The Best Anniversary Gift for My Ex-Alpha

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(Asharas POV)

The day I lay on the healers bed inside the pack infirmary, grieving the hollow silence in my womb where my five-month old pup once lived, was the same day I learned my mate, Jareth Warhowl, was bedding his personal aide, who was also the sister of his closest warrior.

I tried to tell myself it was only a nightmare born from grief, until I stood outside the door of his private study in the Alpha mansion and heard the cruel truth slip through the narrow crack.

You said you love me, Luvena whispered harshly. Then why are we still hiding like this? Just reject her already.

I cannot do that yet, Jareth answered, his tone cold and careful. If I cast Ashara aside now, while she is still healing from losing the pup, my grandfather will strip me of my inheritance. I need the Alpha throne first. Once I hold the power of the pack, I will discard her and we can live freely.

In that moment, the she wolf who loved him died together with her unborn pup.

Instead of screaming, I simply made the call that would erase me from his world.

Jareth believed he could discard me whenever it suited him.

What he did not know was that I was preparing the perfect gift for our upcoming mating anniversary.

I would disappear from his life forever.

The day I lay on the healers bed inside the pack infirmary, grieving the empty silence in my womb where my five-month old pup once lived, was the same day I learned my mate, Jareth Warhowl, was sharing a bed with his assistant, who also happened to be his best warriors younger sister.

At first, I believed my mind was playing tricks on me. But when I heard their voices inside his study, the truth became impossible to deny.

You said you loved me, that assistant, Luvena Wildbriar, whispered sharply, her voice low but clear in the quiet hall. You have told me that a thousand times, Jareth. So why not reject her? Why are we still sneaking around like young wolves? What are you waiting for?

My hand froze on the door handle. My breath caught painfully in my throat.

Jareth let out a long sigh and ran his fingers through his dark hair. I once thought that habit was charming. Now it looked calculated.

Dont tell me you actually love her, Luvena pressed as she stepped closer. Do you?

Of course I love my mate, Jareth answered.

Those words should have comforted me. Instead, they struck like a blade. How could he say that while standing so close to another woman?

But I love you more, Luvena, he continued softly. You are the one who makes my blood burn. She is only my responsibility. My family chose her.

Then leave her.

It is not that simple, Jareth said quietly. Especially now. She just lost our pup. She is weak with grief. If I reject her now, the other packs will tear my reputation apart. And my family wants a true heir of the Alpha bloodline.

His voice hardened.

If you became pregnant now, before I ended my bond with her, they would never accept it. My grandfather would strip me of my future. And what about your brother? If he learns I am sleeping with his sister while my mate is still mourning her lost pup, he will challenge me. It would destroy the alliance between our families.

So I must live like this forever? Luvenas voice trembled. Hidden in the shadows? Just your secret?

Of course not, Jareth murmured gently.

I could picture him reaching out, holding her face.

Just be patient. My grandfather is dying. Soon he will name the next Alpha King. Once the title is mine, once I hold the power of the pack, no one will control me. I will reject her, give her compensation, and bring you beside me as my true Luna.

Fine, Luvena said after a moment, her voice softer. But you owe me.

I will make it worth your wait.

Kiss me.

And he did.

Through the narrow crack of the door, I saw my mate lower his head and press his lips against hers. It was not hesitant. It was hungry. Possessive.

It was the kiss of a man who had done this many times before.

I did not burst inside or even scream. Shock pressed down on me like a heavy stone.

Slowly, silently, I stepped backward until my legs touched the edge of the bed in our chamber.

I crawled beneath the blankets, pulled them over my head, and let the silent tears fall.

My pup was gone. My bond was a lie. And the two people I trusted most were downstairs planning how to discard me.

The next morning. the sun rose brightly above the Alpha estate, cruelly mocking the darkness in my heart. I had not slept at all. I spent the whole night staring at the wall while my grief slowly turned into something cold and sharp.

I needed to see them again. I needed to know if the monster from last night was truly the man I had once loved.

Soon I washed my face with cold water and forced the swelling around my eyes to fade. Then I walked downstairs. The smell of roasted meat and strong coffee filled the kitchen hall.

When I stepped inside, I stopped.

They were already there.

Jareth leaned against the stone counter while Luvena stood between his legs. His hands rested on her waist. Her arms circled his shoulders.

