Crippled Luna's Farewell Half A Life Without My Alpha's Deadly Deception novel Chapter 4

Chapter 4 

I excused myself to the restroom, but overheard the orphanage staff gossiping near the door. 

“Why is Alpha Sterling pretending his own pup is an orphan? Look at those clothes–pure moonsilk. No orphaned pup would have such finery.” 

“Hush! This is his plan to bring the pup into the Sterling Pack legitimately. Watch your tongue around Luna Sarah–one slip and you’ll answer to the Alpha.” 

“Everyone knows Alexandra is his true mate. They were inseparable at the Mooncliff Academy during their training years. Now they’re alone in that office…” 

Their knowing laughter pierced my chest like wolfsbane. 

I wheeled my chair toward the office, catching familiar voices inside. 

“Is he keeping his distance?” Ethan asked softly. 

“He spends most of his time patrolling the outer territories. Makes everything… simpler. He has no idea about Rose. Still talks about starting a family of our own.” 

Ethan’s smile didn’t reach his eyes. “Once Rose joins the Sterling Pack, you won’t need to worry. If you need anything, reach through the pack bond.” 

“Here–an ancestral pack talisman. For your mate–bond celebration.” 

Alexandra accepted the box with a playful glint. “Another sacred gift? You’ve blessed me with so many ceremonial tokens this year my den overflows with pack magic. Sarah would shatter if she knew.” 

Yet she took the talisman without hesitation. Rose bounced beside her, calling her “Mama” repeatedly. 

The Orphanage Elder rushed to process paperwork, pushing open the door where I sat. 

Fear flashed across Ethan’s face. “Sarah–I can explain. Alexandra volunteers here. She’s just helping with Rose’s adoption papers…” 

Alexandra stood, holding Rose. “Sarah, it’s been too long.” 

From my wheelchair, I forced a smile, masking my pain. “Please, don’t stop on my account. I was 

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Crippled Luna’s Farewell Half A Life Without My AlpDe 

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Chapter 4 

just exploring the grounds. I’ll wait by the hunting grounds,”