She Took My Son, I Took Everything From Her

Eight years into our union, I stumbled upon a shocking truth. My son, Thane, the moon of my eyes, was not my biological son. The revelation came in the form of a whispered conversation between my husband, Pack's beta, Theon and a lower ranked omega, Anna, I gave shelter years ago.

"If Elena discovers the truth about Thane’s birth, she'll never forgive us," Anna said, her voice trembling as she continued, “She must not know that she gave birth to a dead child and the son she has been raising with love and care is actually ours.”

Theon’s response sent a chill down my spine. "She'll never find out. And even if she does, she can't do anything about it. I have been poisoning her for years. She can't be a mother anymore. Having no heir to inherit her Pack's legacy, she will have to hand over everything to our son."

That night, I pretended ignorance, but my mind never remained calm. I continued to play the role of the devoted mate and mother, all the while gathering information and waiting for the perfect moment to strike.

Years passed, and Thane grew into a strong and powerful werewolf. Theon and Anna's relationship became more blatant, but I remained silent, biding my time.

When Thane turned eighteen, I gathered all the elders to the Pack House and declared Thane as the next Alpha of the Pack.

Just then, Anna stepped forward. A smug smile spread across her face as she said, "Thane, I'm your real mother. Theon and I have been keeping the truth from you all these years."

Everyone's eyes widened in shock. But the final blow came when Thane turned to me, his eyes filled with anger and betrayal while commanding,"Pack your stuff and empty the Pack House. From now on, I’ll live here with my real family, not with a facade like you.”

I met his gaze, a smirk appeared on my face as I replied, “Alright,”

….

“I’ve been looking for you in the entire Pack and you are here in the kitchen, brewing soup. Where are the servants? Why are you cooking by yourself?” Theon asked in a voice filled with concern and worry as soon as he entered the kitchen.

I didn't reply to him, focusing on brewing soup whole he added, “You know how important this meeting was! Elders got mad because you weren't present in the meeting. After all, you are the Alpha of the pack. You have to attend all these meetings. Even though I’m your husband, they all see me as Beta of the pack, nothing more than that.”

I raised my eyebrows at his complaining words. My voice flat as I asked, “Are you unhappy that they don't value you as much as they value me?”

Theon gulped. Realizing he was being too obvious, he masked his intention with a faint smile, “Of course not! I just don't like seeing you doing household chores. You have servants and maids for all this.”

I smiled softly before replying, “I heard from Elder Victor that Theon broke his nails during training. He must be upset about it. So, I came back home to prepare his favourite soup. He will like it when he is back.”

Theon's smile widened on his lips. He sighed before walking closer to me. With a sense of attachment towards me, he said, “Thane is a werewolf, Elena. His wounds heal on their own. Don't you think you worry too much about him?”

“Even if his wounds heal on their own, the pain he feels getting them can't be ignored. His mood remains off for real. How can I ignore that?” I asked.

He sighed in defeat. A smile of satisfaction and contentment appeared on his lips as he said, “You really care about Thane a lot, don't you? Even his minute discomfort becomes the cause of your worry. I’m really thankful to you for that.”

“Why should you be thankful to me for worrying about my son? I’m Thane’s mother. It's natural for me to worry about him.” I replied in a flat voice, causing Theon to hesitate in guilt. As if trying to defend his deception, he added with a faint smile, “You are right! What I meant to say is that I’m thankful to you for coming into my life as my wife. I’m glad I decided to marry you even though I knew people would look down on me for marrying an Alpha and stay as her Beta.”

Before I could add anything on this, Thane’s cheerful voice sounded from the main door. I held the bowl of soup in my hand and rushed to welcome my son. However, my legs came to an abrupt halt as I saw Thane giggling on Anna’s lap. He placed a gentle kiss on her cheeks before saying, “Thanks, Aunt Anna. The ice cream was really tasty. I wish you would come to pick me up daily.”

“Thane,” I called my son, “I heard you injured your fingers today and was upset. I have prepared your favorite soup. Come and drink it.”

Listening to my voice, Theon’s smile disappeared. She got down from Anna’s lap and hid behind her legs, saying in a spoiled voice, “I don't want to drink your soup. I’m full. Aunt Anna took me for lunch at a very beautiful place.”

He then looked up at Anna, his eyes shining brightly as he asked in innocence, “Aunt Anna, will you take me there tomorrow as well?”

