—HADES"I'm pregnant," Alison’s voice greets me as I walk into the living area of the main pack house, her voice barely above a whisper. I freeze, my mind struggling to process the words. Slowly, I turn to face Alison, my eyes locking onto hers. But she's not looking at me. Instead, she folds her arms under her chest and gazes away, her eyes fixed on some point beyond me.What?I close the door behind me, the soft click of the latch echoing through the room. I'm still trying to wrap my head around the news, my thoughts racing with questions and emotions. I just gaze at Alison, taking in her profile. Her jaw is set, her lips pressed together. She looks...resolute.The silence between us stretches out, thick and heavy. I try to speak, but my voice catches in my throat. I clear it, trying again. "What?" I manage to say, my voice is soft. "What...what does this mean?"She doesn't respond. I don’t think she heard me.She just keeps staring off into space, her expression unreadable.
—HADESAlison takes a step back and I watch her eyes flicker as she stares at me, and for the first time in ages, it feels like I can finally see her and who she is.A liar.Her hand falls to my chest, her palm warm against my skin as she smoothes out the wrinkles in my shirt. Her touch is gentle, but her eyes are serious, and she pushes me back, creating some distance between us. "You're messing things up," she says, her voice low and urgent. I raise an eyebrow, intrigued, and clear my throat, waiting for her to elaborate.Her eyes dart back and forth, scanning the room, lingering on the maids who are trying to blend into the background. She seems nervous, anxious to keep our conversation private."We should talk somewhere private," she suggests, her voice barely above a whisper. I scoff, feeling a surge of frustration."And why the fuck would we do that?" I ask, my tone dismissive. I'm not sure what she's getting at, but I'm not interested in playing games or having secretive conve
—JASMINEDenzel's grip on my neck is like a vice, his fingers digging deep into my skin as he slams me against the floor. My twins' cries pierce the air, their tiny bodies shaking with fear as they watch their mother being brutalized by the man I once thought was kind. My back throbs in agony, my head spinning like it's about to detach from my body. I try to beg for forgiveness, to plead with Denzel to release me, but my throat is constricted, my voice barely a whisper."Den—..." I gasp, my airway closing in. "I'll die at this rate." I manage to croak out, my voice is hoarse from the pressure. "Please..." I plead, my words barely audible.Denzel's face twists in rage, his eyes blazing with fury. "Please?" he thunders, his voice like a crack of lightning. "That's not the word I'm looking for, Jasmine. When will you learn?" He bellows, his anger boiling over like a cauldron.With a sudden jerk, he tosses my body aside, sending me crashing into the bookshelves by my bedside. I feel the
—HADES The morphing of her features is like a twisted nightmare, her face contorting into a grotesque mask of hatred and disdain. Her screams pierce my eardrums, a cacophony of torment that echoes through my mind. The darkness closes in around me, suffocating me, making it hard to breathe.I want to escape, to flee this place, to get away from her toxic presence. But I'm trapped, pinned down by her grip, her fingers digging deep into my flesh like talons. The pain is excruciating, but it's nothing compared to the emotional agony she's inflicting on me."You're not good enough," she hisses, her voice a venomous whisper in my ear. "You're a mistake. You're worse than mortals." Her words are a relentless drumbeat, eroding my self-worth, and making me feel like I'm nothing.The poison coursing through my body is a burning fire, a searing agony that threatens to consume me. I try to remain calm, to focus on my breathing, but it's hard to think straight when my mind is being torn apart by
—JASMINE "Jasmine? Is everything okay?" Denzel asks, his voice laced with concern as I toss his hand away. His eyes widen in shock, and I can tell he's taken aback by my sudden reaction. Shit. I overreacted. I am overreacting. I can feel my heart racing, my breath coming in short gasps. I apologize immediately, trying to calm myself down. "I'm sorry, Denzel. I just...I had a nightmare, okay?" Denzel's expression changes from shock to understanding, and he takes a step closer to me, his hands spreading out in a protective way. But I don’t think he heard me. "What's wrong?" he asks, his voice soft and gentle. I shake my head, feeling a mix of emotions: fear, anxiety, and embarrassment. "Just had a nightmare," I repeat, trying to downplay it. Denzel pauses, clearly not expecting that to be the reason for my outburst. "Oh," he says, his voice filled with empathy. "I'm sorry," he adds, his eyes filled with concern. I nod, feeling a lump form in my throat
—JASMINE“The Marking Festival is a unique and exclusive event that takes place only during the rare and enchanting Bluemoon Festival. This sacred ritual occurs once every two years, and its origins date back to the time when Alpha Denzel assumed leadership. At its core, the festival is a ceremony where Alpha Denzel selects a new partner, marking and imprinting on her as his chosen one. This ancient tradition is steeped in mystery and intrigue, with whispers of additional rituals and customs that follow after? I’m not sure.But what's truly astonishing is the rumor circulating among the maids - Alpha Denzel might choose you as his next partner!”Enora claps like it is exciting news.The mere possibility sends shivers down my spine. To everyone else. It’s a privilege, an opportunity to be Denzel’s forever partner.But to me?No way."So... Are you excited?" Enora asks, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. I turn to her, my expression neutral. "When is it happening?" I inquire, tryin
—JASMINEI stand there, paralyzed, as the medical team storms into the room like a SWAT team, rushing to Denzel's side. He's lying on the floor, unconscious, and they quickly scoop him up and whisk him away to another room. I'm still trying to process what just happened, my mind reeling with questions and my hands trembling on my sides. I mechanically trail behind the medics, my feet moving on autopilot, but I'm quickly stopped by two servants who step in front of me, exchanging awkward glances. "I'm sorry, Lady Jasmine," one of them says, their voice firm but apologetic. "But you're not allowed in there. This is a private matter”A private matter?“What—I say but swallow my words. I'm taken aback, my calm demeanor faltering for a moment. I want to ask why and demand to know what's going on, but something holds me back. Maybe it's the stern expression on the servants' faces or the sense of unease in the air. Whatever it is, I nod reluctantly and turn away, heading back to my fo
—HADESThe minute the sun stretches out of the horizon, its warm rays pouring over the world like a golden elixir, I'm greeted by a knock on my door. I rise from bed, the softness of the knock and its familiar rhythm against the wooden door telling me it's Alison. Her timing is impeccable, as always.As I swing my legs over the side of the bed, preparing to start my day, Alison pushes the door open and walks in, her presence commanding attention. She's dressed in all pink, a bold statement that screams confidence and determination. Her hair is slicked back in a tight, sleek style that accentuates her facial features, making her eyes sparkle like diamonds."I'm ready," she glares at me, her voice firm and resolute.I mumble a "Good morning to you too" in a sarcastic response, finding it amusing that she's already prepared for the paternity test. It's almost as if she's eager to prove a point, to validate her claims. But I know better. I know she has something up her sleeve, a hid
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