MELISSA
I do not make a single sound as the guards pull me out and begin whipping me. What Kayden does not know is that his words hurt me more than any physical pain ever can. They don’t even mind that I am pregnant, and it’s fine by me. Maybe, they would finish up the job I had started earlier on. The pain makes me drift into semi-consciousness, into my new hell where Alpha Kayden’s words transform into thorns that tear at my heart. He had said Evelyn was his chosen Luna, my own step sister! How long had this been going on behind my back? And all the while, I had thought the reason we were growing distant was merely because his mind was preoccupied, but he was busy having an affair with Evelyn. My step mother and sister had probably planned everything from the moment I told them I and the Alpha shared a mate bond. That was why Evelyn had taken my claw, but of course no one would believe the bizarre things Evelyn and her mother did to me. “Seventy eight… seventy nine..” the guard whipping me calls out, as he continues whipping a pregnant woman, grunting with the energy exertion it took. I close my eyes. Why am I not dead already! His whip lands on my navel, and a sharp pain sizzles through my entire body, settling in my belly. I cry out, as I feel my womb constrict in the most painful way. The baby is coming prematurely, I realize in alarm. “Someone help,” I whisper through my pain. “My pregnancy… the baby!”From the corner of my eye, I can see my step sister walk into the room, looking proper and pretty in a nice dress. “So you’re finally crying out,” she says with a smug smile, walking up to me. “I thought you wanted to brave the entire whipping.”I shudder in pain as my womb hurts even more. I clutch her feet, and try to look her in the eyes. “Please,” I plead, hoping for a shred of kindness in her. “My baby.. My baby is coming!”“Alright,” Evelyn surprises me by saying. “Guards, let her go, the baby is coming.”Alpha Kayden merelyscoffs. “Keep whipping her. Let everything about her die with her, I want no part in children tainted by her blood.”I gasp at his words. I know he hates me, and I can understand his hatred if he thinks I killed his kid brother, but to say this about his own child, this was unthinkable! Surprisingly, it is Evelyn that comes to my aid again, her voice going all soft and mushy in a way I have never heard before. “I know she is a murderer Kaydee, but the child in her womb still belongs to you, it is going to have your blood. Please, let her have this baby.”To my surprise, Alpha Evelyn heart thawed instantly. “Alright. Get a midwife to help her deliver, but as soon as she gives birth, I want the flogging to continue. She hasn’t suffered enough pain yet, not enough to pay for killing Davis. A thousand of her lifes cannot equal Davis’s life.”His hateful words are the last words I hear before I drift into semi consciousness again. I feel my body being lifted to a higher plane, my legs spread out and lifted above my body. Someone slaps me hard and commands me to push, and I use my all my strength to push until I feel the baby slide out of me. I draw in a breath, and relax my muscles, but then, I receive another hard slap. “Push! There’s still one more baby in there.”I close my eyes, tense my muscles and push again, till I birth my second child. Twins. I have just birthed twins. My body aches all over from the whipping,and I am in terrible pain, yet somehow, the miracle of childbirth fills me with new hope, dispelling some of my gloom. Maybe, the moon goddess would show these babies more kindness than I ever got. Maybe, they can have a better life. I know in that instant that I would sacrifice all I have for them, I would give my life for my babies, and I would shower them with all the love I never had, give them a better life than my sorry existence. In this moment, I know what I have to do. I need to run away with my babies. “Can I hold my babies? please let me hold my babies,” I whisper to the midwife, but she simply ignores my question. “I would tell the Alpha that I am done with you, so that your flogging can continue. What you did – it’s despicable. How could you kill the Alpha’s brother!”I shudder at the thought of being whipped again, with my body still open and gaping from childbirth. Anguish tears at my heart, but I do not tell the midwife that I did not kill Davis. There is no need. No one would believe me now.MELISSAThe flogging continues. They do not even care to cover me up a bit first. My body continues to spasm in pain, and I cry out in anguish. I feel utterly helpless as guards have access to the most intimate part of my body, inflicting hurt on me, and sometimes laughing at my distress. My vagina still hurts from birthing two children, and my breast tingles…. My babies, I need to feed them, I think to myself, but the whip continues landing on me, all over my body till I am jerking and twisting in pain. What cuts my heart the most, is that Kayden stays there, watching me, kissing Evelyn occasionally, while enjoying my pain, there is even a smile on his lips. The fact that Alpha Kayden would allow guards abuse a woman he had once cared for makes me wonder at the monster he has become. Finally, the whip stops flying, and the guard drops it, taking a step back. “Alpha Kayden, I’m done whipping the woman,” he says in a gruff voice that shows how tired he is from flogging me. “If you want
