"Luna, are you really going to renounce your Shadow Pack membership? Once your status is revoked, your mate bond with the Alpha will automatically be severed. Are you absolutely certain?"

My eyes gradually grew firm with resolve.

"Yes. I'm certain."

The Alpha Council staff member across from me couldn't hide their shock. Everyone in the pack knew how deeply the Alpha loved his Luna.

"Alright, the renunciation has been registered. It will take effect in ten days."

I nodded and turned away, dialing a number I hadn't called in five years.

"Tell Thunder pack Alpha, I'm coming home in ten days to inherit Winters Pack."

1

Everyone thought my mate Kieran, the Alpha of Blackwood pack, loved me so much that he was willing to give up everything for me. Only I knew that while he loved me, he also had an Omega mistress.

Without hesitation, I cancelled my Blackwood pack status and prepared to go back and inherit the Thunder pack.

Walking out of the Alpha Council building, I glanced up at the giant LED screen in the plaza. Kieran stood there in a tailored forest green suit, surrounded by reporters.

"Alpha Kieran hasn't attended charity auctions in years. What's so special about this one that it drew you here personally?"

Kieran casually brushed the hair from his forehead, smiling as he answered.

"I heard there's a set of green healing stones in tonight's auction. My mate loves green more than anything."

A reporter pressed further. "We've heard your pack elders are furious about you spending fortunes just to make your Luna smile. They've threatened to withdraw their support in the Alpha Council if you continue. Is this true?"

Kieran nodded without hesitation.

The reporter wouldn't let up. "Then why do you—"

Kieran cut him off. "Because my mate likes it."

Seven simple words that sent the girls in the plaza into a frenzy.

"He's defying his entire Alpha family just to make his Luna happy! God, why can't I find an Alpha who'd give me his whole heart like that?"

"Alpha Kieran truly loves his Luna. When she said she loved moonlight roses, he planted an entire rose garden with his own hands. When she said she loved nature, he moved the pack house closer to the Nightshade Forest. When she complained about noise, he ordered the patrol teams to drive away every chattering bird and insect."

I smiled as I listened, but tears began welling up without warning.

The rose garden stretched before me like a thousand blades piercing my heart.

Kieran and I had been college classmates.

Back then, the high and mighty Shadow Pack Alpha heir had countless beautiful, noble she-wolves chasing after him. But he fell for me at first sight—an ordinary she-wolf without a pack. His wolf recognized me as his one true mate the moment we met.

The wild, reckless Kieran completely changed. He stopped bar-hopping and dating different she-wolves every night. Instead, he threw himself into studying and training, determined to become strong enough to inherit Shadow Pack and refuse the arranged marriage his family planned.

The proud Alpha heir learned to cook and make soup for me. He learned to play violin, even though he hated it. He learned to wait outside the girls' dormitory, night after night.

On Valentine's Day, in the crowded campus courtyard, he dropped to one knee and begged me to give him a chance to take care of me.

But I rejected him.

The pain of being abandoned by my birth mother was too fresh. I couldn't risk giving my heart to anyone.

That day, everyone at the university saw Kieran sprawled on the campus road, crying and drinking, drinking and crying. Even the wind that night felt broken and desolate.

That summer, during a school research trip, I was attacked by rogue wolves.

In the chaos of battle, Kieran rushed to my side without regard for his own safety. When a massive rogue wolf struck me in the head and I collapsed, losing consciousness, he used his own body to shield me from a silver blade.

The blade pierced straight through his chest. He fell right in front of me.

A day and night later, I woke up in the hospital. The healer told me about Kieran's rescue with envy in her voice.

While unconscious, I had caught the faint scent of pine. That smell made me feel safe even in the midst of danger.

I cried, saying I wasn't worth it. Kieran's eyes reddened as he spoke each word clearly: "Aria, you never understood—in this world, no one but you could ever stop me from loving you."

In that noisy, chaotic hospital, all I could hear was my own thundering heartbeat.

I accepted his mark at the age of twenty-two, rejecting my Winters pack Alpha's request to inherit the Winters Pack.

I thought we'd be happy forever.

Until I turned twenty-nine, and Kieran started keeping our pack's healer, Scarlett, as his mistress.

My phone screen showed Scarlett's latest message:

"Want to make a bet? I bet Kieran won't bid on those green healing stones. He'll go for the red ones instead. Because I love red."

2

Staring at the message on my phone, my heart trembled violently.

Around me in the plaza, the excited girls continued gushing about how romantic their Alpha was. I stepped back, desperate to distance myself from their voices.

