Serena POVI will never forget the day my whole life fell apart. The day I lost everything I had ever loved.It had been a beautiful evening, and I had just spent all day in my gallery, located at the center of our pack, blissfully sketching a portrait of my handsome, talented, and charming fiancé —Derek.It was supposed to be my two year anniversary gift to him. Last year’s anniversary was amazing, but this year’s anniversary was made even much better by the fact that my boyfriend — the same one who had vowed to never get married— had just asked me to marry him last night!Words couldn’t explain the amount of sheer joy in my heart. That’s why I decided to channel my emotions into painting this portrait, with the hopes that he would see it and realize that even though we weren’t fated mates, I loved him terribly, and he meant everything to me.No really, Derek literally meant the world to me, I had never loved anyone this much in my entire life, and considering how much my pack neglec
Serena POVOn my way to the hospital, my phone began to blare with a call from my stepmother and my body immediately tensed up with dread.Don’t get me wrong, I don’t hate my stepmother, and I don’t think she hates me too, our relationship was quite cordial at best, but anytime she or anyone else in my family, went through the trouble of calling me, then you knew that there was a very very big problem.My family didn’t usually speak to me, infact, I was more of a casual acquaintance to them than someone they cared about. And it had been that way, ever since my mother died, and my father remarried.When he married Luna Louise, my stepmother, she came with her daughter Stephanie who was already my age. The minute my father saw Stephanie, he transferred all his time, energy, and fatherly love to her.He said since I was just a useless Omega, there was no point wasting time training me when it was my husband that would inherit the pack not me.I was immediately pushed to the background.
Serena POVI was finding it very hard to process what she had just told me. What did she mean by they had signed papers to marry me off to a disabled man who was still unconscious? This surely had to be a cruel trick or maybe I was going mad.“I don’t understand. What exactly are you saying? Why would you sign anything for me without telling me?!” I yelled.“Oh shut the hell up!” My stepmother— Louise snapped.“How do you think we can afford to even pay for your father’s medical bills? Did you think we had hidden money somewhere?” She taunted me. “No! Every single penny we have was taken by that wretched good for nothing man you brought into our lives!” She snapped back.“Don’t ever forget that this is all your fault.” Louise continued, “And all we are telling you to do now is to marry and have children for a harmless disabled man for the good of the family and you’re being selfish.”I couldn’t believe that this was even real. That I was even having such an absurd conversation with my
Serena POVI couldn't believe my eyes as I slowly approached the figure lying on the bed. The man was tall and muscular, resembling the person I had seen at the event. It couldn't be a coincidence. This had to be my husband.My hands trembled as I reached out to touch his cheek. I could feel the warmth of his skin, but there was no response.He lay there motionless, like a shell of the man I once knew. But I felt it was all wrong. How could he be out there at the event while the news held that he was in coma.I berated myself! That wasn't the bone of contention. How could this be happening? How could I spend my life with a vegetable?I could run out at the moment and cart away. But a lot was at stake - my father's life. Derek was the only tormentor at the moment, if I dare run after the hospital bills has been paid, we would be in debt forever.I considered the terms again, was I to sleep with him here at the hospital? Why is he not in his house? Why is he alone? And who in the world
Serena's POVDarius walked into the room with a confidence that sent shivers down my spine. I couldn't believe my eyes as I watched him stand between the door frame.Derek was also frozen on the spot; he looked like he had seen a ghost.I observed the tension between the two men and my mind raced with questions. How was Darius here, standing on his own two feet when just moments ago he was lying in a hospital bed?Is he a twin to the man I met at the event? If so, the man I met at the event can't be here claiming I was his bride when I was already pronounced a wife to the one lying on the hospital bed. So why was he claiming me as his wife?"I am here to take my bride home, who wants to stand against me?" His eyes bore into Derek's, who couldn't even lift his gaze to meet Darius's intense stare.It was the first time I'd seen Derek cower due to fear. He had always had what it took to confront his enemy head-on, but we all know Darius; I guess Derek knew him, too.Derek's face and reac
Derek's POVDerek paced back and forth in his living room, his mind racing with thoughts of what to do next. Immediately after Darius left, he had sent spies out, and within an hour, they returned.His spies had just delivered their reports, each one bringing new information that both confirmed his suspicions and added to his growing unease.He believed Alpha Darius, his long-time rival, had faked his coma and was planning to take Serena, as his wife.The thought made Derek's blood boil with anger. How could Darius return from the coma and attack him in such a way? When he was so bent on taking her.The first spy, Jacob, cleared his throat nervously before speaking. "Alpha Derek, I have discovered that Alpha Darius is indeed awake, and he had chosen Serena as his wife. He would do anything for her."Derek's jaw clenched at the news. "Thank you, Jacob. Keep me updated on any further developments." He dismissed the first spy and turned to the next one.Emma, the second spy, shifted her
