《An Enemy Called Mate》


 Chapter 1

    ZIVA


    ¡®Wash this, wash that.¡¯


    ¡®Clean this, clean that.¡¯


    That is all I hear every single day. I work as an Omega, cleaning the pack house with the other Omegas, even though I am the Alpha¡¯s daughter. Very weird, right?


    Well, it all started after my mother¡¯s death. Everyone in the pack mourned her death, even my father, and unlike other Alphas, my father did not get another Luna.


    It seemed like an eternity before I finally turned eighteen. I was expected to shift and transform into my wolf under the full moon, but sadly, I didn¡¯t. I did not shift, or even feel my wolf.


    Then, the pack members despised me, they didn¡¯t respect me like they used to. Even my father stopped acting like a father. I became the forbidden fruit, and my father got another Luna, my stepmother.


    Also, my father imed her daughter whom he treasured and treated like gold, while I worked as a ve, with no pay. Although my father and his Luna regarded the Omega¡¯s quarter I live in, and my daily meal as my payment.


    But, I can¡¯t continue to live like this. No, I deserve a better life than the life the Moon Goddess destined. To be honest, I wish to abscond, to leave this prison called home, though, there is one person I¡¯m waiting for. The only person where my hopesy still.


    Bang!


    I heard a loud bang from another direction, and I turned toward it, only to spot my room door widely opened, with a cunning snake standing next to the door. The cunning snake is Tania, my step-sister.


    She is very talented at pretending, like I hurt her or insulted her when I was younger to gain my father¡¯s love and attention. Let me say¡­ Alpha Darwin¡¯s love and attention.


    By stealing a gaze at her body, and the tight clothing she wore, it is obvious that she has the perfect shape.


    Also, she looks very gorgeous thanks to the big bucket of foundation decorated on her face. At times, I wonder how she manages to carry so much foundation since it looks heavier than her small head.


    ¡°Why are you here? Shouldn¡¯t you be working?¡± Tania taunted, her soft voice deliberately stressing the word ¡®working¡¯ to mock me.


    I¡¯m used to those statements already, so I didn¡¯t really bother about it.


    I stood up and bowed my head, knowing what my step-sister, Tania was capable of. Thest time I tried to return her mocking statements, she reported me to Alpha Darwin, and I was whipped mercilessly till I became unconscious.


    The wounds still sting and the scars are broadly evident on my skin.


    ¡°I havepleted all the chores, Tania,¡± I replied respectfully, and I heard her utter a tsk.


    Her footsteps approached me quickly, and her handnded on my face, sending my face to turn to the other side from the tight p as my ear rang.


    My cheeks burnt from the p, but I didn¡¯t dare to nce at her, because that can cost a heavy punishment, and no one will tend to my wounds or care about the pain I received.


    ¡°How dare you call me by my name! Do I need to repeat the rules?!¡± Tania yelled, her voice echoing loudly as it reminded me of the rules specially made for me.


    I kept my head in the bowing position, and I replied politely, ¡°No, Princess Tania. I¡¯m fully aware of the rules.¡±


    ¡°Better. To my chamber right now,¡± she replied, her voice receding. Then, I looked up, assuming that she left my presence. My gaze scanned the room, just in case she was still around, and my gaze fell on her retreating back which moved out of the room.


    I let out a sigh, following her retreating back quickly.     Gazing at the thin, rough-looking reflection in the mirror, I scanned the scars on my body, letting out a sigh that seemed to relieve me from my nightmares, and my past memories.


    I shook my head, shaking off my thoughts as I didn¡¯t want to remember any negative memories.


    ¡°Today is going to be a good day, Ziva. Be happy,¡± I reminded myself.


    Swiftly, I picked up the small, ragged hair brush I possessed, and I brushed my hair before braiding it beautifully.


    Afterward, I wore the most beautiful garment in my closet. It was a white dress that reached my ankle, the only dress that is not rough, or old amongst my other old garments.


    I¡¯m not allowed to wear clothes that are different from the Omega¡¯s uniform, but I had to. I will only wear it today anyway.


    My gaze averted from the mirror to the letters on the floor. Today marks the date when my man will arrive. He is the only reason why I didn¡¯t abscond from this pack after he promised to return to me.


    Silently, I walked out of my room and strode to the back side of the Omega¡¯s quarter. Then, a small garden came into sight, I and my man agreed location to meet.


    He had been my best friend since he came to this pack after a war urred in his father¡¯s pack, then we slowly became lovers before he returned to his father¡¯s pack.


    I sat in the garden, patiently waiting for him. Maybe an hourter or thirty minutester, I was not sure, and I didn¡¯t even notice when it became dark as the moon became the big candle in the small garden that provided light.


    Luckily, I did all my work, and today is Tania¡¯s mating ceremony since she will be eighteen today. Everyone is busy preparing for the ceremony, and previously, I begged a younger Omega to cover up for me while I was away.


    ¡°Zivvy¡­¡± I heard a male voice utter. Just then, my heart skipped a bit.


    It¡¯s him! My man, he is the only one who calls me by the name, Zivvy. I looked away from my sitting position, averting my gaze to the voice¡¯s direction. There, I spotted my man, in well-tailored clothing.


    He looked like theplete opposite of me with his expensive clothes and a smile widened his thin lips that I¡¯ve always wished to kiss.


    ¡°Nik!¡± I eximed, rushing towards him as his hands swayed open, weing a hug.


    ¡°I knew that you woulde for me,¡± I squealed with excitement surging through me as I hugged him.


    Inhaling his perfect cologne, I rested my head against his chest since I was shorter than him.


    ¡®Finally, I can leave this pack forever.¡¯


    I pulled away from the hug, sensing his sudden silence. Before, whenever we met after a long time, he would peck my cheeks and hug me tightly, so what changed?


    ¡°I apologize for beingte, Zivvy. Something came up,¡± Niks uttered, his green eyes shing with embarrassment.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. Where is the car?¡± I questioned quickly, ncing sideways for any sign of a car. When I didn¡¯t see a car, my heart squeezed as the happy expression on my face dropped.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± I heard Niks say. His hands touched my shoulders, sending warmth to my body.


    ¡°We will leave some other day,¡± Niks replied, his voice echoing like a wrong lyrics.


    ¡°What do you mean that? We nned this already,¡± I admitted, not wanting to give him any space for excuses.


    ¡°Yes, but something came up. We will leave early tomorrow morning instead,¡± He uttered, causing my jaw to drop in shock. I blinked, trying to recollect his statement.


    ¡°I promise, I will voluntarilye with the car tomorrow morning,¡± he responded, and I forced a smile on my face, not wanting him to see the disappointment that was obviously written on my face.


    ¡°You are fine with that decision, right?¡± He uttered, lifting my chin to make eye contact with me.


    ¡°Yes,¡± I nodded, staring back at his green eyes with admiration. Even though he didn¡¯t bring the car, I still love and cherish him. He had never broken his promises since we were younger, and he won¡¯t. So, I believed him.


    Then, I realized the sudden closeness between us. Our faces were just a few inches away from each other as Niks leaned in, his cologne surrounding me.


    Thump!


    Thump!Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    My heart raced loudly as he cupped my face. His lips pressed against my lips swiftly, and we shared ourst night in Granelma Pack together. After this night, I will leave this prison and stay with my man.     My eyes flickered open, but it was still dark in my small room. I nced at the window, realizing that it was still nighttime.


    I can¡¯t wait for the sun to shine. First thing in the morning, I will pack my luggage and tread to the pack house, where Niks¡¯s car will be waiting for me, just as he promised earlier.


    I looked down at my bare body, recalling what had transpired between us earlier. His kisses, his touch, everything was blissful!


    Speaking of Niks, I have not seen him since our lovemaking. Did he leave to prepare the car already?


    Noises hit my ear, jolting me from my thoughts, including the sounds of celebration. I hastily wore my clothes to join Alpha Darwin and his Luna, so that they wouldn¡¯t suspect that I was missing.


    Opening my room door, I walked out of my room quietly, and I strode toward the direction of the noises.


    As I approached that direction, the noises became loud. I reached there, with my jaw dropping at Tania who was blushing while the pack members cheered her.


    A tall man wrapped his arm around her waist, hugging her. His face was not visible to me, because his back was facing me, and only Tania¡¯s face was visible.


    Certainly, this event would only ur when the mating ceremony had ended and the Alpha¡¯s daughter had been marked by her mate. Lucky Tania, she has her mate already and she is very excited.


    Shortly, the tall man turned around, causing my heart to squeeze at the sight of his green eyes.


    It can¡¯t be¡­ Niks?

 Chapter 2

    ZIVA


    I rubbed my eyes, ensuring that I saw the right face, and upon opening my eyes, I saw Niks again, this time, I saw it clearly. He had a wide smile on his face, with his green eyes wide open as he gazed at all the pack members. As soon as his gaze fell on me, his green eyes did not even reflect guilt or sadness, rather they reflected victory.


    After what happened earlier, he had the guts to mark my step-sister?! Goodness, if Alpha Darwin finds out about this, Niks will be beheaded instantly. Then, Alpha Darwin came into view. He hugged Niks affectionately, causing my chest to squeeze.


    I didn¡¯t even know what to do next. Breathing became difficult as my heart squeezed. It felt like time stopped at my side as I watched Alpha Darwin and his Luna celebrate excitedly. What is going on? Alpha Darwin knew that I love Niks so much, even his Luna, so why are they not rejecting this event?


    To top it all, Niks shared the night with me, and he gazed at me like he gazed at a stranger. I tried to calm myself by exhaling and inhaling repeatedly, not wanting to misunderstand the event or misinterpret it. The cold breeze blew past me, and I watched the entire Darwin family tread inside the main dining hall.


    They didn¡¯t even bother to worry about me. I guess they didn¡¯t know that I was not around, and it felt like I was already excluded from the family. It felt like I was nothing.


    No, I am Niks¡¯s woman! Niks promised me. He mentioned that I will be his Luna, and he will never betray me. Maybe I need to trust him and just speak with him. Silently, I watched them celebrate in the dining hall, and in no time, Alpha Darwin excused himself, then his Luna followed, leaving Tania and Niks in the dining hall.


    This is my chance! My chance to show Tania her rightful ce. She took everything from me, but she can¡¯t take my Niks. He is mine, and only mine. Also, Niks will always choose me over every woman, and there is still an opportunity for him to reject her and make me his Luna instead.


    Steadily, I walked inside the dining hall, already preparing whatever speech I had in my head and the courage left in me. While taking another step, my ear rang at the sound of a chuckle. I gazed at the dining hall, spotting Niks and Tania, with their lips opening and closing as they discussed and chuckled.


    Shortly, Niks leaned forward, upying the space between them and he kissed her!! He didn¡¯t pull away and she didn¡¯t resist too, almost making my knees go weak. Tears dropped from my eyes at that spot, and when I noticed their movement toward my side, I hid behind the curtain.


    Unlike other Omegas whose scent can be noticed and detected by werewolves, my scent can not be detected because I have not seen or gotten attached to my wolf yet. Hiding behind the curtain, I heard a loud bang, and I peeped.


    I was supposed to confront them, but I could not even control myself. It felt like I was rooted to the floor as whatever I was watching made me feel like my body was pierced all over. I watched them kiss each other as Niks closed the door and pinned her against the wall.


    Suddenly, they stopped, and Tania mouthed, with her hands on his chest to provide some space between their bodies, ¡°What about Ziva?¡±


    Finally, someone remembers that I exist!


    ¡°Who is Ziva?¡± Niks retorted, causing my chest to squeeze tighter. How can he say such a thing?


    ¡°Don¡¯t lie to me, I saw your letters on her table,¡± Tania scoffed, and a chuckle escaped from Niks¡¯s lips.


    ¡°Niva is just my ex-girlfriend. We broke up a long time ago,¡± Niks replied. I balled my fists at that moment, attempting to throw a p at his dirty face, but he might overpower me or even kill me if I interfered. It¡¯s best I figure out what his true intentions are. With that, a smile enveloped Tania¡¯s lips, and she pulled him into a soft embrace, ¡°Good. I don¡¯t want that pig around my man.¡±     A week after Niks marked Tania, I burnt all the letters he sent previously, intending to lose all the memories I shared with him. He was my only hope, but he shattered me, used me by taking my innocence, and he denied me to top it all. I had just finished my lunch, a small bowl of rice when my room door vibrated with a soft knock.


    Moving away from my small bed, I walked towards the door, opening it swiftly as my gaze fell on the person standing before me.


    ¡°Why are you here?¡± I asked, my tone dripping with anger. Of all the people to meet this afternoon, it had to be Niks, the man I despise now. I didn¡¯t even bother to wait for his rubbish response before I mmed the door at his face.


    He deserves more for the pain he caused. I can¡¯t even bring myself to tell Alpha Darwin what happened. He will only support his darling Tania anyway.


    I returned to eating my lunch, but after I pushed a spoonful of rice into my mouth, it became sour. All the food I¡¯ve been eating since what happened was sour. Eating became an unimportant thing, but I had to continue eating to muster enough strength to work, clean, and leave this pack. Just then, my room door opened swiftly, and Niks closed it as soon as he walked inside.


    ¡°Get out,¡± I uttered quickly, but in a low tone, so I won¡¯t draw other Omega¡¯s attention.


    ¡°Alright, Zivvy. I know you are heartbroken about what happened at the mating ceremony, but it is not what I nned,¡± He retorted, as my throat heated up right at that moment.


    I looked up, gazing at his ugly face, before responding, ¡°It is not what you nned. It is what you wanted. I can¡¯t believe that I loved and waited for you, only for you to shamelessly mark my step-sister, but I do not me you. I me myself for getting involved with you.¡±


    ¡°Zivvy, please, just listen to me,¡± Niks begged, dropping on his two knees as he moved towards me.


    ¡°I love you,¡± he uttered, holding my hands, with his green eyes flickering slowly, ¡°I will reject Tania if that is what you want.¡±


    ¡°I do not want that,¡± I spat out, and I heard him utter, ¡°Huh?¡±


    I repeated my statement, ¡°I do not want you too. You can continue to be her mate.¡±


    ¡°But we had a lot of ns,¡± he uttered slowly, causing me to snap my hands out of his touch.


    ¡°You changed, I changed, and our ns are nothing. Just leave,¡± I voiced out. Suddenly, he snapped, scuttling to his feet.


    ¡°What is wrong with you?!¡± He yelled as he furrowed his brows. ¡°Do you know what it means to have you, a ve on my bed?! I knelt, and yet you spit nonsense!¡±


    ¡°A ve?¡± My voice croaked, with my throat heating up. Even tears clouded in my eyes, but I forced them to stay hidden. I can¡¯t act as a weakling now.


    ¡°Yes, you are nothing but a ve. I¡¯ve been trying to put up with your poor self all these years, but now that I marked Tania, you are annoyed with that. You should be lucky I dated you and touched you, do you know how many women are lined up to gain that?!¡± He yelled, running his hand through his hair.


    ¡°But it¡¯s fine, I forgive you for being unreasonable. You can still live in my pack as my mistress, rather than working here as a ve,¡± Niks spoke, crashing my heart into pieces.


    ¡°It¡¯s best I die than toy on the same bed with you again because you are nothing but an animal. A wild one to be precise,¡± I voiced out, ring at him. Then, his green eyes flickered, turning into a zing fire, as his hands balled into fists.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    ¡°How dare you insult me!¡± He yelled, this time it sounded like a growl, an angry growl that made the hair at my back stand. I shivered a bit as he approached me steadily with his zing green eyes.


    ¡°I- I,¡± I stammered, a bit frightened by his actions, as his fingers transformed into ws.


    ¡°You will pay severely for what you said!¡± He growled.


    Just then, the door barged open, and Niks stopped moving. He faced the door instantly, like he scented a werewolf he respected, and for once, I thanked the person for opening the door, or else, I would have been murdered. Turning to the door, I spotted Tania in a thin gown. Her eyebrows furrowed, and for a minute, she paused, maybe mind linking someone before Niks ran towards her.


    ¡°Thank goddess you are here! She tried to seduce me¡­¡± Niks spoke quickly, drawing me into a state of shock. Why would I seduce an Alpha, a person who is far stronger than me?


    ¡°That is a lie!¡± I admitted quickly, receiving a p as a reward for speaking the truth from Niks himself.


    ¡°You shameless slut!¡± Tania hissed, interfering. ¡°I know that you have been lusting over my mate. But are you that shameless to even seduce him?¡±


    ¡°Tania, it¡¯s very obvious that-¡±


    ¡°Princess Tania!¡± Tania corrected, and quickly, loud footsteps approached us. I gazed at the people rushing towards my room, only to sight Alpha Darwin and his Luna. This will be their first time stepping into my room since my sight disgusts them, just like the Luna recites to my ear whenever she sees me.


    Hastily, I bowed respectfully, but before I could give my speech, Alpha Darwin¡¯s voice roared, ¡°I¡¯ve tolerated you for all these years, but it seems you and your mother are the same. Shameless sluts!¡±


    Shameless slut? That is the same name Tania termed me. Does this mean that the Darwin¡¯s family named my mother and I a shameless slut?


    ¡°Alpha Darwin, you can¡¯t disrespect my mother or insult her, especially when she died for this pack¡¯s sake,¡± I spoke, saying whatever my mind had since I could not tolerate such insult.


    I found out about my mother¡¯s death yesterday when some Omegas were gossiping about me. They mentioned that my mother died during a war to save Alpha Darwin and his pack members.


    ¡°Who cares if she is dead?!¡± Alpha Darwin uttered, making my heart sink. ¡°Death was her price for bringing you, this illegitimate wolfless girl into this world! I wish I had never met her!¡± He spat, and I raised my head at once, scanning his expression.


    ¡°W-what are you talking about?¡± I stammered, ncing over the smirk on his Luna¡¯s face.


    Letting out a scoff, Alpha Darwin stormed away from my room without answering my question.


    His Luna followed too, but that was only after she shot a deadly re at me. But my mother was a forever faithful mate. During my childhood days, she always cherished and loved Alpha Darwin, so why did he say such nonsense against my mother?!


    A tight, painful grip on my hand caused me to snap out of my thoughts. I turned, gazing at Tania who gripped my hand aggressively, ¡°Poor thing, you didn¡¯t hear anything about your miserable mother?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare speak about my mother that way!¡± I retorted, and a chuckle let out from her lips before she pulled her hand away from me.


    ¡°Let me exin then. Alpha Darwin expected you to shift on your eighteenth birthday as his first heiress, or let me say¡­ future female Alpha, but you didn¡¯t,¡± Tania spoke proudly. She encircled me as she spoke like I was a prey and she was the predator. Certainly, I was very curious about what she mentioned, so I watched her speak.


    ¡°Why?¡± She questioned, swaying her hands proudly.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know-¡± Before I could finish my statement, she huffed, ¡°Because you are nothing, but a BASTARD.¡±

 Chapter 3

    ZIVA


    ¡°Guards!¡± Tania roared as soon as shepleted her statement and shattered my heart into pieces. What?! I am not Alpha Darwin¡¯s biological daughter? Is that the reason for making me work and live like an Omega, while I thought I was being punished for not having a wolf?


    Tears streamed down my chin with that as I broke down. Then, hurried footsteps echoed around me, and when I looked up, I spotted three male guards behind me.


    ¡°Whip her properly!¡± Tania ordered, turning around without any sign of concern. Even Niks spat on me before he rushed toward Tania, like a Pomeranian puppy rushing toward its owner.


    Pathetic! I was given a pathetic life and now, I¡¯m going to suffer, because of my mother, the woman I praised every day for being a better parent than Alpha Darwin. I despise her! She should have killed me before I was born!


    Two muscr hands gripped my hand and before I knew it, I was dragged into my room, with my legs hitting the floor roughly. It received a few bruises, and my eyes became clouded with heavy tears, but I didn¡¯t let them out until I was tied to my bed with the whip hitting my buttock.


    I¡¯ve grown used to the whip, and I do not cry because I know what it feels like. It was like a monthly merciless cramp, but this time, I cried all my eyes out, as it stung my skin and reminded me of all what Tania and Alpha Darwin said. I am nothing, but a bastard. A useless one too.


    Another whipnded on me, this time at my back, and I heard my bone crack as soon as it hit me. I must have broken my spine with more pain surging through it. I couldn¡¯t help, but cry more, as I hoped that I would copse soon and be free from these countless whips.     Many weeks passed after getting whipped, but I was locked in my room throughout, with no food or water touching my lips, though, I didn¡¯t die.


    At a point, I wondered why I survived the beatings and whips I got since I was eighteen years old, and the starvation I received recently. Why can¡¯t I just pass away and end this endless suffering? Is that too difficult for the Moon Goddess to do?


    Even though I tried to do it myself, cursing the Moon Goddess for beingzy and ignorant, I could not. I will only end up with more scars and wounds which does not heal. Now, I can¡¯t even lift a finger or pick up an object to do so since my body is so dry and stiff.


    Myying position had been the same as Iid on the bed in a fetal position.


    My lips could not even move because it was too dry, and my eyes could not pour out tears that I could manage to lick and survive. Every day felt like a decade, with my intestines smashing against each other because of hunger. My stomach had stopped growling for food because it was too weak. Every part of my body was weak and I could not blink too.


    Creak!


    A sound echoed. A sound I do not hear throughout those weeks. The sound of my door opening, but I didn¡¯t even try to raise or turn my head, assuming that my head might break and fall off because it was very dry, and to be precise, who would evene to save me? Maybe the sound was just a hallucination for freedom. Surprisingly, light shed by my bedside too, brightening my dark room.


    Footsteps echoed, and they echoed nearer before they stopped next to my bed. A male face came in contact with my frozen gaze, and with the male clothes, I knew that it was a guard. He raised a bowl to my face and pushed it towards my lips.


    Is he going to give me water to drink?


    Just then, cold water sshed on my head, making me hiss silently at the sudden pain it sent to my face. Later, a bucket of water was showered over my body, and I felt like a dry nt showered with water to make it regain its strength. But why are they doing this? I am being punished, aren¡¯t I?


    After my gown was drowned with water, the gown stuck onto my body, probably revealing my inner garment and my nipples. The male guard nced at my chest for a while, and he turned me over with a push, making me fall to the floor.


    Pain surged through my body once again, but my head did not break apart as I imagined.


    ¡°Hey, eat your food and stop acting like a dead meat!¡± I heard the male guard growl, as a muscr hand gripped my hand, assisting me to sit and let my wounded back rest against the cold wall.


    Another male guard handed a bowl to him, and he stretched it towards my face. I nced at the bowl, sensing that it was a bowl of rice, the same food I ate after I was eighteen years old.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    A bowl of rice was my only food at that time. I ate it at lunch and dinner, but there was no breakfast, and that should be the reason why I¡¯m short and skinny, I was deprived of nutrition.


    The guard fed me two spoonfuls of rice and milk, with his lustful gaze never leaving my chest. I knew where this was leading, but I took the milk. I hadn¡¯t tasted it for three years, and it gave me a little strength. Sure enough, the man reached out to touch my chest just like I expected.


    Fortunately, I gained little strength with the milk, so I swallowed his hand and pressed my teeth against it with all my efforts and strength. Soon, I tasted blood, his blood, while he screamed in agony.


    The other male guard must have noticed his screaming. Suddenly, he threw a huge blow at my face that knocked the breath out of me.


    Sadly, I had to surrender the guard¡¯s hand because of the unexpected blow. As soon as I surrendered it, the guard gazed at his hand, hissing loudly. Unfortunately, the spots I bit transformed into flesh as he healed quickly.


    The guard snarled in anger, his teeth bared like an animal¡¯s. ¡°You stupid fool!¡± he roared, his breath hot on my face. Then he pped me, causing me to taste blood as my teeth cut my cheek. I tried to ignore the pain, and I ensured that I spat on his face, indirectly mocking and insulting him.


    He did not hesitate to wipe the saliva off his face instantly, but I knew that I had engaged myself in another trouble.


    Suddenly, a female voice came from outside the room. ¡°What are you both doing?¡± she demanded.


    ¡°Bring her to the upper room immediately!¡± She ordered with an authoritative tone. Then, the male guards looked at each other, their faces drawn and their shoulders slumped. One of them sighed heavily as if he had been holding his breath the whole time. They must have been disappointed, haha.


    Grabbing me by my arms, the guards yanked me forward, causing me to stumble. I tried to keep my bnce, but they were pulling me along too fast. My feet tripped over themselves, and I felt myself being dragged across the floor.


    It was like I was a rag doll being pulled along by two angry children. I struggled to keep up with them, my breathing in gasps. But the guards didn¡¯t seem to care about my difort, their grip tightened as they pulled me along.


    They dragged me up a flight of stairs, taking me to the upper room the female guard had mentioned.


    On the way, my legs hit the staircase roughly, and I was pushed into a room.


    With a loud thud, I fell on the tiled floor, my bones breaking once again as I scanned the room I was pushed into. The room was big and spacious, unlike mine and it had only chairs.


    ¡°This must be Alpha¡¯s Darwin private meeting room,¡± I thought to myself, scanning the surroundings, but I was not certain if my thought was right.


    Just then, the door barged open noisily.

 Chapter 4

    ZIVA


    Hastily, I averted my gaze to the door, hoping that the two male guards I met in my room earlier were not the people who barged in. To my utmost surprise, it was none other than Alpha Darwin and his Luna.


    As soon as they saw me, they crinkled their noses, and instantly, a female guard walked in. She dragged me to a chair amongst other chairs as I settled on it. Now, I can scan the room properly.


    A few chairs surrounded a long table, and surprisingly, the female guard assisted me to sit on one of them.


    Sitting amongst these chairs meant you were among important or high-ranked werewolves, but why was a poor person like me sitting here?


    Click-ck!


    Click-ck!


    Alpha Darwin and his Luna sat on the tall chairs, and they faced me with a serious gaze.


    ¡°What is going on? I thought I was a prisoner,¡± I blurted out. The Luna gasped instantly, and I gasped too, as I was a bit surprised with my sharp, arrogant tone.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    How did I speak? I thought my lips were too dry to move. I knew I had disrespected their invitation by saying that, but to be honest, I loved the frightened, surprised expression I received from the Luna¡¯s reaction.


    ¡°Do not grow wings yet. We can kill you at any moment,¡± Alpha Darwin uttered boldly, and for the first time in three years, I somewhat mustered courage, pushing my chest out as I smirked.


    ¡°Please do,¡± I blurted out, and this time, I was enjoying my new tone and character. I have tolerated enough of their punishments, and death is the only wish I have left.


    Then, Alpha Darwin threw a photograph at me, which swiftlynded on the table. I grabbed the photograph and turned it around to see whose photograph it was. As I turned it around, my gaze fell on a man¡¯s face, causing my jaw to drop. Why did Alpha Darwin give me this man¡¯s photograph?


    Then I gazed at the man. The man¡¯s face was sharp and angr, with a hard jawline and piercing blue eyes. His brows were heavy, giving him a brooding expression, and he set his mouth in a permanent scowl. His dark hair was slicked back, emphasizing the intensity of his dark gaze.


    ¡°Alpha Xander, Alpha of Crescent Moon Pack,¡± Alpha Darwin stated, causing my jaw to drop. The same man Alpha Darwin mentioned is the same one everyone in this pack fear. I heard rumors about him. He is scary and ruthless.


    ¡°He is our rival pack Alpha, and you are getting married to him tomorrow,¡± Alpha Darwinpleted his statement, causing me to almost copse.


    Alpha Xander is a ruthless Alpha who killed his mate with his bloody hands.


    ¡°Why? I¡¯m an Omega, a ve. Why will he marry a low-rank girl?¡± I asked quickly, ensuring that I sounded worried and sad instantly. I can not marry an Alpha who can kill me overnight.


    ¡°Well, Tania is already mated to Niks, and you are my only child avable-¡±


    ¡°Child?¡± I cut in, huffing at his statement. Previously, he called me an illegitimate child, now he calls me his only child.


    ¡°Do you really think that I would get married to that beast for your pack and daughter?!¡± I retorted angrily, shoving the photograph off the table.


    Bang!


    The Luna mmed her hand on the table, silencing me immediately. She yelled, ¡°Respect the Alpha¡¯s decision or watch your mother die!¡±


    ¡°Get a hold of yourself, Luna,¡± Alpha Darwin whispered and my brows creased quickly.


    ¡°You mentioned my mother. What do you mean by watching her die?¡± I asked quickly, with my tone tinged with curiosity as my heart raced.


    The Luna sat down quietly, and Alpha Darwin turned his gaze to me.


    ¡°Your mother did not die during the war. I locked her up and hid her far away after I discovered the truth about your identity,¡± Alpha Darwin exined, as my hands trembled. I pushed my hands beneath the table, and squeezed it, to stop it from shaking.


    How could he do that to my mother? All these years I thought my mother was dead, but now he is using her as a threat against me. Even though she made a mistake by birthing me, she is still my mother, and I do not want to lose my only family.


    ¡°What do you want me to do?¡± I questioned, staring at Alpha Darwin after mustering the courage to do so.


    ¡°It¡¯s good you chose your mother, but I will only release her after you get married to Alpha Xander, and after our packs are united,¡± Alpha Darwin spoke quickly, his words sinking into my head as I tried to digest it.


    Getting married to this man named Xander is a good option anyway. I will leave this pack, and not be termed as a rogue. Also, I will be able to move on from my past and meddle with my future problems by being his wife, even though I might be murdered.


    ¡°How can I be assured that you are not lying about my mother¡¯s condition?¡± I questioned quickly, recalling that Alpha Darwin and his Luna were cunning and deceitful.


    Alpha Darwin snapped his fingers at that moment, and the door swung open immediately. A guard marched in with arger size of a phone sped in his hand. He ced the phone before me as a sound vibrated from it.


    ¡°Help,¡± I heard from the phone, with my heart racing loudly. That was my mother¡¯s voice. I recognized her voice urately and without hesitation, I checked the phone, only to realize that it was ying a video, more like a CCTV footage.


    ncing at the phone, I spotted my mother on the floor in a locked cell. She was hugging her knees as she shivered, with her messy bun shaking vigorously. Her legs and wrists were bound with cold silvery chains, and the temperature in the room was extremely cold from the view of how she exhaled frost.


    ¡°Now, do you believe me?¡± Alpha Darwin questioned, and then I nodded quickly. Standing up to my feet to leave the room since our discussion was over, I fell on the floor with a loud thud. I was still weak, so walking or standing was difficult.


    I tried my best to get back on my feet, but I couldn¡¯t. The pain was too much to bear and only a hiss escaped from my lips throughout my efforts. A muscr hand touched my hand, and I looked up instantly, only to see the same guard who tried to touch my breast.


    ¡°Assist her to her new room,¡± Alpha Darwin¡¯s voice echoed authoritatively, and I gulped. I was certain I caught a smirk on that guard¡¯s face. He will definitely try to do something horrible to me when I am alone.

 Chapter 5

    ZIVA


    ¡°Please, I want a female guard,¡± I voiced out, ensuring that my voice was loud enough for Alpha Darwin to hear. I didn¡¯t want to stress myself by struggling to not be touched, especially when I was weak and could not even walk properly. I had to beg Alpha Darwin instead.


    ¡°Alright, Anji will assist you,¡± Alpha Darwin replied swiftly with a sigh, like I was a burden to him. I knew that I was a burden, but I¡¯m thankful that he listened to me for once in three years. I gazed back at the male guard, noticing that the smirk on his face vanished.


    Respectfully, he walked out of the room while I heard footsteps approach me. I spotted expensive shoes walking out of the room, which meant that Alpha Darwin and his Luna left.Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    Afterward, a female guard approached me just as Alpha Darwin mentioned, and she assisted me to arge, spacious room. She must be Anji then. Anji carefully ced me on afortable, queen-sized bed.


    She took care of my bathing, feeding, and drinking throughout the day. At night, I could move my properly massaged legs after Anji trained me to walk, since Alpha Darwin assumed that my legs might be broken.


    He didn¡¯t want Alpha Xander to receive a disabled girl. Also, he allowed me to eat as much as I wanted. At a time, it felt like my mouth would not stop chewing as my stomach protruded a bit.


    ¡°Don¡¯t eat too much. You might get an upset stomach,¡± Anji advised in a soft, calm tone. I¡¯d never seen ady so calm and gentle until I met her. Her presence alone made mefortable, so I obeyed and stopped eating.


    Then, Alpha Darwin¡¯s repeated statement rang in my head:


    ¡°When Alpha Xander questions you about yourself, you should mention that you are my first daughter.¡±


    I chuckled miserably at that statement, wondering why Alpha Darwin was very considerate of my marriage with the so-called Xander. From my perspective, Alpha Darwin is cunning and selfish. He will only do this for his gain. So is Alpha Xander needed for something?


    Braiding my hair beautifully, the Omegas treated me like a queen, like they did before my eighteenth birthday. They left when they were done with the braids, meanwhile; I looked into the mirror, gazing at my reflection.


    The dark circles under my eyes were painted with foundation, and there was a blush on my cheeks to make my cheeks look full. I looked extremely radiant with the make-up and the stunning pajamas. Also, I practiced walking again to ensure that I walked properly and elegantly.


    Tomorrow, I will be the bride of a man I do not know, a person whom rumors refer to as a beast, a werewolf who killed his own mate. Sadly, I have no true family tofort or console me, and I am only doing this for myst family member, my mother.


    After practicing walking for some minutes, I cleaned the tutorial makeup from my face andy on the queen-sized bed, preparing to sleep and wait for the new day.     A peaceful morning with no chores or disturbance. I was in my room throughout, eating and preparing to act like a rich Alpha¡¯s daughter. Meanwhile, the Omegas were preparing for the wedding.


    Strangely, the wedding was supposed to ur this morning, but the groom¡¯s sideined that they wanted to make it ur at night, so that I and the groom would consummate our marriage afterward, and that is what frightens me!


    I¡¯ve never been engaged with this, except when Niks returned. But what if he murders me before that happens? Or¡­


    Ah! I can¡¯t think of a n to escape that. I don¡¯t want to be involved with a beast.


    Nighttime came like a storm, making my heart race at the thought of getting married. Soon, I was in a dazzling dress, and I signed the marriage papers, but the man, Alpha Xander was nowhere to be found. Instead of arriving, he sent a representative who signed the papers.


    Alpha Darwin did not even have any slight expression of concern about that. He hurriedly led me to the car that drove past the pack quickly, and I was all alone in the expensive, beautiful car.


    Also, I had a driver who didn¡¯t take a nce at me for once. He stared at the road, and he didn¡¯t speak throughout the journey like he was a statue.


    I was taken to an unknown ce with no guards to protect me, yet Alpha Darwin did not seem to think about my safety. He didn¡¯t consider what might happen if I got abducted or something bad happened.


    Sigh¡­ I guess he despises me a lot.


    ¡°Excuse me, where are we heading to?¡± I asked the driver, breaking the silence in the car.


    ¡°La casa dell¡¯alfa,¡± I heard the driver say.


    Goodness, is he speaking anothernguage or what?


    ¡°What did you just say?¡± I asked, curious at the sudden change of tone. ¡°Actually, I don¡¯t understand yournguage,¡± I admitted quickly, in order to get a response.


    ¡°I said that we are heading to the Alpha¡¯s house,¡± the driver replied, his English sounding like a piece of broken music. He must be new to the English Language then.


    ¡°Oh, alright,¡± I responded, leaning toward the closed car window with the AC wafting around my body. Although I felt rxed, I tried to check my surroundings. It was very dark outside, and the car was surrounded by trees and bushes, though the moonlight brightened the surroundings.


    I nced at the back, gazing at the Granelma Pack I left. I do not wish to return to this pack, so after I get my mother, I will stay in the pack I¡¯m engaging with, or I and my mother will be rogue and live freely.


    Screech!


    The car stopped suddenly, and I turned around quickly, preparing to ask the driver many questions.


    ¡°Why did you stop?! What happened?¡± I asked quickly, with my heart racing. I was frightened, with lots of thoughts running through my mind. Are we surrounded? Are we going to be attacked? What is happening?


    I expected the driver to respond, but he coughed silently. ¡°It¡¯s just a minor issue. It will be fixed soon,¡± the driver spoke with a calm voice. He didn¡¯t sound like he was scared at all. He sounded like he was rxed andfortable.


    Issue? Hastily, I raised my head, sensing that something was wrong. Also, the driver stared nkly at the front, and I followed his gaze instantly.


    Staring at what he was ncing at, I spotted a ck wolf, with blood spilled over his body. It seemed like it was injured or wounded, and another wolf pounced on him, striking him with blows as the car started moving. The car drove past them, but I continued to gaze at the two wolves curiously.


    ¡°What was that about?¡± I questioned the driver, and a quiet response echoed from him, ¡°It was a minor issue.¡± This time, the driver¡¯s voice was quick and rash.


    With that, I kept my mouth shut, assuming that he didn¡¯t like questions after hisst response. Instead of focusing on what happened earlier, I tried to ignore it as I watched the car drive past a tall gate.


    The tall gate was colored ck, and some people locked it as soon as the car drove past it. But inwardly, I knew that what happened earlier was a testament to my arrival at the Crescent Moon Pack.

 Chapter 6

    ZIVA


    The car slowly made its way through the driveway, while my jaw dropped at the lushwn and the perfectly manicured gardens that I could see from the car window. Without wasting any time, the car pulled up to a magnificent building, and I took a moment to take in its splendor.


    It seems luxurious¡­


    I stepped out of the car, my heels clicking against the cobblestone driveway, as it made a satisfying clip-clop sound. I scanned the size of the mansion. It was beautiful, and it was two timesrger than the Omega¡¯s quarter at Granelma Pack.


    Somedies rushed out of the mansion in an orderly manner. They wore the same uniform, causing me to sense that they were the Crescent Moon Pack¡¯s Omegas.


    Rushing towards me, thedies ushered me into the opulent mansion, which had high ceilings, ornate designs,vish furnishings, and gleaming chandeliers hanging in the middle.


    I took enough time I needed to scan the mansion, but an Omega tapped me, and she led me into a bedroom.


    Goodness, the bedroom is splendid!


    It is a hundred times better than my room in the Omega¡¯s quarter. It has two sofas next to the king-sized bed, and there were two-nightmps at the sides of the bed.


    ¡°Should I prepare your bath, Lady Ziva?¡± A female voice echoed, jolting me out of my admiration. I turned my gaze away from the bed and turned to the owner of its voice.


    ¡°Anji?¡± I called out as soon as I spotted her. She was dressed in a simple blouse and trousers, and her hair was packed into a ponytail.


    ¡°How did you get here?¡± I questioned, with furrowed brows as my voice was tinged with curiosity.Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    Alpha Darwin does not care about me, so giving me an assistant is an impossible task. But why is Anji here?


    ¡°Alpha Darwin sent me here because he wanted me to help you,¡± Anji replied swiftly, causing me to gasp in shock. I scanned her expression. She had a serious expression on her face, and I could not detect if she was lying or telling the truth.


    ¡°I need to be very careful now. Her arrival is not simply for my sake. Obviously, it is for Alpha Darwin¡¯s selfish gain,¡± I muttered to myself.


    ¡°Please, prepare the bath,¡± I replied. Pausing, something struck my mind. I didn¡¯t bring any of my belongings, which meant that I didn¡¯t have any clothes to change into.


    ¡°We bought some new clothes, and they are already arranged in your closet,¡± Anji uttered, like she read my mind, with her lips moving quickly. She moved towards arge, wooden door with a beautiful knob.


    Opening it wide, she gestured inside it and spoke, ¡°Here is your closet.¡±


    Staring at what she referred to as my closet, my jaw dropped.


    The closet¡­ I mean my closet had a granite floor, with mirrored walls and crystal chandeliers. Also, the clothes inside are designer brands that are made of high-quality fabrics, just like Tania¡¯s clothes.


    ¡°I will start preparing the bath now,¡± Anji muttered, and she bowed her head.


    Afterward, she closed the closet door and moved towards another door that was next to the closet. That must be the bathroom.


    The way she bowed caused questions to rise in my mind.


    Why is she respecting me? Is this another cunning n by Alpha Darwin?


    Gosh, I should ask her.


    ¡°Anji,¡± I called out, ncing around to make sure no one else was nearby. When I was certain that no one was nearby, I leaned in close to Anji and lowered my voice to a whisper. ¡°Do you think Alpha Xander is rich? I mean, filthy rich? Like, balling out of control rich?¡±


    ¡°He is,¡± Anji replied, rolling her eyes. ¡°I¡¯ve seen plenty of mansions, and all of them are better than this.¡±


    Her voice sounded insincere. I could tell that she was trying to hide her awe, and she was genuinely impressed by the splendor of this ce.


    Ignoring the conversation, Anji walked into the master bathroom. After shepleted the bath preparation, I had my bath. Then I changed into a night dress.


    Strangely, all the night dresses in the closet were very short. The hem stopped at my upper hip, exposing my legs, and they were sleeveless with a tiny strip of fabric serving as the sleeve. Everything exposed my cleavage and legs, except one, which stopped at my knee.


    I changed into that specific dress as I prepared to sleep. My heart was at peace upon realizing that Alpha Xander was not in the room. I can sleep in peace for today.


    Although I waited for a few hours to make sure that the Alpha won¡¯t arrive. The time ticked past midnight, yet the Alpha didn¡¯t arrive. So, Anji turned off the nightmps, and she left. Meanwhile, I locked my room door for security¡¯s sake andfortablyid on the bed to sleep.


    Creak!


    My ears pricked up at the sound of a creak on the door. The silence of the mansion was broken by the same sound and I froze, listening for any other sign of movement, but there was none.


    After mustering up a little courage, I turned to the door, hoping that it wasn¡¯t who I thought had arrived. Then, the door moved slowly as it opened and a tall silhouette stood before it. It had a bit of weight as the light from outside my room shone.


    Instantly, I reached for the nightmp, assuming that it could be an assassin since I¡¯d heard rumors of rogues attacking an Alpha¡¯s bride on their wedding night.


    I heard that the rogues behaved that way as a thirst for revenge or so. But I do not want to be involved in such.


    Silently, I crept away from the bed, trying to turn on the nightmp, but I could not.


    That should be because I¡¯m addicted to using antern or the reflection of the moonlight to see at night in Granelma Pack, and this nightmp of a thing felt like a totally new tool.


    I gazed back at the tall silhouette, noting how it walked steadily into the room. How did it even open the locked door?


    Then, my mind snapped to the socket that I spotted on the wall. It should be able to turn the lights on!


    Hastily, I grabbed the nightmp as a shield, as I touched the wall to reach the socket. As soon as my hand touched the stic material, I jumped and tapped it. I had to jump because of my height. I was a bit short, so¡­ It¡¯s pretty annoying to jump, just to reach a socket.


    But the room was brightened in an instant. The tall silhouette, on the other hand, had male clothing on himself. He must be a man then!


    Strangely, he covered his face with his hand, like he didn¡¯t want me to see his face.


    ¡°Spegnere luce!¡± I heard him yell, but I didn¡¯t even bother to listen to him. I¡¯m only concerned about myself.


    With that, I took the opportunity I had. I raced towards the tall man with the nightmp. As soon as he moved his hand, I jumped and mmed the nightmp against his head, mming it like a p against the two sides of his face. Meanwhile, my breath quickened as I inhaled and exhaled.


    Within a minute, the nightmp froze and my gaze fell on it, ncing at the man¡¯s muscr hand which gripped it. My heart thumped at the sight of his quick, hard grip as sweat dripped down my forehead. Suddenly, the nightmp was pushed aside by the man, falling to the floor as it crashed into pieces.


    Then, I could analyze the man¡¯s face since he dropped his hands.


    ¡°Alpha Xand-er,¡± I stammered upon seeing his face, which I immediately recognized from the photograph Alpha Darwin shoved at me.


    Instantly, I bowed my head in respect, just as Anji told me before she left. She mentioned that Alpha Xander could actually spare me from his bloody hands if I showed him respect.


    ¡°Turn off the light!¡± He growled, and I didn¡¯t hesitate to obey him instantly. I strode towards the same socket to turn off the light, and when I tried to tap it, I had to jump. But this time, I could not reach it.


    ¡°It will be done in a sec,¡± I spoke loudly, faking a chuckle to not make him annoyed to the extent of murdering me. I spotted a small stool, and I dragged it to my side. Sessfully, I stood on it, then I turned off the light, just like he wanted.


    ¡°Done!¡± I eximed, turning to his side to realize that the room was now dark as the room door was shut.


    My gaze scanned my surroundings and the room, but I could not see the Alpha anymore. Unfortunately, the window blind covered the window, blocking the moonlight from prating the room.


    Silently, I got down from the stool, moving towards my bed, then the window. When I reached my bedside, I tried to move quickly, colliding with a thick thing that fell on the floor with a loud thud. Also, a loud tter followed.


    Goodness, did I break something?


    A light flickered, and it became stable as it brightened the room.


    Finally, I could see the room and Alpha Xander whose tall figurey on the bed as the nightmp at his side was turned on.

 Chapter 7

    ZIVA


    Silently, I walked toward the bed and slept on the other side of it, which had a lot of distance from the Alpha¡¯s spot.


    I raised the bed cover over my body, as I wanted to get some sleep. Although a shuffling sound echoed behind me, I did not dare move or turn around to check, because the Alpha was behind me.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    So, I froze, clutching the bed covers tightly as I closed my eyes, forcing myself to sleep in order to stop hearing those shuffling sounds.


    Within a minute, a warm touch made contact with my hand, and I could feel a warm breath fanning my neck and fear gripped me. Why is he so close?


    His hand touched the bed cover, then I could not feel him around me anymore as cold enveloped me. I turned around quickly, wanting to understand what happened and why he was so close.


    With my gaze scanning the bed, I noticed that the bed cover covered only Alpha Xander¡¯s body as he faced the other side.


    What a shameless man! He took the bed cover for himself, and he gave me, his wife, nothing for a cover.


    I faced the other side, my back facing opposite his back as I hugged my knees, shivering from the extreme cold. Why is it so cold, anyway? The temperature was normal when Anji was around.


    XANDER


    Alpha Darwin was my pack¡¯s nemesis. He stole our precious item, and he used it against us. Now, I¡¯m stuck in this marriage, because I want my possession back before I transform the Granelma pack into ruins. Their little princess will work as my tool, and I promise to return her after ruining their pack.


    That was the reason why I didn¡¯tin about the way she hit me with the nightmp. I didn¡¯t even want to speak with her, as she disgusted me. Seeing her as Alpha Darwin¡¯s daughter made my chest squeeze.


    I turned back, attempting to have the bed cover to myself, since I didn¡¯t like the way the werewolf princess stayed with me. I clutched the bed cover, touching her small hand identally.


    Hastily, I pulled my hand away, not wanting to have any physical contact with her. Tonight, I decided to stay in her assigned bedroom so that the other pack members would assume that I had consummated my marriage. I didn¡¯t want any rumors about me spreading in the pack.


    Even though I was close to her, I resisted the urge to get involved. I could feel my wolf, Maz stirring inside me, drawn to her by her sweetvender scent. But I managed to control myself as I took the bed cover and moved away from her.     Lance poured the deep ruby wine into our sses, and the sunlight streaming through therge window seemed to dance around the shimmering liquid. He raised his ss, a warm smile on his face, and uttered, ¡°To you and your gorgeous wife¡­¡±


    My lips curled into a cynical smile, and I narrowed my eyes, studying Lance¡¯s facial expression. ¡°Is this the real reason you asked to meet me?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I wanted to congratte you on your marriage. It marks the beginning of a new chapter in our Alpha¡¯s life.¡± Lance responded, his tone sounding sincere.


    I couldn¡¯t help but exhale a frustrated breath at his statement.


    ¡°New journey indeed,¡± I replied, grabbing my ss.


    I took a long sip of the wine, savoring the rich vor, before reflecting on my past. Lance was my best friend and after his father¡¯s tragic death during a war, he was dered to be the next Beta who would stay by my side. He is very good at his role, and supportive as a friend.


    Then, a thought struck my mind. When did Lance see the Granelma Pack¡¯s princess? I mean¡­ Alpha Darwin¡¯s first child.


    ¡°How did you know that she is gorgeous?¡± I asked quickly, squinting my eyes as I was searching for any sign of suspicion in him. As soon as I asked, the smile on his face vanished. He threw his head back instantly.


    ¡°What? Do you think I¡¯m having an affair with her?¡± Lance spoke quickly, causing me to m my ss on the mahogany table with a sharp clink.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mention that.¡± I paused, lowering my voice. ¡°But are you?¡±


    A chuckle escaped from his lips, and he whispered, ¡°How can you say that? The Omegas were whispering about her, and I heard them say that she was gorgeous.¡± He turned his face to the other side, blinking quickly. ¡°I can¡¯t believe that you don¡¯t trust me.¡±


    ¡°Whatever,¡± I muttered under my breath, pouring more wine into my ss. I only have the opportunity to sit and talk this way because I took a break from pack work


    I wanted to discover the hiding ce of my possession, but currently, I have a pile of documents on my table that I am reading. I could not help myself but continue to work, even though I was having a break. It will be bad to waste time, anyway.


    Lance¡¯s voice echoed as he muttered. ¡°You know, if it was a different woman, you wouldn¡¯t ask such questions. So, why now?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean by that? She is my tool, anyway.¡±


    ¡°I mean¡­ Do you like her?¡± Lance questioned, as his voice rang in my ear. I raised my head, averting my gaze away from the document I was reading. As soon as my gaze fell on Lance, I met Lance¡¯s yful gaze and I shot a deadly re at him, with my eyes cold and my mouth set in a tight line.


    I despise that question! It reminds me of¡­ Nevermind! He should have never said that.


    I spoke quickly, my voice low and harsh. ¡°Get out of my office.¡±


    ¡°I apologize, I won¡¯t mention that again,¡± Lance uttered, motioning a closing zip over his lips as he became mute. But I wasn¡¯t satisfied with that. He will definitely talk about it again.


    ¡°As my Beta, you should be working. But I spared you because I assumed that you had something important to say. You should leave now,¡± I spoke, and he chuckled, his mouth turned up at the corners in a smile that didn¡¯t reach his eyes.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean what I said,¡± Lance uttered, causing me to use my Alpha aura since I didn¡¯t want to hear more of his statements.


    ¡°Vattene subito!¡± I spoke, my voice firm andmanding. (Leave now!)


    My pack members and even Lance understood that whenever I spoke ournguage, it meant I was annoyed, or I wanted to speak without a foreigner understanding what I said.


    Lance hesitated slightly, like he took a moment to process mymand.


    ¡°Of course, Alpha, I¡¯ll leave right away,¡± he replied quietly, ncing at the side to avoid my eye contact. He stood up, turned, and left the office quickly, without making any noise.


    As soon as I could not perceive his scent around my office anymore, I heaved a sigh. I returned my gaze and focus to the document I was reading.


    Suddenly, a loud knock rang in my ear. I didn¡¯t even bother to raise my head or nce at the door. All I did was to thunder with my Alpha aura, ¡°Lance, non farmi arrabbiare! Vattene subito!¡±


    (Lance, don¡¯t make me annoyed! Leave right now!)

 Chapter 8

    XANDER


    I knew what I was capable of, and that was why I warned Lance again. I didn¡¯t want to hurt my Beta and best friend because of his disobedience.


    ¡°Alpha, it¡¯s not Beta Lance,¡± a voice responded politely. This time, I nced at the door and perceived the person¡¯s scent.


    ¡°It is an Omega with traces of tantalizing aroma around his scent,¡± My wolf hissed, sniffing the Omega¡¯s scent as my stomach grumbled.


    ¡°Come in,¡± I voiced out.


    Suddenly, the door swung open, and an Omega in uniform walked in, bowing his head at my presence


    ¡°Breakfast has been prepared, Alpha,¡± the Omega uttered, keeping his head low.


    ¡°All right,¡± I said quickly, gesturing for him to leave. He bowed again and retreated from the room, closing the door behind him.


    I pushed my chair back and looked at my wristwatch. It was only seven in the morning, but I felt like I was starving.


    Upon reaching the dining hall, I spotted the Granelma Pack¡¯s Princess seated on a chair that surrounded the long dining table. Certainly, my mother was never allowed to sit on a chair in the Granelma Pack, and it annoyed me to see the little princess sitting here.


    Suddenly, she stood up and bowed her head in respect, while the Omegas stood nearby. Inwardly, I scoffed at her. Pretending to be respectful? She is skilled.


    Before I agreed to this marriage, Lance had given me a full list of her awful characters. She is venomous and disrespectful, but her new character here does not surprise me.  She is only being respectful because I and her father¡¯s pack are not united yet. As soon as we are united, her true colors will be revealed.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    I walked over to the other side, sitting on my designated chair. Picking up a spoonful of my meal to eat, my gaze darted over the little princess who was sitting already, with her spoon in her mouth.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± I asked, gazing at her.


    ¡°Eating¡­¡±


    ¡°I know you were eating. Did Imand you too?!¡± I uttered loudly, feeling irritated at the sudden remembrance of my mother.


    The Little princess stopped chewing and I heard her voice mutter, ¡°I apologize, I was not aware-¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need this meal. Return to your room and get some rest!¡± I spoke, interrupting her statement quickly. I was not interested in listening to her fake politeness. She should be starved.


    ¡°Alright, Alpha,¡± She replied, surprisingly, without any grumble escaping from her lips. She moved away from the chair and walked out of the dining hall.


    As I watched her retreating back leave the room, my anger was fueled. I didn¡¯t even know when I broke the spoon I held.


    I pushed my chair back, and I moved away from the table,manding the Omega, ¡°The food is disgusting, dump it!¡±


    ¡°Alright, Alpha,¡± They responded with a bow, meanwhile, I walked out of the dining hall and strode into my room.


    ¡°She deserves to be punished for her father¡¯s deeds!¡± My wolf, Maz growled. Of course, she deserves punishment, and she will certainly be punished after my pack and Granelma pack are united.


    ZIVA


    I¡¯ve been in my room for over what time, after the Alphamanded me to stay here. All I did was sit and change my sitting position throughout. I hadn¡¯t eaten breakfast, but my hunger pangs were the least of my worries since I didn¡¯t have breakfast when I was in Granelma Pack. All I could think about was getting out of this room and into the fresh air.


    Bang!


    The door barged open, and I gazed at it quickly, hoping that it would be someone who would bring me out of this boring spot.


    ¡°Hey, why are you still here?¡± Anji spoke, her voice sounding annoyed as she stepped into my room.


    ¡°Well, I was ordered to¡­¡± I started to speak, but my words trailed off as I saw the look on her face. Her brow was furrowed, and her eyes were narrowed. She looked ready to burst with anger, and that was unlike her.


    ¡°You should know that the guests have already arrived!¡± Anji continued, as the anger in her tone was evident.


    I furrowed my brows in confusion. Guests? I didn¡¯t hear anything about guests.


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t aware of any party!¡± I stammered, processing her statements. Since she mentioned guests, there must be an ongoing party.


    Anji rolled her eyes and let out a huff. ¡°Everyone is celebrating your union with Alpha Xander downstairs, and here you are, staring at me like a new ape in a zoo.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± I replied, as I was a bit annoyed by what she referred me to. I might be skinny and short, but within a few days, I¡¯m certain that I will be taller and a bit fat.


    Ignoring Anji¡¯s statement, I strode into my closet and changed, though my stomach was in knots. I wasn¡¯t sure if I could handle the attention of the crowd, especially when I could vividly recall how the pack members treated me like an outcast.  Swallowing hard, I managed to walk toward the staircase.


    The noises of celebration below turned into silence and only the sound of my heels echoed. Suddenly, the crowd faced me, their gaze watching my every step. At that time, I became more nervous, and my palms became sweaty.


    Descending from the staircase, I darted my gaze around the crowd, as my heart raced quickly.


    Alpha Darwin and his Luna should be present in this ceremony, since this is a union ceremony, and they should pretend to be my parents. I exhaled, noting that they didn¡¯te to the ceremony, because my gaze did not fall on them, or even Tania who can appear as a guardian.


    Then, I noticed that the ballroom was adorned with decorations, and guests filled the ce, all of them dressed in their finest clothes. The women wore a variety of elegant dresses, from flowing ball gowns to sleek cocktail dresses.


    The men wore suits, some in ssic ck and white, while others had sshes of color. The crowd buzzed with conversation, their voices mingling as they averted their gaze from me.


    Just then, my gaze fell on Alpha Xander. He was chatting happily with some guests, as he clinked his ss with theirs before taking a sip from the deep ruby liquid in his ss.


    I couldn¡¯t help but scan his dress. He wore a tuxedo which was perfectly tailored, while his hair was slicked back, and a few strands fell across his forehead in a way that made him look devilishly hot.


    His piercing blue eyes seemed to take in everything around him, and he turned, his gaze meeting me.


    Hastily, I turned away, trying to avoid meeting his gaze. Did he notice that I was staring at him? And what was his reason for forbidding me from eating earlier? Did I eat too much?


    However, something was unsettling about the way he looked at me, it made a chill run down my spine.


    I raised my gaze, attempting to mingle with the crowd and ignore the blush that heated my cheeks when I saw him.


    Surprisingly, a man dressed in the same uniform as thedies I¡¯d seen earlier approached me. Could he be an Omega too?


    As soon as he walked up to me, he  lowered his head as he whispered, ¡°Alpha Darwin has requested your presence.¡±


    Fear gripped me at that moment. Am I in trouble?

 Chapter 9

    ZIVA


    Alpha Darwin did not appear at the party, but the Omega mentioned that he requested for my presence which means that he is in this pack.


    But, I could not trust the Omega. It could be a lie. I nced at him, and silently, he showed me a card. It was the card Alphas used as identification. The card exudes authority and power, and Alpha Darwin¡¯s name was boldly carved on it.


    Sweat dripped down my forehead, meanwhile, the Omega gestured toward the double doors that led to the entrance of the mansion.


    Without hesitating, I walked toward the doors, with my hands trembling a bit. This ceremony is going to unite the two packs, and my mother will be released. But why does Alpha Darwin want a private discussion?


    As I reached the door, an Omega opened the doors with a bow, maybe giving me respect because I was their Alpha¡¯s wife. But I didn¡¯t care, since my mother was far more important.


    As I stepped outside, I realized that night had fallen, and the moon was high in the sky. I felt a chill in the air as the Omega walked towards the red, waiting car.


