"Alpha—" Rudolf starts, but Rowan raises a hand to silence him."Go on. I'll have someone check in a few hours," he replies, striding out the door with Ruel closely behind."You were touching her hair, Rowan," Ruel observes, neither questioning nor stating, simply noting."It's just hair. Should I touch yours too? Would that make you happy?" Rowan replies with dry sarcasm."This isn't a joke, Rowan."Rowan gives Ruel a piercing glare. "I am your Alpha. It becomes a joke when I say it is." His lips press into a frown. "Did you find out anything about her?"Ruel exhales heavily. "It's a dead end. Her mother was unstable, and her father remains a complete mystery. Sources indicate that Milly repeatedly claimed her husband fought in the Third Rogue War and never returned. I've checked the records of every warrior and sentinel, but there's no mention of an 'Ethan Griffin,' not even in the birth records of Maldivian.""Do you think he was simply a figment of Milly's imagination?""It's hard
Alpha Rowan groans when he sees her, leaning back in his chair with his foot resting on his desk, which is scattered with scrolls and books.Shelves line the walls, filled with scrolls that predate Alpha Rowan's reign. A few items are out of place—unsurprising, considering his limited time and the many servants available for maintenance.To one side, unwrapped gift boxes pile up just below the windowsill, large enough to fill an entire wall. Gifts and tributes from the villages and the people. Everyone adores him, and it's difficult to blame them for it.Hailey's attention is drawn to a specific gift wrapped in faded purple fabric—her Solstice present from last year. He hasn't touched it, which she didn't expect. If he had, he would have discovered the sweater she spent months knitting in her spare time, along with the note she included: "Because the cold often catches you... -HG."Hailey confidently crosses the room and pulls out a chair."I didn't ask you to sit," Alpha Rowan states
Meanwhile, Rowan though...Danger lurks in the most unexpected places—In dim, shadowy corners...Within the woods...And to his surprise on the lips of a servant.To Rowan, danger should be like a blade at the throat or an arrow to the heart. It shouldn't come as the gentle caress of a woman's inexperienced lips.His gut tightens, followed by a sharp cracking sound behind him. It's the table, he realizes, having gripped it too tightly in an effort to restrain himself from touching her; from entwining her hair around his fingers and being the first to claim what little innocence remains.Her tongue shyly brushes against his lips, and instinctively, he parts them, allowing her entry. With the initial stroke of her tongue against his, his resolve crumbles.Why should he deny himself? If she desires to be in his bed, he will grant it.Gradually, his fingers release the table and find her waist, pulling her closer with an urgency and roughness unlike with any of his past lovers. Eager. Hu
"They're arriving! Hurry!" the Head Maid shouted, rushing in, raising her skirts as she ran. "Get the desserts out! Now! Hailey, move from there! We need everyone on deck!"She wiped a tear from her cheek, abandoning the dirty dishes to Layla, who gave her a hostile look, muttering something about her being hopelessly naive.Hailey was handed two trays and quickly found herself shoved into the line of maids headed toward the Main Hall, where the most significant gatherings took place. Her lungs felt constricted as if she couldn't breathe, her breaths were sharp and rapid. Another tear fell, but she forced herself onward.She was jostled and crowded until they reached the hall, where breathing became near impossible. The women were breathtakingly beautiful, moving with a poise she couldn't fathom possessing. Their voices were melodic, their laughter insidious, carrying the weight of power and elegance.There is a decision looming over the pack for weeks now. Alpha Rowan has yet to find
Hailey remained perfectly still until the grand double doors shut, announcing Alpha Rowan's entrance.Peeking around the pillar, she let out a wistful sigh. There sat the love of her life, her only dream. His fiery red hair cascaded over his shoulders, and his full lips formed a confident smile as his mother whispered something in his ear. His keen hazel eyes scanned the room, seemingly searching for someone. His beauty was breathtaking; every contour of his face was flawlessly crafted. Just a glance at Alpha Rowan ignited a desperate desire within her—a yearning that left her gasping for breath.Dressed in a regal black and gold jacket and pants, he looked magnificent.Beta Ruel ascended the dais and whispered something to Alpha Rowan, who nodded curtly in response.Turning to the gathered crowd, Ruel began, "Welcome..."Hailey didn't hear another word of his speech; her focus was solely on Alpha Rowan. As if sensing her gaze, he turned his head toward her, sending her heart racing.
