ORTEGA:Jenna, my dear sister, stares at my mate in disbelief, her hand connecting with his cheek in a sharp slap. "You're her mate?" she demands, her voice tinged with shock and anger.Internally, I scoff at her reaction, sensing her regret over her previous encounters with my mate. "Hmm… As if she’s so regretful about having slept with my mate," I think to myself."How long have you known, Killian?" Jenna hisses, her eyes narrowing in accusation. "How long have you known that you're her mate?"Killian remains calm, his gaze unwavering as he responds, "I've known since my birthday five years ago."His demeanor is cold and distant, a stark contrast to the sweet, caring boy I once knew. It's hard to reconcile this ruthless werewolf with the boy I grew up with, the one I secretly loved for years. I feel as though my years of affection have been betrayed.“You’ve known since five years and you didn’t tell me?“ Jenna exclaimed in shock.“I didn’t want to ruin our relationship, so I didn’t

Ortega’s POV CONTINUED:It takes me hours before I finally manage to stop crying. I didn’t know one person could feel so much before today. My parents wanted to have a big birthday dinner with my sister and me to celebrate my coming of age, but I wasn't up for it. I wasn't sure I could control myself right now, not with my emotions running at an all-time high thanks to my impending shift tonight. I just might rip her damn slutty head off, so I sent them a quick text letting them know I wouldn’t be able to make it. They were disappointed, of course, and tried to talk me into coming, but they would get over it. I forced myself into the shower and turned on the water as hot as I could stand it. I relished the feeling of the warm water as it trickled down over my body. I could feel my tense, tired, and sore muscles relaxing as it seeped its way deep into my pores. I may not be able to stand the thought of my traitorous mate right now, but I still had a lot to look forward to. I still ha

Ortega's POV:Alpha Blake and his son, Killian, linger for over an hour at our place before bidding their farewells. Relief washes over me as I watch them depart. Mum and Jenna ascend the stairs after clearing the dishes, leaving Dad and me alone in the living room."Ortega, I have something to share with you," Dad's voice pulls me from my thoughts, and I turn my attention to him."What is it, Dad?" I inquire, curiosity piqued."Your mum and I want to give you a birthday present," he reveals, sparking my interest further."And what might that be?" I ask, a smile tugging at my lips."We're still deciding," Dad admits. "But what do you want for your birthday?""Hmm... I'm not sure," I admit."Fair enough. Take your time to think about it. When you've decided, just let me know," Dad says, rising from his seat."Okay, Dad. Thanks," I reply, returning his smile.{THREE WEEKS AFTER}"Good evening," I begin, my voice steady as I introduce myself to the receptionist. "My name is Ortega Blackwo

Ortega’s POV:As my eyes slowly flutter open, the room comes into focus, and I find myself greeted by the sight of a luxurious chandelier above me. A groan escapes my lips as I attempt to sit up, feeling disoriented and weak."Hey, take it easy," a familiar voice soothes, and I turn to see Alfredo approaching with a cup in hand. He places the cup on the bedside table before helping me sit upright on the bed. I glance around the room, trying to piece together what happened, and the memories come flooding back – the feeling of betrayal, the pain, and then darkness."Here, have this," Alfredo offers, extending the cup to me. I accept it gratefully, recognizing the aroma of black coffee, my favorite."Thank you," I murmur, taking a sip and savoring the familiar taste."How long was I out?" I inquire, curious about the duration of my unconsciousness."About thirty minutes or so," Alfredo replies, rubbing his chin thoughtfully."Really?" I ask, surprised by the relatively short time I was u