Alpha's Cruel Rejection

Synopsis

I smoothed down my emerald dress one last time before stepping into the grand hall, my heart hammering against my ribs. Three years. Three years of working double shifts at human establishments, of managing pack finances, of standing beside Derek through every challenge. Tonight was supposed to be our night—the night he would finally acknowledge me as his Luna before all the gathered Alphas. The hall buzzed with conversation, crystal chandeliers casting warm light over the assembled pack leaders and their mates. I searched for Derek's familiar figure on the ceremonial platform, my wolf stirring restlessly beneath my skin. She'd been agitated all evening, whimpering in ways I didn't understand. Then I saw him. Derek stood behind the Luna's chair, his hands resting possessively on the shoulders of the woman seated there. Alexandria Bishop. Her golden hair caught the light like spun silk, her designer gown making my carefully chosen dress look like a rag. She sat in my chair—the chair that should have been mine. My feet rooted to the marble floor. Pack members nearby glanced at me, then quickly looked away, their expressions ranging from pity to embarrassment. Whispers followed in my wake as I stood frozen, watching the man I'd devoted my life to smile down at another woman. "Ladies and gentlemen," Derek's voice boomed across the hall, his Alpha presence commanding immediate silence. "Tonight marks not only our pack's elevation through this historic alliance, but also a personal celebration." No. The word screamed through my mind, but my throat had closed completely. "I am honored to announce my