Breaking the Mate Bond: She Vanished After the Alpha’s Rejection

I want to dissolve our mating bond. Please handle the bond severance, Valea said to Zorven Oacklaw, the most respected bond-breaker in the territory, as she sat before him.

The old wolf stared at her in shock, as if he could not believe the she-wolf before him was Valea Valloren, the Luna of the Valloren Pack, who now wished to leave Renwick Valloren, the Alpha King and ruler of the Silverkeep Territory.

They had been bound as mates for fifteen winters, and every pack believed they were the perfect pair.

Each year, their mating ceremony was celebrated across many territories. Yet now, Luna Valloren asked for separation with a calm face, without even a trace of emotion.

"Luna Valloren, to break a mating bond, you must give a reason and proof," Zorven said carefully.

"I already prepared everything," Valea answered quietly as she handed him the evidence.

For five winters, she had gathered crystal records and memory orbs sent by Davinia Faerwyn. They showed Renwick leaving the pack lands under the name of Alpha duties, only to meet Davinia in secret. There were even records of them sharing the same bedchamber. And the last memory showed Renwick staying with Davinia, while Valea herself was captured by a rogue wolf and stabbed through the chest.

Zorven was silent as he watched the memory of Valea bleeding and healing herself alone. This evidence would be sent to Renwick once the bond was officially broken.

"I understand. I will begin the process," he said.

"Please finish it quickly," Valea replied with a faint smile as she touched the still-wet wound near her chest.

A week ago, on the night before their fifteenth mating anniversary, Renwick had prepared a grand celebration in the central Alpha hall, making Valea the focus of the entire territory.

But like every year, Renwick didnt appear.

That night, he was in Davinias territory, staying beside her because she had a small fever. He ignored every call, even when an enemy wolf held Valea hostage.

The rogue lost patience and drove a blade into her chest, trying to kill her.

Luckily, Valea was born different. Her heart was on the right side, a rare trait among wolves. It saved her life. As the daughter of a powerful Alpha bloodline, she knew how to survive and treated her wound by herself.

While she pressed her bleeding chest, Renwick finally answered.

"Valea, please forgive me. I missed your call. Davinia is sick and in pain. I cannot leave her. I need to take her to the healers den."

At that moment, Valea understood everything.

In fifteen winters, Renwick had never truly loved her.

Their union was arranged to bind the Frosthall Pack and Valloren Pack, two of the strongest Alpha bloodlines. Even without love, they respected each other. Renwick gave her attention and the whole world believed they were deeply in love.

But it was all a performance.

Everything he did was only to show the Frosthall Pack that their daughter was treated well.

Valea finally woke from her illusion. Loving Renwick had drained her soul.

Now, she only wanted freedom.

"Luna Valloren, the papers are ready. You only need Alpha Vallorens mark," Zorven said, placing the documents before her.

"I understand. I will get his mark," Valea replied calmly.

She left and returned to the Alpha villa.

When she arrived, she saw pack servants carrying furniture inside.

In the main hall, Davinia sat beside Renwick, pointing at her belongings.

"These are made by my late mother. I cannot leave them. I cannot rest without them."

Renwick leaned back, his arm resting behind her shoulders, gently stroking her hair.

"Bring everything here. This will be your home now."

"Thank you, Renwick. You have always cared for me," Davinia said sweetly as she wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed his cheek.

Renwick smiled and touched her head softly.

Valea cleared her throat.

They quickly pulled away, as if caught doing something wrong.

"Valea, youre back. I waited for you. I am sorry for moving in without asking. Youre not angry, are you?" Davinia asked softly, acting nervous.

"Valea, let her stay," Renwick said. "Her den had a gas leak. Shes afraid to live alone. We should protect her. Shes still family and shes Arions birth mother."

"Its fine, right? If you dislike it, I can leave," Davinia added, her eyes turning red.

"You already moved everything here. Why ask me now? It sounds like I am chasing you out," Valea replied with a faint smile.

Davinia lowered her head and looked at Renwick, as if she had been wronged.

"Renwick, I didnt mean it like that. I am sorry if Luna Valea misunderstood me."

Renwick frowned at Valea. "Dont frighten her. She meant no harm."

"Its fine. I was joking. She can stay as long as she wants," Valea said lightly.

"Renwick, I need to discuss something. I need your mark to transfer the territory you gifted me," she said, placing the papers in front of them.

She sat across from them, while they remained side by side. It felt like she didnt belong in her own home.

"Its already yours. No need to change it," Renwick said as he reached for the papers.

Valea pulled them back slightly.

"I just need your mark so I can feel at ease."

Davinia laughed softly. "Valea, do you think Renwick would lie? Dont worry. He gifted me a private territory in Darkpine for my birthday. I can show you the proof if you want."

