MATURE

Life hasn’t been kind to me. One moment, I was a carefree eighteen-year-old with dreams of a bright future. The next, I was a 28 year old lady and my world went up in flames. literally. My mom died in the fire that destroyed our home, my little sister is in a coma, and my brother’s in jail for trying to keep us afloat. My dad? He left us drowning in debt and despair.

I thought I’d hit rock bottom, but then I found myself working in a place where dreams go to die, doing things I never imagined just to survive. That’s when he walked into my life, Alex Romanov. Dangerous. Mysterious. And entirely out of my league.

He’s everything I should fear, but there’s something about him that draws me in. Maybe it’s the way he looks at me like I’m more than just another broken soul. Or the way he makes me feel alive when I thought I’d forgotten how.

But Alex has secrets, dark ones that could destroy us both. And as my past collides with his world, I’m left wondering: Can I trust the man who’s slowly stealing my heart, or will his darkness swallow me whole?

This isn’t the life I wanted, but it’s the one I’ve been given.

I leaned back in my chair, looking around at the round table where the council elders sat. Their eyes were on me, some nodding in agreement, some clearly unsure. I didn't care anymore.


"That's final," I said, my voice steady. "Bella will be crowned Luna. Make sure you're all ready for the coronation ceremony. No delays, no excuses."


There was a long silence, and then Elder Raimon spoke, rubbing his beard like he always did when he was nervous.


"But Alpha, some of the pack members will think…"


"I didn't ask what they think, Raimon," I cut him off, my voice low but sharp. "This isn't up for debate."


He shut his mouth quickly, pressing his lips into a thin line. His eyes dropped to the floor, and he gave a reluctant nod. One by one, the elders stood, each giving me a respectful bow before silently filing out of the chamber.


Chapter 224 - 226