When I had only three months left to live after taking the cursed blade meant for my husband Lucian, his first love Lily returned.

When I endured the pain and prepared a dinner to commemorate our anniversary, he did not come back, he was having a steamy car session with Lily.

When I went to the hospital alone to buy medicine, he was accompanying Lili for her pregnancy check-up.

I pretended not to have noticed, I just silently played the role of a perfect wife, and wrote him four letters as a gift for our anniversary.

After I die, he saw the gifts I left behind and went completely insane.

His First Love Come Back

When I had only three months left to live after taking the cursed blade meant for my husband Lucian, his first love Lily returned.

When I endured the pain and prepared a dinner to commemorate our anniversary, he did not come back, he was having a steamy car session with Lily.

When I went to the hospital alone to buy medicine, he was accompanying Lili for her pregnancy check-up.

I pretended not to have noticed, I just silently played the role of a perfect wife, and wrote him four letters as a gift for our anniversary.

After I die, he saw the gifts I left behind and went completely insane.

------------------

(Scarlett’s POV)

"I'm sorry, Luna Scarlett..." Dr. Kane's voice was hoarse with emotion. "You only have three months left. The heart failure is irreversible."

With his words, the last glimmer of hope in my heart died. Five years ago, to save my mate Lucian, my heart had been stabbed with a dagger. Now the old wound was acting up, causing my heart to fail.

Over the past year, I'd visited every renowned healer and witch I could find. None of them had a solution.

After leaving the clinic, I took out my phone and looked at the photo of Lucian and me on the background. My fingers traced his smile before I turned off the screen.

I returned to the packhouse and immersed myself in preparing for our 5th anniversary dinner in the kitchen.

Each dish was a memory - herb-crusted venison from our first hunt together, moon-blessed mushrooms from the night he proposed, blood wine sauce that took me weeks to perfect because it was his favorite.

My hands trembled as I set the table, imagining how he would react when he saw everything. He would hold me tight, I was sure. But should I tell him about my condition?

My phone buzzed just as I finished setting the table. Lily's name flashed across the screen like a curse.

"Missing your precious mate? Don't bother waiting up. He's with me now - his TRUE love. It's almost pathetic how quickly he came running when I called. Tell me, substitute Luna, how does it feel knowing he'd rather spend your anniversary with me than his duty-bound mate?"

Lily came back. She was the Shadow Pack Alpha's daughter and Lucian's first love.

Five years ago, when Lucian was imprisoned by the Shadow Pack, he had fallen for her. I still remembered begging Lily to help save Lucian. Her response had been ice-cold:

"A prisoner?" She'd sneered. "I don't associate with weak wolves. Tell Lucian it's over - I'm mating with James tomorrow."

In the end, I had used every ounce of strength to rescue Lucian from the Shadow Pack. He went on to become our pack's most powerful Alpha, and I became his Luna. He promised he would love only me for the rest of his life.

I tightly clenched my fist until my palms bled, fresh droplets staining the pristine tablecloth. I couldn't believe he would abandon our fifth anniversary for Lily.

I dialed Lucian's number with trembling fingers.

One ring. Two. Three. Four-

"My love?" His voice was breathless, distracted. In the background, I heard female laughter.

"Will you..." My voice caught. "Will you be home soon? Dinner's ready, and I thought since it's our anniversary-"

"Gods, I'm sorry, but there's an urgent pack matter. I'll be late."

"Lucian, please-"

"I know, I know. I'll make it up to you. I have to go."

The line went dead, leaving me alone with our cooling dinner and shattered dreams.

The TV played in the background - footage from that night five years ago. Lucian knelt before the entire pack, holding the legendary "Heart of the Storm" ring. A billion-dollar moonstone that took him months to have crafted.

"Scarlett," his voice rang with such conviction then, "you're my salvation, my heart, my everything. Be my Luna. Let me spend eternity proving that every breath I take is for you alone."

I touched the "Heart of the Storm" ring on my finger, feeling its familiar warmth as it pulsed with healing magic.

For five years, this ring had kept me alive after the injury I sustained saving Lucian. He'd sought out the most powerful witch to enchant it, ensuring it would continuously heal my body.

I touched the ring on my finger and felt the healing magic that it was continuously delivering.

But now even its powerful magic couldn't stop my heart from pain.

The TV switched to an interview with Sarah, my closest friend in the pack:

"Their love story is legendary! Luna Scarlett has loved Alpha Lucian since childhood. When he was captured by the Shadow Pack, she infiltrated enemy territory alone - an omega with no wolf, risking everything to save him. She nearly died! And then she helped him become the most powerful Alpha we've ever had. They're perfect together!"

Perfect. Right.

The memories of that fateful rescue flooded back. I was eighteen, devastated by my failure to awaken a wolf, when news came that Lucian had been captured. Despite being an omega without a wolf, I couldn't just let him die.

After Lily coldly refused to help, I infiltrated the Shadow Pack alone. Without a wolf's enhanced senses or strength, it was almost impossible. But my love for Lucian gave me courage.

I found him in their dungeons, broken and bleeding. The Shadow Alpha stood over him, silver dagger raised to strike Lucian's heart.

Without thinking, I threw myself between them, blocked the dagger that was meant for him..

Because I had no wolf, I couldn't heal naturally. The curse from that dagger nearly killed me then. And now, it was finally claiming its price – I only had three months left to live.

Bitterness and hatred filled my heart.

I had given him everything – my love, my life, my future. And now he was abandoning me on our anniversary for the Shadow Alpha's daughter, the same woman who had once betrayed him.

Would they live happily ever after once I was gone?

My fingers clenched into fists, fresh blood dripping onto the pristine tablecloth.

No. I wouldn't tell him about my failing heart. I'm going to let him catch up with me when he finds out.

Why should I give my life for him and he get to spend the rest of his life happily with another woman, it's not fair.

Since he betrayed our vows, I'm going to get back at him, at him and this bitch, so that he'll never be able to have any joy or happiness for the rest of his life, so that he'll live in pain forever.