"A territory in Darkpine?" Valea smiled, but her chest ached more than her wound.

That territory was meant for her.

Now she understood. Renwick had given it to Davinia instead.

"Is there a problem?" Davinia asked gently.

"No," Renwick said, avoiding Valeas eyes as he signed the last page.

Valea watched his hand as he marked the papers.

Fifteen winters ended in a moment.

She had known him since childhood. Promised at five, engaged at ten, mated at eighteen. Yet all those winters meant nothing compared to Davinias return.

Davinia was once his brothers mate. And now, Renwick even chose her pup, Arion, as the future Alpha.

"Is that all?" Renwick asked without looking.

"Father! Mother!"

A small boy ran in and jumped into their arms.

Valea watched Arion quietly.

She had raised him, but he never called her mother. He called Renwick father and Davinia mother.

To Valea, he only spoke her name. And the worse, Renwick never corrected him.

"Davinia gave birth to him. He must remember her," he always said.

Now she knew. Arion was proof that Renwick loved another.

"Father, Mother, lets go watch a show!"

"Alright, lets go before dinner," Renwick said, holding his hand.

"Mother, hurry. I want to watch Spiderman," Arion said excitedly.

"Yes, my dear," Davinia smiled.

As they left, Valea followed a few steps.

Arion pushed her away.

"Why are you coming? I dont want you there."

"I am not going. I am returning to my room," she said calmly.

Behind her, Davinia asked softly, "Is she upset because we didnt invite her?"

"Its fine. She never liked those shows. They give her headaches," Renwick replied.

Valea clenched her fists.

She loved going to the cinema. But every time she asked, he only reserved the place and left her alone.

After many lonely nights, she stopped asking.

He had power, but never gave her time. Yet for Davinia, he would cross the world.

But none of that mattered now. Soon, everything would end. Her bond would be broken. She would be free.

At that moment, Davinia sent a memory clip of them laughing together like a family. Valea saved it. Then she sent the signed bond-breaking papers to Zorven.

"Zorven, I have sent everything. I will pay any price to speed this process."

"Alright, Luna Valloren. I will inform you once the bond is officially broken. It will take about one moon cycle."

"Understood. Thank you, Zorven."

Valea ended the call through her crystal communicator. After that, she began preparing the items she would carry when she left the Alpha villa.

The grand villa they built during fifteen winters of their bond now meant nothing to her. She threw away all the gifts and spirit jewels, even the preserved moon flowers Renwick had given her when they first marked each other.

There was nothing she wished to take.

All the lands, wealth and trade rights Renwick gave her remained within this territory.

Valea would leave everything behind to cut all ties with Renwick Valloren.

She had not told her birth pack about her decision. They believed she lived happily as Luna and that Renwick was a worthy Alpha in their eyes.

If they knew she wanted to break the bond, they would stop her and inform Renwick.

Then everything would fail and the alliance between the two great packs would remain untouched.

Valea decided she would speak only after everything was done.

At that time, no one could stop her.

Renwick, Davinia and Arion returned to the villa. Valea didnt greet them and walked straight into the bathing chamber.

When she came out wearing a thin night robe, Renwick was already inside, his shirt partly undone.

Without a word, Valea sat before the mirror and began her routine.

Renwick stepped behind her and pressed her shoulders gently.

"I returned late. Arion wanted to visit the amusement grounds, so we stayed longer than planned."

"Hm. It doesnt matter."

Renwick lowered his head and rested his chin on her shoulder, brushing his lips against her neck.

The scent of his rich wolf musk mixed with a strong rose fragrance made her feel sick. She forced a faint smile, knowing very well who used that scent.

"Valea, stay calm today," Renwick whispered near her ear. "Are you uneasy because Davinia is here?"

"No," Valea answered softly.

"Shes only family. She belongs to the Valloren bloodline."

"I understand."

"Are you upset because Arion is closer to her?"

"No. Theyre mother and pup. Its natural."

Renwick watched her through the mirror, sensing something strange in her calm face. He had felt this change since Davinia returned. He believed it was because Valea disliked Arion growing close to his birth mother.

Valea met his gaze calmly, hiding all emotion.

"Dont be angry with Arion. Hes our heir. We must raise him well since we have no pup of our own."

"Hm," she replied coldly.

"If only you could give me a pup..." Renwick stopped himself before finishing.

They had no pup for fifteen winters. Renwick never complained, because their bond was meant to unite two powerful packs.

"Dont lose hope. We can try again," he murmured near her lips.

Valeas body stiffened as his hand slid along her robe. Before he could see the scar on her chest, she pushed him away.

"Whats wrong?"

"I am not well. My moon cycle has come," Valea said flatly.

At that moment, the communicator on the bedside table lit up.

