Chapter 8:
LYRA
Days later, I was alone, in the house,
reading a book when the sound of hooves.
and cheers filled the air.
That could only mean one thing.
Ragnulf was back.
Just as I made it downstairs, the heavy doors creaked open.
Ragnulf entered the house, his shoulders. broad, his chest puffed like a victorious. king.
Behind him stood his trusted Beta, who was wearing a sly grin that always reminded me of a snake ready to strike.
Later on, after having dinner, everyone was preoccupied in conversation when the Betal turned to his Alpha.
‘Alpha, I feel we should celebrate our
30% 11:24
1/7
Chapter 8:
victory,” Enzo said, with a smooth and eager voice.. “A feast with the top pack warriors would be really nice.”
Ragnulf‘ s sharp eyes flickered to me and his face softened, although I could still see a hint of indifference in his eyes. His voice, for once, was calm when he replied, “No. I’ve been away for days. I‘ ve ignored my mate too much. Tonight, I will spend my time with her.”
I looked at him and then I laughed aloud.
His words were sweet, but I knew they were a tender show for the crowd.
I knew the man behind the mask – the one who had sentenced me to death in another life. It was strange, sitting here again, hearing his lies, and now knowing his true
heart.
My lips curled into a smile, though it carried no warmth. “What a rare honor, my Alpha,” I said, dipping my head slightly. “But surely, the soldiers who
30% 11:24
217
Chapter 8:
fought at your side deserve your company more than I do.”
Ragnulf s brow furrowed for a moment, caught between keeping up his act and the annoyance he likely felt. But before he could respond, Enzo chimed in, his grin widening. “Perhaps our Luna could join us, then? It would be good for the pack warriors to see their Alpha and Luna united.”
The suggestion was meant to corner me, to force me into playing the obedient wife. Little did they know, I had my own reasons for wanting to go. My smile widened, and I clasped my hands before me.
“What a thoughtful idea, Enzo,” I replied. “If my Alpha permits, I would be honored to join.”
Ragnulf hesitated, his jaw tightening. He glanced at Enzo, who gave him a slight nod. I noticed the two were always in silent. agreement, partners in their schemes. Finally, Ragnulf sighed, his shoulders
317
Chapter 8:
relaxing as he gave in. “Very well. If it pleases you.
I nodded, keeping my expression serene but deep down I was boiling with rage. Every small move I made now had a
purpose, a step in my long game. Let them think I was the same weak, naive Luna like before.
As we left the hall together, I noticed. Enzo’s curious gaze lingering on me. I knew he thought himself to be clever, with the way he always watched and always plotted. But this time, I have the upper hand.
The celebration was already in full swing when we arrived. The scent of wine and sweat filled the air, mingling with the sound of laughter and poorly tuned instruments. I stepped inside, my gaze sweeping across the hall.
Then, I found soldiers slouched over tables, some with goblets in hand, others with she–wolves draped over their laps,
30 11:24
4/7
Chapter 8:
kissing them and touching them inappropriately.
As soon as Ragnulf entered, his presence swept through the room like a cold wind. Conversations stilled, bodies parted, and every pair of eyes turned toward him. His aura–a force that could crush a room- commanded immediate respect.
Immediately, the soldiers rose to their feet, bowing their heads. Even the boldest she-
wolves scurried to fix their hair and
straighten their dresses.
I bit back a smirk. It was always fascinating how fear disguised itself as reverence.
“Continue,” Ragnulf said, his voice sharp but quiet, and the hall came alive again, though more restrained this time.
Ragnulf led me to the center of the room, where he offered his hand. “Dance with me,” he said, his tone almost soft.
It almost reminded me of times when things were amazing between us and we
- 3096 11 24
5/7
Chapter 8:
would dance for hours, but that time has
passed. We are now strangers bound by obligation.
For the sake of appearances, I agreed, placing my hand in his.
All through I avoided his gaze and went stiff when he touched me.
Thankfully, the dance was simple, the kind I’d done countless times before, but as we moved, I felt the weight of his eyes on me, studying me like I was a puzzle he couldn’t quite solve.
“Is everything okay between us?” He asked, and I looked at him, really fascinated by his audacity. “I feel we’ve been growing distant lately.”
“Oh really?” I asked. “I didn’t notice.”
His brows furrowed again, and just as he was about to probably push the matter further, I pulled back, offering a polite. smile. “You should stay, my Alpha. Enjoy the company of your warriors. You‘ ve
30% 11:24
Chapter 8:
earned it.”
Ragnulf frowned slightly. “What about you?”
“I am tired,” I said with a soft voice. “Enjoy your night.”
He didn’t argue this time, which was fine. by me.
I bowed, turned, and walked away, without a second glance because spending another second in there would make me set that building on fire.
