A Lone Wolf Saves the Alpha’s Son from Certain Death… What Happened That Night Ended 9 Years of Exile

The woman in the woods. Ida wiped the tears from her face as she walked deeper into the dark forest. [music] Nine years, nine long years since she lost everything. Her baby boy had died the moment he came into this world. And her mate Marcus had thrown her away like garbage. He said it was her fault. He said she was cursed.

 He left her in the snow to die while his pack [music] watched and did nothing. But Ida did not die. She survived. She crawled through the freezing snow with blood dripping from her body. She found a cave and stayed there for 3 days without food or water. When she finally had enough strength, she walked until she found an old abandoned cabin deep [music] in the woods.

 That cabin became her home. For 9 years, Ida lived alone in that small wooden cabin, hidden where no wolf could find her. She hunted rabbits and deer for her food. She collected berries and fruits from the trees. [music] She made her own clothes from animal skin. She talked to no one. Her heart was broken into a million pieces.

 And she had no desire to fix [music] it. Every night she dreamed of holding her baby. She would see his tiny face and his little fingers [music] reaching out to her. She would hear him cry and she would reach for him, but he would disappear [music] like smoke. Every morning she woke up alone with tears on her face. The other wolves called her a rogue, a wolf without a pack, a wolf without a home, a wolf without love.

 Rogues were hated by all packs. They were seen [music] as dangerous and untrustworthy. If any pack found a rogue on their land, [music] they had the right to kill them. Ida had accepted her fate. She would live alone and die alone. That was her punishment for failing [music] to keep her son alive. At least that is what she believed.

 She stopped hoping for happiness. [music] She stopped dreaming of finding love again. She stopped believing that good [music] things could happen to someone like her. But fate had other plans for Ida. Big plans. Dangerous plans. Plans that would change her life forever. Far away from Ida’s cabin in the biggest territory in the north, there lived a powerful alpha named Dimmitri.

 He was tall and strong with dark hair and eyes as gray as storm clouds. Every wolf feared him. Every enemy ran from him. His pack was the strongest in all the land. With over 3,000 wolves who would die for him. But Dimmitri was not happy. He had not been happy for 9 years. 9 years ago, his beautiful mate Elena died while giving birth to their son.

Dimmitri held her hand as she took her last breath. He watched the light leave [screaming] her eyes. He felt his heart shatter into dust. The only reason he did not die from the pain was because of the tiny baby boy crying in the doctor’s arms. His son, Cathal. Dmitri took the baby and promised Elellanena’s spirit that he would protect their son with his life.

 He would raise him to be strong and kind. He would love him enough for both parents and he kept that promise. For 9 years, Dimmitri was both father and mother to Cathile. He taught him how to fight. He taught him how to read. He taught him how to be a good leader. He told him stories about his mother every night before bed.

 Cathol grew up to be a smart and brave boy with his mother’s smile and his father’s strength. He was only 9 years old, but every wolf in the pack loved him. They called him the little alpha. But being a single father and an alpha was not easy. Dimmitri had many enemies. Other packs wanted his land. Other alphas wanted his power. They attacked his borders every month trying to find a weakness.

 And Dimmitri’s biggest weakness was his son. He would burn the whole world down if anyone touched Cathol. His enemies knew this. They knew that the fastest way to destroy Dmitri was to destroy his son. That is why Dmitri never let Cathol out of his sight. That is why he trained the best warriors to guard the boy day and night.

 That is why he built a secret safe room in his house where Cathol could hide during attacks. But no matter how careful Dimmitri was, danger always found a way to come close. And today, danger was closer to him. The morning started like any other morning. Dimmitri woke up early and went to check on Cathol. The boy was still sleeping, his dark hair messy on the pillow.

Dmitri smiled and kissed his [music] forehead. Wake up, little wolf. Five more minutes, Papa. [laughter] >> No more minutes. We have training today. Cattle groaned, but got out of bed. He was a good boy who always listened to his father, even when he did not want to. They ate breakfast together in the big dining room.

 Cathol talked about a dream he [music] had where he could fly like a bird. Dimmitri listened and laughed at the [music] funny parts. For a moment, everything felt normal. For a moment, Dimmitri forgot about his enemies and his worries. But that moment did not last long. A loud alarm rang through the pack house. Dmitri jumped to his feet, his eyes turning golden as [music] his wolf came forward.

 He knew that sound. It was the attack alarm. Someone was invading his territory. Papa. Cathal’s voice was scared. Dimmitri grabbed his son and ran to the safe room. He opened the heavy metal door and put Cathol inside. “Stay here,” he ordered. “Do not come out until I come back for you. Do you understand?” Cathol nodded, his little face brave, even though he was afraid.

 “I understand, Papa. Be careful.” Dimmitri closed the door and locked it with a special code that only he knew. Then he shifted into his massive black wolf and ran toward the battle. His warriors were already fighting at the eastern border. The enemy pack was large, at least 200 wolves with red paint on their fur.

Dmitri recognized them immediately, the blood moon pack. They were led by a cruel alpha named Victor, who had been trying to take Dimmitri’s territory for years. Dmitri jumped into the battle with a mighty roar. He tore through enemy wolves like paper. His claws were sharp as knives. His teeth were strong as steel.

 Blood flew everywhere as he fought to protect his pack. But something was wrong. The enemy wolves were not fighting hard. They were retreating too easily. It was like they were not really trying to win. Dimmitri stopped and looked around. His heart turned to ice when he realized the truth. This attack was a distraction. The real enemy was somewhere else.

Cathal. Dmitri turned and ran back to the pack house faster than he had ever run before. Please let him be safe, he prayed. Please, please, please. While Dmitri was fighting, something terrible was happening at the pack house. A small group of enemy wolves had sneaked past the guards while everyone was distracted by the battle.

 They found the safe room and broke down the door with a special weapon. Cattle screamed when the door exploded. Three large wolves with red paint on their fur stepped inside, their yellow eyes glowing with evil. “There you are, little prince,” the leader said with a wicked smile. “Your father killed my brother. Now I will kill his son.

” Cathol tried to run, but the wolves were too fast. They grabbed him and dragged him outside into the woods. Cathol kicked and screamed, but he was just a small boy against three grown wolves. He could not fight them. Tears ran down his face as he thought about his father. He would never see him again.

 He would never hear his bedtime stories again. He would never feel his warm hugs again. The wolves took him deep into the forest, far from the pack house. They threw him on the ground and surrounded him in a circle. “Any last words, little prince?” the leader asked, raising his claws to strike.

 Cathol closed his eyes and waited for death. But death did not come. Instead, he heard a loud growl that shook the trees. Ida had been hunting when she heard the boy’s screams. She followed the sound and saw three large wolves surrounding a small child. They were going to kill him. Every part of Ida’s brain told her to run away. This was not her problem.

 This was not her pack. She was a rogue. And rogues did not get involved in pack business. But her heart told her something different. Her heart saw a scared little boy who was about to. Her heart remembered her own baby who never got the chance to live. Her heart could not let another child while she did nothing. So Ada did something crazy.

She shifted into her wolf and jumped between the boy and the attackers. “Get away from him,” she growled. The three wolves laughed. “Look at this,” the leader said. “A rogue thinks she can fight us. How pathetic.” I said, “Get away from him.” The leader stopped laughing. His eyes turned cold and deadly.

