Kimberly's POV

"Has he made his appearance?" I asked Mona, my stepsister, as I got up from the bed and walked to the front door.

"Not yet, but he should be here soon." Mona glanced up from her spot by the window.

My brows furrowed, my face stiffened, and my eyes leveled out. I leaned out the door, trying to catch a glimpse of Alpha Derrick Wilson, who was known for making dramatic entrances.

And there he was, walking in with his followers.

As usual, Alpha Derrick wore his black robe, which only added to his intimidating look. His presence was overpowering; everyone seemed to shrink back, shivering as he passed by, too scared to even look him in the eyes.

I quickly stepped back into the room, stealing one more glance at him.

Despite his fearsome reputation, there was something about him that drew me in. His eyes had a certain light, and his face, though stern, carried a gentle warmth that I couldn't quite ignore.

Alpha Derrick was the famous leader of the Night Walker Pack, feared by many. After tonight, he would become the youngest Alpha to control an entire city.

Our Moon Stone Pack owned a part of downtown Perth, dominating all other packs except the Night Walkers. For two years, my father, Alpha Darwin, had been giving Alpha Derrick a portion of everything we had to build an alliance.

To ensure more control, Alpha Derrick asked my father to step back from managing the rest of downtown. Not just that, he also asked for my hand in marriage.

Without hesitation, my father gave me away along with the other half of the city.

After tonight's engagement, I'd be joining the Night Walker Pack, starting a new chapter in my life.

I hoped I wouldn't regret this.

"You're nervous, aren't you?" Mona's voice pulled me back from my reverie. She walked in front of me, her eyes full of concern.

"It's obvious, isn't it?" I rolled my eyes and shrugged. "This whole thing is Dad's doing."

Mona instantly took my hands, squeezing them gently.

"Relax, Kimberly. Tonight is your night. You're the luckiest woman in the world to have Alpha Derrick's heart."

I scoffed, pulling my hands away.

"We both know I didn't win him over. Dad just handed me over like a business deal."

Mona looked at me, her gaze soft but firm.

"Alpha Derrick isn't like that. He wouldn't have agreed if he didn't have some feelings for you."

"Feelings?" I laughed bitterly. "He just wants the city, not me. If he cares about anything, it's the power that comes with it."

Mona shook her head. "No... You know he's not driven by self-interest. He's a leader who puts others first."

"You sure sound like you know him well," I teased, and we both laughed. Still, I couldn't shake the feeling that Mona knew more about Derrick than I did.

"You messed up your makeup," Mona noticed, wiping the smudged mascara from under my eyes.

"You should look perfect for him tonight."

"Thanks…" I managed a small smile as she fixed my makeup. Despite being three years younger, Mona often acts like the older sister, always looking out for me.

When I first had my shift under the full moon at eighteen, Mona, though only fourteen at the time, stayed with me the entire night. She wasn't scared at all; in fact, she playfully tugged at my wolf's tail until she fell asleep.

Now, I'm twenty-one, and she's seventeen. I'm excited for her eighteenth birthday, her first shift, and the chance to meet her mate.

"I'm going to miss you so much," I whispered, the words slipping out without me even realizing.

Mona pulled me into a tight hug. "I'll miss you more. But remember, I'll always love you and be there for you."

I felt my cheeks heat up, and I pulled back, brushing her hair lightly. "Will—"

Luna Catherine, Mona's mother, suddenly barged in, cutting me off.

"Why are you still here?" she snapped, her brows furrowed. "Kimberly, you need to get downstairs now!"

"Mom!" Mona shot her a glare.

"Alright, Mom—I mean, ma'am," I corrected myself quickly.

Luna Catherine hated it when I called her mom, though it was hard not to. I'd called her that for years until she asked me to stop.

My real mother died when I was three, and my father, as Alpha, remarried quickly to keep the pack stable.

Luna Catherine was loving at first, but after Mona was born, everything changed. She seemed to resent me, maybe because my father always doted on me. She saw me as competition for his attention, wanting it all for Mona.

Mona, though, was nothing like her mother. She's always been sweet, treating me like a true sister. We couldn't stand to be apart for long.

"I still don't know why your father chose you," Luna Catherine sneered, her words stinging more than I expected.

