---- It was obvious the pack had cared for her well over the past six months, pampering her with all sorts of supplements. Behind Leah's calm, submissive facade lurked a flicker of triumph and defiance, as if she already believed that bearing the pups had guaranteed her victory. "You've been away from the pack for so long. Alan had no one to care for him. But don't worry, I was there every day. I stayed by his side, for you." Her fingers brushed lightly against the pups! cheeks. "You know, Alan's been so gentle with our pups-just like he used to be with you. But now that you're back... You don't even look at them. Can you imagine how much that must hurt him?" "Leah," I said, my brow furrowed as I held her gaze, "there's no need to pretend. The compensation Alan gave you was more than enough for you to leave and live comfortably. But instead, you chose to come back and seduce him- ---- and now these pups are the proof." Leah's expression shifted the moment she was caught. Without hesitation, she let out a cold, jarring laugh. "Yes, I seduced Alan on purpose. These pups are my way out of being an Omega. Soon, I'll be the Luna. So what if you've seen through me? You can't stop me. You're nothing but a defeated pawn. " Suddenly, she thrust the pups into my arms. Their soft, milky scent washed over me-a fragile, heartbreaking reminder of their innocence. Before I could react, she lashed out, striking the pups and knocking them from my arms. They hit the floor with a sickening thud, their sharp, piercing cries cutting through the air. ---- Through the sound of their wails, Alan burst into the room. He quickly pushed me aside, disbelief written all over his face. I stumbled backward, watching as he hurriedly gathered the pups in his arms. His eyes shifted from concern to shock before settling into a cold, heavy disappointment. That look of disappointment stung more than any slap could.