 “Kill her,” he ordered his men. “Then kill the boy.” The two wolves attacked Ada at the same time. She fought with all her strength, biting and clawing and dodging their attacks. She was smaller than them, but she was fast. Years of surviving alone in the woods had made her strong and smart. She killed the first wolf by biting his throat.

 She killed the second wolf by breaking his neck, but she was badly hurt. Blood poured from deep cuts on her side and legs. Her vision was getting blurry. The leader looked at his dead men with shock and anger. You will pay for that, Rogue. He attacked her with all his power. Ida tried to fight back, but she was too weak from her injuries.

He slammed her to the ground and bit her shoulder hard. She screamed in pain. “Papa!” Cathal cried. “Someone help!” The leader raised his claw to finish Ida off, but before he could strike, a massive black wolf appeared out of nowhere and ripped his head clean off his body. It was Dimmitri. He had found them just in time.

 Dmitri looked at the dead wolves on the ground, then at his son, then at the strange woman lying in a pool of blood. Papa. Cathol ran to him and hugged him tight. This lady saved me. The bad wolves were going to kill me, but she came and fought them. She was so [music] brave, Papa. Dimmitri looked at the woman. She was barely breathing.

 Her wounds were deep [music] and deadly. If she did not get help soon, she would die. Who is she? He asked Cathol. I do not know. She just appeared and told them to get away from me. She killed two of them by herself. Dimmitri did not understand. Why would a rogue risk her life for his son? She had nothing to gain and everything to lose.

It made no sense, but he did not have time to think about it now. The woman needed help. We are taking her to the pack hospital, he said, [music] picking up her limp body carefully. But papa, she is a rogue. The pack will not like that. I do not care what the pack likes. She saved your life. I will save hers.

Dimmitri carried the woman back to the pack house [music] while Cathol ran beside him. His warriors stared at him with confusion and disgust when they saw the rogue in his arms. But no one dared to say anything. They knew better than to question their [music] alpha. Dimmitri took the woman to the hospital and ordered the doctors to save her life.

 “Use everything you have,” he commanded. “Do not let her die.” Then he went to deal with the rest of the battle, leaving guards at the hospital door. But when he came back 3 hours later, the woman was gone. Her bed was empty. The window was open. She had escaped. “Where is she?” Dimmitri roared. The guards fell to their knees in fear. “We do not know, Alfa.

 She was there one moment and gone the next. We did not see her leave.” Dimmitri’s wolf howled inside him with anger and something else. something he had not felt in 9 years. The need to [music] find someone, the need to see her again, the need to know who she was and why she had saved his [music] son. Find her, he ordered his warriors.

 Search [music] every inch of this forest. I want that woman found and brought to me. The hunt was on. The hunt begins. Ida ran through the forest as fast [music] as her injured body could carry her. Every step sent pain shooting through her like fire. The doctors at the Pack Hospital had stitched her wounds and given her medicine, [music] but she was far from healed.

 She should have stayed in that warm bed. She should have rested until she was better, but she could not stay. She heard the whispers of the pack members outside her door. They called her a dirty rogue. They said their alpha was a fool for bringing her into their territory. They said she probably deserved to die. Ada was used to being hated. She had been hated for 9 years.

But hearing those words still hurt. So when the guards were not looking, she climbed out of the window and disappeared into the woods. The forest was her home. The forest was safe. No one could hurt her in the forest. She ran until her legs gave out. She fell to the ground beside a river and lay there panting.

 Blood was seeping through her bandages. Her head was spinning. She was so tired, so very tired. Maybe this was how she would die. Alone in the woods, bleeding from wounds she got while saving a stranger’s child. It was a better death than she expected. At least she did something good before she died.

 At least she saved one child, even if she could not save her own. Ida closed her eyes and let the darkness take her. When she woke up, she was in her cabin. Sunlight was streaming through the small window. Birds were singing outside. For a moment, she thought everything [music] had been a dream. The battle, the little boy, the massive black wolf who appeared like a dark angel.

 But then she felt the pain in her body and knew it was all real. She tried to sit up and gasped. Her wounds had been cleaned and wrapped with [music] fresh bandages. Someone had taken care of her. But who? She lived alone. No one knew where her cabin was. You should not move yet. A small voice said. Ida turned her head and saw the little boy from the forest sitting in a chair beside her bed.

 He had dark hair and gray eyes that sparkled with curiosity. He was holding a bowl of soup and smiling at her like they were old friends. “You,” Ida’s eyes went wide. “How did you find me?” “I followed your scent,” Cathol said proudly. “My papa taught me how to track. You left a trail of blood through the forest.

 It was easy to find.” “Does your father know you are here?” “No, he thinks I am in my room doing homework.” Cathol grinned mischievously. I sneaked out through the window. Ada did not know whether to laugh or cry. This boy had tracked her through miles of dangerous forest just to bring her soup.

 He was either very brave or very foolish. Probably both. You should not be here, she said. It is not safe for you to be alone in the woods. There could be more bad wolves out there. I am not scared. I have my papa’s blood. I am strong. Cathol puffed out his little chest. [music] Then his face became serious. Why did you run away? My papa wanted to thank you for saving me.

 He was very angry when you disappeared. Your papa does not want to thank me. I am a rogue. People like me are hated by everyone. I do not hate you, Cathol [music] said simply. You saved my life. You are a hero. Ada felt tears burn her eyes. No one had called her a hero before. No one had looked at her with such pure kindness in nine long years.

 This boy did not see a dirty rogue. He saw a person who helped him. What is your name? Cathol asked. Ida. That is a [music] pretty name. My name is Cathol. I am 9 years old. My papa is the alpha of the silver moon pack. [music] He is the strongest wolf in the whole world. Ida’s heart stopped. the alpha of the silver moon pack.

 That was the most powerful pack in all the territories. And she had saved the alpha’s son. [music] This was bad. Very, very bad. Powerful alphas did not like owing debts to rogues. [music] They did not like mysteries. They would hunt her down until they found answers. You need to go home, Ida said urgently. Right now before your father realizes you’re gone.

 But I just got here and you need someone to take care of you. You are hurt. I can take care of myself. I have been doing it for 9 years. 9 years? Cathal’s eyes grew wide. You have been alone for 9 years? That is my whole life. Were you not lonely? The innocent question [music] hit Arda like a punch to the chest. Yes, she was lonely.

 She was so lonely that sometimes she talked to the trees just to hear a voice. She was so lonely that she had forgotten what it felt like to have [music] someone care about her. Sometimes, she admitted quietly. Cath nodded with understanding far beyond his years. I get [music] lonely, too. My mama died when I was born. It is just me and Papa.

 Sometimes I wish I had a mama like the other kids. Ida’s heart broke for [music] this sweet boy. He had lost his mother just like she had lost her son. They were both survivors of terrible grief. “I am sure your mother is watching over you from heaven,” she said softly. “She must be very proud of the brave boy you have become.” Cathols too. He held out the bowl of soup.

“Please eat. I made it myself.” Well, the cook made it, but I carried it all the way here without spilling. That is almost the same thing. Adah could not help but laugh. This boy was too adorable. She took the bowl and ate the soup while Cathol watched her with satisfaction. It was the best soup she had ever tasted, not because of the ingredients, but because someone had brought it to her with love.

