Alpha, Let's break our bond

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During my post checkup, Erick Collins, my mate and the Alpha of Knighthood pack left me alone in an empty room of pack's infirmary. This has become his usual habit now. Earlier it pierced through my heart seeing him ignoring me this way. But slowly I grew accustomed to it.

I took the herbs from the healer and went back to the Pack house that belonged to Erick and me. Going back to our bedroom, I couldn't suppress the feeling of loneliness. I opened my social media account to get rid of this feeling and my gaze fell on a post. A girl named Sweet Angel tagged Erick in a post which read [ Just had a scratch, but he insisted on taking me to the healer and accompanied me all this time. You are still the best, Alpha]

If it was older me, I would have felt hurt and asked Erick several questions over it. However, I didn't care anymore. I didn't bother myself by doing pointless stuff. Later he brought this 'Sweet Angel' to one of our pack's festivals and I received their intimate pictures through her post. I wasn't angry at all.

Once I bumped into him accompanying Sweet Angel's child in hunt training with her, looking like a family. I couldn't help smiling sarcastically as I said," The child treats you as his father. Why don't you become his father for real and accompany him forever?"

Erick was stunned. He held my hand and asked in a hoarse voice, "Lizzy, you are misunderstanding me. Let me explain."

But it's too late.

Chapter 1

Two months ago,while coming from my work place in human world to my pack I faced a rival wolf attack.I had faced these type of incidents since childhood and was good at fighting.This time too I survived the attack.However,it caused me to lose the pup I had been waiting for for a long time.

Today was the routine checkup in the pack’s infirmary.Erick took me there in his car.But he suddenly disappeared from outside,only leaving a text to me which read[Lizzy,I got some urgent work to take care of.I can't pick you up today.Please manage it yourself.See you at home]

In the past,I would feel ignorant and nag at him for leaving me alone.I would have called him back and asked him not to leave me alone.I would ask him to accompany me more.However,it didn't matter to me anymore.Complaining him for his ignorance or seeking attention from him was pointless.I only texted him[Okay]and put my phone back in my purse.I thanked the healer and came out of the infirmary.

I hired a cab outside the infirmary.While sitting in the cab,my gaze fell on Erick’s car that was parked outside the infirmary.

Didn't he say he had some urgent work to take care of?Then,what was he doing in the same infirmary I came to?

These were the questions that came first in my mind but soon I shook my head and got inside the cab.After all,it was not the first time when I had caught Erick lying to me.It had become his usual habit of excusing himself with some‘urgent work’that turned out to be a white lie.I should have left caring about these stuff,shouldn't I?

I came back to the home that belonged to Erick and I.However,most of the time it was only me living in it.He would visit the home only in the night and sometimes seeing him at night was also not possible.In the beginning I would complain to him and he would always tell me how hectic his days were in handling his job as well as the pack’s chores.

I had just laid on my bed and my phone beeped with a notification.It was‘Sweet Angel’who tagged Erick in a post which read[Just had a scratch.He insisted on taking me to the infirmary and accompanied me all this time.After all these time,You are still the best,Alpha]

This person with the username‘Sweet Angel’was none other than Christine,Erick’s childhood sweetheart and his true mate.She had also posted pictures of two hands holding each other.I couldn’t make a mistake in identifying Erick's hands.He was wearing our wedding ring.How could I not identify him?

Christine belonged to White Moon Pack that was our pack's enemy.Her father didn't agree to marry her to Erick,nor did Erick's father who was then the Alpha of the pack.Despite being each other's true mate and being in love with each other,Erick and Christine couldn't get married.She had to marry someone else.Her husband was the beta to one of the high class packs.However,the pack she was married into suffered a heavy defeat in an ongoing war,leading them to go under slavery.She was an Alpha’s daughter.How could she accept slavery like her beta husband?

Thus,she left her husband and came to our pack with her four years old cub.

In Erick's eyes I was nothing more than a substitute.He married me after Christine left him.I was just a replacement to fill his heart.However,to me he was everything.I once loved him with all of my heart and wanted to bear his child,thinking the child would bring us closer.But,it seemed like we were never destined to be together.

In the middle of the night I heard Erick's footsteps.He entered the room and walked by my side.He gently stroked my hair while asking,“What did the doctor say?”

I smelled another she-wolf's smell from him,making me feel ridiculous.I had sniffed this smell from Erick every time he came late at night.The smell troubled me so much that I always wanted to vomit.It reminded me of my husband’s betrayal to me.

I just moved to the other side and said in a tired voice,“Nothing serious.”

“Are you okay?”He asked hesitantly.

“Hmm…Everything is fine.”