"Your device is ringing," she said, turning her face away.

Renwick clicked his tongue and picked it up.

"Speak."

"Renwick, can you come here?" Davinias voice trembled.

"What happened?" His tone turned urgent.

"I heard something in my chamber. I think someone entered. I am afraid."

"Dont fear. I am coming now."

He stepped away from Valea and grabbed a silver weapon from the drawer.

"Stay here. I will check it," he said, already moving toward the door.

He didnt even look back at her.

Valea let out a cold laugh. She already knew this was another act.

The servants had whispered that Davinia panicked after seeing her window open during her bath and thought she saw a shadow outside.

Not long after, Renwick and Davinia stood at her door.

"What is it?" Valea asked calmly.

"Valea, Davinias room is not safe. We have not found the intruder. Shes too frightened to stay there. For now, she will live here."

Valeas face turned pale.

"Renwick, are you serious?"

His expression hardened. "This room has the strongest protection. She will be safe here. You can move to another chamber."

"This is our room, Renwick. How can you bring another she-wolf here and force me out?" Valea said, her voice shaking as tears filled her eyes.

This was their sacred chamber. Every detail was chosen by her. Every memory of their winters together lived here.

How could he push her out so easily?

Davinia trembled and hid behind Renwick, holding his arm.

"Its fine. I can stay anywhere. Maybe I should leave this place."

Renwick softened and touched her arm.

"Its dangerous outside at night. That intruder is targeting you. Youre the only one being threatened. I must protect you."

"But what about Luna Valea?"

Renwick looked at Valea with indifference.

"Valea, youre older. You should understand. Let her have this room."

"You worry about her safety, but what about mine? If that intruder comes for me..."

He cut her off.

"You grew up among strong wolves. You have faced danger many times. You can protect yourself. Davinia cannot."

Without waiting for her answer, he ordered a servant to move her belongings.

Valea clenched her fists. Pain filled her chest.

Since Davinia returned, everything had changed. Renwick no longer cared about pretending to be a good mate.

"I am sorry, Valea. I didnt wish to push you out..." Davinia said softly, though a faint smile appeared on her lips.

"Dont apologize. You didnthing wrong," Renwick said coldly. "Dont blame her."

"I said nothing," Valea replied quietly.

"Renwick, can you stay with me? I am still afraid," Davinia said as she leaned against him weakly.

"I will stay with you."

Without another glance at Valea, he led Davinia into the room.

The door closed right in front of her.

Valea stood there, breathing slowly, her hands clenched so tight they trembled, her chest heavy with pain.

What happened that night spread quickly among the pack servants. They all saw how Valea was forced out of the Alphas main chamber while Renwick stayed there with Davinia.

Every servant understood clearly that Renwick showed how important Davinia was to him. At that moment, Valea lost dignity in her own den and became the subject of whispers among the servants.

Renwick didnthing to fix the situation or apologize to her.

Soon, a call crystal from Valeas birth pack lit up, as if the news had already reached them. Her mother, Amarise, spoke first and immediately scolded her.

"Valea, how could you allow another she wolf to treat you like that? Where is your pride as a daughter of the Frosthall Pack?"

"Mother, what happened was..."

"Enough. Dont fight with Renwick over a mistress. Youre still Luna Valloren. You must keep that position."

"Mother, I was humiliated like this. How can you say that to me?" Valea asked in disbelief.

"Valea, how old are you now? You have been mated for many winters but still have not given the Valloren Pack an heir. Dont anger Renwick and make him quarrel with you because of another woman. If you break the bond with him, the Frosthall Pack wont welcome you back."

Valea stayed silent. Her hands tightened as she listened to her mothers cold voice. She understood that in her familys eyes, she had little value because she had not given birth to a future Alpha.

"Valea, are you listening? There is no need to compete with a mistress. Renwick will grow tired of her one day and you will remain Luna Valloren. Instead, think about how you can carry a pup."

Valea felt exhausted deep inside and chose not to argue.

"I understand, Mother." She ended the call.

Her familys reaction made her more certain that she would keep the bond breaking a secret and she would not return to the Frosthall Pack.

That day, Renwick returned to the villa earlier than usual. He found Valea in their main chamber packing some of her things into large boxes.

"What did you tell your clan?" His voice sounded displeased.

"Nothing," Valea replied shortly while folding her clothes and placing them inside the box.

"Then why did your father contact me and mention Davinia?"

"I dont know. My mother also spoke to me today. She talked about Davinia as well. It seems they heard about last night from a servant. In powerful packs like ours, spies are everywhere."

Renwick stayed quiet for a moment before letting out a breath.

"Dont think too much about last night. Davinia didnt grow up among warriors like us. She was very frightened by that intruder."

