Please Reject Me Alpha, I Can't Feel Pain Anymore

My husband mated with his step sister. Not once, not twice, but over and over again. And the worst part is, he didnt even hide it. I heard it myself. Inside our home, the same home where he once marked me as his Luna.

Every corner that used to feel like ours now felt tainted, from the bed to the couch to the kitchen counter.

I stood outside the hallway frozen, my body refusing to move as if even breathing had turned into something foreign.

Samuel, Ivy's voice came soft and needy, When are you going to reject her? You promised me you would.

Soon, baby. Just not now Shes still breaking over our twins.

Our twins. A son and a daughter. He said it so easily, as if those words didnt split what was left of me, while another woman lay with him.

Poor Clara. Still crying over dead pups. Honestly, I dont even know how you tolerate her anymore. But dont worry, she added, Ill give you another set of heir. Ill carry your pups. Ill get pregnant soon.

Silence.

Im counting on it, Ivy.

My fingers curled until my nails broke. I didnt move, I just held myself together by force because falling apart there would have meant giving them my last piece.

Tell me the truth, Alpha. Do you really love her? Your Luna?

A longer silence followed, heavy enough to crush everything inside me.

Yes. I love Clara. She's my bonded mate.

Bonded mate?

He still said it like it meant something, as if it wasnt another lie he had learned to carry without weight.

I stepped back before my legs gave out, forcing air into lungs that suddenly felt too small.

My mate. My Alpha. The man the Willoughby Pack feared and worshiped, the same man who once crossed frozen mountains to bring me chestnut cake because I mentioned it once. Now he stood in our home speaking love while dismantling everything he had built inside me.

Thirteen days.

That was all I needed.

Thirteen days until my human exit papers were approved.

Thirteen days until I could legally leave pack territory and disappear into the human world where the bond couldnt pull me back.

...

I went to the consulate the next morning. My hands shook so badly I almost dropped my documents.

Hello, I said quietly. I want to apply for an exit permit.

The clerk didnt even look surprised. Just stamped everything like I was already gone.

Processing time is thirteen days. Please wait for confirmation.

When I walked out, voices followed me, low whispers sharp with curiosity.

Wait! Thats Luna Clara Willoughby, right?

Shes applying to leave the pack?

No way. Alpha Samuel is obsessed with her. Like insane obsessed! Didnt he drain half his blood for her after that accident?

I heard when she went missing once, he turned the whole city upside down. He nearly killed three guards.

Then why is she leaving him?

A laugh slipped out of me before I could stop it.

Because that was what everyone saw, a devoted Alpha and his precious Luna. They never saw what lived behind closed doors, how his voice changed when Ivy called him, how his hands once held me like I was sacred then began to hold me like I was optional.

I remember how it started. He saw me at a pack gathering years ago and decided I was his. No asking. No warning. After that, he flooded my life with gifts, jewelry, rare herbs, and entire territories placed under my name. He lit the sky with fireworks across the pack border for three nights straight just because I smiled once.

When I said I liked chestnut cake, he crossed frozen mountain roads alone to bring it to me. His hands were bleeding from frostbite when he arrived, yet he still smiled like it was worth it.

When my parents died in a rogue attack, he abandoned a war meeting with three allied packs just to come to me. He held me until grief had nothing left to take.

Im here, Clara, he whispered back then. You are mine. I will always protect what is mine.

I believed him. I believed him so completely I gave him everything, my name, my life, my body, my bond.

Even after our twins were born, a son and a daughter, even after we buried their tiny bodies when they only had two winters in this world, I stayed. That was where something inside me finally stopped healing.

Nine months ago, I started noticing things. Her scent on him, on our couch, on the sheets I used to fold for him. At first I told myself I was imagining it, that my mind was turning on itself.

Then I heard her voice inside my home. Everything after that fell apart without sound.

I stood on the sidewalk gripping my papers because they were the only thing keeping me upright.

Clara, I whispered to myself, how long are you going to stay dead while still breathing?

No answer came.

So I got into the cab, told the driver to take me to the Willoughby Estate, not because I was going back to him, but because I was finally done pretending I still belonged to a man who had already given me away.

...

The moment I stepped into the villa, I felt it.

The air was off. Thick. Heavy. There was a scent clinging everywhere, sweet but rotten underneath. My wolf stirred uneasily.

My stomach turned before my eyes even found them.

