The Way To Happiness

Ava's POV

The day I found out I was pregnant, my mate, Alpha Hunter, posted a photo on the pack's feed. His arm was wrapped around my best friend, Katherine , her bare, swollen belly resting against him as they posed in front of a cozy fire. The caption read: Theres nothing stronger than the bond of pack and family. His hand, marked with the same mates band I wore, was splayed across her belly. It was unmistakable.

I clenched my jaw, barely able to breathe as I typed a quick comment, "Congratulations."

Within seconds, my phone buzzed. Katherine s voice, breathless and shaky, was on the other end. "Ava, Im so sorry. I only posted it to get back at Kade after we argued! I swear it wasnt supposed to mean anything!"

I could feel my heart racing, but before I could answer, Hunters voice came through the line, cold and sharp. "Ava, I know youre reading too much into this. Youre so obsessed with being a mother that youre letting jealousy twist everything around you. No wonder you havent been able to conceive.

The line went dead, but I barely noticed. I was numb.

Minutes later, another alert popped up. Katherine had posted again. Counting down the days until Ill have two strong alphas protecting me. Hunter had already liked it.

It felt like a blade twisting in my chest. Without a word, I took off my mates band, tossed it into the woods nearby, and headed back to the healers quarters to cancel the appointment Id made for a fertility check.

Later that night, for once, Hunter came home before the moon had risen. He found the untouched herbal remedies and supplements tossed in the waste bin and scowled. We decided to opt for herbs since the drugs from the hospital weren't having an effect. To Hunter, I am just a barren wife.

"Are you throwing a tantrum over nothing? He raised a brow. So petty."

My voice was steady, almost detached. "I'm not angry."

He laughed, a low, mocking sound. "You threw out the fertility herbs, but sure, youre not mad. Do whatever you want. But remember, youre the one whos desperate, Ava. Not me.

I was gripping the edge of the counter, trying to steady myself, when he handed me a small, dark box. "This is from Jen. She feels bad, alright? Shes young, inexperienced She wanted to make things right with you.

Inside was a crystal bead. Katherine s favorite. She likes it a lot, in fact she loves it so much she wears it everyday causing it to be worn out and scratched, I could see the deep scuffs around the beads. They werent new, far from it. But the fact shed even given them to him as a gift felt like a slap to the face.

Take them, Hunter insisted, his voice edged with annoyance. Shes been struggling lately, Ava. She doesnt have much, and she knows this means a lot to her so it should to you.

Just hours ago, Katherine had posted a picture wearing brand-new jade beads, captionedC To the best alpha in the world. When favoritism feels like love.

When I didnt reach for the boots, Hunters face hardened. Ava, seriously? Youre almost twenty-five, acting like a jealous pup. You know Katherine has no family, nothing but this pack, and still you treat her like this?

His voice rose in irritation as he tossed the box onto the table, hard enough to make it rattle. I winced as it brushed past my head, catching me on the temple.

Hunters eyes widened, realizing what hed done. Ava, I didnt meanlet me see it.

I pulled away from his hand, blinking back tears. Im fine.

Ignoring my protests, he pushed my hand aside, inspecting the bump starting to form. His face shifted from anger to something almost like worry. "Thats not fine. Hold on, Ill get some ice."

He was halfway across the room when his phone buzzed, and I watched as his face softened at the name on the screenC Peckels

Hunter! Katherine s voice came through, fragile, breaking.

He stiffened, holding the phone close. Jen, whats wrong?

I Im scared, she whimpered. Its just My stomach hurts. I dont know if its the baby or

Hunters tone softened, and his eyes clouded with worry. Jen, why didnt you call me sooner? Youre supposed to let me know immediately if anythings wrong.

Her voice was quiet, unsure. I I didnt want to get in between you and Ava. I thought you might need to be with her tonight.

Hunter chuckled, warm and reassuring. Silly girl, theres nothing Ava needs from me that cant wait. Your safety comes first. Send your location. Im coming.

He hung up, turning back to me, irritation flashing again in his eyes. Did you hear that? Katherines worried about you, and here you are, acting ridiculous. Im taking her to the healer. Ill grab ice for you on the way back.

Hunter, I murmured, just as he was reaching for his jacket.

He turned, clearly exasperated. Ava, stop being so needy. This is about two liveshers and the pups! Dont make this about your own insecurities.

I watched him, knowing better than to argue. Instead, I walked calmly to the coat closet, pulled out the worn leather satchel where he kept his belongings, and took out a small card. "Katherines health records. Youll need it if the healer asks."

Hunter looked taken aback for a second, then he reached out and took it from my hand. Thanks, he murmured, almost begrudgingly.

