I pressed my trembling hand against my chest as tears slipped down my cheeks. My wolf howled in anguish—hurt, humiliation, rage all tangled together. Every word I heard felt like another blade carving into me. The love I had clung to, the loyalty I had protected despite everything, suddenly felt painfully foolish.
I staggered away from the door, each step heavier than the last. My vision blurred, my throat tightening painfully. The truth had finally revealed itself.
All this time, I was never his Luna.
I was a pawn.
A source of wealth.
A convenient alliance.
When I reached my room, I collapsed onto the bed, sobs finally breaking free. My mind replayed every memory we shared—his promises, the warmth in his eyes, the laughter when we talked about our future.
None of it had ever been real.
Brielle’s POV
The morning of my birthday arrived wrapped in sunshine that felt almost mocking. The Stormvale mansion glittered with decorations—gold and blue banners draped from balconies, ribbons tied along railings, and servants rushing back and forth carrying cakes, wrapped gifts, and trays of food. Laughter filled the corridors, loud and lively.
But none of it belonged to me.
Not anymore.
Today had also been declared Liam’s birthday—or rather, Alpha Xavier had decided it would be. My special day had been swallowed whole by the child’s celebration, leaving me reduced to nothing more than another face in the crowd on what used to be mine.
When I stepped into the grand hall, conversations faltered. Heads turned. I felt the weight of their stares, heavy and uncomfortable. Some looked at me with sympathy, others with curiosity, and a few with open judgment. Whispers rippled through the room like quiet waves.
Everyone knew.
The rejected bride.
The Luna-to-be who was never claimed.
The daughter of the wealthy Moonveil Pack who had been used, then cast aside when she was no longer useful.
Even so, I straightened my shoulders and walked forward with quiet dignity. My silver gown shimmered softly beneath the chandeliers, catching the light with every step. I carried myself with the pride of my lineage, refusing to let them see the cracks forming beneath my calm expression.