My Plus Size Best Friend Is My Mate: Read Chapters 1-5

Ashina’s POV:

It was finally today, my wedding day. We were finally fulfilling the promise we made to Nathan's late grandfather, the late kind hearted alpha king, whom Nathan took over from. On his sick bed before he passed away, he made me and Nathan promise to get married to each other because he believed we were were mate and compatible with each other to lead his pack and he also believed that I was the one who understood Nathan better than anyone else. Nathan, my best friend, only child of his late parents, was the centre of my world, he was the only friend I made while growing up and he had never given me any reason to regret it.

Nathan and I had grown up together, shared countless memories, attended the same college and university. Though he graduated before me. I could remember back then in school, while I was being bullied by some group of girls, he came to my rescue and chased them away. Ever since then, he had been putting his eyes on me and making sure I was okay. That was how we ended up becoming best friends. He is 7 years older than me. I am 19 years and he is 26, and it felt surreal that we were finally standing here today, ready to take the leap into marriage. As I calmed my nerves, I couldn't help but reflect on how far we had come and how thankful I was to have Nathan by my side.

I took a deep breath admiring my stunning wedding gown. Despite being plus size, I felt like a princess. Many call me fat but did I care? Of course not.The dress was a beautiful ivory colour with delicate lace detailing that hugged my curves in all the right places. The sweetheart neckline accentuated my collarbones, and I wore my hair in loose curls cascading down my back, accented with a simple yet elegant veil that trailed behind me. The bouquet of white roses that I held in my hands added a touch of softness to the whole ensemble.

Just then, the sweet romantic song started playing, signalling my grand entrance. Closing my eyes for a brief moment, I took a deep breath to calm my jittery nerves. I had been waiting for this moment for so long that it almost felt surreal. Then, I stepped forward, my gown flowing gracefully behind me.

As I walked down the aisle, rows of gilded chairs lined either side of the aisle, each decorated with delicate lace sashes tied in pristine bows. The pack members were dressed in their finest attire and were seated. Their faces were showing their genuine smiles. Yes, I walked alone. I am an orphan and I grew up in the orphanage. It was through the school the orphanage enrolled me I got to meet and know my best friend, Nathan.

Soon, my gaze met the tender, loving eyes of my soon-to-be spouse. The aisle stretched before me and each step I took felt more confident than the last; guided by love.

As I reached the end of the aisle, my gaze locked with his. He looked dashing in his suit, waiting for me at the altar.

We stood there, ready to exchange our vows. The words we had carefully chosen to express our love and commitment spilled effortlessly from our lips. We sealed our love with a passionate kiss as the pack members erupted in applause and cheers.

After the wedding that day, feeling weak and tired, I couldn’t hold back the sleep that came pulling me. I woke up at midnight and couldn’t find him in the room. The moment I got out of the room, I saw him kissing his girlfriend. She was wearing a short sleeping pink gown while he was in his shorts without a shirt. His broad and hairy chest was visible in the eyes as he was laying on her, his two hands were under her shirt. They were moving around her bare skin while their eyes were locked to each other.

Instantly , I could hear my heartbeats, beating so fast, broken and shattered for i had thought he already broke up with her before marrying me and also, some months before my wedding, I never saw them together.

Just then, his girlfriend, Erica’s voice shattered the moment.

“Hey, Ashina.” Her words made him turn back as his gaze fell on me.

“It’s late, you should be sleeping.” His thick voice sounded nicely as if nothing happened.

Walking towards me, he held my wrist as we both walked into the room. As shutting the door, he sat on the bed and made me seat on his thigh. Caressing my hair, he spoke.

“Sweetheart, this marriage shouldn’t stop us from doing our personal stuff. We only fulfilled my grandfather's wish and the wishes of the pack members. You are just 19 years and you have a lot to accomplish. I can’t be the reason you don’t chase your dreams and tie you down with married life.” I nodded, trying so hard as I could not to let those tears drop. I needed to act strong.

