234

Elinor left the hospital, her wounds slowly healing from the brutal attack that had left her in the care of doctors. As an old friend, Itzel naturally came to visit her, stepping into the dimly lit room filled with an air of mystery. Their conversation started off innocently, discussing some family matters that needed attention. But soon, their words turned to a topic that held great importance - Samantha, a young woman whose fate was about to change.

Itzel revealed to Elinor the news that Samantha had recently visited the hospital for a routine check-up, only to discover that she was with child. Itzel urged Elinor to plan accordingly, understanding the delicate nature of the situation. Elinor's heart swelled with joy at the confirmation of Samantha's pregnancy. More heirs to the Xavier lineage were always welcomed, but the news also brought concerns for her own son. Rushing into decisions was not an option; caution and carefulness were paramount.

Itzel and Elinor agreed that this secret must be kept under wraps for now. Samantha's health needed to take precedence, and when the time was right, Elinor would reveal the truth to her son. Then, the matter would be settled between Samantha and Alpha Xavier. Elinor couldn't help but wonder what other schemes Bella, the cunning rival, had in store.

Observing Elinor's enthusiasm for Samantha's pregnancy, Itzel was relieved. However, Elinor decided to disclose another matter plaguing her mind - the auction for the sports meeting. As the bidding process entered its final stages, Elinor couldn't help but be vigilant. She had heard rumors that Alpha Carl, their rival, had enlisted a team of talented designers rooted in tradition. Despite having Zico as the chief designer for Alpha Xavier, Elinor couldn't shake her unease.

The past had taught her that unexpected misfortunes lurked at every turn, just like when they had lost in the pack development. Elinor and her son had believed victory was within their grasp, only to be thwarted by Alpha Carl. This time, they couldn't afford to relax. They had to ensure a smooth outcome.

Although her son reassured her that he was doing everything in his power to handle the situation, Elinor couldn't help but care. If their company managed to secure such a grand project, her future would be boundless. Conversely, if the Parableutions managed to snatch the bid this time, it would be a devastating blow to Xavier Enterprises. The position of the head of Xavier Enterprises would be severely compromised.

Itzel had mentioned before that Pamela, another trusted ally, would find a way to assist Alpha Xavier. Curious, Elinor asked Itzel if there were any updates regarding this matter.

Itzel nodded knowingly. "I didn't come here just to talk about Samantha. Pamela has obtained a copy of the Forging Design for the venue. With this in hand and Xavier Enterprises' bid, victory is assured this time."

With excitement coursing through her veins, Elinor expressed her gratitude to Itzel and made a promise not to mistreat Samantha once victory was secured for Xavier Enterprises.

Content with Elinor's guarantee, Itzel bid farewell and left with a sense of accomplishment. Elinor, too, was elated. She wasted no time in summoning her son back home, eager to discuss the newfound advantage. Important decisions needed to be made swiftly, and their chances of success relied heavily on Alpha Xavier's strategic moves.

As Alpha Xavier arrived home, Elinor wasted no time in delivering the precious gift from Itzel - the Forging Design. Alpha Xavier's eyes widened with surprise as he laid eyes upon the intricate drawing. Grasping the design tightly, he resolved to return to the company with urgency. A meeting with the designers was in order, especially with Zico, the chief designer.

Zico shared the shock and excitement, recognizing the unmistakable style of the renowned Issac. "Xavier, where did you get this drawing? It resembles Issac's work magnificently."

Alpha Xavier nodded in agreement, realizing the weight of their newfound advantage. "I believe it is too. But we must ensure its authenticity."

"I'm certain this is Issac's masterpiece," Zico remarked as he scrutinized every detail. "Rumors suggest he has secluded himself within the pack, detached from worldly affairs. I never expected such a tremendous gift from him. With this drawing, we need not worry about securing the sports meeting."

While Alpha Xavier's side prepared for the bidding process, Alpha Carl remained far from idle. Armed with the Forging Design Issac had gifted him, he knew the outcome of the bidding already.