His gaze remained on me, as if he might say something, but I forced a small smile, tilting my head. Drive safe.

I reached up, my hand brushing his collar, straightening it the way I always did. His expression softened just slightly, his hand reaching up to touch my shoulder.

Ill be back soon. Wait for me.

I nodded, not trusting my voice, as he walked out the door and disappeared into the night. I stood alone in the quietness of the house, the fire slowly dying down to embers. I could still hear Katherines laughter echoing in my head, her voice intertwined with his

Avas POV

After he left, I sent a quick text to one of the members of the pack about starting the process of severing the bond with Hunter. I went to bed early, hoping that the next day would feel a bit more bearable. But in the dead of night, my phone buzzed. It was 1 a.m., and as I expected, the other side of the bed was still empty.

I checked my phone and saw several messages from Katherine .

Hunter is just so hot! I wanna devour him while hes asleep!

Attached was a photo of Hunter asleep. His head rested on her pink, cartoon-print pillow, his hair tousled, lips slightly parted in that way that once made my heart race. I saw the typing indicator flash at the top of the chat, and then Katherine quickly deleted her messages. She sent a single sticker begging for forgiveness.

Oops! Meant to send those to someone else, but accidentally sent them to you. I was just messing arounddont be mad! Hunters already knocked out.

Maybe she expected me to blow up her phone with furious calls, like I had in the past. But this time, I just blocked her and closed my eyes, too tired of the games to care anymore.

By morning, I steeled myself for the mocking glances from the pack. Lately, every breakfast seemed like another round of snickering and whispers behind my back, mostly coming from Katherine and her friends. When Hunter and I were bonded, the pack assumed our connection would bring strength to us both. Instead, I'd found myself shrinking in his shadow, barely holding on while he flaunted his status with Katherine by his side.

I entered the dining hall, head down, hoping to slip into my usual spot in the back. But almost immediately, I heard the murmuring.

"Look, there she is, Luna Ava," someone snickered. "She doesnt look very Luna-like, does she?"

Someone else giggled, "Poor thing, she tries so hard."

I pretended not to hear, keeping my gaze down as I slid into my seat.

A moment later, Katherine walked in with Hunter by her side. She stumbleddeliberate, no doubther face flushed with mock embarrassment. Hunters arm went out instantly to catch her, pulling her up with ease. She leaned against him, beaming as if hed just saved her life, and then glanced my way, giving me that same smug grin that had been haunting me lately.

Some pack members around me murmured, watching with a mix of shock and amusement. The rest, including a few Omegas, whispered among themselves, speculating about how long the Luna would tolerate being treated like an outsider.

It hurt. Even my own friends couldnt look me in the eye anymore, not with the Alpha choosing Katherine over me so openly. I straightened, trying to maintain my composure. Just as I pulled out my phone to continue texting, Hunters deep, authoritative voice called my name.

Ava, come here.

I looked up, surprised to see him standing just a few feet away, arms folded, his piercing gaze fixed on me. "We need to talk."

Swallowing, I nodded, feeling everyones eyes on me as I stood and followed him. The whispers grew louder behind me as we entered one of the private alcoves near the hall.

Once the door closed, Hunter crossed his arms, his eyes dark and unreadable. "You didnt call me last night. Or even text. Nothing."

I clenched my hands, forcing a calm tone. "Why would I? Katherine was with you, right? You didnt need me."

His expression darkened, and in a flash, he grabbed my shoulders, his voice low and seething. "Youre my mate, Ava. Don't pretend you're unaffected. I didnt come home, and I dont buy that youre 'not mad.'"

I shrugged off his hands, taking a step back. "I told you, I'm not mad. If youre choosing her, thats your decision. Just dont expect me to

Before I could finish, his grip tightened. He was silent for a moment, his jaw tense. Then, almost as if catching himself, he let me go. In the sudden release, I stumbled back slightly, catching myself on the table behind me. My fingers brushed against something soft, and when I pulled my hand up, a familiar piece of lace dangled from my fingers.

Pink lace. Katherines.

The color drained from Hunters face. His mouth opened, then closed, as if struggling for an excuse. But I didnt wait. I tossed the bra back onto the table, feeling my voice harden. If you have nothing else to say, Alpha, Ill be going.

He looked as if he wanted to argue, but I turned on my heel, leaving him standing there.

Outside, I took a deep breath, trying to swallow the wave of hurt clawing up my chest. This wasnt new. It wasnt even unexpected. But this time, it felt final. I didnt need his excuses or apologies, not anymore.

I went back to the main hall, picking up my phone to check for messages from my lawyer. Just as I was about to head out, I heard the familiar rumble of Hunters voice again.