    I followed the Omega into the red car, and the car pulled up before the tall gate. The Omega stepped out of the car, and Alpha Darwin stepped in, sitting next to me.


    ¡°The union ceremony is happening too quickly,¡± he spoke, ¡°You have more tasks to aplish before I release your mother.¡±


    ¡°What?! We had an agreement! You can¡¯t just breach it and spit nonsense reasons,¡± I spoke, not wanting to be deceived.


    ¡°Wil you just listen?!¡± Alpha Darwin growled, making me flinch. I don¡¯t have a choice anyway. He has my mother, and I can¡¯t disobey him now.


    I took a deep breath, trying to calm my nerves since I knew that if I angered Alpha Darwin, he might hurt my mother.


    ¡°I¡¯m listening,¡± I replied, keeping my voice calm and leveled. I noted the way he spoke silently like he was whispering. He didn¡¯t want anyone to hear our conversation.


    ¡°The tasks are little things. Afterward, I will release your mother and we will part ways. Just keep being Xander¡¯s wife for now, but inwardly, take note that you are his enemy.¡±


    My eyes teared up, Alpha Darwin was using me. Will he even release my mother after Iplete his tasks?


    ¡°What do you want me to do? Poison him? Murder him?¡± I questioned quickly, my voice croaking.


    I knew full well that Alpha Darwin was evil and that he would make some shameful ns against his enemy. All I wanted was for my mother to get out of that terrible pack, because I am terrified of what might happen if she doesn¡¯t.


    ¡°Not that,¡± Alpha Darwin replied. He brought out a phone from his pocket and handed it over to me.


    ¡°This is a phone, you know how to operate it, right?¡± He asked.


    Hastily, I cleaned off the tears on my cheeks, not wanting to appear as a weak soul. Of course, I still know how to operate a phone. He was the same person who bought a phone for me as a gift on my seventeenth birthday. Sigh¡­ He forgot already.


    ¡°Yes,¡± I nodded, and he continued, ¡°Keep me updated on anything important you see or hear from the Alpha. My contact number is avable on the phone. So, you can message or call at any time you wish.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± I nodded, then Alpha Darwin opened the door at my side, gesturing to make me leave.


    Swiftly, I walked out of the car after straightening my dress and putting on a cheerful expression on my face. Making other pack members notice my sad mood will only make things worse. So, I returned to the mansion quickly, in order to not give people an assumption that I was missing.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    As soon as I reached the double doors, an Omega opened the door silently. When the doors were widely opened, I walked inside, scanning the mansion, then my gaze fell on those dark blue eyes I recognized from a distance.


    Standing next to a couple, which I could visibly notice with the female¡¯s hand sped in the male hand, Alpha Xander gestured at me.


    ¡°Here is she,¡± he uttered, like he was introducing me to them. Hastily, I walked towards him, and curtsied to the couple.


    ¡°Aw, she looks so pretty,¡± The woman spoke, and I raised my head, forcing a smile on my face as a response to herpliment.


    She wore an expensive, and stunning dress, she must be a Luna and the man next to her should be her Alpha.


    Then, Alpha Xander gazed at me with a wide smile on his face, one I¡¯d never seen on him before. Certainly, it made him more handsome. His future mate is very lucky to have him.


    ¡°So tell me¡­¡± The Alpha spoke, as he held his ss tightly.


    ¡°Will shest this time?¡± The Alpha inquired, causing a shiver to run down my spine.


    What did he mean by that? I¡¯m not some kind ofmodity to Alpha Xander, right?


    I turned to Alpha Xander, noticing the way his hands balled into fists and the fake, tight-lipped smile on his face. He managed to control his anger, and when he opened his mouth to respond to the Alpha, the Luna interrupted with a chuckle.


    ¡°Of course,¡± His Luna uttered, but the chuckle sounded insincere. I¡¯m certain that she was trying to discard the conversation. Suddenly, she eximed to her Alpha with excitement tinged in her tone, ¡°Alpha Connor is there. You should introduce me to him.¡±


    ¡°Sure,¡± the Alpha spoke tartly. Meanwhile, his Luna sped her hand around his elbow and they walked away. But my mind pondered about what he said earlier.


    As soon as the couple were out of our sight, Alpha Xander walked away elegantly.


    ¡°Wait¡­¡± I muttered, striding towards Alpha Xander in order to reach him. But he didn¡¯t even turn around or flinch like I was talking to him.


    I needed answers to the arising questions in my mind. Will I die in this pack or what was the Alpha trying to say?


    I walked faster¡­ I didn¡¯t even walk, I took long strides, calling Alpha Xander quietly, so that I wouldn¡¯t draw other people¡¯s attention.


    Split!


    Suddenly, I heard a splitting sound. Goodness, was that from my dress?!


    I turned around, trying to check if the sound was from my dress, then I noticed that my dress was ripped from my upper hip to the hem!!!


    . I¡¯m dead¡­


    Hastily, I pushed my hands to the back and tried to use them to cover my exposed underwear, but they could not cover it fully. An idea struck my mind. If I return to my room, I can change my dress.


    I nced at my room which was on the upper floor of the mansion. It was far away from my side, and the crowd was before it. I can¡¯t reach there without anyone spotting I and my ripped dress.


    I gazed at everyone in the mansion, my eyes searching for Anji. As I continued to search and stay at a spot that was far away from the crowd, my gaze fell on Alpha Xander. He was speaking to some men, whose presence exuded power and dominance.


    They should be Alphas too since an Alpha cannot speak to someone of a lower rank in a union ceremony.


    ¡°Alpha Xander,¡± I whispered, calling his name, but he didn¡¯t even move or turn around. He continued to chat, without noticing me one bit.


    Gosh, I cannot even mind link Anji because of my wolf that I can¡¯t feel. I don¡¯t even know if my wolf exists. Should I say Alpha Xander¡¯s name loudly then?

 Chapter 10

    ZIVA


    No, no, calling Alpha Xander¡¯s name loudly will be termed as being disrespectful, and I can get punished for it.


    Sigh¡­ I guess thest option is to meet him, and exin what happened. Maybe he can help me to call or mind link Anji to help me with my dress.


    Calcting my steps, I carefully walked towards Alpha Xander. Upon reaching his side, I faked a smile, and voiced out, ¡°Excuse me, can I borrow my husband?¡±


    Then, the two Alphas beside Alpha Xander chuckled loudly, and one of them muttered, ¡°Of course, you can.¡±


    He and the other Alpha walked away, chuckling loudly at my statement. As soon as they were out of my sight, I turned to Alpha Xander, attempting to speak with him.


    But before I could open my mouth, Alpha Xander whispered with a raspy tone, ¡°What is wrong with you?! Didn¡¯t you see that I was speaking with important guests?!¡±


    ¡°I apologize, but I need your help. I-¡±


    He interrupted, ¡°I am not interested in helping you. Sort yourself out, I have some important things to do.¡±


    With that, he turned around and he took a step.


    No, he is the only one left to help. He will be more annoyed if other guests find out about my ripped dress.


    By the time I took a nce at him, he was far away from me. What now?


    Hastily, I tried to reach him before I lost him to the crowd.


    Pop!


    No! No!  Not again!


    My dress ripped again, this time farther than my upper hip.


    I can¡¯t cover everything!! ~


    Without thinking twice, I ran toward Alpha Xander and covered my back with his back, my shoulder hitting his back.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I need this for now.¡± I pleaded, hoping that he would not move.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    ¡°What is the meaning of all this?!¡± He thundered in response, causing everyone to face us. Everyone¡¯s gaze fell on me, as they gazed at me warily.


    Suddenly, Alpha Xander moved away from me, and I didn¡¯t know what to do. I had to cover myself. As soon as Alpha Xander turned around, I bumped into him deliberately, attempting to cover my ripped dress.


    ¡°You-!¡± He yelled, and he became mute, maybe because of the crowd that was watching us. I used that opportunity to speak with him.


    ¡°So sorry. My dress tore,¡± I whispered quickly. Instead of helping me, he pushed me slightly, causing me to move away from him.


    Sob, sob¡­ My underwear will be exposed. I closed my eyes, not wanting to see everyone¡¯s face while they gossiped about my underwear.


    Then, warm, muscr hands touched me, and I opened my eyes, only for my gaze to fall on the crowd who gazed at me with awe and astonishment in their eyes. Somedies¡¯ jaw dropped upon seeing me, and I felt like I was a picture of great value that everyone was watching.


    Wait a minute¡­ Didn¡¯t they see my ripped dress? And the muscr arms¡­ Whose arms were those?


    I looked up, my gaze meeting those piercing blue eyes that sparkled lovingly. Alpha Xander¡¯s arm was around me and we were in the center of the crowd. Alpha Xander let go of me with a twist from his grip. I rolled onto the other side, and in a second, he dragged me to himself.


    A p of apuse filled the air at that moment, and I realized that we were actually dancing.


    Phew! My back was fully covered by Alpha Xander¡¯s body.


    Suddenly, he gently removed the jacket he wore from his shoulders. As he draped the jacket over my shoulders, the ballroom was filled with oohs and aahs.


    The jacket fell just above my knees, hiding the rip in my dress. I could feel the fabric of Alpha Xander¡¯s tuxedo jacket against my skin, and I inhaled the musky scent of his cologne.


    Afterward, we greeted and thanked all the Alphas and Lunas who attended our union ceremony. Their luxurious cars drove through the tall, iron gate without wasting any time.


    As soon as the driveway was empty without any cars, the ballroom was also empty. But there were few Omegas there who were cleaning the ballroom.


    I recalled how Alpha Xander gave me his jacket. I should thank him. I faced him, and muttered sweetly, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Instead of the loving smile he had on his face throughout the union ceremony, Alpha Xander¡¯s eyebrows were furrowed like the sharp ws of an eagle.


    He replied quickly, ¡°Don¡¯t repeat the nonsense you acted earlier. You will be punished severely if such happens again.¡±


    ¡°I understand-¡± Before I couldplete my statement, Alpha Xander stormed away from my presence, leaving me in the empty ballroom as cold enveloped me.


    ¡°Why is he always coldhearted towards me anyway?¡± I muttered to myself, as I nced at Alpha Xander¡¯s retreating back.


    ¡°Hey!¡± A feminine voice yelled. I turned around, spotting Anji in her beautiful, simple dress.


    ¡°Why is the dress torn?¡± She yelled with annoyance tinged in her tone as she approached me hurriedly. She must have noticed the split from the end of Alpha Xander¡¯s jacket.


    ¡°Finally, you appeared. I could have been disgraced before the guests because of this dress you chose,¡± Iined, meanwhile, she let out a huff.


    ¡°You should be grateful I chose it. Do you know how expensive and beautiful it is? Did you even see how everyone was stealing nces at it¡­ even Alpha Xander?¡±


    I turned around to leave, but her statement caused me to stop in my tracks. Turning back, my cheeks heated into a blush, and I questioned Anji, ¡°Really? Did Alpha Xander stare at me?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± Anji replied, then she paused, ¡°But why do you sound excited about that?¡±


    ¡°Nothing¡­ And I was not excited at all. It was just a question.¡±


    ¡°I hope you remember your deal with Alpha Darwin¡­¡±


    ¡°Deal? How did you know?¡± I questioned, creasing my brows. Is she Alpha Darwin¡¯s spy who is pretending to be my assistant?


    ¡°I was aware of it. Also, there is one thing you should always remember¡­ Never fall in love with your enemy,¡± Anji spoke, sounding strict and sincere as she said herst statement slowly and clearly.

 Chapter 11

    ZIVA


    The words Anji spoke brought back memories of how Alpha Xander acted coldly toward me. He does not seem loveable anyway, and since Anji mentions that he is my enemy, I should know my standards.


    ¡°I know, and did I mention that I was in love with him?¡± I questioned, rolling my eyes. ¡°I¡¯m uninterested in that anyway. Right now, I just need some food, and a change of clothes.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I will be in your bedroom,¡± Anji replied with a sigh, as she sounded like a mother who hadpleted scolding her child.


    I nodded, then I followed her into my bedroom. As soon as we entered inside, Anji suggested a few dresses that I could change into, meanwhile, I nced at my reflection that appeared in therge mirror. The scars on my body were still visible.


    ¡°Thank Goddess I added some healing potion to your foods and drinks,¡± Anji voiced out, jolting me out of my thoughts.


    I turned around, and faced her instantly.


    ¡°Next time, you should inform me before adding any substance to my meals. I do not like that. It makes me feel ufortable around you,¡± I replied, stating my feelings towards her actions.


    With my response, she paused for a moment like she was processing what to say next. I assumed that she was someone I could put my trust in, but I guess I was wrong.


    With her knowledge of the deal I made with Alpha Darwin and the way she added a potion to my meal without my awareness is something I should not take lightly.


    ¡°Alright, Lady Ziva,¡± Anji responded, bowing her head, while I scoffed. The scars on my legs, hands, and other visible ces vanished. What remained were the ones on my back and butt; the ones I received after Niks lied to everyone.


    Possibly, the others vanished because of the healing potion Anji added to my food. I think I should erase all the scars since I do not want to see them or recall why they are on me.


    ¡°Can I have the healing potion you mentioned?¡± I asked politely, and Anji paused. She gazed at me, as her brows creased.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    ¡°Do you intend to use it?¡± She questioned.


    ¡°Obviously, I do. Just hand it over,¡± I uttered, and a tight-lipped smile appeared on her face. From the first time I met her, she did not smile, does this mean that it was a fake smile?


    ¡°I don¡¯t have it on me, but I can assist you by adding it to your meals,¡± Anji chuckled, with her hands clutching a dress.


    ¡°No, I can care for myself. Give the potion to me, and I will use it,¡± I responded.


    ¡°Okay, Ziva.¡±


    ¡°Lady Ziva,¡± I corrected her, ¡°Address me as Lady Ziva.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Anji uttered. She handed a dress to me, and I analyzed it. It was a simple night dress. Its length stopped a few inches below my knees, and it had short sleeves.


    ¡°I noticed that you were ufortable in the other night dress, so I bought this,¡± Anji¡¯s voice echoed, with excitement tinged in her tone.


    ¡°Great, I will wear this!¡± I eximed.


    ¡°I will leave you then,¡± Anji muttered, bowing her head again.


    She left the room, while I changed into the night dress she chose. At that moment, I heard a loud grumble from my stomach, making me recall that I had not eaten a thing since this morning.


    Curse you, Alpha Xander! If not for your nonsensical order, I won¡¯t be in this condition.


    Loud grumble!


    Oh, not again. Am I that hungry? Just hold on, Ziva, you will have breakfast tomorrow.


    Grumble!


    Sigh¡­ I need to eat, or else the grumbling from my stomach will disable me from sleeping.


    ()!!!


    Also, an Omega can prepare my meal quickly without wasting my time, and energy!


    Hastily, I strode out of my room to search for an Omega who would help me with the food.


    Fortunately, I heard a few whispers from the ballroom before concluding to return to my bedroom and force myself to sleep.


    As soon as I heard the whispers, I strode toward thending. Then, I stretched my neck, searching for the source of the whispers.


    My gaze fell on the people below, the people in the ballroom. They wore the same color of clothing and they were whispering to each other. They must be the Omegas!!


    Without wasting any time, I walked down the staircase, approaching the Omegas quickly.


    Before I could reach them, they scattered. Returning to their cleaning duty, they stopped whispering.


    Oh, now I get it! They were gossiping about me, weren¡¯t they?


    Lol, I smiled, recalling those bittersweet moments at the Granelma Pack. The Omegas at Granelma Pack also gossip, but I don¡¯t join them because I knew that I would be beaten mercilessly if I was caught whispering about the so-called Great Alpha Darwin¡¯s family.


    ¡°Hi,¡± I spoke, approaching an Omega who was mopping the floor that was not distant from me.


    He had a small stature, but as soon as he raised his head to gaze at me, I was certain that he was very young, with his cute, small face. He should be maybe eighteen to twenty years old.


    ¡°Hello,¡± he replied, and a loud bang echoed. I nced at what made the sound, then I noticed that a mop was on his head. Another Omega hit a mop on his head.


    It must be painful, but he will quickly heal since he is a werewolf. Also, I¡¯d rumors about the werewolves who dwell in this Crescent Moon Pack.


    I heard that they are very strong and powerfulpared to normal werewolves, so the mop should be no big deal to an Omega.


    ¡°How dare you speak to Lady Ziva that way?!¡± The female Omega who smacked the mop on the male Omega yelled. She seemed to be old, with the grey hair that crawled out of her right bun being exposed.


    The old female Omega turned to me, and she bowed her head respectfully, ¡°I apologize, Lady Ziva for his disrespect. I¡¯m the Head Omega, and he is a new Omega here. That should be the reason why he spoke to you that way.¡±

 Chapter 12

    ZIVA


    After the Head Omega bowed, the male Omega¡¯s jaw dropped. He gazed at me and his gaze instantly dropped to the floor.


    I felt ttered by that behavior. The sight of being respected is so exciting! I love this view.


    I let out a chuckle, waving my hand as a gesture to the two Omegas.


    ¡°Please don¡¯t, that¡¯s enough,¡± I uttered, and the two Omegas raised their heads.


    ¡°Do you need his help by any chance?¡± The Head Omega inquired, causing me to recall that I came here because I was starving.


    ¡°Yes! Yes!¡± I eximed, scratching my neck as I was a bit embarrassed. Commanding an Omega to get food for me at this time of the night might be too demanding. They may term me as a foodie, but anyway, my stomach won¡¯t stop grumbling.


    I nced sideways, hoping that no one would be nearby. When I didn¡¯t spot anyone, I faced the two Omegas and spoke in a low tone, more like a whisper.


    ¡°I need a light meal.¡±


    Their mouth opened agape instantly, as they moved back, like they were taken aback by my request.


    ¡°I know I should not eat thiste at night, but I¡¯m starving¡­¡± I spoke, telling them my true feelings as I rubbed my t belly.


    It may sound dumb to them that their Alpha¡¯s wife is a bit childish, but I just need food. It¡¯s not too much to ask, right?


    Instantly, the two Omegas bowed their heads.


    ¡°Am I not allowed to eat?¡± I asked, noticing the expression they had on their faces. Or did Alpha Xander order them to make me starve?


    ¡°No, no, My Lady.¡± The Head Omega stammered, then she continued. ¡°It¡¯s just that Omegas are not allowed to be in the kitchen or the dining hall at this time. So, we can¡¯t help you with the meal.¡± She spoke, her tone sounding polite.


    ¡°Alright,¡± I sighed. I turned around to leave them, but inwardly, I was sad and tired. It is like jumping from frypan to fire. Tarr! This ce seems worse than the Granelma Pack itself.


    ¡°But¡­ My Lady,¡± I heard the Head Omega whisper. Suddenly, my ear rang and I turned around without hesitating as a smile formed on my face with the assumption that there was another option to not starving for the whole night.


    ¡°You can use the kitchen instead.¡± The Head Omegapleted her statement, causing the smile on my face to drop.Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    This is not what I want!


    ¡°I can show you the way to the kitchen if you want,¡± The Head Omega voiced out, meanwhile, the male Omega who was next to her nodded at her suggestion.


    Half is better than none. That is the best option.


    ¡°I will appreciate that,¡± I replied. The Head Omega moved away, and I followed her, with my legs moving quickly.


    We reached the kitchen in no time. I was not amazed by the view because it was what I had expected since my bedroom alone wasrge. However, it was a spacious room with a clean floor and cabs sparkling.


    The Head Omega stood outside the kitchen, but she managed to show me the utensils and ingredients I could use to make a quick meal.


    When the Head Omega hadpleted that, she left. Meanwhile, I decided to cook pasta because it was easier to cook.


    I can still recall when my mother prepared it. Those sweet, happy moments y in my head, and I¡¯m starting to worry about her.


    I wonder if she was given food, and is still in that cold cell. To be precise, I should inform Alpha Darwin that I didn¡¯t like the way she stayed in the cell. I¡¯m working for him and the pack is united. She should be treated better.


    Yes, I will do that.


    Without thinking twice, I ran to my room to get my phone and speak to Alpha Darwin. Luckily, he mentioned that I could call or message him at any time, I can speak to him about my mother then.


    XANDER


    Turning on the shower, water dripped down my body as I recalled what happened earlier. The Alpha was trying to mock me by questioning me about the Granelma Pack¡¯s princess lifespan.


    Thank Goodness that his Luna diverted his attention to someone else, if not, the ceremony would have been a bloody battlefield and I would have torn him apart.


    I despise people when they remind me of my horrible past, most especially that little princess, the Granelma Pack¡¯s princess. What is her name again?


    ¡°I have no idea. I think her name starts with the letter V,¡± my Wolf, Maz spoke, meanwhile, I turned off the shower. Lance mentioned her name before I agreed to this marriage. It should be¡­


    ¡°Viza¡­ Her name is Viza,¡± I told my wolf. My wolf responded with a groan, making me recall how she bumped into me in the ballroom. She bumped into me twice. First, she bumped into my back, then the other time was my front. Her back rubbed my body, and it made me a bit¡­


    Knock!


    Knock!


    ¡°Come in,¡± I responded, knowing who was at the door after perceiving his scent. It was none other than Lance. I had blocked his mind link earlier, as a punishment for disobeying, but I guess it¡¯s time to unblock it.


    Unblocking the mind link, I walked out of the shower, dressed in a new set of clothes, meanwhile, Lance walked into my bedroom quietly.


    ¡°The warriors caught a rogue at the pack border. It was the same rogue who tried to attack your woman¡¯s car when she arrived, but thankfully, another warrior intervened, so it was settled,¡± Lance exined as he stood with aposed posture and his head bending low as a sign of respect.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care if a rogue tried to attack that Viza of a she-wolf. If she doesn¡¯t die in my arms, then she can die in-¡±


    Suddenly, a chuckle echoed quietly, interrupting my statement. I averted my gaze to the source of the chuckle, Lance¡¯s side, then I noticed that Lance had his hand sped over his mouth.


    ¡°Why were youughing?¡± I questioned, shooting res at him.


    ¡°I apologize, I didn¡¯t mean to,¡± he replied softly, almost making me annoyed. That was the same thing he said earlier before I ordered him to leave my office.


    ¡°Why were youughing?¡± I inquired again, while staring at him with a serious expression on my face. He looked up just like I expected, and upon seeing my face, he dropped to his knees, and bowed.


    ¡°Forgive me, Alpha. I tried my best to notugh, but I couldn¡¯t. Your wife¡¯s name is Ziva, not Vizza or Viza¡­ Or Vixa-¡±


    ¡°Stop it! Are you trying to mock me?¡± I asked, my anger fueling with every second.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare.¡±


    ¡°Enough!¡± I thundered. ¡°I don¡¯t care about how or why the rogue tried to attack Viza-¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Ziva, Xander,¡± Maz corrected in my head.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare try to correct me! Ziva is Ziva!¡± I yelled out.


    ¡°Now, that is correct,¡± Maz spoke, taunting me. He knew that when my anger got to its full limit, I would easily transform into him, so he did that deliberately.


    I faced Lance. ¡°Lance, I do not care about how or why the rogue tried to attack Ziva. Just let him rot in the cell for hopping into this pack,¡± Imanded, calming my nerves as I spoke.


    ¡°I will do as youmanded, Alpha,¡± Lance uttered, standing to his feet as he turned to leave.


    ¡°Also, prepare for the sorceress¡¯s arrival. She will be here to wee Vi-Ziva,¡± I uttered, waving my hand to dismiss him as I almost mentioned Viza again.

 Chapter 13

    XANDER


    Lance swept his golden hair out of his eyes and tilted his head, as if in slow motion. ¡°I understand,¡± he said, before moving out of my room.


    After he left, I copsed onto my bed and let out a long sigh. Darkness began to creep in at the edges of my vision since I wanted to sleep and prepare for what awaited me the next morning.


    However, my thoughts kept racing, keeping me awake.


    I tossed and turned, my mind spinning in circles. I closed my eyes and tried to slow my breathing, hoping that sleep woulde.


    But no sooner had I closed my eyes than they fluttered open again.


    I felt restless. Sitting up on my bed, my wolf, Maz, spoke to me with a teasing voice. ¡°So, are you still thinking about that Ziva girl?¡±


    I snapped at Maz, my patience wearing thin. ¡°Cut it out. You¡¯re not helping. I¡¯m trying to sleep.¡± Maz justughed, and I knew it was useless to try to get him to stop.


    With a resigned sigh, I withdrew myself to follow the rabbit hole of thoughts in my head. I should check what my mind has been pondering about instead.


    I rose from my bed and walked over to the wall on my left. Gently, I ced my hand against the cool stone surface, feeling the familiar click of the security check. Then, the wall began to move, sliding open to reveal a small, dark room that I had never entered for some years now.


    A cloud of dust drifted into the air as the wall opened, tickling my nose and making me want to sneeze.


    I pinched my nose to try to stop the sneeze that was threatening to escape. With a loud ¡®achoo!¡¯, the sneeze burst out of me, shaking the dust from the webs on the walls and causing it to drift down like a soft, powdery snow.


    In the dim light, my eyes darted around the room, finallynding on a smallmp in the corner.


    My fingers fumbled for the switch of themp, and with a flick of my wrist, I turned it on.


    The light illuminated the room in a dim glow, revealing the thick spiderwebs enveloped across the walls, hanging from the ceiling, and covering the frames and boxes in the corner.


    As I looked around the room, a realization struck me: The restlessness I had been feeling might be caused by the nightmares I¡¯d been having about the memories locked away in this room.


    Knowing fully well that I locked most of the memories in a box I kept. I approached arge brown box in the corner. Its once-rich color had faded over time, and the wood was now covered in a thickyer of dust.


    It should be the one!


    I didn¡¯t bother cleaning the box, knowing that I¡¯d lock it away again soon.


    ¡°Why are you here? You promised to not return to this awful ce,¡± Maz spoke inside my head.


    I couldn¡¯t stop myself. I needed to see what was inside again.


    ¡°I have to. I can¡¯t stop thinking about her,¡± I replied, my voice firm.


    Swiftly, I opened the box, with the lid giving a loud, creaky groan. Dust erupted into the air. I coughed, waving my hand in front of my face to clear the air.


    As I opened the box, a stack of photographs spilled out onto the floor. I picked up the photos, and my eyesnded on a small one in the middle. It was a picture of a female with long, dark hair and deep brown eyes. She was smiling, but the smile seemed sad and forced.


    I ran my fingers over the picture, and her brown eyes seemed to bore into me. I felt a lump in my throat at that moment. Heaving a sigh, I looked up and muttered, ¡°I¡¯ve had enough punishment. You don¡¯t have to appear in my nightmares.¡±


    Staring at the same photograph, I pushed it back into the box, but something caught my eye. I pulled it out again, and took a peek at the photograph.


    Squinting my gaze at the back of the picture. There, in a neat, nted handwriting, was a name written in caramel-colored ink: ¡®Dottore Eugene¡¯ (Doctor Eugene).


    ¡°Was she sick before the war started?¡± I wondered aloud.


    ¡°You know how friendly Rose was,¡± Maz replied. ¡°Maybe the doctor was a friend.¡±


    I shook my head, not convinced. Something about the handwriting, the odd expression on her face in the photograph, and the way she¡¯d hidden it made me uneasy.


    I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something was off. Rose had been persistent in talking to me before the war began, and I couldn¡¯t help but wonder what it was about.


    Who was Doctor Eugene? I¡¯d never heard the name before. My mind raced, trying to make sense of it all.


    Finally, I decided to mind-link Lance, hoping that he could shed some light on the situation.


    ¡°Lance, do you know of a doctor named Eugene in the pack?¡± I mind-linked Lance.


    ¡°Alpha, there are tons of doctors with thest name Eugene,¡± Lance began, but I cut him off.


    ¡°I need a list of all the doctors named Eugene, and I need to know if any of them are connected to Rose!¡± I ordered.


    ¡°Rose?¡± Lance¡¯s voice trailed off, his voice tinged with curiosity. ¡°You mean Rose-¡±


    I interrupted, ¡°Rose Collins. I need the list by morning. And be thorough.¡±


    ¡°Alright, Alpha,¡± Lance responded quickly, meanwhile, I returned the photograph I held to the box. My heartbeat fastened at that moment, and I paced back and forth, restless, and anxious.


    What was Rose hiding from me?


    I pinched the bridge of my nose, trying to piece two and two together. Rose and I had been close, so why would she hide something from me? My thoughts swirled, racing through memories and emotions. I couldn¡¯t help but think back to the past, the memories as painful as fresh wounds.


    She died, mum died, all because of that f*cking Darwin! Thank Goddess that he didn¡¯t appear at the party, I would have done worse than I nned to do.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 14

    XANDER


    ¡°Soon, we will have our revenge. No need to worry,¡± Maz spoke in a soothing tone, but I was notforted by his words.


    I could not get my mind off Rose, and who needs a wolf¡¯s advice, when I¡¯m worried about my loved ones?


    I need answers instead. I will have my revenge afterward, and nothing can stand in my way.


    Suddenly, the smell of ashes hit my nostrils, causing me to recall more and more of those dreadful moments. It was like a nightmare I couldn¡¯t wake up from.


    At that time, I could not control my emotions, and I did it.


    My bloody hands¡­


    My ear rang at a sudden noise as the smell of ashes and an eggy odor mingled with my breath. At first, I thought it was from my memories, but now, I don¡¯t think it is.


    Sniff, sniff!


    I raised my nose, sniffing the air, and my wolf¡¯s senses kicked in. ¡°Fire! Something is burning!¡±


    My mind raced as I tried to figure out what was happening. I could feel the heat of the mes, even from where I stood.


    I rushed out of my room and headed towards the source of the awful smell.


    Also, I mind-linked the Omegas, noting that my wolf alert was right about the burning smell in my mansion.


    As soon as I reached the source of the smell, the kitchen, I stopped in my tracks. I looked up, gazing at the ck thick fog that moved out of the kitchen.


    The fog was so thick and heavy from the view, and walking into the kitchen wouldn¡¯t be the right option. I don¡¯t think anyone can see inside the kitchen with that thick fog.


    I heard the sound of footsteps, and I turned to see one of the Omegas approaching with a fire extinguisher. With a quick flick of his wrist, the Omega activated the fire extinguisher and began to sweep the nozzle back and forth.


    The other Omegas joined in, and within minutes, the thick smoke began to clear. As it did, the kitchen came into view, and I caught a glimpse of what was inside the kitchen.


    The sight made my heart sink.


    From the clean, sparkling kitchen I had, it became a kitchen with ckened walls. The kitchen cabs became warped. Even the cooker was covered in soot, and the pot on the burner had turned from shiny silver to a charred ck.


    A few of the Omegas entered the kitchen, their fire extinguishers in their arms. They swept the nozzle of the extinguisher on the pot.


    Bang!


    I jumped at the sound of the explosion, my hands flying up to cover my ears. A secondter, the room was silent, and I looked up to see the source of the noise.


    The ckened pot had exploded, sending shards of metal and ceramic flying across the kitchen.


    Trying to calm my nerves and the anger that threatened to take control of my actions, I inhaled and exhaled repeatedly. My anger was filled, but my wolf wouldn¡¯t give in. This mansion was a part of my hard-earned money, and whoever caused this mess will pay!


    The Omegas had managed to put out the fire, and I turned to the Head Omega, ready to give her a piece of my mind. But my wolf wasn¡¯t ready, so I clenched my fists and massaged my temples.


    I took a few deep breaths, sping my wrists behind my back. Meanwhile, the Head Omega lowered her head, sensing my anger. I took another deep breath, trying to remain calm and collected.


    ¡°Who did this?¡± I asked, my voice low and dangerous.


    The Head Omega hesitated for a moment, making me more irritated.


    ¡°Who made this mess?!¡± I roared, losing my patience. ¡°If you don¡¯t speak now, you and your entire generation will be punished for your silence.¡±N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    The Omega¡¯s eyes widened in fear, and I knew I had struck a nerve. But I couldn¡¯t let myself back down now.


    ¡°I-I don¡¯t know, sir,¡± the Head Omega stammered, her voice shaking with fear. ¡°The Omegas are not allowed to enter the kitchen at this time, so I have no idea who could have done this.¡±


    I can¡¯t believe her answer. Was she really trying to cover for the culprit?


    ¡°Is that so?¡± I spoke, my voice cold and hard. ¡°Then I guess your family should be banished from this pack,¡± I muttered, walking away that instant.


    Obviously, she or the Omegas were behind this, but she was trying to protect the culprit.


    ¡°Ldy Ziva. She was thest person I spotted here!¡± The Head Omega eximed, causing my ear to perk up at the mention of Ziva.


    That Darwin¡¯s daughter!


    Of course, it was her. I should have known. I gritted my teeth, anger simmering just beneath the surface. What did Ziva think she was doing,ing into my territory and causing trouble?


    Just as the Head Omegapleted her statement, I heard the sound of footsteps pounding down the stairs. I turned to see who was making such a racket, and there was Ziva, rushing into the kitchen. She didn¡¯t even look at me, and her face was pale and drawn.


    Upon reaching the kitchen, she stopped short, her eyes widening in shock at the scene in front of her. I watched her carefully, wondering what she was thinking.


    What a sneaky rabbit! Did she set my kitchen on fire on purpose? What was her n?


    ¡°Goodness!¡± She eximed, her eyes wide with shock. But I wasn¡¯t buying her innocent act. I strode over to her, my hand closing around her arm in a tight grip.


    ¡°Ouch!¡± She winced at my grasp, and I turned her to face me with a roll from my grasp.


    ¡°You will be punished for what you¡¯ve done,¡± I uttered authoritatively, and she shook her head slightly.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean for this to happen,¡± she stammered. ¡°I was just trying to make some pasta.¡± I heard her mutter, but I was uninterested in whatever she said as long as she was the culprit.


    I dragged her out of the mansion and threw her away from the doors.


    As I mind-linked the guards, they appeared at my side in an instant, ready to follow my orders.


    ¡°Throw her into the Den, she is of no use,¡± I ordered with a firm, andmanding voice. Then, I turned back and mmed the double doors shut.


    She would learn her lesson soon enough after spending a few days in that Den.

 Chapter 15

    ZIVA


    Just like I had decided to speak with Alpha Darwin, I went to my room to have my phone. As soon as I reached my phone, I checked the contact lists and surprisingly, there was only one phone number saved in the list.


    The phone number was saved as Dad with a love emoji after the word. There was no doubt in my mind that it was Alpha Darwin¡¯s number.


    So, I hit the call button, my heart racing. The phone rang and rang, but no one picked up. I began to get exhausted. Just then, the smell of burnt food filled the air, making me wrinkle my nose.


    The pasta! I hadpletely forgotten about it. I rushed back to the kitchen, fearing the worst.


    () I didn¡¯t turn off the cooker before entering my room. Hastily, I ran downstairs, with my heart pounding, only for my worst fears to be confirmed.


    In the kitchen, I spotted the Omegas with some fire extinguishers. They were scrambling to put out the mes with fire extinguishers, but the damage was done.


    The whole kitchen was ruined because of my pasta.


    I could not even imagine the cost of the damages. It would be a lot of money to care for everything!!


    ¡°Ouch!¡± I yelled when I felt a sharp, burning pain in my hand.


    I turned, realizing that someone grabbed me by the wrist. Their grip was so tight that it was almost unbearable. I let out a cry of pain, and the grip loosened just a bit.


    I turned around to see whose hand gripped my hand that way, and through teary eyes, I saw the face of Alpha Xander. He looked furious, his brows furrowed and his eyes zing. I felt my legs begin to shake, and I knew I was in for a scolding of eternity.


    ¡°I ruined his kitchen, I hope he spares me!!¡± I pleaded inwardly.


    With a snarl, he dragged me to the front door and threw me out, his grip like steel. His muscr grip was no match with my tiny hand, so I could not wriggle my hand from his grip.


    Thud!


    My feet flew out from under me as I was tossed through the door. Inded hard on the ground, my knees and palms scraping painfully against the rough driveway.


    As I looked down, I saw that my skin had broken open, blood trickling from the wounds. It hurt, but not as much as the way I felt with Alpha Xander¡¯s cold, furious gaze ring at me.


    ¡°Throw her into the Den, she is of no use!¡± Alpha Xander thundered, mming the door instantly.


    His words echoed in my mind, cutting deeper than any de could. He didn¡¯t even listen to my exnations, or maybe he didn¡¯t care. I know I made a mistake, but at least I deserve to be forgiven. However, from the gaze I stole from his face, he had no hint of mercy orpassion in his blue eyes, only cold, hard judgment.


    At that moment, two muscr hands gripped my hands, and I wriggled my hands to get out of their grip. Sadly, I couldn¡¯t.


    ¡°Let me go!¡± I yelled, but the two guards holding my hands did not leave a response.


    ¡°Please, please, don¡¯t take me to the Den!¡± I pleaded, with tears forming in my eyes as I recalled Alpha Xander¡¯s order.


    The two guards just kept dragging me along, their grips like iron. I twisted and turned, trying to free myself, but it was no use. I was helpless.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    In Granelma Pack, we had a Den. It was arge space mainly for bad, big, scary werewolves. I heard that those werewolves are far more aggressive because they engage with hard drugs. Sigh¡­ I didn¡¯t want to be eaten by those hungry, aggressive werewolves that were locked up in a den.


    The guards pushed me roughly into the back of a van. Afterward, I heard a metallic clink.


    They locked the van from the outside!


    A few minutester, my body started moving as the van moved roughly.


    My eyes gazed at everything in the van, hoping that I could see something that I could escape with. Then, my eyesnded on a mesh window, with a few small holes. It was my only hope.


    I hurried over to the window and pressed my face against the mesh, peering through the holes. Outside, I could see trees and grasses, as well as the faint outline of a building in the distance.


    Click!


    Suddenly, I heard a click from outside the van. I turned my head and saw the tall gate sliding open. The van drove through, and I heard another click as the gate closed behind us.


    My heart sank at that moment. I was trapped, and there was no way out, since I was moved out of Alpha Xander¡¯s mansion.


    I turned back to the mesh window, desperate for some clue as to what type of Den they were taking me. But all I could see was the blur of the tall trees rushing by.


    My stomach grumbled, making me close my eyes as I hugged my knees. The pasta was still uncooked when I left the kitchen to take my phone. I was also foolish enough to not turn off the burner before I went to my room.


    ¡°I wonder what crime the girlmitted that annoyed the Alpha to that extent. Moving her to the Den is a huge punishment.¡± I heard the guard speak, with a husky voice.


    With his statement, chills ran down my spine and I gulped.


    ¡°Why do you care? The Alpha made hismand and it¡¯s our job to obey,¡± the other guard replied, and in the next minute, the first guard sighed, ¡°I hope she survives.¡±


    Hope? .


    Suddenly, the van stopped moving. Without wasting time, I nced through the mesh window to find out what stopped the van. Just then, I realized that the trees had been reced with a wall.


    Where am I?!


    Thud!


    I heard. I turned to the source of the sound, the back of the van, with my eyes wide open, and my ears being attentive. I had to be careful, just in case the guards had been attacked and I needed to protect myself.

 Chapter 16

    ZIVA


    Suddenly, the van opened and bright lights shed into the van, almost blinding my eyes. I had to cover my eyes with my hand, then the light was diverted.


    As soon as the light was diverted, I positioned my hands into fighting fists, as I was prepared to punch or smack anyone who tried to attack.


    Squinting my eyes through the light, I spotted the same guards who dragged me into the van earlier. They stood before me with their bright shlights turned on.


    Hastily, they approached me with their ck boots making heavy sounds.


    Dragging me by my arms, the men took me away from the van. Meanwhile, I screamed. I didn¡¯t want to go to the Den, so I kicked my legs and shouted, ¡°Help! I¡¯m being kidnapped!¡±


    I lied. Well, it was the best option I had in order to get help and have someone take me away from here.


    ¡°Tsk, did you even look at your surroundings?¡± One of the guards chuckled.


    I opened my mouth to respond, but my voice caught in my throat. What could I say? The truth was, I hadn¡¯t looked at my surroundings. I had been too focused on trying to escape. I had been so desperate to get out of the van that I hadn¡¯t even noticed where I was.


    Then, I looked around, scanning my surroundings.


    The van, I, and the guards were not around trees or bushes. It looked like we were in some sort of building.Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be silly, you are in the Den already,¡± the other guard who might have noticed my gaze that wandered around spoke.


    My eyes widened in fear, and I wriggled my wrists to get out of their grip, but it was of no use. Then, I screamed loudly, hoping that someone would hear me and help me get out of here, but there was no one around.


    I looked forward, noticing the horizontal iron bars that stopped before us. I was dragged past it by a guard, and the bars closed without anyone touching it.


    Perceiving an awful smell, I wrinkled my nose.


    Not just one smell, it was different smells that mingled and made the air in that ce a bit difficult for me to breathe. The first smell I perceived and could recognize was that of a smoke.


    While working at the Granelma Pack as an Omega, I was used to cooking and cleaning Alpha Darwin¡¯s meeting room where other Alphas met with him. They also have a smoking area there, so I¡¯m pretty used to that.


    Within a few minutes, my gaze came in contact with a group of men who were smoking cigarettes as they passed by. The smoke from their cigarettes drifted towards me, and the smell of tobo filled the air.


    I quickly turned my head away from them, trying to avoid inhaling the smoke as the smell of cigarettes made me feel slightly nauseous.


    Thud!


    The guards threw me to the floor, causing my hands to sweep away and my face to hit the floor. Also, the wounds on my knees scraped against the rough concrete, and the pain shot through my body.


    Biting my lips, I stifled a groan. I had to ce my hands on the floor in front of me to push myself up, slowly and carefully. Even though my knees were already throbbing from the fall, I managed to move.


    Gritting my teeth, I med myself for attempting to make pasta as I slowly rose to my feet. Then, I clutched the nearby wall for support.


    Once I was standing upright, I nced at my wounds. My knees were bleeding badly more than before. I rubbed my face, my gazending on a woman in the corner.


    She wore a ck, short gown that exposed her cleavage. Also, her mouth danced as she chewed bubblegum and blew bubbles with her mouth.


    The noises she made with her bubblegum were enough to remind me that I was still in the Den. Just then, I turned around, realizing that the guards were gone. They left me in the DEN.


    What do I do?


    I stood up to leave quickly, but the iron bars were closed. Hastily, I ran towards it, checking if I could open it. But there was some sort of machine attached to the bar so no matter how much I push it to open, it wouldn¡¯t open except I use a card to open it.


    Out of the blue, a low growl filled the air, causing my heart to race. I didn¡¯t dare turn around to know the source of the growl, as my whole body trembled.


    ¡°Please let me out of here!¡± I yelled, feeling terrified and I hit the horizontal bars violently.


    Suddenly, arge hand mped down on my shoulder, yanking me around as my body shivered. I looked up and saw a row of snarling faces, their eyes staring at my body lustfully.


    They were all men, and the woman I spotted earlier was not around me anymore.


    ¡°Please, I came here identally,¡± I uttered in a pleading tone, hoping that one of them would have mercy and believe me.


    One of the men moved closer, and with that, my mind cooked up a statement, and I voiced it out.


    ¡°I-I¡¯m your Alpha¡¯s wife! Alpha Xander¡¯s wife!¡± I stammered, and the man moving toward me paused. He gazed at me for a moment.


    Suddenly, a chuckle echoed from his lips and the other men chuckled too.


    The man approached me, and he snickered, ¡°Do we look like fools who will fall for your lies?¡±


    ¡°Lies? No, I¡¯m not lying!¡± I admitted quickly. I opened my mouth to say another word, but instantly, the man gripped my hand.


    He raised my hand to his face and sniffed my wrist in a second.


    ¡°You don¡¯t even have his scent or aura around you,¡± he spoke, causing me to bite my lips.


    I took in his statement, and processed it. Does that mean that he expects the Alpha scents to be on my body, like we have been intimate?

 Chapter 17

    ZIVA


    That should be what he meant. I and Alpha Xander¡¯s wedding night should have been our consummation night, and as his woman, I should have his scent or aura on my body. However, we were not involved, so there is no sign of his im on me.


    The same man stretched his neck, gazing down at my neck. ¡°You are not even marked,¡± he spoke, ¡°Your lies are pathetic, little girl¡­¡±


    ¡°No, no. I¡¯m telling the truth,¡± I protested, though I could feel tears rolling down my cheeks uncontrobly.


    ¡°Little girl, don¡¯t cry,¡± he spoke gently, reaching out to touch my face. I jerked away from his hand, not wanting him to touch me, but he pulled me close.


    With his hand caressing my wet cheeks, he uttered softly, ¡°I am their leader, so you can stay with me tonight.¡±


    The other men giggled at his statement, while my heart squeezed. I knew what they were capable of, maltreating and abusing women are their foods.


    Instead of crying, I mustered courage, and pushed the man¡¯s hand off.


    ¡°You don¡¯t wish to do this to your Alpha¡¯s wife. You will regret this, so it¡¯s best you run while you can!¡± I spoke, with my voice not croaking for once.


    I expected the men to flee in fear, or at least respect me, but instead, theyughed mockingly. The man who called himself the leaderughed, too.


    I eyed them warily, trying to understand theirughter. Didn¡¯t I speak with confidence?


    ¡°Don¡¯t be a fool,¡± I heard the leader utter, as he raised his gaze. His dark, menacing gaze looked over me, as a smile crept on his face.


    ¡°Alpha Xander killed his mate the other time. He killed his other mates too. So, even if you are his wife, mistress, or whatever you call yourself, you are useless. Soon, you will be thrown like a piece of rag, and you will be before me, on your knees, begging me to let you be my woman.¡± He smirked.


    His statements hit me right in the chest. He was right, I was already thrown out like a piece of rag, and here I am, trying to escape from this den.


    Pushing his hand against my shoulder, I stumbled back, because of his strong push and fell.


    Then, the men around closed in, forming a tight circle around me, meanwhile, their leader was in the middle, and he stood tall before me.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t we have a little wee fun?¡± He asked, and I felt a wave of nausea wash over me, my stomach twisting in knots.


    I¡¯ve never wanted anything from the Moon Goddess after what happened to my eighteenth birthday. But Moon Goddess, I need you now. Save me from these beasts!


    While praying inwardly for the Moon Goddess, I moved back as the leader approached me dangerously, with his hands pulling down his pants zips.


    ¡°ise!¡± A voice thundered, and the men around me looked away. Meanwhile, I took that opportunity to rush under their legs and move toward the horizontal bar.


    Though, the bars won¡¯t do a thing, or help me out of this situation since I can¡¯t pass through because it is locked. But, I decided to cling my body unto the bars, and when the men try to bring me out, I won¡¯t move an inch. I will stay glued to the bars, till someone unlocks it.


    ¡°Leave the girl to Big Boss,¡± The voice that attracted the men¡¯s attention spoke authoritatively. But that sent a shiver down my spine.


    Moon Goddess, I wanted to be saved, I prayed to be saved, not to move into another trouble. Certainly, the person who spoke was referring to me. I was referred to as a girl and the Big Boss would definitely be the Leader¡¯s superior. ( ; . ; )


    The sound of grumbles echoed, and the men scattered, walking away from me. They passed their leader¡¯s side and moved away, with their facial expression spelling out disappointment.


    Great! They are gone!


    ¡°Big Boss is worse, don¡¯t get excited yet,¡± The leader spoke, smirking again. I gulped down his statement, cursing myself for asking the Moon Goddess for help. I should have known that the Moon Goddess hates me, just like Alpha Darwin and his horrible Luna.


    Afterward, he left my presence as some other men reced him.


    They didn¡¯t even hesitate to touch me. They looked muscr, and they grabbed my hands, attempting to drag me away from the bars.


    No matter how I tried to hold onto the bars, my hands kept slipping off. In no time at all, I was pulled away from the bars like a spineless werewolf.


    The men dragged me by my arms, and they pushed me into a room. The room was arge one. It was brightened with different colors, most especially purple or blue.


    But I didn¡¯t focus on the colors. Instead, I focused on therge bed in the center of the room which was draped with heavy curtains.


    The men who brought me into the room, bowed their heads at the curtain. As soon as the men turned around, obviously attempting to leave, I turned around too, wanting to leave too.


    But when we reached the door, the men pushed me back into the room, and the sound of a click echoed. Click was the sound of a lock. The door was locked!N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Rushing towards the door, I pushed my body against it, trying to push the door open. To be precise, my pushes did not have any effect on the door.


    Then, I balled my hands into fists and banged them against the door. I yelled for help once again, like someone would barge in and miraculously save me after I¡¯d been shouting for help since I was dragged into this den.


    Even if someone helps me, I will definitely throw a p on the person¡¯s face. After making me panic and tremble for a long time, they should have arrived earlier!


    The sound of giggles filled the room, distracting me from the futile efforts I made towards opening the damn door. My ear rang at the giggles, and they sounded feminine.


    I gazed at what I assumed the giggles emerged from, ncing warily at therge bed that was covered with curtains. Unexpectedly, the curtains slid open!

 Chapter 18

    ZIVA


    To be honest, I had expected the Big Boss or whoever else they said I was given to toe in through the door, because I thought I was alone in the room. But I guess I was wrong, and the room was filled with some women.


    As the curtains slid open, a few bare bodies were revealed. Two women¡­ Four women were on therge bed with no clothes to cover their bodies. They were all caressing the man in their middle. I had to look closely to see who it was.


    My gaze fell on a fat bald man, he was triple the size of me. The women continued to caress him and chuckle like he was gold, including the woman I met earlier. The man also seemed to be pleased with their actions.


    He turned his face, and his gazended on me. Upon seeing me, his eyes lit up, and a smile appeared on his face.


    ¡°Leave now, we have a new member.¡± He ordered. Instantly, the women left his sides. They moved towards the sofa next to the bed, as they clutched their clothes.


    In a jiffy, they were dressed, and they rushed toward the door I was trying to open with all of my efforts. With a touch, the door opened, and they rushed out. Not without, eyeing me, and ring at me, like I stole their joy.


    How did they open the door?


    I rushed toward the door, and the door mmed shut. I tried to push it open again, but it wouldn¡¯t open. It seemed like someone was opening and locking it from the outside.


    ¡°Do you want a drink?¡± The bald man¡¯s husky voice spoke, and when I averted my gaze, he was not lying on the bed. Instead, he stood before a table and he poured a dark liquid from a bottle into two sses.


    ¡°Interesting¡­¡± I spoke, crossing my arms, ¡°Do you think I am dumb enough to have that drink you poured, knowing too well that you might have mixed some drugs into it, to make me drunk?¡±


    The bald man turned, his face staring at me, ¡°It¡¯s rude to spoil the fun.¡±


    I chuckled at that. He seems like an old, foolish person. I can leave this ce sooner than I expected.


    ¡°But¡­¡± The bald man¡¯s voice trailed off, as he grabbed two sses that contained the dark liquid.


    ¡°Here is a twist.¡± He spoke bravely, as he approached me, ¡°You will learn to have the drink, even though you are aware of what I mixed with it.¡±


    ¡°It will be less tedious to tell your men to unlock the bars, and allow me to leave.¡±


    ¡°I guess you are new to this pack, because you seem blinded about this ce.¡±


    ¡°I am. I am your Alpha-¡±


    ¡°Shush, I don¡¯t want to listen. Whatever you call yourself, I don¡¯t care. This is my den, my territory. Now you are here, you must obey my rules and mymands,¡± the man spoke, his steps hastening as he approached me.


    As soon as he was approaching, I turned back, checking my distance to the door. Only an inch was left between me and the door, so it¡¯s best I move away.


    I acted as I nned. I moved away from the door and the bald man¡¯s voice echoed, ¡°It will be less tedious if you quietly have this. You know, the more time you waste moving away from me, the more time we spend this night together.¡±


    ¡°You old, dirty pig! Shouldn¡¯t you be ashamed of yourself? You should be in the pack, with your grandkids, not toying around with other women¡¯s bodies. Have some shame at least!¡± I yelled.


    ¡°Okay then¡­¡± The man sighed, ¡°I guess you are a hard nut to crack since your mouth will not stay mute for a second as it spits out nonsense.¡±


    cing the sses he held gently on the table, I gripped a nightmp quickly. Positioning the nightmp in my hands, I was prepared to hit it on him, if he tried toe towards me.


    Turning back to the bald man, his body appeared before me, and a ss was still sped in his hand.


    How did he get closer to me in that moment?


    Without wasting time, I raised my hands to hit the nightmp on his head, but he was faster. He quickly gripped my neck, making it difficult for me to breathe.


    Hastily, I dropped the nightmp as I tried to focus on releasing the man¡¯s grip on my neck. My mind could not even think of something else. I clutched his hand that gripped my neck, intending to push it off, but I couldn¡¯t.


    I pinched and pped his hand, but he didn¡¯t even budge off. My beatings seemed like an ant touch to him.


    Tightening his grip on my neck, I heard him utter, ¡°I will make sure you learn to watch your tongue and obey me. I will break the innocence in you, and make you listen!¡±


    This time, my legs were floating in the air as his grip tightened and was raised. I could not even breathe anymore, and I started to lose air. My hands dropped off, away from his hand as I became weak and exhausted. It felt like my life was being vacuumed out of my body.Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    When I thought that I was losing myself, my tongue encountered a strong, bitter taste. That gave me a bit of energy and I gulped it down identally.


    Then, my legs stood on the floor, and the bald man¡¯s grip was loosened. The man pulled his hand away and smiled. Meanwhile, I gently rubbed my neck, as pain erupted from the sides his hand gripped.


    Looking up at the man, I noticed that he swayed an empty ss before me, and then he spoke, ¡°I told you that you would learn to drink this, didn¡¯t I?¡±

 Chapter 19

    ZIVA


    With the bald man¡¯s statement, my eyes widened as fear gripped me. Did I gulp that ck liquid?


    ¡°Now, look at that. You drank it in a go,¡± the man spoke in a mocking manner, confirming my doubts. He forced the drink into my mouth, while I was gasping for breath, and I foolishly gulped it.


    My heart raced.


    He mentioned that he mixed something into the drink. Gosh! It is not just an ordinary drink, or alcohol then.


    I took a step away from the man, and my legs wobbled, like they were exhausted.


    That is strange.


    My legs never feel wobbly even after I worked tirelessly back then.


    ¡°No worries, I will help you,¡± I heard the man utter. I raised my gaze to look at his ugly face, but when I did, his face doubled¡­ Or maybe tripled or quadrupled. I¡¯m confused!!!Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    The bald man¡¯s hand hit my shoulder and I fell backward like a pillow. But I fell on something soft, something fluffy too. I looked at my sides, gazing at the bed cover under my body.


    Bed cover?! Bed?!


    My eyes widened in fear, but even though I tried to raise my hand to hit or punch, I couldn¡¯t. Raising my hand was like raising a pile of blocks. Imagine raising two hands! My body felt heavy and tired, and I just felt like dozing off.


    Managing to keep my eyes open, I spotted the bald man pulling off his robe. Afterward, he moved toward the bed, while I could not even move. Even turning my head was a lot of stress.


    His ugly face came in contact with mine, and I could his face above mine.


    ¡°Stay away from me¡­¡± I spoke loudly, but it came out as a slurred voice.


    ¡°Hehe¡­ Soon, you will be the one wanting me to be around you,¡± I heard, and I gave up. I didn¡¯t struggle or try to fight. I just tilt my head to the other side, feeling exhausted already.


    Bang!


    I saw the door barge open, and I heard the bald man exim, ¡°Who dare to interrupt!!¡±


    The bald man¡¯s face turned to the door side too, and upon seeing whoever or whatever he saw, he moved away from me.


    ¡°How dare youe here!¡± He uttered, raising his voice. He moved toward the door, and a heavy sound echoed.


    The bald man stumbled back and he fell. Surprisingly, the person who barged the door open gave the bald man a fitting kick to his big, protruded stomach.


    Slowly approaching the bed, the figure looked down at me. It was a tall, muscr figure that I could not see properly. But with the figure, I confirmed that it was a man.


    The man, my savior, my hero moved towards me and he dragged me, carrying me into his soft arms. His arms were the best! Fluffy and soft¡­ And his cologne¡­ It was perfect, better than Niks¡¯s own in a hundred times.


    He held me close, with his hands supporting my back and legs, while I leaned my back against his chest. My ear was pressed against the left side of his chest and I could hear his heartbeat.


    His heart beat steadily, like a steady drumbeat, but to me, it was like a soothing melody. A melody that I wanted to keep listening to for eternity.


    ¡°Oh, my hero, thank you for saving me,¡± I muttered, but it came out as a whisper.


    Suddenly, I stopped hearing his heartbeat, and his soft arms were not supporting me anymore. Instead, I was in a sitting position.


    I nced around, forcing my eyes to open. They opened just like I wanted, but not widely, they opened slightly, and I could only see some blurry things.


    My eyes spotted a steering wheel that a man moved. Am I in a car?


    XANDER


    Watching that Ziva girl made me annoyed. It¡¯s good I threw her out of my mansion. She deserves more than that.


    Opening the heavy wooden door, I stepped into the bar in my mansion, which was bathed in low light. The smell of wood polish and alcohol hung in the air. Then, I spotted the Omega at the front bar polishing a ss with a soft cloth.


    Walking towards the counter, the Omega¡¯s jaw dropped and he bowed his head upon seeing me instantly. Meanwhile, I took a seat on the bar stool.


    The barstool creaked slightly as I sat, and my jaw clenched at the remembrance of Alpha Darwin¡¯s deeds. I took a deep breath and smoothed down my shirt, trying topose myself.


    Also, I ced my hands on the cool marble counter of the bar, taking a moment to collect myself. ¡°I¡¯ll have a strong drink,¡± I spoke, my voice low and husky.


    The Omega paused and he gazed at me with a quizzical look on his face.


    ¡°Your usual?¡± The Omega inquired quietly in a polite tone.


    ¡°Yes, whiskey, neat,¡± I responded, knowing that my request had surprised him.


    After all, I had walked out of this bar, my anger quenching ce, and swore to never return many months ago. But here I am, having my usual strong drink because I could not control my anger again.


    The Omega nodded and he turned away. Meanwhile, I closed my eyes, trying to focus on my breathing and trying to quell the anger that churned inside me.


    ¡°Anything else I can get you?¡± I heard the Omega say, jolting me from my thoughts, as I opened my eyes to reality.


