Alpha Bryan – POV Cassie was gone, and it was peaceful. She had been getting on my nerves. I married her because my mother wanted me to, but my mom and dad were angry about what happened at the festival. They couldn't attend because my mother was in poor health, so my dad stayed by her side. I smoked a cigar, enjoying the puff. "Alpha, are you sure you want the Luna dead?" Beta Nelson asked. I glared at him. "I'll find my second mate soon. That woman was good in bed but not fit to be the Luna of the pack," I said. "Nelson, find out about Flora," I instructed. "I don't know why Flora is close to Ryker. She is weak and doesn't have a wolf, yet he deeply cares for her." "I want Flora to be our mate. I sense our mate bond is still intact with her," my wolf, Orin, purred in my head. "Are you still interested in your ex-mate?" Nelson asked at the same time. "I just want to know about her. Do I have to explain everything to you? Go and put a spy in the Black Mist pack who can blend in
Alexia–POV I had to drive back to New York, where Ryker's business among humans is located. It's a world-renowned company dealing in medicines that heal humans. It was Ryker's idea to make wolf herbs, which we used to heal our pack, available to humans who suffer from common illnesses, just like wolf shifters do. I parked the car and walked into the business center. I hate being around human cities. I prefer the pack lands, where it's secluded from humans, and there are no car honks and pollution—just Mother Nature nurturing us. "Good morning, Ms. Alexia Firth. Welcome to Black Mist headquarters," said Ida, the secretary. "I'm here to pick up a parcel. You may have spoken with Mr. Ryker Enger," I explained. She nodded and quickly walked to Ryker's office. I followed her as she opened a locker and removed a small black kit that looked tech-advanced and seemed to have a magical enhancement. I wondered what was inside. "Mr. Enger asked me to tell you not to open this kit and to info
Flora – POV "Robina was a spy, but she was sweet and looked after me," I said, and Nathan sighed. "People put on an act, Flora. You shouldn't trust anyone, even those who seem nice," Nathan said, eating the waffles he had ordered. I sipped my coffee. "So, should I trust you as well?" I asked. Nathan smirked at my question. "It's your call, Flora. Trust me or not," he said. His vague answer made me sigh internally. There were a lot of questionable individuals in the pack, and I needed to be cautious. I couldn't be naive, knowing how it could turn out badly. I recalled how Cassie had framed me for wrongdoing. "I hope you enjoyed the food," Gurther asked, pulling me from my thoughts. I nodded and smiled. "Delicious as always, Gurther," Nathan said cheerfully. After Gurther left and, we were about to leave. "Robina was killed for spying, I suppose?" I asked. "Yes. Alpha Ryker can't tolerate traitors and criminals; he is merciless. You saw how he made Cassie's wolf writhe in pain fo
Flora – POV I was escorted to the interrogation room while Shirley's body was taken to the infirmary to confirm whether she was dead and to double-check for foul play. I was feeling nervous and sad at the same time about Shirley's death. "Alpha, we have the suspect in custody," the guard informed. I looked up to meet Ryker's gaze, which held no emotion in his gray eyes. "Why have you handcuffed her wrist? Remove it," Ryker ordered. "But Alpha, Ms. Evers is a suspect," the guard said. "I suggest you remove the cuffs before you wish to die by Alpha's hands," Nathan said calmly. The guard didn't argue and quickly uncuffed me. "Aren't you going to ask if I killed Shirley?" I asked. "Why would I ask about Shirley? She was a prisoner and was put to death because she was not willing to open up," Ryker said, his cold hand replaced by his warm fingers as he held mine. "You think I'm innocent?" I questioned. "Well, I do because I know you're no killer. Also, if you had killed Shirley, I
Alpha Ryker – POV Flora gazed at me, confusion on her face, as I presented the Night Amulet. "Flora, I believe you might come from the bloodline of Nyx, the goddess of night. She also holds power over the moon and the Dark Realm." "Me? A descendant of the Nyx goddess?" Flora questioned. "I don't feel any power inside me, Ryker." "It might be locked away. You'll need training to unleash it," I explained, though Flora doubted my words. "So, when did you discover my powers? Was it the first day we met? Is that when you realized I had something special?" Flora asked, her gaze intense. I could tell she was searching for answers. "I realized the day we met that you are unique and possess strong powers. However, my intention in keeping you close isn't solely because of your power," I paused, noticing her intense gaze. "I really want to say that you are already strong, even without your powers. You've faced a lot of emotional trauma, yet you still strive to move forward," I added. Flora s
Flora – POV As we reached the pack, I noticed that the guards were tense upon seeing Ryker. "What's with the tense atmosphere?" Ryker asked as he exited the car at the pack entrance, and I followed. "Alpha, someone helped prisoner Cassie, the Luna of Whitewood pack, escape," one of the guards said. "How the hell did she escape from such high security? Huh," Ryker hissed. "Answer me. How? Who? And if you don't have the answers, start investigating. I need answers, and I'm disappointed. Where are Nathan and Alexia?" Ryker demanded. "Beta Nathan is investigating, and Omega Alexia is at home; she's sick," the guard replied meekly. "Drive the car to the manor, and Flora, you come with me," Ryker commanded. I followed him, not questioning why he wanted me around to investigate the situation. I was glad he let me in on it, and I reminded myself to stop overthinking everything. "Nathan," Ryker called as we reached the dungeons and saw him examining the broken shackles. "What the hell ha