Seeing Thane giving me the cold shoulder, Theon intervened, only pretending to care, as he said in a strict voice, “Thane, your mother left an important meeting just to prepare this soup for you. You shouldn't refuse her like that.”

In his response, Thane held Anna's legs even tighter. I smiled faintly before saying, “Let him be. If he likes Anna's ice cream more than my soup, I would then trouble Anna to spend more time with my son. I hope she doesn't mind.”

“Of course, not.” Anna's eyes lit up, “Theon is like my own son, Alpha Elena. I like him so much. I feel energetic while spending time with him.”

After realizing that she had revealed too much, she instantly tried to cover it up while saying, “You gave shelter to me in your pack and trained me personally. I have deep respect for you in my heart. That's why I try to reduce the burden from your shoulders by taking care of your son.”

I smiled, almost in sarcasm as I said, “That's so sweet of you.”

The next day, I woke up earlier than usual. I had an appointment with the principal of our city’s best school. The School was especially for the werewolves, but they also gave admission to mortals. It was the door of the world for the cubs to learn accomodation with humans. So, it was a very important day for Thane. We, as parents, needed to guide our children properly to not show their powers to human children.

While I was putting notebooks in Thane’s school bag, Theon came up to me. He looked worried while saying, “Elena, why aren't you ready for the meeting? You know that elders would be super mad if you don't attend the meeting again, don't you?”

I narrowed my eyes as I asked, “But, wasn't the meeting in the evening today?”

“Oops,” Theon chuckled. I could read the deception in his eyes while he added in a pretentious voice, “I forgot to tell you that the meeting was rescheduled and it's in the morning.”

“I’m sorry. I should have told you earlier. Now, you have to miss the appointment of Thane’s school. You can't be present at both places at the same time.” He added.

“Cancel the meeting,” I replied in a flat voice while continuing to pack Thane’s school back. Theon was stunned for a while. He asked in a surprised voice, “You are again cancelling your meeting for Thane?”

“So what?” I narrowed my eyes. He chuckled and immediately added, “You are raising him with such a love and pure heart. Thane must remember all this and repay you with filial piety when he grows up.”

“Thane is my son. I’ll do everything that I can for him. I don't wish anything in return.” I replied in an indifferent voice, causing him to chuckle. He hesitated for a moment, then finally said, “But, I thought you might not be available for his school meeting. So, I asked Anna to attend Thane’s school meeting with me,”

“Now that you are coming, I should call and refuse Anna from coming.” He added as he took the photo out of his pocket to dial Anna's number. Just then Thane rushed up to him, asking excitedly, “Dad, is Aunt Anna really coming?”

Theon exchanged a glance with me, then turned to Thane and said hesitantly, “There is no need for her to come now. Even though your mother’s schedule is very busy, she has decided to come with us. Your mother loves you so much. You must listen to her from now on.”

Thane then looked up at me. For some reason, I felt he looked disappointed. I then stroked his hair gently while asking, “Whom does Thane want to go with, his Mummy or Aunt Anna?”

“Aunt Anna,” he replied instantly before continuing, “I want Mommy to focus on her work. I can go with Aunt Anna.”

Both Theon and Anna turned pale on Thane’s blunt response. Thinking I might dwell on his words and began wondering about their relationship, Anna immediately interrupted, “Thane is such a responsible child. He knows you have important work and he doesn't want to come between you and your work. That's why he isn't forcing you to go with him. How cute! You have raised such a mature kid, Alpha Elena.”

I smiled flatly. I remained silent while looking through their facadary. I stroked Thane’s hair while saying in a gentle voice, “If you don't want Mommy to go with you, I’ll not go.”

“Hurray…” Thane jumped out of excitement, “Aunt Anna, come let's go. I don't want to get late on my first day.”

Theon and Anna looked hesitant for a moment, only looking at me as if waiting for permission. I stepped away from their way and said, “This way…”

Anna then picked Thane up in her lap and placed a soft kiss on his cheeks, saying, “I miss you so much.”

Thane giggled, saying, “I miss you too, Aunt Anna.”

Theon pinched Thane’s cheeks and hugged him from behind even though he was in Anna’s lap. It looked like Theon was hugging Anna, and all of this was in front of my eyes. They then broke their hug. Theon carried Thane and held Anna's hand before leaving, looking just like a family of three. I kept watching them until they disappeared from my sight, not revealing anything I already knew about them. I then went inside to get ready for the meeting.