Meanwhile, back at the pack house, Dimmitri was losing his mind. His warriors had searched [music] the forest for 2 days and found nothing. The woman had vanished like a ghost. How was that possible? [music] She was badly injured. She should not have been able to get far. Alpha, we found traces of her scent near the northern river, [music] his beta reported. But then it disappeared.

 It is like she walked into the water and never came out. She did not drown, Dimmitri said firmly. She is alive. I can feel it. His beta looked at him [music] strangely. Feel it, Alpha. How? Dimmitri did not answer. He did not know how to explain it himself. [music] Ever since he saw that woman fighting to protect his son, something had awakened inside him.

 His wolf was restless, pacing back and forth in his mind. His heart was racing at random moments. His thoughts kept drifting to her face, her courage, her eyes that held so much pain and strength [music] at the same time. He had not felt this way since Elellanena. Double the search parties, he ordered. I [music] want every inch of this forest covered.

 She could not have gone far with those injuries. Yes, Alpha. [music] The beta left to carry out the orders. Dmitri walked to Cathile’s room to check on his son. The boy had been quiet since the attack. Dmitri worried that he was traumatized by what happened. He knocked on the door. Cathal, can I come in? No answer.

 Dimmitri opened the door and found the room empty. The window was open. His son was gone. Fear grabbed Dimmitri’s heart like a cold fist. [music] Not again. Please, not again. He shifted into his wolf and followed Cathol out the window and into the forest. The trail led north toward the part of the woods that his warriors had not fully searched yet.

 Dimmitri [music] ran faster than the wind, his powerful legs eating up the distance. If anything happened to his son, he would [music] burn this entire forest to ashes. The scent trail ended at a small wooden cabin hidden among tall trees. Dimmitri had never seen [music] this place before. It was well hidden, almost invisible unless you knew exactly where to look.

 He shifted back to his human form and approached the cabin carefully. Through the window, he could see Cathol [music] sitting on a bed laughing at something. And beside him was the woman. She was awake. She was alive. She was smiling at his son like he was the most precious thing in the world. Dimmitri’s wolf howled with emotions he could not name.

 He burst through the cabin door with thunder in his eyes. Cathol. Cathol jumped in surprise. Papa, how did you find me? I followed your scent, you foolish boy. Do you have any idea how worried I was? I thought the enemy had taken you again. I am sorry, Papa, but I had to come. Ida needed help. She was all alone and hurt. I could not just leave her. Dmitri looked at the woman.

She was sitting up in bed, her body wrapped in bandages, her face pale from blood loss, but her eyes were fierce and unafraid [music] as she met his gaze. Ida, he said slowly. So that is your name? Yes. Her voice was but strong. and you are the alpha who cannot control his own child. Dimmitri’s warriors would have fainted if they heard a rogue speak to their alpha that way.

 But Dmitri felt his lips twitch with the urge to smile. This woman had fire in her. My child is not the one who ran away from a hospital before her wounds healed. [music] He shot back. I did not ask to be taken to your hospital. I did not ask for your help. And my son did not ask to be saved by a stranger. Yet you risked your life for him anyway.

 Why? Ida [music] looked away. I do not know. I just did. That is not an [music] answer. It is the only answer I have. Dmitri stared at her for a long moment. [music] She was hiding something. He could see it in the way she avoided his eyes, but he could also see that she was exhausted [music] and in pain. Now was not the time for interrogation.

You are coming back to the pack house with me. He said it was not a request. No, that was not a question. I do not care. I am not going anywhere with you. This is my home. I am staying here. You can barely stand. Your wounds are infected. If you do not get proper medical care, you will die within a week. Then I will die.

 It is none of your concern. Cathol gasped. No, Ida, you cannot die. I just found you. He turned to his father with tears in his eyes. Papa, please make her come with us. She saved my life. We have to save hers. Dimmitri looked at his son’s pleading face. Then he looked at the stubborn woman who was willing to die rather than accept help from a pack that hated her.

He understood that feeling. He understood the pride that came from being hurt too many times. I will make you a deal, he said to Ida. Come to my pack house and let my doctors treat you properly. Once you are healed, you are free to leave. I will not force [music] you to stay. You have my word as alpha.

 Why would you help me? I am just a rogue. You are the rogue who saved my son. In my eyes, that makes you worthy of help. Ida studied his face for a long time, searching for lies or tricks. But she found only sincerity. This alpha [music] was different from Marcus. This alpha had honor. Fine, she finally said, but the moment I am healed, I am leaving. Agreed.

 Dimmitri [music] walked to the bed and lifted her into his arms before she could protest. She was so [music] light, like she had not eaten properly in years. His wolf whimpered with the need to protect her, to feed her, to keep her safe. [music] “What was happening to him?” “I can walk,” Ida muttered, her cheeks turning pink.

 “No, you cannot [music] stop arguing and let someone take care of you for once.” She opened her mouth to argue more, but no words came out. When was the last time someone had carried her? When was the last time someone had wanted to take care of her? She could not remember, so she stayed silent and let the alpha carry her through the forest, his arms strong and warm around her.

Cathol [music] skipped beside them, chattering happily about all the things he would show Ida at the pack [music] house. For the first time in 9 years, Ida felt something she thought she had lost forever. Hope. The pack members stared in shock as their alpha walked through the gates, carrying a rogue woman in his arms.

 His son was walking beside him, holding the woman’s hand like she was [music] family. Whispers spread through the crowd like wildfire. Is that the rogue from before? Why is the alpha carrying her? Has he lost his mind? She must have put a spell on him. Dimmitri ignored them all. He carried [music] Ida straight to the pack hospital and placed her gently on a bed.

“Treat her wounds,” he ordered the doctors. “Give her the best medicine, the best food, the best room. She is to be treated like an honored guest, not a prisoner. Anyone who disrespects her will answer to me.” The doctors bowed their heads. “Yes, Alfa.” Dimmitri looked at Ida. “I will come check on you later. Rest now.

Then he left with Cathal before she could say anything. Ida lay in the soft bed and stared at the ceiling. What had she gotten herself into? [music] She was a rogue living in the pack house of the most powerful alpha in the land. She was surrounded by wolves who hated her and wanted her dead. She had a little boy who looked at her like she hung the moon.

 and she had an alpha [music] who made her heart race in ways she did not understand. This was going to be complicated. 3 days [music] passed. Ida’s wounds were healing faster than anyone expected. The doctors said it was a miracle. They had never seen a wolf recover so quickly from such terrible injuries. But Ida knew it was not a miracle.

 It was survival. She had learned to heal fast [music] because she had no choice. When you live alone in the woods with no one to help you, your body learns to fix itself or you die. Those were the only options. The pack hospital was nicer than any place Ida had ever stayed. The bed was soft like clouds.

 The food was hot and delicious. [music] The room was warm and clean. But Ida could not enjoy any of it because every time a pack member walked past her door, they looked at her with disgust. The nurses treated her wounds with rough hands and cold silence. The doctors spoke to her like she was dirt beneath [music] their shoes.

 Even the cleaning lady refused to enter her room, leaving fresh towels at the door. Like Ada was a disease she might catch. Ida pretended not to care. She had survived worse. She had survived being thrown away by her own mate. She had survived 9 years of loneliness. She could survive a few dirty looks from strangers. [music] But late at night when no one was watching, she cried into her pillow.

 She cried because she was tired of being hated. She was tired of being alone. She was tired of pretending to be strong when her heart was breaking into smaller and smaller pieces every day. The only bright spot in her days was [music] Cathol. The little boy visited her every afternoon after his lessons.

