MADELINE’S POV

His hands rested in my lower back as we walked to his quarters. I couldn’t stop thinking about how he dealt with the elder who questioned the baby’s paternity and my place as his mate. As we reached a quiet corner, his soft look changed.

“Madeline, Alpha konan’s voice turned icy, his grip tightening on my arms. How did the elder learn you are a fake mate?”

I was filled with confusion, but I was determined to defend myself. His eyes bore into mine with hatred.

“I don’t know,” I stammered.

“Don’t lie to me,” he hissed, still holding onto my arm.

My fear ignited anger. I may be a lowly servant, but I have dignity. Ask your own people, Alpha. One of the must have slipped.”

“His expression darkened, a dangerous smile curving his lips. I was sure he was surprised at my talk back.

“Remember your place, Madeline. One more mistake, and I will mark you as my real mate. Do you want that? A lifetime of hell with me?

I moved five steps away from him when I heard him utter the word “mark”, “real mate” and “hell”. I didn’t want to process the scenario in my head. Me, connected to the ever brutal alpha Konan through a bond that didn’t really exist. I prayed to the moon goddess to spare me from such fate and take my life if it was truly meant to be.

“Leave me,” he said with a wave of his hand before vanishing into his room. I made my way to my new quarters. Along the way, whispered trailed behind me. By now, the news of me being alpha konan’s mate and carrying his child was sure to spread like wild fire.

Under the curious stares and whispered gossip, I caught bits of their harsh words.

“She’s got the alpha wrapped around her finger like a witch.”

“She probably seduced him.”

“Alpha Konan deserves better than her.”

“That baby might not even be his.”

“She and Drey were involved before this. What a two timing cheat!”

The last remark didn’t surprise me. Servants rarely minded their own business. Still, the words stung. And just like that, my thoughts drifted to Drey again. This time I wondered about his feelings I’m all these.

As the whispers grew louder, I forced myself to walk through the hallway, pretending not to hear them. My heart pounded so hard that it felt like might burst out of my chest. Each step felt heavy, as if disbelief clung to me like a second skin.

Their voices followed me, I couldn’t escape it. I knew they were questioning everything about me. To them, I was a mystery they couldn’t resist picking apart. From now on, I would have to live with their judgement and prying eyes. The whispers would never stop, but I had to keep my head high and hide the truth beneath the title of alpha Konan’s mate.

I approached the room and found Drey waiting for me at the door. My heart skipped a couple of rhythms. I knew this confrontation was inevitable, but I hadn’t expected it to happen so soon, and definitely not here, in the lady’s quarters. What was he trying to do? Spring up more gossips?

Out of confusion and a need for privacy, I invited him to my room. A mistake, I would later realize—Alpha Konan had eyes and ears everywhere and I had momentarily forgotten that.

As soon as the door closed. Drey’s eyes bore into mine. “You are not pregnant Madeline. Are you?”

I froze. The weight of his words rendererd me speechless. I looked away, unable to meet his gaze.

“And you are not his mate as the rumors say. Are you?”

I opened my mouth, searching for the right words, but they wouldn’t come. Instead, I muttered a hesitant reply, one that would end this conversation and my guilt.

“I am pregnant Drey. And I am his mate.

The words felt foreign and hollow on my tongue

“Since when?How could you Madeline, how could you do this to me?”

I stood there, unable to offer him the explanation he deserved. He took a step back, clenching his fists. Haven’t I loved you enough? Haven’t I stood by you, always? I would have done anything for you Madeline. And this…. This is how you repay me?”

I wanted to say something to ease his pain, but every word thought felt inadequate, a cruel excuse.

“Drey…” I called, my voice a whisper. Mates… mates are different, I had no choice.”

“No choice? Was I so insignificant that you couldn’t prepare me for this?”

The accusation cut deep, but I couldn’t deny it. He was right, I had blindsided him. Guilt churned in my stomach, yet I couldn’t bring my self to apologize. Instead, I looked at him with pleading eyes, hoping he would somehow understand the impossible position I was in.

“I should have known, Drey said quietly. I should have known I wasn’t enough for you.”

“Drey…” I took a step closer, reaching out to him, but he raised a hand to stop me.

“There’s no use, Madeline. This is the end for us. I hope you find whatever it is you are looking for. And I hope it is worth it.”

With that, he gave a small bow, a sign of respect that felt more like a goodbye, and walked out, slamming the door behind him.

In some way, I felt relief and free and wasn’t sad or sorrowful as I thought I would be. It all looked like a load—our shared history, the guilt and the lies had been lifted off my chest. I sat on the bed, my mind spinning.

I heard a knock at the door, interrupting my thoughts.

“Who is it?” I called out.

“It’s Petra.”

Unsure of what to expect, I told her you come in.

“Madeline, you sure are a bad ass bitch. How did you do it?” Her voice dripping with mock admiration. You didn’t just get pregnant for the Alpha. In less than twenty four hours, he’s announced you as his mate and possible future Luna of the pack.” I underestimated you Madeline.

I frowned. “Future Luna my foot. Petra please don’t start. If only you knew what I have been through.”

“I only came here to remind you to take care of yourself in this den of tigers you have walked into. Don’t trust anyone, including me no matter how innocent they may seem to you. Everyone here has their own game. A little ounce of vulnerability will get you killed”. See you later Luna, she added over her shoulder, the sarcasm clear in her voice. I have got work to do.

The door clicked shut behind her. I couldn’t tell if it was a warning or an advice. Whatever it was, I couldn’t ignore it.