Two days later, the Stormclaw pack held a banquet to celebrate a trade alliance. As Luna, it was my duty to appear by Carson’s side. I dressed carefully, masking the hollowness in my eyes with powder and rouge. At nine months pregnant, my body was heavy, but I forced myself to stand tall. Tonight, I needed to remind the pack that I was still their Luna.
The hall glittered with golden chandeliers, laughter echoing through the air. Carson entered at my side, his hand resting lightly on my back. To the pack, it was a gesture of support. To me, it felt mechanical, cold. His eyes kept wandering—scanning the crowd until they landed on her.
Alice stood across the room in a silken gown, her belly unmistakably rounded. When she noticed Carson, her lips curved in a shy smile, and I saw his expression soften in a way it never did for me.
Throughout the night, his gaze strayed to her again and again. Wolves whispered behind their wine glasses, some pitying, some gloating. My claws dug into my palm beneath the tablecloth.
Then came the moment that shattered the last piece of my restraint. A minor scuffle broke out near Alice—an impatient guest nearly bumped her while trying to get a