Chapter 1

DAPHNE

Today is the grand opening of my art supplies shop. And I considered this as my big day. One achievement unlocked for me this year. I woke up early this morning more than my usual routine. I saw my mom, Jasmine, who was busy preparing for our breakfast. 

“Morning, mom,” I greeted her with a big smile. 

Her face lit up when she saw me. “Good morning! I know this is your grand opening today, so I prepared you a special lunch box,” 

I can’t help but smile. Mom is really sweet. She never changes. “That was so sweet of you, mom. Thank you,” 

We were about to hug each other when we heard a fake cough behind us. I saw my father, Dane. His eyes landed on the lunch box I was holding. 

“Goodness, Jas. Your daughter is already a grown-up woman. Are you still not tired of making her lunch box every day? You were doing her lunch box since immemorial!” he tapped his forehead. 

“What’s wrong with making our daughter a lunch box? I just want to make sure that she eats healthy. She isn’t even complaining, then how do you have the guts to tell me that I should stop doing her lunchbox?” My mom raised an eyebrow at him. 

And I know that my dad never wins when it comes to arguing with my mom. He raises his two palms as if he’s saying he already surrender. After that, we exchanged glances and laughed with each other. 

This is my small, simple, but happy family. I’m an only child. Back when I was young, I remembered that I always wished my parents that grant me a baby sister or baby brother. But due to complications, my mom is unable to bear another pup anymore. So they give all their love and attention to me. 

My parents are great and humble. My dad is the Alpha King of our pack, the Lotus Pack in the Greenwoods Village. He told me that since he was young, he always aspired to rule our pack. He loves guiding people. And my mom, the Luna Queen has always been at my dad’s side, supporting him. My dad told me that their relationship is not a whirlwind romance. According to them, back then, dad is not in love with my mom.  He loves someone else, and mom is just observing him from afar. But my mom goes to greater lengths to protect my dad during the war. That’s when my dad realized my mom’s unconditional love for him. I’m a romantic person, so I find their love story very touching. 

So basically, I’m the Luna Princess of our pack. But that doesn’t mean that I considered myself different from others. My parents always taught me to respect everyone and be humble. 

“I love mom’s cooking. It will forever be my favorite,” I smiled. 

“Okay! I know that I can never win against the two of you. Are you going to your shop?” 

My eyes glittered like diamonds. “Yes, dad. Today is my grand opening,” 

“We’re so proud of you, Daphne,” they hugged me tightly. 

This is the new world now. Peace and harmony exist. We are not obligated to train and study to be mighty wolves. Everyone can have a decision of their own, and what to do with their life. As much as possible, our pack wants us to experience an everyday life like humans. And unlike other packs or ancient beliefs, having a rank is not really important in our pack. One will not base their respect according to their rank. We can have a rank, we can decide to stay normal like humans, and everyone will still respect us. 

And of course, my dad is respected by everyone. There is no doubt about that. 

“Thanks, mom, dad! I have to go now!” 

“Can we at least join you there?” 

“Dad, I know you have an important meeting today with the council. And mom, I know grandma is sick. She needs you. You two can always come anytime to my shop! I won't be mad or anything,” 

My parents didn’t fight with me anymore. They nodded as I exited our house. I’m waiting for a taxi to pick me up. At the age of 19, I have already finished College. I have a degree in Arts. And I don’t intend to study for a master’s or to take a doctorate degree anymore. I’m already okay with my degree. I want to put up a business that is in line with my passion. And that is art supplies. During my free time, I also love to draw and paint. 

Well, I, Daphne Steele, have lots of interest. I love helping people. I love to cook and bake. I love doing household chores. I love knitting. I love drawing and painting. I also want to be a powerful wolf that can protect my pack! 

“Whew! She’s really hot and gorgeous!” I saw a group of guys ages like me commented while looking at me. 

I wanted to roll my eyes, but I didn’t bother to stop by or say anything. I put both of my hands inside my sweater. Hearing compliments from my opposite sex is not new to me. I always hear these comments whenever I walk down in the streets with decent clothes. 

Soon after, a taxi arrived, and I hopped in. I told him the place and closed my eyes. 

“We’re here,” 

I paid him and gave him an extra tip. “Thank you. Drive safely,” I remind the old driver. 

The old man looked so happy. “Thank you, Princess Luna! You really have such a good heart!” 

I made my way through my shop. It has a minimalist design, and I like it so much. I’m sure that I’ll spend more time here! 

This will be my safe haven. My one staff greeted me politely. “Good morning, Ms. Steele!” 

“No need for formalities, Nina. Just call me Daphne!” I winked at her. 

Nina blushed and looked away. We became busy after that. We were doing preparations for our first opening day. 

Thirty minutes from now, my dream business will now be open for everyone. 

This is a dream come for me. We didn’t notice how time flies. We have already had plenty of customers just this morning. 

After we entertained all the customers, I heard a voice behind my back. 

“That guy is so handsome,” 

I saw Sierra, my packmate, who is two years older than me. She looks cute in her bob cut, light skin, and blue eyes. “Huh? Are you talking to me? Sierra, right?” 

Her eyes widened in shock. “Oh my goodness! I can’t believe that you know my name, Alpha King’s daughter!” 

I suddenly felt shy. “You don’t have to make it a big deal. I heard your name back then. Who are you talking about?” 

“Oh, the guy that is with Alpha King. I heard that he’s a civilian,” 

I furrowed my eyebrows. “Civilian?” 

She nodded. “Yeah. He’s an outsider. And he’s seen roaming around here in the Greenwoods. So the guards held him captive and brought him to the Alpha King,” 

Oh, what a shame! I'm the daughter, but I didn’t know that! 

“I must know his name. He looks so handsome. He has dreamy gray pair of eyes, and his forget-me-not look!” 

Ugh, who’s the guy? I never heard that a civilian came into our borders. 

“Anyway, I love your shop, Daphne! For sure, I’ll hang out here in these next coming days!" 

I smiled. “I’m glad you love my shop. If you excuse me…” 

“Sure, no worries! I feel so honored that the daughter of the Alpha King talks to me!” 

After I left Sierra, I couldn’t help but think again about what she said. 

Civilian? Who’s that guy? I have to ask my dad later.