But now, even when I was home, Anna would find excuses to drop by.

"Alpha Elena, I've been trying out new gardening techniques. You have a really huge garden. I want to decorate it with my newly learnt techniqhes to show my gratitude towards you.”

"Alpha Elena, I just got back from a trip and brought some exotic plants for your garden." "Alpha Elena, I'm starting a new charity project and thought you'd be interested in contributing." …

My innocent mate couldn't make up a better excuse. He might forget that we are werewolves and we can sense our mates by smell. There is no chance that we get confused by the clothes.

Even our son grew more and more fond of Anna, going so far as to ask her to pick him up after training everyday. I shook my head. I didn't want to bother about these incidents. I had my faith and nobody could shake it no matter how hard they try.

After a few months when I was playing with Thane, he blurted out about the parentsteachers meeting that was going to hold the next day. I rescheduled all my meetings only to attend the meeting with the Principal of Thane’s School to know his academic progress.

"Principal Thompson?" I asked, extending my hand.

She smiled warmly and took my hand in a firm handshake. "Ah, yes! Nice to finally meet you, Anna... I mean, Thane's mother."

I raised an eyebrow, sensing a hint of awkwardness in her tone. "Anna?" I repeated. "I think there's been a mistake. My name is Elena."

Principal Thompson's expression faltered, and she took a step back, her eyes darting around her office as if searching for an escape route.

"I... I apologize for the mistake," she stammered. "I must have gotten my wires crossed."

“We have been in contact even before Thane's admission. Then, why are you confused with my name?”

Principal Thompson hesitated before responding, "She's... uh... Thane's other mother. I've been meeting with her regularly to discuss Thane's progress."

My eyes narrowed, a surge of anger rising within me. "What do you mean by 'other mother'?" I demanded, my voice low and even.

Principal Thompson's face turned bright red as she realized her mistake. "I... I didn't mean to imply... It's just that Anna has been attending parentteacher conferences and meetings, and I assumed..."

Just then Thane’s giggling voice sounded from behind, “Mamma Anna, I want Pizza this time. You will take me to my favourite restaurant today, right?”

Anna, who was earlier laughing and playing with Thane, came to an abrupt halt when her gaze fell on me. Just then, Theon walked in while moving his car’s key in his fingers. His face also turned pale.

“Elena? What are you doing here?” He blurted out.

“It's a Parentteacher meeting in Thane's school. Where am I supposed to be then?” I asked while narrowing my eyes. Theon chuckled. He tried to cover up his question while saying, “Oh yeah! I thought you would be busy today. That's why I didn't inform you about it. But, it seems like you are already aware of it.”

I didn't respond to him. Instead I shot a glance at Anna, who was holding Thane in her hands, while saying, “You must have come to accompany Thane to lessen my burden. You are so considerate, Anna.”

Anna, not noticing the sarcasm in my words immediately added, “Yes, yes. I know how troublesome it is for you to handle the Pack and Thane at the same time. I just try to lessen your burden by taking care of Thane on your behalf. You have done so much to me. I can only repay you through this.”

“Mommy, You are here as well?” Thane turned to me, his eyes that were shining brightly a few seconds ago seemed to dim a bit. He then turned to his Principal, saying excitedly, “Principal, I’ll attend the meeting with both my mothers today.”

He held my hands with his left hand and Anna's with his right, then dragged us to sit in front of his Principal. He seemed to be excited for having two mothers whereas Anna chuckled. She looked up at me with a pair of apologetic eyes, that were as fake as her smile, while saying, “I don't know from where he has learnt to call me Mamma Anna. I tried to stop him many times. He just doesn't listen.”

“Thane, you shouldn't call Aunt Anna that way. You have only one mother and that's Elena, your Mommy, who is also the Alpha of the our Pack. You should be careful with your words.” Theon also interrupted, “If you call Aunt Anna, Mamma Anna, your Mommy will not like it and feel sad. Do you want your Mommy feel sad?”

Thane looked up at me with a pair of thoughtful eyes. He seemed reluctant and felt wrong for being called out like this. I smiled at him before turning to Theon as I said, “If he wants to call Anna, Mamma Anna, let him be. It can't change the fact that I’m his mother. I’ll always remain his mother. His addressing others as his mother won't change anything.”