FIVE YEARS LATERMELISSAI bend over my work as the sun fades. Being the most celebrated healer in all the packs around has its benefits, the fame, the prestige, the money. It also has its pitfalls such as long hours spent “Well how long will it take to finish preparing the vaccine?” asks, and I smile a bit, but I do not answer him. We are both preparing vaccines to be sent out to surrounding packs for a viral outbreak that is affecting packs. The truth is, I am the one preparing the vaccines, Kelvin merely likes to watch me. Kelvin is like that at times, slightly impatient, and extremely charming. He is the future Alpha of Thamewood, the pack that took me in after several years of wondering from pack to pack, begging to be accepted. Finally, in a flash of inspiration, I cut my hair in front, and made a perfect fringe to hide the branding on my forehead. I told Alpha Mateo, Kelvin’s father that I was from a small pack faraway among the winter packs, and that we had been raided. To m
The moon hung low in the sky, casting a silvery glow over the forest as I stood at the edge of the Bloodmoon pack territory. My heart raced with a mix of anticipation and dread. This was my chance to uncover the truth about my past, about my children—the twins I had been told died five years ago. But now, I was here, a healer summoned by Alpha Kelvin, with a week to decide if I would become his future Luna.As I stepped into the clearing, memories of my childhood flooded back. My stepmother and stepsister had tormented me, their cruelty leaving scars deeper than any physical wound. They had made my life a living hell, and now they were gone, victims of a virus that had ravaged their lives. A part of me felt relief; they had not suffered as I had hoped. They did not deserve an easy death after all they had done.“Melissa?” A deep voice pulled me from my thoughts. I turned to see Alpha Kayden approaching, his presence commanding. He looked different—more rugged and fierce than I remembere
In that moment of danger, something shifted within me, a source of power spark by love for my children and newfound strength within myself.“Stay close!” I yelled at the twins as I joined Kayden in defending them against the rogues.As we fought side by side, adrenaline coursed through my veins; every blow struck against our enemies felt like reclaiming a piece of me lost long ago. In that battle against darkness, I found light, not just for myself but for my children too.After a fierce struggle, we emerged victorious; the vicious wolves fled into the night as silence enclose us once more.Breathless and shaken, I turned toward Kayden and then to my twins, relief washing over me like a warm embrace.“You saved us!” one twin exclaimed, eyes wide with admiration.“I would do anything for you,” I replied fiercely.In that moment, love triumphed over fear; forgiveness blossomed where there had once been hatred.As days passed and life returned to normalcy within Bloodmoon pack, I found myself at
As they stepped back reluctantly, I felt a surge of determination wash over me. It was time to take control of my destiny, not just for myself but for my children as well.Days turned into weeks as I focused on nurturing the bond between my twins and fostering their healing journey. With Kayden by my side, we created a safe haven filled with love and understanding, a place where they could grow without fear or resentment.Yet Kelvin’s presence lingered in my mind like an unfinished melody; he was steadfast and unwavering, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that our paths were diverging.One evening, as twilight descended upon Bloodmoon pack territory, I gathered the courage to confront my feelings head-on.“Kelvin,” I called as he walked through the clearing. He turned toward me, curiosity etched on his face.“I’ve been thinking about everything, about us,” I began hesitantly.His expression shifted from curiosity to anticipation. “And?”“I care for you deeply,” I admitted, feeling vulnerable
Months passed as our family continued to grow closer, navigating challenges while celebrating victories together. The twins thrived in this supportive environment; their laughter echoed through our home as they embraced their identities with pride.Kelvin and Kayden became not just partners but brothers, united by their shared love for me and our children. They learned to lean on each other during difficult moments while celebrating each other’s strengths.As spring approached once more, Bloodmoon pack prepared for another festival, the Spring Awakening; a time when we honored new beginnings and fresh starts.Standing beneath the blooming cherry blossoms with Kelvin and Kayden by my side, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude wash over me. This journey hadn’t been easy; it had been filled with heartache and uncertainty, but it had also brought forth love in its purest form.Together we forged ahead into uncharted territory; a journey filled with laughter and hope where every challenge