Ava, get in the car. Well drop Katherine off first, then we can go to that new place by the lake. Your favorite.

I paused, confused. He hadnt invited me out in ages, let alone to one of my favorite spots. Katherine poked her head out from the passenger side, grinning with that same smug look. Sorry, Ava, Im hitching a ride again!

Without looking at her, I focused on the cab pulling up across the road. You two go ahead. Ive got other plans.

The amusement on Katherine s face faltered. She looked between Hunter and me, her eyes narrowing slightly. Hunters expression turned stormy, but I didnt give him a chance to speak. Instead, I walked around his car and stepped into the cab, feeling his gaze burning into my back as I shut the door.

As the cab pulled away, I glanced out the window, taking one last look at the pack house, watching Hunters stunned face fade into the distance.

I wasnt his Luna. I wasnt his anything. But for the first time in ages, I felt a strange sense of relief.

Avas POV

I didnt expect Hunter and Katherine to follow me to the pack dining hall.

The packs elders had invited me for a meeting, likely out of courtesy as Hunters official mate. I barely had time to sit down when Hunter and Katherine strolled in, taking seats across from me as if it were perfectly normal.

I glanced at them, forcing my voice to stay steady. I was invited to discuss trade routes with the elders, I explained, hinting at a need for privacy.

Hunter smirked, leaning back. And did they say they didnt want their alpha involved?

I said nothing, knowing there was no winning with him in public. My role here was nothing more than a formality.

The conversation began, with elder Logan praising Hunters recent decision to expand alliances with neighboring packs. As the meal continued, Logan raised his glass, signaling a toast. A server approached with a glass of wine for each of us.

Just as I was about to decline politely, Katherines honeyed voice interrupted. Avas a powerhouse. I heard she can hold her liquor better than any omega! She grinned, her wide eyes filled with false innocence.

I froze, my throat tightening. It was the same little games Katherine had been playing for months.

Who told you that? I asked coolly.

Katherine s smile wavered, but she quickly turned to Hunter, feigning hurt. Did I say something wrong?

Hunter placed a hand on her shoulder, his expression darkening. Ava, its just a toast. Stop making things difficult.

I swallowed, feeling a surge of anger but kept my voice calm. I cant drink, Hunter. Im pregnant.

The room went silent, every pair of eyes locking on me. The elders looked at each other, and even Katherine s mask slipped momentarily.

After a heartbeat of stunned silence, Katherine stood, raising her glass. Congratulations, Ava! Her voice was bright and high-pitched, like this was just another harmless joke.

She raised the glass to her lips, but Hunter stopped her. Kath, you shouldnt drink either, he said. Not in your condition.

Ignoring him, Katherine gave a mocking smile and took a sip, choking a bit as she forced it down. No, I have to, she insisted. This is my apology for every time Ive hurt Ava. Her face flushed pink as she coughed, tears gathering in her eyes.

Hunter sprang up, glaring at me. Look at what youve done, Ava. Only someone as naive as Katherine would believe your lies.

His anger poured out, filling the room. You know what? If you cant get along with her, maybe we should just reject this bond. Maybe we should get a divorce!

The sting of his words cut deep, but I held my head high. Fine, I said evenly. Lets.

Without looking back, I rose and walked out of the hall, holding my composure until I was outside. I barely noticed the cool night air as I pulled out my phone, dialing my lawyer. Midway through explaining my decision to go through with the bond separation, headlights suddenly blinded me.

I looked up, freezing as a sleek black car came hurtling towards me at an alarming speed, tires screeching against the gravel. My heart pounded. I had just enough time to jump out of the way, collapsing onto the ground as the car swerved, sped past, and disappeared into the night.

I sat there, dazed and trembling, as a faint metallic scent filled the air.

Are you alright? A pack members voice broke through my haze. She knelt beside me, her eyes wide with concern.

I looked down, finally noticing the sticky warmth spreading across my thigh. Blood pooled around me, soaking into the earth.

The woman helped me up and rushed me to the infirmary.

At the infirmary, the pack healer glanced at my blood-stained clothes with a frown. Ava, you should call your mate. This injury could be serious.

I clutched my phone, staring at Hunters number. For a long moment, I considered calling him, hoping he might care enough to show up.

But memories of his cold indifference came rushing back. His words echoed in my head: Maybe we should get a divorce.

I sighed, letting the phone drop back into my lap.

Avas POV

The quiet in the packhouse had become something I relied on to keep myself sane, a rare escape from Alpha Hunters scrutiny and Katherine s constant presence. So, when the silence shattered with a sharp knock at my infirmary door, I knew it couldnt be good.

