Alpha's Secret Affair

I returned to the pack house with purpose crystallizing in my chest like ice forming over still water. The recording of Kehlani's confession burned in my phone's memory, but I wouldn't act rashly. A Luna's greatest weapon had always been strategic patience.

Settling into my office, I pulled out my leather-bound address book and began making calls. Each conversation required the perfect balance of enthusiasm and normalcy, as if I were genuinely excited about celebrating ten years of marital bliss rather than planning the most elegant exposure of betrayal in pack history.

"Alpha Morrison," I said into the phone, my voice warm with practiced charm. "I hope you and Luna Catherine can join us for our anniversary celebration tomorrow evening. Augustus would be devastated if his oldest allies weren't there to witness this milestone."

The guest list grew with methodical precision. Every Alpha who'd witnessed our original mating ceremony. Augustus's business partners from three neighboring territories. The pack elders who'd blessed our union. His parents, who'd welcomed me as their daughter. Even the younger pack members who looked up to us as the ideal mated pair.

I wanted an audience worthy of the performance.

"Luna Harper," Ryan appeared in my doorway, looking puzzled. "The ballroom decorators are asking about audio equipment specifications. They seem... extensive for a simple anniversary dinner."

"Nothing about ten years of partnership is simple, Ryan." I handed him a detailed list. "Please ensure the sound system can reach every corner of the room clearly. I may want to share some special memories with our guests."

His expression softened with what he probably thought was romantic sentiment. "Of course, Luna. Alpha Augustus is lucky to have someone who puts such care into celebrating your bond."

If only he knew.

Throughout the afternoon, Augustus appeared with increasing frequency, hovering around my office like a guilty shadow. His behavior had shifted dramatically since my clinic visit, as if some sixth sense warned him of approaching danger.

"Harper," he said, entering without his usual confident stride. In his hands, he carried a velvet jewelry box that probably cost more than most pack members earned in a month. "I wanted to give you this before tomorrow's celebration."

The diamond necklace inside was exquisite—a cascade of stones that caught the light like captured stars. It was also completely unlike anything I'd ever expressed interest in, chosen by someone who'd forgotten my preferences in favor of expensive guilt.

"It's beautiful," I said, allowing him to fasten it around my neck. His fingers trembled slightly against my skin, and I caught that same floral scent clinging to his clothes. "What's the occasion?"

"Ten years deserves something special." His voice carried forced lightness. "And I've booked us a weekend at that resort in the mountains. Just the two of us, after tomorrow's celebration. We could use some time away from pack responsibilities."

How convenient. A romantic getaway to ease his conscience after publicly celebrating our marriage while carrying another woman's child. I turned in his arms, studying his face with the analytical gaze that had served me well in pack negotiations.

"That sounds wonderful. Though I'm curious—you've been working such long hours lately. The medical wing seems to require a lot of your personal attention."

His jaw tightened almost imperceptibly. "The healers' training is crucial for pack security. I want to ensure they're properly prepared for any emergencies."

"Of course. And how is young Kehlani progressing? Dr. Collins mentioned she shows particular promise."

The color drained from his face so quickly I almost felt sorry for him. Almost.

"She's... adequate. Nothing that requires my specific oversight." He cleared his throat, stepping back from our embrace. "I should check on the security arrangements for tomorrow's guests."

After he fled—and there was no other word for his hasty retreat—I allowed myself a smile that held no warmth.

Later that evening, Dr. Sarah Collins knocked on my office door, her expression troubled in the way that suggested professional concern rather than personal gossip.

"Luna Harper, I hope you don't mind the intrusion, but I wanted to discuss some scheduling issues with the medical staff."

"Please, sit." I gestured to the chair across from my desk, noting the careful way she chose her words.

"It's about Kehlani Peterson. Her attendance has become... irregular. She's been missing scheduled training sessions, claiming special assignments that don't appear on any official roster." Sarah's fingers drummed against her clipboard. "When I've tried to locate her during these absences, she's often nowhere to be found."

"How concerning. When did this pattern begin?"

"About three months ago. Initially, I attributed it to enthusiasm—perhaps she was conducting additional research or observing other departments. But yesterday, I discovered her in the Alpha's office during what should have been her clinical rotation hours."

Three months. The timeline aligned perfectly with when Augustus's behavior had first begun shifting, when those expensive guilt gifts had started appearing.

"Did you speak with Alpha Augustus about this scheduling conflict?"

Sarah's discomfort was palpable. "I attempted to, but he seemed... dismissive. He assured me Kehlani was receiving valuable leadership training that superseded her regular duties."

Leadership training. The euphemism was almost insulting in its transparency.

"Thank you for bringing this to my attention, Sarah. I'll ensure the scheduling conflicts are resolved." I made a note in my planner, my handwriting steady despite the fury building beneath my calm exterior. "We can't have our medical training compromised by unclear priorities."

After she left, I sat in the growing darkness of my office, the weight of evidence settling around me like armor. Tomorrow's celebration would be perfect—a flawless anniversary party that would give Augustus exactly what he deserved.

Public recognition of our ten-year bond, witnessed by everyone who mattered.

And then the truth.