"Yes. I know." Valea lowered her head and continued packing.

"Why are you putting so many things in those boxes? You dont need to move that much. Once Davinia feels safe again, you can return to this chamber."

"Its fine. She can stay here as long as she wants. These things will be given to the orphan pups in the outer territory."

Renwick looked at her for a moment with a slight frown. Valea seemed unusually calm, even willing to give up their chamber without complaint. She was not someone who usually gave away her belongings and she had always been stubborn.

Renwick glanced at the items inside the boxes. Many of them were precious to her because he had given them. The dolls were gifts from the time she was ten until she turned eighteen, along with other items.

"Those things... didnt you treasure them? Do you really want to throw them away?"

"I suddenly feel too old to keep them. I am sure many pups in the orphan dens would be happy to have them," Valea said with a gentle smile.

Renwick didnt question it further. He placed an invitation scroll and a gift box on her lap.

"This is an invitation to the Valloren Pack gathering tomorrow night. We must attend together and show everyone that were doing well."

"Alright." Valea touched the gift box he had given her.

When she opened it, the contents were beautiful. Inside was a fine silk dress enchanted with moon thread and the newest diamond jewels from a famous clan of craftsmen.

Even after their conflict, Renwick still knew her taste and favorite brands. Her heart shook slightly. At least he still showed her respect.

"Wear that dress tomorrow night."

Valea looked at him and nodded with a smile.

The next evening at seven, Valea went to check the dress she had asked a servant to clean and press. But when she entered the room, she saw Davinia holding the dress and pressing it with a hot iron stone. Steam rose into the air and a burnt smell filled the room. Nearby, Arion sat on the floor, playing with Valeas broken jewelry set.

"Davinia, what are you doing?" Valea rushed forward and pulled the dress away, pushing Davinia aside.

The dress was ruined. Burn marks spread across the fabric and a large hole had formed in the center.

"Ah, I am sorry, Valea. I burned your dress by mistake. Youre not going to blame me, right?" Davinia said with a mocking smile, not even trying to hide that it was done on purpose.

"Mother, look at this ugly necklace. The chain is broken," Arion shouted, pointing at Valeas damaged necklace.

"Arion, dont be naughty, my dear. Thats something very precious to Luna Valea."

"This ugly thing is useless. It breaks so easily," Arion said, sticking out his tongue as he threw it away. The pendant hit the floor and shattered into pieces.

Davinia let out a soft laugh, then turned to Valea with a pleased smile. "It seems you cannot wear that dress or those jewels now. If you wish, I can lend you one of my old dresses."

Valeas hands trembled as she clenched them tightly, forcing down her anger. "Davinia, watch how you behave in my den. Dont test me if you dont want to regret it."

Davinia lifted her chin proudly and brushed her hair back. "Still acting like the Luna of this place? Tell me, did you know Renwick and I shared your bed?"

She revealed the mark on her neck. "Look at this. He could not control himself. He told me he was tired of being with you. You cannot stir any desire in him because youre like..."

Before she could finish, Valeas hand struck her hard across the face. Her expression turned dark.

"Davinia, youre only a hidden mate. Renwick doesnt even dare to reveal you. Dont cross your place. I have endured you long enough. If you provoke me again, you will face the consequences."

Valea didnt wish to waste her strength on such a woman, especially when she was about to leave this place. But Davinia kept pushing her and her patience had ended.

Davinias eyes turned red with anger, yet her lips curled into a strange smile as she glanced toward the door. She saw Renwick approaching.

"You wicked woman. How dare you strike my mother!" Arion shouted as he rushed forward and bit Valeas hand.

"Arion, let go," Valea said, trying to push him away. He stumbled and hit the ironing stand.

In that moment, Davinia rushed forward and pulled Arion into her arms. The hot iron fell and struck her shoulder.

"Aah..." she cried loudly, hugging Arion tightly. "Valea, I know hes not your blood, but how can you try to burn him? Hes just a pup. If you must hurt someone, hurt me instead."

"Davinia," Renwick rushed in. He threw the iron aside and turned to Valea. His hand rose and struck her face hard.

"Valea, you have gone too far this time. You hurt both Arion and Davinia."

The force of the strike tore the corner of her lips. This was the first time he had ever hit her.

Valea smiled faintly as she wiped the blood.

"I never meant to harm Arion. Davinia was the one who ruined my dress and jewels first."

Another strike landed on her face.

"Because of a dress and some jewels, you would harm them like this. Your heart is truly cruel," Renwick said coldly. "Apologize to Davinia."

Valea gritted her teeth. "Dont order me to bow to that woman."

Renwick lifted his hand again, but paused when he saw her injured face. For a moment, guilt flashed in his eyes. But when he looked at Davinia crying while holding Arion, his expression hardened again.