 He brought her books and toys and snacks from the kitchen. He told her stories about his school and his friends and his training. He asked her a million questions about her life in the woods. “Did you really hunt your own food?” he asked one day, his gray eyes wide with amazement. “Yes, I hunted rabbits and deer mostly.

” “That is so cool. Can you teach me how to hunt?” Papa says I am too young, but I think I am ready. Maybe when I am better. Ida smiled at his excitement. But your father is right. Hunting is dangerous. You should wait until you’re older. You sound just like Papa. Cathol pouted, but his face quickly brightened again.

 Ida, why do you live alone? Do you not have a family? The question [music] was innocent, but it hit Ida like a knife to the chest. She looked away so Cathol would not see the pain in her eyes. I had a family once, a long time ago. What happened to them? They are gone now. Gone where? Ida did not know how to answer.

 How do [music] you explain death and rejection to a 9-year-old boy? How do you tell him that your own mate threw you away like trash? How do you describe the feeling of holding your dead baby in your arms? Cathl, she said gently, sometimes people lose their families. Sometimes bad things happen that we cannot control. [music] But that does not mean we stop living.

We keep going. We find new reasons to be happy. Cattle was quiet for a moment. Then he climbed onto the bed and hugged Ida tight. “I am sorry you lost your family,” he whispered. “But you have me now. and papa, we can be your new family.” Ida felt tears roll down her cheeks. This sweet, kind boy was offering her something she never thought she would have again.

 A family, a home, a place to belong. She hugged him back and wished with all her heart that his words could come true. But not everyone wanted Ida to [music] stay. The next morning, she woke up to find three women [music] standing at the foot of her bed. They were all beautiful with expensive clothes and perfect hair. Their eyes were cold as ice and filled with [music] hatred.

 So, you are the rogue everyone is talking about, the leader said. She was tall with blonde hair and a face like a porcelain [music] doll, but her smile was cruel and her voice dripped with poison. I am [music] beta female Serena. My husband is the alpha’s second in command. That makes me the most important woman in this pack.

Ida sat [music] up slowly. What do you want? I want you to leave today, right now. I made a deal with your alpha. I stay until I am healed. Then I leave. The alpha is being foolish. He is blinded by gratitude because you saved his son. But I see you clearly, Rogue. I see what you really are. And what am I? A gold digger, a schemer, a pathetic lone wolf who thinks she can climb her way into our pack by playing the hero.

Serena stepped closer, her eyes glowing with her wolf. Let me make something very clear. The alpha is mine. I have been waiting for years for him to choose a new Luna, and I will not let some dirty rogue steal him from me. Ida almost laughed. I do not want your alpha. I do not want anything from this pack.

 I just want to heal and go back to my cabin. Liar. Every woman wants Dmitri. He is handsome, powerful, and rich. The perfect catch. But he will never choose someone like you. You are beneath him. You are beneath all of us. Serena grabbed Ida’s face with sharp nails. Leave this pack before sunset [music] or I will make your life a living hell.

 Do you understand me, Rogue? Ida slapped her hand away. Do not touch me. Serena’s face twisted with rage. How dare you? She raised her hand to strike Ida, but a strong voice stopped her cold. “What is going on here?” Everyone turned to see Alpha Dmitri standing in the doorway. His gray eyes were dark with anger [music] and his powerful body filled the entire frame.

 The three women immediately dropped into submissive boughs. Alfa, we were just welcoming your guests to the pack. Is that [music] so? Dimmitri walked into the room, his presence filling every corner. Because it looked like you were threatening [music] her. No, Alfa, we would never get out. His voice was quiet but deadly. Now the three women scrambled to leave, their faces pale with fear.

 [music] Serena shot Ida one last hateful glare before disappearing through the door. Dimmitri waited until they were gone before turning to Ida. His angry expression softened when he saw the red marks on her face [music] where Serena had grabbed her. “Are you all right?” he asked, his voice surprisingly gentle. “I am fine. I have dealt with worse.

 You should not have to deal with anything. You are a guest in my house. Anyone who disrespects you disrespects me. Dimmitri sat in the chair beside her bed. Up close, Ida could [music] see how tired he looked. There were dark circles under his eyes and lines of stress on his handsome face. Being an alpha was not easy.

 Carrying an entire pack on your shoulders was exhausting. Why do they hate me so much? Ida asked. I did nothing to them. They hate what they do not understand. You are different from them. You survived alone for 9 years. [music] Something none of them could ever do. Your strength makes them feel weak, so they attack [music] you instead of admiring you.

 I am not strong. I am just stubborn. Sometimes those are the same thing. Dimmitri’s eyes met hers and something passed between them. A spark, a connection, a feeling that neither of them expected or understood. Ida looked away first. I should leave soon. My wounds are almost healed. There is no reason for me to stay and cause trouble for you.

 Is that what you want to leave? It does not matter what I want. I am a rogue. I do not belong here. You could belong here. Dimmitri’s [music] voice was soft but serious. I could give you a place in my pack, a home protection. You would never have to live alone again. Ida’s heart [music] pounded in her chest. Was he really offering her a place in his pack after only knowing her for a few days? Why? She whispered.

 Why would [music] you do that for me? Because you saved my son’s life. Because Cathol adores you. Because he stopped struggling to find the right words. Because my wolf will not stop thinking about you. And I do not understand why. Ada did not know what to say. No one had ever wanted her before. [music] No one had ever fought to keep her.

 Marcus had thrown her away without a second thought. [music] But this alpha, this powerful, handsome, incredible man was [music] asking her to stay. I cannot, she finally said, her voice breaking. You do not know who I am. You do not know what I have done. If you knew the truth, you would throw me out yourself. Then tell me, tell me who you are.

 Tell me what happened to you. I am not ready. Then I [music] will wait. Dmitri stood and looked down at her with determination in his eyes. I am a patient man, Ida. When I want something, I do not give up easily. [music] And for some reason, I cannot explain. I want you to stay. He walked to the door and paused. Think about my offer.

 I will ask again when you are healed. Then he was gone, leaving Ida alone with her racing heart and confused thoughts. That night, [music] Ida could not sleep. She kept thinking about Dimmitri’s offer, a place in his pack, a home, protection, everything she had dreamed about for 9 years. But she was scared. Scared to trust again, scared to hope again, scared to let someone into her heart, only to be destroyed like before.

She got out of bed and walked to the window. The moon was full and bright, casting silver light over the pack territory. It was beautiful here. The houses were neat and clean. The gardens were full of flowers. Wolves walked together in groups, laughing and talking. This was what a pack was [music] supposed to look like.

 A community, a family, a place where everyone belonged. Ida had never had that. Even before Marcus rejected her, she had always felt like an outsider. She was an orphan raised by distant relatives who never really loved her. She met Marcus when she was 18, and he promised to give her the family she always wanted.

 But those promises were lies. Everything was [music] a lie. A knock on the door interrupted her thoughts. “Come in,” she said, [music] expecting a nurse, but it was not a nurse. It was a woman she had never seen before. She was old with white hair and kind eyes. Her face was wrinkled with age, but there was a warmth about her that made Ada feel safe.

 “Hello, dear,” the old woman said with a gentle smile. “My name is Elder Rose. I am the pack historian and healer. May I sit with you for a while?” Ida nodded, curious about why an elder would visit a rogue in the middle of the night. Elder Rose sat in the chair and studied Ida’s face for a long moment.