Theon nodded his head. While laughing he said, “You are right, Elena. You will always be his mother. It doesn't change anything.”

From that day on, Thane kept calling Anna ‘Mamma Anna' in front of me. Anna too called Thane as ‘My boy’, ‘My son’ and played with him. Theon and Anna thought I was not understanding anything. They took me as ignorant fool who wasn't aware of what was going on in my villa. But, I only laughed at their foolish thoughts.

Days passed by and Thane turned fourteen. Theon always argued with me to take Thane with me to the Elders’ meeting to help him understand Pack's chores. He thought I didn't use his malicious plan behind it. He was in a hurry to get our son inherit my legacy. I didn't decline him either. After all, I didn't intend to stop Thane either. I was ready to give my everything to Thane.

“Do you have any idea what you have done, Thane? How will you lead the pack if you are going to cut all your allies? What do you think the Elders would think about you?” Theon lost his calm on Thane. Thane seemed unaffected by Theon’s tone. He casually replied while turning to me, “I don't care about these minor issues. Mom is the Alpha of the Pack. After her, It is I, who will be the Alpha of the Pack and everyone will have to listen to me, even the elders. Right Mom?”

It was more like a declaration rather than a question. I stared at my son for a while. Before I could reply, Anna intervened between us, saying, “Thane, even though your Mom loves you so much and has no one to inherit her Pack other than you, you should learn the tactics properly. Otherwise, it will be hard to convince the elders for your ownership. You should understand it.”

Theon nodded in agreement. I smiled while looking at them , so concerned about Thane's claim over the pack. They were worried that Thane’s actions could make me angry and I might have other thoughts about him. But I smiled softly while turning to my son, saying in a calm voice, “It's okay! Thane is still learning and it is his first mistake. Let it go. Talking about the elders, I know how to handle them.”

Listening to my voice, they took a sigh of relief. I observed all their expressions. They thought they were making fool of me and were smiling from inside that they secured Thane's claim over the pack. But, they didn't know what was in my mind. I was seeing through their plans. It were them who didn't know what was running in my head. I then turned to Anna as I said, “Thanks Anna, you have been guiding my son quite a lot. It's so nice of you.”

Anna was taken a back with my remark. She masked her awkwardness with a faint smile as she replied, “I’m just trying to help you. That's it.”

“Yeah, I know,” I replied before telling them my plans, “I’m planning to send Thane to my maternal Uncle's Pack. The elders there are good in giving politics lesson. Thane can continue his education in the college there as well and when he returns, I’ll vow the oath with him, giving my everything to him.”

Their eyes shone up brightly and lips curled into smile. They exchanged a meaningful glance with each other before turning to me. Anna said excitedly, “That's a great plan, Alpha Elena. Your uncle will help Thane in growing into a great man.”

“Yeah, I heard the colleges there are also better than those in our Packs. He can develop new skills there.” Theon added in agreement.

Though they were appreciating my plans by saying they liked the idea of his training and studies in my Uncle’s Pack, I knew they were more excited about my idea of handing over the pack to Thane when he returns.

I smiled and nodded my head on their words. Only I knew what was going to happen once Thane returned.

I was planning to leave, letting them celebrate the moment as I could see how desperate they were to do, that I heard Thane’s firm voice, “I won't go,”

Thane's words hung in the air like a challenge, his eyes flashing with a hint of rebellion. I raised an eyebrow, intrigued by this sudden display of assertiveness.

"Excuse me, Thane?" I asked, my tone measured. "Did you just say you won't go?"

Thane nodded, his jaw set in determination. "Yes, Mother. I won't leave. I want to stay here and learn from you, not some distant uncle I've never lived with."

Anna and Theon exchanged uneasy glances, their smiles fading. I could sense their disappointment, their plans for Thane's further training and then his subsequent takeover of the pack momentarily looked in danger.

I leaned forward, my eyes locked on Thane's as I asked,"And why is that, Thane? Why do you refuse to go?"

Thane's gaze didn't move away from me as he replied,"Because I don't want to leave the pack. I don't want to go somewhere else, Mom. I can't live alone without seeing Dad and Mamma. I’ll miss everybody. How will I focus on my studies and training, then?"

Anna and Theon's faces turned pale, their eyes were moving nervously between Thane and me. They knew if Thane stayed in the pack and didn't train well enough, it would be difficult to convince the elders for him and by anyhow the truth of Thane's birth came into light they would lose everything. They were still trying to convince Thane to go abroad, but he looked reluctant and continued staring at me with hope in his eyes.

