《A Broken Contract (Alpha's Secret Regret)》


 Chapter 0001

    Sara POV


    People can change. All you have to do is throw them in the desired situation, and they''ll be what you want them to be. At least, this is my strong belief.


    I want Nicks Reign to fall for me. I need him to want more from me. My desire for him and this belief in change are what led me to sign his damn contract. He does want me, but only for one thing. To satisfy his lust. I thought that if I gave him what he craved, he''d want more. He''ll keeping back till he can never let go.


    I''ve been in love with Nick since I learned the meaning of the word. It''s impossible to continue to meet him like this for "just sex" without letting him know how I truly feel. One thing was bound to happen this evening after we talked. His ridiculous contract would be void. And that was fine by me.


    As I inhaled a lung full, I wiped my sweaty palm on my dress. Rising from the sofa, I went to the window for the millionth time to check if he wasing.


    Today is not "our day," as he likes to call it. It is a Saturday. We''re not supposed to meet for another three days. But when I texted, asking to see him, he agreed, saying he''d be there at 7. I like to think that''s a good sign. Although it''s already 7:15 PM, and there''s no sign of him. Nick was neverte.


    My eyes roamed the living room and dining once more. This apartment has be my favorite ce in four short months. It''s the only ce I can ever be with him. We can''t be seen by any L.A. reporter or a member of the pack. It will cause an outrage. Goddess forbid that the future alpha should contaminate his father''s bloodline by sleeping with a nobody.


    I sighed deeply, brushing aside the troubling thought.


    My eyes move to the clock again and stay there till another five minutes go by. Calling him is against his rules. But he''s twenty-two minuteste now, and I wonder if that isn''t a good enough reason to ring his cell phone. This whole evening is against his rules anyway. I started to reach for my cellphone when that familiar scent of rain in the woods wafted by. He''s here. The scent is followed by loud stomping of his feet as he approaches the door.


    Another look through the blinds and his wavy brown, rough curlse into view before he reaches the door. I suck in a deep breath and smooth my knee-length dress, bracing myself for this unnned meeting. The lock on the door began to disengage.


    Nick lets himself inside and is suddenly standing face to face with me. I can sense his anticipation as his eyes raked my body. But underneath it, there''s a heat that can only mean he doesn''t appreciate being asked toe out here on a day that isn''t "our day." "Hey," I greeted softly.


    His eyes made another sweep over me. The kind of look that makes me go weak at the knee. How I love those bright gray orbs, even when they shine with impatience like right now.


    "Why am I here? It''s not Tuesday," he asks curtly.


    I feel a painful pull in my heart at the question, but I push aside the feeling quickly.


    "It''s a weekend, and I thought maybe we could..."


    His face transforms into a look that makes me forget the words I prepared in my head. My hands shake slightly and I clutch my dress.


    Something seemed to catch his eyes, and they slowly shifted to the dining a few feet away. He takes a step towards the table and asks with a frown, "What''s this?"


    There''s a meal for two on the table. Clearly, he knows what it was. The question is rhetorical. Or maybe he means to say what does this mean? "It''s... food," I stammer. Only now do I start to consider how much of a bad idea this is.


    "I cooked for you. I wanted us to eat together," I said.


    Nick looks at me like I''ve just grown another head.


    "Are you out of your mind? You called me over because you wanted us to eat?" he scolds. "I''m not your boyfriend, Sara. You don''t get to just call me!"


    My anger stirs. I want tosh back and say he''s right. He''s more than my boyfriend. He''s my mate. I want to yell that I''m done hiding. I''m tired of being his secret whore. But my lips quiver, and I lower my head instead. All I can manage are soft grumbles. "I didn''t think it was against the rules-"


    "It is against the rules, Sara!" he snaps. "What we have is purely sexual. I told you this. You should read the contract. I don''t pay you so we can sit and eat. Or to have you call me out of work!"


    My heart twists painfully in my chest at his words. He could''ve just ignored the text. Why did hee down here to stomp on my heart? If he''s this angry about a simple attempt to share a meal, how would he react if I told him the real reason I called him? "It''s a weekend. I thought you''d be free," I said.


    "Well, I''m not. And I''m certainly not hungry. Also, our arrangement doesn''t allow for anything like this." He waves a finger at the table irritatingly.


    "I''m... sorry to bother you," I muttered, losing all courage to say everything I nned.


    I expected him to turn around and take his leave, but he didn''t. Instead, he remains where he is, watching me. When I lift my gaze to meet his, I notice the sudden shift in his mood. The evening air quickly assumes that delicious tension that I''vee to know in all the four months since we began this ndestine meeting.


    He approaches in slow, casual strides while taking off his jacket.


    "Well, I''m already here." His voice drops seductively. "Can''t let the evening go toplete waste, can we, Sara?"


    I should back away from him. He owed me an apology for the cruel, unnecessary outburst only seconds ago. But I can''t move. His nearness holds me in ce like a spell.


    He always has this power over me. Resisting him is an impossibility. It could be the mate bond. On the other hand, it''s probably the raw, irresistible power that drips all around him. Every alpha of our kind carries that spellbinding essence.


    As he leans close to im my lips, I melt into him, surrendering my whole being. The kiss starts slow and soft like he''s teasing me, but it quickly grows urgent and intense. His tongue caresses mine, coaxing me to give in to him fully.


    Only one thought floats in my mind. How can he kiss me like this and im it''s "purely sexual?"This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    But even that thought vanishes when he gives the softest moan against my lips. Soon, he lifts me into his arms, wrapping my thighs around his waist as he carries me into the living room. His hands on my bare flesh is the most heavenly feeling, and I''m totally lost in his touch.


    ''I want this. I want more of him,'' the plea echoes in my mind.


    Heys me down on my back on top of the sofa and drops a light kiss on my neck. As he works to slip off my underwear, I''m doing the same with his belt buckle, too, ready for whatever he gives me. At this moment, it doesn''t matter if what he offers is merely lust. Soon, his lips returned to mine in a sensual kiss as his hand started to move between my inner thighs.


    That is when I whisper the words that I should never say to him. Lost in the feel of him, the three sybles finds their way between our lips in a gentle whisper.


    "I love you."


    He goes very still. Secondster, he starts to pull away in a rush. Only then do I realize what has just fallen out of my mouth.


    "I mean-" He res at me to shut me up. I forgot the excuse I was about to give. Rising and turning away, he starts to fumble with his belt as he rushes out of the living room.


    "Nick... please..."


    I followed him, wondering what to say to undo the little mistake. But is it really a mistake? That isn''t exactly the words I n to use. I shouldn''t have blurted it out like that.


    He yanks his jacket from the dining chair. Without looking back, he storms out of the house. As he ms the door on his way out, it feels like an axe has just been driven into my heart.


    ******


    The Next Tuesday


    My thumb hovers on Nick''s number as I continue to stare at my phone. If I click the dial button, I''ll be breaking another one of his rules. Will it matter?


    It''s been three days since my idental confession and there''s been no word from him. Today is our meeting day, but it''s doubtful that he''ll show up. The idea of going over to the apartment to wait is unappealing.


    I''ve sent him messages since Saturday evening. He ignored all of them. The fact that I didn''t see him around campus all day yesterday doesn''t help. Lectures are over for the day. Which means our meeting is two hours from now.


    "Hey, stranger." Meg pokes my shoulder, pulling me out of my thoughts.


    "You''ve been acting weird. Are you okay? I''ve been screaming for you to wait up," she said.


    "Oh, I didn''t hear you," I replied.


    "You seem in a hurry today. Running errands for your dad as usual?" she asks.


    "Yes. I have to help pick up something from the supermarket," I lied.


    She''s my best friend and roommate. As the child of the former beta of our pack, Meg is far from being a lowlife like me. When I was bullied in high school for talking to Nick''s sister, she stood up for me. It''s how we became friends. She doesn''t mind being seen with an omega.


    Lying to her makes me feel awful, but I don''t have a choice. No one can know about me and Nick unless he tells them or we be official. If Saturday is any indication, none of the two will ever happen.


    Meg hooks her hand in my arm as we make our way back to the dorm together. I decided that if I don''t see Nick today, I''ll take it that the contract is truly void now. That we''re over.


    Meg is talking about professor John and some girl in our ss, but I can''t pay attention.


    "Human girls are some," she mumbles. "If she knew what she was getting into, she''d run fast in the opposite direction."


    I zoned her outpletely as we turned the corner leading to the hostel. Jake, Nick''s best friend, approaches. He''s alone.


    "Hey Jake," Meg beams.


    "Hey girls. Done with ss?" he asks.


    "Yeah. Where''s your alpha-to-be? Haven''t seen him around campus this week."


    I wanted to hug my best friend for asking the question I was so desperate for.


    "Careful, don''t go around calling him that, Meg," Jake warns. "Alpha Zion is still alive and well. But as you said, he''s heir to the throne, so he doesn''t always have to attend lectures like us mortals." "Aww, is that so?" Meg mocks.


    "We''re in our finals, Meg. We''re supposed to be scarce around here."


    "Really? Then why aren''t you scarce?" She rolls her eyes.


    He scowls before saying, "Family business called Nick home. You should see him around tomorrow, if notter today."


    I wonder what he means by family business. Maybe his sister is visiting from Europe.


    After a round of chitchat and see-youters, Meg and I continue to the dorm.


    Twenty minutester, my cab arrives, and I head straight to the apartment where Nick and I meet every Tuesday.


    It took 90 minutes of sitting alone in therge living room to decide that my first instinct was right. He isn''t going to show up. Is it really over between us?


    But then I expected it to be. The terms of the agreement are crystal. I was prepared for this when I asked to see him on Saturday.


    Changing back into my jeans and checkered shirt, I hurried out of our secret meeting ce with a lump in my chest. It''s already dark when I reached the campus again.


    Nick hasn''t returned my calls or texts, but on the bright side, there would be no more sneaking around with him. He''ll reject me when he''s ready, and I''ll get back to my quiet life. Maybe I''ll reject him first.


    Time to focus on my studies and work hard to keep my schrship. After all, college is my only chance of ever making something good out of my life as a nobody. Something interrupts my sad musings as I get down from the campus shuttle. A dark gray Jeep SUV sits on the driveway in front of my hostel. That car is umon here at the university, so I knew it was Nick''s.


    My heart leapt at the sight, but the sunken feeling in my stomach didn''t go away. Is he waiting for me in the hall?


    As I approached, I spotted two figures standing on the side mere inches from each other. As I tried to determine who they were, their familiar features made my heart stop.


    I watch in the dimly lit walkway as Nick cups Meg''s face in his hand and lowers his mouth to hers. He either doesn''t care about his audience or he''s utterly oblivious as he pressed her smaller body to his, deepening the kiss.

 Chapter 0002

    I want to turn away and run, but I remain frozen on the spot.


    The sound ofughtering from the entrance of the building gets their attention. Nick breaks the kiss, and his gaze soon shifts to where I stand.


    I feel so sick that I double-over and throw up on the side-walk. He started to approach with Meg, but I hold out my hand to stop them.


    "I''m alright. I think I ate something bad. I''m okay," I called out in a shaky voice.


    I could feel them watching me. Meg would guess what this situation was doing to me if I don''t get it together. She can''t know about Nick and I or my feelings for him.


    I straighten before turning away from the two.


    "Sara," My best friend called out. "Where are you going?"


    I can''t face her yet. Looking at her now is unbearable, so I keep walking.


    "Sara?"


    "I need to get something for my stomach," I call back without turning around.


    He was kissing her in public? The same Nick that has a morbid fear of merely talking to me in front of people? I''m his mate. Also isn''t that against the rules in his stupid contract?


    But then she''s not an omega. Meg is far better than me. There wouldn''t be much outrage if people saw them together. Whereas, I''m the daughter of the cook that works in Nick household. My father is on his family''s payroll just as I am on his.


    I still can''t stomach the fact that while I was waiting for him so we could talk, he was getting cozy with my bestfriend. I guess this means we truly are over. I wonder what would happen if I went against his non-disclosure agreement now. I hear footsteps behind me but didn''t stop. It feels like my heart is leaving a blood trail with every step.


    As I reach the next block, a strong hand grabs my arm and spin me around. Nick glowers at me beneath thickshes.


    I yank free with all the force I could muster and keep walking. Anger and hurt gave me the strength to ignore him as he groans my name.


    "Sara!" He grabs my wrist this time.


    "I''m talking to you, Sara! Stop!" His voice is hard with a sharp edge. Like he has a right to be angry?


    Without thinking, I wrest my wrist from his hand andnd a hard p across his face. Shock brightens his eyes, but he recovers quickly. Catching my wrist again, this time, in a tight grip, he pins me against therge car parked by the road. "You vited the terms first!" he said through clench teeth.


    "By identally spouting those three little words?" I push him off me and he releases me quickly, like being too close to me is disgusting.


    "It was a mistake, Nick. I wanted to exin that''s why I''ve been trying to reach you. I waited for two hours to see you."


    "How could you possibly think we''d still meet today? This thing between us? I was going to end it. Tonight! There''s no need to see each other till the full moon. I''ll reject you, and we can go our separate ways."


    My heart slumps painfully into my stomach. My first response is a nod. "You should''ve ended it before kissing my roommate in front of the whole campus."


    "Yes, I should have, but I didn''t. Wanna know why? Because you''re not the only one who gets to break the rules!" he leers.


    "Well, good for you. You got even. Why don''t you return to your... to her before someone sees you talking with the help''s daughter." I start to walk away.


    "Thanks for your concern. At least, you got the message, Sara," he fired back.


    I stop in my tracks.


    "I will never love you, mate bond be damned. What we had was just sex, nothing more, you hear me?"


    I feel him turned away to leave but stops and adds, "Oh, and don''t forget you signed an NDA. If you go about telling pack members about us, I can''t be responsible for what happens to your dad."


    I couldn''t help but look over my shoulder at his face. Maybe I want to confirm if he meant that. But he''s already turning and walking away.


    ******


    I want so much to return home to my dad. But home is one of the little cottages behind Reign''s mansion. I return to the dorm after walking aimlessly for Goddess-knows how long.


    Meg is not back yet. My relief of not having to face her is mixed with immense nausea. She''s still with Nick, no doubt.


    Quickly, I go into my room to lock myself inside. But as the night wears on, it bes clear how unnecessary that is. Iy awake with my eyes wide open until dawn. Meg never returned.


    She should be back early the next morning and I''m still eager to avoid her, so I try to rush out for ss.


    My simple morning routine turns into a chore. I be very sick. My stomach rolls like I truly ate something bad. I spend a better part of the morning with my head buried in the toilet te. As I sit on the cool floor, dry-heaving, the image of Nick and Meg reys in a loop in my head.


    Sometimeter, the nausea has lessened, but I''ve given up on ss for that day. I sit on my bed, staring into space when a banges on my door. Without waiting for a reply, Meg opens the door and stands between the jamb.


    "Wait, are you truly ill?" she asked with a frown.


    "I''ll be alright," I replied.


    "I doubt it." Her tone is weirdly hateful. There''s no hint of a joke in her voice as usual.


    "After daring to seduce the alpha-heir?" She takes a step into my room. "I doubt you''ll be alright, Sara."


    My heart lurches. Did Nick go as far as telling her after warning me about his silly NDA?


    She scoffs at the look on my face. "I''m not an idiot, Sara James. I''ve known for some time now! It''s only a matter of time before the pack finds out."


    At first, I''m confused about what she meant. Does she know the whole story?


    "Did you think you''d just keeping to school, sneaking around while leeching on the Reigns after this treachery?" She crosses her arms on her chest.


    "What are you talking about?" My anger stirs, but it is mixed with fear. They wouldn''t revoke my schrship over this. The alpha and luna doesn''t know about us. "Are you gonna y dumb?"


    I sighed, deciding there''s no point for all of this. "How long have you known?" I asked.


    "Known what? That you''ve been lying about running errands for your dad and sneaking off to whore yourself to Reign?"


    "Yes, Meg. How long have you known?" My voice is sharp with annoyance. Maybe a carryover fromst night when I saw her kissing my mate. My former mate.


    "Do you even know he''s engaged?" she asked instead of answering my question.


    I feel a sharp pang at the revtion. She caught the hurt in my eyes and smiles.


    "YOU knew he was engaged yet you went after him?" I said this in an attempt to turn her words back to her. "Now I''m guessing you went after him solely because he was involved with me."


    "Involved? He paid to fuck you, Sara. You were never involved with Nick Reign! You''re a nobody. A cheap prostitute. What, you think I wouldn''t find out? How someone like you could afford to share this suite with me was a dead give away."


    My fist clenches. My father paid every penny for this apartment. The schrship meant I could afford other things that I would originally not be able to pay for. But I didn''t say these things to her. It doesn''t matter.


    She shakes her head before continuing. "But at least you''re back to reality now. Nick is through with you and the luna knows."


    My mind goes numb from thatst statement.


    "Who told you that? The luna doesn''t know."


    "I wanna throw up when I imagine you with him." She grimaced. The hatred in her eyes is unbelievable as she ignores my question.


    "My mother always said people like you didn''t know how to stay in theirnes. I see what she means now."


    "Did you tell the luna about us? You said you''ve know for a while now." I stared at her in horror.


    "What, you trust Nick not to tell his mommy? If he doesn''t tell her, who''s going to clean this up as quickly as possible to keep the pack from finding out?" Her eyes was full of evil satisfaction as she spoke. It''s hard to believe this was my bestfriend of seven years. I''m totally disheartened to say anything else. Fear is starting to take over. How would the luna clean this up to keep it from getting out? I wish to leave the room but my legs wouldn''t move.


    "By the way, you said I went after him. You''re wrong. He''s a yboy, Sara, and this is all the time he''s got before he bes alpha and settles down with his already-chosen luna. Did you expect him to be faithful in a sex situationship?" She gives a bitterugh. "to someone like you for that matter."


    "I don''t expect anything from him, Megan. But I also didn''t expect this shit from you. I thought we were friends-"


    "Maybe we were. All of that ended when you set your ws on the heir to Reign''s empire! Forest Moon''s future leader!"


    I''ve never seen her look so hateful, but I should''ve suspected this a long time ago.


    Suddenly, memories of thest few weeks starts to sh before me. How my bestfriend was always quick to remind me of my social status. Or of the fact that I''m a welfare student. I always brush it off as a joke. But now I realize she''d known about me and Nick for over a month now, at least.


    "I''m so d that I don''t have to pretend anymore with you. You''ll get kicked out and vanish from my eyes, and everything will go back to the way it should be!" She starts to turn away then stops.


    "He can never belong to someone like you, Sara. The fact that you thought he could is just... sickening to say the least."


    I have no answer to that remark. My phone starts ringing before I can digest the hate-filled words.


    I snatch it and slide the answer button without looking at the screen.


    "Hi, is this Sara James?"Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "Yes, who''s this?" I hold the phone away for a quick nce. The number is unfamiliar.


    "I''m calling from Forest Moon Medical house. You need toe quickly. Your father copsed and was brought here a moment ago."

 Chapter 0003

    Sebastian James is a workaholic. The best thing in his life after his daughter is his job. He''s the assistant head cook in the household of Forest Moon''s first family.


    It''s hard to believe that my father had a heart attack from working the job he loves so much. He''s of sound health and has been very happy about life since I got into college. The male is as healthy as a horse. Many often called him strong and agile for an omega. How can


    he suddenly be lying in an emergency room, fighting for his life?


    These intrusive thoughts doesn''t prevent me from silently praying to the Goddess.


    I remain in front of the ER for nearly two hours waiting. As an omega, he was brought to the general room with other patients. I''m not allowed to go in yet because he''s in intensive care.


    Another hour passed before the doctor called for me.


    "He''s out of danger now," she said in a gentle voice. "But we''ll have to watch him for another night before letting him leave."


    I nod. "Thanks, doctor, but I''m so confused. My dad''s the healthiest person I know. What happened?"


    "Even the strongest in the pack is not immune to life''s unexpected twists," she replied.


    These words are a reference to alpha Zion Reign, Nick''s father. The formidable, proud male hasn''t been the same after the helicopter ident five months ago.


    "They said he suddenly copsed after seeing the luna," the doctor added.


    My heart mmed in my chest. Meg''s words about Nick telling his mother echoes in my head.


    "Whatever she told him must''ve been tough on his healthy heart," said the doctor. "But he''s gonna be okay. You can see him now. He''s asking of you."


    There''s only one thing the luna could''ve said to my dad. I swallow the bile rising in my throat.


    I open the door quietly and go into the room. My fatherid awake on the bed with wires connecting his heart to a small monitor that beeps softly. His features are sad as he regards me. "Dad," I murmur, scanning the room half full of sick people.


    Only a thin curtain separates each patient from their neighbour. A nurse sits in a small desk at the far corner of therge room.


    My dad points at his jacket on a thin hanger near the bed.


    "The doctor says you can''t leave yet. You had a heart attack," I protest.


    "Get my phone and turn it on," he orders in a hoarse voice.


    "Why? You wanna call someone?" I asked, reaching for the slim, wide-screen cellphone in his jacket pocket.


    It''s easy to guess what he''s about to show me, so I take the initiative andunch his email before he said the words.


    "Open my email."


    There are no unread messages. But the first two indicated the reason my dad''s heart nearly gave out. The second message title read "Dissolution of Employment Contract." But it''s the first one that holds my interest more, so I click on it.


    It''s a non-disclosure agreement. Another document that prevents my father from seeking help, either from humans or our kind. It''s simr to what I signed before spreading my legs for the alpha''s son. I feel disgusted with myself.


    All of this is because of me. When I checked the first email, I see that my father was being let go with nothing. We''re also being kicked out of the pack like Meg predicted.


    Alpha Zion hardly bother about these things. This is the handiwork of his luna, Nick''s mother. But how did she know? I''ve never whispered a word about us to anyone. Meg implied that Nick would tell her. Did he really do it?


    I stare at the text with ssy eyes, mortified and unable to say anything. The email came with attachments. I open them to find photos of Nick and I kissing in the living room of our secret meeting ce. It''s a very recent photograph from the day I made that blunder. How is it possible?


    "Guess the photos means it''s true," my father interrupts my thoughts. "So there''s no need to ask. Or would you deny it?"


    "Dad, I-"


    "You''re sorry, I know you are. What''s done is done." He exhaled deeply. "I don''t want any trouble with the luna and the pack, Sara. We must leave ASAP and quietly. You need to go home and start packing."


    He''s right. I''ve ruined our lives here. It''s not farfetched to think that the luna would pull some strings to revoke my schrship, too. Like Meg predicted. The Reigns are a powerful name, not just among werewolves.


    As my dad shuts his eyes, I know he''s done talking. I can''t decide which pain is worse. This immense disappointment that my dad feels right now or the pain of seeing my mate in another woman''s arms. I don''t know which one is breaking my heart this moment.


    I want to sit beside him but I''m too ashamed to be around him. I simply put the phone back and leave the room quietly to wait outside. Packing has toeter. I don''t want to be anywhere near Reign mansion right now.


    ******


    After our little chat, I''ll asionally poke my head inside to look in on my dad, but I didn''t go near him. It''s sunset when I set out to do what he instructed.


    Our cottage is fifteen minutes from the hospital. As soon as the castlees into view, the first thing I see is a medium sized truck beside the luna''s hummer SUV.


    The only reason I noticed is because I''ve never seen such a vehicle around the premises before. It looks so out of ce among the fancy ones parked beside it. It''s trunk is open, and someone is loading some stuff into it. I wonder if anyone else is moving out. One of the luggage looks simr to my dad''s. It even had the same color.


    I walk awkward and hesitantly around the building towards the blocks of cottages where we live. Someone have their eyes on me. From the prickling on my neck, I know it''s not a maid or a guard. I didn''t dare lift my head to check who''s watching me. Punching the lock code to get into the house, the lock refuses to give. I lower my gaze to take a close look only to discover that my guess is right. They''ve changed the locks.


    Already?


    Footsteps approach from behind. I spin around to find a female guard and another omegaing towards me. The luna stands a few steps away. She doesn''t say a word but her eyes are full of malice.


    "You and your father don''t live here anymore," the guard said.This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "What do you mean we don''t-"


    "Are you hard of hearing? This isn''t your house anymore. We''ve moved your things on the luna''s orders. You''ll find them in the white van outside."


    "What?" The question was a gasp.


    "Luna Reign, please don''t do this." I start to go to her with my hands sped when the guard blocks me.


    I saw her jaw tighten as she res at me. It feels like she''s silently telling me not to dare address her boss. The guard voices out that thoughts before I can properly form them.


    "Don''t you dare address the luna, omega!"


    I attempt to move closer to her once more as I plead.


    "Please. We need time to find a new ce. I beg you. My father was in the ER, he''ll need a few days to recover once he''s discharged."


    "Did you say you need time?" The guard asked with disgust. "The only reason she helped with the van is to keep this as quiet as possible. You think she''ll allow you stay longer than... no need to waste my breath. You need to leave!"


    She stood between me and Nick''s mother as the luna shoots daggers at me with her eyes. I truly wish she''d speak out. But apparently, I''m not even worth one word from her.


    I try to get past the gamma female and she pushes me off. I was on the ground on all fours looking up at the luna with pleading eyes. She gives me onest evil look before turning away.


    "This is thest time you''re allowed anywhere near the pack''s mansion. We find you or your father near here again, you''ll be arrested and diagraced," the guard said. "Here''s the key to the truck. Denise will go with you to retrieve it once you get your things out. You have the whole evening to return the vehicle to her. She must bring back that van back before midnight!"


    The guard dropped the key on the floor in front of me and turned away to follow behind her luna.


    I couldn''t believe what I''ve gotten us into. My father and I are practically homeless now.


    ******


    As much as I hate to do it, I had to call my dad. I didn''t know what else to do. The Denise girl is as confused as me. She''s too scared to even ask what we did wrong.


    Everyone is terrified of the luna. I wouldn''t be surprised if the girl has been warned not to speak to me. Luna Reign wouldn''t want word of her precious son sleeping with an omega to get out.


    After listening to my dad''s instructions on where to take our things, I set out for a fourty-five minutes drive into the city. Within four hours, at nightfall, I''ve handed the truck back to the omega and returned to the hospital.


    I made the nurse tell my dad that I''m back. Going in to see him is hard for now. I''ve cost him his precious job and our lives.


    I sit on the hospital bench for hours thinking till I dozed off.


    At dawn, nausea rouses me from a deep sleep with bad dreams. The feeling is much like yesterday morning''s, making me upy the nearest restroom for some time.


    Is it really possible to suffer food poisoning when I''ve eaten so little this whole week?


    Thank the Goddess, I''m at a hospital. I stroll into the pharmacy to buy some drugs, but they insist on a signed prescription.


    However, after describing my illness to the kind doctor, her next question sends a terrible cold into my blood.


    "When''s thest time you had your period?"


    I couldn''t respond immediately. My voice returns when she arched her brow.


    "What''s that got to do with... nausea?" But I knew it was the stupidest question even as I asked it. Why didn''t it cross my mind?


    ''Be cool, Sara. You are NOT pregnant.''


    I didn''t hear the doctor''s reply to my dumb question.


    "I''ll prescribe something mild just in case, but you''ll also get a test kit," she said while scribbling on a piece of paper. "Pee on the stick before taking the meds, Miss James."


    Twenty minutester, I''m standing in the bathroom, staring in horror at the two red lines on the pregnancy stick before me.


    "This can''t be right. He was careful- We. We were extremely careful."


    A knockes on the bathroom door, startling me.


    "You okay in there? You''ve been there for a while now." It must be the janitor.


    "Yeah..." I couldn''t recognize my voice. "I''ll be out soon."


    I wonder how hard it would be to kill myself and end it all right now.


    My thoughts are interrupted by a beep on my phone. It must be my dad. I quickly pulled it out of my purse and my heart dropped further into my stomach. Nick''s name blinks on my message icon. My finger shake as I open the text. It reads: "Where are you? We need to talk!"

 Chapter 0004

    I continued to stare at my phone''s screen when another text from Nick dropped.


    "Meet me at Remus cafe in an hour," it said.


    The fact that he was asking me to meet him at a public ce was confusing. But then, our secret apartment was nowpromised. Also, that cafe was far from campus and his family mansion.


    If he''d sent this text a week ago, I would''ve been over the moon. Meeting and talking to me in public would''ve meant he wasn''t ashamed of me. However, all I felt now was dread mingled with trepidation and sadness.


    I looked at the pregnancy test again and decided it was better to deal with everything head-on and at once. At least, I know the full moon wasn''t for another week. Besides, it was daytime. He wasn''t calling to reject me.


    I already knew what he''d say when he found out that I''m pregnant. Not that I am. These kits weren''t 100% urate.


    ncing at my watch, I decided to see the doctor to request an actual test. I had to confirm what was on the stick before I let myself go into panic mode.


    Twenty minutester, the nurse had taken my blood and asked me toe back in forty-eight hours for the results. I immediately left for Remus cafe after checking briefly on my dad.


    Across the street from the cafe, Nick''s intense grey eyes locked on mine from near the door. Jake was with him and out of habit, I looked away and proceeded to enter the cafe.


    As I expected, he didn''t make any move to rise from his seat. But he also didn''t take his eyes off me. Jake nodded in silent greeting. That was his best friend and future beta who knew all about our secret rtionship. I couldn''t never tell how he felt about the future alpha sleeping with a lowlife like me.


    Distracted, I bumped into someone at the door. It was Richard, Nick''s other friend.


    "What''re you doing here? Shouldn''t you be in ss," he asked in a friendly tone.


    This one had always been somewhat close to nice, but he had no idea about me and Nick, I was dead sure.


    "I''m here to grab a bite," I replied.


    "Aww, you''re exactly two minuteste. I would''ve let you joined me," he joked.


    "Oh, how kind. Thanks, Rich. It''s the thought that counts," I returned.


    I should''ve fallen for this gamma instead. I wondered what he would''ve done if I was fated to him and not Nick.


    Though Nick still isn''t leaving his seat outside the cafe, I could feel his eyes on me. I stole a nce his way, hoping to guess what he''s thinking. His face is without expression as his eyes stay fixed on me.


    "See you around, Sara."


    Rich held the door, stepping aside for me to go in. To avoid suspicion, I went straight to the counter to order a ss of apple juice. Hopefully, I''ll be able to drink it without throwing up soon after. I found the most reserved seat by the corner and walked casually to go wait for Nick.


    As I started to sit down, I catch sight of him walking through the cafe''s ss door. His eyes swept the ce and within a few seconds, they settled on me.


    He walked straight to my table and took the seat facing me.


    "Should I say it first or will you?" he asked.


    "I think you said everythingst night. Aren''t you worried that your wolves will see us together?" I avoid his eyes as I spoke. My heart was physically breaking.


    "Don''t act like that''s not what you want, Sara. Isn''t that what your little confession was about?" His eyes were hard with anger as he said this.


    I''m the one in deep shit right now. I''m the one whose heart was falling to pieces. What right did he have to be angry?


    "Why did you want to see me?" I asked.


    "My family may know about us now but that non-disclosure still stands," he replied. "I just wanted you to know. So if you have any more of those photos, you might wanna burn them. Or keep them as souvenirs if you like, I don''t care. As long as no one else sees them." I was momentarily confused by his words. Then it ured to me.


    "You think I told your mother about us?"


    "Don''t insult my intelligence!" He snapped.


    His tone had grown scary. I held back from telling him that he had zero intelligence if he thought I was the snitch.


    "You''re in trouble if you''ve mentioned us to anyone other than family. I won''t be able to save you," he adds.


    Did Megan sign one of those stupid things, too? Or maybe he doesn''t know that she knows about us. Instead of mentioning my roommate, I simply said,


    "It wasn''t me, Nick. My father lost-"


    "Don''t say I didn''t warn you," he cut me off and started to rise.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Summoning a moment of courage, I quickly blurted,


    "I might be pregnant."


    His face transformed into a look that I would never forget. He lowered himself back to the chair before gasping, "What?"


    I kept my eyes on the drink in front of me.


    "Are you trying to be funny?" His voice grew hard and low.


    "Do you see meughing?" I fired back.


    He gave a short sigh and spoke through clenched teeth, "I''d be able to tell, Sara!"


    "Not if it''s less than eight weeks. Also I said ''might.'' I wouldn''t know for sure till another forty-eight hours," I replied.


    "Are you this desperate... and horrible?" He spat. His eyes were filled with so much revulsion that I couldn''t help but lower my gaze. It was difficult to have him look at me this way.


    It seemed like he was waiting for my answer to his rhetorical question and when none was forting, he spoke again.


    "We used protection every damn time. You always took the pill when we didn''t!"


    My gaze dropped lower and I heard his angry intake of breath before he repeated, "You always took the pill when we didn''t, RIGHT?"


    When I stole a quick look at his face, the anger I saw sent a chill through me and I quickly replied, "I do."


    He waited, knowing that I had more to add.


    I went on, "Except for one that time when-"


    "Goddess! Fuck! Sara!" He cut me off, rising from the chair.


    My heart lurched. I half-expected him to lift the table and hurl it to the ss wall. His eyes burned with terror as he regarded me.


    Wow! Me bearing his child was such a horrible thing, huh? Goddess, how could I have been such an idiot.


    "You did this on purpose." He pointed usingly at me.


    I got defensive. "It was just ONCE. You got a call and left for home earlier than you used to. I forgot."


    "So you''re saying it''s my fault?" He barked under his breath.


    "I''m saying it was a mistake," I replied. We were starting to get an audience.


    "I can''t believe I trusted you," he said. "That was THE mistake and a very bad one!" Running his hand through his hair, he sat back down.


    This reaction was expected. Yet why was it so painful? I chewed my lower lips and forcefully swallowed the tears that were gathering in my eyes.


    "It was a mistake, but it''s reversible," he said.


    My heart sank into my stomach as the meaning of those words dawned on me.


    "I don''t need to exin why undoing this ''mistake," he used air quotes. "is your only option, do I? I mean you''ve got school. Your schrship. I''m sure you''re not thinking of letting that go for..." he trailed off as an odd look crept into his features.


    I told myself to be relieved over the fact that he didn''t expect his mother to cancel my schrship. As he stared at me, his eyes were full of disgust and disappointment.


    "Meg warned me. Of course, bearing a potential heir to Reign Corporations is far better than a measly schrship in an Ivy league." It sounded like he was thinking out loud as he said this.


    He nodded like he''d only just realized an important truth.


    "This was the n all along. Isn''t that right, Sara?"

 Chapter 0005

    Nick POV


    At the mention of her friend''s name, the girl''s eyelids lifted, and she stared at me with such pain in her eyes. My heart clenched, fueling my annoyance. What right did she have to act like I was betraying her? Ours was a simple agreement. I was devoted to her. Completely faithful to our deal. How could she do this?


    The full moon is on its way. That means seven days of hell before I could break this bond with her and move on. The Goddess binding us together was the worst luck ever. How could this be happening at such troubled times in the pack when my father was unwell? I started to rise as I spoke. "You know I almost believed it when you said you love me? For a second there, I actually considered ripping off the contract and starting over."


    That was nothing but the truth. I remember the delicious quivering in my stomach, how my heart swelled when she whispered those words against my lips.


    It was the strangest, scariest thing I''d ever felt. But after this bomb she just dropped, being in the same space with her was scarier.


    "You think I said that because I wanted your money and status?" she asked gently.


    "I can''t even sit here and watch you try to pretend to be pure. I paid you well every time I was inside you, didn''t I? So maybe the money wasn''t your ultimate goal. What was it, then? If not the status."


    She lowered her eyes in shame. "I''ve never asked you for any -"


    "This conversation is pointless!" I snapped.


    I still can''t believe what she just said to me. She wasn''t even sure if there''s a pregnancy. Instead of keeping it to herself till she found out, she dared to say it out loud? If she expected to tie me down with that little piece of uncertain news, she got another thinking. "Your n failed, Sara. I don''t want that. I''ll never want it. And I don''t need to tell you the lengths my family will go to neutralize the error before it gets out, do I?"


    I didn''t wait for her answer before adding, "Mywyer will contact you."


    Her dreamy brown eyes were wide and ssy as she watched me. I turned to leave, utterly outraged by her now. How could she be this desperate? I thought she was innocent! Clearly, she just wanted more than I''ve always given her.


    She must''ve thought she hit a jackpot when she discovered that we were fated. How I hate her for ruining what we had. The fact that I would never touch her again made me want to put my fist through something.


    After walking a few steps, something came to mind, and I stopped. I wished I didn''t have to set eyes on her ever again. Turning back around, I walked back, then leaned close to pin her with a re before saying, "For your own good, for your father''s sake, don''t forget, the non-disclosure you signed is still in force!"


    A tear rolled down her left cheek as she opened her mouth to speak. I wasn''t going to hear whatever she had to say. There was no point. So I walked away, leaving her there with her tears, her stupid betrayal, and the ss of apple juice. Richard was the first to speak when I joined them a momentter.


    "What was that about?"


    "None of your business, Rich!" I snapped.


    "Forgive me for the curiosity," he replied in a sarcastic tone. "It''s the first time I''ve ever seen you say more than two words to that she-wolf, and youe out looking furious."


    It was clear that he wouldn''t let it go.


    "Her father works in my household, you know?" I said to him. "I mean it, Rich. It''s a family matter. It''s none of your business, so fucking drop it!" When I moved close so we were nearly nose to nose, Jake came to stand between the two of us.


    It wasn''t news to me that my gamma friend had a thing for her at some point. It was just my luck that he feared his parents and the pack more than he wanted to fuck her.


    Lucky me that I didn''t have to murder my own friend over that omega. Despite my disgust for the girl this minute, my ire was rising over the fact that he was worrying about her. What gave him the right?


    "Let''s just go," Jake said, opening the car door and nudging me towards it, away from Richard. I got inside and he went around to take the wheel. We rode silently for a while. The two of them could feel my anger, but only Jake knew the whole story. "So, you and Meg, huh," Rich broke the silence. When nobody responded, he looked pointedly at me.


    "Me and Meg what?" I asked.


    "Haven''t seen you with any female for months. I was starting to get worried. Then bam! Got a text from Jasonst night. You were kissing Meg in front of her hostel." He shook his head. "How long has that been going on?"


    I couldn''t help but heave a deep sigh. "Not long and it''s nothing. Just a kiss."


    He didn''t push it, thank Goddess.


    *****


    I expected my mother to give them at least three days to vacate the Reign''s premises. But I must have thought her too generous. When I returned home the next day, there was no sign of Sara and her dad. When I scanned the cottage they upied at the back, they appeared to be gone.


    My mother wouldn''t burden my father with the drama. He was still secretly recuperating after the ident. To my surprise, she didn''t try to revoke the girl''s schrship.


    A part of me wished she would. I considered doing that myself, but I didn''t want to be connected to her at all. I wanted all of this to go away immediately. I hated the hollowness in my chest. It was better to never run into her anymore.


    Thank the Goddess, my final exams was next month. After that, the chances of running into each other on campus would be zero. I intend to make sure her father didn''t get work within fifty miles of the pack, too.


    Jake, my best friend and beta-to-be, was handling the dissolution of our little "sex" contract. He hadn''t yet passed the bar, but he was going to very soon. As my most trusted friend, he would deal with the legalities of ending this whole thing with Sara. Today was the day we learned if she truly was pregnant or not.


    I sat in a rented car, watching from across the street as Jake settled into the chair facing Sara in the cafe.


    He pushed the envelope towards her and she just stared at it. The curiosity about the test result nearly forced me to go to them. I took a deep breath, assuring myself that Jake would find out in a few minutes and he''d get back to me immediately. After a few long moments, she picked up the envelope slowly and started to open it.


    Another eternity passed with her face on the pages in front of her. Then she lifted her head and said something to Jake. I wanted to know what she was saying. It felt like they were arguing now.


    Within moments, she brought out her pen and signed the documents. Then she rose and stormed out of the cafe as Jake gathered the papers back into the envelope.


    I watched her hail a cab and ride off at the same time as my phone started to ring. It was Jake.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    "What does her test say?" I asked before anything else.


    "It was a scare. She''s not pregnant," he replied.


    "I see."


    "What''s the matter? I thought that''s a good thing," Jake asked.


    "Of course, it''s a good thing. I''m d it''s over." I cleared my throat. "Oh... You don''t sound d," he remarked.


    "Cuz I feel tired. I''ll finally be able to get some sleep," I grumbled.


    "She didn''t take the cash," Jake announced.


    "Whatever with that. If it makes her feel good about herself after everything she ruined," I shrugged. "It''s her business. I''m done. I can finally put this behind me and prepare to meet my actual mate."

 Chapter 0006

    Nick''s POV


    It was the day of the full moon. My ns were simple. My routine workout and training woulde first. Followed by a meeting with my father''s corporate staff to review and. approve some projects. After that, I''d head to campus to meet with my professor about my


    desertation.


    As I drove into campuster in the morning, it took all of my will to break the silly habit of making a detour to spy on Sara. I failed. Jake was with me in the car. He regarded me with pursed lips and a deep sigh.


    The girl and I are still mated. I haven''t gone near her in two weeks. Of course, my wolf was antsy. Not my fault.


    "I doubt she''s in school, Nick," Jimmy ranted. "You and I know she''s busy having a hard time with her father right now."


    "I have no idea what you mean! I''m just passing through to see if Meg is around or something," I lied even though it was pointless. "Also, she brought the hard times on her family."


    Jake didn''t respond. As I passed her dorm slowly, I resolved to avoid her as much as possible until twilight, which was hours from now.


    My activities for the day were over too soon. The moon would not appear in the sky for another six hours. I was restless. This thing with Sara needed to be over and done with. There would be no more sleepless nights once she was truly out of my life.


    I was going to spend the rest of the wait-time clearing out our secret apartment by myself, but deciding against it was inevitable. Her scent was all over the ce. I considered burning it to the ground.


    Dusk came. It was time for us to see. I knew she was already waiting the moment I entered the woods. It made me realize that I''m not the only one who needed to end this ASAP. I walked past her without a word. Jake was behind me. A witness was necessary to sever our fated bond.


    My wolf may try to put up a fight. I braced myself for the struggle. Sara and I can''t have a future. For both our sakes. She was a low-ss. The daughter of the help. Three months of fun was enough. I shouldn''t have renewed the contract. We wouldn''t be ending it like this if I''d released her seven weeks ago.


    As she turned to face me under the bright moon overhead, I began speaking, my voice unrecognizable to me,


    "I, Niks Reign, son and heir of Alpha Zion of the Forest Moon, reject you, Sara James, as my mate."


    She didn''t hesitate to reply as a tear raced down her cheek. "I, Sara, daughter of Sebastian James, ept your rejection."


    Her reply was followed by a sharp, wrenching pain cutting through my heart. She bent over, clutching her chest as I did the same. A thick cloud covered the full moon, bathing all three of us in the darkness of the woods.


    It might''vested a moment, but it felt like an eternity. The physical pain was gone in a fleeting moment as the cloud melted. The dim light of the moon filled the woods again.


    I straightened and strode past her without a nce or another word. My wolf retreated deep inside my consciousness to mourn the loss.


    *****


    2 MONTH LATER


    "Just have lunch with her so you two can start getting to know each other," Elise Reign pleaded with me.


    I was a very busy person now. I''d just returned from a vacation with my friends after our final exams. It was time to get to work. Sitting down for lunch and chit chat with someone I don''t know was a waste of time. But if I said these things to my mom, she''d nag some more. All she cared about getting me to mate with a strong bloodline and bearing a heir. I ignored her.


    "Nick..." she called out gently. "She''s flying back tomorrow. Believe me, this is better than signing a silly contract with one of those..." she pursed her lips in irritation.


    "Goddess forbid it. We can''t have you fall for another pitiful werewolf, Nick. The thing with that girl was quite a scare. If you wanna scratch your itch, just stick to the usual human women, okay?"


    She noticed the frown on my face and said,


    "What?"


    "You''re Luna. You shouldn''t talk like that. And how did you know I get them to sign something first? Are you having me followed?" I asked her.


    "I''m your mother," she merely replied.


    "Doesn''t make it''s right to have someone watch my every move, luna," I fumed.


    At that moment, I recalled the look on Sara''s face when I indirectly used her of leaking our secret somehow. She was not the one who went to the luna. Of course, what would she gain by ratting herself out.


    "I did no such thing. Also, it''s not wrong that I know stuff about you," she argued.


