Mated to My Intended's Enemy novel Chapter 32

Chapter 32: Chapter 32 You’ll Be Waiting a Very Long Time

Victoria

A tall, strikingly beautiful redhead stood glaring at me, her green eyes flashing with hatred. I recognized her immediately—Ignacia Blackwell, the Luna-in-training from River Valley Pack. She’d been sitting silently at the back during classes, never participating but always watching.

"You little deceiver," she hissed, her voice trembling with rage. "What kind of magic did you use on him?"

I stepped back, maintaining distance while Ava rose defensively within me. "I don’t know what you’re talking about."

"Don’t play innocent," Ignacia snarled, stalking closer. "Leonard Moretti. The most powerful unmated Alpha in three territories. Every eligible she-wolf has been trying to catch his attention for years, and suddenly he takes a half-breed nobody as his mate?"

The contempt in her voice made Ava growl, the sound vibrating in my chest. "I’m his true mate. His wolf recognized mine."

Ignacia’s laugh was brittle. "Please. Your pathetic little wolf probably just went into heat and tricked his into responding. There’s no way a pureblooded Alpha of his lineage would naturally bond with someone like you."

"Whatever you believe, Ignacia, the fact remains that Leo chose me. I’m his Luna now."

"For now," she spat, her eyes gleaming with malice. "But everyone knows a hybrid makes unstable mates. When your bond inevitably fails, he’ll need a proper Luna to take your place." She smoothed her hand down her obviously expensive dress. "Someone from a lineage worthy of the Shadow Pack’s power."

Ava was pushing against my control now, eager to defend our mate bond. I felt my eyes flash gold as she peered through them.

"You know nothing about my bond with Leo," I said, my voice taking on the dual-toned quality that indicated my wolf’s presence. "And you’re making a dangerous mistake challenging his mate."

Ignacia stepped closer, unintimidated. "I’ve known Leonard for years. Our packs have allied countless times. My father expected our mating would solidify the alliance permanently." Her voice dropped to a venomous whisper. "I’ve warmed his bed before, you know. I know exactly what he likes, what makes him growl with pleasure."

The image her words evoked sent a spike of jealous rage through me. Ava surged forward, nearly taking control before I wrestled her back.

"If he wanted you," I replied, fighting to keep my voice steady, "you’d be wearing his mark right now instead of me."

Her hand shot out, aiming for my face, but I caught her wrist mid-air—my reflexes quicker than even I expected. Ava’s strength flowed through my muscles.

"Don’t," I warned, tightening my grip slightly. "My mate wouldn’t appreciate you attacking his Luna."

Ignacia yanked her arm free, fury contorting her features. "This isn’t over, hybrid. Not by a long shot. When your novelty wears off and he realizes he needs a real wolf as his Luna, I’ll be waiting."

"You’ll be waiting a very long time," came a deep, familiar voice from behind me.

My heart leapt as Leo materialized beside me, his tall frame radiating barely contained aggression. His hand settled possessively at the small of my back, his touch sending warmth cascading through me.

Ignacia’s expression transformed instantly, her rage giving way to simpering charm. "Leonard! What a lovely surprise. I was just getting acquainted with your... companion."

Leo’s eyes were cold as winter frost. "My mate," he corrected, the two words carrying unmistakable warning. "And as I said, you’ve been misinformed if you believe there’s anything temporary about our bond."

She flushed, her confidence visibly wavering. "Of course, I just meant—our families have always been close, and your mother often spoke of—"

"My mother doesn’t choose my mate," Leo interrupted, his voice deceptively calm. "My wolf does. And he chose Victoria." His arm tightened around my waist. "I suggest you remember that before approaching my Luna again."

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