I smiled. I couldn't see him like that as I made my decision, saying,"Very well, Thane. You've made your stance clear. But tell me, what do you plan to do next?"

Thane's eyes gleamed with determination. "I'll prove myself, Mom. I'll show them that I'm worthy of leading this pack, and I'll do it with your guidance."

I nodded, a sense of hope and renewal washing over me. Perhaps, just perhaps, Thane was not influenced by Theon and Anna yet, and he could really be the brave and upright Alpha of the Pack in future.

From that day on, I thought Thane would be more sensible and would really try to become a better person as he promised me. But, all that he did was clinging to Anna all the time, refusing to do any work assigned by the elders or me, saying it was not up to his standards and when given hard work which could be ‘up to his standards’, he would mess things up.

Being worried, I dialed his number. He didn't pick it up. It enhanced my worriedness. I was going to dial his number again when my phone buzzed with notifications.

It was from Thane's social media account. He had been uploading pictures on his social media account. In one of the photos I saw Thane sitting in a restaurant along with Theon and Anna. There was also a caption which read [My Favourite Restaurant! Thanks Mamma Anna for the surprise. I love it!]

In another photo, he was cutting the cake while Theon and Anna were standing on either of his sides, looking like a perfect family.

In another photo, Thane was rubbing the cream of the cake on Anna's cheeks. The picture also had a caption which read [My Favourite Person!]

I stared this post for a long while before I laughed ironically looking at the cake I had prepared by burning my hands. I then switched off my phone, not intending to watch his other posts and threw it aside. I recalled the day when Thane said he didn't want to go abroad because he would miss his Mamma and Dad. Now that I thought about it, I realized the word ‘Mamma’ was actually not directed at me. It was for Anna.

The realization hit me harder and I laughed and cried at the same time. But, at the same time it helped me feel content with my decision that I had made years ago, knowing Thane was not biologically related to me.

I had been staring at the preparation I had made when the main door pushed open and Thane walked in, yelling excitedly, “Mom, whose Ferrari is parked outside? It's brand new and the colour is exactly what I want!”

Theon chased after him, looking surprised. He looked up at me and then the decorations. A sense of guilt and regret appeared in his eyes as he asked, “Did you do all this to celebrate Thane’s birthday?”

Only now did Thane looked around himself and the cake I had prepared for him. He then looked up at me, asking in a spoiled voice, “Mom, why didn't you come celebrate my birthday in the restaurant? Dad said you were busy with your meetings but it looks like you weren't.”

I shot a glance at Theon. He chuckled and immediately intervened to cover it up while saying, “I thought you would be busy with your meetings. That's why I didn't ask you. Anna and I”

“It's okay,” I cut him off, “I was really busy, Thane. But, I can't ignore my son's birthday, can I?” I said in a soft voice. He smiled and hugged me instantly.

Theon took a sigh of relief. He didn't think much of it and began laughing, thinking that I was just an ignorant fool and hadn't seen through his conspiracy.

After breaking our hug, Thane’s eyes began scanning through the items lying on the table where the cake was placed. He didn't bother looking at the cake I had prepared and instantly picked the small gift box. He then tore it open and took the key out, yelling excitedly, “I knew it! I knew it…”

“It's for me, right Mom? You bought the car for me.” He yelled excitedly. I nodded my head before saying in a soft voice, “It's your birthday gift.”

“Yes!” He jumped in excitement and ran outside after throwing the small box that hit the cake I had prepared. I smiled ironically, staring at the cake while Thane and Theon ran out for a ride in the car. The last word I heard from my son was “Let's call Mamma Anna for a ride. She will love it.”

I stood there, frozen in time, as the sound of Thane's excited laughter and the roar of the Ferrari's engine faded into the distance. The cake I had lovingly prepared, now laid in ruins, the small gift box having crushed a significant portion of it.

I couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness and betrayal. Thane's words, "Let's call Mamma Anna for a ride. She will love it," cut deep into my heart. It was clear that Anna had become the central figure in Thane's life, and I was just a peripheral character.

As I gazed at the destroyed cake, I felt tears welling up in my eyes. I had tried so hard to make this day special for Thane, to show him how much I cared. But it seemed like no matter what I did, I would always be relegated to the background.