Serena's POV As I stepped into Darius's lavish mansion, I couldn't help but be in awe of its grandeur. He was rich just as the news had it.The marble floors gleamed under the soft glow of the chandeliers, and the walls were adorned with intricate tapestries and paintings. Darius led me through the opulent rooms, showing me every corner of his abode with pride.Finally, we ended up in a spacious living room where Darius handed me a stunning silvery gown. "You'll meet the leaders of the respective outposts of my pack tonight, Serena," he said, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "I'll introduce you as my queen."I felt a rush of nerves and anticipation as I slipped into the gown he gave me, the fabric cool against my skin.Darius made a phone call to his mother, and soon after, ten men entered the room and gathered around us. "This is my Luna, Serena," Darius announced. "She will be my right hand from now on."The men bowed before me, a gesture of respect that sent a shiver down my sp
Serena's POVThe following morning, I awoke early to make breakfast for Darius after spending the night alone in the king-size bed.As he ate, Darius made calls to his captains, ensuring that everything was in order. I couldn't help but feel a sense of unease as I watched him, wondering what the day would bring.After breakfast, Darius said the first word to me since the previous night. “We are going to see my mother, the grand Luna of the Crimson Pack.”Darius took me to the grand Luna of the Crimson pack, his mother.We walked through the pack grounds, the members bowing their heads in respect as we passed. I felt a sense of apprehension as we made our way to her presence. Would they always treat me with this level of respect, or was it only because I was with Darius? But the answer was there, it would be just for a year.As we entered the grand Luna's chambers, Darius instructed me, "Talk when you are being talked to, Serena. Show respect at all times."I nodded, feeling a mix of n
Serena’s POVThe quiet that followed the fighting was nearly as eerie as the actual combat. The ground had stopped shaking, the Ancients were gone — for the time being — and the mist was still there, thick and heavy around us. My legs trembled as I stumbled to my feet, but I couldn't let myself relax just yet. Too many questions remained, and too many threats hung over us.Kade was standing next to me, looking around the wreckage for any lingering danger. Even though he was tense and prepared for another assault, I could see that he was relieved. We had won, at least for a little while.Kade whispered softly, "You did it," in a tone that was equal parts admiration and worry. "You put an end to them."With a sorrowful heart, I shook my head. "Not for very long."I was immediately reminded of that by the witch, and I could see the smug enjoyment in her eyes as I looked at her. She watched us with her arms folded, as though she had planned the whole thing. Perhaps she had. However, for t
Serena’s POVThe Ancients' soaring bodies created long, ominous shadows across the ruins, causing the ground to quiver. I could feel the whole force of their power bearing down on my chest as their luminous eyes fixed us. It was oppressive, like to being caught in an unavoidable maelstrom.Kade was standing next to me with his jaw gritted and his blade raised. "What do we do, Serena?"My heart pounding, I tightened my hold on the incandescent artifact. "The line is held by us."I could sense the Ancients' overpowering strength as they drew nearer, their bodies comprised of smoke and shadow, their forms changing and distorting. When confronted with the full brunt of their strength, I wasn't sure if the relic would be sufficient to weaken them, as the witch had claimed.With their eyes wide with dread but resolute, the warriors surrounded me in a protective circle. I could feel the uncertainty in the air, but Kade's yelling commands kept them steadfast. The Ancients were more than just
Serena’s POVOnce the Ancient's scream subsided, there was an overwhelming silence in the chamber. The relic's golden glow had faded, leaving the air thick with tension and a subtle burnt smell. I remained gripping my chest, where the magic had spread like wildfire through me, as I sat on the chilly stone floor.Knelt next to me, Kade put his hand on my arm. "Serena, you succeeded. You made the Ancient weaker.I nodded as I tried to gather my thoughts. I could still feel the stone's power pulsing through my body. "But wasn't that just one of them?"Kade's face became glum. Indeed. There are still more.The witch moved forward, approaching us with her chains clinking softly. Even though her eyes were beaming with laughter, something colder and more calculated was now present. With a mocking, seductive voice, she replied, "You barely managed to stop one." "What do you anticipate happening when the others arrive?"I pushed myself off the ground by balling my fists. "You said we could sto
