Moonlight Betrayal

The dim glow of the office lights cast long shadows across the wooden walls, the faint scent of old books and burning wood filling the air. Alpha Liam Blackwood of the Diamond Pack sat in his chair, fingers steepled beneath his chin. His piercing blue eyes were fixed on the map of his territory, but his mind was far from battle strategies or border patrols.

His 26th birthday was only a week away. And yet, despite his strength, power, and status, something crucial was missing-his mate.

Almost every high-ranking wolf in his pack had already found theirs. His Beta, Ashton, and his Gamma, Murphy, had both bonded with their mates years ago. Even his warriors spoke of their mates with pride. But for him? The Moon Goddess remained silent.

Maybe I don't have one.

The thought came unbidden, settling like a weight in his chest. Was he destined to be alone? It was rare, but not impossible. Some wolves never found their fated mate.

A flicker of frustration burned through him. He wasn't weak. He wasn't lacking. He was an Alpha-strong, powerful, feared. And yet, the emptiness remained, gnawing at him like a wound that refused to heal.

His thoughts drifted to his father, Alpha Derek, who had been murdered ten years ago. The day Liam had been forced to step up as Alpha at just sixteen years old.

"I wish you were here, Father."

Birthdays had meant something when his father was alive-celebrations filled with laughter, honor, and unity. If he were still here, he'd be the first to tease Liam about still being mateless. But now, birthdays were just another reminder of how much had been stolen from him.

A sudden knock on the door pulled him from his thoughts.

"Come in," he called, straightening his posture.

The door swung open, and Ashton, his Beta, stepped in, his usual smirk in place. "You look like a man drowning in his own thoughts," he said. "Let me guess-mate troubles?"

Liam sighed, rubbing his temples. "I don't want to talk about it."

"Of course, you don't." Ashton chuckled, plopping down in one of the leather chairs. "Good thing I came for another reason. Your birthday party. We need to finalize the arrangements."

Liam exhaled slowly. He had almost forgotten about that.

"Tell me."

"Well," Ashton said, leaning forward, "we're expecting a huge turnout. High-rank wolves from nearby packs, plus our own pack members. It's going to be grand-food, drinks, a bonfire, and a hunt at midnight. The warriors will be stationed around the borders to ensure safety."

Liam nodded. "Fine. Just make sure security is tight. We don't want any surprises."

"Don't worry, Alpha. We've got it covered," Murphy, his Gamma, added as he entered, holding a list of guest names. "The patrol teams will be doubled, and all warriors will be on high alert."

"Good," Liam said firmly. "We can't afford any weaknesses."

Just then, Luna Jasmine, his mother, entered the room, a small, knowing smile on her lips. "You boys are always so serious," she teased, walking over to Liam.

He softened slightly. Despite everything, his mother still carried herself with grace and strength, even after losing her mate.

"You're going to be twenty-six, Liam," she reminded him, placing a hand on his shoulder. "I know you miss your father, but he would want you to enjoy this day."

Liam sighed but gave her a small nod. "I know, Mother."

She smiled and turned to Ashton and Murphy. "Make sure he enjoys his night. He deserves it."

Ashton grinned. "That's the plan, Luna."

With that, she left, and Liam exhaled deeply.

"I hope this party goes smoothly," he muttered.

"It will," Murphy reassured him. "Besides, what could go wrong?"

_____________

The Diamond Pack's territory pulsed with energy. Music, laughter, and the crackling of the giant bonfire filled the air. The scent of grilled meat and fresh pastries drifted through the crowd. Pack members danced, drank, and celebrated.

Liam stood near the Alpha's table, watching the crowd. The night was vibrant, the atmosphere alive with excitement. And yet, he couldn't shake the uneasy feeling in his gut.

"Try to look like you're having fun," Ashton teased, handing him a goblet of juice.

Liam huffed but took the drink. "I am having fun," he deadpanned.

Murphy chuckled. "Liar."