The sound of the door opening broke the silence, and Theon walked in, a sheepish grin on his face. "Hey, I'm sorry about the cake. Thane got a bit carried away."

I forced a smile, trying to hide my true emotions as I said,"It's okay, it's just a cake."

Theon's expression turned serious, and he took a step closer to me before saying,"You know, I think Thane is just going through a phase. He'll come around eventually."

I raised an eyebrow while asking in a sarcastic voice,"A phase? You call this a phase?"

Theon's eyes darted around the room, avoiding mine. "Well, you know what I mean. He's just entering his adolescence."

I laughed bitterly before saying in a casual voice, “You are right, it's just his adolescence. Nothing else.”

Days turned into weeks, and the wound of Thane's ignorance still lingered through my heart. I thought that with time, things would get better, but it seemed like Thane's affection for Anna only grew stronger.

One sunny afternoon, I decided to surprise Thane by attending his school's annual sports day. I had been looking forward to it all week, eager to see my son participate in the events.

As I arrived at the school, I was filled with excitement and pride. I spotted Thane on the field, his eyes shining with enthusiasm as he prepared for the upcoming race.

I waited for the day to arrive soon and when it came I didn't receive any gift from Thane as I expected. Still, I thought he might have forgotten about it and would give it to me when he would recall. But, it was only now that I realized the gift was never meant for me. It was for Anna. But, why must it be on Mothers’ day?

Had Thane already known the truth or it was just because he called Anna as Mamma Anna?

The question lingered within me while Thane finished his race, and as he walked off the field, Anna rushed down to congratulate him. They shared a warm hug, and Anna planted a kiss on his cheek. Thane beamed with happiness, and I felt bitter in my heart.

I tried to push aside my feelings and make my way towards them. After all, it was a big day for my son. But as I approached, Thane's eyes met mine, and he hesitated. Anna, sensing his unease, turned around and smiled at me.

"Hi, Elena! Isn't Thane doing great?" she exclaimed, her voice dripping with sweetness.

I forced a smile, trying to hide my pain. "Yes, he's doing fantastic. Congratulations, Thane!"

But Thane barely acknowledged me. He turned back to Anna, and they continued to celebrate his victory together. I stood there, feeling like an outsider, as they took photos and laughed together.

As the day drew to a close, I realized that I had become a mere spectator in Thane's life. Anna had become his confidante, his partner in every sense of the word. And I was just a footnote, a reminder of a bond that no longer existed.

I turned and walked away, the sound of Thane's laughter and Anna's cheers echoing in my mind. I knew that I had to come to terms with the fact that Thane had chosen Anna over me, and that our bond was irreparably broken.

Soon Thane turned sixteen. It was the time when the Alpha of the Pack needed to move out of the Pack for further trial. Elders call it a necessary test. Every Alpha of our Pack had gone through this test before taking the oath of leadership, even I. It's the toughest phase of an Alpha when they leave the Pack with not much money or belonging. Even their survival is at risk because the wolves from the enemy pack and even the rogue wolves keep their eyes on the attack.

As the day was coming near when Thane had to undergo the test, Anna and Theon were getting worried.

“Thane is just a child. Do you think it's wise to send him off, Alpha Elena? Aren't you worried?” Anna asked, the line of concerns were clearly visible on her forehead.

Theon looked attentively at me before asking in a serious voice, “You are the Alpha of the Pack while I’m your Beta. Can’t we do something hidden to help our son? No one will know about it.”

“Dad, Mamma Anna, why are you all so worried about it?” Thane interrupted, looking very confident. So confident that he made me doubt my thoughts about him. But the next words coming out from my lips shattered all my hope towards him.

“That's because she was a woman, Dad. Anyone could challenge her claim. You could even do that if you wanted. But my case is different. I’m the Alpha, the only heir of the pack. Besides, I’m a man. No one can challenge my claim.” He added confidently. Anna and Theon, knowing the whole truth, felt hesitated. They looked guilty and afraid. Thane then walked ahead and said in a cold voice, “Thane, you shouldn't talk about your Mom like that. Apologize to her now.”

“Stop it,” I cut them off as I came between them. I then turned to Thane as I said in a soft voice, “If my son doesn't want to go through the process, then let it be. I can arrange things for him to work out.”

