—JASMINE.-The festival has started. As I exit my room, I'm accompanied by Denzel with my children by my side, following a brief moment of contemplative silence. The festivities have already commenced, and Denzel has made it evident that he expects us to present a united front, standing together as a cohesive unit. Screw this unit.I just want to fall asleep right now.I'm delighted to see Enora by my side though, radiant in her appearance, a stark contrast to the other servants who weren't afforded the same privilege of attending. Her presence is a thoughtful gesture, clearly made with my feelings in mind, and I'm grateful for it— To Denzel.As we walk, I find myself eager to engage Enora in conversation, to inquire about her day and why she's been in Denzel's company for so long. However, I hesitate, aware that Denzel is within earshot, his proximity making me reluctant to pose such questions. For now, I'll have to satisfy my curiosity later, when the opportunity arises. Ins
—JASMINE.-As Hades approaches, Denzel's grip on my arm tightens, the book of his elbow digging into my crane like vice. I can sense his unease, his uncertainty, as he attempts to assert control over the situation. "What is the meaning of this?" he demands, his voice firm but laced with a hint of trepidation as Hades comes close to us.Hades' entourage, comprising Ezra, Logan, and Xavier, fans out behind him, their eyes fixed on us with an unnerving intensity. Ezra's gaze flickers when he sees me, a fleeting moment of recognition before his expression turns neutral. Logan's eyes narrow, his jaw clenched, as if he's struggling to contain his emotions. I can sense the tension emanating from them, the unspoken questions and unresolved issues hanging in the air like a challenge.Hades' smile grows wider, his eyes glinting with amusement, as he takes in Denzel's hostility. "What is the meaning of this? Is that any way to greet a guest?" he asks, his voice dripping with sarcasm, his to
—HADES.-I am seriously trying to put my shits together. Jasmine looks so good, way too good. It's taking more than self-control to just quietly hold my kids and not kiss her, or do worse. I'm struggling to maintain my composure, my eyes fixed on her radiant smile.Azrael pokes his little finger in my neck, stealing my attention away from his mother. "Hey," I grin at him, my heart melting at his innocent gaze. "Cake," he mumbles, his voice barely audible."Oh right," I say, realizing I stole them from their merriments. I glance around the room, taking in the festive atmosphere. As much as I hate Denzel to the core, I have to admit he's done well. The party is impressive, and Jasmine and the kids look happy.Who knows what would have happened to Jasmine and my kids if Denzel hadn't taken them in and made them feel safe? Maybe they wouldn't be thriving like this. So maybe, just maybe, if I'm destined to finally end him, I'll make it simple and not make it agonizing. I'll spare him a sl
—HADES contd.I take Jasmine's hand, and we make our way out of the party, leaving the noise and chaos behind. I'm seething with anger, but as I glance down at Jasmine, I feel a surge of protectiveness towards her. Holding her hand always feels good, but tonight it feels especially right. Her hand is soft and delicate in mine, and I find myself not wanting to let go.As we walk, I can see the panic setting in on her face. She looks frightened, and I know it's because of the necklace she's wearing. I want to remove it, to take it away from her, but I know I need to focus on getting her to the wearer.We arrive at the main pack house of the Bluemoon, and I storm inside, my anger and frustration boiling over. The servants who are unfortunate enough to not go to the party but working inside become startled, looking up at us with a mix of fear and wariness.Jasmine immediately steps forward, her voice calm and soothing. "Guys, please don't be frightened," she says, her presence seeming to
—HADES.I tighten my hand around Anna's neck, my grip firm but controlled. She taps my hand frantically, gasping for air. "I'll take it off," she panics, her voice barely above a whisper. "Please," she taps my hand again, this time with a hint of aggression.I beckon Jasmine to come closer, my eyes never leaving Anna's face. When Jasmine approaches, I release Anna, my glare intensifying. I guess she values Denzel more than her own life.Jasmine moves her hair to one side and bends her knees, matching Anna's height. I stand behind Anna, my eyes fixed on her as she hesitantly reaches for the necklace."Give it," I order, my voice firm.Anna hesitates, taking a step back. "You're making the wrong choice again," I warn, my voice echoing around the washroom."You don't know how hard it was to obtain this necklace," Anna protests, her eyes darting between Jasmine and me."Ah," I say, my tone dripping with sarcasm. "That's why you decided to entrap it around Jasmine's neck." I watch as