A Perfect Luna's Mask

Scarlett’s POV:

At 9:30 PM, the den door finally opened. Lucian walked in, reeking of Lily's rose perfume, his collar stained with her signature red lipstick.

"I'm so sorry about dinner," guilt laced his voice even as Lily's scent clung to his skin. "The pack matter-"

"Took longer than expected?" My smile felt like broken glass. "It's fine. Sit. Eat. The food's cold, but then again, so is everything else these days."

He sat awkwardly, guilt radiating from him as he picked at the cold food. I watched him, memorizing every feature of the man I'd loved for eighteen years.

"The venison..." he tried weakly. "It's perfect. Just like always."

I pushed my plate away, unable to stomach another bite of our lies. "You look tired, my Alpha. You should rest."

Relief flooded his face at the escape offer. "Are you sure? We could still-"

"Another time." My voice was soft, final. "Go sleep."

He hesitated for a moment before nodding. As he stood, he came around the table and pressed a kiss to my forehead. "I'll make it up to you, I promise. We'll celebrate properly this weekend."

I forced myself to smile, knowing there might not be many weekends left for us. "Of course. Goodnight, my love."

I watched him disappear up the stairs before letting my smile fall. Right now, there was something more important I needed to do.

In the quiet of Lucian's study, I sat at his massive oak desk, pulling out a sheet of cream-colored stationery. The desk lamp cast a warm glow over the paper as I picked up my pen.

"My beloved Lucian,"

"On our wedding anniversary, I discovered that my heart is failing. The curse I took to save you has finally won. Dr. Kane says I have three months at most."

My hand trembled slightly as I began to write down the first letter.A tear crossed my cheek, staining the ink.

The morning sun hadn't yet risen when I started ironing Lucian's suit. My hands moved carefully over the fabric, smoothing each wrinkle with practiced care. The black veins beneath my skin pulsed with every movement, but I ignored the pain.

"Scarlett?" Lucian's voice startled me. He stood in the doorway, hair tousled from sleep. "Why are you up so early?"

"Your council meeting is at nine." I focused on the suit sleeve, pressing it perfectly straight. "I wanted to make sure everything was ready."

He walked over, wrapping his arms around my waist from behind. His touch still made my heart race, even as it was dying. "Mary can do this now. You don't have to-"

"I want to." I turned in his arms, meeting his eyes. "I iron your clothes by hand, just as I've always held you. Remember when you had one suit for all pack meetings? I ironed it every night so you'd look perfect the next day."

His expression softened at the memory. "Back when we barely had anything."

"But we had each other." I smoothed my hands over his chest, just as I'd done with the suit. "That was enough."

He pulled me closer, nuzzling my neck. "You've always taken such good care of me."

"And I always will." 'For the next three months, at least.'

He kissed my lips, his hands caressing my waist, back, and hips. On so many previous mornings, we had embraced sweetly like this, until he almost ended up being late. But today, after I discovered his affair with Lili, I didn't know why he was still being so intimate with me. My heart suddenly ached. I gently pushed him away, "Okay, any more kissing and you'll be late."

"My perfect Luna." He released me and kissed my forehead. "But really, let Mary handle these things. I'm not that struggling wolf anymore. I'm the Alpha now."

Something in his tone made my chest tighten, but I smiled. "At least let me make your lunch? I'm trying a new moonberry sauce recipe."

His eyes lit up. "You spoil me."

In the kitchen, I carefully packed his favorite blood-rare venison sandwiches. Each ingredient was chosen with care, each detail perfect. Just like the mask I now wore around him.

"This smells amazing." Lucian appeared in his freshly pressed suit, looking every inch the powerful Alpha. "The other wolves will be jealous."

I suddenly remembered the past, when I was 14 and Lucian was 17, I was the one who made the most delicious venison sandwiches in the whole pack. Whenever they had to go on long-distance training, I would make the sandwiches for him to take with him, and the other warriors were all envious of him.

"Lucian is so lucky, he's the only one who can eat Scarlett's sandwiches." Back then, I was the daughter of a beta, the most dazzling young lady in the Storm Pack, and a girl who was adored by everyone. No one would have thought that I didn't have a wolf of my own.

"What are you thinking about, Scarlett?" Lucien asked curiously, and I suddenly snapped out of my reverie. "Nothing, darling," I concealed my emotions.

"Have a good day, my Alpha." I handed him the lunch package, standing on tiptoe to kiss his cheek.

He caught me in another embrace. "What did I do to deserve you?"

'Nothing. And everything.'

"Go. You'll be late."I held his back and walked him out the door.

After walking for a while, I found a stack of council documents on his desk. Looking at the time, these documents should need his signature before noon.

"Mary," I called out loudly to our omega servant.

"Yes, Luna, is there anything I can do for you." Mary quickly ran over.

"Lucian dropped some documents, could you please take them to his office for me?" I handed the documents to her. As Mary was about to turn around, I changed my mind, "Hold on, give them to me instead, I'll take them to him." My intuition made me change my mind, I felt something was drawing me to go to Pack Hall.

The morning air was crisp as I walked through the territory. Wolves nodded respectfully as I passed, but I caught their whispers.

"An omega Luna with no wolf..."

"The Alpha deserves better..."

"I heard that Lily from the Shadow Pack has arrived..."

I pretended not to have heard anything and walked past them.The pack hall bustled with activity. Lucian's office door was partially open, voices drifting out.

"These sandwiches are incredible." Lily's voice made me freeze. "But Scarlett made them for you..."

"It's just lunch." Lucian's casual dismissal felt like a silver blade to my heart. "If you like them, I'll have her make them every day for you."

"You're too good to me, Lucian." The sound of her using his name so intimately made me flinch.

"Alpha's got excellent taste!" Beta Jack's loud voice joined in. "Lily's from the noblest Shadow Pack bloodline. Now that's a proper mate for our leader."

"Unlike our current Luna," Gamma Liam added with a snicker. "What kind of Luna has no wolf? It's embarrassing."