Samuel was standing near the wall, adjusting silver ribbons and flowers for decoration.

And beside him Ivy Rose.

She stood too close. Smiling. Watching him with that soft, claiming look that made my skin crawl.

When the door shut behind me, the sound echoed louder than it should have.

Samuel turned.

For a second, his hands stopped moving. Then he stepped down slowly and walked toward me, already changing his face. The cold Alpha everyone feared was gone in a blink.

His eyes softened. His lips curved.

That same smile.

The one I used to think was only for me.

Clara, he said gently, reaching for me. Baby, why are you wearing so little? Its cold tonight. Youll get sick. Didnt you go out with your friends? Why come home early? I was setting something up for you. I wanted it to be a surprise.

A surprise.

My eyes lifted to his neck.

There it was. A fresh mark sitting right where my teeth used to leave mine.

My chest tightened so hard I thought I would break right there.

Clara, Ivys voice were sweet but sharp underneath, youre really lucky, you know that? My step-brother Alpha Samuel cares about you so much. He prepared all this just for your fifth anniversary.

Her hand lifted and pointed. My gaze followed without thinking and there were gifts stacked neatly on the sofa. Boxes wrapped in silk, ribbons tied perfectly.

And underneath them, a dark, damp stain spread across the fabric.

That smell. That same smell that hit me the moment I walked in.

My fingers curled at my sides.

So this is what he calls love?

Right here next to the gifts he bought for me?

The pain didnt come all at once. It spread slowly, sinking deeper until it reached somewhere I couldnt touch.

I stayed quiet. What else was there to say?

Samuel walked closer. He opened a small velvet box and took out a delicate silver necklace, a moonstone hanging at the center. My Luna stone.

He stepped behind me and brushed my hair aside.

Happy anniversary, Clara, he murmured softly. I had dinner prepared for us tonight. Just you and me. I thought maybe it would make you smile again.

His fingers were warm against my skin as he fastened it.

I felt cold. So cold I couldnt even feel my own heartbeat properly.

I pulled away.

I dont want it, I said quietly. I dont feel well.

Every second near him made my chest hurt more.

He frowned immediately, stepping closer again.

What do you mean you dont feel well? His voice dropped, full of concern. Did something happen? Clara, look at me.

I didnt.

Ill call the doctors, he said quickly, already turning. You shouldnt ignore this. Youve been weak since

He stopped, but I knew what he meant.

Since our daughter died.

Jonas! he called sharply.

His Beta appeared almost instantly.

Get the best pack doctors here. Now. And bring the supplements I told you about.

Yes, Alpha.

Everything moved fast after that.

Doctors came. They checked me. They said I was fine.

Samuel didnt believe them.

He kept asking, kept watching me like I might disappear if he looked away for even a second.

He brought me warm milk himself and pressed the glass into my hands.

Drink, he said softly. Please. Just a little. You need strength.

I didnt want to.

But I drank it anyway.

That night, I fell asleep from pure exhaustion, my body too tired to fight anything anymore.

But sometime later, I woke up.

My throat was dry. Burning.

The room felt too quiet.

I pushed the blanket aside and stepped out, moving slowly through the hallway. I just needed water. Thats all.

But then I stopped.

The door across the hall was open.

Moonlight spilled inside, pale and cold. And there

On the bed Two bodies tangled together.

Ivys voice drifted through the quiet, soft but clear enough to cut through me.

That necklace you gave Clara its worth a fortune, right? she said, her tone turning a little sharp. I asked you for one before, remember? You didnt even bother. But she doesnt say a word and you give her something so precious.

I stood there, unmoving.

Waiting.

Samuel shifted on the bed. I could hear the rustle of sheets.

I already told you, he said, lighting a cigarette. Its not the time yet. Clara and I will separate soon. I do love her but for now, we keep this hidden. If she finds out, everything gets complicated.

Complicated.

Is that all I am now a complication?

Ivy moved closer to him. I didnt have to see to know it.

I know, she whispered, I just, I love you too, Samuel. I cant stop myself from feeling jealous.

There was a pause.

Then a drawer sliding open.

Samuel let out a quiet breath and said, Youre really troublesome.

I heard something small being placed in his hand.

Here. Stop making that face, he added. I got you one too.

My chest tightened.

A necklace.

The same design as mine. Just a different stone.

Wear it when youre alone, he continued, voice lower now. Dont let Clara see it. If she does were finished.

Finished.

