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The Alpha King’s Intoxicating Mate HD
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Short filmTranscript
00:00I was born with heavy breasts and lush curves.
00:04My half-sister Chloe was afraid her mate Brad would go feral over me.
00:08So she sold me to an impotent alpha.
00:11She patted my shoulder.
00:15Who knows, maybe he's good at other things.
00:19Three months later, I was begging for mercy every night.
00:23Funny. He seemed good at everything.
00:27Case Valerius.
00:28The Blackwood Pax Alpha.
00:29The Lycan King's most trusted war commander.
00:31He was carried back from the battlefield soaked in blood.
00:34Someone suggested,
00:35A mate bond shares life force.
00:38If Alpha Case was bound to a living, healthy mate,
00:41her strength could flow into him and pull him back.
00:43Chloe rushed to play matchmaker and presented me to Martha before I could object.
00:47I had no way to refuse.
00:48If I wouldn't agree, she'd transfer me to serve 60-year-old Elder Kevin.
00:52I knew she resented my history with her mate.
00:55I dropped to my knees and swore to the Moon Goddess.
00:57I swear, Chloe.
01:00I had no feelings for Brad.
01:02Chloe jabbed a finger at my forehead, fury in her eyes.
01:04What good is a vow?
01:06Do you have any idea how distracting you are?
01:08I hunched my shoulders.
01:10Tears slid down my cheeks.
01:11Just look at that ample body and those charming curves,
01:15parading your body in front of every male in the clan.
01:18Who among them would not lose their minds at the smell of you?
01:21I wanted to tell her.
01:23To bind my chest, I'd wrapped myself layer after layer in the sweltering heat,
01:27until I broke out in a rash.
01:28Her expression softened.
01:30She wiped my tears.
01:32It's not that I don't trust you.
01:34It's that I don't trust males.
01:36Do you know how powerful Alpha Case is?
01:38If my mother and Martha weren't old friends, you wouldn't even have this opportunity.
01:43Chloe, I don't want to be anyone's offering.
01:46I'd rather scrub kitchen floors.
01:48Just don't make me...
01:51Two sharp slaps landed across my face.
01:54My cheek burned.
01:55Leah, are you out of your mind?
01:57If I hadn't vouched for you, Martha wouldn't have given you a second glance.
02:01You wouldn't even be worthy of being Case's mate.
02:04The maid burst in breathless.
02:06Miss Chloe, word from the Valerius Estate.
02:09Alpha Case has woken up.
02:12Chloe dragged me straight to Valerius Estate, enormous.
02:15I followed her through the main hall to a set of heavy double doors, pulled half shut.
02:19Through the gap, I could make out a man's shape in the bed.
02:21Thin, motionless, chest rattling with shallow coughs every few minutes.
02:25Martha stood on our side, eyes red.
02:27Thank you for everything you've done for Case.
02:30I won't destroy a girl's future over it.
02:32Chloe's eyes moved, quick and calculating.
02:34This is Valerius.
02:35The bond should still be completed.
02:37Leah arrived the same day Case woke up.
02:39That's the moon goddess guiding us.
02:41Seal the bond properly.
02:43Her life force will keep pulling him back toward health.
02:46Before she could speak, the healer Ella stepped out, expression tight.
02:50Alpha Case has regained consciousness, but an arrow struck his inner thigh during battle.
02:56I'm afraid he will no longer be able to-
02:58Unable to do what?
02:59He will no longer be able to get hard.
03:02Martha's knees gave out.
03:03I caught her before she hit the floor.
03:05She looked up at me with hollowed eyes.
03:07Leah, knowing this, are you still willing?
03:11Yes.
03:12She's been looking forward to it.
03:13Chloe was already answering for me.
03:15Of course she is.
03:16She's just an Omega with no prospects.
03:19She should be grateful.
03:20I didn't speak right away.
03:22My mind went to my past.
03:24There was a young wolf in the poor quarter behind our estate.
03:27I first saw him through the fence gaps.
03:29Thin wrists, hollow cheeks, hunched over a cracked bowl with nothing in it.
03:33I started passing food through the gaps.
03:35Bread first.
03:36Then soup.
03:37Then whatever I had.
03:39Day after day.
03:40I watched him change.
03:41The hollows in his cheeks filled out.
03:43His shoulders broadened.
03:45He started training before dawn.
03:47Running laps around the back wall while I was still half asleep.
03:50He was going to enter the warrior trials.
03:52I knew it before he told me.
03:54When he passed, I went to find him that same night.
03:56I was happy.
03:57I remember it clearly.
03:58I was genuinely happy.
03:59I knocked on the gate.
04:00He didn't open it.
04:01His voice came.
04:02Leah.
04:03I'm betrothed now.
04:04It wouldn't be proper.
04:05Then a soft thud in the dirt at my feet.
04:06A pouch of silver.
04:07Consider my debt repaid.
04:09I stood there for a moment.
04:10Then I picked it up and walked away.
04:12That wolf became Chloe's mate.
04:14Brad.
04:15I acted like I'd never known him.
04:17Chloe found out anyway.
04:19I snapped back to reality.
04:21I gathered my skirts and knelt in front of Martha.
04:23My lady.
04:25I'm willing.
04:25I'll complete the bond.
04:27Care for Case.
04:29And serve you as long as you need me.
04:31Luna.
04:31Martha kept her word and prepared a dignified mating dress for me.
04:34Chloe deliberately chose a day when Brad was away on pack business to send me off.
04:38She walked me to the door, guilt on her face.
04:41Even though Case can't get hard, at least you'll be spared the pain of bearing pups.
04:46Don't worry.
04:47An alpha who can't perform in that area is probably exceptional in every other.
04:52Honestly, none of what Chloe said had even crossed my mind.
04:54I told myself I was simply moving to a new household.
04:59Case was too weak to stand through the full mate blessing ritual.
05:02I completed the bond rites beside his ceremonial sword instead.
05:06Martha watched from the front, eyes wet the whole time.
05:09When it was done, I was alpha Case's mate.
05:12The mating chamber was quiet.
05:14I pushed the door open carefully.