Overwhelmed, Hailey fell to her knees and bowed her head until her forehead brushed against the ground. "I have overstepped, and I apologize, but I do not regret my feelings. Can love ever truly be wrong? I cannot help that my heart beats for you. It always has, and it always will."She heard whispers behind her, doubts about her sanity echoing in the air."What a crazy woman. Look at the rags she wears! Does the Alpha not see a madwoman wandering through his castle?""Utterly shameless. A worthless girl like her dares to dream of being with Alpha Rowan? This is what happens when peasants delude themselves."Their harsh words felt like stones being thrown at her. A guard's boot brushed against her hand, and just as she felt strong arms lifting her, Alpha Rowan raised a hand. "Leave her."Her eyes widened as the hands released her. His mother turned to him, exasperated. "We have important matters to attend to, Rowan. A conniving maid's words cannot interrupt this event."Ignoring her,
Turning, Hailey saw Lady Moressett ascending the stairs, flanked by a throng of competitors. Moressett stood out among them, exuding a beauty and grace that the others lacked. Her skin glimmered under the soft light, and her dress was the most exquisite Hailey had ever seen—light and ethereal, a soft pink that suggested both innocence and allure.Competition. This goddess-like figure was one of the women competing for the Alpha's attention. Hailey felt a tight knot in her chest. How could she possibly compete with that?Moressett halted in front of her, smirking as she took in Hailey with a glance. "One would think that after your performance, you'd be ready for the ball."A questionable sound came from one of the women beside her. "She reeks of hay and dung.""Don't forget desperation," another chimed in, and they burst into laughter."Is there a reason you called for me?" Hailey asked, struggling to control her irritation, determined not to let it escape or risk shoving these women
"The attacks have escalated this week," Ruel said, sniffing Rowan's drink before passing it to him. No matter how many times Rowan insisted it was unnecessary, Ruel had made it his mission to do so ever since the poisoning incident with wolfsbane last year that nearly cost Rowan his life.Luis clapped him on the shoulder. "You really shouldn't discuss rogue attacks with so many beautiful women present." He paused to sip from his drink. "So, who will be your choice tonight, Alpha? Moressett? Hanna looks rather appealing as well."Ruel scoffed, handing Rowan his drink. "Hanna's too timid for Rowan. He'd break her within a week."Rowan chuckled at that and took a sip from his glass, his eyes scanning the crowd for another option. It was a futile effort; no one eclipsed Moressett."You'll have to make a decision soon, Alpha," Luis remarked.He was right. The guests were starting to direct their attention toward him, the women blushing and adjusting their bodices to make themselves appear
Meanwhile, Rowan though...Danger lurks in the most unexpected places—In dim, shadowy corners...Within the woods...And to his surprise on the lips of a servant.To Rowan, danger should be like a blade at the throat or an arrow to the heart. It shouldn't come as the gentle caress of a woman's inexperienced lips.His gut tightens, followed by a sharp cracking sound behind him. It's the table, he realizes, having gripped it too tightly in an effort to restrain himself from touching her; from entwining her hair around his fingers and being the first to claim what little innocence remains.Her tongue shyly brushes against his lips, and instinctively, he parts them, allowing her entry. With the initial stroke of her tongue against his, his resolve crumbles.Why should he deny himself? If she desires to be in his bed, he will grant it.Gradually, his fingers release the table and find her waist, pulling her closer with an urgency and roughness unlike with any of his past lovers. Eager. Hu
Alpha Rowan groans when he sees her, leaning back in his chair with his foot resting on his desk, which is scattered with scrolls and books.Shelves line the walls, filled with scrolls that predate Alpha Rowan's reign. A few items are out of place—unsurprising, considering his limited time and the many servants available for maintenance.To one side, unwrapped gift boxes pile up just below the windowsill, large enough to fill an entire wall. Gifts and tributes from the villages and the people. Everyone adores him, and it's difficult to blame them for it.Hailey's attention is drawn to a specific gift wrapped in faded purple fabric—her Solstice present from last year. He hasn't touched it, which she didn't expect. If he had, he would have discovered the sweater she spent months knitting in her spare time, along with the note she included: "Because the cold often catches you... -HG."Hailey confidently crosses the room and pulls out a chair."I didn't ask you to sit," Alpha Rowan states
"Alpha—" Rudolf starts, but Rowan raises a hand to silence him."Go on. I'll have someone check in a few hours," he replies, striding out the door with Ruel closely behind."You were touching her hair, Rowan," Ruel observes, neither questioning nor stating, simply noting."It's just hair. Should I touch yours too? Would that make you happy?" Rowan replies with dry sarcasm."This isn't a joke, Rowan."Rowan gives Ruel a piercing glare. "I am your Alpha. It becomes a joke when I say it is." His lips press into a frown. "Did you find out anything about her?"Ruel exhales heavily. "It's a dead end. Her mother was unstable, and her father remains a complete mystery. Sources indicate that Milly repeatedly claimed her husband fought in the Third Rogue War and never returned. I've checked the records of every warrior and sentinel, but there's no mention of an 'Ethan Griffin,' not even in the birth records of Maldivian.""Do you think he was simply a figment of Milly's imagination?""It's hard