—JASMINE-I'd be a liar if I said I am not glad Hades is here, holding me, consoling me, and assuring me. What would I have done if he hadn't shown up and taken that horrible necklace from my neck? The thought sends a shiver down my spine. That thing scared the freak out of me and gave me even more reason not to trust anyone here. Anna was the kindest person I thought I knew, and look where that got me. I almost became a puppet, a mere pawn in Denzel's twisted game.And I'm scared, scared of how they'll manipulate Enora too. She'll have to follow Denzel's orders because we live here, and that will become a problem. I know Denzel has been cooking up something with her, and I fear for what that might be. He's been spending too much time with her, whispering in her ear, and I can sense the darkness brewing.I know I said I couldn't trust Hades, but he's seriously the only person I can trust right now. I'm just being stubborn, refusing to admit that he's the only one who's shown up for
—JASMINE.-I know that Hades often takes pleasure in the misfortunes of others, reveling in their suffering with a wicked sense of delight. But when it comes to Denzel, his fascination goes far beyond mere enjoyment. It's an all-consuming obsession that captivates him, sending his satisfaction into a frenzy of ecstasy and euphoria. The mere sight of Denzel's eyes fixed on us, his ears flushing crimson with rage as he witnesses our kiss, should be enough to make Hades release me from his grasp. Yet, instead of letting go, Hades tightens his hold around my waist, pulling me closer to his chiseled body.As I'm drawn nearer, I'm enveloped by his intoxicating scent - a sweet, irresistible aroma that's like the richest icing, making me want to indulge and savor every morsel without hesitation. It's a heady, seductive fragrance that leaves me breathless and wanting more.Denzel's voice cuts through the charged atmosphere, his tone heavy with authority. "What is this?" he demands, his eyes
—JASMINE-As the ruckus outside continues to escalate, Denzel, seemingly fed up with the distraction, storms out of the room to investigate the commotion. Hades and I, however, don't waste any time standing around and watching. We quickly exit the room and hurry back to the party, eager to escape the tension.Meanwhile, Denzel stops one of his maids aggressively, his grip on her arm tightening as he demands, "What is going on?" The maid, clearly shaken, catches her breath and steadies herself before replying, her voice heaved and breathless. "The fireworks, Alpha Denzel... they were supposed to go off when you announced your new Luna, but they went off early and in the wrong place, destroying everything!"Denzel's expression doesn't betray any surprise, his voice calm and collected. "What?" he asks, as if seeking clarification.The maid nods frantically, tears welling up in her eyes. "Yes! The fireworks were meant to be a grand display, but they malfunctioned and caused chaos!"De
12YEARS LATER JASMINE—-.The kitchen bustles with activity as servants scurry about, their hands moving swiftly to prepare for the evening's festivities. The clock ticks closer to dusk, and the pressure mounts to complete the decorations before our party guests arrive.I lend a hand where I can, expertly arranging a centerpiece of fresh flowers. Hades burst into the room, Jason perched on his broad shoulders, giggling uncontrollably."You'll make him throw up again," I warn, eyeing Hades's energetic swinging."Aw, he likes it," Hades replies, grinning mischievously, as he makes another sweeping arc."Mommy, I love it!" Jason squeals, his tiny hands grasping Hades's hair.I shake my head, concealing a smile. "If you throw up, don't expect me to come to your aid."Jason's face sets in determination. "I'm four. I can help myself."I chuckle inwardly, recognizing the stubborn streak he inherited from Hades. Jason's words echo his father's confident tone, a miniature replica of the man w
—JASMINE-Stepping foot in Silvermist feels surreal, like a dream I've longed to awaken to. The word "home" echoes through my soul, resonating with a depth I never knew I craved. Every step carries me closer to a sense of belonging.As I wander through the pack's grounds, a somber atmosphere envelops me. The usual bustle seems muted, with fewer pack members in sight. Some may be busy with their daily routines, but the scarcity of familiar faces weighs heavily.My heart quickens, anticipation building as I approach the main pack house. I've yearned to hold my children close, to see the spark in their eyes. And Hades...my mate, my rock.The pack house comes into view, its wooden facade weathered to a warm, golden brown. Smoke drifts lazily from the chimney, carrying the scent of warmth and comfort.I push open the door, and a sense of peace washes over me. I'm home.After weeks of navigating the unfamiliar city, I'd finally found my footing. The initial disorientation and panic had g
—HADES.-I trudge back to the Silvermist pack's main house, weighed down by the crushing burden of defeat. The familiar scent of home and family offers little comfort, as the ache within me grows with each step.Until now, I hadn't grasped the depth of great sadness. The hunt, once fueled by determination and hope, has yielded nothing. No sign of Jasmine, no hint of Denzel's whereabouts. The abyss of uncertainty gapes wider, threatening to consume me.As I enter the pack house, my gaze falls upon Enora and Ezra, their hushed conversation halted by my arrival. Their eyes, attuned to my emotions, widen in concern.Ezra, one of our pack's strongest members and a trusted ally had opted to remain behind, watching over Enora and our children while I pursued the hunt. His presence provides a sense of security, allowing me to focus on the search.Now, as Enora and Ezra take in my worn, defeated appearance, they sense the outcome without needing words. Their expressions mirror my despair."