On the day of the bidding, after countless deliberations, the experts unanimously agreed that the main stadium's design offered by Xavier Enterprises was exceptional and surpassing that of the Parableutions. The main stadium would be built according to Xavier Enterprises' vision, while the Parableutions' drawings would guide the construction of the deputy stadium and the auxiliary staff areas.

The collaboration between Parableutions and Xavier Enterprises proved to be a joyous victory. Alpha Carl, having foreseen this outcome, wasn't taken aback. On the other hand, Alpha Xavier had no substantial objections to the result either. However, such a verdict left Elinor dissatisfied. Sharing the spoils with the Parableutions left her uneasy.

Driven by her dissatisfaction, she reached out to Itzel, sharing her grievances. Itzel, too, found the situation puzzling. The drawing she had given Elinor was undoubtedly Issac's creation. The result should have been a certainty for Xavier Enterprises. Could it be that Beta Craig had played a hidden hand in this?

While suspicions remained unconfirmed, Itzel quickly attributed the blame to Beta Craig, desperate to appease Elinor's frustrations. Left with no other option, Elinor vented her discontent to Itzel, expressing her displeasure before finally ending the call.

United by the sports meeting project, Alpha Carl and Alpha Xavier set up a joint venture company to ensure its success. Xavier Enterprises was under the leadership of Alpha Xavier, while the Sheng Shi Group was led by Alpha Carl. The stakes were high, and the future of both companies hinged on the triumph of this sporting event. The pack's joint venture held its howling ceremony after days of collaboration. Alpha Carl and Alpha Xavier emerged at the ceremony in sharp suits, exuding an eerie yet captivating charm. Reporters bombarded them with inquiries, but the alphas fielded every question with calculated grace.

Former rivals turned partners, their smiles concealed a hidden rivalry. Outsiders would be fooled into thinking they were the best of buddies, but Bella, a she-wolf, couldn't help but sigh in her lupine heart. Who would have thought that the business world was filled with more deception than the realm of actors?

As night fell, the two companies naturally organized a feast to celebrate their newfound alliance. Alpha Carl, acting on behalf of Mark, presided over the event while Bella returned to her refuge, the formidable Castle in the western outskirts.

Inside the castle, George, the pack's chef, prepared a sumptuous spread with the assistance of Layla. They eagerly awaited Alpha Carl's arrival for dinner. Alpha Carl burst into the room, elated from his triumph. Even Leo, the pup, joined in the jubilation, his juvenile voice adding to the chorus of congratulatory wishes.

Alpha Carl, brimming with happiness, scooped Leo into his arms and showered him with unrestrained affection. Layla and George, their inhibitions loosened by the intoxicating ambiance, clinked glasses with Alpha Carl until they were slightly tipsy. In the end, Alpha Carl, too inebriated to leave, spent the night at the Castle in the western outskirts.

Some time had passed since Breanna had returned to the Pack. However, in those weeks, Alpha Carl only appeared once in her presence and then vanished without a trace. In contrast, Alpha Carl, an outsider to Bella, reported to her every day.

Breanna sensed this discrepancy and simmered with anger. Her rightful fiancé had been cast aside in a hotel, while Bella basked in the luxury of Alpha Carl's Castle. What was happening?

Though enraged, Breanna dared not act recklessly, fearing the dire consequences of provoking Alpha Carl's ire. However, the success of the upcoming sports gathering took precedence for the Parableutions. Her fiancé may not be part of the Pack, but Alpha Carl owed her some respect for her attendance at the event, right?

Unfortunately, she was mistaken. Waiting from dawn till dusk, Breanna received no phone call from Alpha Carl. Filled with fury, she disregarded the consequences and raced to the place where Alpha Carl's company held its celebration. Upon arrival, she discovered that Alpha Carl was nowhere to be found, leaving only Lucas and a handful of loyal allies.

Breanna knew where Alpha Carl had disappeared to. Anger propelled her to drive to the Castle in the western outskirts. Gazing at the resplendent lights and listening to the laughter emanating from within, Breanna seethed. Bella had taken over her love's sanctuary. She was entwined with Alpha Carl, while Breanna dangled in uncertainty. She had to confront him.