“I’m sorry I couldn't pick you up.Suddenly,I got so much work to handle and couldn't manage my time."He apologized,which is another lie.

I didn't expose his lies and rolled on to the other side of bed before saying,“Take rest then.Don't forget to take a shower.I don't like the strange smell coming out of you.”

I could feel the pause in his hands that were coming at me.He hesitated to say anything further and went straight to the bathroom to take a shower.

He knew why I mentioned the strange smell to him yet he didn't bother to give any explanation to me and calmly went to take a shower.If it was in the past,I would have streamed tears.However,I was surprised that not a drop of tears rolled down my cheeks.Maybe,all my tears were dried up and had nothing left to shed.Maybe it was good for me.I should have stopped crying a long time ago.

I took a deep breath as I said to myself,“No more crying,Lizzy.”

Chapter 2

The next day,I had an early meeting at my workplace.I woke up early in the morning.Erick was still sleeping.I left him sleeping,made a coffee for myself and then left for the office.I attended the meeting with my seniors and after it ended,I received a call from Erick.His voice seemed irritated as he asked in a complaining voice,“Lizzy,Why didn't you wake me up?I overslept for two hours.Now,I’m getting late because of you.”

I used to wake him up in the morning because he didn't like getting late for his office nor did he like the sound of an alarm.So,I would wake up early in the morning just to wake him up on time even though my shift started very late.It was my act of love and care for him.However,he took it for granted and regarded it as my duty.He was thinking that I was obligated to do these chores for him.

I then replied in a calm voice,“You shouldn’t waste your time in talking to me when you are already this late.You should better hurry up.”

“Lizzy,you-”I could feel him chewing his lips in annoyance as he continued,“Fine!Have you selected the suit I'm going to wear today?”

I used to select the suit from his wardrobe every morning before he went to take a shower because he was not good at selection.He would remain confused wondering which dress would look good on him.So,I helped him out.Another act of love which he took as my obligations.

“I had urgent work at my office.I didn't have time for this.Just choose the suit on your own.”

“Lizzy,how could you be so careless?You left me in a mess.”

I didn't reply to him and hung up the phone.However,just a second later my phone beeped with a notification.It was Erick’s message which read[Why are my suits wrinkled?How am I supposed to wear it in my office?]

I sighed before replying,[You are supposed to iron them before wearing.Simple!]

He texted again with a confused emoji[Iron?]

It seemed like he wasn't aware that I used to iron his clothes every morning.After a few minutes my phone started beeping again.Erick was sending me messages continuously.

[Where is my red file?I can't find it.]

[You haven't prepared breakfast for me?What am I going to eat?]

[Can you come back home for a few minutes?I need help.]

I used to do everything for him.From cooking meals three times a day to taking care of his belongings,I handled everything for him even when he didn't ask me to.Now,he got used to getting served everything on his table and didn't bother himself in appreciating my efforts.

I was going to reply to him.Just then my senior called me and I couldn't continue chatting with Erick.I put the phone back and went to my senior’s cabin.

“Lizzy,Good news for you.”My senior greeted me with a smile before adding,“The idea of your project is passed by the manager.But,this time he wants you to lead the project yourself.I heard you have recovered now.If that’s true,start planning to go abroad to handle this project because this time our boss will not trust anyone else except you.”

I had suggested many projects to the company before but I couldn't lead them on my own because I was busy taking care of Erick and his pack’s chore.I was planning to leave this project as well because I wanted to bear a child for Erick.However,God has another plan for me.There was no reason for me to refuse.

“I’ll take this project.”I replied.My senior was overjoyed as he said,“Good decision,Lizzy.This is a good opportunity for your career.Our boss is in a hurry.So,prepare all your documents as soon as possible.We will leave everything on you.You are free to choose your team before leaving.So,evaluate the performance of our employees as well and choose the people you want to work with in this project.”

I planned to prepare all the documents on the same day.After that,only evaluation of employees would be left.I didn't want to delay myself anymore.I was so lost in my work that I didn't notice when the outside world turned dark and it was already very late at night.I started packing my stuff and suddenly my phone rang.It was Erick's call.

“Why are you not home yet?It's too late.”

I changed my mind after listening to Erick's voice.I liked the idea of seeing him irritated as I was once.I then replied,“I got some urgent work.I have to stay at my workplace tonight to complete the work.”

He sounded anxious as he asked,“You aren't coming home tonight.Then,how would I manage tomorrow?What about my breakfast and clothes?”

“Manage it the way you managed today.”I replied flatly.

“I can't wear wrinkled clothes everyday or stay hungry.”

Turned out he didn't eat the whole day just because I didn't cook for him.Usually,I used to prepare meals for him and even have them delivered to him on time.He didn't like eating outside.Turned out,I had spoiled him more than it was necessary.