05:17Case was already inside, half reclined against the headboard in a white bathrobe.
05:20He turned when he heard me.
05:22Up close, he was strikingly handsome.
05:25Sharp jaw, dark eyes, the kind of face that didn't need color in it to hold attention.
05:30I had no intention of taking a mate.
05:32He said with a low voice.
05:34If it doesn't trouble you, we can treat this as a sibling arrangement.
05:38He pointed to the chaise along the far wall.
05:41Tonight the bed is yours.
05:43I'll take that.
05:44Tomorrow you move to the guest quarters.
05:46Alright.
05:47I nodded.
05:48He had thought of everything.
05:49It wasn't what I'd expected.
05:51Before the ritual, one of the older maids had pulled me aside and pressed something into my hands.
05:56A small handbook, worn at the corners.
05:59She'd whispered with a strange look.
06:01There are other ways between mates.
06:03You might find it useful.
06:05I had no idea what she meant until I opened it.
06:08Heat pooled in my core just from looking at the pages.
06:11Is it too hot?
06:13Case was watching me from the bed.
06:14Right.
06:14Eyes direct.
06:16Unblinking.
06:17The dress is heavy.
06:19I'm a little warm.
06:21Then wash up and rest.
06:23He pulled the blanket over himself and turned toward the wall.
06:25Within minutes his breathing evened out.
06:27I set the handbook down on the vanity and took down my hair.
06:31Then the layered robes, piece by piece, until I was standing in nothing but my nightgown.
06:36I turned to the mirror.
06:37The thin fabric clung to every curve.
06:40Heavy breasts straining against the cloth.
06:42Slim waist giving way to the flare of my hips.
06:45I walked straight into Case's gaze.
06:47He wasn't asleep.
06:48His chest rose hard.
06:50The tips of his ears went red.
06:52His throat worked as he swallowed.
06:54I grabbed my outer robe and pressed it against my chest.
06:57Alpha, I thought you were asleep.
07:00A long pause.
07:01I could sleep later.
07:03My breath hitched.
07:05He rose slowly to his feet, his tall frame casting a shadow over me.
07:19The handbook's images came flooding in.
07:21My breathing shifted without me meaning it to.
07:24Somehow falling into the same rhythm as his.
07:26Then Case turned and walked to the door.
07:28The moment cool night air rushed in, I snapped back to my senses.
07:32He'd already disappeared into the darkness.
07:34I turned it over in my mind.
07:36When he'd looked at me just now, his eyes had flashed with something unmistakably like shock.
07:42Had my figure actually frightened him?
07:44Before I lay down, I made a firm decision.
07:47Tomorrow morning, I was binding my chest at least one full loop tighter.
07:51I was hovering somewhere between sleep and waking when Case slipped back in.
07:55The tips of his hair still beaded with water.
07:57He'd apparently gone to shower.
07:59By morning, he was already gone.
08:00Ivy came in to help me dress.
08:02From the corridor outside came the sound of a man.
08:05Once.
08:06Then again.
08:08Martha's headmaid's voice carried clearly through the door.
08:11Alpha Case?
08:12Why didn't you call someone to heat the water?
08:15It's already summer, but the nights are still cold.
08:17Of course you've caught a chill.
08:19I'll go brew tea right now.
08:20I glanced at Ivy.
08:22Does the alpha usually take cold showers?
08:25I honestly don't know, miss.
08:27I dismissed her and locked the door.
08:28I wound a strip of cloth tight over my undergarments, then pulled on the most conservative dress
08:33I could find in the wardrobe.
08:35High neck, loose cut, heavy fabric.
08:38Then I went to living room.
08:40Case was already there when I arrived, seated beside Martha.
08:43She lit up the moment she saw me, her whole face warm with welcome.
08:48Until Case coughed, and the warmth vanished instantly.
08:51Cage, I have a few private words for Leah.
08:54Go rest for a while.
08:56Case rose and left without a word.
08:58Martha waved me over and took both my hands in hers, eyes glistening.
09:03Sweet girl.
09:04Our case is lucky to have you.
09:09The pack healer says the injury drained his life force.
09:13There's no telling how long he has left.
09:15Some of the elders suggested I find a child for him to adopt, to carry on the bloodline.
09:22But if I did that, wouldn't I be stealing your whole future from you?
09:27I'm already grateful you came into this family to save Case.
09:31I can't let you sacrifice the rest of your life on top of that.
09:34I've thought it through.
09:35If Case's time does come, I'll have him issue you a formal mate release.
09:39Your future stays protected, and I'll see to it that you receive property, and a place of your own.
09:44I reached up and wiped the tears from the corners of her eyes, chest tight with an ache I couldn't
09:49name.
09:50Mrs. Valerius, thank you for looking out for me.
09:53I'd come here thinking of myself as nothing more than a transferred Omega servant.
09:57I never imagined she would think this far ahead on my behalf.
10:00My thoughts drifted to the mother I had never known.
10:02If she had been alive.
10:04If I had grown up under a mother's protection.
10:06I never would have ended up in any of the situations I'd been through.
10:09Martha laughed through her tears.
10:11Look at me, I've gone and made you cry too.
10:14She squeezed my hands.
10:15Leah, there's no need to be so formal.
10:18Call me mom, just like Case does.
10:20She took a breath.
10:21So, I have a proposition for you.
10:23Chloe mentioned you know how to prepare medicinal soups.
10:26I'd like you to take over Case's daily meals and care.
10:29I just want him to live a little longer.
10:31That's my one selfish wish.
10:33By the end, her voice had gone rough.
10:35I nodded.
10:36I headed to the kitchen to gather ingredients.
10:38The last time I'd prepared medicinal soup was several years ago,
10:41back when Brad was not yet Chloe's mate.
10:44He'd lost both parents and lived alone in a run-down unit,
10:47skipping meals to save every cent for his warrior training.
10:51One day, I found him collapsed at our back gate and brought him around.
10:54Out of sympathy, I dug through my mother's old healer journals
10:57and prepared medicinal meals for him every day to rebuild his strength.
11:01Only the two of us ever knew about it.