    ¡°The whiskey is enough,¡± I replied.


    The Omega slid the drink across the counter, then turned and busied himself with another task. I reached for the drink, my fingers brushing the icy exterior of the ss.


    The ss felt soothing on my fingertips, and the chill seemed to spread through my body, calming my anger. I took a deep breath and brought the ss to my lips, savoring the scent of the whiskey as I tilted the ss to my mouth.

 Chapter 20

    XANDER


    The taste of the whiskey was bitter and the alcohol in it gave a warm and tingling sensation on my tongue. As I sipped the whiskey, the anger seemed to leave my body. Peace enveloped me as I sipped, causing me to focus on the present moment.


    I heard the sound of the heavy wooden door opening, the hinges creaking as the door slowly swung open. My ears perked up, and I turned to see who had entered the bar.


    Lance walked in, his eyes blinking rapidly as they adjusted to the dim light of the bar. I watched him survey the room, his gaze finallying to rest on me. He approached the bar stool and sat down opposite me as his chair scraped against the wooden floor.


    ¡°Rough day?¡± he asked.


    I nced up, ensuring that my expression was cold, just as the way I felt to his question.


    ¡°Mind your business,¡± I replied quickly, not caring if my tone was harsh.


    Lance ced his hands on the counter and cleared his throat. ¡°Beer,¡± he ordered. The Omega nods and sets about bringing the beer.


    Then, a thought popped up in my mind, and I blurted it out instantly. ¡°Aren¡¯t you supposed to be working?¡± I asked, creasing my brows at Lance.


    ¡°I can¡¯t work now. It¡¯s my resting hours,¡± Lance replied, and I let out a scoff.


    ¡°As the Beta of this pack-¡±


    ¡°As the Beta, I came here to speak with you,¡± Lance interrupted, his tone sounding quick. The Omega ced a beer on the counter, and Lance waved his hand. Nodding his head as a sign of obedience, the Omega walked out of the bar.


    ¡°What do you want to say?¡± I replied, my fingers still wrapped around the tumbler. I poured more amount of whiskey into the tumbler and a worried tone echoed.


    ¡°Alpha, you are the same person who mentioned that Lady Ziva was your tool. Don¡¯t you think that throwing her out-¡±


    I mmed the tumbler down, ¡°Throwing her out was the right decision. I am the Alpha and my decision is always right.¡±


    ¡°Yes, it is¡­¡±


    ¡°Good, you realized,¡± I uttered, almost grabbing the tumbler again.


    ¡°But not in this angry state,¡± Lance replied, letting out a long sigh. I turned to him with my brows furrowed as my hands clenched into fists.


    Lance continued, ¡°I don¡¯t mean to sound rude. But if Alpha Darwin finds out about his daughter, it will cause chaos. You know the consequence of him bringing up a war, Alpha.¡±


    I paused, my clenched fists loosening. In the past, I made a wrong decision while I was angry, and it cost a lot of my pack member¡¯s lives. Now, I¡¯ve made the wrong decision again.


    Throwing the Darwin¡¯s daughter out of my mansion is not a wise decision, especially when our packs got united a few hours ago.


    ¡°The Darwin¡¯s daughter can stay in the Den till the next morning,¡± I spoke, rising to my feet. Lance bowed his head, while I headed towards the wooden door, intending to leave the bar.


    ¡°I hope she survives till the next morning,¡± I heard Lance mutter, and my eyes widened in fear.


    The Den was a dangerous ce that was built by a bald, rich man. I granted him the opportunity to stay there and have other werewolves with him. But with that little Ziva girl, I don¡¯t think she can survive.


    Hastily, I rushed out of the bar, with my thoughts racing with different imaginations. First, the imagination of entering the Den, only to find the Ziva¡¯s dead body or maybe her cut-off leg or hand.


    Stepping into my car, I ordered my driver to elerate to the Den. In no time, the car reached there. I stepped out, and inquired for ise who may have seen little Ziva around.


    Luckily, he saw her and directed me to the bald, fat man¡¯s room. As soon as I entered the room, I pushed the fat man away because of the disrespect he had given me. He didn¡¯t bow like the others and I suspected that he might be growing wings.


    Also, I didn¡¯t forget to kick his fat tummy, before I went to little Ziva whoid on the bed lifelessly. So, I had to carry her in my arms.


    Then, I ced her inside my car, and stepped inside before the driver sped off.


    Looking through the window, I noticed that the trees became blurred as the car rushed past it. I recalled how I rushed into the Den. The memory was still vivid, and I could not get it off my mind that that fat fool tried to touch little Ziva inappropriately.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    She must have been drugged since sheid still on the bed like a statue while the fool was messing around.


    I heard her utter, ¡°Hm,¡± as I felt a tight touch around my hand. I looked in the direction of the touch and spotted the little Ziva. She had her arms around my hand as she clung to it.


    Also, she had a wide smile on her face as she touched me, even though she was barely awake.


    As soon I spotted her arms in close contact with my body, I pulled my hand away from her grip.


    I felt ufortable around her, and I didn¡¯t want to see her face.


    ¡°Hm, please turn on the air conditioner, it¡¯s so hot in here,¡± Ziva moaned, fanning herself as she leaned in the seat.


    ¡°The air conditioning is turned up as high as it can go, ma¡¯am,¡± the driver replied, and I didn¡¯t bother to interfere.


    She was the one who burnt the kitchen and she deserved to be in that Den. Even if she was ufortable with the air conditioner, I wouldn¡¯t allow the driver to change its state.


    Then, I watched how she squirmed in difort like a jelly fish.


    ¡°Ugh, then why is it so hot?¡± I heard her mutter in a slurred, drowsy voice.

 Chapter 21

    XANDER


    ¡°Is everything okay?¡± the driver asked, ncing at Ziva in the rear-view mirror.


    ¡°Just keep driving,¡± I said firmly, and the driver obeyed, turning his attention back to the road.


    I leaned over and pressed the button that rolled down the passenger window, hoping that some fresh air would help Ziva feel better. Wind gushed into the car, and a sigh of relief let out from Ziva¡¯s lips just as I expected.


    ¡°Much better¡­¡± she uttered softly, her eyes closed and her head resting against the headrest.


    Then, I could analyze her properly. Her dress was unbuttoned, almost exposing her skin, so I told her.


    ¡°Button up your dress,¡± I spoke, keeping my eyes fixed on the trees outside the window.


    ¡°Done!¡± I heard her chuckle. I turned, facing her only to spot more buttons on her dress that were undone. With that, she chuckled like a baby.


    ¡°Suit yourself,¡± I replied, narrowing my eyes.


    Before my gaze could reach the window, my gaze fell on the driver who kept turning around.


    As soon as his gaze made contact with Ziva¡¯s body again, I snarled, my anger almost snapping out of me.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you to not turn around?!¡±


    He disobeyed me and was gazing at drunk Ziva¡¯s childish attitude or maybe her exposed skin. The driver faced the road immediately I yelled at him.


    Good! I faced Ziva, watching how she wasn¡¯t bothered about her unbuttoned dress.


    Even her cleavages will be exposed at this point. So, I reached out to help her button up, and I carefully fastened each button.


    After Ipleted that, I was about to move away from her. Then, she slumped against me with her head resting on my shoulder.


    Her warm breath fanned my neck, and her brown hair brushed against my cheek. Meanwhile, my mind rambled about the thought of her being unconscious since she fell to my side.


    Does that mean that I will have to carry her in my arms again when we reach the mansion?


    Ugh¡­ I hate the way I¡¯m treating her nicely. My mother was not treated this way!


    Suddenly, the car screeched to a stop. I stepped out of it and carried Ziva in my arms. Surprisingly, while carrying her, her hands moved as they stayed around my neck while I walked.


    Isn¡¯t she unconscious?


    I took a peek at her face, and OMG!! She had a smug smile on her face!


    What is this? Was she trying to make me carry her?


    Thank goodness, I haven¡¯t reached her room. I paused and considered lowering her to the floor.


    But there were so many Omegas around, and if they spotted me doing that, it might cause a rumor, which could attract Alpha Darwin¡¯s attention.


    So, I decided to not drop her. Instead, I took her to her room, where bright lights were shining.


    As soon as I entered her room, I turned off the bright lights. To be honest, I despise bright lights at night because it reminded me of my past.


    Turning off the bright light, I turned on the nightmps and dropped Ziva softly on the bed.


    I heard her mutter a word, but I could not hear what she said. As shey on the bed, her legs rested on it, but her hands remained locked around my neck.


    Suddenly, her hands, which were still wrapped around my neck, tugged me closer, causing our faces to just be a few inches away. For the first time since I met her, I noticed her hazel eyes, which revealed shades of brown and gold.


    They were beautiful, but the brown shades reminded me of blood.


    I raised my hand, trying to move her hands away from my neck, either gently or roughly, I didn¡¯t care. But, they didn¡¯t move. They clung stubbornly to me like they were glued. Then, I heard a soft chuckle from her.


    I turned to her, shooting an intense re at her. ¡°Let go of me now!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to,¡± she replied, chuckling again.


    Slowly, I noticed that her fingers loosened. Seizing the opportunity, I pushed her hands away and moved away from the bed.


    However, with each step I took, I felt a strange pull, like my clothes were stuck, resisting me from moving forward.


    Puzzled, I turned around, only to find Ziva firmly holding my cloth.


    ¡°Thank you¡­¡± she mumbled softly, as her hazel eyes sparkled with a soft gaze. A gaze that could melt anyone¡¯s heart.


    I blinked, refusing to be caught up with her gaze. I interrupted her with a cold tone. ¡°I saved you for my gain, don¡¯t bother thanking me.¡±


    With that, the soft gaze in her eyes was reced with a disheartened gaze. Afterward, I strode towards her and released my cloth from her grip.


    Striding freely, I walked out of her room and mmed the door, the loud bang echoing throughout the mansion.


    At that moment, I could hear my heart racing. It raced like crazy, and it hurt a lot!


    My hands itched to touch my chest and try to stop the pain, but I couldn¡¯t. The Omegas were around, and showing a sign of pain would make me seem weak. I don¡¯t want that.


    I strode into my room hastily, locking the door behind me. As soon as I realized that the room was empty, I sank into the plush sofa, clenching my chest which caused a lot of pain.


    The pain felt just like the one I had on that bloody day. My wolf growled at a sudden shot of pain, and I¡¯m certain that I blurted a growl out. Instantly, my wolf, Maz went mute. No words, sounds, or groans of pain.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Don¡¯t leave again,¡± I whimpered to my wolf, hoping that it could hear me out. But there was no response. Instead, I heard cries¡­ the cries of my pack members who were in agony.


    They were loud, and it made the pain more intense. At this rate, it¡¯s impossible for me to hold onto this.


    I rushed toward my drawer, my right hand clenching my chest. I reached for the knob as soon as I neared the drawer.

 Chapter 22

    XANDER


    I opened the drawer with a smooth glide, revealing the contents inside. Without wasting time, I picked up the syringe, needle, and the small bottle that apanied it.


    Hastily, I inserted the needle into the bottle, and pulled back on the plunger, drawing the liquid in the bottle into the syringe.


    I inserted the needle into the vein in my arm, and pushed the plunger.


    As soon as I injected the liquid into my vein, my hands became weak. I dropped the syringe involuntarily, and slumped, with darkness creeping at the edges of my eyes.


    ¡°Finally taking a break from pack works, uh? I guess Mr. Workaholic decided to have some time for himself.¡± Lance mind-linked.


    ¡°Shut it, it¡¯s too early for this,¡± I replied, flickering my eyes open.


    ¡°Early? it¡¯ste afternoon.¡± Lance mind-linked back.


    ¡°Afternoon?¡± His words echoed in my head.


    I forced my eyes open immediately. I recall taking Ziva to her room, and it was nighttime. How did I sleep till this time?


    I¡¯ve never done that.


    Scanning my surroundings, I spotted sunlight that reflected on the door, and my gaze fell on the syringe on the floor.


    Gosh,st night was a mess again. I snapped away from myying position, and my head throbbed with headache.


    Touching my forehead, I managed to stand, then I tossed the empty syringe underneath my bed with my foot.


    My muscles felt heavy with the burden ofst night¡¯s drama. Feeling the need to burn off some energy, I decided to head to the pack¡¯s training area.


    I had my bath, changed, and rushed downstairs to have my lunch, then go to the pack¡¯s training area.


    As soon as I descended the stairs, the aroma of roasted venison and steamed vegetables filled my nostrils. I walked into the dining hall and sat on my chair, meanwhile, the Omegas served the food.


    Then, I spotted the Ziva girl.


    I don¡¯t know what¡¯s so disastrous about her that made me feel that pain. But I¡¯m starting to despise her more than before.


    Luckily, the sorceress will be here soon and I will be able to question her about the reason for the pain I feltst night.


    Silently, Ziva walked down the stairs, and upon ncing at me, our gaze met each other. I averted my gaze to my te and ate, not wanting to see her.


    The sound of her footsteps approached me, and it paused.


    Squeak!


    I looked up and saw how she pulled out a chair. She settled on the chair, the chair next to me as a moment of silence hung between us.


    To be honest, I wish I hadn¡¯t saved her. If I had just left her, or maybe sent someone else to save her instead, I wouldn¡¯t have been in pain.


    The only reason why I decided to take her away from the Den myself was because the men there may not respect anyone I send. Just as I assumed, the bald man didn¡¯t respect me, talkless of someone lower than me.


    ¡°Aboutst night,¡± Ziva mumbled, her voice low and close to my ear. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry.¡±


    I raised my eyes to meet hers, and saw her gaze fixed on her te. Her head was lowered, as if she was respecting me.


    That was odd!


    I was not expecting her to apologize, especially when she has a bad attitude, like Lance said before I agreed to this marriage.


    Or was she putting on an act? Her eyes seemed sincere, but it was hard to tell what she was really thinking. Was she truly sorry, or was this all a performance?


    ¡°I was starving, and I-¡± I heard Ziva speak, but I was so hungry that I only half-listened. I needed food more than words, and I was uninterested in whatever she spat.


    I cut her off before she could finish her sentence.


    ¡°Have your lunch, we have a guest by dusk,¡± I replied, and shoveled another bite of food into my mouth. Dusk was approaching, and I could already smell the night air.


    I should go to the pack¡¯s training area before dusk arrives.


    I pushed away from the dining table, the empty te in front of me indicating the end of my meal.


    Suddenly, Lance¡¯s voice crackled through my mind, ¡°I have the list of the doctors named Eugene in this pack,¡±


    I paused mid-stride, my mind swirling with the possibility that Rose was definitely hiding something from me.


    ¡°Alright, meet me in my office,¡± I ordered, walking into my office hastily.


    I leaned back in my chair, the leather creaking beneath me as I settled into the seat. My hands rested on the armrests, and I waited for Lance¡¯s arrival.


    Within a few minutes, the door barged open, and Lance walked in.


    He bent his head low, and I spoke quickly, ¡°The list,¡± since that was what I was interested in, not any greeting.


    Lance ced a tablet on the table, as it turned on.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    A list of names appeared immediately with pictures next to them. All the names had Eugene, and they were few.


    Well, I and my pack members are stronger than normal werewolves, and healing is a quick thing here.


    Having a pack doctor is also not a big deal, only a few are needed when the werewolves are extremely injured.


    As I scrolled through the list of names and pictures, I realized that none of them were familiar to me. I¡¯d never met any of these people before.


    I looked up, asking Lance quickly, ¡°Is any of them rted to Rose?¡±


    A look of disappointment crossed Lance¡¯s face. Instantly, I knew what he would say.


    ¡°I apologize, Alpha. But after my search, none of them are rted to Lady Rose,¡± Lance spoke just as I had expected him to.


    Closing my eyes, I rested my elbow on the mahogany table as I massaged my temples, trying to calm myself.


    I wasted my time, thinking about something that didn¡¯t even exist. There was no ¡°Dr. Eugene¡± in this pack who was rted to Rose, my mate.


    Speaking about Rose, Rose was a beautifuldy. She was curvy, an inch shorter than me, and we were like two pieces of a puzzle that fit perfectly together.


    I can still recall her sweet voice that urged me to stay with her. But I didn¡¯t, I killed her, and almost ruined the pack.


    ¡°Is anything wrong? You look worried,¡± Lance voiced out, jolting me away from my thoughts.


    ¡°Nothing is wrong,¡± I replied firmly.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± Lance questioned with a worried tone. Yes, he is a soft spot to lie on, and a good friend to depend on.


    But as an Alpha, I shouldn¡¯t let anyone be aware of my weaknesses or worries, like my father said.


    ¡°Don¡¯t ever ask me such a question. I am fine, and will always be.¡± I replied coldly.


    ¡°Alright, but should I still search for the Doctor named-¡±


    ¡°No need, it¡¯s a waste of time.¡±


    ¡°Or check Rose¡¯s medical record?¡±


    ¡°You heard me!¡± I thundered, using my alpha aura. Then, Lance paused, he bowed his head, remaining silent.


    ¡°Just arrange the sorceress¡¯s arrival,¡± I spoke in amanding tone.


    With that, Lance nodded briefly, his face grim. ¡°Understood,¡± he said.

 Chapter 23

    ZIVA


    The Alpha is as cold as he has always been. But today was somewhat different. His eyes didn¡¯t speak anger this time, he seemed to be more worried than angry. I walked out of the dining hall, having eaten my food to my satisfaction.


    I reached the staircase, attempting to go to my room, and prepare for the guest Alpha Xander spoke about.


    As I took a step, about to ascend to my room, I heard a whisper from somewhere nearby. It was followed by a low chuckle, as if someone were trying to hold back theirughter.


    ¡°Lady Ziva looked so cute!¡± the voice squealed again, this time even louder.


    ¡°Shh!¡± another voice hissed with an annoyed tone. ¡°Do you want everyone to hear you?¡±


    I moved back, turning toward the direction of the voices. Then, I realized that the owners of the voices were in a room. I crept closer to listen. Pressing myself against the wall as I neared the door, I prayed that they wouldn¡¯t see me.


    I peeked through the tiny gap between the door and the wall and saw two young women dressed in Omega uniforms, their eyes bright as they gossiped. But why were they talking about me?


    ¡°I was therest night. She turned the kitchen into a disaster, the Alpha threw her out of the mansion, but he returned with her. Such a sweet soul.¡± the Omega spoke to the other Omega who seemed to be uninterested in what she was discussing.


    As the first Omega spoke about me, the other Omega cleaned the room roughly like the room had offended her.


    The Omega¡¯s statement made me recall that I woke up in the morning, on my bed.


    I could not remember all that happenedst night, but I recall stepping into a car and falling asleep. It must have been Alpha Xander¡¯s car.


    The Omega who seemed to be uninterested in her speech stepped in at that moment.


    ¡°Enough of this thering!¡± she snapped. ¡°All you talk about is how cute and sweet she is, but did you see the mess she made in the kitchen? It was her first night, and she left the ce in shambles. If she stayed here for two months, this pack would be reduced to nothing.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t say that!¡± The chatty Omega protested, ¡°It was just a mistake, she¡¯s new here, after all.¡±N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    ¡°A mistake? Yeah, right,¡± The Omega who was antagonizing me sneered, rolling her eyes. ¡°You know, if it was Lady Rose, the kitchen would never be destroyed. Lady Rose is very experienced with kitchen work.¡± She voiced out.


    Lady Rose? Who is that?


    ¡°Keep deceiving yourself. I¡¯m certain that you are only supporting Lady Rose because you were her favorite, and she gave you tips weekly. Don¡¯t give too much praise to a corpse.¡±


    ¡°How dare you speak that way? If Alpha Xander heard you say that, you¡¯d be in big trouble.¡±


    ¡°Me or you? You are the one who broke the rule by speaking about Lady Rose. You know how deadly that is.¡±


    ¡°Forget it, let¡¯s just clean this ce.¡± The Omega pouted, ending the discussion.


    They began to clean, their voices fading as I left the room. Walking into my room, my mind rambled. It rambled about what they said.


    That Lady Rose must have been someone of my age for that Omega to beparing us. But I guess it¡¯s something I should not know about.


    Sigh¡­ since I vividly recall when the Omega said that mentioning Lady Rose was breaking a rule.


    I wouldn¡¯t want to cause another mess by asking questions about Lady Rose.


    ¡°Hey, I¡¯ve been waiting for you!¡± Anji eximed, her voice brimming with excitement. She ced her hands on my shoulders and gently ushered me into my room, with the sound of her heels clicking on the floor.


    That reminds me. I wanted to discuss with Alpha Darwin about my mother¡¯s location before I was thrown out of the mansion. Since Anji is Alpha Darwin¡¯s minion, she can help!


    As soon as we reached my room, Anji picked two dresses, and she narrated, ¡°The Alpha is expecting a guest soon, so you should be prepared. What dress would you like, eh? Cocktail? Ball gown?¡± Anji¡¯s voice trailed off.


    ¡°Are you even listening to me?¡± She uttered, snapping her fingers at my face.


    ¡°I am,¡± I replied.


    ¡°Then what¡¯s wrong? Are you nervous?¡±


    I shook my head. ¡°No, no¡­ it¡¯s just¡­¡± I trailed off and walked towards her.


    I gently took her hands in mine, and continued, ¡°Can my mother be moved away from that cell? I¡¯m helping Alpha Darwin already. I¡¯ve made the pack united, so my mother should be given a morefortable ce.¡±


    ¡°Lady Ziva, that¡¯s not my decision to make. Alpha Darwin is the one you should speak to, not me.¡±


    ¡°I tried to reach out to himst night, but I couldn¡¯t.¡±


    Anji raised an eyebrow and she voiced out. ¡°That¡¯s impossible. He might be having an Alphas meeting at that time, but if you reached out to him throughout the night, he would have responded.¡±


    ¡°Oh, something came up at that moment.¡±


    ¡°The kitchen incident?¡±


    ¡°You know already?¡±


    ¡°Everyone in this mansion knows about how Alpha Xander threw you out and carried you in his arms.¡±


    ¡°Carried me?¡± I questioned, not recalling that anyone carried me in their arms, most especially Alpha Xander.


    ¡°When did that happen?¡± I asked, my brows furrowed.


    ¡°Oh, I thought you knew! It¡¯s been the talk of the pack since yesterday. Pictures have been all over the inte.¡± Anji replied, causing my jaw to drop in shock.


    ¡°What?!¡± I sputtered. ¡°We¡¯re supposed to keep our identities a secret. If humans find out about our existence, they¡¯ll try to hunt us.¡±


    ¡°Rx, it¡¯s just photos of a normal couple who seem to care deeply for each other. No one would suspect anything lycanthropic.¡± Anji replied, and she held out her phone.

 Chapter 24

    ZIVA


    I looked at Anji¡¯s phone screen, wanting to see the pictures she talked about. Some pictures appeared on the screen, causing my jaw to drop at that moment.


    It was a picture of Alpha Xander carrying me in his arms. The picture swiped off and a new photo appeared on the screen, this time showing me lying on a bed, Alpha Xander¡¯s face hovering just above mine.


    We were both gazing at each other, and there was no sign of anger or coldness in his eyes while he was staring at me. His face spelled more of peaceful.


    I grabbed Anji¡¯s phone from Anji and gazed at the huge amount of reactions the pictures had.


    Thement section alone was filled. It prompted my mind to read thements and when I did, I only saw goodments. Thements were filled with admiration, but they also mentioned that they had never seen me among celebrities or billionaires.


    Then, ament drew my attention because of the numerous reactions it received.


    [Mr. Xander looks handsome as always, but who is thatdy?]


    \


    [Side chick? XD]


    What?! I¡¯m his wife, not some side chick¡­


    ¡°How do they know about Alpha Xander when werewolves identity is a secret?¡± I questioned Anji.


    ¡°He is an Alpha here, but in the human world, he is a businessman, a billionaire,¡± Anji replied.


    ¡°Oh¡­ And side chicks?¡±


    ¡°I do not know anything about that, but I¡¯ve never heard of him with anyone.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± I replied, checking thement section again, only to realize that someone replied to ament under the same post.


    [There is no chick, and if there is any woman with him, it would be me.]


    What? Who is she?


    Just then, a notification popped up on the screen. It was a message from an app, with the text; Sender ¨C Alpha Darwin.


    ¡°Watch her-¡± I read the message, but the phone screen snapped out. Anji grabbed the phone from me, and uttered with a changed serious tone, ¡°Focus on what you¡¯re going to wear.¡±


    Sadly, I was unable to read the full message. But the message seemed like a threat to me. ¡®Watch her¡¯, the ¡®her¡¯ should be referring to me.


    ¡°Can I possibly meet Alpha Darwin? I need to discuss with him about my mother,¡± I voiced out, and Anji shook her head.


    ¡°He is busy, but when he Is free, he will contact you.¡±


    Busy? He is busy, yet he messaged Anji, and he didn¡¯t respond to my calls. Is he ignoring me?


    No, he wouldn¡¯t dare. I¡¯m helping him with whatever n he connived.


    Anji threw a cloth at me. Luckily, I caught it, and raised my eyebrow in question.


    ¡°That dress will match ankle boots. It is simple and a bit stylish.¡± Anji uttered, and I narrowed my eyes inwardly. If only I could find out about everything at once, things would have been better.


    ¡°Alright, I will change into it,¡± I replied, walking into my closet with Anji¡¯s suggested dress and boot.


    I changed into the clothes Anji had given me, meanwhile, she left the room without a word. I suspect that she left to speak with Alpha Darwin secretly. But what can I do anyway, if not watch and backstab them?


    Anji returned with a young Omega who quickly got to work, curling and styling my long, brown hair into loose, romantic waves.


    ¡°Done!¡± the Omega announced, smiling as she stepped back to admire her handiwork.


    Anji gave her a curt nod and waved her away, causing the young Omega to leave the room with a quiet ¡°Excuse me.¡±


    Then, a grin appeared on Anji¡¯s face. She touched my shoulders and turned me to face her, ¡°The guest will be here in a minute or two, and you are looking great already.¡±


    With her statement, I scoffed inwardly. I couldn¡¯t tell if she was lying or telling the truth.


    Even if I questioned her about her excitement for the guest¡¯s arrival, she would only ignore me. Then, she might suspect that I know that she and Alpha Darwin will be against meter on.


    ¡°I¡¯m also excited! I can¡¯t wait to see the guest!¡± I squeaked, forcing a smile on my face. The grin on Anji¡¯s face vanished.


    I¡¯m very unskilled at pretending, so I¡¯m not certain that Anji bought my pretense. Tsk, if it were Tania, she would have been given a golden award for the best actress in the pack.


    ¡°Now, let¡¯s wait for the Alpha¡¯s order,¡± Anji muttered.


    Alpha¡¯s order? Can Alpha Xander order Anji through a mind link? But the packs had only been united a few hours ago. It¡¯s impossible for him to mind link her quickly.


    ¡°How will we get his order? Through mindlink?¡± I questioned, with curiosity tinged in my voice.


    ¡°No, no. When I left, I gave your phone number to the Alpha, so we could wait for his order. You know, it would have been rude to give him my phone number.¡±


    ¡°This is not the first time you did this,¡± I spoke, my voice rising in frustration. ¡°I told you to inform me before doing something to any of my belongings.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not like the Alpha won¡¯t find your phone numberter?¡± She winked.


    ¡°My mother would have been released from Alpha Darwin¡¯s cell. So there is no need for him to have my phone number since I will not associate with him anymore.¡±


    ¡°Alright, Lady Ziva. I will do as you say.¡± Anji replied politely, and she walked out of the room.


    Lies, she lied to me.


    Obviously, she left the room earlier to speak with Alpha Darwin, now she covered up by lying about my phone number being given to Alpha Xander.


    Even though Alpha Xander received such, he would have deleted it immediately.


    Beep!


    Beep!Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    Beeps echoed in the room. I turned towards the direction. The source of the sounds was from my phone whichy on the table. I reached for it, and a notification popped up on the phone screen, just like it did on Anji¡¯s phone.

 Chapter 25

    ZIVA


    I gazed at the pop-up and spotted Sender ¨C Unknown number.


    Weird?


    I looked down at the message and the first line was, [From Alpha Xander]


    I almost screamed at the sight of his name. Was Anji right? Did she really give him my phone number?


    Oh, goodness, should I check the message or simply ignore it for my mental peace¡¯s sake? I do not want to see anything that will put me down and make me feel like trash, as Alpha Xander makes me feel.


    What can I do then? The message might contain a piece of important information.


    I paced to and fro in the room, with my hand rubbing my chin as I thought. I thought, and checking Alpha Xander¡¯s message was the right decision.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Carefully clicking on the message box, a message application appeared, one I¡¯d never seen before.


    I guess that the messages at the bottom were from Alpha Xander.


    My eyes gazed at the message, my mouth reading it aloud.


    ¡°Downstairs now. The guest is before the double doors.¡±


    Oh, it was about the guest.


    I rushed out of my room, and upon reaching the stairs, I walked elegantly towards the double doors, recalling how Anji trained me to walk before I got married¡­ Married, no. This is no marriage at all. I meant before I got involved in Alpha Darwin¡¯s n.


    When I was about to reach the double doors, I saw a man in a forest green henley shirt paired with dark jeans and brown leather ankle boots. The man¡¯s hair was dark tousled, short, and rugged with his clothes looking simple.


    The same man suddenly looked at me, his blue eyes making him extremely handsome. My heart fluttered at that moment, and I couldn¡¯t help but stare with my eyes drawn to him like mas.


    He had this look of admiration in his eyes, one I¡¯d never seen in any man¡¯s eyes. Is this real? Am I imagining things?


    I pinched my finger, hoping it was fake. Then, I looked up at the man again. Surprisingly, he didn¡¯t vanish, which meant that he was not fake.


    ¡°My little Coniglio, can you walk faster please?¡± The handsome man spoke, though his voice was very familiar. His voice sounded simr to that cold man¡¯s voice¡­ Alpha Xander.


    Impossible, he can¡¯t be the one. He can¡¯t be the same man who made butterflies swirl inside me as my stomach did backflips.


    As I moved closer, he came into view. It was none other than Alpha Xander.


    Sigh¡­


    Suddenly, he pulled me closer to his body by dragging me by my waist. I don¡¯t know how or why, but with that sudden touch, I felt very excited and I felt like I was floating in the air.


    ¡°Meet my little goddess¡­¡± Alpha Xander spoke, bringing me out of my thoughts. I gazed at what he was staring at, then I noticed that he was looking at the woman before us.


    But wait, was he just referring to me as his goddess? Wow, but why would he do that?


    With his gestures, he was certainly introducing me to the woman in a ck gown that flowed like a flood on the floor. Also, she had different ck markings on her face.


    Gosh, is she Alpha Xander¡¯s mother? The expression on her face spelled cold-hearted, just like her son¡¯s attitude. This is a mother and daughter-inw introduction!


    ¡°Meet my little Coniglio,¡± Alpha Xander spoke, his touch still making me feel giddy.


    I¡¯m frightened. I think if I don¡¯t stay away from him now, I might lose my mind, do something crazy, or maybe faint.


    ¡°Good! We can start the ceremony now,¡± the woman spoke tartly, and she moved inside, leading the way.


    As soon as she left our presence, the giddy feeling vanished! I looked at my waist, only to realize that Alpha Xander pulled his hand away.


    Suddenly, the admiration on his face transformed into anger. He yelled. ¡°What took you so long?!¡±


    He paused, massaged his temples, and spoke in a lower tone, ¡°You were here, yet you were walking like a snail. Are you nning to ruin this ceremony?¡±


    ¡°Sorry-¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me sorry. It annoys me when you say that. Just go straight to the point,¡± he spoke in amanding, low tone.


    Meanwhile, I pouted, blurting out my thoughts. ¡°I am not to me. You were the one who looked so dazzling and hot¡­ whatever it was. Don¡¯t me me now and then ¨C it annoys me too.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± He asked, with a quizzical look on his face.


    I gulped, ncing away from him, ¡°We should be with your mother.¡±


    ¡°My mother? That¡¯s a sorceress.¡±


    Oh, no wonder. But why have a sorceress in the pack? Alpha Darwin didn¡¯t have one.


    I wanted to avoid Alpha Xander so I walked away, following the path the sorceress passed through.


    ¡°That is the wrong way,¡± Alpha Xander¡¯s voice echoed, causing me to move to the other path.


    Alpha Xander led me into arge room, and as soon as I raised my foot to step inside, a female voice shouted.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare!¡±


    I turned to Alpha Xander, as I didn¡¯t understand what the voice meant.


    ¡°Pull off your boot,¡± Alpha Xander responded, and I obeyed. He pulled off his boot too, and a woman approached us, carrying a tray that was filled with ck glittering sand.


    She used a feather to pick a little sand and she dashed it at our faces. I was about to get furious, but when I turned to Alpha Xander, he seemed calm. Maybe this is part of the ceremony he didn¡¯t want me to ruin.


    After dashing whatever it was, she moved aside, and Alpha Xander walked inside.


    In the middle of the room was a broken fragment of a crystal-like object ced highly. The sorceress danced around swaying more of the glittering sand as she danced crazily.


    After the dance was over, she turned to me with a fierce look, a look that made my heart pound in my chest.


    ¡°You are wee to Crescent Moon Pack,¡± she uttered, making my jaw drop.


    So all this was to wee me into the pack?!

 Chapter 26

    ZIVA


    After the whole dancing and ceremony ended, I excused myself, feeling frustrated with the heaps of glittering sand that were dashed at my body.


    Surprisingly, as soon as I left the ce, my phone rang with Dad¡¯s name and a love emoji on the screen. It was a call from Alpha Darwin. Finally!


    I pressed the answer button instantly. Then I spoke clearly, my voice tinged with annoyance. ¡°Weren¡¯t you ignoring my calls, Alpha Darwin?¡±


    ¡°Why would I ignore my daughter¡¯s call? I was busy,¡± Alpha Darwin replied, causing me to scoff.


    ¡°I need to speak with you,¡± I uttered, trying to keep my frustration and anger in check.


    ¡°Right now?¡± Alpha Darwin asked.


    ¡°Yes, now. Face to face,¡± I insisted.


    ¡°Alright, but you¡¯re new to the pack. Will you know the way around?¡± Alpha Darwin inquired, concern evident in his voice. He must be pretending to care about me, because of the fear of being overheard. Ugh¡­ He is just like Tania, perfect family!


    Rolling my eyes, I snapped, ¡°Anji wille with me.¡±


    ¡°Did the Alpha permit you to leave the mansion?¡± Alpha Darwin asked, irking me further.


    ¡°I know you¡¯re asking these questions to waste time, but I¡¯m not interested. And who cares if the Alpha permits me or not?¡± I yelled, my anger ring.


    ¡°Fine, fine, I wanted to speak with you since you seem to have lost your manners. How dare you speak to me that way?¡± Alpha Darwin retorted.


    Uff. I knew he was only acting loving, just in case someone was nearby, but his pretense vanished quickly.


    ¡°I-¡± I uttered, about to reply to his statement.


    ¡°Who are you speaking to?¡± A cold voice interrupted before I could speak. I turned around, with a forced smile on my lips.


    Then, I spotted Alpha Xander who stood tall before me, as his icy blue eyes bore into mine, captivating and dangerous, like an untamed tempest. The sorceress stood by his side too.


    ¡°My father,¡± I stuttered, replying to Alpha Xander as my voice betrayed my anxiety.


    ¡°He called me to check on my well-being, and we were having a father-daughter conversation,¡± I said with a wide smile, even though Alpha Xander¡¯s stern gaze bore into me with suspicion.


    ¡°I will take my leave now,¡± the sorceress interrupted, bowing to Alpha Xander. She left with her assistant, their footsteps echoing as they left I and Alpha Xander on thending¡­ Alone!


    I could feel the temperature rising with him around, as he gazed at me. He moved, and relief washed over my heart.


    I assumed that the Alpha wanted to leave, but surprisingly, he didn¡¯t leave. Instead, He approached me, his gaze sending chills down my spine, as he took a step forward. ¡°Did I ever tell you that I detest lies?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± I replied, gulping my response. My heart raced at the sudden closeness. I took a step back, feeling the warmth of his presence even as I retreated.


    ¡°Well, now you know, little rabbit,¡± he said, closing the distance between us. The scent of his cologne, a blend of smoky cedarwood and dark amber, wafted toward me. It was a fragrance that spoke of power, dominance, and something forbidden.


    ¡°Keep lies away and don¡¯t sneak around to cause a disaster, understood?¡±


    he uttered.


    I nodded politely, while he walked away. Then he walked down the stairs.


    ¡°Alpha, can I meet my father?¡± I asked, hoping that he would ept.


    He turned his broad shoulders and looked back at me, this time his gaze seemed to be darker, ¡°Sure, why should I disrupt a father and daughter¡¯s conversation?¡±


    ¡°Great!¡± I thought as I returned to my room to have a private conversation with Alpha Darwin.


    The call was not disconnected earlier, so I voiced out, ¡°The Alpha permitted me.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I will send the meeting location to Anji,¡± Alpha Darwin responded, ending the call afterward.


    As expected, Anji walked into my room. Certainly, Alpha Darwin had ordered her toe. Without wasting time, we stepped into a car that zoomed off, leaving the mansion¡¯s surroundings behind. The colored roofs were visible from afar.Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    The car suddenly stopped in front of a small shop with the sign ¡®Caffe Luna.¡¯


    I nced at Anji. ¡°Is this the right location?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Lady Ziva, it is,¡± Anji replied. I stepped out of the car and walked toward the Caffe Luna shop.


    The front of the shop was decorated with flowers, and when I opened the door¡­


    Ching!


    I heard the soft murmur of conversation from inside the shop while the smell of freshly brewed coffee wafted into my nostrils.


    Is this Caffe Luna a coffee shop?


    ¡°Alpha Darwin is over there,¡± Anji whispered beside me. I averted my gaze from the counter and turned my gaze to the table Anji was staring at.


    Then, I saw Alpha Darwin, sittingfortably in a simple outfit with a scarf wrapped around his neck. He looked so gentle and nice in his appearance, but I¡¯m certain that he is still what he is. It¡¯s just a facade anyway.


    I walked over to his table and sat quietly.


    ¡°Firstly, I did my task. My mother deserves afortable ce,¡± I whispered, and Alpha Darwin on the other hand seemed rxed.


    ¡°I will increase her daily feed¡­¡± Alpha Darwin stated, sipping from his cup.


    I cut in, ¡°No, no. I want her to be in afortable ce, not a cell. Don¡¯t you have anypassion? She is your wife.¡±


    ¡°Was,¡± Alpha Darwin replied, correcting my statement. Of course, that is in the past since he has been a coward.


    I rolled my eyes and crossed my arms. ¡°Ipleted the task of being Alpha Xander¡¯s wife already.¡±


    ¡°What about the other task? Did you find anything special or supernatural?¡± Alpha Darwin questioned, catching me off guard.


    ¡°Wow, I didn¡¯t realize you made me your spy,¡± I uttered, blinking quickly at the outburst of his statement.


    ¡°I did, and that¡¯s why I gave you the phone.¡±


    ¡°Why can¡¯t Anji do it instead?¡± I protested. ¡°Also, if you just let my mother go, we would leave in peace. We won¡¯t bother you anymore.¡±


    ¡°Well, as the Alpha¡¯s wife, you can cross some boundaries andplete some tasks Anji can¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Like what? This doesn¡¯t even make any sense¡­¡± I uttered, rising to my feet as I intended to walk away.


    ¡°Like steal the Crystal Moon and hand it over to me,¡± Alpha Darwin spoke, his menacing voiceing in as a whisper.

 Chapter 27

    ZIVA


    Crystal Moon?


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡± I questioned, with curiosity tinged in my voice.


    I was a bit confused with what the Crystal Moon meant when he spoke that way, and he mentioned that I would be stealing it.


    ¡°For some months now, Xander has been triumphant during some wars with other packs, and I¡¯ve been curious. I¡¯m certain that he deals with magic, and the Crystal Moon is with him.¡± Alpha Darwin narrated in a low tone.


    ¡°What¡¯s this Crystal Moon you are chanting about?¡± I questioned, feeling annoyed. Suddenly, he stood and sped his hand on my mouth.


    ¡°Shush, people can hear you.¡±Alpha Darwin uttered, causing a quizzical look to appear on my face.


    Is the Crystal Moon so powerful that I can¡¯t say it out loud?


    ¡°Sit,¡± Alpha Darwin ordered, as he gestured to the other chair. I sat and he sat on the opposite chair.


    ¡°Many years ago¡­¡± Alpha Darwin uttered. I sighed inwardly. This was what happened whenever he wanted to tell a bedtime story. At that time, I was younger, and I had not reached the age of eighteen.


    ¡°The Moon Goddess chose a few packs, because of their effort towards helping their miserable pack members. She gave the chosen packs a ball, poprly known as the Crystal Moon. It was a very powerful ball, one that could execute an entire pack.¡±


    ¡°The packs used the Crystal Moon wisely, they used it to defeat other packs as they reigned, but no sooner did the Crystal Moon be an object. Each pack wanted it for themselves. Then, a great war began, and during the war, the Crystal Moon broke before it was stolen by another pack¡¯s Alpha,¡± Alpha Darwin narrated.


    ¡°I don¡¯t believe that Xander¡¯s triumphant is natural. I believe that he is with that Crystal Moon.¡±


    ¡°The ball we are speaking about is of great value, yet you want me to steal it? I can be killed if I get caught,¡± I replied quickly.


    ¡°And your mother?¡± I heard Alpha Darwin utter. He leaned in, and continued, ¡°Think about her before concluding.¡±N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    ¡°You ass*ole!¡± I yelled, ¡°How dare you threaten me with my mother! Even if you don¡¯t have a conscience, you should think about what you two have been through together, the memories¡­¡±


    ¡°I erased those awful memories the moment I found out about you!¡± He retorted, his tone rising in anger.


    Then, he nced sideways and turned to me with a fake smile stered on his face.


    ¡°Now, all you have to do is to find the Crystal Moon and hand it over.¡± He whispered.


    ¡°Alright, but can I be assured that my mother is alright? Can I see the cell¡¯s footage?¡± I questioned, exhausted from the conversation.


    ¡°Sure,¡± Alpha Darwon replied. He snapped his fingers, and all of a sudden, a man in a ck suit approached us. He ced arge device on the table and I took it. Instantly, my gaze scanned the cell for my mother.


    This time, I spotted her on the floor, with her body curled into a ball. I could still notice her trembling body as it was still cold in there.


    ¡°Can¡¯t you lower the temperature? She will fall ill.¡± I asked, turning to Alpha Darwin.


    ¡°The cold temperature has a good purpose. It will lessen her stability, and disable her from escaping.¡± Alpha Darwin replied briefly, without any hint of concern in his tone.


    ¡°Then, can I speak with her?¡± I inquired, ncing at the cell which had bright reflections shining at the camera¡¯s view. It felt like I had seen that ce, but where had I seen it?


    ¡°No!¡± Alpha Darwin snapped, grabbing the device from me in an instant.


    He rose to his feet, and uttered, ¡°Have a great day!¡±


    With that, he walked out of the coffee shop and didn¡¯t turn around.


    I tried to recall what I saw earlier in the video since the cell location seemed familiar. But I could not think of where I had seen it.


    Ah! How can this day get any worse?


    Howl!!


    I heard outside. Not knowing the meaning, I settled back in my seat, but then came another loud growl.


    Am I the only one hearing it?


    I nced around, and I spotted the chairs in the shop that had been emptied of people. Footsteps echoed behind me. I turned and saw a man who was the server since he was in a ck shirt with the same logo I saw outside.


    He approached me, and spoke silently and politely, ¡°Please can you leave this shop?¡±


    ¡°What? Why?¡± I replied, then a hand tapped my shoulder, and Anji stepped in.


    ¡°We need to leave immediately!¡± Anji eximed. With the urgency in her tone, I knew that something was wrong at that moment. Hastily, I followed her out of the shop, meanwhile, the server locked the shop.


    Upon reaching the outside of the coffee shop, I realized that something was wrong. There were no passersby like I had seen earlier. Everyone had disappeared and all the shops were locked.


    ¡°What is going on?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Don¡¯t ask any questions. Just get into the car!¡± Anji eximed, rushing towards where the car had been parked earlier. But there was no car there, the car had also vanished.


    ¡°No, no¡­ The driver left!¡± Anji yelled, panic rising in her tone for the first time. But what makes her feel so frustrated and why-


    ¡°This is not the time you should be lost in thoughts! The Alpha¡¯s mansion is far away from here. If we decide to walk, we might be attacked!¡± Anji uttered quickly. I managed to hear what she said and I replied, with my brows furrowed.


    ¡°What will want to attack?¡± I asked, and for a minute, the panic on Anji¡¯s face flushed and was reced with fear.


    ¡°Ro-ro-ro¡± she stammered, staring nkly at what was behind me with her eyes popped out.


    At that moment, I turned around, wanting to see what she could not pronounce.

 Chapter 28

    ZIVA


    As soon as I turned around, the appearance of what I saw took me aback. Fourrge wolves were approaching us like a predator would to his prey.


    One of the wolves, who seemed to be walking with the other wolves moved before them. It let a low, rumbling growl and instantly, I heard Anji scream, ¡°Run!¡±


    Then, I heard her footsteps rushing away. Instead of running, I stayed glued to the floor, staring at therge, dark wolves that were hopping towards me. Their faces were contorted with anger and their appearance alone was terrifying. I yelled to myself inwardly to run, but foolishly I didn¡¯t.


    Suddenly, a wave pushed past me, and I was not glued to the floor anymore. I raised my gaze, realizing that the modernndscape I had seen earlier was transformed into a local one, one with tall trees and trees alone.


    I was moving quickly too, and my body was above something soft¡­ Fur.


    I was on a wolf.


    Oh my! Am I being kidnapped by a wolf?!


    ¡°Help!!!¡± I screamed at the top of my lungs, intending to draw attention to myself. But no one came for me. Not even footsteps broke the silence in the forest.


    I guess no one will save me because they don¡¯t care about me. Hmph, I will save myself then.


    Hastily, I scanned the floor the wolf hopped past.


    If I try to jump down from it, I might break my leg or even my arm. Also, I don¡¯t have a wolf, the injury will be bad¡­ Very bad, and it won¡¯t heal quickly.


    I took in a deep breath, trying to calm myself down and think of a better alternative than getting a broken limb.


    Alright! I won¡¯t jump down. Instead, I will try to get down from this wolf carefully, without getting an injury.


    I moved to a side and shifted my body. Lying on my stomach on the wolf¡¯s back, I held the wolf¡¯s fur. I aplished that swiftly, and then I moved to the next step, sliding down from the wolf. It looked frightening since the wolf was hopping, but I managed to do it.


    I was about to slide down in a minute. Suddenly, the wolf increased its speed, as the breeze hit my body, almost pushing me off the wolf¡¯s body.


    Then, I was scared, so scared that tears spilled out of my eyes uncontrobly. I¡¯m scared of heights and this wolf right here is very tall.


    ¡°Help!!¡± I screamed, as my hands almost slipped away from the wolf¡¯s fur. All of a sudden, the wolf stopped.


    It let out a low growl, and I took my chance since it stopped moving!


    I bent my knees, trying to slide faster. Finally, I was close to the ground, then, I curled my body into a ball.


    I hit the ground, feeling a sharp pain in my shoulder. I could feel my skin stinging, and I knew a bruise was forming. I rolled and my body scraped against the rough earth.


    I sat up quickly. Looking over my shoulders, the wolf was still around. It had a dark fur and dark eyes. It looked at me sternly, and for a moment, I caught a glimpse of blue. Also, the wolf hadrge paws and a muscr build.


    Upon seeing me, it took a step.


    ¡°Stay away from me!¡± I yelled, sitting up, as I tried to create some distance between us. Meanwhile, the wolf didn¡¯t even listen to me. It approached, and then I yelled, ¡°Help!¡±


    Even if I tried to stand and run at this moment, the wolf would definitely catch up to me.


    Luckily, there was a tree branch nearby. I reached for it, grabbed it, and threw it at the wolf.


    With that, the tree branch hit the wolf and it flinched. Meanwhile, I used that opportunity to rise to my feet and shout for help once more, in case someone might hear and help me.


    Growl!


    I heard.


    The growl sounded like it was from multiple sources and it was approaching us. Then, everywhere fell into silence. Even the wolf next to me seemed to be attentive more than I was as he nced sideways and paused like he was determined to hear the sound of a pin falling to the rough earth.


    Bang!


    A heavy thud echoed, and within seconds, I and the dark-furred wolf were surrounded by those angry-looking wolves I had seen earlier. They growled at the wolf next to me and the wolf growled back at them.


    Without wasting time, I crept beneath one of the wolves and ran for my life! I ran as far as my legs could go, even though I could hear the heavy pounding of paws behind me.


    Goodness! The wolves are chasing me! I can even hear my heart pounding in my chest!


    I took a turn, hoping that the angry-looking wolves would lose contact with me, but they didn¡¯t. They kept chasing me, maybe because of my scent. But my scent cannot be easily detected because I don¡¯t have a wolf. How are they so fast and strong at perceiving it?


    I took another turn and GBAM! A wolf fell to the floor as it stayed on all fours. Then, it snarled, baring its teeth at me.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    As it faced me, I could see the glint of its razor-sharp teeth and the glint of malice in its amber eyes. The cold air bit at my skin, and I could feel my heart pounding a thousandth time.


    At that moment, I was certain that my soul had jumped out of my body, but it returned when I realized that I would be eaten to pieces.


    Worst day ever!


    The angry-looking wolf paused all of a sudden. Its body was pushed aside as the dark-furred wolf blocked my path, obstructing me from the angry-looking wolf.


    I decided to retreat and move to the other side, and there, another angry-looking wolf pounced on the floor as it approached me confidently.


    Then, I squeezed my body into the dark-furred wolf¡¯s back, as I was frightened to death.


    Growl!


    The dark-furred growled menacingly, but the angry-looking wolves didn¡¯t back off. So, I threw a tree branch at the angry wolf by my side. It didn¡¯t flinch one bit (; ??


    The dark-furred wolf growled again, and this time, it pounced on the wolf by my side. With arge force, his paw pushed me, throwing me into the tall bushes.


    Meanwhile, it fought the two wolves bravely. It threw them around, and punched them, while I stayed hidden in the bushes as I waited for the fight to end.


    The dark-furred wolf seemed like a good one, and moving away from this hiding ce can cause trouble.

 Chapter 29

    ZIVA


    I stayed in the bushes, hiding from any angry-looking wolves that might attack me.


    Strangely, I wanted to survive. Perhaps that should be because I wished for my mother¡¯s release from that cold cell. I don¡¯t know how long I hid in the bushes, but I¡¯m certain it took a long time.


    Crunch!


    Crunch!


    The crunching of footsteps echoed in my ear, and my ear rang at the sound of different voices.


    Voices¡­ People!


    If people are here, I¡¯ll be able to reach the Alpha¡¯s mansion safely. There are no growling sounds either, so this ce should be safe.


    Cautiously, I reached out my hand and moved a branch aside, peering through the gap to see what was happening.


    Luckily, there were no wolves in sight. Everyone was human, and they all seemed to be normal. I decided toe out of the bushes!


    As I tried toe out, I found myself caught in the branches. I pushed and shoved, but the leaves and sticks kept hitting my face, blocking my path.


    For a minute, it felt like the bushes were conspiring to keep me trapped, stopping me from moving forward.Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    Then, I gathered all my strength and jumped forward, breaking free from the clutching vines and leaves. I moved out of the bushes, panting heavily.


    Almost stumbling, I regained my stamina and stood upright, only to spot a man with golden hair standing next to Alpha Xander who was¡­ NAKED!


    ¡°AH!¡± I blurt out a continuous scream, as I continued to stare at him. I could not take my eyes off him.


    Lol, who in their right mind would avert their gaze away from that well-built body?


    He had a broad back, and his muscles were visible. I could feel the urge to approach him and squeeze his muscles like a softball.


    With my loud, uncontroble, continuous scream, the man with golden hair and Alpha Xander turned around, facing me.


    ¡°Ah!¡± I screamed again since he was facing me this time. Now, I could analyze his dark hair properly. But this time, his hair was not slicked back or tousled. Instead, it fell just above his shoulders, with the front hanging in his face and the back being messy.


    Then, my gaze slid down, but thankfully, he wrapped a ck nket around himself before I could see anything.


    ¡°Lady Ziva, you¡¯re here!¡± The man with golden hair eximed, his eyes widening in surprise.


    I felt a bit taken aback that he knew my name. ¡°Hi,¡± I replied, mustering a nervous smile.


    ¡°Incrociaami ne mia ufficio.¡± I heard Alpha Xander say as he walked away without turning around, just like Alpha Darwin did.


    ¡°What is wrong with him?¡± I muttered under my breath, not daring to say it out loud.


    ¡°Alright, Alpha!¡± The man with golden hair replied, and I approached him quickly.


    He seemed to be close to the Alpha with the way they spoke and he might know the way back to the Alpha mansion.


    ¡°Hi, you are¡­¡± I uttered, breaking the silence between us.


    ¡°I¡¯m Lance, Alpha Xander¡¯s Beta,¡± he replied in a soft tone.


    No wonder he sounded so close to Alpha Xander.


    ¡°Great, I guess you are walking back to the mansion,¡± I spoke quickly.


    ¡°Yes, I am. But are you alright? I mean¡­ After you hid in the bushes,¡± Lance asked, with concern filled in his tone. No one has ever spoken to me that way, with true concern.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m perfectly fine, especially after I was miraculously saved by a dark-furred wolf,¡± I replied, walking as he walked by my side.


    A chuckle echoed instantly. I turned to my side and Lance was chuckling.


    ¡°Why are youughing?¡± I asked, with curiosity tinged in my voice.


    ¡°Haha, didn¡¯t you realize that Alpha Xander was the dark-furred wolf?¡± Lance replied, causing my eyes to widen in shock.


    Does that mean that ruthless Alpha Xander was trying to protect me from those angry-looking wolves?!


    Gasp!


    XANDER


    [I am not to me. You were the one who looked so dazzling and hot, whatever it was. Don¡¯t me me now and then ¨C it annoys me too.]


    I find it a bit funny¡­ I mean annoying with whatever Ziva said. How dare she call me hot and dazzling after walking slowly!


    Fortunately, the weing ceremony ended well without Ziva doing anything disastrous.


    ¡°I wish you a happy married life together,¡± the sorceress spoke, sprinkling some glittering sand on me and Ziva.


    However, Ziva seemed to be frustrated and annoyed whenever it hit her. It¡¯s just a weing ceremony anyway.


    Then, the sorceress assistant ushered Ziva out of the room, while I was alone with the sorceress.


    The sorceress turned to me after Ziva left, ¡°You seem disturbed. Is there anything wrong?¡±


    ¡°I wanted to speak with you,¡± I replied, ¡°Is it possible for someone else to make me feel pain? Like the person was inflicting pain on me.¡±


    A puzzled look crossed the sorceress¡¯s face.


    ¡°That is not possible, except the person is a master in sorcery.¡±


    ¡°Can Ziva be a master in sorcery?¡± I asked inwardly. My wolf who seemed to be active after I had eaten replied, ¡°Possibly.¡±


    ¡°Perhaps you feel pain because there¡¯s something about that person that reminds you of past pain,¡± the sorceress suggested. ¡°The pain seems to be triggered by this person, even if they¡¯re not causing the pain directly.¡±


    Just then, I recalled how Ziva tugged me closer while she was lying on the bed. I was gazing at her hazel eyes, maybe that reminded me of past pain.


    ¡°I should get going now.¡± the sorceress spoke, and I nodded in response. ¡°Sure.¡±


    After the conversation I had with the sorceress, I realized that the Ziva girl wasn¡¯t the one who caused the pain I felt. She was just what made me recall the pain.


    Just then, I perceived a rogue scent from my office. Without wasting time, I mind-linked Lance and rushed to the source of the rogue¡¯s scent.


    Surprisingly, they were around that little Ziva girl and they tried to attack her. I transformed into my wolf self quickly, letting Maz take control as I saved Ziva.


    Also, the rogues were a piece of cake. I handled them swiftly, and my men locked them up in the cell.

 Chapter 30

    XANDER


    Later, what caught my attention was Ziva¡¯s continuous scream. I gazed at her and noticed how she stared at me with her eyes wide open.


    Also, I shouldn¡¯t forget how she screamed, and looked messy, with leaves in her hair and scratches on her face.


    It is disgusting to recall that I saved her, but what other option did I have?


    If I hadn¡¯t saved her, she would have been added to the list of my mates or women who died. I hated rumors, so I saved her, just like I would have done to my pack members.


    I took the nket Lance held and covered my bare skin with it.


    Since I had taken care of the rogues and the pack was no longer in havoc, I decided to leave. Also, I was uninterested in whatever the Ziva girl wanted to say.


    ¡°Incrociami ne mia ufficio,¡± I said to Lance, as I walked away from their presence.


    (Meet me in my office)


    Screech!


    A screech echoed, as a car parked by my side. It must have been the car Lance boarded for me. I stepped inside and it sped off to the mansion.


    I reached my office, almost changing into a jacket, but the sound of a knock disrupted my actions.


    Sniff! Sniff!


    ¡°It¡¯s Lance,¡± Maz uttered, upon perceiving Lance¡¯s scent.


    ¡°Come in,¡± I replied, and the door opened slowly, revealing Lance.


    ¡°Have a look at the goods stolen and the shops the rogues destroyed,¡± I uttered in an authoritative tone, ¡°And fix the destroyed goods, return the stolen ones too.¡±


    ¡°Sure,¡± Lance nodded.


    ¡°I would also like to visit the rogues in the cell. They seem to be more determined this time, even though they failed woefully.¡±


    ¡°Alright, Alpha.¡±


    I snapped my fingers as I recalled that Ziva wanted to meet her father earlier, and I had perceived his scent around her while saving her.


    ¡°Did Alpha Darwin leave before the rogues attacked?¡± I questioned.


    ¡°Yes,¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the duration between the time he left and the rogue¡¯s arrival?¡±


    ¡°From the pack members perspective¡­ about two minutes.¡±


    ¡°Seems like that was his n.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    ¡°Never mind, just prepare the rogues for questioning. I will be with them in a minute.¡± Imanded.