“You should probably hire a maid to take care of you,Erick.”I replied indifferently.

“Is there anything wrong?”He asked.

“No.”I replied casually.He hesitated for a while before he asked,“Lizzy,are you angry at me?”

Was I angry at him?I think I had passed that phase of my life long ago when I used to get mad at him.I felt no emotion towards him.

He was too late to ask me this question.Now,I would no longer bother myself explaining to him how I was feeling towards him.

Chapter 3

I remained silent while he continued in an apologetic voice,saying hoarsely,“Lizzy,I know you are mad about Christine.Try to understand me.She is alone with her child.She knows nobody except me.”

Christine had only him.He didn't hesitate while saying this as if I had the whole world with me.I belonged to the Silver Wing Pack.My parents were omega and so was I.My father had once helped Erick's father.This way they became friends.After my father died in assisting Erick’s father in a battle,he took me to his pack with him.

I have lived in the same pack house as Erick since childhood.Erick’s father assured me that I would be treated equally as his daughter.But,he was wrong.I was an omega.How could I be compared with Alpha blood?

In his absence,Luna would often hand me several household works to do.All the pack members believed I was a maid in Alpha House.I remember Erick once introduced me to his friends as his personal maid.I had a crush on him.So,I was always eager to do his work.I thought he would take a fancy to me this way.Didn't expect him to actually take me as his maid.

That night,I cried so much.Alpha came to know this and scolded Erick.He later apologized to me.I instantly forgave him and the very next day began running after him to do his chores.I was really foolish.

“Yeah,you are right.She and her child have only you while I have the whole pack with me.You should spend more time with them.Take care of the family.I’m happy on my own.”I replied flatly.

“What do you mean?”He seemed angry while saying this.

“What do you think I mean by saying that?I said you are right.That means I’m agreeing with you.Do you have any problem with that?”I asked.

“Then what's this tone for?Why are you showing so much attitude?”He snapped.

“In which tone should I talk to you then?”My voice lost all the calmness and it felt quite rude.He remained silent for a while before adding,“Do as you wish.”

The phone was hung up.I threw my phone aside in anger.Earlier,he expected me to understand his closeness with his childhood sweetheart.I couldn't.Then I was labeled by him as a jealous wife who didn't understand her husband.Now that I was trying to understand him,he still had problems with it.I sighed and then shook everything out of my mind.I had much more important things to do,my paper work.

I stayed awake the whole night and when the sun rose,my work was completed.However,I didn't like the idea of going back home.After purposely delaying myself,I went back home.Erick had already left,as expected.

I took a shower,prepared breakfast for myself and after filling my stomach I went to my bed for a nap.I had just laid on the bed and my phone rang.It was Erick’s call.

“Lizzy…I got in an argument with the Alpha of our neighborhood pack.I have got scratches everywhere.”

“Hmm…”I mumbled in a tired voice and went back to sleep.Through our mate bond,I could hear Erick's wolf's voice calling out for me.But,I was too sleepy to open my eyes.

After some time,I opened my eyes only to find Erick standing by my bedside,looking coldly at me.Finding me completely awake,he snapped at me with a loud voice,“Lizzy,Why are you unaffected by everything?”

He was indeed right.I was not getting affected by anything which used to be a big thing for me earlier.I remember once Erick was wrestling with another Alpha.I saw a few scratches on his arms and couldn't hold myself.I jumped into the fight only to get beaten by the other Alpha.I became a laughing stock for everyone and Erick,instead of coming to check my wounds,shouted at me.He said I was foolish.He forbade me from coming to see his fights in the future.In his words,I was an embarrassment.

I ignored his words as I said in a casual voice,“How are your wounds now?Are they healed?If they are not healing on their own,you would have to bring potion from the infirmary.We don't have them at home.”

Erick was easier to get offended from childhood and always got into arguments with others.Sometimes,his wounds would heal on their own due to his Alpha blood and sometimes it would take time.To take care of him,I took training in the pack’s infirmary of making potions for healing the wounds so that we don't have to go to the infirmary every time he gets into a fight.I used to brew potions myself and apply them on his wounds.

That's why my words surprised him.He was speechless at my response.I could see his eyes turning red in frustration.He then pulled me up in anger and yelled,“Lizzy,how long are you going to fight me about Christine?I have told you many times there is nothing between us.”

“Oh,okay.”I replied in a calm voice and again fell on my bed to sleep which infuriated him.In anger,he chewed his lower lips and said nothing.Then,walked out by stomping his feet.Probably going to Pack’s infirmary to get potion for his wounds.

