—JASMINE—The door to the room creaks open, and Hades walks in, a mischievous grin spreading across his face. His eyes sparkle with amusement, and his usual brooding demeanor is replaced by an air of suppressed excitement.Enora, sensing the sudden shift in the atmosphere, quickly excuses herself, her eyes darting between Hades and me before she hastens out of the room, leaving us alone.Hades' gaze lingers on the empty space where Enora once stood before focusing on me. "You're awake," he says quietly, his deep voice tinged with a hint of satisfaction.I push myself up from the bed, holding the blanket firmly around my body. The familiar flutter in my chest returns as our eyes meet. L"Thankfully," I reply, attempting to sound nonchalant despite the turmoil brewing inside.Hades' gaze drifts over me, his eyes lingering on the blanket wrapped around my body. A faint smirk plays on his lips, and I sense a hint of amusement at my modesty. He's already seen every inch of me, but some
—JASMINE.-I scoff, the sound echoing through the grand halls, loud enough to be heard far away. My frustration boils over, and I turn to face Hades, my eyes blazing with determination."Hades, you don't understand!" I exclaim, my voice firm but laced with desperation. The words tumble out, fueled by the anxiety building inside me."Understand what?" Hades asks, his brow furrowed in genuine confusion. His eyes, usually bright with warmth, cloud with concern.Azrael, always ready to tease, mimics Hades' tone, "Understand what?" His playful grin falters as he notices my unyielding expression. For once, his jest falls flat.I take a deep breath, trying to calm the storm brewing inside me. "I don't want any party or celebration for my return," I declare, my words firm and resolute. My hands clench into fists, emphasizing my resolve.Hades' face falls, his eyes widening in shock. He looks like I've just extinguished a flame that burned brightly within him. His lips part as if to speak, bu
—HADES—-Jasmine's body has been radiating an intense heat, like a furnace burning out of control. Any attempt to touch her resulted in scorching pain as if her skin was aflame. Alarmed, I summoned one of my trusted physicians to examine her.The test results were surprising - Jasmine's body was completely healthy. She didn't have a fever, infection, or any other medical issue. It seemed like her body was changing into something new."Only one explanation remained: her wolf is emerging.This transformation had been building for weeks. First, she slept for 48 hours straight, her body recharging for the monumental shift. Now, she lay unconscious, her temperature soaring.Initially, I had placed her on my bed, hoping the familiarity would bring comfort. But Jasmine's subconscious rejected the space, associating it with memories she wasn't ready to confront. So, I relocated her to the guest room, its neutrality a temporary refuge.As I watch over her, worry gnaws at my thoughts. What w
JASMINE—— I transform back into my human form, And a rush of sensations floods my being, and for the first time in what feels like an eternity, I feel like I'm truly breathing. The air fills my lungs, and my chest expands, releasing a weight I hadn't realized was crushing me.All my senses come alive, heightened to an almost unbearable degree. Sounds I had forgotten existed assail my ears – the rustling of leaves, the distant hum of breaths, the whisper of the wind. My nostrils flare, drinking in the scents of the world around me – the earthy richness of the room, to outside of the house, and beyond.It's as if I've been living in a prison, shackled and confined, and suddenly the chains have been broken. I feel liberated.Gosh!Tears prick at the corners of my eyes as I realize how much I've missed this – the sensation of being whole, of being me. My wolf, Lira, is back, and with her, a part of me I thought was lost forever.My knees buckle, and I sink to the ground, overwhelme
—JASMINE.—I gently nod, my eyes locked onto Hades', our gazes intertwining like the threads. Time stands still as we stare at each other, the world around us melting away. The silence is palpable, heavy with anticipation.But then Hades' lips curve into a small, enigmatic smile, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Thank you," he whispers, his voice low and husky."I'm giving you a chance," I clarify, my tone measured, "but I'm not promising you anything." My words hang in the air, a delicate balance of hope and caution.Hades takes a step closer, his movements fluid and deliberate. His fingers brush against my skin as he gently tucks a few stray strands of hair behind my ear. The touch sends shivers down my spine."I'll be the best thing that's ever happened to you," he vows, his voice dripping with conviction. "And you'll keep me by your side, till gray hairs stain yours." His words paint a vivid picture of a future filled with laughter, tears, and endless devotion.And my stoma
—JASMINE.-As I gaze into the mirror, the reflection staring back is almost amazing. I don’t know how they did it, but I look youthful.Three hours of meticulous pampering makeover has transformed me into a vision of elegance and poise. Every strand of hair, every curve of my body, and every nuance of my expression scream confidence.My hair, once a dull, lackluster brown, now cascades down my back like a rich, velvety waterfall. The ombré effect graduates from deep auburn at the roots to subtle hints of brown at the ends, framing my face with warmth and depth. Bobby pins secure stray strands, keeping my face clear and accentuating my features.I slip on my dress, and it shimmers like the night sky, a dazzling blue that seems to shift and change with every movement. The fabric hugs my curves, accentuating my waist and highlighting the gentle swell of my hips. When the light catches it just so, the shimmers explode into rays of colors, mirroring the sparkle in my eyes.Next, I s
—JASMINE- I walk up to the lady, my heels clicking deliberately on the marble floor. Without hesitation, I grab the glass of wine from her hand, feeling the cool crystal between my fingers. Before she can react, I tilt the glass, pouring the crimson liquid over her designer gown. The wine splashes across her chest, staining the fabric an ugly red.Perfect.The lady gasps, shocked, as I release my grip on the glass. It shatters on the floor, the sound echoing through the hall. The guests nearby draw in a collective breath, their faces a mix of horror and fascination.The music stops playing and everyone’s attention turns to us. "What's going on?" someone asks, voice laced with excitement."Oh goodness, it's Jasmine creating a scene," another guest whispers, eyes wide with scandal.Multiple murmurs follow, a cacophony of shock and gossip. But I tune them out, my focus fixed on the lady.They can call me whatever they want – dramatic, slut, or attention-seeking. But involving Wayn
—JASMINE.-I grab a glass of wine and chug it down immediately, seeking the warmth that usually spreads through my chest and down to my throat. But tonight, the wine passes through me without effect, leaving me numb. I crave something stronger, something to ignite a spark within me.After that drama with That Marilyn lady. My eyes scan the bar at the end of the room, settling on the row of colorful shots lined up like soldiers. I go over there and signal the bartender, and he hands me a glowing blue shot glass. I raise it to my lips, feeling the cool glass against my skin."Bottoms up," I whisper to myself, tossing the shot back.The liquid fire burns down my throat, and I welcome the heat. For a moment, it distracts me from the suffocating atmosphere of this party.As I turn to rejoin Wayne, two familiar figures step into my path. Members of the pack's council, men I never thought I'd see tonight, stand before me with somber expressions.I push the lingering taste of the shot t
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