CHAPTER ELEVEN: THE HEIR

Labor felt endless, the ruthless rain pounding against the windows, echoing the chaos within my body. Thunder rumbled, shaking the room's very foundations, and adding to the mess unfolding around me.

Pain overcame me, radiating from every fiber of my being, making it impossible to concentrate on anything else. The male doctor and pack maids rushed to assist me, their efforts seemingly in vain. My forehead glistened with sweat, and my heart pounded in my chest.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, the moment arrived. Exhausted and weak, I lay on the bed, desperately trying to catch my breath. Yet, my relief was short-lived. Apollo stormed into the room, his eyes devoid of warmth.

Tension crackled in the air as he approached the bed, hooked on our newborn son. It was as if he sought evidence, some form of proof that the child was truly his. "Little bird, step aside," Apollo commanded with harshness, his gaze piercing our innocent baby boy on the bed.

Weak and confused, I sat up. "What's happening?" I whispered, my voice barely audible.

"I need a DNA test conducted on the baby. I must ensure his paternity," Apollo declared coldly.

I was taken aback, disbelieving what I heard. Instead of embracing his child, Apollo demanded a DNA test. I attempted to reason with him, fear in my voice. "Apollo, at least hold your son in your arms. Your wolf will recognize his own blood," I pleaded, hoping to reach him.

Apollo's face contorted with anger. "Do not presume to instruct me, Little bird. Merely sharing my blue eyes does not guarantee his lineage," he spat venomously.

The doctor nodded, and Apollo quickly departed from the room. Stunned and speechless, I could only watch as the doctor collected samples from our son, his tiny body trembling with sobs. It was an emotional moment etched forever in my memory, an absolute reminder of the pain and heartache that accompanies motherhood.

Yet, as I cradled my son in my arms, feeding him and whispering words of comfort, I resolved to do everything within my power to shield him from harm. I held onto the sparkling hope that Alpha Apollo would regain his senses.

Alpha Nicholas and Mina entered the room, anticipation quickening my heartbeat. Mina's hatred toward me was evident, but even she couldn't resist the charm of a newborn baby. "He is so precious," she exclaimed, her voice filled with giggles and adoration, her hope lingering that he might be her cousin's. I mustered a weak smile, grateful for any fragment of kindness in the chaos.

Nicholas, on the other hand, radiated with pride at the sight of his grandchild. "Zelda, my dear, let us celebrate this meaningful occasion!" he declared, clapping his hands together in excitement. "Guards, prepare a spontaneous party tonight in honor of the new heir. Extend invitations to all our esteemed guests and organize the festivity swiftly."

Aware of my lingering physical weakness and inability to attend a gathering, I tried to voice my objections, but Nicholas remained stubborn. "Please, my dear, this calls for celebration. You and the baby shall be the crucial point, as you rightfully deserve," he insisted, a warm smile gracing his lips.

***

Standing before the mirror, I beheld my reflection with a sense of awe. Dressed in a dazzling ball gown, my hair elegantly styled in a bun, I felt like royalty. Confidence swelled within me, eager to grace the party downstairs.

With each step down the grand staircase, all eyes hooked upon me. Warm gazes caressed my skin, eliciting a smile in response. I enjoyed the limelight, the new Luna, determined to make a favorable impression.

The room pounded with life, couples swaying on the dance floor, others enjoying the joy and alcoholic drinks. The enticing aroma of lovely cuisine glided through the air, stimulating a spark of excitement within me.

Alpha Nicholas occupied the center stage, his commanding voice echoing through the room as he welcomed guests and congratulated me on my son's birth. "Today, we gather to celebrate the arrival of a cherished member in our pack," he declared, his eyes gleaming with pride. "Zelda, my dear, you have done us proud. You have exemplified true loyalty to our pack, and we are immensely grateful for your sacrifice and solid dedication." Thunderous applause erupted, glasses raised in a toast to me and my child. A lump formed in my throat, touched by Alpha Nicholas' kind words.

However, an air of unease coursed through the room, whispers and hidden conflicts lingering beneath the surface. Guests exchanged hushed words, whispering that an omega like me could not possibly ascend to Luna. They murmured that I was nothing but a surrogate, a pawn entangled in a power play. Their words stung, but I fought to remain composed.

Sipping my orange juice, I observed the nanny maid's entrance, cradling my precious boy in her arms. He was stunning in his attire, stimulating admiration from all. "He is truly handsome," one guest cooed. "He bears a striking resemblance to his father," another remarked.

Yet, their admiration was abruptly cut short when Alpha Apollo barged into the room, clutching a stack of papers in his hands. His face seethed with anger, and a threatening eruption hung upon his lips.

Silence fell over the party as Apollo strode in, papers thrust into my face, his voice cold and furious.

"What is the meaning of this?" Apollo questioned, his tone mixed with icy venom.