ANMELDENIris’s POVKristian’s warning left Jade silent on the floor. The soldiers pulled her upright but kept her under guard, while her uncle asked the master of ceremonies to continue the banquet. The guests returned to their places slowly, still watching Kristian with new caution.Jade’s uncle carried the proposal folder onto the stage. “The regional medical partnership must still be decided tonight,” he announced. “Since its original creator is present, Dr. Iris will explain the plan.”Benjamin looked at me with sudden confidence. The proposal had come from Red Crescent’s archives, so he expected me to confirm its value and help him secure the partnership his pack desperately needed.His assumption was easy to read. He believed our past still gave him a claim over my work and loyalty. In his mind, leaving Red Crescent was a temporary rebellion. He expected me to repair the crisis he had created, then accept whatever place he offered afterward.I accepted the folder and took the stage. The
Iris’s POV“I once thought your betrayal was the worst thing you had ever done,” I said coldly. “But now I realize I was wrong. The most disappointing thing about you is that even after everything, you still choose to stand with someone like Jade and tear others down because you cannot accept the life I have now.”I glanced at Jade.“Looking back, I was truly blind to ever believe people like you were worthy of my trust.”Jade struggled against the soldiers holding her, anger flashing across her face.“You’re afraid because I’m telling the truth,” she shouted. “You acted helpless until Kristian protected you. Now you walk around as his Luna, pretending you already belong here.”Before I could answer, Kristian moved.His dark eyes turned crimson, and his pupils narrowed. A terrifying Alpha aura filled the hall, forcing weaker wolves to lower their heads.Nancy stirred inside me but did not take control. She recognized Kristian’s wolf and remained alert as I watched him approach.Jade’s
Iris’s POVJade stared at her uncle as though she had misunderstood. Red wine covered her face and dress, but he showed no concern for her humiliation. He placed the proposal folder down and walked toward Kristian.I thought he intended to confront him. Instead, the older man lowered himself onto one knee before the entire hall and bowed his head.Jade’s uncle addressed him respectfully. “Supreme Alpha, forgive my niece’s ignorance. She did not understand whose protection governed this banquet.”I knew Kristian was powerful, but I had never watched anyone kneel before. The room did not merely respect him; it answered to him. For the first time, I understood why Benjamin’s insults never unsettled Kristian. Benjamin had challenged someon
Iris’s POVMy fingers remained locked around Jade’s wrist. Nancy’s strength made holding her effortless, but I used only enough pressure to stop her. Kristian remained ready to shield me, yet I no longer needed anyone to take the blow.Jade tried to pull free and shouted, “Let go of me!” Her face reddened under everyone’s attention. I changed to a backhand grip and said, “You tried to hit me because you embarrassed yourself. Shouting will not make you look better.”I turned her wrist outward and released her. Jade pulled away too quickly, caught her heel against her dress, and nearly fell. Benjamin caught her around the waist. She clung to his jacket while several guests hid their smiles.Benjamin helped Jade stand and said
Iris’s POVWe should let her leave before she humiliates herself in front of the council.” Jade then turned to me and added, “Go home, Iris. These people are not impressed by an Omega wearing an expensive dress. Once Kristian becomes tired of showing you off, you will be alone again.”Nancy stirred inside me, but the anger I felt belonged to both of us. Since the lake, our connection had become clearer. I could feel her strength without losing control, and her steady presence stopped the old shame from returning. For the first time, I did not need anyone to speak for me or defend my place here tonight.I looked at Jade’s hand on Benjamin’s arm and said, “You seem very concerned about the men standing beside me. Perhaps you should pay more attention to the one you are holding.” Jade’s fingers tightened around Benjamin’s sleeve as she replied, “At least Benjamin is standing with a woman who understands his position. You threw away the chance to remain beside him, and now you are doing
Iris’s POVKristian kept his promise. He stayed beside me through every introduction, explained unfamiliar names, and never made me feel slow. Whenever the attention became too much, his hand covered mine and reminded me that I was not alone.Suddenly Jade blocked our path, she looked over my dress and said, “I almost did not recognize you, Iris. The organizers must have relaxed their standards if Omegas are now invited.” Her smile appeared friendly, but the disgust in her eyes made her intention clear. Kristian started to answer, but I touched his arm before replying, “You should speak to the organizers if their guest list concerns you. I did not invite myself.”Benjamin gave a quiet laugh and said, “You did not need to invite yourself. You only needed to arrive on the right man’s arm.” He looked at Kristian as he added, “I must admit that you chose more carefully this time.”The insult hurt less than Benjamin expected. Months earlier, I might have wondered what I had done to deserv
Aiden's POVHaven's shriek tore through the room like claws across glass, high-pitched and relentless. "We finally have the date set!" she squealed, spinning in front of the mirror like an overexcited pup. Her dress sparkled under the lights as she admired her reflection, completely absorbed in her
Rue’s POVMy lips curved into a short smile. “If I wanted your attention, Aiden, trust me—I’d have it. And I wouldn’t have to pretend to be anyone else to get it.” I’d just turned to leave when Aiden moved. His arm blocked my path before I could take another step.I stopped, my pulse quickening—no
Aiden’s POVIt’s been five years since Rue walked out of my life, since she disappeared with our daughter and took whatever remained of my soul with her. And still, the emptiness refuses to leave me.Time was supposed to numb it. Everyone said it would. That the sting of betrayal would dull, that g
Rue’s POV“There is a sickness spreading,” he said gravely. “A virus that preys on our kind. It weakens wolves, stripping them of strength, leaving them fevered, unable to shift. It makes us human.” He paused.“ Even the most skilled healers and witches are powerless. My team and I are trying to fi