Thane’s eyes lit up in joy. Meanwhile, Theon and Anna looked stunned. Anna blurted out in a concerned voice, “How will you convince the Elders for Thane, then? What if they don't accept him as the Alpha of the Pack?”

“If they will not accept him then who else would they?” I asked while narrowing my eyes, “Clearly, Thane is the only Alpha in the Pack after me. They have to accept him as their Alpha.”

Theon and Anna were not satisfied with my answer. It's because they knew Thane was not an Alpha. But, I didn't want to expose them now. I had other plans in my mind. So, I added, “I’ll send Thane abroad. He can have fun there and learn more skills. As for the Elders, I'll tell them that he is on trial. They will not know the truth about Thane's whereabouts, not even our enemies. He will be safe and fine.”

Theon and Anna took a sigh of relief. I could see them congratulating each other with their eyes. I forged ignorance towards them and busied myself in making arrangements for Thane's departure.

I, Theon and Anna, we all went to drop Thane on Airport. Anna and Theon seemed so reluctant to part with Thane, especially Anna. She kept on reminding Thane to eat on time, not go out in bad company and always tell her about his whereabouts and so on. I watched them from afar, smiling bitterly.

After Thane left, Anna burst into tears. She cried so much that Theon had to console her while pulling her in his embrace. The scene was so dramatic that people stopped by to look at the scene. A few of them even stopped by me and said, “It's really sad to see your children leave for the first time. The couple are looking so sad. Why don't you go and console your sister and brotherinlaw? They are looking really hurt.

I didn't reply to them. Instead, I came out and drove back home to attend my meeting with the Alpha of the alliance packs, leaving my husband alone to console the other woman.

As the day of Thane's return from his training abroad approached, I couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. Anna and Theon, on the other hand, were excited, counting down the days until their "family" could be reunited.

On the day of Thane's arrival, Anna and Theon accompanied me to the airport, their lips curled up into smile with excitement. As we waited for Thane to emerge from customs, Anna couldn't stop talking about all the things she had planned for Thane's homecoming.

When Thane finally appeared, Anna and Theon rushed to envelop him in a tight hug, tears of joy rolling down their cheeks. I was standing back with a faint smile on my face while watching the reunion.

After the emotional greeting, Thane turned to me, his eyes gleaming with anticipation as he came up to me and said, "Mom, now that I'm back, it's time for you to step down as alpha. I'm ready to take my rightful place as leader of the pack."

I raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Thane's bold declaration.

"Is that so?" I asked in a calm voice.

Thane nodded. He was looking quite confident as he said,"Yes, Mom. I've been trained by the best, and I'm ready to lead our pack to greatness."

Anna and Theon exchanged a meaningful glance, and their faces were flushed with excitement. I, on the other hand, felt a sense of calmness from inside. I had been expecting this moment for a long time, and I was ready.

"Very well, Thane," I said in a firm voice before adding, "I'll call a gathering of the pack elders, and we'll discuss the terms of the leadership transition."

Thane's face lit up with excitement, and Anna and Theon couldn't help cheering and hugging each other in celebration. But I just smiled, my eyes never leaving Thane's face. Little did they know, I had a surprise in store for them.

As we made our way back to our pack's territory, I couldn't help but think about the events that had transpired during Thane's absence. Theon's infidelity with Anna had become more brazen, and I had caught them on several occasions, sneaking around and stealing kisses.

One particular incident stood out in my mind. I had been out on a walk, enjoying the moonlight, when I stumbled upon Theon and Anna embracing in the shadows. They had been so caught up in their passion that they hadn't even noticed me standing there, watching them.

I had felt a pang of sadness and betrayal, but I had pushed it aside, focusing on my plan for the future.

As we arrived at our pack's territory, I could sense the tension in the air. The pack elders were waiting for us, their faces grave with concern.

The elders were not in favor of handing the Pack in Thane's hands. They had observed Thane for years and knew he was incapable of leading the pack. But, I had given a promise to Thane years ago that when he returned, I would convince the elders for his ownership. That's why after his arrival, he seemed impatient. He kept asking me when I was going to announce him the Alpha of the Pack and I knew Theon and Anna were also looking for the day impatiently.

I didn't hang them for long and immediately called a gathering to make the announcement.

The gathering of the pack elders began, and I stood tall, my eyes locked on Thane's. I knew that this was just the beginning of a long and brutal fight, but I was determined to emerge victorious.