A bitter smile twisted my lips. The Alpha they called the most devoted was now giving all his romance to his mistress.

On the giant screen, the dazzling green healing stones were up for auction. The auctioneer's voice rose with excitement, describing how rare these stones were, trying to fuel the bidders' competitive spirits.

The girls in the plaza screamed with each bid. Kieran kept raising his paddle, pushing the price all the way up to fifty million dollars.

Finally, the gavel fell. The green healing stones sold for an unbelievable price—but not to Kieran. An anonymous Alpha had outbid him.

Kieran's funds had fallen short. He could only afford the second-place red healing stones instead.

It felt like a dull knife slowly cutting through my heart, tearing until blood flowed freely.

Scarlett's message flashed with shameless triumph: "See? I won again."

Almost immediately, Kieran's call came through.

"Baby, I'm so sorry. I couldn't get those green healing stones. I didn't expect the price to skyrocket like that. I don't have enough liquid funds... I panicked and accidentally bid on the red stones instead. I know you hate red, so I'll keep these for myself. Next time, I promise I'll buy you even better green healing stones."

On the giant screen, Kieran looked dejected as he left the auction, making the crowd feel sorry for him.

"Alpha shouldn't apologize! Luna already has the best Alpha in the world!"

I used every ounce of strength to keep my voice from shaking. "It's fine. I didn't really need them anyway."

I said it for Kieran to hear. I said it for myself to believe.

I crouched at the crossroads, hugging my shoulders as tears fell freely.

After a long moment, I stood and walked resolutely forward.

---

At home, a melted cake sat on the table. Today was my birthday. Kieran had promised to come home and eat cake with me.

I ate the ruined cake bite by bite while scrolling through social media.

Scarlett had posted on Facebook. The photo showed her in a barely-there nurse outfit, kneeling on a hospital bed. Around her neck hung the red healing stones Kieran had just bought for fifty million dollars.

Her caption read: "Thank you to my Alpha for the healing stones. Today I'm Alpha's personal healer. Alpha needs special treatment... and my injections are very big and very hard."

The blatant sexual innuendo burned my eyes.

I recognized the location immediately—the Blackwood family's private medical suite. Even though I'd already decided to leave, seeing this still brought tears to my eyes.

When Kieran came home and saw my red-rimmed eyes, he didn't even stop to remove his shoes. He rushed to me, gently touching the corners of my eyes.

"Aria, I'm damned. I promised I'd never make you cry again. I'm sorry."

"I was rushing home for your birthday when my old injury flared up. I had to stop at the hospital and that's why I missed your birthday. You can hit me, yell at me, anything—just please don't be sad anymore."

Kieran emphasized the words "old injury." I knew he was reminding me of the silver blade that pierced his chest protecting me from the rogue wolves years ago.

Those memories of his selfless love had become his weapon to make me forgive him.

I remembered one birthday when Kieran was away on pack business. He'd booked the earliest flight home, but it was delayed by fog with no departure time set.

Without hesitation, he'd shifted into his wolf form and ran for ten straight hours, crossing the most dangerous forests alone. He'd made it home at 11:59 PM to eat cake with me.

Now, the hospital was barely two kilometers away, but somehow it had become an impossible distance for him to cross.

I gave him a self-mocking smile. "It's okay. There's a birthday every year."

Kieran ruffled my hair. "Our eighth mating anniversary is in six months. I'll give you an unforgettable gift then. Every birthday and anniversary after this, I'll give you the very best."

I laughed bitterly inside. There would be no anniversary. No future.

But I said, "Okay."

Kieran relaxed, then swept me up in his arms. My eyes caught sight of fresh scratches covering his chest—angry red marks like claw marks.

He quickly pulled his shirt closed. "I fell earlier. Pretty ugly, right? Don't want to scare my Aria."

I smiled sweetly. "Make sure Dr. Scarlett cleans and disinfects those properly. You don't want scars."

The mention of Scarlett made something flicker in Kieran's eyes. I could practically see him remembering her claws raking down his skin, how she'd writhed beneath him like a wild cat.

His breathing grew heavy as he leaned down to kiss me, his lips demanding and possessive.

I turned my head away, struggling out of his grip. "Not tonight. My heat cycle started early."

Kieran nipped at my ear, his voice husky with want. "That's never stopped us before. Your scent drives my wolf crazy."

"I said no, Kieran." My voice was sharper than intended.

Kieran's jaw tightened, but he didn't push. Instead, he headed toward the bathroom. "I need a shower. Don't wait up."