“You are free to explore and be with anyone that makes you happy but note.” He paused, looking directly at my eyes. “Whatever life we are living outside this marriage should be hidden from prying eyes. They believe we are couples, the alpha and Luna of this pack.” I nodded, forming a fake smile.

I understood his point but how do I prove to him that I didn’t only marry him to fulfil his grandfather’s wish. I love you Nathan. I wish you could hear my heart.

“Thank you.” I replied and gave him a hug as he hugged me too.

“Good girl.” He said and gave me a peck on my forehead.

“You know I love them slim.” He added as he chuckled and gave me a wink before leaving the room.

Did he indirectly call me fat? He must have said it playfully but his words hurt me.

I smiled at him before he finally shut the door. The pain in my heart is too much to bear, I need to feel ok, I need to feel relieved from such pain. Drinking to stupor is the only thing that could come up my mind.

As I stumbled out of the house through the back door, the cool night air hit me. My heart felt heavy with hurt. the image of my husband, my best friend , my world, kissing his curvy girlfriend burned into my mind like a brand. Tears poured out of my eyes as I made my way to a nearby club, hoping the loud music and distraction would help numb the pain.

The dimly lit club was filled with people dancing and laughing, lost in their own worlds of joy and excitement. Sitting and ordering alcohol after alcohol, trying to drown out the ache in my chest. Each shot burned on the way down, but the numbing effect was a welcome escape.

And then he approached me. A tall, handsome stranger with a mischievous glint in his eye. His dark hair tousled in a way that spoke of a wild spirit, and his sharp jawline could cut through steel. But it was his eyes that drew me in, his pupils were charming and alluring even though they looked cold and unreadable. His chest was visible in the eyes due to the first 3 button of his shirt were opened as I could see those tattoos peeking out.

"Hey, beautiful. How much for a night?" His thick and husky voice was smooth, laced with a hint of mischief. He smelled of whiskey and recklessness, obvious that he had been drinking.

I chuckled bitterly, the alcohol dulling my senses and loosening my tongue. “Hello handsome.” I knew the alcohol was having an effect on me.

He leaned in closer, his breath mingling with mine, sending a shiver down my spine. "Good, 'cause I was hoping we could just have a drink together too. What do you say?"

His charm was like a siren's song, beckoning me to a dangerous shore. Despite my better judgment, I found myself drawn to him, craving the distraction he offered. "Sure, why not? One more drink won't hurt."

***

The next day, waking up to see myself naked on the bed beside this stranger was something my heart couldn’t accept. There were blood stains too on the bed.

Scared of what I had just done, i quickly dressed up and left, not waiting for the stranger to come awake.

Nathan has always known I was a virgin but now that I lost it…

Ashina’s POV

Reaching home, I watched the wall clock and realised it is just 5am and Nathan should be asleep and his girlfriend, I have no idea if she had actually spent a night here. Luckily for me, the rest of the pack members were all asleep for I wonder what they would think of me to see a newly wedded wife sneaking in by this time.

Entering my room from the back door, I made sure my door was locked as I hastily undressed myself and ran into the bathroom. Standing in front of the mirror, I gazed at my reflection as the thought of having a one night stand with a stranger in the previous hours struck my mind. I only went to the club to drink away my sorrow and now this? First, the only one I love, Nathan, was with another woman. Second, I had lost my virginity to that stranger. It was too much on me as tears flowed down my eyes. Suddenly, my wolf’s voice broke the silence.

"Stop crying, Ashina," my wolf spoke in my head, its voice gentle. "At least the stranger didn't reject you because of your size. He showed interest in you, he approached you willingly. That means he appreciates you just the way you are."

My tear-filled eyes realised my wolf's words at the unexpected reassurance. I wiped away my tears and took a deep breath, trying to calm the storm of emotions raging inside me "But... but what about my husband?" I murmured, my voice barely above a whisper.

Ever since I turned 18 in the previous year, my wolf has always been my closest friend. My wolf is just a year old.