Their faces were so close their lips brushed softly together.

My stomach twisted. I cleared my throat.

They jumped apart as if burned by silver.

Luvena stepped back so quickly she almost knocked over a bowl of fruit. Jareth turned around, his eyes wide.

Shara, Jareth said quickly. He straightened his clothes. You are awake.

What happen here? I asked quietly.

For a moment, neither of them spoke. Then Luvena let out a nervous laugh and touched the thin golden chain around her neck.

Oh, good morning, Luna Ashara, she said awkwardly. I was just asking Alpha Jareth for help. My necklace clasp got stuck. You know how troublesome these things can be.

I looked at the necklace.

It was simple. The clasp rested clearly behind her neck, yet she had been facing him.

Right, Jareth said quickly, recovering his calm expression. He wore his usual mask again, the gentle and caring Alpha mate. It was frightening how easily he could switch.

The clasp was stuck, he explained. But forget about that. How are you feeling? Should you even be out of bed? The healer said you need rest.

He walked toward me and reached for my arm, but I stepped back.

Seeing my reaction, he paused. I could see a disappointed gaze flashed in his eyes for a second before it vanished.

Shara, whats wrong? he then asked.

Nothing, I am just tired, I answered.

Of course you are, he replied softly. Come sit down. I made breakfast for you. You must regain your strength. For the better future of my Luna.

Then he pulled out a chair.

Meanwhile, Luvena pretended to arrange scrolls on the counter, refusing to meet my gaze.

I am not hungry, I said.

But you must eat, Jareth insisted. He lifted a fork filled with eggs and held it toward me like I was a pup.

Just one bite, okay? At least, please do it for me. I know you are grieving for the pup, but we can have another after you recover later. We still have plenty of time.

We can have another, he said?

Hearing that made my blood burn.

I looked at the fork. Then I looked at Luvena. She was watching us with quiet satisfaction shining in her eyes.

I told you I am full, I said coldly. You should eat it yourself, Jareth.

I turned and walked out of the kitchen.

Shara, he called behind me, his voice sharp with warning. But I did not stop. I just went straight to the study.

The only room in the mansion protected by strong signal wards. I locked the door.

My hands trembled as I took out my crystal communicator and dialed a number I had not called since the day of my mating ceremony.

The call rang twice.

Ashara? a deep voice answered. This is surprising enough. It has been many years, right?

Uncle Marcellus, I said calmly. The tears were gone now. Do you still remember your offer? The one about managing the overseas pack branch in Silverhowl City?

There was a pause for a moment before then I continued, Please begin the transfer. Then arrange the documents and a sky journey for me. I am leaving the pack as soon as possible.

I decided to go to the packs business tower.

Aside from being Jareths mate, I was also an architect who helped design many of the packs territories. I told myself I only wanted to deliver the revised plans for the seaside pack settlement.

But deep inside, another instinct pushed me forward.

I needed to see him in his own domain. I needed to know if the corruption I discovered in my home had also poisoned the empire we built together.

I walked through the tall crystal doors of the tower, holding the rolled architectural scrolls like a shield.

Usually, when I arrived, the wolves in the building greeted me warmly. Smiles and respectful nods followed me through the lobby.

But today, everything changed the moment my heels touched the marble floor.

The receptionist, a young she wolf named Celene who normally praised my dresses, froze while typing. Her eyes widened and quickly moved from me to the private elevators and back again.

Luna Warhowl, she said nervously, rising halfway from her seat. We did not expect you today.

I came to see Jareth, I replied, forcing a gentle smile that felt stiff on my face. Is he in his office?

Alpha is in a meeting, she said quickly.

The lie was obvious. She was terrible at hiding it. Her eyes kept flicking toward the communication crystal on her desk, as if she wanted to warn him.

Its alright, I said as I walked past her before she could stop me. I have a key to the floor. I will wait.

I stepped into the executive elevator and rose to the top level of the tower.

The Alpha suite was quiet. Thick carpets swallowed the sound of my steps. At the end of the corridor stood the heavy double doors leading to Jareths office.

I raised my hand to knock. Then I heard it.

At first the sound was faint behind the wooden doors. But it was clear enough.

A deep groan. Then a soft laugh.

My hand froze in the air.

Lower your voice, Jareth whispered inside, his tone tight with breath. Someone might hear.

