Chapter 165: It's Been a While

Hayley’s POV:

When I arrived at the banquet hall, I glanced around, feeling slightly uninterested. Spotting a nearby couch, I decided to sit down for a while. Soon, Hera seemed restless, drawn by an intriguing scent. As I looked up, I noticed Benjamin approaching. He sat beside me with ease and said, “This banquet might run late tonight. If you’re feeling tired, you can head to the cabin to rest.”

I nodded. “I know. I’ll go there later.”

Noticing that I hadn’t eaten much, Benjamin stood up and returned with a plate of pastries. “Have some. You shouldn’t go hungry.”

I smiled at him and replied, “Thank you.”

Just then, a representative from another pack walked over and greeted Benjamin cheerfully, “Alpha, it’s been a while!” Benjamin signaled for me to step aside, silently asking me to wait. I gave him a reassuring look and moved away to let them talk privately.

Jessica’s POV:

From a distance, I couldn’t take my eyes off Benjamin. His commanding presence and striking appearance made him impossible to ignore. It wasn’t surprising that Madeline was so determined to make him hers. Not only would marrying him mean becoming Luna of the powerful Midnight Pack, but it would also secure an extraordinary husband.

Thinking about our carefully crafted plan, I shot Madeline a sly grin. “I managed to get this from a high-ranking witch on the black market. It’s incredibly potent. Just wait and see.”

Madeline’s excitement was evident. “As long as it helps me win over Ben, I’ll pay any price.”

Knowing her ambitions, I lowered my voice and reminded her, “Benjamin isn’t someone you can manipulate easily. Even with a scheme, he might not marry you. Be prepared for that.”

But Madeline was unwavering. “Don’t worry. He’ll have no choice but to marry me. Even if not for my sake, he’ll consider the ties between our families, and if tonight goes as planned, I might even carry his child. The Southwells would never allow their bloodline to be raised outside the pack. For the child’s sake alone, Benjamin will have to marry me. And that child will eventually inherit the…”

Realizing I wouldn’t change her mind, I didn’t push further. Instead, I confirmed the plan one last time. “Make sure everything goes smoothly tonight. I’ll handle my part tomorrow. Don’t forget your promise to…”

Madeline nodded confidently. “Relax. I’ll keep my word. Now, hand me the room card. The rest is up to you.”

Sophie and I handed her the room card. “It’s Room 2203. Don’t mix it up.”

Madeline took it, waved us off, and confidently headed toward the guest cabins.

After she left, Sophie turned to me, her voice laced with concern. “Are we sure about this? What if things backfire? Benjamin isn’t someone to mess with. If he retaliates, both our families could face serious consequences—maybe even exile or being demoted to Omegas!”

I found her concerns unnecessary since our plan was flawless. To put her at ease, I said, “Relax. No one will be able to link this back to us. Even if they do, it won’t matter. We’ve only been working behind the scenes. Without proof, Benjamin can’t do anything to us.”

My words seemed to ease Sophie’s nerves. However, my wolf began to stir with unease, sensing danger from the Alpha. She tried to hold me back, but I maintained full control over her.

Out of nowhere, Sophie asked, “What about Hayley? How do you plan to handle her?”

I gave a sly smile. “Just rest assured. I’ve got it all sorted. Her room is right next to Madeline’s. Who knows? She might even overhear some interesting moments tonight.”