RAYA'S POV
Before me was a golden light; it enveloped me in its warmth; the surrounding atmosphere was a vast dark blue contrast, its depth, hinting at the unknown. The space was filled with mass nothingness. My mind was blank, the light drawing me in; I heard a faint voice whisper, "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 broke out in a sweat, my breathing uneven; it all came back to me: Draco, Melissa, betrayal, the taunting words rang in my mind. I was pulled out of my brooding by the divine figure which emerged from the light, A glowing feminine body I assumed belonged to goddess Selene, she was breathtaking, the definition of ethereal, her silky white hair extended to her waist, flowing effortlessly as she glided, She wore a shimmering gown, a gold crown adorning her head, and a sheer cape billowing behind her. She exuded power, its force overwhelming. "Do you accept my offer?" She asked, gesturing with an outstretched hand, I hesitated, then thought back to the pain I felt and without a second more, I responded, "Yes", my determination unmistakable, "Good. Now come" she instructed, her voice booming through the void. I wiggled my feet, gradually I reached her, She placed her hand upon my forehead, her eyes clouded over as she whispered an incantation, "Your destiny is to save the shifter race and earn your revenge. But understand this, it will come at the price of a life you may be unwilling to part with" She declared, her voice echoing with power. "I understand!" I replied, glossing over her last statement, nothing was more important than avenging my pup and myself. For that, I was willing to give up anything, "You will return as Hera" She intoned, her words heavy with fate. In an instant, it felt like a floor gave way beneath me, and a strong force pulled me under; the last thing I saw was goddess Selene's silver eyes peering down at me. As the falling sensation engulfed me, memories flooded my mind but they weren't mine. Snippets of a young girl playing with a little boy who resembled Draco, and then she was grown, surrounded by humans. Then she lay on a bed, sickly pale and beside her a woman handed a vial containing a red liquid for her to drink. The memories kept on rolling, My body thumped on a soft surface. I was stuck, unable to move and unable to speak, panic set in and I struggled to breathe, when suddenly as if waking up from a nightmare my eyes shot open, I jerked, desperately sucking in air. I sat up gasping, clutching at the duvet of the bed I lay on, I inhaled deep breaths to calm myself, After a few minutes, I looked up. Studying the room I noticed its similarities with mine before I died, Everything was covered in white and gold, with polished floors, a fireplace, and walls adorned with tapestries. The modern lamps added a touch of refinement. I rolled off the bed, my legs a bit wobbly, I took tentative steps to the full-length mirror, The woman in the reflection looked mid-twenties, as I stared, her bits of memory made further sense, Her black hair cascaded down to her knees, her eyes cloudy grey; she was slim with thick thighs and a bit tall for a lady. I whipped around, eager to confirm I was really back, I had only a short gown on, but I didn’t care. I silently pushed open the door, careful not to make a noise, I tip-toed out, the hallways were just the same but in a different part of the mansion, I took the stairs down, While rounding the corner to a familiar hallway, I bumped into a hard surface, "Oh, Hera, you're awake!" The voice exclaimed; a shiver ran down my spine, and I recognized that voice. It was Draco, Instinctively, I pulled away; my heart raced, fear seeping into my bones. "I must have startled you", he grinned, "Follow me, let's go meet Mum and Dad", those titles didn't seem right, He draped his hands over my shoulder and pulled me along, I tensed but followed him silently, not daring to protest, we strode into the spacious sitting room, and on its lavish cushion sat Draco's mum and dad discussing, "Mum, Dad. Hera is finally awake; it worked!" He announced, what worked? I thought, Their attention turned to us, both their faces brightening up with wide smiles mixed with pleasant surprise, Draco's mum rushed and embraced me, I stood rigid in her arms, my breath held, "oh darling, you had us all worried; I'm glad you're alright now," she rejoiced. She pulled back, studying me, her brows furrowed, I had to say something so I didn't raise any suspicion, "I'm good now, don't worry" I replied awkwardly, "Come sit" she gestured, to the space where she had sat before, they were all so welcoming, a stark contrast to how they had treated me before, slowly the reality that I wasn't Raya anymore began to dawn on me, "Sit here with your father and Draco, and I'll make something special for you to eat," she squealed, hurrying out of the room. Even Draco seemed like a changed person—smiling and happy to see me, a side of him I had rarely experienced. As I sat there, Hera’s fragmented memories swirled, leaving me confused. Draco was an only child, so why were they calling themselves her parents? My mind scrambled for answers but found none. A voice whispered, Revenge. I bit my lip, bitterness spreading through me. As I listened to their conversation and answered their questions, I swore to make them suffer double what I had endured, until the anger in my heart subsided.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