As soon as the water started running, nausea hit me like a tidal wave. I rushed to the kitchen sink, dry-heaving until my stomach cramped.

I turned on the faucet and scrubbed my lips raw, trying to wash away the taste of his lies.

3

The next morning, Kieran dragged me to the pack's most luxurious hotel, claiming he was throwing me a makeup birthday party.

Within thirty minutes, the media was buzzing with the story. Shadow Pack's Alpha had spent one million dollars on a lavish celebration for his mate. Moonlight roses worth a thousand dollars each covered every surface of the hotel.

The Alpha had even commissioned the pack's witch to create a special healing elixir from century-old herbs—a miraculous potion that could cure any injury or illness. One injection would restore the body to perfect health.

By gifting this priceless elixir to his mate, the Alpha was giving her a second life, declaring to the world that Aria was his one and only love.

Kieran held me close, his eyes full of adoration as he whispered his apology. "Aria, I'm so sorry. I commissioned the witch six months ago, but even rushing, your gift was still a day late."

He carefully placed the ornate box containing the elixir in my hands, his gaze tender. "You're the love of my life. This potion is meant to save your life, but I hope you'll never need to use it."

The box gleamed under the lights, drawing envious stares from everyone present.

"I heard Alpha personally oversaw everything from harvesting the herbs to brewing the potion. A unique gift, a unique gesture, unique love—truly a 'true mate' bond."

"Remember when you doubted this relationship? You said Alpha was just infatuated, that they weren't suited for each other, that she'd get hurt? Look at them now—with real love, nothing else matters."

"I'm so jealous of Mrs. Blackwood. Having an Alpha whose world revolves around her. Unlike me—I spend every day dealing with my mate's mistresses."

Someone nudged her, nodding toward the entrance. "Speaking of mistresses, looks like one just walked in."

Everyone turned to look. Mrs. Blackwood smirked. "That one's not mine. My mate could never land someone that beautiful."

The crowd laughed, but no one noticed how pale I'd become.

Scarlett glided toward us in a slinky dress, completely ignoring me as she approached Kieran. She handed him a thermos container.

"Alpha, your old injury is acting up again. You haven't taken today's medicine yet. If you don't follow my treatment plan properly, there won't be a second healing elixir to save your life."

Her pointed words made Kieran freeze for several seconds before he awkwardly drained the container in one gulp.

Scarlett calmly took back the thermos. As she turned to leave, she made a show of adjusting her plunging neckline. The pack wives quickly noticed the ruby necklace at her throat.

"Oh, she's Shadow Pack's healer. But look at that ruby necklace—doesn't it look exactly like the healing stone Alpha Kieran bought at the auction?"

The speaker clapped a hand over her mouth too late. Everyone stared at Kieran and me in uncomfortable silence.

Scarlett smiled graciously. "Don't be silly. This is just a regular gemstone my boyfriend gave me. Nothing expensive—red is just my lucky color. I value the sentiment more than the cost. Though really, who could compete with Alpha's devotion? No gift compares to a life-saving elixir."

She paused at the door. "I won't keep you. I have a date tonight."

Kieran's voice carried clear displeasure. "Dr. White, in the future, please dress more appropriately when you come to see me. And don't comment on my relationship with my mate. You're not worthy."

His protective display quickly restored the party's cheerful atmosphere. But my heart had sunk to the ocean floor.

Standing close to Scarlett, I was the only one who could see the brilliant fire reflecting from the ruby at her throat.

My phone buzzed with new messages.

"He said this stone reminds him of my wolf's eyes. He was mesmerized the first time he saw them."

"I love it too. What about you, Luna?"

"The one and only life-saving elixir—want to bet whether there's really just one?"

4

My hands trembled as I gripped my phone. I looked up to find Kieran watching me with an apologetic expression.

"Aria, there's an emergency at the pack house. I need to handle it immediately. I'll have the driver come get you."

I shook my head. "I need to pick up a few things anyway. I'll get home on my own. Go handle your business."

Kieran pressed a gentle kiss to my lips before reluctantly leaving.

Around the corner, I watched in frozen horror as Kieran helped Scarlett into his car, lifting her effortlessly. Pain shot through my chest like I was suffocating. I gasped for air, fighting to regain control.

The crystal recording stone I'd hidden in his car projected images that made my world crumble.

Scarlett wrapped her arms around Kieran's neck, kissing his cheek hungrily. Kieran pulled over abruptly, his lips curving into a smirk.

"So impatient, aren't we?"

