WINTER'S POVJess's words kept echoing in my head. I had always known that Rafael was a tyrannical ruler; his reputation preceded him. But I never imagined that he had killed his mate. I had also never known about the curse that plagued him until now. In contrast, Slade was nothing like that. While one could argue that he was cursed, he wasn't mad, nor was he a murderer of his spouse. Slade was loving—the kind of mate anyone would wish for, and..."You still need to get dressed," a voice interrupted my thoughts.Startled, I turned around to see who had entered. My eyes widened as I recognised my mother standing by the room door. When did she arrive? I must have been so lost in my thoughts that I didn't notice her presence."Winter," she said, walking further into the room."Mother," I replied, stepping into her embrace. I took a deep breath, closing my eyes for a moment before opening them again."I'm sorry...""Why?" she asked, raising an eyebrow. Leading me to the bed, she gently sa
WINTER'S POVThe room shimmered with the soft glow of flickering candles, casting dancing shadows upon the walls. Their gentle light seemed to mirror the conflicting emotions swirling within me - a blend of sorrow and perseverance.This room, unlike a grand cathedral, had a mystical aura, appearing more like a ritual chamber. It was the largest ritual room I had ever seen, filled with solemnity and significance. At its centre stood a mini altar adorned with an array of flowers in vibrant hues. I spotted Rafael standing beside a figure who seemed to be the pack's seer.Rafael looked impeccable in a sleek, black three-piece tuxedo that hugged his form with precision. The stark white shirt underneath created an elegant contrast against the darkness, and a black bowtie graced his collar. However, it wasn't just his dashing appearance that caught my attention; it was the genuine, wide grin that illuminated his face. He seemed genuinely thrilled to be marrying me.Meanwhile, my demeanour st
WINTER'S POVThe following day, the sound of footsteps jerked me awake from my slumber. Groaning, I sat up in bed and ran a hand through my hair, which I was sure must look like a bird's nest by now.I closed my eyes, feeling a throbbing in my head, before glancing around the room. It was the first time I took in my surroundings since entering yesterday. I found myself in a master suite with minimal furnishings. While it may have appeared plain, it still exuded an air of grandeur and elegance. The walls were painted in a subdued shade of brown, adding to the overall ambience.There was only one large window in the room, providing the only source of light at the moment, as only one chandelier illuminated the space. I must have overlooked it last night due to my eagerness to escape Rafael, even though my attempt had been futile.My ears perked up as I heard footsteps approaching, followed by Rafael's voice drawing nearer to the room. I patted the spot where he had slept last night, real
WINTER'S POVI stared at Rafael and the woman, observing their interactions. It took them a few seconds to break apart as if they had just noticed my presence in the room. Rafael looked at me, feigning surprise, and ran a hand through his dishevelled hair. The woman glanced in my direction, her lips turning down in disgust. "Who the hell is this?!" she exclaimed.I looked at Rafael, expecting him to introduce me, but he remained silent. The woman repeated her question, "Are you into this now? Is she here to watch us fuck? I never thought you were into a woman like this." She wrinkled her nose and appraised me from head to toe before wrapping her arms around Rafael's neck.Who was she? I pondered. Before I could come up with any answers, Rafael responded to me almost immediately. "She's my answer," he said."What do you mean she's your answer?""I thought who'd take my place would be perfect; she's even more dumber than I imagined," scoffed the woman.Anger surged through me, and I cl
RAFAEL'S POVWas I too harsh on her? Should I not have said what I did? Definitely not.Shaking my head, I lifted the glass filled with bourbon to my lips and downed its contents before sighing. Since I left Winter, deep down within me, I couldn't help but feel like I had wronged her.It felt wrong to enter into an oath with her, but I never anticipated it would end as abruptly as it did.A scoff escaped Vivian's lips, and I turned to where she stood by the door. I had forgotten she was in the room with me."I was trying to get acquainted with that woman pushing a child on you. The nerve of her! And she thinks she's better than everyone just because she's a Luna!" Vivian exclaimed."Oh, she thinks so?" I asked.Vivian nodded, waving her fingers in the air and blowing on them. I could have sworn she had her nails painted when I saw her earlier; it was strange to see her wearing another colour."Don't you see how she acted around you? I heard she's only been here for a day. What sane pe
RAFAEL'S POVSeeking solace and a momentary escape from the tension inside the house, which Vivian caused, I decided to find tranquillity in the garden surrounding the pack house. Although I didn't visit often, it was a place I went to whenever I needed a clear head, and it usually worked.The sun's brilliance cast a radiant glow on the flowers and pathways as I strolled along, lost in my thoughts. When I reached the picturesque gazebo nestled among the blooming roses, I paused, leaning against a pillar and gazed up at the bright sky before shielding my eyes."Lovely," I mumbled as my eyes caught the bachelor's button flower, and my brows furrowed as it reminded me of Winter's big blue eyes. Shaking my head to clear the thought of her, I heard soft murmurs.Slanting my head to catch more of what was being said, I turned in the opposite direction of the garden, which led to a serene pond, letting my ears guide me to the voices."Do you think it's safe to stay here?" I heard a hushed wh