By the end of the evening, something magical had shifted within our pack. While not everyone was fully convinced yet, many left with open hearts willing to reconsider their perspectives.As we cleaned up after the gathering under a starlit sky, I felt a sense of relief wash over me. We had taken a significant step forward in fostering understanding within our community.“Tonight was incredible,” Kelvin said, wrapping an arm around my shoulders.Kayden nodded in agreement. “We opened doors that had been closed for too long.”In that moment of unity beneath the stars, I knew we had weathered one storm together—but more challenges lay ahead. Yet now we were fortified by love, a bond unbreakable amid trials yet unseen.Months passed since that pivotal gathering; while acceptance within our pack grew steadily stronger, challenges continued to arise, both from within and outside our community.But as we navigated each obstacle together, we forged deeper connections with one another and strengthen
As days turned into weeks, the rifts only deepened. The community meetings became battlegrounds rather than safe spaces, with people shouting over one another in frustration. The unity we had fought so hard to build was slipping through our fingers.Kayden and Kelvin grew increasingly frustrated with the situation. “We can’t keep doing this,” Kayden said one night as we sat around the fire, shadows dancing across our faces. “We need to confront Marcus directly.”“But what if it escalates?” I asked, fear creeping into my voice. “What if we lose everything we’ve worked for?” “Or what if we continue down this path of division?” Kelvin countered, his eyes fierce. “We can’t let fear dictate our lives any longer.”The tension between us crackled like a live wire, and I felt a pang of regret for how far we had drifted apart. My heart ached at the thought that my choices had led us here, caught in a cycle of anger and resentment.The day of confrontation arrived, charged with unspoken emotions. A
ys turned into weeks, and with each passing day, Kayden confided in me more deeply. “You’ve changed,” he remarked one evening as we sat by the fire. “I’m just trying to be better for our children,” I replied, forcing a smile. Yet inside, I felt torn between ambition and affection. Each act of kindness from him only fueled my inner conflict. My children adored their father, and I found myself caught in a web of lies as they began to notice Kayden’s struggles. “Why does Dad get so upset?” one twin asked innocently.“He’s just going through a tough time,” I replied, forcing cheerfulness into my voice. But deep down, I knew I was slowly turning them against him, a betrayal that gnawed at my soul.One night, as we shared stories under the stars, Kayden surprised me with a necklace adorned with our children’s birthstones. “For you,” he said softly.Tears welled in my eyes as I accepted the gift. In that fleeting moment, I felt genuine warmth toward him, a connection that made my heart ache.But
In those quiet moments spent reflecting upon all lessons learned along paths traveled together, I realized something profound that true strength lies not merely within individuals alone but rather emerges collectively when hearts open wide embracing vulnerability allowing authentic connections flourish unconditionally bringing forth light illuminating darkest corners hiding shadows lurking silently beneath surfaces often overlooked easily forgotten over time…And so here we were a community reborn from ashes left behind transformed into something beautiful resilient capable overcoming anything life threw our way moving forward hand-in-hand united stronger than ever before ready face whatever challenges awaited next knowing deep down inside together nothing could ever break us apart again! As stars twinkled above casting gentle glows across waters flowing freely beneath bridges built strong enough withstand tests endured together, they whispered promises reminding all gathered here today
In those quiet moments spent reflecting upon all lessons learned along paths traveled together, I realized something profound that true strength lies not merely within individuals alone but rather emerges collectively when hearts open wide embracing vulnerability allowing authentic connections flourish unconditionally bringing forth light illuminating darkest corners hiding shadows lurking silently beneath surfaces often overlooked easily forgotten over time…And so here we were a community reborn from ashes left behind transformed into something beautiful resilient capable overcoming anything life threw our way moving forward hand-in-hand united stronger than ever before ready face whatever challenges awaited next knowing deep down inside together nothing could ever break us apart again! As stars twinkled above casting gentle glows across waters flowing freely beneath bridges built strong enough withstand tests endured together, they whispered promises reminding all gathered here today
Just when it seemed like we were making progress, however, Marcus stood up again, his expression hardened once more. “This is all well and good,” he said dismissively. “But at some point, we need to decide who’s in charge.”A wave of frustration washed over me as murmurs erupted among the crowd once more. “Why does it always have to be about control?” I challenged him.“Because someone has to lead!” he shot back defiantly.“Lead us where?” I countered. “To more division? To more fighting? Leadership should be about serving others and not controlling them!”For a moment, silence enveloped us as people considered my words. Then Sarah spoke up again, her voice steady but passionate. “What if leadership isn’t about one person? What if it’s about all of us working together?”Her suggestion hung in the air like an unspoken promise, a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos.As discussions continued late into the evening, we began brainstorming what true leadership could look like, one rooted in collabora
