Zira-A dark and ominous cloud grew thicker in the sky as if it were following me down the vacant street toward the home I had lived in for nearly ten years. Earlier in the day the sky had been shining brightly, but now the weather seemed to match my mood. With each step, the harsh rain pelted against my body, like I was being hit with endless needles.It didn’t help that I had just had surgery a few hours ago and if I wasn’t careful I could die, but right now, I didn’t care. For ten years I have lived a life worse than death, and every bit of hope that I had clung to, to keep me from falling into a deep despair, had shattered. Not only did I sacrifice my chance at being able to shift into my wolf on my eighteenth birthday, but I learned I have been living a lie.Ten years ago, my parents and older brother had been killed. I almost died, but I had been saved. I couldn’t remember much of that night, but I remember waking up in a bed with a kid only two years older than me, sitting besi
Zira- “I still don't understand how she hasn’t figured it out yet. The only time any of you are nice to her is when your uncle is around.” A heavy pressure spread through my chest, to the point where I felt as if I were suffocating. All this time I thought it was Trenton who saved me, but now I am learning it was his uncle Axton. I have only met Axton maybe once a year since I was eight years old. I didn’t know much about him other than he was ten years older than me, a powerful military commander, and he was friendly, with a nice smile. Aside from that I didn’t know anything about him and couldn’t remember much about him. Around the time Axton would visit, was the only time I was treated like a human and not a slave. I was also allowed to wear expensive clothes and live with Trenton and his family. When Axton was around, I was treated like a princess. In those moments it was a glimpse of hope and the promise of being accepted one day. Every time Axton would arrive, Trenton and hi
Axton-“Find out what has happened to her.” I told my best friend, Kason Yates, as I carried Zira to the car.“Yes, Sir!” Kason saluted me out of habit before running down the street, ignoring the fact that it was pouring rain.I didn’t care for him or anyone else to treat me like their superior, even if I was. It was one thing for them to do it when we were on duty, but around civilians, I would rather keep a low profile. Not only was I the leader of our team, but as of two years ago, I became the Alpha King.Only those on my team knew I was the Alpha King because I needed to keep a low profile. Not only for mine and my team's sake but for Zira’s. After climbing into the back seat of the Hummer, which my friend Lukas was driving, I cradled Zira on my lap.Despite being unconscious, she was shivering and an intense heat radiated from her body. Aside from that, I could feel an electric current moving from her and through me. It was the same current I felt ten years ago when I saved her
Axton-“The house you left for her; all of the utilities were cut off. Since she was eight when you left, she wasn’t old enough to work, but she was forced to work by your brother to cover the cost of living in the house. Besides that, she worked odd jobs to earn a few hundred dollars a month to buy food, clothing, and necessities. On average, the cost to turn utilities on in the house she is living in is nearly two thousand dollars.” Kason said as I opened the file and skimmed over the contents, which was basically everything he was telling me.“What about the money I would send every month to cover her living expenses?” I asked.“Your brother gave it to Trenton.” Kason answered before continuing to fill me in on what Zira had been through. “Even the gifts you gave her when you returned every year were confiscated by them or she was scammed out of it. Also, she hasn’t been able to attend school.”I had just flipped to the next page in the file, which was a list of falsified documents
Axton-“Do you want me to go with you or stay here?” Kason asked as I pushed away from the door and started down the hall.“Stay here and keep me updated. If she wakes before I return, call me. She might freak out since she doesn’t know any of you.” I said without turning around as I descended the stairs.I knew I should change my clothes since I still had Zira’s blood on me, but all I cared about was getting my hands on Trenton. Even my wolf was restless. It was taking a lot of energy to keep him reigned in. If not for my training, I likely would have lost control by now.Reaching my garage, where I had various vehicles parked, I walked toward the Hummer. It wasn’t the fastest vehicle I owned, but it was still running. Lukas likely forgot to turn it off when he returned with the doctor. Getting into the Hummer, I left the house and headed in the direction of the hospital.I was grateful to have friends like Lukas and Kason. We have known each other since our basic training days. We d
Axton-“How long are you planning to stay?” Trenton asked.Seeing how quickly his mood and expression changed, I wanted to strangle him. If I had known sooner he was capable of acting so well, I would have suggested he became an Actor instead of the Alpha of Shadow Wolf after his parents died. If I didn’t know the truth about what happened to Zira, I likely wouldn’t have thought there was anything wrong.The way he was looking at me now, was like how he had always looked at me. Admiration and innocence glistened in his eyes, with a hint of that Alpha demeanor that all Alphas had. The only difference now was there was something else under the surface in the way he looked at me.It was the kind of look I often saw when facing a threat. Not just any threat. A kind of threat where the person was rotten to the core, but believed they could do no wrong. People like that were known serial killers or morally corrupted. After hearing what Zira has been through, I wasn’t surprised, but I wonder