Let them, Luvena answered smoothly. A heavy object thudded against the desk. I am tired of hiding, Jareth. You are the Alpha of this council. You can do whatever you want.

Not yet. Just wait a little longer. Now turn around.

The sounds that followed made my chest tighten. Soft gasps. Movement against the desk. Their breaths mixing together. Each sound cut deeper than any blade.

I could not breathe. The hallway spun around me.

I wanted to burst through the door. I wanted to scream until the entire tower shook. But humiliation weighed on me like chains.

If I walked in now, I would not just be the betrayed mate. I would become the mad woman who caused a scene.

Slowly I stepped backward. My legs felt weak but I forced myself to move.

Instead of going to the elevator, I walked down the hall toward the womens restroom. Inside, I pushed open the largest stall and locked the door behind me.

I leaned my forehead against the cold metal wall and tried to breathe. My hands shook violently.

A minute later, the restroom door opened. The sharp sound of heels clicked across the floor.

Did you see her? one woman whispered.

I did, another answered. Its Luna Warhowl. She walked past my desk earlier. She looked completely unaware.

This is so awkward, Shaelyn said. I heard the water running in the sink. Do you think she knows? About Luvena?

How could she not know? Luvena sits almost on his lap during meetings. She walks through this office like she owns the whole tower. Tight skirts. Laughing at every word he says.

Poor Luna, Shaelyn sighed. The pity in her voice hurt more than anger. She just lost her pup, right? And now her mate is sleeping with his secretary during work hours.

Males are terrible, the second woman said. But honestly Luna Ashara seems kind of weak, doesnt she? Everyone in this building knows, even the interns and the guards. If it were me, I would have destroyed this place already. But she just smiles and brings him lunch.

Maybe shes just pretending not to see it. Or maybe she only cares about the money.

Should we warn Alpha Jareth? Shaelyn asked quietly. His Luna might walk in on them.

Hell no! the other woman whispered sharply. Are you crazy? We would lose our jobs. Alpha Jareth would blame us for letting her come upstairs. Lets just wait. Luna Ashara seems too soft anyway. She passed the office earlier and did nothing. She probably heard them and ran away.

Then they laughed. The sound echoed against the tiled walls like sharp claws.

Soon the restroom door closed and silence returned.

While I sat there, staring at the floor.

They said I was weak and unaware while everyone actually had known the truth

The shame burned through my body stronger than grief.

I was not only a victim. I was entertainment. My entire life had become gossip for the wolves who worked for me. They laughed about my tragedy. They waited to see when I would finally break.

Slowly I stood up, wiping my tears with a rough paper towel then walked to the mirror.

My eyes were red but no tears remained.

The woman staring back at me did not look weak anymore. She looked dangerous.

I did not return to Jareths office. I did not scream. I just walked out of the restroom with my back straight and my head high.

When I passed the reception desk, Celene looked at me with panic.

Tell Jareth I came by, I said calmly. My voice carried no emotion. Tell him I left the plans. And tell him to enjoy his meeting.

Then I left the tower and stepped into the bright afternoon sun.

I called for a carriage and gave the driver an address I had searched weeks ago, back when I believed my worries were only suspicion.

The law firm stood inside another tall crystal tower across the city.

Soon I was guided into the office of Rayan Rageclaw, a lawyer famous for destroying mating contracts and wealth agreements.

He looked up from his desk in surprise when he saw me without an appointment.

Luna Warhowl, he said as he stood. This is unexpected. Is everything alright?

I sat in the chair across from him, then placing my hands on the desk. They were steady now.

I want to end my mating bond with my mate, I said quietly.

The words tasted like freedom.

I dont care about his wealth or his lands. File the unbinding decree immediately. I want everything finished within three days.

The carriage ride back to the Alpha estate blurred past in a stream of city lights and restless thoughts. My crystal communicator lay on the seat beside me, vibrating again and again during the last twenty minutes.

Jareth: [Where are you?]

Jareth: [Celene said you came to the tower. Why did you not come to my office?]

Jareth: [Shara, answer me. You make me worried.]

Jareth: [Are you safe? Call me.]

I watched the messages pile up on the screen. Each one revealed his fear.

He was not worried about me. He was just afraid of being exposed.

He feared that I had stood outside his office door and heard everything. He was already calculating the damage, wondering if the careful life he built was about to fall apart.