"Remember when she tried to join the pack hunt?" Jack laughed. "Couldn't even keep up. Had to have Alpha carry her back."

"At least she's good at domestic tasks," Liam said. "Like a well-trained omega servant."

Lily heard their words and smiled smugly, but said "You shouldn't say that, Lucian will be upset."

I waited for Lucian to defend me. To remind them how I'd saved his life, helped him become Alpha, stood by him when everyone else abandoned him.

But he just remained silent.

The documents slipped from my trembling hands, but I caught them before they hit the floor. Silent tears fell as I listened to them continue.

"You're too kind, Lucian." Lily's voice dripped with false modesty. "But really, what does Scarlett even contribute to the pack? She can't hunt, can't fight, can't even shift."

"She's good at making lunch," Jack joked, and they all laughed.Including Lucian.

I clutched the documents to my chest. The curse's black magic pulsed through my veins, matching the rhythm of my breaking heart.

My phone buzzed with Lucian's message:

"I'm sorry, little Lottie, but I'm going to be late tonight, and I've got some important things to take care of in the pack. I love you."

I typde him an "ok" back.

"Did you tell her you weren't coming home today?" Lily asked." Of course baby, I've promised to spend the day with you" Lucien's adorable address ripped my heart out.

So that's what he meant by "important". My heart felt like it had been stabbed again, my chest was tight and every breath was torture.

Lily's petulant giggle entered my ears along with her breath, once Lucian had told me that I was the most important thing to him, now he had something even more important.

My heart seemed to be held in my hands and clutched hard, blood instantly rushed into my brain, the suffocating feeling made my eyes go black, and before I collapsed, the last thing that came into my eyes was Lucien's shiny leather shoes that I had polished.

Sell the Wedding Ring

Scarlett’s POV:

"Scarlett!" Lucian's voice cut through the haze. "Someone get the pack doctor!"

Strong arms lifted me. Even through the pain, I could smell Lily's perfume on his shirt. The scent made my stomach turn.

"She's burning up," I heard him say. "Her heart's racing too fast."

The curse pulsed beneath my skin, feeding on my pain, growing stronger with each betrayal.

I woke to white walls and the sharp smell of antiseptic. Lucian sat beside my bed in the pack's medical wing, his face etched with what looked like genuine concern as he held my hand.

"You scared me," he whispered, brushing hair from my face. "What were you doing outside my office?"

"The council documents," I managed. "You forgot them at home."

His thumb traced circles on my palm. "You should have sent Mary. You're not well."

"I..." I hesitated, then decided to test him. "I thought I saw Lily earlier, in the pack hall?"

His hand stiffened for just a heartbeat. "She's visiting. You know how it is - she's from the Shadow Pack's noble line. We need to maintain good relations."

"Of course." I turned away, unable to bear his lies. "Diplomatic relations are important."

"Scarlett, look at me." He cupped my face, forcing me to meet his eyes. "You're my Luna, my mate. I could never lose you. Don't you know that?"

The words might have meant something yesterday. Before I'd heard him laugh at my weaknesses.

His phone buzzed. Something flashed across his face as he read the message.

"You need food," he said quickly. "I'll go back and have Mary bring you something to eat. Rest, my love."

He stood up immediately and I took his hand just in time.

"Can you stay with me a little longer, honey, I'm not hungry yet." I took his hand in mine and pleaded in a low voice for him not to go.

He hesitantly sat down again and took my hand in his, "Then you'll have to talk to me when you're hungry, little Lottie."

But I clearly sensed that he was distracted, and just then his cell phone rang again and he checked it quickly, this time without hesitation.

"Lottie, I just remembered, there's another paper in the office that I need to sign, and then I'll be back with dinner for you. Wait for me to get back, honey."

He asked me perfunctorily about my forehead and left quickly.

The moment he left, I pulled out the IV. My legs shook as I stood, but determination drove me forward. I'll go back and have Mary bring you something to eat. I followed their mingled scents into the woods behind the medical wing.

The physical exertion left my chest burning. My vision kept fading in and out, and my stomach was cramping. But when I saw the scene in front of me, I felt nauseous and like I was going to vomit.

Lucian embraced the naked Lily, leaning her against an ancient oak tree. Lily wrapped her legs around his waist and her arms around him. Lucian thrust into her body forcefully, and Lily let out broken moans, making bile rise in my throat.

"My powerful Alpha," Lily purred. "Such a hero, rushing to save me the moment I called."

"Who told you to send me your nude photos?" Lucien said, pounding hard, "Didn't you want me to f""k you?"

"What about your perfect Luna?" Lily's laugh was cruel. "The pack can't stop praising her domestic talents.I wonder how skilled she is in bed?"

"Stop talking about Scarlett all the time and focus." Lucien was obviously more addicted to her flesh, his large hands rubbing her breasts as he slammed into her harder. His lips nibbled at her shoulder.

"Well, don't mention her, baby, I know you're just political, ex-Beta Alexander's daughter, she's very useful to you, isn't she? Oh, Lucian, be gentle. You're hurting me."

"Who told you to still talk about Scarlett, she's my perfect Luna, the best woman in the world." Lucien continued to lick and nibble at her shoulder boobs, causing Lily to moan and moan.

My mind flashed back to four years ago. Thomas, a visiting Alpha's son, had mocked me at a pack gathering.

"What kind of wolf can't even shift?" he'd sneered. "You're not fit to be Luna."

Lucian had nearly killed him, roaring that I was worth a hundred wolves. That my heart held more strength than any shifter.

Now he rutted against another woman, reducing our bond to mere convenience.

"I was jealous, you were so good to her and she loved you so much," Lily said with false sympathy. "Following you around like a lost pup, cooking and cleaning..."

"She has to be good at something, doesn't she? Can't hunt, can't fight, can't even shift. At least she's useful in the kitchen.Come on baby, turn your back to me.How do you think I compare to your ex-husband?"

"Of course, you are more powerful, my alpha." Their lewd laughter shattered the last glimmer of hope in my heart.

