Chapter 12: Chapter 12

Menu Selene The big day had finally arrived – the Werewolf High Council’s grand event.

My stomach was in knots. Sure, I’d been to plenty of parties over the past five years, but those were all safe within the Iron Crown Pack.

Tonight was different. Tonight meant facing strangers, including one person I never wanted to see again.

“Shall we, beautiful?”

I turned to find Axel beside me, offering his arm. I nodded, placing my hand on his arm, grateful for his support.

The grand hall took my breath away – both the sheer power radiating from those inside and the elaborate decorations.

It seemed like every important Alpha and Luna had shown up.

Well, of course they had. This wasn’t just some party – it was the Council’s annual conference.

I squeezed Axel’s hand and took a deep breath.

‘I’ve got this,‘ I told myself.

The hall was packed with the who’s who of werewolf society, everyone trying to outshine each other.

The women wore designer gowns that probably cost a fortune, while the men sported custom–tailored suits.

I was wearing an expensive black satin number my brother had picked out.

Axel and I drew plenty of attention. I caught men checking me out but ignored them. Several young women shot me envious looks.

We were definitely the talk of the room.

Axel introduced me to some Council members. His reputation preceded him – he was pretty well- known for a Beta, and the Council clearly respected him. It made me happy to see him getting the recognition he deserved.

“We can’t believe we’re finally meeting you, Selene Hawthorne. We’ve heard so much about you over the years,” one Council member said.

I smiled politely. “Thank you for having me. I’m honored to be here.”

“We’d love to introduce you around-”

“I’m sorry to interrupt, sir, but could I make one request?” I cut in.

They exchanged glances before nodding.

Axel leaned in close. “What are you thinking, Sel?”

I shook my head, silently telling him not to worry.

“I’d like to keep my identity private.”

H D08:45 15.0%

Menu Axel joined in their laughter while I shot him a confused look. Through our mind–link, I asked, “What’s so funny?”

“No clue. They laughed, so I laughed. Just play along – they’re Council members, remember?”

I forced an awkward laugh, feeling completely lost.

‘Do they think there’s something between me and Axel?‘ I wondered, shaking my head.

While Axel discussed pack business with the Council (since my brother, the Head Alpha, couldn’t make it), I excused myself.

I grabbed a glass of champagne from a passing waiter and found a quiet corner to people–watch.

That’s when an angry voice cut through my peace.

“Selene, what the hell are you doing here?”

I turned to find two familiar faces – women from the Nightfall Pack.

“Excuse me?” I kept my voice neutral.

They sneered. “We thought you were dead!”

Suddenly, the room went quiet. A powerful presence had entered, and everyone felt it. But these women were too caught up in their drama to notice.

“Right? I mean, how are you even alive after Alpha Kane dumped you?” the second woman taunted.

I forced myself to focus only on them.

“Are you done?” I asked, bored.

My indifference only made them angrier.

“Got no shame, huh? Forgot you’re not Luna anymore? Or are you here trying to get our Alpha’s a ttention again?”

I glared at them. “Just shut up and leave me alone,” I snapped.

They looked shocked at my backbone. One raised her hand to slap me, but I caught her wrist.

That’s when I saw him.

Standing there in his perfectly tailored black suit, commanding attention like always.

Now I knew why the room had gone quiet.

Danger rolled off him in waves. Those dark eyes I’d tried so hard to forget locked onto mine, bringing every memory flooding back.

08:46 14 81%

Menu I realized I was crushing her wrist. Forcing myself to look away from him, I turned back to her.

“Better fix your attitude before your Alpha,” I warned, releasing her.

She frowned, then spun around.

Their eyes went wide. They quickly tried to look innocent, bowing. “Alpha Kane.”

I couldn’t help but smirk as I looked back at Kane.

He ignored them completely, his rage–filled eyes fixed on me.

The women scurried away, terrified.

As I tried to escape, he took a step forward.

“How dare you-” His icy tone gripped my heart. But my wolf had other ideas.

She suddenly perked up, excited. Before I could process my confusion, she started chanting: “MATE.”