Tonia's POV
Sterling Jason.
The man I'd prayed would cherish me, yet never did.
Memory proved cruel. I'd believed myself recovered from Sterling's treachery and expected to feel nothing upon our reunion.
Yet observing his confident approach, acting as though he commanded everything, moisture gathered in my vision.
I inhaled sharply and averted my gaze, forcing the emotion back inside.
"So I was compelled to approach you personally," he positioned himself against the nearby counter. "How bold."
My throat constricted, words escaping me. I feared my voice would betray weakness if I attempted speech.
Three bodyguards flanked him, their attention scanning constantly. Sterling appeared polished, clearly enjoying prosperity.
Why was he even present? Was he collecting someone?
"What's your identity?" He angled his head while questioning.
I remained silent, refusing to acknowledge him.
"Hello?"
"I prefer not sharing my identity with unknown individuals," I finally managed. My tone sounded strained.
His expression brightened with entertainment. This from a man who never offered me smiles during our year together.
"Let's say I'm particularly elated today," he exhaled. "I'm here awaiting a certain wretch's arrival." At my confused expression, he clarified, "Former mate. We've completed the initial procedure and only have one minor step remaining. I'll finally be liberated from her."
I snorted. His audacity was incredible.
"I would've handled this earlier, you understand? But the repulsive creature has been absent for years. Caused us tremendous trouble locating her." His voice carried pure contempt.
"Why do you label her repulsive?" I heard myself ask before restraint could stop me.
He laughed. "Believe me, darling; she's a nightmare. If you witnessed her, you'd agree completely. She's the most revolting sight I've encountered."
Fire erupted within my chest. I barely contained my emotional outburst.
No. This location was inappropriate.
Yet Sterling was the genuine monster. He remained oblivious that he stood before the very woman he detested. What would his arrogance do upon discovery?
His airport presence made sense. He obviously intended dragging me to the temple for ribbon severing. I wouldn't permit public humiliation. Not again.
Thankfully, my baggage finally appeared.
"Apologies for the wait, miss," the young worker announced while delivering it.
Without acknowledging Sterling, I prepared to depart. This clearly surprised him. "I'd enjoy speaking with you another time. Your contact information, if acceptable."
Momentarily, I stood with my back toward him, considering my response. I turned after finding the most courteous reply possible: "Even if surrendering my number could protect me from you, I wouldn't do it. Alpha."
As comprehension dawned, astonishment flickered in his eyes, followed by wounded pride.
Something bloomed within my chest. It was satisfaction.
Therefore, I departed with my luggage, leaving him frozen in shock.
---
Tucker and I reached home during the celebration. My stepmother's birthday party was underway.
Not that I intended participating—Moon Goddess forbid—I simply arrived at a coincidentally perfect moment.
Party attire wasn't my concern. I wore basic denim and a shirt with my hair secured simply. Yet entering the hall, attention shifted toward me.
Momentary awkwardness struck me. This focus remained unfamiliar.
I'd never realized I could receive such praise until my scar disappeared. Now, people could barely look at me without commenting on my beauty.
My stepsister, Sabrina, approached wearing a smile. "Hello! You're rather late for the celebration. What's your name?"
Classic Sabrina. Since childhood, she'd pursued friendships with attractive girls. She'd despised me intensely as I brought 'shame' to her reputation. A scarred woman as her sibling.
Years ago, she'd slammed the door against me, refusing entry despite my begging. Now she displayed pleasantness.
"I'm not here for celebrations," I responded icily and looked elsewhere, searching for my father.
I located him in a corner with my stepmother and various guests. He was my reason for being here. I needed understanding what was so urgent beyond severing ties with Sterling.
His attention was on me, studying suspiciously. I approached him.
"Hey! Who are you?" Sabrina pursued me, sounding somewhat injured.
I ignored her until reaching father.
My father held prominent Alpha status, hence the party attracted dignitaries. I properly acknowledged them before standing before father.
"Who are you?" My stepmother demanded.
I met her stare with amusement. "Am I so transformed that recognition fails you?" I addressed father. "What about you, father? Am I too altered?"
Audible shock rippled around me. Sabrina's palm covered her mouth.
"Impossible," she whispered, head shaking.
"Tonia?" Father's expression held amazement and recognition.
"Who is this pretender?" My stepmother snapped. "Do you believe we're ignorant of Tonia's appearance? You think we'd accept this deception?"
I concentrated on dad. "I'm only present because you claimed something important required discussion. If acceptable, I'd prefer that conversation now."
Father escorted me to his office, abandoning numerous stunned individuals who couldn't manage words.
I wouldn't deny the satisfaction knowing I'd rendered them speechless. They couldn't label me hideous. Actually, I'd never be called ugly by anyone, ever again.
"What occurred to you, Tonia? Your scar was impossible to eliminate," Father questioned.
"I prefer not discussing it currently." Or the terrible events spanning five years. I was still fleeing those memories. "Simply explain why you needed me here."
"Yes, that." His expression darkened. "You cannot imagine my relief discovering you after years of searching. You simply... disappeared." He sighed.
"We face a crisis, Tonia. Our Pack is deeply troubled with Shadowpeak. I made errors and lost substantial money—enormous amounts—creating debt to Shadowpeak."
I disliked this direction.
Shadowpeak was a generational wolf pack, famous for producing only the most powerful Alphas. The Alphas consistently ranking highest in hierarchy systems. They were avoided whenever possible as they were notorious for brutality. No one entangled with them for any reason.
"If this becomes public knowledge, we'd face ruin. We'd descend in rankings, and coming from a pack accustomed to prominence, trust me, it would devastate us. But they're willing to forgive it."
I frowned. Nothing made sense. I sensed a massive 'But' approaching.
"But they require a Luna from this family, for one year only."