Belle – POV "Our deal was to keep my mother alive," I said, filled with grief as I drove to Venica Manor after my mother's funeral service. Venica looked at me, sharing in the grief. "I had nothing to do with Shirley's death," Venica said. "The person who agreed to help also said she didn't poison Shirley. It was Flora who did," Venica added. "I had given a teleportation vial to Shirley and another vial with a potion to break the handcuffs." "Then how did she die? I buried her and came straight to you," I snapped. "I trained for the mission, but now I have no reason to follow through." "You trust Flora over me? The woman you've only known for six months? You took her in and gave her food, shelter, and a job because your mom, Shirley, asked you to. And you did it out of respect for Shirley's wishes," Venica said, looking at me furiously. "You've known me for a decade, and yet you trust Flora over me?" "Tell me, do you think Flora is innocent? Do you trust her?" Venica asked. "She
Flora – POV Alexia looked pale at the mention of Nemo. She rushed out of the gym without saying anything to me. I warmed up and practiced the fight stance like Alexia had taught me. After showering, I walked excitedly downstairs to get the news on Bryan and Cassie. The news must be printed on the headline, as I had instructed Ryker to destroy Bryan's image and the White Wood pack. This would make Bryan look guilty, portraying him as the one who claimed to be against wrongdoing while helping Cassie, an offender, for abusing me. Ryker was proud of my plan, and I felt good as well. I thought Ryker would be busy interrogating Nemo's guard since Nathan had come early in the morning to inform him that the culprit was Guard Nemo. "You look cheerful," Pixy said as she poured coffee for me, and I smiled. "Is it bad to be cheerful?" I asked, raising my eyebrow playfully. Pixy shook her head. "No, that's not what I meant. It's better to see you smile than be glum," Pixy said. "Well, it's be
Flora – POVRyker looked at me, then at the pregnancy test I had taken before we were to leave for our honeymoon. "You're pregnant," he stated. I nodded, confirming his words."I'm so happy, Flora," Ryker said with a huge grin, embracing me tightly, his arms warm and reassuring. Tears of joy streamed down my face. I had been so anxious about my pregnancy, wondering if Ryker truly wanted to be a father. But seeing his happiness washed away all my fears, bringing a deep sense of relief."Aren't you happy, Flora? Why are you crying?" Ryker asked, a note of alarm in his voice as we stepped back from our embrace."They're happy tears, Ryker. I'm not sad," I replied, chuckling softly and wiping my tears. It was endearing to see the concern in his eyes shift to relief."We need to start planning for the baby. A new crib, and we must ensure that you have the best health care," Ryker began, his mind already racing with plans."Ryker, let's just enjoy this moment. We have plenty of time," I sai
Chelsa - POVStanding outside Ryker's office, I hesitated, confident that Nathan would be inside, managing Pack affairs in Ryker's absence. Taking a deep breath, I grappled with the realization that Nathan was my second mate.The door opened, revealing Nathan. His brown eyes, always so warm, met mine. "Planning to just stand there?" Nathan queried."I was wondering if I helped Ivan with that potion," I lied, stepping inside. Nathan closed the door, and a wave of warmth enveloped me."Please accept Nathan," urged Mary, my inner wolf."Quiet, Mary. I need time. Nathan hasn't acknowledged the mate bond; maybe he's unhappy," I replied, focusing on Ryker's administrative tasks.Nathan approached, holding a file, invading my personal space. I avoided his gaze, but his proximity left me no choice."Why are you avoiding me?" he asked.Raising an eyebrow, I retorted, "You've been avoiding me too. You only showed up yesterday to dance with me."His voice softened. "I'm sorry."“What do you mea
Flora - POVI awoke at dawn, back in my room, but I wasn't alone—Ryker lay sleeping beside me, his presence a peaceful comfort. Gently caressing his face, I felt a surge of relief. Silently, I slipped out of bed and went to Ivan's room. There, he slept soundly. I kissed his forehead, thoughts of the orb's message for Ivan and my future child lingering in my mind. It foretold a challenging adulthood for them, marked by difficult choices. A sigh escaped me as I pondered the message's fluidity and how the future might shift with every decision made. I clung to the hope that the ominous vision could be altered.Ryker's voice broke the silence. “Flora,” he murmured, his half-asleep gaze filled with confusion. “Why do you look so concerned?”I grasped his hand, leading him back to our bed. “I saw the future, Ryker, but I can't share the details—it's against the rules,” I explained softly. “I can only say that Ivan and our future child will face hard times. We won't be there to support them;