In the presence of all the elders and the alphas of our alliance packs, even the Alpha who was. beaten up by Thane years ago, I announced Thane as the next Alpha of the Blue Moon Pack.

Thane's lips curled into a smile. He finally got what he wanted for years. I had fulfilled his one more wish. But, he didn't know it was not that easy. It wasn't a Ferrari he could easily get from me. I silently observed the sunken faces of the Elders. There was a calmness on their face. A kind of calmness you could see before the typhoon and I knew they were going to burst soon.

I stood before the gathering of pack elders, my heart pounding with anticipation. I had called this meeting to announce Thane's ascension to alpha, but I could sense the unease in the air after my announcement.

The room fell silent, with some elders exchanging skeptical glances. One of the elder wolves, a wise and aged wolf who had raised me along with my mother, Lydia, stepped forward.

"Elena, we respect you and your position as alpha, but are you certain Thane is ready to lead our pack?" Lydia asked, her voice laced with concern.

I shot a glance at Thane before I turned to Lydia and said,"Yes, I am certain. Thane has been trained by the best, and he has shown great potential as a leader."

But Lydia was not convinced. She immediately added,"Potential, perhaps, but has he shown the ability to lead? To make difficult decisions and protect our pack?"

I felt a surge of defensiveness, but Lydia continued before I could respond.

"We have all witnessed Thane's... antics. The time he accidentally started a fire in the forest, the time he got into a fight with a rival pack's member without provocation... These are not the actions of a responsible leader."

Other elders nodded in agreement. I remained still, silently observing Thane’s expressions. Meanwhile another elder added, "And what about the time he forgot to attend the gathering of the full moon? A simple mistake, perhaps, but one that shows a lack of respect for our traditions and customs."

Thane tried to speak up in his defense, but the elders would not be swayed. They didn't let him talk as one of them said in a cold voice, “Children should not interrupt when elders are talking, kid.”

Thane's face flushed red in anger, but he shut his mouth, daring not to speak again.

"We understand that you want the best for your son, Elena," Lydia said, her voice firm but gentle. "But we cannot afford to have a leader who is careless and irresponsible. Our pack's safety and wellbeing depend on it."

The room fell silent once more, and Thane knew that he had lost. The elders would not accept Thane as the next alpha. After making their points, everyone was waiting for my decision. Thane was desperately waiting for me to speak in his favour. I shot a glance at everyone before I finally spoke up.

“My dear elders,” I began, “I believe you all want the best of the pack, and I really appreciate your efforts you have put for the well being of the pack in the past few years. But, I’m your Alpha and you should all respect my decision.”

“I still want Thane to lead the pack from today. I believe he will appear to be a great leader only if you all guide them as you have guided me all these years. Thanks for understanding,” I added.

With that I ended our discussion and let Thane take the oath of ownership. To respect my decision, all the elders bent their knees in front of Thane and accepted him as their Alpha. According to our Pack's tradition, all the elders and the members of the committee, including me, took the oath that we would always listen to the Alpha's command.

Soon after this the main door of the hall was pushed open. Theon and Anna walked inside, matching their outfits while holding each other's arms affectionately. Everyone's eyes grew dark as they saw how shamelessly my beta husband walked in my meeting hall with another woman by his side. I, on the other hand, was standing calm and still.

They stopped by Thane’s side. Anna’s lips curled into a wicked grin as she said excitedly, “Congratulations son, you have become the Alpha of the pack. I’m so proud of you.”

“Watch your tongue, you wicked omega! How dare you call Alpha Thane your son? It's disrespectful to him and his mother, Elena.” Lydia scolded Anna before turning to me as she continued, “I told you to be wary of this omega. She is trying to snatch your son.”

I remained silent on Lydia’s accusations. She had been warning me against Anna for years. Only did she know that I was already aware of everything.

Listening to Lydia’s words, Anna laughed sarcastically. Her laughter came to an abrupt halt as she spoke up in a cold voice, “Snatching Elena’s son? What a joke it is! She is the one who has snatched my son for years, letting me shed tears in loneliness.”

Anna's words caused the uproar in the gathering, everyone whispering into each other's ears and asking questions to Anna.

Thane stepped forward. He looked deeply into Anna's eyes and asked, “Mamma Anna, what's going on?”

Anna then turned to Theon and asked, “Are you going to tell him or I disclose the secret?”