I bit down on my lip so hard I tasted blood.

Ivys voice lit up, bright and happy.

Really? You got me one too? she said, almost laughing. Thank you! I love it. I love you.

There was the sound of movement, soft and close.

Then she asked, quieter this time, almost curious.

Samuel why are you so afraid shell leave you?

For a second, everything went still.

Then he answered.

Fast. Steady. No hesitation.

Im not that afraid, he said. I have you, dont I? But Clara, my grandmother favors her. Once I take over the pack and inherit everything then Ill deal with her properly. Ill reject her and make you my Luna.

My legs almost gave out.

So thats it

Thats all I am to you?

Just something you have to get through first?

The bed shifted again. The sounds that followed were low, muffled, careless.

I pressed my hand against the wall, trying to stay quiet, trying to breathe.

My eyes lifted without meaning to.

Our wedding photo was hanging there.

Right across the hall.

Samuel in that picture was smiling so gently, holding me like I was the only thing in his world.

I stared at it until my vision blurred.

Thirteen days I whispered, my voice shaking.

Just thirteen days, Samuel.

Ill be gone.

Lets see what you do when Im really not there anymore.

...

I stepped outside for air.

The morning was still cold, the kind that should have felt calm. It didnt.

A childs voice cut through the quiet.

Why doesnt Mama sleep in your room anymore? he asked, louder this time, voice shaking. Did you choose another she-wolf? Is that why?

I stopped. Just ahead, near the small house by the path, a man stood stiff, his back to the door.

He didnt answer. Then a woman stepped out, fixing her clothes, her fingers still on his shirt like she belonged there.

No! Thats Mamas place!

The man finally moved. This isnt your business, young boy!

Im your son! the boy shouted, voice breaking. How is it not my business?!

Before the man could answer, another voice cut in.

Because hes a coward.

The real mate. She was already there, standing a few steps away. I didnt even see when she arrived. Her eyes were red, but her spine was straight.

She walked forward slowly, stopping right in front of the other woman. You couldnt even wait? she asked, her voice shaking but loud. Not even until he told his son?

The mistress lifted her chin. Watch your tone.

The mate snapped. Her hand flew before anyone could stop her.

You think you can walk into my home, the mate said, voice rising now, raw and shaking, wear my place, touch my mate, and tell me to watch my tone?!

The man grabbed her wrist.

Enough!

She yanked free.

Dont touch me!

The child started crying louder, full sobs now.

Mama stop please stop

No one listened.

You said it was nothing, she shouted at the man. You said she meant nothing!

It is nothing, he snapped, anger flashing now. Youre the one making a scene!

A scene? she laughed, broken, hysterical. You bring another woman into our home and Im the problem?!

The mistress recovered, stepping forward again.

If you couldnt keep him, thats on you.

Another slap.

Harder this time.

Then suddenly, a hand covered my ear from behind.

Warm. Familiar.

Dont listen to that nonsense, Clara, Samuel murmured close to me.

My body went stiff.

I didnt turn around.

I couldnt.

Samuel I said quietly, my voice barely steady, tell me the truth. Do all men end up betraying their mates?

He went silent for a second.

Then he gently turned me to face him.

His eyes locked on mine, deep and steady, like he had never lied to me before.

I cant speak for other men, he said softly. But me I wont. I only want you. Always you.

Always.

The word almost made me laugh.

I searched his face.

Perfect. Calm. Sincere.

How many times has he practiced this?

Youll only love me for a lifetime? I asked, my voice trembling just a little. A lifetime is really long, Samuel.

He pulled me into his arms without hesitation.

It is, he whispered against my hair. Thats why I want to spend all of it with you. Theres no one else I want.

I let out a small laugh.

It sounded wrong.

What if you betray me? I asked.

He didnt even pause.

If I ever do, he said firmly, may the Moon Goddess strike me down where I stand.

My fingers curled slowly.

Because I already knew.

His scent it wasnt clean. It carried traces of someone else. Faint, but there.

Every time he came back to me, he still held me, still spoke gently, still acted like I was his whole world.

How are you not afraid? I whispered. What if that promise comes true?

He looked straight at me.

No one understands how much I love you, Clara, he said. If words arent enough, Ill prove it. Id give you my life if thats what it takes.

I lowered my eyes.

If you can give me your life

Then why cant you stop hurting me?

Before I could say anything else, a voice suddenly came from the doorway.

