about, plus what this might mean for Dad''s case."

    "Fair enough, he nodded, not pushing his luck. "Take all the time you need. His eyes suddenly unfocused slightly, that telltale sign of an iing mindlink. "Tyler''s buzzing me about some pack emergency I need to handle."

    I nodded, watching him walk away, my head buzzing with mixed feelings. We''d taken baby steps toward fixing things, but the road ahead still felt like walking through a minefield.

    I turned back to Lucas, who was still nailing the basic werewolf footwork patterns I''d taught him.

    ''Let''s switch gears to hand-to-hand," I suggested. "Then I''ll fix us some lunch.

    He nodded eagerly, eyes lighting up with that warrior spark. "Can I learn knife defense? Sophia says I''m still wet behind the ears, but I already kicked butt against three training dummies in wolf form!"

    "Baby steps, tiger," Iughed, messing up his carefullybed hair. ''Gotta crawl before you can run."

    We trained for another solid hour, Lucas picking things up at a speed that blew me away. That Morgan bloodline was something else entirely.

    Third Person POV

    Sophia sat by her bedroom window, the stolen photograph from Jackson''s drawer burning a hole in her hands. In the picture, Jackson and Ava stood wrapped around each other at Moonlight Lake, looking every bit the perfect couple. The back bore his handwriting: "Celebrating our discovery ceremony with my fated mate, bound by the Moon Goddess herself. Forever, J&A." Though cropped, what remained felt like a knife twisting in her gut.

    "Fated mate,¡± she whispered, nail digging into the paper. Not just dating, not just a crush-a soul bond blessed by the Moon Goddess herself. Jackson had dismissed it as teenage nonsense, but fated mates were sacred in their world. Through the window, she spotted her father talking with Ava on the training grounds. Though they maintained a respectful distance, the sight still twisted her stomach. Last night Jackson had sworn Ava meant nothing, but the flicker in his eyes told a different story.

    Watching Ava walk toward Lucas, a cold determination settled over Sophia. As long as Ava remained at ckwood, she was a threat-constantly in Jackson''s orbit, a living reminder of their connection.

    Her eyes narrowed as a n took shape. Her father had one unbreakable rule: Lucas''s safety came first. If Ava endangered him during training...

    Sophia''s gaze drifted to her father''s private training room, where she knew he kept various potent forms-including shift catalysts designed only for mature Alphas. What would happen if Lucas suddenly lost control during training?

    Rising to her feet, Sophia''s resolve hardened. This wasn''t about jealousy anymore; this was about protecting her future with Jackson. She needed Ava gone, far from ckwood, far from her fianc¨¦.

    "Ava Rivers, she muttered as she slipped toward her father''s training room, ''you''ve already taken enough.

    The adult Alpha shift catalyst wasn''t hard to find-dark red liquid swirling ominously in its crystal vial, clearlybeled "For Adult Alpha Use Only." Five times stronger than the kid-safe version, it would cause Lucas to lose control temporarily, but shouldn''t cause permanent harm.

    "Just enough to make Ava look ipetent," she whispered, pocketing the vial. "Then she''ll be sent back to Hayes territory... far away from Jackson."

    Knowing Ava prepared Lucas''s training supplies in the kitchen, Sophia headed there with purposeful steps. One simple switch, one small "ident, and her father would see Ava didn''t belong at ckwood.

    "For our future," she reassured herself, fingers closing around the catalyst in her pocket. "Jackson chose me, not her. I''m just making sure it stays that way." Chapter Comments

    Mike

    jesus girl, you''re risking lives h

 Bad Husband 145

    Third Person POV

    "Sophia?" Ava''s voice from the doorway made her jump.

    Sophia whipped around, cheeks flushing at being caught red-handed.

    "Ava!" she gasped, eyes wide. "Where''d youe from? I didn''t hear you walk in."

    Ava closed the door behind her, warrior senses clearly picking up on the weird vibe.

    "Just got here and saw you pacing a hole in the floor. Everything okay?" she asked, trying to smooth things over.

    "Totally fine, Sophia lied, pasting on a smile that felt stic even to her. ''Just nning dinner stuff."

    Ava looked unconvinced as she moved around the kitchen ind. "It''s just that you''ve been dodging metely, Ava said, worry creasing her forehead. Since that Hayes ceremony, we''ve barely said two words to each other. Did I step on your toes somehow?"

    "What? No way," Sophia lied again; how easily the untruths rolled off her tongue surprised even her. "We''re golden."

    "You sure about that?" Ava raised an eyebrow, that fighter''s instinct clearly telling her something was off.

    She walked to the cab, pulling out a small vial-Lucas''s training catalyst, specially formted for young werewolves learning to control their shifting.

    ''I''m teaching Lucas some next-level shift control today,¡± Ava exined, checking thebel.

    Sophia nodded thoughtfully, watching Ava gather supplies.

    While Ava''s back was turned as she grabbed a water ss, Sophia made her move. She pulled out the nearly identical vial from her pocket. With a quick flick of her wrist, she swapped the vials.

    "So," Ava turned back with the water ss, ''we''re cool then?"

    Sophia forced her lips into a smile, secretly tucking the original kid catalyst into her pocket.

    "Never better," Sophia lied, stomach churning with nervous anticipation.

    Ava''s shoulders rxed as she picked up the switched catalyst and water.

    "d we cleared the air," Ava said as she headed for the door. "Lucas and I will probably train till dinnertime, he''s pumped about the new moves."

    "Good luck with that," Sophia said, her expression hardening as Ava disappeared from view.

    She reassured herself the n was bulletproof...

    ''One more time, Lucas! Connect with your core power, feel it flowing!" Ava called out, watching the boy attempt partial shifting-an advanced technique where only specific body parts transform.

    Lucas nodded, determination zing in his eyes. He''d already managed to shift his arms into wolf paws three times running, showing control that kids twice

    would kill for.

    his

    age

    ''Drink some catalyst and catch your breath," Ava handed him the switched form, ¡°then we''ll tackle legs-that''s where it gets tricky."

    Lucas gulped down the catalyst in one shot, eager for the energy kick. At first, everything looked normal-his eyes shed gold, the usual signal that the power was kicking in.

    But minutester, things went sideways fast.

    "Ava... his voice shook, face suddenly twisting in pain, ''something''s wrong..." His body started jerking uncontrobly, silver-blue light rippling violently across his skin-typical for pureblooded shifts, but at an intensity that set rm bells ringing.

    ''Lucas?" Ava snapped to attention, rushing to his side.

    The boy crashed to his knees, arms already morphing, but all wrong-fur and human skin flickering back and forth, bones making sickening crack sounds,

    "Can''t make it stop!" he screamed, bloody tears streaming down his face. ''It hurts so bad!"

    Ava instantly knew this was no normal reaction. She''d seen shift mishaps before, but nothing this severe, especially not in a trained pureblood kid.

    "Just breathe, Lucas!" She dropped beside him, steadying hands on his shoulders. "I''m right here, focus on my voice!"

    But things spiraled downhill fast. Lucas''s face began contorting horrifically, human features on one side, wolf on the other, instead of the smooth transformation of a normal shift. His bones twisted visibly beneath his skin, body caught in a nightmarish in-between state.

    ''Help... me... he gasped out, voice morphing into a half-human, half-wolf howl.

    Ava had never seen anything like it, panic wing up her throat.

    "I need help!" she shouted, instantly linking minds with ke through their mark. "ke! Lucas is in trouble! His shift''s gonepletely off the rails-it''s life- threatening!"

    Meanwhile, Sophia heard the screams and wolf howls echoing from the training grounds, her blood freezing as she realized something had gone terribly wrong. She bolted toward the sounds, heart in her throat.

    When she burst onto the field, the sight knocked the wind from her lungs.

    Lucasy thrashing on the ground, body horrifically suspended between forms. Each iplete shift left him in a grotesque hybrid state-part human child, part wolf cub. Bones broke and reformed under his skin with sounds that would haunt her dreams.

    Blood poured from his eyes, ears, and nose-the unmistakable signs of bloodline rejection¡ªwhich would cause permanent damage immediately.

    "What happened?!" Sophia screamed, terror washing over her in icy waves. topped

    Ava knelt beside Lucas, desperately trying to help but clearly out of her depth. "I don''t know! He was practicing partial shifting, then just... this!" Her voice cracked with panic, "This isn''t normal!"

    Sophia''s stomach twisted into knots of fear and crushing guilt. She''d only wanted to make Ava look bad, maybe get her a p on the wrist-but the reality unfolding before her was a waking nightmare.

    The door flew open with a bang as ke and Tyler charged into the training field, eyes burning molten gold with the sensed agony of Lucas. The air instantly thickened with Alpha power, pressing down on everyone present.

    "What the hell happened?" ke roared, his voice vibrating with Alphamand as he rushed to his son.

    "I don''t know!" Ava cried out, "He drank the training catalyst and just started losing

    it!"

    Without wasting a breath, ke dropped to his knees beside Lucas, cing his hands on his son''s chest and forehead. His eyes closed, body beginning to glow with deep golden light-the raw bloodline power of the Alpha King awakening.

    "Circle us!" he barked at Tyler, who immediately moved to create protective barriers around them."

    ke began chanting in ancient wolf-tongue, one of the rare rituals that could stabilize a chaotic bloodline shift. His power wrapped like golden thread - around Lucas''s twisted body, fighting to guide the runaway shift back to formal pathways.

    After what felt like an eternity, Lucas''s violent convulsions began to ease, his body slowly returning to human form, though his skin still pulsed with in unnatural silver-blue glow.

    ke finally opened his eyes, exhausted but burning with fury. "This wasn''t normal catalyst, his voice dropped to a dangerous growl, "this is adult Alpha- grade stuff, practically poison for a cub his age."

    His gaze cut between Ava and Sophia, demanding answers.

    *If I''d been five minutester, he said, voice raw with fear and rage, Lucas might never have shifted properly again. His wolf nature would have been permanently damaged.*

    Sophia stood frozen in ce, trembling from head to toe, the full weight of what she''d done crashing down on her.

    She had nearly destroyed her own brother''s life...

    Chapter Comments

 Bad Husband 146

    Ava''s POV

    One second Lucas was fine, the next he was on the ground thrashing like he''d been electrocuted.

    "What''s wrong?" I dropped to my knees beside him, my heart hammering so hard it felt like it might crack my ribs.

    His body twisted unnaturally as silver-blue light rippled across his skin. Blood streamed from his eyes as he wed at his throat, his screams ripping through the air. This wasn''t a normal training mishap-this was catastrophic.

    "Lucas! My hands hovered uselessly over him. I''d handled pulled muscles, sprained ankles, even broken bones, but this? His body was caught halfway between forms, skin stretching grotesquely over shifting bones. What the hell had gone wrong? "Stay with me, kiddo."

    The training room doors exploded open. ke charged in like a force of nature, eyes zing gold, his Alpha aura radiating around him in visible waves.

    "Move," he ordered, dropping beside his son.

    I stumbled back as ke ced one hand on Lucas''s chest, the other on his forehead. He began chanting in ancient wolf-tongue, his body glowing with the same deep gold as his eyes.

    I bit my lip so hard I tasted blood, hoping, praying, bargaining with any deity that might be listening. When Lucas''s convulsions finally began to ease, the tight band around my chest loosened enough for me to breathe.

    "Tyler!" ke''s voice cracked like a whip. "Medical team. Now."

    Tyler vanished without a word. ke gathered Lucas into his arms, murmuring into his hair, looking nothing like the fearsome Alpha King-just a terrified dad cradling his kid.

    My hands wouldn''t stop shaking. If Lucas had-if he''d-

    "What. Happened." ke''s head snapped up, storm-blue eyes locking onto mine. The words weren''t a question but a demand.

    "I don''t know," I said, my voice sounding distant in my own ears. "He drank the catalyst and just... copsed."

    ke grabbed the vial from the ground. "This isn''t training catalyst." His voice dropped dangerously low. "This is adult-grade. High concentration. It''s poison to cubs."

    "That''s not-" My stomach lurched. "I grabbed the same bottle I always use. From the kitchen. The training one."

    That familiar feeling flooded back-being a kid again, med for something I didn''t do. But this wasn''t about a broken vase or missing cookies. This was

    Lucas''s life.

    The doors flew open again. Sophia burst in, her designer perfume hitting me a second before she did.

    "Lucas!" she shrieked, falling dramatically beside him. Her hands fluttered over his face, tears streaming down her cheeks. "Is he going to be okay? Please tell me he''ll be okay!"

    ke squeezed her shoulder, "He''ll be fine."

    She sobbed harder, but something about it felt... rehearsed. When Tyler exined about the catalyst, her eyes darted to me, something calcting flickering behind the tears.

    "That''s so strange,'' she sniffled. ''Ava''s always careful..."

    ke turned to Tyler. ''Check the storage cab."

    Tyler returned looking grim. "Adult catalyst''s missing from the locked cab. Cub form''s still there, untouched."

    "That cab stays locked," ke said, frowning. Only you and I have keys."

    ''Means someone got hold of a key, or..."

    ''I''ll find out who,'' Tyler promised.

    ke nodded, still cradling Lucas. "If I''d been one minuteter-"

    "But you weren''t, Tyler cut in gently. ''Blood connection. You felt him in danger."

    ''Get to the bottom of this," ke ordered.

    As the medical team arrived, Sophia''s tears miraculously dried up. She leaned close to ke, voice pitched just loud enough for me to hear.

    ''Maybe it was an ident,'' she murmured, eyes downcast. "But Ava''s been so stressed about her fathertely... Perhaps she shouldn''t train Lucas anymore? At least for now?"

    The medical staff exchanged nces. Just like that, without making a direct usation, she''d poisoned the well.

    ''I''m going with Lucas," ke announced, lifting his son. "Sophia, go with them.¡±

    She nodded, giving me a look that seemed apologetic on the surface but had something cold underneath. Something I''d never seen in her before.

    When everyone cleared out, leaving ke and me alone, the silence felt like a physical weight.

    "Tell me what happened," he said, voice deliberately even.

    I met his eyes. "I swear on everything I care about, that was the training catalyst when I grabbed it. I checked thebel. I''d never mess around with Lucas''s safety."

    His eyes shed that telltale Alpha gold, assessing my truthfulness. "You understand what almost happened? If I hadn''t sensed something wrong-

    I''d never put him at risk," I said, my voice cracking. "I love that kid."

    ke nodded, but took a step back, literally putting distance between us. That tiny movement hurt more than if he''d shouted.

    ''I believe you wouldn''t hurt him on purpose," he said carefully. "But until I know exactly what happened, I need to be cautious."

    I wanted to grab him by the shoulders and shake him. Make him look at me. Really look at me. But his eyes held something worse than anger-doubt.

    "While we investigate, I can''t let you continue training Lucas."

    I felt oddly calm hearing the words, like I''d been bracing for this blow all along.

    I understand,¡± I said, straightening my shoulders. "I''ll clear out my stuff."

    His brow furrowed. "I didn''t say you need to leave ckwood."

    A bitterugh escaped me. "But you''re thinking it, right? I gestured between us. "Every time you look at me, you''ll remember this. You''re a father and an Alpha. You can''t take chances. I get it."

    The fact that he didn''t immediately deny it was answer enough.

    "This isn''t personal," he finally said.

    I''d make the same call, I admitted, turning away so he wouldn''t see my eyes

    filling. "If it were my dad on the line."

    I reached the edge of the training field when his voice stopped me.

    "Ava."

    I half-turned, keeping my face shadowed. ''Heard Shadow Creek''s recruiting instructors. Martha already found Sarah... maybe that''s where I belong now."

    The words came out easier than expected. Maybe because deep down, I''d always known this was borrowed time. A warrior and an Alpha King? Talk about a pipe dream.

    Three days crawled by like three years. I tried to see Lucas twice-both times turned away by Tyler with ufortable ''doctor''s orders. I knew bullshit when I smelled it. No doctors were keeping me out; ke was.

    I''d packed, unpacked, and repacked my stuff, trapped in limbo. Sleep was a joke, food tasteless. My mindlink attempts to ke hit nothing but walls. The only sound from ckwood was silence, and it was deafening.

    There was a soft knock on my bedroom door. Sarah stood in the doorway, dark circles smudged under her eyes like bruises.

    I''d told her about the ident, but kept my suspicions about Sophia to myself. Gut feelings don''t hold up in pack court.

    "Decision time?" Sarah asked, perching on my rumpled bed. "About the Hayes position?"

    POST COMMENT

    Chapter Comments

    user2504055800

    need some work on chapters

    Visitor

    how can she burst in when a few minutes ago she was there before ke and

    Tyler?

    View All 2 Comments >

 Bad Husband 147

    Ava''s POV

    I stared out the window, watching sunlight dapple through leaves. Days ago, I was training a young Alpha, sleeping with his father, thinking I belonged somewhere. Now I was packing boxes. Again.

    "Some choice," I muttered. "House sold, cklisted from ckwood. It''s Hayes territory or lone wolf status."

    Sarah squeezed my hand, her callused palm familiar as my own heartbeat. "It''s for William. Once you qualify for Blood Protection-

    ''I know," I cut her off. The same sales pitch I''d heard a hundred times, like repeating it would somehow make returning to Hayes hell more ptable.

    I looked around at the boxes swallowing my life. "Remember when I first moved in? I slept on the floor for a week because the bed smelled wrong.

    A tired smile flickered across Sarah''s face. "Your wolf-nose was always too good. William took night shifts on the floor with you until you gave in.

    Dad. Locked in that damn cell, clueless that we were about to move into enemy territory to save him.

    My fingers found the mark on my neck, now almost entirely gold. ke''s im had nearly erased all traces of Jackson''s silver. What happens to it when I go back to Hayes territory? Does it flip back to silver? Or just fade awaypletely, like everything else between ke and me?

    "Dinner''s ready," Sarah said, squeezing my shoulder. "Your favorite roast. We can n your new start after."

    New start. Right. Some fresh beginning-backing into the same cage I''d escaped, with Jackson waiting to snap the lock shut.

    Hayes territory, my new home. Fucking poetic. We forge our own chains and call it love.

    I traced the mark one more time, wondering if ke was sitting in his study right now, already forgetting my scent.

    Two dayster, we pulled up to the Hayes mansion, the enormous structure

    looming like a prison against the afternoon sky. Martha waited at the entrance, her perfectly tailored suit and professionally styled hair a stark contrast to our exhausted appearances.

    "Ava!" She greeted with practiced warmth, her smile calcted to the millimeter. "I''m delighted you''ve finally made the wise

    Vanessa stood behind her, arms crossed tightly over her chest, eyes burning with barely concealed hatred. I avoided meeting her gaze directly. The less contact with any Hayes, the better.

    ''Not like I had a choice," I muttered under my breath.

    Sarah nudged me with her elbow, shooting me a warning nce "She''s just joking," she forced augh, then turned to Martha. "Thank you so much for your hospitality."

    ''Of course, this is what pack does, Martha replied, her eyes, scanning me like I was merchandise she''d finally acquired. ''Shall I show you to your quarters?"

    My wolf bristled under my skin as we followed Martha into the mansion. The Hayes family home was impressive-excessive wealth on disy at every turn, with ancient wolf symbols and power sigils embedded in every avable surface. I had to admit, it was beautiful in a cold, intimidating way.

    Vanessa took over as our guide, leading us silently through the grand hallways. We passed borately decorated rooms and pack members who averted their eyes when they saw me. I expected we''d head toward the instructor quarters near the main training facilities-that''s wherebat teachers usually lived.

    Instead, Vanessa led us down a narrower corridor, away from the main house. I frowned, ncing at Sarah who seemed too overwhelmed by the grandeur to notice our path.

    ''Isn''t the training facility in the east wing?" I asked, remembering theyout from my academy days.

    Vanessa barely looked back. "You''ll see the facilities tomorrow.

    A knot formed in my stomach. Something felt off. Wouldn''t a Chief Combat Instructor be housed closer to the main training areas? And shouldn''t Martha be giving me a tour of where I''d be teaching?

    Vanessa pushed open a heavy wooden door, leading us across what appeared to be a secondary training yard to a building on the far side. My steps slowed as I realized we were heading toward the warrior barracks, not instructor housing. "Wait, where are we going?" I asked, my suspicion growing stronger.

    "Your quarters, Vanessa replied tly.

    We entered what looked like some kind ofmon area for lower-ranked pack members. The ait inside smelled of sweat and medicinal herbs, with only a few dim lights illuminating the space. My heart sank as I took in my surroundings.

    The furniture was worn, the small kitchen equipped with outdated appliances, and old fighting gear hung from hooks on the walls. Scuff marks covered the floor, and the wolf sigils painted on the walls had faded to ghosts of their original vibrant colors.

    This part of the mansion stood in stark contrast to the opulent main areas we''d just walked through. My internal rm bells were ringing loudly now.

    "There must be some mistake," I said, looking around in confusion. "These are warrior quarters. Combat instructors don''t live here."

    Several young training warriors lounged in themon area. They jumped to attention when they spotted Vanessa, standing rigid as they awaited orders. She looked down at them like they were something stuck to her designer shoe. "What are you doing here?" she snapped. "Border patrol started ten minutes ago, and you''re lounging around? Should I report this to Jackson?"

    "N-no, Miss Hayes," one of the younger warriors answered, eyes fixed on the

    floor. "We just finished training and were taking a short break...

    "Do I look like I care?" Vanessa hissed. "Get to patrol now, you useless Omegas!"

    They nodded quickly and scurried from the room, heads bowed.

    I watched in disbelief, the pieces slowly falling into ce. These weren''t just warrior quarters¨Cthese were low-ranking warrior quarters. What was I doing here

    if I was supposed to be an instructor?

    Without another word to me, Vanessa lifted her chin and stalked down a hallway. We followed her through a maze of corridors until reaching a door at the

    farthest end.

    She pushed it open, and immediately a choking mixture of dust and wolfsbane assaulted my senses. The room was dim and

    d; when she flipped on the light, I nearly gagged. A puddle of something dark stained the center of the floor, the windows were nailed shut, and the only furniture was a sagging bed, a rickety dresser, and a nightstand that looked ready to copse.

    "What the hell is this?" I asked, unable to hide my shock. "This can''t be right."

    She crossed her arms, satisfaction gleaming in her eyes. "It''s one of the better rooms in the warrior quarters. You''re wee."

    I stared at her in disbelief. This couldn''t be the amodation for a Chief Combat Instructor. Something was seriously wrong.

    "By the way, you work for your keep,'' she said, her eyes narrowing. "I expect you

    on patrol duty and training the recruits daily. The other warriors will fill you in on the schedule."

    "Wait, what?" The final piece clicked into ce. "I thought I wasing here as Chief Combat Instructor? That''s what Martha told Sarah."

 Bad Husband 148

    Ava''s POV

    Vanessa let out a coldugh. "Instructor? You? A traitor''s daughter? Start from the bottom and work your way up-if you live long enough to prove yourself."

    Without hesitation, I spun around and marched back toward the main house to confront Martha. This wasn''t what we''d agreed to.

    I found her leisurely sipping tea in one of the formal sitting rooms. She merely raised an eyebrow as I stormed in.

    "You lied to us," I said bluntly. "Where''s the Chief Combat Instructor position? Why am I being housed in dpidated warrior quarters and assigned the lowest patrol duties?"

    Martha set down her teacup with deliberate slowness. "My dear, I did not lie. You can indeed be an instructor, but you must start from the bottom. The council discussed it and decided this was best." Her voice carried calcted sympathy. "Given your father''s... situation, this is the best arrangement we could

    offer for now.

    My wolf detected the scent of deception instantly. "You knew Sarah would interpret that as an immediate instructor position. This was your n all along. wasn''t it? Sell our house first, cut off our escape, then slowly reveal the truth." Martha rose elegantly, fingertips drumming lightly on the table. "Ava, don''t be so ungrateful. We''ve provided housing, given you a chance to rejoin the pack." Her gaze sharpened. "Think about William''s situation in that prison. Without our help, he''ll remain there indefinitely."

    I clenched my fists, anger and defeat warring inside me. I had nowhere to go, and neither did Sarah. Martha had weaponized our love for William, engineering this trap perfectly.

    "So the Blood Protection Rights were lies too?" I asked through gritted teeth.

    "Of course not," Martha said, her voice terrifyingly calm. "Once you be a proper instructor, you''ll qualify to apply. It''s just a matter of time... perhaps months, perhaps years."

    Years? By then, Dad could be... I couldn''t finish the thought.

    "You knew we had no other options," I said, my voice low. "Because you made sure of it."

    Martha smiled slightly. "Clever girl. Now go settle into your room. Training begins tomorrow."

    When I silently returned to the dismal room, Sarah was pacing anxiously. She rushed forward when she saw me.

    "How did it go?" she asked, hope filling her eyes. "Did Martha clear things up?"

    I couldn''t tell her the truth. I took a deep breath and forced a smile. "Yes, just a minor misunderstanding. We need to start from the basics, but the instructor position will eventually be mine."

    Sarah exhaled in relief, her face brightening. "Wonderful. I knew Martha would keep her word. She squeezed my hand. "I know this is hard, but we have to

    endure for William''s sake."

    I looked at Sarah''s hopeful expression and couldn''t bring myself to shatter it with the truth-that we were trapped in an expertly woven with no escape in sight. The Hayes family didn''t want mybat skills; they wanted control over me. ke had warned me, but it was toote now.

    Sarah studied my face. "What are you thinking about, Ava?"

    ''Nothing," I lied. "Just nning for tomorrow''s training."

    "Everything will be all right,¡± Sarah said, her eyes shining with a hope I couldn''t

    bear to break. "We finally have a chance to save William."

    I nodded, swallowing all the bitter truths. I had to find a way to save my father,

    whatever the cost. Even if it meant temporarily bowing to the Hayes family, even if

    it meant cutting all ties with ke and Lucas forever.

    Even if it meant permanent separation from my soul mate.

    ke''s POV

    "Lucas is recovering well, Alpha King. He should be able to return to his room tomorrow morning. I''d like to observe him for one more night, Amber Collins said, closing her examination records and efficiently organizing her healing supplies. Lucas had been in the medical wing for a week, requiring special bloodline stabilization treatments. Fortunately, he was recovering, seemingly back to normal.

    Amber Collins was undeniably one of the top healers in the werewolf world, skilled in herbal remedies and bloodline stabilization techniques. As Elizabeth''s sister, she''d never hidden her interest in me, deliberately seeking every opportunity to get closer.

    "Thank you, Amber," I said, maintaining a polite but distant tone. "Your healing skills saved him."

    Amber stepped closer, deliberately invading my personal space, her perfume overwhelmingly strong. "Serving the Morgan family is my duty," her hand suggestively touched my arm, "after all, we''re practically family, aren''t we?"

    ''Practically, I emphasized, politely stepping back.

    Her gaze became more direct. "Lucas will need several follow-up treatments. We could discuss the details in your private office... perhaps after dinner tonight?" Her tone suggested less of a question and more of an established fact.

    "I''m afraid not," I refused clearly, my voice carrying unmistakable Alphamand. "Any matters regarding Lucas''s treatment can be ryed through Tyler, or you can write me a report."

    Amber''s expression cooled momentarily before recovering her confident smile. "Someday you''ll realize, ke," her voice, soft but determined, "Elizabeth has been gone for too long. You need a real mate... someone to care for you and the children. No one is more suitable than me."

    "I respect your professional abilities, Amber," I said, my tone bing official, but remember your ce."

    "I know my ce very well," she didn''t back down, looking even more pleased with herself, "right in the position Elizabeth left vacant. You''ll admit it sooner orter."

    "Can we focus on Lucas''s condition?" I changed the subject, refusing to be led by herments.

    However, I noticed something off about Lucas emotionally. He seemed somewhat depressed, and I couldn''t pinpoint why; since waking up a few days ago, he''d barely spoken to me.

    I returned to Lucas''s room to find him flipping through the ancient werewolf history book I''d brought him. He nced up briefly before looking away again.

    I sighed, running my fingers through my hair, probably the hundredth time today.

    "Alright, I''ve had enough. What''s wrong with you? Why haven''t you been talking to me for days?" I finally asked.

    He looked at me, his frown deepening.

    "You really don''t know?" His voice was full of usation.

    Chapter Comments

    Mike

    I''m sorry but why keep up the lie... this is going to end bad

    Visitor

    I''m so tired of ava lying to sarah its starting get annoying

    View All 2 Comments >

    3

    POST COMMENT

 Bad Husband 149

    ke''s POV

    I spun away from the window, caught off guard by the fire in his eyes. Even against the stark white sheets, his defiance burned brighter than his pale face.

    "Know what?"

    Lucas pushed himself up on his elbows. "Why Ava hasn''t shown up. Not once. His fingers twisted in the sheets. "Can''t pick up her scent anywhere. She hasn''t set foot in this room, has she?"

    I sank down beside his bed, the stic chair creaking under my weight. ''Kid, you just survived a dangerous shift gone wrong. You need to rest, not worry about-

    ''She''s my trainer!" Lucas cut me off, his voice cracking. "Since when does Ava bail on me? Never. Not once. His chin jutted out. "You kicked her cut, didn''t you?

    I shouldn''t have been surprised. The boy spent more hours with Ava than anyone-her scent probably felt as familiar as mine by now. What caught me off guard wasn''t that he noticed her absence, but how much it clearly gutted him.

    "Look, I had to think about your safety first," I said, keeping my voice steady. "That catalyst-"

    "Wasn''t her fault!" Lucas jerked upright, his eyes shing wolf-gold. "You never even let her exin! I saw your face, Dad. Right before everything went ck... His voice dropped. "You''d already made up your mind."

    Bull''s-eye. The kid might as well have stabbed me. He wasn''t wrong-I hadn''t given Ava a chance to defend herself, too busy ying protective Alpha dad.

    I rubbed my jaw, suddenly feeling the stubble of sleepless nights. "It''s not that simple. That adult catalyst could''ve killed you. I couldn''t risk-

    "You made the wrong call," Lucas said tly. "Ava would never hurt me. Ever." His fingers dug into the nket. "The other trainers just shuffle through exercises because they''re terrified of you. Ava''s the only one who actually sees me. And now she''s gone because you threw her under the bus."

    Each wordnded like a sucker punch. I''d been trapped between impossible choices: my son''s safety versus the nagging feeling I''d royally screwed up with

    Ava.

    Lucas, when my kid nearly dies, I don''t have the luxury of-*

    "I took the catalyst myself!" The words exploded from him, bouncing off the sterile walls.

    I froze, sure I''d misheard. "You what?"

    His chin trembled, but his gaze never wavered. "Wanted to feel what a real shift was like. Prove I wasn''t just some baby wolf." He swallowed hard. "Swiped your office key while you were on a call. I''m the one who brought that bottle to training."

    My brain short-circuited. "Do you have any idea-" My voice cracked. "Lucas, you could''ve died."

    "I know I screwed up!" His eyes welled up. "But it''s on me, not Ava. She didn''t have a clue." He swiped angrily at a tear. "You can''t punish her because I was stupid!"

    I stared at my son''s face-a perfect mirror of his mother''s stubborn chin and my temper-and felt my chest crack open. I''d wronged Ava. Stripped her position. Frozen her out without a single question. All because I panicked.

    ''Why keep this to yourself all week?" I asked, the words scraping my throat raw.

    Lucas dropped his gaze to his hands. "Didn''t want you to look at me like that. His voice went small. "But losing Ava hurts worse than disappointing you. She''s the only one who... gets me."

    The silence between us felt heavier than Alphamand. I reached for his hand, his pulse fluttering against my fingers like a trapped bird. The kid was willing to take the fall for Ava-a courage that twisted my heart with both pride and pain.

    Third Person POV

    ke stalked to the window, hackles raised beneath his skin. His Alpha senses screamed that Lucas was hiding something-but his son never lied. Not once in seven years.

    "Alpha King... Tyler''s mindlink buzzed in his head like an angry ho.

    ''We''ve got something on the catalyst situation."

    "What is it?" ke replied mentally, shooting a sideways nce at Lucas, who hunched over, knuckles white against the sheets.

    Tyler''s voice carried a hard edge. "We caught the real culprit. That warrior who first reported Lucas''s ident? Found the adult catalyst stash in her quarters. She cracked under questioning-admitted slipping it into his drink. Wanted to ''save'' him and get promoted."

    ke''s pulse hammered in his throat. "That''s impossible..."

    "Got her confession, sir, Cold, hard evidence."

    ke''s fist clenched involuntarily, veins standing out against his skin. ¡°Bring her to judgment. I''ll handle this personally."

    "On it."

    The mindlink snapped shut, and ke turned slowly toward his son, feeling like the floor had shifted beneath him. Lucas''s lie suddenly clicked into ce like the final tumbler in a lock.

    ''Care to exin why you lied to me?" ke asked, his voice deliberately gentle. Lucas nced up, a muscle twitching in his jaw. "Didn''t lie."

    "Cut the crap, Lucas," ke said, crossing back to the bed. "A warrior switched your catalyst. Not you."

    Lucas''s eyes widenedically. "What? Why would anyone want to-

    "That''s not your problem. She''s been caught and will face consequences." ke studied his son''s face, seeing the truth finally surface. "But you weren''t covering for her. You were protecting Ava."

    Lucas stared at his hands, twisting his fingers together, unable to meet his father''s eyes.

    "Not cool to lie to me, kiddo," ke said, his tone a mix of disappointment and something softer.

    "I just..." Lucas''s voice cracked. "I couldn''t let her take the fall. If I said it was me, you''d just ground me or whatever. But Ava?" A tear slid down his cheek. ''She''s got nobody in her corner. Dad''s in prison, mom''s a wreck, and now you..."

    He sniffled, swiping at his nose with his sleeve. "She''s not just some trainer to me. Sometimes she''s like... like what I imagine having a mom would feel like. Other times she trains me hard like you would." His eyes, so much like his mother''s, locked onto ke''s.

    ke sat with the weight of his son''s words, a hollow feeling spreading through his chest. Lucas had been willing to shoulder me to protect someone he cared

    about a rare kind of loyalty he couldn''t help but respect.

    "You''d really take the heat for her?" ke asked quietly.

    Lucas nodded without hesitation. "She''s pack now, isn''t she? Pack protects each other."

    The simplicity of his son''s worldview hit ke like a punch to the gut. In his rush to protect Lucas, he''d coldly condemned Ava without a second thought. The memory of her wounded eyes as she''d walked away-and that ripping sensation in his own chest-shed through his mind.

    "What you did was brave,'' ke said, choosing his words carefully. "But also dangerous. I need the truth to keep everyone safe."

    "Will you bring her back?" Lucas asked, hope brightening his voice for the first time in days.

 Bad Husband 150

    Third Person POV

    ke hesitated, feeling the weight of responsibility press down on him. "I''ll fix what I broke," he promised. "The guilty will be punished. And the innocent...

    He left the sentence unfinished, but Lucas''s small smile said he understood.

    Neither ke nor Sophia had a clue what Jackson was up to.

    Jackson had noticed something that set his teeth on edge-his silver mark on Ava''s neck was fading, gradually being consumed by ke''s golden im.

    At first, he''d thought Ava''s expulsion from ckwood yed into his hands. She''d return to Shadow Creek where he could control the situation. He''d nned for her to take the Chief Combat Instructor position-a role that might inspire enough gratitude for her to eventually warm his bed again. A convenient mistress, plus leverage against Morgan if needed.

    What he hadn''t anticipated was his family''s ruthlessness. While he''d been busy ying perfect fianc¨¦ for Sophia at endless ceremonies, Martha had maneuvered Sarah into selling their house, then dumped Ava in the lowest-ranked warrior quarters. The barracks were crawling with eyes and ears-

    s-making

    it impossible for him to approach her without raising eyebrows.

    He knew in his gut Ava would never hurt Lucas. That kid had her wrapped around his finger from day one.

    Whoever did it was seriously twisted, targeting a seven-year-old cub. But it damn sure wasn''t Ava.

    So he''d done what any resourceful schemer would-bought himself a scapegoat.

    The warrior had been pitifully easy to bribe. Just sh enough money to set her up for life, and suddenly she was all too happy to "confess" to a crime she didn''tmit.

    He''d handed her the catalyst vial himself, watched her greedy eyes light up as he described the fortune heading her way.

    Now he just needed to engineer Ava''s return to ckwood, away from these Hayes quarters where things were spiraling be

    Ava''s POV

    s control.

    "You look like death warmed over," E''s voice flickered through our mindlink, her concern washing over me like a warm shower.

    I nced down at my patrol assignment-my third shift in twenty-four hours-and

    bit back a groan. The Hayes pack was running me into the ground with grunt work that would make an Omega wince.

    "That bad at Hayes territory?" E pressed.

    I sent her a mental eye-roll.

    Worse than bad," I whispered back. "Three days here feels like a month. Haven''t slept more than a couple hours straight since I arrived."

    "God, I''m sorry, Ava, her sympathy flowed through our connection, genuine and warm. "I''ve begged everyone I know for a ce you could stay. Nobody''s willing to stick their neck out against the Hayes. Bunch of cowards."

    "Not your circus, not your monkeys," I assured her, grateful just to hear a friendly voice in my head. Appreciate you trying, though."

    "It''splete bullshit how they''re treating you," E fumed. ¡°Like some bottom- rank Omega fetch-and-carry. She paused. ''What does Sarah say about all this?"

    I mentally shrugged, gnawing at the inside of my cheek until I tasted blood.

    ''She doesn''t know the half of it," I admitted. I''ve been feeding her the everything''s fine line. She''s already wound so tight about Dad, I can''t dump more on her te."

    E''s disapproval radiated through our link like static electricity.

    "That''s messed up, Ava. She''s your mom, she should know."

    My eyes stung suddenly, and I swiped at them before any nearby Hayes wolves could catch me showing weakness.

    E muttered. "Have you eaten today? Your energy feels... thinner."

    I didn''t answer. Truth was, I''d barely touched food since arriving. The slop they

    served in the warrior quarters smelled like wet cardboard, and my appetite had taken a nosedive anyway.

    ''I''m managing, I lied.

    A prickling sensation at the back of my neck warned me someone was approaching.

    "Gotta bounce," I told her quickly. "Can''t let the warden catch me mindlinking on the job."

    "Keep your strength up," she urged as I severed our connection. "This isn''t over."

    I''d just wrapped up my patrol shift-with blisters forming on top of blisters-when a sleek ck carriage with Silverpeak insignia pulled up at the territory line. My wolf instantly went on alert, hackles rising under my skin.

    The window rolled down to reveal Tyler''s weathered face, his expression unreadable.

    "Tyler?" I crossed my arms, surprised to see him here. "This is Hayes territory. What brings you across the border?"

    "ke sent me," he replied, cutting straight to the chase.

    A dull ache spread through my chest at ke''s name. "Of course he did. The

    Alpha King must be too busy toe himself."

    I spotted two Hayes enforcers ambling our way, their interest piqued by the Silverpeak vehicle.

    "Whatever it is, you should make it quick," I muttered, ncing nervously at the approaching guards. "Hayes patrol is pretty strict about visitors."

    Tyler leapt from the car with surprising agility for his size, catching up to me in three long strides.

    "Ava, wait," he called after me. ''One minute. That''s all I need."

    I paused, weighing my options. Whatever Tyler had traveled into here to tell me, it had to be important.

    "I''m listening," I said, turning back to him.

    "We found the real culprit," he said, the wordsnding softly. "A warrior switched Lucas''s catalyst. She confessed to everything.

    I froze, something fragile cracking open inside my chest. After days of uncertainty,

    of seeing the doubt in ke''s eyes, of choosing to walk away-the truth had finally surfaced.

    ''Lucas?" I asked, my voice catching. "How is he?"

    "Recovering. Back in his own room today." Tyler''s gruff/voice softened. "Kid keeps asking for you. Won''t shut up about it, actually."

    A lump formed in my throat that I couldn''t swallow down. I missed that brat more than I''d let myself admit.

    "And ke?" I asked softly. "He knows now?"

    "He does." Tyler nodded, his eyes conveying genuine regret. "The warrior''s been banished."

    I exhaled slowly. "Banishment... that''s harsh.

    ''She nearly killed the Alpha''s son," Tyler said simply. ''Packw is clear on that."

    I wrapped my arms around myself, suddenly cold despite the afternoon warmth. ''I knew someone must have tampered with the catalyst. I just... I wish I''d stayed to exin. Everything happened so fast, and I just..."

    "He understands why you left," Tyler said. "And he wants you to know you''re wee to return to ckwood."

    I gave a small, sad smile. "It''s not that simple anymore. We sold our house. Sarah''s banking everything on me getting established here to help Dad

    "Will you at least think about it?" Tyler asked. "Lucas misses you. ke-

    "If ke wants me back,'' I said quietly, not angry but resolute, ''I''d like to hear it from him."

    Tyler studied me for a long moment, then nodded. ''I''ll tell him."

    POST COMMENT

    Chapter Comments

    Mike

    tbh fair, also should be expected, hope she doesn''t dissappear before that

    happens

    View 1 Comment >

    3

 Bad Husband 151

    ke''s POV

    I drummed my fingers against the windowsill, watching the training grounds sit empty as sunset painted everything gold. Somewhere out there, kids wereughing, packs were gathering for dinner, life was moving on. Meanwhile, I was stuck in my head, reying the same moment on loop-the hurt in Ava''s eyes when I''d doubted her.

    The confession sat on my desk like a time bomb. One warrior''s twisted ambition had nearly cost me everything that mattered. She''d swapped Lucas''s training catalyst hoping to y hero, and now she was paying the ultimate price- permanent exile. No pack, no protection, no future. Even with the punishment handed down, I couldn''t shake this hollow feeling in my chest.

    My wolf prowled beneath my skin, restless and agitated. He didn''t give a damn about the exiled warrior. His thoughts circled around one person only: Ava. The memory of her face that day hit like a physical blow every time. After everything she''d done for Lucas, I''d chosen doubt when she needed belief.

    The door creaked open, Tyler''s familiar cedar scent filling the room before he''d taken a single step inside.

    ''She''s gone," he said, scrubbing a hand over his face. ''Dropped her at the territory line myself."

    I kept my eyes fixed on the darkeningndscape, not trusting my expression. "And the other Alphas?"

    "All notified. No one''s taking her in." Tyler moved beside me, his reflection appearing in the ss. "It''s done."

    The silence stretched between us, heavy with things unsaid. My second-in-mand was gathering courage, weighing his words. I''d seen that look enough times to recognize it.

    "Just spill it, Tyler," I finally said, my voiceing out like gravel. "Did you see Ava?*

    The question hung in the air. Just saying her name made something twist painfully in my chest.

    Tyler shifted his weight-never a good sign. "Yeah, I found her."

    I turned, forcing my face to stay neutral though my pulse kicked hard against my throat. "And? What did she say when yo

    *Iid it all out," he said, watching me carefully. "Told her we caught the real culprit, that the warrior confessed to everything."

    "And?" My fingers tapped a nervous rhythm against the desk. "What did she say?"

    Tyler winced slightly. "Her exact words were, ''If ke wants me back, I''d like to hear it from him."""

    er?

    Something between augh and a groan escaped me. So perfectly Ava-stubborn and direct even when cornered. My wolf practically howled in response, recognizing the challenge in her words.

    "Tell me she''s okay at least," I said, the words catching in my throat.

    Tyler''s face darkened. "That''s the other thing. I did some digging about her new position with the Hayes pack." He hesitated. "ke, they yed her. There is no Chief Combat Instructor job-it was aplete setup

    ''What do you mean?" My jaw clenched so hard I could hear my teeth grinding.

    "Martha lied to get them over there," Tyler exined, jaw tight. "Ava''s stuck in the lowest warrior rank, doing grunt patrol work that new recruits usually handle. They''ve got her bunking in the old barracks, not even in proper instructor quarters."

    The growl that ripped from my throat wasn''t human. My wolf surged forward, rage boiling just beneath my skin. The image of Ava-my Ava-reduced to the lowest rank, used and manipted, made something primal and violent rise within me. "They''re using William as bait, Tyler continued. "Martha promised Sarah that this arrangement would speed up Blood Protection Rights for tim."

    "Car, I snapped, already moving toward the door. "Now."

    Tyler nodded sharply. "Guards?"

    I barked out augh that held no humor. "For Hayes? Don''t insult me."

    I was the fucking Alpha King. If Richard or his maniptive wife thought they

    could steal what was mine and face no consequences, they were about to learn exactly how wrong they were.

    But beneath the fury, a quieter, more painful truth lurked. She''d only ended up there because I''d failed her first. I''d let doubt creep in when I should have trusted her above all others.

    1 veered toward the medical wing before leaving. Lucas deserved to know I was going after her.