JASMINE.-I'm so cold, my body numb and trembling. Hunger pangs gnaw at my stomach, and my throat feels parched, desperate for a drop of water. The night is wearing on, and I've lost all sense of direction.The convenience store manager's words echo in my mind: "You're miles away from Maple." The reality hits me like a ton of bricks. I'm stranded, alone, and scared.This place is unfamiliar, its streets twisting and turning in ways that make no sense. I don't know how to navigate these dark alleys and deserted roads.Fear creeps in as the streetlights cast long, ominous shadows. Every sound makes me jump – the rustling of leaves, the distant hum of a car, the creaking of trees.Denzel's face flashes in my mind, his cruel smile etched in my memory. He's a monster for bringing me here, for tearing me away from Maple and everyone I love.My hand instinctively goes to the cut on my chest, the pain still throbbing. Infection is a constant fear, and without Lira's healing touch, recovery w
—HADES.-Denzel's minion leads us to the outskirts, just as he promised. But I should've known better. The guy's a total liar. This is a setup, a trap.Denzel's goons are waiting in the warehouse, ready to pounce the moment we step foot inside.But I'm on it. I brought my pack here to track down Jasmine, not to get caught up in Denzel's twisted game.As their alpha, I prioritize their safety. "Fall back!" I yell.My wolves obey instantly, falling back as I unleash the full fury of my inner beast. Adrenaline surges through my veins, fueling my fight response. I become a whirlwind of teeth and claws, taking down Denzel's wolves with swift and deadly precision.With each swift kick, I send opponents crashing to the ground. My bites are targeted and merciless, crushing bone and sinew. My claws slice through fur and flesh, leaving ravaged bodies in my wake.These amateur wolves, thinking they could take me down? It's almost laughable. My strength surpasses theirs by a landslide, honed fro
—JASMINE-“You’ve fucked me up” Denzel begins.“Now come closer”I move closer to Denzel, my body betraying my will. His hand reaches out to claim me, his touch looming like a dark specter. The night air thickens, cold and oppressive, as if conspiring against me.Alison seethes behind me, her rage palpable. "Stop this madness, Denzel!"Denzel's smirk twists into a snarl. "Shut up, you filthy traitor. I'll deal with you when I'm done with her.""Traitor, says the traitor himself!" Alison spits, her voice venomous.Hunter joins the chorus of outrage. "You deceived us!"Denzel's laughter sends shivers down my spine. "I didn't deceive you. You're both just blind fools. It would've been nicer to claim one of your bodies."His words drip with malevolence, and I feel a surge of revulsion.I turn to face Alison, our eyes locking in a silent understanding. She wore the cursed necklace around my neck; she could free me.Alison's gaze flashes with recognition, and I turn back to Denzel."Now le
—JASMINE-I want to die.Seriously it feels like the only safer option I have.My body is cold and I feel like I’ll pass out any minute from now.I need warmth.My body has been naked for hours.After devouring the bloody soup, Denzel rises to his feet, his movements eerily robust considering his previous frailty. He strides towards me, his gaze burning with malevolence.I attempt to retreat, but Hunter's grip remains unyielding. "You almost escaped," he growls, his breath hot against my ear. "Not this time."Tears prick at the corners of my eyes, but I force them back, sniffing away the emotion.Denzel summons the old lady who has been feeding him like a creep, his voice dripping with impatience. "Ophelia, bring out the pendant. I'll do it, either way."Ophelia's wrinkled hands tremble as she produces the pendant from a hidden compartment. Her voice quavers with a warning. "It's against the rules, Denzel. You cannot use her until you bed her."Denzel's response is explosive. "I
Trigger warning: This chapter contains some repulsive content that some readers might find disturbing.—JASMINE contd.-I open my eyes, grogginess dissipating as I realize I've dozed off. But as I move my limbs, I'm surprised to find I'm no longer as weak as I thought I'd be. The brief sleep must have rejuvenated me, providing the energy boost I desperately needed.Panic sinks in, however, as I take in my surroundings. The bathroom. Memories of Denzel's assault and the black leeches come flooding back. My heart racing, I plunge my body forward, cupping my hands under the faucet to drink water. The cool liquid revives me, quenching my thirst and calming my frazzled nerves.As I drink, I feel my vitality returning. My senses sharpen, and my thoughts clear. I'm alive, and that realization spurs determination within me. I must escape, no matter what.With renewed resolve, I straighten up, water dripping from my chin. My gaze falls upon the bathtub, where the black leeches lie motionle
—JASMINE contd.—I shut my eyes, desperate to escape the nightmare unfolding before me. My mind races to happier memories, visions of my children's smiling faces, their laughter, and warm embraces. I cling to these thoughts, trying to distract myself from the horror of Denzel's rippled, decaying flesh touching my body.But even those cherished memories can't block out reality. Denzel's cold, clammy fingers probed my skin, digging deeper into my core, seeking to awaken an arousal that's impossible to give. My body recoils, repelled by his touch.I shut my eyes even tighter, willing myself to escape, to find solace in the depths of my own mind. I reach for Lira, my wolf. But she's still trapped, locked away and I’ve come to realize that it’s because of the black liquid they forced down my throat.That poisonous brew, designed to suppress my true nature, to sever my connection to Hades and my inner wolf. Tears fall drastically from my eyes as the realization hits me. They manipulate