What are you two doing here?

We both turned.

Ivy was leaning against the doorway, wearing a tight racing outfit that clung to every curve. The fabric was thin, cut high on her thighs, lace barely hidden underneath when she shifted.

She looked relaxed. Confident like she knew exactly what she was doing.

Its not the weekend. Why are you dressed like that? Where are you going? Who's with you? What time you get homem

I blinked. That didnt sound like a step-brother asking. That sounded different.

Ivy noticed too. Of course she did.

Her lips curved slowly.

Theres a motor race today, brother, she said, tilting her head. Big crowd. Big energy.

She glanced down at herself, then back at him.

Might meet someone there. Maybe Ill finally find myself a boyfriend. Hmm, what do you think?.

Her voice softened, almost teasing.

So dont wait for me, okay?

Samuels jaw tightened. I felt it before I saw it.

Something dark flickered in his eyes.

But Ivy only smiled wider, then shifted her gaze to me.

What about you, Clara? she asked sweetly. Any plans today?

I opened my mouth, but Samuel spoke first.

His fingers slipped into mine, holding on like it meant something.

Claras coming with me, he said. Were going back to the main pack house.

Ivys eyes flickered for a second, something unreadable passing through them.

Alright. Have a good day, both of you. Send my hi to my mum there!

She walked past us, her scent lingering in the air.

And Samuel he still didnt let go of my hand.

Why are you holding me like this?

Half an hour later, we were already on the road. Samuel drove in silence, one hand on the wheel, the other still wrapped around mine.

I stared out the window. I hated going there. The main pack house.

His parents never liked me. Only his grandmother ever treated me kindly. She used to hold my hand and tell me I was strong, that I belonged here.

And the rest of them they look at me like I brought ruin into their bloodline.

I gave birth to twins. A boy and a girl. They were supposed to be everything this pack wanted.

But they died. Both of them.

And somehow it became my fault.

Every visit after that felt worse. Their eyes their whispers their silence it all pressed down on me until I could barely breathe.

Samuel knew that. Thats why he usually avoided bringing me. But this time his mother wasnt well. So here we were.

When we stepped inside, his parents were already in the living room. They were smiling, talking softly to each other. Warm. Peaceful.

But the moment they saw me everything changed. Their faces went cold.

Just like that.

My chest tightened. I lowered my head, pretending I didnt notice.

But Samuel noticed. His grip on my hand tightened.

If you keep treating my Luna like this, he said, his voice turning sharp, then dont expect us to come back here again.

The room fell silent. Then his father slammed his hand on the table. The sound made me flinch.

Watch your tone, he snapped. Are you really saying youd turn your back on your own family for her?

I tried to pull my hand away, but Samuel held on, his fingers locking with mine.

Father, he said, steady but firm, Ive told you this before. Clara is my mate. Shes the woman I love. I wont even raise my voice at her, so why do you keep hurting her every time she comes here?

His grip tightened.

If this happens again, I wont just leave this house. Ill walk away from this family completely.

His words hit the room hard. The Alpha everyone feared the one who could command wolves with a single word now stood there defending me.

Anyone watching would think I was the luckiest woman alive.

But I knew better.

Pathetic you think I dont know what youve been doing behind my back?

Before anyone could speak again, another voice cut in.

Of course hed choose her. Hes been blind for years.

Sandra.

Samuels younger sister stood at the stairs, arms crossed, eyes full of disgust as she looked at me.

Brother, are you serious right now? she continued, walking down slowly. Youre threatening our parents because of her? After everything that happened? After those two pups died? Ivy is much better than her.

Her words pierced straight through me. I felt my fingers go cold.

Sandra didnt stop.

Maybe if she was stronger, maybe if she was a better Luna theyd still be alive.

Enough, Sandra.

Samuels voice dropped, dangerous this time.

But she only scoffed.

What? Im just saying the truth, she shot back. Everyone in the pack knows it. She brought bad luck into this family.

I kept my head down. I didnt fight back.

Whats the point?

Samuel stepped slightly in front of me, his body shielding mine.

Say one more word about Clara, he warned quietly, and I wont treat you as my sister anymore.

Sandra froze. For a second, something flickered in her eyes. Then she turned away with a sharp laugh.

Fine. Protect her all you want, she muttered. Lets see how long that lasts.

Silence filled the room again. Heavy. Suffocating.

Samuel still held my hand, standing there like he was protecting me from all of them.