I did not answer. Instead, I pressed the power button and watched the screen turn dark.

I leaned my head back against the seat and closed my eyes. I needed to think.

The pack lawyer had already begun the process, but for now I still had to act like the loving and clueless mate.

I needed him to feel safe. Only then would my final move destroy him completely.

When the carriage reached the estate, I noticed Jareths carriage parked carelessly near the entrance, as if he had returned in a hurry.

Luvenas carriage was there too, parked quietly on the side.

Of course she was here. Like a parasite that refused to leave.

I paid the driver and walked up the stone steps. The front door was unlocked.

As soon as I stepped inside, voices drifted from the living room.

They were arguing. Their voices were low but tense.

So what? Luvena said sharply. If she heard us, she would have burst into the office. She would have screamed. You know how emotional she is. She would never just walk away.

You cannot be sure, Jareth answered nervously. She has been acting strange since the pup died. Shes quiet and distant. What if she is planning something?

You are just overthinking, Jareth, Luvena replied with a scoff. Maybe she only dropped off the plans and left, or maybe she heard nothing at all. Why so panicked?

And what if she did hear? Jareths voice rose with stress. What if she demands a separation? Do you understand what happens then? The alliance with the northern packs depends on my stable mate bond. My grandfather will disown me if a scandal breaks now. I will lose everything.

So your wealth matters more than us?

I care about our future, he snapped. And our future requires power and money.

I took a slow breath and forced a confused smile onto my face before walking into the room.

Hey, why so noisy here? Whats happening? I asked lightly.

Both of them jumped.

Jareth turned around quickly. His face looked pale and sweat covered his forehead. While Luvena looked furious, her arms folded tightly across her chest.

Shara, Jareth said as he rushed toward me. His expression held panic and relief at the same time. Shara, thank the Moon Goddess. I thought something had happened to you.

He grabbed my hands. His palms were damp.

I have been calling you for an hour. Why was your crystal communicator off? Where did you go?

I blinked at him with innocent surprise.

My communicator? I said softly. It must have run out of energy. I forgot to charge it last night. I am sorry. Did I make you worry?

Worry? he said. I was losing my mind.

His eyes searched my face carefully, looking for anger or suspicion.

Celene told me you came to the tower. Why did you not come to my office? I was in a meeting but I would have ended it for you.

I did not want to interrupt, I replied calmly. Celene looked very stressed and she said you were busy. I only came to leave the blueprints.

But where did you go after that? he asked, narrowing his eyes slightly. You were gone for hours.

I paused.

I allowed the silence to stretch just long enough for his heart to race.

Oh, something important came up, I said casually. I went to visit a lawyer for unbinding decree.

The room fell completely silent.

Jareth looked like someone had punched him in the stomach.

What did you say? he whispered weakly. Unbinding decree? Shara, what do you mean? Are you leaving me?

I watched him carefully. The fear in his eyes was not fear of losing me. It was fear of losing his inheritance.

Then I suddenly laughed.

Oh, look at your expression, I said, playfully tapping his arm. Do you want a severance, Jareth? Is that what you are thinking?

He blinked in confusion.

What? No! Of course not. Shara, you are joking, right?

Of course I am joking, I said as I stepped closer and wrapped my arms around his neck.

His body relaxed with relief.

Why would I leave my wonderful mate? You are the best thing that ever happened to me.

Then I kissed him. It was a perfect performance. My lips moved against his while my eyes looked directly at Luvena over his shoulder.

Her face burned with pure anger. Her hands were clenched so tightly her knuckles turned white.

I pulled away and smiled sweetly at Jareth.

I visited the lawyer to update my will, I explained. After the accident with the pup it made me think about protecting our future.

Oh, Jareth breathed out as a nervous laugh escaped him. A will. That makes sense. Shara, please dont scare me like that again. You nearly stopped my heart.

I would only leave you if you betrayed me, I said quietly. Like what happened to Freya. Did you hear about her mate? He was sleeping with his assistant. Imagine destroying a bond for such a cheap affair. Disgusting!

Jareth stiffened slightly.

Yes, he said awkwardly. Disgusting. I would never do that to you, Shara. I swear.

I know, I replied gently. You are a good mate.

I turned my head slightly and met Luvenas burning gaze.

Well, I said while sliding my hand down Jareths chest. If you love me that much, why dont you prove it? Kiss me again.

