Chapter 64
Rachel’s POV
I sat by the window of the Moon Goddess Suite, watching dark cloud gather on the horizon.
My hand drifted to my still flat stomach, feeling the faint mind–link with my unborn cub strengthening day by day.
How strange that something so tiny could already feel so precious to me.
“How can he do this?” I whispered, my hair falling across my face as leaned my forehead against the cool glass.
How could Nathan be so contradictory?
The way his pine scent warmed when he touched me, how he’d gifted me this beautiful moonstone pendant, the concern in his eyes when he brought me special food because my wolf craved it… all of it suggested he cared.
Yet behind it all was the cold truth Tyler had confirmed–I was nothing but a transaction, a womb to carry his heir before being “released.”
A bitter smile crossed my lips. “Released.” Such a gentle word for something so final.
But I’d made my decision. If Madison’s offer was my only chance to survive and raise my child, I’d take it even knowing she only wanted to ensure her future children wouldn’t compete with mine for power in the Ironjaw Pack.
The knock at my door startled me from my thoughts.
“Come in,” I called, quickly composing myself.
Victoria burst in with her usual energy, her amber scent filling the room with warmth as she crossed over and wrapped me in a tight
hug.
“I wish tonight wasn’t happening,” she said, tears glistening in her eyes.
My heart hammered in my chest. Did she know? Had someone discovered my escape plan?
“Victoria… to–tonight?” I stammered, unable to hide my panic.
She tilted her head, confused by my reaction. “The engagement dinner? Nathan and Madison?”
Relief washed over me. Of course–the engagement dinner…
“Right,” I said, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. “But there’s nothing we can do. Nathan has decided what alliance he wants. It’s for the pack’s benefit. He’s not doing anything wrong.”
Victoria sat beside me on the window seat. “I know he cares about you, Rachel. I can smell the change in his scent whenever he’s around you.”
I shook my head. “Whether he cares doesn’t matter. I’ll never be good enough, Victoria. I’m just a breeder to him.”
Victoria started to protest, but the words seemed to die on her lips. Instead, she squeezed my hand.
“Thank you for everything you’ve done for me,” I said softly, my voice thick with emotion. “I’ll never forget it, Victoria.”
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Chapter 64
She sniffled, wiping at a tear. Hey–your’re talking like you’re saying goodbye. We’ll get through this, Rachel. We still have time. Months to change Nathan’s mind. I can feel him changing already.”
I met her eyes, forcing a smile lidn’t feel. Maybe you’re right.”
Victoria stood and checked her appearance in the mirror, smoothing her dress, “I should go down to this stupid dinner and keep an eye on Gina. Someone has to make sure she doesn’t cause trouble. Her lips quirked into a teasing smile.
“Yes, don’t let her mess things up,” I replied softly, watching her leave.
The moment the door closed, I sprang into action. With the engagement dinner underway, no one would check on me until much
later.
I changed quickly into the convertible dress Madison and, David had provided, its length perfectly concealing the running shoes I wore beneath. I couldn’t bring much with me–just essentials.
After finishing my makeup and styling my hair, my fingers traced the moonstone pendant Nathan had given me.
Part of me wanted to leave it behind–it would fetch a good price in my new life–but I couldn’t bear to part with it.
“I was such a fool,” I whispered to my reflection, “thinking I could somehow change his plans.”
I carefully packed the accessories Madison had provided–items I could sell later for money.
My handbag was slightly larger than usual, with a hidden compartment perfect for concealing important items.
With trembling hands, I placed Emma’s ultrasound photo in a waterproof bag. I added some herbal sleeping medicine, a water bottle, and a small knife for protection.
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