But I didnt feel safe.

I just felt tired.

Mrs. Willoughby finally let out a long breath.

Enough, she said coldly. Lets eat first.

At the table, no one talked much. Just the quiet clink of utensils, stiff and uncomfortable.

Mrs. Willoughby kept making small annoyed sounds, and my fingers slowly tightened around my fork. I knew it was coming. It always comes, doesnt it?

She suddenly set her fork down harder than needed. Its been nine months, she said coldly. Thats enough grieving. You lost your pups, fine. But you cant stay like this forever. The pack needs an heir. You need to give us a grandson.

My chest tightened.

Her husband looked at me next, his eyes even colder. That happened because you didnt take care of them properly, he said flatly. A small illness, and both of them died in the healers den. Stop acting pitiful, Clara. If you conceive again, then do it right this time.

My ears rang. Both of them. My son. My daughter.

Before I could even breathe properly, Samuel set his fork down.

Ive already said this, he said calmly, but there was something sharp underneath. Clara is afraid of going through that pain again. I wont force her. Even if we dont have pups, thats fine with me.

The room went heavy. His parents looked at him with disappointment.

Sandra scoffed from the side. Of course. Youd rather protect her feelings than think about the pack. Then louder, Brother, are you serious? No heir? What are we supposed to do, just wait forever while she hides behind excuses? You know what, bro? Just go mate with our stepsister, Ivy. I like her more than Clara. You used to have a crush on Ivy before she went abroad to study fashion.

"Enough Sandra!" Samuel roared.

My fingers trembled slightly on the table.

I finally spoke. Youll have a grandchild soon.

The whole table froze. Three pairs of eyes turned to me at once.

Samuels hand tightened around mine, his face softening. Clara you dont have to push yourself for me, he said gently. I told you, Ill protect you from all this.

Protect me? I almost laughed. You cant even stay away from her, how are you protecting me?

I smiled anyway. You all want a grandson so much, I said softly. Then Ill give you one.

Mrs. Willoughbys expression eased instantly. Her husband nodded, satisfied. Sandra just watched me, eyes narrowed, but said nothing.

Only Samuel looked uneasy. Like something felt off.

Then his phone buzzed. I glanced down.

Ivy.

A message flashed.

Samuel theres someone here bothering me. Asking me for a quickie. I dont like it. Can you come?

I counted quietly. One. Two. Three.

He stood up right on cue.

Clara, he said, already grabbing his jacket, something came up at the office. I need to handle it. You stay here and finish dinner, okay? Ill come back for you after.

He didnt wait for my answer. The door closed behind him.

And just like that, everything changed.

Mrs. Willoughbys face turned cold again. Well give you less than a month, she said bluntly. If youre not carrying his heir by then, dont come back here. Do you understand?

Her husband added, You came from nothing. No pack lineage, no status. Both your parents are gone. Without Samuel, you are nothing. Dont think this pack will keep accepting you forever.

Each word landed harder than the last.

I sat there quietly, letting them speak. What else can I do?

Samuel never came back so I returned to the pack house alone.

The moment I stepped inside, I stopped.

Ivy was already there, lying on the sofa in a silk night slip, eating chips like she had always belonged in this house.

You said you were going to the motor race, I said quietly. You said you werent coming back tonight.

She looked at me and smiled, soft and careless.

Oh, Clara I forgot to tell you, she said. I went. I just didnt stay for the race.

She tilted her head, fingers tracing the neckline of her slip. Marks. Fresh mate marks.

I ran into my mate in the garage, she continued lightly. He saw me near the bike line. Lost control.

My chest tightened.

He claimed me there, she said, almost laughing. On his car. I could barely walk after. I love it!

My fingers curled. I kept my face still.

When did you even get a mate? I asked. You never mentioned him.

She shrugged. Around nine months ago, she said. Right after I came back from abroad. I studied fashion overseas, remember? When I returned, I didnt want the main pack house. I missed my step brother Samuel too much, so I stayed here. She smiled sweetly. Thats when Samuel introduced me to him.

My breathing turned uneven. So it started the moment she entered this house?

Before I could think further, I felt it.

Samuels hands on my shoulders.

Sweetheart, he said gently, you look tired. Youve had a long day. Let me run your bath.

Like nothing was wrong. Like I didnt just hear everything.

He guided me toward the bathroom. I didnt resist. I didnt have strength for it.

