Chapter 4: Farewell, Mother
Vishiea’s POV
“Your father was held for trial, and your mother… she died,” I fall to the ground. My world seemed to crash when I heard him say that. What? I looked at him in disbelief. No, not my mother. I just saw her this afternoon. This can’t be real. None of this is real!
“Vishiea!” I glare at Darius. I quickly stood up and left. I don’t want to hear anything from him.
“My lady! Don’t drive!” Our butler worriedly stopped me. I looked back and shook my head, “No, I need to go home now. Don’t worry, I’ll be safe,” he couldn’t do anything but nod his head. I got inside my car and drove towards our house.
When I arrived, I saw more than ten warriors escorting my father out of our house. His eyes were filled with tears. He is murmuring my mother’s name, “Cynthia”.
I rushed towards their direction and hugged my father even if the warriors surrounded him. He cried hard when he saw me.
“I’m sorry. I’m so sorry. Your mom…” He sobbed. He’s the bravest man I’ve ever met, but he’s softer than a pillow.
“Your mother died… she died,” I hugged him even more. It pains me to hear that my mother is gone, but it is more painful on his side because she was his only mate—the woman he ever loved.
“We need to take him away now, my lady. So, if you don’t mind, release your father now,” the chief commander, Mr. Yuan, demandingly said. I glared at him. I don’t understand. Why do they have to take my father away?
What did he do? This doesn’t seem right. My mother passed away, and now they are arresting my father. I shook my head, “I demanded an explanation.”
He took a deep breath and nodded, “All right. The Lycan king ordered us to take your father to the palace for a trial. He was reported as creating an alliance with the rogues against our kingdom; we have proof against him now. If that’s enough reason for you, release your father now,” he calmly replied.
What? Alliance with the Rogues? When did that happen? I was sure my father would never form any alliance against the kingdom. He’s loyal to the king and a responsible beta. My father removed my hand from his shoulder and nodded.
“Release me, honey. I need to go with them. I need to prove my innocence. … take care of your mother now. I’ll make sure I’ll attend her burial,” he said in his low voice.
Even if I didn’t want him to leave, I nodded and released him. Mr. Yuan nodded his head as he took my father’s hand. They dragged him away from me, but when they left entirely, my father looked back.
“Everything will be all right,” he murmured how I wished. I promise, Father, we will do everything to prove your innocence. I closed my eyes tightly and wiped the tears from my cheeks.
“Butler Han, please investigate my father’s case. We both know he can’t betray the kingdom,” he bowed.
“Of course, my lady. I’ll take my leave then and start investigating,” I nodded and dismissed him. When he was gone, I slowly went towards my mother’s room.
While walking in the hallway, I couldn’t help but cry in sadness. My mate just cheated on me, my father was held for trial, and my mother passed away.
As I slowly walked in the hallway, my tears kept on falling. It pains me so much to think that I almost lost everything. My mate, mother, and I will never let anyone take my father away from me.
My dreams slowly vanished in the darkness. Those different plans of my life were crushed down. I’m slowly losing hope for myself and for this life. I cried hard; I couldn’t stop myself now.
When I reached my mother’s room, I saw her maid crying hard while holding my mother’s hand. She’s been with her since my mother is in my age. I can feel the pain she feels right now.
“My lady,” She cried and rushed to hug me. I hugged her back while looking at my mother’s pale body. I will never see her smile again. Now even her voice. Her silly jokes and words of wisdom. I will miss everything about her.
I tapped Mrs. Jonson’s back, “Can I have a moment with my mother?” My voice cracked. This is painful. I don’t want to see my mother this way. I thought she’d stay with us longer, but she’s painfully gone.
She caressed my hair and nodded. “Sure, my lady,” She replied, sighed the two maids to follow her. When the door closed, I slowly approached my body.
I sat down on the chair beside her bed. I took her hand and brought it to my lips. “My lovely mother….” I bit my inner lip. “Why did you leave us alone in this cruel world?” I know I’m selfish; I should let her go, but I just can’t. She’s my mother. I wanted to see her until I grew up. Until she saw my children.