    "How''s the patient?" I asked, settling on the edge of his bed.

    Lucas nced up, the circles under his eyes finally fading. "Body''s getting better. Mood still stinks."

    I reached over to ruffle his hair, something I''d done since he was tiny. For once, he didn''t duck away.

    "I''m heading out for a bit."

    ''Where to?" he asked, already drifting back to his book."

    "Hayes territory,'' I said, watching his reaction carefully. "Going to see Ava."

    The transformation was immediate. His head snapped up, eyes suddenly alert, a spark lighting them from within. "Seriously? Are you bringing her back?"

    I sighed, hating to offer false hope. "I''m going to try. But Lucas... it''s her choice in the end."

    ''She''lle back," he said with absolute conviction. "She promised to teach me the full Moonlight Combat sequence. Ava never breaks her promises."

    He reached under his pillow and pulled out a small wooden carving-a wolf with its head raised in a silent howl. The detas impressive for a seven-year-old''s work.

    "Give her this," he said, pressing it into my palm. "I made it during training. She said it wasn''t half bad for a beginner."

    My throat tightened as I stared at the small totem. Lucas rarely connected with anyone this deeply. Hell, he barely tolerated most of his tutors. But Ava had somehow broken through that wall, bing someone he genuinely cared for. "You carved this yourself," I said, handing it back. "You should give it to her when she gets back."

    His eyes narrowed slightly. "So you''re definitely bringing her back?"

    "Tell you what,¡± I said, standing. "You focus on getting better, and I''ll focus on fixing what broke. Deal?"

    He nodded, then added, "Tell her I figured out that counter-move she was teaching me. The one she said was impossible for beginners."

    I smiled despite myself. "I''ll let her know."

    The minute my sleek ck car rolled up to Shadow Creek''s boundary, every guard went rigid. Hands flew to weapons, backs straightened, and mindlinks buzzed with urgent alerts. Nobody had expected the Alpha King himself to show up unannounced, especially not after the incident with my son.

    I stepped out, not bothering with the usual territorial greeting rituals. Every second wasted was another second Ava spent in Hayes captivity.

    Richard scrambled to meet me at the entrance, papier-mach¨¦ smile stered across his face. "Alpha King Morgan! What an unexpected pleasure." "Hayes, I acknowledged with a curt nod. No point wasting energy on fake pleasantries. I''m here for Ava."

    Richard''s smile flickered like a dying lightbulb. "Ava? The... warrior recruit?" Confusion crossed his features, quickly reced by calction. I''m not sure I understand why someone of your stature would concern yourself with-

    Marked Twice by the Alpha King

 Bad Husband 152

    ke''s POV

    "Ah, of course. Richard''s eyes darted sideways-ssic tell of an iing lie. "Unfortunately, she''s on patrol duty. Won''t be back untilte."

    1 caught the sour note of deception instantly. Ava was here-I could feel it, like apass needle drawn north. My wolf paced impatiently, catching traces of her scent carried on the evening breeze.

    I''m happy to wait," I replied with a thin smile. "Perhaps you could offer dinner while I do? It would give us a chance to discuss pack matters."

    Richard shifted ufortably, recognizing the trap for what it was. ¡°We''d be..... honored. Please,e in."

    The Hayes mansion felt cold despite its opulence-all show, no substance. Marble floors gleamed beneath chandeliers dripping with crystals, but nothing could mask the emptiness. This wasn''t a home; it was a monument to power.

    Our preparations are modest tonight, Richard led me toward the dining room. ¡°If we''d known you wereing...

    I tuned out the excuses, focusing instead on scanning every corner, every hallway. My senses were on high alert, searching for any trace of Ava.

    In the dining room, Martha sat like a queen holding court, daughter Vanessa

    preening beside her. But what caught my attention was the hunched figure in the corner-Sarah, looking like she''d aged a decade in just days.

    Martha stood, her smile tight and practiced. "Alpha King, what a delightful surprise."

    I nodded, my eyes still on Sarah. When she noticed me, hope flickered briefly in her eyes before fear extinguished it.

    "Sarah," Martha''s voice cut through the room like a whip, "you may go. This is pack business."

    Sarah immediately began to rise, shoulders curved inward protectively.

    "Actually," I said, voice deceptively soft, "I''d prefer Mrs. Rivers stay. This concerns her daughter, after all."

    Martha''s mask slipped for just a heartbeat before she recovered. "Of course, whatever you prefer."

    Dinner was an exercise in restraint. Richard droned on about Shadow Creek''s ''prosperity" and the uing alliance through Jackson and Sophia''s marriage. Martha punctuated his monologue with sycophanticments, while Vanessa couldn''t have been more obvious in her attempts to catch my eye if she''d stripped naked and danced on the table.

    "And how is Sophia?" Martha asked, her voice dripping honey. "The wedding ns must be keeping everyone busy."

    I noticed Sarah flinch at the mention, her fork trembling slightly.

    "She''s well," I answered simply. The less said about that mess, the better.

    My eyes drifted to Sarah, who kept her gaze fixed firmly on her barely-touched food. "You seem ufortable. Are you finding your amodation satisfactory?"

    Sarah''s head jerked up, panic shing across her face/ "Everything is fine, Alpha King. Thank you for asking."

    ''Sarah assists in our medical division, Martha interjected smoothly. "Moving is always an adjustment period."

    "The medical division?" I raised an eyebrow. "That''s fitting, given your renowned healing abilities."

    "Yes," Sarah whispered, the word tight with hidden meaning. "The Hayes family has been very... generous."

    I caught the barely concealed venom in her tone. Something was seriously wrong here-beyond even what Tyler had uncovered.

    *About Ava," I steered the conversation back. "I want her to know Lucas has recoveredpletely, and we''ve identified and punished the real culprit.

    Richard and Martha exchanged a look that set my teeth on edge.

    ''We''ll make sure she''s informed, Richard said vaguely. "Though I must say, I''m puzzled by your interest in a... traitor''s daughter."

    I felt my control slipping, my wolf snarling beneath my skin. "Every warrior deserves justice, Hayes. Especially those wrongly used."

    The rest of dinner passed in a blur of meaningless conversation and growing impatience. When Richard finally suggested a tour of the grounds, I seized the opportunity.

    I''d particrly like to see your warrior training facilities," I said. "I hear you''ve made changes recently."

    Richard''s smile strained at the edges. ''Indeed. Right this way."

    The facilities were a far cry from ckwood''s state-of-the-art training grounds. Warriors stumbled through basic drills, their form sloppy, their movements uncoordinated. No wonder Shadow Creek had been declining in power.

    "This is our main training area," Richard gestured broadly. "Miller here is our Chief Combat Instructor."

    An older warrior jogged over, bowing deeply. "Alpha King, an honor."

    I noticed immediately that Miller wore the Chief Combat Instructor insignia-the exact position Martha had promised to Ava. My jaw tightened at the tant deception.

    "Where''s Ava?" I asked directly, done with the charade. "I was told she''d been appointed as Chief Combat Instructor here.

    Miller''s eyes widened, darting to Richard with obvious confusion. "Sir, I''ve held this position for eight years. There''s been no mention of a recement."

    Richard cleared his throat,posure slipping. "There must be some misunderstanding. Ava is a new recruit, still learning our protocols. Miller is and has always been our Chief Combat Instructor."

    So Martha lied," I stated tly. "There never was a position for Ava."

    ''She''s very new,'' Richard stammered, difort radiating from him in waves. "Starting from the basics is standard procedure for all neers, regardless of prior experience."

    I nearlyughed at the tant deception. Ava had graduated at the top of her ss at Warrior Academy-qualified to train even elite fighters-yet here they had her scrubbing floors and running basic patrols while a position that was promised to her was already filled? The scam was so transparent it was insulting to both of us.

    When Richard tried steering me back toward the mansion, I nced toward a cluster of dpidated buildings in the distance.

    "What''s over there?"

    Richard tensed. "Just warrior quarters. Basic amodations, nothing worth seeing."

    I''m curious about all aspects of pack life," I insisted. "Lead the way."

    As we approached, raised voices carried on the wind-one particrly sharp and familiar. My pace quickened automatically.

    ''Probably just recruit squabbling," Richard said nervously. "Miller can handle- ''I''ll see for myself," I cut him off, already striding toward the source.

    What I found made my blood boil. Vanessa-who''d somehow slipped away from dinner early-stood with her hand raised, face twisted in contempt. Before her stood Ava, clothes filthy, fresh wounds on her arms, exhaustion evident in the slump of her shoulders. But her spine remained straight, her chin lifted in defiance even as Vanessa berated her.

    "You think you''re special because you were Morgan''s pet?: Vanessa sneered. "Now look at you- lowest-rank Omega who can''t even handle patrol duty.

    Pathetic."

    I watched Ava''s hands curl into fists, her control remarkable given the provocation.

    "At least I earned my ce," Ava replied, voice steady despite her obvious fatigue. "Not everyone needs daddy''s status or a fianc¨¦''s name to feel important."

    Vanessa''s face contorted with rage. Her hand whipped back, ready to strike. "You ungrateful little-

    *ENOUGH!"

    My voice cracked like thunder across the yard. Everyone froze, including Vanessa, whose expression morphed from rage to shock as she turned to find me witnessing her tantrum.

    ¡°A¨CAlpha King,¡± she stammered, attempting to smooth her features. "What a surprise."

    Chapter Comments

    3

 Bad Husband 153

    Ava''s POV

    My stomach growled as I stumbled back to the crumbling barracks. Three days in Hayes territory and I''d been living on scraps-whatever the hell they called "warrior rations" was barely enough to keep a squirrel alive.

    The door creaked open and there stood Vanessa, smirking like she''d just won the lottery, Great. Just what I needed.

    "Training yard''s a mess,'' she announced, flicking her perfectly manicured nails toward the window. "Clean it up. Now."

    I bit the inside of my cheek. "That''s the third cleanup today."

    "Did I ask for your opinion, Rivers?" Her voice dripped venom. "Or do I need to remind you about your ce here?

    My wolf snarled beneath my skin, but I swallowed my pride and trudged outside. The yard looked like a tornado had hit it-training weapons scattered everywhere, muddy footprints crisscrossing the field. I started gathering equipment, my muscles screaming in protest.

    So much for Martha''s grand promises. Chief Combat Instructor, my ass. Here I was-Warrior Academy''s top graduate-picking up after spoiled Hayes brats and running midnight patrols like some fresh recruit.

    I bent to lift a particrly heavy pile of weapons when something caught my foot. Before I could catch myself, I went flying, weapons scattering. A searing pain shot through my arm as a silver de sliced skin.

    "Oops," Vanessa chuckled from behind me. "Clumsy and worthless. Some warrior."

    Blood dripped onto the dirt as I clutched my arm. "You tripped me."

    "Prove it," she taunted, hovering over me like a vulture. Her hand shot up, ready

    to strike. "What''s wrong, Rivers? Gonna cry?"

    Every muscle in my body tensed, ready to counter. I could flip her over my

    shoulder before she even knew what hit But I froze instead, William''s face shing through my mind. One wrong move and Sarah''s hopes-Dad''s freedom- everything would vanish.

    "Touch Sarah again with your lies, and we''ll see who''s crying," I warned, eyes locked on hers.

    Vanessa''sugh felt like nails on a chalkboard. "Look at you now-Hayes territory''s newest chew toy. How''s it feel, going from Silverpeak princess to bottom- rung nobody?"

    The barracks door suddenly flew open so hard it bounced against the wall. Vanessa spun around, her face draining of color like someone had pulled a plug.

    ''ENOUGH!"

    That voice. My head snapped up so fast my neck cracked.

    ke stood in the doorway, fury rolling off him in golden waves. Not a

    hallucination, not a dream-the actual flesh-and-blood Alpha King of Silverpeak, looking like he was about to tear the ce apart with his bare hands.

    ''A-Alpha King... Vanessa''s voice shrank to a terrified squeak.

    ke''s eyes had shifted-storm-blue irises now zing gold as his wolf pushed forward. His gaze swept the room beforending on my bloody arm, and something dangerous flickered across his face.

    ''So this is Hayes hospitality?" His voice came dangerously soft. "Slicing up warriors with silver des for sport?"

    Vanessa backpedaled until she hit the wall. "No-I didn''t-she fell-

    She lunged forward in a pathetic show of concern, reaching toward me. Before her fingers could make contact, an invisible wall of pressure sent her. sprawling backwards.

    "Touch her, ke, growled, not even raising his voice, and you''ll lose the hand."

    Vanessa crumpled into a heap, suddenly fascinated with the floor. Amazing what an Alpha''s presence could do-thirty seconds ago she''d been queen of the castle.

    Richard appeared from behind ke, looking like he''d swallowed something sour. His eyes narrowed as he took in the scene, a sh of disgust crossing his features when he spotted me on the ground.

    "Alpha King," he said, bowing low, "what an unexpected honor. I assure you, we don''t tolerate this kind of behavior at Hayes territory:

    ke''s jaw tightened. ''Funny. Because I''m staring at Rivers blood on Hayes floors."

    A misunderstanding-"

    A misunderstanding?" ke''sugh held no humor. ''You''ve got my son''s trainer living in what amounts to a closet, working patrol shifts meant for new recruits, while Martha promised her a Chief Instructor position. That''s one hell of a misunderstanding."

    Richard''s face twitched as he struggled for a response. The awkward silence was broken by clicking heels as Martha glided into the room like she was entering a ballroom.

    "Alpha King Morgan," she purred, then faltered when she caught the murder in his eyes. "What a... surprise.

    Her gaze darted to Vanessa, who looked like she was trying to melt into the wall. "Vanessa, darling, what happened?"

    Vanessatched onto Martha like a life raft. "She''s lying! Rivers attacked me when I tried to help her train! Then she fell on her own-I was about to help her!"

    My teeth ground together so hard I thought they might crack. These people were unbelievable.

    "Young wolves, Martha sighed, turning to ke with a practiced sympathetic smile. "Always so dramatic during adjustment periods."

    ke didn''t respond. His eyes were fixed on me, something raw and fierce shing in their depths. I suddenly realized how I must look-dirty, bleeding, exhausted. Shame burned through me. Not exactly how I''d pictured our reunion.

    "Medical room, ke ordered Richard. "Now."

    Richard hesitated, weighing his options before nodding stiffly. "Of course."

    ke crossed to me in three long strides, crouching down. His hand hovered near mine without touching. "Can you stand?" he asked, his voice dropping to a register only I could hear.

    I nodded and pushed myself up, but the room tilted sideways. Before I could blink, ke had scooped me into his arms like I weighed nothing.

    The sudden closeness hit me like a freight train-his scent wrapping around me, familiar and dizzying. Pine trees after rain. Leather and sun-warmed skin. Pure ke. My mark hummed with recognition, a warmth spreading through my neck that had nothing to do with the wound.

    "This way," Richard muttered, leading us out.

    We''d barely made it down the hallway when a door flew open.

    "Ava?" Sarah''s voice cracked as she took in the sight of me in ke''s arms. Her eyes, usually soft with worry, held an unexpected steel as they locked with

    ke''s.

    ''I''m fine, I lied. "Just a scratch.

    They stared at each other for a long, loaded moment-some unspoken conversation passing between them-before ke gave her a small nod.

    ''Later, he promised her.

    Sarah squeezed my hand before disappearing back into her room, her gaze following us until we turned the corner.

    The medical room door clicked shut behind us. ke set me down on the exam table with surprising gentleness. I immediately scooted back, putting space

    between us. His Alpha presence filled the small room, making it hard to breathe- or think straight.

    "Thank you for your intervention, Alpha King," I said stiffly, keeping my voice formal and detached. The title felt strange on my tongue after all we''d been through, but right now I needed that distance. "I''ll just clean this up myself."

    Chapter Comments

 Bad Husband 154

    Ava''s POV

    I reached for the medical supplies, but ke blocked my hand, his jaw set in that stubborn way I''de to recognize.

    "Sit still," he ordered, though his voicecked its usualmand. "That needs proper cleaning."

    ''I''m perfectly capable of bandaging my own wounds," I replied coolly. "I''ve had plenty of practice these past few days."

    A muscle twitched in his cheek. "I''m sure you have."

    When I tried to stand, his hand shot out, not quite touching me but effectively blocking my path. Our eyes locked in a silent battle of wills. The look on his face wasn''t the Alpha King''s authoritative re, but something far more dangerous- raw concern mixed with a determination that said he wasn''t backing down.

    "Please," he said, the word so unexpected it froze me in ce. ke Morgan didn''t say ''please'' to anyone. "Let me help you, Ava."

    Something in his tone-a vulnerability I rarely heard from him-made my defenses waver. I slowly sank back onto the table, still watching him warily.

    He kept his movements deliberate as he gathered supplies, like I was some wounded wild animal that might bolt. Maybe I was.

    "You didn''t have toe charging in like that," I said, my voice rougher than intended./"I had it under control."

    ke snorted, rifling through cabs until he found a med kit. "Yeah, bleeding on their floor looked real controlled."

    The familiar sarcasm loosened something tight in my chest. This wasn''t Alpha King ke with his formal masks and careful words. This was just... ke. The man who called me on my bullshit.

    He examined my arm, fingers surprisingly gentle for such arge man. His eyes darkened as they traced over old from today."

    "Just part of the Hayes wee package," I shrugged, trying to sound casual. ses peppering my skin. These weren''t

    ke turned on the faucet, testing the water temperature before guiding my arm under the stream. I couldn''t help but tense up-not just from the sting, but from his touch. It brought back everything at once: moonlit training sessions with Lucas, whispered conversations in the hallway, the weight of his gaze across a crowded room.

    ''Hold still, he murmured, voice unexpectedly soft. "Let me fix this.

    Something about his tone-about having this powerhouse of an Alpha tending to me like I was something precious-made my throat tight. After days of being treated like dirt, the simple care in his touch felt almost overwhelming.

    I watched him work, noticing things I''d missed before. The shadows under his eyes. The stubble darker than usual. His hair sticking up on one side like he''d been running his hand through it repeatedly.

    "Why''d you reallye?" I asked quietly.

    His hands paused, but he didn''t look up. "You know why."

    "Pretend I don''t."

    This time his eyes met mine, clear and direct. "Three days without hearing from you, I sent Tyler to investigate. When he reported what Martha had done His jaw tightened. ''Let''s just say I''ve had calmer/moments."

    "So what, your property got damaged and you came to collect?" The words came out sharper than intended.

    "Don''t. His hand gripped the edge of the table. "Don''t twist this into something ugly. Nobody treats someone I care about like this Nob

    The raw honesty in his voice made my mark pulse. I''d expected excuses, maybe some formal Alpha King speech about pack responsibility. A

    I thought I was persona non grata at ckwood," I said, struggling to keep my voice steady. "After Lucas-*

    ''I was wrong, Ava."

    I blinked, taken aback by the bluntness. ke never admitted failure-not as Alpha, not as father, not as anything.

    His fingers came up, tilting my chin so I couldn''t look away. ''I was scared out of my mind when Lucas copsed. Needed someone to me. You were there His eyes held a vulnerability I''d never seen. ''It was easier to push you away than admit I might lose both of you."

    My chest ached at the admission. No grand excuses, no Alpha posturing-just raw truth. "I understand, I said quietly. "If Sarah or William were hurt, I might have overreacted too."

    "How is he?" I asked, desperate to change the subject before I did something stupid like cry.

    A ghost of a smile touched ke''s lips. "Driving the healers crazy. Made something for you-some wolf carving."

    The image of Lucas bent over a block of wood, tongue caught between his teeth in concentration, made my eyes burn. I ducked my head, focusing on the bandage ke was carefully applying.

    The ointment stung like hell, but I barely noticed as his thumb traced slow circles against my pulse point-an unconscious gesture that sent sparks up my

    arm.

    He finished the bandaging, his fingers lingering on my wrist a second longer than necessary before reluctantly letting go.

    "Thank you," I said, pointing to the neatly bandaged wound. "And... thanks for the exnation. Much better than sending Tyler to apologize."

    The corner of his mouth curved upward. "I''ll make sure someone checks your wound in the morning."

    I nodded, but then remembered reality: "But I can''t just leave. Sarah and I have nowhere else to go. For my father

    we have to stay here.

    As I mentioned these constraints, ke''s expression became more determined, with that resolve I''de to recognize-the look when the Alpha King makes a decision.

    "You think I''d let you continue living here?" he asked, his voice low and firm. "Let the Hayes family work you like a ve? Let Sarah live in fear every day?"

    He moved closer, close enough that I could feel the warmth of his breath. "From today, you and Sarah will both leave this ce."

    This simple deration made my heart race. "But the Hayes family won''t let us go easily. Martha has arranged everything

    "They have no choice," ke interrupted, his voice calm yet undeniably authoritative. "You will be under my protection. Anyone who challenges this decision is challenging the Alpha King''s authority."

    His palm gently touched my cheek, warm and steadfast. "I won''t make the same mistake again, Ava. I won''t let you go."

    Then he leaned forward, gently pressing his lips to mine. The kiss was so tender, yet contained unspeakable promises and power. I found myself responding instinctively, the mark on my neck rejoicing at the contact, golden warmth dispelling silver chill.

    When he pulled back, his eyes had shiftedpletely to wolf-gold, burning with something primal and protective.

    "The Hayes family can whine all they want," he murmured against my lips. "But you belong with me, Rivers. Always have."

    ckmoonsage

    I just don''t understand why not just say they are mates ugh

 Bad Husband 155

    Ava''s POV

    I was about to tell ke we needed to be smart about this-just walking out with him would trigger every rm in Hayes territory. My mind raced through the fallout: Martha''s revenge, Sarah caught in the middle, and William''s case tanking overnight. But before I could voice any of this, a soft knock on the door made us both freeze.

    My heart jumped to my throat, wolf senses cranking up to eleven. Heat crawled up my neck and into my ears-dead giveaway. Meanwhile, ke didn''t even break a sweat. He stepped back smooth as butter, shooting me that half-cocky, half- soothing look that made me want to smack him. The man had ice in his veins while I was over here about to jump out of my skin.

    The door creaked open and there stood Sarah, smelling like healing herbs and raw fear. Her eyes went dinner te wide at the sight of ke-can''t me her, most wolves go their entire lives without seeing the Alpha King up close-before zeroing in on me.

    "Good heavens, Ava!" She rushed in, hesitating just a beat before touching my arm. "What on earth happened to you?"

    ¡°Nothing major,¡± I said, trying to keep my voice from shaking. My wolf hated the lie, pacing and whining under my skin. "Just zigged when I should''ve zagged during training. Alpha Morgan was passing by and helped patch me up."

    I held up my bandaged arm like it was no big deal. Sarah''s fingers barely skimmed the gauze, her eyes getting that watery shine that always broke my heart. The slight quiver at the corner of her mouth told me everything-she wasn''t buying it for a second, but she wouldn''t call me out. Not with William''s life hanging in the bnce. Not with our whole future riding on ying this stupid game.

    In that moment, I hated Jackson with everything in me. The guy I once thought hung the moon now just made my stomach turn.

    "I should''ve never brought us here," Sarah murmured, absently rubbing that old scar on her wrist.

    "Hey, none of that," I cut in, sounding more like the parent than the kid. "Just a bump in the road, okay? Nobody''s fault."

    Another lie to pile on the growing mountain between us. ke''s eyes burned into me-he could smell the bull from a mile away. His anger wasn''t the cold, calcted kind anymore; it was living, breathing, filling up the room like smoke. I gave him the tiniest head shake I could manage. Not now. Not in front of her. His jaw unclenched just a fraction, but those eyes stayed molten.

    ¡°Sarah, ke said, his voice softer than I''d ever heard it, ¡°I''ve got a ce up north on my territory. Private cabin, crazy secure. Even I only go there when I need space. I want you both to stay there for a while." He paused, hands open at his sides. "No strings. No timeline. Just somewhere safe.

    Sarah''s head snapped up so fast I swear I heard something pop. My pulse stuttered-he wasn''t just offering me an out, but Sarah too? Something warm and sharp twisted in my chest, like someone had pressed a hot star against my ribs.

    The silence stretched out so long I could feel my hope slipping away like water through fingers. I knew that look on Sarah''s face all too well-the one that said she''d already made up her mind and nothing short of an act of God would change

    it.

    ¡°Alpha King,¡± she finally said, her voice weirdly high, ¡°would you mind giving me and my daughter a minute alone?"

    ke looked as surprised as I felt, ncing between us before his eyes settled

    on me with a clear What''s going on? I gave a small shrug that said Your guess is as good as mine.

    "Take your time," he nodded, the Alpha edge gone from his voice. ''I''ll wait outside."

    The way he looked at me before walking out-man, I couldn''t even begin to untangle all the things hiding in those storm-blue eyes. When the door clicked shut, the room still smelled like him, all pine and leather and that something uniquely ke that made my mark tingle. Sarah turned to me, her face aplicated mix of worry and something that looked weirdly like resolve.

    "Sarah?" I leaned forward, catching that nervous edge in her scent. "What''s really going on here?"

    She squared her shoulders, eyes narrowing. "First things first. What''s the deal with you and ke? And don''t feed me some line about professional. boundaries. My nose still works just fine, and you''re practically drenched in Alpha scent."

    My stomach did a somersault, blood rushing to my face fast enough to make me dizzy. My wolf cowered inside me, tail tucked, ears t-busted.

    "What? No-that''s not- I scrambled, hand flying to the mark on my neck without thinking. "He''s just Lucas''s dad. I train his kid. End of story.

    Sarah gave me the mom look-the one that said she''d watched me try to hide broken curfews and stolen cookies for years and wasn''t buying what I was selling

    now.

    "An Alpha King doesn''t look at his son''s trainer like that," she said, her voice softening. "He looks at you the way a wolf looks at the moon-like you''re the thing his world turns around."

    "You''re seeing things," I insisted, my voiceing out all scratchy. "Anyway, that''s not what we need to talk about right now, is it?"

    "No." Sarah sighed, shoulders dropping an inch. She took my hand, and I noticed the slight tremble in her fingers. "It''s not. What we need to talk about is... 1 can''t go with you."

    The words hit me like a sucker punch, knocking the air clean out of my lungs. "What? Why the hell not?"

 Bad Husband 156

    Ava''s POV

    Her eyes held that steel-under-sorrow look, the same one I''d seen when she first visited William in that silver-lined cell.

    "Because I made a deal with Martha," she said quietly, fingers fidgeting in herp. ''If I join their medical team-handling full moon symptoms, Brewing their healing herbs¡ªshe''ll fast-track William''s Blood Protection application. She''s promised I can help prepare for his trial."

    1 stared at her, feeling like the floor was tilting. "You''re kidding me, right? They want you as their personal herb ve?"

    "Medical advisor," she corrected weakly, gaze sliding away from mine. "They provide a roof and position. I provide expertise."

    "That''s grade-A bull and you know it, I growled, my wolf snarling under my skin. "Look what they did to me! They promised Chief Combat Instructor and stuck me in a glorified broom closet running triple patrols. You really think they''ll keep their word about Dad?"

    "Has ke promised to help William?" The questionnded sharp as a knife. "Has he guaranteed your father''s release? Does he even know everything we''re up against?"

    My mouth opened, then closed. Guilt crashed over me like an icy wave. Truth was, I''d neverid it all out for ke. Never swallowed my pride enough to actually ask for direct help. He''d mentioned investigating, sure, but I''d never pushed for specifics or pressed him for a realmitment.

    "That''s what I thought,¡± Sarah said, not unkindly. "You''ve got too much of William in you-too stubborn to ask for help. I don''t have that luxury. If groveling gets him out of that cell, I''ll crawl on my hands and knees."

    "This isn''t about pride," I said, feeling my eyes burn. "It''s about safety. These people aren''t trustworthy. Not even a little bit.

    ''I know." Sarah nodded, exhaustion lining her face. "But I''ve made my choice. For family, we each y our part. Mine is staying here, fighting for William''s freedom. And yours..."

    She reached up, cradling my face between her hands the way she used to when I was small.

    "Your part is to go with ke. Now."

    I gaped at her, blindsided. "Are you out of your mind? Leave you here alone in this snake pit?"

    "Every day you stay puts a target on your back," she said firmly. "Vanessa wants to destroy you. Jackson wants to possess you. Martha sees you as a threat to her ns. You can''t protect me here-but if you''re safe..." Her voice dropped to a whisper. "Maybe then you can help us in ways we can''t even see yet."

    I bit down on my lip hard, fighting back the hot pressure building behind my eyes. She was right-of course she was right-but admitting it felt like swallowing broken ss.

    ''I love you too much to just walk away," I whispered, voice cracking down the middle.

    Sarah pulled me into her arms, enveloping me in that familiar embrace that had been my safe harbor since before I could remember.

    "And I love you too much to watch you sacrifice yourself she murmured against my hair. "From the moment William and I pulled you from that attack, you became our everything. Now it''s my turn to protect my child, the way you''ve always tried to protect us."

    The tears I''d been fighting broke free, soaking into her shoulder. "None of this is your fault," I mumbled.

    She stroked my back in slow circles, the way she always had. "Or yours. We''re just pieces on someone else''s game board right now, But r Rivers family doesn''t go down without one hell of a fight."

    y words-the

    Sarah left first. I trailed behind her, legs feeling like they''d been hollowed out and filled with cement. As we made our way through the corridor, the air felt thick- Hayes territory''s trademark arrogance mixing with ke''s barely contained fury Martha''s artificial apologies floated from the main hall before we even reached it.

    -deeply regrettable incident, Alpha King. I assure you, we''ll get to the bottom of this immediately..."

    I could picture ke''s face without seeing it-that special brand of calm-on-the- surface, volcano underneath that only the Alpha King could pull of than 1 pushed the door open, the whole room went dead silent. Every head turned toward me like I''d just crashed a funeral.

    ¡°Ah, Ava, Martha''s voice dripped fake concern as she glided over, trailing enough perfume to make my nose burn. "Feeling better, dear? Such an unfortuna ident during training....

    ''It''s nothing, I cut her off, eyes finding ke over her shoulder. His were tinged with gold wolf riding right beneath the surface, ready to test through. He wasn''t buying any of this theater, and somehow, that gave me strength.

    "You should rest," Martha continued, her motherly tone making my teeth ache. "Perhaps tomorrow we can arrange a lighter schedule for you......."

    I nced at Sarah, catching her almost imperceptible nod and the quiet determination in her eyes. She''d made her decision. Now I had to make mine. "Goodnight," I said simply, turning to leave without another word.

    I''d barely made it three steps when I heard the door open and close behind me. The mark on my neck hummed, awareness prickling along my spine. ke. His presence crackled around me like the air before lightning strikes.

    "Whatever you were thinking before," his voice rumbled low like distant thunder, ''you''reing with me tonight. I''m not leaving you in this hellhole another minute."

    He stood there braced for an argument, all Alpha stubbornness and unmovable force. But I just didn''t have any fight left in me. Sarah was right-staying here was just digging a deeper hole.

    "Okay,¡± I said quietly.

    ke blinked, thrown off bnce. "Just like that?"

    "Just like that, I confirmed, almost smiling at his confusion. "But I have one condition."

    His expression turned serious again. "Name it."

    "Sarah stays here-her choice, not mine. But I need your word she''ll be safe." promise to me that Hayes won''t touch a hair on her head."

    met his eyes directly. "Not the Alpha King''s formal guarantee. I need ke''s

    His gaze deepened, something fierce shing gold in his eyes. Not just Alpha anger-this was deeper, more primal. The kind of protectiveness usually reserved for pack, for family.

    "I swear it by the Moon Goddess and my bloodline," he said, voice soft but vibrating with power. "If they harm her in any way, I''ll make sure the entire Hayes territory understands what Alpha fury truly means."

    Relief washed through me like a cool wave. A blood oath. More binding than contracts, more sacred than packw. My wolf finally settled under my skin, some of the constant tension easing from my muscles.

    I nodded once and turned to leave, but his hand caught my arm gently-notmanding, just connecting. It reminded me of Lucas mimicking mybat moves, so careful not to get it wrong.

    ''Just grab what you need," he said, his voice suddenly gentle. "Tyler will meet you

    at the boundary when you''re ready."

    Chapter Comments

    1

 Bad Husband 157

    ke''s POV

    I stepped out of the Hayes medical foom, leaving Ava to gather herself.

    "Guard her with your life, I mindlinked to Tyler, who stood just outside the door. ''I''m dealing with the Hayes family now. Anyone tries to get to her, ve have my permission to use whatever force necessary."

    Tyler''s subtle nod was all I needed. Centuries of pack politics had taught me to read even the smallest signals from my second. His stance shifted slightly- weight forward, shoulders squared. Message received.

    And Tyler-arrange for a vehicle. We''re taking her home today."

    Lucas''s words from before I left ckwood echoed in my head: "You promised to bring her back, Dad. You swore. The desperation in his voice had knocked the wind out of me. My son, who barely opened up to anyone, had attached himself to Ava like she was the moon to his tide.

    I headed down the ostentatious marble corridor toward the main hall, my mind cycling through Hayes family transgressions over the years. Richard''s political maneuvering. Martha''s poisonous influence. Jackson''s betrayal of Ava. A family rotten to the core, willing to use anyone-oven my daughter-as pawns in their power games.

    Sarah Riversplicated things. I''d just learned she''d taken a blood oath to stay with the Hayes family-technically not my problem, but Ava loved her. And that made her my concern, whether I liked it or not.

    I understood loyalty to family. Hell, I''d burn the world down for Lucas or Sophia. But the Hayes family would use Sarah''s devotion to William like a weapon -both against her and Ava. The thought of either of them suffering twisted my gut in a way that surprised me.

    As I approached the grand hall, I heard Richard''s fake-cordial tone easily identifiable through the heavy doors, entertaining what sounded like visiting officials. Perfect. Witnesses to his humiliation.

    My wolf surged forward as I pushed open the double doors, catching Richard mid-sentence. His face went ck when he spotted me, color draining faster than water down a drain.

    Alpha King Morgan, he stammered, rising quickly.

    "Clear the room," I cut him off, not even ncing at his guests. "Now."

    The visitors couldn''t scramble out fast enough. Martha appeared from''a side door, her practiced smile failing to hide her nervousness.

    The firece crackled in the Hayes mansion''s grand hall, the only sound brave enough to break the tension. My wolf wed under my skin, itching for a fight. Richard and Martha huddled together across from me like deer caught in headlights, their shadows dancing nervously against the tribal totems behind

    them.

    "Ava''sing back to ckwood with me." No fancy greeting, no bullshit. "Lucas needs his trainer, and I need her safe."

    Richard''s face dropped like he''d been punched. His eyes darted to Martha-his go-to move whenever he was in over his head.

    Martha stepped up, shing that stic smile that never reached her eyes. "ke, we absolutely understand, but Ava''s already started with our young warriors. We''ve set up-

    "Cut the crap. I didn''t raise my voice. Didn''t have to. "We both know that instructor job was never real. You sold them a fantasy to get what you wanted."

    Her smile twitched at the corners. Busted.

    I nodded to Tyler, who''d been standing quietly by the door. "Go help Ava pack. Fifteen minutes.

    Tyler slipped out without a word. I turned back to the Hayes power couple, letting my eyes shift just enough to sh wolf-gold. Martha took a half-step

    back.

    About Sarah Rivers, I rolled my shoulders, feeling my joints pop. "I get why she''s staying. Loyalty''s a hell of a thing. But hear this-I''m only saying it once.

    I closed the distance between us. Richard''s cologne couldn''t hide the sour scent of his fear.

    "If Sarah gets so much as a paper cut under your care, if you put her in anything less than the plush setup you promised..." I leaned in, watching xa hard Adam''s apple bob. "I won''t just cut ties with Shadow Creek. I''ll erase it."

    " ''Alpha King, I assure you- Richard started, voice cracking.

    I held up a finger, shutting him down mid-sentence. "Your son wants to be Alpha? Depends on how you treat Sarah. Want Sophia as your daughter inw Same deal.

    Richard nodded so hard I thought his head might fall off. Sweat beaded along his hairline. "My word as pack leader-Sarah will have everything we promised. Top medical advisor, full privileges, the works."

    I thought of Lucas, how lost he''d looked these past days. How he''d asked for Ava every morning, how he''d made that little wooden wolf figure for her. The kid missed her like a limb, and I couldn''t bear to see him hurting anymore. It made what I was about to do next all the easier.

    "Funny thing about promises." I scratched my jaw, feeling stubble from too many sleepless nights. "They don''t mean shiting from people who break them. Remember what happens to wolves who betray an Alpha King''s blood oath?" Martha''s breath hitched. Even she wasn''t stupid enough to miss that warning. "Crystal clear,¡± she whispered, fingers fidgeting with her ne. "I''ll watch over Sarah personally."

    I looked between them, letting the silence stretch ufortably. Martha was a master maniptor, but her son had inherited her worst qualities. I briefly wondered if Sarah truly understood what she was getting herself into, staying among these wolves. The stubborn Rivers woman reminded me of Ava-fierce loyalty wrapped in quiet strength. If anyone could survive here, it was her.

    "Good chat. Because next time won''t be a conversation. Shadow Creek will just... disappear." I tapped my fingers against my thigh. ¡°We understanding each

    other?"

    The fear rolling off them was answer enough. I could practically see Richard calcting the cost of crossing me versus keeping his word. Bad math either way for him.

    "Perfect, I turned to leave, then stopped. "Oh yeah-tell Jackson his fianc¨¦e might get cranky hearing how her future mother-inw treated her brother''s favorite person. Sophia''s got pull in Silverpeak. Marriage doesn''t mean you get your fingers in my pack."

    Chapter Comments

    2

 Bad Husband 158

    Third Person POV

    Afternoon sunlight sliced through ckwood Manor''s ancient windows, painting the kitchen floor with golden puddles. Sophia stabbed a blusherry with her fork, barely tasting it as she drifted miles away in thought. The ce had been dead quiettely-ever since that freaky catalyst ident put Luces in the medical wing. Silver lining: she and Jackson got more alone time, tucked away from Shadow Creek''s gossip mill.

    A burst ofughter ricocheted down the hallway, jerking Sophia from her thoughts. Her fork ttered against the bowl. That voice... no fucking way.

    Her wolf reared up instantly, ws prickling beneath her skin like tiny needles. Another peal ofughter mingled with Lucas''s high-pitched giggle. Sophia abandoned her half-eaten breakfast and crept toward the living room, every muscle coiled tight.

    -and then WHAM! Face-nted with his tail still half-stuck in his pants!" Lucas''s voice drifted through the door, bubbling with excitement.

    "Ha! Should''ve seen my first shift," a painfully familiar female voice answered. "Picture that, but with me tangled in my own clothes, howling the wrong signal. Total disaster.

    Sophia shoved the door open, and the scene sucker-punched her right in the gut. Ava Rivers-that traitor''s brat she''d schemed so carefully to drive out sprawled on the sofa with Lucas practically in herp, some dusty old shifting manual open between them. And there sat her father, lounging in his favorite armchair, watching them with this soft, dopey expression she''d almost never seen before. They looked like some picture-perfect family pulled straight from a pack brochure. Heat surged through Sophia''s veins, her eyes shifting without permission, blue bleeding into dangerous gold around the edges. Ava shouldn''t be here. She''d made damn sure of it. She''d swapped that catalyst with her own hands specifically to get Ava banished, to keep her ws out of Jackson for good. Yet here she was, looking more at home than ever, like she fucking belonged. Ava spotted her first, her easy smile freezing midugh. ¡°Oh... hey, Sophia." ke and Lucas turned in unison. Lucas''s eyes went wide, fidgeting with the book''s corner, while ke''s forehead creased, instantly tuning into his daughter''s turmoil.

    "Something wrong, Soph?" ke asked, his voice casual but with that edge that screamed ''tread carefully.''

    Sophia stered on a smile so fake it nearly cracked her face. "Dad, got a sec?" She jerked her head toward the hall. "Just need to ask you something. Real quick."

    Without waiting, she spun around and marched out, flexing her fingers to keep her ws from fully extending. She could feel her heartbeat hammering in her throat, threatening to choke her with rage.

    The door clicked shut behind her as ke slipped into the hallway. He propped himself against the wall, arms crossed, waiting her out. Sophia paced back and forth, counting breaths like her mom taught her, fighting the wolf that wanted to howl its betrayal.

    ke finally broke the silence with a sigh. "Alright, what''s the meltdown about?"

    Sophia whirled around, her eyes shing gold. "Seriously? You''re letting that-that psycho back into our home?" She jabbed a finger toward the living room. "After what she did to Lucas?"

    "Sophia- ke started, but she was on a roll.

    ''She nearly killed him!" Her voice went shrill. "My baby brother was bleeding from his freaking eyes because she screwed up!" She pped the wall, leaving ''pha King? The big protector? tiny w marks in the expensive wallpaper. "What kind of father lets that slide? Aren''t you supposed to be the all-pow Where was that when Lucas-"

    "Enough." ke didn''t raise his voice, but something shifted in the air-Alpha energy pressing down, making the hallway feel suddenly too small, too tight,

    too hard to breathe in.

    Sophia''s teeth clenched as she fought her body''s instinct to submit. She lifted her chin, defiant.

    ke''s jaw twitched. "You gonna let me get a word in, or should I just wait till you run out of oxygen?"

    She crossed her arms, ring, but shut up.

    "Ava Rivers, ke said, each word precise and deliberate, ''didn''t do a damn thing wrong."

    The words hit Sophia like a phys

    She stumbled back a step, her wolf retreating in confusion. "What... what are you talking about?

    *Someone switched the catalyst,¡± ke said, eyes never leaving hers. ¡°Not Ava. A warrior came forward, confessed the whole thing. He raked a hand through his hair. "Said she thought she''d y hero when Lucas started shifting wrong. Figured it''d earn her some points."

    The blood drained from Sophia''s face so fast she felt dizzy. This couldn''t be happening. No one knew the truth. She''d switched that catalyst herself, made sure the training yard was empty, no security cams, no scent markers. She''d been careful-so fucking careful,

    A warrior confessed?" she whispered, barely able to force the words ou "Yep." ke''s eyes narrowed slightly. "Already handled it. Pack banishment. She''ll spend the rest of her life as a rogue, if she survives. He shrugged one shoulder. "Price of nearly killing my son."

    Sophia''s mind raced, pieces not fitting together. Why would someone take the fall for something they hadn''t done? To protect Ava? Or... her? Did someone know? Had she slipped up somehow? Left a trace of herself on the vial?

    Her stomach churned with a toxic blend of fear and jealousy. If some random warrior was willing to throw away her entire life for Rivers... what made that Shadow Creek nobody so special? Special enough for a stranger to sacrifice everything? Special enough to make her father smile like he hadn''t since Mom died? Special enough that Jackson still whispered Ava''s name in his sleep?

    ''Ava''s back as Lucas''s trainer, ke''s voice cut through her spiral. "That''s not up for debate." His eyes hardened slightly. I get you''re protective of your brother. I respect that. But back off Ava, hear me?"

    Sophia''s nails bit crescents into her palms. "Whatever," she muttered, because what else could she say?

    ke''s posture rxed as he pulled her into a quick, awkward hug. "You hanging with Jackson tonight?"

    "Yeah, probably staying over." Sophia seized the change of subject, already plotting how to keep Jackson from discovering Ava''s return.

    "Don''t forget," ke tapped her shoulder, "Northern Lights crew rolls in tomorrow. They''re taking over the east wing, so I need you on your best behavior."

    A spark ignited in Sophia''s brain. "Wait, is Lyra Starlight stilling? The High Priestess?"

    "That''s the n, ke nodded. "And no messing with her, Soph. This alliance is make-or-break for all packs."

    I''ll be an angel," Sophia said, batting her eyshes innocently while her mind raced with possibilities.

    ke gave her a "yeah, right" look before heading back to the living room.

    Instead of following, Sophia crept closer to the door, peeking through the crack.

    Chapter Comments

    POST COMMENT

    Mike

    kinda funny that there are like/3 different plots against ava but they dont know of each other lol

    Visitor

    if she is 24yr old her brain is almost done developing this behavior is like a 15yr

    old Lil girl with a crush

    View All 2 Comments >

    22

 Bad Husband 159

    She watched ke rejoin the cozy scene, catching fragments about tomorrow''s delegation. Ava''s face lit up as he spoke, all eager interest and warmth,

    Lucas''s reflexes are way better today, ke told Ava, obvious pride warming his voice. Guess that time off did him good."

    "Kid''s got raw talent," Ava replied, ruffling Lucas''s hair. "Today we went over pack diplomacy, focusing on Northern Lights customs. You should''ve caught his Silver Moon greeting. Spot on."

