(SHEILA’S POV)As I looked into Orion's eyes, a whirlwind of emotions engulfed me. There was something profound in the way our gazes met, something that seemed to solidify the unspoken connection we shared. With each exchanged glance, it felt like the threads binding our hearts grew stronger, weaving a tapestry of emotions between us.The warmth that flooded my soul in his presence was undeniable, comforting yet unsettling all at once. Doubts clawed at the edges of my mind, casting shadows on the burgeoning affection I held for him. Was this feeling real, or just a figment of my imagination, conjured by fleeting moments of connection?"Sheila," Orion's voice broke through my thoughts, his expression a mix of concern and vulnerability. His words hung in the air, heavy with uncertainty. "A-are you sure?"As I looked at him, every contour of his face seemed to reveal a story of vulnerability, etched deeply into his features. His voice trembled, his jaw quivered, and it was as if he had l
(WILLOWHART’S POV)As I returned from my meeting with the elders and the chief of our haven, their words echoed in my mind, each one heavy with significance. The weight of responsibility pressed down on my shoulders, reminding me of the delicate balance we maintained within our community.Upon passing by my herb garden on the way home, I spotted Sheila, my diligent protege, tending to the plants with care. A gentle smile graced my lips as I approached her, finding comfort in the familiar sight of her dedication. Despite the pressing matters discussed in the meeting, here in this tranquil corner of my haven, amidst the fragrant herbs, I felt a sense of peace wash over me."It would truly sadden me to part with the garden so soon," I commented softly, my voice carrying a wistful tone as I drew nearer to Sheila. The thought of leaving this haven of serenity behind filled me with a pang of longing, a reminder of the connection I shared with each plant—my kind helpers in healing ailments.
(ORION’S POV)"Oh, I almost forgot, dear Orion!" Willowhart began, her voice filled with wonderment, drawing my attention away from the task at hand. My gaze snapped to hers, a spark of newfound hope kindling within me. "What is it, Old Lady?" I asked, curiosity evident in my voice.Willowhart chuckled softly at the nickname, then gently offered, "Maybe the healers from the royal city could assist you in reclaiming your memories."Her words hit me like a bolt of lightning, and confusion knitted my brows. "Wow, sometimes I forget I lost my memory," I admitted, feeling a pang of discomfort at the reminder. "Honestly, I wouldn't mind if it never came back, as long as I can stay by Sheila's side and keep her safe."As I spoke those words, I couldn't help but wonder about the life I had before this memory loss. But Sheila, with her warm smile and unwavering support, was my anchor in this sea of uncertainty.Noticing his reaction, Willowhart arched her eyebrows with a playful glint in her e
(SHEILA'S POV)Willowhart along with most of Silverthornians, embarked on our journey towards Luminous Edge earlier this morning, my heart weighed heavy with the knowledge that we were leaving behind the only home we had ever known. The threat of the Land Enclosure Program loomed over us like a dark cloud, driving us from our cherished haven.Now, as the sun climbed higher in the sky, I stood amidst the dwindling remnants of our once vibrant community. Silverthorn had always been small, even by the standards of the Harvestia Monarchy's villages. But its modest size was fitting for a group of exiles like us, living on the outskirts of society, away from the watchful eyes of the monarchy.As I gazed into the distance, my heart sank at the sight of the deserted streets of Silverthorn. The buildings that had once echoed with the sounds of bustling life were now eerily silent, their empty windows casting long shadows in the morning light. It was a painful reminder of the exodus that had sw
(SHEILA'S POV)As Emberlyn led me to one of our father's private estates, my mind swirled with apprehension. We were a few kilometers east of the pine woods, not too far from the former Silverthorn Haven, a place I once called home, safely distant from the borders of Harvestia's monarchy. Usually, Emberlyn’s presence was accompanied by a storm of hostility, but today, she remained eerily silent. Her uncharacteristic quietness set off alarm bells in my mind.As we walked, I couldn’t shake off the feeling of confusion. Why was Emberlyn suddenly showing concern for me? It was a stark contrast to the years of abuse I had endured at her hands. From hair pulling to leg stomps, Emberlyn had made it clear that she despised me. The only flicker of kindness I could recall was a distant memory from our childhood when she offered me a few berries while I was locked in the basement. But that was just a fleeting moment among a lifetime of torment.What puzzled me even more was the protective glare
(SHEILA'S POV)As dusk settled over the woods, I found myself amidst the gathering darkness, my steps muffled by the forest floor. With Emberlyn leading the way, accompanied by her loyal mercenaries, we pressed on in search of Orion. My heart yearned to bridge the gap between myself and my step-sister, seeking an opportunity for conversation amid the tense atmosphere. Yet, Emberlyn's demeanor atop her steed appeared forbidding, her fiery hair matching the intensity of her resolve."Keep your eyes peeled, everyone. Our mission today is to capture this man, father’s order," Emberlyn commanded, her voice cut in the dimming light.The leader of the mercenaries acknowledged her orders with a casual tone, though retaining a respectful demeanor. "Of course, princess," he replied, his confidence evident. "Tonight's the night, boys. Let's ensure we secure our prize," he rallied his comrades, their responses tinged with assurance."The just paid us so good! We won't let him slip away," they af