“This is too sudden. I don’t know that our small conversation this afternoon will be the last,” I sobbed hard. “You’re unfair, mother. You broke your promise. You promise you will be there on my wedding day,” I cried even more.
“But Mom, do you know that I’m afraid that will never happen…” I stopped talking. “Darius cheated on me. He’s not the one I used to know. He’s not the Darius you used to know.”
It was my mother who he first met. My mother saved him from drowning when he was five. My mother saved his life. Darius even promised to care for me in exchange for my mother’s actions. That’s the reason why we became childhood friends.
Just how pathetic to think that what he only knew was to break each of his promises. He’s not a man of his word.
“It’s so painful, mom. I feel like I’m dying inside,” I hugged her hand. “I know you can’t hear me now, but let me cry, Mom… It hurt me so much.”
“I don’t want to see him anymore. He’s not worth it for my love. His father even arrested my father. Why everything turned this way?” I cried.
“I don’t want to lose anyone again, Mom. This is too much. If I lose my father, I don’t know what will happen to me anymore.”
I rested my head on her shoulder, “This may be hard, but Mom, I need to let you go,” I reached for her forehead and kissed her.
“Farewell, Mother.”
Chapter 5: Her PromiseVishiea’s POVMy father placed his arm on my back and pulled me close. Today is my mother’s burial, and my father managed to attend, but the royal warriors surrounded him. This is the first time I have seen him since he got arrested a few days ago.The sky is dark and gloomy. It looks like it will rain. And I was not mistaken; the heavy rain poured after loud lightning and thunder. Tears kept falling as I looked down at my mother’s grave. Even on her last day, Darius did not show up.I wanted him to come and ask forgiveness for my mother. But I’m just hoping that something will never come true. He’s not even guilty at all for hurting me, cheating on me on the day of our anniversary. Another sigh escapes from my lips.After this, my father will return to the palace for his last trial. If he were proven guilty, the king would give his punishment. If not, he’ll remain as the Lycan beta of the kingdom.They will compensate him for the damage and ensure everyone know
Chapter 6: Her New Identity Vishiea’s POV “Vishiea? Are you ready? Miss Kiara wanted to see you now,” I heard someone say behind the door. I took a deep breath and sighed, “I’m ready; just wait for me there,” I replied and stood up from the chair. With one last glance at myself in the mirror, I approached the door and opened it. I saw Dylan’s face. I know he’s sad, but he’s masking his genuine emotion with his smile. I raised an eyebrow when I saw him only staring at me. “What?” I snapped. He grinned and was about to mess up my hair, but I stepped back. “Not my hair, idiot. Where is Mother Kiara?” I asked. He laughed softly, “All right, fury. She’s on her room’s balcony. Waiting for you,” He answered. I nodded, “All right then. I’ll go ahead and meet her,” He nodded. “Sure, but let me walk with you.” Even if I declined his offer, he still did what he wanted.