    "Who told you about me and..." Even saying her name aloud had grown too difficult. I clenched my lips before finishing, "Miss James."


    "Does it matter?" she asked.


    She''s right. I decided it doesn''t matter and didn''t press further. A reporter might''ve sold the information to her for quick cash.


    Two months have passed since Sara and I parted ways. She''d dropped out of school immediately. She and her dad had moved around a bit before finally leaving L.A. two weeks ago. I wish I didn''t know thes details. I''ve promised myself to stop keeping tabs on her, and I''m keeping that promise.


    I''ve moved on, no doubt. It was time to focus entirely on my responsibilities to my family and the pack.


    "So you''ll meet tomorrow, right?" My mother asked.


    "The day after. She''s in the country for another two weeks, isn''t she?" I grabbed my keys and started to head out when she spoke again.


    "You''ve had all the time to fool around and have fun, Nick. Don''t forget your duties to your family and the pack. I know you''ve been discreet with your sex life, but you need to do better!"


    I see no point in talking back, so I left the room without any furtherment.


    As I started the car to drive out, my phone buzzed. It was the boys. We were hanging out this evening.


    Thirty minutester, we were at our favourite bar, chilling and having a drink.


    "Hot chic," Rich bumped my shoulders as he motions with his chin towards a human girl.


    When my eyes met the beautiful ckhead female, she smiled shyly and waved.


    "That should do," Jake said.


    "I didn''t know we''re here to pick up chics," I drawled.


    "You haven''t beenid in forever, dude," Jake leaned towards me and murmured.


    He and I were close enough, so he knew my personal business. I knew exactly what he meant to say, and I didn''t appreciate it.


    One look at him, and he mumbled, "Sorry."


    "What are you two boring wolves whispering about? I''m leaving you to go find me some hot human chic like that one." Rich''s voice booms over the loud music below us.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    The girl still has her eyes on me, and I started to think that Jake was right. It was time I proved to myself that I truly have moved on from Sara. Time to break the dry spell.


    One goody would fix the tossing and turning every night. I winked at her, and she smiled again.


    "That''s what I''m talking about," Jake encouraged.


    "You''re awfully concerned about my sex life, Jake. What about you? Are you getting some?" I mocked.


    "You''re going to be my alpha. Of course, I''m concerned." He gulped his drink before adding, "Also, I was ordered to get you back to normal ASAP."


    I whipped my head around to nce at him, and he winced.


    "What exactly did my mother say to you?"


    He sighed before replying gently. "The luna didn''t say anything to me. Alpha Zion did. He''s worried about you, Nick."


    "Why? I''ve been careful. Keeping my eyes and mind on his empire and Forest Moon."


    "Well, you haven''t exactly been yourself in thest two months. You ate less, talked less, always racing in the woods, and always angry," he replied.


    "I''ve had a lot to deal with, and I''m NOT talking about..." I sighed. "Not everyone''s a nerd like you, Jake. I''ve had to run the family corporation while writing important an exam AND getting my alpha training. That''s a lot for one person, don''t you think?" He didn''t have to know about my restless nights.


    "This thing with... Miss James," he said hesitantly. "I know you hate to talk about it, but you''ve been weird since


    crashed -"


    "Drop it!" I snapped.


    "You''re right to feel the way you do, Nick."


    "I said drop it, Jake. I don''t ever wanna -"


    "It ended before you wanted it to. That''s all," he ignored me and kept talking. "You''ve just renewed the agreement, which I warned you was a bad idea in the first ce. The point is you weren''t ready to let go. Add the fact that she was your destined mate. It''s okay that you feel the way you do."


    I take a long swig from my drink.


    "I''ve been meaning to say that for weeks now," he says before leaning back on the chair as if satisfied to finally get it out.


    Without a word to him, I stood up to approach the human girl. Her eyes followed me.


    My phone vibrated just as soon I reached her. I ignored it at first, determined to take Jake''s advice and break the silly hold my previous lover has on me.


    "Can I buy you a drink?" I asked her as my phone continued the insistent vibrating. "Just a sec."


    I pulled it out of my pocket to see who it was. It''s my mom. My heart lurched. Elise never calls. Text was how she contacted me when I''m not around the mansion. I quickly slid the answer button as she started to babble frantically. "Nick,e quick. It''s your father!"

 Chapter 0007

    4 YEARS LATER ** Sara POV


    Orphic valley was supposed to be a small, quiet town. Less hustle and bustle. Little excitement. No drastic change to tire us out. Life here has been more than great. The people were supportive and extremely helpful throughout the pregnancy and birth of my child. I have a stable job in the local environmental council and my dad was happy with his food business. But it was starting to look like all of theseforts were about to end. Or at least that''s how my dad felt.


    Thest four years have been peaceful and nothing short of a happy one for all three of us. I know he''s afraid that the peaceful part was drawing to a close.


    "Dad, If they''re building a mall, it''s good for you. You may not even have to move the food truck," I tried to ease his mind.


    "I know," he replied. "I''m not worried."


    Lies! My father hated the idea of a skyscraper in this town. He didn''t want any city vibe at all.


    "You look worried. I mean, yeah, you''ll be ufortable for a few weeks or months. But once the construction is over, it''ll be great for your business. You could even lease a shop INSIDE the mall." He scoffed. "Yeah, right."


    Sighing, he added, "Guess I''m getting old. I hate change." Carrying his cup, he went into the living room. I followed, eager to reassure him that all was going to be okay.


    "My boss is really excited for this project. That''s how I know it''s a good thing. I''m not surprised at all. Orphic is a promising ce real estate-wise. I always knew some corporation would soon try to snatch it." "Yeah," he mumbled, taking a small sip of his tea.


    "Even if you did have to move, it won''t be so bad, dad," I continued my sermon.


    Instead of convincing him, the look in his eyes was stirring worry inside me now.


    The three of us could survive on my wage as a public servant. We didn''t leave extravagant lives, after all. But my dad was a workaholic. He needed to keep doing his thing.


    His brow creased as he took another sip from his hot coffee.


    "Fairview," he said.


    "What about there?" I asked him.


    "I could move my food truck there. The apartment lease expires by the end of the month," he said..


    "Yeah, I got the reminder yesterday."


    "Let''s not renew it. We could move to Fairview. It''s only an hour''s drive from here," he said casually, but I can sense the seriousness beneath his tone.


    "Is the mayor asking you to leave your shop spot already?" I asked.


    "No, but he will. Soon." he replied, looking into his cup.


    "Dad?"


    "We can find another preschool nearby for Alex and I''ll just move my truck. That''s all," he exined.


    "Moving is exhausting. Plus it''ll be one hour drive to work for me. Let''s just wait till they actually give you a notice, then we''ll think of the next step." I started returning to the kitchen and he followed me.


    "It''ll be forty minutes drive not one hour. And I''ll handle everything. You won''t be exhausted -"


    "Mommy," Alex''s voice got our attention. "Gyandpa."


    "Hey, baby, you''re awake," I turned to look at the clock. It was already 6:35 AM.


    "My little wolf!" My dad set his cup on the table and lifted my son into his arms.


    "Can I ride in your giant twuck today?" Little Alex''s grey eyes twinkled as he asked.


    "It''s not Saturday, and you have to go to school," my father replied sweetly.


    I quickly got to work on making breakfast as he carried the child out of the kitchen.


    Our kind are few in this town. Thank the Goddess, no powerful pack hase to try to im it as their territory. Though I have to admit, the ce was crawling with half bloods, most of whom didn''t even know they carried the werewolf gene. There are also a few omegas like us, but that''s it.


    As an unspoken rule, the werewolves didn''t pry into each other''s lives. All that''s required is a smile or greeting of acknowledgement whenever you ran into them.


    We''ve madefortable friends here. Everyone knows everyone, but only on the surface, especially among our kind.


    My son is very happy in this town. Then again, he''s three and has never been anywhere else. Fairview sounds like a nice town. My only worry is the fact that it may not offer the samefort as this ce. What if the people there didn''t mind their business? What if their werewolves are hostile?


    There are woods around where little Alex could y like he loves to. I''m sure that''s why my father thought of that ce. But what if a powerful pack already runs it? Alex could be in danger because of his alpha gene. I wonder if my dad thought of these unpleasant possibilities.


    As I made our breakfast, it ured to me how much I''vee to love Orphic and our daily routine. I decided then and there that we weren''t leaving.


    ****


    After breakfast twenty minutester, my dad started to leave for work.


    "You have to let me think about it," I said as he was grabbing his coat.


    He nodded and kissed Alex forehead.


    "Bye, gyandpa." The child waved.


    "See you twoter," he said.


    The day continued like just another day. I dropped Alex at the preschool and headed to work at the local environmental council office. Everyone seems overly excited at the proposed project.


    Jane, my closest colleague, was getting in to work at the same time as me.


    "Sara, wait up," she called out.


    I wanted to pretend I didn''t hear her, but she was already near. The fact that she tried to get too close made me wary of her. A halfblood who didn''t know that she carried the wolf gene was not someone I wanted too close. She didn''t even know werewolves existed. At twenty-five years old, I doubt she would ever find out. It''s too much responsibility for me.


    She started yammering as soon as she caught up with me.


    "Don''t worry about your dad. My mom knows the mayor."


    "I''m not worried, Jane," I lied. "He''ll just find another spot. It''s no big deal. It won''t be the first time he has to move."


    "Good. That''s what I was thinking," she replied. "Hey, did you know it''s not a mall they''re nning to build. It''s something muchrger."


    We were walking into the building now. I wanted to ask how she knew but the words died on my lips at the sound of my name.


    "Hey, Sara and J." It was Lori, the receptionist.


    As I waved at her, my eyes locked on the police officer approaching. Another half blood who knew exactly what he was and the fact that I was like him.


    "Heyy, Sara and J," he mimicked Lori, striding casually towards us as if he''d been waiting.


    "Good morning," I smiled and kept walking.


    "Heyy, yourself, Avery," Jane greeted excitedly. "I need to ask Lori something. You two go ahead. I''ll be right there."


    Did she seriously think she''s giving us privacy? It''s 7:58 in the morning and this is a workce.


    I doubt the man was here solely to confirm our date for this evening. Jane already knew I wasn''t going out with him. I have the perfect excuse, though it''s not time to let him know.


    We rode the elevator in silence with two other humans. One of them got off at the floor before ours. When Avery didn''t follow suit, I suspected that he was here to see Jeremy. Another halfblood, but my boss who was his uncle. It was Jeremy that tried to set me up on a date with Avery at first.


    ''He''s just like you, Sara'' Those were his exact words. By that he meant, the man was a wolf, too.


    I nced up at him to find him watching me. Soon, the door dinged and all three of us exited the elevator.


    "I promise I''m not stalking you, Sara," Avery spoke finally. "I''m just here for a meeting with your boss."


    "I didn''t think you were here for me," I replied.


    "Good, but I hope you don''t change your mind again tonight."


    I didn''t respond.


    "How''s your father taking this by the way?" he asked quickly.


    "Not bad. He thinks it''s about to get too noisy around here. He wants us to move," I replied.


    "Oh... I don''t agree with him. Do you?"


    "Things are about to get exciting, that''s for sure," I replied.


    He was going to say something when my boss'' voice boomed from his doorway.


    "You two, get in here, quickly!"


    I stare in confusion at my wristwatch as Avery supplies,


    "I see you don''t know yet. We''re in the samemittee for the project."


    "Oh..." I murmured, rushing beside him to Jeremy''s office. "I didn''t know."


    "Also it''s not a mall. It''s a nature park." He held the door open for me. Two other colleagues were already in there when we entered.


    Ten minutester, we had been briefed about the project. Avery was right. They''re about to build a massive park that would spread into Fairview and the neighbouring town. It was to be a local treasure, driving tourism and improving the ce. He and another officer were volunteering as rangers. That''s why he''s here in the office.


    My boss finished his briefing and added, "Oh, Mia and Sara, get ready. We''re meeting the sponsor for brunch at 10:30."


    Great. Another unexpected meeting. And it''s with a stranger. Jeremy caught the displeasure on my face and mocked, "What''s the matter, Sara. You hate free food?"


    "Oh, no, sir. I''ll go get ready," I replied.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    Two hourster, we''re at the town''s most expensive restaurant near the local museum. My boss led the way with me and Mia behind. We approached arge round table with two men already waiting.


    They were sitting with their backs to us. Their powerful shoulders were oddly familiar. Yet it made me feel aware of how small and inexperienced I am.


    Only when we came near the table did I sense that the two men were werewolves. My knees went weak at the distinct scent that followed this discovery.


    My heart jumped to my throat and I stopped, frozen as my boss called out in greeting while extending his hand,


    ""Mr. Reign! You''re early! Nice to finally meet you."

 Chapter 0008

    The sound all around me became muffled. Jeremy''s speech echoed around me, but the words were slurred. Nick rose from his seat as his eyes settled on me as his mouth parted slowly. "It''s a pleasure, Mr. Colt," he said, extending his hand to my boss.


    He seemed to quickly recover from his shock. With a slight nod, he shook hands with Jeremy, averting his gaze from me like he didn''t know me.


    "This is my adviser, Jake Carlisle and Jude Duncan, his associate," he offered.


    Only then did I notice the other men. The Jude had just joined us. It looked like he came into the restaurant at the same time as we did.


    My boss took his beta''s hand in a firm handshake before moving to the other man who''s a human.


    "I know him," Jeremy said with a smile. "I see you both on TV asionally. When the mayor said the park will be financed by a major corporation from L.A., I knew it had to be the Reigns." "What can I say, we love the environment and wild life," Nick smirks. His manner is so easy and in control. My unexpected presence doesn''t affect him at all.


    "These two are my associates," My boss went on with introductions, gesturing towards my colleague and I. "They''ll be in contact with your guys throughout the project. Mia Francis and Sara James." Nick nodded again, taking my colleague''s hands first. Her smile was nervous and filled with adoration as she said, "Nice to meet you, Mr. Reign. And Mr. Carlisle. Mr. Duncan."


    Then he stretched his hand towards me. "Pleasure to meet you, Miss James. Or should I say Mrs?" he asked, tilting his head to check my ring finger.


    My boss saved me the trouble of responding. "Oh she''s a Miss."


    Nick''s eyes widen slightly as he mouths okay. I forced my brain back online. His hand was still hanging in front of me. Steadying my nerves, I reached out to take it in a brief handshake.


    As we took our seats, my eyes moved to Jake because I could feel him watching me. He seems more flustered than his alpha. His mouth hangs slightly open.


    "Hope we aren''tte," my boss said again, taking the seat opposite Nick.


    "We''re early, like you''ve noted. It''s an interesting town," Nick replied in a confident, easy tone.


    I lowered my head to avoid meeting his eyes by mistake. How can someone not change at all. Not even one bit. Those bright grey eyes remain fierce and captivating as ever. I''d looked into the carbon copy of those very orbs only a few hours ago. I''d ran my fingers through the exact same thick, reddish brown mane this morning whilebing Alex''s hair.


    The chiselled jaw is set exactly as I remember. And that voice. The same deep bass that moaned my name countless times in the privacy of that secret apartment. And in my dreams at night. That same voice is speaking now, addressing my employer in front of me, like I''m not sitting one foot away. Like I don''t exist.


    His gaze shifted to me as he continued to speak. Then, he looked away nonchntly. All I can think in this moment is the same thought that crosses my mind each time I look at my son. My baby is a spitting image of his father.


    "We also have three rangers in the team. The police are volunteering them to us. You''ll meet them soon," Jeremy was saying. "These two will be working closely with your team throughout to see that all goes smoothly."


    The introductions and the brief preface continue for another few minutes with Jake and the human male asking some questions about people of the town.


    Soon, Nick signals for the waiter. "We''re here to eat brunch, aren''t we?" He said with a half smile.


    "That we are, Mr. Reign," my boss replied with a shortugh.


    The waiter arrived briskly and started to take everyone''s orders. When I steal another nce Nick''s way, our eyes met and held.


    "Excuse me, I need to powder my nose," I said, rising from my chair. What I need is a moment to catch my breath. My head felt full with different conflicting thoughts.


    How could I not have known that the Reigns were the owner of the project. If only my dad didn''t ban us from watching the news. Maybe I would''ve known. Well, my boss didn''t know until thest minute either. "Why don''t you order before you leave," Jeremy protested.


    "Oh I''m not particrly hun-"


    My boss'' disapproving gaze shut me up mid sentence. I guess brunch actually meant brunch. It''s rude to watch others eat in a business meeting. I have so much to learn.


    I lower myself back to the seat and pick up the menu. "I''ll have the ah..." I ran my fingers through the page, pretending to check intently for something suitable to eat. The thought of food is so unappealing. "Potato sd and ah... wine," I said finally.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    The waiter wrote it down as I rose again and left the table straight to the bathroom. What would happen if I snuck out of here and returned to the office.


    Jeremy Colt would be furious. Human resources would have something to say, no doubt. This was a massive project. An important one for the town. My half-blood boss is especially interested in it because it would provide afortable haven for "people like us," ording to him. The way he looked at Nick and Jake. The reverence and subservience in his manner is a dead give-away that he knows exactly what they are. He''s thoroughly excited for a park owned by a powerful werewolf.


    But how can I bear to continue to run into Nick Reign? He''s bound to recognize his son the moment he sees him. That can''t be good. The fact that he wanted nothing to do with us four years ago doesn''t ease my mind at all. My father was right. We needed to move. Wait a minute! He knew! That''s why he looked so worried earlier today. I reach for my phone in my purse quickly to call the only man in my life.


    He picked at the second ring. "What''s up?"


    "Dad..." I whispered.


    Maybe it was the sound of my voice. That single word was enough to make him know why I''d called. He breathed a heavy, knowing sigh and said gently,


    "You''ve seen him, haven''t you?"


    "Yes..." I murmured.


    "Come to the shop for your lunch break, Sara," he said.


    "I..." I swallowed, unable to form any coherent phrase.


    "I should''ve told you that he''s in town. With your type of work, you were bound to run into each other soon..." he trailed off with another deep sigh. "If he sees little Alex..."


    He didn''t finish the sentence. Because in truth, none of us knows what Nick would do if he learns about his son.


    "I''lle to the shop during my break time," I murmured finally.


    We hung up, and I breathed deeply, bracing myself to return to the table. I looked at my reflection in the mirror and tried to put on a casual face before leaving thedies'' room. Walking out, I turned the corner facing the hall to the restaurant. Nick stood perched by the wall with one hand in his pocket and his eyes on me.

 Chapter 0009

    Nick POV


    Of all the ces in this massive country! Why did she and her dad have to choose this particr one? But then the same can be said of me. Many other towns would be happy to have arge nature park like the one I was going to build here.


    As I walked quietly into the hall leading to the bathrooms, I tried my best to calm my racing heart. She looked like she would bolt when she left the table a moment ago. I can''t let that happen. Why? I''ll figure out the reasonter.


    Her scent, Goddess! That enthralling mild smell ofvender and jasmine petals. It drifted by as I kept walking in slow, quiet strides. I stopped and rested my back on the wall, inhaling deeply.


    "I have not missed this," I murmured, waiting patiently by the hall.


    I''d caught that same scent yesterday evening when Jake and I drove past the local council''s building. But it had been vague. I didn''t dare let myself think that it might be Sara James. Earlier in the restaurant, before I heard her boss call out to me, I''d picked up that same fragrance, and my heart had lurched violently.


    The whispersing from the bathroom halted my thoughts. I could tell she''s on the phone. I trained my senses to eavesdrop because I couldn''t help myself. There''s no one else in there but her.


    It was impossible to make out her words. Her emotions are too faint to pick up, thanks to the walls and distance between us. My days of sniffing everyughter, every beat of joy or sorrow from her heart were now long gone. She''s no longer my mate.


    The scent grew closer, followed by her footsteps. I rose from where I was perched. At the sight of her emerging from thedies'' room, I momentarily forgot to breathe. Those full parted lips were as inviting as I recall. Four years have done nothing but highlight the quiet beauty beneath her humble, gentle exterior.


    Her body was perfectly full and curvy in the right ces. I swallowed, quickly brushing aside the lustful thoughts and forcing my eyes to remain on her face.


    Not that it helped. Her thickshes are wet and hanging low as she regarded me.


    "Hope I didn''t startle you, Sara James," I said.


    Why did I follow her? What was I thinking? No doubt, everyone at the table suspects that there''s something going on between me and her. Except Jake who knew for sure. And her boss! The half-blood picked it up the moment I asked the stupidest question ever. Miss or Mrs? That was a blunder.


    She stood silent, notmenting on what I just asked her. I don''t even recall my question.


    Her chest rose and fell as she took in a deep gulp of air. She seemed to be fighting to keep herposure. Well, that makes two of us.


    ''Say something,'' I pleaded silently.


    I wanted her to speak to me. My patience was wearing thin. She took a step forward, attempting to return to the table. Without a single word to me? I couldn''t have that. "Small world, huh?" I said, and she stopped. "Does your dad live in this town, too?" Poor choice of catch-up topic. I realized this the moment I asked the question. The anxiety suddenly left her eyes. What reced it was a nkness that made her unrecognizable to me.


    She gave a curt, one-word reply. "Yes."


    Asking about her father was a sore topic. I couldn''t think of anything that wouldn''t be a sore topic for both of us. Except maybe my project?


    "I see." I nodded.


    Bluntness was always the best way to go. We didn''t part on good terms. There''s no reason to pretend that we did. I don''t even have the option to pretend. "Look, we''re both ufortable with this," I said. "I feel like you''re thinking of sneaking out. Are you?"


    No response.


    "Well, you don''t have to," I went on. "At least, not on my ount. We just need to get through this... brunch. I have people handling the project. You won''t see me after this first meeting."


    ''Yeah, say whateveres to mind, Nick. Especially if it keeps her standing here long enough for you to catch a trace of how she looked at you ages ago.'' I ignored the silly voice in my head and continued. "You''ll be dealing with my employees after this."


    She let out a deep breath. Was that relief I just saw in her eyes when she nodded? I shook off the irritation that stirred inside me.


    "I''ll return to the table," she said gently.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Without waiting, she moved, and I stepped aside to let her pass.


    It''s understandable that she isn''t exactly thrilled about this reunion. It''s not like I am. Hell, I can''t even decide how I feel about it.


    As I followed behind her, I recalled the way she used to look at me andpared it to what I saw in her eyes just now. My stomach went sour for no reason. I settled myself back onto my seat as she started picking on her sd. The half-blood, her boss, gave her a funny look that confirmed what I already guessed. He knows without a doubt that the girl and I have a history.


    "Are you sure that''s all you want?" He asked her in a gentle voice.

 Chapter 0010

    "Mhm? Yeah, of course," she nodded.


    Then he reached for the wine and started to fill her ss. I imagine snapping that wrist in two and had to blink repeatedly to erase the unwee thought. "You''re such a good employer, Mr. Colt," I kept a grin stered on my face as the older male lifted his gaze to meet mine.


    "We take care of our own in this town, Mr. Reign," he replied.


    Sara picked up the ss and took arge gulp.


    "That''s bad on an empty stomach. Eat some of that before another drink," he said to her.


    I had to remind myself that the man is almost as old as her father. It''s nothing to me that he''s taking care of her. Sara is nothing to me, I cautioned myself. As she started to eat, I picked up my wine ss and down it.


    "How soon can we map out the area?" I said, deciding it was safer to stick to chitchat about work.


    "It should be sometime this weak. As soon we take care of some things in the office, the mapping begins," her boss replied.


    I nodded. Jake took over the questions and chit chat again. The brunchsted another eternity, and not once did Sara nce my way for the rest of the time.


    We finished shaking hands with the half-blood as we said our goodbyes. Sara did all she could to avoid another handshake with me. I convinced myself that it''s for the best.


    ****


    "Small fucking world," Jake eximed as soon as we were alone in the car.


    "That''s what I said to her," I replied.


    "You shouldn''t have followed her, Nick. We may be far from Los Angeles, but someone could still recognize you, you know? A reporter. Someone from the neighboring packs, maybe." Ipletely ignored his rant and said instead,


    "I wonder what pack the half-blood fell out of."


    "I still can''t believe she ended up here," Jake continued.


    "What was thest report you got about her?" I asked.


    "They''d just left L.A when your dad passed, but they were nearby. Somewhere around Joshua Tree or so. You told me to stop keeping tabs, so I did," he replied.


    As he spoke, I watched from my rearview mirror as Sara got into the backseat of her boss'' Lexus. The car started to pull out of the curb.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "What a relief that you won''t have to deal with her after this." Jake''s tone had a mixture of uncertainty and sarcasm.


    "Yeah, a relief indeed," I muttered, my eyes still on the Lexus.


    "I''ll be handle everything and report to you. I already know the best people to interface with the council''s team on this," he said as he watched the car sped off ahead of Jude Duncan''s. "Jude''s also great at this kind of stuff, so you can keep your thoughts on other projects and let us deal with this one.


    "Yeah," I replied absently.


    Soon, we were on our way, too. When we reach the resort near the outskirts of town, I couldn''t bring myself to get out of the car.


    "Why don''t you go on upstairs without me. I''d like to look around the town. Alone," I said to Jake.


    The look on his face said he knew exactly what I meant to do.


    "This is a bad idea, Nick," he protested. "She''s not your mate, anymore. You have no excuse to stalk her this time. Not to mention it''s bad for you!"


    "Stalk her? When have I ever done that?" I argued.


    He arched his brow like he meant to say seriously? I didn''t know why I always felt the need to deny it when we both know there''s no point.


    "I''m not going to stalk her, Jake," I rolled my eyes. "I just want to see where she works. And to drive aimlessly around this nice little town? Get out of my car!" "Lemme drive you," he offered.


    "No. Out!"


    He opened the door and started to climb out as I hopped on the driver''s seat.


    He continued with his rant, refusing to close the door. "This is so wrong. Remember what happened thest time you started this stalking attitude? You got carried away and made me draft a contract! I have a very bad feeling. You need to leave her alone. Ah, it''s just as well. She hates you now, so there''s no chance of history repeating itself!"


    Ignoring his sermon, including the part that stung, I restarted the engine and backed away from the driveway.


    "I''m following you," he called out.


    Without sparing him another nce, I swerved into the street leading to the Orphic Environmental and Heritage council office. In ten minutes, I was parked across the street from the 12 storey-building, watching people go in and out.


    Hours go by as I kept watch in front of Sara''s office building. With myptop open on the passenger side, I got the simplest work done while waiting. I had to move a few times to avoid suspicion. Yet the patrol officer came to check on me once.


    "Yeah I''m waiting for someone," I said to him. "I won''t be here much longer." Sensing my power, he nodded submissively and left me alone.


    It was 4:45 PM when Sara emerged from the council''s building in a rush. I mped myptop shut and put the car in gear.

 Chapter 0011

    Sara looked scared as she rushed towards a beat-up Hyundai. She started to open the door when she froze. Her senses must''ve told her that someone was watching because she turned around abruptly. Thank Goddess for therge pickup truck driving past sluggishly. She would''ve seen me across the road. What if she did? I asked myself. I discarded that line of thought when I couldn''t think of an excuse.


    Someone called out her name as soon as the truck passed by. Her attention shifted to the entrance of her office building. A half-blood female rushes towards her, saying things. What is this ce? Half-blood country? There must be more of them than the two I''ve seen today. Minutester, Sara pulls her car out the council''s driveway, and I follow behind, tailing her to Goddess-knows-where. My phone rang. It was Jake, as suspected.


    "You''ve been gone for hours, alpha," he said.


    "Is there something urgent to deal with?" I asked impatiently, turning the corner after the old car in front of me.


    "No good cane from this, Nick. Did you forget how you both parted ways? I thought you''ve moved on. Think of the mess this can cause if someone from the pack sees you right now," he urged. "Someone from the pack HAS seen me. You should practice what you preach and stop following me!"Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "What do you n to achieve from stalking your ex-lover?" His tone held frustration.


    "I''m hanging up, beta!" I ended the call.


    A strong sense of dejavu overcame me as my eyes fixed on Sara''s car ahead. I''ve done this so many times in the past. Long before I approached her with that sex contract. Not just following her about unnoticed but also perching beside the tree across the field from her dorm, sitting by my library window at the mansion, waiting for her to walk by to the cottage she shared with her father. I couldn''t count how many times.


    It felt like nothing had changed at all, even though nothing was the same. Four years, six months, and three days have passed since Iid eyes on her. But she was still Sara James. The girl who offered herself to me without even reading my terms.


    How ecstatic I''d felt that day, telling myself that she wanted me just as much. Never mind the fact that she was bound to me by the mate bond. None of that mattered now. The past was gone.


    She no longer looked at me like she used to. Which is good for everyone. Me, my pack, my family, and our empire. So why was I here? Why was I following her?


    "I''ve got free time, that''s why," I muttered into the silence of the car.


    Sara suddenly pulled over in front of a lone palm tree. I was too distracted to slow down soon enough that I had to zoom past her. Pulling over a few feet ahead, I checked my rearview to see if she noticed. The half-blood female got out of the car, waving her bye. Secondster, Sara joined the road again. As soon as she drove past me, I cut in right behind her.


    Jake was right. This was pointless. No good coulde from it. If only I could help it. At some point, I''d thought I would never see her again, and that was a relief. Except I''ve spent thest four years dreaming about her. Fantasizing about her sweet, soft body. Hearing her call out my name at nights in my sleep.


    I''ve spent all those times secretly wondering where she ended up. If she eventually got her college diploma. I''ve battled with nightmares that she was now married to a human male and living a quiet, peaceful life somewhere. After all, most omega females end up that way. At least, I''ve found out this morning that she isn''t married. Not that it mattered. I just have to know how she''s been living.


    I gave some space between our cars so I could stop in time when she did. Before long, there were two cars in front of me before hers. A few meters from where she dropped her friend, she pulled over on the curb of a school.

 Chapter 0012

    I feel a lump rise in my throat as I watched her get out of the car. The fact that she isn''t married didn''t mean there wasn''t someone in her life. At least, it looks like there''s a child. Other cars are parked at the school''s driveway as children race out to meet their mothers or fathers. Most of these kids were no older than toddlers.


    Among the small crowd, a little boy emerged, grinning and racing towards Sara.


    "Mommy, mommy, look what I made," he called out.


    I sat in my car with my heart in my throat at the sight before me. I was feeling all kinds of emotions as I watched the two. The lump in my chest has disappeared now. Sara gathered the child into her arms before taking the white cardboard paper from him.


    "Ooh, amazing! My baby wolf is a genius," she cooed.


    The boy''s scent overclouded all others except Sara''s. It felt like I was staring at a tiny little mirror of myself.


    Memories of four years ago came crashing, and my heart felt like it would burst out of my chest. I immediately recall the very day Sara and I made love without protection.


    "Mine..." I gasped, my hand tightening on the wheel.


    I watched as she kissed him on the cheek, carrying him to the car.


    "C,mon. I''ll take a good look when we get to grandpa''s," she said to him.


    Without thinking, I got off my car and started to cross the street to meet them. But she was already starting her engine and cutting into the road again. I turned around to rush back to my car and was nearly hit by another vehicle. Within seconds, I was on the wheels and speeding after Sara.


    Beep! Beep! A car honked impatiently beside me, trying to overtake. When I looked, it was Jake. He signalled for me to pull over, but I ignored him. No doubt he saw it too. My son.


    Anyone who knew me only needed to look once to know that the kid was my pup. My flesh and blood. How could Sara do this? I bit back my rising fury.


    Soon, she pulled over in front of a mid-sized food truck. I did the same, but Jake intercepted me as I burst out of the car.


    "Think, Nick! You can''t approach her like this," he warned as he stood in front of me.


    "That''s mine," I groaned.


    "Clearly! But remember, you didn''t want it. You didn''t want the child." The words stopped me in my tracks. Again, I recalled how we ended things. I''d sent him to offer her money to take care of the pregnancy. ""She lied! She said it was a scare."


    Irrelevant, but I had to defend myself. Jake shook his head.


    "This is all your fault," I snapped, punching him in the chin. He staggerred backwards, fighting to keep his bnce.


    "I sent you to dissolve the contract and settle everything else with her, and you couldn''t be thorough?"


    The little scuffle with my beta made me lose sight of Sara and the child. Fear rose inside me, mingling with an outrage that made my stomach turn.


    "You''re right! It''s my fault! Just she never struck me as the liar type, so I didn''t follow up!" he countered. "Let me handle it." He''s in my way again as I strain my neck to look at Sara.


    Shoving him aside, I stomped towards the food truck some feet away.


    Sebastian James'' profile was the first thing that came into view. The older male was getting a paper cup from the shelf while his customers had their eyes on me.


    Turning around, Seb froze as our gazes meet.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.

 Chapter 0013

    Sara POV


    I couldn''t see my father during lunch as nned, but I was so d the day was finally over. We would talk as soon as He''s done with this round of customers.


    "Jeremy gave me too much work when we got back from the business meeting," I exined. "I feel like he suspects something."


    My dad wasn''t paying attention. His back stiffened at the same time as Nick''s familiar scent and aura wafted by. My heart jerked. I didn''t dare strain my neck to see the person in front of the truck. Instead, I settle Alex on the chair gently. My hands shook as I set his drawing beside him.


    "Cake, mommy," Alex protested.


    "Shh, hold on, sweetheart. Grandpa''s will give it to you once you''ve had your..."


    All thoughts and words died in my mouth as my gaze rested on Nick''s. My dad stood frozen with the cup of ice tea in one hand.


    "Seb," the customer called out impatiently. "My tea, please."


    He seemed to regain himself and moved, handing the older woman her tea. Nick stood beside the customer, ring at me.


    "Mommeee," Alex screamed. I quickly covered my his mouth with shaky hands.


    "Shh..." But there''s no use.


    Nick is an alpha. He would scent his flesh and blood from a mile away. The look in his eyes and the fact that he''s standing here in front of my father''s shop meant that he already has. But how did he know? We left them at the restaurant this afternoon. Did he have me followed? I refused to think that he gave me enough thought to do such a thing.


    My dad gave the woman her change in coins, and Nick cut in front of the next customer.


    ""Excuse me-"


    The look in his eyes shut the man up, who swallowed before adding,


    "sir," under his breath. Then he stepped aside.


    Nick redirected his gaze to me, straining his neck to look farther inside the truck. His eyes shone as they shifted from me to the little boy on the bench.


    My dad stepped in front of us, blocking his view. "Why are you here?"


    "You know exactly why I''m here, Sebastian!" he snapped.


    Jake appeared in that moment. A tiny bruise at the corner of his lips.


    "Come out here, Sara. You''ve got something that belongs to me," Nick called out in a voice that was unrecognizable.


    My heart leapt to my throat as he said these words.


    ""Mommy, who''s that?" Alex asked.


    "Good question! Why don''t you answer it, Sara," Nick called.


    "Shh... baby, I''ll exinter, okay," I said to my son.


    My father meant to ignore Nick, so he signalled to the customer behind.


    "What can I get you, Zeek?"


    "Caserole and coffee with extra ice, please," he replied.


    "Sara!" Anger and urgency ring in Nick''s voice as he called out my name again.


    It was not yet 6:30 PM but once my father was done with the young man Nick cut in front of, he waved the other two customers, signalling he was close for the day.


    "I''m sorry, guys. Family emergency," he said. Then he turned to me.


    "Listen to me, Sara. We''ll ignore him till he goes away. This isn''t his territory. He can''t do anything," my father said.


    "I coulde snatch him out of there! Wanna see?" Nick called out.


    The threat didn''t sound empty, and my father knew this, too. This may not be his territory, but I was sure he had more influence here than we could ever dream of, even though we''ve been here for four years now. "Alex, baby, wait here for me, okay? Don''te out. I''ll be right back."


    My dad was about to protest when I turned to him. "You know he''ll barge in if I don''t go out. Let me go talk to him."


    "I don''t want you anywhere near-"


    "Sara!" Nick''s voice cut my dad off.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    "It''s okay, dad. I can handle this. It''s between me and him." I squeezed his hand and started to leave.


    As I climbed down from the truck, I watched the rage dissolve from Nick''s eyes. What reced it was a look I''d nearly forgotten. It sent a sh of the past into my mind as I recalled how he and I used to be. I look away from him and force the past out of my mind, bracing myself to talk to him.


    He slipped both hands into his pocket, and I wonder if he''s trying to restrain himself from strangling me.


    "Why do you need to see me?" I asked calmly.


    He frowned, but before he could reply, I added, "You made it clear that we won''t have to run into each other after that meeting this morning. So what''s this about?"


    He gave a short, scaryugh and shook his head before saying,


    "What''s this? Are we ying a game? You know why I''m here, Sara!"


    "No, I don''t!" I shook my head.


    "That child, Sara!"


    "Please keep your voice down!" I whip my head around to check that Alex is still inside and hopefully out of earshot.


    "You had a baby-"


    "Yes, I did!" I cut him off. "I met someone and got pregnant. What, did you think I''ll never meet anyone after your idiotic, broken contract?" I didn''t know when the anger reced my earlier fear.


    "Are you seriously going to deny that he''s mine? I''m alpha of the Forest Moon, Sweetness. Did you really think I wouldn''t know my own from miles away?" His eyes hardened as his anger returned. "You''re wrong about this, Mister alpha of the Forest Moon. He is NOT yours! And don''t you EVER call me that again," I replied.


    Then, taking a deep breath to steady my shaky, high-pitched voice, I added, "I''d like you to leave now. You''ve disrupted my father''s business this evening."


    And he''s disrupting our lives right now. How dare he call me that pet name? After what he did to me? That was a name he used a few times when we were naked between the sheets.


    Goddess, why had he shown up here and now? What kind of cruel fate was this? My father was right, we had to move. We had to run. Otherwise, he''d take my child.


    Nick nodded as his jaw ticked. "You want difficult? Fine! Let''s do difficult," he said.


    My heart lurched. I thought he would force his way into the truck, but he simply stepped back to look at me again before speaking.


    "That child is born of a divine bond. He''s a true Reign. My heir. You''re wee to fight me for him, but you and I know you can''t win, SWEETNESS! And now that I know he exists, there''s no way in hell I''m leaving him in this dump with you and your father, you hear me!"

 Chapter 0014

    Nick turned his back on me and stomped back to the SUV, parked some feet from the truck. Jake followed quickly behind him. My heart continued to hammer in my chest as I watched them both.


    He opened the driver''s side and sat down. But he didn''t attempt to start the engine. Instead, he seemed to be barking orders at his beta, who kept nodding like a lizard to his every syble. How I hated them both for showing up here.


    I had no doubt that Alex saw his face. He''d strained his neck to see who was calling out my name earlier. I wonder what that meant.


    Nick''s head was bowed low now as he tapped his phone screen. Then he held it to his ear.


    What did he mean to do? He was right when he implied that I couldn''t fight him. This was a powerful figure, not just among werewolves but even humans. Why was this happening to me? He''d made it clear that he didn''t want me bearing his child back then. What changed?


    "C''mon inside, Sara," my father ordered, taking me by the arms and leading me back into the truck. I kept turning around to look at Nick talking on the phone. His eyes did not leave mine as he spoke.


    "You both wait here," my dad said once we were in the truck. "I''ll go talk to him."


    But as he turned around to go back outside, Nick had already started the car. With a reckless u-turn, he drove off into the traffic. The crazed look in his eyes was unmistakable. He was going toe back to take Alex. I was terrified.


    My father closed the shop earlier that day and drove us straight home. On the way, I thought about thest few weeks since the rumors started that the town was getting a mall. It hadn''t even crossed my mind for a moment that the Reigns might own the proposed project. Why should it? What could a big corporation want in a town like this? If only I watched TV, I would''ve seen thising. But I''d slowly developed a strong aversion to it after we left L.A. The cable in the house was strictly kiddies TV for Alex.


    The car was quiet on our way home. I recalled my dad''s weird behaviour in thest few days and broke the silence.


    "You knew he wasing."


    My tone was usatory. "That''s why you wanted us to move."


    "Jeremy mentioned Reign Corporations in passing," he replied. "So yeah, I knew, but I didn''t know for sure that he''de in person."


    "When did Jeremy mention him?" I asked.


    "Two days ago. I didn''t worry about it at first. It''s hard to believe the alpha himself woulde all the way out here to oversee this."


    I switched to mind-link to keep Alex from hearing my next words. ''I can''t let him take my child.''


    "He won''t," my father replied out loud in a gentle voice.


    Alex was watching the both of us. No doubt, feeling so confused by everything that just happened.


    I wonder what would happen if Nick and the childe face to face. Though he was only three and a half years old and had merely started talking properly. Would he recognize his father?


    He''d never asked me about his dad, but there''s still a lot of time. I doubt he understands that one parent was missing in his life at this age. I''d hoped that the presence of his grandpa filled that void enough to prevent his question for many more years toe. Guess I wouldn''t have to worry about that anymore. I give a bitterugh, and my dad regards me with deep worry in his eyes.


    ****


    The next morning at 6.45, I''d decided that I wasn''t letting Alex out of my sight. Although, I still haven''te up with what to do to keep Nick away.


    We were eating breakfast like a normal morning, even though I didn''t n on letting him go to school. My cellphone rang, making me jerk. We had a home phone. A normal person in the town would ring that at this time of the day, rather than call my mobile phone. When I looked at the number, as expected, it was the one that I memorized long ago. The very number that I was forbidden to call even when I was sleeping with him.


    How did Nick get my current phone number?


    I stood up to take the call as my dad''s eyes followed me. It was better to pretend that I didn''t know who was on the line. ""Hello."


    "Hello, Sara." He sounded a bit calm. Not as threatening as yesterday, but my heart still thumped at the sound.


    "How did you get this number?"


    "You and I have some catching up to do," he said, ignoring my question.


    "We have nothing to catch up on," I replied.


    "I gave you the whole night toe to your senses. If you''re really going to choose the hard way, fine! Let''s do it how you want then." He hung up.


    I looked at the phone in horror. When I turned around, my dad was standing with his hands crossed. I could feel his worry and anger.


    "We can go to Fairview or anywhere else this very minute," he suggested. "We''ll find a cheap motel and stay there till we find a ce. Just disappear from here."


    I bit my finger, rolling the thought in my head. It took a few seconds to decide. I nodded in agreement, and within fifteen minutes, we''ve packed a light luggage. I told myself we''d figure other things out after I hid my son from Nick''s reach.


    He would never find us to take the child once we leave Orphic Valley.


    "Am I going to school with the bags?" Alex asked. I felt awful about the confusion he must feel at this moment.


    "Not today, baby. We have to go somewhere today."


    My father carried the bigger luggage behind me and Alex. I opened the door and started to lead my son out of the house when that peculiar aura engulfed us. My heart dropped into my stomach.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    I lifted my gaze, and Nick stood a few feet away with hands in his pocket like he''d been waiting. His face held no expression.


    To myplete shock, my son broke into a wide grin. Lifting his hand, he waved at his father and called out,


    "Hello."

 Chapter 0015

    As my son greeted Nick, his face immediately transformed into a shock that mirrored my one. Except his eyes were colored with joyful triumph.


    Two men approached the porch from behind him.


    I grabbed Alex''s hand, forcing it back down. "What did I say about talking to strangers?"


    "I saw him yesterday. He''s your fwend," Alex argued.


    "He''s not my friend unless I tell you so. Have I told you he''s my friend?" I scolded.


    He shook his head hesitantly. As the men reached the porch, my father rushed to quickly stand protectively in front of me and my son. One of the men was Richard Wolfe, Nick''s number three. The one that had no clue about our love affair.


    I tried and failed to hide my surprise at how much he has changed. He was muchrger than he used to be. Bright tattoos peeked out of his cor and his mohawk is neatly cut. A true warrior of the Forest Moon.


    He gave me a half smile when our eyes met. "Nice to see you again, Sara. Mr. James," he greeted my father with a slight bow before adding, "Please, step aside. I''m here for the youngling."


    My heart thumped violently in my chest. This couldn''t be happening. I turned around and grabbed Alex, holding him to my chest.


    "What''s with all the damn luggage?" Nick spoke. "I have to say, Sara, I''m disappointed."


    "What do you want, young alpha?" My father asked in a shaky voice. "She did what you wanted four years ago-"


    "She did not, Mr. James!" He snapped. "That''s why we''re here now."


    I started to reach inside my purse for my cellphone to call the police. But the other gamma took two quick strides, shoving my dad aside, he snatched it away.


