Luna's Deadly Deception: How She Made Her Alpha Pay novel Chapter 5

"Yes! A thousand times yes!" Aurora's eyes glistened with tears of triumph.

The photography pack erupted in cheers: "To the sacred bond!"

From her vehicle, Thea watched, ice spreading through her veins. Five years ago, Kieran had knelt before her just as earnestly, in his ceremonial alpha garments, offering moon-blessed roses and a hand-crafted ring.

He had even wept during his vow: "Thea, you're my only mate for eternity. No other she-wolf will ever claim my heart. I swear by the moon goddess herself – if I ever betray our bond, let the goddess take my life."

Thea's bitter laugh dissolved into tears. Everything had been a lie – the vows, the devotion, even his supposedly unchangeable heart.

"They're leaving," Sarah whispered. "Should we follow?"

"Yes." Thea needed to see how deep the betrayal ran.

An hour later, they arrived at Silver Moon Restaurant, the most prestigious establishment in the territory. Kieran had chosen a secluded booth, hidden from prying eyes by ancient oak panels.

Thea disguised herself in mature clothing and a wide-brimmed hat. Sarah had already bribed their way into the adjacent booth.

Soon, an older couple joined Kieran and Aurora – the woman bore Aurora's features. The traditional meeting of pack elders before a mating ceremony.

Through a gap in the panels, Thea photographed Kieran presenting Aurora's mother with a territory deed – a traditional offering to the family of a future Luna.

Thea forwarded everything to her secretary – the photos, the meeting, the messages. "Display all of this at the ceremony."

Lost in her pain, she didn't notice the black vehicle careening toward her until impact sent her flying.

When she awoke in the pack's medical wing, Kieran hovered anxiously by her bed, his eyes red-rimmed with worry. "Are you in pain? Should I call the healer?"

Thea stared at him, nauseated by his concern. The mating photos flashed through her mind. Which was the real Kieran – the devoted mate or the betrayer?

As he moved to summon the healer, she caught his wrist. Her voice rasped: "Why are you here?"