Her Covenant on the Blood Moon

A mocking smile touched my lips. "Is that so? Then you'd better keep your word."

Jaxon followed, seemingly oblivious. He pulled me into a crushing embrace, as if trying to merge me into his very being.

"Of course. Cora, you're more important to me than my own life."

I closed my eyes, saying nothing. If I were truly that important, how could he have betrayed our sacred mate bond?

But it didn't matter anymore. I no longer needed answers.

I didn't need a connection built on lies. There was no future for us.

I closed my eyes against a wave of nausea, the filthy scent of his betrayal threatening to consume me.

Jaxon stiffened, his arms still around me.

"Cora, what's wrong?" he asked, a hint of panic in his voice. "Are you not feeling well?"

Every word dripped with affection, utterly sincere. Yet less than an hour ago, he had been holding another woman, lost in passion.

The image flashed in my mind, and my stomach churned violently. I shoved him away and rushed to the bathroom, dry-heaving over the sink.

He hurried in after me, patting my back and offering me a glass of water. "What is it? Are you sick?"

"I'm fine. I must have eaten something that disagreed with me. I just need to lie down," I replied, forcing a bitter smile.

With that, I retreated to the bedroom.

From the open door, I could hear the guests gossiping, their voices thick with envy. "I heard Cora gave up her birthright in her ancient clan for Alpha Jaxon. He must love her so much."

"Of course! He built the Moonlight Garden just for her, a perfect replica of her homeland."

"Gods, Alpha Jaxon spoils her rotten!" another she-wolf gushed.

"Exactly! They haven't had any pups in all these years, but he's not worried at all. He's always telling Luna Cora not to rush."

"And did you know? To ensure her health, the Alpha personally hunts the most powerful prey for her every time."

"He's too good to her!" one wolf exclaimed.

"And Luna Cora loves him just as much. She gave up her powerful bloodline and her status in the clan to be with him."

"It's unbelievable! They've both given up everything for each other! Their love is stronger than the bond between fated mates."

In the past, hearing those words would have filled me with joy. Now, they were just dripping with irony.

…