Chapter 1

Current Day,

RUBY.

“You can place it right there,” I instructed the woman in charge of decorating the pack house, nodding approvingly at her efforts. The room was transforming into a festive haven, with streamers and banners adorning the walls, and tables set with elegant centerpieces.

“You know what I want, so just make everything beautiful,” I added, giving her a reassuring smile before leaving her to her task.

As I approached my father's room, a sudden thought occurred to me, and I turned on my heel, making my way towards the kitchen.

The anticipation of the evening's festivities bubbled within me, mingling with the determination to make my father's birthday truly special.

Entering the bustling kitchen, I murmured to myself, “I need him to be as happy as a bride.” I recalled a passing mention from a maid about his late mate making his favorite drink each morning. With purposeful strides, I gathered everything needed, my mind set on the task at hand.

As I started blending the ingredients into a creamy milkshake, the maids bustled around me, their hands flying as they prepared the evening feast. They glanced in my direction, offering respectful nods and murmured greetings, to which I responded with a polite smile.

Turning to the chief maid, I inquired, “How's everything going here?”

A warm smile graced her flour-covered face as she replied, “It's all under control. Everyone is giving me all the cooperation I need.”

“Good,” I nodded in approval. “If you need anything, you know where to find me.”

With that, I left the kitchen, the sweet aroma of the milkshake lingering in my wake. Moments later, I found myself standing before my father's door, the glass of milkshake clutched in my hand.

I knocked once, the sound echoing through the hallway, and waited for his familiar voice to grant me entry.

“Come in, darling,” his rich, gruff voice called out from within, his warmth evident even in his simple words. With a soft smile, I pushed the door open and stepped into the room.

My heart swelled with affection at the sight of him still lying on the bed, a small smile playing on his lips. “Father, it's 8 a.m. already,” I chided gently, placing the glass of milkshake on his bedside table before making my way to his bed.

As I settled beside him, I wore a feigned look of annoyance. “You can do better!” I inhaled deeply. His scent, a mix of earth and pine, was as comforting as ever.

He spread his arms wide. “You know your old man hates waking up early,” he chuckled, pulling me into a warm embrace.

I urged him to get ready for the day, hinting at the surprise I had planned, though I kept the details a secret despite his playful curiosity. Getting up, I picked up the milkshake and handed it to him. As he took a gulp, he told me how grateful he was and how much he loved me, reminiscing about the day he adopted me three years ago.

I could remember the day I met him. That was after I had denounced my pack, turning rogue and running away after bidding goodbye to my sister.

Back then, I had thought he was going to have me killed for invading his land, but he didn't. Instead, he stopped to listen to me play the flute like he was charmed.

And I bet he was. Playing the flute was one of my raw talents, and it always touched people's hearts. In Alpha Frederick's case, he had adopted me on the spot, and since then, I had been living with him.

He helped me heal in ways I never thought possible. His unwavering support and kindness mended the wounds left by my past, giving me a sense of belonging and purpose I had lost.

“The moon goddess sure is kind.” Tears stung my eyes but I refused to let them fall. I left his room to give him space to prepare and made my way outside, where the MC that I ordered specifically for this occasion was already waiting.

“Good morning, princess.” He bowed with his hand placed on his chest.

I gave him a curt nod. “There's something I want you to do for me. Add my name on the top of the list. I have a presentation for the Alpha.”

“Consider it done, princess.” He replied.

As I walked back towards my room, I felt the hairs standing on the back of my neck.

∞∞∞

An hour passed, the hall bustling with pack members of all ages. Men and women, with even breastfeeding mothers cradling their babies, filled the space. A smile played on my lips as I observed, content yet not entirely surprised, at the unwavering love and devotion everyone held for their alpha.

Seated in a magnificent royal chair, I watched as the ballroom transformed into a scene of exquisite beauty. Every corner was adorned with meticulous care and attention to detail.

The MC met my gaze, and with a subtle signal from me, he nodded and proceeded. “We all know why we are here today.”

The crowd cheered.

“And we all know how special today is in the River pack.” His voice boomed. “Today might be like any other day that we have witnessed, but it is indeed special because it is our big daddy's birthday!”

Once more, the crowd applauded and cheered. It was evident on their faces how excited they were. Not only were they able to celebrate their alpha's birthday with him, but they would also be privileged to all the classy foods and drinks that would be provided.

“So without any further ado, I would like to welcome our daddy, Alpha Frederick to his seat.”

I kept my eyes fixed on the door as the alpha strode toward us, his regal presence commanding attention. Clad in a resplendent royal regalia, a crown rested atop his head, and a symbol of authority firmly gripped in his left hand. By his side stood Dawn, his beautiful niece, wearing a chilling grin on her face. Our eyes locked, and I couldn't shake the unsettling feeling that washed over me. There was something about the way her lips curled into a smile that unnerved me, and for the second time that day, I felt the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end.

What's with this feeling? I couldn't shake off the feeling that something bad was going to happen. I might just be thinking too much, yeah, that's right.

Pushing those thoughts at the back of my mind, I got to my feet just like everyone did as the alpha took his seat beside me. Dawn took the seat on his left, leaning into him to mutter in his ears.

The Alpha smiled at her and turned to me. “My dear, I really can't wait for your surprise.” He whispered cheerfully.

I offered him a warm smile. “Soon daddy, exercise a little patience.”

He nodded and leaned into his seat. Turning to face the crowd once more, I zoned out as the MC gave a few birthday speeches to the alpha.

“Let's welcome Princess Ruby for her beautiful presentation to the alpha.”

I jolted up right when I heard my name. This was it. I stood up, my hands holding the hem of my long gown, as I walked towards the MC and accepted the mic with a nod.

My hands shook as I looked at the crowd. They all watched me expectantly, most offering words of encouragement through our pack's mind link.

I turned to find my father watching me, and I thought I saw a slight shift of emotion on his face but it quickly disappeared before I could register what it was.

“Father,” I began, pausing as I held his gaze. His eyes were filled with love and warmth for me. “In the presence of everyone , I would like you to know just how much I love you.”

Everyone was silent and I took a deep breath before continuing, “You are the best father anyone could ask of. You are a role model to your people, especially to me, because you taught me what love is and that it is best expressed through actions rather than words.” I turned around, glancing at the man who was waiting for my signal. With a slight shake of my head, I turned back to face my father. “Thank you for all that you do. From the depth of my heart I wish you a very happy birthday.”

Fireworks exploded overhead, eliciting gasps and shouts of excitement from the crowd. I watched as Alpha Frederick gazed up at the colorful display, his eyes filled with love.

Following their gaze, I faced the sky and smiled at the words I made them do for the alpha.

‘To A Father Worth More Than Gold, I Wish You A Happy Birthday. Please Sit And Wait For My Present. Love You!’

The man who had orchestrated the festivities approached me, offering a flute with a gentle smile. With a deep breath, I steadied my trembling fingers on the instrument. Closing my eyes, memories flooded my mind of the cherished moments I had shared with Alpha Frederick.

Tears traced silent paths down my cheeks as I let the music speak the emotions I couldn't voice.

I could remember the first time I learned this song. My mom used to sing it all the time. I happened to be only ten years old at that time.

I tapped my finger on the instrument, pausing to draw in a breath. Just as I began another line, a piercing scream shattered the air, jerking my eyes open in alarm. My breath caught in my throat at the sight before me—the alpha, lying lifeless on the ground.

“Father!”