11:03From the looks of things, he was the one who told Chloe,
11:07just to get me driven out.
11:08The lengths he had gone to were truly something.
11:11I carried the steaming soup to the bedroom
11:13and found Case directing servants to pack up his belongings.
11:18Alpha, what's this about?
11:20Weren't we agreed that I was moving the guest room?
11:21His sharply handsome face didn't shift so much as a fraction.
11:25I have fewer things.
11:27It makes more sense for me to move.
11:29At least eat first.
11:30I set the food on the table.
11:31He gave it a brief glance and sat down.
11:36You can leave this kind of thing to the maid from now on.
11:38It's no different coming from me.
11:41It is different.
11:43His voice remained flat and cool.
11:46Have Ivy bring it from now on.
11:48He finished the soup and a few quick swallows,
11:51said a few words to the servants and swept past me.
11:54In that moment, I confirmed one thing.
11:56Alpha Case couldn't stand the sight of me.
11:59I followed his instructions and had Ivy deliver his daily healing meals to the study from then on.
12:04Martha couldn't stop singing my praises.
12:06The pack healer says Case's condition has stabilized significantly.
12:10I can see the color coming back to his face.
12:13Leah, that's entirely because of you.
12:15Delighted, she pressed a gold bracelet into my hands.
12:19Back in my room, I tucked it into my jewelry box,
12:21which had been slowly filling with pieces Martha had gifted me since my arrival.
12:26Leah, you never wear any of these.
12:28Isn't it a waste to just put them away?
12:30How is it a waste?
12:32Every one of these can be converted to cash.
12:34That's my security fund.
12:36But Lady Martha gave these to you personally.
12:38Are you really going to sell all of them?
12:40Not right now.
12:41But if the mate bond is ever severed,
12:43naturally I'd sell them and keep the money on hand.
12:46Ivy's expression shifted to pure bewilderment.
12:49As she turned away, she dropped her voice to a murmur.
12:53Alpha?
12:55Alpha?
12:56I spun around and met a pair of ink-dark eyes.
12:59Martha's eyesight must truly be failing her.
13:01Case looked worse than ever.
13:04Case's face was even paler than before.
13:06His gaze was sharp and cutting, fixed on me with cold precision.
13:10The look unsettled me completely, but I didn't dare let a single trace of it show.
13:16Alpha, is there something you need?
13:18A journal.
13:19We looked together.
13:21I checked the shelves.
13:22He checked the writing desk.
13:23Neither of us spoke.
13:25I spotted the journal pushed to the very back of the top shelf,
13:28behind a row of my mother's medical notes.
13:30I reached up on my toes.
13:32My fingertips just grazed the cover.
13:34Case's hand came over mine.
13:36Warm.
13:36Steady.
13:37He reached past me without effort and closed his hand around the journal.
13:41I turned my head.
13:43His face was right there, closer than I'd realized.
13:46He was looking down at me.
13:48Then, I lost my footing and pitched straight into him.
13:51My heavy breasts hit his chest first.
13:53My waist went straight into his palm, his hand catching me before he could react.
13:58Case didn't step back.
13:59His ear tips went red.
14:01His throat worked as he swallowed.
14:03When he exhaled, the breath came out uneven against the top of my head.
14:07His eyes flashed gold for a second, then green.
14:11I scrambled upright, face burning.
14:14Your journal.
14:15He took it without a word and walked out.
14:17Perfect.
14:17My standing in his eyes had just sunk even lower.
14:20After that day, I made every effort to avoid crossing paths with Case.
14:24He was injured and recovering.
14:26He needed to stay calm.
14:27But there was one more thing bothering me.
14:29Brad had been sending notes.
14:31Three times already.
14:32I hadn't opened a single one.
14:34Just dropped them in a box.
14:35Then, Ivy pressed one into my hand that morning.
14:38It's not just a note this time.
14:39He's here.
14:40Side entrance.
14:41Says he won't leave until you come out.
14:43I clenched my fist and walked out.
14:44I didn't notice the figure that followed from the far end of the courtyard.
14:47Brad was standing at the gate.
14:50Leah!
14:51You finally came!
14:52You should be calling me Mrs. Valerius.
14:54He paused.
14:55Dropped his voice.
14:57Mrs. Valerius.
14:58Do you have any idea how many times you've put me in an impossible position
15:02with these meetings?
15:03I know.
15:05I just wanted to tell you.
15:07I'll be securing more power in the pack.
15:09Soon I won't need Chloe's father backing me anymore.
15:12He stepped closer.
15:13I'll buy a house, Leah.
15:14Come with me.
15:16Anything's better than staying with a dying man.
15:18He reached for me.
15:19I stepped back.
15:21You want me as your mistress?
15:23Brad nodded, completely serious.
15:26I laughed.
15:27Why would I give up being the Alpha's mate to be your mistress?
15:30The whole pack knows Case is dying.
15:32He won't last.
15:34And he can't even stand up anymore.
15:37His eyes dropped deliberately to my chest.
15:39And...
15:39Isn't that a waste?
15:42Disgust surged through me.
15:44Brad, I will never be anyone's mistress.
15:47Case fought on the front lines for this pack.
15:50Those injuries are his honor.
15:53You've benefited from every battle he won.
15:56And you're standing here calling him less of a man.
15:59You're the one who's less.
16:02Come near me again and every note you've sent goes straight to Chloe.
16:06How do you think that ends for you?
16:09His face went white.
16:10I swung the gate shut.
16:12I turned around and came face to face with Case.
16:15White t-shirt, standing less than half a foot away.
16:17His full height bearing down on me.
16:18Alpha.
16:19I managed.
16:20A faint edge flickered across his expression.
16:22Wasn't it my mate just a moment ago?
16:24Why so formal all of a sudden?
16:26I looked down and started walking.
16:30Please don't misunderstand.
16:31As long as I'm in this estate, I honor this bond.
16:34Completely.
16:34Fast.
16:35It's getting late.
16:36I should go make your evening meal.
16:38I moved to step past him.
16:39His hand closed around my arm.
16:41I lost my footing and pitched straight into him.
16:43My heavy breaths against his chest.