    "Get away from us!" I snapped, quickly grabbing Alex again. His arms tightened around me this time, and I knew he was growing scared.


    Nick stomped forward and lowered himself so that he was at eye level with his son.


    "Hey... little wolf," he said gently.


    Only my father called him that. It got a reaction from the child. His hold ckened around me as he stared into Nick''s eyes.


    I held my breath. What would I do if


    he did recognize his father? I refuse to believe it''s possible. He''s three and half years old for Goddess sake? Too young to pick up such feelings.


    en FindNovel


    Nick''s expression grew soft as he regarded the child before him. I wondered if he would be petty and blurt out that he''s his father here and now?


    "Your mommy and I just need to have a little chat, that''s all, okay?" he said calmly.


    Alex nodded and started to release me, but I grabbed and held on tighter. "We have nothing to talk about," I said through gritted teeth.


    Nick glowered at me. I started to


    wonder if we could still talk through the mind-link. We were no longer connected by the mate bond, and for some reason, I dread finding out if our minds could still hear each


    I


    other. I would hate that hollow


    feeling of learning the too


    far apart-


    ''We do have some catching up to do, Sara,'' his voice drifted into my mind, cutting off my thoughts and putting my doubts to rest.


    ''We can be civil for the child''s sake or this scene can get worse. Which will it be?''


    That deep, husky voice in my head sent butterflies to my stomach. For a few, brief moments, I was back in his bed. It was four years ago again.


    I swallowed and shook myself from the idiotic thrill coursing through me. What does it matter that I can hear his mind? What good can that do me?


    "We have plenty to talk about, Sara," he said aloud. "Otherwise, Alexes with me to see my house." He grinned at the boy.


    The words wereced withThis is from N?velDrama.Org.


    unspoken threats. He seemed ready


    to make good of them. I looked at my father, and my heart twisted at the fear in his eyes. Richard and his fellow warrior stood ready for orders.


    When I exhaled, Nick seemed to rx.


    "We''ll talk in the car while Tony helps return your luggage inside. Your father can make coffee for his guest while we''re at it," he said.


    Everyone understood themand. Within minutes, my father was guiding little Alex back into the house as Rich and the one called Tony followed behind with our bags.


    Nick gestured towards his car, and I followed him. He held the door open as I settled inside. Then he shut it gently and soon, we were sitting beside each other.

 Chapter 0016

    "You were going to run away with my child?" he began. "I should make you pay dearly for that! It''s bad enought that -"


    "I already told you. He''s not yours!" I cut him off.


    "Cut the crap, Sara! The boy recognized me-"


    "Alex is a good-natured, friendly kid. That''s he waved at you. It doesn''t mean he knows you!"


    "Lower your voice." The warning was issued in a calm voice, but a chill raced through me at his tone.


    I swallowed and lowered my head out of that damned, submissive habit. The car was silent as I waited for him to speak.


    "He recognized me and you know it! He''s too young to make sense of what he felt, but he knew me! He listened to me!" He sighed.


    "Here''s what''s gonna happen. I can''t leave him here with you. Apart from the fact that I forbid him to live like this, I need to be in his life FULL TIME! You''ve hid him for four years. I''m taking him now," he said.


    "You have no right," I cried. "He''s not yours."


    "Oh yeah? Then whose child is he?" His eyes shone with anger as his voice took a sharp edge.


    "If you''re pining him on another man..." he gave a bitterugh. "That man could get seriously hurt for existing, you hear me? Wait, is it your KIND boss? Are you pining him on that old man?" His brow furrowed like he was truly wondering.


    "If you keep saying he''s not mine, there are grave consequences, Sara!" he warned.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    "You sent yourwyer to offer me money for abortion. Do you remember that?" I asked.


    "You rejected it and lied that there''s no pregnancy!What''s your fucking point?"


    "My point is you don''t even want this child... at least, not with a lowlife like me. Why are you doing this?" I pleaded.


    "Here''s what you need to know. Young Alexander Reign leaves here with me this morning."


    "His name is Alexander James!"


    He ignored me. Reaching for his phone, he dialed a number and held it to his ear. "Time to go!"


    My heart sank into my stomach. What was I going to do? I had to call the police. But my phone was snatched away by that Tony guy.


    I sat, biting my nails, thinking of how to stall this as Nick retrieved a small paper and a pen to start scribbling on it.


    "Here''s where we''ll be for now. That''s the home number, but you can also call my cellphone. You have to call me beforeing over, understood?"


    I sat unmoving in the car, resolving


    not to step one foot outside. He


    dumped the piece of paper on my thigh. The door to our house burst open at the same time, and Richard emerged with Alex in his arms.


    QUMS


    The sight of my son, struggling against therge man, made me forget my decision to remain inside the car.


    "Leave me! Gwanpaa!" Alex screamed.


    Before I knew it, I was outside.


    Tony and my old man didn''t follow behind Rich. I feared to think of what Nick''s other guard was doing to him. I raced towards my son, pleading with Rich. "You know this is wrong, Rich! Please don''t take him from me."


    When I tried to reach for Alex, he dodged, carrying the child who was still fighting him into the car. Nick recieved the boy with open arms as he screamed, ""Mommee!"


    The sound tore my heart in two. Iunched at Rich''s back, grabbing, struggling to get a hold of my son, but Alex was out of reach. His father now held him in a warm hug.


    I continued to hit Rich''s back with my fist as he turned around and grabbed my arm. He shook me roughly, calling my name.


    "Listen to me, Sara!" The urgency in his voice made me stop struggling.


    "You know where to find us." His voice grew gentle.


    He took both my hands and forced


    the tiny piece of paper into it. "You CAN see him. You can follow behind


    as soon as we leave. No one''s


    stopping you," Rich said gently.


    en FindNovel


    When I lift my gaze to look at my son, Nick was ring at his gamma with ws peeking out of his knuckles as he rocked the child.


    Rich released my hands and gently tuck a few strands of twist behind my ear. "See you around," he said.


    Tony emerged from the house at


    that instant with my father shoving


    past him and racing towards the car.


    But they were already pulling out of the curb and driving off with Alex.

 Chapter 0017

    Nick POV


    My eyes would not leave the back of Richard''s head. In another situation, he would''ve known I was watching him. His senses would''ve picked it up if they weren''t clouded from touching Sara.I kept smoothing the child''s back to calm my own rising temper. Different thoughts y in my mind as my gamma sped off from the little street. I imagine relieving him of those fingers with my ws. Without them, he would never think to touch her ever again, would he?


    I take a deep breath to cool the rage inside me. These types of thoughts have no ce in my head.


    The child moved to free himself from my arms, and it urred to me that I was holding him too tight. When I released him, he turned around to look back at the house he was leaving behind. Sebastian was still running towards our direction. Wait, is he chasing the car? I scoffed.


    "We wait for gyanpa," the child said in a soft voice.


    "He''ll meet us soon," I replied gently.


    "And mommy?"


    I nodded. "Her, too."


    He seemed unconvinced. The fear and anxiety were all gone now. On instinct, this child knew he was my blood, I had no doubt.


    "Where are we going?" he asked.


    "You''ll see when we get there," I replied.


    There would be many more questions about why he was snatched away from the home he knew. I could feel his trepidation and confusion for his mother, and I have no idea what to say to ease them. How do I exin all this to him?


    Worst of all, it was hard to focus. My gaze was back to my gamma on the wheel. I wonder how the child will take it if I mmed the male''s face against that windshield.


    The image of him tucking Sara''s strands away shed before me again. How''s that part of the job? I needed to have a word or ten with him.


    "What do you think?"


    My voice pulled him out of his thoughts. He raised a brow on the rearview mirror as his eyes found mine.


    "Talking to me, alpha?"This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    "Yes, Richard. I''m talking to you. What do you think?" I said again.


    "About... what?" he asked hesitantly.


    "All of this," I replied, stealing a quick nce at the pup beside me. It felt ufortable to blurt out that I''m his father, so I chose my words carefully as I borated the question. "About Sara and I, and all of... this."


    "I don''t understand the question, alpha," he replied.


    "You had a crush on her at some point, remember?" I said. "My dad would kill me if I dishonor his name like that.'' Remember these words?"


    He didn''t reply. I could sense his rising anxiety.


    "Maybe this one will jug your memory. ''I''d rather let off steam with a human girl than an omega.'' You said those very words when Jake asked why you wouldn''t shoot your shot, remember?" I asked.


    The scent of his difort filled the car, making me mildly nauseous.


    "It was a long time ago, alpha," he replied.


    I recalled the day my beta asked him that question. He wanted to check if he was pretending not to know about Sara and I. We''d learned that the only reason our friend didn''t make his move on Sara was the same reason I''d kept me and her a secret. "So you don''t feel something for her anymore?"


    I tried to keep the edge out of my voice. It was hard, especially when I remembered how devastated he was when she disappeared.


    "No, I got over that a long time ago," he replied simply.


    "So what do you think?" I asked again.


    "I have no thought on this matter, alpha. It''s your personal life."


    My personal life was pack''s business because of my position. He was lying, but I decided to deal with thatter. Right now, it was better to focus on what is at hand,


    which is the youngling sitting beside


    me.


    He''s back to being nervous. Maybe because I mentioned his mother''s name. That shouldn''tst. He''d get used to seeing more of me and my wolves soon.


    "I had to ask cuz you were pretty cozy with her a moment ago," I muttered, but Richard heard me.


    "-"


    "It''s not your job tofort her, Rich. I hope you know that?"


    "Yes, alpha. I didn''t mean it like that. I was just... saying hello to an old friend," he replied.


    I let the little talk end there. We rode in silence the rest of the way as the little boy kept fidgetting beside me, looking back every now and then. Soon, we arrived at my resort.


    It was nearly 7:30. "Have you had breakfast?" I asked the child once we were in the elevator.


    "Yes," he replied.


    I knelt down so that I was at eye level with him.


    "1


    "That''s no way to speak to your The F word nearly fell out of my mouth, but I bit it back and sighed. "First, let''s go inside." There was a ding. The door slid open, and I led him into my suite. FindNovel


    "Where are we? Is my mommying soon?"


    Which question do I answer first? "Yes, she''ll be here soon."


    I looked at my cellphone again. No calls or texts from Sara, but I knew without a doubt that she was on her way here no matter what. Her eyes couldn''t lie, and the look in them when we drove off told me she couldn''t survive a minute without knowing where our son was.


    Especially after he was forcefully


    taken from her.


    Jake was waiting in the living room when we entered. He came to meet us by the elevator door, his eyes immediately falling on the boy.


    "Hello," he said gently to the boy.


    "I''m not supposed to talk to strangers," Alex replied softly.


    "Ah. We should get acquainted then, so you can talk to me," he said, lowering himself so the child could look at him. He seemed strangely startled once they were eye to eye. ''Goddess, Nick, the pup looks like your tiny little clone!'' he mindlinked.


    Pride stirred inside me at these words, and I couldn''t help but hide a small smile.


    ''Well, except for the nose. He got that from his mother,'' he added, echoing my very thought when I first took a good look at the child.


    "My name is Jake," he said to Alex. "But you can call me beta when it''s just us three. And in front of your mother. How about you? What''s your name?" "Alexander," he replied.


    "Nice to meet you, Alexander." He extended his hand to the kid, but the shrill sound from the inte disrupted the moment.


    "I''ll get it," I announced, rushing to snatch the reciever from its cradle. I already know who''s here to see me, and I''m so full of anticipation to take the call.


    "A Miss Sara James is here to see you, sir," the clerk said.


    ""Send her upstairs."

 Chapter 0018

    Sara POV


    The name of the ce is spelt "Rain resort," ording to the little paper in my hand. It definitely belonged to Nick. As I sped on behind them, I realized how far in the outskirt of Orphic town I''vee. A precise forty-minutes drive from our house. Which means the resort is


    only ten minutes away from the very ce my father intended for us to move to.


    How fucking ironic! We were actually nning to run towards the person we wanted to avoid. Well, we aren''t moving anywhere now, are we? He''s got my Alex.


    I lost sight of them the moment we entered the resort. Rushing into the lobby like a deranged woman, I stamped my hand on nonchnt clerk''s desk to get his attention. Two minutester, I''m riding an elevator marked Private to Nick''s suite. "We''re here, Miss," the bellboy announced.


    His words were apanied by a ding as the door slid open to reveal a ce that looked quite simr to Nick''s living room back in L.A. If the name of the resort isn''t enough, the interior design proves it quite well that the ce is his.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    "You were supposed to call first, Sara," Nick said.


    "Where''s my son?" I snapped.


    "OUR son. He''s where I want him to be," he replied.


    "He''s not ours, he''s mine! Give him back this instant!"


    "Woah, I see the kitten grew ws, huh?" he mocked, eyes gleaming as they roam my face. "You''ll see him after we talk. Have a seat." He motioned towards a couch.


    "I''ll stand! Where is he? Alex! Baby!" I started screaming, walking around the vast room and poking my head on all the doors I can see.


    "Sara!" Nick called with an urgency in his voice. I ignored him and kept screaming for my child. Soon, I feel arge hand encircle my arm as he started to drag me to a sofa. "Let go of me!" I yelled.


    His hand remained sped around my arm as he pulled me towards the sofa and tossed me onto it.


    "Sit!" hemanded.


    Inded with my face against a fluffy pillow, convulsing as the tears threatened to choke me.


    "You need to calm down, Sara." His tone is surprisingly soft. "You''ll see him. I just want us to talk." "You were at my house a moment ago. We could''ve talked before you took him from me," I cried. "I don''t want him there another minute!" he snapped.


    I sighed and sniffed, wiping my eyes with my hand. "So talk. I''m listening."


    "I''ve ordered a paternity test incase. your try to bring your humanwyers into this." He pulled a stool and sat


    in front of me. Too close. "I can''t let you see him till I get the result-"


    IMS


    I bolted up from the chair, ready to begin a thorough search of the entire hotel. He caught my wrist again and tossed me back down. "Sit, Sara. Do I have to tie you up?"


    I yanked his hand away. "You bring Alex out here right now!" I barked.


    He straightened, eyes moving over


    me. "Wow, Sweetness, motherhood really changed you, huh? You''ve grown quite bossy." His tone is flirty. For a second, I nearly lost focus. Then his face curved into a smirk and I imagine wiping it off with a stap.


    "I''ll let you see the boy if you say it! Tell me he''s mine and you get to see him before you leave."


    "Before I leave? I''m not going anywhere without him!"


    "You''re not leaving with him, Sara!"


    His gaze became dead serious, sending fresh panic through me. He moved the stool closer and I was momentarily distracted by the nearness.


    "I should make you pay for what you did," he said in a lowered voice. "You were supposed to take care of the pregnancy. I offered you a huge sum, but no. You were greedy for my seed!"


    I stared at him, horrified at his words. "I''ve stayed far away from you all these years. What the hell are on about?" I barked.


    "You said you loved me, Sara. You thought you''d make do with my child since you couldn''t have me, didn''t you? Tell me I''m wrong and I''ll call you a liar!" he fired back.


    The words were half true, though I


    didn''t get pregnant on purpose. It touched my veryst nerve and filled me with so much bitterness that ran out of words. There was no point having this conversation.


    "Think what you like, that''s your problem. I''m here to collect my child. The one you made very clear that you didn''t want!"

 Chapter 0019

    "Oh, I want, Sweetness! I do want now. You don''t just get to keep him to yourself!"


    He''s sitting too close. If I tried to get up, I''d bump my face against his. So I remained where I am as I resume my screaming.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    "Alex! Alex! Baby, are you in-" The yelling got cut off as Nick''s lips covered mine in a crushing kiss.


    His hands cupped my face as he swallowed the rest of my words. The kiss was full of hunger and demands. In that moment, I forgot that this male was keeping me from my son. Every pain he has caused me didn''t exist as he teased me with his tongue.


    He started to slow down and I gradually regain my senses. How could I have gotten carried away even for a second? I pushed him off with all my might,nding a hard p across his face. I was out of breath when I jolted up the sofa.


    To my utter relief, he didn''t try to stop me now. Instead, he rose slowly.


    I wanted to scream Alex''s name again, but I couldn''t find my voice soon enough, so I rushed to take the stairs.


    "Are you sure you wanna go that way? My bedroom is right up there. If you go any further, I''ll just take that to mean you want a continuation of the kiss," his tone was sarcastic.


    I halted, glowering at him. It urred to me that I wasn''t afraid that he''d make good of the threat. Rather I was terrified that I would let him continue what he started.


    "Get me my son right now!" I snapped.


    "I''ve told you, I will. What you need to do is easy. I want to hear it from that mouth of yours... Tell me Alex is my son."


    I was flustered and confused and still feeling weirdly tingly from the unexpected kiss. I hated to have those words leave my lips. As far as I''m concerned, my son has no father. His family consists of me and his grandfather. I wanted nothing more than to leave this ce with my child. This male came into town with the sole purpose of interrupting my peaceful life.


    "He''s-"


    "Mommy!"


    My heart lespt as my baby emerged above the stairs and started to race down towards me.


    "Careful, honey." I went to him and lifted him into my arms, holding him tight. Then I set him down, checking him for Goddess-knows-what.


    "Are you alright? Come here. Tell me, did anybody do something to you?"


    Then I was lifting him again and climbing back down the stairs.


    When I stared at Nick, his eyes were §Ö


    hard and they were on Jake who emerged behind my son. I started to head towards the elevator with Alex when Nick gave a loud sigh. His warning floated into my mind.


    ''Don''t take another step, Sara! You can see him, but you can''t leave with him, I told you this.'' He approached us and I increased my strides so that I was almost running.


    ''You want us to give the child a show? Scar him for life, is that what you want?'' he threatened.


    I reached the elevator but didn''t get a chance to push the open button. Nick blocked it as other footsteps sound behind me. Then he spoke out loud.


    "Alex, little wolf, time to show you to


    your new room. I said you''ll see your mommy and now you have. But she''s alreadyte for work so.." He''s staring at my child now. "Shehas to leave now, okay?"


    He reached for Alex, but I held on tighter. It was no use. The confusion and anxiety in my son''s eyes tore at my heart as Nick forced him from my arms.


    Alex started to cry, and so did I. Nick carried him back into the living room and up the stairs as Tony appeared from nowhere. He and the beta held me, making sure I didn''t go after them. "Jake, please," I begged. "I can''t live without him."


    The beta is as cold and indifferent as four years ago. He and the Tony guy forced me into the elevator.


    "Her meeting with Mr. Reign is over,"


    he said to the operator, signaling that I was not to be allowed back upstairs. A female guard came forward to take my arm, preventing me from getting back out.


    "Jake! Jake!" I screamed. "Please!"


    The door slid shut and started its descent.

 Chapter 0020

    Nick''s POV


    I carried the child back upstairs, rocking him as he screamed for his mommy.


    "She''ll be back. I promise," I whispered soothingly again and again. Momentster, he started to rx. Soon, he was truly calm, and then Iid him gently on the bed.


    Jake stood, watching. It felt like he was thinking really hard for the perfect excuse for his error. He was supposed to stay in the room with the kid till I called out his name. Once my son was calm, I motioned for us to leave. "What the fuck, Jake?" I said once we were outside the room.


    "I heard you call out Alex, I swear. The kid heard it, too." He gave an innocent shrug. "You said I can let hime out once you call out his name."


    Yeah the mistake was mine. I''d said the name before I should. Sara didn''t leave the resort yet. I can feel it. Of course, she wouldn''t. She''d remain downstairs till they let her back up or till I show up there.


    I should do something about that quickly. I hadn''t thought things through when I rushed to her house this morning.


    Well, I hadn''t been thinking straight since Iid eyes on her at that restaurant yesterday. My fingers unwittingly went to my lips. I recalled the fresh taste of jasmine tinged with Sara''s denial when I kissed her moments ago. It''s the sweetest thing I''ve tasted in a long, long time.


    What the fuck was I thinking? I had no business kissing her. I lost control there.


    "The paternity test results can''te out for another twenty-four hours, Nick. But... you just need that for records, right? It''s not important?" Jake''s voice shook me out of my thoughts.


    I nodded before he adds, "I''m nearly done with what you asked me to prepare. You and I know a lot can happen in twenty-four hours, Nick. For one, she''s not gonna leave the resort willingly and she could police or something. You need to stall her." "That''s what I''m thinking," I lied.


    There''s only one way to prevent this from getting into any public eye. I turned around and returned to the child. He''s not on the bed where I left him. He''s now crouched by the corner instead.


    My annoyance stirred. We were starting off on the wrong foot, me and him. I couldn''t have him see me as the enemy. Maybe I shouldn''t have made the move to collect him so soon.


    "Get up, Alex. Come to me," I ordered.


    "I want my mommy," he replied in a small voice.


    "She''ll be back, I told you. But not if you hide from me." It was wrong to threaten him, but that was all I have at the moment.


    ""Mommy said you''re not her friend," the child remarked.


    "That''s because she''s mad at me." At least, there was some truth in that statement.


    "When is sheing back? Is granpaing?" the boy asked.


    It was a surprise that the older man hadn''te with her daughter to fight for his grandkid. No doubt, he was pulling strings in the background to bring people here. Thank Goddess, he''s a nobody, whereas I have power and influence. I nodded at the child. "I think he will, yeah."


    He still didn''t move from beside the bed. This wasn''t going well. A moment ago, he let me hold him. Now he''s hiding? Well, I''m Sara''s least favourite person, and the child knew it. That was the problem. Getting through to him would be tough. I went to where he''s crouched and knelt in front of him.


    "When can I go home?" he asked before I could speak.


    I wanted to tell him that wherever I go would be his new home, but that''s not a good idea. For now. It''ll freak his tiny mind out. He would ask why, and I would have to say because "I''m your daddy."


    Then he would probably say where have you been all my life. I exhaled to stop the silly dialogue in my head. That conversation would happen when it did.


    Apart from being his dad, I am his alpha. He needs to start to understand that.


    "Your mommy would be back, but you have to do as I say. First, they''ll bring you some food and you''ll eat it. What would you like?"


    A brief knock interrupted our heart-to-heart, and Jake entered. "The police are on the phone."


    I stood up abruptly, motioning for us to talk outside the room.


    "I''ll be right back," I told the kid.


    Once the door was shut and I was sure the kid couldn''t hear us, I started to speak.


    "You should take care of the police. I''ll speak to the mayor." I proceeded towards the room I used as an office. "Absolute discretion, Jake."


    "Of course, alpha."


    Within ten minutes, that problem was handled. The mayor was happy to be of help, and the police understood that this was a family matter. Then, I made my way downstairs to have a word with Sara.


    As soon as she saw meing, she ran towards me with puffy eyes, trying to evade the human security standing in her way. I gave him the signal to let here through, and he stepped aside.


    "You can''t keep him here," she cried. "He needs me. He didn''t even eat breakfast yet... and he''s... scared and... confused."


    She sniffed, tears racing down her already tears-drenched cheek.


    "I think I''m capable of providing breakfast for my child, Sara," I said as several ufortable emotions rose inside me.


    Seeing her like this sent an odd pang to my chest. The plea in her eyes did weird things to my heart. In all of the times I''ve known her, I never saw ker like this. Not even when we went our §×


    separate ways four years ago Certainly not when she saw me kissing her best friend. We were


    bound by the mate bond then.


    "Try calling the police one more time! Maybe they''lle let you have your way this time," I mocked, hoping my own irritation would clear out the ache in my chest.


    "I had to call 911. They wouldn''t let me see you. I had to do something, that''s why I called them," she cried. Is that an apology?


    "You kept him from me for all these YEARS, Sara. It''s only been what? Barely two hours, and you''re already losing it? Imagine four years," I used in a hushed tone. "You wanted nothing to do with me. With us," she countered.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "Oh, so now you admit he''s my child now, huh?"


    She sniffed again, biting down her bottom lip. It urred to me that she really was determined to never utter the words I want to hear.


    like she was determined to Just


    child fatherless for as long as possible. The thought raised my anger.


    "Do you admit it, Sara?" I asked.


    that


    "Please, let me go to him." She sped both hands together, begging. "He needs me."


    "You''re right. He needs you. But he needs me, too. So here''s what we''ll do. I''ll let you stay with him," I said.


    Hope red in her eyes as she waited for me to continue.


    "You''ll stay here... at my penthouse with OUR son. For now. Till his house is ready!"

 Chapter 0021

    Sara POV


    Hope and confusion filled my mind as Nick spoke. I stared at him open-mouthed, not knowing how to respond. Does he know the implications of what he''s asking here? "What?" I gasped.


    Is he out of his mind? What about members of the Forest Moon? What if they see me with him? Worse, what if they see the child? Does he no longer care about these things?


    He gave one look at Jake and the other guy, and they retreated their steps to give us some privacy.


    "C''mon," he jerked his head towards the door at the far side of the lobby. "Let''s talk about this somewhere more private."


    I could not disagree because my thoughts are still scattered, trying toe to terms with his suggestion. Ormand. So I followed him as he led me out into an open space. A few minutester, we were sitting across from each other at the resort lounge. As he signaled for the waiter, he said, "You must be hungry -"


    "I''m not. Are you out of your mind asking me to stay in YOUR penthouse? Your mother kicked me and my dad out of the pack!"This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "She did, huh?" he said, not looking at me.


    Was that a question? Was he going to sit here and pretend? "You didn''t know?"


    "That he fired him and threatened you. Of course, I know."


    "And drove us out! Why the hell do you think we left?"


    "Hello! She fired him because of you and I. I wasn''t sure if your father decided the smart move was leaving immediately or if she forced you out. And I didn''t care about finding out. That was a very bad time for you to..." he trailed off, shaking his head from side to side. "Never mind."


    He was half right. My dad nned for us to disappear immediately only for the luna to throw out our things before we were ready to leave. All that talk is not reason I''m finally sitting at a public ce with the alpha, so I sighed, deciding to halt that line of conversation. The waiter arrived to take our orders. I already told him I''m not eating, so I ignored the shy human girl.


    "She''ll have a turkey sandwich and mocha with a little extra cream," he said to her.


    I was momentarily stunned by the fact that he knew exactly how I took my coffee. This was someone who never said more than two words to me in public back when we were lovers. During our weekly secret meetings, he only wanted one thing.


    When he text me before we meet, he never failed to ask: "Did you eat? Make sure you do before I see you." Then after the sex, he''d shower and leave almost immediately.


    Once, I asked if he didn''t want me


    eating in his house or using his kitchen. I wanted to know why he always wanted me to eat beforeing. His reply had been yful and sensual as he nibbled my ear lobe. Because I don''t want you passing out from our little workout session." Then he''d kissed me deeply before adding, "And I don''t wanna waste a single second on anything else while I''m here. We''ve only got 60 minutes, remember?"


    We hardly ran into each other on campus because he was in his final year when I got into college. But when we did, he offered a wink whenever he felt generous. There were times when he even pretended I wasn''t there.


    As I sat across from him, remembering our past, it feltpletely strange that he''s sitting only a feet away, cing our orders. This is a public ce, isn''t it? His manners are so easy and natural. It felt like we did this often.


    There''s no hint that he cared what


    anyone thinks. Then again, this isn''t Los Angeles. I doubted any member of the Forest Moon came all the way out here for leisure. Luna Reign is nowhere nearby. His father is long dead. Not only is he the head of the Reign empire, but he''s alpha of the Forest Moon.


    As the waiter left to get the food, he caught me watching him and arched his brow.


    "I said I''m not hungry," I said. "And I certainly can''t stay in the same house as you."


    "We agreed Alex needs you and me, did we not?"


    "Let me take him home," I pleaded.


    "So you can run and hide like you nned, huh? I can not believe you were going to do that!" His tone was tinged with disgust as he said this.


    When I didn''tment on that remark, he went on. "If you want to be near our son, you''ll stay where he stays. I decide where he stays! It certainly won''t be in that hole you share with your dad, and that''s final!"


    "How long will you keep him there? Where will you take him next?" I asked.


    "For now, he goes wherever I go. So he can get to know me," he replied.


    "What about the pack?"


    The waiter brought the orders and started to set it before us. I stared at him helplessly, eager for his reply. I feel genuine curiosity about why he''s suddenly doesn''t care that the child came from me. As soon as the waiter left our table, my patience to hear him say his reason ran out.


    "You were disgusted by the thought of me bearing your child. I remember how horrified you looked when you learned I was pregnant," I said. "I don''t understand any of this."


    "Don''t you mean when I learned you MIGHT BE pregnant? MIGHT," he used air quotes. "That''s the word you used, Sara! You didn''t know he existed when you first opened that... mouth of yours. When you learned that you truly were pregnant, what did you do?" His tone was somewhat sharp, but there''s something else beneath. There''s no point answering the rhetorical question, so I let the silence reign until he spoke again.


    "Now listen! When you''re done reminiscing about the past, you can join me here in the present. Your coffee''s getting cold." He picked up his cup and took a sip.


    "I just want to be with my son. I want to see him," I pleaded.


    "He''s upstairs. As long as you agree to my terms, you can see him every single day."

 Chapter 0022

    Luna Reign


    Meanwhile, in Reign Towers, Los Angeles,


    Elise Reign is worried. She has started to see the signs that her son, the alpha, would break off histest engagement like he did the previous ones.


    He has been betrothed to three women in thest four years. That wasn''t good for their family image. But thank Goddess, the girls all knew the golden rule: "Keep the news from the press until a Mating ceremony date is set!"


    This simple rule had benefited both parties immensely during the break-ups. It had saved the girls and their families the embarrassment of being ditched.


    Nick promised her that he''d make this one work. He told her that there would be a Mating ceremony soon. But she was starting to doubt that he would keep his word.This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Why did he miss his weekly dinner with Cassie a few days ago. That''s the first sign of trouble. He has never done that in the five months that they''ve been together. Right now, he''s away and not replying her texts. Which means he has the perfect excuse to miss the next dinner date with his fiance. It would be the beginning of the end if he did. The girl wouldin. He would get pissed and say he couldn''t bear to mate a nagging she-wolf. At least, that''s the story with the previous one.


    "Urgh..." Luna Reign gave a deep sigh, sinking back on the sofa of herrge office.


    She grabbed her phone once again to check if there''s a reply to her text. He has been gone for forty-eight hours now. Yes, it''s a business trip but a totally unnecessary one.


    When he first mentioned a park far from the city, she''d thought it was a joke. Not until two weeks ago when he flew to the tiny town to scope the ce.


    Elise Reign is not against the idea. After all, he already had a resort in that town. Adding the park would boost that venture.


    However, she has a problem with the fact that he still isn''t talking about setting a date. He has been engaged with Cassie White long enough, hasn''t he?


    She sighed worriedly again, picking up her cup of coffee to down thest gulp. A knock came on the door just then.


    "Who is it?"


    "It''s Meg, Luna," came the reply.


    "Oh,e on in, Meg," she said.


    The she-wolf has been kind of a family friend in thest few years. The luna took a liking to her during the unfortunate incident with the former assistant cook''s daughter. "So any news?" she asked the younger she-wolf.


    "Nothing interesting, Luna. Except that the project is truly happening. The town''s mayor did approve, and work should start in theing week... or earlier," Meg replied.


    As she spoke, the luna couldn''t help but assess her again. Proud, confident, eloquent, well-bred. Yet not good enough for her son. At least, ording to Nick, she isn''t. The female proved utterly understanding of their customs when she brought that news about Miss James and her son.


    Mixing up with the humans and omegas didn''t ruin her like her mother feared. She understood the way of Forest Moon. She upheld their customs and beliefs despite the fact that her father left early. The same can''t be said about some of her peers. Megan Deere perfectly understood that a housefly shouldn''t aspire to be a bird. The luna liked her for that.


    "Have you ever been to that ce?" The Luna asked.


    "No, Luna. I have no business around North Dakota," she replied.


    "You didn''t go when hemissioned the resort?"


    "I was in Sweden," Meg replied.


    "It''s a pathetic little countryside. I don''t know what he''s thinking. I never know what that pup of mine is ever thinking," said the Luna with a frown.


    "The ce is nice. Mr. Duncan and Gerard confirmed it," Meg remarked before quickly adding, "I mean the resort. Not the town!"


    "I expect it is. He said he built it for his recess! Like all our other hotels aren''t good enough! And now he''s not replying my messages," she sighed.


    "I believe he wants to keep expanding the empire like the former alpha and the alpha before him," Meg supplied, making the Luna smile.


    See? This one is well-educated. She wouldn''t have minded at all if she gave birth to the next alpha for her Nicks.


    Unfortunately for both of them, Nick could never see her as a Mating partner. She recalled how angry he got when she made the simple error of suggesting it.


    Anger is the wrong choice of word.


    Her son was repulsed when she begged him to try dating her, at least. The Lunater found out that the girl had shared a suite on


    campus with that Misson


    James. That pitiful girl that prostituted herself to Nick.


    All of that was in the past now, thank Goddess. Her son would mate a well-bred, elegant, she-wolf from a powerful family in the pack. Her only worry now is the fact that Nick is dying the ceremony. She didn''t understand why the young alpha wouldn''t leave his wolves tor handle some things for him. Beta Jake Carlisle was more than capable of getting the mayor of a small town to approve their little park.


    She realized Meg was watching her, waiting for her next question.


    "Do you still have feelings for him?" she asked, trying to sound yful and casual. "There were news in the pack that time, I remember. They saw you kissing... on campus!" "No, Luna, I don''t have feelings for him. It was just rumours back then. We never dated," she replied, lowering her head shyly.


    Maybe she meant to hide the hurt that shed in her eyes at that moment. Aww, did Nick break her heart?


    Nick must''ve hurt her, huh? Well, she most certainly isn''t the only one whose heart he must''ve yed with. Like father like son, the Luna thought.


    "Good to know," she said with a sigh. The girl''s gaze met hers abruptly, making her add, "He''s betrothed, Megan. It''ll work out this time, I know it!" The girl made no effort to hide the pain in her eyes now.


    "But for what it''s worth," the Luna continued. "I think you would''ve been good for him, too,"


    Her mood brightened as the hurt left her eyes.


    "Thank you, Luna," she bowed in submission.


    "Tell Khalil to prepare. I''m heading to Orphic in the next hour. I need to see what my son is up to. I''d like apany me!" she rose, ignoring the girl''s open mouth.


    "Yes, Luna. I''ll let him know right away."

 Chapter 0023

    Megan Deere


    Meg stood in front of the Luna''s door and knocked.


    "Enter," she called out.


    Elder Damascus White was in the office when she walked in. She bowed in greeting ording to Forest Moon''s custom when a younger werewolf meets a council elder. "You look well, dear Megan," he remarked in kind, soft tone.


    "I''m well, elder, thank you," she replied with a smile. The male rose from the chair.


    "My dear Luna, I hope things would move forward between those two when you return," he said.


    "We all hope the same," Luna Reign replied with a serious expression.


    Once the elder had left and shut the door, she mumbled, "At least, I''m not the only one worrying that Nick''s about to screw up!"


    Meg wished she wouldn''t offer details on her son''s love life, but the Luna went on.


    "That''s Cassie White''s uncle. Come to whine about his niece getting stood up!"


    "I see," Meg replied, but she was truly not interested so she added, "the chopper is ready, Luna."


    "Perfect! Get Mae and Truly. We leave immediately. I myself need the calm and serenity of a countryside this very minute," she said.


    Meg nodded and left the office.


    When Luna Reign dered that she should apany her to Orphic, Meg wished she could refuse. But this was the Luna. No Forest Mooner could say no to her.


    Her stomach still felt sour. Today, she''d just learned that Nicks Reign was engaged. Again. Her mouth felt bitter at the thought.


    After his first engagement failed, the Luna had given her the hint that she would fix them up. Maybe she was wrong, but her power over her son wasn''t as strong as everyone thought.


    Meg gave up on hoping that Nick will


    ever look at her like he used to lookThis is from N?velDrama.Org.


    v


    at Sara James. She stopped dreaming that he would seek to explore that little kiss they shared that night. When his first engagement ended, she thought it was her chance. But she''d been so wrong.


    She still feel a strong sh of shame when she recalled how she threw herself like a cheap slut. Not once, but three time. Goddess, how mortifying! She can''t help but wince when she think about the time she followed him into the men''s room at the club, pretending to be drunk. That was the worst because he


    knew she was sober.


    The repulsion in his eyes as he pushed her away was heart-wrenching. Despite that, she didn''t lose hope because his mother was on her side. How stupid she''d been!


    How it hurt when she finally realized that he meant what he said about that one kiss. It was just a show for Sara. Ah, Sara! That fucking whore! Thank Goddess she was gone from their lives.


    When Richard told her about Nick''s second engagement, she''d fell sick and took a two months sabbatical. That was when she knew that the Luna couldn''t influence her son to give her a chance. All hope was lost. She used that time to travel around Europe to clear her head.


    When she returned, she decided to avoid all things that had to do with the alpha. No more throwing herself in his face every chance she gets. No more seeking the smallest excuse to go up to his office or the mansion.


    Right now, Luna Reign was dragging


    her to Orphic Valley, not to see the project, but for the sole purpose of seeing her son. The worst part is the fact that the pack elders were


    starting to mour for a mat ali ne


    ceremony and an heir. They were restless that their leader didn''t have his Luna yet. It had been four-years since he ascended, after all.


    Meg knew that they were going to that town so that the luna could talk him into fixing a date.


    "I''m over him," she whispered the assurance to herself as she re-applied her lipstick.


    Jude Duncan was there, ording to what she heard. It''s been a month since theyst hooked up. She would use him to scratch her itch once she arrived in Orphic. That was one good way to bear being around Nick.

 Chapter 0024

    As Meg made her way to the ceiling to the waiting chopper, she told herself to look on the bright side, too. Today, for the first time ever, she get to ride in one of the Reign''s helicopters.


    ****


    Sara POV


    Thirty minutes after Nick and I talked, I was back at our house and getting Alex''s favourite toys and clothes. I packed some of my clothes, too.


    "I don''t understand any of this?" My dad protested. "You said he didn''t want you or the child, yes? Now he''s practically asking you to live with him?"


    "I don''t understand either and it doesn''t matter, dad" I replied. "We can''t win a fight with him on this. So if staying under the same roof is the only way I get to keep my son, I have no other choice."


    "I know that, Sara. I''m just... worried about you," he sighed. "I don''t want him... near you!"


    "There''s no other way for now. Nothing''s changed except my address," I assured him. "Please...e with me. Alex is asking of you and Nick said you''re wee to visit."


    "You just said nothing has changed. Tell Alex I''ll see him tomorrow after school. I can''t be anywhere near that arrogant, dishonorable jerk without throwing a punch. You know what happens if I dare it." He shook his head. "I''m sorry, Sara."


    "It''s okay. I understand. Alex and I will see you tomorrow evening."


    Soon, I was back on the road and speeding towards Rain resort when my boss called.


    "I kinda knew you won''t be in today," he said.


    I didn''t know how to respond. When we got into the car to head back yesterday, I''d known that my boss could tell that Nick and I had history. He''s held little Alex many times, so I''m not surprised that he knew that he''s the boy''s father. He wouldn''t miss the resemnce. I wasn''t ready to talk about this with him or anyone else. I only picked his call to offer an excuse for not being at work.This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "I had a really bad headache this morning. I was going to call soon, I''m so sorry." It was easier to lie for now. My phone hadn''t been with me and thoughts of work had been far from my mind all morning.


    "Jane has been calling you. Lori, too, and everyone else. Your dad said you''d get back to us soon," he replied.


    "Yes, I was going to."


    "Good to know you''re okay," he said. "You''ll be in tomorrow, right?"


    "Of course."


    "Great, then you''ll tell me what''s really going on and why you called the police earlier."


    He hung up as I was swerving into the street leading to the resort gate. I should''ve thought of a better lie.


    Within minutes, I was in the parking lot. I turned off the engine and started to get out of the car when another call came in. It was Avery.


    I''d thought about calling him for help


    this morning but changed my mind. It wasn''t fair to drag him into my problems when I hadn''t even gone on one date with him. It didn''t matter that he''s a police officer.


    "Hi, Avery," I said unto the phone.


    "Hey, are you alright?"


    "Sure. I just had some personal matters to deal with this morning."


    "Was it serious?"


    "Yeah, kind of." I said while shutting the car door. "But it''s gonna be alright." "You should''ve called me, you know. Give me a chance to y hero?"


    I smiled. "I''ll remember that next time."


    neet


    "Where are you now? Can we meet for lunch. Maybe dinner is such a scary thought for you. I didn''t even get an excuse for yesterday,"he


    said.


    QUMS


    Shit! It totally skipped my mind. "I''m so sorry. Something came up. I couldn''t even..."


    I trailed off as I turned around to open to trunk. Nick stood a few feet away. He had his hand in his pocket and was watching me with an intense gaze.

 Chapter 0025

    Sara POV


    There''s a glint in Nick''s eyes, indicating that his wolf was below the surface. It gave me an odd chill for reasons I couldn''t fathom. I quickly looked away, ignoring his intense gaze. "Hello? Sara?" Avery called over the phone.


    "Uhmm... I don''t know about today," I replied. Nick moved closer as I spoke, distracting me some more. Avery started to protest my refusal when I cut him off


    "Can I call you back? I''m in the middle of something." I hung up and started to reach for my luggage. When two bellboys suddenly appeared behind Nick. "They''ll carry it upstairs," he said. "Who was that?"


    "Who was who?" I returned.


    "The person on the phone. Who was that?" he repeated. The hotel staffs were now carrying my stuffs to the private elevator.


    "They''re none of your business!" I replied.


    I started to follow the bellboys when he caught my arm and held me back. Despite the barrier of my jacket, I felt a strange, familiar thrill run through me. In a sh, the memory of the forceful kiss from earlier came back. "Let go!" I tried to wiggle free but his grip tightened.


    "It is my business, Sara James," there was an edge in his tone as he lowered his lips to my ear and added, "Everything about you is my business from now on. You''ll see."


    I shook my arm free and he released me this time. It was safer not to ask or wonder what he meant by those words. I walked off, rushing to catch up with the bellboys.


    ***Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Sometimeter, Alex sat on the sophisticated dinning table ready to eat the brunch that was delivered by the resort chef. Nick was not in sight, but I could feel his eyes on us. "Why can''t we go home?" my son asked.


    "We can''t go right now, baby. I''ll exin all of thister, okay. You need to eat first," I replied.


    "What about granpa? Is heing?" he pressed.


    My heart twisted at the thought. My dad was the only adult male in the family formy son. I can''t just throw the news at him that his birth father is back Not yet. He had never asked me, but then he''s only three and still learning how to talk.


    My boss believed he would soon start asking. How ironic that Nick appeared just in time before the boy got curious about his birth father.


    Alex sat, waiting for an answer to his question. I brushed the stray curls on his forehead tenderly.


    "We''ll see grandpa tomorrow, okay?" I said softly. His gaze moved towards the living room. He knew Nick was watching us, too.


    "Is he your friend now?" he asked with wide and bright innocent gray eyes that''s full of anticipation. I wanted to avoid the question by pretending I didn''t know who he was referring to, but I decided to postpone the answer instead. "Tell you what. Finish the pancakes and I''ll answer some of your questions." I gestured at his te.


    ******


    Luna Elise Reign


    A few hourster, the Luna alighted from the chopper with Megan Deere and her two. gammas. She was now in Orphic Valley. This would be a surprise to her son and alpha. She couldn''t help but smile when she recalled how much he hated this type of surprise.


    A car is already waiting to pick her up. She got inside it with her crew and watched the quiet streets speed past as they headed towards Rain resort. The town is surprisingly more developed than she thought it would tit be There are no farms on sight, and they even have a museum.


    As they passed an intersection, a strange scent caught her attention, forcefully pulling her from her thoughts. She looked out the window but could see nothing or no one unusual. Soon, they heard a woop woop sound and turned around to see the police car following them. The driver cursed silently.


    "Wow, the police are this vignt in a small town like this one?" Mae, her gamma,ined.


    "I''m so sorry, Luna. I ran the light because the road was practically deserted," the driver said.

 Chapter 0026

    Elise rolled her eyes and sat back as the police car pulled up in front of them. Her phone beeped at that instant and she quickly reached for it, thinking it was her son. Before she could look at the message, the same strange scent wafted by, catching her attention again.


    She looked out the window at the police officer nowing towards them.


    "Good evening, officer. What seems to be the problem?" the driver asked in a friendly voice.