I clutched the white dress in my hands, fighting back tears. Even though I was used to her harsh words, this one hurt deeply.

Truthfully, I didn't feel worthy of being Alpha Derrick's mate. He was everything I wasn't—strong, confident, and admired by everyone.

I was just the girl who never found her mate after her first shift, a rarity in our pack where most she-wolves find their mates right away.

"There's still time to back out," Luna Catherine muttered, looking at me with disdain. "You can save yourself the embarrassment."

I clenched my fists as I nodded my head. "I'm sorry."

"That's enough, Mom!" Mona interjected, glaring at her. Luna Catherine rolled her eyes and left the room, muttering under her breath.

"Don't let her words get to you, Kim," Mona said softly, turning to me. "You're beautiful."

"Thanks, Mona." I forced a smile.

I wasn't going to let Luna Catherine's words ruin this night for me. I hadn't experienced what it was like to have a mate yet, and I was desperate for that connection everyone else talked about.

I was hoping tonight would be different.

"Let's go before Dad starts looking for us," I said, taking a deep breath.

Mona nodded and led the way out of the room. My heart pounded in my chest as we walked down the hall towards the main gathering.

The pack house was buzzing with activity, new faces from the city mingling to the sound of music.

I spotted my father first, busy negotiating with the other Alphas gathered around a large table. I scanned the room, feeling a pang of anxiety. Alpha Derrick wasn't there.

"Where could he be?" I muttered, scanning the crowd.

"Huh?" Mona looked at me, confused. "Who are you looking for?"

"Alpha Derrick. He's not here."

Mona smiled and pointed behind me. "Look, he's over there."

I turned around slowly, and my breath caught in my throat. Alpha Derrick's piercing blue eyes met mine for the first time.

Goosebumps ran down my arms, and I couldn't look away. It felt like his gaze had trapped me, holding me in place.

He was even more stunning up close. A tall, muscular figure with broad shoulders and an effortlessly handsome face. He was exactly the kind of man I had always dreamed of.

"Kimberly!"

Mona's voice snapped me out of my thoughts, then I realized Alpha Derrick is just a step away from where I stood. Glaring at me.

"I… I'm Kimberly," I stammered, waving awkwardly at him.

Alpha Derrick's expression immediately soured slightly, and he didn't seem impressed. I could feel my hand hanging awkwardly in the air as he stared at me.

His eyes held a hint of annoyance, making me question what was going on.

"Who is this?" Derrick finally spoke, turning to one of his followers with a glare.

My heart sank at his words. He referred to me as "this," and I felt a pang of regret.

My wolf stirred inside me, angry at the disrespect, but I kept her in check. We didn't stand a chance against the strongest Alpha in the city.

Before I could respond, Mona stepped forward boldly, her eyes flashing with defiance.

"She's my sister, and you're going to be engaged to her soon!"

I stared at her in shock, not believing what she had just done.

"What are you doing, Mona?" I hissed, quickly pulling her behind me. I turned to Alpha Derrick, bowing my head.

"I'm sorry for her behavior."

Alpha Derrick chuckled, stepping closer. I froze, unable to move as he reached out and lifted my chin with his fingers.

My heart skipped a beat at his touch, and I couldn't tear my eyes away from his.

'What is he doing? Is he testing me?' I wondered, my thoughts racing.

"I think she's lovely," Alpha Derrick announced loudly, his voice echoing in the hall, drawing all attention to us.

"I'm choosing her to be my mate."

I felt a surge of warmth at his words, butterflies fluttering in my stomach. But then, to my utter shock, he shoved me away.

He pulled Mona forward, raising her hand high. "She will be my future Luna."

...

When I saw Alpha Derrick hoist Mona's hand into the air, everything stopped.

For a split second, my mind froze. I blinked, taking in more light than I expected. Everything came to a standstill as my thoughts caught up with my actions.

My body went numb, and an overwhelming pain invaded my soul. My chest tightened so hard like it might burst.

I stared blankly at Alpha Derrick's warm smile as he hailed Mona as his "Future Luna!" The joy on his face left me dumbfounded.

A rush of panic flooded me, like I'd had too much coffee. But then, it sank deeper. What I feared most had shown itself—REJECTION.

It wasn't the rejection itself that hurt the most; it was the consequences. I wanted to run, hide, and disappear at that moment.