16:44My waist caught in his grip.
16:46I looked up.
16:47His face was inches from mine.
16:49His eyes were deep and unreadable.
16:51One tilt forward and our lips would have touched.
16:54His breath hit my face.
16:55Warm.
16:56My breath hitched.
16:57Heat pooled low in my core.
17:00Case swallowed hard.
17:02As long as I remain in this estate.
17:05Each word slow, deliberate.
17:07You counting down the days until you can leave?
17:09I couldn't exactly tell him I'll leave the day you die.
17:13No.
17:14Nothing like that.
17:15I shifted in his grip.
17:16Alpha, you're hurting my arm.
17:18Did you mean every word you said just now?
17:21I blinked and asked which part.
17:23He let out a quiet breath and released me.
17:26I bolted.
17:27And I noticed, for the first time, his face had actual color in it.
17:32His cheeks were just as red as mine.
17:34That night I had a strange dream.
17:37Case's lips grazed slowly along my cheek.
17:39His fingers hooked into the strap of my slip.
17:42Voice dropping to a low murmur.
17:44Does my Luna want this?
17:46I nodded like someone completely under a spell.
17:49Then a fierce, consuming kiss caught my lips and wouldn't let go.
17:53I jolted awake in a tangle of sheets.
17:55Heart still hammering.
17:57Breathless.
17:58Ivy knocked and came in.
18:00I asked her to bring a basin of cold water.
18:02She stared at my sweat damp hair and murmured,
18:04It really is getting hotter.
18:06I splashed cold water onto my face.
18:08And then it hit me.
18:10That first night.
18:11Case.
18:12Cold shower.
18:14Surely he hadn't also been...
18:15No.
18:17Impossible.
18:18He was injured and recovering.
18:19He was supposed to be keeping himself calm.
18:21At midday, Martha's attendant arrived.
18:23Martha would like dinner in the garden tonight.
18:26She asks that you be sure to come.
18:28I've been making excuses to avoid the main dining hall for days.
18:31Just to steer clear of Case.
18:32But Martha had gone out of her way to personally extend the invitation.
18:36I couldn't say no.
18:37I stepped into the garden.
18:38A sprawling rose of Sharon was in full bloom.
18:41A gust of wind shook loose a handful of deep crimson petals,
18:45drifting down onto the stone table,
18:47covered with every dish I loved most.
18:49Martha smiled and gestured for me to sit.
18:51Case mentioned it's your birthday today.
18:53He's the one who asked the kitchen to prepare all of this.
18:56I looked up and met a pair of burning, intent eyes.
18:59Heat rushed straight to my face.
19:02Case lit a plate of chestnut cake in front of me without changing his expression.
19:07How did you know today was my birthday?
19:09I'd completely forgotten it myself.
19:11My birth mother died bringing me into the world.
19:14No one had ever once marked the day for me.
19:17Case kept his eyes lowered and said evenly,
19:20It's not difficult to know it.
19:22Something in my chest gave one quiet, inexplicable pull.
19:26Leah, this peach blossom wine is from my private reserve.
19:29I'm opening it just for you.
19:32But you two had better not drink too much.
19:34She pushed back her chair, said the summer evening breeze was too much for her old bones, and left.
19:39The garden went quiet.
19:41To avoid the silence, I put my head down and drank.
19:44One cup, then another, then another.
19:47The wine was sweet and dangerously potent.
19:50Before long, the edges of everything had gone soft and blurry.
19:54Case watched me but said nothing.
19:56By the third glass, I'd stopped feeling the awkward silence.
19:59By the fourth, I'd stopped feeling much of anything.
20:02I reached across the table toward the last piece of chestnut cake.
20:06The dish was empty.
20:07I looked up.
20:09Where's the last piece?
20:10I ate it.
20:11I have absolutely no idea where the boldness came from.
20:14I leaned straight toward his face.
20:17Who told you to eat that? Spit it back out.
20:21I pressed against his chest, trying to peer into his mouth.
20:24Case looked down at me, perfectly calm.
20:26You won't find it that way.
20:28I straightened up and stared at him.
20:30Then how am I supposed to find it?
20:32A faint flush crept across his cheeks.
20:35Try using your mouse.
20:37My gaze drifted to his slightly reddened lips.
20:40I swallowed once, and kissed him without hesitation.
20:43Case went rigid, his breathing lurching unsteady.
20:46Then control shifted.
20:48His hand cupped the back of my head, and he pressed in deeper, harder.
20:52Neither of us pulled away until footsteps sounded from behind the flower bed.
20:57Alpha, the night air is cool.
21:00Lady Martha asked me to bring you both a wrap.
21:03I had no idea how much Ivy'd seen.
21:05I shot to my feet, and the next instant the world tilted.
21:09Everything went dark.
21:12When I woke up with a splitting headache, it was already morning.
21:15I suddenly remembered.
21:17I'd promised Martha to visit Case's father's grave.
21:20It was late.
21:22I started rushing around for my things.
21:26Leah, don't worry.
21:27The driver is still getting the car ready.
21:30Ivy, was it you who brought me back last night?
21:33No.
21:34The Alpha carried you back.
21:37I spun around to check her face.
21:39She nodded, completely serious.
21:42I didn't say anything stupid, did I?
21:45Ivy bid back a smile.
21:47The Alpha set you down on the bed, and you grabbed his sleeve and wouldn't let go.
21:53You kept calling him my mate, over and over, until his whole face went red.
21:59Ivy, don't you dare make things up.
22:02She covered her mouth, laughing, and ran out.
22:06I met Martha at the front entrance.
22:08Case's father's grave was on a hillside just beyond the pack territory.
22:13I sat in the back of the car, completely distracted,
22:16replaying the moment I'd kissed Case last night.
22:19Martha must have misread my expression because she said,
22:24Leah, is there someone you have feelings for?
22:29I've noticed you've been avoiding Case these past few days.
22:33Please don't be upset with me for pushing you two together at dinner last night.
22:37I thought if the two of you couldn't be mates, you could at least be friends.
22:41But if you're uncomfortable, or if you want to leave, just say.