Scarlett stared into his eyes with complete devotion, one hand pressed against his chest, feeling his racing heartbeat. "Kieran, it seems your body is more honest than your mouth."

Kieran's Adam's apple bobbed as he captured her lips desperately, their tongues tangling like they wanted to devour each other.

Scarlett guided his hand under her dress. Kieran's eyes went dark with hunger.

The crystal shook violently. "Little wild cat, I'll give you everything."

I forced myself to watch every sickening second, finally understanding that the most painful expression is having no expression at all.

When the camera finally stopped shaking, the tearing pain in my chest became unbearable. I lurched toward a trash can and vomited.

On screen, Kieran stroked Scarlett's face tenderly.

"Was that enough?"

Scarlett smiled contentedly, curled against his chest. "What do you think?"

Kieran pushed her away, reaching for his clothes. "You performed well. I'll overlook your little stunt today. But if you ever approach Aria again, we're finished."

Scarlett's mouth opened in protest, but Kieran cut her off. "I love Aria. She's my bottom line. No one can touch her—not even you."

I laughed bitterly. He'd just finished rutting with another woman, and now he was declaring his love for me.

Kieran, oh Kieran. How can someone who betrays true love claim to know what love is?

Scarlett's eyes filled with tears, looking pitiful and broken.

Kieran reached out to wipe them away. "I gave you the first healing elixir as soon as it was ready. I dropped everything and came running the moment you texted. You have no reason to feel wronged."

So the elixir I'd received wasn't unique after all.

Scarlett nodded obediently, melting into his embrace. Kieran smiled indulgently. "Behave yourself. I need to delete the car's recording system."

I smiled grimly. Kieran had no idea that when I first discovered his affair, I'd planted a recording crystal inside his car's dashboard ornament.

The mall's display screens continued replaying footage of Alpha Kieran presenting the life-saving elixir to his mate. The burning sensation I'd barely contained erupted again.

I pulled the Luna pendant from my ring finger and dropped it into the nearest trash bin.

Kieran had crafted this necklace himself when he marked me, using the finest green healing stones.

A cleaning lady approached. "Miss, such a beautiful necklace—why throw it away?"

I turned back. "It's dirty. I don't want it anymore."

She called after me anxiously. "This necklace looks very expensive! Are you sure you don't want it?"

I shook my head. "Please donate it."

This time, I didn't look back.

5

At exactly 8:08 PM, I arrived at the rotating restaurant as planned.

Kieran said he wanted to have dinner with me to make it up to me. I agreed, after all, I had loved him for so many years, and I wanted to say goodbye to him properly.

Outside the window, a magnificent fireworks display began on the building across from us, painting the night sky in brilliant colors. The show lasted two full hours.

But the person who had asked me to dinner never came.

Kieran called. "Aria, I have an emergency at Winters Pack. I need to leave immediately—I can't make dinner. But I've already ordered all your favorite dishes. Take your time eating, and I promise I'll make it up to you when I get back."

The lights outside became blindingly harsh. I managed a single word in response: "Okay."

That "okay" came out with a slight sob, making Kieran's heart sink inexplicably. For a moment, he felt a strange panic.

But the woman lying seductively on the bed in front of him, her expression teasing and inviting, made it impossible for him to turn away.

I randomly opened my phone. Social media was flooded with posts about the spectacular light show.

"I heard some big shot wanted to make his girlfriend happy, so he booked the exterior screens of several buildings six months in advance and designed a custom light show just so his mate could see it on her birthday. So romantic!"

The most eye-catching post was from Scarlett's social media:

"Fireworks are fleeting, but love is eternal."

Scarlett's birthday was only one day after mine. My birthday had been celebrated with a lonely bowl of noodles, while hers got the entire city's grand celebration. Even the compensatory gestures meant for me were absent—all the supposed romance belonged to someone else.

I liked her post, using every muscle in my body to keep my tears from falling.

The restaurant was closing. A server asked if I needed anything else before the kitchen closed. I declined, paid the bill, and left, abandoning a table full of untouched delicacies.

The next day, I received a call from the Alpha Council. They confirmed once more whether I was certain about renouncing my Shadow Pack membership and severing my mate bond with the Alpha.

After I gave them a definitive yes, they fell silent for a long moment. "I've handled countless mate bond dissolutions, Miss Rivers. You're the most resolute I've ever encountered."

I smiled and hung up.

I had mated with Kieran because of love. Now that the love was gone, nothing else mattered.

I was determined to sever every connection between Kieran and myself completely.