    Lucas bounced up, sweeping into an exaggerated ceremonial bow. "The great Alpha King Morgan wees the Moon Guardians with open arms! His tiny voice droppedically low, making Ava snort withughter.

    ke watched them, the corner of his mouth lifting in now? Rivers, you''re full of surprises."

    genuine smile Sophia barely recognized. "So you''re abat trainer and diplomatic coach

    Sophia''s nails pierced her palm hard enough to draw blood. It was so obvious it made her sick-her father was totally into Rivers, and worse, Rivers was eating it up. How had that scrappy warrior crawled under everyone''s skin so fast?

    Then it clicked. Lyra Starlight... the legendary priestess rumored to leave Alphas speechless with her beauty... maybe it was time ke saw there were options way above Rivers'' league. Someone truly worthy of standing beside the Alpha King.

    If she could just spark some interest between her father and the priestess, it might be enough to make him forget about his little warrior crush. And once Ava lost ke''s protection...

    The n crystallized in Sophia''s mind, making her lips curl into a cold smile. Tomorrow couldn''te fast enough. She slipped away from the door, shadows swallowing her as she retreated down the hall.

    Ava''s POV

    Three days without seeing ke.

    Seventy-two hours, four thousand three hundred and twenty minutes. Iy on the luxurious bed in the northern house, fingers absently tracing the mark on my neck that was gradually turning pure gold. Since the Northern Lights delegation''s visit was moved up, ke had barely returned to the northern territory. I could imagine how he looked now: heavy dark circles, that deep crease between his eyebrows, and the back of his neck he unconsciously massaged when irritated.

    Every time I closed my eyes, my mind conjured his storm-blue eyes, those strong hands covered in scars, and that expression that usually remained stern but asionally softened for me. God, I was even starting to miss the way he frowned at paperwork.

    "Don''t be stupid, Ava,'' I muttered, rolling over to bury my face in the pillow. "He''s a damn Alpha King, not your personal lover."

    But he had marked me, and we both knew what that meant. My fingers traced the warm golden imprint again, which had almostpletely covered Jackson''s silver mark. Even though we''d talked about marks and rtionships, that deep feeling of insecurity neverpletely vanished. After all, this was ke Morgan, Alpha King of Silverpeak, the most powerful man in the werewolf world-while I was just William Rivers'' daughter, the adopted daughter of a banished former councilman. He chose me, but there would always be countless women more suitable to stand beside him.

    My wolf paced restlessly inside me, craving ke''s scent, touch, and presence. She was far more honest than me, directly admitting: this wasn''t just desire, I missed him, missed the jerk who always made me feel safe and important.

    not some teenage wolf cub," I tried convincing myself, yet couldn''t help noticing Ruth''s hesitant ''One night together doesn''t meanmitment, girl, you expression when she came in this morning. She definitely saw how agitated I

    was.

    Honestly, I wasn''t thinking entirely of myself. ke must be exhausted, busy preparing for that damn Northern Lights trade alliance, and the memory of his tired face made my heart ache. When an Alpha King had to consider not just one pack but the entire werewolf world, who took care of him?

    At this thought, I suddenly sat up, making a decision. I was definitely not the kind

    of girl who sat around waiting for a be. I believed ke craved me just as much

    as I craved him. If Mr. Busy couldn''t make time to see me, I''d go find him. favor, Never was, never would

    I rushed to the bathroom, turned on the shower, letting hot water cascade over my skin while organizing a n in my head. I didn''t want to seem too deliberate or too childish; I was a warrior, an independent warrior, who happened to want to see her... Alpha? Lover? God, what exactly were we?

    Hot water slid down my body, and I closed my eyes imagining it was ke''s fingers-rough fingertips, firm pressure. My wolf whimpered, craving more.

    After drying off, I stood hesitating before the closet. Standard warrior outfit? Too businesslike. Normal clothes? Too in suddenly, a bold idea entred mind, making my cheeks burn-nothing at all. Just a cloak, a pair of boots, and nothing but my own skin in betweent.

    "This is insane, Ava," I whispered to my reflection in the mirror, but couldn''t stop my lips from curving upward. ''He''ll think you''ve lost your mind at voice deep inside insisted: he''ll love it.

    I grabbed the deep blue traditional werewolf cloak, soft yet thick enough to conceal my secret. I spent considerable time grooming: pine wood shampon with its forest scent. light makeup entuating my features, long hair braided in aplex warrior it hanging down my back. Honestly, the feeling without underwear was strange-my nipples sensitively brushed against the cloak''s inner lining, each friction making me gasp.

    When I emerged from my room, Ruth met me at the hallway corner, raising one eyebrow.

    "Going out?" she asked, eyes scanning my well-fastened cloak.

    "To ckwood council hall," I answered as calmly as possible, hoping she couldn''t detect the nervousness in my voice. "ke''s been there handling Northern Lights business, right?"

    She nodded, her expression subtle, and I was certain she suspected something. "Want me to arrange a car for you?

    "No need," I quickly replied, imagining how embarrassing it would be with a driver in the front seat. "I want to walk, clear my head."

    Ruth''s eyes shed with understanding, but she was considerate enough not to pry. "Be careful. Alpha King might not be in the best mood today- preparations for the delegation have everyone on edge."

    I resisted telling her that improving his mood was precisely part of my n.

    Walking through the forest path, countless images shed through my mind: ke''s expression seeing me naked before him, would he immediately push me against the wall, or pretend to have self-control likest time? Did he miss me as much as I missed him? Or was I overinterpreting his mark and those few passionate nights?

    Reaching ckwood council hall, I took a deep breath, confirmed the cloak was tied securely, then pushed open the heavy oak door.

    Entering the hall, the familiar scent of power engulfed me-expensive pine floors, solemn tribal tapestries on walls, silver pine wood burning in corners giving the entire space a mysterious atmosphere.

    Chapter Comments

    Visitor

    no father would love this

    Visitor

    pathetic

    View All 5 Comments >

 Bad Husband 160

    Ava''s POV

    At the reception desk sat a blonde woman, expressionlessly staring at documents before her. I remembered herst time I came looking for ke, her superior attitude made me feel unwee. When she looked up and saw me, disgust practically poured from her eyes.

    "Ava Rivers, she pronounced my name as if the sybles hurt her teeth. "Can I help you?"

    I''m here to see Alpha King Morgan," I stared directly into her eyes, refusing to be intimidated by such low tactics.

    Her lips twisted into a fake smile: "Sorry, he''s not avable."

    I could smell her lie, like detecting a rotting rat. "He''s in his office, I can sense his presence." The mark allowed me to vaguely perceive ke''s direction.

    "Oh, her eyes shed with surprise before returning to coldness, "still not possible. Alpha King ordered that no one disturb him. Especially she looked me up and down, "-you."

    "What?" I felt a sharp pain in my chest.

    "He specifically stated he doesn''t want to see Ava Rivers set foot in the council hall again," her words stabbed like silver knives. "His exact words were ''make sure she doesn''te here bothering me again.¡°¡±

    My wolf raged furiously inside, but I also felt a twinge of uncertainty. Would ke really treat me this way? After those nights we''d spent together? After he gave me his mark?

    ''I don''t believe you," my voice came out softer than intended.

    She shrugged: "Believe what you want. I''m following orders. Besides,st time you came, you nearly messed up all the files. Who does the self-important Rivers girl think she is?"

    I clenched my jaw, memory suddenly shing back to that awkward moment-my first time seeking ke, being turned away like an unwee stray. Was history truly repeating? I turned to leave, dignity already wounded.

    "Ava?"

    A deep voice called from the hallway''s depths, my mark immediately warming, feeling like electricity coursing through me. I turned to see ke standing there, brow furrowed. God, he looked even more exhausted than I''d imagined, yet still so handsome. Dark shirt with rolled-up sleeves revealing scarred arms, cor slightly open showing veins in his neck-he must be dealing with difficult matters. "ke,'' I said softly, noticing the receptionist''s face turning pale,

    "What are you doing here?" he asked, his tone unreadable.

    I... I came to see you, but she said you ordered that I not be allowed in the council hall, my voice carried a barely detectable tremor.

    His eyes dangerously narrowed, sending an almost physical icy re toward the receptionist. "When did I ever say that?"

    The receptionist panicked: "You... you saidst time, if she came again-"

    "That was months ago," he interrupted, his voice nearly a growl. "The situation ispletely different now. I''m quite certain that instruction was revoked long ago."

    She stared down at her desk, all color drained from her face: "I... I didn''t know, Alpha King."

    "Next time you intercept my guests, don''t wait for me to speak-you''ll already be packing to leave," ke''s voice was velvet-wrapped steel. ''Understood?"

    "Yes, Alpha King," she replied, nearly choking.

    I stood still, uncertain what to say. On one hand, I felt warmth from ke

    defending me; on the other, i hated feeling like I needed his protection to stand

    here..

    He reached out to me with undeniable authority. "Come."

    I followed him through long corridors toward his private office. We didn''t speak the entire way, only our footsteps echoing on marble floors. In the elevator, he stood close, and I could smell his scent-pine, leather, and that unique Alpha aroma that made my knees weak.

    I silently thanked the goddess this cloak was thick enough, or he would certainly notice how hard my nipples were and how wet I was between my legs. Just standing near him was enough for my body to betray me.

    When his office door closed behind us, I could finally breathe. This space looked messier thanst time I visited-papers piled everywhere, empty coffee cups scattered across the desk, Silverpeak territory''s panorama visible through

    windows with mountains faintly appearing in the distance.

    ke turned to face me, leaning against his desk, eyebrow slightly raised. "So?"

    "What ''so?" I countered, suddenly realizing how ridiculous my n was.

    "What brought you all the way here?" he asked, those eyes seeming to pierce my soul.

    I took a deep breath, courage suddenly returning. "You haven''t been back to the northern territory for three days."

    "The Northern Lights visit was moved up," he exined briefly, fingers running through-his hair, a habit when tired. Lots of things to handle."

    "I know," I said softly, stepping closer to him. "I just... missed you."

    Those three words created a subtle shift in the air. His eyes darkened, wolf nature shing through,

    So

    quickly I almost missed it.

    ''Did you?" his voice grew husky.

    "Yes," I moved closer again, until just an arm''s length separated us. "You look exhausted."

    "Probably because I haven''t slept in thirty-six hours,'' he half-joked, but I could see the fatigue in his eyes. "The delegation arrives tomorrow, everything must be perfect."

    I reached up to touch his face, feeling the stubble on his jaw. "You need rest."

    ''I have a pile of documents to review," he said, but didn''t remove my hand. "You need to rx, too," I whispered, feeling my cheeks flush. His eyes locked onto mine, seeing through my pretense-I wasn''t just here for him, but for. myself.

    The corner of his mouth turned up slightly, revealing a mischievous smirk. "Youing to see me in a cloak isn''t exactlymon."

    "I have a surprise," I heard myself say, voice deeper than usual.

    ''Do you?'' he raised an eyebrow, gaze traveling between my face and body.

    "Rted to thest ''surprise'' you brought here?"

    I couldn''t helpughing. "You remember."

    A girl in her underwear bursting into my office is hard to forget, Rivers," he said,

    voice low, dangerous light flickering in his eyes.

    This was the final moment-either abandon this crazy idea and leave with dignity,

    or...

    I untied the cloak''s fastening, feeling the heavy fabric slide from my shoulders, pooling at my feet.

    Instantly, the room temperature seemed to rise ten degrees. ke''s breathing quickened, his eyespletely turning to wolf-gold, greedily scanning my naked body from top to bottom. I stood there, skin burning under his gaze, yet strangely feeling powerful rather than vulnerable.

    ''Fuck,'' he cursed under his breath, the word escaping his precisely controllednguage-the highestpliment to me.

    I took a deep breath, feeling his gaze touch my skin like a physical entity-from my cheeks, to my neck, to the softness of my breasts, the curves of my waist, the tender flesh of my inner thighs, and finally the wet secret between my legs.

    "Does the Alpha King like what he sees?"

    Asked boldly, though my voice carried a slight tremor.

    His Adam''s apple bobbed, golden eyes shing with wildness and hunger.

    "More than I could express in anynguage, Ava," he said, voice bing a low

    growl. "Now,e here."

    Chapter Comments

    3

 Bad Husband 161

    Ava''s POV

    Standing therepletely naked, feeling his burning gaze devour every inch of my skin like mes, should have made me stry. But somehow, I felt a poset I''d never experienced before-electric and intoxicating.

    "Now,e here." His voice rumbled like distant thunder, carrying that unmistakable Alphamand that brooked no refusal.

    I walked toward him slowly, each step making every cell in my body tremble for him. His eyes hadpletely shifted to that predatory wolf gold, hungrily tracking the sway of my breasts, the curve of my waist, the movement of my hips.

    God, the way this man looked at me... like I was the most precious treasure in the world.

    When I reached him, he didn''t immediately touch me. Instead, he extended his hand, fingertips barely grazing my cheek. Such a simple gesture, yet it made my breathing hitch.

    "You know what you''re doing?" he asked, voice so rough it sounded like it was dragged from the depths of his chest.

    I know exactly what I''m doing," I answered, surprised by how steady my voice sounded. "I want you, ke. Right now."

    The moment those words left my lips, I watched thest thread of his control snappletely. He yanked me against him, my naked body pressing against his still- clothed chest. The contrast made my skin hypersensitive, every nerve ending singing.

    His kiss was fierce and starving, like he wanted to consume me whole. I could taste the faint coffee on his tongue, mixed with that uniquely masculine scent that belonged only to him. My hands climbed to his shoulders, nails digging into the fabric of his shirt.

    Christ, I needed to feel his skin.

    As if hearing my inner plea, he broke away from my lips and started working the buttons of his shirt. I couldn''t wait, helping him with fumbling, desperate fingers that tangled with his in our urgency.

    When his shirt finally hit the floor, I couldn''t suppress a soft gasp. Every time I saw his body, it felt like the first time-absolutely devastating. Those scars earned in countless battles, those perfect muscle lines, and that fascinating dark nipple that made my mouth water...

    I flicked my tongue out, tracing one of the scars across his chest. His entire body went rigid, a low growl rumbling from his throat.

    "You little devil,'' he muttered, suddenly lifting me and setting me on the edge of his desk.

    The cool surface made me gasp, but it quickly warmed under ourbined heat. He stood between my legs, positioning us so every bit of friction became more obvious, more maddening.

    His hands began exploring my body-from my shoulders to my corbone, then lower to my breasts. When his palms covered them, I instinctively arched back, losing myself in his touch.

    ''Your skin is so soft," he whispered against my ear, voice carrying an almost reverent tone. "Like warm honey I want to taste everywhere."

    I wanted to say something, but when his mouth closed over my nipple, every word dissolved into a trembling moan. His tongue circled my most sensitive spot, alternating between gentle licks and the scrape of teeth, sending electric currents straight to my core.

    My fingers tangled in his hair, not sure if I wanted to push him away or pull him closer. The sensations were overwhelming, almost too much to bear.

    ¡°ke... please..." I didn''t know what I was begging for, only that I needed more.

    He seemed to understand, his hand beginning its journey downward-along my waist, over my stomach, finally reach desperately.

    ere I needed him most

    When his fingers brushed over my wet entrance, my entire body shuddered. His touch was both gentle and confident, knowing exactly how to make me openpletely for him.

    "So wet, he murmured against my ear, satisfaction thick in his voice. All for me.

    I wanted to deny it, but when his finger slipped inside me, I could only release a shaky breath. Being filled, even just by his finger, gave me as indigeribbble sense ofpletion.

    He began moving slowly, each thinst making me crave more. My body instinctively matched his rhythm, but suddenly he stopped, mischief Bathing on hy

    eyes.

    ''Not enough," he said quietly, then dropped to his knees in front of me.

    Before I could process what was happening, I felt his warm breath against my most sensitive spot. When his tongue made first contact, I jolted like F''d been electrocuted.

    "ke... My voice was nearly a whimper, fingers helplessly gripping the desk edge.

    His tongue was skilled and focused, each stroke hitting exactly the right spot to drive me wild. I''d never imagined such a powerful Alpha would he so patient and gentle in pleasuring me-the contrast made me fall even deeper.

    Just as I was about to reach my peak, he stopped, standing up and reaching for his belt.

    "Now," his voice was rough as a wild animal''s, "I''m going to make youpletely mine."

    Knock knock knock.

    Sharp, urgent knocking echoed from outside.

    ''Fuck,'' he cursed, freezing mid-motion.

    The knocking

    came again, more insistent this time.

    Alpha King?" The receptionist''s nervous voice filtered through the door. "I''m terribly sorry to disturb you, but the Northern Lights delegation has arrived early. They''re waiting in the main hall right now."

    I felt ke''s body instantly tense, his Alpha King responsibilities crushing his personal desires in an instant.

    "Five minutes," he called toward the door, fighting to keep his voice steady.

    Then he turned to me, eyes full of apology and reluctance.

    "I have to go," he said, clear frustration threading his

    voice.

    I nodded, though my heart sank with disappointment. I slid down from the desk, reaching for my cloak, but ke was already there, gently draping the soft fabric around my shoulders. His hands lingered as he fastened the ties, fingers brushing against my neck where his mark pulsed with warmth.

    "This isn''t over," he promised, pulling me into a deep, iming kiss that made my knees weak. "Tonight. I''lle to you tonight."

    His thumb traced my bottom lip before he reluctantly stepped back, straightening his clothes with quick, efficient movements. Even as he prepared to leave, his eyes kept finding mine, burning with promise and barely contained desire.

    "Go," I whispered, though every fiber of me wanted to pull him back. "They''re waiting."

    He paused at the door, looking back at me one more time. "Tonight," he repeated, his voice rough with want.

    When the door closed behind him, I stood wrapped in my cloak, my body still trembling from our interrupted intimacy. The fabric smelled like him now, my wolf purr with contentment. pine and leather and that uniquely ke scent that made

    Damn Northern Lights delegation, I thought, pulling the cloak tighter around myself. Absolutely terrible timing.

 Bad Husband 162

    ke''s POV

    Walking toward the main hall, I tried to wrestle my focus away from Ava''s scent still clinging to my clothes, the ghost of her touch burning on my skin, My body ached with need, every step reminding me what I''d been forced to walk away from.

    Damn Northern Lights and their timing.

    When did I be this? The thought hit me as I rounded the corner. When did I be a man who''d rather stay buried in a woman than handle pack

    business?

    But this wasn''t just any woman. This was Ava-stubborn, fierce, the one person who looked at me like I was more than just a crown and a title. The woman who''d taken silver ws for my son, who''d walked back into her ex''s territory to save her family.

    Several fancy carriages waited outside, their sides carved with moon phases that caught the afternoon light. Northern Lights work-you could spot it from a mile away.

    Tyler straightened when he saw meing.

    "They''re settled in the east wing," he said, falling into step beside me. "The High Priestess asked about your schedule."

    I raised an eyebrow. "My schedule?"

    ''She wants to know when she can... meet with you privately." Tyler''s face stayed carefully nk. "Very polite about it."

    Of course she did. I''d heard the stories about Northern Lights priestesses- beautiful, powerful, used to getting whatever they wanted. Looked like Lyra Starlight was no different.

    I straightened my shirt, making sure nothing from earlier showed, then pushed through the heavy doors.

    Sophia''s voice hit me before I''d taken two steps into the hall.

    "You have to teach me that prayer thing! I''ve been trying forever but I can''t get it right! Maybe you could show me with your hands?"

    Christ. My daughter had found a new obsession, and like always, she was about as subtle as a freight train. I needed to step in before she scared our guests back north.

    The hall was set up perfectly-my guards along one wall, their people along the other, enough space to show respect without looking paranoid. A few delegates sat on the expensive couches I''d had brought in, while Sophia bounced around a woman who had to be the famous priestess.

    Even sitting down, Lyra Starlight owned the room.

    Silver hair fell over one shoulder in someplicated braid, catching light like it was made of actual moonbeams. Purple eyes-weird even for werewolves- took in everything with the confidence of someone who knew she was the most important person around. Her robes shifted between silver and blue as she moved, expensive silk that fit like it was painted on.

    But it wasn''t her looks that got me. It was the way she carried herself-like someone who''d been worshipped her whole life, who expected everyone to drop what they were doing just to look at her.

    "Sophia." I didn''t raise my voice, but the whole hall went quiet anyway.

    She spun around, face flushed with excitement. "Dad! Look, Priestess Lyra''s gonna teach me-

    1

    "Give our guests some breathing room," I said, moving to her side and putting a

    hand on her shoulder. "They''ve been

    get pestered by an overeager kid."

    ''ing all day. They need rest, not to.

    I caught the relief in Lyra''s eyes and knew I''d called it right. A few of h

    people had been trading looks that said my daughter''s enthusiasm was getting

    old

    fast.

    I was just trying to... Sophia''s voice got smaller.

    I know what you were trying to do. But now''s not the time. I softened my tone a

    bit. "Go check on Lucas, See if he needs anything

    She nodded and hurried out, but I caught her look back at the door-hurt, but with something else lurking underneath. That look made me the var mental note to keep an eye on whatever she might be cooking up.

    Lyra stood up with the kind of grace that looked practiced, like she knew everyone would be watching. As she walked over, I noticed she moved like someone, who expected to be stared at, who knew every gesture would be analyzed and admired.

    "Alpha King Morgan. Her voice had this hypnotic quality, almost musical. "Finally meeting the legendary Wolf King."

    Instead of the usual pack greeting, she stuck out her hand. I noticed her fingers were long and elegant, with a ring that looked like real moonstone

    "Priestess Lyra." I took her hand, noticing how warm her skin was, how she held on just a beat too long. "Wee to Silverpeak.

    Just Lyra, please." Her smile was picture-perfect. People like us don''t need all the fancy titles, do we?"

    Interesting. Most people meeting me for the first time showed some respect for rank. But she looked at me like an equal-or maybe like she was sizing something she might want to buy.

    ''You''re younger than people said," she went on, finally letting go of my hand but keeping that direct eye contact. "And better looking

    Thement was bold, said loud enough for everyone to hear, including her own people.

    ¡°People talk too much," I replied, then turned to James Walker, their chief negotiator

    James was what a diplomat should be polite, professional, smart enough to know when to talk and when to shut up.

    "You should''ve gotten our updated proposals," he said, cutting to business. "We''re happy you''re interested."

    ''Silverpeak''s always open to working with the right partners," I nodded. "Tomorrow we can hash out the details."

    Good. James knew how to handle negotiations without making things weird. But I could feel Lyra''s eyes on me the whole time, looking me up and down like she was taking inventory.

    "If you''ve got time tonight, I''d like to show you around, I offered. "Give you a better feel for what we bring to the table."

    Òß

    "Sounds great,¡± James agreed right away. "We''re all curious to see m?re."

    "I''m really interested in your private training areas," Lyra jumped in, her voice carrying hints I couldn''t quite read. "Word is the Alpha King''s fighting skills are something special."

    The evening tour went exactly like I''d expected-andpletely different at the same time.

    Usually during these diplomatic visits, attention gets spread around evenly, Tonight felt off.

 Bad Husband 163

    ke''s POV

    Didn''t matter if they were male or female, from which pack-everyone''s eyes kept drifting to Lyra. Not because she was doing anything obvious, but because she had that rare thing that made people want to look.

    The way she walked, how her voice rose and fell, even how she tilted her head when looking at the mountains-everything about her seemed designed to draw attention.

    "Your territory''s bigger than I thought it''d be," she said, walking next to me as we hit the overlook. "No wonder you can train such tough fighters."

    *Size doesn''t make strength, I replied.

    "No, but where you grow up matters." She stopped, staring at the mountain peaks. "Your environment shapes how you think. Like how I learned to love moonlight up north, and you learned to handle power here."

    She turned to face me, those purple eyes holding depths I couldn''t read. "Some people are just born to be at the top, aren''t they?"

    It sounded like apliment, but something in her tone made me think she was fishing for my reaction. This kind of talk was dangerous-seeming to discuss general stuff while actually probing for personal responses.

    "Everyone finds their own way," I answered carefully.

    "True," she smiled, but there was something predatory in it. "Though some ways are clearly more... elevated than others."

    The formal dinner had been set up ording to strict protocol, but somehow Lyra ended up in the seat next to me.

    "This spot''s better for discussing trade stuff," she exined smoothly to James, who just nodded.

    Bull. We weren''t talking trade tonight-this was a social dinner. But she said it so naturally that nobody would argue.

    All through the meal, she kept steering the conversation toward personal territory. "What do you like to do when you''re not running your territory?"

    "Training. Reading," I kept it short.

    "I love reading too." Her eyes lit up. "Especially books about leadership. I think real leaders all have simr qualities-vision, the guts to make tough calls, and..." she paused, "wanting to be the best at everything."

    Her hand rested on the table, just inches from mine. "I''ve always thought that exceptional people should stick with others who are just as exceptional. Otherwise, you''re just holding each other back."

    The message was crystal clear. She wasn''t talking about friendship or politics- she was hinting at something way more personal. The problem was how smooth she was about it, making statements that sounded fine even while crossing every line.

    I was starting to get why Northern Lights priestesses had such dangerous reputations. Not because of their magic, but because they were experts at crossing boundaries while technically staying within them.

    By the time dinner wrapped up, I felt drained in a way that had nothing to do with being tired. Hours of dodging barely appropriate conversation had worn. me downpletely.

    More than anything, I wanted to get out of there and find Ava. The afternoon''s interrupted passion still burned in my blood, made stronger now byparison. Maybe it was the contrast, or maybe I was finally understanding what real attraction felt like.

    Lyra was beautiful, charming, smart. But looking at her felt like admiring a perfect painting-you could appreciate the skill without wanting to own it.

    Ava was fire. She made me want to burn,

    *Sophia, I need to handle some border stuff tonight, I told my daughter as we got ready to walk the delegation back, Lucas is gonna need your to keep '' eye on him, and our guests need proper hospitality."

    "No problem, Dad." She nodded eagerly, but I caught that weird glint in her eyes again.

    Walking the delegation back to their quarters, Lyra hung back from the group.

    *Tonight was really nice," she said when we reached the guest area, moonlight turning her silver hair almost white: "I''m looking forward to tomorrows more... detailed discussions."

    Her voice carried clear suggestion, her look even more direct.

    "Good night, Priestess," I replied,

    ing f

    my distance.

    "Good night, ke." She used my first name instead of my

    title

    on

    Watching her disappear down the guest corridor, I finally let myself breathe. The next few days were gonna be a real test.

    But right now, I only wanted one thing to see the woman who actually set my heart racing.

    Third Person POV

    After ke left, Lyra didn''t head straight to her room. Instead, she stayed in the doorway, staring where he''d gone.

    "So?" Celeste appeared quietly beside her. "Was he everything they said?"

    "Better." Lyra''s lips curved in a satisfied smile

    "He''s more interesting than any man I''ve ever met."

    "Are you sure about this?" Celeste asked, worry creeping into her voice. "He might already have... connections."

    Lyra turned, purple eyes gleaming in the moonlight. "Celeste, do you think I''m beautiful?"

    "Of course. You''re the most beautiful woman I''ve ever seen."

    "Am I smart?"

    "Your wisdom is unmatched."

    "And my position?"

    "You''re Northern Lights'' youngest High Priestess. The whole werewolf world looks up to you."

    Lyra nodded, then gracefully tucked a strand of silver hair behind her ear. "Exactly. A man like ke deserves a woman who matches his level. We''re both leaders, both used to having the best of everything."

    Her voice got stronger. "Besides, Celeste, think about what Northern Lights would gain if I partnered with the Alpha King. The strongest military alliance, the biggest tradeworks, and unshakeable influence across the werewolf world."

    ''You mean..."

    "I mean this is bigger than just personal feelings. Lyra''s eyes shed with calcted brilliance. "ke Morgan needs a mate who can match his status, and

    I need a tform to extend my reach across the entire continent. Our union would create the most powerful alliance in werewolf history."

    eshape the world together." She turned toward her chambers, pausing at the doorway. "Of course, he has to prove he''s worth my time. But judging by tonight... A satisfied smile yed across her lips. "He''s everything I hoped for. Tomorrow, I''ll make him see that we''re not justpatible-we''re mea

    What neither woman noticed was Sophia, hidden in the shadows at the east wing''s corner, soaking up every word.

    Hearing Lyra''s deration, Sophia''s face lit up with a cunning smile.

    Finally. The perfect opportunity to get rid of Ava Rivers had just walked through

    the front door. A beautiful, intelligent, high-ranking priestess versas nobody trainer-there was no contest.

    All she had to do was help this "perfect match along.

 Bad Husband 164

    Ava''s POV

    I''d been wearing a path in the vi floor for hours. Back and forth, back and forth. The clock on the mantle read ten past ten

    ke said ''tonight. Still no ke.

    My silk nightgown-the practically see-through one-hung off my shoulders like liquid moonlight. Third outfit change tonight. If he didn''t show, I was officially pathetic.

    The lock clicked.

    My heart jumped into my throat as ke pushed through the door. Moonlight carved out his silhouette, all broad shoulders and lean muscle. Those bloe eyes found me, pupils going wide.

    The silk was definitely working.

    "Sorry I''mte. His voice carried that bone-deep exhaustion, but his gaze? Pure hunger as it traveled over me. "Delegation dinner went long."

    He moved toward me like a predator. Each step made the air thicker. When his hand touched my cheek, I leaned into it, purring like some satisfied cat.

    Then I caught it.

    A scent that wasn''t his. Not pine and leather. Something else entirely-cold and elegant, like moonflowers and mint. Northern. Expensive. Female.

    My wolf went on high alert.

    "You smell like another woman." No point sugarcoating it.

    "Lyra." His fingers were already working the thin straps of my slip. Way too practiced for my liking. "Long night with the delegation.

    Lyra. The legendary priestess everyone talked about in hushed whispers. Part of me was dying to know what she looked like.

    ke''s palm pressed against my bare shoulder, burning hot. "Shower, he growled, voice dropping to that register that made my knees weak. "Wash everything else away."

    The silk whispered to the floor. His eyes went predatory, like he was about to devour me whole.

    God, he can make me wet just by looking at me.

    Hot water pounded down from the showerhead. Steam filled the small space, making everything hazy and dreamlike. I stood under the spray, water sliding down my skin in warm rivers.

    Then his chest pressed against my back.

    Skin on skin. I shivered-not from cold.

    "Easy, baby," he murmured against my ear. The humid air made his voice even rougher, sexier.

    Baby. Heat pooled low in my belly.

    His arms came around me. Those big hands started exploring, traveling from my shoulders down to my corbone, nipples, I couldn''t hold back a soft gasp...

    How does he turn me into jelly so fast?

    wer. When his thumbs circled my

    His mouth found my mark. That golden im on my neck pulsed under his lips. He bit gently, licked slowly. Each touch sent lightning straight down my spine.

    *ke... My voice came out all needy and breathless.

    One hand slid lower, across my stomach, between my thighs. Even through the water, his touch burned. When he found that sensitive spot and started stroking, my legs nearly gave out.

    When did he get so damn good at this?

    "Just want you," he breathed against my ear. I could feel how hard he was, pressing against my lower back. "Only you."

    Water sounds mixed with my gasping and his low groans. Steam wrapped around us like a cocoon, shutting out everything else.

    When he pushed inside from behind, I nearly cried out. This angle let him go so deep. Every inch stretched me, filled mepletely.

    He''s so big. I can barely-

    "Too much, I whispered, biting my lip.

    ''Perfect," he growled, starting to move. Slow, deep thrusts that hit exactly the right spot every time.

    My palms pped against the cool tiles. Nails digging into grout. Each thrust made stars explode behind my eyes. Water and sweat made us slick as we moved together, chasing that wild, desperate need.

    His pace picked up. I matched his rhythm, both of us like animals now, all instinct and want.

    This is gonna drive me crazy.

    ''Now we smell like us," he said against my neck.

    The orgasm hit like a tidal wave. I shook in his arms as the world shattered. My body clenched around him, milking those final deep thrusts before we both fell over the edge.

    Holy hell.

    Afterward, he washed me so gently I might''ve been made of ss. Wrapped me in a fluffy towel, carried me back to bed like I weighed nothing.

    Lying in his arms, I listened to his heartbeat slow from racing to steady. His fingersbed through my hair, lips pressing a soft kiss to my forehead.

    ''Sleep. Tomorrow''s busy."

    Right. Tomorrow meant Lyra again.

    I closed my eyes, drifting off in his warmth. But even in dreams, that cold northern

    scent lingered.

    Waking up

    to ke still here? Like winning the lottery.

    Usually he vanished before dawn, leaving only his faint scent on the pillow. But there he was-lying on his side, one hand under his head, the other resting on my waist. Morning light nted through the blinds, painting golden stripes across his bronze skin.

    Those battle scars stood out more in daylight. They just made him look more dangerous. More perfect.

    Even sleeping, this man''s unfairly gorgeous.

    I couldn''t resist tracing one scar across his shoulder de. The muscle

    underneath twitched. He made this low sound in his sleep that went straight to my

    core.

    His eyes opened slowly, catching me red-handed. Thatzy morning smile appeared.

    "Morning, wildcat."

    Wildcat. I liked that.

    "Morning. I kept my voice steady despite my racing heart. ''Didn''t expect the Alpha King to slum it in my little vi.

    He stretched, sitting up. Those abs in the morning light looked like something carved from marble. I had to look away before I started drooling.

    How''s it legal to be that ripped?

    "Too tiredst night," he said simply, running fingers through messy ck hair. "Northern Lights has more stuff today."

    Right. Lyra. Now that the post-sex fog had cleared, that foreign scent came flooding back.

    "That priestess..." I tried to sound casual. ¡°She pretty?"

    He turned, something flickering in his eyes. "Very."

    No beating around the bush. Just honest, brutal truth.

    Should I be pissed or impressed with his honesty?

    The answer stung anyway.

    "Course she is," I forced augh. "Wouldn''t be High Priestess material otherwise."

    ke didn''t catch the bite in my tone. Already up, hunting for his clothes. Watching him get dressed made something twist in my chest. Once clothed, he''d go back to being the Alpha King with a million responsibilities. "Gonna shower," he said, heading for the bathroom. "You can sleep more."

    The water started. I finally let my mask slip, exhaling hard before jumping up and

    throwing on clothes. Time to escape to the kitchen.

    I needed coffee. Lots of it.

    Chapter Comments

 Bad Husband 165

    Ava''s POV

    chopping something at the counter, movements sharp and precise. Daniel

    prepped breakfiet ingredien

    Tension hung in the kitchen like smoke. Ruth

    while kitchen staff whispered in the corner.

    Everyone froze when I walked in.

    Morning, Ava. Ruth''s smile looked forced. "Sleep okay?"

    With her wolf nose, ke spending the night here

    obvious

    as neon. Great.

    "Fine," I said, trying to y it cool. "ke''s here

    too, 80

    ybe extra food?"

    Ruth''s eyebrow went up. That knowing look. But she just nodded.

    ''No problem." Daniel popped up from behind the counter, shing that killer smile. "Want anything special? My blueberry scones are legendary.

    "Sounds great." I perched on a stool, ignoring the staff still sneaking nces.

    Daniel started working with those elegant hands of his. The way he handled ingredients/looked like art. No wonder half the female staff had crushes on him.

    "Daniel," Ruth''s voice had an edge. "Where''d you put those herbs?"

    "Top shelf, pantry," he answered without looking up. Then winked at the watching staff. "Need me to grab ''em for you, sweetheart?"

    Ruth''s face went bright red.

    Oh. OH. Something was definitely going on between these two. The way Daniel said "sweetheart-all loaded with meaning. And Ruth''s reaction...

    ''I can get them myself," Ruth said through gritted teeth.

    "You sure?" Daniel abandoned his work, moving closer. "Remember how you said your shoulder was bugging youst night..."

    Ruth went from pink to crimson. "Daniel!"

    He grinned, clearly enjoying himself. "What? Just worried about my... coworker." That pause said everything.

    So what''s their deal? Friends with benefits? Ruth crushing hard while Daniel ys it casual?

    You guys should prep the guest rooms," Ruth told the staff, voice back to business mode. "Northern Lights delegation''s gonna want breakfast soon."

    The assistants scattered. Daniel went back to his station. But awkwardness still hung in the air.

    "Ruth, I couldn''t help asking, "you okay?"

    She studied me like she was deciding whether to trust me. Finally sighed. "Adult stuff''s always messier than it looks."

    I nodded, thinking about ke carrying Lyra''s scent. "Yeah. I get that."

    "Maybe it doesn''t mean anything to him," I said quietly. "But it means everything to you."

    Ruth''s eyes widened, then went sad. "He told me were just... friends. When it''s convenient."

    Daniel had obviously heard. He stopped working, looked back at us. "Ruth, didn''t we agree not to let this mess with work?"

    Right, we agreed, Ruth''s voice sounded calm but I heard the hurt underneath. Like your said¡ªno promises, no strings, just scratching on lichts

    Daniel frowned like he was finally getting it.

    ''I need to grab stuff from the pantry." Ruth bolted, leaving Daniel standing there looking guilty

    Awkward silence.

    Daniel turned to me with a shrug. "Women, right? A

    making thingsplicated,

    I raised an eyebrow. "Maybe it''s simple for you. Not for

    He stopped working, really looking at me, ''What d''you think I should do?"

    ''Not my circus," I said. "But if you don''t want more, quit

    hope. If you do want more, stop pretending you''re just frieruls."

    Daniel nodded slowly. Then that charming smile appeared as he stepped closer. "You''re smart, Ava. And gorgeous. If you wanna find out what kinda gryb really am..."

    The kitchen door swung open.

    ke walked in.

    Air turned to ice.

    Daniel immediately backed off, returning to his flour like nothing happened.

    But ke''s eyes had already shifted to that dangerous gold.

    ''Daniel," his voice was scary-calm, "I pay you to cook, not hit on my guests." "Course, Alpha King." Daniel''s voice turned respectful fast. ¡°Just being friendly." ke sat beside me. His presence sucked all the oxygen out of the room. "He didn''t do anything," I said quietly.

    "I know." ke''s voice stayed level. "But I know what he wanted to do."

    Daniel served two perfect breakfast tes with steaming coffee.

    ¡°Enjoy,¡± he said, then wisely found other things to do.

    We ate in silence. But I could feel ke''s possessive energy radiating like heat.

    ''I''ll drive you to ckwood." ke grabbed his jacket.

    "Scott can take me, I stood up, "Aren''t you swamped?"

    "Come on. No arguing with that tone. He grabbed my arm, steering me toward the door.

    "Easy there, Alpha King," I said, half-joking. "Keep protecting me like this, people might think we got something goin

    ke''s steps faltered for a second. Then kept going without answering.

    The car ride was quiet snuck nces at his profile while he drove, jaw tight like

    he was thinking heavy thoughts.

    "Lyra gonna be around today?" I finally asked.

    Probably, he said. Short and sweet. "Delegation''s not done yet."

    I nodded, didn''t push. But my brain started painting pictures of that silver haired priestess. What was she doing right now? Thinking above for the look at ke? We pulled up to ckwood Manor.

    "Scott''ll pick you upter," ke said. "Don''t skip lunch.

    I nodded, but couldn''t resist onest look at

    profile before getting out. Sunlight hit his face just right, making my heart do

    stupid things

    Training with Lucas went great. Kid was improving fast-his focus and natural talent blew me away,

    After we finished, I was heading back to the vi

    when voices drifted from the main hall.

    You can''t go in there." Sophia appeared like magic,

    arms crossed. "Dad''s got important guests."

    "Oh. I nodded. "Where''s Lucas? Gotta talk about tomorrow''s session."

    "Upstairs, something flickered in Sophia''s eyes. "But you might wanna see this first."

    She cracked the door open just enough for me to peek inside.

    ke sat on the sofa. Next to him sat a woman so beautiful it actually hurt to look at her.

    Silver hair cascaded over one shoulder like liquid moonlight. Purple eyes-actual purple-deep as twilight. Skin so pale it seemed to glow. She wore traditional northern robes, but even loose fabric couldn''t hide those perfect curves.

    Lyra Starlight.

    She was talking to ke, one hand resting on his arm, smile like sunshine. And ke... ke lookedpletely focused on her. Interested. Engaged.

    My blood turned to slush.

    That scent fromst night-now I was seeing its source. She looked like some moon goddess who''d decided to visit earth. Elegant as a queen, beautiful as a fairy tale.

    So this is the legendary High Priestess. Lives up to the hype.

    "They look incredible together, don''t they?" Sophia whispered in my ear, voice carrying satisfaction I couldn''t quite read.

    Chapter Comments

    Marjorie Jerelds

    I thought Sophia motive was to keep her from Jackson, why is she all of sudden keeping her from her dad?

    Mike

    they should talk and put abel/on what they have lol this is only going to end up in heartbreak AGAIN

 Bad Husband 166

    Third Person POV

    Afternoon sunlight streamed through ckwood Manor''s old stained ss windows, painting colorful patterns on the marble floor. Sophia pressed her back against a stone pir carved with moon phases, her violet eyes sharp with calction. She''d been lurking here for ten minutes, waiting for this eamt

    moment.

    Footsteps clicked down the far hallway. A silver figure glided into view like she owned the ce.

    Lyra Starlight.

    Even on a boring Tuesday afternoon, the Northern Lights High Priestess looked like she''d stepped out of some fairy tale. Silver hair twisted into this crazy intricate braid over one shoulder, purple eyes that reminded you of deep water at twilight. Her northern robes caught the light, shimmering between silver and blue. The whole package screamed otherworldly.

    Perfect. The key piece Sophia needed for her little chess game.

    "Priestess." Sophia stepped out from the shadows, voice sweet but with steel underneath.

    Lyra stopped mid-stride, eyebrows pulling together. She barely remembered this Morgan kidst night at dinner, the girl had been all over the ce, acting like some starstruck teenager.

    "Listen, little wolf, Lyra''s tone carried that edge people get when they''re in a hurry, "I''ve got a strategy meeting to get to. Whatever fan-girl moment you''re having can wait."

    "Trust me, you''re gonna wanna hear this first. Sophia''s mouth curved up-not her usual sweet-girl smile, but something sharper. Way too knowing for someone her age.

    Now Lyra actually looked at her. Really looked. Those blue eyes held depths that didn''t belong on a kid''s face. Christ, she really was ke''s daughter.

    "Alright." Lyra turned around, curiosity flickering in those purple eyes. "One minute. Make it count."

    Sophia''s heart hammered with excitement, but she kept her face perfectly controlled. This was it-Lyra''s full attention, exactly what she''d been angling for.

    "I know you want my dad." No beating around the bush. "The way you looked at himst night, sitting right next to him when you could''ve sat anywhere else. Pretty obvious."

    Lyra''s whole body went rigid. Nobody called her out like this. Especially not some teenager who happened to be ke''s kid.

    "Careful.¡± Her voice dropped to that dangerous whisper priestesses probably practiced in the mirror. "What exactly are you getting at?"

    What I''m getting at is..." Sophia stepped closer, sounding way older than twenty- four, "you actually deserve him Unlike some people, you''ve got what it takes to stand next to an Alpha King."

    That knocked Lyra sideways. She''d been ready for usations, threats, maybe some jealous tantrum. Support? Yeah, that wasn''t on her bingo card.

    "You''re... okay with me going after your father?" Lyra asked carefully, like she was testing for traps.

    "Okay with it?" Sophia let out this littleugh that had ice in it. "Lady, I''m practically begging you to go for it. Lucas and I have been hoping Dad would find someone who actually fits, instead of..."

    She let that hang in the air, watching Lyra''s face.

    ''Instead of what?" Sharp as a de now.

    ''Instead of getting yed by some wannabe/homewrecker." Sophia sighed, putting on this worried-daughter act. "Look, I probably shouldn''t say anything,

    but..."

    Lyra leaned forward, those purple eyes locked on target. "But what?"

    "There''s this woman who''s been circling him like a vulture." Sophia''s voice got serious, the kind of serious that made people fistan. "The aimait about i knows how to hide what she''s really after. But I can see it. The way she''s getting her ws into him."

    The temperature in the hallway seemed to drop ten degrees. Lyra''s robes started that weird shimmering thing they did when she got pissed, silver blue light dancing like she was charging up some spell.

    ''Keep talking." Ice-cold calm. The scary kind.

    Inside, Sophia was doing victoryps. But there was this other feeling too, this sick twist in her stomach. She knew what she was doing-lying. manipting, throwing someone under the bus. Mom would ve hated seeing her like this. When had she turned into this person?

    But what choice did she have?

    Every time Jackson got that faraway look, every time she caught him spacing out when they were together, Sophia knew exactly who he was thinking about. Ava Rivers had sunk her hooks deep, poisoning what should''ve been perfect between them.

