Chapter 8: When Fire Replaces Tears

Aleksandra’s POV (Lexy’s POV changed to Aleksandra’s POV from this chapter onwards)

I sat outside my favourite small café, waiting for my sister, Samantha. It wasn’t fancy, but it was cozy, with soft cushioned chairs, the comforting smell of fresh coffee, and food so delicious. The weather was perfect, blue sky, not a single cloud in sight, and my mood mirrored it.

This past year had been tough, but Samantha and my friend from art school, Arabella, had been my anchors, my biggest support and motivation.

I spotted Samantha walking towards me, looking stunning in her yellow sundress, moving with her usual grace. She enveloped me in a warm hug before sitting down. “Hi, sis! How are you doing?”

I grinned from ear to ear. “My painting just sold for 10k! Arabella took it to a charity auction to raise money for the local orphanage.”

“That’s marvellous news!” Samantha exclaimed. “We should celebrate!”

I beamed with joy. “Actually, yes, Samy. Let’s celebrate. It’s been such a rough year—balancing my studies at art school, waitressing at the café to make ends meet, and still trying to paint. But now I feel proud that my work is finally getting recognition.”

I suddenly remembered those days right after I left the pack—when I was drowning in heartbreak over Leo, pouring all my pain into my paintings. I would paint through the night, my eyes blurred with tears, every brushstroke a cry I couldn’t voice. Somehow, through all that darkness, I kept going. And now… I’m finally starting to see the results.

Samantha smirked. “Yes, Alex Rossi. I even saw an article about you in Elysian Vogue. But no photos of you? Is there any reason?”

The waitress came over, and we ordered champagne with finger foods. “My heart has only just started to mend. I’m not ready to face Leo. I feel that the wound is still fresh,” I sighed and let out a small giggle. “Some people think Alex Rossi is a guy, so even better. I’m not ready to reveal my real identity yet.”

“Sounds fair. What about that yummy guy, Peter? How are things going with him?”

I blushed. I’d met Peter at an art exhibition two months ago, and we clicked instantly—we shared a love for art, cooking, and had the same taste in books and music. At first, I had doubts. I still wasn’t fully over Leo, and Peter’s similar appearance—blond locks, piercing blue eyes, and a muscular build—didn’t exactly help. But his charm, wits, and energy melted my walls, and I decided to give dating him a try. “All good. We’re taking things slow,” I replied.

“How slow? Did he pop your cherry yet?” Samantha asked curiously, making me choke on my water.

“Samantha!” I gave her a stern look, which only made her laugh.

“Not yet. What about you? What’s new on your side?” I asked, eager to change the topic.

“I’m still looking for my mate. I have big hopes for the Spring Ball gathering. Many unmated wolves from different packs will be there. Will you attend?”

“No way. I’ve had enough of werewolf power-hungry drama. Honestly, I’m happy Peter is human and have no idea about the shifters world,” I replied, just as our drinks and food arrived.

Samantha raised her glass. “Cheers to my sister, the talented painter, brave and strong girl. I’m proud of you, Alex.”

I sipped my drink, feeling truly happy for the first time in a long while. I hadn’t achieved all my dreams yet, but I was moving in the right direction.

Then, out of nowhere, a glass of water splashed across my face. Standing in front of me was a furious brunette.

“Slut!” she shouted. “Don’t look so surprised. Did you think I’d let you steal my husband?”

To say I was shocked would be an understatement. Samantha was already on her feet, ready to pounce on her.

“Rebecca! Where are you, honey?” a male voice called out.

I curiously turned toward the sound. A figure appeared behind the brunette.

And the world tilted.