---

That afternoon, he came home early to pick me up for his beta assistant's mating ceremony.

Seeing everything at home exactly as usual, with nothing missing and me behaving normally, he laughed at his own paranoia.

At the party, Kieran shielded me from unwanted drinks, worried I might be cold and thoughtfully brought me a shawl, and tirelessly fetched my favorite foods and beverages.

He introduced me to everyone like I was a priceless treasure.

Surrounded by guests, he spoke of love with such passion that he was certain I could feel his devotion.

Everyone joked that the beta's mating bond should follow the Alpha's example.

Kieran beamed. "Don't worry, Aria and I will definitely set a good example."

I laughed coldly inside. Between us, there was only separation ahead—how could we possibly be an example for anyone else's relationship?

When the party ended, Kieran's friends tried to drag him to continue the night elsewhere. Remembering how little time he'd spent with me lately, Kieran refused directly.

"I'd love to drink with you all, but I'd rather spend time with my mate."

Not wanting to spoil everyone's fun, I told Kieran, "Go ahead. You haven't hung out with your friends in ages. I can take a taxi home."

Kieran shook his head. "Nothing is more important than being with you."

He took my hand and led me out of the banquet hall, completely ignoring his friends' pleas behind us.

Halfway home, Kieran's phone rang. He connected his Bluetooth earpiece, so I couldn't hear the other side of the conversation.

I watched his expression turn dark in an instant. "Send me the address. Stall them—I'll be right there."

He made an emergency U-turn and pulled over sharply. "Adrian's been attacked by rogue wolves. The scene's too chaotic—I'm afraid you'll get hurt. Can you get home by yourself?"

He didn't even notice that my leg had been cut by silver fragments on the roadside. Before I could steady myself, Kieran gunned the engine and sped away. I had tried to lean against the car door for support, but when the car suddenly accelerated, I lost my balance and fell.

6

In our first year of marriage, Kieran drove me to and from work every single day. Even when his own pack business wasn't finished, he'd insist on taking me home first before returning to handle it.

I told him I could take a cab—he didn't need to carve time out of his schedule for me every day. Kieran would open the passenger door, one hand shielding the top of the frame while the other helped me in, always smiling.

"I want to be the one who opens every car door for you. I want to always be by your side."

The person who spoke those words had long forgotten them. Maybe it was time for the one who heard them to let go too.

I stood up and forced myself to walk forward.

Scarlett sent another message: "Nightshade Forest. There's a good show I'd like Luna to watch."

So it really was because of her.

A car approached from the distance. I waved it down, not noticing it wasn't a taxi.

I told the driver, "I'll pay you five thousand dollars. Please follow that car ahead."

The driver froze for a moment, then floored the accelerator. We arrived at almost the same time as Kieran.

Kieran parked at the edge of Nightshade Forest and rushed inside.

I followed close behind.

---

Kieran burst into a circle of werewolves surrounding Scarlett. He pulled her into his arms and kicked the lead wolf viciously. His own wolf was fighting to surface, his eyes flashing crimson with deadly intent.

"Which hand touched her? Where did you touch her?"

The man looked up. Kieran's face showed surprise.

I could see the man's face clearly too—Seth Williams, Seth Pack's Alpha and Kieran's sworn enemy.

Seth's pack members surged forward, showing no weakness. "Kieran Blackwood, you dare kick me? Are you trying to start a war between our packs?"

"She seduced me first, then attacked me with a silver blade for no reason. Now you're jumping out to defend her honor."

"This whole performance—do you think I'm easy to manipulate, or have things been too peaceful between our packs lately?"

Scarlett cried beautifully, tears streaming down her face. "Kieran, he tried to assault me first. I was only defending myself. I didn't know it would escalate this far."

Kieran's expression grew darker.

Seth leaned casually against a tree, completely relaxed. Winters Pack's Alpha had been emphasizing peaceful development for years, leaving him no chance for real combat. Now he could finally use this to pressure Kieran, and he was enjoying every second.

"Kieran, you heard her. If you want to protect her, you owe me satisfaction!"

Kieran asked with forced patience, "What kind of satisfaction do you want?"

Seth sneered, raising his left hand with unmistakable provocation in his eyes.

"My hand was cut by her silver dagger. What do you think?"

Kieran turned to Adrian. "Cover her eyes."

Before anyone could react, Kieran grabbed the silver dagger and plunged it into his own left hand. Blood immediately pooled on the forest floor.

"Is this satisfaction enough?"

Scarlett flew to his side, trembling hands trying to stop the bleeding.