    "Good evening to you. License and registration, please," he replied.


    Luna Reign watched the man as he peered into their car. He''s a human, no doubt, and he''s not the source of the wierd feeling she''s picking up.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    His partner came out of the car but didn''t approach them. Instead, he stood with the door open, smiling as he talked into a walkie talkie. That''s the one with the odd scent, Elise thought. A young man that couldn''t be older than her Nicks. He''s a half-wolf, alright. Luna Reign couldn''t pay attention to whatever else the officer in front of them was saying to her driver. Her eyes and attention were on his half-blood partner. His profile was all she could see. She found herself wishing he would look at them. Instead, he quickly got back into the car, pulling her out of the spell. Her driver received a ticket as they apologized for passing the red light. As he tried to swerve back into the road, the car engine suddenly went off. He tried restarting it, but it gave a strange sound and went off again.


    ""What the hell?" someone cursed.


    Elise Reign was still distracted. What the hell kind of feeling was she picking up from that male? she wondered.


    "Did you sense the half-blood?" she asked no one in particr.


    "Who? What half-blood?" Meg asked with a shocked tone. Has she never seen one before?


    "Never mind," the Luna sighed. "What''s going on?"


    "It''s a wiring problem, I think," the gamma replied.


    "Is everything okay?" The officer that had just written a ticket sauntered back to their car.


    "The car won''t start," the driver told him.


    "My partner knows a little about cars," he offered before calling out to the odd one, Hawke!"


    At the same time, the driver tried again, and the car picked up.


    Hawke? The Luna''s heart shot to her throat at the sound of that name.


    The single syble pulled her back to the past she had long put behind. Or believed she had. She waited for the male toe out of the car, but as she strained her neck, she could see that he was still on his walkie.


    swn''


    "Guess we wont be needing your partner," her driver said. "Thanks, officer." He pulled into the road and they continued their journey.


    Hawke is amon name, Elise


    said to herself. That couldn''t be the Hawke she knew so very long ago. Her heart was still thumping as the car sped away, heading to her son''s resort. She kept looking back and straining her neck to see the other officer''s face, but they were too far now.


    "Are you... alright, Luna?" Meg asked, making her recollect herself.


    "Of course, why?" she replied, her voice shaky.


    "You... seem ill," the girl said hesitantly.


    The Luna gave a deep sigh, urging herself to get it together.


    "I''m alright. How far along is this damn resort?" she asked.


    "Well, we''re there," the gamma announced as the fancy signboard and arge gate came into view. It looked very much like a Reign asset. Rain resort, it read. "Yes, we are," she murmured, then looked back onest time as they entered the premises.


    Her only son would be upstairs in that penthouse suite. He would be surprised to see her. He wouldin and they would argue like they always did. But everything would be okay, because she has her family.


    She was Mate and Wife to Zion Reign. There''s no other man in life! No other baby boy in her life but baby Nick.

 Chapter 0027

    Sara POV


    Once I was satisfied that little Alex was focused on his food, I went into the living room to meet Nick. He rose from the chair like he''d been waiting for me.


    "So..." I began. "How''s this supposed to work? Are we like... one big family now? I get to live here and y house with you?"


    "I''ll show you to your room," he said, ignoring my mocking question and leading the way up the stairs. As I followed behind him, I couldn''t be quiet. I was still so upset about the whole morning.


    "I''m sure this is weird for you. It is for me. Totally! I can''t imagine how ufortable it''ll be living under the same roof with me," I heaved an exaggerated sigh before going on.


    "I mean, I''m nothing but an omega. I don''t even belong in the pack no more. Isn''t that the same as being an orphan? A little below the rank from omega, isn''t it? I might as well be a rogue to your MOTHER! How would you exin this to her when she finds out, by the way?"


    He entered a room two doors from where Alex had been. Then he turned to me and said,


    "Here we are. This''ll be your room while Alex is in this house."


    "Did you hear anything I just said?" I couldn''t keep the annoyance from my tone. He just stared at me with no discernible expression, so I said, "Listen, I have an idea -"


    "I never knew you were so talky, Sara," he cut me off.


    "You never knew me at all!" I mmed.


    "I guess you''re right. I mean, I''m still in shock. You? My, I mean THE Sweet Sara. That you would lie about something as big as having my child... I find that quite troubling," he replied with a frown.


    "I don''t owe you an exnation!"This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    "Careful, Sara! Remember that this alpha is being EXTREMELY kind by letting you near the child. I could change my mind and take your example, you know." His tone grew threatening.


    "I could do what you did and make sure you don''t see ore near him for what, four years? Maybe I''ll make it eight!"


    At that instance, he became the Nick that walked out on me after my unintentional confession of love. He was Alpha of the Forest Moon. And I was not the mother of his child, but the helpless daughter of a nobody.


    "Did you say you have an idea?" He went on as he moved closer. "Well, I''m not taking suggestions! You''re free to leave if you want to. I''ve got some fillers out for a nanny for my son, ANYWAY!"


    I became too scared to talk back. It wouldn''t be wise to anger him further, so I stood with my mouth shut. Silence reigned for a moment as he turned around and moved further into the massive room.


    Then he spoke again. "You have one hour to decide what you''d like to do. Like I said, HE goes wherever I go. Or decide! You want to be with him? Fine. I''ll allow that because that''s what HE wants." He sauntered towards me again and pinned me with a threatening gaze as he continued.


    "I''ll allow what he wants on the


    condition that you never EVER


    mention how ufortable it is to be under the same roof with me, got it? You didn''t feel so ufortable when you spread those legs for me and got knocked up, did you Sara? No! So you don''t get to feel weird about being near me now! Got it?"


    An absolute jerk! I wanted to tell him this, but he was so scary at that moment that I couldn''t form the words to talk back. My throat felt tight as I watched him spit out the vile words. That same mouth that he kissed me... I brushed aside the unwanted memory as he went on.


    "If you''re still here in the next hour, I''ll take that to mean that you''re staying. Which means you would''ve lost the right toin about having me nearby."


    He brushed past me and started to leave the room as he added, "If that''s the case, you can make yourself at home."


    As implied in his threats, I didn''t see him again for another hour.


    He showed up in the living room


    while Alex and were watching a cartoon. As my son stared up at him, wondering what would happen now, Nick kept his eyes on me. Like he was waiting for me to say


    velme


    something. I had nothing to tell him, so kept my eyes on the TV while he stood between the hallway door jamb, watching me like a creep!


    Momentster, he heaved a sigh, then turned away. That was thest time I saw him until muchter.


    ***


    Evening came. I grew entirely restless and decided to test how free my son and I would be in this penthouse suites. I changed my mind about waiting till tomorrow to take Alex to see my dad.


    My son was thrilled that he wouldn''t have to wait till tomorrow. The house had been quiet all afternoon, except for when Alex attempted to y. No one was in sight, but I could feel someone watching us.


    It wasn''t Nick, I was sure of it. I can''t


    feel him in the house at this


    moment. He must''ve gone out at some point. As we boarded the elevator downstairs, I assured myself that there was nothing to worry about. I wasn''t trying to run away. We just needed to see my dad briefly and get back here.


    Within a few moments, the elevator reached the ground floor, and I held Alex''s hand as we walked out to where I parked my car.


    We''d taken only a couple of steps when someone grabbed me by arm, pulling me into a dark corner. Before I could yell, arge hand covered my mouth to prevent any sound as he pined me against a van. "Momm -" Alex''s scream was muffled by another shadowy figure as he dragged my kid beside the van, too.

 Chapter 0028

    Whoever had their hands over my mouth felt familiar. I stopped struggling when I sensed who it might be.


    Richard, Nick''s gamma, held me pinned to the van. Another figure held my son, covering his mouth as he whispered, "Shh... it''s alright." "Look!" Rich whispered, gesturing with his chin.


    As I followed his eyes, my gaze settled on thest person on earth that I needed to run into at this time. Scratch that. Thest two people, not person.


    Luna Elise Reign, Nick''s mother, approached the private elevator. Megan Deere was with her, plus two other werewolves. One of them looks like a warrior. The other might be an omega.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    Rich released me as I reached for Alex. I held my finger to my lips, gesturing for him not to make a sound as we waited for the luna and my former best friend to enter the elevator.


    I couldn''t think of anything else at that moment. But I know that I''d rather not see or talk to those two forever. Especially not when Alex was with me.


    However, these thoughts didn''t stop me from getting angry at Richard. Why would he help me hide from them? Once they were out of sight, I pushed him off me.


    "Why did I have to hide? This isn''t Forest Moon territory!" I said. Rich sighed and was about to reply when the other man spoke.


    "I''ll head upstairs to the Luna."


    "Sure. I''ll be there in a moment," he replied. Momentster, it was just me, him, and Alex standing beside the van.


    "It''s about to be Forest Moon," he said gently. "You know that, right? You don''t see any other pack investing in this lil town, do you?"


    "So what if it is her town? Why do I have to hide from them?" I snapped.


    Richard jerked his chin at my son who was now staring from me to him.


    "I can''t believe you have to ask, Sara. You think she''d be as generous as the alpha?" he asked.


    His words sent real fear spiking through me. It''s true that this ce isn''t a Forest Moon territory, at least not yet. I hadn''t even thought of the fact that important members of the pack might start trooping in and out soon.


    The Luna may or may not recognize her grandchild, but I refuse to risk the former. Nick''s gamma was right. If it were up to her, she could take Alex away and not let me see him ever again. Or she could so something worse.


    I wanted to ask what Megan was doing here, but I dreaded the answer, so I simply proceeded to where I parked my car. Rich followed behind me, but I ignored him. We weren''t really friends. Though he''d never been cold towards me like the beta, I didn''t want to hope for that he''d be on my side. His alpha came first, especially now that he was officially the pack''s Chief Warrior.


    "Where are you going?" he asked.


    I didn''t respond immediately, but when I nced his way, I could''ve sworn that he wanted to say more.


    Jake was the only one who knew about Nick and I four years ago. I expected them to tell him after I left. I have a feeling that they didn''t. He never knew about Nick and I until this morning. I guess I wasn''t worth talking about. After I left, every story about me got buried and forgotten.


    I brushed the worthless self-pity aside as my eyes scanned the parking lot.


    Rich''s gaze dropped to Alex again, and I caught the astonishment on his face again. He caught me staring and arched his brow.


    "I''m going out to see my dad. Alex has been asking for him all day. He''s waiting for us at Molly''s. Not too far from here," I told him. He nodded without saying anything.


    "With the Luna here, Nick wouldn''t want us toe back to this ce, would he?" I ventured.


    "I don''t know. We''ll have to hear from him. It was supposed to be just us. She probably wouldn''t be staying longoso..." he trailed off with a shrug.


    We reached where my car should be and it wasn''t there. Someone must''ve moved it. I was momentarily confused.


    Maybe this wasn''t where I parked. I looked all around me, but there''s no sign of my old Hyundai.


    "Where''s my car?" I asked no one in particr.


    "Nick had it removed," Rich replied simply.


    "What? Why?" I cried.


    "He wants you to use this one from now on," he said, pointing at the car sitting on the spot where I parked. It''s a newer model of the one I have.


    "I''ll call a cab," I said, ignoring his outstretched hand with the key.


    This wasn''t four years ago when he gave me money I didn''t ask for, then called me a gold digger for not taking it.


    I started reaching for a phone to call


    a taxi as I took Alex''s hand. We were heading out of the parking lot when t heard Rich gave a frustrated sigh did''t know what his orders were and I didn''t care. As long as he didn''t try to stop me.


    "You can''t run now that he knows, Sara," he called out.


    There was so much confidence in those words, I wanted to hurl my purse at him.


    "You''ll tire yourself out, if you try it. Also, it''ll do you more harm than good if you attempt to skip town again."


    "I said we''re going to see my dad, not running away!" I snapped.


    "I just thought I should warn you," he replied.

 Chapter 0029

    Megan DeereBelongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    As Meg and Luna Reign drove down from the helipad, Meg already prepared herself mentally to be near Nick. They were in Orphic now and have just entered his resort. She decided that the town is as pathetic as the Luna described. It was a little tooid-back for a city she-wolf like herself.


    Although, this opinion didn''t apply to Rain resort. To her, the ce feels like a wondend in a boondocks even from the outside. It was easy to guess that the proposed park would be connected to it. The lobby is as elegant as it should be and not as scanty as she expected. But then, this type of getaway couldn''t be meant for people of this town. It''s the type of city people with deep pocketse to unwind.


    One of the security guards recognized the Luna on sight and was now leading them up the private elevator.


    "Does he know you''reing? I''m only asking because he''s out of town for a meeting. He may return to L.A instead of here once he''s done, Luna!" the guard informed.


    Meg thought the male seem a little ufortable. Well, he should be. He smelled someone Richard picked up from the wild. A former rogue, maybe.


    Did they adopt him into the pack?


    "So my surprise visit is a bad move, huh? Is that what you''re saying?" the luna asked in a casual, yful tone.


    The guard gave a half smile and lowered his head in submission.


    "He never did like surprises, so it''s not like I didn''t know," she added.


    Within moments, the swift elevator reached the top-most floor. It gave the familiar soft chime and started to slide open. Beta Jake Carlisle was the first toe into view as they entered the impressive living room.


    ""Luna Reign?"


    He seemed shocked and a little bit diposed. Meg thought she saw him re at the guard for a moment.


    "Beta, you didn''t go with him?" The luna asked.


    Another soft chime echoed from the door and Gamma Richard Wolfe appeared. He doesn''t look as shocked as his beta.


    Meg had zero interest in these two werewolves. One of them waspletely aloof with her. And she considered him inferior. The other was a real, cold jerk.


    Isn''t that why they were Nick''s number one and number two. Birds of the same feather and all that.


    Jake used to be friendly and chatty with her when they were in college.


    But it ended four years ago, after they graduated. How she despised him now. Especially when she


    recalled theirst one on one


    conversation.


    ''He''ll never want you, Megan "Dear." Not even for a one-timey!'' These were his exact words that day. How could he mock her family name like that?


    What gave him the right to tell her to back off Nick? Whenever she saw him, his words rang in her head, making her hate him with a passion.


    "Gamma Rich, when did you get here?" the Luna asked.


    "Last night, Luna. Does the alpha know you''ll be here today?" he asked.


    Meg decided to leave Nick''s mother


    and his buddies alone to finish their Q&A session. She moved to take a sit in thefortable sofa.


    Something unusual sat near the


    armrest, making her pause. A stuffed teddy lying on its side. A child''s badmington racket also sat near it.


    Her eyes inadvertently moved to the beta, and he was watching her with a hint of dread in his eyes. Or maybe that was hatred? She gave him the evil eye and flopped on her ass.


    en NovelDrama.Org


    "You''re not saying I have to leave, are you?" the Luna''s voice was cool as ice as she regarded Richard.


    "No, of course not, Luna. I''m just saying that Oak here will take you to a morefortable suite, and we''ll arrange amodations for Miss Deere," Rich replied. Oak? What the hell kind of name was that? Meg rolled her eyes.


    "The housekeeper didn''t finish cleaning yet, that''s why," Jake quickly added. Meg''s eyes shifted to the toys again.


    "You let her bring her pups to work?" she asked and the Luna turned to stare at her. With her eyes, she gestured at the toys lying around.


    Sighing, Luna Reign said, "I see the ce isn''t such a ce for recess like he imed. Alright then."

 Chapter 0030

    As they left the penthouse and entered the elevator, she grumbled, "I should call my son and find out why you''re all so flustered by the fact that I''m here."


    Meg seconded that. She couldn''t wait to see this "amodation" Rich was taking her to. For some reason, she knew it would be outside this resort.


    They didn''t want them here, at all! That much was obvious. Finding out the reason shouldn''t be too hard. After all, they would be in the town for another twenty-four hours, won''t they?


    ****


    Sara POV


    Fifteen minutester, I was sitting at the nearest cafe across from my dad with Alex on hisp.


    "I can''t believe I thought of moving us down the road from here," he said.


    "It''s the closest ce to my office. I can understand that," I consoled him.


    "But I should''ve known your job was connected to the new project."


    "Don''t beat yourself up, dad. Not all of us were selected to work in the team. I work there and I didn''t know they were going to build a park till this morning."


    The whole town believed it was to be a multi-purpose mall.


    We sat and talked for a while about what would happen. Sometimes, we switched to mindlink, careful not to let it slip that Nick was my son''s father. I still don''t feel ready to say it to the child. Thirty minutes into our hangout, my phone rang. It was Nick. I ignored the call and turned it off.


    It wasn''t long before my dad was echoing the same warning Rich gave before I left the resort. His words were more eloquent. I didn''t tell him that the Luna is around because it would rm him. "He''s alpha, Sara. Apparently, he''s decided he wants his... offspring," said my dad.


    "What''s offspin?"Alex cut in.


    "Grandpa will exin it when you''re older. Maybe before your next birthday," I told him, wiping his mouth with a napkin.


    "Running is a bad idea," he went on. "WHEN he catches you, cuz he surely will, he may not be as generous as he is right now."


    "Generous? I can''t believe you would say that. The "offspring" is mine, dad! He''s not being generous right now. He''s been a bully," I replied.


    "They''re the ones with the power, Sara. What have I taught you all these years?" he asked.


    "Avoid trouble with the powerful ones," I replied under my breath. "I''d like to avoid the powerful ones altogether."


    "Good thinking!" Except you''re four yearste!" My dad snapped, picking up his ss of soda to drink it in one gulp.


    As I considered all he had said, I


    decided he was right. It''s better to put the idea of running away out of my mind. Nick''s threat in the afternoon is also worth keeping in mind.


    After ourte lunch, we joined his cab further into town so that I could see Jane briefly. I''ve missed her calls It''s only fair that I used this opportunity to see her.


    She''s just getting back from work when I arrived at her porch. She rushed towards Alex and I.


    "What happened? I was worried? Jeremy said you had a headache. Then you wouldn''t pick anyone''s call. Then you called the police," sheined.


    "I''ll tell you all about it another time.


    I''ll be at work tomorrow. It''s about..." I bobbed my head at my son. As Jane''s eyes widened, I knew she understood what that meant This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    en NovelDrama.Org


    "You can''t tell anyone, Jane, please -"


    "Of course," she cut me off. "It''s been four years, Sara. I know you don''t like to discuss... it."


    We spent another thirty minutes at her house, chitchatting about work and the town.


    It was time to leave and I was still worried about returning to the resort. I retrieved my phone and started to switch it on as we walked out of Jane''s house.


    Lifting my gaze to guide Alex down the porch, my eyes rested on a dark, tinted SUV waiting by the curb.

 Chapter 0031

    Nick POV


    "This is a surprise, mother, and not a very pleasant one! I''m rather busy," I said to the Luna. She shouldn''t be in Orphic at all. Not right now.


    My driver pulled over a few feet from the curb where Sara stopped. A simple middle-ss neighbourhood with picket fence in some houses. The small home looked much like the one she lived in with her father and son. When they first called to tell me she was leaving the penthouse, I''d almost had them stop her. Then they''d reported immediately that my mother was heading to the resort.This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    I''m not in the least bit ready to tell the Luna about my son. And a reunion with her is thest thing Sara needed right now, too, I''m sure of this.


    It''s clear that the girl wasn''t stupid enough to be trying to run away with the child, but she should''ve picked up my call. My men had watched her with her dad before I got here. ording to them, all they''d done was talk. My mother was talking to me on the phone, but I''d zoned off. There''s some movement inside the house. I sensed Sara and the boy walking towards the door. Their little visit was over, it seemed.


    Quickly, I got out of my car and signalled for one of my men in the SUV. They were ordered to follow her wherever she goes, but it was time I took over for the evening. "Mother, I have to go," I said unto the phone.


    "Have you been listening to a word I''ve said?" She sounded frustrated.


    "Richard will escort you back to the hellipad himself once you''re ready. I''ll be back in L.A. before the end of the week," I told her and hung up.


    As I headed towards the tinted car, I threw the keys at the guard, and he caught it like a pro. "You can take this car back to the resort, Xavier. I''ll take over from here."


    Secondster, they zoomed off, leaving me with the driver and gamma that Rich assigned to stick with Sara. The movement in the house seemed to pause, but I knew Sara and the child were standing near the door. "This is her friend''s house, alpha," the gamma said. "They work together in the same local council."


    "I see," I replied. Since I hated to ask outright if this friend was a man or woman, I simply asked,


    "What''s their name? This friend."


    "J Brown," he replied.


    That was most decidedly a woman''s name. I sighed and sat back in the car, waiting for them to emerge.


    Sara was smiling at whatever the


    child was telling her when they finally came out. But the smiles faded as soon as she spotted the car. Then the gamma got out to` open the door as the trio descended the porch.


    "I already called a taxi," Sara told him. "Don''t worry about it us."


    "Get in, Sara!" I barked from inside the car.


    She would learn soon that I have zero patience for her newly acquired attitude. I was still pissed that she refused to drive the car I got her. "She''s testing my patience," I thought aloud.


    My tone must''ve scared her. She


    heaved a deep sigh of defeat, then led the child and entered the car. They both waved at her friend as the


    driver rolled up the windshield.


    en NovelDrama.Org


    The ride back was silent. I was fighting to hold back fromshing out in front of the pup. I remained cool and waited patiently as the driver sped back to the resort.


    When he served into the driveway,


    the first thing I saw was Jake, waiting by therge entrance. Our car pulled to a stop in front of my beta, and the gamma went to open the door on Sara''s side.


    "Well, hello, young wolf," Jake greeted my son with a smile.


    I saw the shock that shed in Sara''s eyes when Alex gave him his signature grin.


    What? She didn''t expect the kid to be well acquainted with the beta in such a short time?


    ''Well, join the club,'' I said silently. The boy truly was friendly. He had sharp senses, too, and was quick to know family.


    "C''mon. I need to introduce you to someone while mommy and daddy have a little chat," Jake said to the kid.


    Sara and I went very still at his words as I red at him.


    The error of his words hit him, and he muttered, "Oh oh."

 Chapter 0032

    "Is he my daddy?" Alex asked Jake first before redirecting the question to his mother.


    "Mommy, is he my daddy?" His tone and manner was so innocent and simple that he might as well have been asking if that was a watch on my wrist.


    Sara took a deep breath while I held mine. I waited for her to answer the child''s question.


    "Alex... baby. C''mon, why don''t you wait in the car -"


    "No!" I cut in, feeling annoyed. "He goes with Jake."


    What was so hard about saying "yes, Alex. This is your father" to a three-year-old kid?


    There was real fear in her eyes when she asked,


    "To where? Where''s he taking him? Is it to meet your mom?" Her voice shook.


    "Who says he''s taking him to the Luna?" I was momentarily confused. Then I recalled Rich telling me that she saw my mom.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    "I see you fear her more than me, huh? Is that why you had the audacity to ignore my calls?" I asked her.


    "Alex, go with the beta. He''ll introduce you to your NANNY. Your mommy and I wille up soon," I said to the child, and he started to move immediately.


    Sara didn''t try to hold him back. Jake helped the kid down from the car and shut the door before leading him away.


    "I''m gonna have to go over some ground rules with you, Sara," I began. "Here''s a very important one: NEVER NOT ANSWER MY CALLS!"


    She flinched, but I wasn''t done.


    "The next time you ignore my calls, I''m gonna have to rethink this whole arrangement, you hear me!"


    I signalled for the driver to take us round back to the parking lot as I went on.


    "I was going to wait till Alex''s house is ready, but there''s no need for that. Here," I handed her an envelope.


    She looked at it with positive dread before reaching for it with shaky hands.


    "What''s this?" she asked.


    "Open it!"


    As she scanned the first page, I watched her face tighten with disgust. "An agreement, of course," she said through gritted teeth. "Nope! Just some rules," I remarked. "Wait, you seem upset. Why? Is it because it doesn''t include weekly sex with me?" I mocked. She stared at me with pure disgust.


    "Sign here, so I know you understand the consequences!" I snatched the papers from her and turned to the part that had her name. "Is this necessary? I''m already doing what you asked!" she seethed.


    "I need to be sure you understand that he goes where I go, and when he''s with you, I have to know where you are!" I replied.


    "I have to read this first -"


    "Really?" I cut in.


    "Are you sure? Cuz between your job and raising my heir, I thought you only have time for your silly romance novels."


    As surprise shed in those chestnut eyes, I realized my error before she spoke.


    "How did you know I read romance novels?" she asked innocently.


    "I used to fuck you, Sara. Remember?"


    She swallowed and looked away shyly. Nice save, I thought.


    "You wanna read it? Fine. Knock yourself out. But I need it signed tomorrow evening."


    She took the envelope from me and started to leave the car. "If that''s all, I''ll head upstairs now."


    Without giving me another look, she got out of the car and headed to the elevator.


    With her back to me and no one around, I could watch. Her lean waist, the gentle curve of those hips, Goddess! My wolf was still


    powerfully drawn to her. She was as perfectly enticing as ever.


    She turned around abruptly and started to walk back briskly.


    "Your mother?" she asked.


    "She''s nowhere near this resort, Sara. I would''ve told you if she were," I replied.


    "We need to talk about that!" She snapped.


    "We do, but not now."


    She heaved a sigh, then turned away and resumed walking to the elevator.


    As I watched her this time, there was


    an odd feeling of satisfaction at the


    fact that she was going upstair


    myir. We were spending the night under the same roof.


    For thest four years, I''ve wondered how she slept and with whom. All of


    that horrific suspense hase


    an end. The feeling was strangely exhrating.


    I got out of the car and followed behind her in casual strides.


    As she entered the elevator, she saw meing and kept her finger on the button until the door slid shut.

 Chapter 0033

    Sara POV


    The next day, I gave Alex his morning bath in a ridiculously sophisticated bathroom. After preparing him for school, we were both ready to begin the day earlier than the usual time. Except for the feeling of being watched, I saw no sign of Nick before leaving his penthouse suites. ording to him, the mechanic discovered some faults with my car, and he would never let me drive Alex around in "that thing" anymore. Since I refused to drive the new one he reced it with, he assigned someone to be our chauffeur. Not one, but two females. One of them is a gamma.


    After dropping Alex in school, they insist on taking me to work, so I let them.


    My phone buzzed with a message as soon as I entered my office building. It''s my boss. He''ll want answers, but I wonder if I''m ready to share thetest development in my life with anyone right now.


    "See me in my office," his message read.


    Missing work and then calling 911. I should''ve known that would raise a lot of questions and concerns.


    "You''re at work. That means everything''s gonna be alright, right?" he asked once I entered his office.


    "Yeah, of course," I replied. Silence followed.


    Then he spoke again. "It''s about Alex''s father, isn''t it?"


    I didn''t respond.


    "I''m a wolf, too, you know, and far from blind. The resemnce is striking, Sara," he said. "Also, your father confirmed it. Although all he said was, ''It''s about the child''s father."


    When I still didn''t say anything, he muttered as if deep in thoughts, "Your child''s father is alpha Reign, huh?"


    He looked like it''s hard to believe. I still don''t what to say, so I remained quiet with my head bowed. After the silence passed, he sighed, and I knew what would follow. Thank Goddess, I''ve prepared my response for this one. "If you want to get off the team, I -"


    "No, Jeremy, please," I cut in. "He''s the head of a multinational. I doubt he''ll have time to stick around this small town. We''ll be dealing with his men, not him. You said so yourself,"


    I didn''t want to get off the team. I loved my job, and especially now that my life was getting interrupted, I needed it to hold on to my sanity.


    Nick couldn''t be here all the time. He''d be scarce. I could avoid him at work and in his resort.


    "What about Alex?" he asked gently.


    "What about him?"


    "You rang the police, Sara. Are you sure the dust has settled? What if he decides he doesn''t want his pup living in here in this humble town?"


    "He hasn''t decided that yet," I replied.


    Nick''s mother must''ve returned to L.A. by now. There''s nothing to worry about once I go through his list of rules and sign it.


    "I called the police because I wouldn''t let him near Alex, and he threatened to take him away, so I panicked. Nothing more. All of that is settled now, I promise. He wants the child right here for now," I told him. Jeremy nodded. "I hope you''re right. This is important work, Sara. I don''t want your love life interrupting the flow."


    "It won''t because I don''t have a love life, boss!" I didn''t mean to snap, but he needed to be clear about that.


    Thankfully, that line of discussion ended soon. After a few instructions about the day''s duties, he dismissed me.


    Break-time came, and Jane had to skip lunch to meet a deadline on her report. I decided to rush to my dad''s instead of going to where we normally ate.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    It was a busy time at the food truck


    because of the time of day. I was about to go round and enter the


    then I spotted a familiar figure


    getting out of a police car


    Avery didn''t immediately see me, so I took the time to take in his features. He''s tall and broad, though not as proud and intimidating as Nick. His strong, narrow jaw and full mouth give him the type of look that


    any woman would be satisfie xx


    in a lover. Tiny specks of blue


    with


    shimmer in his honey brown eyes


    when he smiles, but then he''s


    half-werewolf.


    I wondered how he came to be here in Orphic. Most packs didn''t wee half-bloods, so maybe he''s had a hard life.


    He caught me staring and smiled as he approached the food truck.


    "Hey, Sara. I didn''t realize you came all the way to your dad''s shop for lunch."


    "I don''t. Not always, at least," I replied. My dad gave me a side look.


    "Hi, Mr. James," Avery greeted him.


    He nodded and smiled in return.


    "How''s it going?" Avery asked me.


    "Fine, I guess."


    Minutester, we both stood by his patrol car, eating our tacos as we chit chat.


    "d to hear it''s going fine. I was worried when I heard you''d called the station yesterday," he said, not meeting my eyes.


    I gave him a look, and he seemed to see the question in my eyes and replied,


    "This isn''t a big town, Sara. I happened to hear that you weren''t at work... And we had a date. I couldn''t reach you to hear your excuse."


    ''Shit!'' I hadpletely forgotten about that. The bad part was that I had no words with which to offer him an excuse.


    He waited for me to volunteer information about what happened yesterday. Since I had no intention of doing that, I bit into my food and looked away from him.


    "You can call me anytime, you know," he said when I wouldn''t speak. "If you''re in trouble or if someone threatened you..." his voice grew serious as he trailed off. "Thanks, Avery. But everything''s alright now. It wasn''t serious. I just panicked," I lied.


    We finished the rest of our lunch in silence. As I looked at my wristwatch, there''s still some time left for my break before I returned to work. I was considering checking on


    when Avery spoke.


    "See? Eating with me wasn''t so bad, was it?"


    ""Who said it was?"


    "You''ve been making excuses to avoid it, so I couldn''t help but think that you feel that way," he replied.


    I returned his smile. "No, Avery. Eating with you isn''t bad at all."


    "So you''ll let me buy ice cream then. There''s still time, and I know a great ce. C''mon."

 Chapter 0034

    Sara POV


    Avery Hawke didn''t give me a chance to refuse ore up with an excuse. He quickly opened the door and sat inside his patrol car to wait for me. When I hesitated, he arched his brow and motioned with his chin for me to get in.


    ''This isn''t a date. We''re just getting dessert together,'' I told myself. There was no cause for rm and there''s nothing wrong with it if it''s an actual date.


    After saying goodbye to my dad, I joined him in the car and we headed straight to the town''s famous dessert ce - Cake and Cream factory.


    We ride was silent. It was like he feared that talking would spook me. My mind remained in flight or fight mode for long moments after we got on the road.


    Before Nick, I went out on dates with human boys and werewolves who were omegas like me. These were nothing serious and always ended after the second dates. Basically, it often ended when they wanted to take things further. Except for the one before Nick, which made it to the fourth date and first base.


    Nick was always the problem. The reason I always held myself back from other guys. As much as I was in love with him then, I didn''t dare hope that he would look at me someday. Yet giving myself to another was so hard to do. However, he did look at me. Right after my neenth birthday, on a full moon.


    ** shback: **


    I was a college freshman. Like other werewolves, I had just returned home for a short break, though not because of the season. Most werewolves prefer to be surrounded by our kind when the moon is at its peak. I wasn''t one of those. My genes were too weak to worry about losing control. But Nick was the type that had to in the woods or at least, near the pack at times like that. He happened to be home from school too.


    The feast in the Reign''s mansion was in full swing. Knowing that he was home, too, I was more than happy to assist my father with work that night. I hoped to catch sight of him before the night was over.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    After feeding the dogs and geese, I took out some trash. I also had some leftovers and had just dropped them off for the stray dogs outside. As I was turning around to head back inside, Nick stood a few feet away by the almond tree, watching me.


    At first, my heart nearly leapt out of my throat. The full moon pierced through the leaves and branches, bathing him with its light. His eyes had taken on that supernatural shade of glittering amber.


    A tingle ran through me as my wolf gave a soft whimper of joy. The word "Mate" rang in my consciousness, making me gasp in delight and fear.


    Nick kept his eyes on me like a predator. I caught sight of his fangs as his lips curved into a half smile.


    ''Mate,'' he mindlinked me. It was a soft whisper. His voice in my mind for the first time felt like he''d just brushed his lips on mine.


    ''Mate,'' I whispered back.


    Despite the fact that he just acknowledged the bond, my heart still hammered in my chest. I was filled with fear that he would reject me the same moment we found out we were bonded. This was what any other werewolf of such higher status would''ve done. We were under the full moon, and he could''ve gotten it over with immediately.


    Instead, he''d simply put his finger across his lips and whispered, "Shhh..." I knew the gesture meant - Do not tell anyone! I didn''t think twice about it. It didn''t matter that he would reject me eventually.


    My father interrupted us by screaming for me. I rushed back inside as he disappeared. I didn''t see him again for another three days, but I always felt his eyes on me. I waited for what he meant to do with anticipation and anxiety.


    I waited, holding on to the fact that he didn''t reject me. That could only mean he wanted me, too. On the third day, he sent a car to bring me to a private restaurant far from the park.


    I was ted to see him again, yet anxious as hell. As we sat across from each other in the empty, fancy restaurant, he ced a written document before me. Without mincing words, he told me what he wanted from me.


    "You don''t feel shit for that pathetic


    human boy. The fact that you let him kiss you don''t mean you wanna keep him around. You''ve done the smart thing by avoiding him in thest few days. Now for his sake, it''s time you break it off! Make it clear to him that you''re breaking it off and can never see or let him touch you again," he said. "For his sake!"


    I was stunned that he knew about Connor, my then human boyfriend. I''d nned to break up with him as soon as I got the courage.


    "Sign here so that you and I can do what bonded werewolves do, Sara James. You want it as much as I do," his voice dropped as he pointed at where I needed to sign.


    *** shback Ends ***


    I didn''t even take a proper look at the contract to know what it says. I didn''t even have the decency to hesitate. He already had me at "so we can do what bonded werewolves do." I was burning for him and the fire inside me did all my thinking.


    Once I signed, he had them bring me


    food, and he watched me eat. Twenty minutester, I was naked and under him in the soft sheets of the bed at our secret apartment. Here I was today, unable to properly receive a man''s advances. Because of hoping for someone I could never really have. Even though the Goddess meant him for me, he could never be mine.


    "We''re here," Avery announced, bringing back to the present moment.


    Connor was the only one I ever considered a boyfriend in the past, and that rtionship was never consummated. I feel so inexperienced around this police officer that I feared to ruin what he feels for me.


    Besides Alex, that was the reason


    I''ve always found an excuse to decline his request. But the more I look at him now, the more I consider giving it a try. Maybe eating that sandwich in front of him was the ice-breaker that I needed. There''s certainly no harm in getting


    ice-cream together.


    We''ve gotten out of the car and were heading into the cafe together as he shared a joke about the ce. But theughter died on my lips when I walked through the door.


    Luna Reign and the gamma female that threw me out of the cottage approached from the counter. As she came close and caught sight of me, her face twisted in a shock. Behind me, Avery''s gasp sounded like it was from a distance. "You," he breathed.


    The Luna was no longer looking at me. Her eyes had moved to Avery, and she looked like she was staring at a ghost.

 Chapter 0035

    Elise Reign


    The Luna stood shell shocked at the two people standing in front of her. She held her breath diligently, trying her best to hide the horror she was feeling at that instant.


    As the police officer addressed her, something tugged at her heartstrings.


    "I know you," he said, his voice a mere whisper. She couldn''t bear to hold his gaze. Her heart was in her stomach.


    Sara James looked up at the young half-blood. The Luna knew she wasn''t the only one stunned by this meeting. She had to recover before the other three though. It was imperative.


    "What are you doing here?" Her question was directed at the young omega she-wolf, but it was meant for the two of them. Although the more urate question for the young male would''ve been - ''how did youe to be here?'' She inhaled slowly, vowing to ignore the half-blood standing beside the omega like her very own bodyguard.


    "I-I''m here to get ice-cream," she replied in a soft, hesitant voice. It seemed she was struggling against the urge to be submissive like any omega would be when they''re in front of their Luna.


    "Why this town?" The Luna asked. Like her first question, this one was also meant for the both of them.


    "Do you know her from somewhere?" The half-blood asked the girl, cing a protective hand over her shoulders.


    She seemed flustered as she answered, "yeah, a little bit."


    The Luna was still fighting to regain her fullposure. At least, her guard would attribute her shock to seeing Nick''s former lover, which, in truth, was not the reason for the turmoil inside her now. She stole a nce at the police officer''s eyes, and the face that shed before her was that of someone she''d told herself she''d long forgotten.


    Those honey brown eyes held hers. Staring at them was like looking into a mirror.


    Elise quickly redirected her gaze to the girl as the policeman started to lead her away.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    "C,mon, you need to get back to work soon," he said gently.


    "The Luna asked you a question, omega," Mae, the Luna''s guard snapped, causing the two to stop.


    "I''m not a F-forest Mooner!" The girl replied stubbornly. Her voice was shaky, but had an edge that proved that it took some courage to say that to her. "She''s not my Luna," she added.


    Elise Reign stole another nce at the young man and decided that her legitimate son and alpha was right. She should not havee to Orphic at all.


    The male looked at her with such hate and horror that she didn''t know when she lowered her eyes.


    ''Does he recognize me,'' she feared.


    Her heart felt like a wound from long ago has just been cut open and was beginning to bleed again.


    Leaving the restaurant was the best move. But the guard would get suspicious if she didn''t assert her authority over the omega first. So she turned around and followed them to the counter.


    "You''re right this isn''t Forest Moon


    and I''m no longer your Luna," she


    said coolly. But don''t forget who... WHAT you are! I can still run you out of this town if I want to! So show respect, orphan, and speak with submission when I ask you a question!"


    She kept her voice tempered and a soft smile on her face to disguise the conversation. The young policeman was starting to fume with anger She could feel the heat. She expected him to speak, but


    seemed too angry to make words.


    "Why''re you in this town, Miss James," the Luna asked the girl again.


    "I-I live here," she replied with head bowed down.


    "So you know the alpha''s in town." That was not a question, so she said what she really meant to ask. "Have you met him here?"


    The girl''s chin dipped further, answering her suspicion. The Luna immediately recalled how everyone was eager to get rid of her at the resort earlier today. She scoffed. "Madame, you''re wasting our time with this forced Q&A. Sara, c''mon! Let''s get dessert and get out of here!" The man forced the girl around to face the counter.


    Not only could the Luna feel the


    steam of his fre, she sensed his confusion at his mixed feelings towards her. She decided she was sorely mistaken. This half-wolf couldn''t be the same Hawke she''d


    been forced to leave behind all those


    years ago.


    Her loyal guard was upset about the disrespect. Her temper wouldn''t leave her be if she let it slide, so she went up to the male, looked him dead in the eye and muttered, "You watch your back, human-wolf!"


    The policeman kept his eyes stubbornly on hers till they both turned away and headed outside.


    She very gradually let out a long breath as her heart hammered on. She had to leave this town immediately, but not before confirming what she already knew.


    "Luna, are you alright?" Her guard asked with deep concern.


    "Yeah, of course. My son can''t have anything to do with that girl. He''s engaged," she said, even though that problem was now secondary.


    "Of course. I''ll see to it. First, let''s find out if they truly have met," she replied.


    The Luna nodded, but something distracted her as they approached her car.


    She turned around to find the policeman advancing with purposeful strides. The urge to turn around and bolt nearly overcame her, but she waited, holding her breath again. "Listen, madame, I do know you from somewhere," he said with a bitter smile. The Luna''s heart nearly gave out as she looked anxiously at her guard.


    But the policeman spoke again, "I''m gonna figure out where and how I know you, but until then, while you''re in town, don''t ever go near that Sara again, do you hear me? Good!" "How dare -"


    "As for you, tough girl," he cut the guard off mid-speech. "Don''t ever talk to me again! I''m not interested and I will never notice you no matter how rude you get!"


    Elise thought Mae would faint from fury as the half-blood turned around to head back inside.

 Chapter 0036

    Nick POV


    I had to return to Los Angeles. There were pack businesses to handle and meetings to attend. Projects and contracts were waiting for my approval.


    But this particr project at Orphic town now took precedence over all other matters. For one, my son lives here. He''s the only reason I''m tailing Sara this very minute.


    I had to know what she''s up to with that lowlife officer.


    I debated going inside the cafe with them, but that had to be a bad idea. I shouldn''t even be in town right now.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Remaining in my car, I kept my eyes on the dessert shop''s little door through which they''d just entered.


    Minutester, my mother walked out with her guard, looking dazed.


    "What the hell is she still doing here?" I asked the empty space.


    At the same time, my phone rang again. It was Richard. I''ve ignored his calls all day because I thought I knew what he would say. He would argue that he needed to be near me as my gamma. Which was true, but I didn''t want him in the town for now. And it''s not because he and Sara could get chatty and friendly like they used to be.


    I watched the phone ring till it nearly stopped before quickly sliding the answer button.


    "I''ve been trying to tell you that your mother''s still in town. So is Miss Deere," he said. "Where''re they staying again?" I asked.


    "We managed to move her to Pineapple Court downtown. That''s where she spent the night. But you know her, Nick. She''s gotten suspicious and wouldn''t leave quietly," he replied. "Remember she and Sara... I mean, Miss James nearly ran into each other yesterday. It''s a tiny town, alpha."


    I wanted to tell him that the two had already met, but several things had my attention at that moment. The sound of Sara''s name on his lips was one of them. Sara''s police friend, holding up a warning finger to my mother and her gamma, was the other.


    A different thought urred to me, and I asked instead,


    "How do you know all this? You''re supposed to be back in Forest Moon!"


    "I stayed back because of her, alpha. Mae said she wouldn''t leave. I couldn''t ignore that report," he replied.


    He was making excuses. He must''ve


    jumped at the chance to remain here. I couldn''t determine if it was because of his lost-but-found


    stay near me at such a time


    "friend or if he genuinely wanted to


    swnovel.n


    The worst part was that he knew that I was aware he was making excuses.


    "Go back to the city, Rich. We''ll see when I get there," I said simply and hung up.


    Then I called my mom immediately. She''d just gotten into the car, and the driver was starting to pull out of the curb.


    She picked up at the first ring.


    "Alpha Nicks Reign!"


    She only addressed me like that when she''s rmed. Or being dramatic about something trivial.


    "I was told you didn''t leave yet, mother. I hear you''re at Pineapple''s? And with Miss Deere?"


    "Where are you, alpha? I just ran into your former whore. That omega. What''s her name again?"


    She knew her name quite well and would remember it even if she''d just woke up from the dead. I gritted my teeth, holding back from saying the vile thing that came to mind at her choice of words.


    "What whore? What are you talking about?"


    "You know what and who I''m talking about. The poor girl that had you sulking and pouting for so long. I was shocked, Nick. She actually lives in this town. Of all the ces, can you believe that? Of course, you cant You must''ve seen her for sure!"


    "Richard will escort you to back to L.A. We''ll see when I get back to the city!" I said curtly, ignoring all hermentaries.


    "A scandal is thest thing you need right now. You know that, right? Cassie has been very patient with -"


    "See you soon, Luna." I hung up.


    My mother wouldn''t let this go. She would have Sara checked out again. I needed her out of town as soon as possible. I quickly texted Richard, telling him to reach out to Mae and go to her immediately.


    I''d barely finished texting when Sara emerged with her police friend. He led her to his patrol car, and she got inside. She looked somewhat ill despite the sundae in her hand. The look was courtesy of my mother as much as the dessert was owed to the officer. I knew this for sure.


    Soon, I was tailing them again as they headed in the direction of her office.