"You have misused your power as Luna. Hailey is a member of our pack, and you have treated her unjustly. Your behavior is unworthy of a leader, so I am revoking your title."Mother gapes at him in shock, her hands instinctively flying to her neck, now devoid of the crest for the first time since she became Luna. "Rowan, do you comprehend what you've just done? You're allowing her to come between us. Everything I have done has been for your benefit."His heart constricts, but he stands firm, unwavering in his resolve. "Consider your actions, Mother. Until you apologize, Ruel will manage the court's affairs, and you will remain here without any visitors.""Rowan!" she shouts after him, but he swiftly makes his way toward the servants' quarters.......Rowan pauses at the door, fingers hovering above the doorknob. 'What on Goddess's sacred name am I doing here?' He reminds himself of his duty. He needs to do this to make amends for his mother's injustices. It's his responsibility to ensu
Rowan POV.Rowan ran his fingers through his hair, feeling a wave of exhaustion wash over him. It had been an exceptionally long day, and all he wanted was to wash away the blood that clung to his skin. While no one had died, the devastation was shocking. The nature of Zeus's attacks had changed. Rowan had underestimated him, mistakenly thinking his earlier strikes were weak and ineffective.However, as he watched the villagers tending to the injured, he realized that Zeus's seemingly feeble assaults had been a strategic way to probe the Pack's weaknesses. His real attack had been brutal and precise, leaving Rowan with countless buildings to repair.It had been a tumultuous day, ensuring that no one was left without shelter during the weeks it would take to rebuild.Rowan closed his eyes and let out a deep breath, tightening his grip on his aching knees. Just as he began to rise and stretch, the door swung open with such force that the impact reverberated through the walls.Luis charg
Hailey glanced back in confusion, wondering if Luna Renesme might be speaking to someone else nearby.Yet, the guards in their uniforms marched directly toward her, roughly shoving the maids aside and kicking pots and grains across the floor. Hailey stumbled backward until her back hit the counter. "Why...what have I done?"Two men flanked her, seized her arms, and dragged her out of the kitchen.The hallway was crowded with onlookers, including other contenders and court visitors, all staring at the spectacle. Hailey's eyes were wide with shock.Luna Renesme held up a bracelet that Hailey had never seen before. "This was found in your quarters."Hailey stared at it, desperately trying to explain, "I have never seen that before—""Don't waste your breath on lies. They won't help your situation," Luna Renesme said, dismissively waving her hand as she turned away, Lady Hanna following behind. "Take her to the square.""But I didn't steal it! I've never even seen it before!" Hailey calle
For some reason, the influence of Alphas had never affected her the way it did other Omegas. Typically, Alphas couldn't compel two types of individuals to obey: other Alphas and those they were in love with.But she wasn't of Alpha lineage—she didn't even possess a wolf. Compared to others, she felt utterly powerless. Still, although Alpha Rowan didn't love her yet, she believed he would eventually come to do so.His words slid off her without impact, and in response to his threat, she grinned. "Does the thought of crushing my windpipe bring you pleasure?"Alpha Rowan blinked, surprise evident in his expression as he failed to intimidate her. "What?"She placed her hand over his, resting her fingers atop those that held her neck. "I've heard a lot of chatter in the training halls. They say some men enjoy choking their partners in bed. Are you one of them?"He released her so swiftly that it was as if she were contagious. "Stop speaking nonsense. Stop following me. The next time you—"
A the door jolted Hailey from her thoughts, prompting her to push herself up with a groan. Her muscles protested, and she limped toward the door, apprehensive about who might be waiting outside. It was probably Lovie; she was Hailey's only visitor. Even though Lovie was still giving her the silent treatment, the prospect of seeing someone was a relief.But when Hailey opened the door, she found herself face-to-face with Luna Renesme.Without thinking, Hailey hunched her back and bowed. "L-Luna, I wasn't expecting you—"Renesme let out a frustrated sigh. "And why would you? It is inappropriate for someone of my status to visit the servant's quarters."Hailey noticed Renesme scrunch her nose in disgust, clearly affected by the foul odor wafting from the nearby toilet. Despite their attempts to keep it clean, the stench lingered. After enduring it for so long, Hailey had become somewhat desensitized."If there's something I can do for you..." Her sentence trailed off as she watched Renes
Flailing, she gripped Moressett's coat tightly as she fought to reach the surface. Moressett grunted, struggling to shake her off, but Hailey knew she would drown if she let go. Moressett was strong enough to lift them both, and Hailey was determined not to release her. They would both perish if she did.Desperately holding onto Moressett's clothing, Hailey felt her hand slip, snagging something from around her neck in the process. The cool air wrapped around her skin as Moressett broke the surface, pulling Hailey up with her.Hailey coughed, spitting out water while grasping her own neck, only to find it bare.When she opened her eyes, everyone was staring at her: Luna, Alpha Rowan, Beta Ruel, Gamma Luis, and the guards. Their expressions were inscrutable, and in her hand, she held something reflecting the sunlight. Alpha Rowan's ears were tinged red at the tips, and his gaze kept dropping to her chest, though she couldn't fathom why.Cathy emerged first, breaking the connection with