 You look just like her, she finally said. Like who? Your mother. Ida’s heart stopped. You knew my mother? I did a long time ago before you were born. She was a member of this pack before she left to join the Shadow Creek Pack with her mate. I do not understand. My mother died when I was five. I barely remember her.

 I know, child, and I am sorry for your loss. But there are things you do not know about your history. Things that were hidden from you. Elder Rose leaned forward, her eyes serious. You are not just a rogue, Ida. You are the daughter of a lunar. You have alpha blood in your veins. And you have a destiny [music] that is greater than you could ever imagine.

Ada felt the world spin around her. [music] Alpha blood, a destiny. What was this old woman talking about? I think you have me confused with someone else, she said [music] shakily. I am nobody. I am just a rogue who lost everything. You are not nobody. Elder Rose took Ida’s hand in hers. You are exactly who you are meant to be and very soon the whole world will know your name.

 She stood and walked to the door. Rest now, [music] child. Tomorrow everything will change. Then she disappeared into the night, leaving Ida with more questions than answers. The next morning, Ida woke to the sound of screaming. She jumped out of bed and ran to the window. The pack was in chaos. Wolves were running everywhere.

Warriors were shifting and racing toward the gates. Smoke was rising from somewhere in the distance. Another [music] attack. Ida’s instincts kicked in. She was still weak, but she could not just sit here while people were in danger. She ran out of the hospital and followed the crowd toward the eastern border.

 What she saw made her blood run cold. The enemy was back, but this time there were not 200 wolves. There were at least 500. They surrounded the pack like a sea of red, their howls filling the air with promises [music] of death. And leading them was a wolf that Ida never thought she would see again. A wolf with golden fur and cruel blue eyes.

 A wolf who had haunted her nightmares for 9 years. Marcus, her former mate, the alpha who had thrown her away and left her to die. “Well, well, well,” Marcus said with a [music] wicked smile as his eyes found her in the crowd. “Hello, Ada. Did you miss me?” Ida felt like she could not breathe. Her legs were shaking.

 Her heart was pounding so hard she thought it would burst out of her chest. Marcus. He was here. After 9 years of hiding, 9 years of nightmares, 9 years of trying to forget his cruel face. He was standing right in front of her. He looked exactly the same, tall and muscular with golden hair that shined in the sunlight.

 His blue eyes were cold as winter ice. His smile was sharp as a knife. He was still handsome, but Ida no longer saw beauty when she looked at him. She only saw the monster who destroyed her life. “What is the matter, my dear?” Marcus called out, his voice dripping with fake [music] sweetness. “Are you not happy to see your mate?” “You are not my mate,” Ida said through clenched teeth. “You rejected me.

 You left me to die.” “Ah, yes, I did do that, did I not?” Marcus laughed like it was a funny joke. “But you did not die. You survived like a cockroach. I have to admit, I am impressed. I thought the cold [music] would finish you off within hours. What do you want, Marcus? What do I want? His smile disappeared, replaced by pure hatred.

 I want what was taken from me. I want revenge. I want blood. He pointed [music] at the pack house behind Ida. This pack destroyed my allies 3 days [music] ago. They killed my business partners who were supposed to help me take over the northern territories. Do you know how much money I lost because [music] of that? Ida remembered the wolves who tried to kill Cathol. They had red paint on their fur.

They were Marcus’ allies. [music] She had killed two of them herself. Those wolves tried to murder a child. She [music] said they deserved to die. That child is the son of my enemy. Alpha Dmitri has been a thorn in my side for years. He refuses to bow to me. He refuses to give me his territory. [music] He thinks he is better than me.

 Marcus’ eyes glowed with madness. So, I decided to hit him where it hurts most, his [music] precious little air. But someone got in my way. His gaze locked onto Ida with terrifying intensity. Imagine my surprise when I heard that the wolf who ruined my plan was my own rejected mate. [music] The same pathetic woman I threw away like garbage 9 years ago.

 I did not know they were your wolves. I did not even know you were involved. It does not matter. You interfered with my business. You cost me money and allies. You embarrassed me in front of my pack. Marcus took a step forward. And for that you will pay. But first, I will destroy this pack. I will kill their alpha. I will burn their homes to the ground.

 And I will make you watch every single moment. The Silver Moon wolves growled with anger, but they were outnumbered. Marcus had brought an army. 500 wolves against [music] 300. The math was not good. Dimmitri pushed through the crowd and stood in front of his pack, facing [music] Marcus with calm fury.

 He looked like a warrior god, tall and powerful, his gray eyes burning with cold fire. Ida’s heart squeezed at the sight of him. This man had offered her a home. He had treated [music] her with kindness when everyone else treated her with hatred. She could not let him die because of her. “Marcus of the Shadow Creek Pack,” Dimmitri said, [music] his voice booming across the field.

 “You have invaded my territory. You have threatened my people. You have declared war against me. Do you understand what this means? It means I am about to take everything you have. Marcus sneered. Your land, your [music] pack, your life. By tomorrow morning, I will be the most powerful alpha in the north.

 You’re a fool if you think I will let that happen. And you are a fool [music] if you think you can stop me. Look around you, Dimmitri. I have 500 wolves ready to tear [music] your pack apart. Your warriors are strong, but they cannot fight against [music] these numbers. Numbers are not everything. Skill and loyalty matter more.

 Pretty words from a dead man. Marcus raised his hand, signaling his army to prepare for attack. Any last words before I destroy you? Dmitri smiled, and it was the [music] most terrifying smile Ida had ever seen. Yes, look behind you. Marcus frowned and turned around. His face went pale as [music] a ghost.

 Coming from the forest behind his army was another pack. Hundreds of wolves with silver fur poured out of the trees like a river. They were led by a massive gray wolf with scars all over his body. The ironclaw pack, Marcus [music] whispered in horror. How is this possible? They are your enemies. They were my enemies, Dmitri corrected.

[music] Until I saved their alpha’s daughter from hunters last month, he owed me a debt. Now we are allies. The ironclaw wolves surrounded Marcus’ army from behind. Now the numbers were equal. 500 against 500. Still feeling confident? [music] Dmitri asked with a dangerous glint in his eyes.

 Marcus’s face twisted [music] with rage. He had walked into a trap. His perfect plan was falling apart, but he was not ready to give up. “Fine,” he snarled. [music] “We will do this the old way. Alpha against Alpha. You and me. One fight. The winner takes all.” “I accept.” Dmitri began to unbutton his shirt. [music] “When I kill you, your pack surrenders and leaves my territory forever.

 And when I kill you, I take your pack, your land, and that rogue woman who used to be mine. Marcus pointed at Ida with a cruel smile. She will pay for betraying me. I will make her wish she had died in that snow 9 years ago. Ida felt sick. She wanted to scream that she was not Marcus’ property. She wanted to tell him that he had no right to claim her.

 But before she could say anything, [music] Dmitri spoke. Ida belongs to no one but herself,” he said coldly. “But if you want her, you will have to go through me first. And trust me, Marcus, you will not survive the [music] attempt.” The two alphas shifted into their wolves at the same time.

 Dimmitri’s wolf was massive and black as midnight. His eyes glowed silver in the sunlight. His muscles rippled with power. He looked like death itself had taken the form of a wolf. Marcus’ wolf was golden and almost as large [music] as Dimmitri’s. His eyes burned blue with hatred. His teeth were long and sharp. He was a killer, a predator, a monster without a [music] soul.

