POV Drake

I wake before dawn, my sleep shallow and restless, filled with dreams of Aria—how she looked on the battlefield, the first time I saw her. She was so powerful then, so confident, and yet I tried to mold her into someone she never was.


I rise and walk to the window. Silver Lake is barely visible through the morning mist, peaceful and beautiful. There's none of the luxury of my territory here, but there's an authenticity, a freedom. I begin to understand why Aria chose this place.

"Sir," Marcus knocks and enters. "Word is that Lilith has reached the outskirts of town. She's brought people."

My wolf immediately goes on alert. "How many?"


"At least five. All wolves from the Northern District."

I curse under my breath. The Northern Lord has always supported Lilith, wanting an alliance with my territory. Now she's using that connection to threaten Aria.


"Inform Elena. Increase security at the training grounds."

Marcus nods and leaves. I quickly dress, strapping on my sword belt. I didn't come here to start a conflict, but if Lilith wants to harm Aria, she'll have to go through me first.

---

When I arrive at the training grounds, Aria is already there, leading a group of young wolves through morning exercises. Her movements are fluid and precise, her pregnancy not affecting her balance or strength. Her students mirror her every move, respect evident in their eyes.

I stand aside, not wanting to interrupt. This is the first time I'm truly seeing her warrior side—not through the chaos of battle, but in the calm of teaching. She seems so natural, so at ease.

After training ends, she notices me. "You're early."

"I wanted to see more," I admit. "You're an excellent instructor."

She raises an eyebrow. "Is that a compliment or surprise?"

"Both," I say honestly. "I never really saw this side of you."

"Because you never wanted to," she states bluntly. "You wanted an ornamental Luna, not a warrior mate."

Her words sting, but I can't refute them. "You're right. I was a fool."

She gestures for me to follow her to a quiet corner. "You said you came to apologize. So, apologize."

I take a deep breath. "Aria, I'm sorry for everything. For not believing you, for letting Lilith manipulate me, for trying to change you. But most of all, I'm sorry for betraying your trust as a mate."

She watches me silently, her expression unreadable.

"I found your journal," I continue. "I know what Lilith did to you. I know she drugged your drink, deliberately provoked you. I know she threatened Emma not to testify. I've banished her, but she escaped."

Aria's eyes widen slightly. "She's here?"

"Outside town. With wolves from the North."

She's immediately alert, instinctively protective, one hand moving to her belly. "What does she want?"

"Revenge, I'm guessing. Against you, against me, against anyone who stands in her way."

Aria nods, quickly shifting into tactical thinking mode. "Elena has increased security. We have twenty trained warriors, plus the men you brought. Should be enough."

I'm surprised by her calmness and efficiency. No panic, no accusations, just determination to solve the problem.

"Aria," I say softly, "I didn't come to ask you to return. I just want to ensure you and the child are safe."

She gives me a sharp look. "Really? Not to reclaim your Luna, restore your complete image as Alpha?"

"No," I say firmly. "I came because I care about you. Because I... I love you. Even if it took me too long to realize it."

Her expression softens slightly, but remains guarded. "Love isn't possession, Drake. It's not control."

"I know. I know that now."

Our conversation is interrupted by Elena's arrival. "Lilith and her people are moving toward the town center. She's demanding to see both of you."

Aria and I exchange a look. No words are needed; we both understand the threat must be faced.

"We go together," Aria says, her voice firm. "But remember, Drake, this is my territory now. I'm not your Luna anymore, but the 'Silver Blade' of Silver Lake."

I nod, feeling a strange pride. This is the real Aria—strong, independent, worthy of respect.

"I follow your lead, 'Silver Blade,'" I say, giving a half-playful bow.

To my surprise, she smiles slightly. It's the first time I've seen her smile at me since she left.

Perhaps, just perhaps, there's hope.