Another Chance for the Luna Queen by Aurora Starling

Chapter 0245

"I suppose that's true," I admitted. "But it's exactly because of our contract that I felt the need to find some way to show my appreciation. You've done far more for me than I've done for you."

"I'm not so sure about that," Alexander said, pouring the wine and handing me a glass. His eyes met mine, a flicker of warmth softening his features. "I think you've helped me more than you realize. But we'll soon find out if we're right-especially with the election race beginning soon."

I tilted my head, puzzled. "I'm not sure what you mean. There were a few moments of scandal with the women who came forward about you, but that's all been handled. And you've used your resources to protect me, repeatedly... Even when David..."

At the mention of the incident, a shadow crossed Alexander's face. He shook it off quickly, taking a measured sip of his wine before speaking again.

"There's a lot more to my past and reputation than you might know," he said thoughtfully. "For example, why do you think I know this racetrack so well?"

"I assumed you've had business meetings here," I replied, recalling how he'd once used a baseball field for networking.

playing on his lips. "When I was young, before my father died, I was an amateur racer. Even after he passed, I continued

stared at him, trying to imagine the ever-composed Alexander chasing

and later, an alpha himself. Not just because racing is dangerous, but because of the disreputable opinions many people have

disbelief lacing my voice. "When I tried looking into your past to

she could to hush it up," Alexander said, staring into his wine glass. "It was an embarrassment to

harsh,"

said with a soft sigh, "it's completely understandable. The pack was going through an incredibly difficult time, and my

up," I said earnestly. "I can tell it meant a

ever-charming smile slid back into place. "It did mean a lot to me once," he admitted. "But I've grown up since then-matured, much like you have. I've realized that taking care of my pack is more important than anything

profoundly sad. Alexander had sacrificed the things he loved most to step up for his family, yet what had he truly gained? A sterling reputation?

tirelessly, and yet his

he hid it so well. I couldn't help but wonder what else he kept locked away- what secret