CALHOUN'S POVI sat clenched, legs crossed on a plush red cushion nestled at the edge of the ballroom, away from the crowd and its chatter.The night stretched on, my mind consumed by Hera; she looked stunning, her image refusing to leave my thoughts. Face wrinkled in irritation, laced with an innocence she didn’t even realize she had—I silently vowed to protect it with every breath I had left.The way her curves dipped perfectly, wrapped in silky emerald, its delicate sway drove me crazy. My eyes stayed fixed on her, following her every move, my mind drifting to the thought of her grey eyes pleading as I fucked her to ecstasy. Her perky breasts bounced, nipples hardening as I sucked on them—claiming every inch of her."Shit," I growled, face-palming myself. I needed a break before I ran mad with this sickening urge.A voice cut through my thoughts, the face it belonged to obscured by the carved concrete pillars to my left.A red-haired young man stepped out, his grin wide and eager.
RAYA'S POV My life had always been tragic—locked away, cast aside, and treated like I was nothing. I had long grown accustomed to the pain and hurt. But if I were to recall the moment my fragile heart truly shattered and my world crumbled, it would begin with this day—the day I lost my pup. It was a dim Friday afternoon. The clouds hung low, heavy and dark, threatening to unleash a downpour. The sun lingered patiently behind the gloom, waiting for its chance to illuminate the earth. And just like the sun, my only bright light was the three-foot bundle of joy bouncing happily beside me as we walked through the eerily quiet forest. Alpha Draco’s warning echoed in my mind, my mate's voice carrying its usual edge: “It's not safe to wander around in the forest at this time; be back in less than two hours. I shouldn't have to find you!” I sighed, my breath complementing the rustle of leaves and the murmurs of the creatures who called this place home. “Mummy, what’s wrong?” Lason asked–h
RAYA'S POV Two weeks of grief and pain. Two weeks of heartbreak and guilt. Two weeks since my baby's death—and I was no longer the same. I sat before my wooden vanity, staring at my reflection, my once lively emerald eyes had now dulled—dark circles surrounding them. My face was slightly hollowed, minor bruises from Draco’s abuse making it uncanny. A tear trailed down my cheek. I couldn’t blame him. He’d just lost his son, and I was the cause—or at least, that’s what I told myself. His behaviour felt justified, even as the bruises on my skin whispered otherwise. The sound of footsteps in the hallway caught my attention; it was Melissa—here to get me, for the full moon party. The door creaked open, and through the mirror, I saw her poke her head in. “Hiii, girl!” she beamed. I managed a smile. “Hey. Come in,” I greeted. On cue, she pushed the door open and strode toward me. “You’re still working on your makeup?” she asked, tilting her head as she studied me. “Fine, I’ll he
RAYA’S POV I felt careful hands help me sit up, “Deep breaths, Raya, deep breaths” " the voice murmured. I obeyed, forcing air into my lungs until the storm in my chest quieted. I opened my eyes, my vision clearing up. Disappointment hit me, It wasn't Draco. Melissa crouched beside me, her white-onyx eyes unreadable. Her blonde hair caught the flickering light, giving her an almost sinister glow. I wished it were Draco, hoped he’d come to his senses and admit he cared for me more than he let on. “Get up, Raya. You’re embarrassing yourself.”, she said, her voice carrying an edge, it was firm, sharp and the wake-up call I needed, I leaned heavily on her as we walked through the suffocating room. No one spoke, but the tension was palpable, I peeked at the members still gathered; Their eyes burned into my back, some wide with shock, others gleaming with satisfaction. It was no secret that the majority of the pack disliked me for being weak, Over the years I cared for their
RAYA'S POV Melissa and I stood in silence, the weight of the room pressing down on us. Lason’s toys and baby décor lay untouched, scattered like fragile memories frozen in time. The thought of packing them away felt unbearable, like saying goodbye all over again. “Help me get those toys and clothes from the drawer and put…”, “What do you think you're doing?” A sharp voice interrupted me. I turned to see Draco leaning on the doorway, his eyes dark. I cleared my throat, “I'm getting a couple of Lason’s things to go with” His eyes narrowed, his lips pulling up in an ugly curl, “You're not leaving with anything of his” he snorted, “Why are you heartless? Just let me have some of his things” I fumed, “I won't allow his last memories to end up in the hands of his murderer. You don't deserve it, now shut up before I do something you'll regret” he hissed, My throat felt dry, my jaw ticking, “You have no right to do that. Lason was my son too” I sparked, my pent-up frustratio
RAYA'S POV Before me, a golden light pulsed—warm, yet unsettling. It wrapped around me, pulling me in. All around stretched a vast, dark blue void—endless and heavy with silence. My mind was blank. I drifted, drawn toward the light. A faint voice whispered, "Raya" it called softly, "Raya dear," it said, now louder. I forced my mouth open. "Yes, who are you? And where am I?" I questioned, my brows knitting in confusion. "I am Selene, goddess of the moon and shifters, you've been brought here to receive a second chance," she declared, her voice resonating with divine authority. "A second chance?" I replied, what would I need a second chance for, I hardly remember a thing about myself, "Yes, a chance to return to Earth and damn the lives of those who ruined yours," she proclaimed, her tone dripping with promise and something darker. 'Those who ruined yours' I mulled, the words tugging at a vague feeling. Suddenly my mind blanked then in a distorted blur, my life played, I