    Now that same woman was making moves on her dad? Hell no. Not happening. She''s already screwed up enough of my life. Dad''s off limits.

    ''Her name''s Ava Rivers. Shadow Creek pack." Sophia shook her head like she couldn''t believe it herself. "Technically she''s Lucas''sbat trainer, but that''s just her cover story. She''s always finding excuses to get close to Dad. Shows up at his officete at night, ims it''s about Lucas''s training. Uses work stuff to get alone time with him. And the worst part..."

    Sophia paused, biting her lip like she really didn''t wanna say it. "What''s the worst part?" Lyra''s voice had that dangerous quiet thing going on.

    "She''s living on his privatend now." The words came out soft, but they hit like hammers. "Way up north in the forest. That ce is so private even I barely go there. She spun some sob story about needing protection, and Dad just... gave her a house."

    Lyra''s hands clenched into fists, knuckles going white. She was used to being the most wanted woman in any room. The idea of some nobody warrior trying topete? That was new. And she didn''t like new.

    "This Ava Rivers..." Each word came out sharp enough to cut. "What''s so special about her?"

    "Honestly? I have no clue." Sophia nailed the confused act perfectly. "She''s not prettier than you-not even close. Status-wise, she''s just some disgraced politician''s adopted kid. Talent? All she can do is swing a sword around. But somehow Dad''s totally fixated on her."

    She paused, then went for the kill shot: "Probably ''cause she''s really good at ying the victim. Lost her home, daddy''s in prison, nowhere to go. You know how guys with power get about that helpless act.¡±

    Bingo. That hit Lyra right where it hurt. Nothing pissed off strong women more than other women who got ahead by acting weak.

    "Priestess!" James Walker''s voice echoed from down the hall. "Strategy meeting''s starting! Everyone''s waiting!"

    Chapter Comments

    2

 Bad Husband 167

    Third Person POV

    Lyra sucked in a deep breath, pulling herself back together. When she looked at Sophia again, those purple eyes had gone cold and determined.

    "Thanks for the heads up, little Morgan. Her voice was silk over steel again. ''I''l make sure your dad figures out what he really wants.

    "Perfect. Sophia beamed like Christmas morning. "Someone like Dad deserves the best woman in the world, And Ava Rivers?" She shook her head sadly. "She''s not even close to good enough."

    Lyra nodded, satisfaction written all over her face. Silver hair caught the light as she moved. "Don''t worry, honey. Some Shadow Creek nobody doesn''t stand a chance against a Northern Lights priestess."

    She turned and walked toward the meeting hall, moving like a predator who''d just spotted prey.

    Sophia watched her go, smile getting deeper and moreplicated. She should''ve felt good-n working, pieces falling into ce. But there was this weird empty feeling in her chest too.

    She didn''t wanna be this person. The scheming type, cold and calcting, willing to destroy people to get what she wanted. Mom had never been like that. Dad wouldn''t want his daughter turning into this.

    But Ava had pushed her here. That woman was like poison, seeping into Jackson''s thoughts, making it impossible for him to love herpletely. Even when

    they were together, really together, Sophia could feel part of him was somewhere else.

    Now Ava was pulling the same crap with her dad? Not a chance in hell. Sophia had finally gotten her family back together-loving father, devoted fianc¨¦. Nobody was gonna wreck that.

    If I don''t stop her now, Dad''s next on her hit list. Sophia breathed deep, pushing down the guilt. Step one:plete. Time for step two.

    She didn''t have to wait long.

    Maybe eight minutester, familiar footsteps came from the other direction. Sophia flipped the switch, turning back into innocent daddy''s girl mode.

    Ava Rivers rounded the corner, those deep green eyes still sharp from training. Afternoon light hit her just right, making her look annoyingly gorgeous.

    All thoseplicated feelings hit Sophia at once. Anger, jealousy, this bitter unfairness of it all. Why did this woman get to mess with people''s hearts so easily? Jackson was supposed to be hers, but he still got that look when Ava''s name came up. Now Dad was starting to act weird around her too.

    What''s her secret? How does she do it? Sophia''s jaw clenched. Well, not this time.

    "Ava!" She bounced over, voice full of fake concern. "Oh good, you''re here."

    Ava stopped, looking confused. The afternoon light made Sophia''s hair look like spun gold, but something about her smile felt off.

    "Hey, Sophia. What''s up?"

    "Well..." Sophia put on this slightly worried face. "Dad''s in the meeting hall with the Northern Lights people. Big important strategy session. So if you were gonna see him..."

    "I''m not here for ke. Ava shook her head. "Just picking up Lucas. Training''s done for today."

    Oh, Lucas is in there too." Sophia''s eyes lit up like she''d just remembered. "You could totally go look, but..." She trailed off, doing that thing where you obviously want someone to ask.

    "But what?"

    "You might find it kinda... surprising." Sophia sighed, voice getting this weird tone. "That priestessdy is really into Dad. Like, really into him."

    The meeting hall door was cracked open just enough. Ava could see straight in- ke in his usual spot at the head of the table, and that stunning silver-

    haired woman right beside him. They were talking quietly, heads close together. Lyra kept touching his arm, leaning in the whole bodynguage thing screaming intimacy.

    All the color drained from Ava''s face.

    "They look amazing together, don''t they? Sophia whispered right in her ear, voice dripping with fake sympathy. The priestess was just telling me thes thinking about moving to Silverpeak permanently. I''m already getting excited about having a new stepmother."

    Ava went stiff as a board. Her hands curled into fists, knuckles white as paper.

    "..." Her voice came out barely above a whisper. "I''m not feeling so great."

    She turned away fast, couldn''t look at the meeting hall anymore. "Could you tell Lucas training''s canceled? I need to get out of here."

    "Sure thing. Sophia kept that sweet, caring tone going. "You okay? You look really pale."

    ''I''m fine. Ava forced a smile that didn''t reach her eyes. "Thanks, Sophia. See you around."

    Watching Ava stumble toward the exit, Sophia felt way moreplicated than she''d expected. Yeah, there was satisfaction-n working, enemy retren But there was this hollow feeling too, like she''d just kicked a puppy.

    When she saw Ava pause at the doorway, saw her shoulders shake just slightly, something twisted in Sophia''s stomach.

    That wasn''t fake. That trembling, that pain-it looked real. Like actual heartbreak.

    She''s just acting. ying for sympathy. Sophia told herself harshly. Same trick she used on Jackson. Poor helpless Ava, making men feel sorry for her.

    But damn, if that was acting, she was good at it.

    No. She couldn''t think like that. Ava Rivers had been slowly destroying her happiness piece by piece-first Jackson''s heart, now trying to steal Dad''s attention. If Sophia went soft now, she''d lose everything.

    She''s not taking anything else from me. Not one more thing.

    Sophia straightened up, watching that lonely figure disappear around the corner.

    Time to make sure Lyra and Dad''s little "romance" stayed on track.

    This was just the beginning.

    Chapter Comments

    Jessica Konopa

    have to know why women always me other women. it is usually the man''s fault

    View All 2 Comments >

    3

    POS

 Bad Husband 168

    ke''s POV

    Pine and rain-soaked earth hit my nose while James droned on about shipping routes. That wild, clean scent that belonged to only one person.

    Ava.

    My head snapped up from the trade documents. She was here? Right now?

    Training with Lucas must''ve gone well, I thought, then caught myself grinning like an idiot. Hell, when it came to my son, Ava had everything handled. The woman could probably train a rock to throw punches.

    But whye to the main house? She should be rxing at the vi. Unless...

    Unless she came looking for me.

    That thought made my chest do something stupid and warm.

    -wouldn''t you agree, Alpha King?" Lyra''s voice cut through my wandering brain. Her fingers trailed across my arm like she had every right to touch me.

    I yanked my attention back to the meeting. Toote. Those purple eyes had caught me zoning out, and she didn''t look happy about it.

    "Sorry, what was the question?"

    She smiled, but it felt cold. "The herb cultivation agreements. Your thoughts?"

    The next two hours were torture dressed up as diplomacy. Lyra kept scooting closer, each "idental" touch pushing boundaries. Her perfume was thick-all cedar and mint, trying way too hard. But werewolf noses don''t lie. Under all that fancy scent, I caught what she was really feeling: calction, ambition, and something possessive that made my wolf pace like a caged animal.

    Every time I tried to put space between us, she found an excuse to lean in. "What d''you think about this, ke?" Always my first name, never my title. Then she''d tilt forward so her breath warmed my ear.

    My wolf was having none of it. He didn''t like being hunted, especially by someone this fake. But politics had me trapped in my own damn meeting room.

    Meanwhile, Ava''s scent kept drifting through my thoughts. Was she still somewhere in the manor? Had she already left? If she came looking for me and found me stuck in this circus...

    My jaw clenched hard enough to crack teeth.

    When James finally called it a day, I was up before he finished talking. Every instinct screamed at me to find Ava, figure out why she''de and why that sense of her was already fading.

    ke."

    Not Alpha King. Just my name, said like she''d earned the right to use it.

    I turned around. Lyra glided toward me with that practiced grace, something in those purple eyes I definitely didn''t like.

    "What''s up?" I kept my voice neutral, but patience was running thin.

    She stopped way too close, tilted her head up at me. "I wanna take you to dinner tonight."

    Not asking. Telling. This woman was used to giving orders, not making requests. "I''ve got other stuff-

    "Oh,e on." Sheughed. "You''re the Alpha King. You''ve always got stuff. But surely you can make time for me? It''s not every day the Northern Lights

    High Priestess asks you out."

    That tone. Like refusing her was impossible. Like her status alone made her irresistible.

    *Besides," her fingers found my sleeve again, "we could ditch these stuffy formal clothes. Dress casual. You know, like a real date. I heard Silverpeaks pretty open- minded about human customs."

    Date. She said it in as day, no beating around the bush.

    1 studied her face, looking for something real under that perfect mask. But Lyra was clearly a pro at this game-expression as carefully built as her perfume. showing me nothing genuine.

    "This part of the diplomatic process?" I asked.

    "This is me asking you out. Her honesty was almost refreshing. "I wanna get to know you better, ke. Not the Alpha King-just you."

    Her hand stayed on my arm, nails lightly scratching fabric. Too intimate for someone I''d just met, but done with such confidence it felt like her birthright.

    My brain started doing math. Northern Lights meant crucial trade deals-their timber and herbs were vital to Silverpeak''s future. Lyra wasn''t just High Priestess; she was one of their top decision-makers.

    Damn politics.

    "Fine," I said, not hiding how much I hated this. "But it''s just dinner."

    2

    Her smile lit up like Christmas morning, victory dancing in those amethyst eyes. She''d expected this all along. "Of course. Just dinner. I''ll handle the details."

    She walked away with quick, confident steps. I watched her go, anger and frustration churning in my gut. This was the price of being Alpha King-sometimes you had to dance to someone else''s tune.

    I fucking hated being yed.

    The second she disappeared, I tried to mindlink Ava. The golden mark on my neck warmed up, but Ava felt distant. The vi was too far to get a clear

    connection.

    1

    Good thing I''d gotten her that human phone. I dialed her number. Ring, ring, ring... straight to voicemail.

    Tried again. Same thing.

    Was she ignoring my calls on purpose?

    I went with texting instead.

    Me: Got diplomatic dinner tonight, can''t make it back. Sorry. Will swing by first thing tomorrow.

    I stared at the screen, waiting. Minutes crawled by before my phone buzzed.

    Ava: Understood.

    Not ¡°okay,¡± not ¡°be safe,¡± not even a emoji. This formal, cold response made my chest tighten up.

    I typed fast:

    Me: You alright? Did youe by the manor for something today?

    This wait felt endless. Just when I thought she wasn''t gonna answer:

    Ava: Fine. Work went well.

    Still that same distant, business-like tone. I frowned, fingers hovering over the screen. This wasn''t Ava''s style at all. When she was pissed, she''d get in my face about it, demand answers, start an argument. She never pulled this stranger act. Me: Ava, what''s really going on?

    Quick reply this time:

    Ava: Nothing''s wrong. Handle your business, Alpha King.

    Seeing "Alpha King" in our private texts hit like a punch to the gut. She never called me that when we were alone. Never. Unless she was trying to put walls between us.

    But why? This morning we were good. Hell, that kiss had me distracted through half my meetings. What happened between hering here and now to make her go ice-cold on me?

    Something was off. I just couldn''t figure out what.

    ''Dad?" Sophia''s voice drifted down from the stairs. (You look kinda upset."

    I nced up at my daughter. She wore a light blue dress, hair done up neat. But something in her expression seemed shifty.

    "Sophia, you see Ava today?"

    She stopped mid-step, bit her lip. She''d done that since she was little-usually meant she was choosing her words carefully.

    "Yeah, she was here."

    "What''d she want?"

    ''She said... she came to see you." Sophia''s voice got smaller. "But you were in meetings."

    "Then what? She say why she left so fast?"

    Sophia shrugged, looking innocent. "Not really sure. She just said she wasn''t

    feeling great and took off. Probably just girl stuff."

    I frowned. That exnation felt weak, but Sophia didn''t seem like she was hiding anything obvious.

    "How''d she seem? Her mood?"

    ¡°Um... maybe a little bummed? But I think she was mainly just not feeling well.¡±

    Sophia bit her lip again. "Dad, why''re you so worried about her? She''s just Lucas''s trainer."

    Chapter Comments

    Mike

    and that''s how you start a fight with your mate... why do they keep doing this...

    Visitor

    POST COMMENT

    These chapters keep flopping back and forth with previously hashed out

    materials, off/ on, promise, no promise, it''s getting exhausting

    View All 4 Comments >

    1

 Bad Husband 169

    ke''s POV

    Something in thatment had an edge 1 couldn''t quite read, but I let it slide.

    "I''ve got that diplomatic dinner tonight, I told Sophia, my brain still stuck on Ava''s weird coldness. "Gonna be backte.

    "With that gorgeous priestess?" Something flickered in Sophia''s eyes. "She''s really something. You two looked perfect together."

    I didn''t answer, heading upstairs to get ready. But Ava''s strange behavior left me feeling unsettled. From not feeling well to those cold texts-something didn''t add up.

    I just couldn''t put my finger on what.

    An hourter, I stood in front of my mirror messing with my tie. Usually for this kind of thing, I''d wear full Alpha gear, but since Lyra wanted to ''date like humans,¡± I''d gone with a charcoal suit.

    My reflection looked beat. The day''s stress plus worrying about Ava had left me feeling hollow.

    I grabbed my phone again, hesitating. Finally typed:

    Me: I know you came by the manor today. Sorry I couldn''t see you. Wanna meet up tomorrow.

    I stared at the message, then added a kissing emoji at the end. Yeah, probably too young for me, but it showed what I wanted to say... no, what I wanted to do!

    I stared at the nk screen, something nasty churning in my stomach. Beingpletely ignored felt way worse than her cold replies.

    Way worse.

    The restaurant Lyra picked was Silverpeak''s fanciest human-style ce. All dim lighting and cozy corner booths. She''d beaten me there,pletely transformed from diplomatic priestess into something that could stop traffic.

    ck silk dress that fit like it''d been painted on. Designer work that showed off every curve. Her silver hair was pinned up in some fancy style, showing off her neck. The neckline was perfectly calcted-not too much, but enough to grab attention exactly where she wanted it.

    She looked incredible, but that beauty made me ufortable. Too nned, too perfect. Like a trap wrapped in silk.

    When I pulled out her chair, she settled down gracefully, fingers identally brushing mine. "Thanks, ke. Real gentlemen are getting rare these days."

    "You seem distracted," she said after we ordered, finger tracing her wine ss rim while those purple eyes studied me. "Work stuff?"

    "Just thinking about some things. I kept it vague.

    I saw her smile a little. I frowned, wondering what was funny. Could she somehow know I was thinking about Ava? No way-nobody could read an Alpha King''s mind. "You know, ke," she leaned forward, the dress making her movement even more eye-catching as her voice dropped to something soft and seductive, "I don''t meet many men who can keep my interest. Most Alphas either get scared of my position or just wanna use me for Northern Lights connections."

    Her fingers drifted across the table, slowly moving my way. "But you''re different. You''ve got real power-don''t need to depend on anybody. That''s really...

    attractive."

    I leaned back, keeping distance. "We''re here to talk trade."

    "Oh, we can definitely falk trade." Sheughed lightly, and when she reached for her wine, I had to work to keep my eyes where they belonged. "But can''t we enjoy each other''spany too? The best partnerships start with strong personal connections."

    She raised her ss, red lips touching the rim while her eyes never left mine. "Did you know Northern Lights priestesses have this tradition? We pick a

    partner who matches our status to rule with us. Picture It, ke the two strongest packs united. What kind of power would that create?

    "Sounds more like a political deal than a personal rtionship, I said.

    "Why can''t it be both? Her smile got even more charming. ''Power''s the ultimate turn on, don''t you think?"

    When our food came, I noticed she barely touched hers. She was more focused on watching me, pulling my attention back whenever I looked away.

    "Your territory''s more beautiful than I imagined," she said. "Those old forests, mysterious mountains. I''d love to explore every inch of Silverpeak more.. intimately."

    Her words made me think of Ava-het figure at the vi, the warmth of her curled

    up in my arms, her stubborn but soft eyes. That natural, easy closeness that didn''t need any nning or games.

    Total opposite of this perfectly dressed woman across fre

    from me, whose every move had a purpose.

    "ke?" Lyra''s voice snapped me back. She''d somehow moved to the chair

    beside me. ''You''re spacing out again."

    Don''t know when she''d switched seats, but now she was way closer. I could smell her perfume, feel heating off her body.

    "Sorry." I checked my watch. "Gettingte, I should-"

    "Leaving already?" She looked surprised, then quickly brought back that seductive smile/ She put her hand on my arm, leaning in slightly. "Ditching a beautiful woman like this? That''s not very Alpha King of you."

    Her words had a yful edge, but I heard the irritation underneath. Obviously, she wasn''t used to being turned down.

    "At least finish this bottle with me." She lifted her wine ss, other hand still stroking my arm. "This is Northern Lights'' most precious moonlight wine, specially made for tonight."

    I realized I was trapped. Say no too bluntly and it''d mess up trade talks, but

    staying here longer felt like suffocating.

    "Alright, I gave in reluctantly, "but not for long."

    Her smile turned victorious, like she''d just won an important game. She didn''t go back to her original seat, just stayed beside me, touching my arm or shoulder now and then like it was the most natural thing in the world.

    I was starting to get it-this woman was way more dangerous than I''d thought. She didn''t just want an ally. She wanted total conquest.

    When we finally left the restaurant, I let out a breath, thinking this nightmare was finally over.

    "Tonight was wonderful." I kept it polite, getting ready to walk her back.

    "Doesn''t have to end yet." She suddenly grabbed my arm, pressing her whole body against me. Through that thin silk, I could feel her warmth and soft curves. "We could go to my room, keep talking. I''ve got some Northern Lights specialty wines you might like."

    Her chest pressed lightly against my arm-graceful and natural, like it was just normal intimate contact. But those purple eyes held an invitation that couldn''t be clearer.

    "Lyra, I think you''re getting the wrong idea-"

    ''I''m not getting anything wrong." She cut me off.

    can see you''re attracted to me too. Powerful man, powerful woman-isn''t that the most natural thing?"

    riety had picked up plenty of

    Camera shes exploded around us. Several werewolf reporters with cameras jumped out from the shadows-werewe'' human tech, especially these journalists who covered pack news.

    "Alpha King! You and this stunningdy on a private date?"

    ''Priestess Lyra! Your visit to Silverpeak have special personal reasons?"

    "What''s your take on deeper pack cooperation?¡±

    I started to exin, but Lyra beat me to it. She suddenly pressed even closer, putting one hand on my chest.

    "We''re not just here for pack trade deals," she told the cameras with a clear, confident smile. ''We''re dating."

    Then, before I could react, she rose on her toes and kissed me.

    Chapter Comments

    Mike

    yeah let that slide, not like that works well 22

    View 1 Comment >

    ? 2

    SHARE

    POST CO

 Bad Husband 170

    ke''s POV

    1 shoved her back hard enough that she stumbled, My hand went straight to my mouth, scrubbing at the sticky mess she''d left behind. The ligele meet across my knuckles like blood.

    Lyra caught herself, smoothing down her dress. But when she looked up at me, something flickered in those purple eyes. Not embarrassment. Med eyes an apology.

    She looked... thrilled.

    My wolf bristled, hackles rising under my skin.

    "What the hell was that?'' I kept my voice low, but camera shes were already going off around us like tiny explosions.

    She tucked a strand of silver hair behind her ear. "Just giving them what they wanted to see.

    Her voice had this breathless quality, like she''d just finished running. Or like she''d gotten off on what just happened.

    Christ.

    The reporters were circling closer, cameras clicking. I turned on them, letting my eyes shift just enough that they''d catch the gold.

    "Back off." I didn''t need to raise my voice. The Alpha energy rolling off me did the talking. "Now."

    A couple of the smart ones started backing up. But there''s always some idiot who thinks they can push their luck. I took a step forward, letting more of my wolf bleed through.

    The rest scattered like roaches when you flip on the lights.

    I reached out through mindlink to Tyler. Need pickup. Restaurant district.

    When I turned back around, Lyra was still watching me. Her eyes were wide, pupils dted like she was high on something.

    "That was incredible," she whispered, moving closer. "I''ve heard stories about Alpha Kings, but seeing it..."

    She reached for my arm. I jerked away before she could make contact.

    "Lyra," I kept my voice level, "you just crossed a line. This stops now."

    Tyler''s car appeared at the corner, engine rumbling in the quiet night. "Get in," I headed for the passenger seat.

    She followed behind me, her heels clicking on the pavement. When she tried to touch my arm again, I pulled away without trying to be polite about it.

    ''Don''t touch me."

    The drive back to ckwood was torture. Every few/minutes, she''d let out this littleugh. Soft and satisfied, like she was reying something good in her

    head.

    It made my skin crawl.

    When we pulled up to the guest quarters, she leaned forward between the seats.

    "Tonight was... educational," she said, her breath warm against my ear. "I learned so much about you, ke."

    I didn''t answer. Didn''t even look at her.

    ''Sweet dreams. She slipped out of the car, all grace and silk.

    I watched her walk to the building, every step confident as hell. Like she''d just won something important.

    ''Boss?'' Tyler''s voice cut through my thoughts. Want me to handle the photo situation?''

    "Toote for that." I rubbed my face, suddenly exhausted. ''Drive me to the vi.¡±

    "It''s almost eleven-

    "I know what time it is."

    The northern roads were empty, just me and Tyler and the headlights cutting through darkness. I couldn''t get Lyra''s expression out of my head. That look when I''d used my Alpha voice on the reporters.

    She''d liked it. Hell, more than liked it.

    What kind of woman got turned on by raw power like that?

    The kind I wanted nothing to do with.

    But underneath all that disgust was something else. This gnawing need to see Ava. To wash away whatever the hell had just happened with something real.

    Ava''s POV

    I pressed my face into the pillow, trying to muffle the sound of my crying. But the tears just kepting, hot and endless.

    My phone buzzed on the nightstand. I let it ring three times before picking up.

    "Hey." My voice came out all scratchy and wrong.

    ''Jesus, Ava. You sound terrible." E''s voice was sharp with worry. "What happened?"

    "Nothing. I''m fine."

    "Bullshit. You''ve been crying. I can hear it." There was rustling on her end, like she

    was sitting up in bed. "Did ke do something?"

    I rolled onto my back, staring at the ceiling. The chandelier blurred through my tears.

    ''I saw him today. With her."

    ''Her who?"

    ¡°The priestess from Northern Lights. Lyra.¡± Her name tasted bitter on my tongue. "They were... close.

    ''Close how?"

    I closed my eyes, but the image was burned into my brain. "She kept touching his arm. Leaning in real close when she talked. And he was just... focused on her. Like really focused."

    ''Where''d you see this?"

    ''Sophia showed me. Said they looked perfect together." Iughed, but it came out hollow. "Guess she''s not wrong."

    "Wait." E''s voice got sharper. "Sophia showed you?"

    "She thought I should see-*

    "Ava, honey, listen to me. Why would ke''s daughter want you to see him with another woman?"

    I frowned. "Maybe she was just being honest? Preparing me for-

    "For what? For her dad to dump you for some fancy priestess? E made a

    frustrated sound. Think about it. What twenty-four-year-old goes out of their way

    to show their dad''s girlfriend that kind of thing unless they''re trying to start shit?"

    I sat up slowly. "You think she was trying to hurt me?''

    "I think that girl''s got her own agenda. And it probably doesn''t include you sticking around,"

    My chest tightened. I hadn''t even considered that. The whole time, I''d been so focused on what I''d seen that I hadn''t questioned why Sophia wanted me in see

    it.

    "But what I saw was real," I said quietly. "He was interested in what she was saying. And she''s... God, E, she''s gorgeous. Like, supernaturally beautiful.

    "Okay, so she''s pretty. So what?"

    "So what?" Iughed again, harsher this time. "ke''s the Alpha King. He could have anyone. Why would he want

    ''You. E cut me off. "He''d want you."

    ''I''m nobody special."

    "Stop." Her voice went firm. "Just stop. You wanna know what makes you special?"

    1

    I didn''t answer.

    "You make him work for it. You don''t just roll over and worship him like every other

    woman probably does. You challenge him."

    "I don''t know if that''s enough."

    "Have you two slept together yet?"

    Heat flooded my cheeks. "E...¡±

    "I''m serious. Because the way you''re acting... this isn''t just a crush anymore, is

    it?"

    I was quiet for a long moment. Then: "Yeah. We have."

    "And?"

    "And what?"

    "How was it? Don''t give me some bullshit non-answer. I wanna know if he treated

    you right."

    My face got even hotter. "He was... gentle. Patient. He made sure I- I stopped,

    too embarrassed to continue.

    "Made sure you came?"

    "God, E!"

    "What? It''s important. Most guys don''t give a shit about that."

    I buried my face in my free hand, "Yes, okay? He made sure I was... satisfied."

    ''How many times?"

    ''I''m not answering that."

    "More than once, I''m guessing. Based on how red your face probably is right now."

    She wasn''t wrong. ke had been incredible. Patient and thorough andpletely focused on my pleasure. He''d used his mouth, his hands, taken his until I was shaking and gasping his name.

 Bad Husband 171

    ke''s POV

    shoved her back hard enough that she stumbled. My hand went straight to my mouth, scrubbing at the sticky mess she''d left behind. The lipstick smeared across my knuckles like blood

    Lyra caught herself, smoothing down her dress. But when she looked up at me, something flickered in those purple eyes. Not embarrassment. Not even an apology.

    She looked... thrilled.

    My wolf bristled, hackles rising under my skin..

    "What the hell was that?" I kept my voice low, but camera shes were already going off around us like tiny explosions.

    She tucked a strand of silver hair behind her ear. "Just giving them what they wanted to see."

    Her voice had this breathless quality, like she''d just finished running. Or like she''d gotten off on what just happened.

    Christ

    The reporters were circling closer, cameras clicking. I turned on them, letting my eyes shift just enough that they''d catch the gold.

    "Back off." I didn''t need to raise my voice. The Alpha energy rolling off did the talking. "Now."

    A couple of the smart ones started backing up. But there''s always some idiot who thinks they can push their luck. I took a step forward, letting more of my wolf bleed through.

    The rest scattered like roaches when you flip on the lights,

    I reached out through mindlink to Tyler. Need pickup. Restaurant district.

    When I turned back around, Lyra was still watching me. Her eyes were wide, pupils dted like she was high on something.

    "That was incredible," she whispered, moving closer. "I''ve heard stories about Alpha Kings, but seeing it..."

    She reached for my arm. I jerked away before she could make contact,

    "Lyra," I kept my voice level, "you just crossed a line. This stops now."

    Tyler''s car appeared at the corner, engine rumbling in the quiet night. "Get in," I headed for the passenger seat.

    She followed behind me, her heels clicking on the pavement. When she tried to touch my arm again, I pulled away without trying to be polite about it.

    ''Don''t touch me."

    The drive back to ckwood was torture. Every few minutes, she''d let out this littleugh. Soft and satisfied, like she was

    1/

    pier Toz How Many Times?

    reying something good in her head.

    It made my skin crawl.

    When we pulled up to the guest quarters, she leaned forward between the seats.

    "Tonight was... educational," she said, her breath warm against hy ear. "I learned so much about you, ke.

    I didn''t answer. Didn''t even look at her.

    "Sweet dreams." She slipped out of the car, all grace and silk.

    I watched her walk to the building, every step confident as hell Like she''d just won something important.

    "Boss?" Tyler''s voice cut through my thoughts. "Want me to handle the photo situation?"

    "Toote for that." I rubbed my face, suddenly exhausted. "Drive me to the vi." "It''s almost eleven-"

    "I know what time it is."

    The northern roads were empty, just me and Tyler and the headlights cutting through darkness. I couldn''t get Lyra''s expression out of my head. That look when I''d used my Alpha voice on the reporters.

    She''d liked it. Hell, more than liked it.

    What kind of woman got turned on by raw power like that?

    The kind I wanted nothing to do with.

    But underneath all that disgust was something else. This gnawing need to see Ava. To wash away whatever the hell had just happened with something real.

    1

    Ava''s POV

    I pressed my face into the pillow, trying to muffle the sound of my crying. But the tears just kepting, hot and endless.

    My phone buzzed on the nightstand. I let it ring three times before picking up.

    "Hey." My voice came out all scratchy and wrong.

    "Jesus, Ava. You sound terrible." E''s voice was sharp with worry. "What happened?"

    "Nothing. I''m fine."

    "Bullshit. You''ve been crying. I can hear it." There was rustling on her end, like she

    was sitting up in bed. "Did ke do something?"

    I rolled onto my back staring at the ceiling. The chandelier blurred through my tears.

    "I saw him today. With her."

    21

    Chapter 162: How Many Times?

    Her who?

    The priestess from Northern Lights. Lyra. Her name tasted bitter on my tongue. They were..., close,

    Close how?

    I closed my eyes, but the image was burned into my brain. "She kept touching his arm. Leaning in real close when she talked. And he was just... focused on her. Like really focused."

    "Where''d you see this?"

    "Sophia showed me. Said they looked perfect together." Iughed, but it came out hollow. "Guess she''s not wrong.

    "Wait." E''s voice got sharper. "Sophia showed you?"

    "She thought I should see-

    "Ava, honey, listen to me. Why would ke''s daughter want you to see him with another woman?"

    I frowned. "Maybe she was just being honest? Preparing me for

    "For what? For her dad to dump you for some fancy priestess?" E made a frustrated sound. "Think about it. What twenty-four-year-old goes out of their way to show their dad''s girlfriend that kind of thing unless they''re trying to start

    shit?"

    I sat up slowly. "You think she was trying to hurt me?"

    "I think that girl''s got her own agenda. And it probably doesn''t include you sticking around."

    My chest tightened. I hadn''t even considered that. The whole time, I''d been so

    focused on what I''d seen that I hadn''t questioned why Sophia wanted me to see

    it.

    "But what I saw was real," I said quietly. "He was interested in what she was saying. And she''s... God, E, she''s gorgeous. Like, supernaturally beautiful."

    "Okay, so she''s pretty. So what?"

    "So what?" Iughed again, harsher this time. "ke''s the Alpha King. He could have anyone. Why would he

    "You." E cut me off. "He''d want you."

    "I''m nobody special."

    "Stop." Her voice went firm. "Just stop. You wanna know what makes you special?"

    want-

    I didn''t answer.

    "You make him work for it. You don''t just roll over and worship him like every other

    woman probably does. You challeng him."

    "I don''t know if that''s enough."

    Chapter 162: How Many Times?

    "Have you two slept together yet?"

    Heat flooded my cheeks. "E..."

    I''m serious. Because the way you''re acting... this isn''t just a crush anymore, is

    it?"

    I was quiet for a long moment. Then: "Yeah. We have."

    "And?"

    "And what?"

    "How was it? Don''t give me some bullshit non-answer. I wanna know if he treated

    you right."

    My face got even hotter. "He was... gentle. Patient. He made sure 1-" I stopped,

    too embarrassed to continue.

    "Made sure you came?"

    "God, E!"

    "What? It''s important. Most guys don''t give

    1

    a shit about that."

    buried my face in my free hand. "Yes, okay? He made sure I was... satisfied."

    "How many times?"

    "I''m not answering that."

    "More than once, I''m guessing. Based on how red your face probably is right

    now."

    She wasn''t wrong. ke had been incredible. Patient and thorough andpletely focused on my pleasure. He''d used his mouth, his hands, taken his

    time until I was shaking and gasping his name.

    Chapter Comments

    LIKE

 Bad Husband 172

    Ava''s POV

    Lie, Lie, And It Get Ugly

    Ava, listen to me. Guys who just want a quick fuck don''t do that. They don''t take care of you like that."

    "Maybe he''s just... experienced."

    "Or maybe he actually cares about you." Her voice

    gentler. Have you ever been with anyone else before?"

    The question caught me off guard. "I... no. ke was my first."

    "Your first?" E''s voice went soft. "Oh, honey. No wonder you''re so scared."

    "Jackson and I never... we never got that far before he marked me. And then when he betrayed me..." I trailed off.

    "So ke was your first everything."

    "Yeah."

    "Jesus, Ava. And he took his time with you? Made sure you werefortable?"

    I nodded, even though she couldn''t see me. "He kept asking if I was okay. If I wanted him to stop. He was so careful."

    "That''s not casual, honey. That''s a man who cares about you. A lot."

    "Then why was he so focused on her today?"

    "Because he''s the Alpha King and she''s a diplomatic guest? Because he has to

    be polite?" E sighed. "Or maybe because Sophia made sure you saw it when it would look worst."

    "You''really think she''d do that?"

    "I think that girl''s been watching her dad be alone for years. Now suddenly there''s another woman in the picture, and s probably scared of losing him."

    I rubbed my temples, feeling a headache building. ¡°This is all soplicated."

    "Only because you''re making itplicated. You wanna know what you should do?"

    "What?"

    "Talk to him. Ask him straight up what''s going on."

    "I can''t-"

    "Yes, you can. You''re brave as hell, Ava. You''ve faced down every other challenge

    in your life. This shouldn''t be any different."

    "But what if he tells me it''s over? What if-"

    The bedroom door opened, cutting me off mid-sentence. ketood in the doorway, backlit by the hallway light. He looked fired, his shirt wrinkled, his hair messed up.

    My heart started hammering against my lbs.

    E, I gotta go."

    "He''s there?"

    "Yeah."

    "Remember what I said. Be honest with him."

    I ended the call and set the phone aside. ke stepped into the room, closing the

    door behind him. For a moment, we just looked at each other.

    I knew I looked like hell. Eyes puffy from crying, hair tangled, wearing an old t- shirt that had seen better days. But I was

    too emotionally wrung out to care.

    He moved closer, stopping at the foot of the bed. The moonlighting through the window caught the sharp angles of

    his face.

    Sophia said you weren''t feeling well."

    I rubbed the corner of my eye, wiping away the traces left by too many tears. I''d cried so much this afternoon that my ey felt swollen and raw, like someone had rubbed a handful of sand into them.

    "I''m fine, just struggling with thest day of my period," I lied, staring at the blurry moon outside the window. The word fell from my lips without thought, an automatic defense.

    ke stood at the foot of the bed, hands shoved deep in his pockets, like he wasn''t sure how to approach me. He looked exhausted tonight, dark shadows pooling beneath his eyes, the scar on his cheekbone standing out sharply in the moonlight.

    "Want me to get Ruth to bring some herbal tea?" he asked, his voice rougher than usual.

    "No need," I shook my head, fingers fidgeting with a frayed thread on the edge of theforter. "Sleep will fix it."

    He nodded but stayed rooted in ce, his gaze traveling over my face. I knew exactly how awful I looked-puffy eyes, tangled hair, wearing that old t-shirt that had been washed so many times it was practically transparent in ces. But right now, I couldn''t bring myself to care about appearances. After seeing that photo, everything felt absurd anyway.

    "That dinner you mentioned in your text," I broke the silence, my voice unnervingly calm, "it went well?"

    "Just business," he shrugged, loosening his cor, "Northern Lights'' terms are higher than we expected, but still worka! I fixated on a wrinkle in the bedsheet, as if it contained some cosmic secret. "The pictures didn''t look like ''just busine

    His shoulders visibly tensed. "What pictures?"

    "Don''t y dumb, I looked up, meeting his eyes directly, "The ones Sophia sent me. You and that silver-haired priest looking so perfect together. She added a little note-''Dad''s finally dating again, don''t they look amazing together!" Damn it, my voice actually trembled saying those words out lo

    ke''s expression shifted from confusion to realization, then to barely contained anger. When did she send these?

    Shortly after you texted me about having dinner," I said quietly "Thoughtful of her, wasn''t it? Making sure I knew where I stood."

    "It wasn''t like that." He stepped forward, then stopped, like he was afraid getting too close might detonate something. "Sophia had no right to do that."

    ¡°But she did, and the photos are real, aren''t they?" I forced a sle that felt more like a grimace, my lips quivering with the effort. "You two looked pretty cozy in the council hall."

    He shook his head, brow furrowed. "That was just diplomatic protocol." "Does diplomatic protocol include her hand on your arm, her eyes locked on yours, while you lookpletely captivated?" My voice suddenly rose, "I''m not stupid, ke. This whole time you''ve been saying one thing and doing another. That familiar fire ignited in his eyes, the edges bleeding to gold-his wolf rising close to the surface. "You don''t understand the situation."

    "Then exin it to me!" I practically shouted, "Tell me why you''re here pretending to care while making eyes at some priestess! Tell me why you bothered marking me if you never intended to take it seriously!"

    My hand went automatically to the golden mark on my neck-the one he''d left that night in the moonlight, lost in passion I swear it was throbbing now, feeling like it might peel right off my skin.

    "I''ll handle it," he said, his voice low and firm, "but right

    now you need rest."

    He walked straight to the nightstand, poured a ss of water and held it out to me, as if that could somehow fix everything. I stared at the tiny ripples on the water''s surface, suddenly struck by the absurdity of it all.

    "This is your pattern, isn''t it?" I didn''t take the ss, just stared coldly at him, "Say ''trust me while treating me like I''m too stupid to see what''s happening. I thought you were different from Jackson."

    Chapter Comments

 Bad Husband 173

    Ava''s POV

    His expression changed, a sh of hurt in his eyes that made my stomach twist with regret even as the angry part of me savorednding a blow. I knew it was a low shotparing him to Jackson was the cruelest thing I could say but 1 couldn''t take it back now,

    v, couldn''t stop the wounded words from tumbling out. His expression changed, a sh of hurt in his eyes.

    "I''m nothing like Hayes," he said quietly, the controlled hurt in his voice far worse than if he''d shouted.

    "No? He abandoned me for power and packaging it better."

    alliance,

    and you? Iughed bitterly, "You''re doing the exact same thing, just

    He set the water down and sat beside mete now."

    on

    the bed, still not touching me. "Everything will be exined tomorrow. It''s

    We didn''t speak again that night. As I drifted toward sleep, I felt him lie down next to me, an arm carefully draping over my waist. His body heat seeped through the thin nket, more effective than any tea at easing my difort.

    The irony wasn''t lost on me-I''d made up the period excuse, yet somehow his presence was actually soothing my pain.

    When I woke the next morning, the bed was empty, but the sound of running water from the bathroom told me he hadn''t left yet. My eyes felt gritty and sore, my head stuffed with cotton.

    I reached for my phone on the nightstand and found that E had called three times and sent several texts. Thest one stood out starkly:

    Whatever you do, DON''T look at Moonlight News today!!! DON''T

    Three exmation points. E never abused punctuation. My heart skipped a beat, a sense of dread crawling up my spine

    Why shouldn''t I look? When has anyone ever told you not to look at something and you actually listened? My fingers betrayed me, opening the news app before my brain could intervene.

    The headline zed across the screen: "Northern Lights Priestess and Silverpeak Alpha King Share Passionate Kiss! Pack Marriage on the Horizon?"

    My fingers froze. The image loaded-ke and Lyra outside a restaurant, her on tiptoes, lips pressed against his Camera shes created a halo around them, like some cosmic spotlight deliberately illuminating this moment.

    My world copsed in that instant.

    I''d thought Sophia had only sent me pictures of them looking intimate in the council ha? but this-this was apletely different level of betrayal.

    He''d lied to me.

    All evening, he''d lied to me.

    Taken her on a date, kissed her, thene back to lie beside me, pretending nothing had happened?

    1/

    In that moment, I finally understood why my wolf had been in ich ngony when Jackson abandoned me. This feeling of betrayal was like polson seeping into my bloodstream, making och heartbeat painful.

    I crawled out from under the covers, quickly pulling on pants and a shirt. I didn''t want to wait for him toe out with exnations-I''d heard enough excuses tost a lifetime.

    Just as I reached the door, the bathroom door swung open. ke stood there with only a towel wrapped around his waist, water droplets sliding down his sculpted chest, tracing paths along the battle scars that mapped his body like territorial borders.

    I hated my eyes for still being drawn to him. Hated my body for responding with a rush of warmth.

    He noticed my gaze, the corner of his mouth lifting slightly. One that smile would have made my heart race; now I just wanted to punch it off his face.

    "Where are you going so early?" he asked, ncing at the window, "The sun''s barely up. Are you feeling better? Maybe we could-"

    His words cut off abruptly when he saw my expression.

    "So, I interrupted, holding up my phone, my voice as cold as ice, "this is your ''just business''? Is this why you spent the night here? Needed some entertainment after making out with the priestess?"

    His eyes instantly sharpened, gaze falling to my phone screen. His face transformed in a heartbeat.

    "This isn''t what it looks like-"

    "Save it," Iughed sarcastically, "That''s the standard cheater''s line. I expected something more original from the Alpha

    King."

    I turned to leave, but his hand caught my arm. Not painful, but firm enough that I couldn''t walk away.

    I spun around and, without thinking, pped him hard across the face.

    Time seemed to freeze for a second, and then I watched as goldpletely overtook his eyes-his wolf fully surfacing. I swallowed hard, suddenly realizing the stupidity of what I''d just done. I''d pped an Alpha King. Not just any Alpha, but the ruler of the entire werewolf world.

    I instinctively took a step back, my spine pressing against the wardrobe. His.eyes narrowed dangerously, Alpha energy filling the room, so thick it was hard to breathe.

    I''m dead, I thought. He''s definitely going to-

    But he didn''t rage. He didn''t strike back. Instead, he moved forward suddenly, pushing me against the wall, but then his movements unexpectedly gentled. He lowered his head, his nose lightly brushing my neck, right where he''d left his mark.

    "You smell like me," he murmured, his voice carrying an emotion I couldn''t quite deciphe., Even when you hate me, you still carry my scent."

    My entire body went rigid. This wasn''t the reaction I''d expected My heart raced, the golden mark burning hotter, a familiar warmth spreading from that spot throughout my body. My wolf suddenly stirred restlessly, wanting to get closer to him despite everything.

    Chapter 164: I''m Dead

    My wolf whined low in my chest, the anger being reced by much I wanted to hate him, my wolf still yearned for him-fo like I was the most precious thing in his world.

    stood there, trapped between his scent and his warmth, feel push him away, to scream about his betrayal; another part wa

    1

    And the most terrifying thing was, I wasn''t sure which urge w

    Chapter Comments

    Chapter 164: I''m Dead

    My wolf whined low in my chest, the anger being reced by something deeper and moreplicated. No matter how much I wanted to hate him, my wolf still yearned for him-for the man who had held me so gently, who had looked at me like I was the most precious thing

    ...his world.

    Istood there, trapped between his scent and his warmth, feeling more conflicted than I''d ever been. Part of me wanted to push him away, to scream about his betrayal; another part wanted to lean closer, to let his scent envelop mepletely.

    And the most terrifying thing was, I wasn''t sure which urge was stronger. Chapter Comments

    LIKE

    LIKE

 Bad Husband 174

    Ava''s POV

    His nose skimmed along my jaw, and I felt him breathing me in like he was trying to memorize every inch. God, the way he did that-so possessive, so iming. It made my knees weak every damn time.

    His breath was warm against my ear, sending shivers down my spine that I couldn''t control. I should''ve pushed him away. Should''ve demanded answers about that photo with Lyra. But my body? Yeah, it had other ns.

    Before I knew what I was doing, I wrapped one leg around his waist, pressing against him. I could feel how hard he was through his clothes, and it made me bold. Made me want to see just how much I could make him lose it.

    "You''re ying with fire," his voice came out rough, eyes shing gold. "My patience isn''t endless."

