Catrina.As I neared the prison, a strong, pungent odor filled the air. Celeste was not placed in the dungeon along with the other pack prisoners, like I thought. The prison where she was held was a secluded cave, isolated from the packhouse and other crowded area. Carlo must put her here because of his concerns about her potential to harm other prisoners.The lifeless body of the guard had been removed, yet remnants of blood stained the dark stone floor. I noticed the line of torches mounted on the stone walls. The fire cast its glow across the shadow. As my gaze adjusted in the darkness, I could finally see a figure in the dim light: Celeste, bound by chains and huddled on the cold floor. A tall figure loomed over her, causing my heart to race as I realized Zeke's intentions."Stop!" Zeke turned around at lightning speed. "Cat?"I moved ahead. His temples glistened with perspiration; she must have used her magic on him moments ago, and he fought her. Zeke was gripping a knife tigh
CatrinaAs I finished, my breath was coming in gasps, and my pulse was pounding. One more thing this blessing managed to do. It sealed Celeste and her magic. I clench my power instantly since I can still feel it coursing through me; I don't need to do a second wave. This is enough. I looked away.Zeke was just inches away from me, and I could hear his heartbeat and sense his breathing. With a firm hold, Alex wrapped his arm around his mate, their glances at Celeste and me in return.Zeke, them, and I realized that no one from the Blackthorn group had ever witnessed me using this blessing. I used it for the first time in the hospital.Their eyes conveyed conflicting emotions. I just hope it is not dread. Zeke gave me a slow nod. "So... this is the first time I've seen you use it. It was... beyond my expectations. Can you do that again?" He asked, sounding like a kid asking to be shown another magic trick."Who should be my next target?" I raised one eyebrow, swayed my fingers in the
Catrina.I get out of the bathroom after wrapping a soft bathrobe around my body. The warm water truly helps me relax and ease the turmoil within my chest.The upcoming party is just a few hours away. Finally, the evening of our marking ceremony had arrived. Tonight Carlo and I would mark each other; he would reclaim me and make me his Luna. All members of the pack and any guests who are invited will serve as witnesses. We will become one connected soul, with the hope that our bond can be fixed.'Wolves meant to be together would never have their bond shattered.' I hope that is true. I hope that the Moon Goddess is truly destining Carlo and me to be together. That way, I have more hope of restoring what he lost when he saves my life.I can't believe that I managed to refrain from asking him anything about his sacrifice until tonight. But later, I'm sure I will no longer be able to restrain myself. Once we mark each other, I'll make him explain what he meant by doing that!When I
CatrinaI raised one eyebrow. Morea chuckled. "It wouldn't look this good on anyone else. Listen, you don't require a custom dress to make you stand out. Now I believe blue is your color, and you look like you were made to wear this one," she said. "Thanks," I said, feeling a surge of warmth in my heart. "But have you checked how you look in the mirror? You look like you could easily captivate anyone who lays eyes on you."Morea was dressed in a glittery magenta gown. The design had a mermaid-like appearance, with a skirt that was slit up to the knee. She appeared slender while still highlighting her natural curves. "I intentionally put a little too much effort into my look tonight. You know what? The Alphas will arrive and..." Morea paused, her breath catching in her throat. Looking nervous. "There's a chance that my mate is one of the guests since I don't think my mate will be someone from this pack." She gave me a soft smile. Morea had already reached the age where werewolves
CarloI glance at my reflection in the mirror, taking a moment to ensure I look presentable before stepping out. Jonah was the one who brought my suit here earlier. It's a dark blue, almost black suit that he mentioned perfectly complements the color of the dress Catrina will be wearing. I didn't really mind which color I would wear tonight. Due to some business matters, I couldn't decide on an outfit, so I let him handle it. I glanced at the clock; it was nearly time. At the venue, the guests have gathered based on the latest information I received from Alex. I could feel my heart racing as the minutes ticked away. Relax... I've ensured that the borders are secured for tonight's party. There should be no obstacles for me to mark my mate. We will complete what should have been done a while ago if only I hadn't made such a foolish mistake. I know that the bond between us severed and weakened as we parted for a long time. And all I can hope for is for it to regain its power and becom
CatrinaI held my breath as we stepped into the venue; Morea and I locked eyes, and I don't think many thanks and compliments would do justice. She transformed this place into an amazing venue, and I recall that she had a limited timeframe to get ready for this. This open space was already in a state of neglect, as there weren't any events that needed to be held there. Carlo and the council's busy schedule often took them away from the pack, so this place has not received care.The grass appeared to be quite overgrown before, and there was an abundance of twigs scattered everywhere. But tonight, I had the sensation that I was stepping into a fairy's dwelling. This is what I always imagined every time I read those creatures' stories. The color she chose is simply perfect, with a softness that exudes a sense of sacredness. The arrangement of flowers, lace, and lights is gathered and centered on a lamp that resembles a full moon. It has some magic in it, with the soft purple shades emit