My wolf's voice grew stronger, more insistent. "Your husband may not always see your worth, but that stranger did. Remember how he looked at you, how he made you feel desired and beautiful. That kind of love, Ashina, that's the kind you deserve. Not the subtle jabs and hurtful comments disguised as concern."

I wiped my tears again, remembering the moment I had shared with the stranger, the way he had made her feel alive and appreciated me in a way I hadn't felt before, he touched me in the right places as I could now clearly remember how I ended up in that bed with him.

"My wolf is right." I said to myself. "I deserve to be loved for who I am, not for who someone else wants me to be."

My wolf's presence filled me with strength, bolstering my spirit in ways I had never experienced before. With a deep breath, I made my way into the warm shower and switched it on, the warm water pouring down on me and making me feel even more relaxed.

***

When it was finally morning, the knocking sound on my door jolted me awake as I saw one of the maids walk in.

“Good morning my Luna.” She greeted me, bowing to me in respect while I rubbed the sleep off my eyes.

“Sorry to disturb your sleep, Alpha Nathan had sent me to come get you ready. His twin brother is visiting.” She added.

Wow! It's great news. Nathan has always told me so much about his twin brother but I haven’t gotten the opportunity to see him in person. I’m glad to hear this news. At least I’ll get to see the twin brother of my best friend, Nathan even though they weren’t identical twins.

The maid assisted me in bringing out my dress and once I finished showering, she dressed me much in my royal attire. My long beautiful Luna gown flowing gracefully beneath me. My hair was beautiful stretched as it poured down to my showers and my face, the maid applied a simple but yet beautiful makeup which fitted my look and dress. In addition, I made use of the body fragrance Nathan had bought for me some days ago.

Reaching the throne room, my husband was already seated as I sat next to him while the maids bowed their heads.

As I sat next to Nathan, my heart raced with excitement.

“You look beautiful." His gazed fixed on and then he caressed my hair while I blushed non stop.

“Thanks." She replied.

The moment was shattered with the sound of the doors opening and a man walked in alongside the servants who carried his luggages.

My heart dropped to my stomach. It was him. The man I had a one night stand with, the man who I never thought I would see again.

I could feel the heat rising to my cheeks as he approached. Immediately, Nathan stood up from his seat and in open arms, he welcomed his brother as they both hugged passionately.

“It’s good to see you, my blood.” Said Nathan while I stood from my seat, standing behind Nathan.

And then it happened. Nathan’s twin locked eyes with me in realisation. I could tell he recognized me, and the thought of Nathan finding out about our encounter made me want to disappear into thin air.

“Meet my wife, Ashina.” Said Nathan, pulling away from the hug.

“Ashina, meet my twin brother, Daniel.”

“Hi…” said Daniel. “My brother told me so much about you.” He added and I replied, forcing out a smile.

“Same here, nice to meet you Daniel.” I replied, trying to steady my breath.

But to my surprise, he didn't create a scene. He simply nodded in acknowledgment and we headed to the feasting table and sat.

I couldn't shake the feeling of dread that hung over me. I tried to focus on their exciting conversation, but every time his brother spoke, I couldn't help but steal glances in his direction.

I was brought back to reality when Nathan's brother directed a question towards me. I stuttered through my response, trying to maintain composure, but I could tell he saw right through me.

It was a good thing that Nathan didn’t observe what was going on. Daniel as well was cool and corporate as he tries to maintain his composure.

Ashina’s POV

Later that night, I was in my room when Nathan, my husband, walked in. Giving me a forehead kiss, he sat on my bed. Nathan has never kissed me on the lips despite I was now his wife. He explained to me that his girlfriend would be coming and that I should act well and not make his twin brother Daniel think he is cheating on me. He explained that his girlfriend left early this morning and she would be coming back in a few minutes, and that I should see her as a friend. He also explained that she would be staying with us for days due to the upcoming celebration party they were preparing to officially welcome Daniel back home.