 They circled each other slowly, looking for weaknesses. The air was thick with tension. Every wolf watching held their breath. Then Marcus attacked. [music] He launched himself at Dmitri with his claws aimed at his throat. But Dimmitri was faster. [music] He dodged to the side and bit Marcus’s leg, tearing out a chunk of flesh.

 Marcus howled in pain and spun around, slashing at Dimmitri’s face. He managed to leave three deep cuts [music] across Dimmitri’s muzzle, drawing blood. The two wolves crashed into each other again and again. Teeth and claws flew. Blood splattered the ground. They were both powerful, both skilled, both determined to win.

 But Ida could see the difference between them. Dimmitri fought to protect his pack. Every move he made was defensive, strategic, calculated. He was not trying to cause unnecessary pain. He was trying to end the fight as quickly as possible. Marcus fought to destroy. He aimed for Dimmitri’s eyes, his throat, [music] his most vulnerable spots.

 He wanted to hurt, to torture, to kill as slowly and painfully as possible. [music] He enjoyed the violence. After what felt like hours, both wolves were covered in wounds. [music] They stood facing each other, panting heavily, blood dripping from their bodies. “Give up!” Marcus growled. “You cannot beat me. I am stronger than you. You are not stronger.

You are just more willing to fight dirty.” Dimmitri lunged forward with lightning speed. Marcus tried to dodge, but he was too slow. Dimmitri’s jaws clamped [music] down on his throat and squeezed. Marcus struggled and thrashed, but he could not break [music] free. Dimmitri’s bite was like iron. Yield, Dmitri commanded [music] through the mind link. Yield or die.

 For a long moment, Marcus continued to [music] fight. His pride would not let him surrender. But the darkness was creeping into his vision. His [music] strength was fading. His life was slipping away. “I yield,” he finally choked out. Dimmitri released [music] him and stepped back. Marcus collapsed to the ground, gasping for air, his golden fur stained red with his own blood.

 “The fight is over,” Dmitri announced to both [music] armies. Marcus has yielded. According to Packlaw, his wolves must surrender and leave my territory immediately. Any wolf who refuses will be executed. The Shadow Creek wolves looked at their defeated alpha with shame and confusion. One by one, they lowered their heads in submission.

 The battle was won without a war. But Marcus was not finished. As Dimmitri turned to address his pack, Marcus shifted back to his human form and pulled a hidden knife from a sheath strapped to his ankle. Silver, the only metal that could kill a wolf instantly. Dimmitri, watch out! Ida screamed. Everything happened in slow motion. Marcus threw the knife at Dimmitri’s back.

 Dmitri turned around, but he was too slow. The knife was going to hit him right in the heart. Ida did not think. She just moved. She threw herself in front of Dimmitri [music] and the silver knife buried itself in her chest instead. Pain exploded through her body like fire. She heard screaming, [music] but she could not tell if it was her own voice or someone else’s.

 She felt herself [music] falling, falling, falling into darkness. The last thing she saw before she passed out was Dimmitri’s face above her. His gray eyes were filled with tears. His hands were pressing against her wound, trying to stop the blood. “Stay with me!” he was shouting. “Ida, stay with me. Do not close your eyes.

 Someone get a doctor now.” But Ida could not stay. The darkness was too strong. It pulled her [music] down, down, down into nothing. When Ada opened her eyes, she was floating in an empty white space. There was no ground, no sky, no walls, just endless white in every direction. “Hello,” she called out. “Is anyone there?” “Hello, my daughter.

” Adah spun around and gasped. Standing behind her was a woman with long black hair and warm brown eyes. She was beautiful, with a kind face and a gentle smile. She looked exactly like the blurry memories Ida had of her mother. “Mama,” Ida whispered. “Is it really you?” “Yes, my sweet girl. It is me.” Ida ran into her mother’s arms and burst into tears.

 She sobbed like a little child, [music] releasing 9 years of pain and loneliness and grief. Her mother held her tight and stroked her hair, whispering soft words of comfort. [music] I missed you so much, Ida cried. I missed you every single day. I know, my darling. [music] I have been watching you from above.

 I have seen everything you suffered. I am so proud of how strong you became. I am not strong, mama. I am broken. You are not broken. You are healing. There is a difference. Her mother pulled back and looked into Ida’s eyes. Listen to me, my daughter. You are standing at a crossroads. You can choose to let go and come with me to the other side or you can choose to fight and go back to the living world.

 I do not know if I want to go back. There is nothing for me there. That is not true. There is a little boy who loves you like a mother. There is an alpha [music] who is desperate to save you. There is a whole pack that needs you even if they do not know it yet. Her mother smiled. And there [music] is a destiny you have not yet fulfilled.

Elder Rose said something about a destiny. She said, “I have alpha blood. What does that mean?” It means you are more powerful than you know. Your father was the alpha of this very pack before he died. He was Dimmitri’s [music] uncle. That makes you and Dmitri distant cousins by pack bonds, though not by blood.

 You belong to the Silver Moon Pack, Ida. You always have. Ida’s head was spinning. She was related to Dimmitri’s pack. She had alpha blood. Everything she knew about herself was wrong. “Go back, my daughter,” her mother said, starting [music] to fade away. “Go back and claim your destiny. Be the wolf you were born to be. Find the love and family you deserve.

 Live the life I could not live [music] for you. Mama, wait. Do not leave me. I am always with you in your heart, in your spirit, in every breath you take. Her mother [music] kissed her forehead one last time. I love you, Ida. Now wake up. Ida’s [music] eyes flew open. She was lying in a hospital bed.

 Machines were beeping all around her. [music] Her chest was wrapped in thick bandages, and her whole body achd like she had been hit by a truck. But she was alive. She was [music] breathing. She had come back. “Ada!” Cathol’s voice screamed with joy. The little boy threw himself onto her bed and hugged her so tight she could barely breathe. “You are awake.

You’re alive. I knew you would not leave me. I knew it.” “Careful, son.” She is still hurt. Dimmitri appeared beside the bed, his face pale and exhausted. There were dark circles under his eyes and bandages on his own wounds. But when he looked at Ada, his gray eyes lit up with something that made her heart skip a beat.

 “You saved my life,” he said softly. “You jumped in front of a silver knife for me.” “Why would you [music] do that?” Ida looked at this man who had shown her more kindness in one week than she had received in 9 years. She looked at the little boy who had adopted her into his heart without asking permission. She thought about her mother’s words, about destiny, [music] about family, about love.

Because some things are worth dying for, [music] she whispered. Dimmitri’s hand found hers and held it tight. “You’re not allowed to die. Not ever. Do you understand [music] me?” “Is that an order, Alpha?” Yes. My first order to you as a member of my pack. Stay alive. Stay with me. [music] Stay with us.

 Tears rolled down Adah’s cheeks, but for the first time in 9 years, they were tears of happiness. Okay. She said, “I [music] will stay.” Outside the hospital room, Marcus was being held in chains by the pack warriors. His [music] face was twisted with fury as he watched through the window. Ida was supposed to die. She was supposed [music] to suffer.

 Instead, she was being treated like a hero. She was being welcomed into the pack that should have been his. This is not over. He swore under [music] his breath. I will escape. I will rebuild my army. And I will come back to destroy everyone who humiliated me today. Especially you, Ida. I will make you regret ever being born.