It reminded me of when I was a child, terrified of being rejected by my mate once I turned eighteen.

Time seemed irrelevant. The fear felt as fresh as it did then. I thought adults had everything figured out, but standing here, I realized that wasn't true.

I was still the same person, just older.

My anxiety spiked as I stared at him, wondering what would happen next.

In Moon Stone Pack, an Alpha must never reject a she-wolf from the pack. If it happens, the rejected wolf is forced to leave and become a slave to the Alpha that rejected her.

She must sever all ties with her family and pretend not to know them if they ever cross paths.

Ten years ago, I saw Miss Laura being dragged from a gathering like this. She was taken away by the Alpha who had refused her as his mate.

She lasted less than a year before taking her own life. I couldn't believe I was facing the same fate.

The crowd erupted in cheers, snapping me back to reality. They were celebrating Alpha Derrick and Mona.

I turned and saw my father's face. He looked away, his cheeks flushed with shame. His disappointment was clear.

"So, you're choosing Mona as your future Luna over Kimberly?" Luna Catherine's voice rang out, her eyes sparkling.

"Yes, and that's my final decision!" Alpha Derrick announced.

I tossed my hair back, glancing at Mona, expecting her to be upset. I braced myself to calm her down if she said anything reckless.

But what I saw crushed my heart.

Mona was smiling, holding Derrick's hand tightly. She looked at ease, happier than I'd ever seen her. She wasn't thinking about me at all.

"Is that really Mona?" I whispered, my gaze locked on her. I couldn't understand what was happening.

Just moments ago, she was cheering for me. Now, she was someone completely different. I stood there, speechless, my mind blank.

"Alpha Derrick, may I remind you that you initially chose Kimberly?" My father's voice cut through the noise, surprising everyone.

"Yes, I did. But now, I'm rejecting her," Alpha Derrick said firmly, still holding Mona's hand.

"That's unacceptable!" My father's eyes blazed with anger. "We had an agreement! I expect you to honor it!"

"Have I broken our contract?" Alpha Derrick smiled, lifting Mona's hand again. "Isn't she your daughter as well?"

"She is, but she hasn't had her first shift yet," my father argued.

Alpha Derrick let go of Mona's hand and walked over to my father. "So?"

"She could be bonded to her true mate by then, causing problems!" my father snapped.

"I won't let her go, no matter what happens after her first shift! She is mine, now and forever!" Alpha Derrick declared.

As I listened, my heart sank. I had already given up on finding my mate, but hearing Derrick's harsh words felt like a dagger to my chest.

My father was left speechless. With Derrick's strong feelings for Mona and his insistence that she would be his Luna, I saw no way forward for me.

"Please, calm down, both of you," Luna Catherine urged, stepping between them. "Whether it's Mona or Kimberly, the alliance between our packs will remain. There's no need to argue."

My father glared at her, then stormed out of the hall, unable to hide his frustration. I knew he'd tried his best, but words alone couldn't change Derrick's mind.

I looked at Mona, who seemed thrilled with how things were unfolding.

"I guess we can begin another engagement arrangement now that you've chosen Mona," Luna Catherine said to Derrick, her smile wide.

"Great! Let's begin the planning. We'll get engaged in three days!" Alpha Derrick announced.

The crowd cheered as Derrick delivered the news. In three days, on my stepsister's engagement night, I would become Derrick's slave. It felt like a nightmare.

I wanted to leave, but I couldn't move. Embarrassment kept me rooted to the spot. I buried my face in my hands, too ashamed to look up.

People quickly shifted their focus away from me, returning to their conversations. Luna Catherine went off to apologize to the other Alphas for my father's sudden departure.

Alpha Derrick was busy giving orders, and I was left alone with my thoughts.

"Were you surprised by how things ended?" Mona's voice suddenly rang out, full of excitement as she approached me.

I lifted my head, meeting her gaze.

"How could…you?" I stammered, lost for words as she grinned, glowing with happiness.

She scoffed and stepped closer. "Alpha Derrick would never choose you! He's always been mine!"

"Yours?" I gasped, my eyes wide with disbelief.

"Of course, he's mine!" Mona said proudly, her voice dripping with smugness.

This was the first time in all our years as sisters that I felt this way about Mona. I felt uneasy, as if everything had changed.

