The Betrayed Werewolf Princess's Redemption

To keep our connection with the human world, the young of our werewolf pack are sent to live in human cities once they turn ten.

But we must return to the pack before we turn eighteen. If we don't, our identity as werewolves will be exposed, leading to unnecessary complications.

I broke that rule for Nigel.

I chose to stay by his side. In order to do that, I injected myself with suppressants to keep my true nature hidden. I accompanied him as he transformed from a penniless illegitimate son into a dominant force in the business world.

Not just because I loved him. But because he once saved my life.

I never imagined that the man who had risked his life for me would one day betray me.

I asked again, "Where were you?"

His grip on my hand tightened. "The rain was getting heavier. I went out to check on the situation."

We had known each other for over a decade. I could read him with a single glance.

He had a habit—whenever he lied, his pinky would bend slightly, moving subconsciously against whatever he was touching. Right now, it was brushing against my wrist in that familiar, telltale motion.

His excuse was flimsy at best. I saw through him instantly.

If he had only gone to check on the rain, then why was his jacket missing? Why was a button on his shirt gone? And why were there three glaring lipstick marks on his face, mocking me for my foolishness?

"Darling, this isn't the time to argue," he said. "The rain is getting heavier. If we don't get down the mountain soon, there might be a landslide."

Then he crouched down, motioning for me to climb onto his back. "Your body's weak. I'll carry you."

I was a werewolf. My body was strong—stronger than most humans.

But I had injected myself with suppressants to remain in the human world.

The drug prevented me from shifting under the full moon, but it had side effects. It weakened me, made me sickly. Sometimes, on full moon nights, I bled from every pore.

I took a deep breath. As furious as I was at Nigel's deception, I wasn't about to risk my life over it.

With him leading the way, we reached safety quickly.

The others who had made it down ahead of us let out a collective sigh of relief when they saw us. They rushed forward to check on our condition.

And in the middle of the crowd, I spotted that girl who looked eerily like me instantly.

She was clutching Nigel's jacket, her face filled with concern as she gazed at Nigel who was still shielding me in his arms.

Her name was Cassie—a new intern at our company. Nigel had noticed her because of her resemblance to me. And, finding her competent, he had kept her by his side as his assistant.

The rescue team arrived soon after. Nigel ushered me into the front seat of the ambulance.

"Elena, you go first. I need to check on the others who were injured. You know I have to. I'm the president of the company."

It was a perfect excuse.

If I hadn't overheard someone shouting that Cassie had fainted, I might have even praised him.

I smiled. "Alright. Go ahead. I wish you the best."

I didn't stop him.

As soon as he turned away, I pulled out my phone and typed a message to my father: [Dad, I want to go back to the pack. Can you come pick me up?]