HERA’S POV “Mom, what do you think?” The words felt foreign like swallowing broken glass, wrong and jagged, yet somehow necessary to keep up this charade, “Oh, my darling, you look beautiful tonight! I’m sure you’ll catch the eye of one of those Alphas. It’s high time you settled down,” she gestured with a wink. I forced a smile. Adjusting to this new body, its memories —and those tied to it—was still difficult. Before meeting Draco, I had stayed locked away, knowing almost nothing about the Silverfang pack. Melissa’s sudden entrance into the sitting room broke my thoughts. She looked innocent, but my hostile glances betrayed what I knew, but for now I was going to play the long game of winning her love, only to betray her at death. Fixing my expression, I called out, “Hey, want to ride with me to the Crescent Ball?” Surprise flashed across her face. “Thanks, I’d like that,” she said, smiling. I grabbed my purse, and we both turned to leave the mansion. Now that I had a second c
CALHOUN'S POV“Kill him,” I commanded coldly. A hybrid who dared to invade my land deserves no mercy.Hybrids, a mix of werewolf and human, often too arrogant to know their place—have always coveted purebred werewolf lands,It was during a war with their race that I lost someone dear; her death became my driving force to never let any harm come to the citizens of our kingdom.“Please, spare my life, ple—” His cries were cut short as my beta’s claws tore through his throat, silencing him forever.“Deliver his head to their king,” I said curtly, adjusting my tuxedo as I strode out of the dungeon, Logan trailing behind me.“We’ll be late by the time we arrive,” Logan remarked as we climbed the dimly lit staircase leading to the hallway.“What’s the saying again... hmm.” I paused, smirking.“Fashionably late is worth the wait,” Logan chuckled, finishing my thought.I grinned. The thought of seeing my brother, King Everon, at the Crescent Ball intrigued me. “It’s been too long since I visi
CALHOUN'S POVI sat clenched, legs crossed on a plush red cushion nestled at the edge of the ballroom, away from the crowd and its chatter.The night stretched on, my mind consumed by Hera; she looked stunning, her image refusing to leave my thoughts. Face wrinkled in irritation, laced with an innocence she didn’t even realize she had—I silently vowed to protect it with every breath I had left.The way her curves dipped perfectly, wrapped in silky emerald, its delicate sway drove me crazy. My eyes stayed fixed on her, following her every move, my mind drifting to the thought of her grey eyes pleading as I fucked her to ecstasy. Her perky breasts bounced, nipples hardening as I sucked on them—claiming every inch of her."Shit," I growled, face-palming myself. I needed a break before I ran mad with this sickening urge.A voice cut through my thoughts, the face it belonged to obscured by the carved concrete pillars to my left.A red-haired young man stepped out, his grin wide and eager.
HERA'S POV His claims had my heart melting, and every time he gazed at me with those deep-set eyes, I trembled, weak in the knees. "And I've told you, I'm not yours," I countered, my lips curling in annoyance. His chest reverberated with a dark chuckle, its hum sending a chilling thrill down my spine. Then his lips brushed my ear as he towered over me. "Yes, you are. And when you finally acknowledge it, I'll be waiting with arms wide open." The buttons on his maroon T-shirt were slightly undone, revealing his sculpted chest. His loose black suit pants fit him like a second skin, and goddess, was he gorgeous. "In the meantime," he paused, drawing me closer by the nape of my neck, "I don’t want to see you with any other man—if you value their lives," he whispered, his tone laced with an edge that sent a shiver racing down my spine. I pulled back to look at his face, narrowing my eyes. "What do you mean?" I demanded. He dragged his tongue lazily across his teeth, the gesture unn
HERA'S POV It was Melissa, seated comfortably on my bed. She tilted her head, offering me an innocent smile. "There you are; I've been looking for you all afternoon," she said, her tone playful. I bit my lip until I tasted blood. The urge to cry had left. I forced a grin—slipping back on the fractured mask of deception. "I'm sorry, I got caught up taking a stroll in the estate." "Are you alright?" she asked, her eyes squinting in concern. "You look dishevelled." I chuckled lightly, shaking my head. "Clumsy me, I tripped and fell rushing back here." I strode over and settled beside her, the mattress sinking under my weight. "Ooh, okay. There's no time to waste. Hurry into the shower!" She yanked me up from the bed, grabbing my arm excitedly. "I was sent by the Alpha to make you look pretty." "Woah, calm down." My brows wrinkled, a small smile playing on my lips. "Someone is more excited than the celebrant in question," I teased. She rolled her eyes. "Would you just get in?