Chapter 4

Erick didn't return after that day.Days passed by and I received no call or messages from him.I didn't know where he went and I didn't bother calling him to ask where he was.After a few days,my phone beeped with a message from him.He told me he got some Pack’s chore to handle and had to go out of town on short notice.He even shared his location with me.

[Okay,stay safe and take care of yourself.]I texted him,a sad sigh escaped through my lips.

I had just put my phone back after sending him the reply that I got notification from my social media account.It was again from‘Sweet Angel'.Christine made a post with a caption that read[Seeing the sunset with your loved one is the best scene in the world!I have been feeling bored for the past few days.Someone insisted on taking me out for a holiday to refresh my mind.]

The location she shared matched with Erick’s location.They were in the same town at the same time.There was a picture with the post.Christine’s hands were wrapped around a man’s shoulder.His neck and the part below it was visible.There was a heart-shaped pendant hanging on his neck.The letter‘L’written on the heart pierced through my eyes.

On our first wedding anniversary,I bought two heart shaped pendants with each other's initials.I wore one with‘E’written on it and gifted the other heart with‘L’to Erick.He didn't like the wedding gift.He didn't want to wear it at first.According to him it was cringe.After my continuous insistence,he wore it.However,he always hid it with his shirt’s collar or muffler.He didn't want anybody to see it.

I looked at the heart pendant hanging on my neck.It felt like a heavy weight was on me and I couldn't carry it anymore.I pulled out the pendant and threw it on my desk’s drawer.I didn't want to even look at it.

After that office work became the excuse to divert my mind.I busied myself in team building to not think about Erick or Christine.It was the easiest way of pushing aside my emotions.From that day,I stopped thinking where Erick was and when he would be returned.

One day I was coming out of my office.Unexpectedly,he showed himself at the main door.A wave of surprise passed through me.I hadn't heard from him for a long time and his sudden arrival at my office was something I would never have expected.Not too far,his long car was parked.

“When did you arrive?”I blurted out.

“What are you doing here?”I asked in a tired voice.The day was very exhausting today.I had been taking interviews from morning to evening,and hadn't left my seat except for meals and natural calls.

“Lizzy,do you know what day today is?”he asked,looking surprised with my question.

“Monday?”I replied innocently which left him in a daze.

“Lizzy,How can you forget our wedding anniversary?It's our wedding anniversary today.”He blurted out.I pursed my lips.I indeed forgot about it.It was surprising to me as well.

“Ah…I have been really busy these days.It slipped through my mind.I’m sorry.”I replied casually.Erick was stunned for a moment.He asked in an excited voice,“Lizzy,you used to care about these things more than anyone.How could you forget it?”

He was right.In the past,I used to be excited for his birthday and our wedding anniversary.I used to start preparing everything a month earlier.From arranging food and decoration to inviting all his friends,family and colleagues.They were all done by me.I would spend a lot of time selecting meaningful gifts for him which he would always complain about before accepting.He didn't even like the idea of celebrating these days.According to him,it was childish and didn't suit his‘Alpha’image.

I remember on our first wedding anniversary,I threw a surprise party for him.I prepared everything and invited his friends over.But,he went mad on me.He didn't even care about my reputation in front of his pack members and shouted at me before everyone.According to him I should have informed him before gathering the‘crowd’at his home.This way,‘surprise parties’changed into‘informed parties’,then only‘small celebration’until the spak finally died and I no longer craved his presence.However,I had always arranged something for our special day.Even if it's just a special dinner prepared by me at home.But this time,I simply forgot about it.

“Come,let's go.I have prepared a dinner date for us.Let's celebrate our anniversary together.”said Erick,pulling me back from my thoughts.

“Erick!I’m very tired today.How about we go home and rest.”I said in a low voice.He chuckled before replying,“What are you saying?I have arranged everything for you.You can't cancel our plan.”

His plan was‘our’and my plans always needed permission from him.I smiled sarcastically as he led me to his car.Without waiting for my response,he opened the front door of his car and asked me to sit there.I sat inside the car.

Erick began driving while I remained silent.A few times,he glanced at the rearview mirror to see my reflection.He was looking for the slightest expression of joy or surprise in my face.However,I remained indifferent throughout the journey.He couldn't stay silent anymore and asked,“Lizzy,is everything alright?”

“What do you think is wrong?”I asked while raising my eyebrows.

“Are you upset with me?”He asked,still observing my expression through the rear view mirror.

“No,I’m fine.”I denied flatly.

“Then why are you pulling the long face?”His voice was filled with annoyance as he continued,“I’m putting so much effort here.I came back to celebrate our anniversary,arranged a dinner date for us.Can't you just pretend to be happy about it?”