Hmm but we are not alone here, Shara, Jareth murmured, though he did not move away.

Why not? Luvena will not mind, I said sweetly. Besides, shes also like a family for us. Right, Luvena?

Luvena said nothing. She looked like she might explode.

I pulled Jareth down and kissed him again, longer this time, making sure she saw everything.

My hands moved over him, claiming what she believed she had taken.

Lets go upstairs, I whispered loudly enough for her to hear. I want to be close to you tonight.

Jareth hesitated and glanced toward Luvena, but he had no escape.

Alright, he said finally. Alright, my Luna.

I pulled away and gently tapped his cheek.

I will take a shower first, I said. The city dust makes me feel dirty. Stay here and finish whatever you were discussing with her.

I gestured lightly toward Luvena.

And Luvena, I added with a bright poisonous smile. Thank you for keeping my mate company while I was gone. You know the way out.

Without waiting for her answer, I turned and walked toward the staircase, moving slowly. Halfway up the stairs I looked back.

Luvena was staring at Jareth with fury and humiliation.

Jareth rubbed his temples like a man trapped in deep water.

I entered our bedroom and closed the door. The smile disappeared instantly.

I rushed into the bathroom and rubbed my lips harshly with the back of my hand until they stung. Then I turned on the shower to cover any sound.

I sat on the edge of the bathtub while my heart pounded.

My crystal communicator vibrated on the counter. I picked it up. A message from Uncle Marcellus.

Uncle Marcellus: [Everything is ready. The private jet is prepared. Your transfer has been approved. You may leave whenever you wish.]

I stared at the screen.

Soon, I whispered softly to the empty room.

Just one more performance.

I stood before the tall mirror in my room, smoothing the soft silk of my emerald green gown. The dress had an open back and a graceful cut. It was elegant and costly.

Tonight was my armor.

Jareth had reserved a private dinner cruise across the harbor.

This was his way of strengthening the illusion. He wanted to prove to himself and to everyone watching that we were still the perfect bonded pair. The devoted Alpha and his Luna. Exactly what his grandfather expected to see.

I walked downstairs.

Jareth was already waiting in the entrance hall, glancing down at his watch. He looked handsome in his black suit, every inch the loyal mate.

You look stunning, he said as he lifted his head.

That admiration in his eyes was genuine.

But that only made it sad. He loved the beautiful Luna at his side, not the woman inside.

Thank you, I said as I stepped down the last stair. Shall we leave?

The carriage is ready.

He offered his arm and I placed my hand on it.

Just as we reached the door, the sharp sound of heels echoed through the hallway. We both turned.

Luvena stood there.

Her dress was barely worthy of the name. It was a shining silver slip that barely reached her thighs. The neckline fell dangerously low. Her makeup was dark and smoky, and her lips were painted a deep crimson.

Jareth stiffened beside me. His grip on my arm tightened.

Where are you going? he asked sharply.

Luvena smiled lazily as she adjusted the strap of her purse.

Out. It is Friday night. I am heading to a club.

Dressed like that? Jareth said harshly as he stepped away from me. You are practically naked. Go upstairs and change.

Luvena rolled her eyes.

Why should I? You are not my boyfriend.

Her words hung in the air with a hidden meaning.

I am still your boss, Jareth replied firmly. And I am your brothers closest friend. He asked me to look after you while you stayed here. What if something happens to you dressed like that? What message are you sending?

I can take care of myself, Luvena shot back. Nothing will happen. I am just going to have fun. Maybe I will meet a man. Someone who actually has time for me.

She shot Jareth a pointed look filled with poison.

I watched them quietly.

This was not protective concern, but jealousy. Pure jealousy.

He could not bear the thought of another man touching what he believed belonged to him.

You are not leaving dressed like that, Jareth growled.

Watch me.

Luvena turned toward the door.

Stop.

Jareth rushed forward and grabbed her arm. His expression looked desperate.

He glanced at me, then back at her, his mind racing for a solution that would keep both of us satisfied.

Come with us, he suddenly said.

I blinked.

Excuse me?

Jareth turned to me, forcing a strained smile.

Let her join us on the cruise, Shara.

No, I answered calmly. Why would she come? This is our evening. A romantic dinner.