"How is that possible? Why didn't you talk to me? Why are you saying it now?" I asked, my anger bubbling up.

I clenched my hands tightly, trying to stay calm.

"Because I wanted to see Alpha Derrick reject you!" Mona laughed, the sound cruel and sharp.

I froze, struggling to process her words. Even though she knew the consequences of rejection in our pack, she wished it for me? She wanted me to suffer this fate?

I don't really understand...

"So…you want me to become his slave?" I asked, my voice trembling. Tears welled up, but I held them back. I had to stay strong in front of her.

"Exactly. And more than that, I don't want you in our lives at all," Mona said, leaning close to whisper in my ear.

"Do you really think you had a chance with Alpha Derrick? Of course not, Kimberly. I had a plan to get rid of you from the start!"

Her words stunned me, tears streaming down my face. I felt dizzy, like I might faint. I couldn't believe what I was hearing. I looked at her smile, and it felt like my chest was burning.

She wrapped her arms around herself, laughing softly as she watched me.

"Oh my! Look at you! Crying already… Kim, save your tears. This is just the beginning of your suffering!"

"You're my sister! How can you be so cruel?" I cried out, my voice breaking.

"Who's your sister? Have you forgotten you were just rejected? You're not part of this family anymore!" Mona sneered.

I couldn't hold back my anger any longer, then I shoved her away.

"How dare you say that? You're a traitor!"

Mona stumbled back, falling to the floor with a dramatic cry. I knew she was faking it, but I didn't care. My eyes stayed fixed on the drama queen lying on the floor.

Everyone's attention immediately turned to us, shocked to see Mona on the ground, crying.

"Mona, my dear!" Luna Catherine rushed to her, her face full of concern as she tried to help her up.

Before I could react, I felt a sharp sting on my cheeks. A loud slap had landed on my face, my cheek burning with pain as I turned to see who did it...

...

"How dare you touch her with your filthy hands!" Alpha Derrick's voice boomed as he glared at me, his eyes full of rage.

He was the one who had just slapped me across the face.

I stood there, frozen, staring back at him like a fool. I had no idea what to do or say. No matter what I said, I knew he would side with Mona.

I had never hurt Mona, but everyone believed her over me. No one wanted to hear my side of the story.

"Seize her!" Alpha Derrick ordered.

Two of his guards rushed forward and grabbed my arms. I didn't struggle. I let them drag me without resisting.

"Let her go!" My father stormed into the room, demanding my release.

The guards hesitated but released me when Alpha Derrick gave a slight nod. They shoved me away, and I stumbled but caught myself.

I took deep breaths, fighting back the tears that were about streaming down my face. I got up slowly and walked to my father's side. The pain was too much, and I couldn't say a word.

Silence felt like the safest choice.

"This is a family matter," my father said, his voice tight. "We'll handle it ourselves. I apologize for any trouble this has caused you." He bowed his head slightly to Alpha Derrick, who nodded in return.

"The party is over. Everyone, please leave," my father announced, and the hall slowly emptied.

Alpha Derrick walked over to Mona, kissed her on the forehead, and whispered something in her ear which made her smile.

Mona looked like a movie star. Her long, thick, wavy blonde hair framed her face, and her skin was flawless.

When she smiled, which was often, her white teeth lit up her entire face. It was no wonder Alpha Derrick was smitten with her.

I watched them together, my heart aching. I felt like I should have been the one standing beside him, but Mona had stolen him from me.

I turned away from them, feeling a pang of jealousy. My hair was as dark as the night, flowing down my back and over my shoulders.

I had a slim waist and a golden tan. My eyebrows framed my constellation-brown eyes, and I had full, heart-shaped lips like my mother.

I looked just like her, except for my cowardice.

Mona, on the other hand, had inherited her mother's looks but I never thought she had also inherited Luna Catherine's cruel heart.

Once Alpha Derrick left, my father turned to Mona and Luna Catherine, his eyes blazing.

"We need to talk...now!" He stormed out of the hall, his voice sharp and commanding.

I was left alone with my two enemies, both glaring at me. I quickly looked down, avoiding Luna Catherine's gaze.

Even if I wanted to fight back, I couldn't. She was our pack's Luna, and I had to respect that.

