Betrayed by an alpha claimed by a lycan king

Chapter 123

SAGE

The figure that emerged from the shadows was a young woman, her presence commanding despite her petite frame. Her sharp features were accentuated by a cascade of raven-black hair that fell over her shoulders, and her piercing green eyes held a confidence that matched Titus's. She was flanked by a group of warriors, each one armed and watching us with sharp, assessing gazes.

"I'm Elise," she said, her voice steady and strong. "Daughter of Alpha Marcus. You're trespassing in Ironclaw territory."

Titus didn't flinch, his blade still at his side but his posture calm We're here to speak with your father," he said, his voice firm but not aggressive. "I'm Titus, Alpha of the Black Iron Moon Pack."

Her gaze flickered briefly to his domineering eyes, recognition sparking there, but she didn't lower her guard. "The Lycan king, am I right?" she asked.

"That's correct," Titus replied.

A couldn't miss the look in her eyes-admiration, curiosity, and, most unmistakably, desire. It didn't sit well with me, not one

bit. It's no secret that Titus's striking presence can leave anyone breathless. Women across his territory practically fall over themselves just to catch his attention. So, it didn't surprise me that the young woman standing before us was clearly captivated by him from the moment they met.

What did surprise me was how much her interest bothered me. It gnawed at me, an irritation I couldn't ignore. I already had Anna to contend with; her lingering feelings for Titus constantly come between us. And now, here was someone new-a fresh competitor vying for his attention. The worst part? I hated that I cared.

"My father doesn't meet with outsiders lightly, especially unannounced."

a gesture of peace. "We're not here to cause trouble," he said, his tone measured.

her eyes narrowing slightly. "Important enough to risk crossing into our lands without

met her gaze evenly. "Yes,"

moment, the tension hung thick in the air. Then Elise nodded, a subtle motion that seemed to signal her men to

turning on her heel. "I'll take you to

their presence a silent reminder that we were on their territory now. The Ironclaw

but admire the way she carried herself- with the same unwavering determination I often saw in Titus. Along with that admiration is the painful thought of her being a match for Titus. If there's anyone here who's deserving

the dense forest giving way to a sprawling village nestled between towering cliffs. The packhouse was a massive stone structure, its walls fortified and its design practical yet imposing. It spoke of strength and resilience, a reflection of the

brought us to a grand hall where Alpha Marcus awaited. He stood at the head of a long table, his presence as commanding as the stories had suggested. His broad

missed nothing as he

Titus," he said, "the lycan king

posture straight and unyielding. "It wasn't lost. I merely lend it to them for the time

lips curved into a faint, skeptical smile. "You

uncle and his son are consolidating his power, and every moment we wait, he tightens his grip on the kingdom. I need allies, Alpha Marcus. I need strong packs like yours to stand with me."

pack's safety for your cause isn't going to be easy. You'll have to prove to me that you're worth

with determination. "I expected

taken a seat beside him. "Elise,

her gaze sharp and thoughtful before finally resting on Titus. There was a flicker of curiosity in her expression, but it was quickly masked by a calm,