Chapter 8 Deluded

~Dagan's POV~

The meeting ended on a note that left a bitter taste in my mouth, but there was nothing I could do except nod in acceptance and support the final decision.

I would get even with the witch, one way or another. It did not matter how long it took. Time was on my side, and patience had always been my ally.

When Kael walked out of the hall, I followed him at a measured distance. There was something important I needed to discuss with him, but before I could reach him, I heard voices around the corner.

His voice was unmistakable, calm yet edged with authority, and the other belonged to Brenda.

I stopped, curiosity anchoring me in place. Their conversation was too intriguing to interrupt. Brenda was questioning his behavior toward the witch. A small, pleased smile tugged at my lips as I listened. So I was not the only one who had noticed.

When Kael dismissed her, I waited a few moments before stepping forward.

“I’m glad someone else noticed. I was almost thinking I had gone insane,” I said from behind her, my tone low and deliberate. She jumped slightly but quickly masked her surprise before turning to face me.

“Beta Dagan,” she greeted, tilting her head. “What are you talking about?”

“Alpha’s behavior toward the witch,” I said simply, watching her reaction.

“Oh, you haven’t gone insane at all,” she replied confidently, her eyes glinting with certainty. “Everyone who knows Kael has noticed it, but they’re too afraid to speak up or question him.”

“You’re right,” I said, feigning thoughtfulness, as though her words had just sparked a revelation. “It’s puzzling. I wonder what’s going on with him.”

“Do you think she bewitched him?” she asked, leaning closer, her curiosity sharpening like a blade. “If she used magic on you, who knows what she might have done to him?”

“Kael is immune to magic,” I explained, still wearing that pensive look. “Unless, of course, this particular witch has found a way to break through his immunity. She is said to be a powerful one.”

“So I’ve heard,” she said, shaking her head in disbelief. “It’s insane how she managed to act sick just to escape trial, and Kael instantly bought it.”

“I believe he’s doing it for the good of the pack,” I mused, pretending to weigh my words carefully. “But still, I think we should keep an eye on him. If something else is at play, we may need to act quickly to bring him back.”

“You’re right. I’ll do my best to keep an eye on him,” she said, swallowing the bait perfectly.

I smiled faintly, just enough to convey appreciation. I knew Kael wasn't interested in her, but she seemed too delusional to read the handwriting on the wall.

Kael might not be want her, but her delusion made her useful to me. She had potential, and I knew exactly how to shape it to my advantage.

“Pardon me for not asking,” I continued smoothly. “How is Moon Crest faring? I didn’t have the time to speak to your father before he left.”

“Moon Crest is doing alright,” she said with a bright smile that reached her eyes. “We’re getting stronger by the day.”

She was beautiful, that much I could admit.

“Getting ready to take over the Alpha title from your father?” I teased lightly.

She laughed, a soft and unguarded sound. “I don’t think Father will be handing over that title anytime soon. Besides, I have my eyes and heart set on Ironfang. I prefer it here, you know. I feel like this is where I’m meant to be.”

I almost laughed aloud at her words. Of course she felt that way. Ironfang was indeed where she was meant to be, because she was meant to help me rise.

“It is indeed,” I said with practiced charm. “You are perfect Luna material. Beauty, confidence, and brains all in one. Too bad Kael isn’t seeing it.”

Her smile faltered for a moment before she quickly regained her composure, slipping her confidence back into place like a cloak.

“It’s just a matter of time,” she said, brushing a few stray strands of hair away from her face. “He’ll realize what he’s been missing. I just need to make him see it.”

“I believe so too,” I said, encouraging her further. “Just keep doing your best and impressing the people that matter. Everything will fall into place soon enough, and that crown will be yours.”

Her eyes lit up with renewed hope, a glow so bright it was almost blinding.

“When you say people that matter,” she asked with genuine curiosity, “do you mean the high cabinet members?”

“You’re a smart woman, Brenda,” I replied, my voice low and deliberate. “I don’t need to spell it out. I’m rooting for you.”

I gave her one last smile before turning away, satisfied. Every piece was falling exactly where I needed it to.