(SHEILA’S POV)I stood next to my herb cabinet, where I had meticulously stored my home-made concoctions. Turning my face towards the window, I observed the darkening sky outside. An audible sigh escaped my lips, signaling to me that the moment I had been anticipating had finally arrived.I reached for the small container of salve I had prepared, tucked away in the cabinet. Upon unscrewing the cap, a potent aroma reminiscent of damp earth filled the air. Carefully, I dipped my fingers into the balm, applying it to the scent glands located on each side of my neck, just below the base of my jawbones, as well as to my wrists. I knew Orion possessed a keener sense of smell than my own, so I took extra care to mask my scent while watching him from a distance, ensuring he wouldn't detect my presence.Fixing my veil and adjusting my cloak, I ensured they would withstand the cool breeze of the night as I stepped out of my hut. The sounds of the forest surrounded me, a familiar comfort. With d
(SHEILA’S POV)"Move, Orion," I demanded calmly, hiding my frustration and desperation behind a mask of composure.Orion stood still in his spot, his tired gaze locked with mine. He seemed adamant about not moving, seeking clarification for my words. "You said about ‘holding me back’, for what exactly?" Orion questioned, his tone tinged with exasperation. "You hold me back for nothing, Sheila."I opened my mouth to answer, but I couldn’t rebut with anything. His words hit me like a blow, and for a moment, I faltered. Did I truly hold him back for nothing? In a millisecond, I could feel Orion’s sincerity, yet the very next millisecond, I pondered about it. There was this nagging feeling that forcefully pulled my attention towards distrust. A reminder of Orion staying out of a sense of obligation, that he felt sorry for my fragile state of mind and was merely trying to appease his guilt, kept popping up.My mind spiraled back to my earlier encounter with Nova. The dimly lit room seemed
(SHIELA’S POV)I ran past the rustling leaves and jagged rocks, my movements almost causing me to stumble, yet I managed to maintain my balance along with the cloth sack in my possession. My eyes remained fixed ahead, searching for a hiding spot within the woods, convinced that nobody was close behind. Spotting a large fallen tree, I quickly veered off my path, finding it spacious enough to conceal both my body and my bag, granting me a much-needed moment of respite from my frantic sprinting.Just when I prepared to finally catch my breath and rest, a haunting howl shattered the silence around me. Its resonance, both powerful and desperate, carried an air of majesty that commanded attention without demanding obedience. Before I could fully process the sound, a sudden loud thud followed by the rustling of leaves nearby startled me.I closed my own mouth to stifle any screams. My heart raced as I crouched low behind the fallen tree. I clutched the strap of the cloth sack tightly against
(SHEILA’S POV)My heart pounded in my chest as I gazed at the fang-shaped sapphire pendant resting in my palm, a token of Orion’s sincerity. My thumb traced the smoothness of the sapphire stone, feeling the weight of its value pressing against my doubts and insecurities. ‘How could he possibly think I deserve something like this?’ I wondered silently.Yet, despite the sweetness of his gesture, I couldn't shake the feeling of unworthiness within me. I knew I wasn't beautiful like the other girls, and surely someone like Orion, with his commanding presence and determined personality, deserved better.Tremors coursed through my body as I struggled to discern Orion's honest reaction to my appearance. Peering through my veil, I watched as his gaze met mine, a flicker of surprise crossing his features before settling into an unreadable expression. The silence stretched between us, thick with uncertainty, amplifying my emotional turmoil."Can you really stay with me, Orion?" I questioned, my
(SHEILA’S POV)Normally, the scent of herbs in Willowhart's living space would have brought solace to my troubled soul. However, today, even the soothing aroma failed to ease the searing pain in my heart. Guilt and self-loathing consumed me, fueled by chronic insecurities and trust issues that seemed to repel the gentle calmness offered by the herbs.I found myself wailing in the warm presence of my mentor, Willowhart. I was on the ground, clinging to Willowhart's lap as she sat on a low stool. Willowhart offered gentle pats on my back, a silent gesture of understanding as I cried.As the tears subsided momentarily, I looked up at Willowhart with eyes red and puffy from crying. “I... I love Orion. I've actually fallen for him, Elder Willow,” I confessed, despite my trembling voice laced with a sense of resignation. “But he... he deserves someone better. Someone who won't bring him shame in public.”Feeling Willowhart's comforting hand on my shoulder, I met the elder healer's gaze. He
(SHEILA’S POV)From my hiding spot, I observed Orion sitting alone in the room. Almost immediately upon his arrival, a faint smell of alcohol permeated the air, mingling with the atmosphere. His posture, normally composed and assured, now appeared unnervingly unsteady, his form swaying almost imperceptibly as if caught in an unseen current. His gaze, once sharp and focused, now seemed to drift aimlessly, lost in the depths of his own thoughts, fixed downward as if seeking solace or escape in the worn-out marks of the floorboards.Minutes had passed before Willowhart returned while carrying a tray adorned with steaming chamomile mint tea and delicate biscuits. She set it down on an empty low wooden stool before taking a seat across from Orion. The elderly woman poured him a cup of tea which the latter accepted with gratitude.Turn the scenario into 1st POV, Sheila's POV, use past tense for narratives:"Thank you, Willowhart," Orion murmured, his voice carrying a soft tone of appreciat
(SHEILA’S POV)Nestling into Orion's comforting embrace, I felt enveloped by his familiar scent, reminiscent of crisp oak. Despite the warmth, a pang of longing stirred within me, the auburn-haired woman. "I'm sorry," I uttered sincerely, acknowledging my own shortcomings. Yet, I couldn't help but ponder whether Orion would find it in his heart to forgive me despite my remorse.And it really didn’t take that long for me to get an answer. Orion reciprocated my embrace with the same longing evident in how he held me even closer. “It’s okay, Sheila.”"Clearly, I've caused you frustration," I stated matter-of-factly, referring to his earlier complaints about me to Elder Willow. "Lies," I added, dismissing any other explanations.“Well, that’s…”Still, my smile persisted as I leaned my head against Orion's chest once more, finding solace in his presence. "It's alright," I murmured softly, my warm breath against his chest. "It doesn't really matter." My words were muffled against his chest
(ORION’S POV)As I ventured deeper into the pine forest, the familiar tranquility of the glade beckoned me. Moonlight filtered through the thick canopy, painting ethereal patterns on the lush greenery below. The air was thick with the sweet scent of wildflowers, enveloping the glade in an otherworldly calm.But tonight was different. Tonight, the peace of the enchanted glade was disrupted. Behind the tangle of vegetation and ancient ruins, a weathered stone square lay exposed, hinting at secrets long forgotten. Bathed in the gentle glow of the crescent moon, I stood at the edge of the clearing, witnessing something extraordinary unfold before me—a werewolf wedding ceremony.The sky, laden with heavy clouds, seemed to echo the solemnity of the occasion. The shaman, a figure reminiscent of a priest in more conventional rites, chanted ancient invocations, invoking the very essence of the forest itself. Torchlight cast elongated shadows across the clearing and the crumbling ruins, shroudi
(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