(SHEILA'S POV)I woke up with a sharp sting at the back of my head. I shifted onto my side, my auburn hair falling over my face as I reached up to touch the spot, fearing the worst. Thank the goddess, there was no sign of injury, but the nausea lingered. My heart raced, and I struggled to steady my breathing, teetering on the edge of consciousness once more.Then it hit me—the situation I was in. 'You won't be seeing anyone, dear sister,' Emberlyn's words echoed in my mind. 'Mother's already arranged a buyer for you, a slave trader eager to take you.'I took a deep breath, forcing myself to focus despite the panic rising within me. Slowly, I surveyed my surroundings. The room was dimly lit, shadows dancing across the walls. I was enclosed in a cage, the fabric covering most of it obscuring my view, but I could sense the presence of others nearby. They, too, were likely slaves like me."Slave market," I murmured to myself, the words tasting bitter on my tongue as my mind swirled with t
(EMBERLYN'S POV)As I stood outside my mother's chamber, the events of the day replayed in my mind like a relentless loop. It had become clear that Orion was oblivious about that incident. He stood before me many times, his resolve unyielding as ever. His fierce loyalty to Sheila perplexed and frustrated me in equal measure.Taking a deep breath, I rapped lightly on the door, hoping for some solace in my mother's presence. Vespera's warm voice greeted me from within, inviting me to enter. "Emberlyn? Come on in!" she exclaimed, her cheerful tone a stark contrast to the turmoil brewing within me.As I pushed open the heavy door to my mother's private chamber, I was immediately greeted by the familiar sight of two maids fussing around her. The room was a sanctuary of peace and sophistication, a reflection of my mother's refined taste and esteemed position. Soft light filtered through the sheer curtains, casting a gentle glow over the lavish décor.Sensing my melancholy, my mother, Vesper
(ORION'S POV)As Orion and Emberlyn glided gracefully to the heart of the ballroom, holding their glasses of wine high, I felt the energy in the room shift, anticipation humming through the air like a live wire. Orion's presence alone seemed to command attention, his authoritative stature and demeanor speaking volumes without him uttering a single word.Then, as if on cue, Orion's voice sliced through the hushed atmosphere of the grand ballroom, drawing every eye and ear to him. His words, laced with a newfound humility, carried weight and sincerity that seemed to touch every corner of the room."As I've mentioned before," he began, his tone steady and sure, "tonight's festivities aren't just for the nobility." His words hung in the air, heavy with significance. "Every soul within these walls, from our esteemed guests to our dedicated staff, deserves to partake in this joyful occasion.""To my loyal maids and servants," Orion continued, his gaze sweeping across the room, "your tirele
(SHEILA'S POV)Vespera snatched the moonlit feather earring right out of my hand, hurling them to the ground with all the force she could muster. With a venomous glare, she spat at me, "You think these trinkets hold any value? They're nothing but cheap imitations. You're just fooling yourself and everyone else with them!"Vespera's words cut deeper than expected, stirring a sense of offense within me. To her, these earrings may have seemed like mere trinkets, but to me, they held far more significance. And, on top of that, they were not just 'cheap trinkets'! These moonlit feather earrings symbolized my loyalty and dedication to the Crown Prince of Harvestia. These delicately crafted earrings represented a pledge of honor. As I bent down to retrieve the earring on the ground, I cradled it gently in my hand, recognizing its worth beyond its material value. It wasn't just about preserving an accessory—it was about safeguarding a precious connection. The memory of losing Orion's pendant
(SHEILA'S POV)Taking one last look at my newly received pair of moonlit feather earrings from the head maid, I couldn't help but feel a surge of pride coursing through me. It was right after the briefing for the royal ball had ended, and the significance of these earrings wasn't lost on me. The head maid had made it clear that they were more than just mere accessories; they were a mark of passing as Orion’s personal attendance.She explained that these earrings held the Moon Goddess’ blessings, and only the designated bearer could take them off once they were worn. Crafted from rare white feathers sourced from an owl that hunted under the moon's glow, they embodied keen insight and graceful wisdom. Each feather delicately fashioned into an earring offered a unique and striking adornment for the ears, adding a subtle yet elegant touch to any attire.As I held them in my hand, I felt a sense of connection not only to the nocturnal prowess they represented but also to the crown prince h