I stumbled back to the pack house , fury building with each step. For eighteen years I'd loved him. For five years I'd been his mate. I'd taken a death curse for him, helped him become Alpha, dedicated every breath to his happiness.

And he'd thrown it all away for his "true love."He let her insult my dignity.

In my study, I pulled out my finest paper. My hands shook with rage as I began writing the second letter.

"You want to see me as nothing but a convenient stepping stone?" I thought as I wrote. "I'll show you exactly what you're losing."

Each word was carefully chosen to cut deep when he finally read it. When I finished, I placed it in an ornate gift box alongside the first letter.

The billion-dollar ring on my finger caught the light. Lucian had it crafted by the most powerful shamans, infused with healing magic that had probably kept me alive these past five years.

"Your health is my priority," he'd said when he slipped it on my finger. "This will protect you always."

I didn't need his protection anymore. I didn't want it.

The auction house owner gasped when I placed the ring on his desk. "Luna Scarlett! This is the legendary Heart of the Storm ring! The healing magic alone..."

"List it immediately," I cut him off. "Starting bid is ten million dollars."

Let him see how little his "protection" meant to me now.

I left the auction house and returned to the pack house, I thought Lucien wouldn't come home today. Unexpectedly, after dinner, while I was tidying up my clothes, he suddenly barged in, "Scarlett?" Lucien shouted my name loudly, making me turn around. He was standing at the door, pale-faced and shaken. "Why...why did you leave the hospital so early?"

"I feel much better, so I was discharged. I don't like the cold feeling of the treatment center." I replied calmly, looking him in the eye.

"Well... Well..." his tone was hesitant, "Why did you want to sell the Heart of the Storm ring?"

Masks and Wedding Dresses

Scarlett’s POV:

Lucian's question about the ring hung in the air between us. I stared at him, mind racing for an explanation that wouldn't reveal how much I knew.

"Scarlett?" His voice grew worried at my silence. "Talk to me, my love."

I lowered my eyes, letting him draw his own conclusions. It worked.

"It's because Lily's back, isn't it?" He ran his fingers through his hair in frustration. "You're feeling insecure."

"If only you knew what I saw in those woods," I thought bitterly.

"I understand she's from a noble bloodline," I said softly. "It's natural for people to compare us."

"There's nothing to compare." He pulled me into his arms. The same arms that had held Lily just hours ago. "You're my Luna.And she's just past tense, five years ago that is."

The next morning, he arrived at breakfast looking triumphant. A familiar box sat beside my plate.

"Open it," he urged, eyes bright with pride.

Inside lay the Heart of the Storm ring, its enchanted moonstone gleaming.

"I couldn't let anyone else have it," he explained, lifting it from the box. "Paid ten million over the asking price to make sure of it."

He took my hand, sliding the ring back onto my finger. Immediately, I felt its healing magic pulse through my veins, fighting against the curse's darkness.

"There," he said softly. "Where it belongs. You need this ring, my love. It keeps you strong."

I stared at the ring, remembering how he'd commissioned it specially, working with the most powerful shamans to infuse it with protective magic.

"I've been thinking," he continued, pulling me closer. "Scarlett, I thought about it all night last night, I owe you so much.We never had a proper wedding ceremony. I was just becoming Alpha then, the pack was unstable..."

I tensed in his embrace, the memory of him with Lily still fresh in my mind.

"You deserved better than a quick mating ritual," he said, misinterpreting my reaction. "Let me give you the ceremony you should have had. We'll go try on wedding dresses today."

The exclusive bridal boutique catered only to high-ranking pack members. The owner herself greeted us, bowing deeply.

"Luna Scarlett! Alpha Lucian! What an honor!"

"My mate deserves the finest," Lucian declared. "Show us everything."

Dress after dress was brought out. Silks, laces, enchanted fabrics that shimmed like moonlight. Each one more beautiful than the last.

But they all shared the same fatal flaw.

"Perhaps something with a higher back?" I suggested, trying to keep my voice steady as another backless gown revealed my scar.

The huge mark stretched from my shoulder to my hip, twisted and dark - a permanent reminder of the source of the pain I now suffered.

That day, after I had pounced on Lucian and deflected the fatal blow for him with my back, the cursed silver dagger plunged into my chest, but ShadowPack's Alpha didn't stop there, as he scratched more wounds into my back, forming a gruesome pattern.

"Poor little omega, since you're so heartbroken about this man, it's up to you to take the pain for him. "

That day, my blood stained the floor of my cell.

I remembered the old days and looked in the mirror.

"Is nothing suitable?" the attendant asked nervously after the tenth dress.

I caught my reflection - the gown was stunning from the front, a masterpiece of white silk and silver threading. But the open back displayed every inch of ruined flesh.

"The scar...It's ugly, isn't it?" I whispered, fingers tracing it through the fabric.

"Of course not. My brave Luna," Lucian murmured, appearing behind me. His arms wrapped around my waist."This is the wound you suffered for me, a beautiful medal, a pain I will never forget."

His scent surrounds me, and every pore on my body is screaming to push him away, but I couldn't. Not if I wanted to maintain this facade until my plan was complete.

"We'll have one custom made," he declared. "Price is no object. The most expensive, the most beautiful - worthy of my perfect mate."

His phone buzzed. I glimpsed Lily's name on the screen before he quickly turned it face-down.

"You're too good to me," I said softly, the lies burning my throat. "Lucian, I love you so much."

He kissed my temple, and I forced myself to lean into it. "Anything for you, my love."

We then selected the custom-made style of the wedding dress - fully covered at the back, made of moonlight satin, with a diamond-inlaid pattern of the moon on it. Lucien said this represents that I am his eternal Luna.

Looking at Lucian's serious and tender eyes as he said those words should have been the happiest moment of our lives, but at this point I just felt the irony of being so divided by the man in front of me. I didn't understand how he could sleep with Lily while being so tender and caring to me. Tears of heartbreak involuntarily welled up in my eyes.