 Chapter 0037

    As expected, the patrol car stopped in front of the local council building. The officer got out of the car as she did. He said something, causing her to give a forcedugh as she waved at him. He followed her to the door, keeping his lustful eyes on her till she entered the building. Only when she disappeared from sight did he return to his car and made a U-turn back unto the road.


    I refused to think he''s her boyfriend. It was clear that he wanted to be, though.


    As he drove past me, a strangely familiar scent wafted by. I reversed and followed behind him. My phone buzzed. I grabbed it, thinking it would be Sara. It was just a work email.


    I realized that I didn''t hit the send button after typing the message to my gamma. I did that quickly and kept ncing at my phone''s screen, waiting for Sara''s call or text.


    She should be freaking out about whatever my mum said, shouldn''t she? The minutes went by, and no call came from her.


    Seeing the Luna didn''t spook her like I thought it would. How could she not be trying to reach me right now? Then again, we were not exactly on talking terms. Ourst conversation ended with me threatening her.


    But I refused to feel bad about any of that. She got on myst nerve yesterday ranting about how much she hated to be in the same space with me. I didn''t need to hear all of that bullshit. Then she wouldn''t pick up my calls. But I wonder what''s going on in her mind right now?


    My phone started to ring. It was Jake this time.


    "You''ve missed your flight, alpha. I''m readying a chopper," he said.


    "Good. Call Richard. I want the Luna out of town ASAP!" I told him.


    "Yeah, about that," he sighed. "Richard''s on his way to her, but I think this will only raise her suspicions."


    "She ran into Sara moments ago. Don''t ask me how I know. She''s longer suspicious. She knows for sure that the girl lives in this town!" I said to him.


    "Shit, Nick! If she stays here another half hour, she''ll find out about little Alex."


    "That''s why I want her out. I''m not ready for her or anyone else to find out. I... need time. Sara does too. Both my mum and Meg must fly back to the city this minute.


    Oh, and another thing," I said, keeping my eye on the police car ahead of me. "I need you to help me check someone out."


    "Okay. What''s their name?" he asked.


    "He''s a police officer," I replied, feeling foolish.


    "Yeah, believe it or not, there''s more


    than a couple of those in this lil town. Your mother got a ticket as soon as shended. Did she tell you? Not important. Do you have a photo of your man?" Jake asked.


    "Forget that. Just get Elise out ASAP. I''ll meet you at the hellipad. And Jake?"


    "Yes, alpha," he returned.


    "I want to know all about Sara James and how she''s lived since she got here... no. I wanna know how she''s lived in thest four years." "I''ll get to it," he said.


    Tailing her police friend was unwise. He was half-wolf and a trainedw-enforcer. It wouldn''t take long before he caught on that he was being followed.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    If he''s important to Sara, he should turn up in Jake''s report.


    ****


    I left Orphic about an hour after my beta and I talked. My gamma was taking care of things on my mother''s end. Or so I thought.


    I had to fly to California for a


    meeting with a partner first before


    heading back to Reign Towers. Then I spent the rest of the afternoon handling a series of pack matters in the city.


    It was nightfall when Jake and I returned to Orphic. My beta''s phone rang as soon as we touched down. If it was pack or business matters, was not in the least bit interested: My family was all I wanted to see or hear about. Just the kid, not family. Fock! Ah well, he''s my family, isn''t he?


    All I could think about was getting back to my penthouse suites. Sara and my son would be there.


    A horrible frown creased Jake''s face as he listened. A sour feeling crept into my gut as I watched him nod and hang up.


    "It''s the Luna," he said. "She''s got Sara and the child."

 Chapter 0038

    Elise Reign


    There were too many things to deal with and all of them were equally troubling.


    Luna Reign stood near the door of her driver''s hotel room. She didn''t dare go near the little one crouched in the corner. Didn''t dare listen to what her senses were screaming at her.


    Everything had taken such an unbelievable turn. Forty-eight hours ago, all she worried about was Nick''s engagement and an heir to the Reign dynasty. It was her duty as Luna to worry about these things.


    Now, her troubles had trippled. She couldn''t decide which one needed to be solved first.


    ''Well, you can scratch Reign heir off your list of worries now,'' a voice mocked in her head.


    An heir? By this omega-turned-lone wolf?


    The female who was now worse than a nobody bore her Nicks an heir?


    ''Where''s Sebastian?'' She mindlinked Mae.


    ''He''s in Devon''s room. Would you like us bring him here too?'' She asked.


    The Luna didn''t know what she would like. She didn''t even know why she made them drag the girl''s father here.


    The Luna regarded her as she held her son to her chest, head hanging low. She asionally stole nces at the Luna.


    This was why she was terror-stricken earlier at that ice-cream ce.


    ''The alpha''s still in the city, huh?'' She asked her gamma.


    ''Yes, Luna, thest time I checked.''


    All Elise wanted to do before returning home was to learn about the Sergeant. She knew the man-wolf like she knew the sun would rise at dawn.


    But she needed confirmation. She wanted to know how he came to be here. This forced meeting with the omega was merely her attempt to kill two birds with one stone.


    Scare out of the town or at least, far from Nick. Plus gleam information from her about her police friend.


    She''d sent Mae, Truly, and the other human to drag the girl here. But they''d driven back with a mother and child. The humans who worked with them were under a strict non-disclosure agreement. They couldn''t utter a word of what they see to outsiders.


    As for Mae and the other wolf, the Luna wouldmand them to never mention this to anyone. The burden of the secret would be off their shoulders.


    But what about her? She wished she could un-know this information. Was this why her son built a getaway resort here? No, she couldn''t believe it!


    "I was so sure I handled you and your father," the Luna grumbled. "Clearly, I was wrong."


    The girl looked up at her with fear and hate while clutching the boy tighter to her chest. The little one


    lifted his head slightly and his eyes met the Luna. Her heart lurched.


    en NovelDrama.Org


    She looked away, feeling too weird to speak to the omega in front of the pup. Heaving a deep frustrated sigh, she turned away and started to leave the room. Mae gave her a questioning look before she signaled for them to talk outside the room.


    ****


    Sara POV


    From the moment I first saw Nick''s mom and Megan, I knew it was only a matter of time before things came to this.


    I was supposed to be picking Alex


    up and heading to my dad''s shop like we always did. After running into the Luna earlier, I never nned on returning to the resort till I heard from Nick.


    Now I''m in this hotel suite against my will. Dragged here with my precious child by her minions.


    Moments after she left the room, her


    two gammas hade to snatch


    Alex away. After which they dragged


    me here to kneel before her.This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    I wanted to scream with rage but she already threatened that she wouldn''t let me see Alex if I made a sound.


    I turned to look at the two werewolves near the door. Both trained warriors of Forest Moon. Gammas. One was a male I used to see around at the pack. "What do you want from us?" I asked with a shaky voice.


    "I will ask the questions, lone wolf," she replied. "That''s what you are now, isn''t it?"


    She leaned back on the sofa and crossed her legs. Moreposed now that the child was out of sight. She was evidently shaken when they brought us to her.


    Now she seemed unbothered. Her Luna aura was filled with revulsion for me that I couldn''t meet her gaze. I kept my head bowed, waiting for her questions. "And I have plenty of questions. That tiny wolf..." she trailed off.


    I lifted my gaze in time to catch her deep sigh as her eyes darted to her guards. Of course, she wouldn''t want words to get around that an omega bore her son an heir. "Who''s your friend? The police half-wolf?" she asked.

 Chapter 0039

    "His name is Avery Hawke. He lives in this town," I replied.


    "Obviously! Tell me something I don''t know, omega. Like how he came to be here," she said.Belongs to (N)?vel/Drama.Org.


    Suddenly, she sounded truly curious. It didn''t feel like she was asking for the sake of questioning me.


    "I don''t know such things about him!" I replied.


    "Howe? You''re... friends, aren''t you?" She asked, then gave a signal for the guard to leave.


    I didn''t reply.


    "Is he the father... of the baby wolf?" she seemed to hold her breath.


    Was it denial? Or she truly didn''t sense her blood in my son despite the resemnce with hers?


    "Where''s Alex?" I asked, my patience waning. This wasn''t her territory. "This is kidnapping, Luna!" She ignored my threatening tone. Of course.


    "I already told you, I''ll be asking all of the questions, Miss James," she said. "How old is the child? Two or three? Were you at Rain resort yesterday?"


    "I''m no longer a member of your pack. I don''t owe you answers or submission!" I seethed but still couldn''t meet her gaze.


    My heart raced as I spoke. It was taking so much energy to run my mouth around her. She was a Luna, afterall, and my son''s grandmother. I was still a weak one of low birth. Her mere presence intimidated me.


    "Hmm," she sighed. "Bold now, huh? Just cuz my son was between your legs you think you can look me in the eye and talk back?"


    "Where is my son. Where''re you keeping him?" I cried.


    "The little one is safe. You can''t possibly think I''ll harm a pup, Miss James. How old is he?" she asked again.


    That little assurance did not ease the fear and rage inside me. I ignored her question.


    She went on, "So you''ve been to the resort to see the alpha. It''s why they all wanted me gone so soon. What? Did you go there to ckmail him with the bastard? That''s not gonna work, omega! We''ve dealt with your kind before!" Was she serious right now? Typical of her to think that her son could never approach me first.


    "I didn''t try to ckmail anyone. Just give me back my child and I promise I''ll disappear to prove I want noth -"


    "So it''s his son?" She cut me off.


    I saw the anxiety in her eyes. She didn''t want what she already know to be true.


    Only a direct parent could recognize their child among our species, but still, she was Luna. Add to that, my child was her son''s carbon copy.


    "The pup is safe, Miss James. I haven''t even taken a good look at him yet."


    "Where is he? I need to be with him. Why are you doing this?" I cried.


    A knockes on the door and she


    immediately lifted her gaze. One of the men stuck his head inside and said something to her with his mind. Their lips did not move, but the look in her eyes confirmed that they were in a heated conversation in their heads. She rose abruptly and gave me a dirty look, before leaving the room.


    "Alex!" I yelled again and again, praying that she kept him near this suite. She''d said that she wouldn''t hurt a child. I had to hold unto to that, but was terrified of what she would do. This was all my fault. I should''ve listened to my dad sooner. We should''ve left town before I even bumped into Nick at that business meeting.


    She returned a few minutester and lowered herself to the sofa with her eyes on me.


    "If you didn''t try to ckmail Nick, why did he get a paternity test? How''s it possible that he ran into you almost as soon as he arrived


    here for what should be a het


    n your


    business meeting? How can path possibly cross when


    you have


    nothing inmon?" she spat.


    Her questions were proof that she hasn''t done her usual background check on me yet.


    "Your father," she continued with an irritated look. "sells street meat and coffee by the roadside.


    You..." she sighed. "You probably work an odd job somewhere, what, with no education and all. How can my Nick possibly run into you? Granted, this is a small town.


    You heard about the proposed park. Words got around and you learned that Reign corporations was running it. So you approached him as soon as he set foot here. Isn''t that right, omega?"


    "You think you''ve got me figured out, but you''re wrong, Luna! I don''t need to exin myself to you. Just give me back my child -"


    The door burst open and Nick walked in.

 Chapter 0040

    I didn''t dare turn around as Nick''s alpha scent engulfed me. He had to know his mother would do this. I couldn''t hope that he would take my side.


    It was hard to feel relieved by his sudden appearance. With my peripheral vision, I stole a nce his way as he came closer. His face was hard as stone.


    "Son, I have everything under control here," The Luna began to speak. "You don''t need to worry. Just focus on..."


    She trailed off as Nick shocked the both of us.


    "Get up, Sara," he said gently. His arms were around my arm and lifting me up. I rose immediately, looking up at him with pleading eyes. "Where''s Alex? Please?" I cried.


    Then his gaze shifted to his mother who already rose to her feet.


    I could feel her eyes on us. It seemed like she was also waiting for an answer like I was.


    "I''ll take you to him," he replied, his reassuring tone was surprising. As I nced at his mother, I caught her masking the mild shock, too.


    "Could you give my mother and I a minute. Wait for me in the hall. I''ll take you to Alex," he said with his eyes on his mother now. Then he led me to the door, opening it, so I could go out.


    For some reason, his presence became immensely reassuring in that instant.


    "Go on," he urged me. "I''ll only be a minute."


    Only then did I register the heat of his anger beneath all the alpha scent. It seemed like he was trying to hold it in for my benefit. Did that mean he was angry at his mother and not me? I walked out of the suite hesitantly.


    As soon as I was out the door, before it went shut behind me, the Luna started speaking. "You shouldn''t havee, Nick. I was handling it -"


    "Stay out of business, mother! I''m no longer the college kid you need to clean up after. I''m alpha now! Your alpha!"N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    "Your business is mine, alpha Reign! It''s pack business, so don''t you dare..."


    The guard forced me farther from the door, shutting it so that their words became unclear. Nick sounded very upset. He took my side. The thought caused a fluttering in my stomach despite the heartache I had suffered all day. I tried to brush aside the twinge of triumph that stirred within me.


    I waited patiently for him like he asked me to. The silence between me and guard was thick as hell, but I could feel her disdain. Mae or whatever her name was. The Luna''s personal gamma. She waspletely loyal to Nick''s mom.


    I ignored the evil look she kept giving me as I paced around in front of the hotel suites.


    Minutester, Nick emerged just as Jake appeared in the hall with Alex beside him.


    "Mommy!" I rushed towards them as my child raced into my arms.


    "Are you okay? Where''s grandpa? What happened?"


    "Your father has gone home. He really can''t stand us," Jake replied, looking somewhat pained.


    "That scary woman came with the big man...," Alex narrated. "And they


    e2


    made me and gwanpa get in the other room. And they took us and made us sit. They locked the doors. ey''s Gwanpa tried to fight, but that man is bigger than he... he pushed gwanpa."


    "Is that so?" I asked, fresh anger rose inside me as I red up at Nick.


    "Did he hit you? Did anyone hit you?" he asked the child.


    "She pushed gwandpa!" Alex replied with his baby sharp voice, pointing at Mae. She quickly lowered her head.


    "Is that so?" Nick repeated my words as he regarded his mother''s right hand female with cold eyes.


    Then he sighed before saying, "We need to leave here! C''mon." His voice was curt as he took Alex''s hand and started to leave.


    Twenty-five minutester, we were back in the resort despite my protests and request to see my dad first. My phone was still missing. Or more urately, it was withOne of the Luna''s guards.


    Alex was asleep when we rode the elevator to the penthouse. The door slid open and the new nanny, whom I''ve been ignoring, stood waiting with a guard. With my eyes, I dared her to try and pry my son


    outof my


    arms. .


    I was going to walk past without a single word to her when Nick spoke.


    "You two haven''t been properly introduced. Sara, this is Janice Williams. She''ll be Alex''s nanny for now.


    "Janice, This is Miss Sara James, the mother of my son."


    Alex stirred in my arms and I rocked him back to sleep, smoothing his back with my palms.


    "Miss Williams, it''s nice to meet you. I haven''t had the chance to tell you this, but I''m afraid you''re wasting time lingering here. I don''t need a nanny for my son," I said to her.

 Chapter 0041

    I could feel Nick''s eyes on me and was starting to feel warm from his annoyance. Yet I didn''t spare him another nce as I walked away. Thedy''s mouth hung open like she wanted to say something, but I didn''t have the patience to wait and hear whatever she had to say.


    Iid Alex on the bed in the room Nick decided would be his. Nick was behind me. I could feel him. When I turned around, he stood by the door, ring at me.


    I tucked my son in and was pulling a stool close to sit beside the bed when he took two strides, grabbed my arm and dragged me out of the room.


    I yanked myself free once we were out the door.


    ""Let go!"


    "I hired that nanny to help," he said.


    "Help with what? Taking care of my son once you separate me from him?"


    "I thought we have an understanding? It''s all in your hands, I already told you this. You keep to my terms and there''ll be no separation," he replied.


    "Is your mother part of this understanding?"


    His eyes shed with an emotion I couldn''t quite name. Then he spoke in a gentler voice. "Sara, what happened today... wasn''t supposed to happen. My mother flew in unexpectedly... Anyway it won''t happen again."


    I was stunned. Was the almighty Nick Reign offering an exnation to the lowly me? Was he apologizing?


    "She kidnapped the child," I said, not meaning for my voice to be that soft. If that was an apology, I shouldn''t be making it too easy for him.


    "That''s over now," he said. "So let''s move forward -"


    "By move forward, you mean let''s groom someone to take my ce in my son''s life. No, thanks! He doesn''t need a nanny. He has me!"


    "Fortunately, Sara, it''s not for you to decide what he needs. At least, you don''t get to do that alone, anymore," he moved closer, leaning forward to look me in the eye. My knees grew weak.


    "The nanny stays," he said in his calm, authoritative tone.


    Then he walked away, leaving me staring at his back.


    Feeling tired from the day''s ordeal, I retired to the room he assigned me to peel off my sweaty clothes.


    The house grew quiet as I freshened up. The only sound I could hear were that of soft voices downstairs. Jake was talking with the nanny.


    I dozed off soon after my shower. A soft knock woke me upter and I jolted up.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    "Alex!"


    I scrambled out of the bed, prepared to go to him. But it was one of the hotel staff, waiting by the door with a food tray in front of him.


    I opened the door wider to let him


    roll it in. As soon as he was gone, I went to check on Alex. He was still asleep. My dear baby. The day must have truly worn him out. He would


    §Ú§Þ


    be hungry as soon as he woke up.


    After rushing to eat my food, I quickly joined him in bed to be there when he woke up asking for food.


    Nick was nearby. I could feel him. At some point, I fell asleep again beside my little one. It was he who woke me up at dawn the next day.


    *****


    It was 7:15. My son and I were ready


    to begin the new day. Nick was sitting in the living room looking at the screen of his Ipad when we


    climb down the stairs on our way out


    He lifted his chin as we descended the stairs, eyes moving over me before settling on his son.


    "Say good morning, sir," I instructed Alex gently.


    "Sir?" Nick cut in with a raised eye brow and a half smile.


    "Good morning, sir," Alex said to him.


    "Come here, little wolf." Nick set the ipad down and motioned for the child.


    Alex looked up at me first and I caught the smirk in Nick''s face before he hid it. When I gave no protest, my child walked over to meet his father.


    "Good morning, my child. My heir,"


    he said, shocking me. "When you greet me, you say good morning, father... or daddy, if you like. You can also call me alpha when it''s just us family around."


    What the hell was he doing? Was he suddenly ready for the child to address him like that? What if the boy said that in front of the wrong people?


    "Are you my daddy?" Alex asked in a soft voice.


    "Yes, I am. Uncle Jake was right. Now say your good morning to me," he said.

 Chapter 0042

    Sara POV


    "Good morning, daddy," the child said, a happy smile coloring his eyes.


    "Good pup," Nick said to him. "Now why don''t go with Janice and the beta. Your mother will join you in a moment, and I''ll see you soon."


    Jake emerged with the half-wolf nanny they hired for my son. I tightened my lips, holding back fromshing out in front of Alex. It was too early.


    Alex nodded and went to meet them as Jake took his little hand. Within seconds, they were out of sight. Only then did I see the envelope sitting beside Nick on the sofa.


    "The paternity test came out," he said.


    "But that''s just for records as you already know. We both know you and I made that child. He''s OUR flesh and blood. Do you know your father is trying to get his humans to keep me from my child?" "What are you on about this morning?" I snapped.


    "Ah, you didn''t know he talked to somewyers. The retainer was a little too much for him, so he wanted to snooze on it. But when he went back a few hourster, they wouldn''t take him. Because they work for me now."


    He gave an exaggerated sighed and rose with the envelope. "Here."


    "I don''t need to see the damned paternity test!" I said.


    "This isn''t the test results, Sara," he said with an edge in his voice. "I really have to do something about your attitude. This isn''t the test results. It''s something else. Have a look!"


    I took the envelope from him and opened it to reveal the same document he gave me two nights ago.


    "You lost it yesterday during your... reunion with the Luna, but I found it," he said.


    "This looks different," I pointed out.


    "That''s cuz I added a few things."


    It looked more like a contract now. I dreaded turning the page. What could he possibly be trying to bind me to now? What did he add? Last night, for a brief moment, he looked sorry for what his mother did. Maybe I dreamt that. He was back to being a jerk this morning. "What did you add? Don''t answer that. I''m not interested in whatever you''re proposing," I said, dropping the envelope on the sofa beside him.


    "If you''ll excuse me, I have a child to care for and a job to get to!"


    "You need to sign it, so we won''t have any problems, Sara. So YOU won''t have any problems."


    He rose from therge cushion to stare down at me. "You can ask me to give you time to read it like you did before. Sign it once you''ve looked at it, so everyone is happy and assured."


    I was momentarily confused by these words. The look on my face must''ve given me away. He arched his brow.


    Then he gave a shortugh before saying, "Unbelievable. You think it''s the same contract asst time? You tter yourself, Sara. I''m not trying to get between your thighs! I have a son to care for and businesses to run!"


    "So what did you add? What is it about?" I asked, angry at his tone.


    "It''s about custody and what I require from the mother of my child," he replied.


    "What YOU require? I won''t live my life by your requirements, Nicks Reign. I bore that child. He''s mine. The one you never wanted..."


    He took a step closer and I faltered backwards.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    "Watch your mouth, Sara. The boy is within earshot. Wait, is this what you''ve been telling him? That I didn''t want him? No wonder he''s still on guard around me."


    I threw my hands up, outraged by the usation. "He met you forty-eight hours ago! In that short time, he''s been kidnapped!" I held up two fingers. "TWICE! By you and your MOTHER!" "Stop talking."


    The two words were spoken in a calm voice. But his tone was firm and authoritative.


    Words failed me as my mouth hung open. I had much more to say, but I couldn''t do anything but press my lips together. Inhaling deeply, I tried to calm myself.


    He picked up the envelope from the


    couch and handed it to me again without another word. I didn''t mean to take it from him, but when my eyes met his hard ones, I couldn''t do otherwise. I snatched it from him as he started to speak again.


    "THIS is nothing like our agreement four years ago. We won''t be naked together between the sheets once a week. This one''s all about the child. And expect to get it back tonight," he said.


    Then he settled back on the sofa. I stood, angry and frustrated, unable to express in words what I''d like to say to him.


    He spoke again, but this time, his voice was a soft murmur, like he was thinking out loud.


    "You finally said my name. I was starting to think it''s a taboo for you now. Guess I was wrong."


    He lifted his gaze as his mouth curved into a smirk.


    "I need my car," I said, ignoring his useless observation.


    "I was told you refused to drive it."


    "I don''t need a new car from you. I don''t want anything from you. I need MY car," I replied.


    "That''s too bad. I already sent it to the junkyard.


    If you hate the new model, I can get you another one. Let me know which brand you''d rather drive. Text it to


    d would


    meter. Until then, someone would have to drive you to work and.


    wherever you need to take Alex."


    swnv


    I imagined scratching his perfect face with my fingers. The junkyard? How could he get rid of my car? Who did he think he was?


    "You had no right..." My voice shook as I trailed off. It was pointless to say more.


    "I have every right, Sara James. I can''t let you drive little Alex around in that antique anymore. Now jog on, will you? I don''t want him to bete for school." He picked up his Ipad and resumed whatever he was doing.

 Chapter 0043

    Avery Hawke


    On the night before,


    The Pineapple Court suites and lodge. That''s where the strange woman was staying in town. It didn''t take much for Avery to get that information.


    It was night-fall, and he was off-duty, so he decided to head straight there. On the way, he called his uncle to ask the one question that had bugged him since heid eyes on Elise Reign.


    The answer he got was what he expected.


    "Why do you suddenly wanna know where you lived as a child?" Jeremy asked him.


    "I don''t know, uncle. Maybe I''m having an existential crisis or something," Avery replied.


    "That doesn''t make any sense, Av. You should be feeling the opposite. Sara''s finally paying attention to you. People saw you two have lunch together today. And after that, you drove off somewhere together."


    Avery was silent. For the millionth time, he wished he hadn''t taken Sara to that particr ice cream shop. He was sure she thought the same thing. Because of him, she''d run into that woman that was obviously from her former pack. She''d gotten threatened and was probably still thinking about the unpleasant encounter.


    Just that the ce was the fanciest in the town. He wanted to prove that he could buy her expensive dessert.


    "Tell me what''s wrong, Ave," Jeremy insisted.


    "I''m just curious. Please tell me what you know. Or at least tell me exactly how you met my dad," he pleaded.


    "I know what you''re asking, son. I''m just wondering why. You''ve never cared about your past beyond what you can remember."All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "I still don''t care, uncle. I just wanna know."


    "Okay, no problem. Let''s talk about it when you get home. You should be back soon, shouldn''t you?"


    Avery doubted he''d be home soon. But all he could do was sigh and say okay.


    Soon, he pulled over across the street from the hotel where the woman was staying.


    What could he possibly learn by staking out here? He didn''t know yet, but he''d find out.


    Sara refused to open up about why the woman spoke to her that way but Avery could guess. She and her father had left a pack behind to start a life here at Orphic. Forest Moon, as she called it.


    That cold woman was an elite member of the pack. Hell, maybe they left because of her. The fact that she had a warrior she-wolf following her about meant she was a powerful one indeed. But that had nothing to do with what he felt when he stood before her. His heart had screamed out, and he wanted to know why.


    Not only did Avery sense her power and authority when he firstid eyes on her. There was another feeling he couldn''t ignore. He''d sensed something... strongly familiar and rming. And annoying.


    ve


    He hated her. He had a feeling that the hatred would grow the more he learned about her.


    As he waited, all he could do was look her up on the inte. Like he guessed, she was no ordinary wolf.


    "Reign Corporations, huh?" He guessed the name wasn''t as popr as the thought.


    Avery, like all other werewolves and half-bloods, had always known that the owners of that conglomerate were wolves, too.


    "That''s why she was in town," he murmured.


    But why wasn''t she staying at the resort like the other directors?


    When he lifted his gaze, his heart skipped.


    Sebastian, Sara''s father, was just walking out of the hotel. He looked flushed with anger.


    He hailed a cab, and when it didn''t stop, he brought out his phone and started typing.


    Without thinking, Avery started his car at the same time honking to get the older man''s attention. Within seconds, he pulled over in front of him. "Sergeant, what are you doing on this side of town?" Sebastian seemed surprised to see him. "You''re off duty."


    "Not really. Why don''t I give you a ride?" He offerred.


    "Sure."


    Soon, they were on their way. Avery could bet the man was justing from seeing the same woman he was waiting to spy on.

 Chapter 0044

    "I saw youing out of the Pineapple''s. Are you getting orders from them or what?" he asked.


    The man''s jaw tightened as he directed his gaze out the window.


    "Did something happen, Seb? Is Sara okay?" Avery pressed.


    "I can''t even do anything..." Sebastian trailed off, gritting his teeth.


    "It was Elise Reign, isn''t it?" he asked, shocking the older male.


    "How did you know?"


    "Sara and I ran into her this afternoon. Sara seemed truly scared. She threatened to chase her out of town," Avery replied.


    "She never told me this," Sebastian looked sad and furious. "They could''ve built their stupid park anywhere else. Why did they have toe here? I can''t even protect my own daughter."


    The frustration in his eyes made Avery angrier at the woman. He tried to console him,


    "Yes, you can. You''re doing that. You went all the way there to tell her off. That''s good on you, Seb."


    Sara''s dad gave him a depressing look, and he realized he may have assumed wrongly.


    "That''s what happened, right?" he asked hesitantly.


    "The Luna had them drag her here! She had them drag my family here, and I can''t even..." he trailed off again, clenching his jaw.


    Avery felt hot with rage.


    "What?" he asked. "Where''s Sara now? And Alex? You didn''t leave them there, did you?"


    He sighed before replying. "Alex''s father is picking them up. She can''t take them out of town without the alpha''s say-so. That''s what the beta said. Alex actually knows the beta like..." he shook, not willing to finish the sentence. Without another word, Avery made a U-turn.


    "No, Avery? Where are you going? Tell me you''re not going to the hotel," Sebastian pleaded.


    "I''m going to get Sara and little Alex out of there. I told that bitch not to go anywhere near Sara again. Guess she didn''t hear me right!"


    "Alex''s father would do that, Ave. Sara wouldn''t want you involved like this. She would be upset if she knew I told you, please. Let''s just head back."


    Avery wouldn''t listen. They were still on their way when a fancy SUV drove past them.


    "See?" Seb pointed. "That''s them, I assure you. The beta said the alpha was picking them up."


    Avery slowed down, his eyes on the car that just drove past. Why was the alpha involved? He''d think about thatter. All he wanted right now was to have a word or two with that woman.


    But if Sara and the kid were no longer there, what excuse would he have to barge in there and harrass the staff? Sebastian was still begging him to turn the car around. Eventually, he did. First, he would get Sebastian home, then decide his next step.


    "You can protect Sara and the little one, Seb. And I can help," he said.


    They were now in front of Sara''s home, but he knew she wouldn''t be there for now. Something was going on and it involved the father of the child.


    Sebastian gave no reply to hisment as he opened the door and got out. But the look on his face said it all. He had no faith in whatever help Avery promised.


    The night went by. Uncle Jeremy was determined to avoid the talk they agreed to have. Avery didn''t pressure him because he looked tired.


    ***


    The next morning,All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Avery didn''t get much sleep that


    night. He was eagerly waiting for dawn. There was no way he was letting it slide. Dragging someone to your hotel against their will was kidnapping.


    It was daybreak. He was ready for work. He left the house without checking on uncle that morning. After calling to let his boss know he would bete, Avery pulled his car into the road, heading straight to Pineapple Court Suites and Lodge. There was no need to stake out now. The woman hadmitted a crime. And he was going to do what thew required.

 Chapter 0045

    Elise Reign


    The Luna halted on her way up the airstairs. She was ovee with that familiar stirring that she felt when she first entered this town. The feeling she caught when they were stopped by that police car. A scent apanied it this time. One she was now acquainted with. Her breathing hitched, but she didn''t dare turn around to look.


    ''Get it together, Elise,'' she cautioned herself silently.


    As she got into the jet, she caught sight of the one person that threatened her generalposure.


    The Sergeant was racing towards the waiting private jet as she lowered herself to the seat.


    Her heart sped up again, and her palms went mmy as she watched him through the windshield. The pilot was ready to take off.


    "Hayes, hang on," she ordered.


    "What could the policeman want?" Hayes scoffed, wondering aloud. He was undoubtedly irritated with the dy.


    "Beats me," the Luna replied absently. "And so early in the morning, too."


    The Sergeant was now arguing with the human guards as they tried to stop him froming near the ne. He shed his barge, but they didn''t care.


    She took a deep, purposely breath to control the thumping in her chest.


    Wait, why was she afraid? She had nothing to fear, she assured herself. He didn''t recognize her. That much was clear. He was here for something else.


    She watched as the men stood their ground, threatening to forcefully escort him from the hellipad if he didn''t leave immediately. One of them was already on the phone. Elise knew he was calling the Sergeant''s boss.


    She had ordered Mae, her most-trusted gamma, to remain in Orphic for a few hours. She was to do a bit of background check on this policeman. But right now, the Luna doubted the necessity of thatmand.


    "I''m curious about what he wants. Lemme go find out," she said to Hayes, rising from her seat.


    As she reached the door, she called out, "Is there a problem?"


    "Yes, ma''am, I''m here to ask you a few questions about a kidnapping!" The man replied harshly.


    Right.


    That''s why he chased her here? To prove to his little crush that he was a hardworking policeman? Elise gave a shortugh as she descended the stairs to meet him.


    Did he know that the father of that girl''s child was back in her life?


    Her jaw tightened as she recalled the omega again. The image of her son speaking to the girl like he meant to take away all her worries made her want to spit.


    The Luna had nightmares over that picture. She wanted to smash something whenever she recalled how Nick had stood up for the girl.


    It''s because of the kid, nothing more,


    she assured herself. The Reigns


    were like that with their pups. Her Nick couldn''t possibly be in love with that pitiful omega. Something Kad to be done, she promised herself.


    The Luna decided she would worry about Sara James and her bastard once she settled the problem in front of her right now.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Sergeant, what brings you here?" she asked while signalling the two men to give them privacy.


    "How do you know I''m a Sergeant?" the young man asked with a frown.


    "I had you checked out."


    She was determined to make sure he didn''t see a trace of agitation in her. And with her usual cold, self-possessed exterior, it was hard to go wrong. "Why would you have me checked out?"


    "Because you threatened me, Sergeant, remember?"


    He seemed distracted for a moment as he watched her.


    "You kidnapped Sara and her child!" was all he said after a moment''s pause.


    "Do you have proof? Are you here to arrest me?"


    She concluded that cold and calm was working out great for her. He was mildly intimidated now despite the anger and hatred he was trying to show her. "Well?" She asked, feigning impatience.


    "You need toe to the station with me, ma''am," he replied.


    "Tell you what, Sergeant," she said. "Come back with an arrest warrant. Maybe I''ll be in town, maybe I won''t. If not,e to L.A."


    She turned around and started to return to the jet waiting.


    "I have a ne to catch if you have nothing else to say."


    The Luna felt ill. A cold sweat broke


    out on


    erforehead. But with an iron


    ill, she remainedposed and


    dignified as she climbed Y


    into the private jet.


    The child recognized her. There was no doubt in her mind. Her lost pup. That look in his eyes proved he didn''t follow her out here for the omega''s sake. He came to confirm what he felt the first moment their eyes met.

 Chapter 0046

    ***


    Sara POV


    That morning, I was very busy in the office. We were out in the field with Reign''s team scoping the entire area that the park was meant to cover.


    Apparently, it would run through the resort, too. It was not a one-day activity. I didn''t have the time to look at the content of Nick''s agreement until after lunch. When I did, all I could understand was that he was trying to make me a contract mother. My phone rang as I was reading through it. It was Avery.


    "Busy day at work, huh? How''re you doing?" he asked.


    "I''m good. A little exhausted, but I actually enjoyed every bit of it. I thought you''d be there?"


    "So you were hoping to see me," he teased.


    "Well, you''re part of the team," I replied. I could hear his smile on the other end.


    "It''s all the same to me. You miss me," he said. "I had other things to deal with, that''s why I wasn''t there. But I''ll be around the day after tomorrow when they start measuring, I think." "Okay, then."


    "Did something happen to your car?" he asked suddenly.


    I didn''t know how to respond without lying. I wasn''t ready to share my personal issues with him. Well, at least, he''s not asking about the Luna anymore.


    I started to reply. "It''s a long story -"


    "Cool. I''ll give you a ride. We''ll pick Alex up together, and after we drop him at your dad''s, I can buy you a drink while you tell me," he said.


    "I... I don''t know if I can, Avery. At least, not today."


    "Why not? What''s wrong, Sara?" His voice was full of concern. "Something''s going on. If you''d just let me in. That she-wolf from yesterday..." he trailed off with a sigh before he added. "Please let me help Sara."


    From our little chat this morning, I know that Nick already assigned someone to pick us up in the evening. I needed to figure out what arrangement he made before I agreed to anything with Avery. As he spoke, a thought urred to me, and I blurted.


    "Do you know awyer?"


    He went silent for a moment.


    "Sure. It''s about Alex, isn''t it?"Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    I didn''t respond.


    "I know a goodwyer. I''ll see you at your dad''s this evening and you can tell me what you need. How about that?" he asked.


    "That sounds... good," I murmured.


    There''s no non-disclosure in this


    case. That meant I could see someone and have them check out the details on Nick''s silly agreement. But he said he needed it signed this evening. He''d have to wait, then, won''t he?


    ***


    As I suspected, someone was waiting for me as I walked out of the office after work. I was going to


    pretend didn''t see the tall, gamma female but she called my name, and I was in the midst of my colleagues.


    "Miss James!"


    "Guys, please excuse me," I said and went to meet her.


    "Can you pick me up from my father''s instead? I''m heading over there right now," I told her.


    "Sorry, Miss. The alpha''s orders is that I pick you up FROM work and take you straight to the little one''s school," she replied. ""And if I refuse?"


    "I''ll have to force you. I''d hate to cause a scene in front of your friends, but I''ll have no choice," she replied with a half smile. "Sara, is everything alright? Should I call security?" Lori asked.


    "Yeah-no, it''s fine, Lori." I called back. "But sorry, guys, I''ll have to go with her. We''ll see tomorrow."


    As I was following the guard to the car, Jane called out,


    "I''ll call youter today."


    Some minutester, I''ve picked Alex, and we were leaving the preschool.


    "We''re stopping at my father''s!" I announced before entering the car. I already knew what her answer would be.


    "I have orders to get you both home, Miss," said the guard.


    Mimicking her earlier smile, I replied, "Alex has to see his grandfather before we go back to that hotel. You


    can


    agree to take me there or I''ll just call a cab. I don''t mind causing a scene here. It''s not my workce."

 Chapter 0047

    Lindsey. That''s the name of the gamma assigned to be Alex''s "bodyguard." She stood watching me with annoyance for a moment. Though it seemed like she was considering my words. Moments passed before she shrugged and said,N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    "Okay. We''ll head to your father''s shop before taking you home."


    "The resort is NOT our home!"


    "It is for now. Until the alpha decides on somewhere else!" she snapped back as she held the door for Alex to enter.


    Once my son and I were sitted in the car with Janice on the other side, the driver pulled into the road.


    Avery''s patrol car was the first thing I noticed when we arrived at my dad''s. Our driver pulled over behind it as I helped Alex out.


    "Uncle Avery," Alex beamed, running into his arms.


    "How''s my little man? Aww, but you''re growing really big now," he pretended to struggle as he lifted the child.


    After a moment of ying and talking with the kid, he sent him inside to meet my father.


    When he turned to look at me, I simply said,


    "Yes."


    He gave a confused frown before I quickly added,


    "Yes, we can go out to dinnerter. But first I have to go ho... eh... I mean..." I didn''t want to say the resort. I also hated to lie that I was taking him home. "I have to take Alex to his dad''s ce first."


    Avery''s mouth parted slowly. Then his face transformed into a smile as he nodded.


    "I see."


    Then his eyes settled on the fancy car that brought Alex and me. ''Please don''t ask me about them,'' I pleaded silently.


    He didn''t, thank Goddess. Instead, he asked,


    "What time?"


    I looked at my wristwatch.


    "An hour and a half from now, maybe. Would that be ok?"


    "Let''s make it 7 PM. Would you like me to pick you up?"


    "I... I could meet you," I replied hesitantly.


    "Ok, then. Let''s meet at the Chroll''s diner. 7PM," he said.


    I nodded in agreement. "Cool. See you then."


    Nick would have to wait. I refuse to sign his rules book without an expert looking at it.


    This wasn''t entirely different from four years ago. It was still a contract. Sort of.


    But I wasn''t naive and in love with a fated mate now. I was not blinded by the overwhelming force of a mate bond.


    My child came first. He''s everything to me. I must be careful when signing anything that involved him.


    ***


    When Alex and I arrived at the


    penthouseter, Nick was not around But Jake was there, sitting in the living room as if waiting us. He rose when we walked in, and Alex waved at him.  en NovelDrama.Org


    "Hello, Uncle beta," he said.


    I was shocked once again by how familiar he acted around the cold jackass.


    Despite my son''s sweet and warm personality, I was always taken aback by his interaction with Nick''s beta. It made me wonder what they''ve said to the child in my absence that first day.


    Little Alex was going to go to Jake when I gripped his hand tighter, stopping him. He looked up at me with innocent confusion, and I averted my gaze, waiting for the


    beta to say what he wanted to.


    I had the feeling he has a message for me.


    "Nick wants me to get the envelope he gave you this morning," he said atst.


    "Tell Nick toe get it himself!" I snapped.


    "You''ve gotten bold, Sara," his voice was calm and frightening as he gave me a half smile.


    He and his boss were cut from the same cloth. Two arrogant jerks.


    "Why? Is it because you had a child for the alpha? You think you can defy him or talk back now, huh?"


    His gaze moved to Alex, and he winked as he continued to speak in that threatening tone.


    "See. You''ve got it wrong. You should''ve been bold and mouthy FOUR years ago. Not now. Should I exin why? You see, cuz you''ve got much more to lose now"

 Chapter 0048

    His eyes remained on the kid.


    "You should be more submissive and agreeable now, don''t you think?"


    Then his eyes lifted and fixed on mine as he added,


    "Be careful how you address my alpha around me OR anyone else!"


    When he reached out to touch Alex''s cheek affectionately, I pulled my son away from his touch.


    He gave a gentle smile.


    "You''ve had a busy day. I''ll give him that excuse on your behalf. Let''s say you couldn''t go through it yet because of work. I''ll pick it up in the morning!"


    He started to leave as he waved at Alex and said with a sweet voice,


    "See you soon, young wolf."


    My son waved back hesitantly, eyeing me to see if I approved.


    Within minutes, the house was empty except for us, the guard, and Alex''s new nanny.


    I had to get ready to go see Avery, so I called a babysitter despite the fact that the nanny was still on duty.


    If I would put my child under the care of a stranger, let it be someone I paid rather than the fancy half-wolf. This one was hired to care for Alex as a mother if I don''t "behave." For that reason, I hated her. "Is there anything you need me to do for him, Miss James," the nanny asked.


    I ignored her.


    Taking Alex into his room, I locked the door and changed his clothes and freshened him up for the evening.


    "Maya is on her way to stay with you. Mommy has to see Uncle Avery this evening," I told him.


    "Maya and Janice will watch me?" he asked.


    "Miss Janice would be here, but Maya will babysit you," I told him. "Be good, okay? And do what she tells you. I''ll be back in a few hours.


    ***


    At 7:02, I was sitting across the table from Avery at the restaurant. He listened to me as I gave him surface details about thest few days.


    "I saw your father entering aw firm some time this morning," he said.


    I tried to hide my surprise.


    "I know something''s wrong, Sara. I only wish you had called me when you thought they were going to take him away for good," he remarked.


    "I didn''t want to bother you. I don''t want you to feel like I''m using you," I said.


    "I wish you will bother me, Sara. You can use me, too," he replied, his tone soft and assuring.


    When I shifted ufortably in my seat, he quickly straightened and cleared his throat before saying,


    "But let''s talk about uster. I spoke


    to Mrs. Montgomery when I left your father''s shop this evening. She specializes in familyw, and she''s got a good track record. I''ll text her once we''re through here. As long as we get there before 9:30, she agreed to be avable.


    "She''ll advise you on that... agreement... he''s trying to make you sign."


    His brow creased like he was truly afraid for my sake.


    "What is it?" I asked.


    "You said his family is powerful. I''m worried that you''re in for a serious fight with this guy. If only you''d let me in to help..." he sighed. N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    "I am letting you in, Avery. I''m here now asking for your help, aren''t I?"


    He took my hand into both of his across the table and squeezed.


    "I''m really d you reached out finally. I won''t let you go through this alone, I promise."


    I offered him a small smile, grateful to know and have someone on my side. It didn''t matter if he was a


    town.


    halfblood with little in the


    We ate dinner while chit chatting about different trivial things. Within an hour, we were done and leaving to see thewyer.

 Chapter 0049

    Nick POV


    I had my cell phone to my ear, giving instructions to Richard about pack''s security when my Ipad buzzed again.


    It was another message about her.


    The mother of my child left the resort moments ago. She didn''t leave with our son. Instead, she''d called her regr human babysitter to watch him. Janice was still on duty though. "How soon does Hayes get here with the jet? I need to leave for Orphic immediately!" I said to Richard.


    It was after work hours. Sara couldn''t be going out for groceries. She was "somewhat dressed-up," ording to Lindsey. A date. That was the only exnation I could think of.


    When I finished my call with my gamma, I dialled her number. Again. Still turned. I bet it was to avoid my calls, no doubt. I wanted to hurl the phone at my door but clenched it so tight that the screen cracked. Then I let it fall on my desk. What if there''s an emergency with the child and they needed to reach her?


    When I opened the message to view it in full, I saw that a twelve-second video was attached. It showed Sara getting out of a cab as that police man-wolf held the door for her with a smile.


    As she got out, he took her hand and led her into the restaurant.


    A wave of dizziness came over me as I shut my eyes and tried to inhale deeply.


    She was my son''s mother. She should be in my house. With our child. It was 4:45 here, that meant nightfall over there. After dark. Sara should be indoors. Instead, she was out on a date?