    I didn''t say anything back. Just stared into those blue-gold eyes, watching them shift. The want there was so obvious it made something twist in my chest. Good. Let him want me.

    I told myself this was just to prove something. That whatever happened with Lyra was nothing. But the second his mouth crashed into mine, all those thoughts scattered.

    We went at each other like we were starving. Clothes hitting the floor, hands everywhere. When his fingers found bare skin, I gasped, all that hurt and anger melting into something hotter.

    "You drive mepletely crazy," he growled against my neck. "Make me lose my mind."

    Hearing that from him-ke Morgan, Alpha King, the guy who controlled everything-made me feel powerful in a way I''d never experienced.

    He lifted me like I weighed nothing, and I wrapped around him, letting him carry me to the bed. I was already soaked, desperate for him. When he finally pushed inside, I let out this sound-half relief, half need.

    We moved together hard and fast, the bed creaking under us. His hands were everywhere, marking me up, making me his. could feel his wolf right under the surface, fighting for control.

    "Mine," he said against my throat, voice all growly and wrecked. "You''re mine."

    Part of me wanted to argue with that possessive bullshit. But another part-the part that was arching into his touch, begging for more-loved it.

    He was shaking, holding back, and I could see the struggle in his golden eyes. At thest second, he pulled back, just breathing hard beside me.

    The room was quiet except for our ragged breathing. I stared at the ceiling, my head spinning. What the hell had I just done? Hours ago I was crying over that photo, and now...

    "I gotta go." ke was already moving, grabbing his clothes. "Northern Lights meeting."

    He dressed so fast it was like someone hit fast-forward. Like the guy who''d just been falling apart in my arms was someone else entirely

    "ke- I started.

    Chapter 166: Burn for You

    Later he cut me off, but his voice was gentler than expected. Il exin everything, I swear. Just not now.

    He kissed my forehead-so soft it made my chest ache-then he was gone.

    "Wait, back up." E was stirring her coffee way too aggressively "You saw ke kissing Miss Perfect Priestess, got pissed, pped him, and then you guys...?¡±

    I groaned, burying my face in my hands. "Don''t make it sound worse than it already is."

    "Honey, that''s not worse. That''s your mark working." She set down her spoon, giving me that look. "Your wolf knows who she belongs to."

    "But that doesn''t make sense!" I threw my hands up. "Jackson''s mark made me feel like I was dying when he chose Sophia. Why would ke supposedly cheating make me want to jump his bones?"

    E went quiet, which never happened. "Maybe," she said finally "your wolf knows what''s real and what''s bullshit."

    "What''s that supposed to mean?"

    "Jackson''s mark hurt because it was fake from the start. He never wanted you- just used the bond. But ke..." She shrugged. ¡°Maybe trust your gut instead of some photo that could mean anything."

    I poked at my muffin, thinking. ke''s mark did feel different. Made me feel strong instead of broken. Safe instead of

    scared.

    "Plus," E grinned, "any guy who can make you forget your problems in bed? That''s worth keeping around."

    "E!"

    "What? I''m just saying." She checked her watch. "Don''t you have to teach the mini Alpha?"

    Right. Lucas. I grabbed my stuff, trying to shake off the confusion.

    "And Ava?" E called as I headed for the door. "Your secrets are safe with me."

    ckwood Manor was buzzing when I got there. Fancy carriages everywhere, people in silver robes hauling around boxes that literally glowed. The whole ce smelled like winter and magic-definitely Northern Lights.

    "Ava!" Lucas practically tackled me. "You''rete! Look what they brought!"

    He was bouncing on his toes, pointing at everything like Christmas morning. "Real moonlight grass! Th your first shift not hurt!"

    I ruffled his messy hair. "Pretty cool, huh? Ready for today''s lesson?"

    id it makes

    "Yeah, but we gotta stay inside. Dad''s got some super important meeting." His voice dropped to a whisper. "The High Priestess is here. Her eyes are purple!"

    Chapter 166: Burn for You

    Great. Just what I needed.

    Training went better than expected. Lucas was focused, asking smart questions about moon phases and werewolf strength. Maybe being around actual Northern Lights people was inspiring him..

    "After Tyler came to get Lucas, I decided to grab my notebook from the study. That''s when I heard voices from the training

    field.

    I stopped, peering through the window like some creepy stalker

    ke stood in the middle of the field, surrounded by the delegation. He looked good-shirt sleeves rolled up, all casual authority. But the woman next to him made my stomach drop.

    Lyra Starlight.

    Holy hell. The photos didn''t do her justice. Silver hair that caught light like it was made of actual moonbeams. Purple eyes that looked like deep water. Skin so pale it was almost see-through. She moved like liquid grace, and her hand-her damn hand-was resting on ke''s arm like she owned it.

    My wolf went ballistic. I felt this growl building in my chest before I could stop it. Everyone turned.

    The whole field went dead quiet. A dozen pairs of eyes staring at me-some surprised, some amused, some just in curious. ke looked shocked, then something moreplicated. But Lyra? She tilted her head, those purple eyes calcting, mouth curving into this tiny smile.

    "Oh," she said, voice like silk over steel. "Are we interrupting something?" Chapter Comments

 Bad Husband 175

    Ava''s POV

    ke ignored her, walking straight toward me. I could feel him bulling back his Alpha energy, making sure it wouldn''t crush me.

    "Ava," he said quietly. "What''s wrong?"

    No usation. Just concern. It cooled some of my rage, but I''d already made an ass of myself in front of everyone.

    "Nothing, I managed. "Just thought your meeting was over."

    That''s when Lyra glided over-and I mean glided. She moved like smoke. "Alpha King,¡± she smiled, but it felt cold. "Have we interrupted something important?" ke''s shoulders tensed. "Lyra, this is Ava Rivers. Lucas''sbat instructor."

    "Ah." Those purple eyes looked me up and down like I was something she might buy. "Little Morgan''s trainer. How... interesting that the Alpha King would let ordinary warriors get so close to family. In Northern Lights, we''re more selective about bloodlines."

    Every word was wrapped in silk, but they cut deep. I clenched my fists, fighting to stay calm.

    "Lucas is talented," I said, surprised my voice came out steady. "He''s making great progress."

    "I''m sure." She nodded, but her eyes said otherwise. "The Morgan bloodline is exceptional, after all." She turned to ke with this intimate smile. "Isn''t that right, ke?"

    Using his first name. Marking territory. My wolf snarled, but I held her back.

    ke''s jaw tightened. "Lyra, mind heading back to the meeting room? I need to talk to Miss Rivers about training schedules."

    Clear dismissal, but Lyra didn''t budge. Those purple eyes flicked between us like she was solving a puzzle.

    "Of course," she finally said. "Though perhaps I should mention these trade negotiations involve sensitive information. I''m sure the Alpha King knows what''s appropriate to share... and with whom."

    The message was crystal clear: I wasn''t important enough to be here.

    My hands curled into fists, but ke beat me to it. "Thanks for the concern,

    Priestess Starlight," he said, polite but firm." know exactly what information I share and with whom."

    Her smile never wavered, but I caught the sh of annoyance. Of course, Alpha King. See you shortly."

    She drifted away, all flowing robes and calcted grace.

    ke visibly rxed once she was gone. He touched my elbow, guiding me to a quieter corner.

    "You okay?" His blue eyes were full of genuine worry.

    veryone''s Here

    I nodded, feeling guilty. "Sorry I crashed your meeting. Didn''t know it was still going."

    Not your fault. Should''ve made sure Sophia told you." He frowned. "But that reaction was pretty intense. What happened?"

    "I bit my lip. Couldn''t exactly say ''seeing her touch you made my wolf lose her shit.

    "Just... my wolf doesn''t like strangers, I guess."

    He raised an eyebrow, clearly not buying itpletely. "Lyra''s...plicated. Northern Lights priestesses are used to getting whatever they want."

    "She''s definitely something," I said, trying to sound neutral instead of jealous. "Those purple eyes are wild."

    "Yeah, it''s considered a blessing up north. He paused, frowning "But listen, about that photo-

    "Go handle your trade stuff, Alpha King." I forced a smile. "I won''t bug you anymore."

    He looked like he wanted to say more, but just nodded. "Later," he said softly, then headed back inside.

    I watched him go, my chest tight. Since that damn photo, everything felt off between us. He said it was a setup, but...

    Maybe E was right. Maybe I should trust my wolf instead of some picture.

    I was heading out when a voice stopped me cold.

    "That''s how you''re gonna let him walk away?"

    Sophia stood on the stairs, arms crossed, smirking. "Disappointing, Rivers. Thought you''d have more fight."

    I took a breath, trying to stay calm. "We got a problem, Sophia?

    She came down slowly, blue eyes starting to shift gold. "Problem? What kind of problem would we have?"

    "I dunno. Maybe you ''forgetting'' to tell me about the meeting? Or sending me that photo?"

    Her smile got bigger, colder. "Oh, that. My bad." Zero apology in her voice.

    I turned to leave. Didn''t want this fight, especially not here.

    "They look perfect together, don''t they?" she called after me. "Lyra and Dad. Both leaders, both pure bloodlines, both understand power and responsibility. Unlike some sword-swinging nobody."

    I stopped. Turned around slowly. "What''s your point, Sophia?"

    "My point is you should know your ce." She stepped closer, eyes fully gold now. "Stop pretending you could ever be something you''re not."

    "Which is?"

    "Dad''s mate," she hissed. "Luna. You think you''re special? You''re just some traitor''s adopted kid. Someone even her own fated mate threw away."

    Chapter 166: Everyone''s Here

    My blood turned to ice. How could she possibly know that?

    "Oh yeah, sheughed at my expression. "I know everything. About you and Jackson. About how you were fated mates before he dumped you for something better."

    "My heart hammered against my ribs. This was impossible.

    "That''s none of your business," I said, fighting to keep my voice level. "That''s over."

    "Over?" She tilted her head, fake innocent. "Fated mate bonds don''t just disappear. Even if you''re screwing my dad now, deep down you still belong to Jackson. That''s why you''ll never be Luna."

    I almostughed. "You really think I want that?"

    She looked confused. "Every woman wants power."

    "Maybe you do," I said calmly. "Doesn''t mean everyone else does

    Her face twisted with rage. "Don''t act like you''re better than me You''ve been lying

    to everyone! You never told Dad about Jackson, did you?"

    "My past is my business."

    "Not when it involves my family!" Her voice cracked. "I won''t let you use Dad like you tried to manipte Jackson!"

    I couldn''t help it-Iughed. That made her even madder. "Manipte Jackson? Your fianc¨¦''s a grown man, Sophia. If he got manipted, that''s on him."

    Her eyes went full wolf. "Shut up! You don''t know anything!"

    She lunged at me, grabbing my hair, yanking me down. I didn''t want to hurt ke''s daughter, so I just tried to defend myself, block her wild swings.

    We hit the floor hard, rolling around like idiots. This was pathetic-Alpha King''s daughter and a trainer wrestling in the hallway.

    Then the air changed.

    Alpha power mmed into us like a freight train. Sophia stumbled back, protected

    by blood rtion. Me? I got the full hit My head exploded with pain, nose starting

    to bleed from the pressure.

    ke stood there, eyes pure gold, power radiating off him in waves.

    "Enough!" Themand shook the walls.

    Sophia let go, stepping back, but still ring.

    "She started it!" she sobbed. "She''s been lying to everyone! Her and Jackson- they''re fated mates!"

    ke released the pressure, and I could finally breathe. I stayed on the ground,

    nose bleeding, tears on my cheeks, feelin likeplete garbage.

    3

    Chapter 166: Everyone''s Here

    "What did you say?" ke''s Voice was deadly quiei.

    Sophia wiped her eyes, still crying. "I sald she''s been ying everyone! She and

    Jackson-

    The front door mmed open.

    We all turned.

    Jackson stood there, looking like he''d seen a ghost.

    Chapter Comments

    LIKE

    POST COMMENT NOW

 Bad Husband 176

    Third Person POV

    Jackson stood frozen in the doorway like someone had just gut-punched him. His chest rose and fell in sharp bursts, eyes ping-ponging between Ava on the floor and ke radiating enough Alpha power to make the windows rattle.

    The man looked like he''d rather be anywhere else on the.

    ¨¢va pushed herself up from the cold marble, wiping blood from her nose with the back of her hand. Her head stil! pounded from ke''s Alpha pressure, but that golden mark on her neck pulsed warm-a steady reminder of where she belonged

    now.

    Seeing Jackson sent this weird cocktail of emotions through her. Shock, yeah. Anger, definitely. And something that might''ve been old hurt. But mostly? She just felt tired. Bone-deep, soul-crushing tired of being everyone''s favorite punching bag.

    ke''s power gradually pulled back, but his eyes stayed that dangerous gold. Watching his daughter and Ava duke it out had seriously pissed him off. Jackson showing up just made everything ten times moreplicated.

    "Jackson." Sophia''s voice cracked as she wiped tears off her cheeks. She tried pulling herself together, but her hands wouldn''t stop shaking.

    Jackson forced himself to move, each step careful like he was walking through a minefield. His gaze kept darting to Ava, then away, like looking too long might actually burn.

    ''I came to see you," he said, voice rusty from shock. "Wanted to surprise you for lunch.

    The exnation came out automatic, his political training kicking in even while he was obviously thrown. Guy genuinely hadn''t expected to find Ava here- seeing her bloodied and shaken had knocked himpletely sideways.

    Sophia took this shuddering breath, fresh tears spilling down her face. "I don''t wanna make a scene," she said, voice trembling but determined, "but Ava''s been lying to everyone from the start!"

    All eyes turned to her. ke''s expression went carefully nk, but through their bond, Ava felt his emotional storm-confusion, worry, and anger at getting blindsided like this.

    ''She told everyone she and Jackson had no rtionship," Sophia continued, pointing an using finger Ava''s way. "But that''splete bullshit! They''re fated mates!"

    Her voice broke on thosest words, pain and betrayal bleeding through every syble. "And destroy what Jackson and I have!"

    been using that connection this whole time, trying to

    The usation hung in the air like smoke. ke''s jaw went tight as he looked between his daughter and Ava, clearly furious at being put in this position. The golden mark seemed to burn hotter, sending waves of ke''splicated emotions straight through Ava.

    Jackson finally stepped closer, but-and this was telling-he went straight to Sophia. Not to Ava, sitting there bleeding and shaken. His priorities couldn''t have been clearer if he''d drawn a damn map.

    "Sophia, baby..." He reached for her, voice soft and soothing. "I can

    exin all of this."

    He deliberately avoided looking at Ava, focusing entirely on the woman in his arms. Message received, loud and clear.

    "I would never do anything to hurt you," Jackson said, tilting Sophia''s chin up to meet her eyes. "I just didn''t want you worrying about stuff from the past.

    His thumb brushed away her tears with practiced gentleness. Talk about smooth operator.

    ''Never," Jackson cut her off when she started to speak. "What Ava and I had... it''s over. Completely over."

    He kept the exnation brief, public, smart enough not to air dirtyundry in front of ke. But his eyes flicked to Ava for just a second, and she caught something cold and calcting there.

    "You''re the only one I love now," he continued, refocusing on Sophia. "The only one I wanna be with."

    13

    Chapter 167: Better Opportunities

    ke watched thin whate diges with

    Jackson tank a hora lite li vas porte college by copa ding right amount of regria en

    1 et didn''t wall spine prije kak

    He nced urween Make und , ying the jen of de plu

    Thenckson''s ease shifted deliberately to this, and use ved halte apportunities her in silverpet

    Thement hung in the air be a balta) po to tu ke wo Koralle er dagility

    that felt almost likes that wapped in politenes

    What the hell was that supposed to mus

    ke''s voice cut through at the emotional Sutic like a bite topics tek

    Both of them straightened as his tone pure Xipke suchourity this ddwy muy ground.

    You two need to go to your room. Now. His words were calm but carried that finality that made mort prople Besmet

    situation.

    Sophie opened her mouth to argue, obviously wanting to keep the confrontation going, but ke''s Alpha a jeled enough to remind her exactly who was running this show.

    Jackson, reading the room like a pro, tightened his arm around Sophia. Come on, baby. Let''s go upstairs."

    As they headed toward the stairs, Jackson''s eyes met Ava''s for one brief moment. The lonk he gave her was sold, riterions Like important game she didn''t even know they were ying.

    Then they were gone, leaving ke and Ava alone in the aftermath.

    About ten minutes after they disappeared upstairs, Jackson pulled Sophia into their guest room. She was still shaking slightly, making her movements jerky,

    "I''m so sorry you had to go through that, baby," he murmured into her hair, hands stroking her back in soothing circles,

    Inside, his mind was racing. The confrontation had gone better than he could''ve hoped. Sophia''s usations had done exactly what he needed- doubt, sowed discord, put Ava on the defensive.

    Perfect setup for phase two.

    Sophia pressed closer to him, seekingfort. I was just so scared of losing you,¡± she whispered against his chest. Scared that that take you away from

    1. me.

    Jackson tilted her face up to his, expression perfectly crafted to show love and devotion. That could never happen. You''re everything to

    But Sophia wasn''t quite satisfied yet. "Why didn''t you tell me before? About you and her being you know, Fated mates?

    This was the crucial moment. Jackson had been preparing for this question, crafting his response like a master sculptor.

    "Because she betrayed everything sacred about the fated mate bood," be said, letting pain calos his wice. She was always maniptive, soph Always wanting more than what we had

    Sophia''s eyes went wide. "What d''you mean?"

    Third Person POV

    "She never loved me for who I was, Jackson continued, lies flowing like honey. "She saw me as a stepping stone to something better. Always talking about power, about status, about what she deserved."

    He paused, like the memory actually hurt him. "When she heard about ke Morgan bing Alpha King... God, the way her eyes lit up. She started asking all these questions about Silverpeak, about the royal family."

    "No way," Sophia breathed, horrified.

    ''She even told me once that someone like ke-an established Alpha King-was worth way more than some candidate like me," Jackson said, adding just the right amount of hurt to his tone.

    Complete lie, of course. Ava had never said anything remotely like that. Had never shown interest in power or status. But Sophia didn''t know that, and Jackson was betting she''d never think to question his version.

    "She came here iming it was about training Lucas," he continued, "but I could see what she was really after. She''s been trying to seduce your father from day

    one."

    Sophia''s face crumpled. "I knew something was wrong. The way she looked at him, the way he...

    "The way he what?" Jackson prompted gently.

    "The way he protects her. Defends her. I''ve never seen Dad act like that with anyone except Mom." Fresh tears spilled down her cheeks. "I thought maybe... maybe he was finally happy again. But she''s just using him."

    Jackson pulled her close, hiding his satisfied smile. "I know it hurts, baby. That''s why I didn''t wanna tell you. But at least now you know the truth. You can protect your father from making a terrible mistake."

    "She doesn''t deserve him," Sophia said fiercely. "Dad deserves someone who''ll love him for who he is, not what he can give them."

    "Exactly," Jackson agreed, stroking her hair. "Someone like that Northern Lights priestess. Did you see how she looked at him? With real respect and admiration." Sophia nodded eagerly. "Lyra''s perfect for him. She''s beautiful, powerful, worthy of being an Alpha Queen."

    "Unlike some people," Jackson added quietly, nting the seed deeper. Sophia leaned back to look at him, fresh determination sparking in her eyes. "I won''t let her hurt our family anymore. Dad''s gonna see the truth." Jackson cupped her face gently. "I love you so much. I''m sorry I let her cause problems between us."

    "It''s not your fault," Sophia said firmly. "You''re the victim h¨¨re. She''s the one who threw away something precious for power and status."

    As she settled against his chest, Jackson allowed himself a moment of pure triumph. Sophia now believedpletely that he was the wronged party, that Ava was the maniptive viin trying to destroy their happiness.

    His wolf stirred uneasily at all the lies, but Jackson pushed the difort aside.

    Sometimes you had to y dirty to get what you

    1. d.

    Phase one:plete.

 Bad Husband 177

    ke''s POV

    Once they were alone, I immediately moved to Ava''s side. She was still standing where she''d been during the whole mess, blood drying under her nose, looking somehow smaller than usual.

    "Let me see," I said softly, grabbing a cloth from the side table. My fingers were gentle as I tilted her chin up, checking the damage.

    The sight of her blood made my wolf snarl. Seeing my daughter hurt someone I cared about... fuck, what a mess. But right now, Ava needed care.

    rage.

    "Does it hurt?" I asked, dabbing at the dried blond with careful touches.

    Her eyes were distant, unfocused. "I''m fine. Just..." She trailed off, unable to finish.

    Through our bond, I could feel her emotional exhaustion. The fight with Sophia, Jackson''s sudden appearance, the public usations-it was too much all at

    once.

    "You''re not fine," I said quietly, continuing to clean her face. And that''s okay."

    Something flickered in her expression at my gentle tone. I could sense her surprise through our connection, like she hadn''t expected me to still be here, still taking care of her after everything.

    "Maybe," I said after making sure she wasn''t seriously hurt, ''you should go back to the northern vi for a few days.*

    I felt her distress spike through our bond immediately. Shit. That came out wrong.

    "Not because I want you gone," I added quickly. "Because you need space. Peace. This ce is way too chaotic right now."

    My thumb brushed across her cheek. "I''ll have Tyler bring Lucas up for training. You two can have some quiet time together, away from all this drama.

    The tension in her shoulders eased slightly. She got it-this wasn''t banishment.

    "I understand,¡± she said quietly. "Maybe some space would be good."

    "Just for a few days," I promised, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead. "Until things/settle down here."

    I pulled back to meet her eyes. "This doesn''t change anything between us. You know that, right?"

    Our golden bond pulsed warm, and I pushed all my sincerity through it. Despite everything-the usations, the chaos, the family drama-my feelings for her hadn''t budged an inch.

    "I know," she whispered.

    *I''lle see you in a couple days," I said, squeezing her hands. "We''ll talk everything through properly then."

    As she gathered her stuff to leave, I watched with a heavy heart. I got why she needed space, but letting her go-even temporarily-felt all kinds of wrong. Every instinct screamed at me to keep her close, protect her from whatever storm was brewing.

    Once she was gone, I retreated to my study, needing some quiet to process everything that had just gone down.

    Jackson''s words kept bouncing around in my head. Thatment about Ava finding "better opportunities" in Silverpeak. There''d been something underneath it, some implication I couldn''t quite grab onto. The way he''d said it, with that slight emphasis...

    What the hell had he meant by that?

    One thing was crystal clear-Jackson Hayes was way more dangerous than I''d initially thought. The smooth way he''d handled Sophia''s breakdown, keeping his exnations vague but sympathetic... I''d seen enough political maneuvering to recognize a master maniptor when I met one

    And Jackson was definitely ying some longer game than anyone realized.

    The question was: what exactly did he want?

    And how far was he willing to go to get it?

    Through our golden bond, I could still sense Ava''s presence as she traveled toward the northern vi. The connection between us stayed strong, unshakeable despite all the chaos.

    Whatever Jackson was nning, whatever game he was ying, I''d be ready for

    It.

    I just had to figure out the rules first.

    BITE ME WEREWOLVES: Hey guys, I have some things to deal with in real life right now. I''ve seen all yourments both the criticism and the encouragement. Please give me a few days. I''ll do my best to update more when I''m back. Thank you for waiting.

 Bad Husband 178

    ke''s POV

    Three in the morning. Still stuck in my study, surrounded by every damn piece of evidence we had on William Rivers'' case. I''d read each page at least ten times, could recite every witness statement by heart. But we were still missing the smoking gun that would clear his namepletely.

    I rubbed my temples. Felt like someone was taking a sledgehammer to the back of my skull. The herbal tea on my desk had gone cold hours ago-fourth cup? Fifth? I''d lost count. Sent Tyler to bed two hours back, told him he''d be useless tomorrow if he didn''t get some sleep.

    I should probably crash too.

    But every time I closed my eyes, I saw Ava''s face when she left. That look of disappointment and hurt, like someone had stuck a knife straight through my chest. I''d sent her to the northern vi to ''rest," made it sound like I was doing her a favor. Truth was, I was just a coward.

    Scared to see the doubt in her eyes. Scared she''d ask me what the hell was going on with Lyra. Scared to admit I was drowning in politics and couldn''t even find enough evidence to clear her father''s name.

    The files on my desk might as well have beenughing at me. Alpha King? What a joke. Keeping William alive was the best I could manage. Actually proving his innocence? We couldn''t even nail down who the real killer was.

    I got up, walked to the window. Silverpeak looked peaceful in the darkness. My territory, my people, my responsibility. But right now I wanted to dump all of it and run to that vi, pull Ava into my arms, tell her how much I missed her.

    Get real, Morgan. You''re a mess. What''ve you got to offer her?

    Seven o''clock brought Tyler with hot tea and a simple breakfast. He took one look at the disaster zone that was my desk, then at what must''ve been my equally disastrous appearance. Didn''t say a word, just set the tea within reach.

    "Boss, that witness changed his story against night." His report came out t. ''Says he got the timing wrong."

    I let out a bitterugh. "Course he did. Jackson''s been busy."

    "That''s the third one." Tyler dropped into the chair across from me, looking like he''d tasted something rotten. "Every lead we managed to dig up, they''re finding ways to bury it."

    My hands clenched into fists. We had the silver container, blood analysis, drug residue-everything pointed to William being set up. But none of it could nail the real culprit.

    "Damn it.'' I pressed my palms against my eyes. "We can prove William got screwed over, but we can''t catch the bastard who did it. And now even the witnesses who could clear him are backing down."

    "Jackson''s got more pull in Shadow Creek than we thought." Tyler''s voice went quiet. "His old man Richard spent years building connections. Now they''re all working for Jackson."

    We need a new angle. Tyler paused. ¡°Or..."

    ''Or what?"

    ''Or we go straight at Jackson. We both know he did it, even without hard proof."

    I shook my head. "No evidence means he''ll just get more careful. Plus with Sophia and him..."

    I didn''t finish, but Tyler got it. My daughter was still floating on cloud nine,

    "When did family stuff get so damnplicated?" Iughed, but there wasn''t any humor in it.

    "Boss... Tyler looked like he wanted to say more.

    Spit it out.

    This guilt trip you''re on isn''t helping anyone." He met my eyes dead-on. ''You already saved William''s life. Ava''ll understand."

    "Yeah, she''ll understand." My voice came out tired. ''But I can''t forgive myself. I''m supposed to be the Alpha King, running the whole werewolf world-cent even give the woman I love a straight answer."

    Eight-thirty brought the first meeting. Northern Lights trade talks-should''ve been James Walker''s show, but Lyra insisted on joining. She''d dressed the part today, silver-blue business outfit, hair twisted into someplicated updo. Professional and elegant.

    Two hours of forcing myself to focus on lumber quotas and shipping routes. But Lyra kept steering things toward more ''personal'' territory.

    "ke, I think we should discuss longer-term cooperation." After everyone else left, she made sure to stick around. "Not just trade. Political alliance.

    "Lyra," I tried staying polite, "our trade negotiations are almost

    She moved closer, way too close for professional conversation. "But

    1. up. Think that''s plenty for now,"

    ke, we both know real poweres from deeper connections."

    I stepped back. "Not sure I follow."

    Course I followed. I wasn''t blind.

    "I mean, her eyes held calcting gleam, "people like us should consider

    something moresting. We could build the strongest political alliance in werewolf history.

    "Lyra," I went for direct, "need to tell you-I''ve already got emotionalmitments."

    Her expression went ice-cold for a split second before the smile returned. "That Shadow Creek girl? ke, you sure that''s not just a passing thing?"

    My fists tightened without permission. ¡°That''s not your concern."

    ¡°As a friend, I''m naturally concerned." Her tone got more intimate. "And from what

    I hear, you two have been having some... distance issuestely?"

    How the hell did she know that? My face must''ve given something away, ''cause Lyra''s smile got more smug.

    "ke, powerful men need equally powerful women. Don''t you think?"

    I took a deep breath, fighting to keep my temper. "Lyra, I respect you and value

    the rtionship between Northern Lights and Silverpeak. But my private life isn''t part of these negotiations."

    ''Of course not." She nodded, but the ambition in her eyes was crystal clear. "I just want you to know I''ll be here when you figure things out."

    After she left, I sat alone in that meeting room feeling like I''d just gone ten rounds with a heavyweight. Lyra was smart, beautiful, definitely the logical choice for a political alliance. Any sensible Alpha King would seriously consider her offer.

    But I didn''t want a political marriage. I wanted to wake up every morning to Ava''s smile. Wanted to watch her focus when she trained Lucas. Wanted that fire in her eyes when she challenged me.

    So why''d you push her away?

    Afternoon brought a visit to Sophia''s room. Found her sitting at her vanity,

    carefully applying nail polish in a deep red shade. When she saw me in the

    mirror, she paused mid-stroke, quickly capping the/bottle.

    ''Dad? Something wrong?"

 Bad Husband 179

    ke''s POV

    *Just checking how you''re doing. I sat on her bed. After what happened the other day... worried you might still be upset about those rumors.

    "What rumors?" She blinked, looking confused.

    About Ava and Jackson''s... past."

    ''Oh, that." Her expression hardened instantly. ''Jackson exined everything to me. Dad, I understand so much more now."

    I frowned. "Understand what?"

    About Ava Sophia''s voice carried this cold tone I''d never heard before. "She shouldn''t have hidden those things from me. If she''d been honest from the start, none of this would''ve happened."

    ''Sophia..."

    "Jackson made it all very clear, Dad." She cut me off, eyes shining with this almost blind trust. "He told me things I never knew before. Now I get why that fight happened."

    I watched her carefully, unease growing in my chest. She had this weird certainty about her, like someone had fed her aplete set of exnations.

    "What exactly did he tell you?"

    ''Details don''t matter, Dad." She waved it off, but I caught the forced quality of her smile. "What matters is we all understand the truth now. Though... She paused. "Thinking about them being... well, you know, their past still bothers me. But Jackson says we''ll work through it."

    Her voice tightened when she mentioned their past, but she recovered fast. "He''s been so patient with me, Dad. Helping me work through all this."

    I nodded, but the unease kept growing. Sophia''s reaction was too... rehearsed.

    She skipped all the details, avoided specific questions, just kept repeating vague stuff about ¡°Jackson exined" and "we understand the truth."

    This didn''t feel like normal exnation and reconciliation. More like... conditioning.

    "That''s good then." I stood up, not sure what else to say. "If you need anything, just ask."

    But deep down, I knew things were way moreplicated than they seemed. What exactly had Jackson told my daughter?

    "I will." She picked up her nail polish again. ¡°Dad, you look exhausted. Maybe you should get some rest too?"

    That night found me back in the study. William Rivers'' files still spread across my desk, but I couldn''t focus anymore. My thoughts kept flying to the northern vi, to the woman who should be waiting for word from me.

    Tyler reached out through mindlink around nine, sensing my distracted state. "Boss, shouldn''t you go see her?*

    "Who?" I shot back, ying dumb.

    "Ava." Even through our mental connection, I felt his seriousness. "She''s been there four days."

    ''She needs rest," I responded.

    ''She needs you." Tyler rarely got this direct, but his determination came through loud and clear. "Boss, I''ve worked with you for years. Never seen you this twisted up over a woman."

    I rubbed my forehead. It''splicated, Tyler."

    ''Complicated my ass." He actually swore through the mindlink, which was even rarer. "You love her, she loves you. What''s simpler than that?¡±

 Bad Husband 180

    "The Northern Lights alliance..."

    "Screw Northern Lights!" Tyler''s emotions flowed through our connection. ''Boss, if you let politics destroy your happiness, you II regret it forever?

    After cutting the link, I sat alone in the empty study, his words echoing in my head. Maybe he was right. Maybe I was oveplicating everything,

    Eleven o''clock brought a decision. I gathered up the files, turned off the deskmp; walked out of the study.

    Passing Sophia''s room, I caught fragments of her conversation through the door. "...next time will be different, I promise... I know what you need to hear Her voice sounded strained, almost rehearsed.

    I paused, frowning. This didn''t sound like the blissful reconciliation she''d described earlier. More like someone desperately trying to convince themselves everything was fine.

    Part of me wanted to feel relieved that maybe Jackson wasn''t as perfect as she believed. But mostly I just felt... empty. Should I be sad my daughter was struggling? Or d she might finally see through his act?

    Instead of heading for the garage, I went straight to the manor''s back door. Driving to the northern vi would take an hour. Running there in wolf form? Twenty minutes.

    The night air was cold but helped clear my head. I stripped off my shirt, let moonlight wash over my skin, then let the change begin. Bones reshaping, muscles extending-every transformation made me feel more powerful.

    Secondster, a massive ck wolf stood in the moonlight. My senses exploded- could hear wind three miles away, smell every night creature, feel the earth''s pulse.

    This was Alpha King power.

    I started running, paws almost silent on the forest floor. Trees flew past, Silverpeak''s night unfolding beneath my feet. This was my territory, my kingdom, every inch under my protection.

    But right now I only wanted to protect one person.

    On the I tried reaching Ava through our golden bond. The connection was weak, but I caught her emotional state. Complex mix of pain, loneliness, and something confused I couldn''t identify.

    way,

    What was she doing?

    Forest became a green blur around me, heartbeat getting faster. Maybe Tyler was right. Maybe I should stop torturing myself and just go after what I wanted.

    Political alliances? Trade deals? Screw all of it. Nothing mattered more than Ava. When the vi''s lights appeared ahead, my heart nearly jumped out of my chest. I stopped at the tree line, let the change reverse. Bones readjusting, muscles contracting-secondster I was human again.

    Threw my clothes back on, took a deep breath, walked toward the front door. Lights were on inside, but dim.

    My hand actually shook when I knocked. Ridiculous-I was the Alpha King, ruler of the entire werewolf world, but here I was nervous as a seventeen-year-old on his first date.

    The door opened. I saw Ava.

    The Northern Lights alliance..."

    ''Screw Northern Lights!" Tyler''s emotions flowed through our connection. "Boss, if you let politics destroy your happiness, you''ll regret it forever.

    After cutting the link, I sat alone in the empty study, his words echoing in my head. Maybe he was right. Maybe I was oveplicating everything.

    Eleven o''clock brought a decision. I gathered up the files, turned off the deskmp, walked out of the study.

    Passing Sophia''s room, I caught fragments of her conversation through the door. "...next time will be different, I promise... I know what you need to heat... Her voice sounded strained, almost rehearsed.

    I paused, frowning. This didn''t sound like the blissful reconciliation she''d described earlier. More like someone desperately trying to convince themselves everything was fine.

    Part of me wanted to feel relieved that maybe Jackson wasn''t as perfect as she believed. But mostly I just felt... empty. Should I be sad my daughter was struggling? Or d she might finally see through his act?

    Instead of heading for the garage, I went straight to the manor''s back door. Driving to the northern vi would take an hour. Running there in wolf form? Twenty minutes.

    The night air was cold but helped clear my head. I stripped off my shirt, let moonlight wash over my skin, then let the change begin. Bones reshaping, muscles extending-every transformation made me feel more powerful.

    Secondster, a massive ck wolf stood in the moonlight. My senses exploded- could hear wind three miles away, smell every night creature, feel the earth''s pulse.

    This was Alpha King power.

    I started running, paws almost silent on the forest floor. Trees flew past, Silverpeak''s night unfolding beneath my feet. This was my territory, my kingdom, every inch under my protection.

    But right now I only wanted to protect one person.

    On the way, I tried reaching Ava through our golden bond. The connection was weak, but I caught her emotional state. Complex mix of pain, loneliness, and something confused I couldn''t identify.

    What was she doing?

    Forest became a green blur around me, heartbeat getting faster. Maybe Tyler wanted.

    was right. Maybe I should stop torturing myself and just go after what I Political alliances? Trade deals? Screw all of it. Nothing mattered more than Ava.

    When the vi''s lights appeared ahead, my heart nearly jumped out of my chest. I stopped at the tree line, let the change reverse. Bones readjusting, muscles contracting-secondster I was human again.

    Threw my clothes back on, took a deep breath, walked toward the front door. Lights were on inside, but dim.

    My hand actually shook when I knocked. Ridiculous-I was the Alpha King, ruler of

    the entire werewolf world, but here I was nervous as a seventeen-year-old on his first date.

    The door opened. I saw Ava.

 Bad Husband 181

    Is this real?

    Ava''s POV

    "Yeah, I wanted to deck the guy right there. My boss had to hold me back. Her voice got serious. Ava, you can''t just sit there waiting for scraps. If you actually love ke..."

    ''E, don''t.

    Why not? ''Cause the truth sucks?" Her tone went gentle. ''Sweetie, I get that this is hard. But you''re hiding from reality here."

    "I''m not hiding."

    "Then what''re you doing? Waiting for some miracle? For ke to suddenly realize he''s throwing away the best thing that ever happened to him?"

    I didn''t answer. Couldn''t. Maybe she was right.

    "Look," E said, "I''ming to see you tomorrow. We''re gonna hash this out properly."

    "You don''t have to-"

    "Already decided. See you tomorrow."

    She hung up. I stood there holding the phone, her words bouncing around in my head. Lyra bing queen of Silverpeak? Had ke already made up his

    mind?

    I walked over to the liquor cab. Stared at the bottles for a minute. I wasn''t much of a drinker, but right now I needed something to quiet the noise in my

    head.

    The wine went down easier than it should''ve.

    First ss told me it was just to rx. Second ss, I admitted I was running from the truth. Third ss, I stopped giving a damn.

    The alcohol made everything

    around the edges, but somehow made other

    things crystal clear. I missed ke so much it physically hurt. Missed his voice, his hands, the way he looked at me like I mattered. Missed feeling safe and wanted and like maybe I deserved good things.

    But I was also scared shitless. What if this whole thing was just me living in some fantasy? Maybe ke saw me as a fun distraction, and now it was time to get back to reality. Maybe Lyra was exactly what he needed-someone who matched his status, who could help him politically.

    And me? I was just William Rivers'' adopted daughter. A girl who couldn''t even save her own father.

    By the fourth ss, the room was spinning and my thoughts were all over the ce. The forest outside looked like it was moving, swaying back and forth.

    Maybe this was how it really was. ke Morgan was the Alpha King. He needed someone like Lyra. Someone perfect and powerful and worthy.

    I thought about Dad sitting in a cell, and how I''d failed himpletely. The tears came without warning.

    I kept drinking. ss after ss until the world tilted sideways and nothing made sense anymore.

    Sometimeter-could''ve been minutes, could''ve been hours-I heard knocking.

    At first I thought I was imagining it. But the sound kepting, steady and insistent. I stumbled toward the door, nearly face-nting on the coffee table.

    When I opened it, I thought for sure I was hallucinating.

    ke stood there in a dark coat, hair all messed up, eyes holding something I couldn''t read.

    "You..." My voice sounded weird, slurred, "What''re you doing here?"

    His gaze traveled from my tangled hair to the wine ss still in my hand, taking in what must''ve been a pretty pathetic sight.

    ''We need to talk," he said quietly.

    I leaned against the doorframe, squinting at him through my alcohol haze. This man who''d turned my world upside down. Who Lloved and hated and needed and feared all at the same time.

    ''Is this real?" I asked. ''Or am I just drunk enough to see what I want?"

    ke''s POV

    When I saw Ava swaying in the doorway, eyes zed over, my chest went tight. Her hair was a mess, that old shirt I''d seen a hundred times hanging loose on her frame. But what killed me was the pain in her eyes. Even through the alcohol haze, I could see it clear as day.

    Christ, what have I done to her?

    "Let''s go inside." I reached out to steady her, but she stumbled back a step.

    "You''re really here." She blinked like she was still checking if I was real. "Thought you''d be busy nning your future with Miss Perfect Priestess.

    Her words came out slurred, but the hurt and sarcasm hit me like a punch to the gut. I closed my eyes, took a deep breath.

    "Ava, can we go inside and talk?"

    She didn''t answer, just turned and wobbled toward the living room. I followed, shutting the door behind me, watching her copse onto the couch with that wine ss still in her hand.

    The whole ce reeked of red wine. Empty bottle sitting on the coffee table. She''d polished off a whole bottle by herself?

    "You shouldn''t drink this much alone." I moved closer, carefully took the ss from her fingers.

    "Why not?" She looked up at me with this fragile defiance. "Nobody gives a damn anyway."

    That hit me like a p. I crouched in front of her, touched her cheek gently. "I give a damn, Ava. I give a hell of a lot of damns.

    Something flickered in her eyes-confusion, then distrust. "You care? Then why''d you ship me off here? Why haven''t I heard anything for days?"

    "Cause I''m an idiot." Honest answer. "Thought giving you space was the right move. I was wrong."

    I got up, headed for the kitchen to grab her some water. When I came back, she was sitting the same way, but her eyes followed every move I made.

    "Drink this." I handed her the ss. "You''ll feel better."

    She took it but didn''t drink right away. "ke, I''m tired. Tired of guessing games, tired of waiting around, tired of not knowing where I

    I sat down next to her, keeping some distance. Didn''t want her feeling cornered while she was like this. "Then let me tell you."

    She finally took a sip of water, then looked at me with those beautiful, hurting green eyes. "Tell me what?"

    in your life.

    "Tell you that Lyra means nothing to me." I met her gaze head-on. "Those photos, that kiss-none of it was what I wanted. She caught me off guard when I was dealing with reporters, kissed me before I could react. But I pushed her off immediately."

    Ava''s expression shifted slightly, but she stayed cautious. "Then why didn''t you exin? Why leave me here going crazy?"

    "Cause I''m a damn coward." I shook my head bitterly. "Told myself I was handlingplicated politics, but really I was just running scared. Couldn''t face you, couldn''t admit I was failing at protecting your father."

    "What d''you mean?"

 Bad Husband 182

    My woman, My choice, My everything

    ke''s POV

    My voice got heavy. "Tyler and I''ve been going through every possible lead, trying to find more evidence for your dad. But we keep hitting walls Exery witness who might help suddenly changes their story or ims they remembered wrong."

    *ke...*

    "No, let me finish." Anger crept into my voice-not at her, at myself. "I wanted to wait till everything was solved beforeing to you. Give you perfect results. But that was just me making excuses for being useless."

    Tears started forming in her eyes. ¡°But I just..."

    ''You just what?'' I cut her off. "You just make my whole world make sense? You''re the only person who makes me feel actually happy?"

    "ke..." Her voice shook.

    "Hear me out." I cupped her face in my hands. "These past few days without you, I finally got how stupid I''ve been. Let politics and duty blind me, almost lost the most important thing in my life."

    She closed her eyes, tears spilling over. "Thought you were gonna choose her. Thought...

    "Never." I wiped her tears with my thumbs. "Ava, I want you to know something. Soon I''m gonna make our rtionship public. No more hiding, no more letting anyone question where you stand with me."

    Her eyes flew open, staring at me in shock. "ke, your political position..."

    "Screw my political position." My voice came out firm and fierce. "I want the whole werewolf world to know you''re my woman, my choice, my everything."

    The alcohol made her emotions raw and visible. I could see surprise, fear, and hope all mixing together in her eyes.

    "You sure about this?" Her voice got small. "Lyra, she..."

    I''ll make things clear with her." I said. "Can''t let her keep thinking there''s something that isn''t there. As for Northern Lights, if they won''t ept a straight trade rtionship, we''ll figure something else out."

    ''But..."

    "No buts." I said firmly. "Ava, I love you. Love your courage, your stubbornness, how gentle you are with Lucas, the way you challenge me. I love all of you."

    First time I''d said those three wordspletely sober and sure. Her reaction told me exactly how much they meant. Her breathing got fast, tears streaming.

    down her face.

    I love you too." Her voice cracked but rang true. "ke, I love you so much it''s driving me crazy."

    Our golden bond suddenly pulsed strong between us. I could feel everything she was feeling-love, relief, need, and the dizzy haze from the wine.

    "You need rest now." I said gently. "Come on, let me get you to bed."

    I helped her stand, her body swaying as she leaned/into me naturally, Her weight

    and warmth reminded me of all the good times we''d share.

    ''I can walk by myself." She tried acting tough, but her steps were obviously unsteady.

    "I know you can." I smiled. "But I wanna take care of you."

    In the bedroom, I sat her on the edge of the bed, then knelt to take off her shoes.

    Her feet were small and cold. I couldn''t help warming them with my

    hands.

    ke... Her voice caught.

    "Yeah?"

    *These past few days, I kept thinking about what I''d do if you really picked her. Her fingers ran through my hair. "Thought about leaving Silverpeak st disappearingpletely."

    I looked up at her, heart aching. ''Don''t ever think like that. Whatever happens, you can''t leave me."

    "But if..."

    ''No ifs." I stood up, touched her cheek. "Ava, I''m your fated mate. Not Jackson- me. Our connection, our golden mark, none of it''s an ident.