Chapter 7: Mainland Vishiea’s POV “Are you sure you don’t want me to accompany you?” Dylan asked me while helping me to pack my clothes. I shook my head, “No, I can manage. Just take care of her. Mother Kiara needs someone to look after her, and I can’t do that now,” I answered. He let out a sigh, “Okay then. Please be safe.” I will go back to the mainland tomorrow. Mother Kiara receives an invitation from the palace. They were celebrating the Blue Moon Festival—an annual festival I used to celebrate with my mate… oh, ex-mate before. “How long will you stay there?” He asked again. I stopped folding my dress and looked at him. I don’t know. The festival will start tomorrow and until next month. Which festival will consume three weeks, I think? But I will stay there longer if needed. “Vishiea?” “Oh, probably a month or more. Depending on the situation. If
Chapter 8: The Lycan King’s fiancée Vishiea’s POV A group of maids and warriors welcomed me in front of the grand door. I guess this palace’s rule and regulation hasn’t changed at all. That’s nice; at least there is one thing that doesn’t change in this place. “Welcome to the kingdom Miss Cullen,” someone greeted me and bowed. I frowned slightly as I checked her from head to toe. She looked familiar, oh, I remember now. She’s the only daughter of the head maid before. Her family is still working as maids in this place. All of them bowed, “All rise.” I commanded. The woman who welcomed me smiled widely. “Hello, my lady. I’m Yana, and I’m the one who will assist you today. Can we take your stuff now and guide you to your room?” She asked for my permission. I nodded, “Sure. You can take it now,” She nodded as well. She motioned to the men behind her to get
Chapter 9: Anastasia Cullen Vishiea’s POV “The king wanted to meet you and others today at eleven thirty,” My brow furrowed as I looked at her. “I mean, at luncheon. You are one of the VIPs, so you must be there,” she continued. I see. I nodded my head. “I’ll be there. Anyway, thank you for informing and helping me,” I said and smiled a little. She smiled back, “It’s my pleasure to help you, my lady.” She stood up and bowed, “I’ll take my leave then. I’ll see you around,” she said, turning her back on me. I watch her vanish in my vision. When she was gone, a sigh escaped from my lips, and I looked around. “This feels surreal. Now that I’m back, I’ll make them pay,” I murmured in the wind. A smirk slowly formed on my lips. It’s payback time. I got up from the bed and went to the bathroom to shower. I wanted to roam around the palace
Chapter 10: Duke WinstonVishiea’s POV“Let’s welcome. Lady Anastasia Cullen from Cullenfield!”I looked around with a confident smile on my lips. They were all looking at me. It seems like no one recognise me as the woman they exiled before.I started to come closer to the table. And I’ve noticed that the king is still not here. That’s great. One of the servants adjusted the chair for me. I nodded and murmured, “Thank you.”“My pleasure, my lady.” He replied and bowed. He moved away and went back to his fellow servant in a corner.“It’s nice to see you here, Miss Cullens,” I looked at the person who said that. It was a man in his late twenties. He looked handsome but not my type.“I’m happy to be here too, Mister---” His brow slightly furrowed when he realised I had no idea who he was. I’ve seen him before but never bothered to know him or his name.But the way he looks, it seems like he’s from the upper class—a duke or marquess. I don’t really care.“Oh, I’m Duke Kian Winston from V
Chapter 11: Cassie SteelVishiea’s POVHe locked his eyes on me. However, a few seconds later, he nodded. I wondered why he asked about my age. I couldn’t help but mentally smirk; I sensed he was thinking about my true identity. That’s it, Darius. Just think, be confused.“I’m quite surprised to see you attending this kind of event, Anastasia. What’s with the sudden change?” I heard Rachelle say, making me look in her direction. I arched my brow, wondering who gave her the right to address me by my first name.Even though she’s the king’s fiancée, she doesn’t have the right to address me in such a manner. First, I have ascended to the position of a duchess. She should pay me respect and know her place.“Nothing has a chance,” I answered shortly. “And please call me Miss Cullen; we’re not close enough to call me by my name,” I added. Everyone’s jaw dropped. What? They were expecting me to respect her because she’s the king’s fiancée?No, never in a million years. If I’m not connected t
Chapter 12: Fire on FireVishiea’s POV“I apologise for my excessive enthusiasm. Please, don’t take it to heart,” she hastily remarked upon noticing my reaction. I shook my head and smiled.“It’s not a big deal. I simply never anticipated someone like you would know me,” I replied. I knew her before, but we did not talk because she lived abroad. Although, I’ve seen her once.“Oh, thank you. If you don’t mind, can we be friends?” She asked with hope in her eyes. I stared at her, thinking what will I answer. I don’t trust anyone of them here, but… she seemed so lovely; why not.“Sure. I would love to,” I answered. Sometimes, you need to be friends with your enemies. The smile on her lips widened as she sat down next to me.“Great! Anyway, please resume eating. And I’m sorry if I’m annoying right now,” she apologised. I nodded, “No worries. I kind of like your energetic personality,” I said honestly.“Come on, don’t flatter me so much,” she said shyly. I chuckled and resumed eating. Bef
