The crowd erupted with cheers but I remained silent, my eyes still fixed on Amara. The witch stood quietly; her posture humble but I could practically see the calculating gleam in her eyes.
“But our victory came at a cost,” Rowan continued, his tone growing sombre. “In the strongholds of the rogue, we discovered dark, ancient magic that threatened not just our pack but all werewolves".
Murmurs of concern passed through the crowd but I turned to Rowan, surprised. This was new – in my previous life, he had never mentioned any magical threat.
“Fortunately,” he said gesturing to Amara, whose hands he took and drew her close to him “We found an ally. This is Amara she’s a healer of great power and knowledge. She risked her life to help us destroy that evil magic and now, she needs a place to lay her head and fire to keep her warm at night".
Amara stepped forward, her eyes downcast in a perfect picture of humility.
“Alpha Blackthorn and his soldiers saved my life,” her voice shook as she spoke “I only wish to repay the debt by offering my services to this pack. I hope you all can accept me as one of your own".
I watched as everyone nodded in approval already swayed by Amara’s performance. But I could see through her act.
As Rowan turned to me, a pleading look in his eyes, I knew this was the moment that had sealed my fate before. In my previous life, I had been blinded by her beauty and feared that she could seduce Rowan and steal his love. I had lashed out and refused.
The crowd had booed at me and the pack elders and officials had thought I was insensitive and ungrateful. That was when the strong dislike for me started.
This time would be different.
I stepped forward, a serene smile on my face.
“On behalf of Silverfang Pack, I welcome you, Amara. Your bravery and your skills will be a great asset to us all and I promise to make sure you’re paid back in ten folds everything you’ve done for us and everything you will do".
It was a threat and she knew it because her smile faltered, confusion flickered through her features but before she could react, I had already turned away, instructing the servants.
This was just the beginning. I would do everything in my power to save my pack, my mate and my unborn pups.
And when the time came, Amara would pay for everything she had done – in blood.
Freya POV
The great hall buzzed with excitement as the people partied.