Zira-Shrouded in a thick haze, I struggled to open my eyes. Random memories flooded my mind as if I were flipping through a picture book. I remembered everything that happened at the hospital, but I drew a blank after the hospital.When I managed to open my eyes, they were a little fuzzy. Not from just waking up, but from the bright light in the room. I felt as if it was still dark outside, so I didn’t know where the light came from. It felt like I was lying in a large bed, and if I had to guess I was in my room, so where did the light come from?Lifting my hand to block the blinding light, I blinked a few times until my vision cleared and I could see my hand clearly. Tapped on the back of my hand was a needle and an IV line. I didn’t know why, but that wasn’t my concern. Peeking through my fingers I was confused by the light in my room.From as far back as I can remember, I haven’t had electricity. After a few seconds, I started to realize that I wasn’t in my bed, in my room. Loweri
Eight-year-old Zira-Lighting lit up the sky and howling thunder drowned out my screams. I was terrified and alone. Well, not entirely alone, as bloodied corpses were scattered all around me.I knew I was supposed to stay in the house with the doors and windows locked, but my twelve-year-old brother, Aiden, snuck out. He was supposed to stay in the house with me, but he was worried our parents were in trouble. I tried reminding him he was only twelve, but he was convinced that with our father not home, he was the man of the house.When he left, I debated for far too long if I should follow. Even if I was only eight, I was extremely smart and more mature than most kids my age. I was also obedient to my parents, and they made it perfectly clear I was not to leave the house or let anyone in except for them. However, I now wish I had followed my brother.If I had, I wouldn’t be alone, and I would feel safer as I stepped over the bodies of my pack members and other people I didn't know. I
Zira-My sense of sight, with the way he focused intently as he gently massaged my sides and stomach. His brow furrowed deeply, with eyes narrowed in concentration. His body was slightly tense, with his movements deliberate and precise. He seemed completely oblivious to everything around him and absorbed in his task.My sense of touch, with the gentle caress of his hands sending waves of pleasure through me, almost causing me to tremble under his touch. The warmth of his hands, and how I imagined what his hands would feel like on other parts of my body.My sense of smell, with the hint of cedar and pine scent on him. It wasn’t overpowering, but the aroma evoked a sense of ruggedness and the outdoors, which made me wonder if he had gone for a run with his wolf when I was at school. There was a slightly smoky and resinous quality, suggesting an earthly presence.My sense of hearing, by the way his breath was deep and steady. It was almost imperceptible. A quiet rhythm, with his intense
Zira-“So, how is she?” Axton asked an hour later, after Tessa stepped away, having completed my examination.“Well, she doesn’t have any broken bones, but she does have some severe bruising and muscle tension.” Tessa stripped the medical gloves off her hands and tossed them into the trash. “I have some ointment and medication that can help with that.”“I didn’t break a rib?” I asked, as I gently placed my hand where my ribs hurt.“My portable x-ray showed no fractures or breaks, but if you would feel better with complete imaging, I can take you to the hospital.” Tessa continued to put away her medical supplies while setting an unmarked pill bottle and tube on the bedside table. “I did notice that the muscles around your ribs are cramped and bruised, which is likely what is causing you pain.”“No, I trust you.” I pressed my fingers against my ribs and did feel like there was a knot there. “I just wanted to be sure.” I removed my hand from my side rib cage and placed it on my lap.“You
Zira-“Okay, well, you can either take the rest of the day off or head to class. I am going to take Zira home. Would you mind informing Jeremy?” Axton said as he scooped me in his arms, cradling me against his chest.“No problem!” Sammy moved toward the door. “I am going to head to class so I can keep up with Zira. I want both of us to get into the Academy together.” Sammy then rushed from the room, while waving her hand over her head.“Let’s go home.” Axton spoke as he carried me out of the office.Normally, I wouldn’t mind if he carried me like this, but as we entered the hall, I quickly hid my face in his shoulder. Students were present in the hall, and it was imperative that I remain inconspicuous when Axton assumed the role of the new principal. I wasn’t looking forward to them knowing that Axton was married to a student. That just sounded completely inappropriate and ridiculous.“What’s wrong?” Axton asked as if he were completely oblivious to the obvious stares as we walked pas