    The result of Richard''s background check which Jake delivered was still on my desk. I stared at it with a frown. The police man didn''t turn up at all in his checks.


    ording to that report, Sara was not involved with anyone. There had been noteworthy man in life in thest four years, except my son and her father.


    Maybe Rich and Jake weren''t thorough. Or this was their first date?


    I could hear the sound of the jet now. I had nned not to go back to that little town for a few days, at least. I wanted to give her and our child the space to learn to love that ce. It wasn''t a permanent home. But it was supposed to "our ce" for now. Just like she and I had "our apartment" four years ago.


    "Well, this can''t be helped, can it!" I seethed.


    My son was there. His mother was out on a date. I had to go make sure the little one was okay.


    A soft knock came on the door as I started to grab my coat.


    Damon, my assistant, stuck his head inside.


    "Beta Jake''s on the phone, alpha," he said. "He couldn''t reach you on your cell."


    Of course, he couldn''t. I''d been continuously dialling Sara''s number like an idiot before rumpling the screen. As if trying many times would make her turn on her phone.


    What was I even going to say if she answered?


    Damon didn''t leave even after I nodded briefly to acknowledge his message.


    "Also, Miss White is -"


    The door opened wider and my newest arranged fiance brushed past the assistant into my office.


    My gaze moved to the wall clock. It wasn''t even 5 PM.


    "here to see you." Damon finished with a scowl.


    "Hello, alpha," Cassandra White greeted me with a smile.


    I held up a finger as I lifted the phone to take my beta''s call.


    "I wanted you to know that she hasn''t signed it yet. She''s out with her boyfriend right now. Did you see the photos?"


    "Her boyf..." I breathed, reminding myself that I wasn''t alone.


    "She doesn''t have a BOYFRIEND, Jake. It says so in your report!" I didn''t mean for my voice to take on that edge.


    The fiance was right in front of me. Her eyes lifted in curiosity as I spoke.


    "I''ll call you back in a moment." I hung up before Jake could reply.


    "What are you doing here, Cassie?" I asked the she-wolf, unable to fake a smile or hide my annoyance. "I''m supposed to call you, then send a car to get you. That''s how we''ve always done it." N?velDrama.Org is the owner.


    en NovelDrama.Org


    "I was in the area and I''m hungry now. Couldn''t wait till 7," she replied as she deposited herself on my visitor''s chair.


    I motioned for my assistant to leave us. Once he had shut the door, I spoke.


    "You can''t just show up at my work ce." I shook my head.


    "Really? Not even after hours?" Her tone was innocent.


    Ours was an arranged mating. She was doing her best for her family and the pack just as I should be doing.


    But thest thing I needed right now was for her to start ying clingy girlfriend. I was not her boyfriend at all and I had so much on my te Most importantly, everything has changed! When she learned what was new with me soon, she''d have t¨¦dump me. But now was not the time to tell her this.


    "There''s no after hours. I''m always working," I told her.


    "That''s why I came. You deserve to get out of here for a little while," she said in a soft voice.


    "Well, I can''t leave yet!"


    Another knock sounded on the door and Richard entered.


    "Hayes is here," he announced,pleting ignoring Cassie.


    "Good," I said before returning my attention to the she-wolf before me.


    "I''m gonna have to cancel tonight''s date. Something''se up. And you were right. I do deserve to get out of here for a while. Did you bring your car? I have Damon call you an uber." ,


    en NovelDrama.Org


    As I spoke, Richard was already opening the door and getting my assistant.


    He appeared by the door immediately.


    "I''ll call you tomorrow, Cassie."


    I started to gather my things as I dialed Jake''s number again. She was going to speak, but I was already holding the wireless desk phone to my ear with my shoulder and whispering, "c''mon." "Yes, alpha?"


    "If she didn''t sign it yet, that''s good," I said as soon as he picked. "I need to make some things clear to her! We forgot to include something important."


    "Okay."


    "We''ll see shortly." I hung up and picked up my damaged cellphone.


    I started to leave the office when Cassie spoke.

 Chapter 0050

    Cassie White


    "You just said you can''t leave yet?"


    As Alpha Nick''s gaze met Cassie''s, she recalled their teenage days and how he used to be.


    "I also said something''s juste up!" His tone was impatient.


    The look in his eyes caused rm bells to go off in her head. This was how he looked at those she-wolves that shamelessly fought for his attention back then. Tonight was the second consecutive time he was canceling their weekly date. It bothered Cassie White to a point of agitation now because of the phone call.


    And the report.


    "Miss White," Damon, his assitant called gently. A signal that she had to get out of the office.


    Meanwhile, Nick quickly returned to his desk to pick up an envelope. His eyes were on some paper now. Then he hastily pushed it into his briefcase and started to leave the office again. "I''ll call you soon, Cassie," he said.


    Though he didn''t look at her till he sensed she was making no move to leave.


    Then he stopped by the door. "Cassie! I''m leaving. That means you can''t be in here."


    She sighed before rising to follow him. By some grace or magic, he noticed her feelings were hurt.


    "Look, I know I missedst week, too. This is important business. I have to leave the city immediately." His tone was gentler now.


    "I should be back in a day or two. I''ll call you then."


    "It''s just... I was really looking forward to the evening," Cassie said.


    "I''ll call you once I get back to the city," he said again. As some form of reassurance, he reached out and rubbed her arm as his eyes grew softer. "We''ll have dinner then, alright?"


    Then he leaned forward and dropped a light kiss on her cheek. "C''mon."


    His hand was still on her arm as he led her out of his office.


    The tingles of that light touch of his lips lingered on her cheek. She was stunned by the show of affection.


    It was a first. Nick had never done anything like that before. He treated her like an acquaintance. Cassie didn''t mind because they all knew him to value privacy from the press. He never liked the general public in his personal business. The only ones who knew about their engagement were their families and close staffs. Till we set a date, he''d insisted.


    The thought that she was going to be his wedded mate prevented anyints.


    Today, she''d gotten a peck on the cheek. Bribery for cancelling their date. Cassie had never expected anything from the alpha. Despite their proximity in social status, he didn''t even know she existed till they were formally introduced.


    But she banked on the fact that it was only a matter of time before he fell for her. Hard.


    Things had been going smoothly. She was so sure that they were close to the part where he fell head over heels.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    This new project in that strange little town was to me. It was ruining her joy.


    And who was he talking about on the phone? What type of project was so vital that beta Jake or Duncan couldn''t handle without the alpha''s physical presence?


    She could sense his impatience rising as they walked side by side to the elevator. Then he turned the corner to take the stairs. "See you soon."


    Cassie watched her alpha walked through the door to the staircase leading to the roof. His ride had grown louder now.


    "The Uber is waiting downstairs, Miss White," Damon said.


    "Thanks," she mumbled, reaching for her cellphone.


    Her friend at Delta Air picked her call on the second ring.


    "Hi, yeah, when''s the next flight to Jamestown? I need to leave immediately. Is it possible?"


    She half-listened because her mind was on the receding sound of the jet above the building.


    In the past five months since they had been engaged, Cassie had someone watching the alpha. She wanted to know if there was any she wolf to worry about. Or even human for that matter.


    All of the reports had been positive news. No woman had his attention. He was all hers.


    Three minutes in his office for the first time ever had her thinking that she should''ve paid her guy to follow him everywhere, including outside L.A. This project at that town was special somehow. Cassie thought she had to find out why?


    "Long Beach airport, please," she said once inside the cab.


    "Okay" came the enthusiatic reply.


    ****


    One hour, forty-six minutester, I was back in the town and heading towards Montgomery and Associates. A localw firm in Orphic.


    Nick''s POV


    Sara and the Sergeant had finished


    their dinner about an hour ago. After which, he''d driven her straight to thew firm. Even though it was hours past business time, they had been in there, talking with thewyer since.


    I arrived as Sara was just walking out of the building with the police man behind. Both were utterly oblivious to my presence.

 Chapter 0051

    How could Sara not even sense me? I was outraged.


    Rich''s guys were across the street. They picked up my presence the moment I pulled into the curb.


    Apart from being a half-blood, that police man had a strong air of familiarity around him. I knew him from somewhere, no doubt. But where?


    That thought disappeared at the sight of his hand resting at the small of Sara''s back. I imagined ripping that arm from his shoulder. It was hard to tell when I moved, but I was out of the car immediately. However, the man was already starting his engine and pulling into the street. I rushed back to my wheel to follow them.


    I nearly lost them at some point because of a Goddess-forsaken van. When I caught sight of the car again, it had just swerved into the road leading to Rain resort.


    The man didn''t drop her at the driveway. Instead, he drove down to the underground parking lot.


    When I finally entered the space of parked cars, the first thing I saw was Sara smiling sweetly as the half-blood held her hand to his lips. I''dpletely forgotten where I was now.


    A car honked impatiently behind me, getting everyone''s attention. I zoomed out of the way and slid into my reserved car park. As I scrambed out of my driver''s seat, Jake materialized from nowhere.


    "I expected you fifteen minutes ago. There couldn''t have been traffic."


    It seemed like he was deliberately standing in my way.


    "Out of my way, beta! I need to ask that man something," I breathed.


    He stepped aside. However, Sara was already waving as the man drove away.


    Then she started towards the elevator as I followed her. It took a moment for her to register footsteps behind.


    She turned casually to see who. Then she looked away from Jake and I like we were strangers. Or a wall.


    When she entered the elevator, I found myself racing desperately so I wouldn''t miss the ride.


    Thank the Goddess for supernatural speed, I caught the door before it slid shut.


    Sara still didn''t acknowledge me with a single nce. Instead, she stepped further inside to make room for me and Jake.


    I caught a faint whiff of that man''s strange scent on her. It was arge douse of fuel to the fire inside me at that moment.


    She didn''t sleep with him. At least, not tonight. I knew this for sure. But maybe they did it before today? I tried to keep my breathing even and failed.


    Thank Goddess, Jake was in there with us. A powerful urge to seize her and rece that scent with mine made me clench my fist.


    What hase over me? I raced


    back here because of little Alex,


    right? I haven''t seen her in four


    years. I had no thought of being with her ever again. She was part of my past. One I worked hard to put behind me. Why was I feeling like this?


    Once we entered the living room, she took quick strides and bounded the stairs. "Sara?" I called out.


    She stopped and turned around. The bored look in her eyes made me want to howl. This girl used to love me. Only me. She used to look at me like I was her whole world.


    "Aren''t you forgetting something?" I asked, halting the direction of that depressing thought.


    "Right, your mommy contract," she replied. It felt like she''d truly forgotten about it. Then she started to descend the stairs as she reached into her purse. "You''re not supposed to fold it!" I saidmely.


    She didn''t reply but made a show of straightening the envelope, then held it out to me.


    Jake snatched it from her. As he gave her an evil look, she returned it with a more evil one of her own. Then she turned around and started to leave again. "Sara!" I called out. "We''re still talking. I have to dismiss you before you leave!"


    That earned me a reaction. It was look of pure revulsion. Well, at least, hate was a feeling. Which was better than indifference.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    I took the document from my beta.


    He was supposed to stall her.


    Although, I didn''t see how he


    could''ve done that when she''d spent the whole evening smooching that man-wolf.


    My eyes moved to her name. Her signature was boldly scribbled beneath it.


    I held up the paper and started to rip it to shreds, my eyes on her, watching for her reaction.


    None came. When I was done, she just shrugged and said,


    "Listen, I''d love to wait for your dismissal, but it''s taking too long so I''ll just go up to Alex now!"


    Then she turned away.

 Chapter 0052

    Sara POV


    Mrs. Montgomery was acquainted with the Reigns. She advised that the details on Nick''s agreement were not "so bad considering the fact that he''s an ex."


    The situation was a shared custody. I would have full and equal ess to Alex. The only problem was the fact that the child must live where his father chose. And I must live with the child. Which meant Nick invariably decides where I get to live. Was I to endure that for the rest of my life? No way.


    She advised me that I couldn''t win a custody battle with a Reign. First of all, I couldn''t even afford it. So the best move was signing his agreement first to throw him off our tracks.


    The most important thing she said was that Nick Reign wasn''t taking the child away from me. He was just making it illegal for me to run away with little Alex. Following her advice, I''d put my signature on the document there in her office.


    It was the best way to keep him from suspecting that I was making any move. Ever since I signed it, I''d been eager to part with it.


    That he would destroy it was not something I expected. But that was his problem.


    I''ve had a tough day. All I wanted was to hold Alex in my arms one more time before I went to bed. I was in no mood to get into any bickering with Nick right now.


    "Sara James!" he snapped as I raced up the stairs again.


    "What?" I barked.


    He took the stairs, eyes shining with fury and something else I couldn''t discern.


    "You should ask why I tore it to pieces," he said. Only a few steps separated us now, so I didn''t have to lift my head to look him in the eye. "Hmmm, not interested."


    "I''ll tell you anyway. It''s cuz you showed it to outsiders."


    How the hell did he know? Right. He must''ve seen Avery drop me off. But why would he suspect I showed his silly paper to my date?


    He nced at Jake, and I knew he was saying something to him with his mind.


    "Why would you think that? Wait, are you saying I can''t even have awyer look at it?" I asked.


    He didn''t reply. He was still mindlinking Jake.


    Momentster, the beta left the room. Nick sighed, rxing against the railing as he watched me with narrow eyes. They still glint with the brightness of his wolf''s orbs


    BUMS


    For some reason, I became


    somewhat uneasy. I wanted to turn around and continue to Alex''s room, but I couldn''t. I didn''t vite any terms here. Yet I was back to being that anxious girl that had just turned twenty and defered to her mate.


    "Are you sleeping with him?" he asked gently.


    With that question, my confidence returned alongside the annoyance. What the hell was he talking about now?


    "I don''t have to answer anything unrted to the reason I''m here in your house, so I''m just gonna go upstairs to Alex now."


    "It is rted. You left our son with a stranger? Where did you go tonight?" His voice was low and threatening.


    "It''s none of your damn business." I started to walk up the stairs into the hall. He followed me.


    I was a few feet from my son''s room and was about to reach for the knob when I felt hisrge hand on my arm. He spun me around and held me against the door. "Wanna say that again and watch me prove you wrong?"All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    His eyes fell to my lips. I stopped struggling, holding my breath, unable to think or act.


    His grip on my arm had grown softer as he leaned closer and closer. The scent of his fury mingled with that heady whiff of desire that I I


    remember so well. Our lips were almost touching now.

 Chapter 0053

    The sound of feet stomping up the stairs pulled me out of the spell. I pushed him away, and he stepped back. His hand dropped clumsily on his side. Then he cleared his throat and started to speak. "What you signed is void now cuz you showed it to your pathetic human friend. You''ll get another one in the morning."


    I was angry at myself for the near miss. When I replied, my voice was high-pitched with an edge.


    "You didn''t say anything about confidentiality!"


    "Shh... Don''t wake the little one, Sara," he warned. "And it goes without saying. We were involved for four and half months. That''s enough time to learn that no one else can know about my dealings with YOU." These words send a pang to my heart.


    "Of course," I said. "I''m far beneath you. Unworthy to be publicly associated with the alpha, I get it."


    An emotion crossed his eyes as I spoke, but it was gone in a heartbeat.


    "Imagine what''ll happen if your pack elders and business partners find out about the child you fathered with someone like me."


    "Urgh, finally! You admit with that mouth that he''s my child.


    Wait. Did you just threaten me?" he gave a shortugh before his face hardened.


    Jake now waited near the exit that led to the staircase. I caught him scoffing when Nick asked the question.


    "Listen, Sara. I''m not the first wolf to have a child out of mate-luck. If you let the news get out before the right time, it''s not me who''ll being after you with a vengeance. I refuse to believe you don''t already know this."


    "Now who''s threatening who?" I said under my breath.


    But he heard me clearly.


    swnse


    "It''s not a threat, Sweetness. My mother will be the least of your worries. Do you know what members of the pack could do to you? They could threaten Alex. And if that happens, you think I''ll forgive you?" he asked.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    He was right. Forest Mooners were a bunch of bigots, especially the high-born wolves. They would be outraged by this and would find a way to get their pound of flesh.


    I was not afraid for myself. But Alex? I couldn''t stand the thought of anyone hurting my child. That didn''t mean I was prepared to live by Nick''s "requirement" for the rest of my life.


    "I don''t want to imagine what could happen if you get careless, and this news falls into the wrong ears. So let me repeat myself. No one else can know about my dealings with YOU!" He started to walk away as he added, "We''ll see in the morning. I''ll have the amended agreement ready by then."


    As I watched him saunter off, fear formed a lump in my throat. I already set a n in motion. Even though thewyer promised absolute discretion, Nick''s words rang in my head.


    What if Mrs. Montgomery and her


    person weren''t as careful as they should? What if words fell into the wrong ears and a Forest Mooner finds out about Alex? I quickly brought out my phone to text her, reiterating how much my child''s safety depended on keeping


    everything discreet.


    Her reply came immediately and was reassuring: "I talked to my contact. He knows whom we''re dealing with. Don''t worry. Mr. Carlisle will get a hand-delivered package from a nondescript source soon."


    I stood in front of Alex''s room,


    staring at the text and nodding as if I could hear herforting voice. At that moment, it felt like my days of peace with my family were not truly over Things could return to normal if all went well with thewyer.


    I took a deep, rxing breath before opening the door to what was now Alex''s room. As I put one foot inside, I was immediately transported into a child''s fairytale.

 Chapter 0054

    My son''s new room had been transformed into a child''s dream. Toys and stuff bears were neatly arranged in the corner. Even the somewhatrge bed was taken out. What sat in its ce was a small fancy one for a growing child. The walls too were redone with bright colors. I stood speechless, unable to decide how I felt about all of it. Alexid sleeping soundly in the dim light, a teddy bear clutched to his chest.


    I was gone for a little over two hours. When did they do all of this?


    The child stirred. Like he felt me in the room. He opened his eyes halfway before rubbing on it. Then he sat up.


    "Mommy..."


    "Yes, baby," I moved to sit on the small, fluffy bed, and he climbed unto my arms.


    "I''ve got new toys. Uncle Jake let me talk to daddy on the phone. He was busy. And he wished he could be here." He sounded sleepy but very happy.


    "Is that so? Do you like your new bedroom... and toys?" I asked him.


    "Yes, mommy. Say hello to biscuits. He''s fwends with stuaws."


    He holds out the brand new teddy bear in his arms. The old one, which he called straws, nowid on the side of the bed.


    "Well, hello biscuits, nice to meet you," I said, shaking the toys hand.


    "That," he pointed at another teddy near the bed, "is cookies. He''s sleeping now. You''ll have to say hello in the morning. That one is Tinnee... because he''s so small."


    "I see. Who named them?"


    "I did. But I didn''t name Mr. Combs. He''s a guard. Uncle beta named him. He said my daddy will name this one when he''s not busy," he points at the burly-looking golden bear near the foot of the bed.


    "He''s a woweeyor, and only daddy can give him a name. That''s what uncle beta said. Not all of them have names yet. Would you like to give a name?"


    "Of course, sweetheart. But I need time to think of a good one for..." I pointed at the second one at the foot of the bed, "this over here."


    Alex grinned as I kissed his forehead.


    "C''mon. Get back to sleep. You have school tomorrow." I started to tuck him in.


    Minutester, I kissed my son good night and left for my room.


    It was clear what Nick was doing. He was making the ce a home for the child. That way, little Alex would never want to leave. Unless, of course, to another ce that looked simr. It would''ve been a good thing if our situation was different.


    ****


    Cassie White


    One of the reasons Cassie looked forward to bing Nick''s Luna was the private jets. She would never have to endure travelling with the general public ever again once they got mated.


    It took three whole hours for her flight to touch down at the airport. After that, she had to take another twenty minutes cab ride into the town where Nick''s park would be.


    She was sure that the alpha had arrived here at least ONE hour ago on Reign''s private jet.


    The most important thing was the fact that she had arrived and was now close to her soon-to-be mate.


    "There are a few guest inns and lodge around, Miss. You can walk in without making a reservation," the Uber driver told her.


    "Take me to the resort," she said simply.


    "Alrighty," he replied, swerving into therger, deserted road.


    The road was nked by what looked like forests on either side. But as a werewolf, Cassie knew these weren''t all that densed. Though it proved she really was in the countryside.


    How would Nick feel if she called him now to announce her arrival? What would he say?


    She didn''t let herself dwell on the thought that he might not like this.


    Soon, the cab drove into the resort. It was much more elegant than she imagined. Quickly, she paid the driver and got out of the car. There were three separate buildings inside the resort. But it was clear where Nick and his wolves were lodging.


    Cassie felt right at home as she walked into the vast grand lobby of the tallest building with the penthouse.


    Soon, she would be managing all of this. The thought made her smile.


    As she approached the counter, her senses caught something that made her halt. A rogue? She turned to find the security guard watching ber.


    "You over there, excuse me for a moment," she called out to him. He looked familiar.


    As he came close, she did a thorough assessment. He wasn''t really a rogue, but he was a rogue, she decided.


    "Yes, Miss. How may I help you?" He asked respectfully.


    "What are you doing here? You shouldn''t be here," she was direct.


    "And you are?" He asked.


    "The owner of this ce," she replied.


    When he raised his brow, she added, "I will be. Soon. I''m from Los Angeles, here to see the alpha. My name is Cassie... White."


    The male''s manner changed. His eye widened slightly as he lowered his head in submission. She was right. He was a rogue. The same group her father dealt with some time ago.  en NovelDrama.OrgContent is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    "How are you here?" She asked him.


    "I serve the Forest Moon now, Miss White," he replied. "I''ve left my old ways behind."


    Cassie couldn''t help but smile. Following Nick to this town was the right move.


    "A few moons from now, I will be Luna of the pack. So you serve me, too, Bronco, is it?" she asked.


    He frowned before saying, "I don''t go by that name anymore. Also... the one who would be Forest Moon''s young Luna... is upstairs!"

 Chapter 0055

    At first, Cassie was confused by the former rogue''s words.


    "You''re mistaken, Bronco," she said. "Is the alpha upstairs?"


    "Please call me Oak. I don''t go by Bronco anymore. And yes, the alpha is upstairs," he replied.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Then take me to him!" She started to turn away when he replied.


    "We have to let him know you''re here first, Miss White. Like I said, he''s got guests. I can''t just take you to him." "What guests? Are they business partners?"


    The look on his face made her feel foolish. What he said earlier echoed in her head before he repeated himself.


    "His... the young Luna is up there, Miss"


    Cassie wanted to strike the male across the face. She wanted to stab his throat with her ws repeatedly until he got his mind right.


    How could he dare call someone else the young Luna? Forest Moon had one of those at the moment, and that was the senior Luna, Elise Reign.


    She, Cassie, was going to be the younger one soon.


    She took a deep breath to cool her fury. As she stared at him, he stared back, unwavering. What he just told started to sink in as their eyes held. Another she-wolf was up there with her alpha.


    Cassie wanted to insist on seeing Nick. She wanted to confront him. What would happen if she did? She brought out her phone and began to dial his number.


    As expected, her call went straight to voicemail. She wanted to scream but took another deep breath to calm herself.


    If Nick took this other she-wolf seriously, he would''ve called off their engagement, right?


    Bronco. Oak. Whatever he called himself. He was mistaken. This woman was probably another of his ything for now.


    Her mood soured even more when she recalled that the alpha didn''t y like this. Pack members gossiped about his sex life. Some had spotted him in a few of the city''s top strip clubs. That was all she knew. Her guy''s report of him was clean. Cassie felt sick. She''d been feeling special thinking that Nick was keeping her for the night of their mating ceremony.


    "Have you seen this woman''s face?" She asked the guard.


    "Yes, she''s a Forest Mooner... I think," came the guard''s reply.


    Her heart dropped down to her feet.


    "Not a ything then," she mumbled like a lunatic.


    The guard frowned.


    "I... I need a room," she stammered.


    The guard motioned to the counter, trailing beside her.


    "Look, I was mistaken," she told him. "D-don''t mention this to the alpha. We never had this talk."


    "Sorry, Miss. I report to Gamma Rich, and he has to know someone was here iming -"


    "Listen to me, you rogue!"


    She took a deep breath to calm herself. One nce at the receptionist, she gave a fake smile and continued,


    "Sorry about that. But please... you


    owe my family! I''m asking you this as a favor. ll be gone in the morning. Alpha Reign doesn''t ever


    have to know I was here. It''ll just cause him unnecessary problems, don''t you agree?"


    As the male''s face started to soften, Cassie knew she had him. She knew that if she had to protect her position in Nick''s life, she needed all the information she could get about this she-wolf that was threatening it.


    QUMS


    ***


    Sara POV


    The next morning, I walked into Alex''s room to find the child with a wide grin on his face.


    Nick was sitting on the bed with his back to me. He turned around casually, the warrior teddy bear in his arms.


    As his eyes did their sweep over me, he blinked a few times. I caught his throat bobbed before he quickly looked away. His thick hair was still wet from the shower. "Good morning, mommy," Alex waved. I wave back, unable to speak for some reason.


    "I''ll leave so you can get ready for school," he said gently to his son as he handed him the toy.


    When he rose from the bed, I tried to keep my eyes anywhere else but at him. The flesh of his broad, tattoed chest was visible between the open helms of the robe. I dropped my gaze to my feet, then the window, before fixing it at the fancy drawer sitting by the corner.


    Secondster, my disobedient eyes were back on the male before me. He now stood nearly bare-chested only inches away. I hold my breath, unwilling to take in his scent. "You''re in my way, Sara," he said in a soft voice.


    I jumped, suddenly recalling that I was standing between the door jamb. As I stepped aside to let him pass, our bodies brushed, and I scuffled my feet to move further away. "See you soon," he murmured. Was he talking to me or his child?


    "Wolfgang!" Alex yelled in delight.


    My head was still foggy from that few seconds of lust. I didn''t know what my son meant. Then he held up the toy and screamed again,


    "His name is Wolfgang, Mommy."


    Fitting, I thought with a scoff.


    "Do you like the name?" I asked him.


    "Yes. Yes. Wolfgang," he screams.


    I started to smile and then recalled that our days in this penthouse suite were numbered. If all goes well, we could be moving back to our ce within a few days. Nick was in for a surprise. But how would Alex take it?

 Chapter 0056

    Nick POV


    Watching Sara walk down the stairs behind our son, I tried and failed to look away.


    She had a silk shirt on today with a tight, straight skirt. I decided the slit was cut too high. It exposed part of her smooth thighs when she moved. I pictured her sitting on this couch beside me. Letting me run my hand up that soft piece of golden flesh. I needed to control these thoughts. Why was I having them?


    She caught the desire in my eyes before I quickly averted them to our pup.


    "Ready for school, little wolf?"


    "Yes, daddy," he beamed. The exciting response was quickly followed by the usual odd tickle in my chest.


    "Good, cuz I''ll be dropping you off today," I said, rising from the couch.


    Sara eyes widened. It was hard to tell if the shock she felt was mingled with approval or disapproval.


    "Would you like that?" I got on my hunches so my son and I were at eye level. When he nodded with a grin, I roughened his thick, soft curls and rose back up.


    Sara was looking at me with an arched brow now. She was waiting for further exnation. I decided I won''t give her one. She didn''t offer any herself when she let that man kiss her hand, did she?


    The sickening image made me want to drive my ws into something. Maybe the man''s flesh. Goddess knows where else he kissed herst night. How far had they gone? Was that really their first date? Was this how she felt when she saw me kiss Meg? I was her mate then. We were... nothing now, so I shouldn''t be feeling like this.


    The elevator dinged, and my gamma appeared with one of the human drivers.


    My first thought was ''what the fuck is he doing here?'' because his gaze moved straight to Sara. I watched as her eyes soften when she regarded him.


    "Why are you here?" I snapped.


    The human male beside him flinched. Richard seemed confused by my curt question.


    "You... called me," he replied.


    "I said get Patel to see me. I didn''t saye with him- You know what, you both can leave. I''ll drive us!"


    Richard nodded and started to lead the human male back into the elevator when I spoke again.


    "And Rich, I need you back in L.A. this morning."


    He turned around and nodded in submission. Jake had now appeared, too, and was giving me his usual disapproving look.


    Minutester, Sara and I were riding down the elevator with Alex between us. I could feel her getting ready for a protest. If only she knew what else I had for her, she''d save her strength. Soon, we were in the parking lot. I hoisted my child unto the back seat of my car as she waited.This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    As soon as I shut the door, she began.


    "You need to let me know these things beforehand. You can''t just decide to be our chauffeur without telling me."


    "It''s unhealthy to fight all the time in front of the child, Sara. Don''t you know this?" I replied. "Of course, you do know. Just the only thing you care about is yourself and how you feel?" Her mouth hung open as she tried to find the words to talk back.


    The Sara I knew never talked back.


    She surrendered to me like a flower receiving the sunlight. She was gentle and always ready to give whatever I asked. Be it her attention, confidentiality, or even her soul. My stomach went sour as Ipared our then and now.


    "I''m taking him to school. You''ll formally introduce me to the director. She already met me, but still. Also, this,"


    I opened the front seat and retrieved the envelope that was delivered this morning.


    "It''s his new birth certificate. It has both our names as parents... and I fixed his name. Alexander Reign"


    I could feel the steam of her anger as it continued to rise. Good. I shouldn''t be the only one raging inside.


    "I don''t understand any of this. Didn''t you want him to stay a secret?"


    "For now! For both your safety, yes. But you see, most people don''t know me here, so we''re fine. We''ll be


    meeting just the school director TOGETHER for a formal


    introduction. And maybe one of his teachers. It''s either that or pull him out and find another school."


    She took a deep, exasperated breath. There was so much she wanted to say to me. None of which would be pleasant. Yet I was intrigued. But she didn''t speak. The she-wolf in her still recognized me as her former lover and alpha no matter how much she hated it. Or maybe I''m deluded.


    "Yeah and lemme just say that I don''t need to tell you shit!


    You didn''t tell me anything when you let that man kiss you, did you? Nope!"


    Okay, that sounded childish, but whatever.


    Her eyes widened in astonishment, and she scoffed.


    I opened the door and sat inside, willing myself not to say another word so I don''t make another foolish, petty remark. One more dumbment aboutst night, and she''d sense what seeing her with another man did to me. She soon joined us in the car. I started the engine without waiting and drove us out of the resort. It was now 7:20 AM.


    "Do they start school this early?"

 Chapter 0057

    "He needs to see my father first!" she replied.


    I was going to protest, but Alex yelled,


    "Gwanpa, gwanpa!"


    "You know I never stopped Sebastian from visiting his grandson, Sara."


    "It''s your house," she seethed. "He detests you! So no. He won''t visit."


    "You need to watch your tone, or there''ll be no daddy time for you, Sara. Want me to drive straight to the school?" The car went silent and remained so except for Alex''smentary and questions. Soon, we got to the food truck.


    Sebastian James would murder me if he could. Sara''s words were an understatement. He didn''t just detest me. He wished I''d die a horrible death. And soon. I was the dishonourable wolf that got his precious daughter pregnant and left her. As a male, I knew for a fact that these were his thoughts. Too bad he couldn''t do anything about it. I doubt he knew the full story.


    I waited in the car as Sara and Alex went to meet him inside the truck. His feelings towards me were his business. We could both avoid each other as long as he didn''t cause any trouble, such as running away with my girl and child. F*ck! The girl, not my girl.


    His eyes were on me now. They were hard with hatred. He used to adore me. Young alpha was how he addressed me with so much affection. I pushed these thoughts of the past aside and continued to wait for the two.


    If he were still a member of the Forest Moon, he''d be obligated to bow in greeting. I can''t expect any courtesy now.


    Ten minutester, we were on our way to the school, only a few miles away.


    We reached there and walked through the gate with Alex''s little hand in mine. Sara walked beside me, leading the way to the director''s office. I could hear whispers from all around us. Only a blind man would look at the child and I and not know that I was his father. My heart swelled with pride. I was bringing my son to school for the first time. It didn''t matter that this wasn''t his first day.This is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    I tried to scan Sara''s emotions. It was a mix of colours, dull and bright. There was anger, but it was overshadowed by all kinds of feelings. The fact that I still pick up these things was worrying yetforting.


    Was she happy having me here? I would never know for sure. At that moment, I felt a deep longing for the bond we once shared.


    I used to know exactly how she felt when we were bonded. Now, all I get are vague, surface emotions or the ones she wished me to know.


    Although my senses are telling me that she didn''t mind having these teachers see Alex''s father.


    The director was ted that the child''s father came all the way to his school today. It was great for the little boy, she said.


    Once we finished in the office, Alex went into ss, and Sara and I started to walk towards the car.


    "I''ll get a cab -"


    "No. Get in!" I snapped. "Nothing wrong with me taking you to work."


    As I held the door open, waiting, she looked about before hopping into the passenger side. It was more from avoiding the attention we now attracted. Another round of silence ensued as we rode to her workce. As soon as I pulled into the council''s driveway, she started to unhook her seat belt.


    I reached for an envelope and handed it to her.


    "Don''t you get tired of this shit!" She barked.


    "Jake must be sick of drafting all these silly contracts now. I''m not signing ANYTHING else. I already signed one. It''s not my fault you tore it to shreds!"


    "But it is, Sweets! You showed it to outsiders Look. This one''s


    amended. It ensures you never bring a strange male scent near our child ever again." I held out the envelope tober.  en NovelDrama.Org


    She reached for it and started to retrieve her pen from her bag.


    For some odd reason, I was rmed that she was going to sign it without much of a fight. My heart started to sink slowly as she scribbled on the document with her pen.


    Once she was done, she dropped it on my thighs and started to leave the car.


    Unblinking, my eyes moved to where her signature should be.


    In her neat handwriting, she wrote: "Kiss my ass!"


    I stared at the words, distracted by the images they conjured up in my head. What did these three words mean to her?


    I spoke before I knew I had opened my mouth.


    "But are you serious? You really want me to do this?"


    When I lifted my gaze, she was shaking her head in exasperation as she mmed the door shut. I got out of the car. "Sara -"


    "I''ll see you very soon, Dick Reign!" She said.


    Those words were more confusing than the one she wrote. Not the dick part, of course. I simply stared as she turned around and headed into her workce.


    Three hourster, I was in my study,


    staring at her handwriting and wondering what she meant by "See you very soon." Jake walked in with a deep, worried frown, a freshly torn envelope in his left hand.


    "Nick, you''re being charged to court," he said. "By a FEDERAL AGENCY!"

 Chapter 0058

    I could not make sense of what my beta had just said. I was trying to fake interest too, so I asked,


    "What do you mean I''m being charged?"


    "This is a summon, Nick!" He held out the envelope in his hands.


    The only thing disturbing about the bit of newssh was the look on my beta''s face.


    "Jake, sit down. Calm down. It''s gonna be okay. It''s a summon, you say?" I asked him.


    "By a government agency, Nick! It says the judge must see you in two hours. Apparently, they''re in a hurry to get to you before you leave town," Jake replied, still frantic.


    "What''s it about? What agency is this?" I asked.


    "Women and Child Protective Services," he said, eyes never leaving mine...


    Now, my interest was piqued.


    "What could that type of agency possibly want with me? I''m already protecting my woman AND child!"


    The words fell out of my mouth absently.


    My eyes had now reverted to Sara''s three-word text where her signature should''ve been.


    I only realized what I had just said when no reply came from Jake. Instead, his pause caused a silence that echoed all around us.


    When I looked at him again, his frown had deepened. It looked like he truly feared for my sanity.


    His tone was gentler when he finally spoke,


    "She''s not your woman, Nick."


    He might as well have been talking to little Alex. More awkward silence followed, and then I began to ramble.


    "Sebastian has to be behind this. He is, isn''t he? I believe he would go to any length to keep his daughter and my son from me. Or maybe it''s halfblood police man? Or the both of them walked together on this. Well, what do they want?" I barked.


    Jake waited till he was sure I was done ranting.


    It was clear that he knew I refused to acknowledge any thought that Sara was going this far to get rid of me on her own.


    "You''re probably right," Jake said. "Maybe her father showed her the way. But only a "victim" could file aint with this agency. So it''s safe to say Sara went to them herself."


    His words gave voice to my anxieties.


    "I hate to say I told you so, but the forced proximity was a bad idea from the start. The letter from the court actually mentioned that phrase. Forced Proximity."


    "So you''re telling me that they have a problem with father, mother, and child living together?" I was outraged.


    "Goddess! Humans are the worst! They have agencies to break up families? And they call it a protective service agency?"


    I rose from my chair as my ire started to heighten.


    "This situation is different, alpha, and you know it! You could''ve handled it differently," Jake pointed out.


    "Sounds like you''re on their side. Should I get anotherwyer, beta?"


    "I''m on your side, Nick. If you had just listened to me, we could''ve avoided this. But I guess that''s too much to ask once Sara''s involved."


    As I looked at my best friend and right hand male, I found myself truly concerned about how upset he seemed. This "summon" must be a big deal then. Beta Jake was hardly ever this perturbed. "I could ignore it," I said simply.


    "Bad idea!" he argued. "They''re being


    respectful and discreet now. If you ignore them, you may lose that courtesy Think about the little one and what the slightest publicity could lead to. You''ll make everything worse if you don''t go. Keep in mind that we don''t want any problems with the humans too."


    ***


    A few hourster, I sat in a small, quiet courtroom with Jake beside me. My gamma and his men were about, making sure that no press or werewolf came anywhere near the courtroom. I tried so hard to listen as Sara''swyer argued her case.


    Jake had cautioned that we weren''t here to fight. It was safer that way. He advised that all of this would get resolved faster if we avoided any argument about taking little Alex from his mother. That was never my n. I wanted my son to have both his parents.


    Soon, both sides had stated their case. The judge, an older human male, was now giving the verdict. But I couldn''t take him seriously. I was a werewolf. An alpha. This judge was unqualified to teach me how to run my family! As he spoke, all I could hear was a frail, old human spouting rubbish. He''s implying that I made a bad move, iming my son the way I did.


    At least, Sara got some scolding for hiding the little one from his father for four years.


    Jake had begged me to pretend the judge was interesting. But it was so hard that I kept zoning out till I tuned him offpletely. I might seek a human''s counsel on business matters, not family. My mind was in shambles. How could Sara go to these people with our business?


    I looked her way for the millionth time. Her eyes were fixed ahead at the judge.


    When I recalled her odd goodbye earlier, I caught myself before smiling.


    She knew I was staring at her. I


    willed her to look my way. Maybe I should mindlink her. But that sort of intimacy was not a bright idea. With this act, she was proving how much she hated and wanted me to stay out of their lives.


    We were sitting at that courtroom, not because Alex was


    ufortable. But because SHE didn''t want me near. As these thoughts race through my mind, it caused a lump in my throat. quickly swallowed it, keeping my eyes on her.


    Look this way, I willed her.


    She turned and was going to give me a quick nce, but when our eyes met, I winked. Her gaze lingered for a moment before she looked away. Soon, the court was dismissed.


    ''I don''t understand a word of the man''s bullshit, Jake,'' I mindlinked my beta.


    ''Don''t you mean you weren''t listening at all?'' he replied, gathering his files from the table.


    I looked at Sara again. A half smile was on her face. A hint of triumph in her general manner. But she avoided looking in our direction.


    "Joint custody, and she gets more time with the pup!" Jake said. "That''s the verdict."


    I gave a briefugh. "How''s that different from what we''ve been doing?"


    "Yeah you can''t force her to live with you anymore!" he replied firmly.


    The words not only soured my stomach some more, but also caused a pang more painful than I wish to admit.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    I quickly reminded myself that there''s no cause for rm. There was no need to be distraught about this. Sara had no choice but to visit Rain Resorts often. It would be her second home because Alex lived there for now. This thought was followed by a strong need to defend myself against my beta''s remark.


    ''You know I have never forced her to live with me, Jake! She''s there for our child, and she''ll keeping because of him!''


    My beta sighed before speaking aloud but in a gentle tone,


    "Little Alex is moving back to his former home today!"

 Chapter 0059

    I did not realize I had moved if not for Jake''s attempt to restrain me. My beta was almost as strong as me. I felt his strength as he tried with all his might to make me sit back down. "Please, Nick. Sit down. Please!" he begged, forcing me back on the chair.


    ''If you act out, it''ll get harder. Everything would get worse,'' he mundlinked me.


    ''We''re not just werewolves but friends of the humans. We have a pact with their elite. They''re important to our kind. Our ally packs would turn against us if you ruin that by hurting one of their own!''


    My brain felt full as I tried to get it back online. I let my ass rest on the chair.


    "But that judge has to pay for what he just did!" I hissed.


    "Listen to me, Nick! You will not touch the man. He was doing his job."


    "By tearing my family apart?"


    Jake''s frustration rose as I started to get up from the chair slowly.


    When my gaze met his, I heard distinctly the very words he didn''t dare say to his alpha. Even though he didn''t open his mouth or used the mindlink. The words, "It''s all your fault! You tore you apart!" floated by.


    My heart was in my stomach and I felt nauseous. I turned to search for Sara. She was just leaving the court room with her twowyers. Her father walked behind her. She didn''t even nce my way. I tried to scan her emotions but was too unfocused pick up anything. I caught sight of her police friend waiting by the door. He wore his uniform today.


    "You can''t hurt the man, alpha," Jake repeated.


    I wondered who he was referring to. The judge or the sergeant.


    Soon they were all out of sight and we were speeding behind an old truck back to the resort. The shabby car belonged to her father. It didn''t matter if we arrived before they do. The verdict had been given.


    Apart from her father, a police man assigned by the court was with them.


    My son was still in school. As we drove into the parking lot, all I could think was the fact that Sara and the child would not return here at the end of the day.


    The calming effect of knowing that they lived in my house now was being destroyed. Their routine ofing home to this ce was ending as soon as it began. I felt like throwing up.


    When Jake and I entered the penthouse, Sara and her dad were nowhere in sight. The court''s police officer was waiting in the living room.


    "Good afternoon, Mr. Reign. Mr. Carlisle," he greeted.


    "Good afternoon, officer," Jake went to shake his hand as I proceeded upstairs to go to meet Sara.


    She and her dad were justing out of the room with her things when I entered the hall.


    "That was fast. You were already packed. Did you gather your thingsst night?" I asked her.


    "This morning!" she replied simply.


    "Alex likes it here. I thought you did too. You could''ve just told me you wanted to live somewhere else. I can buy you the whole town you know... and two more if you want."


    The look in her eyes indicated that I wasn''t making any sense. Which was true. But I didn''t know what to say even though I wanted to talk to her.


    Sebastian''s face was hard as stone as he regarded me.


    "Sara, c''mon," he said gently, leading his daughter by the arm.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Jake had appeared now.


    I followed behind father and daughter as they entered my son''s room.


    "I''d like us to talk in private," I said then turned to Sebastian.


    "I''m surprised you''re here in my house. I thought it was forbidden for you now. Give us a minute, will you?"


    Sara stared at me as I addressed


    her father. He was looking at here waiting for her approval before leaving the room. When she nodded, he gave her arm a gentle squeeze before walking out. NovelDrama.Org


    We were alone now. As our gazes met again, her facial expression was maddening. There was no feeling in her eyes. She seemed without care when she eventually spoke.


    "Mywyer and yours will work out the schedule. You''re right. Alex likes it here. And he''ll stille here."


    "We''re werewolves, Sara," I remarked. "How could you bring humans into our business. You think they can solve our problems?"


    "You came to my house to take my son away!"


    "You hid him from me! I had the right to know he exists! You were going to run away with him -"


    "Because of who you are!


    This past week, I''ve lived under


    constant threats of losing him if I don''t live by YOUR REQUIREMENTS. These are your ways as werewolves. It doesn''t favor a weak one like me, Nick So I reached out to


    SunMans for


    help."


    As she shrugged, the brief emotions vanished from her eyes and she was suddenly back to being cold and uncaring.


    Meanwhile, goosebumps had taken over my skin when she said my name like old times. It made me forget how to reply. She resumed gathering Alex''s things.


    I tried toe up with words to stall her. Nothing. There was no stopping this.


    "You really think anyone can protect you from me? I could drag this out. No. I could just abandon all regard


    for theirws and do what I want


    Our world is different from theirs,


    Sara. You know that, right?"


    warned.


    ¤«

 Chapter 0060

    ''Threats would only push her farther away, Nick.''


    ''Really?'' I asked before whipping my head around.