I went inside, closed the door, and started undressing slowly.

Then I realized I forgot clean clothes.

I hesitated, then opened the door slightly.

And everything stopped.

Not far from me, Samuel had Ivy pressed against wall. His hand gripped her waist, his mouth at her neck.

Her slip was half undone, breathing uneven.

She let out a soft sound. Slow down she whispered. Claras still inside. Didnt you already mark me enough in the garage? Your cum was still inside me.

My heart dropped.

Samuels voice came low, rough. Dont say her name, he said sharply. And dont let any other male wolves near you. If I find out someone else touched you I wont forgive it.

She smiled faintly, pleased. Then her eyes shifted. Straight to me.

Oh alright, she murmured. I wont. Youre the only one I belong to. Claim me now, brother. Fuck me.

I couldnt breathe.

That was enough.

I grabbed my clothes, shut the door, and locked it. My hands were shaking.

The bath was already running. I stepped in, letting the heat swallow me.

But it didnt help.

Nothing helped.

Because my mind kept going back.

Five years ago. Our mating ceremony on the island.

I only looked once. Just once. At another male wolf passing by during the gathering.

Samuel lost control.

He kept me inside our room for a week. Didnt let me leave. Didnt let me look at any other male. Not even through the window.

When I couldnt even stand, he held me close and whispered, Clara you dont need anyone else. Im enough. Just promise me you wont look at another male wolf again.

And I did. I promised. Over and over.

After that, I never even dared to look.

But now

Hes the one who couldnt stay loyal.

Just not to me.

To her.

I sank deeper into the water and let out a shaky breath. What did I do wrong?

When I finally stepped out, everything was quiet.

Ivy was gone. Only Samuel was there, sitting calmly like nothing happened.

On the table, there was sliced fruit and a cup of ginger tea, still warm. My chest tightened.

He stood and handed me the cup. I know your heat cycle is coming, he said gently. Drink this. Itll help.

I took it.

The warmth spread through my hands.

But inside I felt nothing but cold.

How can he act like this?

Just moments ago, he was claiming her.

And now hes standing here like my perfect Alpha again.

I didnt sleep much that night. My thoughts kept looping like a broken mate bond, circling the same question without mercy. How many faces does my Alpha even have?

Sometime before dawn, I finally drifted off.

Clara!

I jolted awake.

Samuel shot up beside me, his wolf already stirring under his skin. His hands found me in the dark instantly, gripping me like instinct, like a bond snapping tight. He pulled me against his chest so hard I could hear his heartbeat thundering.

Dont leave, he said, voice rough and shaking. Please dont leave me, Clara. I cant I cant lose you.

I froze in his arms.

Whats wrong with you?

His breath was uneven, eyes red like he hadnt blinked all night.

I saw it, he said. In my dream, you broke the bond and walked away from me. I called you, I reached for you, but you were gone. His grip tightened again. Then I woke up and you were still here. Still in my arms. I thought I lost you.

My throat tightened. I shouldve said it then, shouldve let the truth slip into the cracks of his fear.

It will happen soon, Samuel.

But I stayed quiet, because the bond between us felt heavier than ever in that moment, like it was already deciding our ending without us.

Maybe that nightmare shook him deeper than I thought, because the next morning, he didnt let me out of his sight.

Im taking you myself, he said, already dressed, keys in hand. I dont trust anyone else around you today.

I didnt argue. I didnt have anything left in me to fight.

When we arrived at his office tower, the guards lowered their heads immediately.

Alpha Samuel, they greeted.

I couldnt even respond properly.

Something felt wrong the moment I stepped inside, like the air itself was watching me breathe.

His scent was everywhere, strong, layered, and beneath it something faintly unfamiliar that made my wolf shift uneasily.

And then I saw it.

His office wall.

My breath stopped.

Photos.

But not me.

Ivy.

Hundreds of them. Some casual, some intimate, some clearly taken in private moments that didnt look innocent at all. A few were lewd, her pressed against him, his hands on her waist, her lips on his neck.

Why is she on his wall like this?

Before I could speak, arms slid around my waist from behind.

Samuel.

His lips brushed my neck, his hold firm, possessive.

Clara, he murmured, voice soft like he wasnt the same man who could snap necks with a command. You dont have to worry about her. Its nothing.

My eyes stayed on the wall.

Nothing?

