NATE'S POV "How could she do that? How could she fucking do that?!!" I screamed, flinging the glass cup in front of me so hard that it smashed against the wall and shattered into pieces. I landed a violent kick to my desk, sending it tumbling down to the ground. There was so much pent up rage in me, I had to let it out somehow. That fucking bitch. Oh, how I wanted Clara's head on a platter. I couldn't believe she did that to me. I couldn't let her get away with it. I just wouldn't. "Nate…" Isla called out to me, her voice shaky. She was standing at a corner of my office, trying to calm me down. But it proved usesless because I was irritated by the sight of her face. I wasn't in the mood to see anyone around me right now, least of all, Isla. She took a timid step toward me. "Nate, please just try to ca–" "Don't fucking tell me to calm down!! How do you expect me to calm down when that low life bitch is trying to humiliate me in front of the entire pack?! That bitch has g
CLARA “I heard you visited Breakstone Pack today.” I was leaning against the counter in the kitchen, sipping from a cup of chamomile tea and watching Edward quietly from over the rim of the ceramic. “And you also purchased the Al Blue News building?” Edward pressed on, his expression stoic and unreadable as always, the last words coming out as a question. Why couldn’t he just act human, even once? Would it actually kill him to show a bit of emotion? “Are you stalking me now?” I returned, wrapping my palms around the warm ceramic cup. He sighed, threading his fingers through his hair. “Stalking you?” He queried, his brows raised in incredulous curiosity. “I’m only looking out for you, Clara. And besides, we’re married to each other, so there shouldn’t be secrets between us.” At his words, I scoffed, setting down the cup on the countertop. “Secrets?” I asked, raising a brow, “That’s rich coming from someone who has his emotions bottled up and has refused to let me in on
EDWARD’S POV I lifted the wine glass to my lips and took a sip, letting out a tired groan. Jaxon, who was seated opposite me on the rooftop of the penthouse, cocked an eyebrow. “Is everything okay?” He asked, “You’ve sighed at least twenty times since we’ve been here.” I sighed again, looking away. “I’m fine, Jaxon.” The wind blew against my face, ruffling my hair, and I wasn’t comforted by it, as I usually would be. I was restless and troubled about this new development. And I just couldn’t understand why Clara had seemed slightly offended, disgusted and uncomfortable at the idea of intimacy. What was so wrong about it? Moreover, we used to like each other. Wasn’t that right? So, what was the problem? “I don’t think you’re fine,” Jaxon argued staring at me. “Because it’s been a while we sat together like this to have a drink, and we both know you mostly drink when you’re—” “I said nothing’s wrong,” I interrupted abruptly, and Arthur, who stood beside me with a b
CLARA I stepped into Edward’s room and shut the door behind me, the cold wind biting at my skin through the light red lingerie I wore. My legs and cleavage were on full display, and a wave of doubt crept in. What was I thinking, wearing this? Edward turned, a glass of wine in his hand, and my gaze instantly locked onto the undone buttons of his shirt. The sight of him like that, effortlessly handsome, sent my heart into a wild rhythm. My breath hitched as his eyes slowly traveled over my body. But just as our gazes met, he looked away. We were both nervous. I could feel the energy hanging very low in this room, and there was a good reason for it. This was the night we’d agreed on, for the natural conception. We’d have sex tonight. I couldn’t believe this was about to happen, because if anyone had told me back in high school that I would eventually have sex with Edward Sterling, and like this, I’d have called them mad. But here I was now, standing in his room, showered and per
CLARA I woke up the next morning, feeling completely exhausted, but for some reason, it was in a good way. Just as I noticed the throbbing ache between my legs, I realized I was lying on something hard and…comfortable. It was at that moment I realized I was still wrapped in Edward’s arms. I jolted up from his chest with my heart beating loudly, pushing him up in the process. He sat up on the bed, concern marring his beautiful features. “Hey,” He said softly, “Are you okay? Did something happen?” He looked around in slight panic, trying to find a reason for my sudden reaction. I grabbed the sheets, pulling them up to cover my nakedness as I suddenly realized I was fully exposed. “Nothing,” I mumbled, feeling heat rush to my face. I had slept off in his arms. Of course, it was unrealistic for me to have returned to my room last night. But waking up to him felt awkward. He sighed, pushing his fingers through his hair. “I thought something happened,” He exhaled in relief as he
CLARA’S POVI took small, conscious sips of my tea as I sat in the garden, the morning sun radiating off my skin and bathing me with a beautiful glow.I flexed my neck, feeling sore. My entire body ached but I tried not to think about why. My face flushed in embarrassment as I remembered the steamy night. I bit down on my lips to rear the memories back into my head.“Stoppp, thinking about him,” I whispered in a small voice, closing my eyes. But the memories wouldn’t just go awayA memory of his face as he was slipping his fingers in and out of me tormented me, and my body tingled with remembrance.I pressed my legs together, taking another sip as if it would help keep the thoughts away.At that moment, I felt a presence behind me, and I turned to see Lydia standing a few feet away. “Good day, Luna Clara,” She greeted with slight courtesy. And I acknowledged her greeting with a slight nod of my head, motioning her to take a seat on one of the chairs. “Do you have what I asked for?”