Serena’s POVBelow us, the floor trembled furiously, and there seemed to be a palpable energy pulsating through the chamber's walls. I stopped, the low rumble growing louder, my hand hovering above the relic. Amidst the thickening magic in the air, dust and loose stones began to descend from the ceiling, smothering us.The witch said again, "They're coming," with a sick joy in her voice. You know what, Serena? They would know as soon as you touched that artifact.With furious flashes in his eyes, Kade pulled out his blade. "You played us! He stepped toward the witch, growling."You were warned, didn't I? Despite the mayhem unfolding all around us, she answered in a composed tone. "I warned there would be repercussions."I balled my hands and willed myself to remain composed. "Now what should we do? How are we going to stop them?"The witch grinned, a slow, menacing smile taking hold of her features. "They are unstoppable. All you can do is get by.Kade's sword grip became firmer. "Aft
Serena’s POVKade and I stood at the cave's entrance, watching the warriors get ready for the journey as the early morning light crept through the woods. There was a noticeable strain in the air. Everyone was aware of the risks involved, and the uncertainty about the witch's credibility made matters worse.Kade grunted, pulling his sword's strap tighter. "I still don't like this." It is risky to take her with us."I understand," I said quietly in return. "But we need her if that's the truth about the relic."With a groan, Kade ran his hand through his hair. And should she be lying?"I met his eyes, the decision weighing heavily on my heart. "After that, we handle her."The witch appeared from the cave before Kade could reply, her hands still chained but her eyes beaming with laughter. A cunning smirk tugged at her lips as she turned to face me. "Serena, are you up for an adventure?"I continued speaking steadily while crossing my arms. This is not your place to rule. Please guide us t
Serena’s POVI stood at the entrance to the chamber where the witch was being imprisoned, and the tension in the cave was palpable. My pulse raced as I realized what I was going to do. As Kade said, we couldn't rely on her. Could I afford to turn away, though, if she knew anything that would save the pack?The witch was interested in a bargain, Elara had mentioned, but there was always a catch with someone like her. I still had no option. We had limited time left before the Ancients arrived. I had to know what her knowledge was.With his arms crossed and a serious expression, Kade stood next to me. He murmured, "I don't like this, Serena." "She has been engaging in games with us since the beginning.""I understand," I said in a calm yet doubtful tone. "But we should give her a chance to speak if she knows anything about the Ancients."Kade clinched his jaw, obviously not pleased with my choice. "If she makes any attempts""I'll manage it," I snapped back, glaring at him. Just keep it
Serena’s POVAs I stood across from Kade, the tension in the cave was palpable. This was an actual test now, not just practice. I could feel the subtle buzz of magic beneath my skin as my heart pounded. It was one thing to call upon the power but putting it to use in combat was quite another.Kade has a concentrated, piercing stare. Calm yet serious, he said, "This isn't about me being your friend right now, Serena." "I'm approaching this like a genuine conflict. You must follow suit.I swallowed the lump in my throat and nodded. "I comprehend."He rolled his shoulders and gave a knuckle snap. Alright. Now let's get started.Kade lunged toward me without notice, his motions fluid and swift. My heart was pounding as I barely managed to dodge to the side as my instincts took over. Although I had previously trained with Kade, this felt unique. He was no longer hesitant or holding back."Pay attention!" Kade gave a wide arc with his arm as he growled.He punched me, and I dodged as the wi
Serena’s POVNervous tension was humming through the cave. Though none of them realized the entire scope of the threat, the pack sensed something was approaching. But I was beginning to, or at least I had done. Peering out of the shadows were the ancients, ancient forces of evil that outdated our knowledge. The only thing that could save us was my recently awakened power, but I had no idea how to use it."Kade, how am I supposed to fight something I haven't seen?" I questioned, a hint of annoyance in my voice. "With your encouragement, I was able to summon the magic today, albeit barely."Kade folded his arms and studied me intently. Serena, you did more than just call it forth. You were in charge of it. That is the initial action.Elara took a step forward, serious on her face. "You are becoming more powerful within. But it's erratic and untamed. You must swiftly begin your training. The Ancients are impatient.I took a deep breath. "Where even do we start?"Kade advised, pacing back
Serena’s POVI gazed at Elara, her words circling through my thoughts. You have always contained the magic. Even though it sounded unlikely, I was forced to accept it considering what had transpired with the witch."How can I manage it? My question was hardly audible above a whisper.Elara’s gaze softened. “Magic like yours is rare, Serena. It is connected to instinct and feeling. You have to learn to trust it and to channel it.As worry crept into my voice, I said, "I don't even know where to start." "It simply transpired. I'm not sure how I managed to achieve it.Kade moved forward; he had been standing discreetly close. “We don’t have time to figure it out slowly,” he added, his voice tight. We are running out of time if the witch is right. Answers are urgently needed."I am aware of that," I said, my anger rising. However, I have no idea what this ability entails. Given that I have no idea whence it originated, how am I meant to use it?""It's not necessary for you to fully compre