From Betrayed Luna to Wolf Queen (Lillian) novel Chapter 20

Chapter 20 Severance and Strategy

Lillian’s POV:

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Four years ago, this prime parcel of land atop Starfall Mountain had been the most coveted piece of real estate among Gilneas City’s elite werewolf families. The views were spectacular, the land was rich in natural energy–ideal for establishing a family seat or a private retreat. I recalled that even Julian had expressed interest in it back then.

But in the final closed auction, a mysterious buyer had secured it with a bid that silenced all competition.

At the time, I often wondered–who in Gilneas had the resources and audacity to outbid Julian, the Alpha of the Graves Pack?

As it turned out, that mysterious buyer was my own older brother, Edmund Langley.

“I have instructed the kitchen to prepare a nutrient–rich meal for you, infused with herbs that aid in restoring an Omega’s physical foundation and stabilizing psychic energy,” George said, his words always measured and precise. “Once you have eaten, we can. discuss the matters requiring attention.”

George continued, “Regarding your instruction, I have already made public the official registration of your mating bond with Alpha Julian–precisely as outlined.”

Hearing this, I paused.

It suddenly struck me why my brother had sent George. The man was exceptionally adept at reading intention and executing with flawless efficiency.

Just last night, I had resolved that the first move in my counterattack would be to expose the mating bond between Julian and me -a bond they had kept secret from the world.

George had already accomplished it.

“There is little to discuss,” I stated. “Concerning the plagiarized design proposal for the Moonvale Eco–Community, proceed directly with filing the lawsuit.”

George gave a single nod. “Understood.”

“Another matter–Margaret, Iris‘ mother. What was the purpose of her recent trip to the Western Continent?” I remembered Margaret had traveled there.

“She was there to negotiate an export contract for a large shipment of raw gemstones and rare metals,” George replied. “Mr. Langley has already issued an order to block the deal.”

Hearing that my brother had already intervened, I gave a slight, satisfied nod. “Good.”

“In addition,” George continued, “Mr. Langley has also ordered a full audit and embargo on her other active export ventures. She should be receiving notification shortly”

A comprehensive lockdown. Excellent.

Preoccupied with that, how much energy would she have left to shield her precious daughter?

Iris‘ greatest source of pride was her mother’s formidable reputation in the werewolf business underworld–the unshakable backing she always relied upon.

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Chapter 20 Severance and Strategy

Now, she was already pinned to the pillar of disgrace as the female who coveted her mated brother–in–law.

Soon, her powerful mother would be pulled down into the mire alongside her.

She so enjoyed throwing her weight around… well, let her discover exactly whose weight held real power now.

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“One final thing,” I added, my tone cool. “Have the mate–bond severance agreement between Julian and me delivered to him.”

Three decisive moves, executed simultaneously–enough to fissure the façade of their seemingly stable world in an instant.

George moved with swift efficiency.

Or perhaps, the moment he received my brother’s orders, he had already anticipated my needs.

The severance agreement, it seemed, had been prepared in advance.

“While you will want for nothing upon returning to the family,” George stated, “Mr. Langley’s position is that we should formally claim half of Julian’s personal assets as part of the settlement.

“To walk away with nothing would be… a profound disservice to the choices and commitments you made during your union,” George explained.

Three years as a mated pair, the emotion and time invested in that bond, and the psychic and physical toll it had exacted from the Omega–all of it warranted substantial, material compensation.

I had never intended to leave it on the table.

Hearing George phrase it so, a quiet, mirthless laugh escaped me. “So you’re saying it would reflect poorly on me if I didn’t take it?”

George gave a solemn, definitive nod. “Exceptionally unwise.”

A faint smile touched my lips. “Then we shall proceed as you suggest.”

George inclined his head and withdrew to execute the arrangements.

I was midway through the specially prepared restorative meal when my phone buzzed with a call from Chloe. Julian had been attempting to reach me incessantly; not only had I declined, I had blocked his number entirely.

Now, seeing Chloe’s name, I answered. “Chloe.”

“Lillian, where are you?” The voice that came through was not Chloe’s–it was Julian’s, low and strained, carrying the innate command of an Alpha edged with barely–leashed frustration.

I was not at the hospital.

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