    She nodded, hope lighting up her eyes again.

    "Now lie down, I gently pushed her shoulder. "You need sleep."

    Shey back obediently, and I pulled the covers over her. Moonlight through the window hit her face, making her look fragile and beautiful at the same time.

    "Stay." She grabbed my hand. "Please don''t go."

    "I''m not going anywhere." I sat on the bed''s edge. "Not leaving."

    We stayed like that quietly, her hand holding mine, our golden connection steady and warm again. The alcohol was making her eyelids heavy, but she kept fighting to stay awake.

    "ke?" Her voice was getting drowsy.

    "Mmm?"

    "You really gonna make our rtionship public?"

    "Soon." I said with certainty. "Everyone''s gonna know you''re my woman, future Luna."

    She smiled-first real smile I''d seen from her in days. "What''ll Sophia think?"

    ''Sophia''ll learn to deal." I said. "And I think once she knows the whole truth, she''ll understand."

    "You gonna tell her everything?" Her voice got quieter. "Even about Jackson?"

    ¡°I''ll find the right moment." I said carefully. "She needs to know the truth, but it has to be done right."

    "I trust you." Her eyes finally closed. "Don''t wannae between you and your family.

    "You''re noting between anything. You''re the answer." I kissed her forehead softly. "You''re the answer I''ve been looking for.

    Her breathing evened out, but her hand still gripped mine tight. I sat there watching her peaceful face, feeling our connection rebuild itself.

    An hourter, she called my name in her sleep, body trembling slightly. I stroked

    her hair, whispered, "I''m here. Not going anywhere."

    She quieted down, curling up rxed under the nket. Moonlight cast soft shadows across her face, and I suddenly realized this was the future I wanted- protecting her sleep every night, seeing her wake up smiling every morning. Early hours of the morning, she woke up. Her eyes were way clearer than before.

    eyes

    "You''re still here." She said quietly, relief obvious in her voice.

    "Told you I wouldn''t leave." I squeezed her hand. "How you feeling?"

    "Much better." She sat up. ¡°ke, what you said earlier..."

    "Every word was true." I interrupted. I''m gonna make our rtionship public soon

    as I can, then start our real life together."

    She looked at me with this softness and trust I''d never seen before. "What about now?"

    "Now..." I stood up, held out my hand. ''Now I wanna hold you, show you how much you mean to me."

    She didn''t hesitate, put her hand in mine. I lifted her easily-her weight in my arms felt perfect, like she belonged there.

    "ke... Her voice was soft, but her eyes burned with the same fire as mine.

    I love you, Ava Rivers." I looked into her eyes. ¡°Let me prove it to you."

 Bad Husband 183

    Don''t You Dare Stop

    Ava''s POV

    ke''s words are still hanging in the air between us, and his eyes have gonepletely gold. The soft light from the bedsidemp catches the sharp angles of his face, making him look dangerous as hell-but in the best possible way.

    My heart''s beating so fast I swear it''s gonna burst right out of my chest. "Yeah? Prove it then."

    He kisses me like he''s been starving for it. This isn''t like our other kisses-this one''s got weight to it, like he''s trying to pour everything he feels into this one moment. I can taste mint on his tongue and that scent that''s just him, all warm and male and perfect.

    His thumb brushed my cheek, then traced my bottom lip. "You know how gorgeous you are?'' His voice was rough as gravel. "Especially right now...

    Heat crept up my neck, but I couldn''t look away. "ke..."

    ''Shh. He kissed the words right out of my mouth, then moved to my jaw, my neck. When his lips found that golden mark, electricity shoots straight through me. I

    actually gasp.

    "Feel that?¡± he whispered against my ear, his breath making me shiver. "That''s us, connected."

    I nodded, not trusting my voice. The mark was burning under his touch, pulsing like it had a heartbeat of its own. The sensation was so intense I could barely stay upright.

    He starts pulling off my sleep shirt, taking his sweet time about it. He knows exactly what he''s doing, knows I love it when he goes slow like this. His hands are warm on my skin, and I can''t help leaning into his touch.

    "Miss me?" he murmured in my ear, voice carrying that possessive edge that made my knees weak.

    ''Like crazy,'' I admitted, my arms winding around his neck. "These past few days without you... I was losing it."

    That earned me one of his satisfied grins, the kind that said he knew exactly what he did to me. "Good." He lifted me onto the bed like I weighed nothing. "1 missed you too."

    He settled over me, finding that perfect angle where I felt surrounded but not trapped.

    He went straight for my corbone, biting that spot he knew made me arch. I did exactly that, and his low chuckle told me he was pleased with himself. This man knows all my weak spots by now-figures he''d use that against me.

    "ke... My voice already had that needy edge.

    "What d''you want, my luna?" He''s still working that spot with his mouth while his thumb starts doing wicked things to my nipple. "Tell me."

    He knew damn well what I wanted. We''d yed this game before-he just liked hearing me say it.

    When his mouth closed over my nipple, I let out a sound that would''ve embarrassed me with anyone else. He knew exactly what I liked-how muressure, what rhythm. His tongue did this thing that made stars explode behind my eyelids.

    "God, yes... I hear myself say, voice all breathless. "Don''t you dare stop."

    He was eating up my reaction, getting more focused with every sound I made. One hand working my other breast, thumb and fingers knowing exactly how to make me squirm, while his mouth kept doing sinful things. I was already losing it, my whole world shrinking down to just the ces he was touching.

    ''Love watching you like this," he murmurs. "Love seeing what I do to you."

    My face went hot, but there was something powerful about how he looked at me like I was the most incredible thing he''d ever seen.

    Every time his mouth left my skin, that spot would tingle, practically begging him toe back.

    He had this down to an art-mouth and hands working together, knowing I liked it a little rough. Teeth grazing, fingers squeezing just hard enough to make

    me gasp. When he gets to the waistband of my shorts, he looks up at the.

    "Keep going down, I told him directly what I wanted. "ke, I want your tongue."

    He didn''t need to be asked twice.

    Those gold eyes lit up like fire. "As you wish, my Luna," he said, voice rough with want, then bent his head to where I needed him most.

    The first touch of his tongue made me cry out. He found that rhythm that drove me insane-not too fast, not too slow, but every stroke hitting exactly where it mattered.

    "Right there..." I grabbed his hair, probably too tight.

    He knew what he was doing, starting gentle to let me get used to it. His tongue moved in ways that made my brain short-circuit, sometimes circling, sometimes going direct for that spot that made me see stars.

    My hands were everywhere-in his hair, clutching the sheets, trying to find something solid to hold onto. ''Oh god..."

    I felt him smile against me, and that little vibration shot straight through my nervous system.

    "You taste incredible," he pulled back just enough to say, voice wrecked.

    The dirty talk made me blush harder, but also made me want more. "Don''t you dare stop..."

    He didn''t. His tongue went back to work, more sure of himself now, like he''d figured out all my secrets. And when his finger slid inside...

    "Holy-" I cut myself off with a moan. That feeling of being filled while his mouth kept working was almost too much.

    "So tight," he said with something like awe. "Perfect."

    He started moving that finger, gentle at first, while his tongue kept doing its magic. I waspletely gone, just riding the waves he was creating, letting him take me wherever he wanted.

    "More," I heard myself begging. "Please, I need more."

    The second finger joining the first made me arch clean off the bed. He was searching for something, and when he found it...

    "ke!" I practically screamed, my whole body going taut as a wire.

    Then he started working that spot with his fingers while his tongue picked up the pace.

    I was done for. My body was moving on its own, chasing the pleasure he was giving me, making sounds I didn''t even recognize. Each wave was bigger than thest, building toward something that felt like it might break me apart.

    ''I''m gonna... ke, I can''t..." Words weren''t working anymore.

    "Let go," hemanded, voice gentle but leaving no room for argument. "Come for me, my Luna.

    That did it. Ipletely shattered, pleasure crashing over me like a tidal wave. I was shouting his name, my body shaking so hard I thought I might fall apart. He kept going, helping me ride it out until I copsed back onto the bed,pletely spent.

    ''Good?" He crawled up to kiss me, and I could taste myself on his lips, which should''ve been weird but was actually incredibly hot.

    I wanted to say something, wanted to return the favor, but my eyelids felt like

    they weighed a ton. The satisfaction was wrapping around me like the world''s

    best nket.

    ''ke... I managed to whisper.

    "I''m right here," he said, stroking my hair. "Sleep, Ava. I''ve got you."

    I drifted off in his arms, probably still smiling.

 Bad Husband 184

    OMG, ke''s Imagination.

    ke''s POV

    Watching Ava sleep in my arms, I was feeling about ten different things at once. just done, hershes making these tiny shadows on her cheeks.

    She was beautiful. No question.

    But I was also in serious trouble here.

    She looked so peaceful, still had that satisfied little smile from what we''d

    My body was still wound tight as a spring, the painful hardness in my pants reminding me that we''d only gotten halfway through this dance. Watching here apart under my hands, hearing her scream my name like that-it only made me want her more.

    I''d thought making her feel good would be enough for me. Wrong. Every sound she''d made was like throwing gasoline on a fire, making me burn hotter.

    I brushed her hair back, pressed a soft kiss to her forehead. She snuggled closer in her sleep, like a cat finding the perfect warm spot. That little movement made my chest tight.

    But I couldn''t wake her up. She was exhausted-these past few days had been hell for her, and tonight had taken whatever energy she had left.

    I carefully slipped out of bed, trying not to disturb her. Every step was torture, my body screaming for relief, for her touch.

    The bathroom door clicked shut behind me. I leaned against it, trying to get my head straight. Cold water on my face didn''t help-nothing was gonna put out this fire. Looking in the mirror, I barely recognized myself. Eyes still shing gold, face flushed, breathing like I''d run a marathon.

    I looked like an animal in heat.

    I stripped off my clothes, finally freeing myself from the torture of tight fabric. Even

    in the cool air, I was steel-hard, already leaking.

    Damn it. I needed to deal with this.

    Hot water poured down from the shower. I stood under it, eyes closed, and immediately my brain filled with images from tonight-Ava naked in themplight, arching under my touch, the trust in her eyes when she let me take her apart...

    My hand wraps around myself almost without conscious thought.

    The relief is immediate and overwhelming. I have to bite back a groan, lean against the shower wall for support.

    I start slow, let myself imagine what would''ve happened if she hadn''t fallen asleep.

    She''d wake up, see the state I''m in. Those green eyes would go wide, then dark with wanting.

    "ke?¡± she''d say, voice still sleepy. "You''re still...¡±

    She''d sit up, covers falling away, showing me that perfect body. She wouldn''t be shy about it-she''d reach for me.

    "Let me help, she''d say, eyes sparkling with the same heat I''d seen tonight.

    My hand moved faster, imagining her touch. Those small, soft hands, but confident too. She''d figure out what I liked, find all the spots that made me lose my mind.

    "Show me," she''d say, direct as always. "Tell me how to make you feel good."

    My hand moves faster as I picture it. Her hands on me, learning my body the way I''ve learned hers.

    "Like this?" she''d ask, and I''d guide her, show her exactly how to drive me crazy. "God, yes, I''d tell her honestly. "Ava, you''re killing me."

    But she wouldn''t stop there. My Ava''s curious, brave. She''d want to use her mouth.

    The thought makes me groan out loud.

    I picture her kneeling in front of me, those beautiful eyes looking up at me as she takes me in her mouth.

    She''d start with soft kisses, then use her tongue. Every touch would make me shake, push me closer to losing itpletely.

    "What do you want?" she''d ask, voice all seductive.

    ''Your mouth," I''d manage to say. "Take me in."

    She''d do it, those small hands wrapping around me, then slowly parting her lips. I imagined that warm, wet heat, her tongue exploring, tasting the drops leaking from my tip.

    "You taste good," she''d say, and hearing those words in her voice, even in my imagination, nearly sends me over the edge.

    I pictured her taking more of me, adjusting to my size, going deeper. When I hit the back of her throat, she''d make these little satisfied sounds, eyes still locked on mine, full of desire.

    My hand moved faster, imagining my fingers in her soft hair, guiding her rhythm. She''d trust mepletely, let me control the pace, enjoy taking care of

    1. me.

    "Look at me," I''d whisper. "Wanna see those beautiful eyes."

    She''d obey, that loving look making me even crazier. I''d go deeper, feeling that perfect heat surrounding me, getting lost in the intimacy of it.

    "That''s it, my Luna, I''d praise her. "You''re perfect."

    She''d work harder after my praise, try to take even more. She''d be totally focused, using every trick to drive me wild, that concentration making both of us crazy with want.

    My breathing got ragged, hand moving faster. The imaginary Ava kept working me with her mouth while I got closer and closer to the edge.

    ''I want to taste you when youe,'' she''d whisper, and that would be it.

    My rhythm falters as I get closer. In my mind, she''s still working me with her

    mouth, still looking at me with those eyes that see straight through to my soul.

    ''Come for me," imaginary Ava says. "Let me have all of you."

    When I pulled out, I''d kiss her, taste myself on her tongue-that mix would drive us both crazy.

    Or maybe... I could picture something else.

 Bad Husband 185

    Not Let It Take Hold

    ke''s POV

    Her riding me, taking control. nds braced on my chest, hair falling around her shoulders, moving above me like she owned me.

    Watch me, she''dmand, just like she''d watched me tonight. "See what I do to you."

    She''d know exactly how to make me lose it, would slow down to torture me, then speed up right when I thought I couldn''t take anymore. She''d love seeing me fall apart underneath her.

    "You like this?" she''d lean down to whisper. ¡°Like me in charge?"

    "Hell yes," I''d admit, because it was true. Seeing her confident and in control was the sexiest thing in the world.

    She''d change angles, find that perfect spot that made us both go crazy. When she hit it, we''d both moan from how good it felt.

    I was right there, every muscle tensed. The imaginary Ava kept driving me toward madness-her voice, her movements, the love in her eyes...

    "Come for me, ke," she''d say. "Show me what I do to you."

    That pushed me over.

    I exploded, hot cum hitting the tile wall in waves, my groans echoing off the bathroom walls. I had to bite down to keep quiet-didn''t want to wake her up. My whole body shook, pleasure shooting through every nerve ending.

    Ava..." I groaned her name as I came.

    When it was over, I slumped against the wall, watching my release wash down the drain. Let out a long breath, seeing all that evidence disappear.

    I took a few minutes to clean up, get my breathing back to normal. When I was done, I turned off the shower, wrapped a towel around my waist, and faced the mirror again.

    I didn''t recognize the guy looking back at me.

    Was this really ke Morgan? The calm, controlled Alpha King? The most powerful man in the werewolf world?

    I''d changed...pletely lost to her, and I wasn''t sure I could find my way back.

    Here I was, ruler of all werewolves, jerking off in a shower thinking about a Shadow Creek warrior. If the other Alphas could see me now, what would they think? If the Council saw their Alpha King like this...

    But you know what? I didn''t give a damn.

    I didn''t care how pathetic I looked, didn''t care if this wasn''t dignified. Ava Rivers had gotten into my head, my body, my everything.

    I waspletely gone for her.

    I snuck back to the bedroom. Ava was still out cold, curled up small under the covers, looking like she needed protecting.

    I slipped in beside her, pulled her close. She automatically curved into me, her small hand grabbing my arm like an anchor.

    "ke... she mumbled my name in her sleep, voice soft as cotton.

    I kissed the top of her head, held her tighter. Her warmth, her scent, the weight of her against me-it was better than any drug.

    This was what I wanted. Every night like this, every morning waking up with her in my arms.

    I closed my eyes, let her fill up all my senses. With her next to me, I finally drifted off to sleep.

    Chapter 176. Not Let It Take Hold

    Ava''s POV

    Sunlight crept through the curtains, painting warm stripes across the bed. I blinked awake to find myself still wrapped in ke''s arms, his chest rising and falling against my back. His scent-pine, rain, and something distinctly him-filled my lungs with each breath. I snuggled closer, not ready for this moment to end.

    His arm tightened around my waist. Not asleep after all.

    "Hey, he marmured against my hair, voice rough with sleep.

    I turned to face him, finding those blue-gray eyes already watching me.

    Something about that early-morning gaze-still soft around the edges butpletely focused on me-made my heart stumble.

    "Hi yourself, I whispered back, fighting a ridiculous smile.

    He traced my cheekbone with his thumb, a touch so light it almost tickled. ''Sleep okay?"

    *Better than I have in days. The confession slipped out before I could stop it.

    The corner of his mouth quirked up. "Me too."

    Wey there for a while, just breathing together in the quiet. I could''ve stayed like that-all day, but reality had other ns.

    "Council meeting," ke finally sighed, reluctance heavy in his voice. "Can''t get out of it."

    "Duty calls," I said, trying not to sound disappointed.

    ''I''d rather stay here. His palm slid down my arm, leaving goosebumps in its wake. "Just you and me. Tell the whole world to go to hell.¡±

    Iughed. ¡°The big bad Alpha King, hiding from his responsibilities?"

    "For you? In a heartbeat. He pressed a kiss to my forehead. "This Northern Lights circus will wrap up soon. Promise."

    He untangled himself from the sheets and stood, stretching. Morning light caught the nes of his back, highlighting old scars and muscle. My mouth went dry watching him. Some primal part of me still couldn''t believe this man-this powerful, dangerous man-had been minest night.

    We dressed quietly, stealing nces at each other like teenagers. I''d just finished pulling my hair into some semnce of order when his arms circled me from behind, tugging me against his chest.

    "This isn''t over, he murmured against my ear. "What we started."

    I leaned into him, letting my head fall back against his shoulder. "Good."

    He walked me to the door, fingersced with mine. Just when I thought he was leaving, he spun around and hauled me against him, mouth crashing into mine. This wasn''t a polite goodbye kiss-this was iming, marking, promising. His hands framed my face, thumbs stroking my cheeks as he poured everything he couldn''t say into that kiss.

    When he finally pulled back, we were both breathing hard.

    "Wait for me," he said, voice dropped to that growl that made my toes curl.

    I nodded, not trusting myself to speak.

    He backed away, eyes still locked on mine until he reached the trees. Then he turned and disappeared into the shadows.

    Secondster, a massive ck wolf burst from the underbrush. Even in this form, I''d recognize him anywhere-midnight fur rippling over powerful muscle, eyes shing gold as he nced back at me once before racing away.

    I stayed in the doorway long after he''d gone, fingers pressed to my lips where I could still feel the heat of his kiss. Part of me wanted to dance around the room like some lovesick idiot. A tiny voice in my head-born from old wounds-tried to raise doubts, but this time I didn''t let it take hold.

    Chapter 176: Not Let It Take Hold

    Time to stop looking back and start looking forward. Whatever challenges the outside world threw our way-politics, priestesses, prejudice ¨C we''d face them together.

    Chapter Comments

 Bad Husband 186

    Where Is Alpha King

    Third Person POV

    Something had changed in Sophia, and Jackson couldn''t quite put his finger on what it was. Despite his carefully crafted exnations about his past with Ava-all designed to make himself look like the victim-Sophia''s behavior remained off- kilter in ways that worried him.

    She seemed constantly on edgetely, like prey sensing a predator nearby. Her movements through ckwood Manor had be calcted, as if she were avoiding certain people and ces. She steered clear of Lucas more than usual, making flimsy excuses to be elsewhere when the boy appeared. And whenever Ava came anywhere near, Sophia practically disappeared like smoke.

    The confrontation about his and Ava''s past had created unexpected ripples. While Sophia publicly stood by him, privately their rtionship had cooled to a chill. The passionate nights, the intimate moments they once shared-all had dwindled to formal kisses and distant embraces. She yed the role of devoted fianc¨¦e perfectly when others were watching, but behind closed doors, she maintained a careful physical and emotional distance that jackson couldn''t seem to bridge.

    ckwood Manor buzzed with activity these days. Northern Lights delegates in their flowing silver-blue robes wandered the hallways, examining artifacts and engaging in endless trade discussions. Jackson had taken to watching from shadowed corners, cataloging connections, measuring influence.

    What caught his attention most was Sophia''s strange fixation on Lyra Starlight. The silver-haired priestess couldn''t sneeze without Sophia appearing at her elbow with a handkerchief. She shadowed the woman constantly, finding excuses to insert herself into conversations, offering tours of gardens Sophia herself rarely visited.

    "Have you tried the honey wine from our southern vineyards, Priestess?" Sophia would ask, somehow producing a bottle from thin air. "I''d love to hear how itpares to Northern moonberry spirits."

    Or: "I heard you''re interested in werewolf histories-our library has texts dating back twelve generations."

    Anyone else might''ve seen innocent admiration. Jackson saw calction. Sophia was actively pushing Lyra toward ke, creating opportunities for them to be alone, singing the priestess''s praises whenever her father was in earshot.

    Strangest of all was ke''s increasing absence from the manor. While delegates lingered in sitting rooms waiting for meetings, the Alpha King himself rarely appeared outside of formal obligations.

    Where exactly was the most powerful werewolf in existence disappearing to?

    The restaurant Jackson chose was deliberately intimate-dim lighting, secluded booths, servers who knew when to vanish. He watched Sophia pick at her salmon, fork pushing pink kes around without actually eating.

    "Your dad''s been ghost modetely," he said casually, sipping his wine. "Pulled another disappearing act today."

    Sophia''s head snapped up. "What?"

    ''ke, Jackson rified. "He''s barely at the manor. Only shows his face when Lyra or the other silver-robes absolutely need him." He tilted his head. "Got any idea where he''s hiding out?"

    She shrugged, gaze dropping back to her mangled fish. "Council stuff, probably. Alpha King business."

    Jackson nodded slowly. That answer might''ve satisfied anyone else, but something didn''t add up. He''d stopped by ke''s office earlier that day, hoping

    to discuss Shadow Creek matters. Tyler had informed him that ke hadn''t been in the council hall for days.

    So if he wasn''t at the office, and he wasn''t at the manor...

    "Nowhere else he might be?¡± Jackson pressed, watching her face carefully. "Somewhere specific?"

    Sophia frowned, then understanding dawned in her eyes. "Oh! He mentioned something about the northern territory. We have this vi up there-hardly ever use it, but he crashes there sometimes when handling business in that area."

    Jackson nodded thoughtfully, filing that information away forter. Maybe a little reconnaissance trip was in order. If ke was working on something important enough to disappear for days, Jackson wanted to know about it.

    Chapter 177: Where is Alpha King

    After all, his n for Shadow Creek depended on maintaining a good rtionship with the Alpha King

    Try the chocte thing," he said, smoothly changing subjects, ''Chef said it''s got those berries Lyra brought as a gift.

    Sophiax face brightened at the priestess''s name. Lyra''s been amazing with cultural exchanges. Did you know she''s thinking about extending her stay in Silverpeak? Maybe permanently."

    "Oh?" Jackson raised an eyebrow. "What kind of arrangement are we talking about?"

    A secretive smile yed across Sophia''s lips. ¡°The kind that benefits everyone.¡±

    After dinner, he drove her back to ckwood, promising to see her tomorrow. She nodded, leaning

    over to brush a kiss against his cheek.

    "Thanks for dinner,'' she said, voice oddly distant..

    Jackson caught her wrist before she could pull away. He saw the sadness

    lingering in her eyes, the worry creasing her forehead. He pulled her closer, kissing her deeply. She hesitated, then melted into him-just for a moment-before drawing back.

    "I love you, Sophia," he said quietly. "Don''t forget that."

    She searched his face, then nodded, offering a smile that didn''t quite reach her eyes. One more quick kiss, and then she was gone, heading into the manor without looking back.

    Jackson watched her disappear, mind already shifting gears. Tomorrow morning, he''d take a little drive north.

    Dawn barely colored the sky when Jackson started his car. The drive took him deep into Silverpeak territory, winding through forests that grew denser with each passing mile. The road narrowed, pavement giving way to gravel, then finally to dirt.

    After navigating what felt like an endless maze of trees, he spotted it-a secluded vi nestled against mountain backdrop.

    Jackson parked at the forest''s edge and approached on foot, instincts heightened. Just as he reached the tree line, the front door opened. He froze, pressing himself against rough bark.

    ke stepped onto the porch.

    But he wasn''t alone.

    Ava followed him out, hair mussed, wearing simple clothes. ke stood close-too close for this to be anything professional. His hand kept finding reasons to touch her-brushing hair from her face, tracing her arm, lingering at her waist.

    Jackson''s breath caught in his throat.

    Then it happened.

    ke pulled Ava against him, kissing her with an intensity that left zero doubt about their rtionship. The way he held her, the way she responded-this was passion, connection, intimacy.

    Jackson couldn''t move, couldn''t breathe. ke finally released her, saying something that made her smile, then walked toward the trees. Within moments, his body began to change-bones shifting, fur sprouting-until a massive ck wolf stood where the man had been. The wolf looked back at Ava once before disappearing into the forest,

    She stayed in the doorway, watching him go with an expression Jackson recognized all too well-a womanpletely, utterly in love.

    Something inside him cracked. His fists clenched so tight his nails cut into his palms, drawing blood.

    If ke and Ava were seriously involved, his carefully constructed narrative would crumble. Sophia would realize he''d lied. His chances at Shadow Creek leadership could evaporate.

    He retreated to his car, mind racing. He needed to act quickly-get Ava away

    from that vi, away from ke, before he lost everything.

    Chapter

    177:1

    177: Where Is Alpha King.

    Then it hit him. Sophia.

    If

    Sophia

    discovered Ava

    living was

    in this

    vi. ying the role

    of het father''s

    secret lover...

    slow

    smile spread across

    Jackson''s face. He

    knew exactly

    what

    needed to be done.

    Chapter Comments

    ? LIKE

    POST COMMENT NOW

 Bad Husband 187

    Pulling the Strings

    Third Person POV

    Jackson slouched against an ancient oak, hidden in the shadows of ckwood Manor''s grounds. His fingers drummed restlessly against the rough bark while his wolf paced inside him, still raw with rage. The memory of what he''d witnessed that morning yed over and over-Ava wrapped in ke''s arms at the northern vi, looking tip at him like he''d hung the damn moon.

    His fated mate. In his father-inw ''s bed.

    Soft footsteps crunched on fallen leaves. Sophia appeared through the trees, her silk robe catching moonlight and her hair tumbling loose around her shoulders. Despite thete hour, Jackson''s breath caught slightly at the sight of her- something that happened even after all this time together.

    "Jackson?" Her voice softened when she spotted him. She moved closer, brushing a kiss against his cheek. "What''s going on? Your message sounded urgent."

    He caught her hand, intertwining their fingers with practiced ease. The familiar weight of her engagement ring pressed against his palm. I couldn''t wait until morning to tell you this."

    "Tell me what?" She searched his face, worry creasing her brow. "Did something happen with the negotiations?"

    "It''s about your dad. Jackson''s thumb traced circles on the back of her hand. "Remember that northern vi you mentioned? I decided to check it out today."

    Sophia''s eyes widened. "You went up there?" She squeezed his hand tighter. "What did you find?"

    "Your dad. With Ava." Jackson kept his voice gentle as he watched pain sh across her features. "And we''re not talking training schedules, babe. They''re living together. I saw him kiss her goodbye this morning like they''ve been doing it forever."

    "No." Sophia''s fingers tightened around his, her knuckles going white. "That can''t be right. Dad wouldn''t-

    "I wish I was wrong." Jackson pulled her closer, wrapping an arm around her waist. The familiar curve of her body against his was usuallyforting, but tonight it felt like holding a live wire. "But I saw them with my own eyes. She''s not just teaching Lucas anymore. She''s warming your father''s bed."

    Sophia pulled back slightly, searching his face as if looking for any sign he might be mistaken. Finding none, she pressed her forehead against his chest, her body trembling slightly.

    "I thought she was just trying to save her foster father," she whispered against his shirt. "I should''ve known she was hiding something."

    "Oh, she wants way more than just a pardon for daddy dearest." Jackson''s voice carried a hint of bitterughter as he stroked Sophia''s hair. "Remember what I told you about her? Always had her eye on bigger things. When I couldn''t give her the power she wanted, she found someone who could."

    Tears welled in Sophia''s eyes as she looked up at him. "Dad''s been lying to my face. All those ''important meetings'' and ''border patrols... Her voice caught. "How could he do this to us?"

    Jackson cupped her face gently, thumbs brushing away the tears that threatened to fall. "I hate that you had to find out this way. But you needed to know."

    Sophia turned her face to kiss his palm, then straightened her shoulders with resolve. The vulnerability in her eyes hardened into determination. "Thank you for telling me. I know exactly what I need to do now."

    She stretched up to press a firm kiss to his lips before stepping back. "I''ll see you tomorrow at the ceremony."

    Jackson watched as she disappeared through the trees, her silk robe flowing behind her like pale water in the moonlight. Once she was gone, he allowed himself a small, satisfied smile.

    Morning sunlight spilled through the tall windows of ckwood Manor, turning dust motes into tiny stars. The great hall buzzed with activity as Northern Lights delegates swept through in their flowing silver-blue robes, their movements as graceful as water. The air crackled with anticipation for the signing ceremony that would bind the two powerful packs together.

    Sophia spotted Lyra immediately. The priestess stood apart from her delegation, adjusting a ceremonial bracelet at her wrist, those famous purple eyes surveying the room with calcted interest. Since her arrival at Silverpeak, the woman had positioned herself perfectly in every setting - always within

    Chapter 178. Pulling the Strings

    ke''s orbit, alwaysmanding attention without seeming to try.

    It was time to set the final piece of her n in motion.

    Morning, Priestess. Sophia sidled up beside her, voice honeyed but low. Ready for the big day?".

    Lyra turned, purple eyes glinting like amethysts. "Sophia. What a surprise." Her smile was practiced perfection. "You''re up early."

    "Couldn''t sleep." Sophia leaned closer, forcing Lyra to bend slightly to hear her. "Remember what I told you about my father and thatbat trainer?

    Something flickered behind Lyra''s careful mask-a sh of interest, maybe even jealousy. "The Shadow Creek girl. Yes, I recall."

    "It''s worse than I thought. Sophia''s voice dropped to a near-whisper, forcing Lyra to lean even closer. "I just found out they''re not just sneaking around. She''s living with him up at our northern vi."

    Lyra''s perfectly shaped eyebrows rose a fraction-the priestess equivalent of a shocked gasp. "Living together?" She recovered quickly, straightening her already immacte robes. ¡°That''s... unexpected.¡±

    "The thing is, Sophia continued urgently, "Ava''s not what she seems. She approached my father iming she just wanted to save her foster father fro execution. But now? She''s clearly after the crown."

    "The Luna position," Lyra murmured, understanding immediately.

    ''Exactly. And Dad- Sophia''s voice caught, genuine pain slipping through. "He''s never even mentioned her to me. If it''s real, why all the secrecy?"

    Something hardened in Lyra''s gaze. She straightened to her full height, silver hair cascading down her back like a frozen waterfall. "The signing ceremony today will have photographs after, yes? Perhaps it''s time for certain... truths toe to light."

    Before Sophia could answer, the great hall doors swung open with a heavy creak. ke strode in,manding the room without saying a word. His formal Alpha regalia gleamed with silver emblems of power-the Silverpeak wolf head prominent on his chest, ancient symbols embroidered along his sleeve cuffs. The air itself seemed to bend around him, heavy with Alpha energy that made lesser wolves lower their eyes automatically.

    Sophia and Lyra stepped apart, but not before exchanging a look of perfect understanding. The trap was set.

    Chapter Comments

    Visitor

    this is pissing me off lol

    View 1 Comment >

    LIKE

 Bad Husband 188

    I''ve Found My Luna

    ke''s POV

    The moment I walked in, I felt it-that prickly sensation at the back of my neck like someone was mapping out my weak spots. Northern Lights delegates clustered around the long table, fussing with documents and adjusting ceremonial objects, but my attention snagged on a sh of silver.

    Lyra.

    She stood dead center in the room like she''d calcted the exact spot to catch the light, those purple eyes locking onto me withser focus. Something in her gaze made my wolf bristle.

    Alpha King. She dipped into a fluid curtsy, voice treaty signing."

    As

    honey but twice as sticky. "We were starting to think you''d gotten lost on your way to your own

    The hair on my arms stood up. Something was off in her tone-too knowing, too smug.

    "Got caught up with border patrols," I lied, keeping my face neutral. My scent probably told another story entirely, still carrying traces of Ava''s soap and skin from this morning.

    I''d left her sleeping, tangled in sheets that smelled like both of us. That night still hummed in my blood-the way she''d finally rxed when I promised to make us public, how her smile had broken through all thoseyers of doubt. No more hiding, I''d told her. No more secrets.

    Lyra drifted closer, invading my space with practiced

    ease. Her

    northern scent-all pine and winter mint-wrapped around me like a cold fog.

    "You look... refreshed," she murmured, those purple

    eyes

    over my face. "The northern climate must agree with you."

    My wolf went still, instantly alert. "Silverpeak''s north country has always been good for clearing the head."

    "Especially that secluded little vi, I imagine." Her smile sharpened at the edges. "I hear the... amodations there are quite special."

    My chest tightened. That vi was Morgan family property, its location deliberately kept off official records. Only family and our closest people knew about it.

    "Should we get started?" I nodded toward the treaty table, deliberately changing course. "I''ve got a full schedule today."

    "Of course." Her smile widened, showing perfect teeth. "Everything''s ready. James suggested photos in the moonlight garden after. For the historic record."

    I nodded, but my attention had already snagged on Sophia hovering When she caught me looking, she immediately turned away.

    Another warning bell went off in my head.

    near the windows. She looked like hell-red-rimmed eyes, tension lining her mouth.

    The signing itself went smoothly enough. Northern Lights'' chief envoy James and I exchanged the usual formal words, signed our names in ck ink, then sealed the deal with blood drops from both Alphas. Standard practice for treaties meant tost-our mixed blood in the ink would make breaking this agreement physically painful for either side.

    But the whole time, I couldn''t shake that hunted feeling. Lyra kept watching me from beneath hershes, something calcting in her gaze. Sophia stayed on the ceremony''s edges, fidgeting with her sleeve cuffs, never quite meeting my eyes.

    Something was brewing. I just couldn''t see the shape of it yet,

    When James called for celebratory drinks, servants appeared with trays of crystal sses filled with something faintly luminescent-Northern Lights'' famous moon wine, brewed only under full moons and said to sharpen a werewolf''s senses to supernatural levels.

    "To prosperity between our territories," James/raised his ss, voice carrying across the hall. "May the moon bless this union of packs."

    Everyone raised their sses. I took a small sip, the wine hitting my tongue with a burst of cold fire, But before anyone could drink deeper, Lyra stepped

    forward, cing herself squarely in the center of attention.

    Chpater 179; I''ve Found My Lune

    *If I might add another toast,'' she said, voire cleat as a bell. The mom Instantly quieted ¨C even in Silverpeak, a Northern, Lhen the vettes

    respect

    She turned to face me directly, those purple eyes glittering with something that made my skin crawl.

    To Alpha King ke, she raised her ss higher, "not only for his leadership in these negotiations, but for the new chapter of his life that''s about to- begin

    The room temperature seemed to drop ten degrees. Every eye switched between us, confusion rippling through the crowd.

    Lyra''s smile deepened as she turned to address everyone. "Northern Lights has always treasured its connection to Silverpeak. But perhaps, she paused delicately, we might soon celebrate an even more... personal alliance?"

    Whispers broke out instantly. From the corner of my eye, I caught Sophia''s expression-a sh of something that looked ufortably like triumph before she schooled her features.

    The trap finally showed itself.

    An elderly wolf stepped forward-one of the official pack historians, scroll and pen already in hand. Perfect timing. Too perfect.

    Alpha King, his voice carried the formal tone of official record-keeping, "for the historical documentation of this momentous day, might I rify the rumors circting among the packs? Is there truth to the spection about a forting union between yourself and the Northern Lights High Priestess?

    Dead silence fell. Every ear strained to catch my answ

    Lyra drifted to my side, close enough that her arm brushed me like iming fingers.

    mine

    in

    a gesture of intimacy that wasn''t lost on anyone. Her cold, sharp scent wrapped around

    I felt the web closing-someone was weaving a false narrative, and I knew exactly who would get hurt in the crossfire.

    My mind shed back to Ava that morning, curled against holding a trace of uncertainty. "About making us public?"

    me in the

    pre-dawn light. "You really meant what you said?" she''d asked, those green eyes still

    I''d kissed her forehead, traced the golden mark on her neck. "I promise. No more hiding. Everyone''s going to know you''re my Luna."

    The relief in her eyes had been like watching someone put down a heavy burden they''d carried too long.

    I felt the weight of the moment press down on me. The diplomatic thing would be

    tough off the question, deflect, keep things vague. Politics demanded caution.

    But I was done with caution. Done with politics dictating my personal life.

    I took a deep breath, feeling the golden mark on my neck warm slightly as if responding to my thoughts of Ava. The connection between us hummed, even with miles separating us.

    ''Since you''re asking officially,¡± I kept my voice steady, letting it carry to every corner of the room, let me be perfectly clear: No, I am not unattached."

    The collective intake of breath was audible. Lyra''s smile froze on her face like cracking ice.

    "I''ve found my Luna, my fated mate," I continued, straightening to my full height. "And soon, the entire werewolf world will know her-the future Luna of Silverpeak.

 Bad Husband 189

    Third Person POV

    The signing hall went pin-drop silent.

    Lyra looked like someone had just pulled the rug out from under her. Her silver hair suddenly seemed dull under the harsh lights, and those famous purple eyes widened to the size of dinner tes. Her lips parted slightly, but no sound came out. Fated mate? Luna? She nced at Sophia, whose jaw had practically hit the floor-clearly daddy''s little girl hadn''t expected him to drop this bomb during a formal treaty signing.

    Nobody moved. Nobody even seemed to breathe. The Alpha energy rolling off ke was so thick you could practically cut it with a knife.

    Lyra recovered first, stepping forward with a tight smile that didn''t reach her eyes. "So, ke,¡± she said, dropping his title deliberately, "have you marked her?"

    The whispers started immediately. People shifted ufortably, knowing exactly what that question meant. Marking wasn''t just some casual thing-it was sacred, permanent, blessed by the Moon Goddess herself.

    ke''s eyes shed gold, his wolf clearly close to the surface. "Yeah, I marked her."

    In the corner, Sophia made a strangled sound, grabbing the wall like her legs might give out. The color drained from her face so fast it was almostical. All her scheming, all her ns to pair her father with the perfect priestess-gone in an

    instant.

    An old werewolf with bushy eyebrows-the pack''s historian-shuffled forward, clutching his ceremonial scroll. "Excuse me, Alpha King," his voice quavered, "but who exactly is this woman? Why keep such important news secret? Your mate affects the entire werewolf world!"

    The corner of ke''s mouth quirked up. "I''m not keeping it secret. I''m telling you right now.¡± He paused, letting the tension build. "Her name is Ava."

    His eyes swept the room, lingering on faces, daring anyone to object. When he reached his daughter, his gaze softened just a fraction. "Today, I''m making it official-she''ll be Luna of Silverpeak. She''ll join me at formal events when she''s ready. Until then, back off and respect our privacy."

    The wolf reporters lost their minds. They fired questions like bullets: "Isn''t she from Shadow Creek?" "Daughter of that traitor William?" "Your kid''sbat teacher? Seriously?"

    ke held up his hand, and the temperature in the room dropped ten degrees. His Alpha presence crashed down so hard that several reporters actually staggered backward. "We''re done here."

    He turned to James, his voice suddenly business-casual. "Northern Lights deal still stands. Don''t let this personal stuff mess with our packs'' rtionship."

    James nodded, relief evident on his face. "Absolutely, Alpha King. Business is business, personal is personal.¡±

    Across the room, Sophia slipped out a side door, moving like a ghost. Her world had just been turned upside down. She''d suspected her father was into Ava, sure, but marking her? Making her Luna? This wasn''t just some fling-this was forever. Moon Goddess, this was way beyond what she''d nned for.

    Chapter 180: Her Name Is Ava

    Meanwhile, Lyra stood ramrod straight, like she''d swallowed a broomstick. She might have been dying inside, but her face, I could''ve been carved from marble. Years of priestess training hadn''t been for nothing.

    She took a slow breath, lifting her chin. "We should finish the signing, she said, voice cool but not cold. "Trade matters more than... personal developments."

    ke gave her a look of genuine respect before striding out, trailing Alpha energy behind him like a cape.

    James sidled up to Lyra, concern etched on his face. "You hanging in there?"

    "I''m fine," she said, straightening papers that didn''t need straightening. "We came for a trade deal. Let''s get it done and go home."

    For the next few hours, the Northern Lights crew dotted i''s and crossed t''s on the agreement. Lyra went through the motions perfectly, but inside, she was already picturing herself back home, soaking in moon-blessed hot springs, washing off this whole embarrassing mess.

    Moonlight spilled into ckwood Manor''s hallways, turning the stone floors into rivers of silver. Lyra was heading to her room when a shadow peeled away from an alcove, blocking her path.

    "Hey," Sophia''s voice was tight, wound-up like a spring. "We need to talk."

    Lyra stopped, those purple eyes flickering with something dangerous. Her silver hair caught the moonlight, making her look almost otherworldly. "I think we''ve said all we need to say."

    "No way," Sophia stepped closer, her voice dropping to barely above a whisper. "Dad just had a moment of craziness. We can still fix this-"

    "Sophia," Lyra cut her off, voice sharp enough to slice, "let me make something crystal clear. This isn''t some high school crush we''re talking about. A werewolf marking isn''t like... like human marriage where you can just get divorced if things don''t work out. It''s soul-deep. Moon Goddess blessed. Forever."

    Sophia took a step back, blinking rapidly. "Wait-he actually marked her? For real? I thought maybe he was just saying that

    for dramatic effect!"

    "You didn''t know?" Lyra''s eyes narrowed to slits. "Then what exactly was your game here? You practically shoved me at your father, knowing full well he was involved with someone else."

    "I knew they were hooking up," Sophia admitted, cheeks flushing. "But marking? That''s... that''s permanent."

    "No kidding," Lyra''s voice dripped with sarcasm. "Do you have any idea who I am? I''m the High-freaking-Priestess of Northern Lights! Guardian of sacred bonds! And you used me like a pawn in your little family drama?"

    "You don''t get it," Sophia''s voice cracked slightly. "She''s all wrong for him. For us. For Silverpeak."

    Lyra studied Sophia''s face, seeing past the anger to something more vulnerable underneath. The girl''s hands were trembling slightly.

    "You''re scared," Lyra said, her voice softening despite herself. "You''re afraid she''ll hurt him."

    Sophia swallowed hard, nodding. "After Mom died, he was... broken. For years. I watched him sleepwalk through life. And now this woman shows up, supposedly just wanting to save her criminal foster dad, and suddenly Dad''s marking her? It happened so fast." She wrapped her arms around herself. "What if she''s just using him? What if this is all some game to

    Chapter 180: Her Name Is Ava

    her?"

    Lyra sighed, some of her anger deting. "It''s not just about your dad, is it? The

    Luna is like... the pack''s heart.

    Chapter Comments

    LIKE

 Bad Husband 190

    Third Person POV

    "Exactly!" Sophia''s eyes lit up. "The Luna sets the tone for the entire pack. She needs to understand our traditions, our history. What does Ava know about being Luna? Nothing! She didn''t grow up in our pack."

    Lyra was quiet for a moment, processing. Despite her annoyance at being manipted, she couldn''t help but see Sophia''s genuine concern.

    "Look," she finally said, "I get why you''re worried. But here''s something they don''t teach you in your fancy Silverpeak schools-the Moon Goddess doesn''t make mistakes. Markings don''t happen by ident. If your father and Ava formed a soul bond strong enough for a marking to take, there''s something real there."

    She smoothed down her silver-blue robes. "The mark itself changes things. It creates connections that weren''t there before, deepens what already exists. Whatever brought them together initially doesn''t matter as much as what''s happening

    now."

    Tears welled in Sophia''s eyes. "He didn''t even tell me."

    "Maybe he was waiting for the right time," Lyra shrugged. "Alphas tend to y things close to the chest.

    "So what now?" Sophia asked, looking suddenly young and lost. "You''re just... giving up? Going back north?"

    Lyraughed, the sound unexpectedly genuine. "Honey, I''m High Priestess of Northern Lights. I came here for a trade deal worth millions. Did I think your dad was hot? Sure. Would a political match have been convenient? Absolutely. But I''m not about to throw away my dignity or my sacred duties over a man-even if he is the Alpha King."

    She straightened, her robes shimmering in the moonlight. "Besides, my job is to protect sacred bonds, not break them. Going after a marked male would be sacrilege."