    ¡°Alright, Alpha,¡± Lance nodded. He left the room while I changed into a leather jacket and dark trousers.


    After I had changed, I moved to the rogue¡¯s cell.


    The rogue¡¯s cell was nestled deep within the heart of my pack¡¯s territory. Constructed with thick, weathered stone and reinforced with silver-lined bars, it stands as a formidable structure. The entrance is guarded by guards, each armed with silver weaponry to ensure that the rogues don¡¯t escape.


    I walked forward, and a hush fell over the guards. The massive door, reinforced with silver runes, swings open with a creak. I strode into the cell area. Meanwhile, Lance was there already.


    He gestured toward another direction and I followed. Then, the rogues came into view. Sadly, the other rogues escaped, while only two of them were caught.


    The rogues were confined and upon reaching the silvery bar, I paused, ring at them. Shortly, one of them nced up, like he had perceived my scent.


    The bars moved, revealing the rogue who gazed at me. Without wasting time, the guards walked in.


    They dragged the rogue to the table, forcing him to sit, even though he groaned and struggled. He didn¡¯t have much strength and the guards seemed stronger than him because they had injected wolfsbane into him.


    After he was forced to sit, the guards cuffed his wrists with silver cuffs. I sat on the opposite chair and snapped my fingers. Instantly, the guards brought the Lunar Agony Cor.


    They sped it around his neck, and it was sealed there.


    ¡°What was that?¡± the rogue questioned with a husky voice as he tried to take a peek at the cor.


    ¡°It¡¯s an Agony Cor, a specially crafted cor infused with silver and lunar magic for ignorant rogues like you,¡± I uttered, with a wide smile appearing on my face.


    I continued, ¡°When triggered, it sends waves of excruciating pain through the werewolf wearing it.¡±


    The rogue¡¯s eyebrows jumped in fear at that moment. Suddenly, his brows rxed into a thin line, and an evil chuckle escaped from his lips.


    Gasps echoed from the guards at his bravery, and I was surprised that he couldugh at me. No rogue in their right mind would do that.


    ¡°Do you think I will believe you? Keep dreaming, Xander,¡± he said, sarcasm tinted at the end of his statement.


    My hands clenched into fists instantly, as my ws pierced my palm. Right at that moment, I could kill the rogue swiftly. But I needed answers, not dead bodies.


    I released my fists, calming myself before I nced back at the rogue who had started chuckling. With another snap of my finger, the guard handed me a remote.


    ¡°You will believe me in no time,¡± I replied, with a smirk. The rogue stoppedughing as he analyzed the serious expression on my face.


    Without hesitating, I pressed the button on the remote that increased the intensity of the pain that would be inflicted on the rogue.


    In a snap, the rogue let out a growl, a growl that was mixed with his wolf¡¯s groan in pain. The sound was satisfying and I was excited about Lance¡¯s decision to get the Agony Cor. It was superb!


    I pressed the other button, deactivating the remote.


    ¡°It seems like you believe me now, don¡¯t you?¡± I asked sarcastically.


    The rogue on the other hand leaned back into his chair as he let out a sigh.


    ¡°What do you want from me?¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡± I broke the silence around us with myughter which was far louder than his.


    ¡°I love it when you behave like a good little wolf. About the question you asked, I should be directing that question to you. Of allrge packs with strong Alphas, you and your filthy group chose my pack!¡± Iughed again. Inwardly, Iughed at the rogue¡¯s foolishness or maybe ignorance.


    ¡°Was your brain malfunctioning at that time or were you just ignorant?!¡± I spoke with amanding tone. However, the rogue seemed to be a bit rxed.


    ¡°None,¡± The rogue replied quickly, catching me off guard.


    ¡°What the hell!¡± Maz growled. No rogue has ever been this confident. Even my scent alone makes them shiver but this rogue here¡­ is very different.

 Chapter 31

    XANDER


    The rogue looked confident, and


    I found myself wondering what was going on behind the rogue¡¯s expression. Was he scared or confident? Calm or pretending to be calm?


    I watched closely, my gaze fixed on his face, trying to read his every reaction.


    ¡°I and my group came for what was ours,¡± the rogue spoke boldly. With that, I became curious.


    What does he mean? Why will my pack store a rogue¡¯s belongings?


    I couldn¡¯t help but ask a question, my voice tinged with a hint of curiosity, ¡°What do you mean? What are you talking about?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t pretend to not be aware of the Crystal-¡±


    Crystal Moon? Before the rogue couldplete his statement, I snapped my fingers calmly.


    ¡°Excuse us,¡± I spoke authoritatively. Without wasting time, the guards marched out, but Lance stood.


    ¡°You too,¡± I spoke. Lance bowed his head that instant. He walked out of the cell.


    As soon as he was gone, I nced back at the confident rogue.


    ¡°How did you know about the Crystal Moon?¡± I questioned, my voiceing out as a whisper.


    The rogue chuckled a little, then he voiced out, ¡°Who doesn¡¯t know about it?¡±


    ¡°Ok, okay,¡± I replied, pacing to and fro in the cell. ¡°Why are you here again?¡±


    ¡°To have what is ours.¡± The rogue uttered, ¡°The key to the Crystal Moon Guardian.¡±


    What?! The Crystal Moon Guardian was a chosen person with the power to control the Crystal Moon properly. Though, the Crystal Moon Guardian was this pack¡¯s possession, the possession Alpha Darwin stole and turned against us. She was ours, not anyone else!


    Thank goodness that we found a fragment of the Crystal Moon and hid it, or else this pack would have been ruined.


    Hastily, I grabbed the rogue by the cor and snarled, ¡°The Crystal Moon Guardian was ours¡­ Until that Darwin took her!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what you are talking about. All I¡¯m aware of is that the key to the Crystal Moon Guardian was right before us, then you took her away!¡± The rogue snarled back, not flinching a bit.


    What does he mean by key?! The Crystal Moon Guardian has been taken away from this pack for over twenty years.


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡± I growled, still holding onto his cor.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you understand what I¡¯ve been saying?! That girl is the key to our Crystal Moon Guardian!¡±


    Huh? I staggered back at the rogue¡¯s statement. I pieced two and two together and what he meant was that the key to their Crystal Moon Guardian was the girl I took away. Could it be¡­ Ziva?!


    ¡°Lance, send Ziva to this cell immediately,¡± I mind-linked Lance and in a minute, a response came in, ¡°Alright, Alpha.¡±


    ZIVA


    The man named Lance drove his car to the mansion. Also, I met Anji in my room, and she mentioned how Lance assisted her in returning to the mansion too.


    As soon as I reached the mansion, I took a shower and scrubbed the dirt and leaves off my body. I washed my hair, changed my clothes, and felt refreshed.


    Bang!


    The door to my room was suddenly flung open, revealing Lance standing in the doorway.


    ¡°The Alpha would like to see you right away!¡± He announced. With the urgency in his tone, I was a bit anxious. I mean¡­ Why would cold-hearted Alpha Xander want to see me?


    Wait, is it because of what happened earlier?


    The way I threw a tree branch at his wolf, even though he was trying to help me, or the way I screamed for help, attracting the rogues¡¯ attention? Perhaps it¡¯s because of the way I stared at his well-built body!


    Gosh! What have I done?


    Will I be punished for that?


    ¡°Why?¡± I asked Lance quietly.


    ¡°It¡¯s the Alpha¡¯s decision. I have no idea,¡± Lance replied with a polite tone.


    Then, I nced at Anji with a worried expression on my face. Anji nced at me too, but her expression conveyed, ¡°What have you done this time?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t do anything wrong,¡± I whispered to her. Afterward, she shook her head and walked away. Meanwhile, fear gripped me.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Is Alpha Xander nning to kill me, just like he killed his mates?!


    ¡°Lady Ziva,¡± Lance called out, jolting me from my thoughts. He gestured toward the door, and I walked, following his steps.


    We reached the rogue¡¯s cell, and my heart raced as we approached the door. I could feel the cold sweat on my palms, as my body trembled with fear.


    I was directed into a small section of the cell, and Alpha Xander walked into the cell. He sat opposite me, with his blue eyes staring at me like I was somewhat new.


    I gazed at the guards before the cell, Lance, then at their Alpha. I gulped.


    ¡°Is anything wrong?¡± I managed to say, with my palm still sweaty.


    I could feel my heart pounding in my chest, while I tried to maintain a calm facade, but inside, I was a bundle of nerves. The silence was unbearable, and I waited with bated breath for the Alpha¡¯s response.


    ¡°Is this the girl you were referring to?¡± Alpha Xander questioned, turning his gaze to the man who sat on the floor. The man¡¯s hands were cuffed with silver cuffs, and he seemed to be a prisoner or so.


    ¡°Take him away,¡± Alpha Xander ordered.


    Instantly, some guards rushed in. They took the man on the floor out of the cell, while I was alone with Alpha Xander once again.


    In a sh, Alpha Xander was by my side, his hand reaching out towards my neck.


    I flinched, my heart pounding in my chest as I assumed that he would kill me.


    Click!


    A metallic click filled the air, and I felt something cold and hard against my skin.


    I raised my hand to touch it, my fingers brushing against the metal of a thing. I looked up at Alpha Xander, confusion brewing.


    ¡°W-what is going on?¡± I stammered my voice cracking in fear.


    ¡°An Agony Cor is around your neck,¡± Alpha Xander replied tartly.


    ¡°What?!¡± I eximed, knowing too well what an Agony Cor meant. It was a cor to inflict pain on werewolves and to force the werewolf wearing it to confess.


    Is Alpha Xander trying to torture me?


    ¡°Why? Why are you doing this?¡± I questioned, feeling terrified as my body trembled.


    But the person I was questioning didn¡¯t even have any sign of concern for me. He paced to and fro in the cell, not ncing at me for once.


    Then, I sniffled.


    Is this how Alpha Xander nned to kill me? First, he protected me from those wolves. Now, he wants me dead?

 Chapter 32

    XANDER


    Before the little Ziva girl entered the cell, I had tested another Cor on the rogue. Sigh¡­ It turned out that the rogue was telling the truth about Ziva being the key to the Crystal Moon Guardian.


    But how did she know about the Crystal Moon Guardian¡¯s location? Gosh, I should have known. Those Darwins are sneaky!


    Ziva walked into the cell calmly, and the rogue confirmed that Ziva was the girl he referred to. The Cor also indicated that the rogue was telling the truth.


    If Ziva knows about the Crystal Moon Guardian with Alpha Darwin, what am I waiting for? I will transform the Granelma Pack into ruins instantly!


    Ziva sat, and I took the other chair. I only mentioned that she had an Agony Cor around her neck, and she was already trembling. She sniffled like she had started crying.


    I felt a bit odd, more like I was pained because of her sadness¡­ Whatever. I should focus on getting answers instead!


    Then, I nced at her, watching how she stared at her burning wrists due to the silver cuff. She didn¡¯t even flinch.


    ¡°Alright, this is how it works,¡± I uttered, approaching her quickly.


    ¡°I need you to say the truth, then you¡¯ll be free,¡± I spoke slowly.


    ncing at me, Ziva¡¯s hazel eyes were already teary. I had to look away from her, so as to not be caught up with her teary gaze.


    ¡°And this cor is different. There¡¯s no need to be frightened. It¡¯s less painful, and you¡¯ll only get a wave of intense pain when you lie,¡± I lied, not wanting to see any tears.


    The truth was that the Cor wouldn¡¯t cause pain, it would only detect lies. I don¡¯t know why¡­ But that was the Cor I wanted for her.


    Then, I went directly into questioning her, ¡°Firstly, do you know about the Crystal Moon Guardian¡¯s location?¡± I questioned with an authoritative tone.


    The Ziva girl looked up at me and uttered, ¡°No, I know nothing.¡±


    With her statement, the Cor blinked twice. Jeez! If the Cor blinked twice then it meant that it was a lie!


    ¡°You annoying rabbit!¡± I snarled, almost rushing to strangle her by the neck.


    I managed to control my temper as I massaged my temples.


    ¡°But I was telling the truth,¡± Ziva replied, with a soft, intimidating voice. A voice that she nned to use to make me believe her, right?


    Then, I waited for the Cor¡¯s indication eagerly. The Cor blinked twice again!


    ¡°You lied again,¡± I yelled as my anger snapped.


    I threw her off the chair, knowing how crucial the Crystal Moon Guardian was to this pack and how dangerous this world would be if Darwin found the other fragment of the Crystal Moon.


    With the force of my push, the Agony Cor around her neck broke. Then, I grabbed her by her neck, mming her body against the wall.


    ¡°You know, I should have killed you a long time ago, but I resisted!¡± I said to her, right in her face.


    Meanwhile, she tried to reach my hand that had gripped her neck.


    ¡°Since you know about the Crystal Moon Guardian, spit it out!¡± I yelled.


    ¡°Alpha, she can¡¯t speak unless you let go of her!¡± Lance mind-linked.


    I blocked off the mind link instantly. He wasn¡¯t helping with any of his statements anyway, and I didn¡¯t care. Darwin took the Crystal Moon Guardian, my possession. He wasted my mother¡¯s life, and I won¡¯t spare his daughter until she confesses!


    ¡°Speak now!¡± I ordered, but no words came out of her mouth.


    Instead, fresh blood trickled down her lips as her cheeks became wet with tears¡­ Tears that somewhat made my wolf whimper. I hated it when Maz made that sound. It annoys me, but I won¡¯t let my guard down!


    I pushed her off, letting her body drop to the floor as I surrendered to my sympathetic wolf. She deserves more than that. For all the pain her father, Darwin, caused me, she deserves a thousand times pain in return.


    ¡°I know nothing about whatever Crystal Moon Guardian you¡¯re talking about!¡± I heard her croak, even though she was still on the floor.


    I turned to the Cor instantly as I eagerly expected an indication. Just then, the Cor blinked twice, brewing my anger. Why was she lying again, even though she was in pain?


    Hmph, I guess the pain is not enough for her to confess.


    ¡°Get the other Agony Cor,¡± I mind-linked the guards. Instantly, the guards walked in and sealed another Cor around Ziva¡¯s neck.


    As soon as they sealed it, they left. Meanwhile, I continued my questioning.


    ¡°Ziva, answer this question honestly. Do you know about the Crystal Moon Guardian¡¯s location?¡± I asked calmly, but this time, the Cor didn¡¯t blink, and Ziva didn¡¯t say a word.


    I rushed over to her side, attempting to force her to answer. But upon reaching her side, I noticed that she wasn¡¯t even speaking.


    Her bodyy on one side, and her face faced the wall. Hastily, I bent, stretching my neck to nce at her face and understand why she was silent.


    Her face came into view, but her brown hair was scattered over it.


    I had to pull the brown strands away from her face, then my eyes popped out. Her eyes were shut. Goodness, is she unconscious?


    ¡°Get the pack doctor!¡± I mind-linked Lance.


    I carried her in my arms quickly and walked out of the cell.


    Soon, she wasid on a stretcher and rushed into the pack hospital. I wasn¡¯t allowed to enter inside until the doctor walked out.


    ¡°Is she alright?¡± I asked. The pack doctor nodded.


    ¡°She is fine now, but she¡¯s still unconscious.¡±


    ¡°Can I see her?¡± I questioned, and the doctor nodded again.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Silently, I strode toward the door and pushed the door open. ncing inside therge ward, I spotted Ziva who was lying on the hospital bed. I walked inside, as her sweetvender scent invited me in.


    It was just a push, and she ended up like this?


    I reached out to touch her hand, but she flinched. She moved her hand away with her eyes still shut, and she turned her body to the other side like she didn¡¯t want to look at me.


    Oh, so she is pretending to be unconscious and she does not want me to touch her? Huff, why am I even here?


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to push you-¡± I began, narrowing my eyes.


    ¡°Or shove me to the wall,¡± she replied, interrupting me.


    ¡°Okay, it was just an interrogation, and you lied twice!¡± I voiced out, almost snapping out in anger again.


    I heard her muffle, ¡°I guess you came here to continue the interrogation again, even though I told you that I wasn¡¯t lying.¡±


    ¡°You were; the Cor indicated that, and on top of it all, the rogue-¡±


    ¡°Leave,¡± she spoke briefly.


    ¡°What?! I¡¯m the Alpha here; you can¡¯t order me-¡±


    ¡°Please!¡± She yelled, interrupting me again, ¡°Leave.¡±

 Chapter 33

    XANDER


    ¡°Leave,¡± Her statement reyed in my head. What does she take me for? A fool? I won¡¯t fall for her dirty lies to cover up for her father¡¯s deed. Her father had taken the Guardian and she is trying to hide the Guardian¡¯s location.


    I was a fool for not investigating her at first. I should have known.


    I left the ward just like she wanted, not without mming the door in anger as it fell and broke.


    ~~


    I walked down the stairs, and upon reaching the dining hall, Ziva was not around again. It has been four days now, and surprisingly, I haven¡¯t seen her in the mansion. Perhaps that¡¯s because I¡¯ve been busy with pack work.


    I pulled out a chair and turned to the Head Omega, ¡°Did she have breakfast?¡±


    ¡°Who?¡± The Head Omega replied.


    I faced her with a deadly re, and she gazed at the floor instantly.


    ¡°That Ziva girl,¡± I responded.


    ¡°Alpha, I¡¯ve not seen her for some days now,¡± the Head Omega uttered, causing me to pause.


    ¡°And what does that mean?¡±


    ¡°She has not been in this mansion for four days now.¡±


    I waved my hand, dismissing her. What¡¯s her use anyway? I shouldn¡¯t worry about that Darwin¡¯s daughter¡­ Unless she is nning to do something disastrous!


    Mindlinking Lance, I spoke authoritatively, ¡°Where is Ziva?¡±


    ¡°She is at the hospital,¡± Lance replied.


    ¡°How long would it take for her to recover? She was not badly injured!¡±


    ¡°Sheined to the doctor about her back pain and insisted that she needed more rest in the hospital.¡±


    ¡°What?! You let her do that? What if that was just a ruse?!¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t seem like that.¡±


    ¡°Fine, forget it!¡± I replied, as I picked up the fork on my te, intending to eat.


    ¡°I received a message from Alexei,¡± Lance¡¯s voice rang out in my mind, causing my hand to spasm and the fork I was holding to tter to the ground.


    ¡°What does he want?¡± I asked, my voice shaking with curiosity.


    ¡°Well, he mentioned that he is returning to the pack,¡± Lance replied, his words hanging in my mind. The silence seemed to stretch on for an eternity, until I finally managed to find my voice.


    ¡°Why? I mean¡­ When did he mention that he will be here?¡± I asked, my voice strained. I massaged my temples, trying to ward off the headache that was beginning to form.


    ¡°Two to three minutes from-,¡± Lance¡¯s voice trailed off in my mind, leaving me hanging in suspense. But before he could continue, I caught a familiar scent in the breeze.


    ¡°Brann!¡± Maz¡¯s voice rang out in my head, sounding just as surprised as I felt.


    Oh goodness!


    ¡°Brother!¡± A deep voice called out, growing louder as footsteps drew nearer.


    I turned around, and there he was ¨C my twin brother, Alexei, with his dark hair and blue eyes. He was smiling, but I couldn¡¯t bring myself to return the smile.


    However, all I could think about was thest time we¡¯d seen each other, and the situation that had led to our distance. He may be my replica, but we are nothing alike.


    He has been to the city; the human ce where werewolves also go to for business purposes or vacation, but their identity is kept as a secret.


    Alexei dropped into the chair next to me, and the Head Omega walked forward, serving another potion of meal. She smiled at him, her eyes crinkling at the corners. ¡°You¡¯ve grown so much since Ist saw you,¡± she said.


    ¡°Thank you ma, and you also look so grown already,¡± Alexei replied, then a chuckle echoed from the Head Omega. He chuckled too, before they continued to discuss, like I wasn¡¯t even around.


    ¡°Ahem!¡± I coughed, and both of them turned to look at me.


    ZIVA


    It turned out that staying in the hospital helped a lot, though I do not like the smell of medicines and detergents.


    So, I take a stroll outside the pack hospital. The kids there were very nice to me, the doctors too, and it made me feel four years younger. You know, the happiness I¡¯ve felt before I turned eighteen.


    Lance persuaded me to return to the mansion, but knowing very well how cold-hearted my so-called husband was, I preferred to stay in the hospital.


    Here, I don¡¯t have to worry about being murdered by my husband, but Alpha Darwin¡¯s threats still rey in my head.


    I have to find the Crystal Moon. Tsk, I should return to the mansion then. Four days of no Alpha Xander is enough.


    Clutching my phone, I dialed Lance¡¯s phone number which he had given me during his visit to the hospital. He is a kind soul. Very caring too. It turned out that he visited the hospital daily to check on me.


    Hehe, the nurse told me about that, and I¡¯m happy she did.


    Within seconds of dialing his number, he answered the call.Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    ¡°Lady Ziva?¡±


    ¡°Hi, I feel better now. Can you get a car to pick me up at the hospital?¡± I asked, and he replied quickly, ¡°Sure.¡±


    The call ended. I moved away from the bed, and gazed at the window. There, I could see everyone in the surroundings, most especially the happy children.


    Sigh¡­ I guess everyone has that moment of happiness and mine passed away.


    Screech!


    The screeching of brakes pulled me out of my thoughts.


    An expensive car was parked by the side and my phone vibrated with a message popping up on the screen.


    ¡°The driver is waiting outside,¡± the message read. It was from Lance.


    ¡°Thanks,¡± I replied. Then, I walked out of the hospital. Lance had dealt with the discharge papers already, so there was nothing to worry about.


    I got into the car, and it sped off towards the mansion.


    The car halted into a stop and I slipped silently into the mansion, hoping to go unnoticed.


    As soon as I reached the staircase that leads to my room, I spotted Alpha Xander on thending, but he was in a t-shirt and sweat pants and his hair was cut short. He had a phone sped in his arm, and he was talking, like he was receiving a call.


    I decided to stylishly move to my room without him noticing. With my head bent low, I crept away from him.


    ¡°Hey!¡± His deep voice echoed, causing me to stop in my tracks.


    Gosh, he caught me.


    I turned around slowly, and my gaze came in contact with Alpha Xander. He had a quizzical look on his face, and he gazed at me, like he was inspecting me.

 Chapter 34

    ZIVA


    His phone was not sped in his hand, as it was obviously in his pocket since the outlines were clear on his tight sweatpants.


    ¡°Why are you not in the Omega¡¯s uniform? That¡¯s an offense,¡± he spoke loudly, causing my eyes to widen as I was caught off guard.


    How dare he rte me to an Omega?! I¡¯m his wife, an Alpha¡¯s wife!


    ¡°Uhm¡­¡± I heard a feminine voice say, interrupting my conversation with Alpha Xander.


    Out of the corner of my eye, I saw a figure approach us.


    ¡°She is Alpha Xander¡¯s wife.¡± the figure whispered. It was a fat figure, and as it neared, I realized that it was the Head Omega.


    My brows furrowed, with my eyes darting back and forth between the Head Omega and Alpha Xander as if trying to follow a tennis match.


    Huh? Why is she telling him that? Doesn¡¯t he know that I¡¯m his wife?


    ¡°Oh! I was not aware!¡± Alpha Xander eximed.


    Suddenly, he took my hand gently. He raised it to his lips and brushed them against the back of my hand.


    Then, he raised his gaze and muttered, ¡°My apologies. I am Alpha Xander¡¯s brother, Alexei.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± I blurted out in shock. At that moment, I assumed that Alpha Xander was joking. I mean¡­ He is right before me, yet he calls himself a brother.


    ¡°It¡¯s true,¡± the Head Omega voiced out, as she pinched Alpha Xander¡¯s cheek.


    Meanwhile, I watched them in disbelief, as Alpha Xander chuckled yfully after the Head Omega pinched him.


    That was awkward. The Alpha Xander I know can never allow anyone to touch him, let alone pinch his cheek!


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± I heard a voice speak in an authoritative tone. Then, the Head Omega stopped chuckling. She stood at attention, her gaze fixed on the floor.


    I turned to the direction of the source of the male¡¯s voice. To my utmost surprise, I spotted Alpha Xander again.


    He looked different from the man I¡¯d seen seconds ago, his posture straighter and his gaze sharp. He radiated authority and everywhere fell silent.


    Hastily, I averted my gaze to the Alpha Xander who calls himself a brother then I gazed at the other Alpha Xander.


    I¡¯m confused!


    But they are in different clothes¡­ Are they twin brothers?


    ¡°I was just introducing myself to your wife as your twin brother,¡± the Alpha Xander who kissed my hand uttered, and the other Alpha Xander approached us. He crossed his arms, and muttered, ¡°There is no need for that.¡±


    ¡°Who is the real Alpha Xander?¡± I questioned out of curiosity, and one of them pointed to the other.


    I looked at the confirmed Alpha Xander, and certainly, he was the one. His hands were crossed, and he had no smile on his face as only a serious expression was maintained.


    I calcted in my head, ¡°Alright, so the cheerful one is the twin and the cold one is my husband. Easy to differentiate!¡±


    ¡°I should get going now,¡± I uttered, striding away from their presence as I didn¡¯t want to be more confused.


    XANDER


    Upon hearing Alexei¡¯s voice from my office, I approached thending. There, I spotted him and Ziva discussing like they¡¯ve known each other for a long time now.


    Just before I could interrupt them properly, Ziva left, and the Head Omega excused us.


    ¡°Being selfish, uh? You didn¡¯t invite me to your wedding, and even dad, he didn¡¯t say a thing about it,¡± Alexei spoke with a wide smile on his face, meanwhile, I shook my head.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t invite Dad, and the wedding was for my gain, no romantic attachments were involved,¡± I replied tartly. With that, I strode into my office.


    ¡°I thought you moved on,¡± Alexei replied, the excitement in his tone dropping instantly.


    ¡°She is Darwin¡¯s daughter,¡± I voiced out, intending to make him recall the awful things Alpha Darwin caused to this pack.


    ¡°So?¡± Alexei replied, shrugging his shoulders ¡°Does it matter if she is his daughter? I mean¡­ How can you get married to someone you don¡¯t love? Fine, it¡¯s for your gain, what about her? You know what marriage means to women and what you did is like setting her up for heartbreak.¡±


    I paused. What is he saying? Isn¡¯t he supposed to support me and try to find out about the Crystal Moon Guardian? I expected him to get furious and attempt to kill her in anger, but here he is, spitting nonsense.


    I turned around, ring at him. ¡°Have you forgotten what Darwin did to this pack?¡±Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°No one cares about that! That was in the past-¡±


    ¡°He killed our mother, Alexei! He caused my mate¡¯s death!¡± I snarled back.


    ¡°Alright, Xander,¡± Alexei spoke, heaving a sigh.


    Then, he walked towards me, ced his hand on my shoulder, and muttered with a soft tone. ¡°I know Alpha Darwin caused a lot of havoc, but doing this won¡¯t punish him. Getting married to his daughter, whom marriage is supposed to be like her romantic, happy moment. But you ruined it. You transformed it into a marriage for your selfish gains.¡±


    I pushed his hand off my shoulder immediately.


    ¡°You are only saying this because you were not present to witness our mother¡¯s death or Rose¡¯s death. You were in the city, enjoying your freaking life while everything was destroyed!¡± I growled, with my wolf, Maz almost snapping out.


    Alexei rolled his eyes, without any sign of concern in his eyes. Doesn¡¯t he care about all that happened? Or did he lose his senses in the city?


    ¡°I understand that it hurts and that you want justice. But revenge isn¡¯t the answer. It won¡¯t bring Mum or Rose back, and it won¡¯t make you feel any better. In fact, it will only make you feel worse. You¡¯ll be stuck in this cycle of anger and violence, and that¡¯s not the kind of life you want to live. Please, let go-¡±


    ¡°Shut it!¡± I yelled, before he could continue his motivational or whatever anyone calls it statement.


    ring at Alexei, my eye colors had transformed to pitch ck, and my wolf, Maz was prepared to release himself and give Alexei a heavy blow.

 Chapter 35

    XANDER


    He stayed mute, and I moved away from him, not wanting to beat him up or do something I would regretter on.


    I calmed myself as I fought to keep myposure.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what has gotten into you or what influenced you, but this was not what I was expecting from you.


    You being the younger one doesn¡¯t make you less of a son, and you should be more pressed towards getting revenge than I am. I am disappointed in you.¡± I said all that I had in my mind before leaving his presence.


    To be honest, the only reason why Alexei stayed in the city was because of the petty fights we had when we were younger. We also fought for the Alpha position, but luckily, my father assigned me as the next Alpha because I was older.


    Sigh¡­ Alexei was born a few minutes after I was washed, but that doesn¡¯t mean that he should be a fool!


    ZIVA


    With the aim of getting the Crystal Moon, I built a friendly rtionship with the Omegas, and the Head Omega, hoping that they would shed light about the Crystal Moon. But none of them did.


    They seem to be more upied with Alpha Xander¡¯s brother¡¯s presence. Speaking of Alpha Xander, he has been somewhat ignoring me.


    Whenever we reached thending together, coincidentally, he would either return to where he came from or walk away quickly, like I had a bad aura.


    Nevertheless, his brother has been very helpful. He seems to start up a discussion whenever we meet and I¡¯m starting to see the differences between the twin brothers.


    ¡°Anji, I would like to have a tour around the pack,¡± I voiced out, ncing away from my room window.


    ¡°Why? Aren¡¯t youfortable here?¡± Anji questioned, her voice tinged with concern. I scoffed instantly, recalling how she left me with those angry wolves.


    ¡°Don¡¯t pretend to be concerned about me. I want to do this for the deal with Alpha Darwin. You know, I need to know more about this pack before I can aplish the given tasks.¡± I replied.


    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s great! We can have a quick one right now then, but we won¡¯t go to ces that are far away from the Alpha¡¯s mansion. I can still feel the pain in my legs after running quickly the other day.¡±


    ¡°Tsk, that must be because you are getting old, but anyway, I¡¯m all dressed, and we can go right now.¡±


    Anji rolled her eyes, gesturing to the door. ¡°Alright, Lady Ziva.¡±


    We left the mansion and the first ce we reached was the pack¡¯s training area. There were numerous warriors training there and the golden-haired man was there.


    ¡°Lance!¡± I called out, waving at him to get his attention if he turned around. Sadly, he didn¡¯t.


    He was focused on his training, with his gaze fixed on the warriors in front of him. He didn¡¯t hear my call, or perhaps he simply chose to ignore it.


    Meanwhile, I stood there, feeling like a child trying to get the attention of a busy adult, as my voice felt small in the bustling training area.


    So, I averted my gaze to the female warriors who trained fiercely to not feel unimportant. Also, it reminded me of my dream.


    I had a dream of bing a female warrior after I turned eighteen, just like Alpha Darwin promised me when I was younger. Now, I don¡¯t even know how to throw a punch, talk less of fighting.


    Bang!


    Bang!


    Bang!


    I heard multiple loud sounds. I had to flinch a bit, with my eyes closing as I was frightened. The sounds echoed like a gunshot, too.


    ¡°Rx, it¡¯s just Alpha Xander,¡± Anji replied.


    Then I opened my eyes, feeling a bit rxed by Anji¡¯s statement.


    On the other hand, Anji gazed at her right side without flinching or any expression of fear on her face.


    Also, she seemed to be very focused on what she was ncing at. So, I looked at what she was staring at, and then, I spotted Alpha Xander in a sleeveless top.


    He had a headphone on his head that covered his ears. His obviously muscr hands held a gun, and his intense gaze stared directly at a dummy.


    He wore ck gloves, and he had an eyess on his face, adding more authority with his ck tank top and ck headphone.


    Without wasting time, he pulled the trigger thrice. I covered my ears again, but this time, I didn¡¯t close my eyes.


    Instead, I looked at the dummy. The dummy¡¯s head had three holes in it, and it was a perfect shot!


    Wow! How can someone be so good at shooting?


    I gazed at him in admiration, and suddenly, he turned. He turned to me, with the gun still sped in his hands!


    Oh, my gosh!


    My forehead dripped with sweat immediately and it felt like I was in a hot pot.


    Suddenly, he dropped his hand as he heaved a sigh.


    ¡°Move away, you are obstructing my view,¡± he uttered, and I moved away quickly. Even Anji moved away, and just then, he shot the dummy next to us. It was a perfect shot too!


    Though it felt like he aimed the gunshots at me before he stylishly aimed it at the dummy.     ¡°Hey,¡± came a soft voice from behind, causing my ears to perk up.


    Only one person calls me that way¡­ Alpha Xander¡¯s brother, Alexei! I turned around quickly, without wasting any second.


    ¡°Hi,¡± I replied, a wide smile subconsciously appearing on my face as it exposed my teeth.


    Just as I expected, Alexei stood before me with a bottle of water sped in his hand. He must be training too. Such a hardworking fellow!


    ¡°Are you here-¡±


    ¡°I came to take a tour around the pack,¡± I replied, my lips still widely opened as I didn¡¯t understand why I was still smiling widely.


    ¡°A tour?¡± Alexei questioned, ncing sideways. ¡°But this ce is not good enough for a tour.¡±


    ¡°Hehe, I¡¯m just scared of moving far away from the mansion, even though it¡¯s a bit lonely and boring,¡± I whispered. Suddenly, a quizzical look crossed his face.


    ¡°Why?¡± He asked, his voice tinged with concern and curiosity.


    ¡°Duh, thest time I left the mansion, some rogues attacked.¡±


    ¡°That is awful!¡± He eximed, gazing at me with a concerned look on his face.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Next time you want to have a tour around this pack, you can inform me. I¡¯m jobless for now, so I can show you around,¡± he replied, winking.


    At that moment, I was certain that my stomach somersaulted. I had topose myself in order to look natural.


    ¡°Aw, that¡¯s so thoughtful of you,¡± I replied, with a smile spreading across my face.


    However, I managed to force my lips to stop smiling as I cupped my cheeks to cover them, just in case they turned pink.


    ¡°But since you are here, I can still show you around, right?¡±


    ¡°Sure!¡± I eximed. Alexei turned, intending to lead me further, and I followed quickly.


    However, I turned back to look at Anji, intending to inform her that I would be back shortly. But something else caught my eye.


    From a distance, I saw those blue eyes that looked like an ocean that was prepared to swallow me and make me drown.


    Alpha Xander was not shooting. Instead of shooting, he stared at me with a dark gaze that sent chills down my spine and made my bones feel wobbly.

 Chapter 36

    ZIVA


    Hastily, I turned to Alexei, not wanting to be caught up with Alpha Xander¡¯s dark gaze. As Alexei walked into another part of the training area, I followed.


    In this part of the training area, there were some warriors with guns who were also shooting at a dummy, just like Alpha Xander was.


    As soon as Alexei entered the area, the other warriors immediately evacuated, leaving just me and Alexei.


    ¡°I think you would definitely love to try this out,¡± Alexei spoke. He stretched a pistol toward me, and I shook my head quickly.


    ¡°I¡¯ve never thrown a punch let alone used a pistol. I might end up hurting someone.¡± I confessed, my voice so soft that I was irked, and wondered what changed it.


    Alexei¡¯s jaw dropped, ¡°What? You are an Alpha¡¯s daughter; you should be able to do this.¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m kinda like a pampered daughter,¡± I lied, covering up the moments I was a ve and Omega in Granelma Pack.


    ¡°Alright, but I think this is the best time to practice this while I¡¯m still around,¡± he replied, and I turned to him with a quizzical look on my face.


    ¡°While you are still around? What do you mean?¡±


    Alexei coughed. He cleared his throat, and then he continued. ¡°I will return to the city soon. So, let¡¯s focus on this for now. Also, I¡¯m wearing a bullet-proof vest so you have no reason to be worried about hurting anyone.¡± Alexei assured me. I nced down at his chest and the vest was on him.


    Great!


    And what about the fact that I¡¯m scared of holding a gun?


    ¡°Are you scared?¡± He questioned, as he stared at me.


    How did he know?


    I chuckled softly, ¡°Was it obvious?¡±


    ¡°You are sweating,¡± he replied. I touched my forehead to check, and sweat brushed against my palm.


    He was right. I must have been so anxious that I didn¡¯t even notice.


    Suddenly, he took the pistol and sped it in my hand forcefully.


    His next statement caught me off guard, ¡°Don¡¯t be a baby; you can do this.¡±


    My hands shivered as my palms were sweaty. He released his soft grip on my hand, and I let go of the pistol as well.


    I turned around, covering my face in embarrassment. I¡¯m the Alpha¡¯s wife, yet I can¡¯t hold a pistol. Now that a pack member is trying to teach me, I¡¯m afraid.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± He asked from behind.


    ¡°Umm, umm¡­ I need those sses, headphones, and vest,¡± I spoke quickly, turning back with my head held high.


    Perhaps I just need to be confident!


    ¡°Alright, I will be back in a jiffy,¡± Alexei said, giving me a reassuring smile. He turned and walked out of the shooting area, the door swinging closed behind him.


    I sank into the nearest chair, my legs feeling wobbly from standing for so long. As I sat there, I tried to focus on the minutes ticking by, waiting for Alexei to return.


    In a minute, I heard a loud noise that sounded like a bang. ncing away from the chair, I gazed at the source of the sound.


    It was the door.


    The door was swinging open with a bang, the hinges creaking as it moved. In the doorway stood Alexei, his vest nowhere to be seen, as it was reced by a ck tank top.


    ¡°You came earlier than I expected,¡± I uttered, standing to my feet.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Surprisingly, there was no ss, or equipment with Alexei.


    He walked toward me steadily, with some dark aura radiating around me. Just then, I recalled that Alpha Xander wore a ck tank top and he was certainly the one who barged in, not Alexei.


    Moving back slowly in fear, I stumbled, falling back with my butt hitting something soft. I nced back and realized that I was on the chair.


    I gazed back at Alpha Xander quickly, but he had already approached me. He had his hands resting on the chair¡¯s armrest and his face was an inch away from mine.


    ¡°Stay away from my family,¡± He snarled with bared teeth.


    I nod my head quickly, as more sweat drips from my forehead. The dark aura that radiated from him was enough to make me submit to hismand.


    Creak!


    The door opened slowly, but with the way Alpha Xander stared at me coldly, I dared not to move.


    ¡°Ahem!¡± A cough echoed from the doorway.


    Instantly, Xander turned while I crooked my head to see the person who came to rescue me from this chair trap.


    Thankfully, it was Alexei, Anji, and some females whom I did not know. The females were a bit muscr, perhaps they were female warriors.


    Their eyes darted from Alpha Xander to me, then me to Alpha Xander.


    ¡°We didn¡¯t mean to disrupt, we will leave now,¡± Alexei spoke quickly.


    Alpha Xander noticed the way the female warriors gazed at us; some with their jaws dropping in surprise. He pulled his hands away from the armrest, pushing his hands into his pockets.


    Meanwhile, Alexei turned around in an instant and he gestured to the others.


    Everyone evacuated from the area, leaving me and Alpha Xander. I stood up quickly, not wanting to be trapped between the chair and his gaze.


    This time, his dark aura suddenly vanished, and from the pit of my stomach, I felt the need to stand my ground, and voice my opinions too.


    ¡°I¡¯m notfortable with you behaving that way around me. I know this will onlyst for a limited time, so can we just act natural?¡± I spoke, recalling my final decision.


    After I returned from the hospital, I decided to hand the Crystal Moon over to Alpha Darwin, get my mother to be released and we shall be rogues. I don¡¯t want to have anything to do with Crescent Moon Pack.


    Alpha Xander didn¡¯t reply to my statement, and I didn¡¯t even want to hear him.


    I walked towards the door of the training area, and maybe, just maybe, having a tour wouldn¡¯t be a mistake if Alpha Xander didn¡¯t appear.


    As I was about to leave, I felt a strong grip on my hand. The grip turned me around and pushed me against the wall.


    A few inches away from me was Alpha Xander with his breath fanning my face. His gaze lingered on my lips, as he questioned, ¡°Is this natural enough?¡±

 Chapter 37

    ZIVA


    ¡°Huh?¡± I murmured, with my gazending on Alpha Xander¡¯s lips.


    His lips were full and inviting. As I looked at him, I felt a flutter in my stomach. I tried to keep my expression neutral, but inside, I was melting under his intense stare.


    ¡°Some distance will do,¡± I replied, my voice betraying me as I stammered.


    Alpha Xander in response released his grip from my hand, and voiced out, ¡°Whatever thing you are nning, I¡¯m watching you¡­ Always.¡±Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    Then, he moved away from me, and it was only after he left the area that I was able to breathe properly.


    The door opened slowly afterward, as Alexei walked in, ¡°He seems to not be in a good mood today.¡±


    ¡°He isn¡¯t,¡± I replied, diverting my gaze to the equipment Alexei held, ¡°I feel more interested in this shooting of a thing.¡±


    ¡°Oh oh! That¡¯s great!¡± He eximed, throwing a vest at me. I took the vest swiftly and wore it.


    ¡°I selected a training coach for you, and I will be your other coach.¡±


    ¡°Male or female?¡± I questioned.


    ¡°Xander is very possessive, so female,¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Never mind,¡± Alexei replied. He arranged the equipment he brought on the table, while I analyzed them.


    Later, he introduced me to a female warrior named Sorcha. She was very friendly, and I managed to learn how to hold a pistol properly. However, the shooting was not as great as I expected.


    The bullets didn¡¯t hit the target as they rolled helplessly on the floor.


    Iughed when it missed the targets, as it was funny to know that I could hold a pistol¡­ More like ying and wasting expensive bullets, lol.


    But why would I care about that? My husband is rich, duh!


    I heard chuckles from outside. I turned to the source, intending to know the owner of the chuckles as the walls were transparent.


    I spotted Anjiughing. I chuckled too, and my gaze fell on the other training area. Xander was there, shooting the dummy, with no one around him. Even Alexei and Sorcha wereughing, meanwhile, Alpha Xander had a serious, cold demeanor.


    He wasn¡¯tughing, and he didn¡¯t have a smile on his face, even though he was reaching his target.


    I was losing, yet I was a bit happy. But it somewhat felt dark and different at his side.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you shooting the floor again?¡± Anji yelled, attracting my attention.


    I jolted to reality, andughed, ¡°No worries, I will improve and I will get perfect shots next time!¡±


    With that, Sorcha, Anji, and Alexeiughed in unison. I turned to Alpha Xander¡¯s side, and my heart leaped.


    He was staring at me, but when he caught my gaze, he turned his face away.


    He pulled the headphones away from his ears. Then, he threw them, causing them to m into the wall.


    Afterward, Alpha Xander walked out of his training area, exiting the ce.


    My heart sank. Perhaps Alpha Xander is more than the cold-hearted husband I thought he was.


    ¡°Come on, stop staring at him. You can have him all you want at night. So, focus on the dummy for now,¡± Alexei joked.


    Faking a smile, I focused on the dummy, not without turning to see Alpha Xander¡¯s figure every second.


    I turned, promising myself that it would be thest time. But I didn¡¯t see him.


    He left¡­


    Later on, I focused on the target. It didn¡¯t take a minute before Alexei intimidated me to return to the mansion.


    He yfully said that I was thinking about Xander, and my mind was not where I was training.


    I recalled denying that, though it was true. I somewhat could not get Alpha Xander off my mind. It felt like he was stered there.


    I was grateful Alexei made such a joke. I left the training area early with Anji. When we reached the car that would drive us to the mansion, Anji let out an uncontrobleughter.


    I could not believe that someone as strict as she was couldugh that way. She felt different to me at that period.


    We reached the Alpha¡¯s mansion in no time. Passing by the driveway, I noticed the dark clouds that covered the sky. The weather was changing, and it was almost nighttime.


    I rushed into the mansion, aiming for my room since this was the best time. For the first time in this pack, in my perspective, it rained.


    Right now, I¡¯m not a ve or an Omega who would be cleaning the packhouse at this time. I¡¯m more like a Queen.


    To be honest, this is the best time to get a book to read as I wait for it to start raining or snuggle under the neat, soft nkets.


    Upon reaching thending, something struck my mind.


    My room was on the right side and Alpha Xander¡¯s room should be on the left side, right next to his office, right?


    His cologne is still here and I can follow it up, so I won¡¯t miss my way.


    Foolishly, ignoring how cold he had been to me, I tip-toed. His cologne scent stopped before a door.


    So, I took a peek from the door, ensuring that my breath was not very audible for him to hear.


    With the open distance between the door and the wall, I looked inside.


    Strangely, it was dark, pitch ck!


    It doesn¡¯t seem like anyone is in the room, too.


    ¡°Who is there?¡± A deep voice growled¡­ Alpha Xander¡¯s!


    Without thinking twice, I turned, holding my breath.


    My back faced the door, and I was frightened. He caught me. He will be furious if he finds me here.


    Holding my breath, I decided to tip-toe to my room.


    Creak!


    The door made a creaking sound.


    Thud!


    I fell, my butt hitting the floor as it caused pain.


    Click!


    The sound of light turning on echoed.


    I turned back quickly to understand what happened. Then, I realized that I had fallen because the door moved.


    A room brightened with a nightmp came into view, Alpha Xander¡¯s room, I guess.


    Realizing that long legs were obstructing my view, I nced up. My eyes met those blue eyes that were neither dark nor cool. His hair was messed up, too.


    Alpha Xander¡¯s brow furrowed. He red at me, and voiced out, ¡°Why are you here?¡±

 Chapter 38

    ZIVA


    Running his hand through his hair, Alpha Xander asked, ¡°Were you eavesdropping?¡±


    I moved away from my position and stood on my feet. Then, I turned to him.


    ¡°You weren¡¯t even talking.¡±


    ¡°Go away then,¡± he spoke, making me more curious. Why didn¡¯t he turn on themp when he was in the room?


    ¡°Can Ie inside?¡±


    He narrowed his eyes, speaking firmly, ¡°Go away, I need some space. Distance will do.¡±


    Hey, that was my statement! Why is he copying me?


    ¡°I said you should go,¡± he voiced out.


    Respecting his order, I turned around to walk away. But over my shoulders, something caught my eye¡­ A bottle.


    I turned back quickly. Surprisingly, I caught a bottle of alcohol on the table in the room¡­ Two bottles, three, four, five¡­ I can¡¯t count!


    Alpha Xander moved his tall figure to the side, obstructing my view and calction.


    Was he drinking? Why?


    ¡°How many times do I need to tell you to leave? Do I need to force you?¡± he questioned, his voice slurring a bit.


    Oh yeah! He is drunk! No wonder.


    I rushed past him, pushing myself into the room.


    Upon entering the room, I scanned it. It was beautiful, with a king-sized bed, but the bottles of alcohol that were on the table made me feel concerned.


    His cologne surrounded me, and I felt his body behind me. His hands encircled my waist, and his breath was fanning my body, with his neck crooked on my shoulder.


    I felt sudden heat wash over me, and I voiced out, ¡°Umm¡­ It¡¯s me, Ziva.¡±


    I intended to make him move away or shove him off, but he didn¡¯t. Instead, he replied sweetly.


    ¡°Yes, Coniglio. I know your name.¡±


    ¡°No, no. It¡¯s not about knowing my name. You are too close,¡± I exined quickly. He moved away obediently.


    I expected him topletely move away and usher me out of his room. So, I turned, intending to leave.


    .


    However, he didn¡¯t do what I was expecting. Alpha Xander stood tall before me. He ced his hands at my sides, on the table, trapping me again.


    ¡°You must be a very good fan of trapping someone.¡± I faked a chuckle, hoping that he would move. He was drunk anyway. He should be sweet and obedient.


    He leaned forward, whispering, ¡°This is what I do to my prey. You are one of them, Ziva.¡±


    Huh? I realized that his eyes had transformed to pitch ck. His wolf might be trying to control him.


    ¡°Snap out of it,¡± I muttered, snapping my fingers like it would bring Alpha Xander back, just like those magic shows that yed when I was very young.


    A smirk ran down his lips, and he spoke, his voice not slurring one bit. ¡°I knew you would get caught in this web because of your fake naivety. I¡¯m happy you did.¡±


    My palms became sweaty, and I moved back. My legs hit the wooden table, and he was right. Foolishly, I walked right into his wolf¡¯s trap.


    Leaning closer, his nose brushed against my hair, and he took a deep breath.


    His eyes closed, and I wondered if he was unconscious. I didn¡¯t even care. All I wanted at that moment was to leave. So, I took my chance!


    Almost pushing him off, his eyes shed back to its normal blue color.


    ¡°How do you do it?¡± He asked, his voice slurring.


    ¡°I use shampoo! Anji¡¯s rmended hair shampoo,¡± I replied quickly.


    He rolled his eyes. ¡°That was not what I was referring to.¡±


    He moved away, and continued, ¡°How do you make people easily get attached to you? How do you look pretty, annoying, and cute altogether?¡±


    Garr!


    A boom of thunder echoes through the room, and I could hear the rain sttering on the floor outside.


    ¡°I behave as myself, and let myself free,¡± I said.


    ¡°Then how do you make me feel like-¡±


    ¡°You are drunk! Get some sleep,¡± I interrupted, striding towards the door.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m drunk. I¡¯m spitting nonsense, and your hair smells nice. You have a deliciousvender scent. You always look gorgeous.¡±


    My eyes widened at what he said. Does he always see me like that? Or is he spitting out nonsense just like he mentioned?


    ¡°Don¡¯t drink too much, and rest,¡± I replied, and I heard him scoff.


    ¡°Like you care about me?¡±


    ¡°I do, everyone does. You are the one pushing everyone off.¡± My words hung in the air, and a deafening silence followed. Alpha Xander didn¡¯t reply.


    I turned around, and my gazended on his figure that sprawled across the king-sized bed.


    His arms and legs were syed out, and his face half-covered by his messy hair.


    Also, a nkety crumpled at the foot of the bed, so I picked it up and draped it over him to cover his body.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Upon leaving his room, I returned to my room, sinking into my bed. Outside, rain continued to pour down, and just then, a soft voice echoed, ¡°Save me.¡±


    I looked away from the nkets, with my brows furrowed in confusion. I was the only one in the room, so who spoke? I turned, and the voice echoed again, ¡°Save me, Ziva.¡±


    I nced sideways, hoping to see someone. I mean why was I hearing voices? The same voice echoed again. I could not bear the thought of going crazy inwardly.


    I rose to my feet, yelling. ¡°Show yourself!¡±


    Then, I didn¡¯t hear the voice anymore. I blinked, and when I opened my eyes, I was back in bed.


    How did I get here? I was on my feet two seconds ago. Was that a dream?


    Goodness, it felt so real.


    I stood up and walked toward the nightstand, where my phone sat. I needed to check the time because it felt like I had been asleep for a long time. To my surprise, it was past midnight, and something attracted my attention.


    My phone screen had my reflection on it, but I did not see my face. Rather, it was a silver-furred wolf that appeared on my phone screen.


    ¡°Ah!¡± I screamed, dropping the phone out of shock as I jumped on my bed. My heart raced, but I wanted to know if what I saw earlier was real.


    Carefully, I got down from the bed and took my phone. I gently carried it and turned it on, causing the screen to light up. But my reflection was not me, it was still a silver-furred wolf!

 Chapter 39

    TANIA


    It¡¯s relieving to know that Ziva is gone. She has always been a headache when we were younger as she dislikes me a lot. The look on her face when she realized that she was an illegitimate child was very much satisfying. Meanwhile, I found my mate, Niks.


    Strangely, Niks persisted that I stay at Granelma pack and note to his pack, because there were some problems he had to solve. I believed him, but I couldn¡¯t take it anymore. Other Alpha¡¯s daughters are in their mate¡¯s pack, why should I not be in mine?


    With an Omega, I went to his pack. Sadly, some men stopped me, as my car reached their pack¡¯s border.


    I pressed a button, causing the car¡¯s window to roll down. I took a swift nce at the men. They were hefty and muscr.


    ¡°Hello,¡± I spoke, smiling widely.


    ¡°What pack are you from?¡± A muscr man asked politely.


    ¡°Granelma Pack,¡± I replied softly. Inwardly, I chuckled, because I would be their Luna and they would bow to me.


    The man paused for a moment like he received a mind link. Then, he turned to me, ¡°Alpha Niks does not have an appointment with anyone from the Granelma Pack.¡±


    ¡°Excuse me,¡± I chuckled amidst my statement, ¡°I¡¯m not here for any appointment. I¡¯m here to stay with my mate, Niks.¡±


    The man moved away and stared into the air for a minute. Perhaps, he is mindliking Niks. Goodness, whatever they want to do, they should make it snappy.


    ¡°Let her in,¡± the man spoke authoritatively, and the other men obeyed instantly.


    The driver drove into the pack. ncing at the pack¡¯s environment from the window made me feel giddy.


    Finally, I can meet my mate, and be the Luna! Yipee!


    I was weed by some well-dressed Omegas. At that moment, my mate¡¯s scent mingled in the air.


    ¡°Here hees,¡± My wolf uttered. I adjusted my hair and checked my body.


    Alright, I look gorgeous, intact, and ready to be his Luna.


    I faced the direction of Niks¡¯s scent and spotted Niks. He walked towards me with a smile. Afterward, he pecked me on my cheeks.


    ¡°You look¡­ Gorgeous,¡± Heplimented, causing my wolf to wag her tail, while I blushed.


    ¡°I always look gorgeous,¡± I smiled, unting my hair.


    Niks ushered me into his mansion. Hmph, I wasn¡¯t surprised with the building, it looks simr to my father¡¯s building.


    ¡°I told you, I need to solve some problems,¡± he whispered, causing me to pout.


    ¡°Fine, you have some problems to solve. But that should not mean that I can¡¯t stay in your pack.¡± I replied.


    ¡°Tania, you aren¡¯t reasoning with me,¡± Niks spoke. He turned, faced me and he held my hand.


    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t be here, Tania. It¡¯s very dangerous.¡±


    ¡°Hmph, I¡¯m not listening to you,¡± I replied, crossing my arms.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Alright¡­¡± Niks responded. He released his grip from my hands and continued, ¡°I need to attend to some things.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± I replied. Meanwhile, my Omega packed my luggage into Niks¡¯s bedroom.


    A few dayster, I took a tour around the pack and everyone in the pack seemed to love me.


    Then, I met Niks¡¯s Betas, a male and female. The male Beta was very nice and respectful, but the female Beta was the opposite.


    I heard that she is very strict, and she epts no nonsense. She protects the pack confidently, even though she is an inferior Beta.


    The moon cast its light on the window pane. It was nighttime again, and Niks had not returned.


    Earlier, he mentioned that he would be very busy with a note that he may return veryte.


    It makes my wolf excited to know that he is a hardworking Alpha, but she feels lonely at times. I mean, Niks did notplete the mating bond after marking me.


    He has not epted me as his mate and future Luna, even after being intimate with him in the dining hall. Sigh¡­ If Mother knows about this, I will get an earful.


    Creak!


    I heard a soft, quiet creak from the door. I turned my head, hoping that it was Niks.


    ¡°You came¡­ Earlier than I expected,¡± I uttered, chuckling nervously, but Niks didn¡¯t respond.


    I could not even detect his scent.


    ¡°Niks,¡± I called out yfully. I approached him and embraced him, and he didn¡¯t say a word.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? You are acting strangely,¡± I uttered, ncing up at my Niks.


    To my utmost surprise, his face was masked. It was very dark in the room, and I could not see his figure properly.


    ¡°I can¡¯t sense Niks¡¯s wolf,¡± My wolf uttered and fear gripped me. Isn¡¯t he Niks?


    If he is not Niks, then who would it be? Who woulde to my room when it¡¯s thiste at night with a ck mask on his face?


    My legs wobbled. Quietly, I moved back, and the man in the doorway squinted his eyes. Perhaps, he was suspecting my movements.


    ¡°He-¡±


    Before I couldplete my statement, a soft handkerchief was wrapped around my face. The handkerchief caused my yell to sound like a muffled sound.


    I struggled to move away from the handkerchief. But with a strong grip on me, I could not move. I was stuck and my body was moved slightly.


    ¡°Tania?¡± I heard a faint voice say and it sounded like Niks¡¯s voice.


    Then, darkness clouded my sight, and I sumbed to it.


    ~~


    ¡°Tania? Tania, are you awake?¡± Niks¡¯s voice echoed around me, causing my eyes to flicker.


    Upon seeing his face, I raised my hands and reached for his cheeks. Cupping his cheeks with my bare hands, as my skin made contact with his skin, I realized that I was not daydreaming.


    ¡°I am alive,¡± I muttered, my voice slurring. My gaze wandered around the room, as it met two other people; Niks¡¯s Betas.


    The superior had a concerned look on his face, meanwhile, the inferior Beta had an angry look on her face.


    She seemed annoyed at my appearance.

 Chapter 40

    TANIA


    Niks touched my hands, causing me to nce back at him. His green eyes shed lovingly at me, and I forced a smile on my face. I didn¡¯t want him to be worried.


    ¡°I was so worried about you,¡± Niks muttered, and the sounds of footsteps receding echoed.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine now,¡± I replied. He took my head and kissed it, ¡°The pack doctor had a physical examination done, and thankfully, you weren¡¯t hurt.¡±


    ¡°Hm, but what happened? I mean, someone broke into our room,¡± I questioned, with concern filled in my tone as I tried to sit up.


    Hastily, Niks rushed towards me and he assisted me. He pushed a pillow to my back, as I rested on it.


    ¡°That was what I was talking about,¡± Niks spoke softly, and he faced me, ¡°The pack is not safe now. You should return to Granelma Pack.¡±


    I nodded, realizing that I should have obeyed him when he told me to note to his pack.


    ¡°You are right,¡±


    Niks sat on the bedside, as he held my hand.


    ¡°So do you n to return to Granelma Pack?¡± He asked. The pitch of his voice was increased and his voice sounded a bit excited.Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    ¡°And why are you happy about that?¡± I questioned, furrowing my brows. He paused, and blinked.


    ¡°Happy? Why will I be happy about that?¡± He spoke, with a grin on his face. Then, his hand reached for a strand of my hair and he ced it behind my ear.


    ¡°I¡¯m only excited that you are not hurt.¡±


    Sounds like a lie.


    ¡°Alright,¡± I faked a smile, and he pecked me on my lips.


    ¡°I will prepare a car to return you to Granelma Pack safely,¡± Niks spoke softly. He dropped my hands swiftly and rushed out of the room.


