Mated to My Intended's Enemy novel Chapter 51

Chapter 51: Chapter 51 Return to Howlthorne

Victoria

The gates of the Howlthorne compound loomed before us."Are you ready for this?" Tiny asked, his massive hands steady on the steering wheel as we slowed at the security checkpoint.

I drew a deep breath, feeling the weight of responsibility settle around me like a mantle. "As ready as I’ll ever be."

From the backseat, Lilith leaned forward. "Remember, first impressions matter. They need to see strength, not hesitation."

Our eyes met in the rearview mirror. The advice was sound, even coming from someone who had once been my tormentor. I gave her a slight nod of acknowledgment.

As the gates swung open, I noticed the increased security presence—Leo’s doing, no doubt. Shadow Pack enforcers were strategically positioned throughout the compound, their watchful eyes scanning for any sign of threat. My mate was taking no chances with Marcus Grimwood still at large.

"I’d like to see Jackson first," I told Tiny as we pulled up to the main house. "Before addressing everyone."

Tiny nodded. "He’s been asking for you. Leo had our pack doctor checking on him hourly."

The mention of Leo’s attentiveness warmed me from within. Even when physically absent, his protection surrounded me like an invisible shield.

*He’s made sure everyone knows you’re his,* Ava whispered in my mind.

The main house was buzzing with activity—pack members moving purposefully through halls that had once felt like a prison to me. They paused as I entered, surprise registering on their faces before they lowered their eyes respectfully. Not all of them seemed pleased, but none dared challenge me openly.

We found Jackson in the east wing, where the pack’s medical facility was located. The Beta who had always shown me kindness was propped up in bed, his torso wrapped in bandages, but his eyes brightened when I entered.

"Alpha Victoria," he said, his voice weaker than I remembered but his smile genuine.

I studied his face, noting the new lines of pain around his eyes. "You shouldn’t have gotten hurt protecting me."

"You are the acting Alpha of the Howlthorne Pack," he replied simply. "And I am your Beta. I need to ensure your safety when your mate is not by your side."

His loyalty made my chest tighten with emotion. This was what real pack bonds meant—not the forced submission Enzo had demanded, but the willing sacrifice of those who believed in something greater than themselves.

"Well, I’m here now," I assured him, straightening my shoulders. "And things are going to change."

Jackson’s eyes moved past me to where Lilith stood in the doorway, her posture stiff but her expression carefully neutral. "I see they already have," he observed quietly. 𝑓𝘳𝘦𝑒𝑤𝑒𝘣𝘯ℴ𝘷𝘦𝓁.𝑐𝑜𝑚

I followed his gaze. "Lilith has agreed to help ease the transition. For the good of the pack."

Tiny cleared his throat from the doorway. "The pack has assembled in the great hall, Luna. They’re waiting for your address."

The moment had come sooner than I’d expected. I squeezed Jackson’s hand once more. "Rest. Heal. I’ll need your counsel in the days ahead."

He nodded, his eyes suddenly fierce with pride. "Show them who you are, Victoria. Show them the Alpha’s daughter."

* * *

The great hall of Howlthorne house had never felt so imposing.

And now there was me.

As I walked toward the platform, Lilith slightly behind me to my right and Tiny a reassuring presence to my left, I could feel the weight of hundreds of eyes upon me. The hall was filled to capacity—every pack member who could attend was present, their faces showing emotions ranging from curiosity to outright hostility.

Ava surged within me, lending me her strength. *We belong here. This is our birthright.*

I stepped onto the platform, turning to face my father’s pack—my pack now. For a moment, I simply let them look at me, let them see the changes in the half-blood girl they had dismissed for so long.

"Thank you all for coming," I began, my voice carrying clearly through the hushed space. "I know many of you have questions about the future of Howlthorne territory in these uncertain times."

Movement at the back of the hall caught my attention—a tall, muscular wolf pushing his way forward. I recognized him as Garrett, one of Enzo’s most loyal followers.

"Questions?" he called out, his voice thick with disdain. "The only question is why we’re being addressed by a half-breed instead of a proper Alpha."

Murmurs rippled through the crowd. This was the challenge I had expected, though perhaps sooner than anticipated.

"Careful, Garrett," Tiny growled, stepping forward, but I placed a restraining hand on his arm.

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