The next day, Breanna paid Bella a visit. Observing Alpha Carl's true fiancée on her doorstep, Bella maintained a courteous facade. She extended an invitation for Breanna to sit down and offered her tea. But Breanna disregarded the hospitality and spoke coldly.

"Bella, it seems like you're quite comfortable living in my fiancé's abode, aren't you? But I wonder if my foolish Alpha understands the situation here?"

"Alpha Zachary was the one who requested Alpha Carl's care for us," Bella replied.

"My Alpha enjoys playing the hero, even if his true intentions may differ," Breanna smirked. "Bella, you and Alpha Carl had a history. Do you honestly believe my Alpha is at ease with that in his heart?"

"Miss Zachary, Alpha Carl and I had a relationship in the past, but since you and he got engaged, we have been nothing more than friends. As for Alpha Zachary, I've known him for years, and he understands me well. He knows I am not that kind of wolf, and I am fully aware of my own identity."

"Is that so? Allow me to remind you further. Bella, you're just an outsider to Alpha Carl, but I am his true fiancée. Do you believe it's appropriate for me, his rightful mate, to reside in a hotel, neglected each passing day while you revel in his Castle?"

"My apologies, I've been inconsiderate. I will find another place to stay immediately," Bella finally comprehended Breanna's intentions. She despised seeing herself living in Alpha Carl's Castle and wished to drive her away.

Breanna, now Alpha Carl's betrothed, possessed the authority to do so. Bella chose to yield.

"Move away? Where will you go? Are you planning to tattle on Alpha Carl right now?" Breanna doubted she would truly leave.

"Do not fret, Miss Zachary. I won't stoop so low." Bella pondered for a moment. "I shall relocate to my uncle's residence."

"Bella, your uncle resides in Alpha Carl's domain. Are you pretending to be ignorant?" Breanna sneered.

"Alpha Carl went to such great lengths for you, having someone arrange this theatrical display. You are much more cunning than you let on. I cannot believe you are completely clueless about the truth."

Breanna disclosed that the house Bella rented belonged to Alpha Carl.

"Miss Zachary, you misunderstand me greatly. I genuinely had no knowledge that the house belonged to Alpha Carl. Since that is the case, I shall find another place to stay," Bella expressed her remorse. She never imagined Alpha Carl would go to such lengths for her. She felt an overwhelming sense of guilt.

"Bella, there is no need for you to find another home. If you desire my trust, you have a marvelous choice," Breanna suggested.

"What choice would that be?"

"Alpha Xavier. He possesses numerous residences within the Pack, and Leo is his son. It is only natural for him to give you and your child shelter. If you move into Alpha Xavier's residence, there will be no issues. Alpha Carl won't pester you, and I will be convinced of your fidelity. It's a perfect solution for the three of you to unite."

"That is impossible!" Bella refused. "Alpha Xavier and I are divorced. I want nothing to do with him anymore."

"Bella, your words bewilder me. Alpha Xavier is your ex-husband and Leo's father. Even after the divorce, it is customary for your ex-husband to provide for your child. It is no crime to utilize his resources and reside in Alpha Xavier's abode. So why do you persist in denying it? I must admit, I struggled to comprehend it until now."

"I wonder what you have come to understand, Miss Zachary?"

"Bella, you are the epitome of hypocrisy. You string along my Alpha and Alpha Carl simultaneously. Are you proud that these men sacrifice themselves for you?"

"Is this the behavior expected of a well-bred she-wolf like yourself? Your upbringing does raise concerns!" Bella's expression hardened as she snapped back. She possessed no fondness for Breanna, but she tolerated her for the sake of Alpha Zachary. Now that Breanna sought to provoke her further, Bella was no longer obligated to be polite.

"There is nothing wrong with how I have been raised. However, Miss Moonshadow, it would be utterly shameless to reside in someone else's fiancé's dwelling. Do not bear another's child and expect to marry my Alpha. My Alpha is not some good-for-nothing. Since our alliance has crumbled, I see no reason to hold back," Breanna switched to an accusing tone.

"You..." Bella seethed with anger, her face turning a shade of green. "Get out!"