He carried Davinia into his arms and turned to the guards.

"Lock Luna Valea in her chamber. Dont give her food or water until she apologizes."

Valea watched his back with cold eyes. Tears rolled down her cheeks, but she wiped them away roughly.

Enough, Valea. Dont cry for him anymore.

She was locked inside without food or drink. Not long after, her mother contacted her again, questioning why Renwick had taken Davinia to the Valloren gathering in her place.

To calm Davinia, Renwick had brought her to the gathering and dressed her in the finest gown and jewels. They told everyone Valea was ill and that her sister in-law would attend instead.

Even from afar, the Frosthall Pack knew everything happening here.

Valea pressed her forehead and ended the call. Her ears rang from her mothers harsh words.

After that night, Renwick didnt return. He took Davinia and Arion traveling across distant territories.

Davinia sent endless memory clips to Valea, showing their journey, their laughter and even their moments in bed without shame.

Meanwhile, Valea remained locked away. A servant brought her food and water, asking again and again if she had apologized, then reporting her answer to Renwick.

Valea survived by drinking water from the chamber basin.

Renwick extended her punishment until he returned.

When Valea felt her life fading from hunger, she woke to find herself lying on her bed with a healing tube connected to her arm.

Renwick sat beside her, his face stiff, guilt hidden beneath anger.

"If you had admitted your mistake earlier, none of this would have happened."

Valea covered her face. She didnt want to look at him, the man who had shattered her heart.

Renwick let out a breath.

"Valea, stop this stubbornness and apologize to Davinia."

Davinia stepped forward from behind him, her voice soft and gentle. "Renwick, its fine. Valea is from the Frosthall bloodline. Of course her pride is too high to bow to someone like me."

Renwicks eyes turned cold as he looked at Valea.

"Being born into the Frosthall Pack has made you arrogant."

Valea gave no reply and slowly shut her eyes.

"So you choose silence? Fine. Then stay silent forever," Renwick said with anger. He rose from the side of her bed and strode out of the chamber.

Outside, he spoke to a servant. "From this day on, Luna Valea is not allowed to step beyond this manor. She will be given only dry bread and water each day. Let her learn how the low ranks survive. No other food is to be given."

In the days that followed, she lived on nothing but bread and water. Her body grew weaker, her frame thinner with each passing day.

This gave Davinia more control within the pack house. She used it to torment Valea, ordering the servants to bring her hard and stale bread.

Valea endured it by reminding herself that her bond would be severed in five days. She spent most of her time inside her glass greenhouse, surrounded by quiet and plants.

One day, she heard the maids whispering outside, believing she could not hear them.

"Oh my... I have never seen Alpha Renwick so wild under the moon. He has never been like that with Luna Valea."

They giggled.

"I pity the Luna. She has no idea that while shes locked away, her mate is sharing a bed with another woman just beyond her door."

"Lower your voice. You know Luna Valea is as cold as winter ice. She must be dull as a mate. No wonder the Alpha lost interest. Besides, everyone knows that five winters ago, his true love was Davinia. The death of the second young master must be tied to him, so he could claim his brothers mate. Arion must be his true blood son. Why else would the Alpha name him heir of the Valloren Pack?"

"Of coure. Ever since Lady Davinia came into this pack, the Alpha smiles more. He treats her like a queen. They travel across distant territories together, just the three of them, the Alpha, Arion and Lady Davinia. Theyre the real family."

Valeas hand tightened around the watering can as the maids walked away.

She stepped out of the greenhouse and collided with Arion, who was running through the hall. He almost fell.

Valea caught his hand before he hit the ground.

"Arion, I have told you many times not to run like this. You will get hurt," she said softly.

Though Arion was Davinias son, Valea had raised him since he was a newborn. Her heart still held affection for him.

"Stop acting like you care. Youre not my mother. I hate you," Arion snapped, shoving her away.

"Arion," Valea said with a heavy gaze, "even if I didnt give birth to you, you shouldnt speak to me like this. I have raised you and cared for you all these winters."

Arion let out a mocking laugh.

"You only act kind because you fear my father will cast you out. Youre a barren she wolf who envies my real mother. If you beg me nicely, maybe I will ask Father to let you stay, you useless she wolf!"

Valea stared at him, her chest aching, her voice trembling. "Arion, who taught you such cruel words?"

"Isnt it the truth? You cannot bear a pup. My father only loves my mother. You forced her to leave the pack and stole me from her. If not for you, we would have lived happily long ago."

Arion pushed her with force.

Valea fell hard onto the stone floor. A sharp pain struck her abdomen at once. Her face lost all color.

"Arion, dont act so roughly."

Renwick appeared suddenly with Davinia at his side. He scolded Arion and pushed him aside without thinking, then turned to Valea with a hint of concern.