Zira-My eyes turned to Allie, who was now huddled in the corner of the office, with fear glistening in her green eyes. I was curious why she seemed to fear Axton, but one glance at Axton spoke volumes. He stood with his body tense, but ready to strike, with eyes that burned with an intensity, almost like an uncontrolled fire, ready to burn everything in its path.The air around him was thick, and that familiar feeling of rage moved through him, around him, and then through me. Tension radiated from his clenched jaw and fisted hands, with white knuckles. Axton’s gaze was locked on Allie, without the slightest waver. Only the slightest trembling moving down his body betrayed his unmasked fury.I felt this unconscious instinct to step retreat, but instead I stayed firmly by his side. I felt as if something was gathering inside of him, like a storm, or a dam that was about to burst and unleash something that would rattle the entire world. For the first time, I saw the true presence of hi
Zira-I don’t know why I didn’t sense him prior to his arrival, but I was happy to see him. Perhaps it was because of the level of drama or the fact that I was in a lot of pain. Thinking of my pain, I dipped my chin to hopefully hide my injuries. I didn’t know how extensive they were, but if Jeremy could notice the moment he saw me, Axton would too.“Axton Heath!” The principal shouted as he rushed toward Axton. “What brings you here? Are you here for Allie? She mentioned that Trenton would be picking her up, but if he is busy, I guess he would ask his uncle. Why don’t you take a seat? Do you want something to drink? I hope you don’t mind, but we are still dealing with an issue, but I promise I will make it quick.”I didn’t see Axton’s expression, but I heard Jeremy scoff and mutter under his breath. “Idiot.”“Oh? What is the problem?” The sarcasm was thick in Axton’s voice, and it took me a lot of effort not to look up at him.“A student injured your nephew’s girlfriend, and it refus
Zira-When the principal hung up the phone, he turned his attention to me and the others. “Now that is settled, I want everyone to tell me what happened and why you were fighting in the cafeteria.”Sammy, Leo, and Linda all started talking at the same time. I stayed quiet because I didn’t see the point in explaining anything. It was clear the principal had something against me. Also, based on his reaction to Leo and Sammy, I doubted he would believe anything I said.He did seem to sympathize with Allie, as he brought a chair for her to sit on. I was the one with blood dripping from my mouth and struggling to stand, but he didn’t care. If not for Sammy, I don’t know how I would manage to keep upright.“How are you feeling?” The principal asked Allie. “Do I need to call the school nurse?”“No, I am fine.” Allie smiled sweetly at the principal, and it kind of looked as if she was flirting with him. “Trenton will pick me up in a bit to take me to the hospital.”“That’s good.” The principa
Zira-I tried to rack my brain for how to defuse the situation, but nothing came to mind. Everyone was either insulting me or insulting the alternative students in general. Some even continued to make insults about Axton. That was my biggest issue, but I felt as if this was getting out of hand.“Linda, it is fine. Just help me up.” Allie told the girl.Linda stopped worrying about Sammy and gave her attention to Allie. She attempted to help Allie to her feet, along with another female student. With two people to help her, she almost got to her feet but then dropped to the ground again.“You need to apologize!” Linda redirected her attention to me while the other girl comforted Allie.“I won’t apologize for something I didn’t do.” I shrugged and wondered why no one could see how fake Allie’s tears were now.The tears Allie had shed earlier had dried up, but her sobs were louder and more realistic, except for the absence of tears. My focus was on Allie, so when Linda pushed me, I didn’t
Zira-“Zira, I didn’t know you started at Acadia. How have you been? I haven’t seen you since your birthday.” Allie moved toward me, with his voice coming out as a sweet melody.I was bewildered by the sudden change for a moment, and I even thought she was genuine. The way she smiled, spoke, and even wrapped her arms around me when she stopped in front of me almost made me believe she was truly happy to see me. I didn’t return her hug but just stood there in shock.“It is so good to see you.” Allie spoke loud enough for almost everyone in the cafeteria to hear.Murmurs moved through the rooms in waves, with some commenting on how Allie was hugging an Alt kid. Some admired Allie’s sweetness and how she was the best person at the school. A few also commented that they didn’t know why Allie was treating me like this, considering everything I did.I don’t know what I did, but I had a feeling that Allie might have spread a few rumors about me. Since I didn’t know what was going on and I wa
Zira-The following day, I felt as if I was dragging my feet. I spent most of the night trying to figure out the moonstone, but I didn’t get anywhere with it. I even attempted to have Asta come out and see if I could shift, but no, it didn’t work.The only thing I could figure out was that I could sense Axton wherever he was. Even now, while at school, I could sense Axton at home. I could also sense when he was near and able to get an idea of the distance or even the location, as long as I had been to the location before. I only figured that out because after Axton dropped me off at school, he had stopped at the mall, which I had sensed.It was a little weird, but cool as well. Aside from that, I could sense his emotions to a certain extent. Either his emotions were too complicated, or I could only get a glimpse of what he was feeling. I didn’t know what other connection I would have with Axton, but I felt closer to him now, with the ring.Axton wasn’t the only thing the moonstone aff