Bryson’s POVElena… Regret? Seeing what Glenda had come to be, regret was an understatement of what I feel for losing her. And by the look of it, as much as everyone was silent, everyone in the pack felt the impact of losing her.Nodding her head with sarcasticness, Glenda continued, “Well, good luck with that! Just so you know, none of this is my fault. You’re simply choking on the consequences of the choices you’ve made!”My mother’s breathing escalated, and she clenched her chest. She looked at Glenda with wide eyes and pursed lips.“Watch your mouth!” I scolded in a low but dangerous voice as my patience finally snapped.“What? All I said is true–”Before Glenda could continue, I stood between her and my mom and, without hesitation, slapped her face hard.From the impact of my slap, her head turned to the side. She slowly turned her head to look at me with shock as the red handprint on her cheek slowly faded away.Slowly, her shock turned enraged. Her eyes turned a combination of
Elena’s POV“That was fun! I will miss this!” Saige exclaimed as soon as she flopped herself down on the couch of the living room after putting down a couple of bags on the coffee table.Maise, on the other hand, was busy admiring her newly bought set of daggers and other weapon-related accessories with a huge smile on her face. “Shut up. Do you hear that?”“Hear what?” I asked after I handed the things I bought from the mall to Zara.I went near to Maise to listen more carefully as did Saige, but we heard nothing.Maise looked up with a grin on her face and showed us one of her daggers. “The sound of this beautiful baby as my fingertips glided on its sharp edge.”Siage and I looked at each other before shaking our heads and sitting back down in our own seats. What did we even expect?I settled on my seat, drinking a glass of juice Zara served as soon as we arrived. I watched both of my friends as they enjoyed the fruit of our shopping spree, both joy and sadness rushing through my ve
Elena’s POVZara, without hesitation, slapped Courtney’s hand, which was pointing, and firmly said, “With all due respect, Luna Courtney, but you have no shame!”The jaws of everyone around them dropped in shock at Zara’s words while Courtney gasped in rage.Courtney was just about to open her lips to scold her, but Zara wasn’t done. “After everything that happened, how can you have the guts to stand here and accuse Princess Elena? Did you forget that she’s the one who had to endure your son’s betrayal? Not to mention all of your bullying?”“Damn, your Omega doesn’t really hold back,” Saige commented with pride in her voice.Completely enraged, Courtney stepped in and raised her hand, ready to throw a slap on Zara’s way. “You low-life, Omega! How dare you speak to me–”“Don’t forget where you are, Luna Courtney. This is not your pack,” Jayson stepped in and blocked Croutney’s hand while pushing Zara behind him.Jayden’s beta demeanour radiated all over him as he looked at Courtney wit
Deacon’s POVSeating at my desk , surrounded with a mountain pile of papers, the weight of the day’s reports started pressing down on me.Days like here were the reason why I preferred being on the battlefield and a general, than being on the palace working through paperworks. Not only did I had to work on reports about happening in the kingdom as a prince, but I also had to review the strategies, supplies, and safety protocols aroudn the entire kingdom as a general.I knew it’s a bit ironic to wish to be in a war, considering the lives taken from it…Thinking about that, I sighed and went back to focusing on the reports, knowing that enduring reading through these files of words and working my hands out for signatures were much better than attending a warrior’s wake.I was in the middle of reviewing the safety protocols at the border when a knock came in, which brought a control smile on my lips.“That means break,” I thought to myself.“Come in,” I ordered as I leaned back on my sea
Deacon’s POV“What do you mean? What did you get?” I asked with full attention. I even motioned for him to sit down as I thought this would be a long talk.Abiding by my command, he sat down and rested his one arm on the table, looking worried and completely at ease.This time, he wasn’t merely talking as my Beta, but as my best friend. “I think the King’s true intention behind this marriage with Princess Elena isn’t as easy as it seems. I think he wants to use her as leverage against you.”My brows furrowed, and my body stiffened. Gazing at him sharply, I coldly said, “Explain.”He shrugged his shoulders. “I mean, everyone close to you with an eye could see that you got a thing for Pricness Elena. Though no one could probably tell how deep it was, I think the King knows as well. And as you may know, Princess Elena is no ordinary woman.”I leaned back in my seat as I considered his words. What he said actually made sense, especially thinking back on the King’s actions and double-meani
Elena’s POV“You’ve been pacing all morning, Princess Elena.”Zara’s words brought me out from my own thoughts while I paced around. Halting by the window, I crossed my arms after opening it to let the morning breeze and sunlight calm my nerves.Glancing at Zara, who was arranging the flowers on the vase on the living room table, she smirked at me and teasingly noted, “It’s rare for me to see you this anxious. Is it because Prince Deacon is coming?”Trying hard to hide my inner feelings and the turmoil I’m having in my mind, I scoffed and turned away to face outside, pretending to admire the lawn. “Anxious? Hardly.” I let out a fake laugh, which sounded more like a terrible scoff. Clearing my throat to save myself from self-humiliation, I added, “I’m just… curious.”Last night, at a late time, one of his personal messengers came in the pack and informed that he’d be visiting the pack first thing in the morning and asked for my presence. The thing was, he didn’t specify why he was com
