Free Web NovelChapter 60: Chapter 60 Hugo
Author’s POV freeweɓnovēl.coɱ
Alpha Astra didn’t immediately agree as Selene had clearly hoped. The Alpha’s face remained unreadable as she considered her daughter’s words. She understood perfectly what Selene was attempting to do.
Having learned the full details of the situation, Astra knew that Sylvia couldn’t possibly be blamed for what had transpired. Her younger daughter had been the victim in this scenario. Sunny’s intentions had been transparent, and her downfall was entirely of her own making.
Watching her mother’s expressionless face, Selene’s heart pounded nervously. She knew Sylvia had done nothing wrong in this situation, but she couldn’t bear to watch her sister continue gaining ground and solidifying her position at the company. The thought of standing by as Sylvia thrived was simply unbearable.
"I understand your concerns," Alpha Astra finally said. "I’ll have a word with Sylvia about this."
Her eyes softened slightly as she looked at her eldest daughter’s perpetually pale complexion. Despite everything, maternal instinct stirred compassion in her heart. How could such a delicate girl harbor truly malicious intentions?
The Hugo incident still stung, but Astra couldn’t blame Selene for that. The fault lay with the man who hadn’t maintained proper boundaries.
"Thank you, Mother," Selene sighed with visible relief. "Since you’ll speak with her, I won’t worry anymore. Sylvia always listens to you." Her lips curved into a small smile. "She never pays attention to anything I say as her big sister."
Alpha Astra fell silent at this comment. The truth was that compared to Selene, Sylvia had always been the easier child to raise. From childhood onward, her younger daughter had never caused her worry.
The bond between mother and youngest daughter was something Selene could never quite understand—or forgive.
Selene’s POV
Alpha Astra was thinking of my fragile health. She’d always been more patient with me because of it.
I nestled closer to my mother, taking advantage of her maternal instinct. "You’ve always been thoughtful," Alpha Astra finally said, her lips pressed into a firm line. Her fingers smoothed over mine as she added, "I’ll speak with your sister about this matter."
"You make a valid point," she continued. "To truly lead, one must consider the opinions of those who follow. Going against the pack’s sentiment is never wise."
I allowed a smile to bloom across my face, making sure to soften my eyes. "As long as mother understands my concerns, that’s all that matters. I’m only looking out for Sylvia’s best interests."
"Yes, yes, my sweet girl." Mother patted the back of my hand, her Alpha ring gleaming in the light. Then she shifted the conversation toward me, her voice gentle. "Child, you’ve always been good. I’ve always known that."
Her tone changed slightly as she broached the topic I’d been dreading. "But about the Hugo situation... what are your intentions moving forward?"
I gripped the hem of my dress, allowing distress to show on my face. "Mom, didn’t Hugo already explain everything to you?"
"He simply had too much to drink and mistook Sylvia for me." I am convinced of this. There’s no way Hugo could fall for Sylvia - I am his destined mate.
Alpha Astra opened her mouth to object, but I cut her off quickly: "Besides, Mother, we’re already engaged. What’s the point in dwelling on this? The reputation of the Frostfang Pack must come first."
I watched my mother’s expression shift as she processed my words. The determination on my face seemed to convince her. She said nothing more, clearly agreeing with my assessment about preserving the pack’s image.
Frostline Enterprises had worked too hard to reach its current standing. Too many eyes were watching us. Any negative publicity would immediately impact our stock prices and alliance positions.
"I understand," Alpha Astra said soothingly. "You’ve been wronged in this."
I seized the opportunity to appear selfless. "I’m not suffering, Mother. I’ve always felt guilty that my poor health prevents me from helping shoulder your burdens."
"Besides," I continued, maintaining a peaceful smile, "Hugo was my choice. What right do I have to complain?"
Mother’s eyes softened. "Don’t worry about that. Your health comes first. Simply being well and happy is all the help I need from you."
"That’s all I ask for—your happiness."
Seizing the moment, I wrapped my arms around her waist and buried my face against her. My voice trembled with calculated emotion: "Mom, I’ve always known you care for me most..."
Even after everything I’d said, she still wouldn’t allow me to work at the company. Only Sylvia was permitted to enter Frostline Enterprises. Why was I denied the same opportunity?
I was perfectly aware of Sylvia’s progress. If she secured the Vertex project, not only would her position at Frostline rise dramatically, but her standing in our mother’s heart would skyrocket as well.
My fingers slowly curled into fists. I couldn’t just watch this happen without taking action.
I watched the notification light blink on my phone with cool satisfaction. Right on schedule. My lips curved into a smile as I answered the call from my latest pawn.
"Ms. Frost," came his hesitant voice, almost trembling with submission. "I’ve completed the task you assigned me."
"Well done," I purred, letting my pleasure seep into my voice.
Leaning back in my leather executive chair, I savored the moment. Another piece had fallen perfectly into place. Soon, that little wolf Sylvia would learn what it meant to cross paths with Selene Frost.
"You’ll find your compensation has already been transferred to the agreed account," I informed him smoothly. "I trust this concludes our business?"
"Y-yes, Ms. Frost. Thank you." The relief in his voice was palpable.
I ended the call without another word. Sylvia, if you value the Vertex project so much, I’ll make damn sure you never get it!
