Alpha's Betrayal, Her Freedom

The cramping started three days ago, sharp and relentless, like claws tearing through my abdomen. Dr. Reeves had been clear—complete bed rest, no exceptions. The tiny life growing inside me was fighting to stay, and I was fighting just as hard to keep it safe.

Brandon's pup. Our pup.

I pressed my palm against my still-flat stomach, whispering silent promises to the fragile spark of life within. "Hold on, little wolf. Mama's here."

The pack house buzzed with activity below—preparations for tonight's Full Moon Ceremony echoing through the walls. Footsteps thundered up and down the stairs, voices called out instructions, and the scent of roasting meat drifted from the kitchens. Everyone was preparing for the most important night of the year, when pack bonds were renewed and new alliances announced.

Everyone except me.

I shifted carefully against the pillows, trying to find a position that didn't send lightning bolts of pain through my core. The doctor's words replayed in my mind: "Any stress, any physical exertion, and you could lose the pregnancy. Your body is already struggling to maintain it."

So here I lay, trapped in our bedroom while my mate prepared to—

I couldn't finish the thought. Wouldn't let myself acknowledge what everyone in the pack already knew. What I'd been pretending wasn't happening for weeks.

A knock at the door made me flinch. "Come in."

Marcus Thompson, Brandon's Beta, peered around the doorframe. His weathered face creased with concern as he took in my pale complexion and the way I cradled my stomach.

"Isabel, how are you feeling?"

"Like I'm being torn apart from the inside," I managed, attempting a weak smile. "But the pup's still fighting."

Marcus's expression darkened. "Brandon should be here with you, not—" He caught himself, jaw clenching.

"Not what, Marcus?"

He shook his head, avoiding my eyes. "Nothing. I just... I brought you some of Luna Maria's healing tea. She said it might help with the cramping."

I accepted the steaming mug gratefully, inhaling the familiar blend of chamomile and moon herbs. "Thank you. That's very kind."

"Isabel..." Marcus hesitated at the doorway. "If you need anything tonight, anything at all, mind-link me. Promise?"

The way he said it, with such careful emphasis, made my chest tighten. "I promise."

After he left, I sipped the tea and tried to ignore the growing sounds of celebration outside. The pack was gathering in the central courtyard, their excited voices carrying through the open window. I could hear Brandon's deep laugh cutting through the noise, confident and commanding.

My mate. The father of the child I was desperately trying not to lose.

The child he didn't even know existed yet.

I'd been waiting for the right moment to tell him, wanting to get past the dangerous first few weeks. Now, lying here alone while he prepared for the ceremony, I wondered if there would ever be a right moment.

As evening approached, the pack's energy reached a fever pitch. I could feel it through our bond—Brandon's