(ORION'S POV)I growled inwardly, feeling the anger simmering beneath the surface. My alpha instincts surged, commanding authority rippling through me like an electric current."Undress and lie on the bed," I ordered, my voice heavy with sternness. Sheila braced herself, anticipation evident in her every movement. It was as though she had anticipated this moment, knew that I was about to assert my dominance over her. I saw her resistance, the slight drop of her knees before she forced herself to stand straight again.Her defiance only stoked the flames of my anger. "Leave the palace immediately if you refuse my command," I ordered once more, my voice laced with seething fury.As I uttered the second command, Sheila sank to her knees, her whole body folding forward until her forehead touched the ground in a profound act of submission to me, Orion. The sound of her sobs filled the room as she slowly began to remove her clothing, each movement heavy with the weight of her obedience. My h
(ORION'S POV)As Emberlyn sulked upon hearing my request to postpone intimacy until after our marriage, I felt a pang of guilt twist in my chest. But I couldn't risk harming her inadvertently, not when my desires might overcome me during our intimate moments. She was younger, more fragile in a way, and it stirred within me a deep-seated need to protect her, to nurture her. I understood the importance of giving her space to grow her strength, especially in our werewolf society where such qualities were vital.I watched as Emberlyn's gaze shifted to Sheila, who stood at a respectful distance, fulfilling her duties as Emberlyn's personal attendant. "Prince Orion," Emberlyn finally spoke, her tone carrying a hint of frustration, "I understand your reasoning for wanting to postpone intimacy. But must she be here, intruding on our date?" Her finger pointed subtly in Sheila's direction.I stole a quick glance at Sheila, her figure cloaked behind the veil, her expressions hidden from my view.
(SHEILA'S POV)"Ouch, Orion!" I winced, feeling the sharp pain shoot through my arm as his grip tightened."Prince Orion," he corrected firmly, his voice dripping with authority. My heart sank, his commanding tone weighing heavily on me."Prince Orion, please, you're hurting me," I pleaded softly, hoping he would ease up.Pausing for a moment, he loosened his grip on my arm, but then gently took hold of my shoulders, forcing me to face him directly. "Answer me," he insisted, a hint of annoyance lacing his words, "who is this guy you're likening me to?"As the argument with Orion escalated, I sensed a shift in his demeanor when the servant's voice pierced through the tension. The interruption was abrupt, but it seemed to offer a reprieve from our disagreement."Prince Orion, Miss Emberlyn has come to visit. She inquires if you'd care to join her for breakfast at your convenience," the servant announced from outside the chamber, breaking the silence that had settled between us.Orion's
(ORION'S POV)"Sheila," I called softly, hoping to catch her attention. I noticed the redness creeping up her cheek, extending to her ears. She looked at me, and for a moment, I dared to hope that she might feel the same desire as I. "I want you," I confessed, the words hanging heavy in the air between us.Sheila swallowed hard, her heart rate betraying the silence that she was displaying. I could see the subtle shift of her feet, pressing together as if she was grappling with her own desires. In that moment, a familiar scent filled the air, a blend of ripe grapefruit and soft jasmine. It teased my senses, triggering a wave of longing from deep within me.I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself against the rush of emotions. The scent was intoxicating, stirring up a potent mixture of want and need within me. With careful movements, I stepped out of the bath, determined not to let desire cloud my judgment, yet unable to ignore the pull I felt towards Sheila.I gently pulled Sheila
(ORION'S POV)My senses pricked up the instant the servant mentioned Emberlyn seeking me out in the chamber. She was always a delightful disruption to my solitude. As her footsteps approached, I could feel her energy permeating the air. The door clicked shut behind her as she entered the chamber."Prince Orion, where are you?" Her voice, playful and light, danced around the chamber outside my private bathroom."I'm bathing, Emberlyn," I called out, letting her know I was present, though hidden behind the curtain and the steam from the bathtub. With practiced ease, I adjusted my position, ensuring that Sheila remained concealed. My heart pounded in my chest as I fought to maintain composure, to keep up the facade of solitude despite the closeness between us. The sound of water splashing against the porcelain tub echoed in the small space, masking any hint of unease in my voice.Emberlyn opened the door and glided into the bathroom, her steps light and almost skipping—I could see her s
(ORION'S POV)As I stood there, facing Gunter in my office in the royal residence, I knew I was about to ignite a storm. Declaring Sheila as my personal attendant was a move I anticipated to receive resistance from Gunter, my loyal steward and advisor. And indeed, he did as I have anticipated. His objections were like waves crashing against a rocky shore, relentless and forceful.What if Sheila's intentions weren't pure? What if she posed a threat to the palace, or worse, to you me? And there were many more of Gunter’s questions that went past my ears.With a wry smile and a sharp wit, I countered his arguments, laying out my reasoning like pieces on a chessboard. I told Gunter that making Sheila stayed within our immediate presence would mean an easier way for us to uncover the truth behind her actions. I did that especially because Gunter was struggling to get the truth out of her too.Gunter sighed, I could see he wanted to rebut, but digging out information from Sheila was indeed