    He is definitely happy about my departure! But why? I¡¯ve been a very good mate, a submissive one to be exact. Is there something he is hiding from me?


    Goodness, what if he doesn¡¯t want me to be his mate anymore?


    I shook my head at that thought. Niks will not dare to do such. He loves me, and my separation from this mate bond will cost him a lot.


    Night dawned on my room quickly. Thankfully, Niks came into the room very early this time. Also, I ensured that I turned on the room¡¯smps that brightened the room, to avoid the previous event.


    I had changed into a revealing lingerie, and as soon as he walked inside, I approached him swiftly. But, he wasn¡¯t paying any attention to me, like I didn¡¯t exist.


    ¡°Is anything wrong? You look worried and annoyed,¡± I uttered, breaking the silence in the room.


    ¡°Nothing. Oh, yes! The car has been prepared, you will leave tomorrow,¡± Niks spoke hastily like it was an exciting thing for me to leave.


    Am I a burden to him?


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand you anymore, Niks. First, you return home veryte at night¡­ Let¡¯s say that¡¯s because of pack works. Now, you are not being attentive to me and it feels like you are eager to make me leave this pack.¡±


    ¡°Will you stop it?!¡± Niks snapped, startling me as my legs became wobbly.


    ¡°Stop acting like a child,¡± Niks yelled. He pulled the tie away from his shirt furiously, moving away from me. ¡°All these years, I¡¯ve known you as a rude, tough she-wolf, not this!¡±


    ¡°Not this?¡± My voice almost croaked, or perhaps it croaked. I didn¡¯t care.


    ¡°What do you mean by not this?¡± I asked. He turned around and exhaled.


    ¡°This is the reason why I broke up with Ziva. I do not want a weak she-wolf as my Luna or mate. I don¡¯t even understand what made me mark you,¡± He spoke, his voice tinged with frustration.


    I approached him, trying to make him recall, ¡°The Moon Goddess can not give anyone the wrong mate. We are destined to be together, Niks.¡±


    ¡°Perhaps she was wrong.¡± I gasped at his response. How can he say such?


    ¡°Everything will be fine if you do as I say. Return to the Granelma Pack early tomorrow morning. Also, you should inform your parents that you almost got hurt, so I became worried and persuaded you to go.¡±


    With that, Niks walked into the bathroom, without ncing at me. Oh, moon goddess, what have I done to deserve this?


    I rushed over to the mirror to observe my appearance. Perhaps I do not look appealing enough.


    ncing at my reflection, I noticed that my body looked a bit bigger like I had be fat. Goddess, I missed my diet recently, and I¡¯m this fat already?


    I will need to meet my Omega tomorrow. I want an appealing slim figure for Niks, I really want my Niks back.


    The sound of water rushing out of the tap paused, and I assumed that Niks would walk out of the bathroom. Just as I expected, he did.


    But this time, he went directly to the bed andid on it without ncing at me again.


    I will do what he wants if that is what will strengthen our bond. I will leave tomorrow and do exactly what he said.


    ~~


    I woke up very early and crept away from the bed to avoid waking Niks.


    I took my bath, applied more makeup, and used Niks¡¯s suggested perfume. I recalled how he said the perfume made my scent inviting, as it made him long for me.


    What can make this day better if not recalling his sweet statements?


    My Omega sent some weight loss pills. She suggested that I use two pills, but I¡¯m certain six will be good. I gulped the six pills in a go and ate a light meal.


    Afterward, I and my Omega stepped into the car that Niks arranged. But, I forgot my purse. I rushed back inside to take it.


    When I reached my room, I grabbed it. Then, the sounds of footsteps approaching and my name mixed in a discussion echoed in my ear.


    Curiosity got the better of me. Instead of walking out of the room, I walked into my closet and hid in it.


    The closet had see-through stripes so I could see who was discussing and hear what they were saying.


    My gaze caught Niks¡¯s inferior Beta, thedy who always seemed annoyed at my appearance. As soon as I saw her, my wolf curled, sensing that she had bad intentions.


    ¡°Finally, Tania is gone,¡± She spoke, with excitement brimming in her voice as her gaze analyzed the room.


    Her gaze fell on my closet like she sensed me, then a smirk appeared on her face.


    I hid beneath the clothes quickly, intending to stay hidden in the closet.


    ¡°Yes, but her scent is still in this room. It makes me want to puke,¡± Niks¡¯s voice echoed, and a shortughter followed.


    Niks will never say such about me. But, I recognize his voice, I can never mix his sweet voice with another man¡¯s voice.


    I raised my head to confirm and I took a peek at the room.


    My gaze fell on Niks who chuckled, as he pulled his inferior Beta by her waist.

 Chapter 41

    TANIA


    I observed how Niks pulled his Inferior Beta into a warm embrace, with their body pressed against each other.


    I clenched my fists instantly, as my nails dug into my palm. How dare he!


    ¡°I can never resist your scent,¡± he muttered under his breath, and the Inferior Beta giggled. She pushed him away slightly, giving some space between them.


    ¡°What if Tania finds out? You know how this mating bond is very important, right?¡± She spoke with a sweet voice. Then, when Niks was not looking, she had a smirk on her face.


    Niks smiled, leaning towards his Beta. He whispered, ¡°Forget Tania, I will ensure that she stays in Granelma Pack for a while, and then we can execute our n.¡±


    ¡°What n?!¡± I barged out of the closet. As soon as I barged out, Niks paused, stunned by my appearance. Meanwhile, that Beta of his smirked.


    ¡°I thought you wanted me to leave this pack because you cared, but here you are, having an affair with your Beta!¡±


    Par!


    A p fell across my face that caused me to fall. Standing before me, Niks¡¯s nose red.


    ¡°Why are you here? Didn¡¯t I tell you to leave this pack?!¡± He roared, causing my eyes to flutter in surprise.


    I gasped, ¡°Niks, you hit me.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I did and I will do it again if you don¡¯t keep your mouth shut!¡± Niks roared back.


    Hastily, I stood and rushed towards the door, ¡°Wait till my father hear of this!¡±


    Before I could leave, a strong hand grabbed me, causing me to pause in my tracks. The hand pulled me. I stumbled backward and lost my stamina.


    Falling, pain surged through my body and I heard soft footsteps approaching me.


    ¡°Soon, you will learn to keep your mouth shut,¡± Niks warned with an annoyed tone. Meanwhile, I could feel the environment around me fading away.


    ~~


    A gushing sound echoed. It filled my ear and jolted me from sleep. My eyes fluttered open. Scanning my surroundings, I realized that everywhere was dark.


    I yelled, but it came out as a muffled sound because a fabric was around my lips. My wrists burnt silently, then I noticed the shimmering silver cuff around my wrists.


    That bastard! How dare he cuff me and keep me in this dark ce! I will make him pay for every single burn on my wrists!


    I tried to move away. Unfortunately, my hands were cuffed to a wooden furniture and my legs were cuffed, like I was a dog or less.Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    I hated the upsetting feeling that settled deep in my stomach. I couldn¡¯t help but let out a groan, in pain and difort.


    ¡°I hate you, Niks,¡± I said to myself. My wolf curled, sadness enveloping her. She didn¡¯t like it when I said such a hateful speech to her mate, but why do I care?


    He was right when he mentioned that the Moon Goddess made a mistake by making us mates. She made a very big mistake and I despise her for choosing Niks.


    If my mother had not persuaded me to let Niks mark me, I wouldn¡¯t be in this situation.


    My wrists continued to burn, so I stopped moving and cursed beneath my breath.


    ¡°Shit, I hate this. It will ruin my skin and take hours to heal.¡±


    Sadly, my mother is from a low pack, a pack that barely manages to survive every year. We didn¡¯t have the ability to mind link, and I could not mind link too.


    This means a no-escape to me. I can¡¯t mind-link Father or anyone. Even if I see my Omega, it will be much better. I will be able to speak with her and order her to tell my father about my current situation. I can¡¯t continue this way. This ce is suffocating!


    I heard footsteps approaching me nearby. My body itched, I wanted to speak, yell, and call out for help. Sigh¡­ It was no use, it became a muffled sound.


    ¡°Alpha Niks¡­¡± I heard my Omega call out.


    Oh, thank you, moon goddess! Finally¡­.!


    ¡°I have been waiting for Princess Tania¡¯s arrival, but she is nowhere to be found.¡± I heard my Omega speak softly.


    Niks replied in a sweet, soft tone, ¡°No need to worry.¡±


    I clenched my fists, as I was annoyed at his pretense. He sounds so sweet and loving, but inwardly, he is a monster who cuffs his mate and cheats on her!


    I wish I had the opportunity! I wish I had the chance to spit on his disgusting face and give him a fitting p!


    ¡°There was a change in her ns,¡± Niks lied, ¡°She had an upset stomach and she was rushed to the pack hospital. But do not worry, she will be fine.¡±


    I heard a snap and Niks continued, ¡°There is no need to work here. I have enough Omegas to work for my sweet Tania. So, you can return to Granelma Pack.¡±


    No, no! That¡¯s a trick to let her leave!


    ¡°Don¡¯t be a fool to believe that bastard!¡± I yelled.


    ¡°Alright, Alpha. I will take my leave,¡± My omega responded. I heard her soft footsteps recede and my heart squeezed.


    The sound of her footsteps faded away and light began to pour through the dark surrounding.


    I nced up, and Niks stood tall before me. A smirk appeared on his lips, then he approached me.


    ¡°Look at you, so helpless and sad,¡± He mouthed, and raised my chin.


    I gritted my teeth at that moment, and he didn¡¯t stop talking nonsense.


    ¡°I like it when I see you in this state. It gives me this giddy feeling that I can¡¯t just describe,¡± Niks continued, causing me to scoff.


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t aware that I got mated to a psychopath.¡±


    He furrowed his brows, his green eyes shing at me with annoyance and anger, ¡°Psychopath? Did I just hear you say that?¡±


    I nodded, ensuring that he knew what I said because the fabric around my lips might make my voice inaudible.


    ¡°Yes, Niks. You are a psychopath.¡± I nodded again.

 Chapter 42

    TANIA


    Niks¡¯s fingers on my chin pressed against my skin tightly. He gritted his teeth, and spoke, ¡°How dare you speak to an Alpha that way!¡±


    I could feel fresh blood oozing out of the spots his fingers pinched. I gulped, and continued without letting my guard down, ¡°How dare youy your filthy fingers on my skin.¡±


    ¡°Will you stop talking back at me?¡± Niks yelled, and Iughed. Even if he could not see my lips, he would definitely see the happy expression on my face.


    ¡°You must be a fool to think that I will just submit to you right away. This is what you want, isn¡¯t it? A tough, fierce, and rude Luna,¡± I smirked. His grip on my chin loosened and he didn¡¯t hesitate to chuckle back.


    ¡°Did you really believe what I said?¡± Heughed mockingly. ¡°I wanted you to leave with guilt, and that¡¯s why I said those statements. You know, you wouldn¡¯t be in this state if you had listened to me.¡±


    Yeah, listen to him, while he has an affair right under my nose.


    ¡°I was thinking about what to do with you. You know, it would be a waste to kill such a beauty like you,¡± Niks uttered with a smirk stered on his face.


    I spat, ¡°You are despicable. You knew that I was a beauty, yet you cheated on me. Don¡¯t you have any sense of shame?¡±


    ¡°Call me despicable or whatever you want. To be precise, beauty has no impact on packs. It is nothingpared to your ability and role to the Alpha in a pack.¡±


    ¡°Was I nothing as a role? Didn¡¯t I have the ability to take care of the pack and make everyone submit to you?¡±


    ¡°That is not the only role I demand from you, Tania. I wanted more from you. I wanted excitement in bed.¡±


    ¡°Tsk,¡± I turned my face away. He is definitely an asshole who searches for excuses to make me feel low and guilty.


    ¡°It¡¯s a good thing you can¡¯t mind link. You will stay here, in this inner room, till I and my Beta can conclude about your usefulness.¡±


    ¡°And during our union party? Will that filthy Beta rece me?¡± I asked, my tone quick and sharp. But inwardly, I was disheartened to realize his inner thoughts towards me.


    ¡°You will be there to attend the union party, but with my guards watching you. You know I can¡¯t afford to have you wander around and say more than necessary.¡±


    I narrowed my eyes, and he continued, ¡°I am organizing a big party tomorrow for sessfully defeating a big pack. Would you like to join me?¡±


    ¡°Tsk, like you will allow me.¡±


    ¡°Allow you?¡± He chuckled, ¡°Yes, I will, with my guards watching every step you take.¡±


    I turned to him, stunned by what he said. Was he really going to lock me up here except when the party was going on?


    He nced down at me, ¡°The party is a big one. Other Alphas will be there to celebrate with me, so¡­¡± He touched the fabric around my lips and tightened it.


    ¡°Keep your mouth shut, be a good girl, and don¡¯t misbehave,¡± He spoke authoritatively.


    Within a minute, he turned around, almost leaving.


    ¡°And I am to be med¡­ for letting I and my Beta¡¯s affair be exposed to you. If I wasn¡¯t so ignorant to your scent, none of those would have happened.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, my scent that makes you puke,¡± I replied, and he left without responding.


    ~~


    The next day, I was greeted by some bright lights. Some Omegas walked in and they ushered me out of the dark room. The cuffs around my wrists were removed by a guard.


    I was excited for this new day because I believed that I would be able to escape today.


    My room was surrounded by guards, while the Omegas assisted me with my dress.


    ¡°A light make-up will do, and my weight loss pills,¡± I ordered, and the Omega raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°You can ignore my order and face your Alpha instead,¡± I uttered, and her eyebrows leveled over her eyes.


    ¡°Alright, Lady Tania,¡± she spoke and left the room.


    While the other Omegas were busy dressing my face, I took my eye pencil and hid it in my heel. The only reason why I instructed the other Omega to get my weight loss pill was to avoid her presence.


    While the two Omega focused on my face, I was able to take the pencil easily.


    Soon, theypleted their task and ushered me out of the room. Then, my gaze was weed by different men and women in expensive attires. I moved into their midst, and suddenly a strong grip encircled my wrist.


    I nced up and noticed those unique green eyes¡­ Niks¡¯s.


    ¡°We have to wee the guests, remember?¡± He asked in a low tone, as a fake smile was stered on his face.


    Then, I turned to the crowd, giving them a perfect smile because this would be myst day in their midst. To be honest, I wish to even reject Niks. He doesn¡¯t deserve to be my mate, but what¡¯s the use? He had notpleted the mating bond, so I¡¯m nothing but a captured she-wolf.


    After some minutes of fake giggles and chuckles with other Alphas, I took my chance.


    ¡°I need to use the restroom,¡± I whispered to Niks.


    A slight frown appeared on his face immediately. He gazed at me, then at the powerful Alpha he was discussing with. His gaze softened and he smiled.


    ¡°Sure, you can go,¡± Niks whispered and pecked me on my cheek. My lips curled in disgust that very moment, but I quickly turned it into a smile before I walked away.


    I moved away from the crowd and walked toward the restroom. Heavy footsteps approached me. I turned around and spotted five guards behind me.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± I questioned, and they nced sideways.


    ¡°Alpha Niks ordered us to watch you,¡± A guard spoke and I scoffed inwardly.


    I faked a smile, ¡°I know, but I need to use the restroom. I need some privacy.¡±N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    The guards didn¡¯t move one bit. Instead of leaving, they lined up before the restroom while a guard among them opened the door to the restroom.


    Ugh, my n will be ruined if this continues!


    I walked into the restroom silently and a guard followed. I groaned inwardly.


    ¡°As your future Luna, you should respect my privacy! Do you want me to reveal my body to you?!¡± I yelled.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean that. But Alpha Niks ordered me to not let you leave my sight for a second.¡± The guard responded.


    Ah! I have to switch to n B then.


    So, I bent to pick up the pencil I kept in my heel. The pencil has a sharp silver de at the other end and it was designed specially because of my former small, weak pack.


    ¡°Ouch!¡± I faked a groan to attract the guard¡¯s attention.

 Chapter 43

    TANIA


    Just like I wanted, the guard approached me. He nced at me and I unleashed the silver de in the eye pencil.


    When he tried to act concerned about me, I stabbed him with the silver de right in his chest. Luckily, the de was a poisonous one, so he slumped quickly.


    I had to grip his body, in order to put him on the floor silently and not attract the other guard¡¯s attention.


    With that, I straightened my dress and walked silently toward the restroom door. As soon as I reached there, I took a peek.


    The guards were around the restroom door, and they seemed to be acting normal. While walking back into the restroom, I noticed the red stain on my dress. It must have been from the guard¡¯s body.


    I turned on the tap, attempting to clean the blood. Just then, the gushing sound from the tap was interrupted by a clicking sound.


    I turned back, with my hair flowing across the nape of my neck. A masked tall man stood before me with a silver dagger sped in his hand.


    I stole a nce at my pencil that was in the dead guard¡¯s chest and returned my gaze to the masked man.


    Hastily, I rushed toward the dead body to grip the pencil.


    Thud!


    The masked man gave a kick to the dead body, causing the body to roll aside.


    ¡°Don¡¯t move!¡± The masked man spoke with a hoarse voice. I froze and he pulled a silver cuff out of his pocket.


    He threw the cuff at me, which burnt my skin lightly. He ordered, ¡°Cuff your wrists.¡±


    I was unsure of what to do. First, Niks confines me in the darkroom when I¡¯m not needed, and this man here seems like a dangerous person too. If I follow his orders, I might end up in a worse situation.


    I bit my lips and took the cuff obediently. As soon as I ced the cuff around my wrist, the masked man shifted his gaze to the door. His gaze momentarily went to the door and then at me.


    I seized the opportunity, throwing the cuffs off and delivering a swift kick to his face. He stumbled backward and I rushed towards the door, knowing too well that it was better to be with Niks than with a man I¡¯d never met.


    As I tried to reach the door knob, it felt like my hair was going to be yanked away from my head. A strong grip yanked it hard and I felt a knee move down my spine, knocking the wind out of me. I gasped in pain and fell to the ground, my body feeling limp.


    The masked man cuffed my hands behind my back and yanked me to my feet, while my face was streaked with blood.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    I spat, ¡°You filthy pig! Do you know how long it took to get this pretty face?!¡±


    He didn¡¯t respond. Instead, he pushed me into a restroom, while I struggled against his grip because he was too strong.


    The pain from the impact of the fall made my struggles useless. He pushed me to the wall, sped his hand above my lips, and gave me a warning re.


    His gaze snapped to the door, as his breathing hastened. So, I opened my mouth widely, intending to bite his fingers and yell for help.


    Just as my canines were above his skin, I heard a loud growl!


    ¡°No one is here! Search the other rooms!¡± A voice growled from outside the stall. It sounded so authoritative, and it didn¡¯t seem like that of Niks or his Betas.


    What¡¯s going on?


    Another voice intervened, ¡°We can¡¯t find the Alpha¡¯s mate. She is nowhere to be found.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean by that?! She didn¡¯t leave this pack! Find her now!¡± The voice roared and I heard heavy footsteps hurrying out.


    A soft footstep followed, and I exhaled, letting out the breath I held in fear.


    ¡°Hold on!¡± The authoritative voice ordered and I snapped, holding my breath again.


    ¡°Check the stalls!¡± The voice ordered and I panicked inwardly. Even the masked man had fear portrayed in his dark visible eyes.


    My stomach churned, as I thought that would be the end. Recalling the authoritative voice statement, I picked two and two and knew that some people were searching for me. They were definitely not Niks¡¯s men or this pack¡¯s members.


    Oh goodness!


    I shut my eyes as tears threatened to fall from them. A tear slid down unwillingly and strong arms pulled me closer. I snapped my eyes open and was stunned when I realized that the masked man was embracing me.


    I huffed. ¡®Trying to seduce me when we are both in trouble, huh?¡¯


    Bang!


    The stall¡¯s door barged open. My eyes widened in fear at the sight of a muscr man whom I¡¯d never met in this pack.


    He nced around the wall, then at me. He took his gaze away and yelled, ¡°No one is here!¡±


    ¡°Search the other rooms then!¡± The authoritative voice spoke and the muscr man moved away from the stall.


    Footsteps echoed down the restroom, then I heard a loud m from the door.


    I heaved a sigh of relief. They are gone¡­ I think.


    I turned to the man before me. His arms were still around me and I snapped, ¡°They are gone!¡±


    He withdrew his gloved hands and moved away. Ignoring him, I strode out of the stall. Suddenly, a grip pulled me, causing me to face the masked man.


    ¡°Where do you think you are going?¡± His tone sounded rash and cold, as only his eyes were visible.


    ¡°It will be polite if you keep your hands to yourself and apologize for burning my wrists with these cuffs,¡± I spoke, with anger evident in my voice.


    He ruined my face and my n. So, yeah, he deserves to know his ce.


    I expected him to politely move his hands away. Instead, he gripped my waist, and pulled me close, with our bodies pressed against each other.


    ¡°You¡¯re not in a position to make demands.¡± He retorted sharply, as his voice was like ice. ¡°And I won¡¯t apologize to you. Ever.¡±

 Chapter 44

    TANIA


    I gulped. Fear surged in me as he gave me a dark re. Trying to ease the scary atmosphere, I faked a chuckle and straightened his shirt with my cuffed hands.


    ¡°Hehe, I didn¡¯t mean to annoy you¡­¡± I nced up at him with a soft gaze. ¡°But I really need these cuffs to be removed from my hands. It¡¯s silvery, and it¡¯s burning my skin.¡±


    I held up my hands, showing him the cuffs and my wrists, which were red and raw from the burns.


    His gaze softened, then he released his grip from my waist. Dipping his hands into his pockets, he brought a cuff key, causing me to smile.


    Finally, my wrists will be free. Afterward, I may send a punch to his face and flee from this ce.


    The masked man walked towards me, then he entered the stall and flung the key into the toilet bowl.


    ¡°What the hell!¡± I snarled. With a tap from his fingers, I heard the bowl gurgle like it swallowed the key.


    Then, he moved out of the stall, while I rushed inside. I nced down at the toilet bowl, and the key had been flushed. Damn!


    ¡°Are you crazy?! Why did you flush the bowl?!¡± I yelled, but he didn¡¯t even bother. He walked towards the window, and jumped!


    This mansion is a tall building and jumping down from a window can cost either the person¡¯s life or legs!


    I hurried toward the window and gazed down. Surprisingly, he wasn¡¯t at the base of the mansion. I gazed around the window and spotted him.


    He was standing on another window ledge as he stared at the next ledge.


    ¡°Hey! You can¡¯t just leave me here with my hands cuffed and I do not know what¡¯s going on!¡± I yelled, and he nced up at me.


    Once his gaze caught my gaze, I showed him the silvery cuffs around my wrists and I heard him say some words silently.


    He shifted his gaze to the window ledge and I couldn¡¯t help but be confused. First, he entered the restroom and hid in the stall. Then, some men were searching for me.


    Whatever it was, I didn¡¯t have an exnation and my heart thumped in fear. Something bad is happening and that masked man over there won¡¯t tell me anything, but he is obviously trying to escape.


    ¡°Hey, you need to speak to me!¡± I yelled, but this time, he didn¡¯t even nce up to see me.


    So, I looked back. Sigh¡­ Whatever evil is lurking around this mansion, it¡¯s best to escape. Perhaps, I can meet the masked man and question him.


    I gazed at the window. I was scared of heights and the thought of breaking my legs dawned upon me.


    An idea popped up in my head. I tore my dress and decided that I would use it to get down from the window. I tied the top part of the dress to a sink. Also, I threw the ending part of the dress out of the window.


    With that, I nodded. I moved out of the window with my cut-off dress sped in my hand. Then, I slid down thanks to the dress. I had almost reached the masked man¡¯s side.


    Suddenly, the dress snapped, and the sliding movement became fast. My soul left my body instantly!


    If the sliding movement continues, I will fall, and be broken apart at the base of the mansion.


    My heart raced, and I shut my eyes in fear. Suddenly, I stopped moving. Am I dead?


    My eyes fluttered open instantly. To my utmost surprise, my gaze fell on the masked man. My feet were dangling in the air, but he held my hands.


    He dragged me up easily and assisted me to step on the window ledge. Meanwhile, my heart continued to race with fear.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± I spoke amidst heavy breaths. He didn¡¯t respond and he moved past me.


    Meanwhile, I nced down at the base of the mansion and gulped.Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    ¡°Please, can you tell me what happened earlier? There was an ongoing party earlier and¡­¡± He turned to me with a deadly gaze.


    ¡°Do you want us to be caught?¡±


    ¡°Umm¡­ No.¡±


    ¡°Then keep your mouth shut,¡± he spoke in a low tone, causing me to frown.


    No one has ever spoken to me that way. Even my mother who had me in her womb for nine months wouldn¡¯t dare to say such.


    ¡°You know, I wouldn¡¯t be thanking you or apologizing to you if I was not trapped in this situation. So, treat me with some respect, mister,¡± I uttered, with my arms crossed.


    ¡°Mister?¡± I heard him scoff silently. He turned to me, and spoke, ¡°I will happily push you and let you fall since that is what you want.¡±


    Push me? I blinked. His guts piss me off!


    ¡°Who do you think you are, huh? Just because you saved me earlier doesn¡¯t mean that you are my hero,¡± I retorted.


    He looked away. Then, I heard hoarse voices from the base of the mansion. My ears perked up instantly. I nced down and noticed some men moving into their vans.


    The van sped off, while my heart thumped. What¡¯s going on? The pack is very silent.


    ¡°The pack¡¯s Alpha was so gullible. He didn¡¯t have many guards around the pack, because of a silly party. The Bloodbath pack seized that opportunity. They entered the pack and attacked with their scents covered up,¡± I heard the masked man say.


    My lips trembled instantly, as my heart squeezed with pain.


    ¡°Niks¡­ What about Niks?¡± My wolf yearned for her mate, but what word could describe what state he may be in? A pack attack will certainly be after the pack¡¯s head first, Niks. They must have injured or killed him.


    I gasped at that thought, with tears at the edges of my eyes.


    The sound of footsteps jolted me out of my thoughts. I wiped the tears at the edges and nced at the masked man. He was moving to more window ledges and had almost reached the base of the mansion.


    Oh, Goddess! Even though Niks had been cheating, and misbehaved, please save him at all costs. I love him¡­ I and my wolf cannot bear the pain of losing him.

 Chapter 45

    TANIA


    I prayed silently to the moon goddess, then, I followed the masked man. My wolf urged me to check the mansion, but I was frightened. Even if nothing bad happened to Niks, I do not wish to return to being his confined mate.


    It¡¯s best I follow the masked man and find the way to Granelma Pack.


    I carefully stepped on the ground and followed the masked man. He seemed to be strong, and what can I do with my cuffed hands anyway?


    Soon, we reached the gate and I suddenly lost track of the masked man¡¯s retreating figure. I can¡¯t even identify his scent, talk less of trailing his scent.


    Bang!


    A loud sound echoed behind me. I turned back. I spotted the same man who opened the stall door with a gun in his hand. He pulled the trigger once, but I was quick to dodge it before running.


    I ran to wherever my legs took me. But with every step I took, it seemed like that man took three times the step. I tried my best to run faster, but my legs felt wobbly and exhausted.


    I gasped for breath, and nced around, only to realize that I was in a dense forest.


    ¡°Well, well, who do we have here if not the supposed Luna to this pack?¡± I heard a voice say. I turned around and my gaze fell on the same man who had a gun in his hand.


    I didn¡¯t even bother to reply. All that yed in my mind was to run, even my wolf urged me to, and I couldn¡¯t resist.


    I obeyed and ran. Then, a slight pain struck my shoulder, causing me to fall on my face.


    ~~~


    I was woken up by the burning sensation on my wrist and the pain in my shoulder. I blinked and realized that I was lying on a wooden chair with my hands cuffed to the armrests.


    ncing around the room, I noticed that I was in an empty room. I jiggled my wrists, attempting to release myself from the cuffs, but it was useless.


    Then, a muscr man came into view. He had short brown hair which fell on his face, and he was in a simple shirt and ck pants.


    ¡°What do you want from me?!¡± I snarled.


    ¡°Shush, I don¡¯t want to listen to your rants,¡± the man replied and walked away.


    ¡°Rant?! You shot me and-¡±


    Hold on, he doesn¡¯t sound like the man who shot me. He sounded more like the masked man.


    ¡°You pig!¡± I snarled. ¡°You left me in that pack to die.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I did. Now, have this,¡± He instructed as he stretched a cup to me.


    ¡°Do you really expect me to drink that after what you did? Tsk, who knows what your ns are?¡±


    ¡°I have a lot, and speaking with you is not among them. Save yourself the stress and drink obediently.¡±


    I red at him and took a peek at the liquid in the cup. It was dark-colored and it smelt like animal waste.


    ¡°Goddess, is this poop?¡± I yelled, curling my lips in disgust.


    He let out a sigh, ¡°Herbal medicine for your wound.¡±


    ¡°Wound?¡± I followed his gaze and realized that my shoulders were bare. Also, I was in a pair of pants and a thin, strapless top.


    ¡°Holy Goddess!¡± I eximed, ncing back at him. ¡°How dare you!¡±


    My blood boiled in anger. But no matter how I tried to throw a blow at him, my hands could not reach him.


    ¡°Damn the cuffs! Damn you!¡± I spat, and he clicked his tongue.


    ¡°You are lucky I took you away from there. The men would have done worse.¡±


    ¡°Worse?! Does that make you less guilty?!¡±


    ¡°I guess so.¡± He nced up thoughtfully, and continued with a smile, ¡°But it¡¯s fine. I tried my best to shut my eyes and not look at anything.¡±


    ¡°I should have known that that was your n, you pervert! Let my father hear of this, you will rot in a cell!¡± I yelled, and he grabbed a key.


    He walked towards the armrest and unlocked the cuff. ¡°Go on, you are a free bird now.¡±


    Hastily, I moved away from the chair, and a groan left my lips. I could still feel pain in my shoulder and the pain made me weak instantly.


    Gently, I walked out of that ce, with pains surging from my shoulder. It felt awful, as I felt like my life was slipping away slowly.


    It was dark outside, and only the fire before the small house lit up the surroundings. I sat on a log that surrounded the fire, hoping that the pain in my shoulder could heal a little.


    ¡°It seemed useless for them to waste such an expensive bullet on you. I mean, what benefits will they get?¡± I heard the masked man say as he approached me.


    I¡¯m certain that he would be satisfied to know that I didn¡¯t leave too.


    I narrowed my eyes, ¡°Why should I tell you about that? It¡¯s not like you n to kidnap me and seek for ransom.¡±N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    ¡°That will be a waste of time because I¡¯m certain that no one woulde to save a bbermouth like you.¡±


    ¡°Tsk, you never know when to stop talking. You are not the same masked man from the other night, right?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve never met you before.¡±


    ¡°Then, why did you cuff me in the restroom?! Goodness¡­ I¡¯m so pissed right now. If you were not present, I would have a little idea about what was happening.¡±


    ¡°I told you, they attacked the pack,¡± he responded and sat on the opposite log of wood.


    ¡°And the Alpha? Is he dead?¡± I asked, gulping at the end of my statement.


    ¡°He is good as dead. Perhaps he ran like the coward he is.¡±


    I gulped, clenching my fist, ¡°How long will it take to reach Granelma Pack?¡±


    ¡°Why do you ask?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just a question.¡±


    ¡°Two to five days.¡±

 Chapter 46

    TANIA


    ¡°If you are thinking about traveling to Granelma Pack now, it is not a good idea. The Bloodbath¡¯s men are everywhere, searching for you,¡± The masked man spoke, causing my heart to squeeze.


    ¡°Then is it possible to do what you did in the restroom? The man didn¡¯t see us, you did something, didn¡¯t you?¡± I asked.


    ¡°Yes, I did. But it can¡¯t be used since it needs to be repaired.¡±


    I leaned forward, ¡°Alright, can it be repaired right now?¡±


    He shook his head in response, ¡°No, not now, and not in some months.¡±


    I sighed, feeling frustrated.


    ZIVA


    I screamed, staring at the silver-furred wolf that was my reflection. Even Anji heard my scream. She rushed into my room, with her eyes ncing at every spot in my room, then at me.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? I heard you scream!¡± She eximed, rushing towards me.


    I chuckled in relief, and touched her hands, ¡°You won¡¯t believe this, Anji. I saw my wolf!¡±


    She moved her head back and chuckled, ¡°Is this a joke?¡±


    ¡°No! I¡¯m serious!¡± I replied, but she looked dazed like she didn¡¯t believe me.


    I held out my phone and spoke, ¡°Look, my reflection is a wolf.¡±


    She gazed at the phone screen, but her face didn¡¯t light up with surprise or excitement. I turned to the screen and realized¡­


    Sadly, there was no wolf.


    ¡°There was a wolf. I saw it, it was seeking help-¡± I stammered, with my voice croaking. Inwardly, I was struck by disbelief at the disappearance of the wolf. I mean, it was here some seconds ago.


    ¡°That¡¯s alright, Lady Ziva. Get some sleep, you will be fine,¡± Anji let out a sigh.


    ¡°What do you mean by that? It wasn¡¯t a hallucination. I saw it, I heard her voice. She needed help too!¡± I eximed, not wanting to sound like a crazy person.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mention anything about that. Possibly, you¡¯ve been thinking about your wolf and this imagination emerged.¡±


    I dropped her hands, disappointed by her reply. I expected more from her, but here she was, making everything seem like it was an imagination.


    I turned my gaze away from her, ¡°I can¡¯t believe that you will say that.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to,¡± I heard her say and mutter, ¡°And you shouldn¡¯t behave like this in Alexei or Alpha Xander¡¯s presence. No one should be aware that you do not have a wolf.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± I croaked, my voice breaking as a thought raced through my mind. Was this part of Alpha Darwin¡¯s n? To keep my ill luck a secret?


    ¡°It won¡¯t be a good idea if Alpha Xander finds out. It might raise suspicion about your true identity and it might ruin everything!¡± Anji responded with a firm tone.


    I gulped, fighting back the tears that threatened to spill from my eyes.


    ¡°Do I have a choice? I will do whatever he wants me to,¡± I responded, my voice barely a whisper. Meanwhile, Anji smiled reassuringly.


    She patted my head, and continued, ¡°Have some rest.¡± With that, she left the room.


    After she left, I fell on my bed and continued to gaze at my phone screen with hope. I had hoped that I would see that silver-furred wolf, but nothing happened. I continued to nce at it, but sooner than I thought, I felt sleepy.


    The cool atmosphere added more pressure and I dozed off.


    ~~~


    The next morning, I changed and went downstairs to have breakfast. Although, my mind pestered on the thoughts of the silver-furred wolf.


    I tried my best to stop thinking about it and focus on the present day.


    ¡°Hi, Ziva!¡± Alexei eximed. I turned to him with a smile and sat.


    ¡°Morning,¡± I uttered, while he smiled sweetly.


    ¡°I hope your night went well.¡±


    ¡°Oh sure, it did!¡± I replied, and the Omegas served the food, not minding I and Alexei¡¯s discussion.


    Alpha Xander was also present in the dining hall, but he didn¡¯t seem bothered about the discussion or what happenedst night.


    I picked up the spoon and started to chew.


    ¡°I and Brother nned to have a wolf race. Would you like to join us?¡± Alexei asked, almost making me choke. I coughed, turning my face away so as to not ruin their breakfast.


    ¡°Have this,¡± I heard, and I turned, gripping a ss of water from Alpha Xander. I gulped the water and slowly turned to Alexei.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡± Alexei asked, and I nodded.


    ¡°Yeah. But I don¡¯t think I should join you two. It should be some sort of family race for you both.¡± I faked a chuckle and pushed a strand of my hair behind my ear. ¡°I don¡¯t want to disrupt.¡±


    ¡°Disrupt? You are also a member of this family,¡± Alexei replied, causing me to smile.


    The smile on my face faded upon recalling Anji¡¯s statements.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°It won¡¯t be a good idea if Alpha Xander finds out. It might raise suspicion about your true identity and it might ruin everything!¡±


    I can¡¯t have a wolf race with them, since I won¡¯t be able to shift to my wolf self and they may detect that I¡¯m wolfless.


    I replied quickly, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I can¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Uh?¡± Alexei seemed dumbfounded.


    ¡°Why?¡± Alpha Xander interrupted. He looked away from his te and stared at me.


    Hastily, I cooked up a lie, ¡°I don¡¯t think my wolf will befortable around this environment. She seems to be a bit rough when she is exposed to a change of surroundings.¡±


    ¡°Then when does she intend to adapt to this pack?¡± Alpha Xander uttered with a harsh tone. ¡°Do you even understand what your position means in this pack?¡±


    ¡°I do, and¡­ She will adapt quickly, no worries!¡± I eximed, hoping that my voice didn¡¯t betray me. My reply made the hall a bit awkward, not until Alexei broke the silence.


    ¡°That¡¯s fine. You can just watch us instead. It¡¯s an exciting view, and I¡¯m certain you will love it,¡± Alexei whispered, with a wink and I whispered back, ¡°I will be rooting for you brother-inw, fighting.¡±

 Chapter 47

    XANDER


    ¡°Fighting,¡± Alexei replied, and Ziva chuckled.


    My stomach churned at that moment. They behaved like they were family members¡­ No, they behave more like a couple.


    Just as the rogue said, Ziva is the key to the Crystal Moon Guardian. She knew about it, but she continued to keep it to herself. That sneaky Darwin¡¯s daughter!


    I will find out about everything¡­ Soon! I just need to y along.


    While having breakfast, Ziva and Alexei continued to chat with wide smiles on their faces like I didn¡¯t exist.


    I almost snapped out in anger, intending to shove the table away and teach them some manners. Instead, I calmed myself and recalled my ns.


    ¡°We just need to y along, Maz, and we will have the information to ourselves,¡± I muttered to Maz.


    ¡°There is no need for a reminder. I¡¯m focused and determined,¡± Maz growled.


    ~~~


    Alexei and I reached the vast, racing field with tall grasses swaying in the wind. The sun is shining, and the sky is a bright, clear blue. I and Alexei stood at one end of the field, prepared to unleash our wolf.


    Then came the sweetvender scent, that of Ziva¡¯s. I turned back and spotted her.


    She was in ck leggings that hugged her curves with a thin, silver band around the bottom. Also, she wore a lightweight, breathable t-shirt and shed a smile¡­ at Alexei.


    ¡°I will be at the stone tower at the other end of the field. Good luck,¡± Ziva uttered with another smile that made my heartbeat stop for a second.


    ¡°Alright,¡± Alexei replied. He waved at her and she stepped into a car that drove off.


    ¡°She is so sweet, isn¡¯t she?¡± Alexei began. I turned to him with a deadly re and he raised his hands as a sign of surrender.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare,¡± He muttered. I scoffed and turned away.


    ¡°Sweet and poisonous. I know her more than you do.¡±


    ¡°Oh, there she is!¡± Alexei eximed. He turned to the tower far away from us, then I spotted Ziva there. She stood on the small balcony with binocrs in her hand.


    Just then, a g was raised, indicating the beginning of the race. Maz took over easily, and he jumped, taking off at a sprint.


    At a point, Alexei¡¯s wolf, Brann ran forward. Maz moved faster, and at the end of the race, I won.


    I changed into some clothes and at the doorway, Ziva stood with a towel sped in her hand.


    ¡°Can I-¡±


    I cut in, ¡°Hand it over and leave.¡±


    She stepped into the room and handed the towel over to me.


    ¡°Just trying to act natural and y my role,¡± She chuckled.


    ¡°You can leave now or perhaps do you want to help me change?¡±


    ¡°I wish I could,¡± she replied, her tone dripping with sarcasm, as she folded her arms. ¡°Sadly, Alexei got hurt and it seemed like you yed dirty in the race.¡±


    I turned to her, as worry enveloped my mind. Yes, I cheated. I mean, what am I supposed to do? Watch him win and get the praise?


    In every race hepeted with, he was always the winner. I could not just let him win and embarrass myself.


    Anyway, it was just a thistle.


    ¡°It was just a thistle, nothing else,¡± I spoke with a firm tone.


    ¡°Yeah, just a thistle or let me say¡­ A patch of thistles. It got stuck in his paws too.¡± She eximed, almost making me jerk in shock.


    ¡°Why are you yelling? I¡¯m the one who should be yelling at you. You lied twice with the Agony Cor around your neck, remember?!¡± I yelled back and shoved the towel away in anger.


    ¡°I told you, I wasn¡¯t lying, and I don¡¯t want to bring up that topic since you won¡¯t believe me anyway.¡±


    ¡°Believe you? In your dreams.¡± I muttered to myself and stomped out of the room.


    ¡°Alexei is with the pack doctor because of that it was just a thistle. I hope you can deal with that,¡± I heard her say. She rushed out of the room, not without bumping her shoulder against my body.


    What¡¯s her deal with that? It¡¯s just a thistle-


    ¡°Alpha, Alexei is in the pack hospital with some thistle in his paws.¡± Lance mind-linked.


    I waved him off, ¡°Yeah, I know.¡±


    ¡°His condition is critical, Alpha!¡± His mind-link echoed, causing me to pause in my tracks.


    Critical? Why will a thistle cause something critical?


    This is not a prank, right? I stepped into my car hurriedly, as I was worried about Alexei.


    As I drove to the pack hospital, I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling of dread that had settled in the pit of my stomach. Alexei was tough and strong, but this was the first time I had seen him injured. The thought of him being hurt sent a chill down my spine.


    When I arrived at the hospital, I rushed through the doors, my heart pounding in my chest. I asked for Alexei¡¯s room, and when I reached it, my breath caught in my throat.


    Alexei was lying on the bed, his face pale, his eyes closed. My heart ached at the sight of him, and I noticed that his feet were swollen as they looked awful.


    The doctor walked in afterward. He had a flicker of sadness on his face, which made me more worried.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with Alexei¡¯s feet? He was fine a few minutes ago!¡± I eximed.


    The doctor bowed his head and responded, ¡°Hended on a patch of thistles¡­ Poisonous thistles.¡±Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    Oh goodness! What was I thinking about?!


    ¡°He is from this pack, he should be able to heal quickly, right?¡± I asked, with my voice trembling a bit. I am to be med for the thistles. I assumed they were normal, not knowing that they were poisonous!


    The doctor shook his head, causing my heart to sink. He continued, ¡°Surprisingly, he is not healing quickly and his system seems to be weak all of a sudden.¡±


    ¡°Then make him better! Get some medicines, do something!¡± I snapped out with frustration.


    ¡°I will try my best, Alpha,¡± The doctor stuttered, as he lowered his head. Meanwhile, that made me snap out in anger.


    I stormed towards the doctor, grabbing him by the cor. ¡°You¡¯d better make him better!¡± I growled, my voice low and threatening. ¡°And If he doesn¡¯t get better by daybreak, I will bury you and your entire family alive!¡±


    The doctor stumbled backward, his back hitting the wall. ¡°I¡¯ll get the best medicine avable,¡± he stammered, his eyes wide with fear. I shoved him away, not caring where hended.

 Chapter 48

    ZIVA


    I was at the hospital, as concern and worry filled my heart at the sight of Alexei¡¯s feet. He must be in so much pain, and the doctor had to put him to sleep.


    Then, Xander barged in, causing chaos and threatening the doctor. He boiled in rage and stormed out of the hospital.


    Gosh, he must be very worried, especially when he is the one who arranged the thistles on the field.


    As soon as he left, Lance turned to me. He scratched his head and whispered, ¡°I think you should follow him.¡±


    ¡°What?! Why me?¡± I asked quickly. Alpha Xander¡¯s temper would only increase if I followed him since he despised me already. To be honest, he can murder me out of rage.


    ¡°You are his wife,¡± Lance uttered, causing me to scoff.


    ¡°Do you remember what happened the other time? He tried to kill me with that Agony Cor,¡± I replied, intending to remind him of the past urrence.


    ¡°Yes, that happened. But he admitted you to the hospital right away. Also, this is your duty as his wife.¡±


    ¡°Beta Lance, you are very close to him, you should be the one to calm him.¡±


    He coughed, and cleared his throat, ¡°I¡¯m not a female.¡±


    ¡°And how does that rte to the situation at hand?¡±


    ¡°As a female and his wife, there are certain ways that you can engage in to make him calm. Just do it for everyone¡¯s sake, if not that, for my sake or Alexei¡¯s sake,¡± Lance spoke, and he folded his arms in a begging position.


    I turned my face away that instant, ¡°He will be calm in a few hours, so there is no need for this pleading.¡±


    ¡°Lady Ziva, those few hours you mentioned can be very disastrous,¡± My ears perked up and I turned to Lance.


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡±


    He exhaled loudly, ¡°Alpha Xander bore everything for some years and it had some impact. Whenever he got angry, he had to destroy something to calm himself. If that doesn¡¯t work, then we are in bigger trouble. He can cause more havoc than you think.¡±


    I gulped, ¡°I feel more like a bait, Lance. You should go instead. Just say one or two things to advise him, and he will be fine.¡±


    ¡°He will never listen to me, and it will only make matters worse. Please, just do this for Alexei. He wouldn¡¯t want to see his brother in this state, and it is only when Xander is calm, that a solution will be found to the poison,¡± Lance exined.


    I thought deeply about it, and from my perspective, there was nothing to lose. I hope Xander listens.


    I stepped into the car and the driver sped off to the mansion. Silently, I walked toward Alpha Xander¡¯s room. Upon reaching there, I knocked on the door. But there was no response.


    I peeped into the room and realized that it was empty. Though, I heard whispers from the room. I walked inside, scanning the room with my gaze.


    Suddenly, my gaze fell on a wall that revealed a small room. Walking inside, I spotted Alpha Xander. He was on the ground, his back facing me as he was beside arge brown box.


    I got worried by his silence and change in emotions. He seemed to be less annoyed now.


    So, I approached him and ced my hand on his shoulder, my fingers making contact with his shirt.


    He flinched and turned his head. Upon seeing me, he moved towards the brown box hastily, while my hand hung in the air.


    ¡°Why are you here?¡± He asked in a raspy tone.


    ¡°I-¡± Before I could finish my statement, he turned around, with anger evident on his face.


    ¡°To mock me like Darwin did, right?¡± He asked, clenching his fists by his side.


    ¡°Darwin? Why would I and Alpha Darwin do that?¡± I questioned, with curiosity tinged in my voice.


    Suddenly, a strong force pushed me to the wall, and in a blink, I was trapped between the wall and Alpha Xander.


    I nced up, my gaze meeting Alpha Xander¡¯s dark gaze as my heart raced. I could hear my heartbeat in my ears, even though I tried to calm myself down.


    ¡°This was what you wanted, isn¡¯t it? To watch me suffer in grief over and over again.¡± He asked while towering over me.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want that,¡± I stammered, with a shaky voice.Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    I felt warm breath on my cheek, then I realized that Alpha Xander was leaning in closer. My heartbeat quickened, and I closed my eyes, waiting for what was about to happen.


    But instead of the expected blow, his hand gently cupped my cheek, his touch sending a shiver down my spine.


    His lips brushed against mine, soft and gentle. I felt frozen in ce as his lips lingered on mine.


    My heart raced. I didn¡¯t know what to do, but I couldn¡¯t help but lean into his kiss.


    I felt like I was falling, and I wondered if this was all just a dream. But then Alpha Xander pulled away, and my eyes fluttered open.


    His dark gaze was still locked on mine, and I couldn¡¯t look away. The air between us felt charged, and I felt like I could barely breathe. I was stunned, not knowing what to say or do.


    I wasn¡¯t sure if I should push him away or keep kissing him. I had never felt anything like this before, and it was all so new and confusing. Alpha Xander didn¡¯t move, just kept staring at me, his eyes unreadable.


    I searched his face for any sign of what he was thinking, but it was impossible to tell. Then, without a word, he turned and left the room, leaving me alone and full of questions. I stood there, confused and unsure of what had just happened.


    But I¡¯m certain that Alpha Xander kissed me, and it felt so¡­ I can¡¯t describe it.

 Chapter 49

    ZIVA


    Should I call it magical or breathless? Words can¡¯t describe how I felt. Was it the giddy feeling? Or the butterflies that danced in my stomach? Yeah, both. ^^


    I smiled and recalled how he touched my cheeks. I touched them, feeling their warmth and I couldn¡¯t help but recall the whole kissing scene again.


    ¡°Lady Ziva,¡± A masculine voice called out, jolting me out of the sweet memory. I nced at the wall, and Lance came into view.


    ¡°Alexei is conscious,¡± Lance spoke with a smile.


    ¡°That¡¯s great news,¡± I replied, and walked out of the small room, reaching Alpha Xander¡¯s room.


    ¡°But what about the poison? Did they find a solution?¡± I questioned, concerned about Alexei¡¯s health.


    ¡°There is no solution yet, but with Alpha Xander¡¯s suggestions, the swelling reduced,¡± Lance narrated, while I nodded with excitement brimming in me.


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you be with Alexei then?¡±


    ¡°Alpha Xander is with him. Though, Alpha seems calm.¡±


    I blushed. Was he calm because of the kiss?


    ¡°I should take my leave now,¡± Lance voiced out.


    ¡°Alright,¡± I replied. As Lance walked out of the room, I stepped out and went to the car. It would be great if I visit Alexei at the hospital.


    The driver drove, while I turned on my phone and browsed through the inte. I learned more about the phone¡¯s usefulness from Anji, and it turned out to be a great relief. Suddenly, a message popped up from the sender ¨C Anji.


    ¡°Do not bother Alpha Darwin with any of your messages. He has a lot on his te.¡±


    ¡°A lot? Did something bad happen?¡± I texted and pressed the send button.


    ¡°Bloodbath pack attacked Niks¡¯s pack.¡± I read her message, and my heart squeezed.


    Niks?


    ¡°Is he alright?¡± I typed quickly. ¡°He should seek refuge in another pack!¡±


    ¡°I know. But he is nowhere to be found at this moment.¡±


    Oh, goodness!


    My heart raced quickly, and all that ran through my mind was Niks. Why could he not be found? What happened to him?


    I continued to stare at my phone, hoping that Anji could give more details about Niks¡¯s disappearance.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, I¡¯ve parked the car for over thirty minutes, but you keep looking at your phone,¡± The driver voiced out, causing me to flinch.


    I hurriedly got out of the car, only to realize that I had reached the pack hospital. I walked into Alexei¡¯s ward, and upon seeing a smile on his pale face, I was relieved. But my heart felt heavy with thoughts about Niks.


    ¡°Hey, Ziva came earlier than I expected,¡± Alexei spoke. I knew he was being sarcastic, so I walked towards him to apologize.


    ¡°I apologize for being early, brother-inw,¡± I muttered, and weughed it off.


    The ward was empty, so I took my time discussing with him, even though I was worried sick about Niks. No matter how I tried to wave off the message I received from Anji, it glued to my mind.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    ¡°Oh, look. There he is!¡± Alexei voiced out as he stared at the door. I followed his gaze and spotted Alpha Xander.


    He had a sk in his hand and a cold expression on his face. Oh, so we are back to him being cold?


    ¡°Ziva seemed to be so worried about you. Her face turned pale as soon as she walked into this ward. But now you are here, she must be in such a relief,¡± Alexei narrated.


    I couldn¡¯t help but fake a chuckle. I mean, it wouldn¡¯t be nice if Alexei found out that I was worried about another man, who is not my family member.


    ¡°What makes you certain that I was worried about him? He is not a baby, he can take care of himself,¡± I chuckled.


    ¡°Yeah¡­ Now, that chuckle means that I was right,¡± Alexei continued.


    ¡°I should excuse you,¡± I uttered, as I noticed that Alpha Xander was still standing by the door with a sk.


    ¡°Sure,¡± Alexei replied with a smile. Swiftly, I walked out of the ward. Two seconds after that, I brought out my phone as my gaze was buried on the screen.


    XANDER


    Upon reaching the ward, I was surprised to see Ziva there. Earlier, I had been there and Alexei seemed to be getting better. Also, he crazed his favorite foods, so I had to get them for him personally.


    As soon as I saw Ziva, I noticed the wide smile on her face, and Alexei¡¯s speech made it seem like she was waiting for my arrival.


    To top it all, she didn¡¯t argue for long with the speech and she left like she was a bit shy with my presence.


    ¡°I brought your favorite food, prepared by the Head Omega herself and your sweet older brother,¡± I spoke with a smile and approached his bedside.


    ¡°Great! I assumed that you would have burnt down the entire hospital with its staff while I was unconscious,¡± Alexei replied.


    I sat on a nearby chair with my brows furrowed, ¡°Why would you assume that?¡±


    ¡°You are always like that. Anger is a hundred percent possibility and right now, I¡¯m wondering why you are calm and smiling. Tell me, did you bump into a rainbow?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t,¡± I replied with a firm voice. He threw his head back like he was taken aback.


    ¡°Oh-oh, I see it now,¡± Alexei responded as he pointed at my face.


    ¡°What?¡± I asked, touching my face for any dirt or stain.


    ¡°There is a stain on your lips.¡±


    ¡°Stain?¡± I creased my brows, touching my lips slightly, ¡°Food stain? Blood stain?¡±


    ¡°Kiss stain,¡± Alexei spoke teasingly.


    Then, I recalled how I leaned in and kissed Ziva. We were just having a normal, tense discussion until I became close to her.


    Her lips and body were so inviting, and I could not resist. Perhaps that is because the only woman I¡¯ve kissed and touched was Rose, my ex-mate. Maybe I acted that way because it have been very long since I had close physical contact with a woman.


    Thank goodness that Lance interrupted with a mind-link about Alexei¡¯s health. I might have done worse than kissing.


    I could have fallen deep into lust and marked her as my mate. Or we could have shared the night which I would terribly regret the next day.


    ¡°Oh, that¡­¡± I said to Alexei who had his eyebrow raised, like he waited eagerly for an answer.


    Alexei smirked with his raised eyebrows, ¡°Don¡¯t tell me that you¡¯ve been having an affair behind Ziva¡¯s back.¡±

 Chapter 50

    XANDER


    An affair?


    Hold on, that¡¯s a better option than telling Alexei that I kissed Ziva. If I told him that I kissed Ziva, he might think of Ziva more as a family than our enemy and trust her blindly.


    But if I told him that I kissed a random she-wolf, he would roll it off his mind since it¡¯s fine to have a mistress.


    ¡°Yes, I have. Just today,¡± I replied. I ced the sk gently on the table and I unwrapped it.


    ¡°Hm, I know Ziva will be annoyed if she finds out, so keep it a secret. She wouldn¡¯t like sharing you with another woman. But who is this person anyway?¡± Alexei began.


    He winked, ¡°The person seems to be good at taming you.¡± Then, he snapped his fingers, ¡°I guess it was the same kiss that made you calm.¡±N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    ¡°I guess so,¡± I replied, but he didn¡¯t stop talking.


    ¡°What was it like? Rough?¡±


    I let out a sigh, ¡°Alexei, don¡¯t cross the boundary with your nonsensical questions.¡±


    ¡°Come on, it¡¯s just a harmless question!¡± Alexei spoke, as he red at me, ¡°Anyway, you are the one who made me stuck in this ward, so I have the right to ask every single question in my mind.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ Go on.¡± I ignored him, and opened the sk, revealing his meal.


    ¡°I asked, what was it like? Rough?¡±


    ¡°Soft¡­ And gentle.¡±


    ¡°So, did anything else happen excluding the kiss?¡± Alexei leaned toward me.


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°I knew I had a dumb brother,¡± I heard him say under his breath.


    He turned to me, ¡°Next time, end the scene properly.¡±


    ¡°Says the dumbass who doesn¡¯t have a girlfriend.¡±


    Narrowing his eyes, Alexei huffed, ¡°I know you n to rub it in my face that I don¡¯t have a girlfriend. But I told you, I will. Once I find my mate, she will be my first and only girlfriend.¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright, just have your meal and skip talking,¡± I said.


    He smirked with a response. ¡°She is pretty, right?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, yeah. Very pretty, slim, and inviting with a delicious scent. She seemed to be naive to others, but she wasn¡¯t. She leaned into the kiss, like she wanted more, and she piss me off at times.¡±


    ¡°Hm,¡± Alexei nodded, and I served the food. He picked up a spoon and spoke, ¡°Sounds like an interesting woman¡­ You should ask her for a night.¡±


    I scoffed, ¡°Why should I do that?¡±


    ¡°You need her!¡± He nced sideways and lowered his voice, ¡°Hire her instead. I¡¯m certain that you will never forget every night you spend with her.¡±


    ¡°If she could hear what you are saying, she would bury you alive.¡±


    ¡°Why? Do we know each other?¡± Alexei gasped. He sped his hand over his mouth, then he whispered, ¡°Is she Sorcha?¡±


    ¡°No!¡± I yelled and pointed at the sk. ¡°Eat up, I¡¯m leaving.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± Alexei nodded. He waved his hand dismissively at me, and I left the ward instantly.


    Goodness, I didn¡¯t know I had a talkative as a brother.


    I reached the car that would drive me back home and to my utmost surprise, I saw Ziva. She sat in the back seat with her full focus on her phone.


    ¡°Alpha, I¡¯ve been questioning her about where she would like me to take her. But she didn¡¯t reply,¡± The driverined.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. We are heading to the mansion,¡± I replied, sitting next to Ziva who didn¡¯t move one bit. Perhaps she is very busy with her phone.


    The car sped off and halted, but Ziva didn¡¯t step out. She kept staring at her phone.


    ¡°Hey,¡± I called out, and she didn¡¯t flinch.


    So, I touched her shoulder and just then she jolted away like she had been woken up from a nightmare.


    ¡°Oh, I am here,¡± she replied and stepped out of the car. I did the same and observed how she rushed into her room.


    Curiously, I followed her. The door to her room was partially opened as she forgot to shut the door. Upon entering the room, I saw her on the bed with her gaze focused on her phone.


    Earlier, I assumed that she left Alexei¡¯s ward hurriedly because of my presence, but I guess I was wrong. It was because of her phone.


    The phone screen was close to her pale face. Perhaps, she didn¡¯t look pale or worried because of me too.


    She bit her nails and scrolled down on the screen.


    I should leave. I mean, I am not and will never be rted to her. So, what¡¯s my problem with her life?