Before I got married to Nathan, his girlfriend used to be close to me considering the fact that Nathan was my best friend before we got married. But after I saw them together after my marriage with Nathan, there was a sudden jealousy that appeared in me. Knowing that my husband sees me like a sister and was still together with his girlfriend felt like a constant ache in my heart.

As Nathan spoke, I tried to keep a calm expression on my face, hiding the sadness inside me. "I understand, Nathan," I said, my voice steady despite the storm raging within me. "I'll do my best to act natural and not give your brother any reason to suspect anything."

Nathan smiled gratefully. "Thank you, sweetheart. I appreciate your understanding," he said, his hand reaching out to gently caress my cheek."

I nodded, forcing a small smile in return. Deep down, I knew that this was a test of my love for Nathan. A test of my ability to accept his choices and respect his relationships, no matter how much it pained me inside. But the ache in my heart refused to subside. His actions are hurting me.

Just as Nathan finished speaking, there was a ringing sound coming from the doorbell.

Nathan stood up, his hand slipping away from my cheek as he moved towards the door. "That must be her," he said quietly.

I watched as Nathan opened the door. Her long flowing hair and a warm smile welcomed Nathan.

“Your brother, Daniel, told me you were in here." She said.

She stepped into the room, her eyes glancing around before finally settling on me. "Oh, there you are! How are you doing sweetheart," she said, her voice cheerful and friendly.

I forced a smile onto my face as I stood up to greet her. "Great. It's nice to see you again," I said, my voice betraying the anger inside me.

“Ashina, please help her take her luggages into the visitor’s room." He demanded and I nodded, wondering if it was my job to do so. What happened to the pack maids?

I watched as his girlfriend seemed genuinely happy to be here. Of course, she should. She's spending days here with her boyfriend after all, what do I expect?

Moments later, Nathan and his girlfriend excused themselves to talk privately, leaving me alone in the room. I sank back onto the bed, my eyes were already getting wet.

A single tear slipped down my cheek as I felt the ache in my heart, the longing for a love that could never be fully mine.

Trying to feel better, I undressed and made my way into the bathroom. The warm water poured over me and I felt a bit relieved. After my shower, I wrapped a towel around my body as I tried to push away the memories of Nathan and his girlfriend.

Just then, there was a knock on my door. “Come in,” I called out, assuming it was Nathan's girlfriend, Erica. But to my surprise, it was Nathan's twin brother, Daniel, standing in the doorway.

“What are you doing here?” I questioned, curiosity and wariness in my voice. “I'm afraid if Nathan finds us this way." I added.

“Calm down, we need to talk. No need to be afraid, Nathan and Erica have gone for a stroll,” Daniel said as he walked towards me, his expression serious.

I swallowed nervously, feeling exposed under his scrutinous gaze since I was on towel. “You mind telling me why a newly wedded virgin wife was in a club a few days ago? Drinking to stupor and ending up having a one-night stand with a stranger?” Daniel's words hit me like a slap to the face, harsh and unforgiving.

Stepping away and avoiding his piercing gaze, he caught my wrist and pulled me back gently but firmly. “Look, I do not want to judge you for your actions. I believe there must be a reason,” he said softly, his tone filled with a strange mix of compassion and accusation.

Struggling to hold back the tears threatening to spill over. How could I explain this to him? Nathan will not be happy with me if his brother finds out about the rules guiding our marriage.

But I couldn't find the words. The shame and guilt were like a heavy weight on my chest, making it hard to breathe, let alone speak. So, in a desperate attempt to avoid facing his questions, I simply asked him to leave my room.

“I don't want to talk about it. Please leave."

Daniel hesitated for a moment, his gaze searching mine for answers I couldn't provide. And then, with a sigh, he released my wrist and took a step back. “I'm sorry if I upset you. I just... I care about you, and I wanted to help. But I see now that you're not ready to talk,” he said quietly, his eyes filled with understanding and sadness.

As he turned to leave, I felt it. Daniel had shown me kindness and concern that I hadn't expected. And as the door closed behind him, I was left alone with my thoughts.