HERA'S POV My knees were pulled up to my chest, my back resting against the bedframe as I lay on the cold floor—lost in thought. I had lost count of the weeks that had passed since Lason's death, his precious face still haunted my dreams. I failed him—his warmth was gone because of me. The weight of it pressed down on my chest, making it hard to breathe. If I slipped now, if I let my guard down, I would lose myself too. My gaze lingered on the beautiful garden that stretched out, beyond the glass frame; I longed for the tranquillity the plants and creepers had. That peace and the belief that everything would be alright had faded. There was no rest—only vigilance, only fear of the past. Every day I played the role of Hera, balancing the weight of vengeance and survival. But how much longer could I hold before the cracks swallowed me? I rose to my feet, perhaps I would find peace at Lason’s grave. The morning had passed In a blur, and it was afternoon now; I strode into my closet an
CALHOUN'S POV On exiting the room, Hera blocked my path. She was flushed—red as a tomato—so adorably flustered, or mad. Either way, she looked like something forbidden, and I wanted a taste. She stabbed her finger into my chest, growling, "What the fuck is your deal with me?" Her tone was menacing. Her feistiness had my blood heating, and I was so caught up in the rush of wanting her that her words barely registered. "That’s no way to say hello—rude, but I’ll let it slide. After all, my mate can do no wrong in my eyes." I squeezed her hand, planting a soft kiss on her knuckles. She retracted them, shooting me a glare. "You should stay out of my business," she demanded. I tsked, shaking my head as I drank in her features: plump red lips tightly pressed together, fiery grey eyes burning with anger. If I didn’t know better, I’d think she was a goddess. "No can do, tiger. Your safety is my top priority, and I won't watch you put yourself in harm's way," I explained, towering ov
HERA'S POV Calhoun's gaze softened when Logan flashed him a grin. We eagerly waited for Draco to pass and take the lead. I felt Calhoun's eyes boring into my back, the conflicting chill and warmth it spread through me impossible to ignore. We strode through the arched entrance and stopped short of the huge double doors as they pulled open, revealing a grand main hall adorned with a glittering chandelier, rich tapestries, and wine wood panelling. The beauty of the Guild of Affairs never ceased to mesmerize me. "Good day, Your Excellency. I'm at your service", an omega curtsied, gesturing to our group. "You're not needed," Draco said curtly. He strutted to the elevator, and we followed in silence to the top floor. An omega pulled open the doors to let us into the spacious meeting room, Twenty individuals—the high council and aristocrats, were already seated, their eyes drilling into us as we entered. The air wasn't hostile, but the tension uninviting. After the pleasantries
HERA'S POVIt was a new dawn, and I stood before my mirror. The drapes in my room were pulled back, revealing nature's canvas, a clear blue sky and neatly trimmed hedges in the garden, I scrutinized my reflection. Today, I was going to meet important pack figures to discuss the pack economy. I needed to be polished if I intended to gain their respect,I had on a black sleeveless top, beige high-waisted trousers to hug my curves and a matching sweater draped over my shoulder. I threw on some minimal jewellery and rushed out of the room.While heading downstairs I bumped into the last person I wanted to see, Calhoun. I hissed, bumping into people was starting to become a habit,"Good morning tiger, I see you're in a hurry", his smile was fetching and even in the dim hallway his handsome face was as alluring as ever,"Yes, I am, Now please excuse me" I stated, attempting to walk past him,"Not so fast," He remarked, his outstretched hands blocking my path. He grabbed my waist and pinned
CALHOUN'S POV My pants were uncomfortably tight, my throbbing dick painfully hard. The unfulfilled urge to knot Hera, pulsated through my veins, edging me to the brink of madness. But that wasn’t why I was seething at the dining table. My pack had been attacked by hybrids. How they infiltrated us was still under investigation, but the attack had claimed the life of a werewolf and his child. I’d failed them. My wolf howled with rage, a reminder of my duty. Protecting my pack came first, yet Alpha Draco’s shady dealings had stolen my focus. That distraction wouldn’t last much longer. The cold aura I emitted made Draco and my mate visibly uneasy. Their wolves bowed under my dominance, though Draco fought to hide it. Hera, however, avoided my gaze like the plague, her fidgeting only twisting the knife in my chest. Her cold words still lingered in my mind. What had scarred her so deeply? Beneath her tough facade, I saw a woman hurting. My goal was to find out why and take the pain awa
HERA'S POV His touch was electric and ignited a fire in me. I wasn’t meant to feel this way, yet every part of my body hummed his name, yearning to be touched. My wolf paced restlessly in my mind, eager for him—this was her fault. I gathered my thoughts and struggled to free myself from his tight grip. “Let me go!” I demanded, my voice breathless. But he didn't listen. His gaze held me captive, indecipherable dark pools, that sent a shiver down my spine. His hands shifted to hold my neck firmly. Every movement caused my heart to race. A teasing smirk pulled at his lips, his voice low, husky, and dripping with want. “If you stripped and got on your knees to beg, maybe I will.” The way he said it sparked a heat inside me that I couldn’t contain, but I refused to let him see how badly it affected me. “Keep dreaming, I would never” I shot back. Shamelessly, I waited, heart pounding as he closed the distance between us. His lips brushed my neck, and I felt my pulse spike, my cente