Deacon’s POVNo one could possibly imagine how hard I tried to hide my fast beating heart from the excitement I felt the moment I locked eyes with Elena and found her looking at me with so much admiration.I woke up early and did my best to look like the version of me she hadn’t seen yet, the prince. And to say that I was satisfied with how she reacted was beyond words. Needless to say, I could proudly state that the time I spent making sure I look my best was all worth it.She tried to play it cool, and believe me when I say that she wasn’t the only one because it’s taking every bit of my control not to stride toward her and pull her into my arms.Especially when she’s out of her military attire and back to being the princess that she was, she’s wearing a strapless, deep blue, flowy dress that fell about an inch or two below her knee paired with a white long sleeve blazer where the body part only lands until her breast line. Was it called a crop top or something?Whatever it was call
Deacon’s POVShe froze for a second as she was caught off guard by my calm but serious reply, making me hold my breath as I awaited her reaction.After a short pause, she blinked her eyes, unfreezing from her daze and leaned back in her seat. She tilted her head and stared at me, studying me. “That’s… far from many reasons I expected for your visit.”My hands clasped tighter, building up my courage, and I tried to sustain my calmness.Hundreds of battles. Liters of blood. Countless dead bodies had come my way, but I had never felt as nervous as I was now, sitting opposite the woman I’ve always looked forward to marrying while she studied my every movement.Taking deep breaths, I pulled myself together and tried to speak in a calm and gentle tone, not wanting to scare her off.“The Lycan King, my brother, has given you three months to choose a husband.” I stared cautiously, watching her every reaction.When she didn’t say anything and her face remained blank of emotions, I continued, “
Elena’s POVQueen Liz and I laughed at Zara’s sudden outburst.“Seemed like I wasn’t the only one triggered by the Duchess’ words,” Queen Liz said, making all of us laugh.Suddenly, despite the scorching heat outside and the torment the Duchess tried to throw at my way, being in here made things feel a bit lighter.“This juice is a lifesaver. I thought my skin would melt on that walk back,” I exaggeratedly said as I gulped another glass in one go.Leaning back to her seat with her head back and arms spread, Zara complained, “Oh, tell me about it, Princess. I can barely feel my legs!”“But seriously, the same woman now dreads your next visit. Elena, you’ve just made life here in this dull palace a whole level more exciting,” Queen Liz uttered before taking a sip of her drink.She didn’t even look fazed by all that was happening to it. It seemed like drama was a normal thing in the palace, and it had now become more like an entertainment than an actual problem, from how often it happene
Elena’s POVMy smile got even brighter as I stared at her innocent eyes and lovely smile. She has that bright sunshine around her like I used to have before. Looking at her was like seeing a walking beam of joy.“What do you mean by fate? It’s not sure yet?” she asked so innocently, making me laugh a little. Shrugging, I smiled gently and teased a little. “It means I’ll definitely be your sister if your cousin doesn’t change his mind.”She giggled at my words before letting out a joking scoff. “He’d be a fool if he did that. Everyone talks about how amazing you are! You’re the most admired general now.”I patted her head and shook my head. She’s so adorable. “What a sweet tongue you have.”Tapping her nose, I added, “I only did what must be done. And don’t tell that to your cousin, he’d be jealous. He’s the best of all.”She pursed her lips and touched her chin while thinking for a bit before shrugging as she gave in. “Well, you’re right, but still, you’re the best female general.”H
Elena’s POVMy eyes shifted to the door just as the Duchess’ eyes did. And there, a girl peeked from the door with a huge smile on her face.Her eyes wandered around first before she stepped fully inside, showcasing her beautiful cocktail dress, styled with glitter on the hem.“Mom, I hear Princess Elena is here!” She came in and jumped in joy as she confronted her mother.She’s about 5 feet tall, and I’d say around fifteen years old from her appearance and demeanour. Her eyes were glistening with curiosity, and she was all giddy, making little jumps in place.Duchess Diana wasn’t even given enough time to reply with all her energy as she turned around and looked until her eyes met mine.She froze for a little while, staring at me like she was starstruck.“Princess Katherine.” I bowed a little and greeted her with respect. Despite our same title and age difference, she’s still a full-fledged princess and deserves respect. Besides, she’s also Deacon’s cousin, so… Might as well.“You ar