Looking at my tears, Lucien's hands were busy getting tissues for me to wipe my tears, while gently holding my shoulders and comforting me by saying that he wasn't going to go to the office today, and that he was going to stay with me for the whole day.

I wiped away my tears, "It's okay Lucian, I just feel so happy. "I looked at him tenderly, knowing in my heart that he couldn't be with me all day.

Sure enough, his cell phone rang twice more while we waited for Tommy, the driver, to pick it up. "That's okay, Lucian dear, if something's wrong, you go ahead and get busy." I knew who it was, but I kept up my thoughtful and gentle image and looked at him with understanding eyes.

"Scarlett..." He hesitated, guilt flickering across his face. "There's an emergency at the pack hall. I need to handle it."

"Of course." I smiled encouragingly, playing my part perfectly. "Go. I can get home myself."

Precisely at that moment, the driver Tommy arrived, and Lucian looked apologetically at me, "I've asked Tommy to take you home."

"No need, I can go back by myself. "I waved my hand.

"No, your body is not yet fully recovered, let him take you back, I will feel more at ease."

Lucien's concerned gaze, and the person in the forest yesterday, seemed to be two different people.

I compromised, "Okay, I'll go back then. " After that I was ready to get in the car.

He quickly kissed me, then helped me open and close the car door like a gentleman. As we waved goodbye and he became smaller in the rearview mirror, I calmly told Tommy, "Turn around at the intersection from that road, I need to go to Pack Hall."

"But Luna, Alpha told me to take you home." From the rearview mirror, I saw Tommy's puzzled gaze.

"Alpha asked me to help him deliver a file." I lied casually.

My reasons were impeccable, and Tommy had no choice but to listen to me. He turned around in front and headed back, and I had him stop by the side of the road at Pack Hall.

Sure enough, five minutes later, I saw Lily's figure. She was wearing a deep V-neck red dress and swaying her hips as she walked through the big door.

Unwrap Your Gift

Scarlett's POV:

I couldn't help myself. Even though I knew it would break my heart again, I followed Lily's swaying figure as she entered Pack Hall.

Her red dress clung to her curves, deliberately chosen to catch attention. My hands clenched into fists as I followed her at a distance.

The clicking of her heels echoed through the corridor as she approached Lucian's office. Without even knocking, she pushed the door open, leaving it slightly ajar. I pressed myself against the wall beside the door, my heart pounding.

"Miss me already, my powerful Alpha?" Lily's voice dripped with honey. "I brought you a special surprise...Guess what color my underwear is today?"

My stomach is churning again, I feel so nauseous, I want to vomit.

"Lily..." Lucian's voice held a warning tone, but I could hear the desire underneath. "Someone might see us."

"Let them see." The sound of rustling fabric. "Honey, don't you want to unwrap your gift?"

My chest tightened as the curse's black magic pulsed beneath my skin. I should leave. I shouldn't torture myself like this. But my feet refused to move.

"We need to be more careful," Lucian said, his voice rough. "The council meeting is in an hour."

Lily's laugh was like broken glass. "Always so responsible. Tell me something, my Alpha... who's better in bed - me or your precious Luna?"

The silence that followed made my heart stop. When Lucian finally spoke, his voice was cold and stern.

"Don't ever compare yourself to Scarlett," he growled. "You're not worthy to speak her name."

For a moment, hope fluttered in my chest like a wounded bird. But Lily just laughed again.

"Oh really?" Fabric rustled again. "If you care about her so much, why do you keep coming back to me? Why do you moan my name when you're inside me?"

"Lily..." His voice was strained now. "Stop..."

"Stop what?" Her voice turned sultry. "Stop reminding you how much you want me? Stop doing this?"

Lily's voice was suddenly interrupted, and the sound of a file hitting the ground came from inside, and Lily scolded softly, "Lucian, don't be so rude."

A deep groan from Lucian made my stomach turn. Against my better judgment, I shifted slightly to peek through the gap in the door.

This scene is deeply imprinted in my memory. Lily was pressed down, lying on Lucien's desk, her red dress loosely hanging around her waist. Lucien stood between her legs, leaning over her, one hand gripping her breast. The two of them were piled together like two dogs in heat.

"You drive me crazy with your slutty ways," he groaned, attacking her neck with kisses. "I can't resist you."

"Then don't," she purred. "Take me right here, right now. Show me who's better - your weak little Luna or me."

"Lily...You bitch" His hands slid higher up her thighs.He forcefully entered her and began to violently thrust into her body.

"Come on, Alpha," she taunted. "Show me what a real wolf can do. Not like that pathetic excuse for a Luna who can't even shift."

The curse seized my moment of weakness, sending waves of burning pain through my chest. I stumbled backward, my vision blurring.

"That's right," Lily's voice followed me. "Make me scream your name. Let everyone know who you really want..."

They were like two white worms writhing together, my husband - Lucien, the Lucien who is always gentle and courteous in front of me, turns out to have this dirty and licentious side.

Their moans echoed in my ears as I fled down the corridor. Each step sent fresh waves of agony through my body. The black veins pulsed violently beneath my skin, feeding off my pain.

I barely made it to the car, practically falling into the backseat.I feel my hands trembling.

"Luna Scarlett?" Tommy's concerned face appeared in the rearview mirror. "Are you alright? You're as pale as death!"

I could barely breathe through the pain. "I'm fine... just take me home. And Tommy... don't tell Alpha I was here."

He hesitated, worry clear in his eyes. "Of course, Luna. But should I get Dr. Kane?"

"No!" The word came out sharper than I intended. "Just... home. Please."

The ride back was torture. Every bump in the road sent fresh spikes of pain through my cursed body. But worse than the physical pain was the echo of their voices in my head.

"Pathetic excuse for a Luna..."

"Show me who's better..."

"I can't resist you..."

Back at the packhouse, I locked myself in my study. My hands trembled as I pulled out fresh paper. The words poured out of me as I wrote a third letter to join the others - one written with love, one with rage, and now one with pure heartbreak.

