Natalie's POV
I stood at Lily's grave, Julian's strong arms wrapped around me as I buried my face in his chest. My shoulders shook with what appeared to be grief, but inside, I was bursting with triumph. Five years of plotting, manipulating, and patience had led to this perfect moment.
"It's okay," Julian whispered, his voice raw with emotion as he stroked my hair. "We'll get through this together."
I bit the inside of my cheek to keep from smiling. If only he knew what I was really thinking.
Five years ago, I'd orchestrated the perfect crime. The day was etched in my memory—Isabelle's birthday party, the sun shining as children played in the garden of the pack house. Julian had been by my side, laughing as Isabelle opened her presents. His phone had buzzed incessantly in his pocket.
"Aren't you going to answer that?" I'd asked innocently, already knowing who was calling. Aurelia. The pathetic mate he never wanted.
