Chapter 247
Nathan’s POV
I paced the length of my command tent, jaw clenched tight. The maps and strategy documents scattered across the table. barely registered in my vision as fury clouded my mind.
“Fucking amateurs,” I growled, slamming my fist down on the table. “How am I supposed to win a war with warriors who can’t even hold a defensive line?”
The memory of the morning’s battle replayed in my mind–the new recruits breaking formation at the first sign of real danger, leaving a vulnerable flank exposed.
If Tyler hadn’t spotted the breach and redirected his veterans, we could have lost twice as many men. D
I ran a hand through my hair, frustration burning in my veins. What bothered me most wasn’t just the tactical failure, but the looks I’d received after ordering the execution of those responsible.
The shock in Tyler’s eyes, the horror on Gina’s face–as if I were some kind of monster.
Why?
Sure, I’ve been a bit moody lately, but that’s a far cry from being a monster.
“Why does everyone look at me like I’m the villain?” I muttered, dropping heavily into my chair. “I’m trying to keep us all alive.”
My thoughts drifted to Rachel, locked away in her tent under guard.
The memory of her warmth against my body last night sent a wave of longing through me that I immediately tried to suppress. Her request to leave, to return to her pack and her son, had been gnawing at me all day.
I can’t send her back, I thought, my chest tightening at the idea.
If she returns to Nexus, she won’t need me anymore. She’ll have her pack… what place would I have in her life?
I’d allowed Gina to visit Rachel, hoping my sister might convince her to stay willingly. The alternative–keeping her prisoner indefinitely–left a bitter taste in my mouth, but I couldn’t bring myself to let her go.
A sharp knock on the tent pole interrupted my brooding.
“Enter,” I barked, straightening in my chair
A young warrior stepped inside, his posture stiff with nervousness. “Alpha, Luna Rachel is requesting to speak with you.
I was on my feet in an instant, crossing the distance between us in three long strides.
“What does she want to talk about?“/1 demanded, my voice dangerously low.
The warrior’s eyes widened with fear. “I–I don’t know, Alpha. She just said it was important.
She wants to leave again?
Chapter 247
She’s going to beg me to let her go back to her pack…
“Tell her I’ll be there shortly,” I growled, turning away.
As the warrior hurried out, I closed my eyes, trying to center myself. I couldn’t face Rachel like this, not with my emotiona so raw and volatile.
I needed to be in control.
“Gina,” I said through mind link. “Come to my tent. Now.”
I needed information before confronting Rachel. I needed to know what they had discussed.
Minutes later, Gina slipped into the tent. A hint of irritation was visible on her face.
“You wanted to see me, bro?” she asked.
I studied her, noting the way she avoided direct eye contact. “You went to see Rachel?*
“Yes, bro. I spoke with her as you asked.”
“And what did you talk about?” I pressed, moving closer.
Gina swallowed visibly. “Just… catching up. Nothing important. And the baby.”
I could smell the lie on her, but decided not to push–not yet. “I see. And did she mention why she suddenly wants to speak with me?”
Gina hesitated. “Nathan, we also talked about Apollo. She was happy to hear Victoria found her mate.”
My jaw tightened at the mention of mates. “What else?”
“She told me about becoming Luna of her pack,” Gina added quickly.
Something twisted in my chest–pride mingled with possessiveness.
That’s my girl!
“Did you…” I paused, uncertain if I wanted to hear the answer. “Did you talk about me?”
Gina nodded with a smile. “Don’t yell at girls. You should be gentle and kind to her.‘
I felt a surge of frustration. “You can go.
The Alpna’s Purchased Slave

Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.
Summary & Review: By Werewolf