Chapter 6

Lillian’s POV.

“Alpha Dorian Valehart?” Shantel’s voice softened, staring at Dorian dreamily as he jerked her arm off.

Dorian left Shantel’s side and came to mine, his heady scent encompassing me. Immediately, I felt safe in his presence. 

Five years ago, after Dorian saved me from the bandits, I’d proposed a deal to improve his Pack’s economy to surpass his rival’s, Aaron. In exchange, he’d marry me in a marriage of convenience into Fangshade Pack. However, I hadn’t expected him to name me his Luna despite the Elders’ defiance. It all seemed like a dream to see someone stand up for you when no one would, just like Dorian did tonight.

Afterwards, he’d convinced everyone that we were mates. And in my wildest dreams, I imagined we were.

“Are you alright, Lillian?”

Dorian held me as I lost my footing. It almost felt like the walls were closing in. 

No. No. Not now.

Dorian sensed my panic attack and placed my head against his chest, placing his hand on the small of my back while I shrank in his arms.

“Do you hear that?” He asked. “That’s my heart beating. I want you to focus on that, Lillian. Can you do that for me?”

I found it difficult to process my thoughts. I’d always struggled with panic attacks since my parents’ death but it’d stopped over the years. However, Aaron’s betrayal had dug up old wounds and my condition worsened. 

I heard his faint heartbeat and focused on it, drowning out my noisy thoughts and hammering heartbeats.

“That’s it,” he coaxed gently. “Breathe for me.”

I melted in his embrace as my heartbeat slowly dropped to normal. My breathing stabilized and then, I recalled we’re still at the event with everyone watching. I felt embarrassed to have such an episode in public.

“Thank you.” 

That was Dorian’s cue to leave me, and he turned to Shantel, glaring daggers at her. If looks could kill, Shantel would’ve left the Honor Night in a bodybag.

The crowd slowly dispersed with hushed comments when a glass clinking came from the podium.

“It’s truly a wonderful evening, Ladies and Gentlemen.” The MC announced, his voice booming across the room. “Let’s make our way to our designated tables and prepare to meet Alpha King George Nightspire.”

Dorian led me to our seats while the Alpha King of Nightspire appeared and gave his speech before raising a toast.

“Cheers to Nightspire Honor Night!”

The evening moved slowly as they presented various awards to different Alphas and Healers and Elders. I glanced at Aaron’s table and saw nothing but Shantel constantly glaring daggers at me. Aaron hadn’t been nominated for any awards, nor anyone from Moonstone Pack.

“Now, saving the best for the last.” The MC smiled and my heart sank in anticipation. 

Dorian sat eerily calm beside me, his eyes betraying no emotion, though it felt like he was equally as tense. The room became silent with a mysterious curiosity. The most prestigious award was about to be presented.

"Congratulations to Alpha Dorian Valehart of Fangshade Pack on being awarded Alpha-Tycoon of the Year! His innovative leadership, economic growth, and commitment to sustainability have earned them this prestigious recognition.” An astounding applause thundered across the hall as Dorian rose to his feet. “Join me in celebrating his achievement!”

Dorian went to the podium to receive his award. I felt happy to know none of our toiling had gone to waste. Five years of working had paid off.

“In all honesty, I’m not as deserving of this award as you think,” Dorian said into the microphone. “Behind me, is a woman who wishes for nothing but a safe place for people to thrive in. A woman with a vast knowledge, competence and compassion. My Luna has been the only reason why this achievement is possible.”

Tears blurred my vision as I felt my wolf swell with pride and joy.

Dorian descended from the podium and took my hand in his, leading me back to the podium again. He handed the award to me and thrusted our hands into the air triumphantly.

“Lillian Darkfire,” Dorian announced curtly. “My Luna, my mate, and the woman who will be my undoing.” 

I didn’t miss the sincerity in his eyes. He had played his part perfectly, but still, it was difficult to tell if he was simply acting or not. Part of me wished he was, and the other part of me wished he meant it.

Tears of joy streamed down my face as the crowd continued to applaud.

“Only a fool would let you go, Lillian.” His eyes wandered to Aaron’s table briefly and I felt a sense of satisfaction. 

Aaron sat there, green with envy and red with shock and anger. He seemed so laughable. He must’ve been shocked. 

This is the beginning, Aaron Moonstone. I wish to take everything from you.

I pulled Dorian’s jacket gently, smoothing his collar. Dorian understood immediately, because he pulled me closer by the waist and jammed his lips on mine, kissing me with passion.

Time slowed to a crawl as Dorian’s lips captured mine. It wasn’t a simple peck, this was our celebration of success. From failed negotiations to wobbly alliances, bringing Fangshade Pack to the top hasn’t been easy, until we were able to break through, bringing in other Packs back to the negotiation table on our terms.

Fangshade Pack had what it takes to make semiconductors, but not the manpower. After years of trading with other Packs, I’d convinced Dorian to empty the Alpha treasury into refinements and mining of Silicon and Germanium. 

After other Alphas had learnt about Fangshade Pack’s new development, Dorian had different influential people who offered one deal or another in exchange for the semiconductors.

Everything faded into a blur as Dorian kissed me, the warm tang of blood dancing in his minty mouth as I realized one of us had drawn blood. I got lost in the moment, until a shattering sound brought me back. 

Aaron smashed a bottle of champagne and he gripped Shantel’s chin in what looked like fury. My skin pricked at the sight as he shoved his tongue down her throat, his other hand freely fumbling her.

I recoiled in disgust at the sight. Did Aaron really think this would hurt me? After he’d practically ripped my heart out five years ago?

I scoffed as his eyes met mine, and Dorian took me down the podium. 

“It’s a night of celebration, but most importantly, Nightspire Honor Night commemorates our triumph over the witches and forces of evil.” The MC’s gaze narrowed to Aaron’s table as he cleared his throat. “We ought to treat it as dignified as possible.”

Aaron froze and then turned to the podium. “You think I need History lesson? Why not give it to the slut who…”

Dorian almost sprinted over to Aaron but I had expected it, so it was easier to tackle him down. We didn’t have the luxury to make a scene. Dorian stared at me frustratingly but I calmed him down.

Let me. His eyes pleaded, but I couldn’t.

Let him run his mouth, his reputation will be ruined, and I have more elaborate plans for him. I couldn’t let him drag us with him when he falls. 

“Moonstone!” Alpha King George thundered. “I don’t believe your barbarity is genetic. Your father was a more dignified man than you’d ever be.”

Aaron’s face fell in disbelief at his words. 

He straightened his posture, his face turning grim once again as he walked out of the hall while Shantel followed.

I felt a strange satisfaction to see everything unfold. 

And an odd thrill coursed through my veins as I realized that I still had more plans for him.