Chapter 6

Noah stared back, as if unable to comprehend my words. Scott’s gaze shifted between us, his expression neutral.

“Explain,” Noah said simply.

I glanced at Scott for support, but he subtly shook his head. Now was not the time to reveal our alliance; I was on my own.

“Tell me, Noah,” I began, “do you think our marriage needs to exist?”

He didn't respond.

Sighing, I tucked my hair behind my ear, gathering my courage before continuing. “I’m tired of this marriage. It’s all show, no substance.”

Noah gaped, speechless. “All show and no substance?” he asked, hands at his sides. “Are you jealous of Zoe?”

“Noah, this isn’t just about Zoe—”

“We both rejected each other,” he interrupted, ignoring my statement. “Whether Zoe returned or not wouldn’t have affected our marriage.”

“You aren’t listening,” I insisted. “Zoe is a small part of the problem. Our marriage means nothing.”

“It means something to our people,” he argued. “They see us as a pillar of strength. It means something to the Alpha Council.”

“It means nothing to me, anymore.”

He looked as though I’d struck him. “Where did you get these absurd ideas?”

I opened my mouth to speak, then closed it. I couldn't tell him the truth; he'd think I was insane. I wouldn't mention my pregnancy either; it would only complicate things, and he might try to force me to stay if he knew I carried his heir. He wouldn't take my child.

“I’ve been thinking about it for a while,” I lied. “I knew you were keeping something from me, and that was the last straw.”

He arched a brow. “What have I been keeping from you?”

“Don’t act like you don’t know.”

“I don’t know.”

I rolled my eyes. If he wouldn't admit it, there was no point in pressing further.

He shook his head. “Whatever you think I’ve been keeping from you, I can’t and won’t let you divorce me.”

I crossed my arms. “You won’t let me?”

“No. Nor can I, considering the Pack’s complex interests.”

I knew he’d bring that up, but I wouldn't let him guilt me.

“That’s not my problem—”

“Of course, it is. You’re the Nightcrest Pack’s Luna. You may not have the same duties as I do, but you’re just as responsible for the Pack’s well-being.”

He stepped closer, wagging a finger. “And don’t forget, you initiated this marriage. You have no right to end it.”

Frowning, I jumped to my feet, confronting him. “I did not ‘initiate’ anything,” I said. “As you’ve pointed out, it was a politically arranged marriage. Even if I had initiated it, that gives me the right to end it whenever I want.”

“Not with all our obligations.”

He snapped his fingers at Scott, who handed him a color-coded folder containing his upcoming events.

“Homeless fundraiser at the Moon Goddess temple, the Alpha golf tournament, the opening ceremony of Nightcrest University,” he listed, snapping the folder shut, “all of which involve us attending together. Not to mention our application to host the Lunar Festival.”

For a moment, I thought I saw desperation in his eyes.

“I cannot be without a Luna when the Alpha Council reviews us.”