I pursed my lips as I turned to him,saying ironically,“Thank you very much for the surprise,Erick.I’m glad you planned everything for me.”

My appreciation was as flat as his several promises.I could see him getting irritated as he let out a sigh,saying,“Fine!I’ll not see Christine from now on.Can you stop being angry at me?”

Chapter 5

So,he knew what the problem was.

“I'm not angry,Erick.”I replied bluntly.I no longer trusted him blindly on his promises.He had promised me many things before that he failed to fulfill.

He once promised topromised me to take me out on my birthday.I kept waiting for him till the evening.It turned out he drank too much with his colleagues and forgot about my birthday,let alone his promise of taking me out.

The first time we had an argument after Christine’s arrival,was about his coming late at night because he went to drop Christine at her home and her child forced him to play with them.He promised me he would never be late again.But,the very next day he disappeared for the whole night.He returned home early in the morning,telling me how sick Christine’s child was.He had no choice but to take him to the infirmary and accompany him the whole night so that he would not be afraid.

Likewise,he promised me he would take good care of me and our child when I first told him I was pregnant with his child.Had he fulfilled his promise,my child would still be inside my womb.

That day,I got late in the office.The day was very exhausting.I was feeling tired.My car got punctured.I called Erick and asked him to pick me up.He said he would be there in a few minutes.However,I waited for two long hours.He didn't show up.In the end,I shifted to my wolf and decided to walk through the woods so that I don't get seen by humans.As a result,I got attacked by rival wolves and having been tired the whole day,I couldn't protect my child.

Later,I found out Christine was being bullied by a few jealous she-wolves of our pack and instead of coming to pick me up,Erick went to solve Christine’s matter.He stayed two hours at her home to calm her down before coming to pick me up.

Having seen his promises being broken countless times,how could I believe him?

However,I didn't want to argue with him.I remained silent throughout our journey.He drove the car to the five star restaurant in the human world.He remembered I liked the human world’s services more than any pack’s.He opened the door for me and raised his hand to help me out like a gentleman.

We went inside,Erick holding my hand.We looked like a romantic couple who were deeply in love with each other.Erick went all out to even book a whole restaurant for our privacy.Our table was decorated with candles and red petals of rose.I once told him I wanted a candle light dinner from my husband in childhood.I didn't know if he really remembered it all these years or if it was just a coincidence.He led me to our table and pulled a seat for me.We sat there and he clapped.A waiter came by,holding a trolley.It had a huge cake,our names written on it.

He was doing everything very cautiously.I could see the efforts he was putting in for the time.However,I couldn't feel the joy.My heart was blank as if I knew it was just a dream that was going to break anytime soon.

After checking everything out,he smiled.He excused himself for a few minutes and returned with flowers and gifts in his hands.He handed the flowers and gifts to me.

“Open it,Lizzy.”He said in a gentle voice.However,before I could open the gift,his phone rang loudly.Like always,it was Christine’s call.

He seemed anxious for a while.He ignored the call as he said,“Open it.”

However,his voice wasn't as charming as earlier.His phone kept ringing.He bit his lips and finally picked the phone up.

“What?How did he find you?Where are the knights I arranged for your safety?They can't handle it?”Erick looked anxious,his face turned gloomy.“How about

I send my beta to handle the situation?Jimmy is scared?Okay,wait for me.I’ll be there right away.”

He hung up the phone and turned to me,saying in a worried voice,“Lizzy,Christine’s Ex husband’s rivals,reached our pack and are causing trouble for Christine.Jimmy is so scared of them that he doesn't stop crying.She is afraid that he would be traumatized after this incident.If I don't go now…”

His eyes showed complicated emotions.It was a mixture of awkwardness and guilt or something that I couldn't read.He didn't ask me anything but he was anxiously waiting for my permission.

I swallowed my saliva as I smiled gently,without a hint of sarcasm.I said,“It's okay.I understand.”I was surprised at my calmness as I continued,“You should leave before the situation gets worse.”

He hesitated for a moment before he smiled nervously,saying,“Thanks for understanding me,Lizzy.”

He picked up his coat from the chair and said in a hurry,“Wait for me to come back.I’ll be back to pick you up after handling the situation.I’ll not be late this time.”

After throwing out these words he left while talking long steps,leaving me all alone in the restaurant.I glanced at the gift that remained packed and the cake.It was my anniversary’s celebration.I had a cake and a gift but no one to celebrate with.

I continued sitting there staring at the cake with no other thoughts until a waiter came to me and said in an awkward voice,“Mam,it's time to close the restaurant.Could you please…”

He didn't finish his words.I could read the sympathy in his eyes for me.

“Can you please give me a few minutes?”I asked in a low voice.

