Chapter 20
In this chapter, the narrator describes the tense confrontation between Cassian, his new Luna, and Carolyn, the sister of Veronica—Cassian’s former fiancée. Carolyn is furious and feels betrayed by Cassian’s decision to name another woman as Luna, accusing him of replacing her sister instead of rescuing her after five long years. Despite Carolyn’s anger, Cassian remains calm and resolute, explaining that he chose a Luna who would truly stand by him and bring real change to the pack.
Carolyn challenges the narrator’s worthiness as Luna, comparing her unfavorably to Veronica and demanding proof of her capability. The narrator, unfazed, accepts the challenge with a confident and playful attitude, provoking Carolyn’s frustration. Cassian supports the narrator firmly, warning Carolyn against disrespecting his mate and asserting his authority over the pack’s personal matters.
The chapter ends with a high-stakes agreement: if the narrator wins the challenge, Carolyn will never interfere again; if she loses, she must reject Cassian and leave the territory forever. The narrator expresses determination to prove her worth and protect her bond with Cassian, sealing their alliance with a tender kiss and a promise of trust. The atmosphere is charged with rivalry, loyalty, and the struggle for acceptance within the pack.
Chapter 20
Roana,
At first, I assumed Veronica would be the one to complicate matters—after all, she had once been Cassian’s fiancée. The fact that Cassian signed the contract while still engaged to Veronica felt like a betrayal, a kind of cheating, didn’t it?
But that notion quickly dissolved the moment she appeared. I almost dropped my jaw when she entered the room. Tall and elegant, she radiated an undeniable beauty. Her fiery red hair caught the light perfectly, a vivid contrast against the muted sky outside. With long, thick eyelashes framing her eyes, a sharply defined V-shaped jawline, and an athletic figure, she seemed like a vision sculpted to perfection.
Even with her cheeks flushed with fury, she looked like a model captured in a cinematic moment. It was astonishing how someone could appear so breathtaking, even when consumed by anger.
“What are you doing, My King?” she demanded, her voice trembling with emotion but her gaze locked firmly on Cassian, unflinching. “You bring a woman out of nowhere, declare her Luna, and now you strip me of my duties and responsibilities p>
The tension in the room was palpable.
Cassian took his time, calmly wiping the sweat from his face before rising with a slow, effortless grace that made everyone turn to watch. When he finally spoke, he let the silence stretch just long enough to draw everyone in, weighing his words carefully. “That’s not what I meant, Carolyn p>
I blinked, surprised by the softness in his tone. Who was this woman really? And what was behind the expression he wore? Something felt off—like a hidden layer beneath the surface.
“I’m disappointed, My King,” Carolyn said sharply. “I believed you were doing everything in your power to bring my sister back. It’s been five years—five long years since she was taken. Instead of rescuing her, you bring another woman to replace her p>
“That’s enough, Carolyn!” Cassian’s voice was weary but carried an unyielding strength, like tempered steel. Moving toward the table, he planted his palm firmly down, anchoring the room’s energy. The atmosphere seemed to steady around him. “I needed a Luna who would stand by me p>
“Veronica is here. She was your fiancée. Why would you bring in another woman and p>
He tilted his head slightly, eyes narrowing just enough to cut through the noise with precision. When he spoke again, his voice was low, calm, and final. “She is my mate.” The two words landed like a verdict. “And she is the best choice I could have made for my Luna p>
Carolyn’s eyes widened as though she’d been slapped. Her face twisted with fury, her jaw tightening.
I might miss things sometimes, but she looked more wounded than enraged. But why? If Cassian’s chosen one was her sister, anger would make sense—but this expression?
It wasn’t rage on someone else’s behalf.
“Did you just say your mate?” she repeated, glancing at me. Her eyes darkened when they flicked back toward Cassian.
I took a bite of my chicken drumstick, watching her puff up with frustration like a blowfish.
“You must be joking,” she scoffed. “She’s your mate? The Moon Goddess can’t be that foolish to choose someone like her as your destined partner. Stop playing games p>
Yes, exactly. That was my thought too, Lady. The Moon Goddess must have been drunk while doing her job.
Useless.
Well, I decided to sit back and enjoy the spectacle. Not my circus, not my monkeys.
“Watch your words, Carolyn. Even if you can’t accept the truth, you can’t openly disrespect someone—especially not the woman who is now my Queen p>
“Cassian Carolyn’s voice rose sharply.
I nearly choked on my food. Did she just call him by his first name? What exactly was their relationship?
Cassian didn’t respond. Instead, he gave me a slow, deliberate, protective glance—the kind of look that made the hairs on my arms stand on end. I paused mid-bite, tilting my head in curiosity.
Why would he look at me that way when she was the one upset with him?
The corner of his mouth twitched in a subtle, private smile that shifted the mood of the entire room. Then, with careful precision, he grabbed a napkin and wiped his hands, every motion controlled as if even casual gestures set the tone. The air thickened with his presence; people seemed to freeze, afraid to disturb the moment.