"Kieran, how could you be so foolish? I need to get you to a hospital."

Kieran stroked her hair gently. "Don't be afraid. I'm here."

I stood in the distance, wanting to flee but feeling like my feet were weighted with lead.

In a daze, I seemed to see the Kieran from years ago.

Back then, I'd been attacked by rogue wolves on my way home. Kieran fought four rogues alone, getting beaten bloody while keeping me completely unharmed beneath his protection.

I would never forget the stars in Kieran's eyes when he looked at me then: "Don't cry, silly girl. Taking wounds for the one you love is the ultimate romance—a man's badge of honor."

The man before me was just as gentle, but now it was for another woman.

Seth stood up, clapping slowly.

"Kieran Blackwood, they say heroes fall for beautiful women. You'd sacrifice a hand for this little thing? How touching."

"But your hero-rescues-beauty routine seems awfully practiced. Did you trick your Luna into mating with you the same way?"

"I wonder what your devastatingly beautiful Luna would think if she knew how you protect this little bitch."

I'd never liked watching him get hurt. I knew his fighting style—Alpha fought to win at any cost, destroying enemies even if it meant destroying himself. I thought it was too dangerous and unnecessary.

For my sake, Kieran had indeed stopped participating in frontline combat, focusing more on strategy. But in battles requiring his personal involvement, he'd still lose himself in the fight and forget about self-preservation.

When I discovered this, I was furious. Kieran looked at me with complete sincerity, explaining that charging into battle was an iron rule drilled into him since childhood. Without upholding it, he couldn't maintain the pack's strongest position. He couldn't change.

He promised repeatedly that he'd absolutely put his own safety first, admitting he'd still occasionally get absorbed in evenly-matched fights.

Now, after all my years of努力 trying to make Alpha value his body and protect himself, Scarlett had easily made him self-harm.

Kieran's pale face was full of rage, his eyes holding a viciousness I'd never seen before. "If Aria hears even one word about tonight, Seth Williams, you'd better prepare for my revenge. You know I mean what I say!"

Seth left angrily, spitting out, "Lunatic!" as he called his people to leave for the hospital.

I hid nearby, watching Kieran's group depart.

Adrian walked beside him, frustrated. "I told you to come with us, but you insisted on going home to your Luna. If you hadn't left, how would Seth dare be so arrogant? He wouldn't dare touch our people."

Kieran's voice was emotionless. "He was targeting me from the start. You were just an excuse. But we should keep a lower profile in the future."

So all his friends knew about his relationship with Scarlett. Only I had been the fool, deceived by the whole world's lies.

---

Leaving Nightshade Forest, a sudden downpour began. I didn't hesitate—I walked straight into the storm.

I used my purse to shield my hair, walking home step by step.

Just like that rainy night years ago when I walked out of the orphanage alone. That time, I was walking toward a new life. This time, I was walking toward an ending.

No one knew that a car had been following me until I reached the pack house and went inside. Only then did it turn on its headlights and slowly drive away, disappearing at the end of the road.

After returning home, I began shivering uncontrollably. I took some cold medicine and went to bed.

When Kieran came home and found me flushed with fever and shaking all over, he immediately rushed me to the hospital.

In my delirium, I felt the sharp prick of an IV needle, cold liquid flowing continuously into my body. After tossing and turning for a long time, I finally fell into deep sleep.

Kieran sat by my bedside without moving, barely daring to breathe for fear of waking me.

The door opened softly. Scarlett entered with medical supplies, telling the Alpha, "You should rest. I'll watch over her."

Kieran didn't look up. "No need. I want to stay with her. I want her to see me the moment she opens her eyes."

Scarlett slid her hand inside Kieran's shirt, her warm breath playing around his ear. "Kieran, Luna's medication contains sedatives. She's in deep sleep now—she won't wake up until tomorrow."

"You could rest first. Don't you trust me to watch over her? Or maybe you want me to sleep with you? Right here in the hospital, right next to Luna—the ultimate thrill. Don't you want to try?"

Kieran's voice was obviously strained. "Aria's still running a fever, and my hand isn't convenient. You should leave..."

But Scarlett wouldn't relent. She grabbed his tie and leaned down to kiss him.

"It doesn't matter if you're not convenient. I'll do all the work."

Kieran tried to push her away with his good hand, but she pressed closer, straddling his lap. His voice grew husky. "Are you sure Aria won't wake up?"

The next second, he took control, gripping Scarlett's neck firmly and kissing her dominantly.

His voice became dreamy as he lifted her and walked toward the door.

