Ruby's POV I sat on the edge of my bed, my emotions were still raw, and my mind a whirlwind of regret. Ethan's execution was still pricking my conscience, and I couldn't escape the guilt that was staring at me. The manipulation that had taken hold of him was now forever lost in the silence of his death.Suddenly, my father's voice echoed from behind the closed door, stern and filled with frustration as he addressed the guards for their incompetence. It was clear that he was holding them accountable for the events that had unfolded. I quickly wiped my eyes, trying to compose myself. The last thing I wanted was for my father to see me in such a state. I stood up from the bed and straightened my clothing, taking a deep breath to steady my emotions. The sound of his voice grew closer, and I assumed he would pass my door without stopping. However, as I watched the door closely, it didn't open. A moment of an

  Ruby's POV"Two months later"..Two long and uneventful months had passed since my confinement to my room. The time I spent all by myself was almost suffocating, but it had given me enough time to think, plan, and prepare. The competition that would decide my future as the Alpha's mate was just a week away, and I had been going through rigorous preparations, both mentally and physically.During my isolation, I had taken every opportunity to gather information about the competition. The only interactions I had were with the maids who brought me my meals and tended to the room. I had developed a rapport with one of them, Amelia, who shared some insights about the competition.Amelia was kind-hearted, always willing to share stories and information. As she entered my room with the tray of food, she began to explain, "Miss Ruby, you know this competition is more than just a test of physical strength. It's about bond

  Ruby's POV  I sat with my back still against the door, I couldn't shake the thought that was still raging within me. Vincent's words still echoed in my mind, leaving me confused and wary of the upcoming competition. I wasn't ready to face the challenge of choosing a mate while dealing with the weight of his unsolicited advice. I wondered how our relationship would change after his unwelcome intrusion into my thoughts.Suddenly, I heard the distant sounds of music, and my heart skipped a beat. It was the same music I had heard on the night of the festival, a memory that was forever etched in my mind, for that was the night I had met Ethan, and it had marked a significant turning point in my life. I moved towards the window, my curiosity hightend.Though the window was still barred, I could see glimpses of the festivities down below. The vibrant colors and lively atmosphere were unmistakable. It was the Night

 Gonzalo's POV The months had passed in a blur, each day more unsettling than the last. There had been no sign of Teresa or her father, Drako, since the day of their daring escape. The pack was on high alert, and I couldn't help but feel that we were trapped in a web of uncertainty and danger.I sat alone in my office, staring out the window at the gathering of my pack members outside. They were laughing and teasing one another, the atmosphere light and carefree. It was a stark contrast to the weight that had settled on my shoulders.I couldn't fully hear their conversations, but it was clear they were having fun, something I was supposed to be glad about, but it made me feel even more unsettled, the frown on my face was evident. This was a scene that should have comforted me, knowing that my pack was strong and united. Yet, I couldn't shake the feeling that we were vulnerable, that the enemies we faced might be lurking within our own

 Ruby's POV  My father's question hung in the air, leaving me with a sense of unease. His words were direct and carried the weight of expectations."Why would you talk like that, Dad?" I replied, trying to buy some time to process his inquiry.Alpha Michael's gaze was unwavering as he continued, "I need to know, Ruby, have you already made your decision? If that's the case, it would significantly affect the competition."I paused, the complexity of my feelings weighing on me. "Dad, it's not that simple. I haven't made a final decision."My father's eyes reflected his understanding, though he still seemed concerned. "Then why is Alpha Ralph wearing the same necklace as you? It seems to indicate a level of intimacy."I took a deep breath, knowing that the time had come to reveal the truth about the necklace. "Alpha Ralph rescued me from the Moonshade Pack when everything was going from bad to worse. He p