He exhaled, then quickly added, Those are just Ivys suggestions. She wanted to see herself displayed. Its just today. Ill take them down tomorrow and replace them with yours.

His grip tightened slightly, like he was trying to erase what I was seeing.

I didnt answer.

He turned me away fast, almost too fast, and guided me into the inner room.

Stay here, he said. Ill fix this.

A knock came at the door.

Jonas, his Beta.

Alpha, the council meeting is about to start.

Samuel exhaled like letting go of me physically hurt him more than anything else.

Stay here, he said, brushing his thumb over my cheek. Dont go anywhere. This place is safe for you.

Safe.

I almost laughed.

He finally released me and left. The silence swallowed the room. I stayed still for a moment then walked back out.

My feet stopped again.

A screen on his desk was still open.

A post.

Ivy.

Smiling at the camera, her lips on a mans neck from behind. The mans face wasnt shown, but I didnt need to see it.

The mark on his collarbone. That cross-shaped birthmark.

Samuel.

My stomach dropped.

More photos below. Intimate. Soft. Dangerous. Like a secret life he forgot to hide.

Comments flooded the screen.

OMG Ivy girl is that your mate?

You two look so real together.

Alpha energy!!

Is that Samuel?? Be honest!!

Stop, this is too hot

My hands went cold. I stepped back slowly. The room suddenly felt too small to breathe in.

I couldnt stay.

So I left.

I walked through the tower halls, past wolves bowing their heads, past guards who avoided my eyes like I was already half gone from the pack.

By noon, my phone buzzed.

I answered quickly.

Ms. Clara Cooper, a womans voice said through the line, your exit from the Willoughby pack territory has been approved. You can now collect your transfer papers at the consulate.

My grip tightened on the phone.

Approved.

Its really done.

I opened my mouth

But a voice cut in behind me.

Exit papers?

***

I turned slowly, and there he was. Samuel. His face had gone pale, like the ground under him just disappeared.

What exit papers? he asked, voice low but shaky. Clara what was that just now?

My heart jumped, but I forced a small smile. Not mine, I said lightly. A friends. Shes planning to leave her pack and move to human territory. She called to ask me about it.

He didnt speak for a moment. Just stared at me like he was trying to smell the truth off my skin. Then suddenly he pulled me into his arms.

Tight. Too tight. His body was trembling.

Clara he whispered into my hair, voice rough, almost breaking. Dont ever leave me. For a second I thought it was you. I thought the bond was breaking and you were really gone. His grip tightened. I cant live without you. Dont do that to me.

I slowly placed my hand on his back, patting him like I was soothing him. On the outside, I smiled a little. Inside, I was already gone.

Im leaving. You just dont know it yet.

That afternoon, while he was buried in pack meetings, I slipped out quietly and went straight to the consulate. I signed the last of my exit papers from the pack. My hand shook when I wrote my name, but my mind was clear.

---

That night was the Willoughby Companys big event. The whole pack was there, Alphas, elders, investors, warriors. The ballroom shimmered with lights and scent of expensive wine and power.

I wore something simple, something that wouldnt draw attention. I just wanted to blend in.

But Ivy didnt. She walked in wearing a blood-red dress that clung to her like she wanted every eye on her. And it worked. People turned. Whispered. Watched.

Samuel noticed her too. I saw it in the way his hand paused around his glass, in the way his jaw tightened for half a second before he smiled again like nothing happened.

Guests kept coming to me, praising him.

Youre so lucky, Luna Clara.

Alpha Samuel is completely devoted to you.

The mate bond really is strong.

I just nodded and smiled.

If only they knew

A man offered Ivy a drink. Before she could take it, Samuel stepped in, took the glass, and drank it himself.

Cant risk my friends sister getting into trouble, he said smoothly, like it meant nothing.

Ivy tilted her head and smiled.

Careful, Samuel, she said lightly. If you keep acting like this, Clara might get jealous.

All eyes flicked to me.

I kept my smile soft. No, I said gently. I wont. I know Samuel loves me. He cant live without me.

For a second, Samuel looked at me like he wasnt sure if he should believe that or fear it.

Then I saw it.

The necklace on Ivys neck. Same design as mine. Different stones.

My chest tightened.

She noticed me looking and for a split second her smile slipped. Then she excused herself and slipped out. Samuel followed not long after, checking his phone once, then standing.

Excuse me, he muttered. Work call.

And just like that, he was gone.

Of course he was.

