Chapter 4

Author: Aurora Starling Last Updated: 2024-03-09 14:09:25

Noah stared in shock as Zoe glided across the stage toward him, a young boy in tow. The other new pack members instinctively parted for her, like reeds yielding to a river's current. Paparazzi surged to the front of the audience, vying to capture the image of the reunited lovers.

Noah stiffened, anticipating Hannah's reaction to Zoe's return. He glanced at Hannah, but her gaze was fixed on him. Why? Did she suspect his involvement in Zoe's return? Did she believe he'd kept it from her?

He'd been overwhelmed with pack duties, unable to personally process new member applications. He couldn't have known about Zoe's return, much less warned Hannah. He didn't recall seeing Zoe's name on the list Scott had provided before the Acceptance Ceremony. He searched his memory for any indication of her arrival, especially with a child. Nothing.

Anger and confusion welled within him. He wanted to confront Scott immediately, but that was impossible—during a ceremony, in public, and on live television. He composed himself, masking his turmoil.

He offered Zoe a smile as she stopped before him.

“My son, Adam, and I seek refuge under Alpha Noah's rule in the Nightcrest Pack,” Zoe declared.

Noah barely suppressed a stumble in the ceremony's next steps. To the audience, his performance remained flawless.

“Your application for refuge is accepted,” he said. “Please, state your allegiance to the Pack.”

“I pledge allegiance to the Nightcrest Pack…”

As Zoe recited the pledge, Noah established a mindlink with Scott.

Why didn't you tell me about Zoe's return? he demanded.

With your preoccupation with the Lunar Festival, I thought it best to treat her like any other applicant, Scott replied. She would have been a distraction. Besides, would you have objected to her return if I'd told you?

Noah recoiled at the mention of the Lunar Festival. Obsessed with securing it for the Nightcrest Pack, he'd delegated new member approvals to Scott.

And why wouldn't he be? Hosting the festival meant substantial tourism, business development, and the Alpha King's support—the most significant event of his Alpha tenure. He'd poured all his time and energy into securing that honor.

He'd barely been home, spending most nights in his office. While this distance eased Hannah's emotional demands, his focus remained on the Nightcrest Pack's future.

He returned his attention to Zoe and Adam. The boy struggled with the pledge, his mother assisting him.

Last he'd heard, Zoe was married to the playboy Drake. Her return alone with her son suggested hardship and divorce; there was no other explanation for her presence without her husband.

His wolf growled in discontent. He would have prevented this had they remained together—a possibility thwarted by Hannah.

He fought the urge to blame Hannah. He'd agreed to the marriage too; blaming her entirely wouldn't be fair. It was what the Nightcrest Pack needed then—what his father, Marcus, had insisted upon. A union with the Silvermoon Pack, Marcus argued, was the only way to avert war. Noah always prioritized the pack's well-being.

Try telling Hannah and Zoe that.

The memory of severing their bond flooded back—the worst night of his life. He still felt the searing pain of the silver blade severing their invisible connection.

Shortly after, Zoe married Drake, and Noah married Hannah. They hadn't seen each other until this ceremony. She was as beautiful as the day she left.

Adam finished his pledge. Noah lifted his arms, bestowing his blessing.

“May the Moon Goddess watch over you and guide you, granting you wisdom. Welcome, my sister and brother, to the Nightcrest Pack.”

Silence fell as everyone turned to Hannah.

Noah watched his wife, fearing her distress at Zoe's return. He didn't want to hurt his Luna; despite their marital problems, he cared for her. He knew her sensitivity about other women, especially one from his past.

Yet, Hannah showed no signs of upset. No clenched jaw, tense muscles, or tears. No stammering or faltering. No surprise.

Instead of anger or jealousy, she smiled broadly at Zoe, embracing her warmly, then Adam.

Noah's eyes widened. This was the woman he'd been married to? He'd never seen such openness to new members, or any woman, let alone Zoe. It was utterly unexpected.

Hannah stepped back, arms outstretched.

“Welcome back to the Nightcrest Pack,” she announced.

Noah was stunned. Who was this woman, and what had she done with his Luna?