Besides, I would lose my place in the MoonStone pack in three days and become a slave to Alpha Derrick.

"Let's go, Mom," Mona said coldly, brushing past me with her shoulder.

Luna Catherine didn't say a word, pretending not to notice as she followed her daughter out of the hall.

I wished my mother were still alive. I knew that if she were here, Mona and her mother would have no place in our lives.

"Didn't I warn you about Mona?" Hannah's voice snapped me out of my thoughts.

I turned to see her standing beside Louis, her mate.

Hannah and Louis were my childhood friends. We were all around the same age and had gone to the same high school and college.

We didn't know they would end up as mates until we turned eighteen. They used to bicker a lot back then, and I was always the one to settle their arguments.

They were meant to be together, even if they didn't realize it at the time.

They didn't even know they were soulmates until the day after our first shift. I was happy for them, even though I always joked about it before they took me seriously.

"Hannah, ease up. She's already in distress," Louis said, giving Hannah a stern look.

"Louis, I'm done sugarcoating things for her! Kimberly, I told you about your evil stepsister, but you didn't listen!" Hannah shot back.

Hannah was right. She had warned me not to trust Mona, but I didn't listen. I thought she was just being mean because she and Mona never got along.

But it turned out Hannah knew more about Mona than I did.

I remembered the night I told them Alpha Derrick was interested in me. Hannah confronted Mona about how Mona seemed upset by my good news.

I only thought Hannah was just overreacting, so I stepped in.

I never imagined someone so close to me could betray me over a man. Mona had always been kind and supportive, so I trusted her completely.

She was always on my side against her mother, despite the age difference. Seeing her break my trust tonight was heartbreaking.

"Kimberly, are you just going to stay quiet?" Hannah asked, walking closer to me.

"I don't know what to say," I whispered, looking into her eyes. "I've been rejected by an Alpha. I have to face the consequences."

"Is there really nothing you can do?" Louis asked, his voice full of concern.

"No, there's nothing," I said calmly. "I just have to accept whatever comes my way."

"But you could fight back, Kimberly," Hannah urged, holding my hands tightly. "Tell everyone the truth about Mona."

"Who would believe me now?" I asked. "Everyone thinks Mona is perfect. If I say anything bad about her, they'll just think I'm being bitter."

"I can't believe this is happening to you," Louis said softly, his face full of sympathy. "I wish we could do something."

"I know we can fight this," Hannah insisted. "I'm sure of it."

"It's okay, guys. I'll be fine. I just need time to heal," I said, trying to smile.

Hannah pulled me into a tight hug, tears in her eyes. Louis patted my back gently.

"You two should leave now. We can't be seen together," I told them, still holding Hannah.

"No, Kimberly. I want to stay with you," Hannah said stubbornly.

"You can't, Hannah. If they find out, you'll be in trouble too. Please, just go. I'll be okay."

"I think we should go, Hannah," Louis said, pulling her gently. "Kimberly needs some space for herself."

Hannah reluctantly let go of me, waving until they were out of sight. I was alone in the hall once again.

I wanted to run far away from this place, but I knew that wasn't possible. Alpha Derrick would find me wherever I went.

This city has become a dangerous place for me.

I kept trying to think of a way out, but nothing came to mind. I just had to face my fate and avoid making any rash decisions.

I spotted a bottle of wine on the floor and picked it up. I don't usually drink, so I didn't know what kind it was or how strong it was.

I needed to clear my mind, and this seemed like the easiest way. I left the hall, carrying the bottle with me.

Outside, the pack house was eerily quiet. My engagement had been ruined, and everyone had left. My father's anger scared everyone away.

They all knew how much he loved me, and no one wanted to face his wrath.

Instead of going back inside, I headed to the basement at the back of the pack house. I was the only one who knew it existed.

I had found it when I was looking for a place to hide whenever Luna Catherine scolded me. It was my escape, my secret refuge.

I stopped going there when Mona got older and started following me around. But tonight was different. I was alone again, and I needed that safe space.

I paused as I reached the hidden entrance. I felt like someone was watching me.

"Mind if I join you for a drink?" a smooth voice asked from my behind. The voice sounded like a soft, sweet melody to my ears.

Startled, I turned around to see who it was...

...

Alpha Derrick's POV

I sat on my bed, a smirk of satisfaction on my face. Tonight, I'd made the best decision ever by rejecting Kimberly Fray.