After having a shower, I stood in front of the full-length mirror in my dressing room, wore my comfortable nightwear, and then my wolf's voice echoed in my mind. "Did you see that?" she questioned. "He is so observant and he cares so much about you." She continued to speak, her words swirling around in my head as I tried to focus on my reflection.

I shook my head slightly, trying to push away the voice in my head. It was distracting, but I couldn't help but acknowledge the truth in her words. He did seem to care about me in a way that felt different from Nathan. But I wasn't ready to delve into those emotions just yet.

Instead, I turned my attention back to the mirror, studying myself carefully. The soft nightwear draped gently over my curves. I took a deep breath and tried to see myself through a different lens.

I took a step back and looked at my reflection once more. I saw the strength in my eyes, the curve of my waist, the way my smile lit up my face. I saw beauty in my body.

I smiled softly. My wolf's voice was right, he did care about me.

Ashina’s POV

Ashina’s POV

It was finally today. As the festivities at the pack house continued, I couldn’t help but always steal glances at my brother in law, and my husband who was generously throwing a grand party to welcome his twin brother Daniel back into the family. The atmosphere was filled with hitting music and laughter. Group of female dancers were busy performing on the stage while the audience’s eyes were fixed on the stage, smiling at every move of the dancers. Soon after the presentation, they all stood, clapping as the dancers walked out the stage.

I made my way through the crowd, exchanging pleasantries and engaging in small talk with pack members, all while keeping an eye out for Nathan and Daniel. I finally spotted Daniel at the corner of the room, surrounded by well-wishers, wondering where my husband had gone.

As the party continued, I excused myself to grab a breath of fresh air outside. Walking through the garden, I stumbled upon a secluded area behind the pack house. To my shock and disbelief, I saw Nathan and Erica, his girlfriend, Erica kissing intensely and their hands were roaming on each other’s body.

My heart plummeted as I witnessed them kissing, it’s happening again. It felt like a knife twisting in my chest, realising that my own husband was being unfaithful right in front of my eyes. The pain and betrayal washed over me, leaving me feeling numb and hollow.

I turned away, unable to bear the sight any longer. Heartbroken, I made my way back to the party floor. I tried to put on a brave face as I reentered the bustling party, but inside, I was crumbling.

Making my way through the crowd, I finally reached our living quarters. I pushed open the door and stepped inside, shutting it behind me with a heavy sigh. Leaning against the door, I closed my eyes for a moment, trying to collect my thoughts and emotions.

Suddenly, the door creaked open and Nathan entered, a look of surprise crossing his features when he saw me standing there. His expression quickly shifted to concern as he took in my tear-streaked face and the raw pain in my eyes.

“Ashina, what’s wrong?” he asked softly, taking a hesitant step closer.

I forced myself to meet his gaze, my voice barely above a whisper. “Nothing, I’m just feeling… stressed.” My voice caught in my throat as fresh tears threatened to spill over.

Nathan creased his brows. He took another step toward me, reaching out a hand as if to console me. “Is that why you want to cry?”

I nodded.

The betrayal was too fresh, too raw.

“You don’t need to. Come here.” He held my wrist, pulling me to himself and gave me a hug that lasted for a minute.

Then he led me to the bed and I laid, feeling drained emotionally, my husband’s voice reached me. “Have some rest, I’ll have Erica get you some energy drink,” he said before gently coaxing me to lie down. Erica again?

Once he left the room, my mind started to wander, landing on Erica once again.

The mere thought of her made me clench my fists in frustration. What was her game? Was she deliberately trying to get under my skin by always being around, laying with my husband, and attempting to befriend me? Did she even consider how uncomfortable it made me feel, seeing her constantly hovering around like a shadow?

Just as the thoughts swirled tumultuously in my mind, the door creaked open, and there she was. Erica, with a bright smile adorning her lips as she held out the energy drink. I forced a strained smile in return.

“Hey, Erica, thank you for the drink,” I greeted her with forced cheer, accepting the beverage. I glanced at her, carefully noting the way she seemed effortlessly comfortable in our home, as if she belonged.