22:45I'll have him sever the bond. I won't let you be trapped here.
22:48Mom, no.
22:50It's not that.
22:51I was thinking about something else.
22:53What is it?
22:54I was still figuring out how to answer when the car lurched.
22:56The engine screamed.
22:58The car swung hard.
22:59Tires off the road, crashing through brush, the whole frame shaking.
23:02I grabbed Martha and looked at the driver.
23:05Slumped over the wheel.
23:06Unconscious.
23:07No one to hit the brakes.
23:09A cliff.
23:10Straight ahead.
23:11Martha grabbed my arm.
23:13Leah, what do we do?
23:14We jump.
23:15Now.
23:16We'll be hurt.
23:17We'll die if we don't.
23:18Hold on to me.
23:19I wrapped myself around her and we threw ourselves clear the instant the wheels left solid ground.
23:23We hit the cliff edge and went over.
23:25My hand shot out and caught a root jutting from the rock face.
23:28My other hand locked around Martha's wrist.
23:30Below her was a straight drop into nothing.
23:34Mom.
23:35Don't look down.
23:36Don't look down.
23:37Hold on to me.
23:39Ivy and the others are right behind us.
23:41Behind us in the second car.
23:43They'll be here soon.
23:45The root ground under our weight.
23:47Martha's voice broke.
23:49Leah.
23:50Let me go.
23:52We're too heavy.
23:54It's going to snap.
23:58I'm old.
23:59I've lived my life.
24:02You have to keep living yours.
24:05My chest tightened so hard I could barely breathe.
24:08I couldn't let go.
24:10She'd been a mother to me from the first day.
24:14Mom.
24:15I would rather die with you than watch you fall.
24:19Hold on.
24:23They're coming.
24:25The truth was, I had no idea.
24:28My arms were going numb.
24:30The pain had gone so deep it had stopped feeling like pain at all.
24:34Then I heard it.
24:37A wolf's howl split the air.
24:40Deafening and close.
24:42Leah.
24:44Don't move.
24:45I'm coming down.
24:46Case's voice.
24:48He'd called me by my name.
24:50The first time.
24:52A strong arm came under me.
24:55He'd climbed down the cliff face.
24:57Wolf claws dug into the rock.
25:00He untied the rope from his own body and looped it around my waist.
25:04Then climbed down further and did the same for Martha.
25:07The people above pulled together.
25:10We came up one at a time.
25:13It wasn't a hallucination.
25:15Case had saved us.
25:17He held me, brow creased.
25:21Why is there so much blood?
25:23Martha clutched her face.
25:25She shielded me when we jumped.
25:28I didn't get a scratch.
25:31It's all hers.
25:33My eyelids felt like lead.
25:36Leah.
25:37Don't sleep.
25:38I'm taking you to Ella.
25:40He lifted me into the car and I stayed curled against his chest.
25:44His forehead was damp with sweat.
25:47He kept one hand on the wheel and kept talking.
25:50Leah.
25:50Leah.
25:51Leah.
25:52Stay awake.
25:54I'll get you chestnut cake.
25:55I'll give you all the jewelry you want to sell.
25:58You don't have to wait for me to die.
25:59I'll write the bond release today.
26:01You can leave whenever you want.
26:03My chest kept clenching.
26:05Something wet hit my face.
26:07I looked up at the sky through the windshield.
26:10It wasn't raining.
26:12Then everything went black.
26:13When I opened my eyes, every part of my body felt like it had been taken apart and put back
26:17wrong.
26:18My Luna.
26:19The pack healer said you can't move yet.
26:21Ivy pressed a bowl of medicine to my lips, spooning it in slowly.
26:24You're lucky nothing's broken.
26:26Her voice was steady, but her eyes were red.
26:28The scrapes were bad.
26:29You need to stay flat or they'll scar.
26:32Your shoulder was dislocated too.
26:34She kept talking.
26:35My eyes had already drifted to the door.
26:37After I finished the medicine, I asked.
26:40Where's Case?
26:41Investigating.
26:42Someone poisoned the driver with wolf bite and cut the brake lines.
26:45It was deliberate.
26:45Who would be bold enough to target the Alpha's family directly?
26:48I was flat on my back for a full month.
26:51I didn't see Case once.
26:52Martha kept her door shut too, still recovering from the shock.
26:56Everyone in the estate moved with tight faces and clipped voices, like something was being held just below the surface.
27:01I asked Ivy.
27:03She said nothing was wrong.
27:05Today, I was finally cleared to get out of bed.
27:07I opened my door and walked straight into a familiar figure.
27:10Case.
27:11Dark tactical shirt.
27:12Sharper than I remembered.
27:14He held out a small wooden box.
27:16I took it and lifted the lid.
27:17A land deed.
27:19A property contract.
27:20A severance letter.
27:22My body went rigid.
27:23Something locked around my chest and wouldn't let go.
27:25Case!
27:26Are you throwing me out?
27:28You've been waiting for this since the day you arrived.
27:31You avoided me, stayed out of my way.
27:33You never wanted anything to do with me.
27:35You were counting down the days until I died so you could walk out cleanly.
27:38I'm just doing it early.
27:41Leah, go.
27:42After today, we're finished.
27:43Something sharp flooded my chest.
27:46My mouth opened and closed.
27:48It took a long time to get anything out.
27:51So that's what you think of me?
27:55Leave now.
27:56I don't want to see you anymore.
27:59Case disappeared around the corner of the yard.
28:01Estate guards all but pushed me out the door.
28:03Ivy fell in to step beside me and-
28:05The Alpha said you're used to having me around.
28:07He told me to go with you.
28:10I couldn't speak.
28:15We moved into a small house on the edge of the territory.
28:18By morning, the pack's official announcement had gone up.
28:21The announcement said Case had betrayed the pack.
28:24The announcement said he had betrayed the pack.
28:26That he had leaked the border patrol routes to a rogue faction.
28:29By order of the Lycan king, royal enforcers had been dispatched to seize him, pending investigation.
28:36Case was being held in the dungeons under royal guard.
28:40The estate was locked down.
28:42Everyone inside was under scrutiny.