Come on, honey, Jareth said anxiously. You know how she is. Shes still young. If she goes alone to a club she might get into trouble. Her brother would blame me if something happened. It is safer if she stays with us.

Shes an adult, I replied, folding my arms. She can make her own choices. I do not want a third person on our date.

Its fine, Luvena said as she pulled her arm away. Her voice sounded full of false hurt. She clearly does not want me there. I understand. I will just go find entertainment somewhere else.

She turned again toward the door.

Enough, Shara, Jareth snapped suddenly. His calm mask completely vanished. His eyes burned with frustration. Why are you being so difficult? Its only dinner. Why can you not be more understanding?

I looked at him quietly. The nerve of it was unbelievable.

Why are you angry? I asked calmly. You are shouting at your mate simply because she wants to have dinner alone with you. Is that unreasonable?

I stepped closer to him.

Choose, Jareth, I said softly. Between me and her. Do you want an evening with your mate or do you want to take care of your assistant?

Jareth looked from one of us to the other.

Luvena waited with a smug smile.

I stood firm.

He knew choosing her would destroy his carefully built image.

His jaw tightened.

Fine, he said stiffly. I choose you. I always choose you, Shara.

Then he looked at Luvena. Stay home.

Whatever, Luvena said with a cold laugh.

She turned and stormed up the stairs.

***

The cruise should have been beautiful.

The lights of the city sparkled across the dark water. The food was perfect. A violinist played gentle music nearby.

But Jareth was not truly there.

His body sat across from me at the table, but his mind was somewhere else. He barely touched his drink. His leg bounced nervously under the table.

Every few minutes he checked his crystal communicator, hiding the screen beneath the table.

Is there something wrong? I asked while cutting my steak.

What? No. Everything is fine, he muttered. Just work messages.

I knew exactly who he was talking to.

He was messaging Luvena. Tracking where she went. Begging her to behave. Probably promising her anything she wanted.

Suddenly, his crystal communicator buzzed loudly on the table.

He grabbed it immediately. In seconds, all color vanished from his face.

He stood so quickly that his chair scraped loudly against the floor.

I need to leave, he said.

What? I set down my fork. Jareth, we have not even had dessert. What happened?

Luvena, he said quickly. Panic filled his voice. She went out anyway. She is at a bar in the city. She says some men are bothering her. Shes scared.

Just call the pack guards, I said calmly as I sipped my wine.

No. I must go myself. Shes terrified.

He was already moving, pulling on his jacket with shaking hands.

I am sorry, Shara. I will make it up to you. I promise. Just finish dinner. The driver will take you home.

He did not wait for my reply. He did not even kiss me goodbye.

He simply turned and rushed off the ship, desperate to rescue his mistress, leaving his Luna alone in the middle of the ocean.

I watched him disappear. But I did not cry at all.

I felt nothing.

Slowly I finished my wine, enjoying the deep flavor. Then I raised my hand to call the waiter.

The bill please, I said calmly. And pack the dessert for me.

***

When I returned home later, the estate was empty.

They were probably together somewhere. He would be comforting her while she celebrated her victory.

But it did not matter. In two days, I would be gone. And he would receive the greatest anniversary gift of all.

The night before our anniversary, I finished packing the last of my important belongings.

Just as I closed my suitcase, I heard voices. They came from the guest room down the hallway.

Luvenas room.

They must have believed I was already asleep.

I stepped quietly into the hallway. My crystal communicator was already in my hand with the camera open.

The door to her room was slightly open. A thin line of light stretched across the floor. I did not need to see them to understand what was happening.

The sounds were obvious. Two people moving together with desperate hunger.

Then the noises suddenly stopped. Luvenas voice cut through the air sharply.

I hate this, she snapped. I saw the box, Jareth. The necklace you bought for her. Real diamonds. Vintage design. You told me you were buying her something cheap.

Lower your voice, Luvena, Jareth whispered quickly. She might wake up.

He sounded breathless.

Its only for show, he continued. Tomorrow is the pack alliance ceremony and our anniversary. The press will be there. I need to look like a loving Alpha mate. If I give her something cheap, the reporters will tear us apart.

But I want that necklace! Luvena complained. You promised me diamonds.

I will buy you ten necklaces, Jareth said. Better ones. After everything is finished. Once the old Alpha signs the succession documents.

I held my crystal communicator steady and pointed the camera through the narrow opening of the door.

