When My Alpha Sold Me to the Rogues

The Blood Eclipse Pack Gala glittered with wealth and power. Crystal chandeliers cast prismatic light across the grand ballroom, illuminating the faces of elite werewolves from neighboring territories. I stood near the sweeping staircase, smoothing down the simple navy gown I'd spent weeks altering to perfection. My heart hammered against my ribs as I watched pack members and visiting dignitaries mingle below.

Tonight was supposed to be everything I'd sacrificed for.

"Miss Perkins," a server whispered, offering champagne. "You look lovely tonight."

I accepted the glass with a polite smile. "Thank you."

The server's eyes darted around before leaning closer. "Is it true? Will Alpha Maximilian announce you as his Luna tonight?"

Heat rushed to my cheeks. After years of living in that tiny cabin on the outskirts of pack territory, after defying my father and funding Maximilian's survival when he was wolfless and despised... surely tonight would be our moment.

"I believe so," I replied softly, unable to suppress my hopeful smile.

The orchestra began a new melody, and conversation quieted as everyone turned toward the grand staircase. My breath caught in my throat. This was it.

Maximilian appeared at the top of the stairs, his broad shoulders draped in a tailored black suit that emphasized his powerful frame. Silver threading caught the light as he moved, matching the silver tips of his wolf's fur. His eyes—those same eyes that once looked at me with desperate gratitude—now surveyed the crowd with cold authority.

The room fell silent under his oppressive Alpha aura. I forced myself to stand taller, though my knees trembled.

"My fellow pack members and honored guests," Maximilian's voice resonated through the ballroom. "Tonight we celebrate not only our pack's prosperity but a new beginning."

He descended the stairs with predatory grace. I took a step forward, anticipating his call.

Instead, he turned to the side and extended his hand. "Kehlani."

A collective gasp rippled through the crowd as a stunning she-wolf with copper skin and flowing dark hair stepped forward. Her scent—artificially sweet, like overripe fruit—wafted through the room.

"What is he doing?" I whispered to myself.

Kehlani's lips curved into a triumphant smile as she took Maximilian's arm. Her eyes found mine across the room, glittering with malice.

"I present to you," Maximilian announced, his voice hardening with each word, "my chosen mate and Luna of the Blood Eclipse Pack."

The room spun around me. Chosen mate? But we were fated mates. The Moon Goddess herself had bound us together.

"Max," I called out before I could stop myself.

His head snapped toward me, eyes flashing silver with rage. The temperature in the room seemed to drop as his Alpha aura focused entirely on me.

"Emily Perkins," he growled, using his Alpha tone. The force of it drove me to my knees despite my resistance. "You dare interrupt me?"

Pain shot through my body as I fought against his command. "You can't do this. We're fated mates."

Laughter—cold and cruel—echoed from his direction. "Fated? Is