Elena’s POVI wanted to laugh at the Duchess’ remark. I didn’t ask her for forgiveness, and yet she felt like I had committed a grave sin that needed forgiveness, and wanted to act like the better person.Going with the flow, she sat, I played with it and bowed my head a little out of respect while keeping my dignity. “Thank you, Duchess Diana.” Looking back up at her, I smile and kindly add, “But about my marriage with Deacon… It’s something the two of us will decide. I am willing to marry him, and should he continue with it… I guess no one else has the right to determine my worth.”“Ha!” Hearing my words, Duchess Diana’s patience snapped. She slammed her hand on her chair as she stood up, looking at me with narrowed eyes.Dripping with disdain, she smirked devilishly and commented sarcastically, “What a humble servant at best, playing a goody-two-shoes act. Mark my words, you insolent woman, once whatever potion you gave my son wears off, he’ll abandon you like he did to others befo
Elena’s POV“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Duchess Diana,” I formally greeted and lowered my head in traditional respect.I heard her scoff as her nails made sounds as she tapped them on the gold armrest of her chair. “Raise your head. I want to see the face that bewitched my son.”I forced a smile and internally stopped myself from showing the annoyance that was slowly building up within me from the real meanings under her words that I vividly understood.She leaned her back to the chair and raised her chin with her thumb and index finger while she narrowed her eyes and looked at me from head to toe like she was examining an object she wanted to buy from an auction.“Hmph. Seductive, yes…” Standing up, she slowly approached me and walked around me. With a sharp tongue, she leaned forward and hissed beside my ear, “But seductive doesn’t mean worthy.”I kept my composure and met her eyes without fear. “That wasn’t my intention, Duchess. I didn’t seduce your son, nor do I have any plans
Elena’s POV“I’m so glad to see you again, Elena. I heard about you and Deacon…” Queen Liz greeted me with a huge smile on her face as she led me to the balcony of her room.“Yes, it just… It happened.” I smiled brightly as I walked gracefully to the balcony and leaned my arms on the fence while looking out at the magnificent view outside.Since Deagon and I started this, we might as well make it as real as possible.Shrugging my shoulders, I added, “Deacon and I went to war together… We fought side by side and faced obstacles far beyond what one could imagine… It’s almost like a sweet-blooded fairytale if that makes sense.”The queen and I both laugh at our statement. “And that’s the weirdest yet loveliest description of love I ever heard.”I laughed even harder at the Queen’s statement. “Well, that’s it. Our camaraderie developed into something deeper, so when we came back and he proposed… I had nothing more to say but yes.”We chit-chat a little and shared a few laughs before she w
Deacon’s POVI couldn’t believe that my mom would be moving so fast that she had already summoned Elena. Now, I couldn’t be more thankful to myself that I had warned her early about my mom, but I’m pretty sure that she was still surprised by it, especially with how early she had to face her.Shaking my head, I stood up.“Where are you going, Prince Deacon?” Tyson asked, looking clueless as he stepped aside from the door and followed me with questions in his eyes.“You… You’re not planning to go to the Duchess and stop her, aren’t you? Because I think that will only make her even more irritated and have her hate Princess Elena even more,” he cautiously said as he tried to give me some advice.Halting, I looked at him and gave him a smirk. “She’s my mother. I know her much more than you do.”Tapping his shoulder, I added, “Don’t worry, it’s not her I’m going to.”Furrowing his brows, he followed me, asking, “Who then? The king, I don’t think he’d help, though.”Smirking wider, I answere
Elena’s POVI was relaxing in the comfort of my bed after having a long conversation with Jayden and Zara, feeling completely exhausted.They were very worried about me, which was why I had to make them understand that this decision of mine was for the best.Hence, after everything was settled, including the manners concerning the marriage, I couldn’t help but feel relieved.But all that relief vanished when Jayden knocked on my door a few hours later to say that a messenger from the palace came and handed over a letter“What is it about?” I asked, following him downstairs to receive the letter.The messenger said he didn’t know what it was about either and simply handed the letter to me.Sitting down, I unsealed the envelope to get the letter and unfolded it, but the content of it brought me to utter shock.Countless questions ran through my mind.“What is it?” Jayden asked in worry upon seeing my reaction, but I felt so speechless that I only handed the letter over to him instead of
Deacon’s POVI stared at my mom, waiting for what more she had to say because her laugh was the last thing I expected from her.But when that laugh turned into sarcasm and into mockery, that’s when I shook my head.What else did I expect from her?She continued, “That’s what it is, isn’t it? You admire her swordsmanship, her rough ways? But can’t you see? A woman like that is exactly the opposite of what should fit as your wife! How can you bring disgrace to our name?”By now, she was beyond hysterical. She waved her hand and called for a servant, who served her another cup. Just that this time, instead of tea, she was served with a glass of wine in which she finished in one gulp, making the servant turn back around to refill her glass before she could even go further.Heaving a sigh, I tried to reason with her. “Mom, if you think I care about such things you and so many people label as disgraceful, then you’ve truly forgotten who I am.”With my legs open, I leaned my elbows on my kne