CLARA’S POVWhat exactly was going on?I watched in awe as maids wheeled in trays of food, lining them up on the massive table before me and Edward. He sat quietly, leaning against his chair, and the wind tousled his hair across his face. For some seconds, I just stared at him, hoping to understand what was happening from his expression. One moment he had been talking about how we needed to talk, and the next, maids were swarming the garden with food. I couldn’t see how talking had anything to do with a full-blown buffet or whatever this was. As soon as the meals were served, he dug in, while I watched him quietly. After a while, he lifted his head to look at me. “Why aren’t you eating?”I looked away, pushing a strand of hair behind my ears. “I had tea earlier,” I answered, “And I’m not exactly hungry.”“Oh, c’mon,” he pressed between mouthfuls, “You’re missing quite a feast here. You should try the chicken salad. I’m sure you’ll like it.”“I’m fine,” I declined, waving my hand i
CLARA’S POVMy heels clicked sharply against the tiled floor of Urban Style as I stepped into the fashion boutique, Lydia striding briskly behind me, a document and bag in hand.The moment I entered, all heads turned. Some gazes held admiration, others envy but whichever it was, I met them head-on with a knowing smile.I had chosen this Molly dress deliberately, a statement piece designed to command attention and turn every head when you walk into a room. The mirrored fabric caught the light with every step I took, and paired with my red-bottomed Louboutin, it was impossible to ignore.The dress was blindingly red. My lipstick, just as bold. Too flashy? Maybe. But I didn’t care.Once, someone had told me I’d never look good in high fashion. That bold colors and dramatic dresses would never suit me.Well, I was about to meet that someone in this store, in this damn dress, looking every bit as stunning as she said I never could.I came to a stop in the middle of the store, my gaze locki
Nate’s POVI glanced over at the ginger-haired woman with an average bump, my jaw ticking as I contemplated if she was the right fit for the job.No—if she could execute the plan the way to my satisfaction.I cleared my throat loudly, drawing her attention.“So,” I started, “let’s go over the plan one more time.”She nodded, turning to me.“First off,” I pulled up my sleeves, counting off on my fingers, “you barge into any news network and demand to have an interview. Now, why do we need an interview?” I spread my palms, “to expose me,” I added almost immediately, in response to my question, as I pointed at my chest.She nodded, following closely.“When an interview is granted,” I continued, “you’ll claim to be carrying my child, and I’ve been sending just $10,000 monthly, for support.”“Obviously,” I scoffed, “the amount is outrageous already, and people would think you’re just being selfish, but that’s not the point here.” “The point is,” I drew closer, “to show that I have a baby o
Clara’s POV Henry and I stared at each other for what felt like forever, my eyes burning with anger, his full of something else. Maybe surprise that I wanted to see him. Finally, he sighed, leaning back with a shrug. “Fine. I’ll tell you, since you’re so desperate to know.” I couldn’t help the small sigh of satisfaction that slipped from me as I leaned back in my seat, folding my arms. “I’m all ears.” “But first,” he said, smiling, “Why are you so covered up?” He raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. “Let me guess, you don’t want to be seen with me?” I shot him a glare, my lips pressing into a tight line. “That’s not important right now.” He shrugged again, biting back a laugh. He signaled the waitress, ordering an iced coffee and a bagel, then leaned forward, clasping his hands on the desk. I watched him, trying to decide if I could trust anything that came from the mouth of someone so… off. There was something unsettling about him with each se
CLARA’S POV A rush of adrenaline coursed through my veins. My eyes flew open, and I could feel something stirring deep inside me: a soft, steady thumping. Was that… my wolf? Lying against Edward’s chest, I lifted my fingers to my neck, gently caressing the bite mark. Then my hand drifted to my chest, pausing over my heart, feeling the pulse beneath my skin. Yes… that was truly my wolf. “Clara…” A faint, almost whispering voice called to me, and I jolted upright, clutching my chest as my heart hammered wildly. Was that her voice? Edward stirred beside me, his gaze sharp and cautious as he watched me. “Is everything okay?” I nodded shakily, rubbing my palms against my chest to steady myself. “Yeah, I… I think I just heard my wolf’s voice.” My words were breathless, disbelief still clinging to them. Edward’s eyes widened, and he quickly propped himself up. His hand gently covered mine, his touch warm and comforting. “And I think I can feel her too,” I added, my voice barely a