HERA'S POV With Alpha Asher's possessive hold firmly around my waist, I stood on the palace balcony."Let's leave this place. What do you say?” His warm breath, which was strongly scented with alcohol, tickled my skin.His contact caused my jaw to tighten and my skin to prickle with irritation. A wave of desire hit me before I could react, it took my breath away. The most stunning dark blue eyes I had ever seen drew my attention to the French doors.It took all of my willpower to resist the want to jump into his arms as a pool of moisture gathered between my thighs.His clothing emphasized his broad shoulders and lean figure as he stood erect. His powerful features and prominent cheekbones were framed by strands of dark brown hair—a living embodiment of perfection.His gaze moved to Asher, and a low growl reverberated in his chest. Then he strode forward and threw a swift punch.“Asher!” I gasped as he staggered back, groaning.“Keep your hands off what’s mine, or I’ll cut them of
HERA'S POVI tossed on the bed, consciousness creeping in as sunlight sliced through the curtains. Blinking against the glare, I groaned, “Ugh, yesterday was a disaster.”My thoughts drifted to the mate I met last night. Technically, he wasn’t my mate—he was Hera’s. Still, he’d managed to ruin everything I had carefully planned.With a huff, I threw the blanket aside and headed to the bathroom. At least I wouldn’t have to see him again, and hopefully, he had no clue I was from Silverfang. The last thing I needed was him chasing me. Love and mates? Not in this lifetime—or the next, if there was one.After a quick shower, I slipped into black boyfriend jeans and a cropped hoodie. The clothes were new, and thank Goddess Selene for that. Hera’s frilly wardrobe would’ve made me sick.It was 11 a.m. when I stepped into the hallway. The mansion’s ornate decor glared back at me—fancy paintings, stylish fluorescents, all reminders of the life Hera had run away from. Turning a corner, I nearly
HERA'S POVI glanced at Melissa, my heart pounding. “Let’s continue the tour at the south side.”She noticed the change in my demeanor. Her eyes narrowed with suspicion. “What’s wrong? Why did you suddenly change your mind?”She turned to look for whatever had caught my attention, but I grabbed her by the shoulder, turning her back. My voice firm, I let my authority seep through. “Let’s go. I’m not done exploring the pack.”She fell silent, but I could see the doubt lingering in her eyes as she led the way.I was lost in thought until Melissa’s voice cut through. “Why did you run from the Crescent Ball last night?”“I got overwhelmed and needed some air,” I said, trying to keep my tone neutral. “It had been a long time since I was in such a gathering.”The silence stretched, but her doubt was palpable. She pressed on. “I saw you being chased by Alpha Calhoun. What was that about?”The realization hit me like a punch. The man I’d been waiting for all night—Alpha Calhoun—was my mate.“U
CALHOUN'S POV She opened her mouth to speak but snapped it shut when no words came. Perhaps I was too direct. Too bad—I meant every word. “I’ll die before I let you have me!” she snorted, her glare fiery. Something in the way she resisted me made my dick throb with desire. The smile slipped from my lips. I stood and stalked toward her, gripping her chin between my thumb and forefinger. Her body betrayed her, reacting to my touch despite her defiance. “Don’t say that, Tiger. It’s not in your power to decide.” My voice was low, tinged with frustration. “Stop fighting the bond. You’re only torturing us both.” The maddening urge to pin her against the wall, to be buried in her warmth and savour her delicate skin against mine, tested my self-control. Her eyes flicked to my lips, but she yanked her gaze upward, replacing her fluster with a scowl. She pulled away, a storm of emotions swirling in those beautiful eyes. “Stay away from me and don’t get in my way,” she hissed. Flipping her
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
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 POVCalhoun'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, but I ignored the conflicting chill and warmth it spread through me.We strode through the arched entrance and stopped short of the huge double doors as they pulled open to reveal a grand main hall, fully furnished with a 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 commanded, he strutted to the elevator, we followed and took it to the top floor,An omega pulled open the doors to let us into the spacious meeting room, and before us were about twenty individuals, which consisted of the high council and aristocrats.After the pleasantries, we took our seats around the expansive round mahogany desk, its steel legs supporting its weight.