“Carolyn, I am neither unfair nor unreasonable. Nor am I delusional. I know exactly what I’m doing and what’s best for the pack. Bringing your sister home is my responsibility, and I am doing everything I can. But this pack needs a Luna who can make real changes—not one who is just for show p>
“For show?” Carolyn’s voice dropped lower, sharper. “What do you mean by that? Do you honestly think this woman can compare to Veronica?” She jabbed a finger toward me. “Can your so-called mate stand up to her? Can you prove her worth, Cassian p>
At that, Cassian straightened, his silhouette commanding the space between them. Carolyn faltered, her finger wavering. He stepped forward—not with anger, but with a calm authority that demanded respect. The room instinctively took a step back.
“What are you saying? That I need to prove my mate’s worthiness as Luna p>
“Yes. Absolutely. You said it yourself—whoever stands by your side must prove their worth. My sister did. Veronica did. And now you let her rule this house as if it’s a privilege p>
“Since she is my mate, she deserves that privilege p>
“Wow!” Carolyn retorted, clapping her hands sarcastically. But behind those beautiful eyes, I saw a flicker of pain. Was she mourning her sister—or herself? Something about her was suspicious.
“Double standard or not, you aren’t the one to question p>
“Challenges sound fun, though,” I murmured under my breath, biting into the drumstick just as the room fell silent.
I looked up, still chewing, until I realized both of them were staring at me.
“What’s wrong?” I asked, swallowing.
“Did you just say you don’t mind the challenge?” Carolyn shrieked, as if I’d poured boiling water on her feet.
“I didn’t say I don’t mind. I said it sounds fun,” I shrugged, pouring myself a glass of wine. “And if it’s Veronica, I’d love to. That girl is adorable. She even touched my chest p>
“EXCUSE ME!” Carolyn snapped, but Cassian looked stunned.
His voice dropped low and dangerous—the kind that didn’t need to raise volume to command control. “Did she do something to you?” His gaze sharpened, cutting like a blade.
“No. Why would she? She’s just adorable. Like a baby!” I grinned, finishing my meal.
“Is your mate dumb too, Your Majesty?” Carolyn asked, folding her arms. “She can’t read the room p>
“I don’t know. Maybe,” Cassian whispered.
“I can hear you both!” I scoffed. “Anyway—!” I stood, grabbing a tissue. “Since this is a question of worth… why don’t we make it official? Just because the Moon Goddess made a drunken mistake, I don’t get to enjoy the privilege of being your mate p>
Cassian looked taken aback, as if he hadn’t expected me to fuel Carolyn’s delusions. But the surprise faded, replaced by a faint, possessive smile.
“What are you thinking? You don’t have to,” Cassian’s voice dropped, warning sharp.
“Why not?” I asked calmly. “But if I win, what do I get, Ms. Carolyn? I don’t do charity work. I deserve to enjoy the privilege even if you don’t like it—since my husband opposes it so much p>
Carolyn’s expression darkened as if she wanted to strike me down on the spot. Instead, she scoffed. “If you win the challenge, I’ll never interfere again. But if you lose, reject him and leave this territory forever p>
“Carolyn!” Cassian growled, the word sharp as iron. He moved forward with the precision of a predator; one step and the entire room seemed to lean toward him. “Who gave you the right to threaten my mate and dictate my personal life p>
“My King! Your personal life is tangled with all of us. Don’t think you can show favoritism just because she’s bonded to you!” She smirked.
“You p>
“It’s fine,” I interrupted, taking Cassian’s hand with a smile. But my eyes stayed locked on Carolyn, whose gaze immediately darkened at the touch. As expected, there was suspicion in the air.
“I want to prove to the world that I am worthy of you. So no one can ever question you again.” I stepped closer, pressed a soft kiss to his cheek, and whispered, “Trust me p>
This chapter delicately unravels the complex web of loyalty, love, and rivalry that binds the characters together. The tension between Cassian, Carolyn, and the narrator reveals deep-seated emotions and unresolved conflicts, especially surrounding the concept of worthiness and rightful place within the pack. Through their charged interactions, we witness the vulnerability beneath their strong exteriors, highlighting the painful sacrifices and fierce protectiveness that come with their roles.
Ultimately, the chapter leaves us with a sense of hopeful determination amid the storm of doubt and opposition. The narrator’s quiet confidence and Cassian’s unwavering support suggest a bond that transcends external judgments, promising growth and unity despite the challenges ahead. It is a poignant reminder that true strength lies not in status or appearances, but in trust, courage, and the willingness to face trials together.
Tensions simmer as loyalties are tested and the true nature of relationships begins to unravel. The challenge proposed promises not only a battle for power but a deeper exploration of trust, identity, and what it means to stand beside someone in a world fraught with expectations. Emotions run high, especially as Carolyn’s sharp words and Cassian’s protective stance hint at unresolved wounds and secrets that could change everything.
As alliances shift and the stakes rise, the next chapter will delve into the complexities of proving worthiness—not just through strength, but through understanding and resilience. The delicate balance between duty and desire will be pushed to its limits, leaving readers eager to discover who will emerge stronger and what sacrifices will be demanded. With every glance and whispered promise, the path ahead is charged with uncertainty and the promise of revelation.
Cedella
Cedella is a passionate storyteller known for her bold romantic and spicy novels that keep readers hooked from the very first chapter. With a flair for crafting emotionally intense plots and unforgettable characters, she blends love, desire, and drama into every story she writes. Cedella’s storytelling style is immersive and addictive—perfect for fans of heated romances and heart-pounding twists.