Chapter 4 Additional Condition

Gloria's POV

I'd always relished a challenging case.

Furthermore, now that I'd parted ways with Frank, I didn't have to worry about anything.

Bianca, still in shock, inquired with a perplexed expression, "But why would you assist Alpha Edward? You loved Frank deeply and did so much for him before."

I interjected, my voice carrying a hint of bitterness, "As you mentioned, that was before."

"Really?!" she exclaimed.

I paused for a moment, Frank hadn't explicitly accepted my offer of rejecting me, leaving me to speculate on his thoughts.

"Yes," I replied resolutely, "Don't worry. Now that I've taken the case, I'll undoubtedly give it my best effort."

Bianca nodded half-heartedly, then she said worriedly,"But in this case, Alpha Edward insisted on meeting you in person. By then, he will discover the relationship between you and Frank, and I fear he won't trust you."

"Do not fret, I can handle that matter," I assured her.

Bianca nodded, "Alright then, I'll take care of the rest."

The following day, while I was perusing the information at home, Bianca called.

"Gloria, Alpha Edward wants to meet you. Are you okay with that?" she asked.

I pondered for a moment and then I agreed. Since I had accepted the case, we would see each other sooner or later anyway.

Half an hour later, Bianca arrived to pick me up.

She still seemed somewhat concerned. "Are you truly prepared?"

I sat calmly in the passenger seat. "Yes. Fully prepared."

"Can you really gain Alpha Edward's trust?"

I patted her shoulder reassuringly. "Don't worry. You'll know soon enough."

Upon arriving at the restaurant, I saw a handsome man engrossed in playing a mobile game.

He was dressed in a high-fashion version of a black suit, exuding an inherent nobility. His blue eyes carried a trace of warmth, but beneath that warmth lay an enigmatic edge, honed by years of ice-cold demeanor.

Occasionally, the sounds of the game seemed at odds with his elegant appearance.

As our footsteps echoed through the restaurant, his head slowly lifted, and Alpha Edward's eyes registered surprise when he saw me.

Without hesitation, he abandoned the game, and a faint smile played on his lips. "If I'm not mistaken, you must be Alpha Frank's mate. Have you entered the wrong domain?"

I gracefully approached and took a seat across from Alpha Edward, my smile undisturbed. "There's no mistake. Weren't you the one who invited me out?"

Alpha Edward's gaze shifted to Bianca, standing behind me, and he seemed to freeze for a moment. "You're Diana?" he said, his eyes reflecting amazement.

"Yes," I replied, capturing the wonder in his gaze.

Alpha Edward then turned to Bianca, a mischievous grin forming on his face. "Miss Yost, it seems you owe me an explanation."

Bianca cleared her throat, a touch embarrassed. "Alpha Edward, given Diana's previous situation, I couldn't speak openly with you. However, since she's agreed to represent your pack in the Blood Wolf Cup, there are certain things I can clarify."

Alpha Edward's pupils contracted slightly, and after a pause, he remained composed. "So, you're trying to tell me that Diana, the person I went to great lengths to hire, is my rival's girlfriend?"

I arched an eyebrow and corrected him, "Ex-girlfriend."

Despite his outward composure, Alpha Edward appeared somewhat taken aback. "Ex-girlfriend?" he repeated.

Raising my hand gracefully, I introduced myself, "Alpha Edward, I'm Diana. Nice to meet you."

Alpha Edward reciprocated the handshake, a few smiles dancing on his lips. "Looks like things are about to become interesting."

Confidently, I looked at him and said, "Alpha Edward, we understand how crucial this tournament is for the Fullmoon Pack. There will be no fooling around. You might not trust Gloria, Frank's ex-girlfriend, but you cannot question Diana."

Alpha Edward narrowed his eyes slightly, but after a moment, he let out a soft laugh.

"You must be aware of Daniel Chance. I don't think there's anyone I fear could beat him, except Diana. He's the Gamma of the Darknight Pack, undefeated in all the tournaments, and Frank's closest friend."

In a realm of whispered rumors, it has been said that Daniel Chance possesses the qualities akin to a second Diana. If these two were ever to engage in a match, the spectacle would undoubtedly be thrilling.

Such was the reason why Alpha Edward went to great lengths to persuade me to join the fray as well.

However, at present, circumstances seem somewhat fortuitous yet undeniably captivating.

Bianca responded with a knowing grin, "Indeed, Daniel Chance is remarkably skilled. Few, apart from Diana, stand a chance against him."

Edward nodded in tacit approval but showed no haste in discussing the matter further.

"You make a valid point. Shall we partake of the meal first?" he suggested, gracefully inviting the serving staff to bring the food. In a chivalrous manner, he proceeded to introduce the dishes and wines.

I, too, dispensed with formality, picking up my chopsticks while glancing at Edward. "I appreciate your hospitality."

Edward, in response, raised his wine glass with a smile, "Allow me to propose a toast, Miss Diana."

"Ah, I must decline your kind offer," I demurred, "I have heard that your stomach is not in the best condition. Let us focus on the meal."

A subtle smirk graced Edward's thin lips, saying, "I didn't expect you to be so 'concerned,' Miss Diana, but you seem to be well-informed about my health."

My hand holding the chopsticks twitched momentarily, but I swiftly composed myself and resumed eating nonchalantly.

For the next while, conversation was sparse as we delved into the meal wholeheartedly.

Edward's dining etiquette was that of a noble prince, his every move deliberate and refined.

Bianca occasionally cast a worried glance his way, but I offered her an assuring look and continued my meal.

Eventually, Bianca gently cleared her throat. "The food is nearly finished. Why don't we delve into the matter at hand?"

Edward also laid out the knives and forks on the table, picked up his napkin, wiped his mouth slowly and gracefully, then looked up at me. "Miss Diana, I have to admit, you surprised me."

I bent my lips into a gentle smile and said, "It doesn't matter. You will have more surprises in the future."

Edward raised his eyebrows, his eyes more interested. "Then I'll wait and see."

I directed my gaze at Edward, my demeanor calm and composed. "I have been apprised of the details, and I assure you that I will emerge victorious in this match. Your proposed compensation is agreeable to me, but I have an additional condition, Alpha Edward."