Thanks to Mona's help, Alpha Darwin would struggle to hold onto his position now that his first daughter had been rejected.

With no one to challenge me, I would ensure that I stayed the most feared Alpha in the whole city.

I chuckled softly, feeling proud of all I'd accomplished since becoming the Alpha of the Night Walkers.

My father passed away seven years ago, but his legacy continued through me. He always wanted our pack to be the strongest, and that's exactly what I intended to uphold.

No other pack would ever dominate us. We would remain at the top, and the Night Walkers would continue to instill fear in other packs.

As I reveled in my thoughts, I was interrupted by a knock on the door.

"Sorry to disturb you, my lord. Someone from the neighboring city is here to see you," a voice said timidly.

It was Jackson, one of my most loyal followers. He stood with his head bowed, not daring to look me in the eyes.

"Who is it?" I asked, barely looking up.

"It's Oliver, my lord," Jackson replied.

Oliver was the son of Alpha Kelly from the Lock's Heart Pack. He had pledged his loyalty to me, seeking my help to overthrow his father and claim the Alpha title for himself.

"Tell him I'll be there in a moment," I ordered.

Jackson nodded and left the room. I stood up, straightened my black shirt, and made my way to the pack house's waiting room.

As I entered, Oliver and everyone else in the room bowed their heads in respect. I glanced around before focusing on Oliver.

"How's everything at Lock's Heart?" I asked directly.

"All according to plan, my lord," Oliver said, his voice laced with determination. "After the next full moon, you can attack our pack and kill my father."

"You seem eager," I noted, raising an eyebrow.

"I am. My father is too weak to lead us any longer. It's time for new leadership before someone else takes over," Oliver declared with a bitter edge.

"Good. But remember, I'm only helping you because it benefits me," I reminded him.

"Of course, my lord. I won't forget your generosity," Oliver responded, bowing his head.

"You can go now," I said, dismissing him with a wave.

Oliver quickly turned and left the room. As soon as he was gone, Jackson approached me cautiously.

"My lord, are you sure about helping Oliver? He's willing to kill his own father for power. He could betray you too," Jackson warned.

"Don't worry, Jackson." I smirked. "As soon as Oliver takes the Alpha position, I'll handle him. He won't get the chance to betray me."

Jackson looked relieved but still a bit uneasy. "As you wish, my lord."

"Prepare for the chaos after my engagement in three days," I said with a sinister grin.

"Alright, my Lord."

As I watched Jackson stand up to leave, my mind drifted back to my plans. Everything was falling into place.

The Night Walkers would soon be the most feared pack in the city, and with Alpha Darwin weakened, no one would stand in my way.

I could almost taste the power that lay ahead.

But then, Jackson hesitated, lingering in the doorway, his brows furrowed as if he had more to say. I noticed the tension in his stance and the way his eyes darted around nervously.

"Speak, Jackson. What's on your mind?" I asked, my voice sharp with impatience.

He swallowed hard and stepped closer, lowering his voice. "My lord, there's something else. A rumor."

"A rumor?" I repeated, my curiosity piqued. I leaned forward slightly, indicating he should continue.

Jackson nodded, glancing around to make sure no one else was listening.

"Yes, my lord. There's talk that the Alpha King... the one who vanished ten years ago... he's back."

For a moment, I just stared at him, my mind processing the words. The Alpha King? Back?

The very idea sent a cold chill down my spine, but I kept my expression neutral, refusing to show any weakness.

I couldn't afford to appear shaken in front of Jackson or anyone else.

The Alpha King was not someone to take lightly. He had been the strongest, the most powerful leader before he disappeared. If he truly was back, he could pose a serious threat to everything I'd built.

"Where did you hear this?" I demanded.

"It's just whispers, my lord," Jackson said quickly, sensing my unease.

"Nobody knows where he is, or if it's even true. But the rumor is spreading fast. Some say he's here, in the city, hiding in plain sight."

My jaw tightened as I considered the implications. If the Alpha King was indeed back, he could challenge my authority, possibly even unite the packs against me.

The fragile alliances I'd formed could even crumble in an instant.

Fear flickered in my chest, a cold and unwelcome feeling that I hadn't experienced in years.

