Chapter 4: THE ULTIMATUM

Antonio walked past the main hall into the meeting room where the elders awaited him. Their stern faces and somber expressions immediately set a serious tone. He took his seat at the head of the table, guessing the reason for the emergency meeting.

"Antonio," the head elder began, his voice carrying the weight of centuries-old traditions, "we have grave concerns about the recent developments between you and your destined mate, Olivia."

Antonio's jaw tightened. "I am well aware of the situation."

The elders exchanged glances before the head elder continued, "You must understand the importance of this bond. It is not just personal but vital for the strength and unity of our pack. The Redwood pack is at the verge of falling apart as the people no longer believe in your leadership which is why we have called this meeting."

"But my leadership has been fruitful and peaceful even without a mate. Olivia's rejection shouldn't be the reason why the people are doubting me" Antonio said, keeping his anger in check.

The head elder leaned forward, his eyes piercing through Antonio. "This is about more than a mere rejection. A Luna brings balance, unity, and strength to the pack. Without her, the Redwood pack risks division and weakness. We've seen this before, Antonio. We cannot let it happen again. You have one month to either win Olivia back or find a new mate. The Redwood pack needs a Luna" the head elder said, a hint of finality evident in his voice.

This is absurd, Antonio said under his breath as his hands gripped the edge of the table, his knuckles white. He felt a wave of anger wash over him, but he forced himself to remain calm. He could feel the elders' eyes on him, waiting for his response.

"And if I refuse?"

The head elder's eyes hardened. "If you refuse, you risk losing your status and position within the pack"

Antonio creased his brows, his voice gradually rising. "You cannot threaten me with dethronement. I did not beg for the alpha position; it is my birth right. My father worked hard for it and so did I."

"This is not just about you, Antonio" the head elder spoke up. It is about the future of our lineage and our power. What would you do if the people kicked against your leadership and the pack fell into division?"

Antonio's mind raced. He had always followed his path, valuing his independence and strength. But now, the stakes are higher than ever. He thought about the words of the head elder; it carries an ounce of truth. He had to either find a new mate or defy the elders and face the consequences. But going back to beg Olivia was not an option he would consider.

As the meeting adjourned, Antonio remained seated, staring into the distance. The weight of the pack's expectations pressed down on him, and the deadline loomed ominously in his mind. His mind raced, weighing his options. Begging Olivia was out of the question. But the thought of losing his position, his life's work, was unbearable. He needed a new mate, one that would preserve his pride and his legacy.

How do I find her?

Antonio knew he had to act quickly. If he wanted to salvage his pride and his position, he needed to find her as soon as possible. He brought out the phone, searching for video clips from the gala, hoping to find the lady he met at the gala. As he scrolled past different videos, he stumbled across Olivia signing an ambassadorial deal with one of the biggest fashion brands in California. He instantly felt betrayed and hurt, no way was he going to watch Olivia ascend higher while he struggled not to go down.

Antonio remembered the second plan on his list. He never thought he would have to implement it so soon, but at this point, he was desperate. He began by gathering information on Olivia's professional life. As a famous international model, she was deeply involved in various high-profile campaigns and endorsements. Antonio smiled coldly as he realized how easily he could disrupt her career. He made a few discreet phone calls to influential contacts in the fashion industry.

As Antonio made his phone calls, a part of him felt a pang of guilt. Sabotaging Olivia's career was ruthless, but he saw no other way. His pack, his company, his entire life was at stake.

A few days later, Olivia's social media accounts were hacked, and embarrassing messages, videos and pictures were posted for all to see. In the twinkle of an eye, Olivia's biggest campaign began to face unexpected hurdles and losses. Contracts were withdrawn, photoshoots canceled, key partnerships started to waiver and her team was in a total mess.

Meanwhile, Olivia was in her luxurious hotel suite in California, sleeping like the beauty queen she was, oblivious to the tragedy going on. A loud ring jolted her awake as she reached out for her phone. She stared lazily at the screen, realizing it was her manager, she tucked the phone under the pillow and went back to sleep.

After a short while, she got out of bed, stretching and yawning lazily as she stepped into her crocs and headed to the bathroom. Olivia stared at her reflection on the screen, appreciating her own beauty. She grabbed a facial mask and applied it on her face before heading back to her bedroom.

Reaching out for her phone under the pillow, she was surprised at how many missed calls she had. From her manager, team members, friends, brands, and even rookie models she does not talk to.

What is going on? she muttered as she scrolled through her call logs. Luckily, a call came in from her best friend.

"Hey Nara, wassup. Sorry I missed your call, I'm just waking up" Olivia said, smoothing the mask sheet to her face.

"You can't be serious right now, are you?" Nara said, her voice cracking.

"What's up, talk to me," Olivia persuaded.

"Just go to your IG page. I'm on my way to your hotel already," Nara said, ending the call.

Olivia's eyes widened in horror as she scrolled through her IG page. Her heart raced, and her hands trembled. How could this have happened? She felt a surge of panic and humiliation as she stared at the leaked private messages and compromising photos. This was a nightmare.

How? How did this get leaked?