WINTER POVAs soon as Rafael left, I turned to Jude and reassured him, "I'll be fine."Jude nodded, though I could sense the insincerity in his smile. He stepped forward and enveloped me in his embrace. I felt a flicker of comfort, knowing he was there for me."Just let me know if he taunts or manipulates you into doing something you don't want to do. He may resemble him, but he's not the same person," Jude warned, his voice tinged with concern.I giggled softly as I gently untangled myself from his arms and looked into his eyes. "I understand your worries, but I won't allow myself to be manipulated. I am strong, and I won't let him get away with anything."Even as I spoke those words, a twinge of doubt crept into my mind. I was now residing in Rafael's pack, surrounded not only by him and his pack members but also by Vivian. I couldn't help but wonder if my grit to stand my ground would hold firm.Jude opened his mouth to say something, but instead, his eyes narrowed, and I followed h
WINTER'S POVTWO DAYS LATERAs I walked through the courtyard, my hand gently caressed my tummy, feeling my baby's kicks. A smile spread across my face, filling me with warmth. But just as quickly as the smile appeared, it vanished when my eyes collided with Rafael's.Startled, I halted in my tracks and swiftly turned in the opposite direction. I hadn't expected to see him after everything that had transpired two days ago. I couldn't avoid him forever, considering I was temporarily living in his pack. Also, I tried to forget he existed, but my attempts proved futile as the thoughts of Slade reminded me of him, or I caught glimpses of him when I least expected it.Until now, we hadn't come close to each other. I started walking back toward the hall's exit, but my steps faltered as he called my name."Winter."Turning, I forced a bright smile and turned again, pretending to ignore him. However, a startled gasp escaped my lips as he tugged me backwards, pressing me against the nearest wa
WINTER POVA DAY AFTER THE BATTLEThough we endured many casualties, victory was ours. Our pack was back under our control, and there were no impending threats.No prisoners were taken from the Vordrak Lycans. Those who refused to yield were beheaded, and their remains left for the vultures to feast upon.Most importantly, Slade had returned. However, he hadn't given me the full acknowledgment I sought.At the moment, I was in the room, preparing for the meeting to announce Slade's return. While some felt it, others were still bewildered.Slade had departed the room even before I woke. I wondered if he was intentionally avoiding me, for he wasn't acting like himself."Maybe you're attributing too much to it," Flora suggested."I doubt it," I murmured. "He's distant. I should be the one relishing his presence the most, but now he seems to prefer others' company over mine.""I don't believe that's the case. He still feels the same way about you," Flora assured."How do you know that?" I
WINTER POVMinutes passed as I waited for Rafael or Slade, unsure which one would wake up first. I hoped one of them would regain their memories soon.However, it seemed like my wait might be in vain. He hadn't stirred since he fell, and he wasn't breathing. I couldn't detect any heartbeat. I wondered if I had overexerted myself."When will he wake up?" I asked Rachel. "I thought it would happen soon!"I glanced back at his body. He was growing cold, and his lips were turning blue. The sounds of battle from outside echoed while I cradled the nearly lifeless body of my mate."What should I do, Rachel?" I looked at her, then at my mother and Emily."Give it time," my mother said, reaching out to touch my shoulder, but I shrugged her hand away."Everyone keeps saying that!" I cried out. "Did I do everything wrong, and why is no one telling me the truth?"Was he going to die again? Tears blurred my vision, and I bowed my head, sobbing against his chest. The sudden wave of grief overwhelme
WINTER POVI was relieved my mother stayed behind. The process of forcing the Blood Moon was even harder than I had imagined. We had been at it for hours since my arrival, and night hadn't fallen yet.Despite drawing on my mother's strength, I still felt weak. It was as if something was trying to drain my energy."It's the babies," Emily whispered."What?" I furrowed my brow, my hands resting on my stomach."They're taking power from you, Winter, so you can't use all your abilities, or you'll end up magically depleted," she explained."Why would they try to take my powers when they know I need them right now?" I questioned.They should have sensed my distress, especially since I'd been using my powers more frequently lately."It's what keeps them alive," the Eclipse pack seer said.She approached me and placed her hands on my stomach, closing her eyes. "You should talk to them."A few seconds later, she opened her eyes. "Rachel and I can lend you our strength, and I'm sure your mother
