_Thalassa's POV_
"I am Matteo's mate," I declared, my voice filled with conviction. "I have never betrayed the Crystal Pack."
Alpha Mark's expression twisted, his features contorted in a sneer of contempt. "Impossible," he scoffed. "You were already rejected by my son. Second chance mates are exceedingly rare, and it is inconceivable that Alpha Matteo would be mated to a cursed wolf like you."
"I am Matteo's mate by the will of the moon goddess," I asserted. "And I am proud of that bond, regardless of your beliefs."
Alpha Mark's lip curled in disdain, his eyes glittering with malice. "The moon goddess's will?" he scoffed. "You speak of divine intervention as if it were a mere convenience to justify your treachery. But the truth remains unchanged, Thalassa. You were rejected by my son,