"Are you alright?"

"My stomach..."

Before she could finish, Arion burst into loud cries.

"Father doesnt love me anymore. Mother, it hurts."

Renwicks focus shifted at once. Arion was in Davinias arms, crying. His small hands were scraped, blood staining his palms.

"Renwick, I am sorry for Arions behavior. Please dont treat him so harshly. Hes still a pup. How could he possibly push someone as grown as Valea to the ground?" Davinia said, her voice trembling. Tears streamed down her beautiful eyes as if her heart was breaking for her son.

Guilt flashed across Renwicks face. He quickly pulled Arion into his arms and soothed him. "I am sorry. Father was wrong. Dont cry anymore."

"Father, it hurts. My hands are bleeding..."

"I will take you to the healer hall at once." Renwick stood, his voice filled with urgency.

"Renwick, my stomach hurts..." Valea called weakly, her voice fading from the pain.

Renwick turned away without even looking at her and walked off.

Davinia cast Valea a victorious smile before following after him.

Valea lowered her gaze to the cold floor. Her shoulders slumped, as though all strength had left her. She covered her face and let out a hollow laugh. For a brief moment, she had thought Renwick cared. That fragile hope shattered in an instant.

Her laughter soon turned into cries.

Pain spread through her body. She curled into herself as warmth flowed down her thigh. Her face turned pale when she saw blood staining her leg and pooling beneath her.

"Ah, Luna." A passing gardener saw her and rushed over in panic. "I will call the Alpha."

Valea grabbed his hand at once. "No. Call a carriage. Take me to the healer hall. And tell them to keep my identity hidden."

They arrived at the healer hall. As she had asked, the healers kept her presence a secret.

"Where is the Alpha? We have called him, but he doesnt answer," a healer said anxiously. "We need his mark on the consent scroll."

"Luna, what should we do? I have called many times using your crystal, but he doesnt respond," the gardener said, worry clear in his voice.

The head healer spoke with gravity. "We cannot wait any longer. Her condition is dangerous. The pup cannot be saved due to the delay and her body is severely weakened from lack of nourishment."

Valea turned her head and took the scroll. "Begin the procedure. This pup... I dont want it anymore."

She had waited fifteen winters for this pup. She learned of its existence today and lost it on the same day.

Renwick had always longed for this pup. Yet when the moment came, he was nowhere to be found.

Valea removed her mating ring and threw it into the waste bin.

"Understood. We will begin at once, Luna."

Valea lay on the stone table, staring at the ceiling. Her face was pale, her lips drained of color and marked from where she had bitten them.

The healers moved around her, preparing their tools.

"Luna, we will begin. We will give you sleeping herbs so you wont feel pain."

"No. Dont give me anything."

She needed to remember. She needed to feel the moment her pup was taken and remember that Renwick was not there.

"Very well. Begin."

"Yes, Master Healer."

Valea felt something being drawn from her body. The pain grew sharper, cutting deep. She tried to stay silent, but tears flowed freely from her eyes.

"Its done, Luna. The pup has been removed."

Her body went limp. Darkness swallowed her vision.

Tears slipped quietly from the corners of her eyes.

Valea woke to the sound of a healer speaking beside her bed.

"... yes, that is what I heard. Alpha Renwick has been in the healer hall since morning, yet he doesnt know his Luna is here. Hes staying in a high chamber with a woman. I heard he came because his nephew was injured after a fall. The Alpha even summoned the best healers of the territory just for a pup with a small scratch."

"I feel sorry for Luna Valea. While her mate cared for another womans pup, she was waiting for approval for her ritual, yet the Alpha didnt answer her calls. In the end, the pup in her womb could not be saved."

"So the love between the Alpha and his Luna was only a tale. I saw the Alpha treat a woman named Lady Davinia as if she were the most precious thing in his world."

"Quiet. We should leave. No one must know about the Lunas ritual."

"Yes, we must go before she wakes."

Their voices faded. They didnt notice Valeas hand clenched tightly beneath the blanket.

She opened her eyes, empty and still, then rose from the bed and pulled the needle from her wrist.

Her face remained pale. Without shoes, she walked out of the chamber.

She stopped before the door of a high rank chamber. Laughter and warm voices came from inside.

"Father, I am sleepy. Tell me a story."

Through the small gap in the door, Valea saw Renwick sitting against the bed, Arion resting on his lap. Davinia sat beside them, slicing fruit.

Renwick wore simple clothes, showing he had no plans to return to his Alpha duties.

Valea remembered how, when she was ill, Renwick only sent a healer to check on her and still left for his duties.

Yet when Davinia had a fever, he rushed to her dwelling and stayed the entire night, his crystal silent.

