---- Chapter 1 I stood at the ward's threshold, my fingernails biting into the wooden doorframe. Through the narrow gap of the half-open door, I saw Alan Thorne's father, Darian Thorne, and his mother, Thalia Ravenwood. They both cradled a pup, their faces glowing with joy. Even Alan, typically so cold and distant, wore a surprisingly gentle expression as he cradled the pup in his arms. But the moment his gaze met mine, the warmth in his eyes vanished. He gently set the pup down and walked toward me. ---- "Anna. You're finally back. I missed you." As he reached out to touch me, I stepped aside, avoiding his hand. Thalia's gaze swept over me with disdain, her voice laced with sarcasm. "Well, look who finally decided to show up. Did you enjoy yourself out there? I hope you haven't forgotten that you're the Luna." Darian moved in quickly, trying to defuse the tension. "It's good to have you back," he said, though his eyes never left the pup cradled in his arms. "You've arrived just in time for the christening. As Alan's mate, you owe it to his pups to play your part." Thalia's expression softened. ''The pups haven't been named yet. You and Alan should choose their names together. And don't worry, so long as you behave and stay out of trouble, your place as the ---- Luna is secure." I looked at them blankly. Was I supposed to smile and thank them for their generosity? Or was I meant to lash out, furious at their arrogance? I didn't know. They behaved as if I had been meant to stand beside these two pups-pups fathered by my mate, yet brought into the world by another she- wolf. After Darian and Thalia left, Alan's phone rang. He shot me a worried glance before stepping outside to take the call. Now, only Leah Hawke and I remained in the ward. She looked radiant, her hair gleaming with a glossy, well-kept shine.