I sat up carefully, ignoring the ache in my side from the wound that nearly cost me my life and my baby. With a deep breath, I composed myself as best I could and called out, "Come in."

A nurse entered first, holding a small phone. Youve got a call, Luna, she murmured before handing it to me with a cautious look, clearly aware of the strained relationship I had with our Alpha.

Hunters voice was clipped, impatience clear even before I said anything. "Ava, where are you? Katherines staying with me for a few days because of some plumbing issue. I expect you back by evening.

The words sliced through me, but I steadied my voice. Ill be home when Im discharged, Alpha.

As I ended the call, I closed my eyes, feeling the urge to crumble. This wasnt the life Id wanted, but it was the one Id been forced into. Being his omega mate hadnt brought the respect or care Id once hoped it would. Instead, I was reminded constantly of Katherines place in his heartand my own status as nothing more than a duty, an obligation.

The next day, the nurse cleared me for discharge. I made my way back to the packhouse with heavy steps, dreading what I might find. And when I got there, I wasnt surprised to see Katherine standing by the door with a smug smile.

Oh, Ava! Youre back, she chirped, her tone dripping with insincerity. "Hunter changed the entry code, but Im sure he just forgot to tell you.

Without missing a beat, she held the door open wider, gesturing grandly like she was welcoming me into her home. You know, he changed it to my birthday. Its so much easier for us to remember.

I swallowed back a bitter retort, unwilling to play into her game. As I moved past her, I caught the faintest scent of lavendermy own signature scent, which Katherine had apparently taken to wearing. It was too much.

"Hunter?" I called out, walking through the entryway into the kitchen where the smell of roasting meat filled the air. I wasnt surprised to see him standing over the stove in an apronmy apron, the one Id carefully embroidered with his initials when wed first been married. Back then, I thought it meant something.

"Ah, Ava," he said coolly, barely glancing my way. "Since youre here, go freshen up. Its Katherines birthday tonight, and were hosting a small celebration at the packhouse lounge. Nothing too extravagant, just casual."

I took a breath, forcing my voice to stay calm. I dont think Im feeling up to it.

He turned, and his eyes narrowed. "Come on, Ava, its Katherine s birthday. She invited the whole pack to celebrate with us. You dont want to embarrass her in front of everyone, do you?

I held his gaze, feeling the rage simmer in my chest. "Im recovering, Hunter. The doctor told me to take it easy."

"Katherine went through the same thing," he retorted, "but she's not using it as an excuse. Shes been helping around here nonstop. Why cant you do the same?"

Just as I was about to answer, Katherine walked in, giving me a wide-eyed, innocent look. Oh, Ava, dont worry about the party. If youre too tired, its alright, she said sweetly. But it would mean a lot if you could at least stop by, you know, just for a bit. Maybe just a drink or two?

Her words dripped with mock kindness, and I felt something inside me snap. I managed a thin smile, masking my fury. "Of course, Katherine . Ill be there."

That evening, I dressed in a simple gown, nothing too fancy. I wasnt about to put on a show for her. As I entered the lounge, the room buzzed with energy, pack members laughing, drinks flowing. Katherine stood in the center, radiant in her crimson dress, glowing under the dim lights.

Luna! one of the younger pack members called, and I forced a smile, nodding politely. Katherine sauntered over, her arm slipping through Hunters, her head resting on his shoulder as if she owned him.

Oh, Ava! she squealed. Im so glad you came. I was just telling everyone how much I admire your resilience. Truly, I dont know how you do it. She raised her glass, looking at me with a saccharine smile. To Ava! The strongest omega I know!

I took a steady breath. "Thank you, Katherine ," I replied, my tone neutral. "And congratulations to you for everything."

Her eyes sparkled, and she lifted her glass, clearly savoring the moment.

"Hunter, she giggled, maybe one day, Ill be Luna of this pack too, alongside Ava."

The comment hung in the air, thick and heavy. Hunter stiffened, glancing quickly at me before laughing it off. Alright, lets keep the peace tonight, ladies.

But then, Katherine clinked her glass against mine, a little too hard, her eyes gleaming with something darker. By the way, Ava, she began in an overly sweet tone, I had a little... accident with your mail. Something about a doctor's appointment?

The color drained from my face as I remembered the lettermy post-abortion care instructions. That was what she had.

In a flash, she pulled it from her clutch, waving it around like a trophy. "Hunter, dear, isnt this interesting?

Hunters gaze locked onto the paper, his face paling as he read. Ava, he began, his voice low and accusatory. Is this true?

My throat tightened, but I lifted my chin, refusing to break under his glare. "Yes, Hunter. Its true. I was pregnant.

Hunters eyes darkened, and he stepped closer, his voice laced with fury. "You kept this from me?