I could see them clearly. Jareth sat at the edge of the bed with his shirt off. While Luvena knelt close to him, clutching the sheets.

I am tired of waiting, Luvena said. Her voice trembled with anger and desire. I am tired of being hidden. I want something that binds you to me. Something she cannot take.

She lifted her face to him. Her eyes looked wild.

Give me a pup, she demanded. Right now. Make me pregnant.

Jareth paused for a moment.

Luvena, we already talked about this. The timing is not right.

Prove it, she hissed. Show me you love me more than her. Give me your pup, Jareth. Make me the mother of your heir.

Jareth groaned softly. His resistance collapsed under her touch.

Alright, he said quietly. Alright. Anything you want.

Then he pulled her onto the bed.

I did not look away. I also did not feel sick. Instead, I felt calm. Cold and satisfied.

I pressed the record button and captured everything. Every word. Every promise. Every betrayal.

I let the recording continue for a full minute so their voices were clear and their faces easy to recognize. Then I stopped. I saved the file to my cloud storage. Then into a protected folder. After that, I sent a copy to my lawyer.

***

The following evening, the Grand Ballroom overflowed with nobles, Alphas, and powerful pack leaders. The hall shimmered with elegant suits and expensive gowns. It was the most important social gathering of the season.

I wore the necklace. The diamonds rested heavily against my throat like a chain I was ready to break.

Jareth stood beside me with his hand resting possessively on my back. He performed perfectly. He smiled for the flashing cameras, laughed at the correct moments, and leaned close to whisper sweet words that meant nothing.

You look beautiful tonight, Shara, he said as photographers surrounded us.

Happy Mating Anniversary, I replied with a bright smile.

Then we moved through the crowd while people offered congratulations.

Luvena was there too. Of course she was.

She wore a bright red dress that clashed with the elegant decorations. She stood near the tall tower of champagne glasses, watching us with sharp eyes like a hunting wolf.

Soon the music softened. A spotlight lit the stage.

Jareths grandfather slowly stepped toward the microcrystal communicator.

The Alpha King looked weak, but his eyes remained sharp.

Tonight, he said slowly, his voice echoing across the silent hall, we celebrate more than a new alliance. We celebrate a legacy.

A legacy of family. Stability. Loyalty.

He raised his glass toward us.

To my grandson, Jareth Warhowl, and his wonderful Luna, Ashara Bloodwyn. Because of her strength and loyalty, I feel confident giving my empire to the next generation. A man who cannot protect his home cannot rule a pack. But Jareth has chosen wisely.

The hall erupted in applause. Jareth squeezed my waist proudly. He believed he had won. He believed the Alpha throne already belonged to him.

I love you, he whispered.

I know, I replied quietly.

The celebration continued. Guests surrounded us.

For another twenty minutes I played the perfect Luna. Then I felt Jareths hand slip away from my back.

I need to use the restroom, he muttered as his crystal communicator vibrated in his pocket.

I watched him walk away. He did not go toward the restroom. He walked toward the service elevators.

I glanced toward the bar. Luvena was gone.

They could not stop themselves. Even on the most important night of his life, while his grandfather watched, they still needed their secret moment.

They probably believed they were untouchable.

Perfect.

I did not hesitate.

I did not say goodbye to anyone.

I simply turned and walked toward the main exit. I crossed the lobby, passed the guards, and stepped into the cool night where a black car waited.

To the skyport, I told the driver. Please hurry.

Later I stood at the boarding gate with my ticket in my hand.

My communicator suddenly vibrated. I looked down.

Jareth.

He must have returned to the ballroom and searched for his perfect Luna to stand beside him for the final toast.

But I was gone.

I let the communicator ring. Then it stopped. Then it rang again.

Messages quickly followed.

Jareth: [Shara, where are you?]

Jareth: [People are asking about you. Grandpa wants to see you.]

Jareth: [Stop joking. This is not funny. Come back to the ballroom.]

Jareth: [Shara, answer me.]

I could almost feel his panic.

Instead of answering, I typed a single message.

To: Jareth

[I am tired, so I went home early. Please come back, too. Your anniversary gift is waiting in our room. Happy Mating Anniversary, Jareth.]

I sent the message. Then I blocked his number.

I placed the communicator inside my bag, picked up my luggage, and walked down the boarding bridge.

I never looked back.