Chapter- [ 7 ]

[ Adonis ]

“Adonis, if you give me your permission, we can arrange a charity gala. I know it’s a new concept and never happened in werewolf world but I see it as a way to get into highlight. Everyone will only talk about us. We’ll receive donations on the name of charity.” Seline suggested me and my head snapped in her direction.

“This is the waste of money and I am not a thug who will use the money we’ll receive in donation for good work and this is not a right time to throw parties.” I flatly refused her idea and her face fell.

“I know, the finances are tight nowadays. You can blame Gemma for this. She might have stolen the pack’s money and sent it to her secret lover. I mean we’re one of the biggest packs. We have many resources of income.” Seline accused Gemma.

My wolf, Rykar growled in my head. Unlike me, he can’t hear a word against his mate.

“Gemma wasn’t a thief. I have all her financial records. She never stole a single penny or I would have known.” I clarified.

“You still have a soft corner for her even when she backstabbed you?” She scoffed.

“It’s my personal matter, Seline. She received her punishment for her sins. Let’s not mention her ever again.” I said in a flat tone.

“Exactly, this is my point. People are still discussing about her. Not only our pack but also the other packs who see her as a hero and doesn’t believe that she was the one to betray you. We need to distract their attention. Let’s give them an unforgettable party. We’ll meet other packs and form new alliance.” She said with sparkling eyes.

I thought about her idea. Although, it might prove expensive for us but I can also find out about Alpha Axel’s plans and also take other packs in confidence. It will be a chance to find out if Gemma is hiding somewhere or she’s….

I shook my head to get rid of the negative thoughts.

“The upcoming Sunday is your birthday, Adonis. It will be the perfect occasion to call for everyone.” She added.

I knew she’s very good with such social events. She had been in hospitality business and have a reputation in event organizing industries.

“Alright, you can arrange a gala but make sure we don’t exceed the budget limit and no need of extravagance or it might backfire on us.” I gave her my approval with heavy heart because for last three years, Gemma was the one to arrange for my birthday party and other events in the pack.

“Great! I will send the invitation cards to all the packs who can be our possible allies and also decide for the theme.” She gleamed with excitement.

“Send invitation to Yellow Mist Pack as well. I want Apha Axel to come here and see how his enemy is growing.” I told her and a frown itched on her face.

“You want to invite your biggest enemy in the celebration of our happiness, Adonis, why?” She asked me.

“I believe in keeping my enemies close to me than my friends.” I replied with a smirk.

“He will probably reject our invitation. Come on, our bloody history isn’t hidden from anyone. We have lost so much in that battle including your father. He will mock at us.” She said and every single part of it was true.

“I want him to see that we’re still thriving despite their wicked intentions to destroy us. It will be a slap on his face because he’s the bastard who is the reason of my father’s death. Gamma saved him and left my father to die in the hands of those killers.” I said with so much bitterness.

“I am sorry, I can feel your pain. Don’t worry, I will take care of everything.” She said softly and left.

Never for once I opened her gifts that she picked for me with so much efforts. They are still lying in a corner of my closet, wrapped and dusted. She used to pay attention on minor details and made sure that I’d not be displeased nor my guests.

I never appreciated Gemma for her efforts. She used to do everything with enthusiasm, ignored people mocking her and often taunting her for being a trophy mate whom I only needed out of obligation but she focused on my happiness. She used to take care of my every single need without complaining. I can’t find my pair of socks. She used to arrange everything for me.

I feel like I was totally depended on her and she never complained even when I used to taunt her for being clingy, annoying and a weak woman who needs a man by her side. In fact, she never needed me. She was a trained warrior, a perfect wife, a Luna trained in her duties.

My coldness drifted her apart and forced her to follow a different path. She decided to find love and comfort in another man’s arms.

Bitterness and jealousy filled me. She never for once accepted her sins or tried to beg for forgiveness. She remained quiet and accepted my judgement. She never for once looked at me during the trial. I wanted to deny everything but when her own mother confirmed her sins, it broke something within me.

Without realizing, I had found comfort in my loveless bond. Gemma had marked an invisible presence in my life.  She used to be around me without giving me a chance to express my hatred for her. Every single day, she wished me 'good morning' and wished me 'good night' after after turn my back to her coldly.

A secret changed everything forever. I wish I could find her and ask her why she had done this.

A part of me knew that she was alive because my wolf is still anxious and I didn’t feel my mate bond dying or her mark disappearing.

Perhaps, she is still alive. All I need is to find her.