    ¡°You are here?¡± Her voice echoed. I looked up and realized that she caught me. She turned on the nightmp and I walked inside.


    ¡°I was not following or watching you. Your door was opened, so I decided to check on you.¡±


    ¡°Okay, but you¡¯ve seen me now,¡± Ziva forced a smile.


    Is she trying to let me leave?


    ¡°And uhm¡­¡± I coughed, clearing my throat.


    ¡°Yeah, about that. You have a stain on your lips and you should consider wiping it off. Or else, everyone will see it, and start thinking,¡± Ziva uttered.


    I nodded, and in an instant, she rushed into the bathroom. She returned to the room with a wet towel in her hand.


    Stammering, she gestured to her bed, ¡°You should have a seat. I can¡¯t reach your face because you are a bit tall.¡±


    ¡°Sure,¡± I epted her offer. I sat on her bed and she stood in front of me. She gently used the wet towel to wipe away the stain.


    ¡°All good now,¡± She voiced out, and I couldn¡¯t help but let out a groan. She was the one who offered to wipe the stain away, but I¡¯m the one who feel like I can¡¯t resist.


    Has she been adding potions to her gorgeous face? Or am I the one who seems to be attracted to her because it¡¯s been long since I¡¯ve had a woman on my bed?

 Chapter 51

    XANDER


    ¡°I will take my leave,¡± I uttered and moved away. Silently, I walked out of her room, but she wasn¡¯t even bothered. She returned to her phone, while I shut the door.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    I entered my room and sank into my bed. It was dark, and all that enveloped my mind was Ziva. I somewhat yearned for her scent and touch as I could not sleep.


    It was past midnight, but the kissing scene kept surfacing in my mind. I am to be med, I should have listened to Alexei and asked her for a night. But what if she instantly rejects it?


    ¡°She is Darwin¡¯s daughter, remember?¡± Maz uttered, and I huffed.


    ¡°I know,¡± I rolled my eyes, and reached for a pillow. I hugged it tightly and tried my best to sleep. Luckily, I dozed off.


    The next morning, the same feeling lingered in my mind. Hold on¡­ We are married. I smirked.


    ¡°Oh yeah, and you got married to her because you wanted revenge,¡± Maz echoed.


    ¡°Yes. Also, I need to y along to get her to open up to me and tell me everything she knows about the Crystal Moon Guardian,¡± I replied.


    ~~


    I ordered the Omegas to move my belongings to Ziva¡¯s room as I nned to finally share the bedroom with her. After she returned from the pack hospital, she walked into the room and returned with furrowed brows.


    ¡°I found your clothes in the closet. Did the Omegas mix up your clothes with mine?¡± She questioned.


    ¡°No, I ordered them to move it in.¡±


    ¡°Move in? Why?¡±


    ¡°We are married, and sharing a room should not be a big deal. Should it?¡± I questioned, and Ziva nodded, ¡°Yes, it shouldn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°That reminds me. You mentioned that your wolf might be a bit rough when she is exposed to a change of surroundings, so I invited the sorceress.¡±


    ¡°What?!¡± She eximed, with her eyes wide open. She maintained herposure and continued, ¡°There is no need for her visit. I¡¯m fine.¡±


    ¡°I invited her already, and she will be here anytime soon,¡± I responded.


    Suddenly, I received a mind link from Lance, ¡°The sorceress is here.¡±


    ¡°Great, she is here.¡± I walked towards the entrance, expecting the sorceress¡¯s arrival. She was in her ck dress and she walked in with her assistant.


    She brought her materials for checking Ziva¡¯s wolf, though Ziva seemed adamant about not checking her wolf.


    The sorceress did it anyway, and when she hadpleted it, she told Ziva to excuse us. After discussing with the sorceress, the sorceress left.


    A muffled moan echoed from Ziva¡¯s room.


    I peeped through the partially opened door, and I saw Ziva on her bed. I stepped inside and noticed how she buried her face between her knees.


    I approached her, while she raised her head, ncing up at me.


    ¡°She told you, didn¡¯t she?¡± Her voice croaked. Her wet cheeks were visible, and I realized that she had been sobbing.


    ¡°Yes, she did,¡± I replied, recalling the sorceress¡¯s statements.


    Then, Ziva cried loudly and she hugged her knees tightly.


    ¡°It is not a bad thing,¡± I uttered, then I sat next to her to console her.


    ¡°Not being able to shift to your wolf does not make you useless. Also, you are not to be med for that,¡± I spoke reassuringly.


    Raising her head, she mouthed, ¡°Thank you.¡± Then, she pulled me into a soft embrace.


    I didn¡¯t mention that her wolf had been trapped under a spell. If I did, she would have been anxious or worried.


    I can not forget the way I felt when Ziva¡¯s arm touched my back. The first brush of her hand on my back sent a tingle through my body, like a spark of lightning.


    The sensation of her touch heightened my senses and I felt Maz¡¯s instinctsing to the surface. I wanted nothing more than to be closer to her, to feel her warmth and her heartbeat against my own.


    ZIVA


    I was so worried after the sorceress checked me. I assumed that Alpha Xander would be furious because I was wolfless and shove me out of the mansion. Unexpectedly, he walked in and said what no one had ever said to me.


    I was always rejected by the pack members because I was wolfless, but this time I wasn¡¯t. Fortunately, it didn¡¯t raise any suspicion that I am not Alpha Darwin¡¯s true daughter.


    I pulled him into an embrace excitedly, and the minute I ced my arms around his back, I didn¡¯t wish to let go. It felt soforting and warm.


    Bang!


    The door flew open, revealing Anji who stood in the doorway.


    ¡°Ziva, I-¡± She began but paused as soon as her gaze settled on me.


    I moved away from the embrace and turned to Anji who nced at me, then at Alpha Xander.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t anyone teach you how to knock?¡± Alpha Xander questioned her with a raspy tone.


    She lowered her head instantly, ¡°I apologize, Alpha. I will leave right away.¡±


    She walked out of the room, but I followed her. I was too embarrassed to return to the room and I wondered why Alpha Xander acted nicely to me. He didn¡¯t even move away from the hug and he was fine after hearing that I could not shift to my wolf.


    As soon as Anji reached thending, I caught up with her. Hastily, she gripped my wrist and dragged me into an empty room.


    ¡°What was that about, huh?¡± She inquired, closing the door behind her as she stepped in.


    I shrugged my shoulders, ¡°It was just a hug.¡±


    She narrowed her eyes, then proceeded to fold her arms, ¡°First, he found out that you can¡¯t shift to your wolf, now, you are hugging him? What¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°I tried to stay away from the sorceress, but it happened anyway. So, he found out about my wolf¡­ but he is somewhat fine with it,¡± I replied and rubbed my arms.


    ¡°And the hug?¡± She raised an eyebrow. ¡°Do you even recall why you are here? For some weeks now, you haven¡¯t given any good feedback to Alpha Darwin.¡±


    ¡°I will. Everything will fall into ce soon,¡± I replied, with a reassuring smile before reaching for the door handle.


    ¡°One more thing,¡± Anji said, stopping me in my tracks.


    I turned around, a tight-lipped smile on my face. ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Do not get too close to Alpha Xander. From an innocent hug, it might lead to lust, then lust to intimacy, and intimacy to pregnancy. You don¡¯t want to lose the deal for this, right?¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t lose the deal. Besides, it was just a hug, and nothing else is happening.¡±


    ¡°Nothing else? Tsk, if this continues, your heat period will hit you in no time.¡±

 Chapter 52

    ZIVA


    I almost chuckled, ¡°I can¡¯t feel or even shift to my wolf form, how am I supposed to be in heat?¡±


    ¡°It is possible. Just stay away from him and focus on the deal.¡±


    ¡°I will and you have nothing to worry about,¡± I smiled and reached for the door handle. I opened the door and left the room.


    Surprisingly, Alpha Xander seemed to be caring toward me. Since Alexei is at the hospital and Lance is busy with the pack, this gives me the perfect opportunity. Also, the maids mentioned that Alpha Xander would be at the pack training house now.


    I had doubts about one room, and I was eager to check it. The same room was the room for the weing ceremony where there was a broken fragment of a crystal-like object there. What if that is the Crystal Moon?!


    Sigh¡­ I just want my Mum to be released as soon as possible.


    Last night, I was so worried about Niks and all I did was research about his pack. Sadly, there was no news about it¡­ Perhaps that¡¯s because a werewolf¡¯s identity should be a secret.


    As soon as the moon shone in the sky. I strode toward the room with the crystal-like fragment.


    Surprisingly, there were no guards around the room. I nced sideways, and there were no Omegas around. So, I touched the door knob and silently pushed the door open.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± A masculine voice echoed.


    My heart raced instantly. Have I been caught?


    I turned around and spotted Alpha Xander. He approached me swiftly, while I tried to process what to say.


    I needed a big lie, or I might get into trouble.


    ¡°I was just checking,¡± I stammered, and managed to not stammer. ¡°I was checking the mansion, so I came here to admire this room.¡±


    ¡°This room?¡± He raised an eyebrow, ¡°You¡¯ve been here twice.¡±


    I faked a chuckle, ¡°Yes, but I never had the chance to admire the beautiful paintings.¡±


    My palms became sweaty, so I rubbed them, hoping that he would believe me.


    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s fine. You can go inside,¡± Alpha Xander replied. My eyes widened after he replied. Is this a joke?


    ¡°Oh, alright,¡± I replied and pushed the door open. The door opened, and some lights shone from the room.


    I walked inside swiftly, and to my surprise, the broken fragment of the crystal-like object was still there. Earlier, I assumed that Alpha Xander moved the broken fragment into another room and that was why he permitted me to enter.


    ¡°It¡¯s beautiful, isn¡¯t it?¡± Alpha Xander questioned, and I smiled, ¡°Yes, it is.¡±


    ¡°It might look very cheap and meaningless, but it¡¯s priceless,¡± He narrated. I nced at it and wondered if I could actually steal it.


    ¡°Can I-I touch it?¡± I asked him, stammering with every word. I was unsure of his answer, but I expected him to say yes.


    He looked at me, smiled, and responded, ¡°No.¡±


    Ugh, that was unexpected. However if the Crystal Moon is as powerful as Darwin said, then touching this object will clear my doubts whether it¡¯s the Crystal Moon or not.


    ¡°I¡¯ve always admired it. Please let me touch it, please¡­ Pretty please,¡± I mouthed, pouting like a child to make him ept and I held his arm.


    ¡°No,¡± he insisted.


    ¡°Alright, can I just have a closer look then?¡± I questioned, but inwardly, I nned to touch it as soon as I got close to it.


    ¡°Of course,¡± he replied. I stayed on my toe and pecked his cheek before rushing toward the fragment.


    It was on a golden stand, and it had no protective cover on it or evensers.


    As I nced at it, pretending to be admiring it while saying wow, Alpha Xander stood next to me like an inspector.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    I seized the opportunity when I had one, and stylishly raised my hand to touch it. When my fingers tried to reach the object, I felt a grip on my wrist.


    I nced at my wrist and realized that Alpha Xander gripped my wrist.


    ¡°I told you, no touching,¡± He uttered with a strict tone.


    ¡°Sorry¡­ It was just too beautiful,¡± I apologized sweetly.


    ¡°But what is its name anyway?¡± I questioned, with curiosity tinged in my voice.


    He raised his eyebrow in suspicion and released his grip on my wrist. ¡°Why are you suddenly interested in it¡¯s name?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just curious. It¡¯s a beautiful object, I should know its name.¡±


    ¡°It has no name,¡± Alpha Xander replied, ncing at the door.


    Instantly, I raised my finger and touched the object.


    ¡°Ouch!¡± I yelled and withdrew my finger. Touching the object was like dipping my finger into forty-eight hours boiling soup, more likeva. I¡¯ve never touchedva, but that¡¯s the best description I can give.


    Alpha Xander turned back, ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Nothing,¡± I faked a smile, and ced my arm behind my back. I can still feel the awful warmth on my finger and it felt like my finger was being roasted.


    The smile on my face didn¡¯tst long, and my eyes had tears threatening to fall. They were at the edge because of the awful feeling on my finger.


    Alpha Xander didn¡¯t seem to suspect. He moved away, while my brain alerted me to get water. All that was on my mind was water! It feels like my finger is being roasted itself!


    Sadly, there was no tap or source of water in the room. Meanwhile, my finger had already turned red and swollen from that one touch.


    So, I decided! I don¡¯t care about anything, all I need is water! I ran, attempting to walk out of the room, without caring about what Alpha Xander or the Omegas would think.


    I mean, my finger will obviously explode and burn to ashes if the hot feeling continues.


    I rushed past Alpha Xander and bumped into him. Hitting his body added to the pain. It was like hitting a pile of blocks. I managed to reach thending and rush into the kitchen.

 Chapter 53

    ZIVA


    Immediately I stepped into the kitchen, I jumped toward the sink. Fortunately, there was a bowl of water in the sink. I dipped my finger into the water, intending to make it extinguish the burning, hot feeling.


    It didn¡¯t stop! The feeling didn¡¯t stop. I turned on the tap quickly. Allowing water to flow from the tap to my red, swelling finger, I hoped for a change.


    But¡­


    There was no change. It intensified the feeling. To be honest, tears dropped from my eyes like it was raining tears. I couldn¡¯t control them as the pain continued.


    I turned off the tap and red at my finger with my blurry eyes. I¡¯m only doing this for my mother¡¯s release. Will I lose my finger for a mere object?Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    Footsteps echoed behind me. But why do I care? The pain I feel is enough to make me inhale myst breath. I sobbed at that moment, and I saw some hints of blue before me.


    Alpha Xander, I guess. I raised my finger to his gaze and apologized from the bottom of my heart, with tears flowing down my cheeks like a flood. Even if I die now, I won¡¯t die with guilt of not apologizing for my selfishness.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry!¡± I muttered as tears continued to stream down my face.


    He smirked, or maybe he didn¡¯t. I could not see his face properly because everything was blurred. I felt his grip on my finger and some liquid touching it. It somewhat helped my finger, and the hot feeling on it was extinguished slowly.


    I blinked and wiped the tears on my cheeks. I could see things properly and my finger was in his mouth¡­ Alpha Xander¡¯s mouth.


    Eww¡­


    I attempted to pull my finger away, but his grip on it stopped me.


    I stared at him, confused by his actions and a bit disgusted. But whatever¡­ We kissed, so it¡¯s not a big deal, right?


    ¡°Uhm, I think that¡¯s enough,¡± I voiced out, unable to hold back the disgusted look on my face. I mean, imagine my finger leaving his mouth with saliva all over it.


    Luckily, he listened and let go of my finger. With that, my finger became normal.


    ¡°You never listen,¡± he spoke, then leaned forward. ¡°If you continue to be disobedient, you will be punished severely.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Punishments like keeping my finger locked in your mouth?¡± I blurted out, as I continued to nce at my finger. It felt like cold water extinguished the fire on it. Thank goodness.


    ¡°No, that can¡¯t be termed as a punishment.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ It should be termed as harassment or sexual assault!¡± I yelled at him.


    He blinked, ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s very disgusting to put a woman¡¯s finger in your mouth. Very very!¡± I yelled, recalling how I felt when my finger was in his mouth.


    He chuckled slightly, ¡°I think you are being childish.¡±


    ¡°Childish? How will you understand when you¡¯ve never been in such a situation, huh?!¡±


    He let out a sigh and raised his finger, ¡°Fine, put me in that situation. I would like to understand.¡±


    I blinked, frustrated by his reply. I wanted to reply and yell, but my tongue was stuck.


    Sigh¡­ I should be very polite and nice towards him, especially if I want to find the Crystal Moon and have my mother.


    I smiled and touched his raised finger, ¡°It is best to just forget about what happened here. Forget that I touched the object, you licked my finger and wanted me to lick yours.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t want you to lick my finger. You are the one who seem disgusted after youmitted a crime and I helped you.¡±


    I smiled sweetly, ¡°I deeply apologize for that.¡±


    ¡°For the punishment¡­¡±


    I rolled my eyes when he wasn¡¯t looking and let go of his finger.


    ¡°I expected our bedroom to be beautiful and inviting, but it was the other way round.¡±


    Our bedroom? Our?


    ¡°It feels like you don¡¯t even see it as an important ce.¡±


    ¡°Is it supposed to be important?¡± I questioned, emphasizing the word, important.


    ¡°Of course. Many she-wolves dream of being in such a room, and you don¡¯t seem to even make an effort to make it look inviting.¡±


    I furrowed my brows, ¡°Why? Why should it look inviting?¡±


    Hold on, don¡¯t tell me the reason for his gentle and nice acts was to get me to spend the night with him.


    ¡°It¡¯s also my bedroom. So, I can decide how it looks or shouldn¡¯t look.¡±


    ¡°Pfft,¡± I huffed under my breath.


    ¡°I hope to see the new change after I get back from an important meeting,¡± He spoke and walked out of the kitchen.


    I had just exhausted my mind and energy on a finger, does he really expect me to decorate the room now?


    Tsk, an Omega will do that, while I try to figure out my next ns to find the Crystal Moon.


    As soon as Alpha Xander left the mansion, I called an Omega to decorate the room.


    ¡°What type of decoration do you want?¡± The Omega questioned.


    ¡°Inviting. He said he wanted it to look beautiful and inviting. Also, it¡¯s an order from Alpha Xander. Be quick with it before he gets back or else¡­¡±


    Before Ipleted my statement, she bowed her head, ¡°I will do just as you say.¡±


    ¡°Make it snappy,¡± I smiled and walked out of the room. I went to the guest room and waited.


    Afterward, another Omega rushed into the guest room. ¡°Alpha Xander is back.¡±


    Hastily, I sprang to my feet and rushed into my room. Luckily, the Omega left and she made the room beautiful.


    Just then, something caught my eye. There were numerous roses on the bed, and thankfully, Alpha Xander was not in the room which means that he had not seen the roses.


    I wondered what he would assume if he had seen them. Perhaps he will think that I¡¯m trying to seduce him or something worse.

 Chapter 54

    ZIVA


    I took the bed cover and rearranged it. I poured the roses on the floor and pushed them underneath the bed.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± I heard a masculine voice say.


    I paused in my tracks, and nced up. To my surprise, I spotted Alpha Xander. He moved away from the bathroom. Just then, I realized that he had been in the bathroom.


    He was in a shirt with a few buttons undone. I gulped and looked away.


    ¡°I was arranging¡­¡± I muttered, and faced him, ¡°How long have you been there?¡±


    ¡°A minute or two. And what did you do to the roses? They were beautiful.¡±


    ¡°It was arranged here identally, so I threw them away,¡± I replied with a fake smile.


    He dropped his cell phone on the table, then he returned to the bathroom with a towel.


    As soon as he shut the door, I heard the gushing sound of water.


    I exhaled loudly like I had been holding my breath. Okay¡­ I just have to endure, endure his presence on the bed, next to me. Sharing the bed with him for the first time was awful. I think I would rathery on the couch.


    I picked another nket from the closet andid on the couch. The couch in the room was small, so I had to squeeze myself in it. It wasn¡¯tfortable at all as I faced the couch.


    But it¡¯s better than staying on the bed, floor, or in another room.


    The gushing sound I heard earlier stopped, and I heard a creak before Alpha Xander spoke.


    ¡°At times, it feels like you are avoiding me.¡±


    ¡°Who wouldn¡¯t?¡± I replied bluntly.


    ¡°That is unexpected from someone like my wife.¡±


    I felt warmth embracing me, and it felt a bit suffocating. Though, that didn¡¯t stop me from responding to his answer. ¡°Wife? I didn¡¯t get married to you willingly, so let¡¯s not prioritize this marriage like it¡¯s real. It¡¯s more like forced or arranged.¡±


    ¡°Why would you be forced into a marriage? You are Darwin¡¯s precious daughter.¡±


    I turned around, feeling more heat/warmth. Now, I could see the room and my surroundings. ¡°I am Darwin¡¯s precious daughter. Why would I get married to a man I barely know? Why would Alpha Darwin let me marry his rival? Does that even make any sense?¡±


    As I turned, my gaze fell on Alpha Xander who towered over me.


    ¡°Arranged marriage or forced, it doesn¡¯t matter, as long as trust exists,¡± He replied, staring down at me with his charming blue eyes.


    My heart raced at the little distance between us. He leaned in, causing the heat around me to intensify.


    His lips gently crashed against mine before he trailed down kisses on my neck.


    I almost let out a moan. Then, I recalled Anji¡¯s statement.


    ¡®Do not get too close to Alpha Xander. From an innocent hug, it might lead to lust, then lust to intimacy, and intimacy to pregnancy. You don¡¯t want to lose the deal for this, right?¡¯


    ¡°Stop,¡± I muttered, raising my hands to his chest to create some distance between us.


    I stared directly into his dark, lustful gaze and uttered, ¡°Stop, I don¡¯t want this.¡±


    He paused. His brows furrowed as a look of disappointment crossed his face. I repeated my statement firmly, ¡°I¡¯m not interested.¡±


    Without pestering me, he moved away, while I heaved a sigh of relief. I grabbed the nket and walked towards the door, intending to leave the room. I nned to stay in a guest room instead.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to leave because of what happened,¡± I heard Alpha Xander say.


    ¡°It¡¯s best I do,¡± I replied and walked out of the room.


    As I closed the door, it felt like the warmth around me vanished. I became enveloped with cold, and somewhat I wanted him. I wanted to feel his warmth again or have him around my body.


    However, that might only ruin my ns and cause my mother to be confined in that cold cell for more months. I exhaled slowly, then rubbed my elbows to reduce the cold feeling.


    Afterward, I strode into the guest room. I sank into thefy bed and covered myself with the nket I brought. To my amazement, I dozed off quickly and had a dream.


    Funny, the dream was just blurred traces of me and a man making out before he sank his teeth into my neck.


    The moment I woke up, I had to rush into the bathroom. I gazed at the mirror and watched my reflection. I inspected my neck, hoping that there was no bite mark on it.


    Fortunately, there wasn¡¯t. I touched my chest and heaved a sigh. The dream felt so real, and I could actually feel the warmth on my neck and between my legs.


    I was still in my clothes and there was no physical evidence of intimacy. So, I moved forward and turned on the tap. Then, I washed my face, reminding myself that it was just a dream, and nothing else.


    I walked out of the bathroom and my gaze fell on someone. Instantly, my heartbeat paused.


    ¡°Why do you look terrified? It¡¯s just me,¡± Anji spoke. I clenched my chest and calmed myself.


    ¡°Sorry, I thought it was someone else,¡± I replied and returned to the bed.


    Anji crossed her arms, ¡°And who is that someone else? Alpha Xander?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mention any name,¡± I admitted, and she let out a huff.


    ¡°Why are you here anyway? Did Alpha Darwin send a message or something?¡± I questioned her, as I coiled on the bed and covered myself with my nket.


    ¡°No, he didn¡¯t. But do you recall that this is the same room I dragged you into when I wanted to speak with you?¡±


    ¡°Yeah,¡± I muttered, wanting to drift back to sleep, ¡°It¡¯s the same room you dragged me roughly into.¡±


    ¡°Exactly!¡± She eximed. I heard footsteps approach me and her weight pressed down the bed by my side.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    ¡°I was about to go to your room, to check up on you. Then, I heard moans while walking.¡±

 Chapter 55

    ZIVA


    My ears perked up instantly, ¡°Moans?¡±


    I turned my body and faced her.


    Anji nodded, ¡°Yes. It was not loud. But I think it is because I was near the room, that¡¯s why I could hear it properly.¡±


    I stammered, ¡°Did you find the person moaning?¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately, I couldn¡¯t. The female seemed to shut her mouth when I was near this guest room.¡±


    I heaved a sigh. Perhaps I was the one¡­ Certainly, I was the one, after the messy dream I had and how realistic it felt.


    I¡¯m certain that if Anji found out that I was the one, she would have given me an earful.


    ¡°But you know what?¡± Anji continued.


    ¡°What?¡± I asked, a bit nervous that she found out.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I suspect those silly Omegas. I¡¯m sure one of them met with a guard,¡± Anji replied. Then, I smiled, relieved by her response.


    ¡°Yeah, it must be one of them,¡± I nodded.


    She sprang to her feet, almost leaving and it urged me to ask her questions about the dream I had.


    ¡°Anji¡­¡± I called out with a low tone.


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°I was thinking about what you narrated now,¡± I lied. ¡°What if the female Omega didn¡¯t meet up with a guard? What if she had a messy dream where she got marked and moaned in reality? It is not a bad thing, right?¡±


    Anji creased her brows, giving me a re of suspicion.


    ¡°I¡¯m just asking. It¡¯s just a question,¡± I shrugged my shoulders.


    Anji¡¯s brows leveled, and she muttered, ¡°If that happened, then the female Omega should be prepared to have her heat period soon.¡±


    I gulped. If I have my heat period now, I will be in so much pain throughout with no one to help relieve the pain.


    ¡°Or maybe¡­¡± Anji began. I gazed at her quickly, hoping that she had a better reason.


    ¡°Possibly the female Omega has not been marked and she is expecting a pup.¡±


    I rolled my eyes at her response. I can¡¯t be pregnant.


    I gasped. Does that mean that the heat period will soon hit me like Anji said?


    ¡°It can just be a mere dream,¡± Anji uttered, raising a little hope within me.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure. You know, I don¡¯t know other she-wolves experience,¡± She spoke.


    ¡°I understand,¡± I gave her a reassuring smile.


    ~~~


    The next morning, I tip-toed to my room to have my morning routine. I wanted to enter the room silently, just in case, Alpha Xander was asleep.


    Opening the door slowly and quietly, I peeked inside the room. Surprisingly, there was no one on the bed. I shifted my gaze to the couch, and Alpha Xander was not there.


    Swiftly, I checked the bathroom and realized that no one was in the room.


    I did my morning routine, ignoring his absence. Then I walked into the closet to get a dress. Strangely, Alpha Xander¡¯s clothes were not there.


    Sigh¡­ Seemed like he moved out and returned to his room.


    It suddenly feels lonely¡­ I smacked my forehead. Oh, snap out of it! You¡¯ve always been alone, this should not make any difference.


    Time flew quickly, and the moon shone in the sky.


    I hadn¡¯t seen Alpha Xander around, and everyone seemed busy, even Anji who worked here as my assistant.


    I conversed with an Omega, ¡°I have not seen Alpha Xander for some time now, is everything alright?¡±


    She smiled, ¡°Everything is fine. It¡¯smon for the Alpha to be absent for some days. To be honest, his presence in this mansion after your marriage was surprising to everyone. He had not been that present in this mansion and he leftst night.¡±


    ¡°Oh, alright,¡± I dismissed her. With what she said, Alpha Xander must be busy.


    Jealousy settled deep in my stomach, and my thoughts diverted. Perhaps, he got annoyed after I said I was uninterested and left to be with his mistress.


    I bit my lips, feeling a bit heartbroken since my assumption could be right.


    A few days passed with Alpha Xander¡¯s absence, and many failed attempts to steal the broken fragment in that room. The guards watching the room had been more watchful and I could not get into the room no matter how much I tried.


    Anji informed me that a solution or let me say an antidote has been found to cure Alexei perfectly. I went to the pack hospital to visit him with his favorite food.


    I met the Head Omega earlier and she arranged the food before I reached the hospital.


    ¡°Are you feeling better?¡± I heard from inside the ward. I opened the door silently, as my gaze fell on Alexei and a female nurse.


    I rolled my eyes. ¡°Let me guess, you are checking up on him?¡±


    The nurse walked out of the ward politely, without saying a word. Then I dropped the sk on the table and gave Alexei a suspicious re.


    ¡°I¡¯m an adult,¡± he spoke, and I shifted my gaze to his feet. They looked normal, but a bit swollen.


    ¡°I assumed that you would focus on getting back to your feet. But oh! It seems like you are enjoying the hospital and the staff¡¯s services,¡± I uttered with a yful smile.


    He shook his head in disapproval, ¡°Not really. The drugs they give are enough to make my head spin.¡±


    ¡°And the females?¡± I raised an eyebrow.


    ¡°Not bad.¡±


    I sat on a nearby chair while he leaned forward, analyzing food.


    ¡°Oh please, don¡¯t tell me it¡¯s the same freaking food!¡± He grumbled.


    ¡°Is it not good?¡± I questioned, sad and curious. If it isn¡¯t, then I wasted my time to bring it.


    ¡°Ugh, just because I¡¯m sick, I¡¯ve been eating the same fucking food. I think I will have to add it to my list of un-favorite foods.¡±


    ¡°My bad. I wasn¡¯t aware of that.¡±


    He sat upright on the bed, andined, ¡°Even Xander did the same before he had some lipstick stains on his lips. I¡¯m certain that he is nning to pump my body with the same food.¡±


    Lipstick stains? My ears perked up, and I faced Alexei. He mentioned a lipstick stain which means that Alpha Xander visited him recently with a lipstick stain.


    I gasped, and my heart squeezed.


    I have not seen Alpha Xander for some days now, and we have not been close to each other, talk less of kissing. Did Alpha Xander really leave to meet his mistress?


    ¡°When?¡± I questioned Alexei to be certain that Alpha Xander had been with his mistress.


    He looked away from the sk, and when he gazed at me, he sped his hand above his mouth.


    He blinked and stammered, ¡°I didn¡¯t say anything.¡±

 Chapter 56

    ZIVA


    Possibly, Alexei was covering up for his brother, Xander. So, I gave Alexei a deadly re to make him confess.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t say anything,¡± Alexei repeated.


    ¡°You mentioned that he had lipstick stains on his lips a few seconds ago,¡± I muttered.


    ¡°It was a mistake,¡± He replied with wide-opened eyes.


    Sounds like a lie. ¡°Just tell me the truth, Alexei.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± He sighed, attempting to say the truth faster than I expected. I leaned forward to listen attentively.


    He let out a sigh, and voiced out, ¡°Ziva, Bother is having an affair behind your back.¡±


    I gasped, and my heart sank. Tears formed in my eyes immediately. I knew it! My instincts were right! Xander left to be with his mistress. He is cheating.


    I sobbed inwardly, almost breaking out physically.


    I know I have been adamant about not consummating our marriage, and I termed it as fake or forced. But that doesn¡¯t mean that he should go ahead to have an affair.


    ¡°I am to be med,¡± Alexei continued. I blinked the tears in my eyes away and focused on his statements. ¡°I told him to keep it a secret because you might get annoyed.¡±


    Certainly, I will be annoyed. Right now, I¡¯m annoyed and heartbroken. How could he do such a thing?


    I clenched my fist, and managed to not sound like a broken piece, ¡°Who is his mistress?¡±


    ¡°Sorcha?¡± I asked.


    Sorcha seemed like a nice person. She is muscr and powerful, good enough to be his Luna. She must have been the mistress since those fucking bitches love to be close to married women!


    ¡°I said the same thing!¡± Alexei eximed, ¡°But he said she isn¡¯t the one.¡±


    ¡°Then who? Is it Anji?¡±


    ¡°I doubt that. Anji is not his type.¡±


    I heaved a sigh of relief. Okay, his mistress is not someone I know. Great¡­


    ¡°What is she like? Very gorgeous?¡±


    ¡°Hmm, he said a lot, but I remembered when he said very pretty.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± I maintained myposure and watched him grumble.


    ¡°No worries, I will send the Omega to bring another sk of food,¡± I uttered, and he nodded.


    ¡°Thank you. But I hope you are not worried or annoyed about what I said?¡±


    I faked a smile, ¡°Not at all. Why will I be?¡±


    Alexei touched his chest and spoke, ¡°Okay, that¡¯s a relief then.¡±


    XANDER


    I received an important mind link from Lance after Ziva left the bedroom with a nket. That caused me to leave the mansion at night.


    Because of the important announcement from the mind link, I traveled to a nearby city with Sorcha. Sorcha is a strong female warrior and she serves as my assistant and bodyguard in case of an emergency.


    It took a few days before we could finally reach the human city. It turned out that Sorcha had prepared the car and food upon receiving Lance¡¯s mind link.


    Meanwhile, Lance would stay in the pack. He will serve as my defense if this traveling was an enemy¡¯s n to move me out of my pack and attack the pack. He is very strong and capable.


    Also, I wouldn¡¯t be leaving the pack if Lance had not received the announcement that Alphas are needed to meet up in the human¡¯s city. I would have sent Lance instead, while I stayed at the pack.


    As soon as the car reached the human city, different scents wafted into my nostrils. Each scent was nothingpared to Ziva¡¯s scent. Hers was more alluring and inviting.


    I shut my eyes, recalling how I kissed her lips and her fair neck.


    ¡°Alpha,¡± A voice jolted me out of my thoughts. I opened my eyes and Sorcha bowed her head.


    ¡°I apologize for disturbing,¡± She uttered.


    I clenched my fist, annoyed at her disruption, ¡°You¡¯d better have a very good reason for doing so.¡±


    Sorcha lowered her gaze, ¡°Alpha, other Alphas will be present in the location that was sent. Including Alpha Darwin.¡±


    I clenched my fist tightly. Maz snapped out in a second, but I controlled him. His ws pierced my palms and I felt blood gushing out of the wounds.


    ¡°Pfft, he must be preparing a bad egg to hatch at his chosen time,¡± Maz spoke.


    ¡°Yes, he is,¡± I replied.


    Definitely, they nned the meeting in a human city to avoid a bloody fight since no human knows about our identity.


    The car halted to a stop. I stepped out of it and headed into the tall building ahead. Sorcha came walking behind me. We strode into the building and we were greeted by a group of werewolves in the same clothing.


    I was ushered into a room with double doors. A guard opened the door, and upon opening it, I spotted a long table with different Alphas sitting by its side.


    I walked inside elegantly and sat on an empty chair, next to the other Alpha. Then, I heard a swooshing sound.


    The double door swung open, revealing Alpha Darwin.Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    I scoffed inwardly, as soon as my gaze fell on him. His gaze fell on me too, and I intensified my gaze, using my Alpha¡¯s aura.


    He looked away and sat quietly.


    Then, an Alpha stood and cleared his throat.


    ¡°The Alphas are around, and the meeting can begin,¡± The Alpha began, ¡°We invited you here, because of Alpha Niks¡¯s pack who had been attacked during a party of his.¡±


    ¡°Tsk, isn¡¯t he Alpha Darwin¡¯s gullible son-inw?¡± An Alpha spoke, chuckling at his statement.


    I turned to Alpha Darwin and noticed his furrowed brows. A look of disappointment crossed his face, and it made me excited.


    ¡°Yes, he is my son-inw,¡± Alpha Darwin interfered, causing the other antagonizing Alpha to stop chuckling. ¡°But that doesn¡¯t mean that you should forget about how he contributed to your pack and helped you endlessly. Just one mistake shouldn¡¯t justify his personality.¡±


    ¡°One mistake? He ruined the pack member¡¯s life. The children, family, warriors, everything! Everything was wiped off!¡± Another Alpha interjected.


    I leaned back in my chair and watched how the drama would unfold. It was quite interesting to see them antagonize Alpha Darwin.

 Chapter 57

    XANDER


    ¡°Yes, they were. But it was a mistake,¡± Alpha Darwin replied, and a loud bang echoed.


    The Alpha who was announcing roared, ¡°Stop your nonsense! We came here to assemble and work together, not pick a fight and scatter!¡±


    The Alpha antagonizing Alpha Darwin became quiet, and Alpha Darwin fell silent.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    The announcing Alpha continued, ¡°As I said earlier, Alpha Niks¡¯s pack was attacked. You know, he has been a very good contributor to some pack¡¯s Alpha and it will be great to help his pack while he needs urgent help.¡±


    ¡°His pack is good as dead. Is it still possible to save the pack?¡± An Alpha voiced out.


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s possible,¡± The announcing Alpha nodded, ¡°Right now, Alpha Niks and a few of his pack members are hiding. However, the Bloodbath pack had surrounded the pack, causing them to be unable to leave because they had only a few warriors with them.¡±


    ¡°What a coward¡­¡± The antagonizing Alpha sneered silently, ¡°He saved himself, but he could not save the pack. Very irresponsible of him. It¡¯s time he gets dethroned anyway. To be precise, his father received the Alpha¡¯s title by cheating.¡±


    ¡°Not now, Alpha Barral,¡± The announcing Alpha cut in, ¡°The pack needs to be rescued, and dethronement will only add fuel to the fire. If he is dethroned now, the pack members will be more vulnerable to attacks and they may end up as ves.¡±


    ¡°Cut to the chase, what do you suggest the Alphas do to help the pack?¡± Another Alpha interjected.


    The announcing Alpha answered, ¡°You can offer supplies, money, or protection, by sending your warriors to stand guard over Niks¡¯s pack. You can also initiate negotiations with the Bloodbath pack to try to end the conflict peacefully.¡±


    I scoffed, feeling impatient and annoyed at the idea of helping Alpha Darwin¡¯s son-inw. He has been the problem in our pack, why should I help?


    ¡°If your only reason for this meeting was to waste my time, then you¡¯ve made a big mistake. I¡¯m not going to y helpful with Darwin, so let¡¯s cut to the chase or I¡¯ll be out the door,¡± I spoke directly.


    Everyone in the room fell silent.


    The announcing Alpha continued, ¡°I understand if you¡¯re not interested in helping. I appreciate your time, and I¡¯ll respect your decision to leave.¡±


    With that, I pushed the chair back and strode toward the double doors. The guard opened the door and I left the room¡­ Even the building.


    ¡°Alpha, how did it go?¡± Sorcha asked behind me, as she managed to reach my pace.


    ¡°It was a waste of time.¡± I turned to her with my activated Alpha aura. ¡°I¡¯ll expect you and Lance to do your work before you send me a mind link in the future. I don¡¯t have time for pointless meetings that have nothing to do with my benefits. I expect you both to be better informed and more prepared before you try to get my attention again.¡±


    She lowered her head, and spoke respectfully, ¡°I understand, Alpha.¡±


    I moved away, striding towards my car until a particr scent hit my nose.


    I was familiar with that scent, but I could not just detect the owner. It was alluring and it was different from the human¡¯s scent.


    I turned back. I noticed that there were a lot of people in the scent¡¯s direction, and Maz urged me to find out. I was also eager to find out, for no reason.


    I barged into the crowd, following the scent until I met the owner. It was a female with long, dark hair that reached her shoulder. Her back faced me, so I could not see her face.


    I reached out my hand to touch her shoulder, but she flinched before I could. Suddenly, she turned around and faced me.


    !!!


    Face to face, I saw Rose standing before me, her eyes shining brightly as she smiled, a smile that reached all the way to her eyes. I felt my own lips curl into a grin, unable to resist the warmth of her gaze.


    But then, I thought.


    ¡°Is this an imagination?¡± I muttered to myself.


    Rose¡¯s bright eyes suddenly watered, the sparkle fading as tears welled up.


    She bit her lip, trying to hold them back. Meanwhile, I blinked to ensure that what I saw was real. I opened my eyes and within a second, her arms were wrapped around my body.


    Her head rested on my chest, and I felt my heart skip.


    This is really Rose! My Rose!


    We entered the car to avoid unnecessary stares and I couldn¡¯t help but stare at her throughout. She ate a little andined about the amount of snacks sold in this city.


    Then, she caught my gaze and smiled. Leaning over, she wrapped her arm around my elbow, pulling me closer. I could feel her skin against my skin, and it gave a satisfying feeling as it made contact.


    ¡°I missed you so much,¡± Rose uttered with a sweet tone.


    Silently, I sighed in relief. I assumed that it was a waste of time to arrive in the human city. But I was blessed with Rose¡¯s presence.


    ¡°I recall the war, and I wonder how you ended up here. You didn¡¯t even try to return to the pack,¡± I scolded her, feeling excited and annoyed at the same time.


    ¡°Well, I don¡¯t remember a lot. But I do remember being in an unknown ce. I didn¡¯t know how to get back into the pack or even mind-link you. Everything was just messed up until I found my way to this busy city,¡± She narrated.


    Well, after the war, everyone thought she was dead, even the sorceress. I didn¡¯t believe it. I was chained up because I was acting miserable, and the pack members had to perform the burial ceremony.


    During the ceremony, she would have been thrown far away from the pack and she won¡¯t be able to return. Sigh¡­ It is a tradition in my pack to do such.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine now, you are safe with me,¡± I replied and kissed her forehead.


    My wolf, Maz on the other hand was too excited to even speak. He was finally with his mate.

 Chapter 58

    ZIVA


    The moon hung low in the sky, and it marked another night without being able to get hold of the Crystal Moon in that room.


    I looked through the window and noticed an expensive car moving through the driveway. It halted and a silhouette figure stepped out of it.


    Could that be Alpha Xander?


    I walked out of my room and hurried toward the entrance. I heard footsteps approach me, and I looked.


    Then, I spotted Alpha Xander with a woman by his side. The woman looked gorgeous and slim as Alexei described. My heart squeezed at that moment.


    Was this the same woman who kissed Alpha Xander?


    Alpha Xander assisted her to walk into the mansion. Upon seeing me, he paused and the woman standing next to him furrowed her brows.


    ¡°Who is she?¡± The woman asked, with curiosity tinged in her voice.


    He turned to her with a smile, ¡°It¡¯s a long story-¡±


    My heart broke. That was the same way Niks denied my rtionship with him when he was with Tania.


    My eyes watered, but I held back my tears. I walked away since I was the third wheel, and returned to my room with a restless feeling.


    How could he do that? Even if he had a mistress, she shouldn¡¯t be permitted to enter this mansion. I mean, we are married. He could have given her another ce to stay.


    The more I thought about it, the more my heart sank with bitterness. I tossed on the bed, but I could not sleep.


    XANDER


    As soon as I entered the mansion with Rose, she nced inside and questioned, ¡°Who is she?¡±


    I spotted Ziva, and faced Rose with a smile, ¡°It¡¯s a long story. You need to get some rest now.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± Rose nodded. I turned back to Ziva and realized that she left.


    I escorted Rose to her room and tucked her into the bed. As soon as I moved away from the bed, she gripped my hand and pouted.


    ¡°Don¡¯t leave me. I don¡¯t want to be alone,¡± Rose spoke.


    She must have been frightened because of her loneliness while she was in the human city. Ugh.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Kissing her forehead, I tried to convince her, ¡°You will be fine.¡±


    ¡°And you?¡± She asked, with a concerned look on her face.


    ¡°I¡¯m always fine. I need to deal with some important things while you rest,¡± I replied.


    Swiftly, she released her grip on my hand and nodded. ¡°Okay.¡±


    With that, I left her room. As soon as I closed the door, and faced the doorway, Ziva appeared.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been absent for days or weeks. Now, you are back, you arrived with a woman,¡± Ziva uttered, with an annoyed look on her face.


    ¡°Perhaps if you contacted me, I would have exined,¡± I replied.


    I walked away from her and hurried footsteps approached me.


    ¡°Why would I do that? You left willingly,¡± Her voice echoed.


    Suddenly, she obstructed my path and crossed her arms, ¡°Who is thatdy? Your mistress? Even if you wanted to have a mistress, fine! Get an apartment for her and let her stay there.¡±


    ¡°Will you shut it?¡± I snapped angrily.


    Her eyes widened like she was shocked by my outburst. She became mute, but I continued, ensuring that she understood Rose¡¯s position.


    ¡°Rose is not my mistress or whatever you think she is. She is my mate.¡±


    As I spoke, she blinked rapidly, as if fighting back tears, and her voice lowered to a near whisper. ¡°She is your mate? Why was I not aware that you had a mate? We¡¯ve been married-¡±


    I cut her off, ¡°We¡¯ve been married; not because we were mates or lovers. Previously, you mentioned that it should be termed as a forced or arranged marriage. Let it be that way.¡±


    Her crossed arms dropped, and she bit her lips. ¡°So who am I to you? What would you tell your mate if she questioned you?¡±


    ¡°You are Darwin¡¯s daughter. We got married for our benefit. It¡¯s as simple as that,¡± I replied quickly.


    She nodded and moved away from my path.


    ¡°Also, I¡¯m not cheating or betraying you. These are just mere circumstances that are bound to happen since this marriage would never work. You can contact Darwin to know if he has a problem with Rose-¡±


    Ziva interrupted, her voice croaking and her eyes bright red. ¡°There is no need to contact him. Alpha Darwin¡­ I mean, my Father won¡¯t have any problem with that. He supports it and practices it. I should get some sleep now.¡±


    ¡°Sure, sure!¡± I replied. She turned around and walked away. Immediately she reached thending, she rushed into her room without turning back.


    Great, I exined to her, that I have my mate and can further proceed to ruining Granelma Pack and having the Crystal Moon Guardian to myself.


    ZIVA


    Alpha Xander¡¯s statements sank into my head. My stomach churned, my throat heated up and tears welled up in my eyes. I closed the door and stepped into my room.


    His statements kept reying in my head and I couldn¡¯t shake it off. I burst into tears that I had been holding and drowned in the bitter feeling in my heart.


    I cried my heart out, with my face buried in my palms. First, Niks betrayed me. Now, Alpha Xander.


    No, Alpha Xander is different. He was merciful enough to exin politely and not lie to my face.


    The next day, I was greeted with loud bangs. It gave me an rming headache that stirred me from sleep. I fluttered my eyes open and carried myself to the source of the bang, the door.


    Opening it slowly, my face came in contact with Anji¡¯s face.


    She crinkled her nose, ¡°Goodness, have you been drinking?¡±


    Ignoring her statement, I opened the door widely. Silently, she walked in and scanned the messy bed and scattered room.


    ¡°I cried too much and made a mess. You should order the Omegas to clean it,¡± I muttered, my words sounding like it was jam-packed.


    ¡°What are you even saying?¡± Anji questioned.


    I felt disturbed and annoyed. So, I yelled, ¡°Don¡¯t be an annoying brat. Do your job and stop bugging me!¡±


    ¡°Bugging? Did you hit your head or something?¡± Anji questioned, sounding irritated. ¡°You made yourself a mess, over what? A man?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± I slurred, ¡°A man. Why do I feel like my whole existence is a curse or a stepping stool?¡±


    ¡°You feel that way because you are a fool! Why would you think of a man you barely know? Alpha Xander is no one¡¯s reach.¡±


    I turned to her, sitting up quickly, ¡°How did you know he is the one?¡±


    ¡°I know you¡¯ve been ignorant to all my advice, and I knew you liked him. It was very obvious.¡±


    I narrowed my eyes, ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m cursed to love men who do not love me in return. They give bad for my good, and you must have noticed.¡±


    ¡°Oh,e here,¡± Anji uttered. She moved towards me and raised my chin.


    ¡°Focus on the deal, and move on,¡± Anji spoke.


    I nodded in response, ¡°I just wish the deal ended quickly. I don¡¯t want to be here.¡±

 Chapter 59

    ZIVA


    ¡°I also don¡¯t want to be here. Now get up, and get dressed. The Omegas are organizing a party, so you should be prepared,¡± Anji spoke quickly. Crossing the room, she picked up the soft, fluffy nket and carried it over to the bed carefully.


    Draping it over the mattress, she smoothed it out, ensuring that it was perfectly straightened and covered the entire surface.


    ¡°Party? Why are they organizing a party?¡± I questioned curiously.


    Anji turned away from the bed, and replied, ¡°A wee party for the Alpha¡¯s mate.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± I moved away from the bed and approached Anji, ¡°Speaking about that, have Niks¡¯s pack been rescued?¡±


    ¡°Not yet. The packs that attacked are very strong, they can¡¯t surrender to others easily. Even Niks and a few of his warriors are in hiding.¡±


    ¡°Great, that must be such a relief to Alpha Darwin.¡±


    ¡°Pfft¡­ Tania is missing, adding more fuel to the fire. She can¡¯t mind link anyone, and possibly, she had been captured by that awful Bloodbath pack.¡± Anji voiced out. I gasped, realizing what had happened. Tania must be in a lot of trouble.


    ? ? ?


    I changed into a floral dress and went to the dining hall to have my breakfast. As soon as I reached there, the maids greeted me politely. I sat on a chair and food was served.


    The Alpha¡¯s mate sat opposite me. I must say, she is a very beautiful woman. She had dark hair, deep brown eyes, and was curvy. She ate silently without ncing at me.


    After having breakfast, I and Anji went to the boutique that was located near the mansion to get some clothes. The boutique was a big building with high-quality clothes. Anji suggested that I change into some clothes.


    I did, but none was to my liking until I wore a ck dress that reached my ankle. The design on it was beautiful and it was not revealing a lot.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take this,¡± I said to the fitting room attendant.


    She smiled, ¡°Let me ring it up for you.¡±


    Suddenly, a female voice echoed, ¡°I¡¯ll take that dress.¡±


    I turned and spotted Alpha Xander¡¯s mate, Rose. She red at me with disgust in her eyes and approached me swiftly.


    ¡°I want this dress,¡± She said with an authoritative tone. I almost let out a chuckle. I chose the dress already. Did she do this deliberately?


    ¡°Lady Rose, Lady Ziva chose the dress,¡± The fitting room attendant spoke. Instantly, a smack pierced the silence in the boutique.


    Rose pped the fitting room attendant and she voiced out, ¡°I am the Luna here. Get the dress or leave this pack!¡±


    Another fitting room attendant interfered. She ushered me into the fitting room and begged me to change the gown I chose.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    She sifted through some gowns, pulling out a few options. ¡°These would look even better on you than the one you picked out,¡± she cooed,ying them out in front of me. ¡°They¡¯re so beautiful, and they fit you perfectly.¡±


    I stared at the gowns in front of me, unable to decide which one I liked the most. I felt annoyed by her sweet talk. She was only doing this for Rose.


    ¡°Let Rose have the gown she chose. I think I¡¯ve got enough to choose from my closet,¡± I finally replied, a hint of annoyance in my voice. I was tired of the whole shopping experience and just wanted to be done with it.


    With that, I changed into my floral dress and exited the fitting room.


    ¡°That daughter of a b-tch. She sure knows how to ruin someone¡¯s mood,¡± Anji clenched her jaw.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. I was only interested in getting some clothes because you suggested it,¡± I replied and Anji creased her brows.


    ¡°If you keep doing this-¡±


    I continued my statement, ¡°I will leave this pack soon. Let bygones be bygones.¡±


    The party was about to begin, and I felt the need to clear my head. I strode outside the mansion, taking a walk around.


    The sound of heavy footsteps hit my ear. I turned around and spotted a man running towards me. Some guards were chasing him too. He ran past me and fell. The bag he held rolled onto the floor. ncing around, he picked up his heels and forgot to take the bag.


    The guards ran after the man, as they were not concerned about the bag. Was that a thief? I became curious. It urged me to check the bag and see what was inside. So, I nced sideways, ensuring that no one was around. Then, I took the bag and moved to another side.


    When I was in a safe spot, I opened the bag. To my greatest surprise, I saw the broken fragment, The Crystal Moon! Perhaps, it¡¯s fake. What if it¡¯s real?


    I hugged the bag, and muttered to myself, ¡°Ziva, this is your chance.¡± Since the Crystal Moon was in the bag, I didn¡¯t feel any burns on my hands.


    Swiftly, I brought out my phone and ordered Anji to bring my purse. She brought it as I ordered and I shoved the bag off. Ensuring that the Crystal Moon was safe in my purse without anyone knowing, I said to Anji, ¡°Now, all I need are the divorce papers.¡±


    ¡°Divorce papers? What are you talking about?¡± Anji asked with furrowed brows.


    ¡°I need you to arrange the divorce papers. It should be prepared by tomorrow so that I can hand it over to Alpha Xander as soon as possible,¡± I whispered.


    ¡°Why do you want to divorce him?¡± Anji questioned. I became irritated by her tons of questions.


    ¡°Just do as I say. We will finally be able to leave this pack after Alpha Xander signs the divorce papers,¡± I told her. With that, I adjusted my dress and returned to the mansion excitedly.


    I hid my purse under my bed, and the party began swiftly.

 Chapter 60

    ZIVA


    The party began swiftly¡­


    Everyone in the ballroom looked excited, most especially Rose.


    She had her arm linked around Alpha Xander¡¯s elbow as they walked and discussed with other influential werewolves. Tsk, she didn¡¯t even wear the dress I chose earlier.


    I nced down at everyone and became anxious.


    Will I really leave this pack after the divorce?


    I shook my head, repeating the same statement to myself.


    ¡°You are not needed or wanted. You should leave.¡±


    I heard a loud exhale, as a masculine voice muttered, ¡°So pathetic. I can¡¯t believe that she is back in this pack.¡±


    The voice sounded close. I looked at my side and spotted Alexei in a ck tuxedo.


    ¡°You came back. You didn¡¯t tell me that you got discharged from the hospital,¡± I told him.


    Alexei raised an eyebrow and grumbled, ¡°I thought you and Brother wanted me to live in the hospital until the end of my days.¡±


    I waved my hands, telling him the truth quickly, ¡°We will never want that.¡±


    ¡°Pfft¡­ That¡¯s the impression I got,¡± Alexei replied.


    As he stood on thending of the grand staircase, he leaned his weight against the cold, iron balustrade.


    Then, his gaze fell on Rose and he exhaled, ¡°You¡¯re not actually going to leave Rose with Xander, are you?¡±


    ¡°Why are you asking that question? Obviously, she is his mate and I¡¯m just the¡­ Other woman,¡± I replied, with sadness tinged in my voice.


    ¡°Oh,e on. Rose is just a gold digger, nothing else.¡±


    ¡°But Alpha Xander thinks of her differently, like he is blinded-¡±


    ¡°He is blinded by their mate bond.¡± He clenched his fist, and continued his speech, ¡°That same Rose, I have seen her in the human city countless times. She is just putting up an act to gain Xander¡¯s trust.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean by an act?¡±


    ¡°While I was away, there was a war, and everyone believed that Rose died. She was cast away, but I met her in the human city¡­ With her husband and a child.¡±


    I chuckled, almost too loudly, ¡°Is this a joke?¡±


    Alexei gazed at me sternly, ¡°I am dead serious. She has a child.¡±


    ¡°Perhaps you misunderstood. Rose here, is with a perfect figure. If she had a child, it would be very obvious with her tummy and shape.¡±


    He rolled his eyes, ¡°I knew that you wouldn¡¯t believe me. Once she pulls off her mask, you will understand.¡±


    ? ? ?


    XANDER


    The party went well, and I ensured that I had the guards around. I didn¡¯t want to end up like foolish Niks, so I prepared more guards and a fake Crystal Moon beforehand.


    In no time, I received a mind link of a theft urring in the mansion.


    Just like I had expected, someone stole the fake Crystal Moon and picked up their heels. He or she must be so foolish to think that I will watch that happen and let him go scot-free.


    I had prepared for this scene and arranged for some able-bodied guards to arrest him.


    He would also be tortured for stepping into my mansion before I make him an example to anyone who tries to steal the Crystal Moon.


    To be precise, the punishment for stealing such a precious object is death¡­ Instant death.


    Anyone who gets caught with the fake or real Crystal Moon will be beheaded at once!


    As I watched everyone in the ballroom, the thief was stered in my mind. If he had been caught or not, I felt a bit restless.


    ¡°Any luck?¡± I mind linked Lance.


    ¡°Caught him. He had been cuffed and sent to the rogue¡¯s cell.¡±


    I smirked, ¡°Excellent.¡±


    Rose who had her arm linked around my elbow voiced out, ¡°Hmph, it doesn¡¯t even feel like this party was organized to wee me. Everyone is busy with something else and you aren¡¯t even paying a single attention to me.¡±


    I turned to her, and just then, I noticed her lips that she downturned with a sullen face.


    ¡°We have all the time to ourselves,¡± I replied calmly, and she let out a huff of annoyance.


    ¡°You always say that. Then the next morning, you¡¯ve left the mansion to be busy with pack works as usual.¡±


    I pinched her cheek and smiled, ¡°I promise that from now on, I¡¯ll spend more time with you than I ever have before.¡±


    ¡°Fine, just fulfill it,¡± She said, her downturn lips curling into a smile.


    Suddenly, Rose pulled her arm away from my elbow. She moved further like she was searching for someone.


    Then, she nced around, and whispered, ¡°But where¡¯s that sly witch? I haven¡¯tid eyes on her all day. You¡¯d think she¡¯d be out, causing mischief as usual.


    Perhaps she¡¯s up to something even more disgraceful than usual, and that¡¯s why she¡¯s been keeping out of sight. Who knows what that sly woman is capable of?¡±


    I furrowed my brows, confused by her statement, ¡°Who are you referring to as a witch?¡±


    ¡°Who else?¡± Rose said, turning to me with a suspicious look in her eyes. ¡°If it wasn¡¯t your witch of a wife, then who else could it be?


    I knew from the moment Iid eyes on her that she was nothing but trouble. I could see right through her, you know, with that sly smile of hers and her beady little eyes. I knew she was up to something.¡±


    I massaged my temple, feeling a headacheing on as I knew too well that Rose was about to start her drama.


    ¡°Ziva has never had a sly smile on her face,¡± I said, trying to reason with her. ¡°You¡¯re just overthinking it.¡± But she shook her head quickly as if she knew Ziva better than I did.


    ¡°I know more about witches than anyone here,¡± Rose said, her voice taking on a stubborn tone.


    She continued, ¡°She always has this sly smile that appears on her lips when you¡¯re not looking. It¡¯s like she is preparing to do something harmful that you don¡¯t know, and she¡¯s just waiting for the right moment to do it.¡±Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    I narrowed my eyes, knowing where this conversation would lead to.


    Slowly, I could feel my temper rising, but I tried to stay calm. Gently, I took Rose by the arm and guided her to a chair.


    ¡°Alright, mate,¡± I said, trying to sound reassuring. ¡°You need to sit and rx.¡±


    Rose shook her head quickly, ¡°I know you will try to stop me from voicing out my thoughts about that witch. But I won¡¯t let you.¡±

 Chapter 61

    XANDER


    I exhaled, and Rose raised her gaze.


    ¡°And you know what¡¯s worse?¡± Rose continued, her voice growing more and more agitated. ¡°Since she doesn¡¯t have you, she¡¯s going after your brother!¡±


    At that moment, my temper red and I snapped, ¡°Enough! Just stop it.¡±


    Rose¡¯s jaw dropped and she blinked in shock. ¡°Wait, what? Why should I stop?¡±


    She let out a gasp, ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you are blindly supporting her¡­ Oh, wait.¡±


    She nced up, and stared at me with suspicion in her eyes, ¡°Have you both been intimate?!¡±


    My eyebrows shot up in disbelief. I couldn¡¯t believe that she would even think such a thing, let alone say it out loud.