“Sure”He replied before asking,“Are you going to call your husband?”

I didn't reply to him.I just picked up a knife and cut the cake harshly,separating our names written on it.The waiter was stunned to watch this scene.I ate the half portion with my name and then turned towards the waiter.While pointing at the half eaten cake that had‘Erick'written on it,I said,“You can throw it in the dustbin.”

After making my statement,I picked up my purse and was walking out.The waiter called me from behind,saying,“Mam,you forgot the gift.”

“I don't need it.You can dump it with the cake.It's as useless as its giver’s promises.”

Chapter 6

I came out of the restaurant and stood outside for a while.The road was very busy with vehicles.Few taxi drivers stopped by me asking if I wanted to go somewhere.I didn't hire any and chose to walk home.I thought walking in fresh air might refresh my mind.However,It seemed like luck was never on my side.As soon as I crossed the busiest road,it started raining.My clothes got soaked in water as if teasing me for my bad choices.

Just when I reached our pack,the rain became heavy,making it difficult for me to walk.I decided to take shelter near any house and wait for the rain to slow down.I stopped by a house that had a verandah outside.But,as I said I was never good with luck.The house I took shelter at turned out to be Christine’s home.Erick never told me where Christine’s home was,nor did I bother myself in looking for it.Now I was wishing that if I knew it earlier,I wouldn't have stopped by it.I would rather be soaked to death in cold water than taking shelter at Christine's house.

I was about to leave.However,my legs paused after hearing a familiar voice.

“You go to sleep,Christine.I’ll stay outside to protect you.”

It was Erick's voice.I couldn't help staying a little longer.

“Thanks,Erick.You are really my true mate.Had my father not separated us and forced me to marry someone else,I wouldn't be facing all these troubles in my life.”

Christine was saying in such pitiful eyes,even I couldn't help feeling pity for her.

“If Jimmy wasn't traumatized by the incident and continued crying in his sleep,I wouldn't have asked you to stay.”She added.

“You don't need to feel this way,Christine.Jimmy is like my own child.If he feels scared again,just call me.I’ll come to console him or I'll just stay in the room tonight.”

My knuckles were clenched.I didn't want to hear anything anymore.My husband was asking another she-wolf to stay the whole night in her room on her wedding anniversary.How pathetic my life could be?

I took long steps and came home.After being soaked in water for too long,I caught a cold and a fever.I couldn't sleep the whole night in pain and felt too lazy to prepare herbs or potions.

When I woke up the next day,my whole body was burning with high fever.Erick hadn't come home the whole night which I already knew.I prepared the potion for fever and took it with breakfast.I was about to leave for my office and Erick barged in.He looked tired and messy.Our eyes met each other's and his eyes instantly filled with guilt.He walked up to me with heavy steps and started explaining,“Lizzy,things just went too hectic.There were many knights who were causing trouble for Christine.They wanted to take Jimmy with them.The child was so traumatized that he couldn't sleep the whole night.I just couldn't leave him in that condition.”

“Is everything okay now?Why did you return so early?Shouldn't you stay a little longer with him?Christine wouldn't be able to take care of her traumatized child.”I said in an indifferent voice.

Erick,who was going to take a glass of water,paused in mid way.He raised his eyebrows,asking,“Lizzy,are you being sarcastic again?”

“I’m just worried for your Christine’s child.”

Addressing Christine as his annoyed him as he sighed,saying in a tired voice,“Look,I haven't slept the whole night.I’m really tired.Don't make things difficult for me.”

“Then you take a rest.I’m getting late for work.So,I'm leaving.Take care.”

After throwing out these words,I turned to leave.However,he held my hands and pulled me in an embrace,“Lizzy…”

“What is it?”I asked in a low voice.

“I know you are mad about yesterday.I’ll make up for our anniversary celebration next time,okay?”

I broke our hug as I said in a stern voice,“I’m not mad.”

He showed a guilty expression before holding my hands gently,a gesture as empty as his words.He then said in a soft voice,“Our Pack’s Candle Festival is coming next weekend.”

He then gently stroked my hair before adding,“Let's go there together and have fun.”

Even though I have lived in Alpha House since childhood,I wasn't welcomed by the pack members.They didn't think much of me.I was always bullied by other wolves.Most of them were Erick's friends.He never took initiative in stopping them.After I got married to Erick,they had to show some respect to me.But,I knew it was all fake.I didn't involve myself in Pack’s event as I didn't like to meet these people.However,I always wanted to celebrate the Candle Festival.It was my childhood dream.

Our pack celebrates the Candle Festival every year.Couples from all over the pack would be invited.There would be several couple activities and competitions to bring the couples together and enjoy the night.The only drawback of this festival was that you could only visit in pairs.I always wanted to celebrate the festival with Erick.However,he was always busy.I could never celebrate the festival like other couples in our pack.