Scarlett laughed softly. "Not staying with Luna anymore?"

7

The carpet muffled their dragging footsteps as they left. Low moans and heavy breathing intertwined, adding a touch of forbidden desire to the silent night.

After they were gone, I lay in the hospital bed clutching the recording crystal, torturing myself by watching the images it captured. Since discovering Kieran's betrayal, I'd planted these crystals in every corner where he spent time.

Kieran would never know that Scarlett's claim about sedatives was just casual talk—or maybe she actually hoped I'd be awake to witness it all.

After what felt like hours, Scarlett returned to my room. She injected me with something, whispering softly, "Don't blame me. Blame yourself for getting pregnant with Alpha's child at such an inconvenient time."

---

The next day, I woke from searing pain. Kieran still sat beside my bed, his eyes bloodshot from staying awake all night.

Scarlett's face was full of smiles. "Alpha Blackwood, Luna's fever has broken. You should get some rest—after all, you worked so hard all night."

She emphasized the word "worked," making it sound incredibly suggestive.

Kieran glared at her, then turned to me with concern. "Are you feeling better? How did you suddenly get so sick? I shouldn't have let you go home alone."

I weakly pulled my hand away from his grip, frowning. "Dirty."

Kieran's heart seemed to skip a beat. Inexplicable panic rose within him, his bandaged hand hovering awkwardly in the air.

I smiled faintly. "I sweated so much all night. I feel sticky all over. I want to shower and change clothes first."

Kieran visibly relaxed.

When I came out of the shower, Scarlett was nowhere to be seen.

Kieran approached to take my hand, noticing how I stared at his bandaged fingers with evasive eyes.

"I got caught in the crossfire while breaking up that fight last night. The doctor says it's nothing serious, though my fingers won't regain full dexterity. But it won't affect daily life, so you don't need to worry about me too much."

I kept a straight face. "Really? Who did it? I should thank them for showing mercy and not completely crippling your hand."

Kieran smiled evasively. "It was too chaotic—I couldn't see clearly. Let's go get something to eat first."

As soon as I sat at the breakfast table, Kieran produced two fashion show tickets like a magician, his eyes full of adoration. "Are you happy? I'll go with you tomorrow night. You can buy anything you like."

I remembered casually complimenting some new designs in a fashion magazine a few days ago. That must have been when Kieran took note.

I didn't refuse. No woman could resist seeing this designer's new collection in person. Beautiful things always lift the spirit.

---

At the fashion show, models paraded down the runway in a stunning visual feast. At the end, the designer announced they would randomly select one lucky audience member to receive the finale piece as a gift.

Amid thunderous applause, the spotlight landed directly on me.

I jumped up in excitement at being chosen. Kieran watched me with complete adoration, smiling broadly.

His Aria was still like a little sun.

As the closing music played, the camera found me again. On the big screen, I appeared makeup-free but radiant with joy.

Kieran's heart lurched, his mind going blank for a moment. He moved to embrace me in panic, but I turned to hug another audience member beside me instead. Seeing the other excited spectators, Kieran exhaled in relief.

Only I knew I was using smiles to mask my inner turmoil and dying love.

The next day, news of Kieran spending millions on designer clothes for me hit the trending topics.

Kieran smiled slightly. "I saw you liked Dr. White's social media post that day. I knew your birthday left you unhappy, so I specially prepared this surprise."

"My Aria should always be the one others envy."

Yes, I didn't need to envy anyone else. The surprises were mine, and so was the man.

Online comments poured in: "That's a top luxury new collection! Our Alpha Kieran wins this round!"

"I heard it cost over ten million dollars."

"The pack's number one wife-spoiling fanatic has to be Alpha Kieran."

An furious Scarlett sent me a photo—an ultrasound image.

"Aria, I'm pregnant. Kieran's baby. You're the first person I wanted to share this news with, besides myself."

"Alpha doesn't love you at all. Why won't you just let go? The pack's next generation is already growing in my belly. If you're smart, you'll leave on your own. Waiting for Alpha to ask you himself would be too humiliating, don't you think?"

I screenshotted her message and replied, "Isn't being a homewrecker humiliating enough?" Then I blocked her.

I began packing my belongings, erasing my traces from this house bit by bit, while also clearing away Kieran's traces from my life.

That day, I received a call from a broker. "Miss Rivers, the green healing stones have been placed in the bank safety deposit box you specified. The buyer doesn't want payment—just said to remember you owe him a favor."