28:45Case would never betray his pack.
28:47He would die before he did something like that.
28:49He rushed to get me out.
28:51That was why.
28:51That was the only reason.
28:54Ivy was pacing circles around the living room.
28:56She'd grown up inside the estate.
28:58She couldn't stand still.
29:00Is there anything we can do?
29:02I made myself sit down and think.
29:05Years ago, Elder Reed's youngest child had gotten lost in the forest and been bitten by a snake.
29:10I'd found him and used the right herbs to treat the wound.
29:14Elder Reed had arrived while I was still crouched over the boy.
29:17He'd seen my face.
29:18I was sure he hadn't forgotten.
29:20I tracked him down outside the council building and stepped into his path.
29:24Elder Reed.
29:25You remember me.
29:26I need a favor.
29:28He looked at me for a long moment.
29:30Then he nodded.
29:31Elder Reed led me into the dungeon.
29:33Thirty minutes.
29:34No more.
29:34The door unlocked.
29:35Case stood up.
29:36His eyes flashed with surprise.
29:38How did you get in?
29:39My chest ached as I looked at him through the blur of tears.
29:42That's why you kicked me out, isn't it?
29:44You were framed.
29:46Think carefully.
29:47Is there any evidence to prove your innocence?
29:50I will find it.
29:51I will investigate.
29:52I swear I will rescue you.
29:54Case's gaze deepened.
29:55Then his arm shot out and pulled me into his chest.
29:58Leah.
29:59My heart hammered.
30:00But time was running out.
30:02This wasn't the moment.
30:03I pushed against him.
30:05He didn't budge.
30:06Leah, you don't need to do anything.
30:07I can't say much.
30:10I promise.
30:12Seven days later, I will accompany you to watch the sunrise.
30:15Okay?
30:16His eyes were steady.
30:18Certain.
30:19Like he was coaxing a frightened pup.
30:22I walked out of the dungeon and straight into Brad.
30:28He stepped into my path.
30:29Slow smile spreading across his face.
30:31It's not too late to reconsider.
30:34Being my mistress beats being alone and disgraced.
30:37I swung my hand and slapped him across the face.
30:40He lunged for me.
30:41I stepped sideways and put distance between us.
30:43Try that again and every note you sent me ends up in front of Chloe's father.
30:46Every single one.
30:48You've been whispering in her ear for years, haven't you?
30:50Trying to get me pushed out thinking I'd have nowhere to go and no choice but to run to you.
30:53But you never counted on Chloe handing me straight to Case.
30:56A man you can't touch.
30:58His face changed.
30:59I didn't wait for him to recover.
31:00I walked away and didn't look back.
31:02A wolf like that.
31:04The further the better.
31:05I didn't sleep well for the next five days.
31:08Case's voice kept coming back to me.
31:09I promise.
31:11Seven days later, I will accompany you to watch the sunrise.
31:14Okay?
31:14On the afternoon of the sixth day,
31:16the Lichen King's official decree went up across the territory.
31:18The leak hadn't come from Case.
31:20Case.
31:21It had come from Prince Marcus and his allies.
31:24The truth is finally revealed.
31:28The Lichen King had not yet named his heir.
31:30Both Prince Caden and Prince Marcus were in the running.
31:32Case was Prince Caden's most powerful ally.
31:35The Alpha who commanded the most powerful pack.
31:37Taking Case down was the cleanest way to clear the path to the throne.
31:40Prince Marcus had planted a spy inside the Blackwood pack,
31:43used him to steal the border patrol routes,
31:44then framed Case for it.
31:46So the injury had been faked.
31:47All of it.
31:48A deliberate trap to draw out the spy.
31:50But why fake being unable to mate?
31:52I turned that over in my mind all night and couldn't land on an answer.
31:56Dawn was just breaking when someone knocked at the door.
31:58I didn't think.
31:59I just ran.
32:00I threw the door open and walked straight into Case's chest.
32:02He went completely still.
32:04Then his arms came around me, slow and deliberate,
32:06and pulled me in hard.
32:08I'd run out in nothing but a thin sleep shirt.
32:10No warning.
32:11Through the thin fabric I could feel everything.
32:13The hard muscle of his chest.
32:15His arms locked tight around me.
32:17I pressed my hands against his chest and tried to step back.
32:19Leah.
32:20His voice dropped low.
32:22I'm back.
32:23Our eyes locked.
32:24The heat between us was thick enough to touch.
32:26Then he lifted me off the ground and carried me straight toward the bedroom.
32:28I beat a fist against his chest.
32:31Weren't we supposed to watch the sunrise?
32:35You first.
32:36Sunrise after.
32:38We fell onto the bed together.
32:42After the estate lockdown was lifted, Case took me to meet Prince Caden,
32:46a slow smile spreading across his face.
32:48So you're the woman who brought Case to his knees.
32:50I've been wanting to meet you.
32:52You flatter me, your highness.
32:54Case helped the kingdom take down a real threat.
32:56You stood by him through all of it.
32:57I'll host an official Luna ceremony for you.
33:00And when that day comes, I'll have a gift ready.
33:02Thank you, your highness.
33:04Don't blame Case, Leah.
33:06Faking the injury was always part of the plan.
33:11Too many enemies wanted him dead.
33:13The only way to keep him safe was to make them think he was already finished.
33:17The part about not being able to get hard, that was my idea.
33:21I gave the pack doctor that order myself.
33:24We grew up together.
33:26I know exactly how he is.
33:28Never any interest in women.
33:30Never any weakness.
33:31I figured it was time someone did something about that.
33:33Suddenly I understood.
33:35Just two old friends and one very elaborate prank.
33:38The car accident.
33:40That was Prince Marcus as well.
33:41They intended it to look like an accident.
33:43They didn't expect to hurt you in the process.
33:46Luna, Leah, it's been dealt with.
33:48You and Case are safe now.
33:53Case pinned me beneath him.
33:55One hand working the buttons of my sleep shirt open.
33:57Eyes never leaving mine.
33:59I covered his eyes with both hands.
34:01Don't look.
34:02It's embarrassing.
34:03He took my hands down.