But for now, he was dragged away to the pack prison, his threats echoing in the wind. The battle was over, but the war was just beginning. Part five, The Luna Rises. [music] One month passed since the battle. Ida’s wounds had fully healed, leaving only a small scar on her chest where the silver knife had pierced her.

 She wore that scar like a badge of honor. It reminded her that she had survived. It reminded her that she was stronger than she ever believed. Everything had changed since she woke up from her near-death experience. The pack members who once hated her now looked at her with respect and admiration. They had all heard how she jumped in front of a silver [music] knife to save their alpha.

 They had all seen her bravery with their own eyes. Serena, the beta female who had threatened her, was the first to apologize. She came to Ida’s hospital room with tears in her eyes and begged for forgiveness. “I was wrong about you,” she said. “I [music] was jealous and stupid. You are not a gold digger or a schemer. You are a hero.

 Please forgive me.” Ida forgave her, not because she had forgotten the cruel words, but because she was tired of carrying hatred in her heart. Hatred was heavy. Forgiveness was freedom. Elder Rose visited her everyday, teaching her about her family history. Ida learned that her father, Alfa Jonathan, was Dimmitri’s uncle.

 He had been a great leader, loved by everyone in the Silver Moon Pack. But he fell in love with a woman from another pack and left to be with her. That woman was Ida’s mother. “Your father died protecting your mother when you were just a baby,” Elder Rose explained. Rogues attacked their small pack and he fought to the last breath to give your mother time to escape with you.

 He was a true alpha until the end. Why did no one tell me this before? Your mother wanted to protect you. She feared that your father’s enemies would come after you if they knew you existed. So, she hid your identity and raised you in secret. Ida finally understood why she had always felt like an outsider. She was not meant for the Shadow Creek Pack where Marcus found her.

 [music] She was meant for the Silver Moon Pack. This was her true home, her birthright. Cathal was the happiest of all. He [music] followed Adah everywhere like a little shadow, holding her hand and introducing her to everyone as my Ida. The pack members thought it was adorable. They started calling her the little alpha’s guardian.

 But Cathal had bigger plans. One evening, he marched into his father’s office with a very serious look on his face. [music] Dimmitri looked up from his paperwork with amusement. What is it, son? You look like you are about to declare war. I need to talk to you about something important, Papa. I am listening. Cattle climbed onto the chair across from his father’s desk [music] and folded his little hands like a businessman about to make a deal.

I want Ida to be my new mama. Dimmitri nearly choked on the water he was drinking. [music] Excuse me. You heard me. I want Ida to be my mama. She’s kind and brave and she makes the best hot chocolate. She tells me stories before bed. [music] She helps me with my homework. She’s already like a mama to me, so we should just make it official.

Cathal, it is not that simple. Why not? You like her. I can tell because you smile when she’s around. [music] You never smile like that with anyone else. And she likes you, too. She gets all red and nervous when you talk to her. That means she has feelings for you, right? Dimmitri did not know whether to laugh or be impressed by his son’s observation skills.

 The boy was only nine, but he saw things that adults often missed. “Even if that is true,” Dimmitri said carefully. “Ida has been through a lot. She was hurt very badly by her last mate. I do not want to pressure her into anything she is not ready for. Then do not pressure her. Just tell her how you feel and let her decide.

 [music] That is what you always tell me to do when I like someone. Use your words, papa. Dimmitri stared at his son in amazement. When did this little boy become so wise? You are too smart for your own good, [music] he muttered. I know. Cathol grinned. So, will you do it? Will you tell Adah you love her? I never said I love her. You did not have to.

 I can see it in your eyes. Cathol jumped off the chair and headed for the door. I am going to go play now, but think about what I said, Papa. Life is short. Do not waste it being scared. He left the office, leaving Dimmitri alone with his thoughts and his racing heart. That same night, Dimmitri found Ada sitting by the lake behind [music] the pack house.

 The moon was full and bright, reflecting on the water like a million tiny diamonds. She looked beautiful in the silver light, her dark hair flowing in the gentle breeze. “May I join you?” he asked. Ida looked up and smiled. “Of course.” He sat beside her on the grass, close enough to feel the warmth of her body, but not touching.

They sat in comfortable silence for a while, watching the moon and listening to the sounds of the night. “I love this place,” Ida finally [music] said. “It is so peaceful here. Sometimes I come out at night just to breathe and remind myself that this is real, that I am really here, that I am really part of a pack again.

You are more than part of a pack, Ida. [music] You are part of a family. I know, and it still feels like a dream. She turned to look at him, her brown eyes soft and vulnerable. Thank you, Dimmitri, for everything, [music] for saving me, for taking me in, for giving me a second chance at life. You do not need to thank me.

 You earned your place here. You saved my son’s life. [music] You saved my life. This pack owes you everything. I did not do it for the pack. Then why did you do it? Ida was quiet for a long moment. Her heart was pounding so hard she was sure he could hear it. [music] She had promised herself she would never love again.

 She had built walls around her heart so high that no one could climb them. But somehow [music] this man and his son had found a way through. I did it for you,” she whispered. “I did it because when I saw that knife flying toward your heart, I could not imagine a world without you in it. I did it because somewhere along the way, you became the most important person in my life.

 I did it because she took a shaky breath. Because I love you, Dmitri, and I know I am just a rogue with a broken past. I know I am not worthy of an alpha like you. I know there are a hundred women in this pack who would be better for you than me, but I cannot help how I feel, and I am tired of hiding it. Tears were rolling down her cheeks now.

 She waited for him to reject her. She waited for him to tell her she was being foolish. She waited for her heart to break all over again. But instead, Dimmitri [music] cuped her face in his hands and wiped her tears away with his thumbs. His gray eyes were burning with an emotion so intense it took her breath away.

 “You are not just a rogue,” he said firmly. “You are the bravest, strongest, most incredible woman I have ever met. You survived things that would have destroyed anyone else. You protected my son when no one else could. You jumped in front of a silver knife for me without hesitation.” He pressed his forehead against hers. I have been alone for 9 years, Ida.

 I buried my heart with my mate [music] and swore I would never love again. But then you came crashing into my life like a hurricane. And everything changed. [music] You made me feel things I thought were dead. You made me hope again. You made me want to live again. Not just for my son, but for myself. Dimmitri, I love you, Ada.

 I love your strength and your fire and your stubborn spirit. I love the way you laugh at Cathol’s jokes even when they are not funny. I love the way you stand [music] up to anyone who tries to push you around. I love everything about you. And I do not care about your past or where you came from. I only care about where we are going together.

 He pulled back and looked into her eyes. I want you to be my Luna. I want you to be Cathal’s mother. I want you to spend the rest of your life by my side. Will you have me, Ida? Will you be mine? Ida [music] could not speak. Her throat was choked with emotion. So instead of answering with words, she answered with a kiss. She pressed her lips against his and poured everything [music] she felt into that one moment.

 All her love, all her hope, all her dreams for the future. Dimmitri kissed her back with equal passion, his arms wrapping around her like he would never let go. The moon shone down on them, like a blessing from the heavens. Two broken souls had finally [music] found each other. Two hearts had finally come home. The next morning, Dimmitri announced to the entire pack that Ida would become their new Luna.

