Dante's POV We all gathered in the conference room. I was relieved that Jasmine had finally found her mate, but shocked that it was Beta Luis. Given he belonged to a different pack, the realization hit me: Jasmine would have to leave with him, a reality I wasn't prepared to embrace just yet. Things would have been much easier if Rashaad had been her mate. Jealousy emanated from him in palpable waves as he occupied the seat beside me. On my other side sat Angel, precisely where the future Luna belonged. Across the table, Jasmine, accompanied by Jalen and Luis, held Luis's hand and gazed at him affectionately. The sight tightened my insides with a sense of disgust. Uncertainty gripped me as I pondered their unexpected presence; it couldn't be for anything positive. The only prior unannounced visit was during the attack on their pack. "Alpha Jalen, what's happening?" I inquired. "One of your wolves entered my territory about an hour ago. Initially, I assumed he had your authoriza

Angel’s POV"Is it normal that I can't shift? My wolf says there's some kind of mental block that was only lifted once when I was angry and lost control." I asked Jalen, a tinge of frustration and confusion evident in my voice.He stroked his goatee thoughtfully. "Hmm, interesting. It makes sense to assume that the block will also be removed after you are marked."Everything was starting to click now. The only way I could unlock my true strength was by sealing the mate bond with Dante. Not only would it make me stronger, but it would also enhance his abilities, so it was a win-win for both of us, right?"It's hard to believe that your Alpha was so distracted, and he hasn't even claimed you yet. A wolf as powerful as you should've been marked immediately. You hold incredible potential, Angelique, potential that could be harnessed for the benefit of our alliance."He looked at me with admiration; a look I haven't received in a long time. "I-I can?" I breathed, a glimmer of hope breakin

Dante’s POVBefore first period even started, I made the impulsive decision to skip the rest of the day. I wasn't even sure why I went to school in the first place; I wasn't in the mood for shit. Oh yeah, to confront my stubborn mate, I reminded myself bitterly, the memory of our tense encounter still fresh in my mind.As the bell rang signaling the end of first period, I wasted no time in leaving. The deserted hallway provided a welcome solitude, and while the absence of others didn't particularly matter, I simply had no desire to be bothered.As I made my way to the entrance, I found my mom outside of her office, leaning against the door. Her arms were folded, and a scowl adorned her features."Dante, are we skipping school today?" she questioned, her tone firm but tinged with concern."Yeah, Mom, I just need a break from the whole mate thing," I admitted quietly, feeling a weight lift off my shoulders with the confession.She pursed her lips, her expression softening slightly. "I

Dante's POVAngel remained silent as I drove back to the packhouse. I felt her gaze on me for a fleeting moment before she turned her attention back to the passing scenery outside. The air between us felt heavy with unspoken tension, and I couldn't help but notice how awkward things were between us now. This wasn't how having a mate was supposed to feel. Even the simple, flirtatious exchanges we had shared when we first met seemed distant now, replaced by palpable unease. I couldn't help but wonder what she was thinking...how she was feeling. I knew that she wasn't in her right mind after everything that had happened lately. Shit, I wasn't either. She simply wanted some control over her life, and while I understood why, I didn't want marking my mate to be reduced to some kind of arrangement. Being with Peach today was...uncomplicated. Yes, she desired the title of Luna, but she was also willing to offer me love and affection, which was all I craved. Date nights, tickle fights, nigh

Angel's POVMy heart sunk like a stone as I gaped down at my wounded mate. He had four huge slashes across his chest that were starting to bleed profusely, drenching his shirt. Glancing around the room, I realized that everyone's horrified expressions matched my own, as if we were all wearing masks. Kira's guilt-filled whimpers were quickly replaced with a low growl as she zeroed in on Peach, who was cradled against Dante's chest. "Oh my Goddess, are you okay?" Her slutty hand on his chest only fueled the fire blazing throughout my being.Kira's rage simmered dangerously, her possessive instincts urging her to tear her throat out...to watch the life fade from her eyes. How dare she try to steal our mate? How could he be so blind? He had called this bitch his "friend". She was only trying to gain his trust so she could fuck her way into securing the Luna title.Before we could hurt anyone else, I made the split-second decision to flee from the house. The sun had retired for the day,