    Sophia looked like she''d been pped. "So that''s it? You''re just going to ept this?"

    "As a priestess? Yes." Lyra''s eyes glittered. "As the daughter of a pack leader, you should know better than anyone- sometimes we sacrifice personal feelings for the good of the pack."

    Sophia''s expression hardened, something cold and determined settling over her features. "No," she said quietly. "This isn''t over. Not by a long shot."

    Lyra didn''t respond. This wasn''t her fight anymore. But as she watched Sophia''s retreating back, she couldn''t help feeling a twinge of concern. Werewolves were nothing if not protective of their families, and Sophia had just decided Ava was a

    threat to hers.

    The girl was clearly preparing for war.

    ke''s POV

    I finally did it. I told everyone about Ava and me. Weight''s lifted off my shoulders like I can finally breathe again. Wonder if she knows yet? Tyler was supposed to tell her, but haven''t heard back. I want to run to her right now, see her face when she learns she''s officially going to be my Luna. But these Northern Lights folks won''t leave until everything''s signed. Maybe she''s already asleep. My wolf is restless, pacing inside me, wanting his mate.

    Chapter 181: Going Back North

    I''d just scrawled my signature on thest Northern Lights document when someone knocked on my study door. Didn''t need wolf senses to know it was Sophia-that mix of designer perfume and anxiety was a dead giveaway. She only wore that particr scent when she was trying to appear more confident than she felt.

    "Come in," I said, tossing my pen onto the desk.

    The door creaked open and Sophia slipped in. The warm study lights caught her blonde hair, making it glow like gold. I noticed right away that her eyes were puffy and red-rimmed. She''d been crying. As her father, that hit me right in the gut.

    "So," she said, crossing her arms, "we need to talk about what happened today."

    I motioned to the chair. "Above,

    She frowned, perching on the ed was that just for show?"

    I''m guessing?"

    of the seat like she might need to make a quick escape. "Did you actually mark her, or

    "I marked her," I said, holding her gaze. No point dancing around it. "She''s my fated mate, Soph.

    "And about that fight," she said quietly, suddenly finding my bookshelf fascinating. "Between me and her."

    I leaned forward, elbows on the desk. "You mean when you jumped her in the main hall?"

    "She started it," Sophia said quickly, voice going up an octave. "I was just standing up for myself."

    "Come on, Sophia," I said, not buying it for a second. "You attacked her, but she didn''t fight back, just because you''re my daughter. You know she''s not someone who can''t fight-she''s actually really skilled."

    ¡°Because she provoked me!" Sophia''s voice cracked. ¡°I was just defending my position as Jackson''s fianc¨¦e."

    I took a deep breath, counting to five in my head. "Ever since you found out Jackson and Ava used to be mates, you''ve had it in for her. But I remember when you two got along fine."

    "That was before I knew she''d been lying to my face," she shot back, eyes shing gold for a split second. "Both of them

    were!"

    "Fair enough," I said, trying a different angle. "But if they both lied, why are you only mad at her? You forgave Jackson pretty damn quick."

    She looked away, fingers fidgeting with the silver bracelet on her wrist. "Jackson told me things about her. Things you

    don''t know."

    That made my wolf sit up and take notice. "What kind of things?"

    "You marked her," she said suddenly, voice dropping to a whisper. ¡°If I do something to her again... will you hurt me?"

    The question hit me like a sucker punch. I was around the desk in an instant, kneeling in front of her, forcing her to look me in the eyes. "Sophia, listen to me. I would never hurt you. Ever. You''re my daughter. Nothing changes that-not Ava, not anything."

    Her eyes welled up. "But she''s your marked mate."

    "And you''re my blood," I said, squeezing her hands gently. "I might hope you''ll give Ava a chance, but I''d never force you, and I''d sure as hell never hurt you over it."

    Chapter 181: Going Back North

    She pulled her hands away, standing up so fast she nearly knocked over the chair. I need to go. Need to think."

    I watched her practically run for the door, my mind racing. What exactly had Jackson told her about Ava? Whatever it was,

    I had a feeling Shadow Creek''s golden boy was stirring up a whole lot more trouble than I''d realized.

    Chapter Comments

 Bad Husband 191

    Ava''s POV

    I couldn''t wipe the stupid grin off my face as I pushed through the caf¨¦ door. Yesterday still felt surreal-ke standing there in front of all those Northern Lights delegates, telling the entire werewolf world I was his fated mate and future

    Luna.

    The morning crowd filled their usual spots, but I kept catching bits of conversation that made my pulse jump. "...Alpha King''s deration..." "...Shadow Creek girl...¡± "...like something out of a story..."

    Were they actually talking about me?

    "Ava!" E''s voice cut through the chatter. She was practically vibrating in her seat at our corner table. "Get your butt over here right now!"

    I dropped into the chair across from her, trying to y it cool while my heart hammered away. "Hey, you seem-

    "Have you heard what''s going on out there?" She leaned forward so fast she nearly took out her coffee. "The whole damn werewolf world is losing their minds over what happened yesterday! Everyone''s calling it the love story of the century!"

    Heat crept up my neck. "Come on, don''t go crazy. It was just making things official."

    "Official?" E''s eyes went huge. "Girl, he stood in front of the entire Northern Lights delegationt and said ''I''ve found my Luna, my fated mate''! That wasn''t paperwork¡ªthat was straight-up fairy tale stuff!"

    I bit down on my lip, trying to keep the happy bubbles in my chest from floating away. "You really think people are cool with it? I keep worrying someone''s gonna say I don''t belong with him."

    E actually snorted. "Belong with him? Are you nuts?" She grabbed my hands. "The entire werewolf world is throwing a party for you two! You know how many girls would sell their soul to be where you are? You went from regr Shadow Creek warrior to future freaking Luna!"

    The barista-some young wolf with curious eyes-kept sneaking nces our way. When she caught me looking back, she actually smiled and gave me a little wave. My stomach did a flip.

    "No joke," E dropped her voice like she was sharing pack secrets, "the trade caravans are eating this up. They''re saying it proves love beats politics every single time!"

    "Seriously?" I scooted closer, hooked despite myself.

    "Seriously!" Her whole face lit up. "And get this-you know what they''re calling you? ''The Brave Luna.'' They''re saying you''ve got serious fighting skills and the guts to follow your heart!"

    My face got hot. "That''s way over the top..."

    "No way." E''s voice went serious. "Aya, regr warriors everywhere are saying ke picking you gives them hope. Shows that what you can do and who you are matters more than what family youe from."

    Something warm spread through my chest, but worry crept in too. "What about Lyra? Think she hates my guts?"

    I couldn''t help stressing about it. That woman was gorgeous as moonlight and had enough status to make kingdoms bow.

    Chapter 182: Better Get Used To It

    Me? I was just some adopted kid who got lucky.

    E shook her head hard. "A real High Priestess doesn''t hold grudges over stuff like this. Besides, ke never promised her anything. His heart was yours the whole time."

    Relief washed over me. "I just don''t want this screwing up things between the packs."

    "Stop overthinking it." E reached over and squeezed my arm. "Right now you just need to soak up this feeling of having the whole world rooting for you."

    The door chimed, and Tyler walked in. He spotted me and came over wearing a smile.

    "Afternoon, future Luna," he said, and I swear there was amusement in his voice. "Alpha sent me to bring you home."

    My face went tomato red. "Don''t call me that..."

    Tyler chuckled. "Better get used to it. The whole pack''s been buzzing about yesterday. Everyone''s pretty stoked to have a

    new Luna."

    E bounced in her chair. "See? I told you! Even Tyler''s saying it!"

    "Alright, alright." I stood up, grabbing my stuff. "Guess I should go."

    E pulled me into a tight hug. ¡°Enjoy every second of this, okay? You earned it."

    In Tyler''s car, I watched the familiar forest roads roll by. Everything looked the same, but somehow feltpletely

    different.

    "So," Tyler caught my eye in the rearview mirror, "Alpha''s been in the best mood I''ve ever seen. Haven''t watched him this rxed in... well, ever."

    "Really?" I couldn''t keep the smile out of my voice.

    "Really. He spent all morning dealing with questions from other packs, but didn''t get annoyed once. Even had the kitchen prepare your favorite dinner." Tyler paused, then added carefully, "Look Ava, I know this whole identity thing might feel crazy, but you should know-Alpha picked you for a reason. You''re gonna be an amazing Luna."

    The Manor showed up ahead, all those stone towers looking majestic against the mountains. As Tyler pulled up front, I saw a familiar figure step out of the main doors.

    ke.

    My heart did that ridiculous fluttering thing it always did when I saw him. He''d obviously been waiting-probably watching for Tyler''s car. The second our eyes met through the windshield, his whole face lit up.

    "Looks like someone missed you," Tyler/said with a knowing grin. "I''ll go set up Lucas''s training stuff."

    ke was already walking toward the car before I even got my seatbelt off. When I stepped out, he was right there, eyes drinking me in like he''d been starving.

    "Finally," he said, voice rough in a way that made my knees weak. "I''ve been going crazy waiting for you."

    Chapter 182: Better Get Used To It

    Tyler made himself scarce, disappearing toward the training area with perfect timing. Once we were alone, ke immediately pulled me against him, his mouth finding mine in a kiss that was hungry and desperate and perfect. I melted into him, fingers twisting in his shirt.

    God, I''d never get used to the way he kissed me-like I was air and he''d been drowning.

    When we finally broke apart, he pressed his forehead against mine. ¡°After yesterday, after making us public, all I could think about was seeing you again. Telling you face to face that the whole world knows you''re mine now."

    "The whole werewolf world knows," I whispered, still breathless.

    His smile was pure satisfaction. "Exactly what I wanted." He kissed me again, softer this time. "No more hiding. No more worrying about getting caught. I can love you right out in the open."

    I stretched up on my toes to kiss him back. "Still feels like a dream."

    "It''s not a dream. His arms tightened around me. "You''re my Luna, my mate, my everything."

    Hand in hand, we headed toward the training area. I was floating on cloud nine until we reached the training room and Lucas practicallyunched himself at us. ¡°Ava!¡± He was vibrating with excitement. ¡°Did you hear what everyone''s saying? All the kids at school are talking about how you''re gonna be my new mom!"

    I crouched down to his level, suddenly nervous. "Lucas, how do you really feel about that? Are you okay with it?"

    Chapter Comments

    LIKE

 Bad Husband 192

    Ava''s POV

    Lucas shook his head so hard his hair flew everywhere. "Okay with it? I''ve been hoping Dad would find someone he liked

    forever!

    Lucas continued, "Before you showed up, he was grumpy all the time and never smiled. Now he''s actually happy! Plus ! already think of you as my mom anyway!"

    ke''s hand found my shoulder, warm and steady. "Lucas, these things take time. But yes, Ava''s gonna be part of our

    family."

    Lucas threw his arms around me. "So can I officially call you mom now?"

    My throat went tight. "If you want to..."

    "Of course I want to! Mom!" He beamed up at me.

    I had to blink back tears. This kid was gonna be the death of me.

    Training went perfectly. Lucas was focused and eager, showing off his improved bnce and reflexes. But the best part was how ke kept finding excuses toe "check on our progress." Really he just wanted to steal quick kisses when Lucas wasn''t looking, or hold my hand while showing techniques.

    ¡°Dad,¡± Lucas said suddenly during a water break, ¡°you don''t have to sneak around anymore. I''m not gonna tell on you for kissing Ava."

    ke and I both went red while Lucas giggled. "I''ve been hoping you''d get together forever!"

    The sweetness of it all-this careful, giddy new family thing we had going-made my heart feel too big for my chest.

    We moved outside to the back training field for some realbat work. The afternoon sun felt warm on my skin, and it wasn''t until Lucas''s eyes went wide and he straightened up that I realized we hadpany.

    "Oh, hello, Priestess Starlight," Lucas said politely.

    I turned to see Lyra walking toward us across the field. She was still drop-dead gorgeous. But something in her expression was different. Not hostile exactly, butplicated.

    "Ava," she said when she reached us, "could we talk privately for a few minutes?" ke looked at me, questioning. I nodded. "It''s fine."

    Lucas bounded over to his father. "Dad, wanna practice archery while they talk?"

    Smart kid.

    Lyra and I walked to a quiet corner of the garden, away from listening ears. She spoke first.

    "I wanted to apologize," she said straight up. "If I''d known ke had already marked a mate, I never would''ve gone after him. I hope you get that I''m not the type who knowingly messes with sacred bonds."

    Chapter 183: A Little Healthy Fear Helps.

    I was surprised by how direct she was. "You don''t need to apologize. We were keeping things really quiet, You codde have known.

    She shook her head. "No, I should''ve been more observant. Her gaze drifted to where ke and Lucas were ueftion targets. "Watching you three together just now... I finally get what real family harmony looks like."

    Her cheeks colored slightly. "At the signing ceremony, I was way too forward with ke, I even... kissed him that night. I didn''t know how deep your rtionship already was, and I tend to go after what I want pretty aggressively. The werewolf world is focused on your love story now, but eventually someone''s gonna dig deeper into those details, i know kes trying to control the story, but I''m worried this could mess with my reputation."

    I remembered that kiss-it had nearly destroyed me at the time. But now I needed

    to be gracious, Lata-like. World 1 thought this way.

    "If ites to that, I''ll make it clear that our rtionship was only recently confirmed," I said. "You had no way of knowing ke already had a mate."

    She looked genuinely surprised. "You''d do that for me?"

    "Of course. It''s the truth, and I don''t want innocent people getting hurt because of our rtionship.

    Lyra studied ke and Lucas in the distance, thoughtful. "I''ve always believed political marriages were the best way to keep pack stability. Matched status, mutual benefit-seemed like the safest bet."

    She paused. ¡°But watching you three together... I think I''m starting to get something I never understood before."

    "What do you mean?"

    "Real harmony," she said, those purple eyes holding depths I hadn''t seen before. "It doesn''te from matching conditions-ites from souls that actually fit together. Lucas''s trust in you can''t be faked, and the way ke looks at you..." She shook her head. "I''ve seen too many political marriages that look perfect on paper but are cold as ice underneath. But you three have something I''ve never seen."

    My face heated. "We''re still figuring it out as we go..."

    "That''s exactly my point," Lyra said seriously. "You''re working to be a family, not just going through the motions. It makes me rethink some things."

    She straightened, all business again. ¡°You should know the Northern Lights trade agreement won''t be affected by any of this. Real diplomacy is built on mutual benefit, not personal feelings."

    Relief flooded through me. "I was worried about that."

    Lyra was quiet for a moment. "Honestly? I was disappointed at first. But seeing you together today... maybe ke made the right choice. A truly happy Alpha King serves both our packs better than one who''s miserable for duty''s sake."

    She held out her hand. "I''d like us to be friends, Ava. Not for political reasons, but because I genuinely respect you."

    I shook her hand dly. "I''d like that too."

    A mischievous glint entered her eyes. "Besides, I''m curious how you managed to capture the Alpha King''s heart. That man''s famous for being logical and controlled, yet he made the most romantic public deration I''ve ever witnessed. You''ll have to share your secrets sometime."

    Chapter 183: A Little Healthy Fear Helps.

    If I knew how to capture an Alpha King, I wouldn''t have been terrified this whole time.

    My face went nuclear. "I honestly have no clue how it happened..."

    "Look," Lyra''s expression grew serious again, "I''m really sorry for any confusion I might''ve caused. I thought ke''s feelings for you were more casual. If I''d realized you''d formed such a deep bond, I never would''ve acted that way

    "It''s not your fault,¡± I assured her. "We were very private. You couldn''t have known."

    "As someone who''s seen a lot of the world," Lyra said, "let me give you some advice.

    "What advice?"

    "Power brings a lot of temptations and challenges," she said carefully, "but real love is the most precious thing in this world. Hold tight to ke, and don''t let outside forces shake what you have."

    She paused, then smiled. "Though don''t make it too easy for him either. Sometimes a little healthy fear keeps men properly appreciative."

    I couldn''t helpughing. "I''ll remember that."

    "Good." Lyra nced toward the manor. "I''ll be heading north soon-delegation business is wrapped up." She turned back to me. "Oh, and Ava?"

    "Yeah?"

    Her eyes held genuine warmth. "Congrattions. You deserve this happiness. ke''s lucky to find a woman with both the strength to protect herself and the kindness to understand others. That''s what a real Luna should have."

    I was so moved I could barely speak. "Thank you, Lyra. Safe travels."

    She nodded gracefully, silver hair flowing in the breeze. /"May the Moon Goddess bless your love. And maybe next time we meet, I should call you Luna." Chapter Comments

 Bad Husband 193

    Then I''m Right

    Ava''s POV

    The private dining room glowed with soft candlelight, the kind that turns ordinary moments into memories. I froze in the doorway, taking in the scene-crystal sses catching light like tiny stars, white roses scattered across dark wood, and ke, powerful and confident, waiting for me with that half-smile that still did funny things to my pulse.

    "You cooked?" I nced from the elegant table setting to ke, then down at my training clothes. Great timing, as usual. Nothing says "fancy dinner" like sweatpants and a worn t-shirt.

    ke just shrugged, looking pleased with himself. "Tyler helped with setup. I handled the food."

    "The Alpha King cooks." I couldn''t help theugh that bubbled up. "What, do you wear a ''Kiss the Cook apron too?"

    Hisugh rumbled through the room, deep and warm. "Don''t push your luck."

    My eyes caught on a small ck box at the corner of the table, the Silverpeak wolf emblem gleaming on its surface. "What''s that?"

    ke''s expression shifted to something more intent, a look I was learning meant I was about to be surprised. "Open it.

    Insidey twin daggers that made me gasp. The handles were iid with

    emeralds that matched my eyes, the des catching candlelight with an almost supernatural gleam.

    "Moon-forged titanium," ke said, his voice dropping to that tone that sent shivers down my spine. "Ceremonial andbat-ready."

    I ran my fingertip along one de, feeling its perfect bnce. Weapons like these would cost half a year''s earnings back home. "ke.....¡±

    "Get used to it, little one." His voice was gentle but left zero room for debate. "As my Luna, this is just the beginning."

    That bossy tone should have pissed me off. Somehow, when paired with the way his eyes softened watching me admire his gift, it just made something warm unfurl in my chest instead.

    The food appeared next, steak cooked exactly how I liked it-medium rare with a perfect sear. My stomach growled loud enough for ke to hear, and his smile turned smug.

    "Figured you needed actual food after pushing those ridiculous diplomat portions around your te all night."

    "You noticed that?¡± I asked, already cutting/into the steak.

    "I notice everything about you." His eyes never left my face. "The way you scrunch your nose when you''re thinking. How you steal the crispy edges off Lucas''s pancakes. That little sigh you make when you''re pretending not to be impressed.

    My face heated. "Keeping tabs on me?

    "Keeping you." The simple certainty in his voice made my heart stumble.

    I''d just taken my first heavenly bite when little footsteps thundered down the hall. Lucas skidded into the room, hair sticking up like he''d been electrocuted, eyes wide at the candlelit scene.

    Chapter 184: Then I''m Right

    "Whoa. Fancy dinner!"

    "Lucas," ke sighed, but I caught the tiny smile he couldn''t quite suppress. "Bedtime was an hour ago.

    Lucas''s whole body practically vibrated with excitement. ''But Dad! Everyone at school was talking about Ava being my new mom! Tommy Peterson said his dad''s just a boring Beta, but my mom''s gonna be Luna!TM

    ke shot me a questioning look over Lucas''s head. I nodded, and he gestured toward the empty chair. Grab a te"

    Lucas was halfway to the kitchen when he froze, expression suddenly serious. He turned back, fidgeting with his pajama sleeve.

    "Actually, I wanted to ask Ava something."

    ke nodded, and Lucas took a deep breath, his usual boundless energy reced with something more vulnerable.

    "Tommy said I shouldn''t call you mom yet. He says you''re not my real mom."

    My heart squeezed. ke tensed beside me, but I touched his arm lightly, letting him know I''d handle this.

    "Tommy''s right about one thing," I said gently. "I didn''t give birth to you. But family isn''t just about that.

    Lucas''s eyes never left mine. "What is it about then?"

    "It''s about who chooses to stick around. Who protects you, loves you, shows up for you every day." I leaned forward, meeting him at eye level. "It''s about who you feel safe with, who makes your house feel like home."

    Lucas went quiet, mulling this over with surprising intensity for a seven-year-old. Then his face brightened with a rity that caught me off guard.

    ¡°Then I''m right,¡± he dered, confidence flooding back. "You''re totally my mom. You teach me cool stuff and make Dad happy and throw knives better than anyone."

    ke let out a surprisedugh beside me. Lucas grabbed a te from the kitchen and mbered onto the chair between us, already reaching for the bread rolls.

    "Tommy just doesn''t get it," he continued, mouth half-full. "I''ll exin it to him tomorrow."

    The unexpected wisdom from this kid never failed to knock me sideways. As Lucasunched into stories about school, I caught ke watching us both with a look that made my throat tight.

    After two more sses of water, one borate bedtime story, and a surprisingly intense debate about whether werewolves could beat dragons in a fight (Lucas''s position: "Only if we work together and have a really good n"), ke finally got him settled for the night.

    We ended up on the balcony overlooking Silverpeak territory, ke''s arms wrapped around me from behind. The night air carried the scent of pine and distant rain.

    "Luna ceremony," ke murmured against my hair. "We should start nning."

    I leaned back against his chest, feeling the steady thump of his heart. "Is there a handbook? ''So You''re Marrying the Alpha King: Now What?""

    Chapter 184: Then I''m Right

    His chuckle vibrated through me. ¡°Full moon ceremony next month. Vows, pack blessing, the whole tradition.

    "Terrifying." I wasn''t entirely joking.

    His arms tightened. "Perfect." He turned me to face him, fingers tilting my chin up.

    "My Luna."

    Even now, those two words sent a thrill through me. "Llove you," I said, the confession still feeling new on my tongue.

    His kiss was answer enough.

    Morning arrived with controlled chaos. Northern Lights delegates swept through the halls, loading carriages with ceremonial gifts while servants rushed around withst-minute arrangements.

    I stood before my mirror, hardly recognizing myself in the midnight blue dress ke had selected. The emerald stones along the neckline matched my eyes, drawing attention to the golden mark on my neck-visible proof of our bond.

    My fingers wouldn''t stop fidgeting with the fabric. After years in practical clothes, this dress felt like ying pretend. The woman in the mirror looked like someone else entirely-poised, elegant, someone who might actually belong at an Alpha King''s side.

    Yet beneath that polished exterior, I was still just me-still figuring out how to bnce the warrior I''d always been with this new role I never expected. Could I really be what everyone needed from a Luna?

    ¡°Beautiful.¡± ke''s voice pulled me from my thoughts. He stood in the doorway, every inch the Alpha King in his formal attire. "Ready?"

    "As I''ll ever be." My voice came out steadier than I felt.

    Chapter Comments

    LIKE

 Bad Husband 194

    Sweet Warnings

    Ava''s POV

    The main courtyard bustled with activity when we descended the steps. Northern Lights carriages waited in a neat line horses stamping impatiently while delegates finished their farewells. I felt every pair of eyes turn toward us, tracking our movements with undisguised curiosity.

    "Alpha King, James approached with a formal bow, "thank you for your hospitality. This alliance will benefit both territories greatly."

    "The pleasure was ours," ke replied smoothly, his arm drawing me closer. "I believe you''ve met my Luna, Ava Rivers.

    James smiled warmly, pressing a brief kiss to my knuckles. "Future Luna, it''s been an honor."

    Other pack members had gathered to witness the delegation''s departure-Tyler and Maya, Council members, even kitchen staff. To my surprise, their expressions held more curiosity than judgment. Ruth gave me a subtle thumbs-up from behind a pir, making me bite my cheek to keep fromughing.

    "Ava!" Lucas barreled through the crowd, a miniature version of ke in his formal wear. "Everyone knows you''re my mom

    now!"

    Before I could stop him, he''d grabbed Lyra''s hand. "Priestess Starlight, this is my mom! Isn''t she pretty?"

    My face burned. The kid had zero filter.

    Lyra''s expression softened as she looked down at him. "She''s very pretty, Lucas. And lucky to have such a wonderful son.

    Lucas beamed. "I know! I''m teaching her Luna stuff. Did you know she can throw a knife from twenty feet and hit the target every time?"

    I caught Tyler hiding a smile. Great. The knife-throwing Luna-that''s what they''d call me now.

    An elderly wolf with silver-streaked hair approached Oliver, one of the senior council members. His sharp gaze swept over

    me, assessing.

    "Miss Rivers," his voice carried across the courtyard, "as a warrior from Shadow Creek, what unique value do you bring to Silverpeak? Our traditions differ significantly from your upbringing."

    The crowd went silent. I felt my mouth go dry as every eye turned toward me.

    "I..." My voice wavered embarrassingly. I cleared my throat, starting again. "I believe these differences might actually be

    valuable."

    I felt ke''s hand tighten around mine,/offering silent support.

    "I see both packs differently than someone who''s only known one way of life." The words came haltingly, but I pushed through. "And as a warrior, protecting this pack-my new family-is something I already know how to do."

    Oliver studied me, his expression unreadable. The silence stretched ufortably.

    ke stepped in smoothly. "Oliver, remember when Elizabeth first arrived? New perspectives always take time to integrate,

    Chapter 185: Sweet Warnings

    but they make us stronger for It."

    Oliver''s expression softened slightly. "Fair point, Alpha King. I simply wanted to

    ensure our future Luna understands t responsibility she carries."

    I shot ke a grateful look. I still had miles to go before I''d befortable in this

    role, but his steady presence made the journey less daunting.

    As the delegates prepared for departure, Lyra pulled me aside, her voice dropping.

    "I wanted to thank you again for yesterday," she said. "Your understanding meant more than you know.

    "Of course," I replied. Despite our rocky start, I genuinely respected the woman standing before me.

    Lyra hesitated, those unusual purple eyes studying my face. "There''s something else you should know.

    My stomach tightened. "What is it?"

    "It''s about Sophia." She kept her voice low, ncing around to ensure we weren''t overheard. "She approached me several times during our stay, trying to encourage a rtionship between ke and myself."

    Heat rushed to my face. Not exactly surprising, but hearing it confirmed still stung. "Oh."

    ¡°She also told me things about you. About why you came to Silverpeak.¡± Lyra''s expression turned serious. She said you approached ke to save your father from execution. That he was used of being a traitor to Shadow Creek."

    My chest constricted at the mention of Dad. "That''s... that''s true. William Rivers is my father, and he was arrested for

    treason. But Lyra, I didn''te here to seduce ke." I took a deep breath, wanting her to understand. ''Initially I dide seeking mercy for my father, but what happened between ke and me... that was something I never expected. Now I just know that I love him, and want to be with him, regardless of whether he''s the Alpha King or not."

    "I believe you," Lyra said firmly. "But the way Sophia told the story... It sounded like omeone has been filling her head with a very specific narrative about your motivations."

    Jackson. It had to be him.

    "There''s something else," Lyra continued. "William Rivers... that name came up during our recent border discussions. Incidents along our shared borders with Shadow Creek."

    My heart jumped. "You know about his case?"

    "Not specifically, but I remember mentions of something." Lyra''s brow furrowed. "When I return home, I''ll look into what our border guards might know. If there''s information that could help your father..."

    "Lyra, you don''t have to-"

    "Yes, I do." Her voice left no room for argument. "If an innocent man faces execution while the real traitor walks free, that concerns all territories."

    Tears pricked my eyes. I blinked them back, refusing to cry in front of everyone. "Thank you."

    "Be careful, Ava." Lyra''s expressi¨®n turned grave. "If Sophia truly believes you''re dangerous to her family, if someone''s feeding her lies about you...",

    Chapter 185: Sweet Warnings

    She didn''t finish the sentence. She didn''t need to.

    "Trust your instincts," she added softly. "If something feels wrong, don''t ignore it."

    I watched her climb into the lead carriage, her silver hair disappearing behind curtained windows. The convoy rolled through the gates, leaving a strange mix of hope and unease in its wake.

    ke appeared at my side, his arm slipping around my waist. "Everything okay?" "Yeah." The word wasn''t entirely a lie. Hope about Dad''s case flickered in my chest, fragile but real.

    As we walked back toward the Manor, I caught sight of Sophia watching from an upper window. Even from a distance, the calction in her eyes was unmistakable.

    Something shifted inside me. I was done waiting for others to decide my fate. Done tiptoeing around people who saw the as a threat.

    ke leaned in, his lips brushing my ear. "Let''s celebrate. Our first official appearance went perfectly."

    I let myself lean into him, drawing strength from our connection. Whatever storms

    were brewing, I had ke. I had Lucas. I had a family worth fighting for.

    And sometimes, fighting meant having the hard conversations others were avoiding.

    Lyra''s warning echoed in my mind: Trust your instincts.

    Mine were telling me it was time to stop reacting and start acting. Sophia had been fed lies about me, manipted into seeing me as the enemy. Maybe it was time we talked, just the two of us-cards on the table, woman to woman.

    I wasn''t going to let anyone else control the narrative about who I was or why I was here. Not anymore.

    BITE ME WEREWOLVES:

    Ava''s finally decided to take action rather than just reacting to events around her! Perhaps it was Lyra''s encouragement, or maybe ke''s public deration gave her the confidence she needed. Our Ava has always been extraordinary-it''s just that recent events have overwhelmed even her incredible strength. Stay tuned!

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Bad Husband 195

    His Urgent Alpha Matters

    Ava''s POV

    "Dad! Ava!" Lucas bounced between us as we crossed the courtyard, practically vibrating with excitement. "Can you guys take me to the academy? I wanna show everyone that Ava''s my mom now!"

    My chest did that familiar squeeze. The way he said it so naturally, like it was the most obvious thing in the world.

    ke shot me a quick nce. "Sorry, bud. I''ve got some urgent Alpha matters to handle this afternoon. Tyler can take you though-next time we''ll both go."

    Lucas''s face fell for about two seconds before Tyler appeared from the training yard, perfect timing as always.

    "I''ll take you, little wolf." Tyler ruffled his dark hair. "We can hit the market after if you want those honey cakes."

    "The ones with nuts?" Lucas perked up instantly.

    "Those exact ones."

    As Lucas took off running to grab his gear, I felt relief mixed with disappointment. Perfect timing, actually-once he was gone, I could finally corner Sophia for that conversation I''d been putting off since Lyra''s warning.

    "Urgent Alpha matters?" I raised an eyebrow. "Anything I should know about?"

    ke''s mouth curved into something wicked, but before he could answer, Ruth appeared from the manor''s side entrance, flour still dusting her hands.

    "Alpha King, Ava," she said with a slight bow, "Sophia asked me to tell you not to wake her for lunch. She wants to rest until this afternoon."

    My stomach dropped. There went my n to corner Sophia for that overdue heart-to-heart. I''d have to wait... again..

    ke''s smile turned decidedly wicked. Without warning, he caught my hand and started pulling me toward the manor.

    "Come with me," he said, voice dropping to that rough tone that never failed to make my pulse skip.

    "ke, what are you-" I halfughed as he tugged me up the stone steps.

    "Ruth," he called over his shoulder without breaking stride, "we won''t need lunch either."

    I managed to twist around as we passed through the doors. "Ruth! When Sophia wakes up, let me know!"

    "Of course, Ava!" Ruth''s knowing smile was thest thing I saw before ke pulled me deeper into the manor.

    He led me through familiar corridors with clear purpose, his grip warm and firm around my fingers. By the time we reached his chambers, my heart was doing things that had nothing to do with the quick pace.

    ke pushed open the heavy door, drew me inside, then turned to slide the iron bolt home with a definitive click.

    "Alright." I crossed my arms, trying to look stern despite the way my pulse was hammering, "What exactly are these urgent Alpha matters?"

    He turned to face me, and the heat in his eyes made my breath catch. Dark, hungry,pletely focused on me

    "You." He stepped closet. ''You''re my

    urgent matter."

    Oh.

    "ke Morgan," I managed, trying to sound scandalized instead of breathless, ''did you just lie to your son?

    "I chose my words carefully. He backed me against the door, hands finding my waist. His thumbs traced the midnight blue silk. "You have any idea what you did to me this morning?"

    I swallowed hard. "I... what do you mean?"

    "Watching you handle those Northern Lights delegates." His voice toughened, "Looking so perfect in this dress. Every man in that courtyard was watching you, and all I could think about was getting you alone."

    Heat flooded my face. "ke..."

    "I''ve been thinking about getting you out of this dress since you put it on." His fingers found the delicate sps at my throat. "Thinking about all the ways I wanted to worship you once we had privacy."

    The first sp came free, then another. Each small victory earned a soft kiss to the newly revealed skin, his mouth hot against my pulse point.

    "You nned this." My voice came out far more breathless than usatory.

    "The moment I realized Tyler could take Lucas, I knew this was my chance." He lifted his head to meet my eyes,pletely unrepentant. "I''ve been counting down the minutes, thinking about your skin under this silk."

    I should have been annoyed at his scheming. Instead, the evidence of how desperately he wanted me-how he''d been nning this all morning-sent liquid fire racing through my veins.

    "My jewelry," I whispered as his fingers moved to the emerald ne. My breath caught when his knuckles brushed against my corbone.

    "I''ll be careful.¡± He lifted the ne over my head with reverent hands. "Every piece will go back exactly where it belongs. But right now..."

    The emeralds joined my other jewels on the carved wooden chest. ke''s hands returned to my waist, then slid upward, mapping territory that was his by right and choice. When his palms cupped my breasts through the silk, I couldn''t stop the soft sound that escaped my lips.

    "There." His satisfaction was clear against my ear. "I''ve been wanting to hear that all day."

    "Right now, I want to show you exactly how incredible you looked today."

    The first time was urgent, desperate-all the want that had been building since this morning finally breaking free. ke couldn''t get enough of me, his hands and mouth iming every inch of skin the midnight blue silk had hidden. The dress pooled at my feet like spilled ink, and his eyes darkened as they traveled over what was now his to im.

    "So beautiful," he breathed against my neck as he pressed me back against the door, his body caging me in. Every nerve ending came alive under his touch as he kissed his way down my throat, pausing to suck gently at my pulse point until I gasped.

    Chapter 186: His Urgent Alpha Matters

    When he lifted me easily and carried me to the bed, I wrapped my legs around his waist, drawing him closer. The feel of him, hard and wanting against me, made me bold in ways I was still discovering.

    "I love the way you respond to me," he murmured against my ear as I arched beneath him. "The way you trust me to take care of you."

    My hands fisted in his dark hair as he worshipped every inch of me with his mouth. When I cried out his name, voice breaking with pleasure, he groaned against my throat like the sound was everything he''d been craving.

    "Every man in that courtyard was watching you," he said as we came back to earth, both of us breathing hard, "and all I could think about was this-having you to myself."

    I traced the strong line of his jaw, still catching my breath. "Were you really counting down the minutes?"

    "Since you walked out in this dress." His thumb brushed across my lower lip. "Actually, since about five minutes after you left for the vi. I''ve been going crazy."

    The confession made me smile. This powerful Alpha King, reduced to counting minutes like a lovesick teenager.

    "Come here." He pulled me closer on the massive bed, pressing a kiss to my shoulder. Thete afternoon sun had shifted, casting golden light across the rumpled sheets. "Let me do this properly. Like you deserve."

    Chapter Comments

 Bad Husband 196

    Go Carefully, Little Wolf

    Ava''s POV

    The second time was different-slower, more deliberate. ke took his time worshipping every inch of me, his hands and mouth moving with a patience that drove me wild. He found every sensitive spot, every ce that made me gasp and arch

    beneath him.

    "You''re so perfect like this," he whispered against my skin, finding that spot on my inner thigh that made me shiver. So beautiful when you let gopletely."

    His mouth was everywhere-trailing hot kisses down my body, pausing tovish attention on ces that made me writhe. When his tongue found that sensitive bundle of nerves, I couldn''t hold back the broken moan that escaped.

    "That''s it," he encouraged, his voice rough with desire. "Let me hear you."

    I lost track of words, lost in the sensation of being thoroughly,pletely

    cherished. My fingers tangled in his hair, holding him closer as he brought me to the edge again and again before finally letting me fall.

    Later, wrapped in the soft furs, we moved to the window alcove. ke settled behind me, my back against his chest as we watched the sun continue its descent toward the mountains. His arms encircled me, possessive but gentle.

    "The golden mark suits you." He pressed a kiss to my shoulder, lips brushing over the glowing skin. "Did I ever tell you

    what it felt like when it first appeared?"

    "No." I leaned into his warmth, feeling utterly content.

    "Likeing home." His arms tightened around me. "Like finally finding something I''d been missing my whole life.*

    The words made my chest tight with emotion. I turned in his arms, needing to see his face. The golden afternoon light caught the blue-gray of his eyes, making them almost luminous.

    "I love you," I whispered.

    His answer was a kiss that started soft and deepened slowly, hands that knew exactly how to make me melt. When the desire stirred again, it was gentle this time-slow and sweet and perfect. We were finally still, thoroughly spent and utterly content, as evening shadows crept across the floor. ke pulled the soft furs over us, and I curled against his chest, my skin still warm and flushed from our extended afternoon together.

    His fingers tracedzy patterns on my bare shoulder, and I could feel the deep satisfaction radiating through our bond.

    "Mmm," I hummed contentedly, pressing a kiss to the steady pulse in his throat. "Your urgent Alpha business?"

    I felt his quietughter rumble through his chest. "Most pressing matter of my entire day."

    The manor was peaceful around us. Through the tall windows, I could hear evening birds beginning their songs, the distant sounds of the stable hands finishing their duties.

    "ke." Lyra''s words suddenly flooded back. "I should tell you-before the delegation left, Lyra said something important

    His hand stilled on my shoulder. About what?"

    "About Dad''s case." I lifted my head to meet his eyes. "She said his name came up during their recent border discussions with Shadow Creek. She ns to ask

    the Northern Lights border guards about him when she gets back."

    ke wentpletely still beneath me. I watched as his expression shifted from contentment to something much darker guilt, frustration, self-reproach.

    "ke?" I touched his cheek gently.

    "God, Ava." His voice came out rough, strained. "While I''ve been sitting here ying politics, failing to find a single piece of useful evidence, you''ve managed to uncover a potential lead I never even considered."

    He sat up abruptly, running both hands through his hair. "Border incidents. Why

    the hell didn''t I think to check with other territories?"

    "Hey." I caught his hands, forcing him to look at me. "You''ve been doing everything you can. You saved Dad''s life-

    "I dyed his execution." ke cut me off, his voice hard with self-anger.

    "There''s a difference. And meanwhile, you''re the one actually finding ways to help him.

    The guilt in his eyes was devastating. This powerful man-Alpha King of the entire werewolf world-looked utterly defeated by his inability to save my innocent father.

    "ke, we don''t even know if it''ll lead anywhere yet."

    "But it''s hope," he said, some of the tension leaving his shoulders. "Real hope. More than I''ve been able to give you." He cupped my face in his hands. "I''m sorry, Ava. I should have done more, been smarter about this..."

    "Stop.¡± I pressed my forehead against his. "We''re in this together now. Maybe that''s what was missing-different perspectives, different connections."

    Something shifted in his expression then, hope kindling alongside the determination. "You''re right. Together." His thumb traced my cheekbone. "And if Lyra finds something..."

    "Then we finally have a real chance."

    It was in this moment-wrapped in new hope and shared resolve-that thoughts of Sophia crept back into my mind.

    "ke?"

    "Mmm?"

    "I still need to talk to Sophia."

    His hand stilled on my shoulder. "About whatever Jackson''s been filling her head with?"

    "About everything." I tilted my head to look at him in the golden afternoon light. ¡°I want our family to find peace. I want her to understand that I''m not trying to take anything from her."

    ke''s expression grew thoughtful. You know I could handle this. Talk to her myself."

    "I know you could." My voice was gentle but firm. "But this needs toe from me. Woman to woman. I don''t want her thinking you''re choosing sides or fighting my battles for me."

    Chapter 187: Go Carefully, Little Wolf

    He studied my face for a long moment. "And if she''s not ready to listen?"

    "Then at least I''ll have tried." It

    traced one of the old scars on his chest with my fingertip. "I can''t fix everything, but I can

    try to heal what''s broken."

    Something soft entered his expression. "My brave Luna."

    Before I could respond, a gentle knock sounded at the door.

    "Ava?" Ruth''s voice came through the heavy wood, carefully respectful. "Forgive

    the interruption, but Sophia has juste downstairs."

    ke''s arms tightened around me instinctively, but I was already sitting up, the real world rushing back like cold water.

    "Thank you, Ruth! I''ll be there in a minute!"

    ke caught my hand as I started to rise. "If things go badly-

    "You''ll be nearby." I leaned down to brush my lips against his. "I know,"

    His eyes held mine for a heartbeat longer. "Go carefully, little

    wolf."

    I gathered my scattered clothes quickly, ke watching with obvious reluctance. As I fastened thest sp of my dress, I felt our bond pulse with warmth-his strength flowing into me, steadying my resolve.

    This felt different now. Not just another family conversation to stumble through, but a real chance to clear the air and move forward. With potential answers about Dad on the horizon and ke''s full support behind me, I wasn''t walking into this as the defensive outsider anymore.

    I was walking in as ke''s chosen Luna, with nothing to apologize for and everything to fight for.

    Whatever waited for me downstairs, I would face it. Not as anyone''s idea of who I should be, but simply as myself.

    And maybe that would finally be enough.

 Bad Husband 197

    The Conversation

    Ava''s POV

    My fingers drummed against the banister as I hovered at the top of the stairs. One more deep breath. You can do this, Aval

    The living room came into view, and there she was-Sophia, curled into the corner of that ridiculous velvet sofa she loved so much. Book in hand, but her eyes hadn''t moved from the same spot for at least five minutes. She was just staring at the page, shoulders tight as a bowstring.

    Well, at least she wasn''t bolting for the door. Baby steps, right?

    I let my boots scuff against the hardwood-a little warning shot that I wasing. Her spine went ramrod straight, but she kept her back to me.

    "Hey." I dropped into the armchair across from her. "Think we''re overdue for a talk."

    The book snapped shut. When she finally looked up, the ice in those blue eyes- ke''s eyes, but without the warmth- made my stomach clench. Not the look you give a friend. Not even a stranger. This was pure frost.

    "Overdue?" She gave a hollowugh, tossing her book onto the coffee table with a thud that made me wince. "Funny choice of words from someone keeping secrets."

    My fingers dug into the armrest. "What exactly did Jackson tell you?"

    She shot up from the couch, pacing like she couldn''t stand being still. Her fancy slippers whispered against the floor as

    she moved.

    "God, you''re still ying dumb." She raked a hand through her perfect blonde hair. "He told me everything, Ava. How you were fated mates. How nothing was ever enough for you. How the second you realized he couldn''t give you the status you wanted, you went hunting for bigger game."

    The usation felt like ice water down my spine. My throat closed up.

    That lying, maniptive... Of course he''d flip the whole damn story. Paint himself as the victim. ssic Jackson.

    "You can ask literally anyone in Shadow Creek what happened," I managed, my voice rougher than I wanted. "Everybody saw him walk away from me, not the other way around."

    Her hands balled into fists at her sides. "Then exin why my best friend never bothered mentioning she had history with my fianc¨¦! This is my home, Ava!" A tiny crack appeared in her perfectposure. "My mother''s h And you just waltz

    in and-"

    ¡°Because it hurt too much!" I stood up, the words tumbling out before I could stop them. My chest ached like I''d been running for miles. "You think I enjoyed talking about how the guy I loved for two years tossed me aside like yesterday''s trash? Told me our rtionship was just a political speedbump?"

    I could still see Jackson sitting across from me in that coffee shop, stirring histte while calmly exining that our bond was nice but inconvenient for his career path. Like he was declining a lunch invitation, not ripping my heart out.

    Sophia''s eyes narrowed, blue fire sparking behind the ice. "So what was this, then? Some twisted revenge n? Seduce my father because you couldn''t have my fianc¨¦? My mother was a real Luna, Ava. Elegant. Respected. Born for this. And you''re

    just-"

    "You think I engineered this?" Myugh came out all wrong-too sharp, too brittle. "You really wanna know how your dad

    and I met?"

    She crossed her arms, chin lifting slightly. "Enlighten me."

    "At your engagement party." The memory sliced through me, still razor-sharp. "At Moonlight Lodge."

    Her perfect eyebrows shot up. "You were there?"

    I nodded, swallowing hard. The crystal chandeliers. The champagne that tasted like ash in my mouth. Jackson spinning you across the dance floor while I felt my world imploding.