34:05His breathing had gone ragged.
34:07It's beautiful.
34:09His eyes were bright and fixed.
34:10My skin went hot everywhere he touched.
34:13I pressed my palm flat against his chest.
34:15Hard muscle, warm skin.
34:16Healer said you couldn't get hard.
34:18How is any of this possible?
34:20Lips dragging slowly along my jaw to my ear.
34:22You wanna know if I can?
34:24There's one way to find out.
34:25He kissed me.
34:26One hand cupping my face.
34:28Tilting it up toward him.
34:29I kissed him back hard.
34:31My hands slid up his chest.
34:33Over his shoulders.
34:34Gripping his arms.
34:35He pressed me further into the mattress.
34:38His weight settling over me.
34:39The heat built fast and took over completely.
34:42My hands went slack.
34:43He caught them.
34:45Laced his fingers through mine.
34:46And pinned them above my head.
34:48He loves me very much.
34:50And completely occupies me.
34:52My face gradually became rosy.
34:54And we could only hear each other's heartbeats and breathing.
34:58His lips dragged from my mouth to my jaw.
35:00Down the side of my neck.
35:02Slow and unhurried.
35:04Then he stopped.
35:05His canines pierced my mating gland.
35:07A second of sharp, white-hot pain.
35:09And then it was done.
35:11I lay there, chest heaving.
35:13Fingers still tangled in his.
35:15On my neck, his mark ached.
35:17Finally.
35:18We weren't just mates on paper anymore.
35:21I took a slow breath.
35:23Knowing it was over didn't make the memory of dangling off that cliff any less vivid.
35:27We got back to the estate to find Chloe already inside, crying.
35:30She walked an hour ago and hasn't stopped.
35:32Martha is getting a headache from it.
35:35I told Case to go to his study.
35:36I'd handle it.
35:38I sat down next to Chloe.
35:39Face red, eyes swollen.
35:41Word had already spread.
35:43Brad had been identified as one of Prince Marcus' informants.
35:46Chloe's father had been cleared.
35:47But Chloe and Brad were finished.
35:50Still crying?
35:51I'll have someone throw you out.
35:53She stopped immediately.
35:54Still shaking, but quiet.
35:56I misjudged him.
35:57I thought picking someone from a lower-ranked family meant he'd be easy to manage.
36:02I didn't think he'd be like this.
36:05I told you he wasn't a good person.
36:07You didn't say it clearly enough.
36:09I rolled my eyes.
36:10I wasn't a powerless Omega anymore.
36:13I didn't have to hold back.
36:18Were you ever angry at me?
36:20For how I treated you back then?
36:23No.
36:23I cursed you in my head, but I don't hold grudges.
36:27You cursed me?
36:28Do you want to punish me for it?
36:30Chloe laughed despite herself.
36:31Then caught herself and pressed her lips together.
36:33I'm sorry.
36:34For the slap.
36:35Did it hurt?
36:36I already forgot about it.
36:37Then let me slap you back.
36:39We'll be even.
36:40She closed her eyes and braced herself.
36:42I raised my hand and let it land soft against her cheek.
36:46She opened her eyes.
36:49I already gave that slap to Brad.
36:51Chloe stared at me for a second.
36:53Then she laughed.
36:54Really laughed.
36:54For the first time since she'd walked in.
36:56Don't call me Chloe anymore.
36:58Can we be friends?
36:59No.
37:02I don't like friends who cry too much.
37:04The light was still on when I passed Case's study.
37:06I pushed the door open.
37:08Before I could say a word, an arm shot out from behind and wrapped around my waist.
37:12Bold intruder.
37:13His voice dropped low against my ear.
37:15You think you can just walk into the Alpha's office?
37:17The Alpha's mate is right here, and you still dare make a move?
37:21Case played it straight.
37:22His lips found my neck.
37:24Here?
37:25Really?
37:27Right here.
37:28I kept saying no.
37:29My hands said something else entirely, finding their way to his back.
37:33Leah.
37:33He murmured against my ear.
37:34You have no idea how many times I thought about this in this room.
37:39I wanted to say something back, but his hand was already moving and I couldn't get a single word out.
37:44He carried me to the table and took off my clothes.
37:47Then we had a good time.
37:54When I woke up, it was almost dawn.
37:57Case was already awake, sitting up against the headboard, watching me.
38:00His eyes were soft in a way that made it hard to look back.
38:03Morning.
38:04I sat up and rubbed my eyes.
38:06Then I remembered.
38:07The sunrise.
38:08He'd promised.
38:10The sunrise.
38:13We still have time.
38:15He was already up.
38:16He picked up my clothes from beside the bed, handing them to me.
38:19He dressed me slowly, straightening each layer with both hands, like he'd done it a thousand times before.
38:25We walked out into the yard.
38:26Cool air.
38:27The smell of pine.
38:28To the east, the sky had just started to lighten at the edges.
38:31Case stood behind me and wrapped both arms around me.
38:34We watched the horizon together.
38:35The sun came up slowly.
38:37Gold light broke across the trees, spread across the yard and landed on us.
38:42The clouds caught the color and held it.
38:44Beautiful.
38:45Close to my ear.
38:47Beautiful.
38:49He pulled me in tighter and said nothing else.
38:51He didn't need to.
38:53I'll watch every sunrise and sunset with you.
38:56His voice was quiet against my hair.
38:57Everyone.
38:58For as long as we have.
39:00I turned around and kissed him once, quick and light.
39:04Deal.
39:05The sun came up fully and the yard filled with light.
39:08Our shadows stretched long across the ground behind us.
39:11Over the next few days, the estate came back to life.
39:14Servants moved through the halls with easy steps again.
39:16Martha's health improved.
39:17She called me in to talk every morning, always smiling when I walked through the door.
39:22One afternoon, I was trimming the plants in the yard when Sunny came running over.
39:25Leah.
39:26Chloe is here again.
39:27She brought a lot of stuff with her.
39:29I set down my shears.
39:31Since the day she'd come in crying, Chloe had been showing up regularly.
39:34She said she was making up for lost time.
39:36Really, she just had nothing to do and nowhere to be.