ZekeI noticed Alex and the rest of the group gathered with the guests too. He had his mate by his side; they were sharing affectionate moments and enjoying a glass of wine together. I can see the deepening bond between them and the love reflected in their gaze, much like the others here who have already found their mate. The atmosphere tonight was filled with an intoxicating mix of euphoria and desire. "How's the security at the border?" I asked him after grabbing a glass from the table. Yesterday, much to my surprise, Carlo assigned me this task. He had entrusted me with the responsibility of handling security for the ceremony, and I knew that this was no ordinary task. Despite my previous betrayal, he had chosen to place his trust in me once again. I didn't even deserve to be here among them now, let alone receive this responsibility after helping Celeste and going against my pack. But I was given that chance once again. And I make sure not to waste it. Enough. That was the last
CatrinaHis smile fills me with an exhilarating rush. I'm unsure if he'll feel the same sensations as me when his canines pierce my skin, but it would be unjust if Carlo didn't. I let a smile play on my lips as I unfastened his button-down shirt. Exposing the skin of his neck, Carlo lowers his body, allowing me to access the spot where I will leave my mark. Even so, I still had to stay on tiptoe."Ready?" I asked, releasing a small chuckle. He responded with an impatient murmur. "All alright." I gently ran my fingers over his skin, causing Carlo to close his eyes in response to the delicate touch. He tightened his jaw. I was about to sink my teeth when I noticed a distinct black mark on his skin. It lacked a defined form, resembling a gathering of smoke. It was the mark Celeste had left on him that night under the Azure Moon.I lightly touched it with my finger, and in an instant, a flurry of vivid images—like a movie in a time-lapse—danced before my eyes.That was a pitch-black ni
Carlo.I inhaled from my cigarette, watching the smoke float into the air. I've been attempting to rid myself of this anger that's been consuming me, but unfortunately, my efforts have been in vain. All of Zeke's words, his act of betrayal, and the secrets he kept—I never expected him to do something like this.I would have killed him yesterday if Catrina's screams hadn't alerted the others to come. It took Jonah, Alex, and two other warriors to separate me from Zeke.I had already injured Zeke when they finally succeeded in separating us. As blood trickled from the deep gash I inflicted on his neck, dangerously close to his veins, I almost killed him..."Let me kill him," I growled, giving a warning that if they interfered, I might not hesitate to kill them too."What happened? Alpha, we didn't mean to interrupt or interfere, but...you could have killed him!""Just let it be. He deserved it," I answered.My gaze was sharp at Zeke. He didn't say anything. Of course, he had no explanat
Catrina."Is everything alright? I saw two wolves jump to you from the direction of the forest." Zeke and Carissa hurriedly approached us, catching our attention. "Yes. There's nothing to worry about." Carlo answered. "They're just rogues and their pups around here, but Catrina senses that the female is pregnant. So, it seems like we'll be welcoming a new member to our pack soon." Carlo's sentence brought a comforting feeling to my chest, as he genuinely considered my suggestion, which I truly appreciated.'Thank you so much,' I smiled and said through our link.'Anything for you.'Carissa grinned, mirroring Zeke's proud expression. He turned to me and exclaimed, "Cat, you're a true Luna that any pack would be lucky to have! Not only are you powerful, but your attention to detail like this will provide them with a feeling of safety.""Thanks, that was so kind," I said to him.I noticed Zeke and Carlo exchange glances, and I realized that they were communicating through the link. Ze
CatrinaI sensed Carlo's presence in the dining room without even glancing at the door, as his intoxicating smell wafted towards me. I immediately rushed towards him, and he pulled me closer by my waist. We kissed, savoring the moment without any sense of urgency. The way he kisses me and expresses his emotions always brings me so much joy and makes me feel incredibly loved. He didn't just kiss me when he wanted sex."The food is ready..." Mathilda announced, capturing the attention of the men.There are also some warriors, Carlo's closest confidant, who brought along their mate. Fortunately, we prepared a generous amount of food, so it seems we'll be able to enjoy a delightful meal this morning. "Come one, come on.""I'm already so peckish," Jonah murmured.Carlo invited the others to take a seat. They promptly made their way to the dining table and began helping themselves to the delicious spread of food."Invite Edna to join too." Carlo said to an Omega, then asked me, "Is Lacie aw