When I tried to follow, one of his business partners stopped me, smiling too much, talking too long. A married man, but everyone knew his reputation.

I kept my face polite.

Im not feeling well, I said softly. I think Ill head home early. No need to worry about me. Ill take a cab.

I slipped past him.

The hall was quieter now.

Then I heard it.

A door slightly open. Voices. Breathing. The kind of sound that makes your stomach drop before your mind even understands it.

I stopped.

Slowly, I moved closer and peeked inside.

Ivy was on top of him.

Moving. Claiming him like she owned him.

Samuels hands were on her waist, gripping hard, his head tilted back, breath uneven.

My whole body went still.

She turned her head and saw me. And smiled.

Samuel she said softly, but loud enough for me to hear. Tell me, do you really love me? Or should I go find someone else tonight?

His voice broke instantly.

I love you, he said. I love you, Ivy. Dont even say that.

My fingers tightened around my phone.

I hit record. Every sound. Every word.

She smiled wider.

Then prove it, she whispered. Give me a pup. Right now. Make me yours completely.

Yes, he groaned.

That was enough.

I didnt wait. I turned and walked away, silent, steady, like I hadnt just shattered.

---

Back home, I opened my suitcase. My hands shook as I packed, but my chest felt strangely calm.

Because this time I wasnt thinking about leaving anymore.

I was already doing it.

I was sitting in the airport lounge, passport and boarding pass in hand, suitcase beside me when my phone buzzed and his name lit up the screen, of course it was him.

I stared at it for a second before answering.

Where are you, baby? Samuels voice came through low and easy like nothing was wrong, Jonas said you werent home, you didnt tell me.

I took a slow breath. I wasnt feeling well. Just a bad headache, I went home to rest.

Ill send Jonas over with medicine, he said.

No need, I cut in, keeping my voice steady even though my chest hurt, Im done taking those, I just want to sleep.

Another pause, then I added quieter, But before you come home theres something waiting for you in our room, please open it.

I could already see it in my head, the necklace, divorce papers, wedding ring, the USB with him and Ivy.

He gave a low chuckle, then I heard it, a sound in the background, a soft moan.

My blood went cold.

Ill check it, sweetheart, he said calmly, but I cant come home tonight, pack business, important meeting.

Then I heard her.

Ivys laugh, close, right there with him.

Ill be back tomorrow, he added like it was nothing, like I wasnt falling apart on the other side of the phone.

I smiled faintly anyway. Yeah, sure.

I love you, Clara, he said.

Mm, I whispered, sleep well.

I ended the call before he could say anything else. Then my phone buzzed again.

A new message.

Ivy.

I opened it and dozens of photos loaded in.

Her and Samuel.

On a bed. Tangled. Skin against skin. His hand on her waist, her lips on his neck, the same cross-shaped birthmark on his collarbone clear in every frame. Intimate. Unhidden. Real.

My throat tightened.

Another message popped up.

I know youre Samuels Luna, she wrote. But Samuel is my mate.

My fingers went numb.

Next month, Ill be carrying his pup... Not like you.

My vision blurred slightly.

You who let her pups die because youre an incompetent mother.

My grip on the phone tightened so hard it hurt.

Then the last message appeared.

And oh, Clara Please do me a favor. Walk away now.

My knees nearly gave out right there in the airport seat.

For a moment, I couldnt hear anything. Not people. Not announcements. Just the blood rushing in my ears like a storm breaking inside my skull.

My fingers slowly lowered the phone.

My hand shook but my chest felt strangely lighter.

When the boarding gate opened, I stood, passport tight in hand, suitcase rolling behind me as my phone lit up again with his name.

I looked at it for a second, then turned it off.

No hesitation.

I stopped right before boarding, fingers lifting to my neck, the mate mark.

The bond.

My throat tightened.

How many times did I think I couldnt survive without this without him?

I pressed my fingers into it hard.

Pain ripped through me like my body was being torn apart.

My vision blurred but I didnt stop.

Im Clara Ritridge and I reject Alpha Samuel Willoughby, I break this mate bond, I release it all.

Something inside me snapped.

My knees almost gave out as the bond screamed, pulling, resisting, trying to drag me back to him.

I stayed down a moment, shaking, breathing through it until it faded.

Empty. Quiet. Gone.

I stood on weak legs, clutching my passport tighter, then stepped forward, one step at a time, not looking back.

Goodbye, Samuel. Im not yours anymore.