    Jake was still in the room. Why the hell was he still in the room? He stood leaning against the wall near the door.


    When I returned my gaze to Sara, she was watching me with horror. The hatred was also back in her eyes.


    "But I won''t do any of that," I said quickly. "I mean our world and the human''s are close rtives. My empire depends on them.


    "So I''ll respect the judge because... of our son. Jake, get out!" I said without turning around.


    Sara''s face rxed and she continued packing, this time faster.


    ''Are you sure you want me to leave?'' My beta mindlinked.


    I wasn''t sure about anything. I''ve made too many mistakes in thest four years with this she-wolf. That much was clear now.


    ""Yes. Out!" I said out loud.


    ''No threats, no mocking and you''ll be fine,'' he whispered to my mind as he left.


    I took a deep breath before speaking again. "I built a house."


    "Good for you," she replied with an edge.


    "I mean bought. I didn''t build it. It''s for little Alex. Somewhere in 3rd Avenue. The Closing is this Saturday. Jake''s guy is handling all of that. This house has a better view but that one''s more private. It''s arge property with its own little forest where our son could y." Was that supposed to impress her and make her stay?


    "Sounds great," she said. "You should show him when it''s your turn with him. If that''s all, I need to get going."


    Zipping Alex''s old little luggage, she started to leave the room.


    Jake said not to threaten her, I reminded myself as she walked past. There was nothing else to do or say that didn''t involve the damned threats, so I kept my mouth shut till the door closed behind me.


    I stood, unable to move for the longest time. The door gave a soft creak and I felt Jake walked back inside. The sound of the elevator was louder than ever. I could feel Sara leaving my house. "Feels like four years ago," I thought.


    Maybe I spoke out loud because my beta replied. He said something about me being mistaken. There''s a child now. This was nothing like four years ago. How could Ipare now and then, he argued. I barely heard him. I''d gone back in time like I always did before we reunited.


    Sara and I were at "our apartment." The agreement didn''t crash. We were still bound by the mate bond. Kissing on the couch as we worked to take off our cloths.


    She spoke her confession against my lips. My only response was to continue the kiss as my hands explored every delectable bit of her flesh.


    Words were the enemy. They ruinContent is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    things. So I didn''t speak. I just went on to make love to her. On the couch,ter on the floor. Soon moved to the bed. Then finally at the little bar, breaking myrge bottle of vodka in the process.


    After that, we left the apartment like any other Tuesday, even though it was a Saturday. In my daydream, she never mentioned any talk of love again. We kept up the secret meetings for years.


    These were only fantasies and I was fine with having only those for a long time. The distant chime of the elevator as she reached the car park was louder than the previous one.


    My dream dissolved before me. I


    was back to the reality where I


    panicked when she uttered those three little words. Now she hated my very existence. Even to the extent of reaching out to the human


    ¦¯¦«¦¯¦©


    government to help her get away from me.


    As these thoughts filled my mind, I didn''t realize I was already thrashing my child''s room.


    The little bed was against the window. Which was now shattered. But there were too few things in here to smash. Jake was still talking,


    anxiety in his eyes and voice. couldn''t make out one word from


    what he was saying to me.


    He tried to grab me, but his strength was not enough. I felt him calling out to Richard with his mind as I burst out of the room, stomping down the stairs.


    Within minutes, the living room was upside down. The couches, paintings, tables, everything was no longer in their ce and they were mostly shattered. The ce was a deste mess. Much like my soul but better. Once there was nothing else to break, I sat by a window, watching the wounds in my hands heal. Lies! Facies!


    There was no healing. I hadn''t healed from anything after that painful parting under the moonlight.


    Jake sat with legs spread by the foot of the stairs. He seemed less anxious now and was watching me when Richard appeared.


    "Goddess, Nick!" my gamma gasped at the sight of the living room.


    Silence followed as he found somewhere to perch.


    Only the distant sounds of cars,ughter and whispers surround us. We could hear these things because of our unnatural senses.


    The broken clock was nowhere I could see. Its ticking was aggravating. I wanted to stomp on it to silence it for good. But I had no motivation to get up and search for it.


    Richard finally sighed and muttered,


    "So this isn''t all about the pup then. You want Sara back."

 Chapter 0061

    Sara POV


    I didn''t hear from Nick or his beta after I left the penthouse.


    On the evening of the hearing, I borrowed my dad''s truck to get Alex from school.


    As soon as my son saw the truck, he announced,


    "Janice won''t be here."


    "That''s right," I replied. "How did you know?"


    "Daddy told me. He called Mrs. Bright and she let me talk to him. He can''te too, not today," he said as he climbed into the truck.


    I didn''t know how to feel. Even though Nick had just saved me the pressure of having to exin all of this, I wondered if it was okay for him to talk to my son when it''s not his turn.


    "But is heing tomorrow?" Alex asked. I was driving back to my dad''s now.


    "I don''t think so, baby. He has to work," I replied.


    As I pulled over in front of the food truck, my dad was already waiting to leave for home. Today was not full business day for him because of the hearing. He regarded Alex''s confused gaze with worry.


    The ride home was silent. But as we entered the house, Alex continued his questions.


    "Why can''t we wait for daddy in the tall house, mommy. Like we did before."Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    "You''ll wait for him over there soon, honey. In a few days, he''lle take you to the tall house, okay. Here, look," I went to get his new favorite toy from the luggage.


    "Wolfgang is here too. And biscuits... and mister Combs."


    My son looked unconvinced, but he reached out and took the warrior from me.


    The next few days weren''t any easier. Alex kept waiting for his dad and asking difficult questions. I felt awful for his confusion. This was all Nick''s fault. I couldn''t even offer my pup an actual date when his father would pick him up.


    It was a great relief when the schedule was finalized. Surprisingly, the alpha didn''t argue about the days offered to him. He was content with seeing Alex no more than three times a week.


    ording to mywyer, he wanted weekends. When she told him it was impossible to have two consecutive weekends let alone all of it, he didn''tin.


    ***


    One week had now passed. I had just discovered that Lindsey and her partner still followed Alex and I about. I caught them watching us from across the street from my dad''s.


    Their car was different from what they used before. The fact that they didn''t attempt to hide or drive off was so upsetting that I thought of calling the police. I didn''t.


    I debatedining to Mrs. Montgomery but concluded it was better to call Nick instead.


    As I held the phone to my ear, I found myself recalling the depressing look in his eyes when I walked out of Alex''s room that day. That look had haunted me every single night. It gave me nightmares full of tears.


    The phone rang and rang, but there was no answer. As I stood staring at the number, wondering whether to call again, Jake''s name appeared on the screen. I answered after the second ring. "Nick''s busy. What''s up?" He said.


    I was startled by his tone. It wasn''t friendly yet it was far from how he addressed me in the past.


    "Lindsey is still following us," I replied.


    "And?" His voice grew sharp.


    "Remember what happened with the Luna? Do you want a repeat of that?" he asked.


    "Wait, so Lindsey''s job is to fight off the Luna''s guards if they try another kidnap? I thought they''re all Warriors of the Forest Moon. Are they allowed to fight each other?"


    "Do you have any otherints?"


    The beta snapped. "No? If you hate having your son protected so much, why don''t you take it up with your HUMANS...wyers! Although I don''t advise it. You''d lose this one and I guarantee it, Sara, it would lead to more losses!"


    I was sick and tired of the threats, so I tried to match the edge in his own voice.


    "Has anyone ever told you how annoying your voice is, Mr. Carlisle?


    No? This conversation is between Nick and I. I''d rather talk to him. Is he there?"


    I heard his disgusted sigh before he said,


    "Fine! I''ll let him know you miss his voice!"


    Beep.


    He hung up. I was mad.


    ''If you hate having your son protected...'' That sounded like what Nick would say. If I didn''t know better, I''d think the Alpha was right next to his beta when he was speaking to me.


    A part of me knew that Jake was


    somehow right. Regardless of our rtionship; Alex would have a guard keeping an eye on him no


    matter what. He was the son of


    Alpha Nicks Reign after all


    QUMS


    I decided to let that go. It was better to save my energy for bigger fights.


    ***


    The day came for the schedule to take effect. was Nick''s turn with Alex. My son also knew this because he spoke to his father on the phone two days before. Apparently, the alpha called "Mrs. Bright" again and she let the little one talk to him.


    It would be my first time of seeing Nick since after the hearing. I was anxious for no reason.


    We waited till we were almost runningte, but he never came.


    I started to call a cab to get my son to school by myself. No matter how heavy-hearted and sick I felt, I told myself it was a relief not to see him.


    It was a good thing. Alex had me and his grandfather.


    My only annoyance was the fact that my child''s disappointment was my own.


    On the way, I kept staring at my phone, wondering whether to call him.


    He would probably ignore it again. Then Jake would call back. Seems the beta had be his mouthpiece ever since we left the penthouse.


    Alex didn''t look disappointed at all. Which increased my fear as I waved goodbye after dropping him off.


    The child had faith that he would surely see his dad soon. I didn''t. And because of that, I wanted to hurt Nick for not keeping his word.


    That day was longest. I considered stopping at the school during lunch to check on Alex but decided against it. His teacher would have called if he was acting weird and depressed.


    I wasted no time getting to the school after work.


    As soon as I reached the gate, I knew my Alex was nowhere near. As the kids and parents loitered about, my eyes and senses scanned the ce.


    His teacher saw me and came to meet me with a bright smile.


    "Hey, Miss James."


    I already knew what she was going to say before she announced,


    "Alex''s father was here to pick him up earlier."

 Chapter 0062

    I nodded at the human female who looked about my age.


    "I see."


    No cause for rm, I told myself. But this wasn''t how it was supposed to be. It can''t be right for him to just show up at my son''s school to pick him up.


    I should ask mywyer. I rushed out of the school, impatiently waving at a cab.


    What was Nick''s n? Where had he taken Alex?


    A few long minutester, the taxi drove into the resort driveway and I got out.


    As I entered the lobby and marched to the elevator marked Private, one of the guards watched without protest. He was the one in charge of the hotel guards.


    No one made a move to stop me like I feared. Momentster, I arrived at the penthouse. As the door slid open, I walked in and was about to dash up the stairs when Nick appeared.


    He stood at the top of the stairs in jean shorts and a t.shirt.


    I waited for him to protest my presence. It was his turn to have Alex after all.


    He said nothing. Instead, he started to saunter down the stairs.


    "Where''s Alex?" I barked, irritated by his calmness.


    "Taking a nap," he replied nonchntly.


    What the hell was he nning to do?


    I brushed past him, rushing up to Alex''s room. Just as he said, my sonid on his neatly made bed, eyes shut, clutching his warrior toy to his chest. His room was still the same colorful child''s paradise. I was enraged for reasons I wasn''t sure of.


    Shutting the door quietly, I marched back down to meet the alpha. He was not in the living room, so I went into his study.


    "You were supposed to pick him up FROM the house. In the morning!"


    "Really? Jake didn''t tell me anything about time... or ce," he replied with his eyes on a paper on his desk.


    "He just said it''s my turn today. You''ll have him back after school tomorrow. This weekend''s my turn too, so expect me any...time. I coulde at midnight." He shrugged.


    "Look, I can''t y games with you, alright? I''ll ask mywyer about timing. But I have to know when you''reing! You can''t just show up!"


    "Is that why you''re here? Toin that I waste today?" He gave me a brief look before redirecting his eyes to hisptop.


    When I didn''t respond, he added,


    "Or you''vee to hear my voice. Jake said you miss it so much."


    He grinned and stuck out his tongue. A very unbing, childish show. Exactly like Alex used to do


    sometimes. I would''ve thought it was cute if he wasn''t such a cruel, hateful jerk!


    en NovelDrama.OrgContent rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    I turned away abruptly and started to leave. Then I turned back around. I had something to say but was momentarily distracted by his expression.


    The mischievous grin had vanished and his face was hard to read as he watched me carefully.


    It ured to me that I shouldn''t be here. I already confirmed Alex was with him. It was his right that child should be here today. I had no reason to be standing here.


    "I''ll ask mywyer about timing," I said and started to leave again.


    Reaching for my phone in my purse, I dialled Mrs. Montgomery''s number. I had been living in uncertainty this past week, afraid that I won too easily.


    Why was he quiet these past few days? Why did he refuse to take my call?


    Well, hello? You''re not allowed to call him, remember? That hadn''t changed even though we now shared a child, and that particr agreement was no longer valid. The call to mywyer went to voicemail.


    "Hi, Mrs Montgomery. I wanted to make an appointment. I have questions about the -"


    "Hello, Miss James." She picked up. "I was going to call you."


    "Good. I have questions about timing. Should Ie over tomorrow or..."


    I was standing in front of the


    elevator now. I could feel Nick behind watching me, listening to the conversation. For some reason, I wasn''t ready to leave till I''d heard


    what thewyer had to say


    "Reigns construction... just hired me... yesterday," she said.


    I turned around to re at Nick. He stood with arms across his chest. No readable expression on his face.


    "I don''t understand," I said.


    "I... means I can''t offer you legal advise anymore. Also, he cleared your outstanding fees," she said.


    "But nothing has changed for you. The agency is still a phone call away. Miss Suarez is ready to help anytime. I talked to her..."


    I half-listened as she rambled on about conflict of interest.


    "Unless you''re calling on his behalf, I can''t offer you legal advise anymore."


    I was filled with anxiety as I tried to determine the implications.


    "I don''t understand, Mrs. Montgomery," I repeatedmely.


    "I work for your son''s father now. We already dealt with all important bits. Your son''s with you and Mr. Reign is no longer dictating your life."

 Chapter 0063

    "I see." I hung up without another word.


    She''s not the onlywyer in town. Also, she was right about doing the important bits.


    Nick wouldn''t get whatever reaction he was waiting for, I promised myself. Turning back around, I pushed the elevator button to leave when I heard my son''s voice. "Mommy."


    My child wore a happy grin as he walked down the stairs.


    "Daddy picked me in his big car. I told you he woulde," he said in his sleepy voice.


    "Yeah, you did," I mumbled.


    I nced Nick''s way and he was looking at me with a raised brow.


    "Did you tell him I wouldn''t show?" He asked me.


    "We expected you in the morning. You start by taking him to school," I replied.


    "Oh, is that part of your daddy rules?" He asked with a smirk.


    I didn''t bother replying. I was starting to feel awkward just standing there in his house. My son was waiting at the foot of the stairs now. Nick seemed to be waiting for me to say something too. "I''ll get going. See you tomorrow, Alex." I went to hug and kiss his hair.


    "You''re leaving? Why?" He asked.


    "Because mommy has stuff to do at home, baby," I smoothed his curls.


    "At the short house?" He asked. I tried to ignore Nick''s chuckle.


    When I looked at him, he had his lips pursed and arms crossed, watching us. Alex had developed a habit of calling our home the short house. The resort was the tall house for him.


    I kissed his cheek onest time and started to leave. Nick was still behind me when I reached the elevator again.


    I should say something about him stealing mywyer. I turned around about to say something vile under my breath, but the words left me. He was standing too close.


    "You already stole some of my time with him," he murmured. "I''ll let you steal more. Stay for dinner."


    I entered the elevator to get some personal space before replying,


    "Are you out of your mind? Our arrangement does not allow such! You should read the agreement, Nick. Or schedule. Whatever! Maybe get your beta exin it to you."


    Various emotions shed in his eyes as he recalled saying the same words to me. He quickly blinked them away.


    Then nodded, mumbling, "Fair enough."


    "Besides," I went on. "I have to find anotherwyer. You fired my old one."Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Cuz you''re done with her, Sara. You got what you wanted and Jake could use her legal services. We needed a localwyer," he replied, blocking the door from closing with hisrge hands.


    "Also, that woman has been married


    THREE times All three men are


    remarried and keeping their homes While she''s all alone... with her files and papers. That tells you she''s the problem. I don''t want you talking to


    her don''t want that type oro"


    influence around my... the mother of my child." He swallowed.


    I had no words for his tone. He sounded like I was his responsibility. What sort of mad game was he ying now?


    "Who said I was done with her?"


    "I''m abiding by all your rules, Sweetness. Do you still think about suing me?" His tone grew flirty now. I almost forgot how much I hated him.


    "She was my legal adviser. You know what, this conversation isn''t going anywhere. Get back to your son and I''ll get back... home," I said.


    He nodded and took his hand off the door. His eyes held mine until the tinted fiberss came between us.


    What the hell was all that about? The look in his eyes. The calm and restrain in his manners.


    Maybe he was like that for Alex''s benefit. He did mention once that it was bad to fight in front of the little one.


    I still couldn''t believe that Mrs.


    ''t believe


    Montgomery could be bought. She


    and the agency''s representative had fought well for me. The case had gone much smoother than I expected. And now she worked for Reign Corporations?


    I considered calling Avery but hesitated I didn''t want to drag him further into my problems. He had his own issues. It was clear that he did because he''d been out of town a lot this past week.


    en NovelDrama.Org


    My phone suddenly buzzed in my purse, cutting through my thoughts. Speak of the devil. It was Avery.


    "Hey," I greeted.


    "I''m back," he announced.


    "Wee," I smiled. "I was thinking of calling you."


    "Nice. You haven''t eaten yet, have you?" He asked.


    Something caught my attention as I entered the lobby. A familiar figure with long brown hair standing by the counter made me stop without meaning to.


    "Hello? Sara?" Avery said.


    "Yeah, I''m still here. I thought I saw..."


    I trailed off as Megan Deere turned around and our gazes locked.

 Chapter 0064

    What the bloody hell was Megan still doing in Orphic? Didn''t she leave with Nick''s mom?


    And she was here in this resort. Which meant she and Nick... That was still going on, wasn''t it?


    Okay, it''s none of my business. I''ve moved past that betrayal a long time ago. These thoughts didn''t stop my stomach from turning.


    I kept walking even as she stared at me. There was no rule that said I had to talk to her. Just pretend you don''t know her, I said to myself.


    Then she called out my name. Too loud.


    ""Sara James."


    I didn''t stop. When she called out to me the third time, I felt her grab my arm, forcing me to look at her.


    "It is you," she said, making no effort to mask the bitterness in her tone.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    I freed myself from her grip.


    "Hello, Megan." I kept a nk expression.


    "What are you doing here?" She asked.


    "I should be asking you. You live in Los Angeles, remember? Or did you move?"


    "Oh no, I still live there. Still a proud Forest Mooner." She gave a fake smile before adding, "I didn''t whore myself to Alpha Reign and get kicked out like you did."


    I refused to dignify the silly remark, so I returned her fake smile and said,


    "It was nice catching up on old times. I''ve got a ce to be now, so-"


    "What are you doing in THIS resort? You work here or something?" Her voice seemed unwittingly sharp. looked like she would drop dead if I said what she didn''t want to hear. I hated to engage her further.


    "Bye, Megan," was my response as I turned around and walked away.


    What the hell was Nick thinking? Didn''t he say he wasn''t ready for pack members to learn about the child yet? She was a member of his pack. One that knew our history too well.


    If she saw Alex, she''d know without a doubt that he was mine and Nick''s. Or did he already tell her?


    Even if he really needed to see her, couldn''t he have met her somewhere else or on another day? There were many decent hotels in town. I swallowed the bile in my throat as images of her in Nick''s arms shed in my mind. I bet she was the reason he asked me to stay for dinner. He nned to toy with me, didn''t he?


    The thought of her going anywhere near my child made me sick for some reason. I was close to the gate now and had to halt. She was going up to meet him, and Alex was there.


    I reached for my phone and dialled the alpha''s number. As expected, there was no answer.


    "Just like old times, huh," I gritted.


    Jake''s number was next. I dialled him immediately. There was no answer too.


    "Oh what the hell!"


    Turning around, I headed back into the building. No way I would take any chances with my child.


    The guard with the fierce face looked at me with a raised brow when I entered the lobby again. But he didn''t approach to try and stop me. Neither did the others who seemed confused by my reappearance.


    I went straight to the elevator, leading to Nick''s house. The operator punched in the passcodes to open the door without hesitation.


    Turning around from the wall as I entered, my eyes met Meg''s.


    She was waiting in front of the


    public lift used by guests. Her face, white with horror and lips parted in disgust as she watched me with narrowed eyes. The door slid close within seconds, shielding me from the hate-filled look.


    Why the hell was she standing there instead of here? I thought she would''ve gone up already with this particr lift.


    Momentster, I was back inside the penthouse. All was quiet with no sign of Nick or Alex nearby.


    Maybe he''s with her. Oh, how stupid! I just saw her downstairs. I rolled my eyes at my overactive imagination.


    "Alex!" I called out while heading towards the stairs.


    Janice appeared just then.


    "Oh, the alpha and his son are up on the roof," she informed me.


    I nodded and headed up. Nick must''ve sensed meing because his eyes were fixed on the entrance when I appeared.


    The table was already set, but father and son seemed to be waiting for their meal.


    "Mommy''s back," Alex announced with a grin.


    The first thing I did was look about for the alpha''s phone.


    "I tried to call you," I said.


    "I told you, Jake already gave me your message. You miss my voice. Is that why you''re back again? Or did you change your mind abouto


    dinner?" He asked.


    If the table was set for two, it meant his girlfriend wasn''t joining them, right? But I had to be sure, so I said,


    "Megan is here. Did you invite her?"


    I watched his face go nk. After which different other emotions creased his perfect features. Irritation was the most notable one.


    He didn''t reply. Instead, he rose abruptly and went to the inte sitting on a lone table at the far end.


    I tried so hard to hear what he was


    saying but the words were too low for me to catch. He didn''t want me to hear. Damn my weak senses! if it was the other way round, he


    swnovel


    would''ve heard my whispering.


    When he returned, he simply asked, "Why the hell would you think I invited her?" His tone was tinged with annoyance. "Because she''s... not important," I said quickly. "So she''s noting up here then? And she won''te near Alex, right?" At that moment, two hotel staffs arrived with trays.


    "No!" He replied, settling himself on the chair.


    "You can still join us for dinner. If not, you''ve overstayed, Sara. Your bff isn''ting up here, don''t worry."


    Alex watched wide eyed, waiting for me to decide to sit with them. I almost did in order to ensure Megan Deere stayed away.


    "I''ll see you tomorrow, baby. Remember, don''t talk to strangers, okay," I said again, smoothing Alex''s hair. "Go on, eat your food." As I started to leave, Nick called out,


    "You owe me!"


    I turned around to look at him. He held up his index finger.


    "One hour. That''s what you owe!"

 Chapter 0065

    Megan Deere


    Uneptable!


    Sara and Nick? That was still going on? Four years had gone by. The young alpha was engaged to be mated. And Sara was still in the picture?


    Megan lifted therge bowl of decorative sea shells and stones, throwing it at the wall as she screamed in rage.


    At the same time, a knock sounded on the door. She looked around wide-eyed at the mess. Another louder, insistent knock followed.


    "Who is it?" she snapped.


    "Security, Miss!" came the reply.


    She started to speak as she opened the door.


    "Sorry about the noise. I idently dropped the..."


    Richard was the first toe into her line of sight. He had about three inches advantage on the guard who stood in front of him. As usual, his expression was unreadable. "There''s been a mistake, Miss Deere," the guard spoke.


    "This suite was already taken. The clerk made an error. You''ll get your full refund plus 10% for the inconvenience, but you need to leave immediately."


    Meg watched the gamma as the lesser male yammered on with the lies!


    She knew what this was. She, a noble of the pack, was being kicked out of here because of Sara.


    Her stomach turned at the thought.


    Rich''s eyes remained on her as he moved to rest his weight on one foot. He had one hand on his waist and looked extremely bored with this chore of dealing with her. "No need for refund. I''ll just take another suite!" Meg tried.


    "We''re fully booked!" the guard replied firmly.


    She wanted to scream. Then it ured to her that Richard Wolfe was a high-born like she was. They didn''t have to be close rtives to hear each other''s minds. ''If this is about the omega, I already saw her,'' she mindlinked him.


    ''There''s no need for this, Gamma


    Wolfe. I knew about their rtionship back in college too, so please tell the alpha this isn''t necessary. I''m jetgged and already settled in here."


    The guard knew she was talking to his boss through the mindlink, so he waited patiently.


    Richard smirked before replying out loud,


    "You heard the male, Deere. We''re fully booked!"


    Then he nced at his wristwatch and added,


    "You have three minutes. They need to clean up for the other guest!"Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    To the guard, he said,


    "Oak, handle this. I need to take care of something quickly."


    He started to leave as two bellboys appeared with their cart.


    Megan could not believe the alpha was doing this. She had no doubt in her mind that Sara was the reason his beta and gamma had sent her and the Luna away very quickly that day.


    She bet Luna Reign knew found out about them too. That''s why she sent her out of town on that silly errand.


    Her son was engaged for the third time to the niece of an elder. Yet he was keeping an omega on the side. One he travelled here to visit often, it seemed. Was he building the park for her?


    The bellboys walked past her,


    crushing the shards of broken ss and sea shells beneath their feet. As she watched them load the cart with


    her things, memories of the day she learned about Sara and Nick reyed before her.


    shback:


    Jeff, Lisa''s boyfriend, was throwing a party at his apartment outside campus. The party was in full swing, and a few seniors were in attendance.


    Yet Meg wasn''t alone in her shock when Nick and his two BFFs strolled in. Jeff, the host, was over the moon.


    Connor, Sara''s ex-boyfriend, was


    also there. He came with a pretty


    blond, obviously to make Sara jealous. Itter became clear that Sara wasn''t in the least bit interested in the guy anymore. NovelDrama.Org


    Even as Meg danced, chatted, flirted with silly human boys, she kept her eyes on Nicks Reign.

 Chapter 0066

    The future alpha seemed to be having a good time. He danced with Rich and Jake''s human dates. Chatting and making jokes with everyone around him. His eyes darted about a lot. They hardly lingered in her direction longer than two seconds. Meg was fine with that because every girl at the party could''ve said the same thing.


    At least she thought so. Until Connor abandoned his date and went to meet Sara, who was nowughing at someone''s joke. Meg decided to ignore the lovesick human and fix her gaze on something more interesting like the young alpha-to-be. Then she saw something very troubling in a sh. Nick''s eyes, the color of bright gold in the dim light, were on Sara.


    Jake elbowed him, and the glint vanished, but he didn''t stop looking at Sara. Meg''s eyes moved to the omega and then back to the alpha heir.


    Nick leaned back on his chair, blinking to hide the jealous gleam from his eyes. Then, the unthinkable happened.


    The corner of his mouth curved into a brief smile as he shed Sara his wolf''s fangs. A tant warning to the girl. A sensual promise of the things he would do to her once he got her alone. Every werewolf knew what it meant for a male to sh his wolf teeth at a she-wolf like that. Meg''s heart dropped. She wanted to vomit.


    Yet she couldn''t believe it despite the warm, expectant smile Sara gave him in return.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    shback ends.


    From that night, Meg had kept an eye on Sara. In less than a week, she learned that her roommate had always lied about running errands for her father on Tuesdays.


    Soon, she had confirmed that Sara and Nick were indeed secretly involved.


    What she felt now was the same as then. That omega was unforgivable! This was uneptable.


    She had been on the move to act when Nick revealed that he knew she caught him that night. He hadmended her for her loyalty and told her that it was over now. The burden of the secret was now gone.


    The look on his face when he announced that he and Sara were over was unendurable.


    That little shit had caused her too much heartache. Now she was been kicked out of Rain resort because of themon whore?


    Something must be done. Just like when they were in college, Megan resolved to remove Sara from Nick''s world.


    ***


    Sara POV


    When


    turned home that evening, stood waiting with a puse.


    sat in front of our house.


    frown


    and a parcel in his hand.


    "Is someone here?" I asked, looking at the car.


    "Yes!" Richard emerged. "Hey, Sara."


    "This was delivered," my father announced, handing me the parcel.


    "What brings you here, Gamma Wolfe?" I asked while opening the small box. A car key fell out.


    "That," he pointed at the new car.


    "I don''t want anything from your alpha, Rich," I said. "I mean it, take it back."


    "It''s for the little one. Also, he destroyed your car. He owes you," Rich said.


    "He what?" My dad asked.


    "I mean not really destroyed. He just... sent it far away," Rich supplied.


    "Look, Sara, he doesn''t know I''m dropping this off myself. I came because I know you''d try to reject it. It''s not... proper... to move the little


    one around in a cab."


    He bent to pick up the key and held it out to me. When I hesitated, he reached for my hand and pushed it into my palm.


    "Here. Take it for little Alex. Please."


    "But it''s..." I stopped myself from saying too fancy. Too elegant. There was no point. I did needed a car so bad.


    As he started to back away from the


    warned, "Please don''t telf


    him brought it myself. He


    like me talking to you."


    belongs to en.kikistorioesn''t

 Chapter 0067

    I scoffed. "Of course, he doesn''t. You''re not a jackass like the other one!"


    Heughed and waved. "See you around, Sara."


    Soon, he was gone. My dad stood waiting for an exnation.


    "Yeah. He had my car "removed," I said, climbing onto the porch to head inside.


    My phone started to ring. It was Avery. I was going to call him once I''d settled in for the evening. "Hey, Sara," he said.


    "Hi," I replied. "I was going to call you back in a few minutes?"


    "Is everything okay? You sounded weird," he asked.


    "It''s alright now."


    "I''d like to buy you dinner."


    "I promised my dad we''d eat together today. Can we do tomorrow?" I asked.


    "Sure. How''s Alex by the way?"


    "He''s with his dad."


    "I see. Look, I know about thewyer. I ran into her associate earlier. How are you feeling?"


    "Not bad. I''ll just get anotherwyer. It may not even be necessary. I still have Miss Suarez from the agency. So I''m not worried."All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "I really wanna see you."


    When I didn''t respond, he added, "I''m in the neighborhood. Just saw you talking to the hefty dude with the fancy haircut. He didn''t leave with his car."


    I turned around to look about the street. Sure enough, Avery''s hyundai was parked on the next block only a few feet from our house.


    As I approached, he got out of the car.


    "This is called stalking, you know," I joked.


    He smiled. "Look, I''m really sorry about Mrs. Montgomery."


    "It''s not your fault, Avery. It seemed like he really does need her services."


    "Did you just defend him? Tell me you don''t believe that," He frowned.


    "I don''t, not really. But I don''t want to worry about anything right now. I have my son. There''s no reason to fear that he''ll take him away."


    I rested my ass on the car, feeling exhausted from worrying about the Nick situation.


    "I wanna help, Sara, please." He moved closer. "Promise you''ll ask for my help if he tries anything funny."


    "I don''t want you getting in trouble. You know his pack, I mean family... they''re powerful."


    "Yeah, she is, I mean they are." His eyes grew distant as disgust shed in them.


    "Is that why you didn''t want to go out with me all those times?" he asked.


    "What? No. I''m raising a child."


    I couldn''t tell him that this would be my first real rtionship.


    "I wish you would stop using that sweet little boy as an excuse," he mumbled.


    My phone buzzed.


    "It''s my dad. I have to go," I told him.


    "I''ll see you tomorrow," he said, taking my hand gently.


    "Sure," I nodded.


    He dropped a light kiss on my cheek.


    ***


    I slept soundly that night feeling assured for some reason. All was well. I was looking forward to start the next day because Alex would be back home.


    After work was delighted to rush


    his


    lot of


    I to pick him up. He hade to s to tell. Apparentle wontent


    father yed ping pong.


    I was secretly thrilled that he loved our new car. It didn''t matter that he knew his "daddy bought it for mommy."


    We arrived in the house at our usual time.


    Something caught my eye as I held the door open for Alex to climb out of the car.


    A nondescript vehicle sitting across the street. I shifted my nce to Lindsey and her partner who were now parked a block away.


    If they hadn''t noticed anything, maybe I was overreacting. But that thought had barely formed when Lindsey got out of their car.


    Rushing towards us, she yelled,


    "Inside, Miss James. Hey!"


    As her partner went after the


    suspicious car, the one at the


    passenger side held up their phone


    no hol.ne


    and started taking photos of my child.

 Chapter 0068

    Nick POV


    I clenched my fist as I spoke through gritted teeth.


    "It''s that damn Megan! Detain her till she tells you all she knows! Then make it so she can''t repeat it to any member of the pack!"


    "Already did," Richard replied.


    "She only knows that Sara is here, and you''re both involved. We caught her guys before they reached out to her. Silly human kids trying to make some money. They''re never gonna report to her, don''t worry. She doesn''t know about the little one."


    I felt the anger washed over me. What the fuvk was wrong with that girl? I should''ve asked them to kick her out of the town, not just the resort. I needed to head back there immediately. But taking care of these types of problems was the same reason I had to remain here in the city for the rest of the day.


    "Where are they now? Mother and son?" I asked my gamma.


    "In her father''s house," he replied.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    I nodded. "Call me if there''s anything else. Megan should be out of there once you''re through with her!"


    "Yes, Alpha," Rich replied and hung up.


    I immediately dialled Sara''s number. She would want to hear from me. Maybe an exnation or something. Her phone rang without an answer.


    "Who''re you calling?" Jake asked me even though he already knew.


    "She''ll want some sort of reassurance," I replied absently.


    "That''s Lindsey''s job," he muttered.


    Sara didn''t pick up. I tried the home number. They were home, so she should answer that call


    "Hello," Sebastian''s voice. This one would probably hang up once he found out it was me.


    "I''d like to talk to Sara," I said simply.


    "She''s busy," he clipped.


    "Could you get her on the phone. I''d like to know they''re both okay."


    "She can''te to the phone. They''re both okay. Will that be all?"


    It was more courtesy than I could expect from her father, but I wanted more.


    "Give her the phone, Sebastian." I didn''t mean to take that tone.


    "I''ll hang up now, Alpha Reign." And he did.


    Jake kept his eyes on his phone. I sat with my phone''s receiver still in my tight grip. For some reason, Sara''s response when I invited her to dinner reyed in my head. "She''s giving me a taste of my own medicine," I muttered. "How petty!" But it stung like hell.


    I gently returned my phone''s receiver back to its cradle. Jake looked up then averted his gaze.


    I was Alpha Nicks Reign. Leader of the Forest Moon. Head of Reigns Corporations. Los Angeles Most Eligible Bachelor for the second year now. And the most pathetic creature on earth.


    Stay for dinner? You owe me one hour? How could I have said those things? She did owe me, though. And I intend to cash in because I was a businessman after all. The worst part was I expected her to agree? After everything that has passed between us.


    "You decided to deal with your feelings," Jake said without looking up.


    "Focus on son, business, and pack. That''s what you said you''d do!"


    "And I''m doing that!"


    It had been ten days since the dreadful realization that I was not even close to being done with that female. That I would probably never be over her.


    "You''re doing great. I''m just reminding you, that''s all," my beta whispered with his face still on his screen.


    I''d flown back to L.A. as soon as I


    dropped Alex in school. And I''d spent the rest of the afternoon reying yesterday in my head. More urately, I''ve been imagining how should''ve behaved and what I should''ve said instead of stay for dinner.


    Sara was still in touch with herwyers. That meant I was the only one stuck in the past. What she felt for me now was the opposite of that little confession that made me lose my mind.


    en NovelDrama.Org

 Chapter 0069

    But no worries there. I was determined to join her in the present. Fake it till you make it, right? Sara James and I used to share a bond made in the heavens. Now, we shared one thing only. The love child. Fuck! That damn word! I''d been doing much better than Jake expected. Then she''d shown yesterday, looking seductively wide-eyed with anxiety. Racing across the living room to go check on our son.


    Then my fantasies had kicked in again. I''d found myself imagining what could happen if I went after her. Caged her against our child''s door like that day. Take her in my arms. The desk phone rang, breaking my thoughts.


    It was my assistant. "Chief ric is happy to see you tomorrow morning. He wants to know what time," he announced.


    "Ten. Tell him I''lle to him," I replied.


    As I dropped the phone, Jake spoke again.


    "Your mother could''ve sent Megan. You forbade her from doing anything about the agency, and she''s enraged, Nick. I kinda worry about what she''ll do."


    "I forbade her from doing anything at all concerning my fam... Thank Goddess, she seemed preupied with something. I''ll find out what that is once I have the time."


    Even as I said this, I wanted to march down to Luna''s office to have a word with her. But I reconsidered. It was obvious how that conversation would go.


    She''d sent Meg out of the town as soon as she learned Sara was there. It''s hard to believe she sent her back there. That girl went on her own to stick her nose in my business.


    I was engaged for Goddess'' sake. Did she still think she had a chance?


    Why! Goddess, why did I do such a foolish, unnecessary thing that day? Agreeing to kiss her in front of Sara? How idiotic!


    "I could ask the Luna. She''s fond of me," my beta said.


    "Not right now, she isn''t. You''re mywyer, remember? She hates you for the way things went with the agency."


    "You''re right," he mumbled and rose. "I''ll head back to my office then. d like to be there when you talk to the chief. Though I already know how that conversation would go.


    Q.UMS


    As Jake left my office, my thoughts returned to Sara. I knew what would be going through her mind. She''d be ming me and thinking that I was endangering our child bying" into their lives. Even though that was half true, it was preposterous.


    My mind was a battlefield. Something had to be done about the state of things because we couldn''t carry on like this for long.


    First thing tomorrow, I''d talk with the


    chief. And after work, I would finally


    see Cassie. I''ve avoided her since


    thest time. If she wasn''t daft, she


    already knew something was wrong. This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    en NovelDrama.Org


    IMS


    Regardless of my promises to the Luna and council chief, the girl had the right to know. She should end it with me once we meet tonight.


    It didn''t matter what advice the chief gave. Cassie White had the right to decide she wanted to be mated to someone who already had an heir.


    She should know that I was bound to another. Yes, the bond was severed years ago. But Sara was back in my life, and my wolf was having a hard time dealing with the break-up.


    ***


    The next day,


    "Will you keep your alpha''s confidence, chief?"


    "Yes, of course," Chief ric replied eagerly. He was the head of the council of Forest Moon''s elders.


    "You honor me, alpha. Of course, I will."


    "I have a son. This issue of a chosen mate will have to take the back seat for now."


    His face rose, then fell.


    "A boy pup. Reign''s next heir," he whispered as a gentle smile formed in his eyes. Then, his face grew serious.

 Chapter 0070

    "I''m guessing the mother is not worth knowing?"


    I opened my mouth to reply before the actual meaning of his words hit me. He meant the mother was from a powerful n or pack.


    When I didn''t answer, he lifted his ss and drank to thest drop. Then he said,


    "Young alpha, these things happen. A few of us high-borns have secret children with humans and low-birth werewolves, too. I won''t name names or point fingers. But I''m sure you''ve heard stories.


    And I''m also sure you know how we handle such things. There''s Europe, Oceania, maybe even Africa or Asia. Mother and child will be happy. Free from the troubles in the pack.


    It''s outrageous to let one child out of mate-luck stop you from getting properly mated... and having legitimate pups. Even the humans expect the same."


    I held back from replying. My son was more legitimate than any other child born to mated or wedded parents. Alexander Reign was conceived from a fated union. But telling him this could cause more trouble.


    I could guess what his response would be. He wouldn''t be able to keep that confidence for long. What would be the implication for the she-wolf who didn''t even want me anymore? What kind of life would she be condemned to live? Suddenly, I was eager for the meeting to end. The chief knew he hadn''t convinced me at all.


    "Young Miss White doesn''t need to know this, alpha, please. Not till she bes young Luna," he advised.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    That wasn''t going to happen. As the thought rang in my head, I wondered which part I was referring to. Luna or not telling her till we were mated?


    As soon as the meeting was over, I started to itch to get back to Orphic. Sara and Alex were safe, but I really wanted to... see the both of them. There was business to take care of and dinner with Cassieter.


    At 3:30 PM, I''d juste out of a meeting. My phone buzzed as the driver cut into the traffic. It was the fiance.


    "Hey, Cassie."


    "I can''t make dinner tonight, alpha. I might being down with something. A cold, I think."


    I nearly cried from relief. "Aww... I''m sorry to hear that."


    "Thanks. But..." she said. I gritted my teeth, bracing myself for an unrealistic demand.


    "I''ll let you know as soon as I''m better, and you HAVE to be avable. You owe me up to four dates now, dear alpha," she said.


    "Sure. No problem," I replied.


    I sent for the jet as soon as I


    was free. I could breeze in and out of Orphie. Steal a peek at the she wolf and her pup. Be back here tonight.


    ***


    It was getting dark when I touched down in the small town. My people


    of interest could be at a certain food


    truck near my proposed park


    QUAS


    Lindsey''s car sat near the truck as


    drove past. Straining my neck, I


    caught sight of Alex and his


    grandfather. No sign of Saravel


    I kept ncing at the rearview mirror till I slowed the car and stopped where the park would begin.


    It was after business hours, but some people were still on the site, loitering about and taking pictures.


    I got out of the car and started to stride casually towards the truck. From the corner of my eye, I caught someone waving at me. "Megan?"


    Reaching for my phone, I started to type a text to Rich as she approached briskly:


    ""Richard!


    Miss Deere is still in Orphic?


    WTF!""


    "Alpha," she greeted submissively. "Good to see you!"


    "Megan, what are you doing here?"

 Chapter 0071

    Megan


    The alpha had his face down on his phone as he spoke. But Megan could sense his horror at the mere fact that she was here.


    She had been about to board the ne back to the city after that degrading interrogation. Then the Luna had contacted her andmanded her to stay put. It had been with mixed feelings that she''d gotten down from the ne. Hourster, she''d headed to the makeshift Reign office in the town.


    Now, here she was. From the distaste she sensed around the alpha, maybe another interrogation was underway.


    He was waiting for her to answer his question, yet still typing away on his phone. She allowed her eyes to roam his face and couldn''t help recalling their younger days.Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Did you hear me? I asked why you''re here?" he said.


    She opened her mouth to speak but ran out of words when he lifted his gaze. His eyes were truly enthralling. They held no pleasant emotions at that instance yet were as captivating as ever. How could he be Sara''s? "I''m here to work, alpha," Megan replied coolly.


    He arched his brow. "What do you mean you''re here to work? You sent two high school kids to follow Sara around. Who put you up to that sort of work?"


    "I... We ran into each other at the resort, and I was just... curious about her, how she''s been and all that," she stammered.


    "You could''ve just talked to her!"


    What a fucking hypocrite! He did the very same thing to the same girl back in college. Or was he the only one allowed to do so? Meg tried to swallow her annoyance before replying, "She wouldn''t... talk to me, that''s why."


    "Didn''t you hear from the kids parents?"


    "Yes, they''re getting a restraining order if I go near the boys again. That doesn''t mean I have to leave town, alpha. It just means I won''t be allowed anywhere near them."


    "Are you lecturing me about restraining orders instead of telling me why you''re still here?" He finally dropped the phone into his jacket pocket as he stared down at her. "The Luna wants me on this project. She called when I was getting on the ne."


    The alpha''s eyes hardened further and he gave a deep exhale.


    As if on cue, his phone started to buzz. As he reached for it, he muttered,


    "Speak of the devil."


    Moving away, he took the call and began to talk, keeping his tone too low. He might as well have been using the mindlink.


    Megan strained to hear, but was


    only able to pick up a few words. She couldn''t string them together to make sense of the conversation. But she knew she''d been right. The Luna knew about Sara''s presence in this town.


    Not long ago, Luna Reign was boasting about her son''s betrothal to elder Damascus'' niece. She''d been so excited that he was about to be mated and bring forth heirs of course, she didn''t want words getting out that the alpha was keeping an omega on the side. A young alpha that was already cheating on his betrothed. What


    would the elders say? What would


    pack members say?


    Meg had sensed rm when they spoke earlier. The Luna''s tone had been spiteful too as she ordered her to remain in the town. She''d spent hours sitting idly at the airport before re-entering the town.


    The whole afternoon, she''d been


    sneaking about. All in the hopes of


    running into the Chief Gamma himself to spite him. The asshole! But the alpha had shown up here and she''d forgotten that little goal.


    QUMS


    Alpha Nick finished his conversation on the phone and started back towards her.


    "You''ve been hiding all day? No one knew you were still in town. What''s the n?" He asked, seeming more disgusted.


    "I wasn''t hiding, alpha. I had a rough time with Gamma Wolfe and just had to rest at the airport for a while before getting back here." At least, that was half true.


    "So where''re you staying?"


    "At the resort!" She hadn''t gone there yet, but as a director on the project that''s where she should stay. Right?