When I write, I can feel the dark magic flowing through my veins, but what blurs my vision is my tears. Tear after tear falls on the letter paper, yet I still force myself to keep writing. Three months later, he needs to understand what he has lost.

When I finished writing this letter, I just took a deep breath and felt a sudden tightening in my chest. The cursed darkness spread like poison in my body. I trembled and wanted to go to the bedroom to get the medicine bottle.

I struggled to get up, but suddenly felt the room start to spin. I grabbed the table, but my body felt weak and limp. I slowly slid down to the floor and everything went dark.

Suddenly, I felt a gentle force spreading from my fingertips - it was the magic of the ring, how absurd, the man who betrayed me, the man who made me suffer, yet he also gave me the divine instrument to heal my pain.

Slowly, some of my strength returned. I trembled as I reached for the medicine bottle on the bedside table, only to find it empty.

She is Pregnant

Scarlett's POV:

The empty medicine bottle mocked me from my trembling hands. My chest tightened as another wave of pain hit - I had no choice but to visit Dr. Kane for more medicine.

I pulled myself together, checking my reflection in the mirror. The black veins were barely visible under my high-necked blouse. Perfect. The last thing I needed was for anyone to notice my condition.

The hospital's antiseptic smell hit me as I walked through the entrance. I was heading toward Dr. Kane's office when familiar voices stopped me in my tracks.

"Are you sure you're feeling alright?" Lucian's voice, tinged with concern. "Maybe we should get a second opinion."

My heart dropped as I peered around the corner. There stood my mate, hovering over Lily, who sat in one of the waiting room chairs outside the maternity ward.

I slowly walked out, Lucien was the first to notice me. His expression was tense for a moment, but when he saw my calm expression, I could feel him immediately relax. "Scarlett? Darling, what are you doing here? Are you not feeling well?"

The genuine concern in his voice made my heart ache. Even now, he could be so gentle with me.

"I just came for a routine checkup," I said softly, maintaining my usual calm smile.

Lily's hand rested on her stomach as she looked up. "Oh, Luna Scarlett! What perfect timing."

Lucian quickly stepped forward to explain. "I bumped into Lily on my way to the pack hall. She wasn't feeling well, so I offered to accompany her to the hospital. I should have called you."

"It's alright," I said, keeping my voice steady. "You were being kind."

"Actually, Luna Scarlett," Lily's eyes gleamed with barely concealed triumph. "I have wonderful news! I just found out I'm pregnant. About a month along now."

The world is once again dangerously tilting and swaying. A month, a month! I thought it was when Lucian and I were celebrating our wedding anniversary, but their affair happened even earlier, during the time when Lucian went to the Shadow Pack on a visit, or when he attended the Wolves' Union Reunion? My heart is in turmoil, but I remained composed, my years of practice helping me maintain a calm expression.

"I hope you don't mind that I borrowed your husband," Lily continued sweetly. "I was feeling so unwell, and he was kind enough to help."

I saw Lucian's jaw tighten at her words. He moved closer to me, his hand finding the small of my back protectively.

"Scarlett," he said softly. "Let me take you to your appointment. We can talk about-"

A high-pitched shriek cut through the air. We turned to see Lily pressing herself against the wall, pointing at something on the floor.

A small, scruffy puppy had wandered into the waiting area. Its brown fur was matted, but its eyes were bright and hopeful as it wagged its tail.

"Get it away!" Lily wailed. "That filthy thing just jumped out at me! I could have fallen!"

The puppy approached me hesitantly. Without thinking, I knelt down to greet it.

"Careful, love," Lucian said, his hand squeezing my shoulder gently.

"It's just a puppy,Oh Lily, I didn't expect you, a female wolf, to be afraid of such a small dog." I said, with a sarcastic tone, while scratching behind its ear. The little thing pressed into my touch, starved for affection.

Lily's face twisted with disdain. "Well, I suppose it makes sense that you'd bond with a common dog. After all, you don't have a wolf of your own to connect with."

I felt Lucian tense beside me, but I placed a calming hand on his arm. "It's alright," I murmured.

"No, it's not," he growled. "Lily, apologize. Now."

"I was just saying what everyone thinks," Lily protested, hands protectively over her stomach. "A Luna without a wolf might as well keep dogs for company."

The puppy whined softly, sensing the tension. I gathered it into my arms, taking comfort in its warmth.

"I'll take care of this little one," I said quietly. "Better a loyal dog than no companion at all."

"Scarlett-" Lucian started, his voice pained.

"Please," I interrupted gently. "Take Lily home. She needs rest in her condition."

"But Luna," Lily simpered. "You can't possibly keep that stray. What will the pack think?"

"I don't mind what they think," I said, my smile never wavering. "Some of us don't need to prove our worth through others' opinions."

Lucian's eyes searched my face. Even now, after everything, he could still read the pain behind my calm exterior.

"Let me help you first," he insisted. "Lily can wait a few minutes."

"Alpha," Lily's voice turned pleading. "I'm feeling faint again. Please..."

I stepped back, maintaining my serene expression. "Go on, Lucian. I'll be fine."

"Scarlett," he caught my free hand, his thumb brushing over my ring. "We need to talk later."

"Of course," I agreed softly. "When you have time."

The curse pulsed beneath my skin, but I kept my smile in place as I watched him lead Lily away. Only when they disappeared around the corner did I let my shoulders sag.

"Luna Scarlett!" Dr. Kane's voice made me turn. "Your medicine-"

"Thank you," I said.

"However, I still suggest you do another check-up." Dr. Kane said looking at my expression.

"I'll come back tomorrow," I said quickly. "Please, I just need to go home now."

The puppy nuzzled my neck as I carried it to my car. Its presence was oddly comforting - a simple, uncomplicated love that asked nothing in return.

As I drove home, I couldn't help but wonder about the cruelty of fate. Here I was, dying slowly from a curse I took to save Lucian, while he created new life with another woman.

The puppy settled in my lap, its warmth steady against my trembling hands.It looked at me with big wet eyes and trust in them.

"I'll call you Bobby from now on." I held both of its little paws.

