LYDIA'S POV

　　The journey to the West River Pack was quite boring and uneventful, filled with tension and an underlying sense of betrayal. The Miller twins, Evan and Brandon, tried several times to initiate conversations, but I shut them down with short, curt responses. Their persistent attempts at small talk only served to remind me of how they had disregarded our bond for their perceived duty.

　　If they thought I was being petty, I didn't mind. They had made it clear where their loyalties lay, and now, so had I. The silence between us was heavy, filled with unspoken words and unresolved emotions. I stared out of the window of the carriage, watching the landscape blur past, my mind churning with thoughts of the recent events and what lay ahead.

　　When we finally arrived at the West River Pack's territory, the change in scenery was noticeable. The dense forest gave way to wide, open fields and the large, imposing structure that served as the pack's main house came into view. It was grand and intimidating, a reflection of the pack's strength and history.

　　As we disembarked, I couldn't help but notice the curious and somewhat wary glances from the pack members. They knew who I was, and they were probably wondering why I was there. The Miller twins flanked me, their expressions carefully neutral, but I could sense their unease.

　　"Princess Lydia," a voice called out, and I turned to see a female approaching us with a smile on her face.

　　"I did receive news about a royal carriage heading towards the West River Pack, but I had no idea that it would be the princess herself," Alpha Chloe said, her tone laced with an unmistakable coldness. Her eyes bore into mine, and I could sense her immediate judgment.

　　"Um…yes," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady and neutral. "I came here to discuss something with the Alpha."

　　"You are standing before her," Chloe said, her eyes narrowing slightly. "I am Alpha Chloe, the new Alpha of the West River Pack." She extended her hand, and I took it, her grip firm and unyielding.

　　"I thought Heckim was the Alpha of this pack," I said, watching her closely. Her expression shifted, a flash of disappointment and anger crossing her features.

　　"He was," she replied, her voice tightening. "But ever since he came back from your kingdom, he was not himself and had to step down from his position."

　　Her words hit me like a punch to the gut. Heckim had lost his position because of his involvement with me. The weight of guilt settled heavily on my shoulders. "I…I had no idea," I stammered, my voice barely above a whisper. "I never intended for that to happen."

　　Chloe's eyes hardened further, her lips pressed into a thin line. "Intentions don't matter much when the consequences are so severe, Princess. Heckim's downfall was his own doing, but your involvement certainly didn't help."

　　I swallowed hard, trying to keep my composure. "I'm truly sorry. I came here to discuss matters of alliance and support. The situation in my kingdom is dire, and I believe the West River Pack and my kingdom can benefit from working together."

　　Chloe's expression remained stony. "Our pack values strength and loyalty above all. Heckim's actions showed neither. What makes you think we would risk aligning with your kingdom now?"

　　I could see the tension in Alpha Chloe's eyes, a reflection of the turmoil Heckim's situation had caused in her pack. Determined to clear the air, I took a deep breath and spoke earnestly.

　　"Alpha Chloe, I understand that you are disappointed with what happened with Heckim," I began, choosing my words carefully. "But it had nothing to do with me. I had no idea when he developed those feelings for me. I never meant to insult him. I only said no to his proposal because I believe in true love. If I had said yes, I don't think I would have shown him the same love or respect in our relationship."

　　Chloe's gaze remained steady, her expression inscrutable. "Princess Lydia, your thoughts and your dealings with Heckim are none of my business," she replied, her voice measured. "I am only here to represent my pack."

　　"Great," I said, sensing a small opening in her otherwise rigid demeanour. "Um... I am here on behalf of our kingdom and want to offer our alliance to the West River Pack. We hope that we can provide a better future through our friendship."

　　Alpha Chloe's eyes narrowed, her expression turning colder. "I am afraid that I'll have to refuse your proposal," she stated firmly. "Don't think that I am trying to avenge what you did with Heckim. I am saying no because you have not acquired the throne yet. And just because you are the last heir to the throne doesn't mean you are capable enough. Your words simply mean nothing to us."

　　Her blunt refusal hit me like a slap in the face. I felt a surge of frustration and disbelief. "But, I assure you that—"

　　"No!" she interrupted sharply. "I said I am not ready to shake hands with an immature princess." She declared, her tone final and unyielding. "You need to prove your worth, Lydia. Until then, I cannot, in good conscience, commit my pack to an alliance with someone who hasn't shown they can lead."

　　I felt my cheeks flush with a mix of anger and embarrassment. Chloe's words cut deep, highlighting my insecurities. "Alpha Chloe, I understand your hesitation, but I am more than just a title. I am determined to lead my kingdom with strength and integrity."