ALPHA'S ENDLESS REGRET: After The Barren Luna's Leave novel Chapter 5

Alpha Katrina had barely motioned me toward the private alcove when Tiberius burst through the reinforced doors, his alpha energy flooding the room.

He wasn't alone. Behind him waddled Lilith, her swollen belly stretching her maternity dress taut at eight months pregnant.

"Alpha Katrina, we honor your territory," they intoned together.

As they performed the formal greeting, Tiberius protectively steadied Lilith with one hand at her lower back. Only after ensuring she was balanced did he finally acknowledge my presence.

When his eyes locked onto mine, his face transformed into a mask of suspicion.

"What the hell are you doing in Moon Shadow territory, Giselle?"

His lips curled into a cruel smirk. "How predictably vindictive. Acting like you want to break our bond while secretly running to Alpha Katrina to block Lilith's elevation. That's your pathetic strategy?"

"Too bad it won't work."

My heart felt encased in permafrost, so numb I could barely remember what genuine emotion felt like anymore.

Alpha Katrina began to intervene on my behalf, but I subtly shook my head.

If Tiberius had already decided on his version of events, defending myself would only feed his narrative.

Katrina pivoted smoothly. "What business brings you to my territory today, Alpha Tiberius?"

Tiberius shot me a dismissive glance before answering loud enough for everyone in the room to hear.

"In accordance with pack law, I'll be taking Lilith as my equal mate after she delivers our pup. Given her contribution to Silver Crescent's bloodline—three strong offspring and counting—I formally request she receive the Northern Alliance Protected Status with all accompanying privileges."

As we exited the private chambers, Lilith deliberately positioned herself beside me, unable to fully hide the victorious gleam in her eyes.

"Luna Giselle," she began with manufactured deference, "even with Alliance Protection, I recognize your seniority in the pack. After the mating ceremony, I'll still honor your position and experience."

"Save it," I replied, ice coating every word. "I no longer have the standing to warrant such empty courtesies from Silver Crescent's future Protected Luna."

The mate-separation decree from Alpha Katrina was safely concealed inside my jacket.

Who Tiberius chose to mark, whose status he fought to secure—none of it had any claim on me anymore.

I quickened my stride toward my waiting SUV when suddenly a piercing scream shattered the tense silence. Behind me, Lilith crumpled to the ground, her hands clutching her swollen belly.