He wagged his tail at me cheerfully, and it was obvious he liked the name too.

"At least you're honest," I whispered to it. "No pretending or hidden agendas."

It didn't understand my meaning, but it still licked my fingers and rubbed its little head in my palm.

The curse's darkness pulsed beneath my skin, In my study, I pulled out fresh paper. Another letter needed to be written.

Bobby curled up at my feet as I began to write, its presence a silent comfort. Maybe this was what I needed - not a wolf's power, but a dog's simple, faithful love.

When I finished writing the letter, my phone alerted me that I had received a message. When I saw the content of the message, I felt my blood rushing to my head again.

Bitter Memories

Scarlett's POV:

My phone buzzed with a new message. When I opened it, my blood ran cold.

There are a few photos on the screen that Lily sent.

The first photo is of Lucian and her in bed, two naked bodies entangled on the white sheets, like worms. He is lying on top of her, his fingers tangled in her long hair, his lips licking down her neck.

The other photo is of them at an upscale restaurant - Lucian is wearing the blue suit I ironed for him just last week. He is using a fork to feed Lily a piece of chocolate cake. Their gazes are locked intently on each other, both of them smiling intimately.

The third photo made my stomach churn - Lily straddling Lucian on the sofa in his office, her red dress bunched around her waist, his hands on her thighs, his face buried between her breasts. Once, right in this office, I had countless times brought him lunch, and we would sit together on the sofa and share the meal.

My hands trembled so badly I almost dropped the phone. Bobby whined, sensing my distress, and pressed his warm little body against my legs.

The curse seized the opportunity, black magic surging through my veins. I fumbled for my medicine bottle, barely managing to swallow the pills.

Bobby licked my hand as I slid to the floor, waiting for the medicine to take effect. His big brown eyes were full of concern.

Seeing his innocent eyes, my tears couldn't stop falling."I'm okay, little one," I whispered, though we both knew it was a lie.

The front door opened, and I heard Lucian's familiar footsteps. I quickly wiped my eyes and stood, tucking my phone away.

"Scarlett?" His voice was gentle as he entered the study. He stopped short when he saw my face. "Love, you're so pale... What happened?"

I forced a smile. "Just tired."

"No, something's wrong." He crossed the room in two strides, his hands cupping my face. "Tell me what's bothering you, my heart."

The tenderness in his touch nearly broke me. How could he be so gentle with me while betraying me at the same time?

He disappeared for a moment, then returned with something that made my chest tighten - the old stuffed teddy bear he'd given me during our darkest days.

"Remember Mr. Cuddles?" He placed the bear in my arms, his thumb wiping away a tear I hadn't realized had fallen. "He always knew how to make you smile."

"You kept him all this time?" My voice trembled.

"Of course." Lucian pulled me close, his chin resting on my head. "I keep everything that reminds me of us. Of how far we've come together."

I did remember. The memories flooded back unbidden.

We were prisoners then, trapped in the Shadow Pack's dungeons. Lucian would humble himself before the Omega guards, begging them to give me better food.

"Do you remember what you used to do?" I asked softly. "When the food was too hard to eat?"

His laugh rumbled in his chest. "Mr. Cuddles' food critic reviews? 'This gruel is simply divine, darling, aged to perfection in a rustic dungeon ambiance.'"

Despite everything, I found myself smiling at the memory.

"And look what else I brought." He pulled out a familiar black box. "Your favorite - Black Forest cake. The one from that little bakery you love."

The sight of the cake made my stomach turn. How many times had he bought this same cake for Lily? Had he fed it to her too, the way he did in that photo?

"Scarlett?" He stepped closer, concerned. "What's wrong?"

I looked at the bear in my arms, remembering a promise made long ago.

"Do you remember what I told you?" My voice was barely a whisper. "I said if you ever betrayed me, there would never be a second chance."

I saw panic flash through his eyes before he quickly masked it. Of course - he thought I couldn't sense his infidelity without a wolf. He thought his secret was safe.

"Scarlett, my love," he took my hands in his. "You're my only Luna, my heart. I would never betray you. I'll love only you for the rest of my life."

The lies fell so easily from his lips. Just like they had in the dungeon when he swore to protect me forever.

The next morning, I woke to Lucian gently brushing hair from my face.

"Wake up, my Luna," he smiled. "I have a surprise for you."

He'd arranged a grand sacrifice ceremony - meant to pray for my health and our future. My heart sank when I saw Lily among the attendees, but I maintained my composure.

Just before the ceremony began, Lily suddenly collapsed, clutching her stomach.

"The baby!" she cried. "Something's wrong! It hurts!"

The pack doctor rushed to her side. "She's been poisoned! We need strong healing magic immediately!"

Lily's eyes found mine. "Luna Scarlett," she gasped. "Your ring... I heard it has powerful healing properties. Please... my baby..."

I saw the conflict tear across Lucian's face. His eyes darted between me and Lily's stomach, where his child grew.

"Scarlett, no," he said firmly. "The ring is yours. We'll find another way."

"Please," Lily whimpered. "I can feel the poison spreading..."

"There has to be another solution," Lucian insisted, his hand covering mine protectively. "That ring is meant to keep you safe."

I looked at his tormented expression. Even now, he was trying to protect me. But we both knew he couldn't let his child die.

With trembling fingers, I slipped off the ring that had been keeping me alive. "Take it," I said softly. "Save the baby."

"Scarlett-" Lucian started.

"It's okay," I cut him off gently. "A child's life is more important."

Lily snatched the ring gratefully. The moment it left my finger, I felt the curse's darkness surge stronger.

I made my excuses and fled home, knowing I couldn't watch them together any longer.

When my phone buzzed again, I almost ignored it. But something made me look.

It was a video this time. My heart stopped as I pressed play.

Lily and Lucian were entangled on the bed, their bodies melding into one. As he pounded into her, her moans filled the air.

"Oh, Lucian, you're so good. It's a good thing you gave me the ring. I hope Scarlett won't be angry." Lily gently bit the finger with the ring on it, panting.