    ¡°What? No, of course not! That¡¯s ridiculous! What kind of person do you think I am?¡± I sputtered.


    Rose hesitated, looking slightly abashed. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I just¡­ I don¡¯t know. I¡¯m just worried about you and me, and I don¡¯t want you to be with another woman. I just¡­ I¡¯m not sure about her.¡±


    With that, she sprang to her feet and walked away. Meanwhile, I took a deep breath, trying to be calm.


    I lifted my gaze to where Rose was staring at earlier. To my utmost surprise, I spotted Ziva and Alexei on thending. Ziva chuckled at his statement and spoke like a close friend or lover would do.


    It made me a bit annoyed. What if Rose was right?


    Hastily, I strode to the staircase and reached thending. As soon as I reached there, I noticed that Alexei held Ziva¡¯s left hand with his left hand like they were preparing for a ballroom waltz dance.


    Hold on, I and Ziva never danced together. So, why is she interested in dancing with Alexei?


    A restless feeling settled deep in my stomach. I won¡¯t watch this happen.


    ¡°Alpha, the other Alphas need to speak with you,¡± A guard said, approaching me.


    I didn¡¯t even mind him. I disrupted Alexei and Ziva¡¯s dance by grabbing Ziva¡¯s right hand. When her gaze fell on me, she furrowed her brows, clearly taken aback by my sudden interruption.


    I turned to Alexei and ordered with my Alpha aura, ¡°Let her go.¡±


    ¡°But-¡± Before Alexei couldplete his statement, I dragged Ziva away as her hand loosened from his grip.


    I could feel Alexei¡¯s eyes burning into my back, but I ignored him and continued to drag Ziva away.


    ¡°What are you doing? Let go of me,¡± Ziva shouted.


    I released her grip, just like she wanted, and faced her, ¡°Stop speaking to Alexei.¡±


    She furrowed her brows and before she could utter a word, I continued, ¡°Don¡¯t speak to him, and don¡¯t even look at him.¡±


    ZIVA


    Alpha Xander walked away before I could respond to his statements. He sounded so annoyed, and I could not understand why he wanted me to stay away from Alexei.


    I returned to my room to check if the Crystal Moon was intact in my purse. Yes, it was and I could not wait till the next day.


    ? ? ?


    With the prepared divorce papers sped in my hand, I walked towards Alpha Xander¡¯s office. As soon as I reached there, I knocked and heard his calm response, ¡°Come in.¡±


    Then, I opened the door quietly and stepped into his office.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Alpha Xander questioned, ncing up from the document he held.


    ¡°Last night, I thought about a lot of things and decided. Let¡¯s get divorced,¡± I uttered with a firm tone.


    He stared at me, his blue eyes shing with surprise, and then he chuckled.


    ¡°Is this a joke?¡± He asked.


    I shook my head politely and continued, ¡°I¡¯m serious. Dead serious. To be precise, here are the papers.¡±


    I dropped the divorce papers on the table and boldly said, ¡°I signed the papers already. As soon as you sign it, it is done.¡±


    ¡°Do you know what you are doing?¡± He sounded serious this time, ¡°Once I sign this, our packs will be divided. There will be a bloody war!¡±


    Without saying another word, Alpha Xander snatched the papers from me and tore them angrily.


    ¡°We won¡¯t get divorced. Not until I say we should,¡± He voiced out, and just then, the door flew open.


    ¡°Alpha, the thief confessed-¡± Lance spoke, but upon seeing me, he paused. He nced at Alpha Xander, then at me, perhaps he noticed how tense the atmosphere was.


    ¡°I should leave you two,¡± I spoke, breaking the silence in the room.


    As soon as I reached the door, I shut it behind me and I didn¡¯t leave. I intended to eavesdrop on Alpha Xander and Lance¡¯s conversation.


    From what I recall, Lance mentioned a thief¡¯s confession, which leads me to remember the man who was chased by some guards. He should be the thief Lance was talking about.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    The silence in the room was broken by footsteps. Then, Lance¡¯s voice echoed, ¡°Is everything alright?¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes,¡± Alpha Xander replied quickly.


    ¡°You look annoyed-¡±


    ¡°Can you just talk about why you are here?¡± Alpha Xander interrupted.


    ¡°The thief with the fake Crystal Moon confessed. He stole it because he needed some funds for himself and his family.¡±


    ¡°Oh great¡­ An excuse for a crime.¡± Alpha Xander¡¯s voice trailed off, ¡°You know I don¡¯t care about that, just behead him.¡±


    My heart skipped upon what he said. I held my breath and panicked inwardly.


    ¡°We will, but the fake Crystal Moon is missing. The thief mentioned that he dropped it while running.¡±


    ¡°Obviously, another thief picked it up. Behead the both of them.¡±


    ¡°But-¡±


    ¡°No buts, no questions. Just do as I say, behead the two thieves.¡±


    With that, I rushed into my room, not wanting to be caught while eavesdropping.


    My heart thumped at the thought of being beheaded. Oh my goodness! Sweat dripped down my forehead.


    I bent and brought out my purse. I opened the purse and the fake Crystal Moon was there. I touched it with my bare hands, and I didn¡¯t feel any warmth or hot feeling.

 Chapter 62

    ZIVA


    Obviously, it¡¯s fake! I was a fool. Now, how do I return this without being caught or termed as a thief?


    I paced around the room, thinking of what to do. Perhaps I should confess to Alpha Xander?


    No, no, the humiliation is too much to bear. Or¡­ I should cook up a lie¡­ No, he won¡¯t believe me.


    Goodness, I will be regarded as a thief forever!


    I heard a creak from the door. I turned and saw Anji at the doorway. Hastily, I approached her and let her in before trembling like a jellyfish.


    ¡°Anji,¡± I sobbed, ¡°I¡¯m doomed.¡±


    I cried in her arms and caught her rolling her eyes. She huffed, ¡°Is this still about Alpha Xander¡¯s mate?¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s something awful,¡± I cried and moved away from the embrace. I nced at my arms with teary eyes, as I continued, ¡°Imitted a crime. Now, I will be beheaded.¡±


    ¡°Beheaded by who? Will you stop beating around the bush?¡± Anji scolded, like a mother would do to her child.


    I had no other option than to confess because I innocently needed a solution.


    ¡°I stole the Crystal Moon because of the deal I had with Alpha Darwin,¡± My voice croaked, as I gulped the forming lump in my throat. ¡°But the Crystal Moon is fake. Alpha Xander found out already, and he ordered his Beta to behead the thief, me!¡±


    Anji¡¯s jaw dropped. She proceeded by smacking her forehead and shaking her head.


    ¡°I knew you would cause a mess,¡± She sighed.


    ¡°I knew you had a n!¡± A feminine voice spoke.


    Huh? Who said that?


    I and Anji turned to the door. To my utmost surprise, it was Rose! My heart pounded repeatedly, and I almost fainted because of her presence.


    Anji sprang to her feet instantly, while Rose approached me. She faced me with a smirk and uttered, ¡°I knew you were here for your selfish gains. But I was patiently waiting for you to confess.¡±


    ¡°How long have you been eavesdropping?¡± I stammered.


    An evil chuckle let out from Rose¡¯s lips. ¡°I was not eavesdropping. I was recording your confession to Anji which will serve as evidence that you are nothing but a sly witch.¡±


    She emphasized the sly witch and my heart sank. Now, she has a piece of evidence against me. An evidence to behead me and ruin the ns of saving my mother. A shiver ran down my spine at the thoughts.


    Suddenly, Anji interfered with a bold tone, ¡°Lady Ziva does not believe you. Pfft, I¡¯m certain that this is a n to frighten her.¡±


    Rose hissed, turning to Anji with a venomous re, ¡°You poor rat, don¡¯t you dare interfere.¡±


    Rose curled her lips into a smirk, and faced Anji, ¡°Perhaps you and your so-called Ziva should be beheaded.¡±


    ¡°No. Please don¡¯t include her in this mess,¡± I pleaded, pressing my palms together.


    ¡°Oh, so now you can beg?¡± Rose spoke with a taunting tone. She turned to me, and then she pressed her first finger to my shoulder, spitting out,


    ¡°Earlier, you were acting like a bold freak, what happened to that confidence, huh?¡±


    ¡°Please just spare Anji. She was not aware of this,¡± I begged.


    Rose narrowed her eyes in response. She sat on my bed, andfortably crossed her legs.


    ¡°Just in case, you two doubt my statements. Here is the recording,¡± Rose voiced out.


    She raised her phone and yed a video, a recorded video of me and Anji. It was the exact moment of my confession. Certainly, everyone will believe that the video is real.


    Anji extended her hands, attempting to snatch Rose¡¯s phone. But Rose was quick to withdraw her hand before Anji could reach the phone.


    Clicking her tongue, Rose shook her head and smiled, ¡°You two should not even think of destroying this clip. I¡¯ve sent it to a couple of friends, and just one mess-up from any of you, I¡¯m sending it to Xander instantly.¡±


    Hold on, does that mean that she won¡¯t send the video to Alpha Xander now?


    I cleared my throat, ¡°What do you want then? You don¡¯t seem interested in sending the video to Alpha Xander right away.¡±


    ¡°Exactly!¡± Rose eximed, snapping her fingers at once. She turned to Anji and stared at her with disgust written on her face.


    ¡°First, I want this thing out of this room,¡± Rose said in an authoritative tone.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Please do what she says,¡± I begged Anji. Just then, Anji turned around and she stormed out of the room.


    After the door was shut behind her, I nced back at Rose who had her eyes on Anji¡¯s retreating figure all along.


    She turned to me, and chuckled, ¡°You know, as soon as I saw you, I knew you were trouble. But, I didn¡¯t know that you would be this useful.¡±


    ¡°What do you want from me?¡± I replied.


    ¡°Just a few, petty things. Once you do it, I will keep my mouth shut and have the video deleted,¡± Rose responded.


    She turned her head and gazed at me, meanwhile, I could not trust her. She seemed sneaky and cunning, more like someone who could backstab me.


    ¡°You have to trust me. You are the one who created this mess, and you are the one who is willing to fix it.¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright,¡± I uttered. ¡°I trust you, Rose. Just delete the video once it¡¯s over.¡±


    ¡°Sure, I will,¡± Rose nodded. She nced at something behind me. I turned back and followed her gaze. Then, I realized that she was staring at my purse which had the fake Crystal Moon in it.


    ¡°What do you intend to do with that? It¡¯s fake, remember?¡± She asked, with raised eyebrows.


    I shrugged my shoulder and confessed, ¡°I don¡¯t know-¡±


    She cut in, ¡°Bonus, I will help you. I will take care of it, while you stick to doing what I want.¡±


    Wow, she¡¯s being helpful for a mere, petty thing? Hmph, I doubt that.


    Rose took the purse and waved goodbye. Then, she left my room with a wide smile stered on her face.


    To be honest, I wonder what she intends to do with the fake Crystal Moon and what she wants me to do.

 Chapter 63

    ZIVA


    My phone beeped loudly. I gazed at it and I saw a message, a message with the title;


    ~FROM ROSE~


    The message had a video attached to it. I yed it and realized that it was a video recording of Rose and Alpha Xander.


    She showed him the fake Crystal Moon and lied, ¡°I saw a bag filled with thesest night. So, I took it, and decided to hand it over.¡±


    Alpha Xander kissed her cheeks and spoke calmly, ¡°You are such a darling. I assumed that it was stolen.¡±


    He exhaled, blindly believing his mate, Rose. ¡°I guess the thief was right about dropping it.¡±


    Then, the video paused and it got deleted. I could not view the video anymore and Rose sent a smiley sticker.


    ¡®Your first mission starts tonight.¡¯ I read aloud from Rose¡¯s new messages.


    ¡®An Omega will be before your door within a minute. Grab the box she gives and text me.¡¯


    ¡®Is this some kind of game?¡¯ I messaged her.


    ¡®No questions, just do as I say!¡¯


    Just then, a knock echoed on the door. I reached for it and opened the door. Surprisingly, an Omega stood at the doorway. She extended a big box to me with a smile stered on her face.


    ¡°Is this from Rose?¡± I asked. The Omega didn¡¯t give a response. All she did was nod quickly and leave.


    I raised an eyebrow, surprised by her actions. I guess that was what Rose ordered her to do.


    Taking the box into the room, I shut the door. I dropped the box and returned to my phone.


    ¡®It¡¯s here.¡¯ I texted Rose.


    Just then, the door flew open. I turned to the door, and Rose approached me.


    My brows got furrowed, and I didn¡¯t hesitate to question Rose. ¡°Why did you text me when you can just barge in like you did now?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t want to be seen as suspicious. You know, the walls have eyes.¡±


    Great!


    I rolled my eyes, meanwhile, she opened the box.


    ¡°Here you go,¡± She smiled widely. ¡°A pretty dress for a pretty girl.¡±


    I nced at her and watched how she pulled out a red dress from the box.


    ¡°What is this about?¡± I questioned her quickly.


    ¡°It¡¯s about the agreement we had. To be honest, the petty thing I wanted you to do is to wear this dress,¡± She grinned, almost making me irk.


    I furrowed my brows, ¡°And why am I wearing it?¡±


    She snapped, ¡°Just do it!¡±


    ? ? ?


    I changed into the red dress Rose gave me in her room as she instructed. It was a fitting dress, apanied by a female perfume Rose gave me. She sprayed a lot of the perfume on me as it had a choking scent.


    Afterward, she left the room and mentioned that she would be back in a jiffy. I paced around the room, waiting for her anxiously. At one point, I assumed that she would not return to the room.


    So, I reached down and unsped the straps of my heels, sliding them off my feet because I was ufortable with them.


    Standing up, I felt a wave of dizziness wash over me. Hastily, I sat on the bed and tried to calm myself.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Just then, the light in the room flickered and they turned off instantly. The room became dark, and a creak echoed from the door.


    ¡°Rose, I think you need to contact a doctor. I feel dizzy,¡± I muttered, but Rose didn¡¯t respond.


    Instead of her response, I heard heavy footsteps approach me. Turning in the direction of the footsteps, I couldn¡¯t see a thing because it was dark, but my nose caught a familiar cologne.


    Everything happened too quickly, like the dream I had the other time. But this time, I woke up with a splitting headache. It took me a moment to realize that I was in Rose¡¯s room with my body feeling sore and weak.


    I tried to sit up, and that¡¯s when I saw it ¨C a masculine figure lying next to me on the bed. I jumped back in shock, staring down at my own body. I could only stare in horror as I realized the truth ¨C I was naked!!


    The man on the other hand seemed to not be bothered as he let out a silent groan.


    I panicked and yelled, ¡°You pervert!¡±


    Just then, the man turned around slowly. Upon seeing his face, I gasped, while a look of confusion crossed his face.


    It was Alpha Xander!


    He furrowed his brows, ¡°Why are you-¡±


    Before he finished his statement, I grabbed the nket quickly, and wrapped it around my body, intending to leave the room as soon as possible.


    Alpha Xander blocked my path, his bare muscr body being revealed. He looked handsome even when he hadn¡¯t taken a shower with his blue eyes shing beautifully. His physique looked sculpted, with each muscle perfectly defined.


    ¡°None of these happened deliberately. I¡¯m not the kind of person who would cheat on his mate,¡± He spoke in a rushed tone.


    I clenched my fist at his statement. He didn¡¯t want to cheat on his mate, yet he spent the night with me! It felt like he was indirectly saying that I caused this and I did everything deliberately to make him cheat on his mate.


    Although I was pale, I managed to control my emotions. I narrowed my eyes at him and responded with a cold and t voice.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to talk about it.¡±


    With that, I moved aside and walked away from him. I could not even recall what happenedst night and speaking to him will only make me feel disgusted at myself.


    A loud bang rang. My ears perked up, and I turned to the door.


    Surprisingly, Rose stood beside the door. She nced down at me and the nket around my body. Perhaps she noticed that I was naked.


    I clutched the thin, cotton nket to my body and watched how she curled her lips in disgust.


    Turning to Alpha Xander, she froze like she saw a ghost. Her face turned pale instantly.


    ¡°You witch!¡± Rose yelled, giving me a venomous re.

 Chapter 64

    ZIVA


    Rose rushed towards me with her hand raised in the air. As she swung her arm towards my face, I ducked and turned my head, bracing myself for the sting of her palm against my cheek.


    But the pain never came. Instead, I felt a rush of air and heard a sharp gasp from Rose.


    I nced up and noticed that Rose stood before me with her hand frozen in the air. Also, Alpha Xander grabbed her wrist, as he stepped between us.


    ¡°What are you doing? Let go of me!¡± Rose¡¯s voice rose to a shriek as she struggled against Alpha Xander¡¯s grip.


    Meanwhile, Alpha Xander spoke to me with a firm tone, ¡°You need to leave.¡±


    I didn¡¯t hesitate to listen. I moved away and rushed out of the room since that was the only option I had. As soon as I reached my room, I locked the door and heaved a sigh of relief.


    If I stayed there earlier than I did, Rose would have attacked me even though I had no idea about how I and Alpha Xander got involved in this. Everything seemed so messed up.


    XANDER


    ¡°Let go of my hand!¡± Rose yelled, her face twisted in anger. I released my grip on her hand, watching as she immediately pulled away from me, while Ziva left the room.


    ¡°How could you! You cheated!¡± She hissed.


    ¡°Alright, Rose. You know that I will never do such,¡± I replied. I returned to the bed and picked up my shirt, which was lying crumpled on the bed.


    ¡°Oh-oh! You will never do such, so what do you call what happened?!¡±Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    ¡°A mistake,¡± I cut in with a calm tone, ¡°I don¡¯t know what happened or even how it happened. I was with Alexei earlier, discussing with him until he mentioned that you were here-¡±


    A mind-link rang in my mind, interrupting my statement. ¡°Alpha, the Crystal Moon is missing.¡±


    The mind-link was from Lance and it was definitely not a joke. It didn¡¯t sound like one.


    Hurriedly, I put on my shirt and darted out of the room. Rushing into the Crystal Moon¡¯s room, I noticed the unconscious guards on the floor with the door opened widely.


    Lance was inside the room. He bowed as soon as he saw me, but his respect was the least of what I needed right now.


    Then, I nced up and realized that the Crystal Moon was missing!


    ¡°Get the guards! Search every nook and cranny, and return the Crystal Moon to me!¡± I ordered with a strict, authoritative tone.


    My statement echoed throughout the mansion, and it was also sent as a mind-link to every guard in this pack.


    But inwardly, I was panicking. Without the Crystal Moon, this pack can be ruined in seconds.


    Lance nodded, and he hurried out of the room. Meanwhile, worry settled in me. I creased my brows, wondering who had stolen the Crystal Moon.


    ¡°Lance, how did you find out about the missing Crystal Moon?¡± I inquired through a mind link.


    Lance replied, ¡°I intended to meet you, and that was when I noticed the unconscious guards.¡±


    Damn it!


    I clenched my fists. A thought ran through my mind, and I didn¡¯t hesitate to mind-link the men guarding the pack¡¯s gate.


    ¡°Ensure that you do not allow anyone to leave this pack, unless I permit you,¡± I ordered. Surprisingly, the men didn¡¯t respond.


    ¡°Understood?¡± I yelled in the mind-link.


    ¡°Yes, Alpha. But¡­ Lady Ziva and her assistant left a while ago.¡±


    I almost choked at the man¡¯s statement. I managed to keep myposure and continue my statement.


    ¡°Did I permit you to let them leave?!¡± I roared.


    Instantly, I bolted out and stepped into my car. I started the engine and zoomed out of the pack quickly.


    If Ziva had stolen the Crystal Moon, then there is only one ce she is heading to ¨C the Granelma Pack.


    That Darwin¡¯s daughter! I should have known!


    Rose was right about her. She is nothing, but a sly witch after all.


    Just like I expected, a car zoomed through the Granelma Pack¡¯s gate. The gate was locked before my car could reach it.


    ZIVA


    Anji had stolen the Crystal Moon and we drove into the Granelma Pack as soon as possible.


    My heart yearned to see my mother, and finally, I could see her. But another part of me feels guilty. I don¡¯t know how important the Crystal Moon is to Alpha Xander, but he must be very annoyed.


    ¡°I am just too smart,¡± Anji squeaked, with her gaze focused on the driveway. She gripped the steering wheel with her hands, while I had the Crystal Moon in a bag.


    I nced at the window, recalling the moments I had in this Pack.


    ¡°Rose was dumb to think that she could spike your drink and make you have a fling with Alexei. I knew she was preparing something devilish with the dress she sent. Thank goodness, I outsmarted her and exchanged the drink with Alpha Xander¡¯s instead.¡± She spoke, but I was not ready to respond to her.


    She nudged my hand slowly and winked, as a sly smile yed across her lips. ¡°My n was amazing, wasn¡¯t it?¡±


    I pulled my hand away.


    ¡°Perhaps you should have informed me about Rose¡¯s n and the spiked drink,¡± I snapped.


    Anji took her foot off the gas and the car rolled to a stop. ¡°Why are you acting up?¡± She said, turning to face me.


    ¡°We went to that pack for the Crystal Moon. Now, we have it. Do you have a problem with that?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± I bit my lips.


    I should be thankful for her help with taking the Crystal Moon and not scolding her.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t mean to sound rude,¡± I apologized politely, realizing that I was being selfish.


    I wanted the Crystal Moon after all, so why do I feel hurt about leaving that Pack?


    Also, Anji confirmed that she gave Alpha Xander the spiked drink. That means he was right about not intending to cheat and that makes me feel more guilty.


    I pressed my lips tightly, and turned to Anji, intending to change the subject.


    ¡°We should hand this over to Alpha Darwin first.¡±


    Then, Anji shrugged her shoulders. She turned the key, and the car¡¯s engine roared to life. Staring straight ahead, she continued her speech.


    ¡°I know and I understand. I shouldn¡¯t have exchanged the drinks and made you get involved with him.¡±

 Chapter 65

    ZIVA


    Anji continued, ¡°But you shouldn¡¯t be annoyed because of that. It was just a night, and I had no idea what to do. You know, if he wasn¡¯t with you, I may have been caught stealing. Duh, I¡¯m not prepared to die.¡±


    I narrowed my eyes, ncing back at the car window as the memories of what happenedst night shed in my head.


    I¡¯m certain that Rose was nning to create a rumor about me and Alexei to ruin my reputation. She is definitely more than I thought she was.


    ¡°No worries,¡± Anji smiled yfully as she drove, ¡°You can get some birth control pills while you are here.¡±


    I rolled my eyes. ¡°How can you be more annoying?¡±Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    ¡°Tsk, I¡¯m just stating the truth,¡± She replied.


    Anji sped off. Within a minute, we reached Alpha Darwin¡¯s mansion.


    I stepped out of the car with my lips fixed tightly, as I became very attentive. I had to be careful with Alpha Darwin, in case he had other ns.


    I clutched the bag with the Crystal Moon tightly, as a cold breeze hit my jacket. Luckily, I listened to Anji and changed into a brown jacket, boots, and hand gloves before moving out of Alpha Xander¡¯s pack.


    Looking further, I stared at the entrance of the mansion. The door swung open immediately. Alpha Darwin and his Luna appeared, approaching me quickly.


    They didn¡¯t have a smirk on their face and they didn¡¯t throw a dirty re at me either. Rather, they had a sweet, wide smile on their face, like they were weing their long-lost daughter.


    That, I¡¯ve always wished for, but not anymore. They were just facades to have the Crystal Moon.


    They had always given me res and scowls, while I had furrowed brows and a confused look before. Now, I had the re on my face, meanwhile, their sweet smile was permanent on their faces.


    ¡°Oh, Ziva, my daughter! You look so pale,e in, and let¡¯s have lunch,¡± Alpha Darwin¡¯s Luna spoke with a sweet tone.


    I scoffed, holding the bag in my hand tightly. ¡°What about your darling daughter, Tania? Is she fairing well?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so ridiculous,¡± The Luna waved her hand, ushering me into the mansion.


    I followed her, walking into the mansion, while she continued her speech, with her body clinging to mine.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you aware that Tania returnedst night? Also, the Moon Goddess blessed her abundantly. Niks¡¯s pack is safe and he is also doing well now.¡±


    ¡°Good¡­¡± My voice trailed off, and I moved to the most important part, ¡°Can I see my mother now?¡±


    ¡°Sure, sure!¡± The Luna grinned. Alpha Darwin approached me, and he interfered, ¡°Not now, we will have to test the Crystal Moon first, to ensure that it is the original version.¡±


    I smiled in response, ¡°There is no need for that. I tested it and it is original.¡±


    Pulling my glove away from my hand, I revealed my red, swollen fingers that I used to check the Crystal Moon. It looked awful and it was painful.


    Although the pain in my fingers was unbearable, I managed to maintain a calm expression.


    ¡°Even if you tested it, we need to have an evaluation done,¡± Alpha Darwin insisted.


    ¡°Alright,¡± I surrendered, ¡°Can I see my mother before the evaluation?¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Alpha Darwin spoke as a tight-lipped smile appeared on his face.


    He gestured to the dining hall, and upon reaching there, I met a slim woman sitting on a chair.


    The woman had her brown hair packed in a bun. My heart raced quietly, as my eyes welled up in tears.


    Is that my mother? I walked faster, intending to see the woman¡¯s face. Just then, the woman turned to me. She faced me and I realized ¨C she was my mother!


    ¡°Mum!¡± I squeaked in excitement and pulled her into a tight embrace. She sniffled in the embrace, hugging me tightly like I would vanish if she released me from the hug.


    ¡°Dear, where have you been?¡± Her soft voice hit my ear. She pulled away from the embrace and stared at me with her loving hazel eyes.


    I cried as tears of joy streamed down my cheeks. I didn¡¯t even know where to start from. It has been three years since she was taken away from me, and I could not think of a meaningful statement.


    I wanted to tell her all that happened, but it would consume too much time. Rather, I pulled her into a tight hug again and cried miserably.


    ¡°I missed you so much, Mum!¡±


    Her hand stroked my back softly. I couldn¡¯t help but smile and hold her warm hands.


    Surprisingly, there were silver cuffs around her wrists. Hold on¡­ What is going on?


    I nced back, facing Alpha Darwin with furrowed brows. To my utmost surprise, he had taken the bag with the Crystal Moon.


    Goodness! I dropped it out of excitement.


    ¡°Why is my mother cuffed?¡± I questioned Alpha Darwin quickly.


    ¡°You promised that you would release her as soon as I get the Crystal Moon. Now, you have it, release my mother immediately,¡± I spoke with a strict tone.


    The Luna scowled instantly, ¡°Will you stop bbering? Yes, we promised to release your mother. Don¡¯t rub it on our faces.¡±


    I stood my ground, talking back at the Luna. ¡°I just want my mother¡¯s release, nothing else.¡±


    Alpha Darwin patted his Luna¡¯s back, calming her with his filthy hand, I guess¡­


    ¡°We will do as we promised.¡± Alpha Darwin spoke calmly.


    I rolled my eyes and folded my arms. They were so eager to speak with me earlier. Now, I¡¯m treated like a trash.


    ¡°You two can have some rest in the guest room. Anji will be there to assist you,¡± Alpha Darwin uttered.


    ¡°What about my mother¡¯s release?¡± I interfered.


    ¡°We will deal with thatter,¡± Alpha Darwin replied. He walked away with the bag of Crystal Moon and his Luna followed.

 Chapter 66

    ZIVA


    Deal with thatter?


    I clenched my fists angrily, almost piercing my palms with my nails.


    ¡°Hey!¡± I yelled at the top of my lungs. ¡°You can¡¯t just walk away. I did as you instructed!¡±


    My voice echoed throughout the mansion, but Alpha Darwin did not nce at me. He continued to walk away.


    That animal!


    Intending to follow him and snatch the Crystal Moon from him, some muscr, hefty guards stood before me. Obviously, they were blocking my path and attempting to protect their Alpha.


    I snorted and retreated from the guards. A warm feeling enveloped my hand. I nced down and noticed Mum¡¯s hand on mine.


    She gazed at me with concern and worry in her eyes and spoke slowly, ¡°Your fingers are swollen and you look pale. Just rest today.¡±


    ¡°No, mum. You don¡¯t understand-¡±


    She cut in, ¡°Do it for me¡­ For my sake.¡±


    I looked away, letting out a sigh, ¡°Alright.¡±


    Then, the guards escorted us to the guest room. The room was small, and I assisted Mum to step inside.


    Quietly sitting next to her, the mattress sagged under my weight. She held my hand, and muttered, ¡°I¡¯m d to see you here.¡±


    ¡°Same here. But they didn¡¯t hurt you, right?¡± I blinked and continued, ¡°I know I failed to be a good daughter. I didn¡¯t help you sooner, and you had to suffer-¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t say that. You are the best child any mother can wish for. I¡¯m proud of you.¡±


    I smiled at her response. Just then, the door flew open.


    ¡°Aw, a family reunion,¡± Anji spoke yfully as she stepped in. She had a bag of ice sped in her hand and she handed It over to me.


    ¡°Here¡­ For your swollen hand,¡± Anji uttered sweetly.N?velDrama.Org owns all ? content.


    My lips widened, and I smiled, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    ¡°No need to thank me. Also, if such happens again, just get these bags instead of using ordinary water. Water won¡¯t help reduce the swelling, only these special bags will do the trick.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± I replied. She waved goodbye quickly and left the room.


    Meanwhile, I ced the ice bag directly on my fingers and the swelling reduced instantly, even the pain.


    ¡°She was right. It works.¡± Mum muttered.


    ¡°Yeah. Also, you should rest. You must be so exhausted,¡± I replied.


    I stood up and took off my neck scarf. To be honest, as soon as I entered this room, I was struck by the warmth that greeted me. It was a nice contrast to the cold outside, and I felt my body rx as the tension of the winter chill melted away.


    I let out a sigh of relief, grateful to be out of the cold.


    Attempting to take the pillow and assist Mum to lie on the bed, Mum¡¯s voice pierced the silence in the room.


    ¡°Dear, there is something on your neck,¡± Mum stated, with curiosity tinged in her voice as she stared at me.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± I questioned, rubbing my neck. Perhaps something fell on me, and she saw it.


    Mum squinted her eyes, still staring at me.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure. It isrge, deep, dark purple, with a jagged edge that spreads across the side of your neck,¡± Mum uttered.


    I moved away from the bed and went into the inner room of the room, the bathroom.


    I wanted to check what she was talking about since she sounded serious like it was something important.


    ncing at my reflection in the mirror that was positioned above the bathroom sink, I searched for what Mum was talking about.


    Then I saw it ¨Crge, deep, dark purple like Mum said. It was a hickey.


    I scoffed. Why didn¡¯t I see it earlier? I only wore a neck scarf because Anji suggested I did, I didn¡¯t even know that I had one on my neck.


    Perhaps I didn¡¯t notice in the mirror while changing or I was distracted by other things.


    ¡°Dear, are you alright?¡± I heard Mum¡¯s soft voice outside the bathroom.


    ¡°Yes, yes¡­ I¡¯m fine,¡± I stammered.


    ¡°Alright,¡± Mum said.


    I pressed my ear against the door, and when I didn¡¯t hear her voice, I turned to the bathroom sink.


    Perhaps I should scrub my neck to make the hickey fade away.


    Hastily, I grabbed a scrub and a washcloth from the shelf in the bathroom, intending to remove the hickey. I¡¯ve never had one before, so I hope it works fine.


    Ugh, I¡¯m not prepared to receive an earful from Mum on our first day.


    ¡°Uhm, dear,¡± Mum¡¯s voice echoed again.


    ¡°Yes, mum?¡± I faked a smile like she could see my face through the door.


    ¡°I won¡¯t rmend scrubbing your neck to make the hickey fade away. In fact, scrubbing your neck can make it worse ¨C it might irritate your skin and make the area red and sore. You just have to be patient and let the healing process happen naturally.¡±


    I sighed. Swiftly, I opened the bathroom door with a fake smile on my face.


    ¡°Thank you?¡± I whispered to her.


    I know too well how Mum insisted when I was seventeen years old to never get involved in such, except I was mated. You know, those virgin mum rules¡­


    She crossed her arms, and I expected her brows to be furrowed. Instead, she released her crossed arms and smiled warmly.


    ¡°Are we going to talk about him?¡± She asked softly.


    I almost threw up at her soft voice. She is acting weird¡­ Too nice.


    She rolled her eyes and crossed the room, sittingfortably on the bed.


    ¡°I know, I know. I restricted you from engaging in such, but it was for your own sake. I didn¡¯t want you to end up heartbrokenter on, and get dumped by some guy who isn¡¯t ready to take responsibility as your husband or mate.¡±


    I let out a sigh of relief, and responded, ¡°I guess you were only trying to be careful, so I won¡¯t end up with some guy like Dad. But there is no need for that. I will never feel heartbroken because of some Guy.¡±


    I ensured that I emphasized the Guy. Instantly, Mum shook her head.


    ¡°No, no. Your Dad, Darwin is an asshole. He is like the devil himself. I can¡¯t believe that he will lock me up.¡±


    ¡°No, mum. I¡¯m not talking about Dad ¨C Alpha Darwin. I¡¯m talking about my real Dad, my biological father. The asshole who abandoned us.¡±

 Chapter 67

    ZIVA


    Mum furrowed her brows, and questioned, ¡°What are you talking about?¡±


    I exhaled loudly, ¡°I found out about everything. I know that I¡¯m not Alpha Darwin¡¯s biological daughter. Even Alpha Darwin told me himself.¡±


    Then, Mum clenched her fists and looked away, with her eyes welling up in tears.


    I quickly voice out, not wanting to make her feel awful about what happened in the past.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine if you don¡¯t want to talk about it. I know Dad abandoned you because you were pregnant. I¡¯m to be med, so just rest.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t want to tell you this, but I guess I have to tell you now,¡± Mum¡¯s voice became shaky.


    She turned to me with a worried expression and muttered, ¡°Your biological father didn¡¯t abandon us, he will never¡­ That, I know.¡±


    Inwardly, I huffed. She is just hoping or believing that he didn¡¯t abandon us, but he did.


    I didn¡¯t speak about it, since I didn¡¯t want her to feel annoyed or pressurized. So, I stepped out of the bathroom without saying a word.


    Mum snapped her fingers, changing the subject quickly. She had a happy expression on her face, meanwhile, I narrowed my eyes, knowing what she would say.


    ¡°So what about him? Who is he? What is he like?¡± Mum asked eagerly.


    ¡°I think we should skip that question. I¡¯d rather not talk about it,¡± I exined.


    Inwardly, I gulped, recalling Alpha Xander and what happenedst night.


    Everything happened too quickly, but I certainly remember what happened now. The kisses and the way our bodies were like two instruments, ying a melody of desire and passion.


    Ugh, I¡¯m certain that if he sets his gaze on me again, he will kill me.


    ¡°Why?¡± Mum asked curiously.


    ¡°It¡¯s a long story.¡±


    ~ ~


    I had breakfast with Mum, even lunch. Afterward, Anji handed my phone over to me and she mentioned that I had left it in the car.


    Luckily, the driver was nice enough to hand over the phone to her rather than fleeing with it.


    As soon as I turned on my phone, I noticed the numerous missed calls and messages from Alpha Xander. Even Rose sent some messages.


    Alpha Xander: ¡®Get the hell out of there and hand over the Crystal Moon!¡¯


    Rose: ¡®I¡¯ve always hated you from the beginning. Do you have to be this gullible?¡¯


    Reading the messages, I gulped. Hastily, I turned my phone off and threw it inside the garbage can. I don¡¯t want to speak to any of them or even reply to their messages.


    ¡°If it isn¡¯t Ziva¡­¡± A feminine voice spoke sarcastically. I turned around and saw Tania in a short dress.


    She had a smirk on her gorgeous face, as her lips were painted. Stepping down from the staircase, she crossed her arms.


    ¡°Back to your pathetic life of being a ve, uh?¡± She said in a mocking tone.


    I wanted to ignore her and walk away, but she continued, ¡°And here goes your sweet mother¡­ The shameless slut.¡±


    I clenched my fists, as her words pierced my chest. Mum sat next to me, and she must be feeling so terrible to hear Tania¡¯s statements.


    Mum pressed her hand against mine, gesturing to not cause a fight.


    So, I turned to Tania with a cold expression on my face, ¡°Do not speak about my mother.¡±


    ¡°Oh my, I¡¯m so scared,¡± Tania replied with a fake expression of fear on her face. Then, she snorted, ¡°You will be banished from this pack soon. Then, I won¡¯t have to see your ugly, disgusting faces.¡±


    I scoffed, narrowing my eyes, ¡°I may be banished from this pack, but at least I will have my dignity and integrity. You, however, are nothing more than a vile, cruel creature who takes pleasure in hurting others. I pity you, Tania. I do.¡±


    ¡°Tsk, your mother is no better than you are,¡± Tania retorted. I moved away from the chair, almost throwing a blow at her cheek.


    Mum stopped me amidst my attempt.


    Meanwhile, Tania continued, gesturing excitedly with a wicked smile on her face, ¡°You two deserve each other, wallowing in your own sins. I hope you enjoy your exile because you won¡¯t be missed here. You¡¯ll just be a distant memory, and soon enough, no one will even remember your name.¡±


    With that, Tania walked away with her chest pushed out confidently. I despise her.


    I turned to Mum, ¡°You ought not to have stopped me. I¡¯m sure she will repeat this and try to bring us down. If I had pped her or hit her, she wouldn¡¯t dare talk about you.¡±


    Letting out an exhale, Mum muttered, ¡°I know. But we are not free yet. We have Alpha Darwin and his guards watching our every step. The slightest mistake, and we will be as good as dead. Perhaps you should restrain from speaking to her.¡±Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    I sighed. Moving closer to Mum, I whispered, ¡°Speaking of Alpha Darwin, we should prepare an escape n since he is with the Crystal Moon.¡±


    Mum let out a sharp gasp, ¡°Crystal Moon?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I and Alpha Darwin were discussing it earlier.¡±


    ¡°Oh my goodness!¡± Mum shrieked. She held her chest like she was going to copse. I was frightened, so I had to hold her hand and help her sit on a chair.


    Then, she nced at me and muttered, her voice quavering with fear, ¡°What have you done?¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ About stealing the Crystal Moon from Crescent Moon Pack,¡± I spoke, assuming that was the reason for her fear.


    ¡°I had to do it in exchange for your release. But It¡¯s fine, they can¡¯t find us. We are safe,¡± I reassured her and patted her hand.


    Suddenly, Mum withdrew her hand and stared at me coldly, ¡°I was preupied with your presence and I didn¡¯t notice the Crystal Moon. You¡¯ve done the wrong thing, Ziva.¡±


    I furrowed my brows, worry and concern filled my heart. Mum continued with a shaky voice, ¡°Now, no one is safe.¡±

 Chapter 68

    ZIVA


    ¡°No one is safe?¡± I looked at her with a puzzled expression. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°The Crystal Moon is a powerful object. If it is in Darwin¡¯s hands, it will be used for his selfish reasons. Hold on¡­¡± Mum¡¯s voice trailed off like she was thinking, ¡°He is with the Crystal Moon, then he will¡­ Never release me. I¡¯m the Crystal Moon Guardian¡­ He will only use me too.¡±


    I almost choked at her statement.


    ¡°You are the Guardian?¡± I stammered, my throat dry. I couldn¡¯t believe what I was hearing. How could this be true?


    That reminds me¡­ The cor, the lie detector detected that I was lying to Alpha Xander when I mentioned that I didn¡¯t know the location of the Guardian.


    ¡°Oh no¡­¡± I eximed, with fear evident in my voice, ¡°What do we do now?¡±


    Mum¡¯s face grew pale as she nced around the room, her eyes darting from corner to corner.


    ¡°There are eyes everywhere. We need to go somewhere private,¡± Mum suggested quickly. She darted towards the staircase and I followed.


    With my heart racing quickly, she stepped into the same guest room assigned to us earlier.


    Shutting the door behind me, I nced at Mum who paced to and fro in the room.


    Suddenly, she stopped and turned to me.


    ¡°Can you reach the Alpha of the Crescent Moon Pack, the pack you stole the Crystal Moon from?¡± Mum questioned anxiously.


    My heart raced at the thought. I couldn¡¯t dare to try to reach him, not after what I¡¯d done. To be honest, he will kill me if he sees me.


    I shook my head in response, unable to find my voice.


    Then, I managed to choke out a reply. ¡°No, but why do you ask?¡±


    I was still reeling from the revtion that she was the Guardian. My mind was racing. What did she want with Alpha Xander?Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    I tried to make sense of what she¡¯d said. But before I could speak, Mum continued.


    ¡°Possibly, he can get the Crystal Moon and stop Darwin from every one of his selfish ns.¡±


    I scoffed, blurting out, ¡°He will kill me before that happens.¡±


    Even the idea of him finding out about what I¡¯d done makes my blood run cold.


    ¡°What did you say?¡± Mum asked curiously. I creased my brows, confused and she continued, ¡°You mumbled something.¡±


    Trying to think of a way to change the subject, I stammered.


    ¡°I-I¡­ I remembered that I threw my phone in the trash without looking back. I should probably get that first,¡± I spoke, avoiding her eyes.


    Moving out of the guest room, I rushed toward the trash can. Surprisingly, the trash can was empty and sparkling neat.


    With a sigh of annoyance, an Omega walked past me. Goodness, they must have disposed of the phone in the dirt.


    If I want to save my mother and free her, I need to reach Alpha Xander. I approached the Omega and exined the phone incident.


    The Omega seemed friendly and youthful. I¡¯d never seen her before at the Granelma Pack.


    She was quick to assist me in finding it. Meanwhile, I tried to search around, in case I dropped it on the floor, and not the trash can. After my efforts, I could not find it.


    Suddenly, I heard a shrill voice exim, ¡°Let Ziva and her filthy mother leave!¡±


    That caused my ears to perk up. I walked in the direction of the voice and reached the doorway to arge room.


    I distanced myself away from the room, to not get detected by my scent. But, I ensured that I was attentive to the voices whispering in the room.


    ¡°Dad, Mum is right. We have the Crystal Moon and they are of no use to us,¡± I heard Tania say.


    Just then, a loud bang echoed. Silence filled the room and Alpha Darwin interfered.


    ¡°I will do what I wish to do! Ziva and her mother will be under our control, and then we will execute them,¡± Alpha Darwin snarled, causing me to gasp silently.


    Execute?!


    Oh no, this is not good! I clenched my stomach, as worry settled in my mind. I and Mum need to leave as soon as possible.


    I rushed back into the guest room, my heart pounding in my chest.


    As I entered, I heard the floorboards creak beneath my feet. I turned to see Mum watching me, her expression a mixture of curiosity and concern.


    Had she heard meing, or was she just surprised by my sudden appearance?


    ¡°Mum, we need to leave,¡± I managed to utter, my breathing in ragged gasps.


    But Mum was clearly confused, and her brow furrowed as she asked, ¡°What¡¯s going on? You¡¯re making no sense.¡± She heaved a sigh and continued, ¡°Why don¡¯t you take a seat and rx for a moment? Then we can talk about this calmly.¡±


    I tried to calm myself and reach for my neck scarf hurriedly.


    Struggling to find the right words to say, I stuttered, ¡°It¡¯s¡­ Alpha Darwin. He¡¯s nning to kill us once he executes his ns. We need to leave right now.¡±


    ¡°No dear, we can¡¯t leave,¡± Mum replied, shaking her head. ¡°I mean¡­ what about the Crystal Moon? Everyone will be in a mess because it is with Darwin.¡±


    Unable to contain my frustration, I eximed, ¡°I don¡¯t care about the Crystal Moon!¡±


    My voice rose, ¡°I care about you! I care about us!¡±


    In a desperate attempt to make her understand, I stepped forward and took her hands in mine.


    I spoke with a croaked voice, ¡°It¡¯s only you I care about, Mum. If anything bad happens to you, I will never be able to forgive myself.¡±


    My words hung in the air for a moment. Then, Mum¡¯s face became a mask of turmoil. Her hand slipped from mine. ¡°As the former Luna of this Pack, I¡¯vemitted a lot of crimes and mistakes just for the sake of my love for Darwin.¡±


    She continued, ¡°I ruined so many lives for him because I loved him. Now, I have the chance to seek forgiveness and help the right people, you want me to flee?¡±

 Chapter 69

    ZIVA


    I could see the anguish on Mum¡¯s face as she spoke, and I felt my own guilt rising up inside me.


    ¡°Mum, even if you¡¯ve done terrible things, that¡¯s not who you are anymore. You can¡¯t make up for what you¡¯ve done by staying with Darwin. He¡¯s dangerous, and he¡¯ll only bring you more pain,¡± I said, trying to convince her.


    ¡°I¡¯m staying for the Crystal Moon¡­¡± Mum began, but I cut her off.


    ¡°We can¡¯t risk it, Mum. I can¡¯t risk you. Please, juste with me.¡± I pleaded, my voice breaking.


    ¡°I¡¯ve made up my mind. I will not do the wrong thing this time,¡± She replied, making my heart squeeze. Why is she so adamant?!


    ¡°I will need your assistance too,¡± Mumpleted her statement.


    I almost burst into tears. What¡¯s wrong with her? This is our only chance and she-


    I bit my lips. I traveled to another pack and endured everything for her. If I leave her now, my efforts will be a waste.


    ¡°I have no choice.¡±


    Suddenly, her face lit up with a wide smile.


    ¡°Thank goodness you agreed. We really have to act fast about it, and perhaps you will be able to find your locked wolf,¡± Mum replied, patting my hands.


    I creased my brows, with confusion brewing in me. ¡°Locked wolf? What are you talking about?¡±


    Mum looked at me, surprise evident with her facial expression, ¡°Were you not aware that Alpha Darwin locked your wolf after discovering the truth about your identity? He did it to punish me, and I¡¯m deeply-¡±


    ¡°Hold on,¡± I cut in, ¡°My wolf has been locked up for all these years? I am not wolfless?¡±


    ¡°Wolfless? No, you are not.¡± Mum paused, ¡°Now, reach the Alpha of the Crescent Moon Pack, and let¡¯s get to work.¡±


    ¡°I lost my phone, and let¡¯s talk about my wolf. How can I unlock her? Can I see her now? Or maybe talk to her? Yes, yes¡­ I heard her voice once. She once spoke to me,¡± I stammered. The worry that settled in me became mixed with excitement.


    I have a wolf!


    ¡°It is possible with the use of the Crystal Moon. But we can only get hold of it once we have more people in our team, most especially an Alpha.¡±


    I snapped my fingers, ¡°Don¡¯t worry about reaching him. I will work on that.¡±


    ~~Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    I met the nice Omega at the doorway and requested to meet Anji. Without wasting time, she took me to Anji¡¯s room and excused us.


    ¡°What¡¯s with the unexpected visit?¡± Anji questioned as soon as the Omega left.


    I rushed to her side and gave her a shut-up gesture with my finger ced on my lips.


    She raised an eyebrow, perhaps she was confused. Then, she crossed her arms, ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    I approached her and whispered, ¡°Do you have Alpha Xander¡¯s phone number?¡±


    She nodded, ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°I need to use your phone,¡± I uttered. Without hesitation, she handed her phone over to me and showed me Alpha Xander¡¯s phone number.


    I took her phone and returned to the guest room. The text ¡®Dialing¡¯ appeared on the screen. Suddenly 00:01 appeared.


    Okay, he answered the call. I took in a deep breath and exhaled. I inhaled and exhaled before managing to say a sweet, ¡°Hi.¡±


    I knew he wouldn¡¯t recognize my voice; and I would need to exin in detail, that I was his shameless wife who stole the Crystal Moon and I was calling him because I needed his help.


    ¡°Ziva?¡± His voice rang.


    I nced at the screen, hoping that it was not a video call. If it was not, then how did he recognize me?


    ¡°You dumb-dumb!¡± He snarled over the phone.


    XANDER


    I was not so bothered about the call I received since I had other pressing matters to attend to and the caller had an Unknown ID.


    My wolf, Maz urged me to answer the call and I gave in. Perhaps, it was something important.


    ¡°Hi,¡± A shrieking voice said quietly. Then, I heard some soft exhale over the phone.


    I could not see the caller. But with his or her soft breathing, I recalled what happened the other night.


    It was a coincidence. When I think about it now, I think I was intoxicated. I would never cheat on Rose, and I would have detected that it was Ziva. But that night, I could not detect any scent, except for an alluring fragrance.


    And the soft breathing¡­ It was that of Ziva¡¯s. It was the same with how she breathed softly during the night we spent together.


    ¡°Ziva?¡± I called out. I didn¡¯t receive a response from her, and just then, I knew that my instincts were right.


    ¡°You dumb-dumb!¡± I blurted out, with my heart racing quickly¡­ For no good reason. After what happened that night, I can¡¯t seem to get her off my mind. Even when I tried to remind myself that she was nothing but a sly witch, she was stered in my mind.


    Perhaps I¡¯m not too worried about my Pack, because I believe that we can still ovee whatever trouble before we have the Crystal Moon back.


    ¡°You fulfilled your motive. Now, what do you want?¡±


    ¡°I know, I know. I shouldn¡¯t have,¡± She said, her voice trailing off. ¡°But I had no choice. Now, I need your help.¡±


    ¡°What is this?¡± I scoffed. ¡°Another one of your ns with Alpha Darwin?¡±


    She interrupted with a rushed tone, ¡°How about we meet physically? I will send the location.¡±


    With that, she ended the call and I nced at my phone with worries filled in my heart.


    If this was a trap or n prepared by Alpha Darwin, she wouldn¡¯t be speaking with a low tone. Also, leaving my pack won¡¯t cause any harm or problems, especially when I have Alexei by my side.


    Suddenly, a ding vibrated from my phone. I checked it and it was a message from Ziva with the location and time of our meeting.

 Chapter 70

    XANDER


    The moment the clock struck the given hour, I grabbed my brown jacket and wore it, striding towards my car. I had already informed Lance about my departure, but I didn¡¯t mention where I was going.


    To be precise, the location Ziva sent was the Del Tree. Del Tree was a mysterious tree outside the Granelma Pack. It is known for its mysterious ability to dry up and grow colorful flowers during different seasons.


    The moonlight shone brightly on my car as I drove out of the Pack, heading to the Del Tree.


    As soon as I reached there, I stepped out of my car. There was no sign of Ziva or even her scent.


    A few seconds passed, and I became worried. The breeze alone could freeze someone to death. I rubbed my bare hands and hugged my jacket. Why is it so cold here anyway?


    Then, I saw a thin body slowly moving towards my side¡­ Ziva!


    I took a step, intending to approach her, but a thought struck my mind. Won¡¯t I seem too clingy or affectionate?


    I took a step back and patiently waited for her, without looking anxious or impatient. I should look tough and annoyed too.


    Ziva let out a few heavy, panting breaths as she reached my side.


    I took a bottle of water from the car and handed it over to her. And I definitely won¡¯t talk about the bread and juice I brought in case she was starving. I scolded myself inwardly. Why will she be starving? She is Darwin¡¯s daughter!


    ¡°No¡­¡± She shook her head, and spoke amidst panting, ¡°There is no need for that.¡±


    I shouldn¡¯t have. Now, she might think I care, or something like that¡­


    ¡°Why did you call and¡­ I don¡¯t see the Crystal Moon?¡± I asked, darting my eyes around her to check for any bag.


    She managed to speak properly, ¡°First, I don¡¯t have it with me.¡±


    ¡°Tsk, then why did you n this meeting?¡± I nced sideways, hoping that no one was around.


    I turned to her and squinted my eyes, searching for any sign of suspicion in her hazel eyes.


    ¡°Is this some kind of alpha-napping n? If it is, it won¡¯t work,¡± I spoke to her inly.


    ¡°No,¡± She replied, ¡°Just like you will never cheat on your mate, I will never alpha-nap you.¡±


    ¡°Are you trying to be sarcastic?¡± I asked, raising my brows. Then, I let out an exhale and spoke clearly, ¡°What happened the other night was a mistake. I will never cheat-¡±


    ¡°I know!¡± She eximed, not giving me space to continue my statement. ¡°I nned this meeting to talk about something important. Yes, I stole the Crystal Moon, just like I was directed by Alpha Darwin, but I had my reasons.¡±


    I scoffed, stuffing my cold hands into my pockets, ¡°Let me guess¡­ He promised to get you a car and a big apartment.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to talk about that, but I had a very good reason.¡±


    I narrowed my eyes, ¡°Yeah, a very good reason to almost destroy my pack.¡±


    ¡°I found the Crystal Moon Guardian,¡± As soon as I heard Ziva speak, I turned to her, my brows lifted in surprise.


    She nodded, ¡°I¡¯m telling the truth, and Alpha Darwin had this n all along. Obviously, he did it to have the Crystal Moon and it¡¯s Guardian. Now, he has those two, he is powerful.¡±


    I ran my hand through my dark hair, feeling frustrated by what she said.


    ¡°If Darwin has those two, he can get united with more packs, destroying my pack with little or zero effort,¡± I muttered, thinking about what she said. Things will be worse than I expected.


    ¡°So, I need your help. Have the Crystal Moon and do whatever you want with it.¡±


    ¡°Doing that will only assist me, but what about you? What benefits will you get?¡±


    ¡°I have my own ns,¡± She uttered, looking away from me.


    I could tell she was trying to avoid my gaze, and I knew I had to get her to face me.


    I reached out and grabbed her arm, gently but firmly turning her to look at me. I expected her to be angry, but instead, she just looked confused and a little scared.


    ¡°What ns? Are you hiding something from me?¡± I questioned, staring directly into her eyes.


    Her gaze softened as she looked at me. Different thoughts hit my mind, and one disturbed me.


    I inquired quickly, ¡°Are you nning to divorce me again?¡±


    She stared at me like a mute, innocent cat and she didn¡¯t respond. Her silence made me more disturbed as it seemed like my thoughts were true.


    I tightened my grip on her arm and asked with a firm tone, ¡°You aren¡¯t, right?¡±


    She stayed mute, causing me to snap out in anger, ¡°Answer me!¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the use? It¡¯s not even a marriage. You have a mate-¡±


    I interrupted, ¡°We will not be divorced.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s your problem?¡± She sighed deeply and continued, ¡°You can have the Crystal Moon and continue to be Alpha Darwin¡¯s enemy, but I¡¯m leaving this all behind me. I don¡¯t want to be a part of this feud anymore.¡±


    ¡°Leaving?¡± My eyes widened. She was nning to be a rogue, but why? Why is she sabotaging her father and leaving her luxurious life?


    She pushed my hand away from her arm and spoke confidently, ¡°I know you are holding onto this so-called marriage because I am Alpha Darwin¡¯s daughter and you n to ruin Alpha Darwin by having me. But that won¡¯t work. I am not Alpha Darwin¡¯s biological daughter.¡±


    Her statement caught me off guard.


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡± I questioned, creasing my brows.


    ¡°I and Alpha Darwin are not rted biologically. I¡¯m just his useless fake daughter who was forced to get married to you¡­¡± Ziva nced up at me and continued, ¡°After everything is settled, we are getting a divorce. Then, I will stop bothering you.¡±


    I was stunned. The truth is finally before me and my ns to ruin Granelma Pack fell apart. She isn¡¯t his daughter, and she is not valuable to him.


    No wonder, Alpha Darwin will never allow his daughter to marry me when he knows about my capabilities.


    ¡°Save the phone number I used. I will be handling it for now. So, if you have any message or call about how we take the Crystal Moon, I can always assist,¡± Ziva uttered, before turning around and walking away quickly.


    She had taken a lot of steps away from me like she was so eager to leave this ce and I made her ufortable.


    Meanwhile, I felt guilty. During our marriage, I mistreated her and hurt her, both physically and emotionally.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    From the cold shoulders I gave her, never listening to her when she needed help, throwing her out of the mansion.


    I am the real sly witch/asshole here¡­

 Chapter 71

    XANDER


    I took hurried steps toward Ziva. Breathing heavily as I tried to reach her since she was distant, the soles of my shoe were pped against the ground roughly.Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    Then, Ziva turned around. Perhaps she heard the pping sound and was eager to know the source of the sound. I took my chance, I rushed towards her, and finally¡­ I reached her.


    She nced at me, and whispered, ¡°You should go now. This ce is very close to the Pack-¡±


    Before she could continue her statement, I cupped her cheeks and crashed my lips against her soft lips.


    As I pressed my lips against Zivas, she leaned into the kiss, almost deepening it. But then she suddenly pulled away and pushed me, breaking the kiss.


    ¡°No,¡± she said, her eyes wide with shock. ¡°You should leave.¡± She stepped back, putting some distance between us.


    With that, I received a mind link from Lance and I had to leave. I didn¡¯t even exin to Ziva or tell her why I was leaving. It was important, so I rushed towards my car and sped off quickly.


    As soon as I reached my Pack, I met Lance with his head hung low.


    ¡°Alpha, we received a disunion contract from Alpha Darwin,¡± Lance exined with his hunched shoulders as he handed some documents to me.


    I grabbed the documents, nced at them, and read them before speaking with an authoritative, firm tone, ¡°I will sign it.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Lance uttered, with his jaw dropped. He reached me and spoke, trying to convince me, ¡°Once you sign it, our packs will not be united, and he might-¡±


    ¡°I know, I will sign it. But you and the warriors should be prepared,¡± I spoke firmly.


    Then, I dropped the documents on the table, signed them, and handed them back to him.


    ¡°I should get changed now,¡± I responded.


    He nodded and bowed. Meanwhile, I walked out of the room.


    Out of the blue, I spotted Rose. She was in her room, but I could see her because the door was wide open. Also, I noticed the way she dragged her luggage roughly.


    When a few Omegas tried to assist her, she insisted on taking it herself. She seemed serious and annoyed.


    I felt concerned about her because she is my mate so I have to care. Walking into her room, the Omegas gave each other knowing nces, then they excused us politely.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on? You didn¡¯t inform me that you are going on a trip,¡± I asked Rose, gazing at her with concern. Instantly, she narrowed her eyes and scoffed.


