Mated to My Intended's Enemy novel Chapter 71

Chapter 71: Chapter 71 Rising Alpha

Victoria

The early morning sunlight filtered through the trees surrounding Howlthorne Pack territory, casting long shadows across the gathering clearing.

I glanced at Lilith and Jackson flanking me on either side. Jackson still looked pale from his injuries, but he stood tall, his presence lending me the legitimacy I needed among the more traditional pack members. Lilith’s elegant posture and encouraging nod bolstered my confidence.

"Howlthorne Pack," I began, my voice carrying across the clearing with surprising strength. I paced slowly before them, channeling the commanding presence I’d observed in Leo. "Marcus Grimwood has taken our Alpha hostage. He believes this will weaken us, divide us, make us easy prey. He’s wrong."

My gaze swept across their faces, meeting eyes that now looked upon me with growing respect. "The Shadow Pack stands with us. Alpha Moretti has pledged his support and resources to our cause. Together, we will rescue Enzo and bring Marcus to justice for his crimes against our pack."

A tentative cheer rose from the crowd. I raised my hand for silence.

"But to succeed, we need organization. Structure. Every one of you has strengths that will be crucial in the coming days."

I turned to Jackson and Garrett, who stood nearby with his arm in a sling. "Jackson and Garrett will oversee our warriors’ training. And yes—" I emphasized, noting the surprised expressions, "—that includes our female pack members who wish to fight."

Several she-wolves straightened, excitement flashing in their eyes. Traditional werewolf society often relegated females to support roles, but I had seen firsthand through Leo’s pack how valuable female warriors could be.

"Those with healing abilities will work with our medical team. Those skilled in strategy will join our planning sessions." I let my gaze linger on the older wolves, their weathered faces marked by years of experience—an asset I refused to waste.

A gruff voice rose from the back. "And what about logistics? Who the hell is supposed to handle that?"

I didn’t flinch. Instead, I let the silence stretch, my eyes sweeping across the restless crowd. Perfect. Let them doubt me—it only makes the next move stronger.

"For our supply lines and logistics," I said clearly, my voice carrying to the farthest corner of the hall, "I’m putting the Omega House in charge. Beta Alessio will oversee it personally."

A ripple of shocked whispers cut through the air. I caught more than one scoff, the old prejudice running deep. To most, Omegas were nothing more than background workers, invisible until needed.

But Leo’s words echoed in my mind: Every wolf has value. Rank doesn’t measure worth.

I squared my shoulders, my tone sharp as a blade. "Does anyone have a problem with that?" My chin lifted in challenge, daring them to defy me.

Silence greeted my question. Then, slowly, the wolves began to lower their heads in submission—a gesture I had never received before. The sensation was both empowering and humbling.

"Then let’s begin. Jackson, Garrett—assemble your training teams. Everyone else—report to your assigned duties. We move against Marcus in three days. Let’s make sure we’re ready."

As the crowd dispersed, Lilith approached me. "That was impressive," she said quietly. "You’ve changed, Victoria."

I smiled thinly. "Necessity is a powerful motivator."

"Shall we head to the Omega House now?" she asked.

"Yes. I want to speak with Uncle Alessio personally."

We took my Jeep, the one Leo had insisted on equipping with enhanced security features. The drive to the Omega House took us through the less prosperous side of town, but I noticed immediate differences from my last visit.

The dilapidated building I remembered had undergone a remarkable transformation. Fresh paint covered the exterior walls, the broken windows had been replaced, and the yard was now landscaped with native plants. A small greenhouse gleamed in the morning sun.

"Leo’s work?" Lilith asked, noticing my surprised expression.

"And Tiny’s," I confirmed, a surge of warmth filling my chest at their generosity. "They promised to help, but I didn’t expect... this."

We parked and approached the building. Before I could knock, the door swung open to reveal Uncle Alessio, his weather-beaten face breaking into a wide smile.

"Little Victoria!" he exclaimed, enveloping me in a bear hug that smelled of herbs and wood smoke. "Or should I say, Alpha Howlthorne?"

I laughed into his shoulder, momentarily allowing myself to be just Victoria again—the girl who had sought refuge in this place when Enzo’s cruelty became too much to bear. "Just Victoria to you, Uncle. Always."

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