Erica smiled as she replied, “Of course! I just want to make sure you’re feeling better. Don’t hesitate to ask for anything you need, okay?” Her words sounded genuine, but I couldn’t shake off the feeling that there was an underlying motive behind her seemingly altruistic gestures.

Suppressing a sigh, I nodded gratefully. “Thanks, Erica. I really appreciate it.” I kept the conversation light, asking her how she’s enjoying the party and making polite small talk as if nothing out of the ordinary had happened between us.

Was she truly this naïve, or was she playing a game far more complex than I could fathom?

I took a sip of the energy drink she had brought, the liquid cold against my lips.

When she finally excused herself, promising to check on me later, I let out a breath I hadn’t realised I was holding. Alone once more, I allowed myself to accept my fate about my marriage.

I couldn’t shake off the unease that Erica’s presence brought into my home, nor could I ignore the nagging doubt that festered in the recesses of my mind.

After resting for a while, I felt a bit energised. Stepping out back to the party, it was already time for pictures. I watched as the photo shoot was going on.

I took a deep breath and mustered up a smile as they called for me to join them in the picture. I walked over to where my husband was standing with Erica, posing for pictures. She was trying to subtly position herself closer to him, smiling sweetly.

I fought back the irritation that bubbled up inside me, trying to remain calm and composed. I knew that I had to act civilly towards her, as she was also a member of our pack. But it grated on me to see her trying to insert herself into my family, especially when my husband’s attention should have been solely on me.

As the camera flashed, freezing the moment in time, I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of jealousy at the fact that she was standing so close to him. I tried to push those feelings aside, reminding myself that he had chosen me as his mate, and no one could ever replace me as the Luna of this pack.

After the picture was taken, I excused myself from the group, needing a moment to collect my thoughts and calm my nerves. I headed towards the bar, needing a drink to settle my nerves. As I waited for my order, I felt a presence behind me and turned to see Erica standing there, a smile plastered on her face.

“Hey there,” she said cheerily, “I just wanted to say how nice it is to see you are feeling okay now…”

I forced a smile, trying to keep my composure. “Yes, I am very much okay.”

I felt my temper rising at her words, the underlying implication not lost on me. “Thank you,” I replied.

Her smile faltered slightly at my words. “Of course, I didn’t mean to overstep. I just want to check on you. I’m sorry if I wasn’t meant to.”

I nodded curtly, accepting her apology but still feeling wary of her intentions. I knew that she was trying to play nice and gain favor with me, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that there was something more cunny lurking beneath the surface.

As the night wore on, I did my best to avoid Erica, keeping my distance and focusing on enjoying the party with the rest of the pack.

From afar, as I watched her laughing and joking with my husband, a sinking feeling settled in the pit of my stomach. The urge to go there and drag her out intensified but I rather not ruin the party.

The throbbing in my temples grew louder with every forced smile and polite conversation. I couldn't take it anymore. Every time I glanced at Erica by Nathan's side, a fresh wave of betrayal washed over me. I needed some air, some space to process the suffocating emotions swirling inside.

"Excuse me," I muttered to no one in particular, slipping away from the gathering of people. I navigated the swarm of bodies until I pushed open a door leading to a secluded balcony. Leaning against the railing, I took a deep, shuddering breath, trying myself to calm down.

Suddenly, the door creaked open again, and there she was. Erica. My breath hitched. "Shouldn't you be with your boyfriend?" I asked, my voice laced with bitterness I couldn't quite hide.

"Oh, don't worry about me," she said, a sweet smile plastered on her face. "I can tell you're not feeling well. All that stress must be getting to you." Her eyes scanned me from head to toe, lingering a little too long on my body.

"I'm fine," I gritted out, clenching my fists at my sides. The last thing I needed was her pity, or worse, her masked taunts.

"Come on, Ashina," she said, her voice dripping with fake sympathy. "We both know you're not. You look terrible. Maybe you should lay off the sweets a little."