    "I watched you two dancing and nearly lost control. Started shifting right there at the bar." I rubbed my arms, suddenly cold. "Your dad noticed. Pulled me outside. Gave me something with wolfsbane to calm my wolf down."

    "That''s how we met. Me falling apart, him stopping me from making a scene." I watched realization flicker across her face. "If I was some power-hungry schemer, why would I show up sobbing at my ex''s engagement? Why risk exposing myself in front of half the werewolf world? This thing with your dad... it blindsided me as much as anyone.

    Something shifted in Sophia''s expression-confusion cracking through the anger. She sank back onto the couch, fingers twisting together in herp.

    "But we were..." Her voice faded to almost nothing.

    "We were what?" I asked, gentler now.

    The dam broke.

    "We were supposed to be FRIENDS!" She mmed her palm against the armrest, tears spilling over. "I trusted you, With my life! We fought our way out of that hellhole together!"

    Ava!

    The memory hit me like a physical blow-being chained back-to-back in that abandoned basement, Sophia''s hands finding mine in the dark. Trading whispered escape ns. H¨¦r taking down the guard on my blind side while I handled the one

    she couldn''t reach.

    "I know," I whispered, my own eyes burning. "That''s why this is killing me. I''d never betray you

    phia. Never."

    "Then why..." She dragged the back of her hand across her eyes, smearing expensive mascara. ¡°Jackson said you only came here for power. That you''d been nning this."

    Something cold and hard settled in my chest. I leaned forward, looking her dead in the eye.

    "You want to know thest thing your perfect fianc¨¦ said to me?"

    She hesitated, then nodded, though everything in her posture screamed that she didn''t want to hear it.

    "He told me I could be his mistress after you were married."

    The color drained from her face. He what?"

    Chapter 188: The Conversation

    "Said our connection was too strong to waste." My voice came out t, emotionless. "Suggested we could keep seeing each; other on the side. You''d give him political connections, and I''d give him..." I couldn''t even finish.

    I could still smell the coffee shop, see the afternoon sunlight catching on his watch

    as he leaned across the table exining his "practical solution" like he was offering me a business opportunity. Like I was supposed to be grateful for

    the scraps.

    Sophia sat frozen, the look on her face shifting from disbelief to dawning horror.

    The silence stretched between us, thick enough to cut.

    The living room door banged open, making us both jump.

    ke filled the doorway, his eyes zing gold, power rolling off him in waves that made the air feel heavy

 Bad Husband 198

    What Are You Getting At?

    ke''s POV

    "You kept this from me?" The words scraped out of my throat, rough with emotion.

    Ava''s eyes found mine, green and glistening with unshed tears. "ke, not now. Please."

    "Yes, now." I crossed the room in three strides, ignoring the shaky tension between them. "I''m done with secrets."

    My hands found her face, thumbs brushing across her cheekbones, forcing her to look at me. Her skin was warm beneath

    my fingers, the golden mark on her neck pulsing with our connection.

    "Listen to me," I said, voice dropping to that register meant only for her. "I don''t give a damn what Jackson told anyone. I

    don''t care what people whisper behind our backs."

    This woman-this fierce, loyal, stubborn woman-had fought so hard for everything. Fought for her father, for Lucas, for

    1. us. And still, she was standing here, facing down the storm.

    "I love you, Ava Rivers." The simple truth of it burned through me like wildfire. "Not because it''s convenient. I love you because you call me on my bullshit. Because you look at me like I''m just a man, not a crown."

    Her lips parted slightly, eyes shining with emotion. The golden mark on her neck pulsed visibly, our connection strengthening as she leaned into my touch. This wasn''t doubt-this was her taking in the moment, letting herself feel the certainty of our bond.

    "You''re the only one who makes me feel alive." I traced the line of her jaw, feeling her pulse jump beneath my touch. "And that jackass actually suggested you be his mistress while he married my daughter? I''m gonna rip his throat out."

    The threat wasn''t empty. My wolf snarled agreement, already picturing Jackson Hayes bleeding out at my feet.

    I turned to face Sophia, who looked shell-shocked, those familiar blue eyes-my eyes-wide with confusion and hurt.

    ¡°And you,¡± I said, reining in my anger, ¡°need to hear something.¡±

    She swallowed hard. "Dad-"

    "Remember when Ava first came here? When you noticed me watching her during training?" I kept my voice level despite the rage still simmering just under my skin. "You told me something important."

    Sophia''s brow furrowed, memory struggling to surface through the emotional chaos. "What did I say?"

    "You said, ''Dad, I don''t mind if you find someone new." I watched understanding dawn on her face. "You said you didn''t. care if she was younger than me, or from a different background. You just wanted me to be happy again."

    Tears welled in her eyes as she remembered.

    "You said you wanted me to find what I had with your mother-real love, not just duty." I softened my tone. Ava is that choice, Sophia. My first real choice in years, and myst."

    The room fell quiet, just our breathing and the tick of the grandfather clock breaking the silence. Through our bond, I felt Ava''s emotions, flowing- surprise, gratitude, and a love so fierce it stole my breath.

    Chapter 189: What Are You Getting At?

    "But Dad..." Sophia''s voice cracked. "How do you know she''s not just using you? That she hasn''t been manipting you this whole time?"

    I let out a humorlessugh. "If anyone''s been manipted here, it''s you.

    Jackson''s been feeding you exactly what you''d need to hear to turn against her."

    I reached for Ava''s hand, twining our fingers together, drawing strength from her touch.

    ¡°Think about it,¡± I said, holding my daughter''s gaze. "Since the day she arrived, Ava''s done nothing but earn her ce here. She transformed Lucas from a wild brat no tutor could handle into a focused young warrior. She took silver for him, Sophia. She risked her life for your brother without a second thought." Sophia''s gaze dropped to our joined hands, something shifting in her expression.

    "Your mother," I said more gently, "would have wanted all of us to be happy. She''d have wanted Lucas to have a mother who loved him fiercely. And she''d have wanted you to have someone in your corner who understood what it meant to fight for family."

    "That''s Ava," I finished simply. "That''s who she''s always been."

    Third Person POV

    "So we''re finally gonna talk about the elephant in the room." ke''s voice sounded calm, but the golden gleam hadn''t left his eyes, power rolling off him in waves that made the crystal vase on the side table tremble slightly.

    Sophia nced between ke and Ava, teeth worrying her bottom lip. Something was shifting behind her eyes-like puzzle pieces finally clicking into ce after being forced into the wrong spots for too long.

    ke settled into his favorite leather chair, the one that had seen a thousand council meetings, but his body remained coiled tight, ready to spring at the slightest threat.

    "Sweetheart," he said to Sophia, his tone softening around the edges, "a man who really loves you doesn''t turn you against your family. He doesn''t make you into a weapon. Real love builds bridges, not walls."

    A tear escaped down Sophia''s cheek, catching the afternoon light before she brushed it away with trembling fingers.

    "But Jackson''s barely been aroundtely," she admitted, voice small. "He keeps saying there''s urgent pack business in Shadow Creek. Alpha session stuff." She twisted her engagement ring nervously. "Before he left, he promised me good news when he gets back..."

    ke''s jaw tightened. "Funny how this urgent business happened right after I announced Ava

    y Luna."

    He rose from the chair, pacing like a caged predator. Ava tracked his movements, noticing how the nts in the room seemed to bend away from his path, instinctively avoiding his anger.

    "Jackson Hayes," ke nearly spat the name, "doesn''t take a piss without calcting the political angle. He''s been ying a long game, and we''re just starting to see the board."

    Ava watched ke''s controlled fury build, then suddenly straightened, something clicking into ce in her mind. Her eyes widened.

    "Wait a second..." She turned to Sophia, leaning forward. "He''sing back soon?"

    ¡°That''s what he said.¡± Sophia nodded, twisting her engagement ring again. ¡°Said he''d wrap up in Shadow Creek and head straight back here."

    Something electric passed between Ava and ke, a shared realization. She could feel his rage through their bond, hot and protective, but also his sharp focus-the mind of a strategist who''d just spotted an opening.

    "Sophia," Ava said, keeping her voice gentle, "what if we flipped the script on him? What if we let him think his n is working?"

    ke stopped pacing, his golden gaze locking onto Ava.

    "What are you getting at?" Sophia''s forehead creased.

    "He thinks he''s got you wrapped around his finger," Ava exined, the n forming as she spoke. "He believes you''ve bought his story hook, line, and sinker. What if we let him keep believing that?"

    "Ava-" ke''s voice carried a warning, his protective instincts ring.

    "Just hear me out." She raised a hand, never breaking eye contact with Sophia. ¡°If you pretend nothing''s changed-that you still believe him, that you still see me as the enemy-he might get cocky. Might reveal more than he intends to."

    Understanding dawned on Sophia''s face, her blue eyes widening. "You want me to... y along? Make him think he''s still controlling me?"

 Bad Husband 199

    Out of the Mouth of Cub

    Third Person POV

    "Exactly." Ava nodded. "But it only works if you trust us. If you believe we''re telling you the truth."

    ke''s anger hadn''t diminished; if anything, it seemed to concentrate, bing something more focused and dangerous. The thought of Jackson manipting his daughter, suggesting Ava be his mistress-it made his blood burn in his

    veins.

    "Absolutely not." His voice dropped to a growl. "It''s too risky. I won''t put either of you in his crosshairs.

    "Dad," Sophia''s voice was surprisingly steady as she looked up at him, "if he''s been lying to me this whole time... if he''s been using me... I want to know everything. Maybe this is the only way."

    ke looked between them-his daughter and his mate-suddenly realizing they''d formed an unlikely alliance against amon enemy. Pride mixed with apprehension in his chest, a heady cocktail.

    The debate was cut short by the thunderous bang of the front door flying open.

    "MOM! DAD! Guess what happened at school today!" Lucas''s voice echoed through the manor halls, a burst of pure

    childhood enthusiasm.

    All three adults froze mid-argument, the heavy atmosphere suddenly punctured by innocent excitement.

    Lucas skidded into the living room, training gear rumpled, backpack dangling from one shoulder, face flushed with news he couldn''t wait to share. He halted abruptly when he registered the scene: three tense adults, his sister''s tear- streaked

    face, his father''s glowing eyes.

    "Whoa." He nced around, instantly picking up on the mood. "Did somebody die or something?"

    No one answered immediately. Lucas''s brow furrowed with worry as he padded over to Ava.

    "Mom?" He reached for her hand without hesitation. You look sad. Are you okay?"

    Before Ava could answer, he spotted Sophia''s tears and immediately changed course. "Soph, why are you crying? Did someone say something mean to you? Want me to kick their butt at training tomorrow?"

    The offer-so earnest from such a small boy-broke through the tension. Sophia''sugh came out watery but genuine as she looked at her little brother, this innocent child who saw family as the simplest thing in the world.

    A memory shed behind her eyes-the catalyst training incident, how close she''de to hurting him with her jealousy and maniption. Her throat tightened.

    "Lucas," she said softly, brushing away tears, "I haven''t been very nice to Avately. I said some pretty awf because I got confused about some stuff."

    ngs

    "Oh, that''s all?" Lucas''s relief was palpable as he bounced on his toes. "That''s easy to fix! Dad says when we hurt someone''s feelings, we just say sorry and mean it." He shrugged like it was the most obvious thing in the world. "Then we hug it out and move on."

    He looked between the three adults expectantly. "So everybody just needs to say sorry, and then we can have cookies

    Chapter 190: Out of the Mouth of Cub

    before dinner. Right?"

    The simplicity of it-the pure, unfiltered wisdom of childhood-made all three adults exchange nces. This wasn''t over, not by a long shot. But maybe it was a start.

    "I''m sorry I didn''t tell you about Jackson from the beginning," Ava said, looking Sophia in the eye. "You deserved to hear it from me, not him."

    Sophia took a shaky breath. "And I''m sorry I jumped to conclusions instead of just asking you." She twisted her hands together. "I should have remembered who had my back when it really mattered."

    "I''m sorry I let this fester instead of stepping in sooner," ke added, his voice gruff with emotion. "I thought I was giving everyone space, but some things need to be faced head-on."

    "See?'' Lucas beamed, satisfaction radiating from him. "Now everyone hug, and we can go eat. I''m starving!"

    ke watched his son-so innocent, so untouched by theplexities swirling around him-and felt some of the burning rage in his chest begin to bank down to embers. Not extinguished, just controlled. Jackson''s name still made his teeth clench, but Lucas''s presence was like cool water on heated skin.

    "Go wash up first, little wolf," ke ruffled his son''s hair. "We''ll be right behind you."

    "Kay!" Lucas scampered off, crisis averted in his mind,pletely oblivious to the adult world''s tangled web of lies and hurt.

    The dining room that evening felt different-cautious but warmer, like the first thaw after a long winter. ke asionally reached over to add food to Sophia''s te without asking-an old habit from when she was small-and Ava caught the way Sophia''s eyes softened each time. Meanwhile, Ava cut Lucas''s meat into perfect bite-sized pieces, anticipating his needs before he could voice them.

    "So what''d you learn today?" ke asked Lucas, deliberately steering toward safe waters.

    "Coach showed me this awesome dodging move!" Lucas, demonstrated with his fork, nearly knocking over his water ss. "I almost crashed into the wall, but I did it perfect on the second try! Right, Tyler?"

    Tyler, standing guard near the door, nodded with the ghost of a smile. "Natural talent."

    "Mom, Lucas turned to Ava, excitement bubbling over, "can you help me practice tomorrow? You''re w than anybody."

    better at dodging

    "Sure thing, kiddo," Ava smiled, warmth spreading through her chest at how easily he called her ''Mom'' now.

    Sophia watched them from across the table, something shifting in her expression. This wasn''t the political alliance she''d¡± pictured, the calcted arrangement she''d feared. This was just... family. Messy and imperfect, but real. The way her mother would have wanted it.

    After dinner, while Lucas was distracted with dessert, ke''s expression darkened again. He touched his temple briefly, using his mindlink.

    Tyler, my study. Now.

    On my way, Boss.

    ke stood, drawing himself to his full height, Alpha energy settling around his shoulders like a cloak. "We need to find out exactly what Jackson Hayes is doing in Shadow Creek."

    His gaze moved between Ava and Sophia, voice dropping to that dangerous register that made even veteran wolves think twice. "If we''re setting a trap, we need all the information we can get. Tyler''s going to help us dig."

    The atmosphere thickened again, the brief family peace giving way to strategy. ke''s instincts-honed through decades of leadership-screamed that Jackson''s threat ran deeper than they''d realized.

    "Whatever game he''s ying," ke''s voice was steel wrapped in velvet, "we''ll be waiting with one of our own."

    BITE ME WEREWOLVES:

    Okay, I see all yourments... sorry for the dy. Life''s been absolute chaostely. I''m working on the next chapters whenever I can grab a free minute. Promise.

    Thanks for hanging in there with the slow updates. Love you guys. Your update reminders are like a cat''s gentle purrs- technically you''re pushing me, but it just makes me feel so warm and happy that I want to write even-more!?

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Bad Husband 200

    Third Person POV

    ke''s fingers drummed against his desk like raindrops on a roof. Tap-tap-tap. The afternoon sun cut through the tall windows, making dust motes dance in the air. He''d been staring at the same intelligence report for ten minutes, but his mind kept wandering.

    Ava sat beside him, hands twisted together in herp. She kept ncing at Tyler, then back at ke, then at the floor. The tension in the room was thick enough to cut with a knife.

    Tyler stood across from them, holding a file like it might bite him. His face looked like he''d rather be anywhere else.

    "Alright,¡± ke said, finally tossing his pen down. "Just rip the band-aid off. What''s Jackson been up to?"

    Tyler let out a long breath. "Boss, it''s bigger than we thought." He dropped the file on the desk with a thud. "Jackson''s been making house calls. Every Shadow Creek elder, one by one."

    "House calls?" Ava leaned forward. "What kind of house

    alls?"

    "The kind where you show up with expensive wine and smooth talk. Tyler shook his head. ¡°Working them over, real systematic-like.

    ke''s jaw tightened. "And?"

    "Most of them are on board. But there''s a catch." Tyler paused, like he was delivering bad news about a married to Sophia first. Make it official before they''ll back him for Alpha."

    Ava''s hands clenched. "Of course they do. Can''t have their golden boy without daddy''s approval."

    keughed, but there was no humor in it. "Smart move. Use my reputation to prop up their boy."

    terminal illness. "They want him

    "It gets worse," Tyler continued. "Word is, about eighty percent already signed on. And Jackson? Ate it

    up

    with a spoon."

    ke stood up, walked to the window. Outside, ravens pecked at something in the grass. "Power and a pretty wife. What more could a guy

    want?"

    That''s when Sophia looked up from her book. Her eyes went distant, like she was listening to something only she could hear.

    "He''s reaching out," she said, voice carefully neutral.

    ke spun around fast enough to make his chair creak. "Now?"

    Sophia nodded slowly, like she was still processing. "Says he''s got good news. Wants to meet up."

    "Right now?" Ava was already standing.

    "Half hour.¡± Sophia blinked,ing back to the present. "Told him I can''t wait to hear it."

    Tyler gathered his papers. "This could be our shot."

    Something sharp flickered in Ava''s eyes. "Time to put on a show."

    ke walked back to his desk, nted both hands on it. "Right. Give him exactly what he expects to see."

    Tyler headed for the door. ''I''ll get everything ready.¡±

    Forty-five minutester, ckwood Manor''s main hall looked like a family

    drama waiting to happen. Sophia sat on the couch with a photo

    album, sighing dramatically every few pages. Ava stood by the firece, holding

    a teacup like it personally offended her. ke paced the center of the room like a caged wolf.

    The sound of horses outside made them all tense up.

    "Showtime," ke muttered under his breath.

    Sophia mmed the album shut. "Dad, I''m getting real tired of every decision around here going through Ava first.

    ke''s voice boomed across the room. "Sophia, you need to get it through your head that Ava''s family now!"

    Sophia shot to her feet, eyes already getting watery. "Family? How long has she

    even

    been here? I''m your actual daughter!"

    Ava set her teacup down with shaking hands. "Maybe... maybe I should just go. I''m obviously not wanted here."

    ke moved toward Ava, hand finding her shoulder. "Don''t you dare. You''re my Luna, Lucas

    mom. That''s not changing."

    "And what about me?" Sophia''s voice cracked. "Do I even matter anymore?" Perfect timing. The door burst open.

    Jackson rushed in, taking in the scene like he''d stumbled onto Christmas morning. His face cycled through shock, concern, then barely hidden

    satisfaction.

    "Sophia? What''s going on?"

    Sophia practically threw herself into his arms. "Jackson, I...¡±

    ke''s expression went ice-cold. "Family business. Nothing to do with you."

    Jackson held Sophia tighter, addressing ke over her head. "Alpha King, maybe

    I could take her outside? Get some fresh air?"

    Ava yed her part perfectly, voice barely above a whisper. "I should check on Lucas." She turned and walked away, shoulders hunched like someone had just kicked her.

    ke watched her go, then looked back at Jackson. His voice softened just a notch. "Yeah. Maybe that''s best. Let things cool down."

    Jackson stroked Sophia''s back. "Come on, let''s take a walk."

    Sophia nodded, wiping her eyes as Jackson led her out.

    The door closed. ke stood there for a beat, then let himself smile.

    The garden pavilion sat tucked between old oak trees, sunlight filtering through leaves like scattered coins. Jackson guided Sophia to a stone bench, all gentle touches and concerned looks. He had no clue the storm brewing inside her head had nothing to do with the scene they''d

    left.

    "You okay?" He settled beside her, taking her hands. "That looked rough."

    Sophia forced her lips into a smile. "Thanks foring."

    You lying piece of garbage, she thought, but/kept smiling.

    Jackson squeezed her hands. "I knew Ava would cause problems. She''s ripping your family apart."

    Sophia bit the inside of her cheek. "Maybe you''re right."

    Dad and Lucas have never been happier, she thought. We finally feel like a real family again.

    Jackson''s thumb traced her cheek. "I know this sucks, but sometimes you gotta make the hard choices."

    Sophia took a deep breath. Time for the performance of her life. "You know what? You''re absolutely right about Ava. I''ll help you out-put in good word with Dad. Tell him you should be Shadow Creek''s Alpha."

    Jackson''s eyes lit up like someone had just handed him the lottery. "Really? You''d do that for me?"

    Of course I would." Sophia nodded. "You''re the one who''s really right for me.'' Jackson pulled her into a hug that made her skin crawl. "I knew you were the smartest woman I''ve ever met. Once we''re married, everything''s

    gonna

    fall into ce."

    Sophia closed her eyes, enduring his touch. "Can''t wait."

    Jackson pulled back, eyes shining. "Got some amazing news. The Shadow Creek

    elders agreed to back me for Alpha."

    Sophia''s surprise was real, even if her excitement wasn''t. "No way!"

    Jackson''s chest puffed out. "Soon as we make it official, I''ll be Shadow Creek''s leader. Then we can-

    "Then we need to get married fast!" Sophia interrupted, faking enthusiasm. Jackson looked like he might cry from happiness. "Really soon, I promise."

    BITE ME WEREWOLVES

    Things are finally starting to turn in the right direction! I know the recent chapter breaks might not be ideal, but I''m going to try my best to upload the story inplete chunks so you guys can read it all in one go. No more cliff-hangers every few paragraphs ¨C just sit back and enjoy the ride!

    Chapter Comments

 Bad Husband 201

    Third Person POV

    An hourter, Jackson left ckwood Manor looking like the cat who''d gotten into the cream. The second his carriage disappeared, Sophia bolted for ke''s study,

    She copsed into a chair the moment she

    walked in. "I think I''m gonna

    throw up."

    ke rose to close the door, but Ava touched his arm. "Give us a minute?"

    ke nodded, understanding. ''I''ll be right outside."

    Once they were alone, Sophia''s carefully constructed mask finally cracked. She buried her face in her hands. "God, Ava, you were right. You were right about everything."

    Ava moved closer, her voice gentle. "Sophia..."

    "No, let me say this." Sophia looked up, tears streaming down her face. "I had doubts. Deep down, I always had doubts about him. There were moments when something felt... off. The way he''d look at other women, how he''d dismiss my opinions, how everything always had to be about his career." She wiped her eyes with the back of her hand. "But I told myself I was being paranoid. That love meant trustingpletely.

    Ava sat down across from her. "Your instincts were trying to protect you."

    "Women always know, don''t we?" Sophia let out a bitterugh. "That gut feeling that something''s wrong, but we talk ourselves out of it because we want so badly to believe in the fairy tale." She shook her head. "He''s not with me because he loves me. He''s with me for Dad''s influence, for the power thates with being your son-inw."

    "I''m sorry," Ava said softly. "I know how much that hurts."

    Sophia studied Ava''s face. "You tried to warn me, didn''t you? Not directly, but... the way you looked at him, the way you tensed up whenever he was around. You knew what he was."

    "I knew what he was capable of," Ava confirmed. "But I also knew you had to see it for yourself."

    "Smart." Sophia managed a watery smile. "If you''d told me outright, I would have defended him and hated you for it."

    "We women... we have this incredible intuition," Ava said, leaning forward. "But we''re taught to doubt ourselves, to prioritize being nice over trusting our gut. Your instincts were screaming at you about Jackson. You just needed permission to listen to them."

    Sophia nodded, something shifting in her expression. "From now on, I trust my gut first. No more making excuses for people who don''t deserve them.

    ke knocked softly on the door. "Everything okay in there?"

    "Come in, Dad," Sophia called, wiping thest of her tears. "We''re good."

    ke stepped inside, Tyler close behind him. Aya moved back to her original seat, but the air between her and Sophia felt different n warmer, more solid.

    "You almost had me convinced there for a minute," ke said, settling back into his chair.

    Ava smiled at Sophia. "She did great."

    Sophia rubbed her temples like her head might explode. "ying along with his BS... I wanted to punch him in the face so bad.

    ke perched on the edge of his desk. But it worked. He bought every word."

    Sophia let out a bitterugh. "Even told him I''d sweet talk Dad for him. She shook her head. "And he''s all worked up about the wedding timeline."

    ke frowned. "Means he''s in a hurry."

    Tyler cut in right then, carrying fresh intel. ''Boss, our guys confirmed Jackson''s heading back to Shadow Creek this afternoon."

    ke stood, walked to the window again. "He''s rushing back to lock everything down."

    Ava''s voice was thoughtful. ''All our pieces are where they need to be."

    ke stared out at the mountains. "Everything''s ready..."

    "Just waiting for the north wind," Ava finished.

    Sophia looked confused. "North wind?"

    ke turned back. "Lyra''s intel. The border stuff about William''s case."

    Hope flickered in Ava''s eyes. "Once thates through, we hit Jackson from both sides."

    Understanding dawned on Sophia''s face. "His new crimes and his old ones."

    ke''s smile was all teeth. "Then we strike back."

    That evening, Sarah worked in the Hayes family''s littleb, grinding herbs that masked werewolf scent. The powder got everywhere-her clothes, her skin, even under her nails. She didn''t think much of it until she heard carriage wheels outside.

    Jackson was back.

    She finished up, dusting off her hands, then headed down the hall to clean up. That''s when she heard voicesing from Richard''s study. She paused, realizing something weird-she couldn''t smell herself anymore. The herb powder had killed her scentpletely.

    Jackson''s voice drifted through the door, excited as a kid on Christmas. "Dad, it''s going even better than we hoped!"

    Richard''s voice came back, satisfied. "Tell me everything."

    "Sophia''s totally convinced. Even offered to put in a good, word with ke."

    Richard chuckled, low and pleased. "After all these years, our patience is finally paying off. You know, originally... William was actually our best

    bet."

    Sarah''s heart jumped. William? What are they talking about?

    Jackson''s voice turned nasty. "William? Guy''s done for. Who''s gonna believe him now? Can''t even protect himself, let alone fight for Alpha."

    Richard''s voice dropped to almost nothing. "You did good. Long as nobody digs into that whole mess, William''s never getting back up.

    Sarah''s hands flew to her mouth. What mess? Could William''s situation really be....

    Jackson sounded like he was smiling. ¡°All the evidence is gone. As long as we keep our mouths shut, nobody''s ever gonna suspect us.

    ''The next words hit Sarah like a truck.

    "Honestly? I thought William would die in that battle. Was surprised he made it out. The way we set it up, Carter a whole squran vase supposed to have any survivors."

    Sarah''s eyes went wide. Holy-they set up the whole squad to die? William was framed?

    Richard''s response carried an icy undertone. "Too bad he lived, but it doesn''t matter. We''ve gotplete control now.

    Jackson''s voice grew more animated. "Tomorrow I head back to Silverpeak, speed up the wedding ns. Once Sophia and I tie the kant, my spot in Shadow Creek''s locked down tight."

    "Good, Richard agreed. "And remember-about William''s situation? We never talk about it again."

    Sarah stood frozen in the dark hallway, whole body shaking. The herb smell was starting to fade. She needed to get out before they caught her

    scent.

    Oh my God, William was framed! They didn''t just frame him-they wanted everyone to die! And Ava... poor Ava has been carrying this burden all alone. I thought I was helping by staying here, trusting Martha, believing the Hayes family would actually help us. But I was so wrong.

    Sarah''s throat tightened with guilt. Ava was right to be suspicious. She was right about everything, and I chose to trust the very people who destroyed William. I should have stood by her side instead of believing their lies. I have to make this right. I have to get this information to ke and

    Ava!

    She crept back to her room, mind racing. Hayes Manor was crawling with Jackson''s people, but somehow she had to get this information out. William''s life-

    his innocence-it all depended on her now.

    Chapter Comments

    LIKE

 Bad Husband 202

    ke''s POV

    We were all up before the roosters crowed.

    I caught the soft murmur of voices downstairs-Ava and Sophia huddled together

    on the couch, speaking in hushed tones. Nobody could steen with this kind of electric anticipation buzzing through the air.

    Heavy boots on marble announced Tyler''s arrival before he even reached the foyer. He strode in carrying a silver message tube that caught the weak morning light, Northern Lights emblem glinting like a promise.

    "Boss." His voice stayed low, but excitement leaked through anyway. "Lyra came through."

    My pulse kicked up a notch. Ava practicallyunched herself off the sofa, hope and terror warring across her features. Even Sophia abandoned her tea, watching me crack the seal withser focus.

    The parchment felt crisp between my fingers as I unfolded it. Lyra''s neat handwriting filled the page, but what made my breath catch was the official document attached-battle records from Northern Lights territory.

    "Evidence clearing William," I read out loud, my voice rougher than intended. "During border skirmishes with Shadow Creek pack, one Alpha and warrior defeated several of our fighters. The Alpha disyed unusual strength, possibly enhanced bybat drugs."

    Ava''s hand flew to cover her mouth. Tears gathered at the corners of her eyes.

    I kept going: "When surrounded, Shadow Creek''s Alpha Carter suddenly copsed and was killed by enemy forces. William Rivers fought courageously until Shadow Creek reinforcements arrived, forcing enemy retreat.¡±

    Dead silence. This record didn''t just prove William''s innocence-it painted him as the hero he''d always been.

    "Finally." Ava''s voice broke on the word. "Someone''s telling the truth about Dad."

    I crossed to her in three quick strides, pulling her against my chest. Through our bond, I felt everything she was feeling-relief crashing into rage, grief mixing with fierce anticipation for payback.

    "Now we''ve got outside proof," I said, addressing both women. "Time to spring the trap."

    Tyler straightened, already knowing his role. I caught his eye. "You stay put. Watch their backs if things go sideways."

    But Sophia shot to her feet before Tyler could respond. "Actually, Dad, we don''t need a babysitter." Her chin tilted up, stubborn determination recing yesterday''s uncertainty. "I can handle Jackson just fine."

    Looking at my daughter-really looking-I saw someone I barely recognized. Just days ago she''d been manipted by Jackson, and now she was volunteering to set the trap herself.

    "Think you can manage him without backup?" I asked, testing. "Guy''s slippery when cornered."

    Her smile turned sharp as a de. "I''ve got something he wants more than air itself." She waggled her left hand, engagement ring catching the light. "Plus a few tricks he''s never seen."

    Pride swelled in my chest. When had my little girl grown fangs?

    "I believe you can handle it, but do you have restraining cuffs for werewolves?" I asked her half-jokingly.

    Nodding with a knowing smile, Sophia was already reaching for her phone, fingers flying over the screen. When she spoke, her voice dripped honey and excitement: ¡°Jackson! Guess what? I talked Dad into meeting with your family today! He''s heading over there soon, so you shoulde here right now. We can finally set a wedding date!"

    She nced up at me, eyes dancing with mischief. "Hook, line, and sinker. He''ll be so pumped he won''t thin? straight:

    My n was simple. Roll up to the Hayes ce with enough muscle to make it look official, let them think I was bringing good Resta Meanwhile, Jackson woulde running to Sophia like a dog to dinner, giving us room to work.

    *Just remember," I said to Ava, squeezing her shoulder, the second Jackson walks through that door, you two own the game. I trust you with in- nail this."

    The word trust'' hung in the air between us. Ava needed to hear it-that I saw her as my equal, not some delicate flower who needed protecting -

    Sixty minutester, 1 pulled up to the Hayes estate with a convoy that would make the evening news. Twelve Gammas in full dress uniform, vehicles gleaming in the morning sun. The kind of show that screamed ''major announcementing Richard practically skipped down the front steps, grin stretched so wide it had to hurt. Martha and half a dozen family bigwigs clustered behind him, trying to look casual while vibrating with barely contained excitement.

    "ke!" Richard''s voice cracked like a teenager''s. "What brings the cavalry to our humble doorstep?"

    I kept my expression neutral, just formal enough to be believable. "Got some business to discuss, Richard. About Shadow Creek''s future leadership."

    Vague enough to let his imagination run wild, specific enough to get his blood pumping. The greedy gleam in his eyes could''ve powered a small city.

    "Well, hell yes! Come on in!" He practically rubbed his hands together, leading the parade toward his front door.

    The Hayes living room felt like a stage set-everything positioned for maximum impression. I settled into the offered armchair, noting Jackson''s absence. Good. He should be halfway to ckwood by now, chasing Sophia''s bait.

    Martha appeared with a tea service, hands trembling just enough to rattle the china. Amateur hour.

    "So," Richard cleared his throat, leaning forward like we were old drinking buddies, "what''s your take on Jackson''s candidacy? Young man''s got real potential, don''t you think?"

    I steepled my fingers, ying the thoughtful leader. "Jackson''s shown real leadership qualities. Shadow Creek could use fresh blood at the top.

    The Hayes crew nearly broke into apuse. If they only knew what I really thought about their golden boy, they''d be measuring him for a coffin instead of a

    crown.

    That''s when I spotted her.

    Sarah hunched in a corner chair, worrying the hem of her sweater like it held the secrets of the universe. Everything about Her screamed ''woman with something to say-the fidgeting, the way her eyes skittered away from mine, the tension coiled in her shoulders.

    My Alpha instincts rarely lied about this kind of thing.

    "Actually, Richard," I said, standing abruptly, "I''d like to take Sarah back to Silverpeak. Since Ava is already my Luna, she''s family now-Ava''s mother deserves better than ying houseguest.

    Richard''s smile flickered for half a second before snapping back into ce. "Absolutely! Luna''s family should get the royal tre

    I walked over to Sarah, noting how she flinched when I got close. "Pack light. We''re leaying soon."

    She nodded without meeting my eyes, but I caught the relief that shed across her face.

    Ten minutester, we were alone in a small side room. The second I shut the door, Sarah crumbled like a house of cards.

    nt

    "He''s innocent. The words tumbled out in a rush. "William never betrayed anyone. He''s Innocent, and I can prove II.*

    Her hands shook as she pressed them together, knuckles bone-white. "Last night

    I heard Jackson and Richard talking. They thought I was asleep, but 1..." She

    stopped, gathering herself. "I swear by my wolf''s soul to the Moon Goddess- every word I''m about to tell you is the truth.

    Chapter Comments

 Bad Husband 203

    ke''s POV

    A chill ran down my spine. No werewolf made that kind of oath lightly. Break it, and her wolf would abandon her forever.

    "Take your time, I said, gentling my voice. "I believe you."

    What came next hit me like a freight train.

    Sarah recounted the conversation word for word-Jackson bragging about framing William, Richard admitting they''d nned for the entire patrol to die, both of them celebrating how perfectly their scheme had worked. The only thing that had gone wrong was William surviving when he should have been buried with the rest.

    My vision went red around the edges. They hadn''t just destroyed one man''s life¡ª they''dmitted mass murder and pinned it on their sole surviving victim.

    "They packaged a murder as a border conflict," Sarah whispered, tears streaming down her cheeks. "Made William carry the me while they celebrated getting away with it."

    I flexed my hands, fighting the urge to shift right there in that cramped room. Every instinct I had screamed for blood; for justice, for making these bastards pay in the most painful way possible.

    But that could wait. I will, eventually.

    "Alpha King,¡± Sarah suddenly grabbed my hand, "you must tell Ava all this! She needs to know her father is innocent! And warn her that Jackson is dangerous!"

    I have to stay here and keep watch the whole Hayes," I told her, forcing my voice steady. "But you need to know-Ava''s never doubted William''s innocence. Not for one second."

    Sarah''s face crumpled. "She must hate me. I should have stood by her instead of believing their lies."

    "She doesn''t hate you." I reached out, covering her trembling hands with mine." And she''s never med you for the choice you made. She knows separating from a fated mate isn''t easy to bear."

    "Besides," I added, "Ava is excellent. We all knew that. She and Sophia can handle Jackson just fine. I trust thempletely."

    Sarah looked at me then, something shifting in her expression. The worry lines around her eyes softened slightly.

    "Alpha King," she suddenly asked, "may I ask you a question?"

    "Of course."

    "Do you really love her? My daughter?" The question carried the weight of every protective mother who''d ever lived. "Because if you''re just ying games..."

    The directness caught me off guard. Here was Sarah, roughly my age, asking me the kind of question only a mother had the right to ask. Unusual situation, getting the parent talk from Ava''s foster mother, but I understood her need to know. Any good mother would want her daughter from heartbreak.

    rotect

    I looked her dead in the eye. "I love her more than my next breath. Soon as this mess gets sorted and William''s free, I''m making her my wife in front of the whole werewolf world."

    Fresh tears spilled down Sarah''s cheeks, but these ones carried joy instead of pain.

    "Thank you," she choked out. "Thank you for taking care of her."

    "I should be the one thanking you and William for raising such an incredible daughter, I admitted softly. "She''s made, nerything in my I better.

    Afortable silence settled between us. Sarah wiped her eyes with the back of her hand, and I could see some of the weight she''d been carrying finally lifting from her shoulders.

    I nced toward the window, checking the sun''s position. By now, Jackson should be walking straight into whatever trap my glile had waiting.

    Sophia''s POV

    "Ready for this?" Ava whispered, her green eyes meeting mine across ckwood Manor''s sitting room.

    I twisted my engagement ring-the one I couldn''t wait to get rid of. "More than you know."

    We''d spent thest hour going over our n, Dad had left with a convoy impressive enough to make Richard Hayes he was bringing good news about Jackson''s Alpha candidacy. Meanwhile, I''d texted Jackson with just enough honey in my words to lure him straight here.

    The trap was set. All we needed was our rat.

    "Remember," Ava murmured, settling into her hiding spot by the window, "let him hang himself. The more he admits on his own...

    "The harder he falls. Time he got a taste of his own medicine." I smoothed my dress, practiced my excited face one more time. After watching Jackson lie to me for months, there was something darkly satisfying about turning the tables.

    She reached over, squeezed my hand briefly. "I''ve got your back."

    Strange how those simple words made my throat tight. Just days ago, I''d been plotting against her, convinced she was destroying my family. Now I knew who the real poison was.

    Tires crunched on gravel outside. My heart kicked against my ribs.

    "Showtime," Ava whispered, slipping into the shadows as the front door swung open.

    I grabbed Mom''s photo album and curled up on the couch, flipping pages with practiced nonchnce. When Jackson''s footsteps sounded in the hall, I looked up with what I hoped was perfect, innocent excitement.

    "Jackson!" I bounced up, meeting him halfway across the room

    God, he was still beautiful. That perfect smile, those dimples that used to make my stomach flutter. When had something so lovely be so

    hollow?

    "Sophia.¡± His arms circled me in that possessive way I once mistook for passion. "You sounded excited on the phone."

    I pulled back, eyes wide with fake enthusiasm. "Jackson, you won''t believe what I heard."

    His smile stayed fixed, but his eyes sharpened like a predator catching a scent. "What is it, baby?"

    I lowered my voice, ying the excited conspirator. "Lyra from Northern Lights... she might have found evidence clearing William Rivers.

    The change was subtle but unmistakable-his/smile froze, a muscle in his jaw twitched, his pupils contracted to pinpoints. Gotch

    "What kind of evidence?" His voice was carefully controlled.

    "Something about Northern Lights border patrols finding proof. I kept my tone casual, like I was discussing a new restaurant instead of dropping a bomb. "If William is proven innocent... there''s nothing stopping Ava from bing Luna.*

    His fingers tightened on my arms-not quite painful, but a warning. "How reliable is this information?"

    Chapter 194: Two Bombs

    I shrugged, felgning innocence. ''Reliable enough that Dad''s taking it seriously."

    A muscle jumped in his jaw. "I see."

    Time for the second bomb.

    "So, I sighed dramatically, "I think we should postpone out wedding."

    His face went ck with shock. "What?"

 Bad Husband 204

    Sophia''s POV

    Jackson''s face went ck with shock. "What?"

    "Dad and Ava will have their Lube

    ceremony in a month." I twirled a strand of hair around my finger, channeling my best ditzy socialite. I don''t want our events to ovep. This is our wedding, Jackson. I don''t want Ava stealing our thunder."

    face-shock, rage, calction, and finally, that smooth mask sliding back into ce.

    I watched emotions cycle across bi

    "Sophia, sweetheart." His voice turned honey-sweet, the tone he used when trying to wrap me around his finger. "This isn''t the time to get hung up on dates. We need to think big picture here."

    "Big picture?¡± Hilted my he

    innocently.

    "Our packs'' future." He took my hands in his, squeezing a bit too hard. "We need

    to secure our alliance as soon as possible.*

    "But Jackson," I pouted, "this is our wedd

    Shouldn''t we pick a date that means something to us? Something romantic?"

    Something flickered behind his eyes-impatience breaking through the charm. "Romance is lovely, but timing is everything in politics.

    "Politics?" I let my voice cool. "I thought our wedding was about love, not politics." "Of course it''s about love." The lie rolled off his tongue as easily as breathing. "But we have responsibilities to our packs too."

    I wandered toward the window, putting distance between us. "It''s just strange. You''re always saying how much you hate Ava, but now you''re willing to let our wedding coincide with hers?" I turned back to him. "Why the sudden rush?"

    His mask slipped a notch. "Sophia, you''re not seeing the whole picture here."

    "Then help me see it." I crossed my arms. "Why is timing suddenly more important than what I want?"

    He ran a hand through his perfect hair-the first real crack in hisposure. "The Shadow Creek elders are ready to back me for Alpha.¡±

    "That''s wonderful," I said carefully. "But what does that have to do with our wedding date?"

    "They want to see stability." He was choosing his words now, walking a tightrope. "Commitment. The Morgan-Hayes alliance locked down."

    "Through marriage." The words fell like stones between

    1. us.

    "Yes." At least he had the decency not to lie about that. "Before they officially back

    me."

    I nodded slowly, letting the implications sink in. "So you need me to make you Alpha."

    "It''s not like that." His voice took on an edge I''d never heard before.

    "Then what is it like?" I stepped closer, eyes locked on his. "Why are you really in such a hurry?"

    Something in him snapped. "You''re not seeing the big picture! If William Rivers is cleared, those old-timers who loved him mig.. support."

    witch their

    "And?" I pressed, watching him unravel thread by thread.

    "And Ava could convince your father to appoint William instead of me!" The words burst out, raw and unfiltered. "If that happens, everything I''ve worked for... everything my family has built..."

    I let silence stretch between us, watching realization dawn on his fara heil said too dich

    *So,¡± I said quietly, "you''re rushing to matry me because of the elders'' conditions. Not because you love me, but because you read my

    name.

    "That''s not He caught himself, recalcting.

    "Jackson." I cut through his backpedaling. "Do you actually love me, or do you love what the Morgan name can do for you?

    His face changed then, something ugly crawling into his expression. Not rage- something colder, more calcting. Love? Is that what this in

    about?" Heughed, the sou "king any warmth. "People like us don''t have the luxury of love, Sophia. We make alliances. We build prower

    The words hit like a p, but I kept my face neutral.

    "Yes, I need yourst name," he continued, frustration making him careless. And you need my strength. That''s how this works. We can have a good life together, a powerful partnership."

    "A business arrangement." I nodded slowly. "Thank you for rifying."

    "Now isn''t the time for feelings." He stepped forward, reaching for me. "You need

    to be practical about this. We need to set a date immediately

    I took a deliberate step back. "If all you need is myst name... perhaps

    we

    should break off the engagement."

    His face went nk with shock. "What?"

    "I don''t want to be anyone''s stepping stone to power." The words came easily because they were true. "Finding someone who truly values me seems more important than being a political pawn."

    Something dark flickered in his eyes, and they began to gleam with a golden light-his wolf rising to the surface.

    "You dare?" The words came out as a growl. "Sophia Morgan, don''t be ungrateful!*

    "Ungrateful?" I lifted my chin, refusing to be intimidated.

    "Without me, what are you?" He stalked toward me, voice dropping to a dangerous purr. "A lonely princess who lost her mother? I gave you the out?" chance to be an Alpha''s wife, and you want to back

    His hand shot out, grabbing my wrist hard enough to make me gasp. Pain radiated up my arm as his fingers dug deeper, wolf strength making the grip unbearable.

    "You will go tell your father right now that we''re getting married next week." His face twisted with fury. Do you understand me?"

    "Get your filthy hands off her."

    Ava''s voice cut through the room like a knife, calm but deadly.

    Jackson''s head whipped around, shock recing rage as Ava stepped out from her hiding ce, eyes already burning with protective fury.

    His gaze darted between us, realization dawning. "You... you set me up." He released my wrist, shoving me away. "When did this little scheme start? How long have you two been ying me?"

    I rubbed my bruised wrist, straightening to my full height. "Since I realized what kind of man you really are."

    Hisugh was ugly, bordering on unhinged. "Sophia, you''re believing this woman who seduced your father? You really ept her as your stepmother?"

    "We were friends before you came along," Ava said, moving to stand beside me. "You''re the one who poisoned her against me."

    "You were the one feeding me Ites," I added, feeling stronger with her at my side. "Making me forget she saved my life ones

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!