Chapter 48
Rachel’s POV
I woke suddenly from my dream, the image of Nathan declaring me as his mate still vivid in my mind.
For a moment, I lay perfectly still, savoring the lingering feeling of happiness before reality crept back in.
My wolf stirred restlessly within me, alerting me to voices coming from the living area of the suite.
Carefully, I slipped from bed and padded silently to the door, which was slightly ajar. Nathan and Tyler were having a late–night
conversation.
I couldn’t help but feel curious, then afraid. My wolf perked its ears, alert to what they might be discussing.
More than anything, hoped the dream I’d just experienced might come true… that Nathan would accept me as more than just his breeder…
“What are you planning to do, Alpha?” Tyler’s voice was low but clear
“It’s complicated. Nothing has changed, Tyler,” Nathan replied.
What does that mean? Nothing has changed?
“You can’t seriously want to continue with this, Nathan. Don’t forget I’ve seen your eyes turn gold around her.”
“Could you keep it down? Rachel is sleeping.” The hint of concern in Nathan’s voice made my heart flutter.
“I’m sorry, but things have changed since Rachel came to Ironjaw. We all care about her… even your wolf responds to her.”
“Don’t presume to know my feelings, Beta. This is about the heir, nothing more.” Nathan’s words stung, my wolf whimpering in response.
“Just about the heir? I’ve known you since we were pups, your scent changes completely around her. We both know that’s not true.”
“Whatever you think you know doesn’t matter, Tyler. My father was destroyed by the mate bond, have you forgotten?”
“Nathan, please… don’t do this. You’ll regret it.”
“I have to marry Madison. Though I wish it weren’t so. King Jason gave me a direct order, and I will obey it. His mate can’t bear children, and my child will someday be heir to the throne. I need a proper Luna, not a breeder sold by her father.”
Hearing Nathan say he didn’t think I was a proper Luna wounded me so deeply, but I held back my tears, my heart clenching with a sharp, painful ache.
Rachel is an Alpha’s daughter with ancient bloodlines. Her scent suggests she’s more valuable than she appears. She would be your ideal mate, Tyler argued.
My mother had often hinted there was something special about our bloodline… the only problem was: no one knew the truth about my mother’s lineage
I was shocked. Tyler was arguing with his Alpha on my behalf, risking punishment.
“Beta, you need to watch how you speak to me. You know what the pan was when she came to us, and you need to remember our conversation then. I told you not to get attached to her like you have, and you and Victoria will have to face the consequences after
Chapter 48
she’s released.”
I’m sorry, Alpha… but I disagree with this plan. It goes against werewolf honor.”
Your agreement isn’t required! You just need to execute it.”
“So after everything… all your attention to her… the gold in your eyes… you’re still going to ignore and deny your wolf’s response. When she gives birth to the heir, you’re going to proceed with what you planned to do. The mother of your child… you’re really going through with it.”
Yes, Tyler. Find a way to make her leave peacefully.”
Again, Nathan’s cold words thattered my heart. Slowly, tears began streaming down my face as I listened to the men argue. My wolf curled into a ball of fear.
He didn’t care about me at all. I was nothing to him. Those tender moments, those kisses, were all to ensure I’d produce a healthy heir.
Nathan’s words sent an icy pain through my heart, my eyes widening “Find a way to make her leave peacefully?” What did he mean Fear and panic filled me, my wolf silently howling.
1 pressed myself against the wall, trying to control my breathing as I heard them moving toward the door. I slipped back to my bed, pretending to be asleep as they left the suite, their scents fading.
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