WINTER POVEven though I glimpsed her briefly on my way to the Silvamemoria Forest, I never imagined she'd come here after all she'd done. No one saw eye to eye with her, and she hadn't offered an official apology for her part in it. I couldn't help but wonder how she'd managed to step in here without being torn apart."What are you doing here?!" It was Kendall who snapped out of his daze first, and he strode toward her, growling lowly with narrowed eyes."Hi, Kenny," Summer smiled, waving at him. "Long time no see.""I'm not delighted to see you," Kendall hissed. "And it would be best if you left.""Don't you think having extra hands could be a help for all of you?" another familiar voice chimed in, and Daniel emerged from his hiding spot."No," I murmured, shaking my head. How had they managed to come here amidst all the chaos?!"We found our way," Daniel said as if he were reading my mind.It felt like the last time I'd seen him was a century ago. His hair was shaggy, and it seemed
WINTER POVI jumped as another shot rang out in the air. It had been happening for over an hour now. Although it was expected, I never thought it would be this soon. It was the day of the blood moon, and it wasn't even morning yet when we were being attacked by the Vordrak's lycan. Some of the buildings close to the large gate of the Moon Stone pack had been hit and were in ruins. It wouldn't be long before it reached us, but I guess they were taking their time.From where I stood in the main pack's building, very much close to the balcony, I could see some of the Vordrak's lycans taking the pack members who weren't fortunate enough to flee captive and beheading them in cold blood. Also, I didn't think it was the dead pack members' fault since we were attacked unaware."My lady," I turned to Jude as he stepped towards me. I saw Linda behind him, as well as Kendall. They all wore battle armor with swords in their sheaths, except Linda, who took a spear. It wasn't as though she couldn't
WINTER POV"Try again," Emily urged for the third time since we left the room. Closing my eyes, I took a slow breath and focused on the candle before me."Ignis (Fire)," I whispered for the third time. Opening my eyes, I felt nothing. I shook my head, stepping away from the pentagram."It's not working, Emily," I admitted. This should be the simplest of spells. I couldn't fathom why it wasn't working, and I hadn't even tapped into my deepest power to draw it out."Your mind is still occupied," Emily pointed out."It's clear," I insisted."It's not," Emily persisted. "That's why I want us to start with the simplest spells, so your powers won't be drained from repeated attempts.""I did clear my mind just as you instructed," I insisted.I hadn't been thinking of anything except the fact that Rafael was in the dungeon, in need of my help.'That means your mind is still occupied,' Flora whispered.'Flora,' I acknowledged. 'What should I do?'Flora speaking to me at moments like this wasn'
WINTER POVTHE NEXT DAYI felt confined in the room, not literally, but I could barely leave without my mother or Denise asking where I was going. Rafael was still in the dungeon, though not locked up like before. I'd been told that, but I didn't trust my mother enough at this point not to.For some reason, she was keeping the truth from me. Pacing, I ran a hand through my hair, then glared at Emily, seated on the sofa in front of me. She'd been talking nonstop about the history of the Vordrak Lycans and how they came to be. I didn't want to hear it. I just wanted a solution. The one, my parents had proposed involved me forgetting about Rafael, which meant I'd forget about Slade, too, if I did it. Saving Rafael was important, but his forgetting me was the last thing I wanted.So, the only sensible option now was to wait for the Blood Moon night to use the moon shadow Blade. It was the only available and effective option I knew, even if it meant forgetting about him."Do you understand
WINTER POV"I am dying," I whispered, gazing at the face of the goddess Selene. She shook her head, her expression distant, lost in thought.I wondered if she shared in my pain, her murmurs never-ending. "Can't you help me?" I implored, but she remained silent, her gaze fixed on me.She only stared at me before shrugging. "Even for a goddess like me, there are limits I can't surpass. As much as I care for you, Winter, there are boundaries I cannot cross." Her voice held a touch of sadness, mirroring the emotion etched on her face."What do you mean by these limits?" I inquired, a hint of frustration creeping into my tone. I lay there, perhaps lifeless, with my loved ones surrounding me. Rafael still needed my aid, and the impending war loomed. Yet, she hesitated to assist."You know I would have assisted if I could," she sighed."Everything lies within your power; a mere snap of your fingers could change it all," I insisted, my voice tense as I glared at her."Like I said, Winter..."
RAFAEL POVExhaling once again, I stood rooted to the spot, unyielding since the trio departed. Winter hadn't budged either.No matter how often her mother offered reassurances, it did little to ease my unease. If only I'd left with Jude and faced the consequences head-on, just as I glimpsed in his eyes. It might have offered some solace.It could have balanced the scales, a punishment of sorts for what I'd subjected Winter to. Yet deep down, I knew that wouldn't be enough. I sighed and began to pace around the room."You should sit down. You'll wear yourself out," Denise advised."Sit?" I scoffed. "I don't think that's what I need."Rising to her feet, Denise approached me. "It's not your fault," she asserted. "I believe you would've shielded Winter if you had the inner strength. I know you never intended to harm her.""I should have shielded her, but I never did," I acknowledged. "I repeated the same mistake I made with my first mate. I'm cursed, shit!""Listen to me," Denise insist