The difference in his heart was clear.

Valea had endured enough. She would vanish from his life.

She stepped back and turned to leave, but collided with a healer carrying food, causing a loud sound.

"I am sorry, I am sorry..."

Renwick came out of the chamber and froze when he saw Valea sitting on the ground.

Valea quickly wiped her tears and forced a smile.

"Valea?" He frowned and knelt to help her up. "Why are you here? Why are you dressed in a patient robe?"

"I am receiving treatment here."

"Are you badly hurt?" His face turned tense when he saw blood on her wrist where she had pulled out the needle. "Why you didnt tell me? Youre bleeding."

Valea looked at her wrist. Only a small drop of blood had formed, yet it was enough to make Renwick lose his calm.

He was a man who never feared death, who stood firm even when surrounded by enemies. Yet now, a single drop of her blood made him uneasy.

But it meant nothing.

Valeas heart was already exhausted.

"I am sorry. I was focused on Arion and forgot about you."

"Its alright. Arion is more important. Hes the heir of the Valloren bloodline." Valea smiled gently, though her heart mourned the pup she had lost.

Renwick studied her smile, sensing something had changed and it unsettled him.

"I am sorry..." That was all he said. Then he noticed her bare feet. "Why are you not wearing shoes? Who has been caring for you here?"

"There was a gardener. I sent him away."

Without another word, Renwick lifted her into his arms.

"Renwick..." Davinia stepped out and froze at the sight of him holding Valea.

"Arion is looking for you. His wound hurts again. He scratched it until it bled. Please calm him."

"I am sorry, Davinia. I must take Valea back first."

For the first time, he refused her and walked away.

Valea saw Davinias expression darken behind his back.

Renwick placed Valea on the bed and called for a healer.

Valea had already told them to keep her loss a secret.

"Luna Valea fell and shes also severely undernourished and weak," the healer said, glancing at Renwick with confusion. "How could the Luna be in such a state?"

A trace of shame crossed Renwicks face. "She has been limiting her food. I have told her many times to stop."

Valea looked at him without emotion, seeing through his lie.

The healer nodded and left.

Renwick held her hand softly. "Valea, I am sorry. I acted without thought. If you had simply apologized to Davinia, none of this would have happened."

He still placed the blame on her.

"Let it pass. Davinia has forgiven you. As long as you treat her well, she will forget this matter."

"Then thank her for me," Valea replied with a sweet smile that didnt reach her eyes.

Since she would soon leave, she saw no reason to argue.

Renwick smiled and touched her cheek. "As long as you behave, everything will return to how it was. You will always be my Luna."

He pulled the blanket over her and leaned down to kiss her forehead. Valea turned her face away.

"Val..." Before he could speak further, his crystal rang.

It was Davinia.

"I must check on Arion," he said and left.

He didnt stay.

Valea lay still, closing her eyes. Tears slipped down her face. She cried until her eyes swelled and her voice grew hoarse.

To make up for his actions, Renwick changed his behavior. He treated her kindly again, sending gifts and having her favorite meals brought to her chamber each day until she recovered.

A few days later, while waiting for him to bring her home, Valea walked through the healer hall. She watched a pregnant woman being guided gently by her mate for a check.

A quiet envy rose in her chest.

She touched her stomach and pain struck again. Her pup was gone. She still remembered the pain of losing it.

Taking a breath, she turned to leave but bumped into someone stepping out of the birthing chamber.

"Ah."

Valea froze when she saw who it was.

"What a coincidence, Valea," Davinia said with a smile. "Why are you here?"

Valea glanced around for Renwick, but he was not there.

"I should ask you the same. Why are you here alone, coming out of that chamber..." Valeas voice slowed as she looked toward the birthing room.

Davinia followed her gaze and smiled proudly. "As you see, I came to check my pregnancy."

She picked up the papers that had fallen.

"Look. These are my moon scan results. I am three months with pup." She pointed at the image and touched her stomach. "This is my pup with Renwick. Beautiful, is it? He has always wished for a daughter. He hopes this pup is a girl."

Valeas eyes fixed on the image. Pain pierced her heart.

Davinia carried the blood of the Valloren brothers within her womb. Disgust rose in Valeas chest.

Davinia watched her, waiting for her to break. But Valea remained calm.

"Oh."

"Oh?" Davinia stared at her in disbelief. "You should be wise and leave Renwick."

"Why not ask him to let me go?" Valea said calmly. "If its his pup, he will take responsibility."

She walked past her.

Davinia followed quickly.

"Valea, dont be proud just because others praise the Alphas love for you. Its all an act to keep the alliance between Frosthall and Valloren. They had no choice but to keep a barren Luna like you."

She smiled with victory.

"Did you know that Arion is Renwicks true son?"

