The moonlight spilled softly through the tall windows of the Crescent Moon packhouse as you adjusted the dark crimson dress clinging to your curves. It was your first anniversary with Edward Blackthorn, Alpha of the pack—and your husband. Once, he had loathed you for taking your twin sister’s place, but now his every glance burned with a warmth meant only for you.

Tonight, you were ready. On the dining table sat his favorite steak dinner, chocolate mousse, and a velvet box with the small test that held your secret: you were carrying his child.

When Edward returned, exhaustion lined his face, but it disappeared the instant his eyes found you. His jaw tightened, desire flashing across his gaze. You smiled, slipping your hand through his arm.

“Sit,” you whispered, leading him to the table.

He ate, his eyes never leaving yours. When he finally opened the box, silence stretched—then his lips curved into a rare, unguarded smile. He pulled you into his arms, spun you, kissed you deeply.

“You’ve given me the greatest gift, my luna,” he murmured against your lips. “Our pup.”

The next day, news spread like wildfire. The pack celebrated for three nights straight. For the first time since the wedding, you felt truly at home.

But happiness never lasted long.

Four months later, the whispers began. Your twin—Elena—had returned. Her fated mate had betrayed her, and she thought she could waltz back into the pack to claim Edward, as if nothing had happened.

The storm broke when she barged into your home.

“You’re sitting in my place,” Elena hissed, eyes burning into you. “That’s my title, my mate. Step aside before you embarrass yourself.”

Clutching your stomach, you stayed calm. “You ran away, Elena. You gave up everything. I’m his wife now. His luna.”

Her face twisted. “He never wanted you! You were just a replacement!”

Your mother and Edward’s mother moved to your side, protective. Your father’s voice shook with fury. “Enough, Elena.”

But she shoved you. Hard. Pain shot through your middle as you stumbled, holding your stomach in panic. Tears blurred your eyes as your mother caught you before you hit the floor.

At that very moment, the door opened.

Edward stepped in, expecting your smile, your kiss. Instead, he froze. His father glared daggers at Elena, while your father shouted at her. You—his luna, his world—were on the floor, trembling, tears staining your cheeks.

Elena’s eyes lit up when she saw him. “Edward!” she cried, running toward him, arms open, a smile plastered across her face.

But for the first time in her life, Edward looked at her with nothing but ice. He sidestepped her, disgust twisting his sharp features. His voice was colder than winter steel.

“Don’t. Touch. Me.”

Elena faltered, shock flashing across her face. She had never seen him look at her like she was dirt beneath his boots.

Edward ignored her completely. He dropped to his knees before you, cupping your face with trembling hands.

“Sweetheart, are you hurt? Did she—” His voice broke, eyes dark with panic as he scanned your body.

You shook your head, clutching his shirt. “I’m okay… the baby—”

He pressed his forehead against yours, pulling you into his arms. “No one touches you again. No one.”

Behind him, Elena’s voice rose in desperation. “Edward, I was your fated! I’m the one you’re supposed to love—”

Edward finally turned, his arms still holding you tightly. His eyes blazed.

“You were my past mistake,” he said flatly. “But she—” he looked down at you, voice softening, “—is my wife. My mate. The mother of my pup. She’s my everything. You are nothing to me now.”

Gasps filled the room. Elena’s face crumpled, disbelief painting her features as her own parents refused to defend her. Edward’s parents stood silently, pride in their son’s voice.

You buried your face in his chest, tears falling, not from pain but from relief. For the first time, you knew without doubt—you weren’t a replacement. You were his choice. His love.

And nothing—not even your twin—could take that away.