Still just a child, Beatrice had never experienced her father's fury before. Overwhelmed, she burst into tears, reaching out for me.
My heart ached for her as I pulled her into my embrace, cradling her gently against me while I whispered soft words of comfort.
As I held her tight, I turned to Alpha Asher, my eyes filled with concern, ready to inquire about the reason behind his unexpected outburst.
Yet, instead of explaining, he shot me a piercing look and demanded, “Now you remember you’re her mother? Have you ever truly cared for her all these years?”
My eyes narrowed at him, a storm of emotions brewing inside. During my pregnancy, we had made an agreement that I would continue fulfilling my duties as Luna. Now, he accused me of negligence, casting doubt on my role as Beatrice’s mother.
It felt like he was throwing my past commitment back in my face, which stung more than I cared to admit.
Alpha Asher quickly recognized his overreaction and softened his tone, regret washing over him. “That’s not what I meant. I’ve been swamped with my Alpha duties and I took it out on both of you. I’m truly sorry.”
“Come here, Beatrice. Daddy’s sorry. Let me hug my little princess.”
Still trembling and with tears glistening in her eyes, Beatrice clung tightly to me. Ignoring Alpha Asher’s outstretched arms, I led Beatrice to her room, where she wrapped herself around me, her small voice shaky as she pleaded for me to stay with her for the night.
Assuming she needed reassurance, I grabbed a soft pillow and nestled beside her in her cozy little sanctuary.
After spinning two enchanting bedtime tales, I noticed she still lay wide awake, her big eyes shimmering in the dim light.
“Mom,” Beatrice said, her voice barely a whisper, “Dad said I have another mommy apart from you.”
That left me bewildered, prompting a flurry of questions in my mind. I needed clarification, but before I could respond, Beatrice continued, “One night, when Dad visited me in my room, I pretended to be asleep and heard him whisper that I looked exactly like his mate, my other mommy. So does it mean Dad has a new mate?”
I slowly shook my head, forcing a reassuring smile even as a storm of emotions raged within me.