CLARA’S POV I leaned against the balcony railing, looking down at the patio below. For a brunch we’d thrown together just days ago, the turnout was incredible. Like Lydia suggested, I had to put myself out there before launching my company and the first step was this brunch for women in business. Lydia had sent out invitations and they’d shown up in numbers. More than I expected. More than I could have hoped for. I was impressed and grateful. And, if I was being honest, a little on edge. The patio was packed with at least two hundred women, maybe more, each one a business owner from different packs. Soft music drifted from the speakers, mingling with the low hum of conversation. On one side, rows of neatly arranged tables stretched out, white cloths draped over them, wine glasses catching the sunlight. The whole setup looked… perfect. I ran a hand over my dress, taking in the scene when Lydia’s voice suddenly cut through my thoughts. “Luna,” she said from behind me,
CLARA’S POV I leaned against the balcony railing, looking down at the patio below. For a brunch we’d thrown together just days ago, the turnout was incredible. Like Lydia suggested, I had to put myself out there before launching my company and the first step was this brunch for women in business. Lydia had sent out invitations and they’d shown up in numbers. More than I expected. More than I could have hoped for. I was impressed and grateful. And, if I was being honest, a little on edge. The patio was packed with at least two hundred women, maybe more, each one a business owner from different packs. Soft music drifted from the speakers, mingling with the low hum of conversation. On one side, rows of neatly arranged tables stretched out, white cloths draped over them, wine glasses catching the sunlight. The whole setup looked… perfect. I ran a hand over my dress, taking in the scene when Lydia’s voice suddenly cut through my thoughts. “Luna,” she said from behind me,
NATE’S POV I got home late, the weight of the day still hanging off my shoulders. Amanda’s arrival had gone smoother than I expected, and now it was time to deal with the loose ends. One, in particular, had overstayed her welcome. Isla. She was on the couch, curled up like she owned the place, watching TV and eating grapes. As if she wasn’t the biggest disappointment of the year. I didn’t wait for her to notice I was home. “You’re done,” I said flatly as soon as I entered. She looked up at me, confused for half a second. “What?” And then, like she suddenly remembered I was just coming back, she stood up, drawing close to me. “You’re late today. Work must have been stressful.” She moved to touch my face but I hit her hand away. “You’re leaving tonight.” I told her firmly, trying not to sound irritated as I felt. “You failed to do the one thing I kept you here for. You’re useless now.” She paused, as if trying to make sense of what I said. “Excuse me?” “You couldn’t
EDWARD’S POV Just as more emergency vehicles were pulling into the hospital wing of the Estate, I rushed in through the main entrance, feeling even more frustrated. I hurried into the wing, my eyes quickly catching the panic in the air. I looked around the hallways, filled with people groaning on both my left and right. Most of them were throwing up badly, dropping to their knees. It was complete chaos in here. I saw some doctors and nurses helping the poisoned victims who were too weak to move, guiding them into the wards. As I moved quickly through the hallways, I noticed almost every ward was packed full of sick people. This was horrible. What made it even more disturbing and upsetting was that most of the people vomiting so terribly were important figures in the territory—Alphas and Lunas of high ranks. I shook my head at the sight, my fingers curling into fists at my sides, wanting nothing more than to catch whoever was behind this. Even while I was worried ab
Nate’s POV “Henry Sterling, cousin to Edward Sterling, the Alpha of the territory, has just been arrested as the culprit behind the kidnap of Luna Clara, and the sabotaging events that had taken place these past few weeks.” I stared at the T.V screen, rage and agitation coursing through me, my eyes burning. “This happened earlier today,” the broadcaster continued, “after the culprit had moved into the estate and harassed the Luna, threatening to kill—“ I switched off the television, not wanting to hear any more of that. I let out a huge sigh, tapping my feet against the floor. What the hell was going on? I mean, generally, and with me… I couldn’t deny that I was scared, really scared, especially after this news I’d just seen. How come things kept going well for Edward and Clara? They had somehow discovered the person behind her kidnap, and I was scared now that they might catch up to me soon enough. My mind was not at ease, at all. Henry Sterling…so it had been him
Clara’s POV I stared down at the blood trickling down my thighs, my heart pounding. My eyes blurred, and tears began to fill them, making it hard to see. What was causing this blood? Why was I bleeding so suddenly? Where was it coming from? I slowly turned my gaze up to Edward’s face, seeing that he looked just as shocked and scared as I felt. His eyes widened as he took in the sight of my bloodied thighs and the soaked sheets beneath me. “Edward…” I whispered, my voice breaking as the weight of fear settled heavily in my chest. “Get the doctor!” Edward suddenly yelled, his voice sharp with panic. A guard rushed in, looking confused. “Alpha?” “Get the doctor, now!” Edward’s voice was desperate, and his panic spread across his face. He bolted to his feet, lifting me into his arms with a gentleness that didn’t match the urgency of the situation. Without hesitation, he carried me out of the room, half-sprinting down the hall to his own room. “Edward,” I whimpered, my ches