"Scarlett is the most considerate. If she knew you were carrying my child, she would certainly give you that, sweetheart." Lucian pressed his mouth against her breasts.

"That's good, I was afraid Scarlett would kill me." Lily hugged his neck.

"Can you not mention Scarlett, baby, come on, get down." Lucian pulled Lily up.

When her hands caressed my partner's chest, the ring on her finger sparkled - this ring was meant to protect me, but now it is on the hand of the woman who has destroyed my life.

Final Farewell

Scarlett's POV:

The curse burned through my veins like liquid fire. Without the ring's protection, I could feel death creeping closer with each breath. My hands trembled as I stared at them, watching the black veins pulse beneath my skin.

I found a silver dagger in the cabinet.One quick slash and it would all be over. No more pain, no more betrayal, no more watching Lucian build a family with another woman.

I raised the silver dagger to my wrist, but suddenly Bobby leaped up, knocking it from my hand. The dagger clattered to the floor as he stood over it, barking frantically.

"Bobby, move," I whispered, but he planted himself firmly over the dagger, his eyes fixed on me.

He whined, pressing against my legs, and I collapsed to my knees beside him. His warm tongue licked away my tears as he guarded the dagger.

"Why are you stopping me?" I asked him through my sobs. "They get to be happy while I die alone?"

Bobby nudged my hand with his nose, his eyes full of unconditional love. Looking at his loyal face, something inside me shifted.

No. I wouldn't give them the satisfaction of my quiet death. If I was going to die, I would make sure Lucian remembered me with every breath he took.

I wanted him to wake up each morning drowning in regret. I wanted his guilt to consume him until he couldn't look in the mirror without seeing my ghost.

With renewed purpose, I sat at my desk and pulled out fresh paper. This would be my final letter - the one that would haunt him forever. Bobby sat at my feet as I wrote, his steady presence giving me strength.

When I finished, I called Sarah. My best friend arrived within minutes, nearly breaking down my door in her rush to reach me.

"Scarlett!" She gasped when she saw me. "Gods, you look like death! What's happened to you?"

I handed her the box of letters with trembling hands. "I need you to do something for me."

"Anything," she said immediately, then opened the box. Her eyes widened as she read the first few lines of the top letter. "Scarlett... these are about Lucian and Lily?"

"You know?" My voice cracked.

Sarah's eyes filled with tears. "The whole pack knows. I wanted to tell you, but I couldn't bear to break your heart."

"It doesn't matter now." I gripped her hands. "After I'm gone, I need you to send these to Lucian. One letter every other day, in order. Will you do that for me?"

"Gone?" She grabbed my shoulders. "What do you mean gone? Scarlett, you're my best friend. Talk to me!"

"I'm dying, Sarah," I finally admitted. "I have been for a while now."

"No," she shook her head desperately. "We'll get help. Dr. Kane-"

"There's no cure." I touched the black veins on my arm. "This is from a curse I took to save Lucian five years ago. The ring was keeping it at bay, but now..."

"The ring he gave to that witch?" Sarah's face contorted with fury. "I'll kill her myself-"

"No." I squeezed her hand. "Just promise me about the letters. He needs to understand what he's done. Promise me you'll send them."

She clutched the box to her chest, tears streaming down her face. "I promise. But Scarlett... I can't just let you die."

I hugged her tightly, memorizing the feeling of her friendship. "You've been the best friend anyone could ask for. Thank you for everything."

After she left, still protesting, I walked through the house that had been my home. Every photo, every memento, every trace of my life with Lucian went into the fireplace.

I watched our wedding portrait burn, remembering how happy I'd been that day. The Lucian in the photo smiled at me, his eyes full of promises he never meant to keep.

The curse surged again, making me stumble. Suddenly, the house felt wrong - tainted by lies and betrayal. The walls seemed to close in, suffocating me with memories of false happiness.

Through my blurring vision, I saw a figure in the distance. Young Lucian from six years ago, standing in the rain.

Memories attacked me, and I remembered the stormy day when we were imprisoned together in the cave, and I was just healing from a stab wound from a silver dagger. The rain was heavy and spread into the cave, and we were soaked to the bone and shivering. Lucien wrapped his coat around my shoulders and held me close in his arms, using his strength to help keep me warm.

"I'll always protect you," he'd promised, his young face so earnest. "No matter what happens, no matter who tries to hurt you, I'll be there."

"Even though I don't have a wolf?" I'd asked, voicing my deepest fear.

"You don't need a wolf," he'd said fiercely. "Your heart is stronger than any wolf's. And one day, when I'm Alpha, I'll make you my Luna. We'll show everyone that true strength comes from the heart, not from what we can shift into."

Then, he kissed me for the first time.

The apparition of young Lucian stared at me now, his eyes sad. "Don't forgive him," he whispered. "Don't let him forget what he's thrown away."

Bobby's whine pulled me back to reality. Yes - there was one more place I needed to be.

Each step was agony as Bobby and I made our way to the cave. Our cave. The place where Lucian had first promised to protect me, to love me, to make me his Luna.

The old stone walls welcomed me like an old friend. I sank to the ground, my strength finally giving out.

Bobby curled against me, his warmth offering comfort as darkness crept into my vision. The curse's poison had reached my heart.

"I'm sorry, little one," I whispered to Bobby. "I'm leaving, you'll find a new owner."

The curse gave one final surge, and everything went black.

When I opened my eyes again, I was standing over my own body—in the state of the soul. Bobby was still there, whining and nudging my lifeless form, trying to wake me.

Immediately, it seemed that something had bound me. A flash of white light passed, and an invisible chain pulled me directly to Lucian's side.

I could feel him moving through the house, finally noticing something was wrong. My spirit followed, watching as panic slowly crept into his expression.

"Mary!" he called to our servant. "Where's Scarlett? Has anyone seen her today?"

The maid wrung her hands nervously. "No, Alpha. Not since this morning."

I watched as worry crept into his expression. Good. Let him worry. Let him search.

I may have died, but my revenge was just beginning.