I shook his hands away as I said,“No,I might have to work overtime next weekend.I’m not free,Erick.I can't go with you.”

My flat refusal infuriated him.He knitted his brows before saying in a loud voice,“Fine,Just do as you wish.”

After throwing out these words,he went inside his room and shut the door.I sighed.He left me alone in the restaurant on our wedding anniversary and the person who got angry the next day is him,not me.I shook my head.Dismissing all the thoughts that make me unhappy,I walked out of my office.

Chapter 7

The next few days were followed in silence.We talked almost nothing.I was busy with my office work and he was never free for me.Even our dinners were going in silence.We would finish our meal and go back to our bed with no talking to each other.He was expecting me to apologize for my rude behavior towards him.He was sulking because according to him he was putting efforts in our marriage while I was not appreciating it.He had no idea how much of my efforts were gone in vain without him noticing it,let alone appreciating.

In the past,I used to be the one who would coax him if he stopped talking to me even for a single day.But now,I don't have the heart for it.

One day,I came back from the office and went to the kitchen to prepare dinner for us.To my surprise,Erick was already there.His back was facing towards me.For the past five years of our marriage and the ten years of living together in his parents’home,I had never seen him stepping foot in the kitchen.He would call someone even if he needed a glass of water rather than going to the kitchen himself.I was surprised to see him standing there.

“Are you hungry?I just got back from the office,haven't cooked anything yet.How come you came earlier today?”I asked.My voice startled him and he turned to face me.He was wearing an apron yet his face was covered with flour and spices.I was stunned.

“What are you doing here?”I blurted out.He smiled awkwardly before saying excitedly,“Go fresh yourself,Lizzy.I have prepared dinner for us.You don't need to cook today.”

I shot a glance at my kitchen.It looked messy.He seemed to understand my worry and immediately added,“I'll clean everything after the dinner.”

He didn't let me help him in cooking and prepared everything himself.I was sitting on the dining chair while he was serving Chicken Noodle soup to my bowl.He looked excited while asking,“Come on,hurry up and tell me how it tastes.”

He might forget that I disliked everything containing noodles in it.Besides,it tasted awful.Considering it was his first time cooking and seeing his efforts in trying to make up with me for the first time,I forced a smile on my face and said,“It tastes delicious.”

He smiled gently and said,“Then take some more.You are getting thinner day by day.”

I don't know if he said this casually or he was really noticing me.I smiled and forcefully took a few more sips from my bowl.Just then his phone rang.He put the spoon back and excused himself to pick up the call.

Not long after my phone started flickering with notifications.I checked my phone and found another post from Christine.This time she had posted a picture of a man's back.I couldn't ignore the apron tied on his back.It was the same color Erick was wearing a few minutes ago.She had added a caption to her post.[I was feeling too tired to cook.He made me my favorite Chicken Noodle Soup.To be honest,it was awful.But,he promised to practice it everyday until he would be best at cooking it.My mother told me to find a man who can cook for you.I guess I have already found one.]

There were several love emojis with the caption.

My hands were clenched into fists.I was thinking that he made efforts in making up with me,even if it was preparing an awful dinner for me.Turned out I was just a laboratory rat for him on which he was testing his cooking skills to impress his mistress.I couldn't feel more embarrassed in my eyes than I already was.It was just ridiculous.

I stared at the bowl of Chicken Noodle Soup with burning eyes and pushed it aside.I stood up from the chair without doing dinner.I was about to leave and Erick appeared before my eyes,adding fuel to the fire.He glanced at my unfinished soup and asked me in innocence,“You didn't finish your dinner?”

“I lost my appetite.”I replied angrily.

“Why are you being angry all of sudden?”He asked with gloomy eyes.

“I’m not angry.I just don't feel hungry anymore.”I replied,the volume of my voice increasing by a few decibels which infuriated Erick as he pursed his lips before yelling,“Lizzy,Can you stop being dramatic everyday?Can’t you just be happy for sometime?”

After reading Christine’s post,my mind was not at ease.My whole body was shaking in anger.I accepted my husband’s betrayal to me But I can't let him keep lying to me.However,I didn't want to argue with him over Christine’s matter.I only said,“You know what,Erick,your soup tastes awful.Besides,I don't like noodles.So,if you want to let anyone test it before the final show,at least feed it to someone who actually likes it.Not me,okay?”

“You don't like Noodles?Lizzy,I’m sorry I…”He couldn't finish his words as I ignored him and walked out.

