Scarred By The Alpha

Alaina

Today is our wedding anniversary.

As the Luna of the Moonridge Pack, joy hums through my veins while I stroll through the territory. The grounds are alive with excitement. Warriors, healers, omegas, everyone is working together to prepare for the grand banquet. Laughter ripples through the air like music, and decorations sway in the wind.

Inside the banquet hall, the smell of roasted meat and baked apples teases my senses. The long tables glisten under the lights, covered with silverware and floral arrangements. My heart swells with gratitude.

I smile.

A warm hand wraps around my waist.

I don't need to turn around-I already know it's Cole Thornton. His familiar Versace scent surrounds me, and when his lips brush against my shoulder, I melt a little inside.

"Oh, my love," I whisper, turning to meet his gaze. I get lost, like always, in the mossy green of his eyes and the way his blond locks fall effortlessly against his forehead.

"You excited?" he asks, his hands still resting at my waist.

A smile plays on my lips as I blush under his gaze. "I am," I say softly, stepping closer to him. "I'm thankful. For you. For everything."

"This day... it means a lot to me too," I continue, my voice barely above a breath. "I never imagined I could feel this accepted. Loved."

His smile, the one that always makes my heart skip blooms across his face.

He accepted me completely, even when others whispered about my inability to conceive. And his father had welcomed me into the Moonridge Pack like I was born into it. No pity. Just love.

"Are you even still listening?" Cole chuckles, his voice deep, familiar, and unfairly attractive.

"I am," I reply with a quiet laugh, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear.

"You look beautiful today," he murmurs, eyes flicking down, "but I can't even imagine how stunning you'll look tonight."

Heat rushes to my cheeks as he takes my hand and leads me to a quiet corner.

I laugh, caught up in the moment. "You're more like..."

Cole cuts me off, glancing down at his phone. His smile fades for a second, and then he quickly sets it aside, turning his full attention back to me.

"Is that something important-?"

"No. No, Alaina. You're more important. Always."

His hand cups my neck, and before I can speak, he kisses me.

It's soft at first. Then deeper. His kiss always has a way of silencing the world. I kiss him back, tasting affection, promises, and everything we've survived.

A cough interrupts us.

Startled, I pull back, smoothing my dress and turning to see Grace, one of the maids, standing a few feet away with a sheepish smile.

"Forgive me, Luna and Alpha, but I believe it's time to help you prepare for tonight..."

Her tone is apologetic, but her sense of duty shines through. I can't help but smile.

"Of course, Grace," I say, glancing at Cole, who lets out a small gasp in mock protest. I laugh, leaning in to kiss his cheek. "I'll see you soon."

His groan of disappointment follows me as I walk away with Grace toward the dressing room.

---

Grace works magic on my hair while I apply a bold red lipstick. I wear a striking crimson gown that hugs my figure and drapes like silk over my curves.

When I walk into the banquet hall again, the room hushes.

All eyes turn.

The feast is a dream. Gold-framed mirrors reflect chandeliers overhead, while trays of food glisten under warm lights. Wolves in formal attire bow slightly as I pass. I hear murmurs of admiration, and I hold my head high.

"You're glowing," Cole whispers, appearing by my side, taking my hand. His gaze is reverent.

I feel Edith, my wolf, purr with approval inside me.

Recce, our Beta, approaches with a microphone, his eyes warm.

"To all of you," I begin, my voice steady though my hands tremble slightly, "I'm eternally grateful. You've made this day unforgettable."

Applause echoes.

"This evening," Cole says as he joins me at the center, "is the highlight of my life."

The words make me flush, even now.

The room quiets, waiting.

"So tonight, we begin with-"