That night, as I lay awake in my tent, I could hear the whispers outside, people plotting, forming alliances fueled by anger. It was as if a dark cloud had descended upon us, smothering any hope of reconciliation.The next day, I found Sarah by the riverbank again, her expression hardened like stone. “You’re still clinging to this idea that we can all just get along?” she scoffed.“I’m trying to find a way forward!” I shot back, frustration boiling over. “But you’re not making it easy!”“Maybe because you’re too naive to see the truth!” she snapped, her voice rising. “You think love will fix everything? You’re living in a fantasy!”Her words struck deep, igniting a fire within me that I struggled to contain. “And what’s your solution? To tear each other apart?”“Yes!” she exclaimed, her eyes flashing with rage. “If that’s what it takes to make you understand how serious this is!”The final confrontation came unexpectedly during a community gathering meant for healing. The tension was palpabl
As days turned into weeks, the rifts only deepened. The community meetings became battlegrounds rather than safe spaces, with people shouting over one another in frustration. The unity we had fought so hard to build was slipping through our fingers.Kayden and Kelvin grew increasingly frustrated with the situation. “We can’t keep doing this,” Kayden said one night as we sat around the fire, shadows dancing across our faces. “We need to confront Marcus directly.”“But what if it escalates?” I asked, fear creeping into my voice. “What if we lose everything we’ve worked for?” “Or what if we continue down this path of division?” Kelvin countered, his eyes fierce. “We can’t let fear dictate our lives any longer.”The tension between us crackled like a live wire, and I felt a pang of regret for how far we had drifted apart. My heart ached at the thought that my choices had led us here, caught in a cycle of anger and resentment.The day of confrontation arrived, charged with unspoken emotions. A
By the end of the evening, something magical had shifted within our pack. While not everyone was fully convinced yet, many left with open hearts willing to reconsider their perspectives.As we cleaned up after the gathering under a starlit sky, I felt a sense of relief wash over me. We had taken a significant step forward in fostering understanding within our community.“Tonight was incredible,” Kelvin said, wrapping an arm around my shoulders.Kayden nodded in agreement. “We opened doors that had been closed for too long.”In that moment of unity beneath the stars, I knew we had weathered one storm together—but more challenges lay ahead. Yet now we were fortified by love, a bond unbreakable amid trials yet unseen.Months passed since that pivotal gathering; while acceptance within our pack grew steadily stronger, challenges continued to arise, both from within and outside our community.But as we navigated each obstacle together, we forged deeper connections with one another and strengthen
Months passed as our family continued to grow closer, navigating challenges while celebrating victories together. The twins thrived in this supportive environment; their laughter echoed through our home as they embraced their identities with pride.Kelvin and Kayden became not just partners but brothers, united by their shared love for me and our children. They learned to lean on each other during difficult moments while celebrating each other’s strengths.As spring approached once more, Bloodmoon pack prepared for another festival, the Spring Awakening; a time when we honored new beginnings and fresh starts.Standing beneath the blooming cherry blossoms with Kelvin and Kayden by my side, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude wash over me. This journey hadn’t been easy; it had been filled with heartache and uncertainty, but it had also brought forth love in its purest form.Together we forged ahead into uncharted territory; a journey filled with laughter and hope where every challenge
As they stepped back reluctantly, I felt a surge of determination wash over me. It was time to take control of my destiny, not just for myself but for my children as well.Days turned into weeks as I focused on nurturing the bond between my twins and fostering their healing journey. With Kayden by my side, we created a safe haven filled with love and understanding, a place where they could grow without fear or resentment.Yet Kelvin’s presence lingered in my mind like an unfinished melody; he was steadfast and unwavering, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that our paths were diverging.One evening, as twilight descended upon Bloodmoon pack territory, I gathered the courage to confront my feelings head-on.“Kelvin,” I called as he walked through the clearing. He turned toward me, curiosity etched on his face.“I’ve been thinking about everything, about us,” I began hesitantly.His expression shifted from curiosity to anticipation. “And?”“I care for you deeply,” I admitted, feeling vulnerable