I never liked owing favors, especially when I was about to leave. "Please pay him anyway. I'm leaving soon and won't be able to return the favor."

Kieran burst through the door, his expression dark. "Aria, who are you talking to? What do you mean you're leaving?"

8

My breath caught. "Oh, I was discussing a TV show plot with a friend. The female lead is leaving."

Kieran relaxed. "Another one of your billionaire-falls-for-Cinderella storylines?"

I nodded.

Kieran ruffled my hair. "Aria, those shows are just fantasy for naive viewers."

"In reality, how could anyone actually run away? If you tried to escape, the Blackwood pack has the resources to track you down all over the world."

"So my Aria could never run away. No matter where you go, even to the ends of the earth, I'll always find you."

I laughed coldly inside. So this is your confidence?

If only you knew my escape route lay with the Winters Pack.

"You haven't been cruel to me, so why would I run?"

Kieran's expression shifted slightly, a strange emptiness flickering in his eyes. He wrapped his arms around me from behind, resting his chin on my shoulder.

"Aria, how could I bear to hurt you? You never know how much I love you."

His breath was warm against my ear as his voice grew husky. "Aria, you've been too tense lately. You need to relax."

I pushed him away. "Your old injury flared up recently, and now your hand is hurt. You need rest more than I do. With everything that's happened, how can I relax?"

"I know." He sighed. "It's all my fault. But I still want you to live more freely."

"Let's give each other some space. Sometimes I need freedom, and so do you."

Freedom? I stared at the barely concealed bite marks on his collar and said nothing.

The doorbell rang. Mrs. Jones announced that the styling team had arrived for Luna's important event preparation.

I looked at Kieran questioningly. He explained, "There's an important banquet coming up. The Winters Pack is publicly introducing their daughter, Evelyn Winters, for the first time."

"The Winters pack is currently the strongest—their military and financial power far exceed all others. They're unavoidable for any pack wanting to grow stronger. Better to be well-prepared."

I feigned surprise. "I see. Then I should prepare carefully." I let the stylists coordinate jewelry and accessories, design my makeup and hair.

I tried on outfit after outfit, seriously asking for his opinion.

"How about this one?"

"Beautiful." Kieran barely glanced up from his phone, his eyes clearly distracted when he looked at me.

I knew he was texting Scarlett. That eternally gentle, obedient healer who never said no to him.

"Pack business?" I asked considerately.

"Aria, there's a problem with a contract. I need to go handle it."

I gently straightened his collar. "Alright, go take care of it."

Kieran kissed my cheek. "I'll be back as soon as I'm done."

At the entrance, I called out to him. "Speaking of contracts, I have an important one that needs your signature. It's gone through the Wolf Council approval process and should be in your inbox. Remember to check it and sign it quickly."

Kieran agreed readily. I raised my voice slightly.

"It's very important. You must review it personally—don't let your assistant handle it."

Kieran nodded his agreement.

"Kieran, goodbye."

Kieran's breathing hitched. He sensed something was wrong but couldn't pinpoint what, looking at my gentle expression with confusion.

After hesitating for several seconds, he still chose to leave.

---

Around the corner from our villa, Kieran's face darkened as he pushed away Scarlett, who was trying to throw herself into his arms.

"Stop testing my limits! I told you—I don't come to you, you don't appear uninvited!"

Scarlett's eyes instantly reddened. "Kieran, I'm pregnant. Three months along. I just wanted to tell you this wonderful news in person..."

Kieran's grim expression brightened with joy as he pulled Scarlett into his embrace.

"I'm going to be a father?"

Scarlett nodded.

Kieran seemed to remember something, his expression growing serious. "I'll take responsibility for you and the child. But I'm telling you upfront—don't dance in front of Aria, and don't try to compete with her."

"I won't deprive you of anything you should have. After all, this is my first child."

Scarlett nodded obediently, taking the chance to whisper in his ear. "The baby's ultrasound photos are at my place. Want to see them? I also have my latest photoshoot—you'll definitely love it."

Kieran's Adam's apple bobbed. The next second, he was lifting Scarlett into the car.

The engine roared to life, and the car sped away...

---

I turned and went back inside, printing out all the messages Scarlett had sent me over the past few days. I placed them in a package along with the recording from the night I had my fever and the signed mate bond dissolution agreement. I left the package in the most visible spot in the living room.

Taking my new phone and the green healing stones I'd just acquired, I got into a car from Winters Pack.

The summer sun scattered like golden fragments, brilliant and beautiful.

Everything in sight was lush and alive.

But in this world, there was no longer an Aria Rivers.