Chapter 2
The next morning, Charlotte Bennett descended the stairs of the pack house, her eyes red and swollen from a sleepless night. Her heart clenched the moment she saw Carolina Scott standing in the kitchen, the faint marks of a mate bond visible on her neck. The sight was like a dagger to Charlotte’s chest, and she quickly averted her gaze, but Carolina’s loose clothing made it impossible to ignore the evidence of her claim over Atlas Lynch.
Carolina noticed Charlotte’s discomfort and flashed a smug smile. “Did Beta Lynch and I disturb you last night, Charlotte? I hope our little… argument didn’t keep you awake.” Her tone was light, almost teasing, but the underlying message was clear.
Before Charlotte could respond, Atlas entered the room, his presence as commanding as ever. His expression was calm, almost indifferent, as he addressed Carolina. “You’re my mate, Carolina. These things are expected. Apologizing every time would be unnecessary.”
Charlotte’s fists clenched at her sides, her nails digging into her palms. She forced herself to speak, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside. “Beta Lynch is right, Miss Scott. There’s no need to apologize.”
She quickly grabbed a roll and a cup of coffee, eager to escape the suffocating tension. Just as she turned to leave, Carolina called after her.
“Charlotte, Beta Lynch and I are heading to the amusement park today. It’s always lively, and I thought it’d be fun. You should join us.”
Charlotte opened her mouth to decline, but Atlas cut her off. “We could use someone to watch our things while we’re on the rides. You should come.”
The finality in his tone left no room for argument. Charlotte nodded silently, her heart sinking further as Atlas summoned the elevator. During the drive, Atlas and Carolina chatted animatedly, their laughter filling the car. Charlotte sat in the backseat, her eyes fixed on the rearview mirror, where she caught glimpses of Atlas’s faint smile—a smile he hadn’t directed at her since she’d confessed her feelings.
At the amusement park, Carolina dragged Atlas from ride to ride, her excitement infectious. Charlotte trailed behind, carrying Carolina’s bag, feeling more like an outsider with every step. She watched as they laughed together, their connection undeniable, and tried to ignore the ache in her chest.
As the sun began to set, they’d nearly exhausted the park’s attractions. Charlotte was exhausted and hoped they’d head home soon, but then Carolina pointed to the towering bungee jump platform, her eyes gleaming with excitement.
“Beta Lynch, I heard that if you call someone’s name while bungee jumping, it means you’ll be together forever.”
Charlotte glanced at the sign, which indicated a 328-foot drop. She knew Atlas well—he was practical, not one to fall for superstitions. And then there was his fear of heights, his vertigo, which had plagued him since childhood. Even the carousel made him queasy, and it took him hours to recover.
The idea of Atlas attempting the bungee jump seemed impossible. She noticed the worry in his eyes and instinctively stepped forward to defend him. “He can’t—”
Atlas cut her off sharply. “Don’t interfere.”
He turned to Carolina, his voice softening as he ruffled her hair affectionately. “I’ll do this for you, Carolina. Listen for your name.”
Carolina blushed, her smile radiant, while Charlotte felt her heart shatter. She couldn’t believe Atlas would go to such lengths for Carolina.
As Atlas climbed the platform, Charlotte’s anxiety mounted. She followed him, her concern outweighing her hurt. When he was about to jump, she grabbed his arm, her voice trembling. “Beta Lynch, do I need to remind you of your fear of heights? If Alpha Ocean or Healer Arely found out, they’d never allow this!”
Atlas looked down at Carolina, his resolve unwavering. “As long as Carolina is happy.”
With that, he leapt, plunging from the platform without hesitation.
Charlotte’s stomach churned as Atlas’s voice echoed through the air. “Carolina Scott, I love you!” His declaration was met with cheers from the staff.
“Miss Scott is one lucky woman,” one of them remarked. “Not many mates would do something like that.”
Charlotte forced a smile, though it felt like a mask. She realized then that she’d underestimated the depth of Atlas’s feelings for Carolina.
As she descended the platform, she saw Carolina rushing toward Atlas, tears streaming down her face. “Beta Lynch, are you okay? Why didn’t you tell me you’re scared of heights?!”
Atlas looked pale, his lips colorless, but he managed a weak smile. “I’m fine, Carolina. Don’t worry.”
Carolina hugged him tightly, her voice trembling. “Why are you so reckless?”
Atlas’s voice was soft, almost tender. “For you, it’s worth it.”
They kissed then, their embrace sealing their bond in full view of everyone. Charlotte turned away, the pain in her chest unbearable. She realized then that she’d been wrong to think Carolina had taken Atlas’s affection from her. The truth was, it had never been hers to begin with.