 The pack >> [music] >> erupted in cheers and applause. They had all been waiting for this moment. They had all seen the love between their alpha and the rogue who [music] saved his life. Cathol was the loudest of all. He ran through the crowd screaming at the top of his lungs. I am getting a mama. I am getting a mama.

 Ida is going to be my mama. Ida laughed and scooped him up in her arms. Yes, little wolf. I am going to be your mama. Is that okay with you? Okay, it is the best thing ever. I have been asking Papa to marry you for weeks. Ida looked at Dmitri with raised eyebrows. Is that so? Dmitri shrugged innocently. The boy knows what he wants.

 The lunar ceremony was held under the full moon one week later. The entire pack gathered in the sacred clearing where generations of Lunas had been crowned before. Ida wore a beautiful white dress that sparkled like stars. Her hair was braided [music] with silver flowers. She looked like a goddess descended from the heavens.

 Dimmitri could not take his eyes off her. He had never seen anything so [music] beautiful in his entire life. Elder Rose performed the ceremony, binding Ada to the pack and to Dmitri with ancient [music] rituals that had been passed down for centuries. When it was time for the final vow, Dmitri took Ida’s hand and spoke from his heart.

 I, Alpha Dmitri of the Silver Moon Pack, take you, Ida, as my mate and my Luna. I vow to love you, protect you, and honor you for the rest of my [music] days. I vow to be your partner in joy and sorrow, in strength and weakness, in life and death. You are my heart. You are my home. You are my everything. Tears streamed down Ida’s face as she made her own vow.

 I, Ida, take you, Alpha Dimmitri, as my mate and my alpha. I vow to love you, support you, and stand beside you through every battle and every storm. I vow to be a mother to your son and a leader to your pack. I vow to give you all of me forever and always. You are my second chance. You are my miracle. You are my reason for living.

 Elder Rose smiled and raised her hands to the sky. By the power of the moon and the blessing of our ancestors, I declare you Alpha and Luna of the Silver Moon Pack. What the moon has joined, let no one tear apart. Dimmitri pulled Ida into his arms and kissed her deeply. The pack howled with joy, their voices echoing through the night.

 For the first time in 9 years, Ida knew what true happiness felt like. [music] She had a mate who loved her. She had a son who adored her. She had a pack that respected her. She had everything she had ever dreamed of and more. [music] But fate had one more surprise in store. 3 months after the Luna ceremony, Ida woke up feeling strange.

 Her stomach was churning. [music] Her head was spinning. She ran to the bathroom and threw up everything she had eaten the night before. Ida, are you all right? Dimmitri rushed in, his [music] face pale with worry. I do not know. I feel terrible. Dimmitri’s wolf suddenly perked up inside him. He sniffed the air and his eyes went wide.

Ida, your scent, [music] it is different. What do you mean? I mean a huge smile spread across his face. [music] I think you are pregnant. Ida felt the world stop spinning. Pregnant? [music] She could not be pregnant. She had lost her first baby. She was told she might never have children again. This was impossible.

 But when she went to the pack doctor, the impossible was confirmed. She was carrying twins, a boy and a girl. Two perfect, healthy babies growing inside her. Ida burst into tears. 9 years ago, she lost everything. Her baby, her mate, her pack, her hope. She thought her life was over. She [music] thought she would never be happy again. But now she had it all.

 A loving mate, an amazing stepson, [music] a pack that treated her like family, and two babies on the way. Her second chance was complete. 7 months late. The pack house was filled with the sounds of crying. Not sad crying, happy crying. Ada had just given birth to the twins, a beautiful baby boy with his father’s gray eyes, and a perfect baby girl with her mother’s dark hair.

 Cathol was the first to meet his new siblings. He looked at them with wonder and awe, his 10-year-old [music] face glowing with love. “They are so tiny,” he whispered. “Were they really inside your tummy?” Yes, little wolf, they were. Can I hold them? Ida placed the baby girl in his arms, showing him how to support her head.

 Cathol looked down [music] at his baby sister with tears in his eyes. I am going to be the best big brother in the whole world, he promised. [music] I am going to protect them forever and ever. Dimmitri wrapped his arm around Oda and kissed her forehead. You did it, my love. You gave me everything I ever wanted.

 A family, a future, a reason to believe in miracles. We did it together. Ida smiled. I could not have done any of [music] this without you. The door opened and Elder Rose walked in with a knowing smile. I told you, did I not? You had a destiny greater than you could imagine, and now it has been fulfilled. Ida looked at her mate, her children, and her stepson.

 She thought about everything she had been through to get here. The pain, the loss, the loneliness, the fear, and now the love, the joy, the family, the home. I used to think I was cursed, she [music] said softly. I used to think I was meant to suffer and die alone. But now I know the truth. I was just [music] waiting.

Waiting for the right time. Waiting for the right people. Waiting for my second chance. She kissed her baby boy’s forehead, then her baby girls. And it was worth every tear, every scar, every broken piece of my heart. Because it led me here to all of you. Dmitri pulled her close. No more tears, my Luna.

 No more pain. [music] From now on, there is only love. Only love, Ida agreed. 5 years later, the Silver Moon Pack had never been stronger. Under Alpha Ditri and Luna Ida’s leadership, it had grown to over 5,000 wolves. They had formed alliances with packs across the entire country. [music] No enemy dared to challenge them.

 Cathal was now 15 years old and training to become the next alpha. [music] He was tall and strong like his father, but kind and gentle like his [music] stepmother. Everyone said he would be one of the greatest alphas in history. The twins, little Dmitri Jr. and Elena, named [clears throat] after both grandmothers, were 5 years old and absolutely wild.

 They ran through the pack house, causing chaos wherever they went. [music] Cathal chased after them, pretending to be a scary monster while they screamed with laughter. As for Marcus, [music] he had tried to escape from prison twice. Both times he failed. On his third attempt, he was killed [music] by the guards. Ida did not celebrate his death, but she did not mourn it either.

 He was a chapter in her story that was finally closed forever. On the 5-year anniversary of her Luna ceremony, Ida stood on the balcony of the pack house and watched the sun set over her territory. Her territory. The words still felt like a dream. What are you thinking about? Dimmitri asked, coming up behind her and wrapping his arms around her waist.

 I am thinking about how far I have come. 5 years ago, I was a rogue hiding in a cabin in the woods. Now I am the lunar of the most powerful pack in the country. I have three amazing children. I have a mate who loves me more than life itself. I have everything I never dared to dream of. She turned in his arms and looked into his gray eyes.

 Thank you for finding me, Dimmitri. Thank you for not giving up on me. Thank you for giving me my second chance. You do not need to thank me, my love. You are my second chance, too. Before you, I was just surviving. Now I am living. You brought color back into my world. You brought warmth back into my heart.

 You saved me just as much as I saved you. He kissed her softly, slowly, like they had all the time in the world. Because they did. They had forever. I love you, Ada, more than words can say. more than the moon and the stars. More than anything in this world or the next. I love you too, Dimmitri. Today, tomorrow, always. From inside the house, they heard Cathal’s voice shouting.

 Junior just put mud in Elellanena’s hair. And now she is crying. [music] And now he is running away. Help! Ida and Dmitri looked at each other and burst out laughing. “Ready for another adventure?” Dmitri grinned. [music] with you always. Hand in hand, they walked back into the chaos of their beautiful, messy, wonderful [music] life, and they lived happily ever after.