39:41Let her in.
39:42I wiped my hands and went to meet her.
39:45Chloe walked in with two attendants behind her, carrying food boxes.
39:48She'd changed a lot.
39:50Less restless.
39:50She dressed simpler now and moved quieter.
40:00I made your favorite.
40:02Chestnut cake.
40:03I asked the Royal Kitchen for the recipe this time.
40:07Better than anything the Blackwood Kitchen has ever made.
40:09I took a piece and bit into it.
40:11Sweet.
40:12Soft.
40:13Better than I expected.
40:15Good.
40:18So where's Case?
40:19Not home?
40:21He went to the PAC training ground.
40:22Something came up.
40:24Chloe nodded and reached for a piece herself.
40:26For a while, neither of us said anything.
40:28Just the wind moving through the yard.
40:30My father wants me to find a new mate.
40:32I looked up.
40:33Don't rush for it.
40:35I know.
40:38After Brad, I don't know how to trust anyone.
40:40She looked at me.
40:41Something flickering in her eyes.
40:43You have a good mate.
40:45Case fights for you.
40:47Protects you.
40:48And he's the strongest alpha in the kingdom.
40:50We just got lucky.
40:51You can't force these things.
40:53Chloe nodded and didn't say anything else.
40:55Just ate her chestnut cake.
40:57The yard went quiet.
40:59Just wind moving through the leaves.
41:01Then she said.
41:02That slap.
41:04Do you really not hold it against me?
41:06Really.
41:07It's in the past.
41:09No point bringing it up.
41:11The truth was, I'd already let it go a long time ago.
41:13She wasn't a bad person.
41:15Just spoiled.
41:16Used to getting her way.
41:18Chloe's eyes went red at the edges.
41:21When I arranged the mating, part of it was because I was scared you and Brad would find your way
41:25back to each other.
41:27But part of it was genuine.
41:29I really did think Case was a good man.
41:31That he wouldn't treat you badly.
41:32We looked at each other and smiled.
41:34All the conflicts were solved.
41:38I just didn't expect him to be faking the whole time.
41:41Chloe laughed.
41:42A little embarrassed.
41:43It's in the past.
41:46Isn't this better?
41:51It is.
41:52She nodded.
41:53Can we be friends?
41:54For real?
41:55I won't be like I was before.
41:59Sure.
42:00I nodded.
42:01Something warm moved through my chest.
42:03Letting go of old grudges and coming out the other side with a friend.
42:06That wasn't a bad ending.
42:07We sat in the yard for the rest of the afternoon.
42:09Eating and talking.
42:11Pack gossip.
42:12Small things.
42:13Nothing important.
42:14The sun came through the leaves and the air was warm and easy.
42:17When Case came back from the training grounds that evening and saw the two of us,
42:20surprise crossed his face.
42:23What are you two happy about?
42:24Talking about you.
42:26Chloe grinned.
42:27About what a liar you are.
42:28Faking the whole thing and fooling everyone.
42:32Case walked over and sat down beside me.
42:35He reached over and took my hand.
42:37Eyes warm.
42:38Tricking you into becoming my Luna?
42:40That's the luckiest thing I've ever done.
42:42My face went red.
42:43I gave him a look.
42:45Chloe burst out laughing.
42:46Alright, I'm leaving you two alone.
42:48Leah, I'll come by tomorrow.
42:49Sure.
42:50Take care.
42:51I watched her go.
42:52Case turned to me.
42:53Are you a good friend now?
42:56Yes.
42:57The past is the past.
42:59No point holding on to it.
43:00He squeezed my hand.
43:02I'm glad you can think that way.
43:03He knew how much I'd been through.
43:05Watching me let it go and just be happy.
43:07I could tell it meant something to him.
43:09We sat side by side at the stone table and looked out at the sky.
43:14Neither of us said much.
43:15We didn't need to.
43:17Days like this, quiet and unhurried, became the rhythm of our life.
43:22Case stayed busy with the pack and with royal matters.
43:24But he always made time.
43:26Sun rises.
43:27Sun sets.
43:28He spoiled me until I didn't know what to do with it.
43:31Martha was healthy and smiling every day.
43:34The estate was calm and easy again.
43:36The way it used to be.
43:38True to his word, Prince Caden petitioned the Lycan King on my behalf.
43:42At my official Luna ceremony, the Lycan King's decree was read aloud.
43:46A formal commendation in front of the entire pack.
43:50The estate was lit up and full of noise that day.
43:53Case lifted the veil and placed it over my head himself.
43:56His eyes proud and soft.
43:57The most beautiful Luna.
43:59Then he shifted.
44:00Right there in front of everyone.
44:03His wolf was massive.
44:04Dark, broad-shouldered, still.
44:07He lowered himself to the ground and waited.
44:09I climbed onto his back.
44:11He rose slowly, carrying me steady, and lifted his head toward the moon.
44:16The howl that came out of him was long and deep and carried across the entire territory.
44:21One by one, the pack answered.
44:23Howl after howl rising into the night sky.
44:27I thought about everything it had taken to get here.
44:29A bastard Omega with no wolf.
44:31No one to speak for her.
44:33Only I knew how hard the road had been.
44:36And all of it, every bit of the happiness on the other side of it,
44:39came from the man standing behind me.
44:41After the ceremony, Case took me south.
44:43Open land, warm air, water catching the afternoon light.
44:47Far from everything that had tried to take us down.
44:50The rest of our lives stretched out ahead of us.
44:53Every year, every season, together.
44:57After the ceremony, life settled into a new rhythm.
45:00I stood beside Case at every pack meeting.
45:02Every decision.
45:03Every matter that came through the estate gates.
45:06His pack was my pack.
45:08His people were my people.
45:10But he always made time.
45:12A weekend drive with no destination.
45:14A trail through the forest at dawn.
45:16Wherever he thought I'd want to see, he took me there without being asked.
45:19The rest of our lives stretched out ahead of us.
45:23Every year, every season, together.
45:25A mileage'd is lost, walked around, and not as long as possible.
45:25Just put them together.
45:26Thank you very much.
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