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
CALHOUN'S POV She opened her mouth to speak but snapped it shut when no words came. Perhaps I was too direct. Too bad—I meant every word. “I’ll die before I let you have me!” she snorted, her glare fiery. Something in the way she resisted me made my dick throb with desire. The smile slipped from my lips. I stood and stalked toward her, gripping her chin between my thumb and forefinger. Her body betrayed her, reacting to my touch despite her defiance. “Don’t say that, Tiger. It’s not in your power to decide.” My voice was low, tinged with frustration. “Stop fighting the bond. You’re only torturing us both.” The maddening urge to pin her against the wall, to be buried in her warmth and savour her delicate skin against mine, tested my self-control. Her eyes flicked to my lips, but she yanked her gaze upward, replacing her fluster with a scowl. She pulled away, a storm of emotions swirling in those beautiful eyes. “Stay away from me and don’t get in my way,” she hissed. Flipping her
HERA'S POVI glanced at Melissa, my heart pounding. “Let’s continue the tour at the south side.”She noticed the change in my demeanor. Her eyes narrowed with suspicion. “What’s wrong? Why did you suddenly change your mind?”She turned to look for whatever had caught my attention, but I grabbed her by the shoulder, turning her back. My voice firm, I let my authority seep through. “Let’s go. I’m not done exploring the pack.”She fell silent, but I could see the doubt lingering in her eyes as she led the way.I was lost in thought until Melissa’s voice cut through. “Why did you run from the Crescent Ball last night?”“I got overwhelmed and needed some air,” I said, trying to keep my tone neutral. “It had been a long time since I was in such a gathering.”The silence stretched, but her doubt was palpable. She pressed on. “I saw you being chased by Alpha Calhoun. What was that about?”The realization hit me like a punch. The man I’d been waiting for all night—Alpha Calhoun—was my mate.“U
HERA'S POVI tossed on the bed, consciousness creeping in as sunlight sliced through the curtains. Blinking against the glare, I groaned, “Ugh, yesterday was a disaster.”My thoughts drifted to the mate I met last night. Technically, he wasn’t my mate—he was Hera’s. Still, he’d managed to ruin everything I had carefully planned.With a huff, I threw the blanket aside and headed to the bathroom. At least I wouldn’t have to see him again, and hopefully, he had no clue I was from Silverfang. The last thing I needed was him chasing me. Love and mates? Not in this lifetime—or the next, if there was one.After a quick shower, I slipped into black boyfriend jeans and a cropped hoodie. The clothes were new, and thank Goddess Selene for that. Hera’s frilly wardrobe would’ve made me sick.It was 11 a.m. when I stepped into the hallway. The mansion’s ornate decor glared back at me—fancy paintings, stylish fluorescents, all reminders of the life Hera had run away from. Turning a corner, I nearly
HERA'S POV With Alpha Asher's possessive hold firmly around my waist, I stood on the palace balcony."Let's leave this place. What do you say?” His warm breath, which was strongly scented with alcohol, tickled my skin.His contact caused my jaw to tighten and my skin to prickle with irritation. A wave of desire hit me before I could react, it took my breath away. The most stunning dark blue eyes I had ever seen drew my attention to the French doors.It took all of my willpower to resist the want to jump into his arms as a pool of moisture gathered between my thighs.His clothing emphasized his broad shoulders and lean figure as he stood erect. His powerful features and prominent cheekbones were framed by strands of dark brown hair—a living embodiment of perfection.His gaze moved to Asher, and a low growl reverberated in his chest. Then he strode forward and threw a swift punch.“Asher!” I gasped as he staggered back, groaning.“Keep your hands off what’s mine, or I’ll cut them of
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