    The alpha''s face curved into a disdainful smile. Meg knew that look meant she wouldn''t be going anywhere near Rain resort. Why was Alpha Nick trying to make sure she didn''t cross path with his whore? Jude Duncan, who had somehow lingered at the site till now, suddenly appeared.

 Chapter 0072

    "Mr. Reign. What a surprise! I thought you were in the city."


    "Well, I''m here now," the alpha said, his tone full of delight. "And I''m d you are too. Miss Deere needs a ride."


    He kept his eyes on Megan as he addressed the human.


    "Could you do me a favor and get her to Pineapple''s or any otherfy hotel around."


    "Sure! It''s my pleasure, sir," Jude replied with a little too much glee.


    Megan couldn''t bear it. "Jude, could you please give us a moment?"


    The human frowned, waiting for his boss'' boss to okay the request. When he didn''t get the signal, he moved only a foot away as Megan started to speak again. "Alpha, I don''t understand. The other directors are staying at the resort -"


    "Don''t pretend you don''t already know why I don''t want you there, Megan! My mother was right. You should remain here for now. But I don''t want you near them!" Them? Who the hell was them? Megan was too angry and hurt to fully dissect the remark.


    "B-but the Luna said I could stay there," she tried to argue.


    "To keep an eye on Sara?" he snapped. "Why would you even want to do that? You hate each other now. And I know why she hates you, but I still can''t figure out why YOU hate her." Was he serious right now? He really couldn''t tell why from all the times that she threw herself at him? The cluelessness in his tone gave Meg courage to mouth away.


    "I thought you already knew, alpha. Sara turned out to be what my mother warned me about, I told you. She lied to me for years -"


    ""Years?" He cut her off.


    "Are you sure about those nunbers? Cuz she and I were together for only a few months, not years."


    How could he not know that the mere fact that he, Alpha of the Forest Moon, was sleeping with that lowly she-wolf was more than enough cause for her hatred? Megan decided to try something. "A few months, huh? That means she was probably sneaking off to see someone else long before you came into the picture." As she spoke, the look he gave her made her life sh before her. But an evil smile reced the death stare quickly.


    "You almost got me there," he said with a briefugh.


    "Then it ured to me that one, what you''re implying is not even possible. Two, it doesn''t matter. She gave herself to me FIRST! Not to any of those guys before me." His smile grew soft and distant. Various emotions y in his eyes as he spoke.


    Megan''s stomach turned at the sight. Her ire rose.


    "You know, alpha. Yes, we hate each other now. But I''m not entirely to me for the way our friendship crashed! You had a hand in that."


    "Well, look at that. Not so modest today, huh, Megan dear," he mocked.


    "It''s the truth!" She went on. "About my mistakes, I have apologized many times. I was drunk when I... harrassed you. I would never beg anyone for sex, whether he''s Alpha or ruter of worlds. I am the noble daughter of Beta Reginald Deere!"


    "Good for you, noble. And listen, I don''t hold that against you. She-wolves do that to me all the time. Yes, you were friends with my female, but we were broken up and she was out of the picture. You were


    drunk and horny. Got carried wereContent rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    I


    even hoped you eventually found someone to take care of your needs afterwards. Did you? Don''t answer. I don''t care!


    You know what I hold against you though?"


    He leaned menacingly close and she shrank back. His eyes took on a shimmer that meant his wolf was close to the surface and irritated.


    "It was you who told my mother about me and Sara! You followed her and dared to take pictures of us! Are you gonna deny it?"


    Megan was out of words. It was stupid to bring up this conversation. She realized it now. The hostility oozing out of the alpha was starting to overwhelm her when something else caught his attention.


    His gaze left her abruptly and rested


    on the Ink ck Lexus driving past. As Meg''s eyes followed his, her heart stopped. Her blood ran cold at the sight of the little boy screaming and waving from the car:


    "Daddeee!"

 Chapter 0073

    Sara POV


    I recognized the two people from afar before Alex gave an excited scream behind.


    "Daddeee!"


    "Shh... Alex! Don''t call out to him like that," I warned.


    Nick and Meg stood inches apart by the sidewalk at the project site. I quickly refocused ahead. Or tried to.


    Megan was still here, huh? And so was the alpha.


    In a sh, the memories returned - of the two in each other''s arms. I recalled the bitter words my former best friend spouted after that. But the kiss was the most vivid recollection. It was painful because Nick couldn''t even say hi to me, his mate, in front of his friends. He seemed to sense us when the car drew close to them. As I zoomed past, he turned sharply. At the same time, my son screamed again, waving in delight.


    "Daddee!"


    "Alex, shush! Stop doing that!" I snapped.


    "Why? It''s daddy!" he protested.


    How did I exin it to him that he was not allowed to call out to his father in public? Or at least in front of members of his pack? I felt sick.


    Megan''s eyes followed Nick''s as she now stared in our direction too. I couldn''t tell if she saw us or not.


    Was she here for work? Nick wouldn''t be foolish enough to allow that, would he? She was a member of Forest Moon. She knew our history, and if she saw the child, the worst he could do was alphamand her not to tell anyone. But wasn''t it safer if she didn''t see us at all?


    Alex was crying now. Protesting the fact that I yelled at him for no good reason or that I didn''t stop the car for his daddy.


    "You''ll see him soon, baby," I tried tofort him.


    This wasn''t good at all. My child was now thoroughly attached to his father. And the future was uncertain.


    I checked my rearview again, wondering if Meg saw us. If so, what would the alpha do? It was disheartening that I had devolved back to worrying about my former friend. It felt like four years ago. I truly wished she would leave the town.


    Thest time I checked, she and the alpha were still involved. But did that mean I had to be prepared to run into her often from now on? I shook off the pang that apanied these thoughts. It was not my business if Nick was still sleeping with my former roommate and best friend. We were no longer fated, and she was no longer my friend.


    When we arrived at the house, Alex had stopped crying. He raced to his room to get his favorite teddy bear.


    "You need to freshen up first," I called out.


    Soon, my dad arrived home too.


    From the took on his face, I could tell he also saw Nick near his food truck. As an unspoken rule, we never talked about the Reigns unless absolutely necessary.


    Casual words like "Oh, I saw Alpha Nick at the site moments ago," were prohibited. After getting Alex washed up and changed, I made dinner, and we ate silently.


    It was 7:45 when I tucked my son in bed for the day.


    My dad also retired earlier than


    usual to bed, so I was left alone in the living room with my fantasy romance novel. My only escape from the reality of my stressful life.


    Time passed quickly as I sat curled up with my book on the couch.


    The sound of movements outside pulled me out of the heroine''s world. I looked at the time. It was already 9:55 PM.


    Maybe that was Lindsey or her partner. But I wondered what they could possibly want because I felt the footsteps growing closer to the door.


    At the same time, a gentle squeak sounded behind, causing me to turn around.


    Alex''s door was slightly ajar, with him peeking into the living room. He was waiting for the visitor.


    I braced myself for the knock that should follow. None came.


    "Alex baby, get back to bed now! By Fates, it is 10 PM! You should be asleep!"


    Even as I scolded my son, I knew why he was out of bed and peeking from his room.


    He closed the door, but only a quarter of an inch further. I could still see his bright grey eyes between the tiny opening as he continued to wait.


    Putting my book down, I rose from


    the chair, unsure what to do first The knock still didn''te, but f knew as much as the little one that Nicks Reign was standing out there. Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    I decided to deal with him first before chasing my child back to bed. Getting to the door, I yanked it open with my hand on my waist.


    "Hey, Sweets," Nick greeted with a smirk. Then he strained his neck inside the house to wave at Alex before mumbling,

 Chapter 0074

    "He''s right. It really is a short house."


    "Alex, go back to bed!" I yelled before adding,


    "Do you need something? Look, if this is about earlier, it was your idea that he calls you daddy -"


    "You''ll get a new neighbour soon," he cuts me off. "Maybe in theing week."


    I was confused as he pointed across the street from me. The car Lindsey drove with her partnerid parked by the curb.


    "It''s not Lindsey though," he supplied. "The onesing will handle nights till mornings... and weekends. About those silly paparazzis yesterday, I don''t want you to worry. It''s already taken care of."


    "You''re leasing the house across the street?" I asked finally.


    "More like buying," he replied. "For security reasons."


    "How long will this go on?"


    "What? Keeping you both safe?" His tone took an edge.


    "No. Having us constantly babysitted?"


    "Always!


    Look, Sara. Things are going to keep changing. And fast. For instance, you and I know... Alex shouldn''t live... HERE in this tiny house. Your father knows this too. That''s why he hates me." "We both know why my father hates you. And keep your voice down!" I snapped. "He lives where I live. Is that all you came to tell me?"


    "I''m going to say something, and I hope you won''t take it as a threat. You''re right. Our son lives where you live. But we both know where you live isn''t up to his standards, so it''s temporary," he said. "Whether you''re part of the pack or not... you''re still a werewolf, Sara... And I''m alpha. You and I can''t do anything about that. So why not let me take care of my family like only I can?"


    He started to leave, then stopped. "Also, I figured out why you thought I invited your friend."


    I waited. He seemed to be searching for words as a frown roughened his brow.


    "We''re not involved. She''s... nothing to me. Never has been. And never will be." His eyes grew more intense.


    I wanted to ask what he meant by never has been. But that could invite a conversation I wasn''t sure I wanted to have.


    "Why are you telling me that? It''s none of my business," I replied.


    "I''m telling you, cuz I don''t want you misunderstanding me. You did see us... kiss that night." He let out a deep breath and rubbed his forehead.


    I wanted to shut the door in his face, but I also needed him to go on with the exnation, so I waited.


    "Things were bad between you and I. And I was feeling... very upset... I


    wanted you to feel it too.


    Which


    dumb as hell! I was a fuas


    His expression was pained as he said this.


    I nced behind me to check if Alex heard his dad''s colorfulnguage. He did, but I couldn''t evenin about it. My throat felt too tight.


    "So... you kissed her to hurt me." It


    mean for my voice to sound


    was an effort to speak and I didn''t


    it


    did. Otried to swallow to clea when I spoke again.


    "I wasn''t thinking straight." Nick''s tone soft. It sounded somewhat like a plea.


    for


    "Well... good for you. You achieved your goal. But all of that is in the past now! Your current rtionship with her has nothing-"


    "There is no current rtionship!" He cut me off. "I told you. She''s nothing to me."Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    "Well, tell that to someone who cares. Just make sure she and your Forest Mooners stay away from me and my child. That''s all I ask."


    "I promise she won''t go near our son. But... she has to stay in town," he replied.


    "No, she doesn''t!"


    "It''s safer, Sara, trust me. It''s better if


    she''s not around pack members. No amount of alphamand can prevent words from slipping out if she is, you know this. She could say something to her mother, for


    instance, that could raise her


    suspicion. I don''t want that."


    "So she did see Alex?" My question was redundant but he replied.


    He nodded. "My mother thought she already found out, but we were wrong. She only just saw him when you drove past.


    I wanted to let you know that you''ll see her often, but I promise she won''t go near our child."


    "Sara!" My dad called out in a harsh tone.


    "Yes, daddy," I called back and started to close the door. "I''ming."


    To Nick, I said, "Thanks for letting me know."


    He nodded once as I shut the door.


    "You didn''t want to talk to him on the phone, but you''d do so if hees knocking?" My dad seemed angry.


    "A member of the pack is in town, dad. He came to inform me," I replied.


    My son now stood shamelessly with his door half-opened, looking from me to my dad.


    "Alex, back to bed!"

 Chapter 0075

    Avery Hawke


    Across the street from Avery''s patrol car, the camry sat idly. It was the same car from three days ago and yesterday. They weren''t trying to discreet this time.


    Elise Reign was following him. What the f*ck did she want? Her mere presence was infuriating. Geoff, Avery''s partner, was still around, so Avery continued to pretend that she wasn''t there.


    Maybe he should call Sara. Tell her that her son''s grandmother was in town. He doubted any of those warriors knew their Luna had been in and out all week. Everyone was focused on the newfound heir. But what would calling Sara achieve? It could lead to spilling a secret he wasn''t ready to share with any soul.


    As he thought about Sara and her child, his irritation rose. That sweet little boy could''ve continued his peaceful life with his mother and grandpa. Now he had to endure mommy-daddy drama plus troubles with their stupid pack.


    Sara said little about her rtionship with the father. But it was easy to guess that the male was a son-of-a-bitch who left her when she needed him most.


    He didn''t deserve her or the kid. And Avery would make her see that.


    "Tell me I''m not the only one who''s been seeing that camry around?" Geoff muttered thoughtfully.


    Avery wanted to deny it, but how would that look? His partner would think something was wrong with him.


    "I''ll handle it," he said.


    Without waiting for Geoff''s reply, he got out and crossed the street. A part of him expected them to drive off. But that would be silly because it could result in trouble for them. He allowed himself entertain the image of Elise Reign in a police chase as he knocked on the windshield. "Waiting for someone?"


    "Y-yeah..." came the reply.


    He dreaded speaking with the she-wolf in the back seat. But at the same time, he had so many things to say to her.


    "You''ve been following my partner and I," he said simply.


    ""N-no, we haven''t," the driver said.


    "Sergeant, could you join me in the car for a moment?" Elise called.


    "No, I could not!" he snapped before reverting to the driver. "Lemme see your license and registration."


    Suddenly, the car opened and Elise got out through the other door.


    "It''s me you wish to see, Rowan, I mean... Sergearnt."


    A lump formed in Avery''s throat as his heart began to thump. She should be the one feeling all these diforts, not him. The fact that he was somewhat intimidated by her made him hate her even more. He stomped round the car to meet her. "You''ve been following me. That''s a crime!"


    "I''ve done no such thing -"


    "What do you want?" he barked.


    "Are you free for lunch? Maybe a drink? I just want to talk," she said calmly.


    Her tone was not as arrogant as thest time they spoke.


    Avery could not think of what she


    could possibly have to say to a child she abandoned. However, the


    He


    invitation was enticing. It would give him a chance to ask her why? wanted to know if it was the


    money.


    asmoney


    Or was it because he was half-human?


    From what he read about her family, the precious son was fourteen months older than he was. So she''d been sleeping with his father when she was still nursing that one. Avery felt utterly disgusted. Though curious.


    on


    Despite the curiousity, he didn''t think he could handle sitting with her for a drink. She was a horrible female judging from the age gap between her two sons.


    "I have a girlfriend," he said atst. "I think you know her. Name''s Sara?"


    Elise''s face assumed that icy expression that he''d grown very familiar with. The look was what he saw whenever he pictured her in his mind.


    She raised her brow questioningly and he realized that she didn''t understand his remark.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    "What I mean is... I don''t date older women! So if you''re following me hoping to get a drink with me, you''ve wasted your time. Also, I''ll have to


    arrest you if you don''t stop!"


    Her expression remained cold as he waited for her reaction. He would never be the one to acknowledge their blood ties first.


    He turned and started to leave when she called out.


    "Rowan!"


    "That is NOT my name!" he pointed a warning finger at her.


    She dropped her gaze, the coldness disappearing from her expression.


    "I just want to talk," she repeated.


    ""Not interested."


    "Don''t you wanna know why I had to leave you?" she called out. It was the choked sound of her voice that made him stop.


    "I didn''t mean to disrupt your life like this, but the Fates brought us together when I never thought I''d see you again."


    As she spoke, Avery turned around.


    "Here''s my card," she held it out to him. "We... should talk. You have to know that... I never meant for things to turn out the way they did."


    So by talk, she wanted to make excuses for throwing away her own pup. Avery swallowed to cool his fury. He left her hanging.


    "You never meant for things to turn out the way they did. Got it! No need to sit over a drink to listen to any more of that nonsense!"


    He resumed walking away. "Follow me again and I''ll have you arrested!"


    ***


    Sara POV


    The short conversation with Nick bothered me so much that I tossed and turned the whole of that night. Days passed and that one-minute conversation still stirred me from sleep at nights. I was a f*cking idiot! I''ve lost sleep thinking about these words and the longing in his eyes when he said them.

 Chapter 0076

    Add to that. I knew exactly what he meant by we are werewolves. It was only a matter of time before his pack found out. Once they did, things would take a different turn for sure.


    It was Friday. I decided to steal a few minutes to pick Alex up earlier and drop him at my dad''s. I wanted to drive straight out of Orphic after work. Maybe spend the evening out with my friends.


    Jane wanted to check out the site after work. She''d never had the time to go there since the project kicked off. I drove all the way outside the little town to show her where the park ended.


    Not that I was thinking of running away. But I found myself imagining that we moved somece simr but far from there. I pictured taking my child and my dad away from all these troubles and starting over. It was a silly thought and would never work, but I couldn''t help it.


    It was already dark when we got back to Orphic. Mia and Lori got off along the way while Jane and I headed to Jonas Grill to grab a bite. It was Friday night, after all and I deserved to kick my feet up.


    One bottle of Budster and Jane was drunk enough to bring up the forbidden topic.


    "I know you hate to talk about it, but I hafta say this. The baby daddy is hot as fuvk, girl, damn!


    I mean I''m still rooting for Avery, but damn, girl! Tell me, where did you catch such a magnificent fish? How did you two meet? Why didn''t you make it work no matter what? I swear, I want me something like that." "You''ve never seen him, Jane!" I reminded her.


    "I looked him up. Saw news clippings. He''s fine, girl!"


    "Just shut up and eat your meat," I sighed.


    "I always wondered why little Alex is so... so... cute," she went on. "You two are like a ko and a tiger cub. Zero resemnce, no offence, but ask anyone."


    "Ah... FYI, kos are so... so... cute too," I mimicked her exaggerated tone.


    "I never said they aren''t?"


    "Cuter than tiger cubs."


    "Eh... no," she waved her finger at me.


    "That''s mama ko and baby ko. My Alex looks like me one hundred percent."


    "You wish," sheughed.


    "Gurl, get your eyes checked," I said, shaking my head.


    At least, this conversation was more bearable than "what happened between you two?"


    "What does Avery think, by the way?" She asked. Then her eyes widened as she added, "Ah! Speak of the devil."


    My heart lurched. I turned slowly, thinking it was Nick passing by the restaurant. But it was Avery. He stopped to shake hands and talk with someone.


    I took that as an opportunity to shift the topic to her. "What about you? What about Danny?"


    "It didn''t work out, I already told you," she said defensively.


    "But he still wants you and he''s so hot. Why don''t you try to make it work no matter what."


    "Thanks, but I''m not taking dating advice from you, ma''am," she replied.


    "Ouch!" I lifted my bottle to my lips.


    As she looked up and grinned, without turning around, I knew Avery was now heading our way. Momentster, he lowered himself to drop a peck on my cheek as he greeted,


    en NovelDrama.Org


    "Hey,dies."


    "What are you doing here?" I asked him.


    "I was passing by and saw your new car on the driveway."


    IMS


    I stole a nce at the time. It was 8:40. My dad would let Alex stay up as much as the child wanted. It was time to go home, but I didn''t mention it because Avery might get the wrong idea.


    But he must''ve caught me looking at the time because he asked,


    "Thinking of leaving?"This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    As he leaned close, I found myself thinking that he smelled nice. I was exhausted and it would be nice to rest my head on those broad shoulders. "It''s gettingte," I murmured.


    "No, it is not!" Jane cut in.


    "Are you done with work?" I ignored my friend and asked him.


    "No, still on duty. Just stopped because of you."


    Minutester, I was finishing my beer when my phone rang. It was Lindsey.


    "Miss James, where are you?" Her tone was irritable.


    My heart jolted. "Is something wrong?"


    "It''s nightfall! You should be with your son. We''re supposed to watch you two, TOGETHER! You said you won''t be long!" Anger reced my earlier fear.


    "Listen to me, gamma! You were asked to babysit my son, not give me orders! get home when I get home and not one second earlier Your job is to make sure I don''t run away with him, isn''t it? Never ever call my phone to order me around again, you hear me!" I hung up.


    Avery and Jane were staring at me with mouths hanging open.


    "My time''s almost up," I said calmly. I saw the sh of irritation in Avery''s expression before he hid it.


    Jane and I finished our drinks quietly and all three of us stood up to leave.


    Avery had his hand behind my waist as we walked out of the restaurant. We were outside when I lifted my head and locked gaze with Nick.


    He wasing out of his SUV. On the passenger side, the most elegant she-wolf I''d ever seen got out of the car too.


    Nick''s face was hard as granite. He looked away like he didn''t know me as he and the female continued towards the restaurant. Towards us. "Shiiit!" Jane gave a silent gasp. "So hawt..."


    Avery suddenly blocked my view, nudging me towards my car.

 Chapter 0077

    Cassie


    The alpha hadn''t spoken a word to Cassie since she got into his car. He''d taken two phone calls, which the conversation sounded simr to the one he had in his office that day. She recalled how that few minutes in his office had made her follow him to this shabby town. As they entered the restaurant, he moved absently to the seat beside therge ss window. But he didn''t take his seat. Instead, he stood looking at that lowly she-wolf. Yeah, that was her alright. The one with the pup. Sara James.


    Cassie had done her homework. Then she''d fallen ill from learning the alpha''s little secret. She was contending with two: an omega and her child.


    "Alpha?"


    He didn''t seem to hear her. His focus was still on the trio at the driveway outside


    "Alpha?" Cassie called again.


    "Yeah?" He turned a sharp gaze towards her. "Yes."


    "Do you know them?" She asked nonchntly.


    "Yeah. They''re people of the town. Working with Reigns on the project." He sat down but only for a moment.


    As he started to rise like he was about to go to them, Cassie stood up too.


    "You''ll introduce me, then? Cool?" She wore her most innocent smile.


    The alpha settled himself back down.


    "How did you know I was here?"


    "I called the office. Damon said you just left town but you should be back in a day or two," she told him. "Lucky guess after speaking with your assistant." "Did you have any business around here? Or you flew all the way to see me?".


    Cassie could tell he knew the answer to that question. She was also aware that there was a wrong answer, yet that was what she chose.


    "I came to surprise you," she replied.


    He gave a briefugh as he asked,


    "Whatever gave you the impression that I like this type of surprise? I expect you to think the opposite afterst time,"


    "Alpha, you promised you''ll see me once I was better."


    "Yeah, but I''m out of town. I mean out of L.A. Look, Cassie, this isn''t working, but you seem like a smart one, so you already know," he said.


    Even though she''d feared this wasing, her heart still dropped as he said the words. Not only had she seen the bastard pup, but she''d spied on him that day at his resort''s underground parking. The way he looked at the omega gave her nightmares. "Is it because I came to see you unannounced? I get it, you hate it. Let''s just eat and go. I won''t do it again," she said coolly.


    "It''s not because of that. There''s this girl. She-wolf. I''m starting to think I can''t be without her." His eyes moved to the ss again as he grew thoughtful.


    Cassie wanted to m her fist on the table. She took a deep breath to keep herposure before speaking.


    "You''re in love? That''s a passing emotion, alpha. It shouldn''t stop you from doing your duty and getting... m-mated."


    She stammered because of the look he gave her.


    "Lo..." He trailed off with an exasperated sigh, then spoke in a harsh, angry tone. "Did I say anything about love?"


    "I-I must''ve missed your point." Cassie''s heart started to lift in hope but dropped again as the alpha went on.


    "Ya, you did miss! What I mean is she''s all I think about. The only she-wolf I''ve ever wanted. My heart and soul is bound to her! It''s nothing to do with that silly, mainstream four letter word people throw


    around, alright?"


    What a fool, she thought. Guess it was good for her if he insisted otherwise.


    "Our arranged mating is not gonna work out. I can''t even imagine going through with it now, sorry. I just have so much to set right!"


    "Clearly, you''re going through some issues. But it''s been what, six months? Which means we''vee far, alpha. We''re almost there," she said.


    "It doesn''t matter. No one knowsContent rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    except close family staffs and the


    chief. Easy to take care of those. We can both tell our families it didn''t work out. Sorry I wasted your time," he said as he made to stand up.


    QUMS


    "I see, you need time to deal with stuff. I''ll give you space. Once you''re ready we''ll have our date night and talk about a way forward." She rose too. "Don''t worry about me. I''ll get a cab to my hotel." "No. Hayes is still around. He''ll get you back to L.A tonight!" He replied firmly.


    ***


    Sara POV


    That was a noble of the pack, no doubt. A few nights ago, Nick had cleared the air about Megan. Was that so I wouldn''t think he was


    two-timing once I saw that one


    I


    what? The high-borns did care a


    lot


    about public image. And that female was clearly his luna-to-be,


    I wondered if she was the same person Megan was so quick to tell me about four years ago.


    "But damn, he''s fine!" Jane mumbled. She was obviously tipsy.


    I imagined punching her in the throat if she said that one more time.


    As we got to where I parked, she asked, "Are you alright?"


    "Of course, I''m alright. Why wouldn''t I be?" I replied with a sharp tone, not meaning to.


    Avery looked angry. I hoped they both didn''t think I was upset about seeing Nick with another woman.

 Chapter 0078

    "I''d like to take you home. I''ll get someone to drop off your carter." Avery offered. He looked like he had more to say.


    "I can drop her off," Jane offered.


    "Then I''ll have to arrest you for DUI."


    "I''m NOT drunk!"


    "You''re nearly there -"


    "Why?" I cut in. "Why do you want to take me home? Cuz seeing my baby daddy with another woman is so... devastating, I shouldn''t be driving?" I asked him feeling irritated and slightly embarrassed.


    "You know I don''t mean it like that," Avery replied. The look on his face made me want to apologize for the attitude.


    But I didn''t. I was annoyed with everything and everyone for reasons I didn''t want to think about. My stomach churned as I nced through the see-through ss at Nick and his... date. All I wanted was to be far from here as soon as possible.


    "I appreciate the offer, Avery, but I''ll rather drive my car by myself. Unlike Jane, I''m nowhere near drunk."


    Without waiting for his reply, I left he and Jane standing there and drove straight home.


    Why did I feel so hurt? A few hours ago I was thinking about running away. The alpha walked by with another she-wolf and I was upset? Just because he felt bad for kissing Meg didn''t mean we could ever be like before. Goddess forbid! I didn''t want to be "like before" with him.


    I had a boyfriend now. I''d moved on. Maybe it was how he walked past without a single word. That had to be why my stomach felt so sour. It was like college days again when we couldn''t address each other in public. Maybe a part of me expected differently because Alex existed now.


    I guess I needed that reality check. Nick was going to be mated to another. He''d been engaged for four years, if not longer. He''d been alpha for nearly as long. Which meant there was pressure on him to get hitched. The fact that the she-wolf was in this town meant it was happening soon.


    ****


    The next day was Saturday. The alpha would be picking up his son for the weekend. Since the timing was unclear, we didn''t know when to expect him. But I decided I wasn''t letting that dictate my day, so I carried on with my usual Saturday routine.


    My emotions were a mess. I wish today was not his turn because I especially didn''t want to see him. If I could, I would avoid meeting him.


    And there was Avery. I''d been rudest night for no reason. I knew I had to call and apologize to him but was too embarrassed for some reason. Maybe I really couldn''t handle a proper rtionship.


    After breakfast and some chores, I sat staring at my phone. My thumb hovered on Avery''s number for a moment before I had the courage to hit the dial button.


    He picked on the third ring. "Hey."


    "Hey. I''m sorry aboutst night. I didn''t mean to give you an attitude like that," I said.


    No answer at first. He just breathed unto the phone.This content ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    "Look, I know and you have a child with him. If you let me, I''d bring you to the point where you no longer feel bad when you see him with another," he said gently.


    "I didn''t feel bad," I lied.


    It would be great if he brought me to that point right this minute though.


    "It''s Saturday. Some of the guys are ying volleyball at the parkter Jane and Lori would be there too. Can pick you up? Say from


    00:30?"


    "Sure, I''d like that. I''ll drop Alex at the Art school. You can pick me up from there." I replied.


    Even if Nick didn''t show up this morning, Alex would be taking karate lessons from that time till noon. I would be free.


    As we hung up, it ured to me how much I needed this. I really looked forward to hanging out with the town guys.


    An hourter, my son and I was ready to leave when a loud honk sounded in front of the house. It was Avery. What, he couldn''t wait till 10:30?


    As I looked through the window, Alex asked, "Is it daddy?"


    "No, he''s not here yet. It''s uncle Avery. Maybe daddy will pick you after your ss," I said. "Here, c''mon."


    As I held the door for Alex to go out, Nick''s car swerved unto the curb right behind Avery''s.


    "Great timing," I breathed. At least, we wouldn''t have to stop to drop Alex.


    "Daddy''s here," Alex beamed, ignoring Avery as he raced down the porch.


    "Careful, little man," Avery called out at the same time ncing around to see who just arrived.


    Nick got out of the car, extending his arms as the child ran to him. I had my son''s bag and wished I could"


    giveat to Avery to pass it to


    him.


    "How''s my little heir?" He asked the kid, though his eyes were on me.


    "I''m fine," he grinned. "Mommy didn''t see you. She said no, he''s not here yet. It''s uncle Ave- "


    "He''s not your uncle! Who told you to call him that?" Nick snapped.

 Chapter 0079

    Avery Hawke


    "Who told you to call him that? He''s not your uncle!"


    Newssh, fucker! Avery stood watching father and son.


    The little boy looked so confused by his father''s hostile tone.


    It was the first time Avery stood a few feet close to Nicks Reign since he began his project here.


    The child started to speak again.


    "He''s..." but trailed off.


    The look on his father''s face must''ve terrified him to silence.


    Innocent eyes moved from Nick to Avery to his mother.


    "Did he ask you to call him that?" Nick asked.


    Avery wanted to join the heart to heart when Sara spoke.


    "No, he did not! He calls Jake and Rich uncle too. Did you tell him to call them that or did they?"


    Her tone matched the hostility in her ex''s face. Avery found this more pleasing than anything else he''d encountered this past week.


    "Jake and Richard ARE his uncles!" Nick countered. "Those two are closer than a brother could ever be. Surely, you understand these things, Sara."


    "Well, Avery''s close to us too," Sara returned spitefully.


    As they spoke, he felt a rising need to say something. After all, they were talking about him, weren''t they? Add to that was the fact that this was an opportunity to make the precious son''s acquaintance.


    He started to move closer as he asked,


    "Everything okay?"


    The question was meant for everyone, but he was more interested in Nick''s response.


    The male gave a bitterugh before pinning him with eyes so fierce, Avery felt his soul leave his body. It was like standing face to face with a beast. A predator. Well, duh!


    Were those eyes grey or green? He found himself thinking they were very different from his mother''s. It ured to Avery that his hand was now on his waist where he kept his gun. He''d also stopped walking. When did he stop walking? "Everything''s fine, Avery," Sara said with a sigh. Her voice was like a life line as Nick''s eyes held his still.


    Maybeter, he wouldugh at himself for almost pulling a gun at the guy.


    .n


    As their gazes remained fixed on each other''s, he found that he was blinking uncontrobly. If he looked away first, his eyes would right. themselves. But he refused to that because he was not a loser.


    With sheer force of will, he forced one foot in front of the other, and stood close enough to extend his hand.


    "You must be Nicks Reign. I''m Avery Hawke..."


    He would have added "Sara''s boyfriend" somewhere in that introduction. But was there any need to risk it when the guy already knew?


    His hand quickly grew tired from hanging there, waiting for the handshake, which he actually dreaded Secondster, his eyes lost the battle and dropped to the floor. Then darted about before resting on Alex Judging from how the child sat in the backseat, Avery knew he felt his father''s anger.


    "Alex baby, I''ll see you Monday evening, okay," Sara said to the child. "I''ll call you. Be good."


    "Can I talk to you for a moment?"


    The alpha''s voice forced Avery to look his way. That request was meant for Sara. The relief that flooded through him made him want to kick himself.


    He moved away awkwardly to give the two some privacy.


    ***


    Nick POVContent rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    "I believe we talked about this, Sara. I don''t want you bringing any strange male scent near our son."


    The sergeant could hear me. I made sure of that.


    "No, I don''t recall that conversation. Even if I do, I''m pretty sure I didn''t agree to such a thing," she said.


    "Also, Alex is leaving with you. I''m not seeing him till Monday. And you don''t hear meining about you bringing any strange female''s scent near him, do you?


    "That''s cuz I won''t." As I said this, I


    recalled that she saw me with


    Cassiest night. I wanted to tell her that whatever was going through her mind


    was wrong. But how do le exin that situation without saying ''I was engaged to be mated as at


    "I need to go. Please move your car out of the way," she said.


    "Sara."


    I held her arm to stop her from walking past me. With my hand on her bare flesh, I almost forgot the situation before me. An overwhelming urge to increase that contact set in.


    I could''ve sworn she felt it too from how she softened when my thumb moved gently to caress her arm.

 Chapter 0080

    But she recovered quickly and broke the spell, pulling away.


    "So what? You''re going out with him now?" I asked. "Was that after he took you to thatwyer or before then?"


    "I''m not even gonna ask how you knew that. It doesn''t matter to me," she replied.


    I shouldn''t have said that but I couldn''t bring myself to care about that blunder.


    "Please move your car out of the way. Also it''s none of your -"


    "Careful!" I shut her up as I invaded her space this time.


    Her breath hitched. My heart gave a tingle when her eyes dropped to my lips. But she quickly stepped back, reverting her gaze to Sergeant brave standing by the car.


    Then she moved fast and clumsy past me to meet him.


    The half-blood stood watching. He tried another staring contest but gave up faster this time.


    Sara opened the door to get into his car as I whispered the words into her mind,


    ''You''re putting this man in danger, Sweets.''


    ****


    My mind was in a rage, and I couldn''t see straight. The thought of Sara with the half-wolf was making me dizzy. It was the weekend. Alex wouldn''t be with her. Did that mean she was spending the whole time with that one? My ws distended as I fought to soften my grip on the wheel.All content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Alex sat quietly in the backseat, but I knew he had something to say. I could feel it. He watched me intently, silently asking for my attention. It was easy to guess what was going on in his tiny mind.


    If I was doing a good job handling my family, his mother wouldn''t be meeting that half-wolf he called uncle.


    I was sorry to yell at him, but he needed to learn that there were certain people he should hate. It didn''t matter how long he''d known the sergeant. Calling him uncle was uneptable.


    I pulled into the driveway of the art school and turned around to look at him. He sat with both hands on his side, watching me, waiting.


    "You wanna know why I''m mad? Because you can''t go round calling people uncle!"


    "But I don''t," he replied firmly. "Geoff and Oak and Max... and Bonny are not uncle. They''re Mister. So is Mister Colt. Avery is uncle. Like beta Jake and gamma Richard."


    "He''s NOT like my brothers!" I snapped. "Yes, he''s a bit of what we are. But only a tinnee little bit. Just cuz you''ve known him all your life doesn''t mean he gets that honor, you hear me! You''re three years old. You''ll get to meet many more people of worth in this lifetime!" He frowned. It was clear he didn''t understand what I said, but he got the gist.


    "Don''t ever call him uncle again. And don''t...ugh or talk to him. Do you understand?"


    What the f*ck was I even doing teaching my child to be unfriendly? I heaved a deep sigh and sat back on the seat.


    "Mommy and Grandpa like him! Grandpa said he''s good people."


    "Alright, you can talk to him, but don''t y orugh with him. Do you understand?"


    "Yes!" He replied.


    "Yes, alpha!" I corrected. "Or yes, Daddy!"


    "Yes, alpha. Daddy."


    Moments passed in silence before he asked.


    "Does mommy hate you because of him?"


    I thought of saying yes. It could gain me his sympathy. After a moment, 1 pushed the petty thought aside and replied,


    "No. She hates me because I was an idiot."


    "What is that?" He asked with another frown.


    It''s not like could exin everything that happened between us. I wondering what to say when. spoke again. Content belo


    "Is it like... when mommy cries when she''s


    namping, and she called yout


    so it''s you making her cry, so you''re an idiot?"


    For a moment, it was hard to speak from the lump in my throat.


    Seconds passed before I nodded and managed,


    "Yeah, it''s something like that. When did this happen? When did you see her cry?"


    "That night when she won''t let youe inside the short house," he replied.


    "I see." That was the night I''d cleared the air about Megan.


    "So can you not idiot again, so she won''t hate you anymore?" he asked.


    "I... have stopped."


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 Chapter 0081

    Nick POV


    Stop being an idiot! My son''s simple advice. If only there was a manual describing how. It''s not like I could turn back time.


    As I poured the ice-cold vodka down my throat, I thought of how we got here and all that has happened between Sara and I. I imagined where we could be if I''d acted differently in the past.


    It was now past midnight. Alex was sound asleep. I decided I needed some fresh. But as I sauntered through the woods, my feet carried me towards Sara''s.


    She probably wasn''t home. Maybe she was spending the night with Sergeant Brave. Why was I doing this to myself? I wondered. What could I achieve if not more heartache? But I couldn''t stop myself from spying on her.


    As I stood by a tree behind the short house, I could tell she was in there. Awake. The fact that she was home and not with the sergeant didn''t mean anything. She was with him now.


    But what if I entered her room through that window? One of two things would happen. I stood there fantasizing that I did. She didn''t scream for me to leave. Instead, she did the very opposite, offering herself to me like before. Hours must''ve passed while I stood by that tree with these fantasies. I waited till I sensed that she''d fallen asleep.


    As I left her ce, I kept walking till I found myself at the sergeant''s. I needed to get into his bedroom so we could chat. But Jake was waiting for me there. And as expected, he wouldn''t let me go inside.


    "Are you his bodyguard or what?"


    "If anything happens to him, she''ll know it''s you. You think she''ll be okay with that?" He said.


    With that, he all but dragged me back to the resort.


    She''s not bound to us anymore. We have no im. I kept whispering these words to my wolf.


    Once in my bedroom, Iid awake for the rest of the night, unable to keep certain injurious images from my mind.


    ***


    The next day was Sunday. My son kept me busy all day till evening. Sara called to talk with Alex like she promised. But she called Janice''s phone. I wished we were out at the time. Then she''d have to call me instead of anyone else because the nanny wouldn''t go out with us. While they talked, I heard other voices in the background. It was Sebastian''s and someone else''s. Male. I stood up and went into my room.


    There was only one thing that would calm the tornado threatening to break out from inside me. A race in the wild. But I couldn''t do that yet. Alex and I already made ns for the Sunday.


    Hourster, we had gone out to carry out our ns and had just returned to the resort. Alex was exhausted from our little swimming fiesta at the nearbyke. He had no qualms falling into bed for his nap. Forty-five minutes passed and I


    knew he''d be awake any minute.


    When I looked at the time, it was almost 4 PM. I decided I could be in and out before dinner. Putting my tumbler down, I stood up to go for that run.


    As I opened the door, Jake stood in front of me with a file in his hand. It was Sunday. Work would wait! I brushed past him, bumping his shoulders so that he staggered to the side.


    "I should be back before dinner," I mumbled.


    Within minutes, I was in the woods and letting out my wolf. I raced across towns after towns that I didn''t even know. It felt a bit relieving to be far from Orphic right then. She''s not ours anymore, I whispered to my wolf as I tore through the woods.Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    I needed to get my shit my together and stop being so dangerously possessively. I could have done real harm to that man-wolfst night if Jake hadn''t stopped me.


    But how was I supposed to endure this?


    I raced till I soon lost track of time. When I stopped to look around me, the ce felt familiar. Especially the mountains. I wondered how long I had been running. Only then did it ur to me that it was dead of night. Shit! I had missed dinner. Hell, I would definitely miss breakfast at this rate.


    I started to head back. Soon, the first


    light of dawn appeared above the sky. I had been out all night and wasn''t sure where I was exactly. Looking back as twilight brightened my path, I raced back the same way I came. Alex would''ve waited for me during dinner. Shit!


    He won''t even see me at breakfast. I had to drop him at school this morning, but that was impossible now. I would never make it on time.


    True enough, it was 9:50 when I finally re-entered Orphic town again.


    The first thing I picked up was my beta''s frantic call through the mindlink.


    ''Where are you, alpha? Please talk to me!''


    A few minutester, I entered the resort shirtless through my hidden gateway. Soon, I had snuck into my private stairway and was heading up to my penthouse. My beta came to meet me. It was 10:15 AM.


    ''Coming,'' I replied simply.


    "The little one was very upset, Nick. He didn''t want to eat breakfast or go to school. Richard had to call Sara to talk to him on the phone. How far did you go?" He asked. "I searched everywhere. I was afraid you went back to meet him."

 Chapter 0082

    "Richard did what?"


    As I spoke, my gamma appeared at the top of the stairs. I all but flew towards him, mming him against the wall.


    "You should be in L.A, Richard. Are you still here because of Sara?"


    His eyes bore into mine but he refused to struggle against the tight grip on his throat. My ws were hurting him now. Thin lines of blood trickled down his neck as I waited for him to defend himself somehow. Maybe say something. But he couldn''t speak if he wanted to, could he? I was blocking his windpipe.


    "Let him go, Nick! It''s not him you''re mad at!" Jake''s grip was tight and hard as he struggled to pull my hands off our friend.


    "Listen to me. Let go off him! Your making a big mistake!"


    This was my gamma. A loyal friend. A brother. What the hell was I doing? I really was losing it.


    As I released him, he doubled over and started to cough. I watched the w wounds start to heal and was filled with shame.


    I rushed up the stairs, feeling Jake behind me.


    "What the hell is wrong with you? That is your Gamma! Your friend!"


    "He shouldn''t be talking to her. He nurtured feelings for her once," I groaned.


    "It was a long time ago and he didn''t know about the two of you. You''re obsessing again. You promised you wouldn''t," he reminded me.


    "You weren''t there that first day! You didn''t see him with her when I went to Sara''s. She looked at him with warmth. He touched... "I didn''t want to finish the sentence.


    I was embarrassed as hell yet I had to defend myself.


    This wasn''t about my gamma. I just wanted to hurt someone and I took my anger out on him when he was helping me.


    But calling Sara? Goddess! What would she think? That I couldn''t even be there for her kid?


    Once I entered the suites, I heard a few feet scuttling off like squirrels. It must be the housekeeper and Janice. They didn''t want to run into me or what?


    "I''ll stop at his school before leaving for L.A," I said to my beta.


    Walking into my room, I mmed the door behind me and went into the shower.


    Momentster, I was dressed and ready to be to normal again. I needed to get busy. To channel all of the rage to my business. My female, who said she loved me once, was with another man. But that was life and I had to deal with it.


    As soon as I got out of my room, I heard my gamma and beta talking. Richard was very angry. With good reason. I had to make things right ASAP before it festered.


    As I approached his office, they sensed my presence and stopped talking. I knocked gently. No response came because I usually didn''t knock for either of them. As long as they were alone.


    I went in and Jake immediately stood up to leave us alone.


    Richard wasn''t looking at me. There was no trace of the wounds I inflicted, but I could feel his anger and hurt.


    "I shouldn''t have attacked you," I said.


    "Damn straight, you shouldn''t have," he muttered without looking at me.


    "I didn''t like the fact that you called her phone. She took your call. She probably spoke to you like she used to when we were in college. I... don''t have that type of privilege with her. And thate the fact that you still do. And you used to have feelings for her."


    "Yeah key word, used to!" He barked as he rose from his seat. "It was a long time ago. Now? She''s the


    met


    she-wolf that keeps my alpha upa nights. The female whose name he calls out in his sleep! She''s the mother of the alpha heir, and watching out for her and the pup is part of my job!"


    "I shouldn''t have attacked you. It won''t happen again. We''re friends. Brothers. Thates before your role as my Chief Gamma. I don''t want to lose that."


    He grew silent as his eyes began to soften.


    "I have to see my son briefly before heading back," I said and started to leave.


    As I opened the door, he called out,


    "Nick."


    I turned around.


    "We''re cool," he said.


    I gave him a brief smile before leaving.


    ****


    Ten minutester, I pulled up in front of Alex''s school. It was almost noon, which meant his break period was soon, But I wasn''t waiting for that. I just wanted to see him for a few minutes.


    Lindsey and her partner were also back from their break. They bowed in silent greeting when I nced their way.


    But I was immediately distracted by the odd emptiness that registered as I came to the school gate. My son was not in there among the other kids.


    I turned sharply to look at the guards who should be watching him.N?velDrama.Org holds this content.


    A heavy sense of foreboding settled in my chest. Lindsey started to get out of the car as I asked,


    ''Why are you here, gamma, when my child isn''t?''


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