Chapter 80
“I think it’s time the entire wolf world knew your true identity.”
I stared at him, momentarily unable to form a coherent response. Five years of careful secrecy, of building a life separate from my past, and now he wanted to expose everything?
“But Dad-”
He raised his hand, silencing me with that simple gesture of Alpha authority. Even now, with my own purple wolf strong within me, I responded to it instinctively.
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“No more hiding, Lysandra. It’s time you took your rightful place in our pack. In our company.” His green eyes–the same shade as mine–held mine with unwavering certainty. “Next week, you will officially take over as CEO of Ravencroft Enterprises. As a member of the Alpha family, it is both your right and your duty.”
My mouth went dry. I’d been working at the company since returning to Moonshade, gradually taking on more responsibility, but this… this was different. This would put me squarely in the public eye of the werewolf business world.
“Your father is right,” my mother said, her elegant hand covering mine. “You’ve learned enough, and with your unique healing abilities, you’ll bring new strength to the position. The entire pack will benefit once you take your place.”
I nodded at them and turned toward Alaric. As the current Alpha, his support was crucial.
He placed his hand on my head, a protective gesture that felt both reassuring and slightly ridiculous given that I was a grown woman with children of my own. “Any wolf who dares question my sister
will face my wrath.”
I knew he meant Tristan. I couldn’t help imagining the Silverblood Alpha’s reaction when he learned
the truth. He’d once dismissed me as “wolfless,” claimed I’d tainted his noble bloodline. I doubted
knowledge of my Ravencroft heritage would change much–he’d simply find other reasons to belittle
- me. He hated me that much.
***
The following week passed in a blur of preparation. I formally returned to Ravencroft Enterprises,
spending each day learning about every department of the company. My brother had already informed key personnel about the upcoming leadership change, though the identity of the new CEO remained confidential.
Orion and Lyra responded differently to my absence. Orion grew quieter, more withdrawn, while Lyra constantly asked when I’d be home. Each time I connected with them through our mind link, I felt
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their longing. I assured my “moonbeams” that everything was for the future of our pack.
***
The morning of my appointment arrived with golden sunlight streaming through my bedroom curtains. I stood before the full–length mirror, assessing my appearance with critical eyes. I wore a sleeveless emerald green dress that complemented my complexion, paired with a perfectly tailored black blazer. My chestnut hair fell in loose waves, framing my face and highlighting my deep green
eyes.
Confidence was essential. I couldn’t be the Lysandra that Tristan had once considered weak and disposable. From now on, I would face the challenges of the werewolf business world as a member of an Alpha family and owner of a purple wolf. No one would ever see my vulnerabilities again.
Two small hands grabbed mine from behind, and I looked down to see Orion and Lyra smiling up at
- me.
“My little moonbeams,” I crouched down, pulling them into my arms.
“Mom, we have a surprise for you,” Lyra announced, practically vibrating with excitement.
“First, this is for you.” Orion produced a moonlight flower from behind his back, a rare bloom that only flourished during full moons and was said to enhance a werewolf’s strength.
delicate petals, symbolizing power and hope.
I stared at the silvery–blue glow emanating from the Tears welled in my eyes as Astrid whimpered softly within me.
Taking the sacred flower, I kissed Orion’s forehead. “Thank you, my brave little wolf.”
Looking past my twins, I spotted Kieran leaning against the doorframe, warmth in his eyes. I knew exactly who had given Orion the idea. His brown eyes met mine, conveying silent support. He nodded, indicating I should follow him.
***
Rising to my feet, I took my twins‘ hands and left my suite. When we entered the main hall, I stopped in surprise.
The entire family waited, standing in a ceremonial half–circle. At the center lay a stone slab carved with the Ravencroft emblem, upon which sat an ornate silver chalice filled with wine.
“Come on, Mommy!” Lyra tugged me forward.
My parents, Alaric, and Kieran all wore the traditional attire that signified their status, their wolf eyes glowing with power.
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“What is this?” I asked softly.
Alaric stepped forward, presenting a ring set with a purple gemstone. “The traditional ceremony before you take over the company as a Ravencroft. This is the symbol worn by healers throughout our lineage.”
I slipped the ring onto my finger, feeling its weight–the weight of responsibility, of heritage, of
destiny.
“Drink,” my father commanded gently, offering the chalice.
I drank deeply, the rich liquid warming my throat. I could feel the pack bonds tightening around me, strengthening me.
I bid my family farewell. As Kieran and I prepared to leave the mansion, Orion and Lyra showed their respect in the way of werewolf cubs–tilting their heads back to release soft, low howls. Though young, their wolf instincts understood the significance of this day. Pride shone in their eyes, as if they knew their mother was fulfilling an important mission that would affect the entire pack.
***
Kieran had just started the car when my phone vibrated. A message from an anonymous number with a video file attached.
“What’s wrong?” Kieran noticed my furrowed brow.
“Not sure,” I hesitated before opening the video.
The footage showed Tristan and Selene in his office. She sat on his desk with him standing between her legs. Their heavy breathing and low moans were unmistakable. Selene’s hands roamed over Tristan’s bare back while his lips moved along her neck, murmuring endearments. “Mark me, my Alpha,” Selene gasped.
I immediately closed the video, feeling sick.
My mind raced, analyzing the situation. This was clearly meant to hurt me–to throw Tristan’s relationship with Selene in my face on the day I was taking a major step forward in my life.
The timing couldn’t be coincidental. Either Selene had somehow learned about today’s announcement, or she was simply lashing out after Tristan had saved me from the accident. Either way, I refused to be her emotional punching bag.
I wouldn’t give her the satisfaction of seeing me wounded. If this was her game, I’d change the rules. Let Tristan deal with his girlfriend’s manipulations. Let him see what kind of woman he’d chosen
over me.
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“Lysandra?” Kieran looked at me with concern. “What happened?”
Instead of answering, I forwarded the video directly to Tristan. Within a minute, my phone rang with his number on the display.
“What the fuck is this?” His voice cut through the speaker the moment I answered.
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