That night I slept without dinner while the sound of dishes continued echoing in my ears.Erick spent the whole night cleaning the mess he had created in the kitchen.For what?Just to impress his childhood sweetheart.

He was doing everything for Christine that I used to do for him.The only difference it had,Christine acknowledged his efforts but he never acknowledged mine.

Chapter 8

The days passed by and we had little to no conversation with each other.Soon the weekend arrived and so was the Candle Festival.After our last argument,Erick didn't mention the festival again.I thought he too let the idea go.However,I didn't expect him to actually bring Christine with him.

Bringing his childhood sweetheart to a festival that meant for couples only,wasn't he going all out in making his affair public?

I was working overtime in my office when my phone flickered with several notifications.Someone added me to the group chat of our pack.

They were sharing the pictures of every couple who were celebrating the Candle Festival.Erick and Christine’s picture was also included.Christine’s hands were wrapped around Erick's arms while he was looking at her with a smile.The picture was so lovey dovey that they looked like a romantic couple.

The group members even started voting for the best couple.Erick and Christine were leading in the voting trend.I smiled sarcastically looking at their pictures and then busied myself in my work.However,the she-wolves of our pack began texting me privately.

[Luna,Your Alpha has brought a mistress to the Candle Festival,what is your take on it?]

[Luna,Alpha Erick is dating on you with the she-wolf of our enemy pack.Aren't you going to do anything about it?]

[Luna,please fight back with this shameless she-wolf.We support you.]

They continued sharing pictures and videos of Erick and Christine with me.

In one of the videos,they were participating in a competition.Their hands were tied with a rope and Christine was feeding chocolate to Erick with her lips.Many times,her lips touched with Erick’s.

Other wolves cheered loudly on each incident,trying their best to flater the Alpha of the pack.Even the she-wolves who were privately texting me and showing their sympathy with me were seen flattering Alpha and his mistress.They all wanted to be in the good books of their Alpha.

I didn't want to bother myself in watching Erick's betrayal.However,the she-wolves of our pack got no chill.They continued spamming my messenger,asking when I’m giving it back to Christine.They were all waiting for my revenge.

These were the same she-wolves who were jealous of me for marrying their Alpha and didn't lose a chance of causing troubles for me.Now that Christine had returned,their jealousy shifted to her.They all were looking for a drama between me and her.

Since,I received so many messages from them,being silent was not an option for me.I typed a message and forwarded to all the she-wolves that read[Thanks for thinking about me.I appreciate your well wishes towards me.However,I’m busy with my work.I have no time for chit chat.Have fun in the celebration with your partner and let Alpha enjoy with his as well.]

I then opened the group chat where everyone was discussing who the best couple is.Most of the votes were casted on the picture of Erick and Christine with beautiful comments.

I also typed a message.[Alpha is indeed looking good with his partner.They are really a match made in heaven.My vote too goes for him and his partner.]

I even added a hashtag while mixing their names.My message was caused a storm in the group chat.It was then followed by several messages.

[Who added Luna in the chat?]

[Omg!She has seen everything.What will Alpha do now?]

[Does she not care at all?How can she complement Alpha with other she-wolf?]

[Was she being sarcastic?Why do I feel like she was serious?]

One of the she-wolves shared the screenshot of my text that I sent to them.She mentioned[She is calling Alpha’s friend his partner.Isn’t that mean she has already given up on Alpha?]

I was not longer interested in reading their text and shut the phone close.However,my phone kept beeping with notifications.I picked the phone up and put it on silent mode.Later,I had meeting with my seniors.I attended the meeting that went for an hour.

“The meeting was so tiring.You should take rest now.Why don't you go out with your husband and chill?After all,there are only a few days left to spend together with him?”My senior said,he was more like a elder brother to me.I just smiled in response before saying in a tired voice,“I’m fine.”

“Ah…You are so boring.I never saw you hanging out or chatting with your husband like other female employees of the company do.If your husband hadn't come to pick you up that day,I would still think you are single.”he added.

I bit my lips.It's not like I didn't want to do all these stuff like other girls.It's just I wasn't lucky as them to have husband whose world would revolve around me.I wonder had he married Christine,would he treat her the same way he had treated me all these years?

I then shook my head,dismissing all the thoughts about him or Christine and said to my senior,“If I was like other employees,I wouldn't be this hard working.Would you like that?”

He laughed on my words before replying,“No one can win the argument with a woman.Anyways,I'm leaving for my home.See you tomorrow.”

After my senior left,I checked the phone.There were ten missed calls from Erick,followed by his messages.

[Lizzy,pick up the phone.]

[Lizzy,let me explain.It's not what it looks like.Don't misunderstand me.]

[Lizzy,don't do anything stupid,okay?I’m coming to find you.]