I clenched my fists, pushing the fear down. I was Alpha Derrick, leader of the Night Walkers, the most feared Alpha in the city. I couldn't afford to let this shake me.

But, the Alpha King was a legend, a force to be reckoned with. I had no illusions about my own strength; I was ruthless, cunning, but the Alpha King? He was on another level entirely.

If he decided to take back his throne, what would that mean for me? For my pack? I could see it all slipping away, years of work and bloodshed undone by the return of one man.

A man whose mere name could send packs scattering like frightened sheep.

I stood there, staring at the wall, my mind racing with different possibilities. Why return now, after all these years? Was he planning to take back his power, or was this just some ploy?

I turned back to Jackson, masking my inner turmoil with a cold gaze.

"I want you to find him," I ordered, my voice firm despite the turmoil roiling inside me.

"I don't care how many ears you have to pull, or how many shadows you have to scour. Find out where he is before my engagement to Mona."

"Yes, my lord. I'll get on it right away." Jackson nodded, though I could see the unease in his eyes.

As he left, I sat back down on my throne, staring blankly ahead. I couldn't let this distract me, not now. Not with so much at stake.

But the fear remained, clawing at the edges of my resolve.

I clenched my jaw, my mind racing with thoughts of what I would do if the rumors were true.

The Alpha King was the one person I'd never anticipated returning. I had built my empire in the shadow of his absence, and now, with him back, everything felt precariously balanced on the edge of a knife.

"Three days," I muttered to myself, trying to steady my nerves. "I have three days to find him and ensure he stays out of my way."

The engagement to Mona was meant to solidify my position, to bring the Night Walkers and the MoonStone pack closer together, ensuring that no one could challenge me in particular.

But with the Alpha King back in the picture, even that alliance might not be enough.

I couldn't let anyone see the doubt that was now creeping into my mind. Not Jackson, not Mona, not any of my followers.

To them, I was invincible, unshakeable. I needed to keep it that way. The Night Walkers would not bow to anyone, not even the Alpha King.

I clenched my fists until my knuckles turned white.

I would not be dethroned by a ghost from the past. I would find him. I would crush him. And if it came down to it, I would kill the Alpha King myself and take his title!

Three days. That's all I had. Three days to find him and secure my future...

...

Kimberly's POV

As I turned around, I noticed the man standing before me looked strikingly like Brad Pitt in his thirties.

He had a breathtaking look that made him stand out, and his skin looked kissed by the sun, radiating warmth and energy.

His cheekbones were sharp, like mountain peaks, and his gaze, bright and captivating, drew me in like lodestars. They sparkled like two gray gems against fresh snow, mesmerizing me completely.

"Can I help you?" I asked, my eyes glued to his.

He smiled, his expression warm and inviting. "I'm just someone who admires you a lot."

I blinked, taken aback. "You admire me?"

He nodded. "Yes. If you don't mind, I'd like to keep you company tonight."

I hesitated. "Thanks, but… I think I'd prefer to be alone." I didn't want to seem too eager, to give him the impression I was easy to sway.

He chuckled, his white, sharp teeth gleaming. "Your eyes say otherwise."

I froze, caught off guard. Had he seen right through me? I forced a small, nervous smile.

Just as I was about to say something, he suddenly grabbed my wrist, pulling me close against the basement door. His right hand covered my mouth.

"Shh… someone's coming," he whispered.

My heart raced as I breathed in his scent—rich, elegant, intoxicating. I wanted to stay in his arms forever, feeling safe and warm.

After a few tense moments, he released me and stepped back.

"Sorry," he said, returning his hands into his pant pockets. "I didn't mean to startle you. I just didn't want us to get caught."

"It's okay, I get it."

I wanted to say that I wouldn't have minded staying in his arms longer, but instead, I nodded.

He smiled. "So, are we staying out here all night?"

"What do you mean?" I asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Aren't we going inside?" He gestured towards the basement door.

"Oh," I mumbled, quickly opening the door and ushering him inside.

I was doing all that without hesitation and not knowing what was pushing me. But deep down inside, a part of me wanted to be with him.

Once we were in, I locked the door behind us.

He looked around, his eyes wide with wonder. "This place is amazing."

I shrugged, feeling shy. I had decorated the basement myself, but I hadn't thought much of it. It was just a place for me to be alone.