    ¡°Trip? Does this look like I¡¯m going on a trip?!¡± Rose asked, with a firm, annoyed tone. She huffed angrily and snapped, ¡°I¡¯m leaving, Xander!¡±


    Instantly, my knees became weak.


    Tsk, she must be joking.


    I expected her tough or chuckle, and say it was a joke, but she didn¡¯t. She seemed to be serious as she had never spoken to me that way. What¡¯s going on?


    I chuckled, ¡°Rose, tell me this is a joke.¡±


    Rose snapped again, ¡°It is not! I can¡¯t tolerate you and that Ziva witch!¡±


    ¡°Ziva?¡± I paused, trying to make sense of what she said, ¡°What does she have to do with us?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare say us! Our bond is slowly slipping away and you¡­ You continue to support that sly witch!¡± Rose yelled, her voice rising with irritation in her tone.


    I corrected her, ¡°You have no right to speak about her that way. And I have-¡±


    She interrupted, ¡°She stole the Crystal Moon and absconded. But you two met, yet you didn¡¯t even try to punish her or have the Crystal Moon back!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m trying, Rose! I¡¯m trying my best.¡±


    ¡°Trying your best? Yeah, yeah. I was there. You kissed that witch when you had a mate. Do you even consider me as your mate or am I still dead to you?!¡± Rose questioned, causing me to be stunned.


    ¡°How can you say that? I loved you,¡± I muttered, trying to make Rose calm or convince her to not leave this mansion.


    She snorted, ¡°Loved¡­ Yes. You loved me, but not anymore. You know what, I reject you.¡±


    I tried to reach for her arm to convince her, but she pushed my hand away.


    ¡°I reject this mating bond, Xander!¡± Her voice echoed loudly, piercing directly into my chest. It made me stagger backward and fall on my knees as the force of her words felt like a physical blow.


    A shot of pain hit my chest, as my chest ached. I clenched it and groaned silently while struggling to breathe. Rejection ¨C it was worse than I could have imagined.


    ~~~


    I was in a daze after recovering from the rejection. Rose left the pack and Alexei made things worse by showing me proof that Rose married Doctor Eugene in the human city and they had children.


    I felt betrayed. She didn¡¯t even inform me about her marriage or her kids. Things didn¡¯t end that way.


    After I and Darwin¡¯s pack disunion, a stronger pack started waging war against my pack. It wasn¡¯t easy at all, and the most important thing was the Crystal Moon.


    I and Ziva spoke over the phone, and we nned that she needed to steal the Crystal Moon.


    ZIVA


    The meeting with Alpha Xander wasplicated. First, the tension, then the unexpected kiss.


    I picked up my pace, my heart racing as I moved toward the room where the Crystal Moon was stored.


    Luckily, Alpha Darwin left the Pack for an Alpha¡¯s meeting. Also, Tania and her mother were busy, they were not interested in keeping the Crystal Moon anyway.


    As I moved, I spotted the guards standing outside the room. They stood with their chests puffed out and their backs ramrod straight.


    They looked muscr and they didn¡¯t take their eyes off the door, like the room itself was a treasure to protect. Even a slight noise from me can cause them to mind-link Alpha Darwin or report me.


    Without thinking twice, I proceeded to the next step. I covered my nose with a handkerchief and grabbed a spray bottle from my bag. I released the content in the bottle and moved away from that area.


    Soon, the men slumped to the floor, thanks to the contents of the bottle. Meanwhile, I was happy that the content worked perfectly.


    Realizing that the guards were unconscious, I rushed into the Crystal Moon room.


    Woohoo! Behold, the Crystal Moon was before me. It was ced on a golden stand, an expensive stand I guess¡­


    I didn¡¯t hesitate to put on my gloves to take the Crystal Moon away.


    Slowly, I reached for the Crystal Moon and touched it, with my gaze never leaving It. As I touched it, I felt a sudden, sharp jolt of pain, as if I had been hit by a bolt of lightning.


    A wave of dizziness washed over me, as my legs became wobbly. I fell with a loud thud vibrating throughout the room.


    Then, I saw a pair of walking boots moving toward the Crystal Moon.


    ¡°Don¡¯t,¡± I managed to say, but the person didn¡¯t seem to care. The person left the room and I felt my soul slowly sink into darkness.


    ¡°Ziva¡­¡± I heard a feminine voice say.


    My eyes fluttered open immediately, as I tried to analyze my surroundings.


    I was in a room, the guest room with Mum.


    ¡°I followed you to the Crystal Moon room earlier, so I brought you here before anyone could notice a thing,¡± Mum uttered, but my head was spinning.


    I tried to recall what happened earlier, but it felt like my head was banging, causing it to be difficult for me to remember.


    ¡°Dear, the Crystal Moon is missing,¡± Mum said, with a worried expression on her face. I nodded in response, recalling the way someone in the boots took the Crystal Moon.


    ¡°Someone stole it,¡± I managed to say, as I touched my forehead.


    ¡°Hold on¡­ Mum, did you see the thief?¡± I questioned, with curiosity tinged in my voice as I nced at Mum directly.

 Chapter 72

    ZIVA


    Mum shook her head in response. ¡°No. I didn¡¯t see anyone inside the room.¡±


    I sighed, and muttered under my breath, ¡°Our n is ruined.¡±


    Just then, I heard a loud bang from the door. I turned to the door quickly, but it caused a splitting headache.


    Carefully, I sat on the bed and nced at the door. Alpha Darwin stepped into the room, with his aura emanating power and dominance.


    Fear gripped me instantly. Did he find out about my attempt to steal the Crystal Moon?


    ¡°Perhaps you should knock next time,¡± Mum spoke, confronting him.


    ¡°I came here to inform you about Anji. She won¡¯t be able to assist you again,¡± Alpha Darwin replied, interrupting Mum¡¯s statement.


    ¡°Why?¡± I asked curiously and Alpha Darwin turned to me.


    Clicking his tongue, he continued with his lips curling into a smirk, ¡°Unfortunately, a guard spotted her with a bag. She was leaving the pack through the small hole that leads to the Del Tree but was stopped by the same guard. It turned out that she had stolen the Crystal Moon. She wasn¡¯t willing to let go of the Crystal Moon, so the guard had to give her a few warning stabs with his silvery knife.¡±


    ¡°Oh, goodness!¡± Mum gasped, while I gasped silently.


    She was the thief all along¡­ A traitor to be exact.


    ¡°She passed away¡­¡± Alpha Darwin¡¯s voice trailed off, ¡°I hope you will learn your lessons from her story, and don¡¯t try to act smart with me.¡±


    I gulped, meanwhile, he stormed out of the room. I reached for Mum¡¯s hand and whispered, ¡°We need to take it quickly.¡±


    Mum nodded In agreement, ¡°Leave that aside¡­ How do you feel now?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, and it¡¯s just a slight headache,¡± I exined to her.


    But she approached me and gently ced the back of her hand on my forehead.


    Suddenly, she withdrew her hand and called out to me in concern, ¡°Oh no, you¡¯re burning up! Are you feeling okay?¡±


    ¡°As I said earlier, I¡¯m fine. You worry too much,¡± I replied, rolling my eyes. Instead of a reply, Mum rushed out of the room.


    Certainly, she left to call for a doctor, even though I didn¡¯t need one.


    I grabbed my phone, attempting to send a message about what happened to Alpha Xander. So, I sent a ¡®n Failed¡¯ text message.


    Afterward, the doctor rushed over, she took my pulse and checked my temperature.


    The doctor¡¯s eyes widened as she looked at the thermometer. ¡°This is unusual,¡± she said, her voice low.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Is she sick?¡± Mum asked, with concern tinged in her voice.


    The doctor looked at me, her expression a mix of concern and excitement, ¡°Based on the symptoms, I think it¡¯s possible that you¡¯re pregnant.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± I blurted out, almost choking at her statement. I nced at Mum, and Mum nced back at me, with surprise shing in her eyes.


    Suddenly, Mum smiled and continued, ¡°No worries, she said possible¡­¡±


    She turned to the doctor and asked, ¡°Can you perform a pregnancy test?¡±


    ¡°Yes, but we should meet at the hospital then,¡± The doctor suggested.


    I nodded, meanwhile, Mum escorted her out of the room. Luckily, Alpha Darwin released the cuffs around Mum¡¯s wrists and added more watch guards, enabling her to move her hands freely.


    My lips curled into a smile as the thought of having a pup made me excited. I nced down at my abdomen and ced my hand gently on it.


    My pup¡­


    Recalling what happened the other time, I vividly recalled how Alpha Xander mentioned that the night we shared was a mistake and he would never cheat on his mate.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Does that mean that he won¡¯t ept his pup?


    Worry settled in me, and I let out an exhale before I gently rubbed my abdomen.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine if he doesn¡¯t ept you. Mum is always here for you,¡± I whispered sweetly to my pup.


    Just then, Mum walked in. I voiced out confidently as I reassured her, ¡°We will get the Crystal Moon this time.¡±


    ~~


    After lunch, I began to n my next steps. I took Tania¡¯s perfume and the same bottle I¡¯d used to make the guards unconscious.


    Making the guards unconscious like the other time, I walked into the room and sprayed Tania¡¯s perfume slightly. Then, I moved the Crystal Moon to a small hole in the room.


    Mum suggested that I keep it there because it would be difficult for anyone to find it.


    She said she would have executed the n herself, but her scent made that impossible. Since my scent is not as strong, or cannot be detected easily, I volunteered to do it.


    With that, I walked out of the room and waited patiently for the other guards to notice the unconscious guards. Just like I expected, a few guards rushed over to the room.


    They inspected the room and with Tania¡¯s perfume, they assumed that Tania had stolen the Crystal Moon.


    Alpha Darwin left the Pack a few minutes ago, while Tania headed to a spa to get her nails cleaned because she cared about her health.


    The guards were confused as they whispered to each other. I watched how they tried to decide on telling Alpha Darwin about the situation or not.


    dly, everything worked as I nned. They didn¡¯t inform Alpha Darwin as they assumed that they would be killed or punished immediately.


    They decided to find Tania instead.


    Within a minute, the room became empty. The guards left, while I sneaked in and ced the Crystal Moon in a bag.


    Mum was waiting for me outside the mansion, with a driver and a car.


    As I stepped into the car, the driver was stopped by a guard.


    My heart raced quickly. Aren¡¯t they supposed to be with Tania?


    ¡°Where are you off to?¡± The guard asked with a scowl. ¡°Alpha Darwin didn¡¯t mention that you could leave the mansion.¡±


    ¡°I-I, uh,¡± I stammered, fumbling for an excuse.


    My mind was nk ¨C I couldn¡¯t think of a single reason why I would be leaving the mansion without Alpha Darwin¡¯s permission. The guard¡¯s eyes narrowed, and I could feel my heart pounding in my chest.


    ¡°We are going to the hospital for a check-up. Doctor Erica was here a while ago, remember?¡± Mum asked, and the guard nodded.


    Oh, thank goodness! He believed her!


    ¡°Yes, but what does the doctor have to do with the permission to leave?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s important, very important. To be precise, Doctor Erica suggested that we meet at the hospital for a test,¡± Mum stated, and the guard nced at me. He creased his brows like he was suspecting us.


    Turning to another guard, he ordered him, ¡°Get Doctor Erica on the phone.¡±


    ¡°Sure,¡± The other guard responded politely. He walked away.


    Meanwhile, I nced at Anji¡¯s phone, the phone I was handling, and realized that we¡¯d spent about thirty minutes.


    Oh goodness, the guards that suspect Tania will be back soon.


    I turned to the male guard who grabbed the phone from the other guard. He nced at me, then he answered the call.


    ¡°Doctor Erica¡­¡± The guard called out in a raspy tone, ¡°Are you expecting Ziva at the hospital?¡±

 Chapter 73

    ZIVA


    I interrupted, ¡°For a pregnancy test.¡±


    The guard repeated the statement, ¡°For a pregnancy test.¡±


    The doctor replied instantly, ¡°Yes.¡±


    I sighed in relief, and the guard permitted us to leave. As soon as we reached the hospital, we boarded another cab that drove to the Crescent Moon Pack.


    I handed the Crystal Moon to Lance, and he left. He didn¡¯t say a word, perhaps he is annoyed because I stole the Crystal Moon.


    ¡°We will leave tomorrow morning,¡± I spoke to Mum as she sat on a chair and analyzed the guest room.


    A knock echoed on the door, and I muttered, ¡°Come in.¡±


    The door opened slightly, revealing Alpha Xander and Alexei. I felt an instant connection towards them, and I muttered, ¡°Mates.¡±


    It can¡¯t be! How can I be mated to the two brothers?


    I massaged my temple, as I felt a headache kick in.


    ~~~


    ¡°I¡¯m leaving tomorrow,¡± I told Alpha Xander and Alexei who are now supposedly my mates.


    ¡°Alright,¡± Alpha Xander nodded.


    Meanwhile, Alexei reached for my hand and voiced out, ¡°You do not need to leave. You can stay here.¡±


    Suddenly, Alpha Xander stepped between us and pulled Alexei¡¯s arm away from mine.


    ¡°Let her make the decision,¡± He spoke with a hoarse voice.


    Thank goodness Mum excused us. She won¡¯t like the sight of this. To top it all, I¡¯m pregnant and mated to twin brothers.


    ¡°I decided. I¡¯m leaving,¡± I told them inly.


    ¡°What about your Mum?¡± Alexei asked with curiosity tinged in his voice. Obviously, he discovered that she was my mother because of the simr resemnce of our faces.


    ¡°She is the Crystal Moon Guardian. She needs to work on the Crystal Moon, doesn¡¯t she?¡± I questioned, thinking about the Crystal Moon.


    ¡°Yes, and it¡¯s safe to leave after the war,¡± Alpha Xander replied.


    I was stunned, ¡°War?¡±


    Alexei interrupted, exining swiftly, ¡°Alpha Darwin dered war against the pack yesterday. I guess he doesn¡¯t know about the missing Crystal Moon yet.¡±


    ¡°You should get some rest now,¡± Alpha Xander uttered. Silently, he walked out of the room and Alexei followed after shing a smile at me.


    I sat on the bed, while my mind pondered about what happened earlier. I was fated as their mate, but what about Alpha Xander¡¯s mate, Rose?


    I gasped at that thought. Did she leave? I can only be mated to Alpha Xander if he was rejected by his mate.


    That should be the reason for Alpha Xander¡¯s change of attitude!


    XANDER


    Surprisingly, Darwin did not retreat from the war. It seemed like he didn¡¯t realize that the Crystal Moon and its Guardian were missing.


    I and my warriors prepared for the war, while Ziva¡¯s mother and the sorceress worked on the Crystal Moon. We nned to connect the Guardian to the Crystal Moon. So, if it needs to be activated during the war, it can be done easily.


    Afterward, I would have to let Ziva and her mother leave, though it would be difficult to watch Ziva leave. I spoke with Lance and he prepared a car to move Ziva out of this pack safely.


    I¡¯ve always been an asshole to her and that is the best I can offer.


    I knocked at the door that led to Ziva¡¯s room, with the divorce papers in my hands. They had my signature and I needed Ziva¡¯s signature to proceed. She wanted it from the beginning, and it¡¯s for the best. I should let her go.


    ¡°Come in,¡± Her sweet voice echoed. Then, I opened the door. Instantly, my gaze fell on Ziva. Her brown hair was packed into a tight bun and she was dressed in a floral gown.


    She didn¡¯t nce at me or my direction as she stayed focused on fastening the zipper of her dress.


    ¡°Thank goodness you are here. I think the zipper is stuck-¡± Ziva turned around as she spoke. As soon as she gazed at me, she paused.


    ¡°I thought it was someone else,¡± She spoke quickly, her gaze darting the door like she was expecting someone to walk into the room.


    ¡°I can help you with the zipper if you are fine with it,¡± I told her. I expected her to hesitate or ignore me. Instead, she turned around, revealing the back of her dress and the zipper.


    I approached Ziva and nced at the zipper. There was nothing wrong with the zipper, but the dress was very fit on her body, almost too tight.


    ¡°It¡¯s not stuck, and the dress is too tight. Won¡¯t you feel suffocated when I fasten it?¡±


    She exhaled and muttered under her breath. ¡°You only feel concerned because of the mate bond. No worries, I will only wear it today, and I won¡¯t feel suffocated.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not concerned because of the mate bond. I¡¯ve always been concerned about you.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Ziva replied like she was struck by my statement. She turned around and faced me with shock evident on her face.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    ¡°I was preupied with ruining Granelma Pack and Alpha Darwin through you because I assumed that you were his daughter. Then, I thought it was just mere lust I felt towards you, but it wasn¡¯t,¡± I nced up at her and smiled.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t deserve everything I did to you. Now, you will live a better life. Reject I and Alexei. I signed the divorce papers.¡± As soon as Ipleted my statement, I felt Ziva¡¯s arms around my body.


    She hugged me tightly and I muttered, ¡°You don¡¯t want to be involved in this bond, you should move away.¡±


    ¡°You evil jerk,¡± Her words came out as a sniffle.


    Was she crying?


    I pushed her slightly and nced at her face to see whether she was crying or if I heard something else. Her cheeks were wet and she wiped the tears off them quickly.


    ¡°Don¡¯t look at me that way. It will only make tears pour down,¡± She pouted, causing me to chuckle silently.


    Suddenly, the door swung open, revealing Lance in his armor.


    ¡°Alpha, it¡¯s time,¡± Lance spoke quickly.

 Chapter 74

    XANDER


    I nced at Ziva and smiled, ¡°I should leave now.¡±


    She nodded, and I walked out with Lance. Hastily, I grabbed my weapon as Lance continued to speak.


    ¡°Alpha Darwin and his warrior are at the pack¡¯s border. I think they intend to invade our territory.¡±


    I snarled, ¡°They wouldn¡¯t dare. This is my territory, and if Darwin thinks that he can conquer and get rid of me, he is a joker.¡±


    ¡°You mean our territory,¡± I heard Alexei say from behind. He grabbed his weapon too, and spoke with his head held high, ¡°We fight together, we conquer together.¡±


    We reached the pack¡¯s border quickly. Just like Lance said, Darwin intended to invade our territory. We could see his men moving towards the border.


    They were led by Darwin as they used guns that fired silvery bullets. We surged forward too, shing against Darwin¡¯s men.


    Guns fired, and silvery bullets ripped through the air, striking true and finding their mark in the flesh of Darwin¡¯s warriors. They howled in pain and rage, their bodies contorting in mid-air as they were struck by the silver rounds.


    As the battle raged on, I faced Darwin. We exchanged blow for blow, but I managed to dodge a few blows from him.


    Soon, I heard a powerful cry. Oh no¡­


    There were more men from Darwin¡¯s side. They shot our men, and I watched them drop dead one by one. What is happening?


    Darwin let out an evil chuckle, as he wiped off the blood under his nose. ¡°Do you think I will let Ziva have the Crystal Moon that easily? Haha, if only you knew that its power was extracted to work for me. That¡¯s just an empty fragment, fool!¡±


    ¡°Alpha, we have been surrounded!¡± Lance spoke through the mind link. I clenched my fists, as anger stirred in me.Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    ZIVA


    I watched Mum and the sorceress perform some rituals on the Crystal Moon.


    ¡°It¡¯s time,¡± the sorceress said to Mum. Without hesitation, Mum touched the Crystal Moon, but nothing happened.


    ¡°I can¡¯t feel it,¡± Mum spoke, her tone filled with disappointment.


    ¡°It can¡¯t be,¡± the sorceress gasped, while I stood there, confused by their actions and discussion.


    ¡°What happened? Is there anything I can assist you with?¡± I asked, wanting to help.


    Mum shook her head quickly, ¡°I can¡¯t feel any connection towards it. It seems like the power has been extracted. It¡¯s a trap to make us believe that we possess it, but we don¡¯t. It¡¯s just an empty Crystal Moon now.¡±


    ¡°Is there anything we can do to revive its power then? Or can we restore its power?¡± I asked.


    The sorceress lowered her head, ¡°Nothing can be done, and this war will lead to this pack¡¯s destruction.¡±


    I paced to and fro, hoping there was something I could do to stop this war.


    ¡°How can this be happening? We nned everything and worked through it.¡± I sighed, ¡°I should have been more careful and attentive. If I had not fainted after touching the Crystal Moon and before Anji took it, maybe this would have not happened.¡±


    The sorceress raised an eyebrow as she asked, ¡°You fainted?¡±


    I nodded, ¡°Yes. I touched the Crystal Moon and I felt a sharp pain like I was hit by lightning. Then, I became dizzy and fainted.¡±


    The sorceress¡¯s face lit up with a smile. Hastily, she skimmed through the pages of a book and read out loud, ¡°Feeling a jolt of pain, like he was hit by lightning, he became dizzy and fainted. Thus, the Crystal Moon had chosen him as the next guardian with its power connected to him.¡±


    After reading, she exhaled and held my hand, ¡°You have been chosen as the next Crystal Moon guardian just before its power was extracted. Thankfully, you are connected to it which means that we can still work with it. However, you will be the one to activate and restore its power before it kills the opponent.¡±


    ¡°Nonsense!¡± My mother yelled as she pulled me away from the sorceress. She turned to me, her words tinged with emotions, ¡°Activating and restoring will not only kill the opponent. It can hurt your pup and even yourself.¡±


    ¡°Pup?¡± The sorceress uttered, stunned by what Mum said.


    ¡°Yes, she is pregnant. So, she shouldn¡¯t be involved in this,¡± Mum defended.


    ¡°Are there no other options to restore and activate the Crystal Moon¡¯s power without hurting my pup? I want the pup and I want the pack¡¯s safety. I want the Crystal Moon to be restored to the right hands, is that possible?¡± I questioned.


    The room fell into silence, and I knew what it meant. There were no other options. However, if I am unable to stop the war, every pack member will be killed or enved, including Mum and myself.


    Also, Mum wished to make up for the terrible things she did for Alpha Darwin, and this was what she wanted ¨C The Crystal Moon in the right hands, and a peaceful ce for all werewolves.


    I grabbed the book from the sorceress and nced at the pages. It was a simple task to activate the Crystal Moon, and it should be done quickly.


    ¡°I will do it,¡± I told them. I received a wide smile from the sorceress and furrowed brows from Mum.


    ¡°No, you won¡¯t.¡± Mum disagreed, shaking her head. ¡°I won¡¯t allow you.¡±


    Hastily, she took my hand and ced it on her head, ¡°Swear, swear that you won¡¯t get involved in this.¡±


    ¡°Mum¡­¡± I called, pulling my hand away from her grip. ¡°This is the only option. There are a lot of people here and I will never forgive myself if something bad happens because of my greed.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not greed, Ziva. It¡¯s self-love, and what about me? You said you wanted us to leave together. You deserve a happy life and I do. We can even leave right now,¡± Mum replied with a shaky voice.


    I embraced her, and muttered, ¡°I promise, I will be fine and we will triumph.¡±

 Chapter 75

    ZIVA


    Pulling away from the embrace, Mum¡¯s eyes flooded with tears.


    ¡°Don¡¯t do it!¡± She screamed as she was held back by the sorceress. I walked out of the room and rushed to the pack¡¯s border with the Crystal Moon.


    As soon as I reached the border, the smell of blood hit my nostrils. The Crescent Moon warriors were almost defeated by Darwin¡¯s men, but they continued fighting. Slowly, they dropped dead on the floor like chickens and it hurt to watch them die.


    From a distance, I noticed Darwin¡¯s men, preparing a weapon that seemed to be deadly.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Then, I positioned myself with the Crystal Moon and prayed to the Moon Goddess. She doesn¡¯t seem to answer my prayers, but I wished¡­ I wished she did. I closed my eyes, not wanting to listen to the loud cries, and to concentrate on restoring the Crystal Moon¡¯s powers.


    ¡°Moon Goddess, please restore its power and help the Crescent Moon pack,¡± I prayed silently. Then, I tightened my grip on the Crystal Moon and chanted the same words that I memorized from the sorceress¡¯s book.


    Suddenly, it felt like the wind pierced through me, and knocked my soul out. The cries of the men paused and the only thing I could hear was the repetitive sound of what I chanted.


    ¡°Ziva!¡± I heard someone yell. Opening my eyes, I realized that everyone was down. The warriors from both the Crescent Moon pack and Granelma pack fell. The Crystal Moon was too powerful¡­


    ¡°Foolish child. I was your father, yet you stabbed me in the back,¡± Alpha Darwin¡¯s voice echoed. I noticed how his figure sped towards me with a silvery sword.


    No, the Crystal Moon should kill him too. Didn¡¯t I do the right thing? I closed my eyes, hoping that the Crystal Moon would work again and send the opponents to the ground.


    Instead, I was hit. I looked forward and saw Alpha Darwin with an evil smirk on his face. The silvery sword was positioned to hit me, but I didn¡¯t feel any pain. Then, I realized. I was enveloped in an embrace and the person who embraced me was none other than Alpha Xander.


    He stumbled back, as his blue eyes shed with a mixture of pain and fear.


    Boom! The Crystal Moon activated, sweeping Darwin¡¯s men off their feet as it threw them to the ground with a heavy thud.


    At that moment, my sight became blurry and everything turned ck. I sighed, as I was exhausted and excited¡­ Finally, it¡¯s over.


    ~~~~


    The beeping sound of a monitor echoed in my head. It was loud and it made me flicker my eyes open. I nced at the ceiling, and then the surroundings. I was in arge ward, then I caught a scent. It was Mum¡¯s scent which meant that she was nearby.


    ¡°Ziva!¡± I heard her exim. The word made my ear ring loudly. I had to close my eyes and try to calm myself. I could not understand why I was not responding normally to the environment.


    Also, it felt like I had been unconscious for decades. Mum hurried towards me and she sobbed, ¡°I can¡¯t believe that you are awake.¡±


    I smiled and questioned her, ¡°Everyone is fine, right?¡±


    ¡°Everyone? Talk about yourself. Are you alright? Do you feel better?¡± Mum bombarded me with questions. I could not even keep up with what she said as I just watched her speak.


    As soon as her lips stopped moving, I said, ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    Then, she let out a sigh of relief and muttered, ¡°Thank Goddess you are alright.¡±


    ¡°My pup,¡± I cut in, sitting up quickly as fear gripped me. Hastily, I reached for my abdomen, hoping that I would feel my pup, but Mum held my hand.


    I turned to her and noticed that the smile on her face had faded.


    ¡°It¡¯s been many months since the war. Everything is back to normal, and the pup¡­¡±


    Tears slid down my cheeks before she could continue. I lost my pup.


    ¡°The pups are fine. Healthy pups too,¡± Mum spoke, causing me to burst into a chuckle. I touched my belly as I felt it shifting, as if alive.


    ¡°I can feel them,¡± I smiled.


    Then, the door opened silently, revealing Alpha Xander with a bouquet of roses in his hand. My heart skipped a beat as I took in the sight of him looking more handsome than ever in his crisp button-down shirt and fitted jeans. His blue eyes were filled with warmth and concern.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to step out for some fresh air,¡± Mum said as she walked out of the room quickly.


    As soon as she walked out, I felt worried. It seemed like something bad happened and Mum didn¡¯t want to talk about it.


    I turned to Alpha Xander and asked him in a low tone, ¡°Did something bad happen?¡±


    ¡°No, everything is fine¡­ thanks to you,¡± he replied, as he smiled warmly. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Suddenly, the door swung open. Alexei stood at the doorway with a bouquet of roses too. He was panting heavily.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry. I was in a distant ce and I had to rush over when I heard about your consciousness,¡± he managed to say amidst his heavy pants.


    Hastily, he approached me and handed his bouquet to me. ¡°Here, to the gorgeous Guardian.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± I blushed. Turning to the other side, I realized that Alpha Xander left the ward.


    ¡°So, how do you feel? Should I call the doctor to have another check-up done?¡±


    I furrowed my brows, ¡°Another check-up?¡±


    ¡°Well, Xander insisted that the doctors should be around to give you a check-up every damn second. Just before you became conscious, the doctor did a check-up and she informed us that you were recovering. I had to rush down here lol.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡±


    Hurriedly, Alexei put a pillow behind my back and he spoke, ¡°Sit, and rx. I will get a delicious, mouth-watering meal. Just give me a minute.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± I chuckled, as I leaned back and watched him rush out of the ward.

 Chapter 76

    ZIVA


    I ate to my heart¡¯s content and Alexei kept mepany, making my stay at the hospital enjoyable.


    Even Mum visited a few times and she discussed some important things. She narrated what happened while I was unconscious, revealing that my wolf would be unlocked because I was involved with the Crystal Moon.


    Also, everyone, including Alpha Xander was aware of my pregnancy after I was admitted to the hospital.


    Alpha Xander even imed to be the father of my pups, and that was the reason behind Mum¡¯s odd attitude. She was annoyed to realize that I activated the Crystal Moon for his pack, and he did nothing to stop me.


    I told her calmly, reassuring her that he was not aware of the pregnancy or my n to activate the Crystal Moon. Even if he had been aware, he would have definitely stopped me.


    However, she was adamant. She continued to pester me with how annoyed she would have been if I had not woken up.


    Afterward, she left, and as nighttime hit me like a storm, I tried to settle in for some sleep. I tossed and turned on the bed, closing my eyes in an attempt to get some sleep. It didn¡¯t work. Eventually, I gave up and simplyy on the bed, resting.


    Just as I started to rx, I noticed that the door was opening slightly as a familiar scent filled my nostrils.


    My heart raced, it was Alpha Xander! Strangely, I¡¯ve been able to detect the scents of Mum, Alexei, and Alpha Xander after meeting them earlier.


    My attention diverted back to the door. His scent was still present but it seemed like the door was closed. I shut my eyes, pretending to be asleep.


    Then, I felt his warm hand press against my forehead as he spoke, ¡°Thank Goddess you are fine now. Now, get some sleep and stop flickering your eyes.¡±


    I voiced out, ¡°Perhaps I don¡¯t feel the need to sleep because I¡¯ve been unconscious for a long time.¡±


    He looked away and turned on the nightmp which brightened the ward quickly.


    Sitting up, I asked him, concern evident in my voice. ¡°How are you doing? I remember that you were stabbed-¡±


    ¡°The wound healed up quickly. So, you have nothing to worry about,¡± Alpha Xander replied, and he walked towards the door.


    When he tried to open the door, I cleared my throat and said, ¡°Well, I think we have a lot to discuss¡­ Like our pups.¡±


    He paused for a moment and turned around, ¡°I thought you intended to keep it to yourself and abscond.¡±


    ¡°Well, that was in the past, and you caused it anyway. I only thought about keeping it a secret when you acted like you didn¡¯t want me or them.¡±


    ¡°Did I ever mention that I didn¡¯t want you or my pups?¡±


    ¡°Yes, you did. You told me indirectly and Rose was your mate. I was just the other woman.¡±


    ¡°You were not the other woman,¡± He spoke, as he massaged his temple. ¡°And yes, I was the asshole who mistreated you to gain vengeance, but keeping my pups from me is cruel. Yes, you don¡¯t deserve me. I know that¡¯s what you are going to say. I will hand over the divorce paper to you tomorrow. You can reject me and get married to Alexei if you wish to.¡±


    I furrowed my brows, confused and taken aback by what he said. ¡°Alexei? Why is Alexei involved in this?¡±


    ¡°You do not need to inform me. I am aware of your romantic feelings towards Alexei. I will ept your union with him and your rejection, but that will be after you deliver the pups for your safety.¡±


    ¡°Oh Xander, please stop saying nonsense. I like Alexei and I only regard him as my brother-inw. This mate bond is just messing with our lives.


    Also, if you have any feelings for me and you don¡¯t see me as just a woman who is pregnant with your pups, these aren¡¯t the ways to show or prove it. Rather, you are just making things go around in circles over and over again. It confuses me whenever I try to make a decision and it¡¯s exhausting.¡±


    Just then, Alexei barged in with two small bowls. He didn¡¯t look up, as he seemed to be preupied with his thoughts. He spoke quickly, ¡°I knew that you would be awake. We should have ice cream together-¡±


    As soon as he raised his head and saw Alpha Xander, he raised his eyebrows.


    ¡°Did I interrupt?¡± He asked, darting his gaze from Alpha Xander to me.


    ¡°No, you didn¡¯t. You came at the right time,¡± I responded. Hastily, I moved away from the bed and approached him. ¡°I needed to step out and have some fresh air since this ward is stuffy.¡±


    ¡°Tsk, you should move to another ward then.¡±


    ¡°No worries. I will be discharged soon anyway,¡± I spoke as we walked out of the ward. Then, my gaze fell on that bowl, ¡°Is that an ice cream bowl?¡±


    ¡°Yes. The doctor said you might find it difficult to fall asleep on your first night. So, I brought these.¡±


    I took the bowl and smiled, ¡°You are my savior. I was actually craving for this.¡±


    As soon as we reached outside the hospital, the smell of wet soil wafted into my nostrils. I nced at my surroundings and noticed the trees that were around. It would be nice to go for a run with one¡¯s wolf.


    ¡°The best ce a hospital can be developed is at the center of the woods. The sight of the trees and their smell can make any patient recover. You know, we can race, just you and I once you can transform into your wolf.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a good idea. She will be so excited for that. Sadly, I¡¯ve been unable to reach out to her.¡± I let out a sigh, ¡°I don¡¯t think what happened with the Crystal Moon unlocked her like Mum said earlier.¡±


    ¡°Give her some time. She¡¯s probably frightened and cautious so she won¡¯t hurt the pups.¡±Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    I nodded, ¡°Probably.¡±


    I opened the ice cream bowl and shoved the spoon into it. When I attempted to lick it, I heard Alexei say;


    ¡°Xander can be annoying sometimes but do not take it to heart. He is just a bit traumatized and obsessed.¡±


    I paused, ¡°¡­¡±


    ¡°I eavesdropped a bit.¡±


    ¡°Rude.¡±


    ¡°Sorry about that. I was just concerned, but the truth is that he really loves you. He might not be able to open up now or express it, but he will. Give him some time.¡±


    ¡°What about you? We are attached by a mate bond, remember?¡±


    ¡°Regardless of the bond, you are in love with him, not me. It¡¯s fine anyway, I can always be the good-looking uncle.¡±


    I almostughed at his joke. The smile on my face was quickly reced with a neutral expression. He was only trying to make meugh it off, but I was concerned about him. ¡°You were very excited to share this mate bond, and I¡¯m sorry if this makes your heart ache.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be. There are still a few months left before you deliver the pups, and we still need to share this mate bond for your safety. Then, if Xander misbehaves or tries to hurt you, I will kick him in the a$$ and then marry you.¡±


    We burst into briefughter and I uttered amidst it, ¡°It is a reasonable n.¡±

 Chapter 77

    ZIVA


    ¡°It is, and I¡¯m damn serious about it,¡± Alexei said yfully while Iughed it off. I sumbed to licking the ice cream, as the sweet taste of strawberry was to die for.


    Afterward, Alexei dipped his hand into his pocket and he brought out a phone. It appeared to be a new phone.


    ¡°Here. You can call me whenever you want. I have my contact number saved, even Xander¡¯s and your mother¡¯s numbers are saved too,¡± He said as he handed it over to me.


    ¡°Thanks, I would also like to schedule an appointment with the doctor tomorrow-¡±


    ¡°I will have that arranged quickly. So, all you need to do is rest and stay healthy. Your powerful mate will always be around to attend to your needs.¡±


    I smiled, ¡°Thanks, and I owe you one.¡±


    He shed a smile before ncing back at the hospital, ¡°You should get some sleep now.¡±


    ¡°You too,¡± I replied. I handed the empty ice cream bowl to him and returned to the hospital. As soon I reached the hospital¡¯s entrance, I turned back and waved at him. Then, he did the same with a smile.


    Such a sweet man. Who would believe that someone like him would exist in reality?


    I returned to my ward and dozed off after a moment of browsing on the new phone.


    ~~~~


    I was woken up by the bright morning light that seemed to reflect on my face. Abruptly, the light stopped reflecting on my face. I looked around and saw Alpha Xander. He reached for the window blinds and closed it to block the sunlight.


    Surprisingly, he was in a new set of clothes, and he looked refreshed. I nced at the couch that was close to my bed and noticed the nket on it. Did he spend the night in this ward?


    ¡°Is this what you always do?¡± I asked Alpha Xander, ¡°Stay in the ward throughout the night and leave the next morning?¡±


    As I waited for his response, I remembered the stretch I learned online yesterday ¨C a lying hip flexor stretch to ease pregnancy difort.


    My back ached from a night of awkward sleeping on the hospital bed.


    So, I slowlyy t on the bed, bringing my knee towards my chest. ¡°Mm-hm,¡± he replied, his deep voice distracting me from the initial difort.


    As I held the stretch, I couldn¡¯t help but feel a lingering ache in my lower back. It was as if the hospital bed had been wrestling with me all night, and I was the loser.


    I closed my eyes, hoping the stretch would work its magic when I felt a gentle touch on my shoulder. I opened my eyes to find Alpha Xander¡¯s concerned gaze.


    ¡°Do you need some help?¡± he asked, his deep voice soft and soothing.


    I nodded, feeling a bit embarrassed but also grateful. Everything seemed to be different about him after I let out my thoughtsst night.


    First, he revealed that he had been around, spending every night at my ward while I was in aa. Now, he is suddenly offering to help.


    I sat up in afortable position, with my back straight and feet nted firmly on the bed, allowing Alpha Xander to ess my lower back.


    As he touched it, it felt like a spark of electricity ran through my veins. Swiftly, he massaged it, his fingers applying just the right amount of pressure to ease the tension. I let out a sigh of relief as his touch brought soothingfort to my lower back.


    ¡°How does that feel? Is the pressure okay?¡± He asked.


    A wave of tingles spread through my body. My cheeks turned red as he continued massaging my back. I replied, ¡°Better. It eased the ache.¡±


    Then, he paused, taking a deep breath, and faced me. ¡°Aboutst night¡­ I am very sorry. I waspletely out of line. I should never have brought up the divorce, rejection, or even Alexei.


    I should never haveshed out at you in anger or thrown you into the Den over something as trivial as burnt pasta.


    That was unforgivable. Also, I want to rify that I never meant to imply that I didn¡¯t want you or the pups. When I said that night was a mistake, I meant it differently. You were never the other woman, and I regret my actions deeply. Can you find it in your heart to forgive me?¡±


    I nced away from his soft and gentle eyes.


    ¡°No,¡± I replied firmly. Then, he went on his knees and pleaded, ¡°I am sorry-¡±Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    ¡°When I look back at those moments, I can¡¯t think about forgiving you. Sometimes, I wonder what came over me. No woman in her right senses can even tolerate whatever I tolerated.¡± I sighed and continued. ¡°Even if Mum found out about it, she would never allow me to be around you. Also, you can draft the divorce papers.¡±


    His eyes widened in disbelief as his face fell.


    ¡°You should not be surprised. After I woke up from aa, I didn¡¯t oppose getting a divorce.


    The previous night, I was only annoyed because you involved Alexei during our discussion. I wanted to speak to you about co-parenting the pups until you mentioned how cruel I was to keep the pups a secret. Honestly, I was exhausted.¡±


    ¡°Ziva, please don¡¯t make a hasty decision. We can start all over again.¡±


    ¡°It was not a hasty decision. I thought about it properly.¡±


    ¡°Please Ziva, reconsider,¡± he said, his voice shaking as he reached for my leg. However, I was quick to pull my leg away.


    ¡°You must be busy with pack works. I have an appointment with the doctor,¡± I said quickly, but he didn¡¯t stop pestering me. His eyes had turned red as tears threatened to fall from his eyes.


    ¡°Give me another chance. I will make it up to you,¡± he begged, as tears flowed down his cheeks non-stop.


    I felt my chest tighten. Seeing my mate in such an awful state was devastating, but I had to do it.


    I spoke in a cold, firm tone, ¡°Is this what you want, huh? Crying to make me feel hurt? You won¡¯t only hurt me, you will hurt the pups too. So, stop it.¡±

 Chapter 78

    ZIVA


    A soft knock echoed on the door. I turned to Alpha Xander, or let me say Xander, and darted my gaze back to the door.


    ¡°Mrs. Ziva, it¡¯s time for your appointment,¡± I heard a feminine voice say.


    ¡°I will be there,¡± I replied as I slowly moved away from the bed. I walked into the bathroom and had my bath. Dressed in a maternity top and jeans, I walked out, only to find Xander outside the bathroom.


    ¡°I thought you left,¡± I said, as my brows shot up in curiosity. ¡°Why are you still here?¡±


    Swiftly, he opened the door without answering my question, and the silence that followed was deafening. What is this now, a silent treatment?Content protected by N?v/el(D)rama.Org.


    ¡°I stayed because I needed to apany you to the doctor¡¯s office.¡± He replied quickly.


    ¡°Hmph.¡±


    Xander led me to the doctor¡¯s office quietly. When we reached there, I was greeted by a nice woman.


    ¡°Hi, I¡¯m Doctor Aurora,¡± she said warmly, and when I wanted to reply, she continued, ¡°Mrs. Ziva, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± I nodded. Then, she gestured to the chair positioned across her. I sat on it and Xander sat next to me. Strangely, he was quiet, very quiet.


    ¡°Alright, Mrs. Ziva. Do you want more information about your pregnancy or shall we move ahead to prepare for delivery?¡±


    ¡°Uhm, no. Let¡¯s start from the beginning. I¡¯ve been away for a few months, and I¡¯m very curious about a lot of things. Like how many weeks am I now?¡±


    ¡°Okay. You¡¯re currently almost nine months pregnant, Mrs. Ziva,¡± the doctor replied with a warm smile. ¡°You¡¯ve got about two to three weeks left until delivery.¡±


    ¡°Wow, that¡¯s amazing and fast!¡± I eximed, exhaling quickly.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes, I am,¡± I replied, smiling widely. I calmed myself and asked, ¡°And the pups? How are they doing?¡±


    ¡°Ah, your twins are thriving!¡± the doctor said, showing me the ultrasound images. ¡°You¡¯re having a boy and a girl, and they¡¯re both healthy and growing perfectly.¡±


    I stared at the ultrasound images as tears welled up in my eyes. My pups¡­ I pressed my hand gently on my belly and gleamed in excitement.


    ¡°Since you¡¯re in your third trimester, it¡¯s essential to start preparing for delivery. Well, joining a pregnancy yoga or exercise ss can help you stay active, manage pain, and connect with other expecting mothers.


    We¡¯ll discuss your options forbor and delivery, and I¡¯ll rmend some exercises and sses to help you prepare.


    As forbor, we can discuss options like natural birth, epidural, or cesarean section. We¡¯ll also go over breathing techniques and pain management strategies.¡±


    I was grinning from ear to ear as I listened to her attentively. ¡°Everything sounds great,¡± I squealed.


    ¡°Then, your husband¡¯s support is also crucial,¡± the doctor emphasized, causing me to lean back in my seat. I thought to myself, ¡°Is he really needed? I can do everything myself.¡± I narrowed my eyes, clearly uninterested in listening to anything involving him.


    The doctor must have noticed my expression. She turned to Xander and said to him, ¡°Alpha Xander, you should be very involved in the process. Your physical and emotional support is needed. You can assist her with stretching and exercise routines, and listen to her concerns and feelings.


    Then, help with pups preparations, be present duringbor and delivery, if desired. Help her rx and unwind with baths and meditation. Ask how she¡¯s feeling and what she needs. Share your feelings and concerns too.


    Be patient and understanding. Hormonal changes in pregnant women can cause mood swings. Be gentle and supportive during this time. Show love and affection, physical touch and intimacy iffortable-¡±


    ¡°Sorry to interrupt, but can we skip that?¡± I questioned.


    The doctor nodded, ¡°Yes, definitely.¡± ¡°We¡¯ll go over a list of foods to avoid, like raw fish or undercooked meat, and rmend nutrient-rich foods for fetal development. And don¡¯t worry, we¡¯ll cover everything in detail, and then I will personally send it to Alpha Xander.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, you can send it to me,¡± I told her.


    She nced at me, then shifted her gaze to Xander with furrowed brows.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine with whatever she says,¡± Xander spoke.


    She smiled, ¡°Alright, I will send the details to you, Mrs. Ziva.¡±


    ¡°Great¡­¡±


    ¡°Then, I will send a copy to Alpha Xander. Is that good?¡±


    ¡°Honestly, there¡¯s no need to involve him-¡± I started to say, but Xander cut me off, interrupting with a polite but firm, ¡°Thank you so much, Doctor. We will leave now.¡±


    He stood, gesturing toward the door, and I followed his cue, rising to my feet. As I led the way back to my ward, he trailed behind me like I was a baby and he was my bodyguard.


    Recalling what the doctor said, I clenched my fists. Physical touch and intimacy, my foot!


    As soon as we reached my ward, I told him firmly, ¡°There is no need to follow me or get involved. Whatever the doctor says about your involvement, show love and affection. I don¡¯t need it¡­ and physical touch and intimacy? Don¡¯t you daree close to me!¡±


    ¡°I will be patient and understanding,¡± Xander exhaled. His statement sounded like sarcasm, as it yed on my nerves.


    ¡°What do you mean by that?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m following the doctor¡¯s instructions and you should too, for the pup¡¯s safety.¡±


    I wanted to reply, but he approached me and guided me to the couch.


    ¡°Now, get some rest,¡± Xander said in a soft,forting tone. For a minute, I rxed and let out a sigh of relief. Leaning back on the couch, he asked softly, ¡°Now, how do you feel?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know¡­ Tired? Mentally stressed? I can even feel an ache forming in my head,¡± I replied.


    He pressed his warm hand against my forehead and was mute like he was mind-linking someone. Suddenly, the door burst open as three different doctors walked in, including Doctor Aurora.


    ¡°Alpha, we received an emergency mind link,¡± the doctors chorused.


    ¡°She feels tired and mentally stressed. Also, she is experiencing a severe headache,¡± Xander exined to the doctors, causing my jaw to drop in surprise. It was just a minor situation, and he was making a mountain out of a molehill.


    Doctor Aurora approached me. She touched my wrist, forehead, and neck. Then, she turned to Xander with a smile, ¡°These are just mere symptoms of pregnancy, Alpha Xander.¡±


    ¡°And the stress?¡± Xander asked.


    ¡°Well, hormonal fluctuations, anxiety about motherhood, and physical difort can contribute to mental stress during pregnancy. So, there is no need to worry.¡± As soon as the doctorpleted her statement, Xander nodded.

 Chapter 79

    XANDER


    I was devastated. After pleading with Ziva, she refused to forgive me and insisted on getting a divorce. However, if that was her final decision, I would ept it.


    ¡°Can she be discharged today?¡± I asked Doctor Aurora and she nodded. Then, I escorted the doctors out of the ward. When I returned, the ward was empty. My heart raced.


    Instantly, I dialed her new contact number, but she declined the call.


    ¡°Well, that means she is fine and doesn¡¯t want to be with you,¡± Maz spoke. I ignored him and walked out of the hospital, following her sweetvender scent.


    Then, I found her outside the hospital. She sat on a bench, probably wanting some fresh air.


    I approached her and noticed how she touched her belly possessively. Honestly, I had always wished to touch her pup bump to feel our pups kicking, but guilt and shame held me back. I felt guilty. She didn¡¯t even want me around.


    Suddenly, she turned to my side, as if she knew I was beside her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t look at me that way. I just need some fresh air, and I do not need to answer your call when I know what you will say,¡± She spoke, and nced away from me.


    Certainly, she was avoiding me, and my mind had not been at rest after what she said earlier.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go home and have lunch together. We can also discuss the pup¡¯s preparations,¡± I said softly.


    She was quick to wave her hand, dismissing me, ¡°You don¡¯t have to get involved. I can do that by myself.¡±


    She was hurting me with every word and she knew it. She didn¡¯t seem to care about that, but these are nothingpared to losing her and just co-parenting the pups.


    I asked calmly, ¡°Fine, what do you want? What can I do to make you consider me as your mate or even the father of the pups?¡±


    ¡°Draft the divorce papers and sign them,¡± she said, her voice firm. ¡°That¡¯s what I want. Then we can co-parent the pups peacefully.¡±


    I nodded, feeling a pang of regret. ¡°I¡¯ll do it, okay?¡± I told her, trying to sound resigned.


    Just then, a sleek car pulled up beside us, its arrival timely. I had sent for it earlier, knowing we would need a ride soon. Ziva raised an eyebrow, ¡°Aren¡¯t you busy with pack works? You¡¯ve been with me since morning, and this¡­¡± she trailed off, gesturing to the car.


    ¡°Lance will take care of that,¡± I replied, waving my hand dismissively. ¡°It¡¯s just a few hours¡¯ leave anyway.¡±


    ¡°Shall we go?¡± I asked. She nodded and she swiftly got in while I opened the car door.


    The car drove off, leaving our tense conversation behind. We arrived at the mansion quickly and settled in for breakfast together.


    It seemed as though she had forgotten about what happened earlier, as she ate slowly and was sitting next to me.


    I took my chance, handed a pup¡¯s name pool over to her, and spoke, ¡°There, a list of names that are my favorites. I thought about it properly and I think they are names you will love.¡±


    She nced at it slowly, and uttered, ¡°Lovely names, but I love Xena and Zyke. Zyke would be our boy¡¯s name, strong, courageous, and handsome, then Xena would be our girl¡¯s name, adorable, sweet, and fierce.¡±


    She smiled, ¡°You know, I can already picture them. Running down the stairs, while I tell them to be careful. You give them this calm re that will make them stop running. They will hug your legs with their tiny hands and I will kiss their foreheads after saying their bedtime stories. It will be beautiful.¡±


    ¡°What about us? Won¡¯t you consider not getting a divorce?¡± I said, gulping a mouthful of food.


    She spoke sweetly with a wide smile on her face, ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°At that time, we would be divorced. Then, I would have probably found a job and a handsome husband, and would be expecting a little pup.¡±


    I coughed, choking on my meal, as her words caught me off guard and went down the wrong pipe.


    ¡°You promised to draft and sign the divorce papers. Fulfill it,¡± she said.? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    She stood and left the dining hall. Almost reaching thending, I rushed towards her and blocked her path.


    ¡°Divorce, that¡¯s fine. Your room is on the other side.¡± I told her quickly.


    She turned to the side and nced back at me, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you just say it, and what¡¯s with the urgent tone? Are you hiding something from me?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± I said, but she furrowed her brows and walked past me. ¡°Come on, it¡¯s supposed to be a surprise-¡±


    She barged into the room before I could evenplete the statement. The room was a nursery room for our pups, beautifully furnished and decorated with a blue and pink crib. I had prepared it during her second trimester, as I intended to surprise her before her delivery.


    ¡°Oh my goodness! You did this all by yourself?¡± She asked as she turned around to face me with surprise evident in her tone.


    ¡°Yes, we did It!¡± Maz said proudly.


    ¡°You ruined the surprise,¡± I replied, disappointment tinged in my voice.


    ¡°Oh, I can just turn around and pretend like I didn¡¯t see it.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s of no use. It doesn¡¯t change anything,¡± I responded and then walked back to the dining hall.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s very beautiful, and I love the cribs,¡± I heard her say.


    I nced at my wristwatch. Realizing that I was runningte for my meeting with Lance, I took quick steps.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± Ziva questioned.


    ¡°I have an important meeting with Lance, and I¡¯m runningte.¡± I looked up at her, and smiled, ¡°I will be back by nightfall.¡±


    ¡°Ugh, that mischievous smile. Don¡¯t overthink. I am not concerned about you, and I do not even want to stay with you.¡±


    ¡°Sounds like someone is missing me already,¡± I said in a sing-song tone, teasing her as I moved out of the mansion.


    ¡°Keep dreaming,¡± She said loudly.

 Chapter 80

    ZIVA


    As soon as Xander left the mansion, I felt my cheeks turn red. He had prepared our pup¡¯s nursery room all by himself and he even intended to surprise me with it.


    I foolishly ruined the surprise, but I¡¯m still excited. I walked into the nursery room. Seeing the blue and pink crib, a smile appeared on my face. My little pups would soon arrive and fill this beautiful room withughter and joy.


    A buzz sounded from my phone, drawing my attention. I nced at it and saw a pop-up message from Sender ¨C Doctor Aurora. The message contained details about the foods I should avoid and the exercise sses I could join.


    There was a prenatal exercise ss by noon that would involve other pregnant women and their partners.


    I forwarded the ss location to Xander and sent a message, ¡°Can you reschedule your meeting and meet me here? Doctor Aurora rmended this prenatal exercise ss, happening at noon with other expectant couples.¡±


    ¡°I will be there,¡± he replied quickly.


    With that, I smiled and searched through my closet. Surprisingly, there were a lot of maternity clothes there. ncing at each of the clothes, a pair of maternity leggings, and top caught my gaze. I decided to wear them.


    When the clock struck 12 PM, I changed into the outfit I had chosen and the driver drove me to the location ¨C a yoga studio.


    I stepped inside the studio, feeling nervous and excited. The room was filled with women with round, big pup bumps, and their partners. However, Xander was not there.


    I grabbed my phone, intending to message him and remind him about the exercise ss, just in case he had forgotten. Then, his message popped up on my screen.


    ¡°I¡¯m so sorry but I won¡¯t be able to make it to the yoga studio. Something unexpected came up.¡±


    My heart sank. Why didn¡¯t he say that earlier instead of raising my hopes?


    ¡°Mrs. Ziva,¡± I heard someone say.


    I turned around and saw a woman in yoga pants and afortable tank top. I¡¯ve never seen her before and how did she identify me?


    She approached me with a smile on her face, ¡°I¡¯m Nancy, the yoga instructor.¡±


    Oh! I should have noticed. She was the only woman in the studio who didn¡¯t have a pup bump.


    She extended her hand for a handshake, and I shook it. I said, ¡°Nice to meet you, Mrs. Nancy.¡±


    ¡°Nice to meet you too! Please make yourselffortable and let me know if you have any questions or concerns.¡±


    She nced around as if searching for someone. Instantly, I knew who she was searching for.


    ¡°Alpha Xander isn¡¯t here,¡± I exined to her. ¡°He¡¯s tied up with pack business.¡±


    Her expression turned sympathetic. ¡°Oh, I hope you¡¯re doing okay with that,¡± she said, and I nodded curtly.


    It stung a little, but I understood. Work had kept him away, and I knew it was part of being with a pack leader. Still, the absence lingered like a faint ache.


    Just then, the yoga instructor strode to the front row, and she began the exercise ss. I went through the motions, trying to focus on the exercises and the other expectant mothers around me, but my heart wasn¡¯t fully in it.


    After the ss, everyone chatted andughed as they left. I walked out of the studio and the driver took me back to the mansion.


    I joined Mum and Alexei for dinner, listening as they chatted excitedly about Alexei¡¯s new job in the human city. He had always dreamed of working there, and now he was finally taking steps to make it a reality.Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    I headed to my room after I finished having dinner, but I could not sleep. I was disappointed by Xander¡¯s absence at the studio.


    I checked my phone, reading Xander¡¯s previous message. ¡°Something came up?¡± I wondered. Perhaps he was really busy. I sighed. I shouldn¡¯t greet him with a scolding orint then.


    My ear perked up at the sound of a soft knock.


    I called out, ¡°Come in.¡±


    The door creaked open, and I turned to face it. Xander appeared in the doorway. I could see the exhaustion etched on his face. His trip must have been tiring.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I missed the ss-¡± He began, his voice low.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine,¡± I said gently. ¡°But you said something came up. What happened?¡±


    Xander sighed, and he rubbed his temples as if trying to ease a headache. ¡°There was a report of a family¡¯s death on the other side of the pack. I had to pay my condolences, but Lance informed me that another family had been killed, with the same symptoms as the first. It¡¯s been a long day.¡±


    My heart softened and I asked, ¡°Do you need me to apany you there tomorrow? You know, the family of the deceased deserves to beforted.¡±


    His eyes widened in surprise, and he waved his hand dismissively, ¡°Don¡¯t trouble yourself. You may not befortable.¡±


    ¡°I amfortable with it.¡±


    ~~~~


    As dawn broke, I and Xander traveled to the other side of the pack. He mentioned that it was a war-ravaged rural ce that he had under his protection because its people had helped his father during his reign.


    The car halted, and Xander walked over to my side to open the door. Then, I walked out of the car and paid my condolences to the rtives of the deceased.


    ¡°It¡¯s very disheartening. They were so close to us,¡± the woman sobbed as her husband patted her back.


    ¡°We are very very sorry for your loss,¡± I said in a low tone.


    With that, they bowed their heads and left.


    ¡°Strangely, they seem to have a lot of well-wishers,¡± I whispered to Xander, who folded his arms.


    ¡°Well-wishers?¡± Xander replied, his voice low. ¡°We can¡¯t trust any of those faces. The family members of the deceased probably poisoned them for their selfish gains.¡±


    I looked at him, surprised. ¡°Why would you say that? You¡¯ve only seen the corpses and rtives once.¡±


    ¡°Lance investigated,¡± Xander exined, leading me to a small house. ¡°The deceased owned top stores in this pack and several others. You can imagine what their family would gain after they die.¡±


    I thought for a moment. Then, an idea struck me. ¡°Speaking of owning a top store, shouldn¡¯t the first suspect be their business rival?¡±


    Xander nodded. ¡°Yes, but he doesn¡¯t seem to be the culprit. He was investigated, and he even confessed to deciding to close down his business before this happened.¡±


    As we walked inside a room, a pungent smell hit my nostrils.


    ¡°Are you sure you will befortable with checking the corpses?¡± Xander asked, concern evident in his tone.


    ¡°Yes,¡± I replied. ncing around the room, I noticed a body that was ced on a table.


    Lance was also in the room. He parted his lips to speak, but as soon as his gaze fell on me, his gaze darkened.


    But then, he quicklyposed himself.


    ¡°Lady Ziva, you are here,¡± Lance said in a calm tone.


    Surprisingly, this was the first time I noticed his dark and cold gaze. Initially, he was very nice and gentle when we first met.


    However, after I returned to this pack during the Crystal Moon incident, he seemed to have be increasingly distant and cold ¨C Why does he seem so different now?


    Xander strode towards the table and Lance approached him. He removed the white sheet from the corpse.


    A wave of sorrow washed over me as I saw the corpse, a young boy likely between five and six years old.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!