Chapter 30: TipsyVisheia's POVCassie and Liliane are both drunk. I only had two shots, but I'm already tipsy. My alcohol tolerance hasn't changed at all—still as low as ever."Cassie, can you still walk?" I asked while gently tapping her cheek. She was asleep on the sofa with her feet up on the table.She hummed and pushed my hand away. "I want to sleep more," she said grumpily. I chuckled. I guess we can't go home in this state."Alright, sleep. I'll go find Nathan and ask if we can spend the night here," I said. She just nodded in response.I shook my head and stood up. Where is Nathan? I looked around and spotted him talking with his older brother.I walked towards them, even though my vision was spinning. Nathan immediately stopped talking when he saw me approaching."Hi, is there a problem?" he immediately asked me. Was it obvious on my face that I needed something from him? Or did he know that the two were drunk? I chuckled at that thought."Can we stay here tonight? Cassie an
Chapter 29: Fool Visheia’s POVI smiled at him and nodded, “I’m happy to be invited by you. Of course, I won’t miss this,” I said. He chuckled, “It’s my pleasure to have you here.”“You’re such a nice guy, Sir Nathan. Are you single?” I asked. I saw his ears turn red. He always does this when he’s embarrassed. He never changes.“Ohh, why are you asking him that, Anastasia? Do you like him? Oh my! I’m rooting for you two! What would be a good love team name?!” Cassie exclaimed excitedly.I immediately looked at her, “Come on, Cas. I’m merely asking him,” I said, but she just grinned. What is she thinking again?“Okay, okay. If you say so, but you two look good together--” Nathan laughed while waving his hand.“It’s embarrassing for Miss Anastasia, Cassie. Stop it. We both know we’re not mates,” he said. Right. And one more thing, he’s been treating me as his younger sister before. If he remembered me, he might still have treated me the same way.He was a good person then, and I’m happ
Chapter 28: Privacy Visheia's POVHe nodded, "Okay then. I'll see you tomorrow," he said. I shook my head, "I guess not. It's better if you stay away from me," I said coldly.He smirked, "This palace may be big, but I'm sure we'll run into each other." I hate to admit it, but he's right. He was about to walk towards me, but I raised my hand."You better stay where you are," I warned. He stopped walking and nodded. "Chill." I pursed my lips together as my brow furrowed."Seriously, Darius. Can I have my privacy in this place you call yours?" I asked seriously while looking straight into his eyes.He was slightly silent at my words. Then, after a while, he nodded again, "I'll give you privacy after this question," he said.What could this guy be asking now? "Okay, ask me," I replied. If he asks about my identity, I'll really kick him out of the room."Are you going to McNeil's victory party?" I raised an eyebrow at the question. What does it matter to him if I go?"Is it important for
Chapter 27: A LetterVisheia's POVHis words shocked me like a sudden storm stopping me in my tracks. But then, the weight of his betrayal sank in, and I couldn't help but laugh bitterly. "Damn, that's funny," I managed to say. His plea for us to reconcile felt empty. I had given him all my loyalty and love, yet it was never enough. I felt like I couldn't meet his standards.He was the last person I thought would hurt me. I trusted him completely, believing he would never betray me. But he did, leaving me feeling foolish and deceived. I had no clue he was hiding something behind my back."Don't lie to me," I told him, my voice filled with pain. "I'm not Vishiea. If the rumours are true, then maybe being alone is what you deserve. Own up to your actions. You hurt her, didn't you? Then deal with the consequences," I said firmly, staring at him with a mix of hurt and determination.He deserves to feel the pain he caused. Every time he reached out, I was there, no questions asked. But whe
Chapter 26: The BondVishiea’s POVA few hours had passed. During the tournament, I saw Darius stealing multiple glances at me. I choose to ignore him even though it is annoying the hell out of me. I don’t have the time to deal with his stares. This might not be my plan, but this is getting better.When I arrived here at the kingdom as Anastasia, I didn’t expect him to take an interest in me. Look how the table turns; it’s quite entertaining and funny. The person he betrayed before is now back. I will let them taste their own medicine.“Nathan is winning! As I expected from him, he’s really cool!” Cassie said while giggling. I see; there’s a fan girl here. I looked at her, “Do you have a crush on him?” I asked. She stopped watching and looked at me with wide eyes.“No, no. It can’t be. I might be the Beta’s cousin, but we can’t be together. He’s higher than me, and besides, he’s not my mate. I don’t want to be someone like Rachelle,” she said with a frown. I chuckled at what she said.
