Nathan’s POV
Too many problems were piling up. The territorial war was about to explode, with King Jason insisting on reinforcements and border cities and villages already under attack.
I paced my office, overwhelmed by it all.
The enemy knew too much about us. Simply adding more warriors wsn’t the solution.
“Damn it!” I slammed my fist against the desk, sending papers flying
Raymond’s Goldshore Pack was crucial to this war. Their strategic island connecting the eastern and western continents gave them leverage that made me sick.
Being forced to marry Madison felt like swallowing poison.
I knew that sly old fox Raymond wanted to plant his influence in our pack. Something felt off about the whole arrangement.
If I discovered any intention to sabotage our alliance, I’d end his life personally.
Then there was Rachel. I couldn’t stop thinking about my conversations with Tyler.
I can’t let the same betrayal happen again to me and my pack.
But maybe she’s different…
The pressure was becoming unbearable. Before tonight’s engagement dinner, I needed to see Rachel. Maybe her presence would calm my mind as it always did.
2
I walked toward the Moon Goddess Suite, our shared quarters, though I’d been sleeping elsewhere lately. I noticed I was walking faster than usual, drawing watchful eyes throughout the castle.
What am I anxious about? She’s just a damn breeder.
I deliberately slowed my pace, releasing a cold pine scent to warn others to keep their distance.
The castle had too many watching eyes, too many ears listening for weakness.
I quietly opened the door to the suite and slipped inside.
で
The soft melody coming from the bedroom caught me by surprise. Rachel was singing, her voice teminiscent of a summer morning breeze.‘
My eyes drifted shut as I let her voice wash over ‘me.
The singing stopped suddenly. She’d sensed my scent.
Nathan? Rachel appeared in the doorway, green eyes slightly widened.
In her hands were knitting needles and yarn–she was making baby clothes.
I frowned slightly. “I just wanted to check on you and the heir.”
1/4
Chapter 62
“Oh–I appreciate you coming to see us.” She looked down at her hands before lifting her gaze with a forced smile. “It’s nice to see you. It’s been several days.”
Something was different. Her reaction was muted, controlled.
Before, she would light up when I entered a room, her scent becoming sweeter, her eyes brighter. This calm acceptance wasn’t what
I wanted.
“Knitting?” I gestured toward the yarn in her hands.
“Yes. Her eyes dimmed, voice steady. “I know I’ll be… gone after the baby is born, but I wanted to make something for the baby… so they could have a part of me.”
The calm mention of her planned death made my throat tighten. I saw pain and sadness in her eyes that she was clearly trying to
hide.
Why does this bother me? This was always the plan.
Before I could respond, the door burst open.
Victoria swept in, completely ignoring my presence.
“Hey!” she called cheerfully to Rachel.
Rachel’s eyes brightened in a way they hadn’t for me. “Hi, Victoria. What did you bring me?”
“This!” Victoria thrust a package forward excitedly. “I bought it at the market the other day. Look!”
Rachel gasped as she pulled out a large wooden toy train, her hair swaying with the movement, green eyes sparkling. “Oh My
Goddess!”
“Well, I figured the little wolf cub could play with it whether it’s a boy or girl, but if you don’t think-
“Victoria, it’s perfect!” Rachel’s eyes glistened with unshed tears. “I love it!”
She threw her arms around Victoria in a tight embrace. “You’re so thoughtful! Thank you so much.”
Damn it, Victoria! In my own territory, in front of my-
I cleared my throat loudly and shot Victoria a pointed look, my eyes flashing gold.
Victoria caught my meaning. “Rachel, I’m glad you like it. Well, I’ve got warrior training today. I should go.”
She stood, but not before giving me a look I couldn’t quite decipher.
After Victoria left, Rachel continued playing with the train, a bright smile illuminating her face. Her scent warmed, becoming sweet and clean. I couldn’t look away.
Maybe her future could change…
Rachel suddenly seemed to remember I was still in the room. “I’m sorry, what were we talking about?”
“Nothing.” My voice was low. “If you don’t need anything, I need to prepare.”
“The engagement dinner. Yes, I know.” She nodded. “Enjoy yourself tonight. Don’t worry, if I need anything, I’ll call Zoe.”
2/4
Chapter 62
“Stay in your room tonight, Tommanded.
“I will.” She lowered her head submissively.
“Oh, and congratulations,” she added, almost in a whisper.
I felt my breath catch, my eyes flashing gold again.
Without another word, I turned and left, angry at myself for not knowing what to do with her.
Rachel’s POV
The moment Nathan’s scent faded from the corridor, I released a long breath. I knew I’d been cold toward him. My heart whimpered in distress, wanting to run after our Alpha, but I held firm.
I know I was rather cold to Nathan. I hope he didn’t notice anything unusual.
I began pacing the living room, waiting for Madison’s response. I glanced at the wooden train Victoria had brought.
I’m sorry, Victoria. The toy might never be played with by my child.
I’d already sent a message through a servant. Though I wasn’t entirely certain about Madison’s plan, I had no choice but to trust
her.
I’ll be free of this life. Free to raise my child the way I see fit, without worrying about being ‘released.‘
Voices outside my door caught my attention. I heard the guards preventing Madison from entering.
I quickly opened the door to find Madison and Raymond’s Beta, David, standing there.
“Miss, you cannot enter without the Alpha’s permission,” the guard stated firmly.
Madison flashed a practiced smile. “I mean no harm. I just want to reconcile with her.”
The guard growled threateningly. “Please return or-”
“It’s okay,” I interrupted, stepping into view. “What’s going on?”
Madison held up her hands. “Relax. If it makes you more comfortable I can talk to her right here at the door.”
She turned to me, her voice dripping sweetness. “Rachel, I want to apologize for what happened between us. It was all a misunderstanding. Look, just a little something. I hope you’ll accept my apology.”
She handed me a package containing an elegant blue dress and matching luxury accessories.
I accepted it cautiously. “I accept your apology. You didn’t need to bring such an expensive gift…”
“Please, I insist!” Madison pressed.
“Well… thank you.
please come in–it’s impolite to keep a guest standing outside.”
I turned to the guard. “It’s fine. Madison is your future Luna. She won’t harm me.” And David followed Madison in as well.
The guard hesitated before stepping back. “If you need anything, we’re right outside.”
3/4
Chapter 62
I smiled reassuringly. Thank you, but I’ll be fine.”
Once I closed the door, sweat soaked my dress, my hair sticking to my neck, my heart pounding, terrified I’d given myself away.
“Well done,” Madison said.
“I know you don’t have much time, Madison. What do I need to do?” asked directly.