Catrina.Three days later...After freshening up and changing my outfit, I made my way to the kitchen, drawn by the joyful sounds of laughter and conversation. Today was a vibrant morning, with the sun shining brightly. From the open window, the air carried the delightful fragrance of flowers from the garden and the mouthwatering aroma of cooking from the stove.Carissa stood next to the stove and seemed to be stirring something in a pot. It must be a soup—a flavorful and aromatic soup that is full of richness..."I already have a feeling it will be really good." I walked over.Edna looks after Lacie in the living room. Morea glanced at the oven, noticing the cake batter she had recently placed inside. It seemed she had planned to bake a cake this morning. Meanwhile, Mathilda set up multiple utensils and placed them neatly on the dining table."Let me help," I offered, retrieving a sleek bowl from the cupboard and placing it on the dining table."Didn't I mention that you could come
ZekeThat's how it all unfolded, like in a whirlwind. I took a few steps back. As I shifted back into my human self, my mouth was moist, and the metallic tang of blood remained. I'm feeling queasy. I shifted my gaze elsewhere, avoiding the sight of what I had just done.Celeste remained still. Indeed, I have just ended her life.Catrina sprinted towards me, her voice lost in the wind as she appeared before me in an instant. She violently shook my shoulder and said, "Zeke! You hear me?"Carlo came closer. His face was filled with so much emotion that I couldn't explain what it was, but it was clear that there was anger. He ordered me not to kill Celeste because we promised her death in front of all Dakota.But I didn't listen to what he ordered. So it's understandable that he's angry. Carlo assisted Catrina in getting to her feet. I saw how she was shocked and shaking, and I felt guilty. Alex, Jonah, and the others are showing similar expressions.They looked like they couldn't believ
Catrina After providing Luna and her puppies with some comforting words and assuring them that we would soon locate Celeste and ensure her safety, I made my way back to Carlo. The Lunas and pups have been returned to their respective packs, while the Alphas remain here. They had a meeting at the manor, and afterward, the tasks were divided. To ensure that we would find her as soon as possible, they dispersed to every corner of Dakota until she was discovered. When I came back and make my way to the meeting room only Damien remained. He and Carlo appeared to be engaged in a heated discussion until the entire room was enveloped by their intense aura. "Your mate freed that witch; now I want to hear what you will do to account for this?" Damien growled; his face looked annoyed and angry when Carlo said that Amora was his mate. "I've rejected her; she's no longer my mate. But I'll make sure to kill her as soon as I find her." "Regardless of whether she is your mate or not, you are w
Celeste"Is something wrong?"Amora's voice made me turn to her. I just shook my head. She's come this far; she must have had a hard time getting past all of the guards and security that Carlo set. To finally be able to free myself from the prison that locked me up, so I wouldn't worry about her just because of this silly little thought.But somehow it was hard not to look back when I could feel Zeke approaching.'Just keep moving. If he finds out you escaped, what will he take other than ending your life?' I reminded myself to take a step forward and face the facts.Just like Carlo Zeke, he wouldn't forgive me if he found out I escaped, especially what I did to him. I've betrayed him so badly that he would kill me at any chance he had.If I had to answer what I felt at the moment, I decided to betray him and make all the help he gave seem meaningless. The pain I felt was indescribable. If it's possible, I'd prefer not to do all of that."Sister," Amora said, gently placing her hand o
ZekeAfter they successfully marked each other, I observed Catrina leading Carlo toward the exit, and they eventually departed from the venue. Several eyes checked them out, and several let out whistles. There's no one stopping them, as we all know they deserve their privacy tonight.Well, finally. I convinced myself that I was happy for both of them. Carlo finally realized his feelings for her all this time, yeah, even though it was a bit late, and Catrina finally got what she deserved all along.They will be together forever, as Luna and Alpha rule this pack. And their descendants will continue their legacy. I know this pack will be even better knowing it is in the right hands.I shifted my attention to a few couples moving on the dance floor. Morea joined them with a man from another pack. A voice called out from behind me,"Do you think he could be the right person for her?" Carissa asked. With a smile on her face, she brought over two glasses of wine and kindly offered one to me
Carlo.Even though I had already made sure that there would be a high level of security at our marking ceremony tonight, how can I still detect their presence nearby? That should be impossible.I know that Catrina also noticed the same thing since, the very next second, she allowed her power to make a shield that encircled us. It formed a barrier of protection in the same way that those monsters emerge from the shadows. Their appearance is exactly the same as it was before, with unsightly scars covering their entire body in every spot.They must have sensed our aura, so they followed us here. I remember that some of our prisoners are in the state of dying; they might die in the dungeon, but there's no way they can transform into these creatures without Celeste's magic.Celeste is locked up in a specially designed, isolated prison, which, as Catrina claims, has sealed her powers. Celeste shouldn't be able to do this.Has she managed to escape? But how is that possible?Catrina summons