Chapter 25: Wish You LuckVishiea’’s POV“You’re right. Anyway, I’ve been wondering.. What’s with you and Rachelle?” I asked Cassie. “Rachelle and I? What about it?” she wondered. “The two of you always quarrel. Do you hate her that much or do you have some personal grudge against her?” She stared at me. Then she nodded slowly, “I honestly have. Before she became the king’s so called fiancee. I hated her already,” I’m amazed. She’s honest and clearly not afraid of Rachelle. I mean, we are in the public place. Anyone can hear her saying that. They can tell Rachelle what she has said. I’m sure, Rachelle will be pissed. “I feel her. Rachelle, Cassie and I were best friends before,” Liliane said. I looked at her, curious. Really? Small worlds then?“What happened then? Why did Rachelle become your enemy?” I asked out of curiosity.“Let me answer that question,” Cassie raised her hand and smirked. I nodded, all right then. I think she will tell a story.“Believe me or not. Rachelle i
Chapter 24: A Stolen RelationshipVishiea’s POV“Lady Cassie’s looking for you, my lady,” Yana told me as she entered my room. I cast her a glance. Why is Cassie looking for me?“Did you ask why?” She nodded. “She mentioned about the event today. You told her that you two will go together to the arena,” she answered. Oh, right. I forgot about that. I let out a sigh and got off my bed.“Do you know why she is?” I asked as I finished combing my hair. “She’s on the ground floor. She’s with her best friend.”“Alright. Please tell her, I’ll be there in a minute.” She nodded again and bowed. “Your words will reach her. I’ll take my leave now then,” I nodded as well and watched her leave.I took a deep breath. I hope this day will be exciting.Yana was right, Cassie and an unfamiliar girl was standing outside the palace. They both looked in my direction when they felt my presence. Cassie happily waved her hand as she approached me, “Anastasia! You’re finally here.”“I’m sorry for keeping you
Chapter 23: Play AlongVishiea’s POV“Do you like him?” he repeated. My brow furrowed in confusion. He’s looking at me patiently now like he’s eagerly waiting for my response.“Does it matter to you?” I asked him. The expression on his face changes. “It does,” he replied honestly. I didn’t expect him to answer that. I mean, I know that he’s still thinking that I’m Vishiea, but he’s entitled now. He doesn’t have the right to say that it bothers him to hear me liking someone else.Our situation changes; we’re not the same anymore. He betrayed me a couple of years ago. Even if I came back as Vishiea, he can’t expect me to forgive him and take him back again in my life.I let out a sigh and averted my gaze. I can’t look him in the eye now. “Yes, I do,” I answer without looking at him. He didn’t talk for a few seconds until one time; I heard him chuckle and move closer. He proudly stood next to me.“Do you like him romantically?” My brow furrowed. Do I like Nathan romantically? That’s absu
Chapter 22: Do you like him?Vishiea’s POV“Really? She’s the king’s former mate. I see. May I know what happened back then? Why she’s banned here?” I asked even if I already knew the answer.She shrugged and resumed eating her food, “I don’t know what exactly the reason is. But I think it is because she’s the rebel’s only child. And to hide what his son did,” she answered.She’s right; the king banned me because he wanted to cover his son’s betrayal. And also, I’m starting to think if the king had something to do with my parent’s death.I will investigate as soon as possible. But wait, rebel’s only child? My father is not a rebel; they framed him. I wanted to correct her, but I chose silence.“To hide the king’s betrayal,” I repeated as I nodded. That makes sense, but I think even if they didn’t ban me a couple of years before. I can’t do anything against him.I mean, my father and mother died, and I was left alone, powerless and broken. I closed my eyes and nodded again. I don’t wan