Her remark hit the intended spot. I had always been a little self-conscious about my weight, and her comment sent a wave of anger coursing through me. But I knew I had to ignore it. Reacting would only give her the satisfaction she craved.

Ignoring her comment , I turned away, hoping she would take the hint and leave me alone. But of course, she wouldn't.

"Don't be so childish, Ashina," she sneered, her smile gone. "Just admit you're jealous. Nathan deserves someone better. Someone thinner, prettier, someone who actually loves him."

Her words were like a slap, the venom dripping off them. Every ounce of self-control I had been clinging to began to falter.

"Get out," I spat, my voice trembling with fury. "Just get out of my sight!"

"Oh, grow up," she scoffed. Of course, Nathan was not here but she had dropped her act sooner than I expected.

I calmed myself down internally and decided to leave. I turned to leave and before I knew what was happening, she grabbed my wrist, her grip surprisingly tight.

“Where do you think you’re going, we’re still talking!” Her grip grew even tighter, her eyes shooting bullets.

Instinct took over. In a desperate attempt to free myself, I yanked my arm back, sending her stumbling backward.

A gasp escaped her lips as she lost her footing and fell to the ground.

My heart lurched into my throat. Panic surged through me, replacing the anger. I didn't push her!

Just then, the balcony door swung open with a bang, revealing Nathan. His eyes darted between me and Erica, who was sprawled on the ground, clutching her ankle with a grimace on her face.

"Erica!" he yelled, rushing to her side. "What happened?"

Before I could even stammer out an explanation, Erica looked up at Nathan, her eyes welling up with tears. "Ashina pushed me!" she cried, her voice quivering.

Nathan's gaze snapped towards me, his face a mask of fury. "Ashina? Is that true?"

The betrayal in his voice was like a knife twisting in my stomach. How could he believe her so readily, without even hearing my side of the story?

"No, I..." I stammered, my voice choked with emotion. "She was throwing jabs at me and I..."

But the words died in my throat. Nathan wasn't interested in my explanation. His eyes was filled with anger, and his voice was cold

"Get out!" he roared. "Get out of my sight!"

Tears welled up in my own eyes, blurring my vision. The world spun around me as the weight of his betrayal and Erica's lies crushed me. Without another word, I turned and fled.

DANIEL’S POV

I witnessed the entire scene unfold from the corner of the balcony. My suspicions about Erica had been building since I arrived, but to see her pin the blame on Ashina like that – it was infuriating.

Without a second thought, I excused myself from the party and hurried outside. The memory of Ashina's tear-streaked face made my steps hurried. I followed her to a quiet stream a distance from the pack house. I had missed her but I followed her scent and sure enough, as I approached the clearing, I saw her hunched figure shadowed against the moonlight. Her muffled sobs reached my ears even from a distance. My heart ached for her.

Taking a deep breath, I announced my presence, "Ashina?"

Her head snapped up, startled, tears glistened on her cheeks. "Daniel? What are you doing here?" she choked out, her voice thick with emotion.

"I saw what happened," I said gently, stepping closer.

Embarrassment flushed her cheeks. "You shouldn't have," she mumbled, wiping her tears with the back of her hand. She dusted her bottom from the dirt it acquired while she sat on the dirty floor. “See you at the pack house,” she said and in a attempt to leave she stumbled upon a twig.

My reflexes kicked in. In a flash, I moved forward, my arm wrapping around her waist just in time toprevent her fall. Her body collided with mine, her soft scent filling my senses.

For a moment, we were frozen, the only sound was the calm wave of the nearby stream. Her breath hitched against my chest, and I could feel the tremor running through her frame.

"Ashina!" a voice boomed through the night, laced with anger. We both whipped our heads around to see Nathan appeared from the shadows, his face morphed in anger.

The air crackled with tension. My arm quickly let go of Ashina while making sure she was steady not to fall.

Nathan's eyes narrowed, taking in the scene before him.

"What is going on here?" he demanded, his voice low and dangerous.