He sat down next to me, close enough that our shoulders brushed.

"Shall we get started?"

I stared at him, confused. "Get started with what?"

He laughed softly, pointing at the wine bottle in my hand. "With the wine, of course."

I relaxed, feeling silly for overthinking.

"Right, the wine." I placed the bottle on the ground, suddenly aware of how my nerves were getting the best of me.

He poured a bit into a single glass. I took the first sip, the wine burning slightly as it went down my throat. He watched me carefully, his eyes filled with concern.

"You okay, Kimberly?" he asked, touching my arm gently.

I waved him off, trying to play it cool. "I'm fine. It's just strong." I paused, then asked, "By the way, how do you know my name?"

He grinned. "I told you... I'm your secret admirer. Of course I know your name."

"But who are you? You don't sound like you're from around here."

"I'm not," he admitted. "I came all the way from another city just to meet you."

"Why?" I blurted out. "Why me?"

"Because I like you." His tone was sincere, almost tender.

I nearly dropped the glass. "You… like me?" I repeated, stunned.

"Yes," he said softly. "I've liked you for a long time."

My heart pounded in my chest. I had never imagined someone so perfect would say something like that to me.

His eyes softened. "I was there when Alpha Derrick rejected you. I saw it all."

The mention of Derrick brought a fresh sting to my heart. I looked away, swallowing the pain.

"I'd rather not talk about it."

He nodded. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to bring it up."

I took a deep breath. "Tonight, I just want to forget everything. I want to have fun."

His smile returned. "I can help with that."

"How?" I challenged, my eyes meeting his.

"By showing you how amazing you are," he whispered, leaning in close.

Before I could react, his lips were on mine, soft and warm. I froze, my mind blank but I didn't push him away.

Maybe it's because of the alcohol...

His kiss was gentle, but it sent a jolt of electricity through me, making me feel alive in a way I hadn't felt in a long time.

He pulled back, his voice low and teasing. "I'm in control tonight. Just trust me, and I'll give to you feelings that you've never had before."

I stared at him, speechless. Part of me wanted to push him away, to say this was all too much, too fast. But another part, the part that was hurt and longing, wanted to surrender to the moment.

Finally I nodded, and he smiled. He took his time, undressing me carefully, as if unwrapping a precious gift.

His hands were soft but firm, exploring my body in ways that made me shiver.

"Don't be afraid," he whispered, his breath hot against my skin. "Just feel."

I closed my eyes, letting go of all the fears and doubts. In that dimly lit basement, with nothing but the soft hum of the city outside, I let myself fall into him.

His touch was both a comfort and a thrill, a mix of tenderness and fire that made my pulse race.

When he finally pulled me close, I felt a sense of freedom, like all the weight of the world had lifted.

For once, I wasn't thinking about tomorrow or what others thought. I was just here, with him, living in the moment.

And for tonight, that was enough...

★★The Next Morning★★

The loud buzz of my alarm clock jolted me awake. I rubbed my eyes and stretched, glancing around the room.

"Where did he go?" I murmured, realizing I was alone.

My heart sank as I scanned the room for any sign of him. But It was just me, an empty wine bottle on the floor, and memories of the night before.

I pushed myself up, feeling the dull ache in my body.

The alcohol still lingered in my system, and I had no idea how many times we had... well, how many times we had done it. But despite everything, I couldn't deny I had enjoyed it.

"You're such an idiot Kim!" I scolded myself, running a hand through my hair. "You didn't even ask for his name." I sighed, embarrassed at my recklessness.

How could I let myself go low with a stranger like that?

I glanced down, realizing I was completely naked. "Oh my gosh!" I yelped, grabbing my dress off the floor and quickly slipping it on.

The alarm clock still blared in the background, reminding me that it was already past five in the morning.

It was early, too early for anyone to be up. If I hurried, I could sneak back into the pack house unnoticed.

I picked up my heels and held them in my hand, deciding to walk barefoot to avoid making any noise.

I took a deep breath and opened the basement door, stepping out cautiously. I glanced around, making sure the coast was clear before tiptoeing towards the main entrance.

My heart raced with every step, hoping no one would see me.

Just as I reached the door, a hand grabbed my wrist from behind. I froze, my heart jumped out of my chest...