Valea didnt stop walking. Her words were nothing but noise.

It was not that she had never doubted it, but she had been afraid to seek the truth. Now, it no longer mattered.

In two days, she would leave everything behind and disappear from Renwick Vallorens life.

"Dont you believe me? I will prove it at the Valloren gathering tomorrow night. Oh, I almost forgot. Zaleen didnt invite you."

After saying that, Davinia brushed past her with her head held high.

Valea watched her back with cold eyes.

Renwick carried Valea out of the healer hall. Valea forced herself not to think about Davinias newly revealed pregnancy.

Renwick drove her back to the manor. The journey was silent. No words passed between them. Renwick glanced at her several times, uneasy at her quietness.

"Are you still in pain?"

"No," Valea answered calmly.

"Then why are you so quiet?"

"I was just thinking. It has been a long time since I returned to my family lands," Valea said.

Renwicks expression softened. "If you wish to see them, I will arrange it. I will go with you."

"You dont need to come. I can go alone."

"I wont allow that. I will accompany you."

Valea looked at him without warmth, knowing his words were empty.

"I thought you wouldnt leave Davinia and Arion behind. You cannot stay away from them even for a single day."

Renwicks face stiffened.

"Dont speak like that. I will arrange a journey to the Frosthall territory tomorrow and go with you. It has been long since I visited your family. I miss the Frosthall vineyards."

He gave a faint smile. "Do you remember when we first met? You were hiding from your lessons and secretly eating grapes in the garden. You looked so small then."

Valea closed her eyes as memories rose within her.

They had first met when the Valloren Pack visited the Frosthall territory to arrange their bond.

"You were crying because you wanted the grapes on a high branch, but you couldnt reach them. You ran to me and asked me to help you," Renwick said with a soft laugh.

From that moment, their fates became tied. They grew together and later became mates.

Valea once believed she was the only one in his heart. Until Davinia appeared and shattered that illusion.

She shut her eyes, pushing the memory away.

At that moment, her crystal device chimed. She looked at it and saw a message from Zorven.

[Luna, the bond severance was approved today. I will send the documents.]

A small smile appeared on her lips. Renwick noticed and leaned closer.

"Did you receive good news?"

Valea quickly dimmed the screen and smiled as if nothing had happened.

"Yes. A friend of mine finally left her mate."

"Your friend left her mate, yet youre happy?"

"She suffered for a long time. Her mate betrayed her and even had a pup with another woman. Do you think such a male should be kept?" Valea looked at him with meaning.

Renwick gave a cold laugh. "Not only should he be left, he should be ruined. Such men are a disgrace."

Valea sneered inwardly but only smiled outwardly.

Soon, he would realize that the person she spoke of was herself.

Tomorrow, he planned to take her to her homeland. Valea smiled faintly. She would not let that happen.

She sent a voice record to Davinia.

"Youre only a hidden mate. Look. Tomorrowm he will return to my homeland with me to meet my family."

***

The next day, their sky journey was set for the late afternoon.

Before leaving, Valea entered her old chamber. She placed the bond severance papers, the report of her lost pup and all the intimate images and recordings Davinia had sent into Renwicks hidden safe.

At the sky port, as they waited, Renwicks crystal rang. Valea saw Davinias name appear.

Renwick stepped aside to answer, then returned shortly.

"Valea, I am sorry. I cannot go with you to the Frosthall territory. The elders of the Valloren Pack have called an urgent council. I must attend." His face showed regret.

"Its fine. I already said I can go alone." Valea smiled calmly.

She knew the truth. Davinia had already told her that the elder matriarch was holding a gathering to acknowledge Arion as Renwicks true son and the pup in Davinias womb.

"Call me when you arrive. I will come later. The guards will escort you safely."

Renwick leaned closer, wanting to kiss her forehead, but Valea turned away with clear rejection.

He paused, frowning, then left in a hurry. Several guards followed him, while a few remained with Valea.

Valea crossed her legs and looked at them.

"You dont need to follow me. Members of the Frosthall Pack will come for me."

They hesitated, then obeyed and left her alone.

Moments later, her crystal chimed again. It was Davinia.

[You said he would go with you. And now? He left you because of one call from me.

Moonshade Inn. Come. I will prove that Arion is Renwicks blood and that the entire Valloren Pack will accept me.]

Davinia believed she had won, not knowing she had given Valea exactly what she needed. Only when Renwick was not beside her could she truly disappear.

Valea stared at the message for a moment, then calmly closed it and stood.

She looked around one last time. A soft smile formed on her lips. For the first time, she felt free.

Valea tore the sky journey token Renwick had given her.

"Goodbye, Renwick Valloren. We will never meet again."

She turned and walked away without looking back.

She would never look back. And she would never return to him again.