I Was Reborn, but I Chose to Walk Away from My Alpha Mate

CHAPPER FOUR

Chapter 4

My heart clenched.

In my previous life, this was exactly how Alexander had exploited my weakness—making me lower my head again and again, coaxing me into forming a bond. Each time I gave in, he grew bolder, until he crushed the Barrow name under his heel.

My nails dug deep into my palm.

Alexander’s threats were like a dull blade, sawing away at my dignity, slow and cruel. But this time, I wouldn’t let him win.

After speaking, Alexander turned and walked away with Heidi in tow.

Under the moonlight, his back looked especially cold and rigid, his wolf tail swaying slightly behind him—an arrogant display of triumph. Heidi clung to his side like a delicate little fox, completely dependent on him.

Gwen Carrington came over, looking at me with concern in her eyes.

“Miss... are you really going to bond with that bastard tomorrow?” Her wolf cast a worried glance my way.

I looked toward the brightly lit villa, filled with joy and celebration, then turned and instructed quietly:

“For tomorrow’s bonding ceremony, tell Father to invite every rival of the Blackwell family. And make sure the media and gossip streamers are there—invite extra.”

This time, I was going to expose Alexander for who he really was—right in front of everyone.

In my past life, he used the guise of loyalty and love to gain my father’s trust. With that endorsement, he secured funding and lured many of our family's longtime partners to his side.

With the support of those elders, his path had been smooth, eventually allowing him to claim the title of Evereth City’s richest Alpha.

But this life? I was going to tear off his mask, crush his ambitions underfoot, and see whether he could still climb to the top once his enemies turned on him. When I returned to my bedroom, my father came in, visibly thrilled.

“Mason’s father is overjoyed. Mason’s so eager, he said he’d fly in tonight if he could!”

“Dad, tell Uncle not to worry. Everything’s ready on our side. No need to rush. As long as we hold the bonding ceremony by noon tomorrow, we’re good.”

I was about to tell him to wear something cheerful for the occasion when a video call from Mason came in.

Even through the screen, I could feel his nervous excitement. His wolf was wagging its tail—literally.

“Sis, you’re really going to marry me? This isn’t just to cheer me up, right?”

His wolf ears stood straight up, and his golden eyes sparkled with anticipation—like a young wolf pup waiting for a treat.

Seeing him stare at me like that—so hopeful, so tense—I couldn’t help but laugh.

“What? You don’t want to marry me? Am I too old for you?” “Bullshit!” he said instantly. “To me, you’ve always been the youngest, most beautiful goddess. I’ve loved you since I was ten. I’ve dreamed of making you my mate.”

Then his voice fell slightly, his expression dimming.

“But all you ever saw was that asshole Alexander. You never looked at me.”

My heart softened.

I lowered my voice and spoke gently, “You’re right. I was wrong before. I had no idea what I was missing. I overlooked a good man like you, and I intend to make it up to you. Fair enough?”

Mason’s eyes lit up at once.

“Really? You really think I’m a good man?”

His voice cracked. His eyes turned red.

“Yes. You always have been. I just didn’t see it back then — but I do now.”

Immediately, Mason’s face grew serious. “Sis, just wait. Tomorrow I’ll bring double the betrothal gift. I’ll marry you in the grandest way possible.”

“I’m heading out to prepare everything right now. You’re not allowed to back out!”

Before I could even tell him he didn’t have to go all out, he’d already hung up.

I set the phone down and went into the bathroom. When I came out—

Rumble.

The sound of a rotor echoed through the villa.

A helicopter had landed in the courtyard.

As the cabin door opened, the butler approached, carrying a finely crafted gift box.