Flora – POV"Where am I?" I asked, confused."We are in the Dark Realm, Flora," Nyla said."Why are we here?" I asked. A man's silhouette became apparent, and he bowed before me."Queen Flora," he said. "I am the guard named Nephro, my lady. I am the one who summoned you." The voice was familiar; it belonged to Nephro, who had crowned me the Queen of Darkness. This happened after I had passed away in the Wolf Realm and came to this side of the world. Since being revived, I could easily traverse between the two realms."Why did you call me here? I was told I would only be summoned if a problem arose," I said, rising from the throne. "So, you're here to inform me of a problem?""Yes, my Queen.""What is it this time?" I asked, worried, walking toward Nephro, who led the way to the issue."Nothing too grave, but I must inform you that our future seers' room has a new message." I gulped. Nephro had explained the significance of this room during my coronation and had shown it to me. The Fu
Flora – POVI opened the letter and began to read its contents. "Flora, the first thing I want to tell you is that you changed my life for the better. When I realized our mate bond, I was initially confused and guarded. I had vowed never to let anyone into my heart again, but you wielded an inexplicable power over me. In the few weeks you stayed with our pack, I felt irresistibly drawn to you. When you were taken from me, I understood that it wasn't just the mate bond; it was my heart yearning to know and understand you. You breached the walls around my heart so effortlessly, I never saw it coming. I pretended not to care, claiming I wanted you only for the power you represented, because you weren't ready to see the warmth and care I could offer. You had your own scars, and I wanted to help heal them. Words often fail me when it comes to matters of the heart, so I'm pouring all my feelings into this letter. I have one more question to ask you." The letter ended there.I looked up at I
Flora – POV"Can I talk to you in private?" Bryan asked. I nodded, sensing Ryker's jealousy, but I knew I needed to speak with Bryan. I glanced back at the group."I'll be back in a minute," I said. Everyone nodded, and Ryker returned to his breakfast, deliberately avoiding my gaze. I walked out with Bryan."I'm glad to see you're back to life, looking happy and healthy," Bryan said."Yes, I'm back, thanks to Ryker using the Odion amulet. And I'm grateful to Belle for giving this amulet to Ryker at just the right time," I explained. Bryan nodded, clearly absorbing this new information, evidently unaware of it until now."So, what did you want to talk about?" I asked as we walked down the corridor, away from prying ears. Bryan looked uncomfortable, shifting his weight from one foot to another and scratching his head."Well, I came to ask you—" He stopped, took a deep breath, and met my gaze, his emerald eyes filled with turmoil. "I want to know why I don't sense the mate bond between u
Ryker - POVFlora gazed at me intently. “I know it’s challenging to confront your mother. Allow me to handle this,” she offered. I nodded in agreement. While Flora engaged in battle with my mother, I hurried to Ivan. Utilizing magical techniques, I cast spells to ease his discomfort within the barrier. However, my efforts seemed futile; my magic had little effect.“I’m not feeling well, Dad,” Ivan murmured weakly. Time was slipping away, and I unleashed a powerful grim reaper spell in desperation, shattering the barrier. Ivan, pallid and sickly, collapsed into my arms. Without hesitation, I teleported us to the Black Mist Pack's Infirmary.“Ivan, are you okay?” I asked, concern etching my voice.“No, I feel strange,” he replied, his voice weak, before vomiting on my shoulder. As we arrived at the infirmary, I entrusted Ivan to the care of the doctors and Chelsa.“Chelsa, please look after Ivan. I must return to aid Flora,” I urged, encountering Chelsa on my way back.“Is Flora okay? H
Ryker -POV"Silence and sit down; let me explain," Mom commanded sharply. "I am a hybrid, part wolf, part demon. As the first heir of the demons, my mixed blood made me ineligible to be their queen, so I was exiled. In my rogue state, I met your father, my mate, but I concealed my demonic powers from him.""Why did you kill Dad? Was it because you didn't love him, or did you want to prevent the Moon Goddess's sword from slaying more demons?" I asked, my voice laden with suspicion and hurt."I did love your father, but things went terribly wrong," she began. "On a trip, he discovered my true origin. His hatred for demons was profound, and it led to a fierce confrontation. Not to mention, I resented him for having a son, Elton, with another woman. Our argument escalated, and your father, in a fit of rage, tried to kill me."Mom paused, her eyes distant. "In self-defense, I unleashed my power and, unintentionally, killed him. Unable to return to the Pack, I created an illusion that we bo
Ryker – POVI handed Bryan the signed peace treaty, and he walked out of my pack, his expression clouded with gloom. I turned towards Melina, who was seated with handcuffs clasping her wrists, while Chelsea gave me a stern look."Are you serious about believing this manipulative woman?" Chelsea asked, her voice loud enough for everyone to hear."Chelsea, let's talk in private," I suggested."No, I need answers right now," Chelsea insisted."I had no other choice, Chelsea. Time is running out, and I'm worried about Ivan," I retorted, my frustration evident. Chelsea's frown softened into a look of concern. She knew the lengths I had gone to in our search."Let's just remove these," Melina interjected, nodding towards her handcuffs. I remained motionless, ignoring her demand."Do you want the antidote to ease your agony, or would you rather provoke me to the point of no return?" I challenged her."Then give me the antidote. The pain is unbearable like my bones are aging rapidly," Melina