Chapter 2

Getting treatment funds from Chloe was harder than snatching a meal from a rabid Alpha's jaws.

"What wolf-spirit stabilizer costs two hundred thousand all at once? Luna, you're not just making an excuse to get some pocket money, are you?"

"Two hundred thousand is no small sum. Luna, could you please provide a detailed treatment plan before I apply the seal? For now, I'll have to reject this."

I explained to her that it was an emergency moonstone energy intervention and that a detailed plan could only be determined after my wolf had stabilized.

Chloe stroked her chin with fingers painted blood-red, feigning a sudden realization. "Oh, I see. My wolf is naturally strong, so I've never needed any of this treatment. I'm just not familiar with these things."

"However, the pack's financial approval procedures are extremely strict. These kinds of situations are easily exploited. How about this, Luna, you get the Moon Priestess to issue a certificate for emergency intervention, and then I'll approve it?"

Then she narrowed her eyes. "Then again, even the Moon Priestess could be bribed. I'm not doubting you, Luna, I just have a duty to protect the Alpha's reputation."

"Why don't you also attach the pack's medical regulations as proof?"

And just like that, Chloe delayed and delayed, until the most critical window for my wolf's healing had closed.

By the time I finally got the money, even the most brilliant healer in the pack could only shake his head in regret.

In that moment, endless hatred twisted with soul-tearing agony inside me.

I knew this was the end.

A suffocating weight settled in my chest. My wolf let out one last mournful cry from the depths of my consciousness, then dissipated completely.

This mate bond was no longer a sacred, life-saving connection, but a cage that imprisoned me.

Once I was clear on what I had to do next, a sudden lightness washed over me, as if the weight of the Alpha's dominance that had pressed on me for so many years had abruptly vanished.

So, when I came across Chloe's provocative post on the pack's internal network, I felt nothing.

The photo showed Logan, hand over hand, teaching her how to fight.

I was even calm enough to save a screenshot, then casually gave it a like.

When it came to Chloe, Logan's messages were always swift.

"Sienna, why are you liking random posts again? That was just training. Don't overthink it."

"You know you're the only one in my heart. Chloe is like my right hand. She's a sister to me."

He immediately sent another message:

"Since you've already liked it, unliking it now will just make you look petty. Everyone is watching."

"Be a good girl. Leave a comment praising Chloe. It's a chance to show your grace as Luna, and it helps me maintain my image. You're always so understanding, right?"

I wasn't going to bother responding.

But after thinking it over, I couldn't swallow the bitter resentment in my heart.

So I did as Logan asked.

"Secretary Chloe is indeed the best 'sister.' She not only helps the Alpha with his work but also with his personal life. Holding the Luna's seal, taking care of my Alpha... she's so dedicated. It must be so hard on her."

"Every penny you save the Alpha now will be your own to spend when you finally take my place. Then you won't have to live as a pauper, like me."

After replying, I tossed my phone aside.

And began to calmly pack my things.

My phone vibrated violently on the table. It was a voice message from Logan.

Since he couldn't reach me through the bond because my wolf was gone, he resorted to blowing up my phone.

When I hit play, his voice sounded laced with panic, "Sienna! What nonsense are you spouting? Was your account hacked?"

"Baby, stop messing around. Delete it, and let's talk properly..."

I powered off the phone, throwing it onto the couch.

The world was finally quiet.

Packing didn't take long.

After all, every valuable item belonging to the Luna in this mansion was locked securely away in a study with a high-grade password.

For all these years, I had been like an unwanted tenant in a house that was never truly mine.

Even my scent was just a faint layer left behind.

Only now did I finally see things clearly.