Maxine’s POV“M-Mate,” Tobias mumbled, almost as if he was in a trance.The word hit me like a thunderbolt. Mate. Tobias had found his mate. I opened my mouth to ask him about it, but before I could say anything, he was already moving toward her. I watched in stunned silence as he approached the girl, his face lighting up with a joy I hadn’t seen before.Tobias and the girl met in the middle of the crowd, and I could see them speaking happily, though I couldn’t hear what they were saying. Their faces were inches apart, their eyes locked on each other. Then, without warning, they hugged, holding each other tightly as if they never wanted to let go.A wave of happiness flooded through me. I was genuinely happy for Tobias. He had been through so much, and now he had found his mate, someone who would complete him in a way no one else could. I sat there in awe, unable to tear my eyes away from the beautiful scene happening before me.As the crowd noticed the new mates, a cheer erupted. The
Liam’s POVI watched from the distance, my eyes checked as I saw Maxine mingling with the crowd, singing and laughing as if she hadn’t just spent days in the dungeon. Anger simmered inside me. She had forgotten about me and that angered me more. She wasn’t supposed to be out so soon. I had hoped that a longer stay would teach her a good lesson about obedience and respect. She wouldn't have to talk to me anyhow she pleases.But her songs had captivated the elders and the people. When the elders were looking for good singers for the moonlit festival, she was recommended. I had no choice but to allow her release. Since then, I have been watching her closely. She seemed committed to finding happiness despite everything, spending her time with her new friends from the dungeon. It just seems the dungeon made her a new person instead of breaking her.Tonight, she stood on the makeshift stage, her voice tugging through the air, touching the hearts of everyone present. I could see the emotions
Maxine PovThe anticipation was real as we waited for the full moon to emerge. Guests from all over the world had come to celebrate, and the atmosphere was electric with excitement. Drinks flowed freely, and tables were laden with a feast fit for royalty. Laughter and chatter filled the air, blending with the distant sound of howls.This was the night when eligible werewolves would experience their first shift and potentially find their mates. I held onto a sliver of hope that the moon goddess might finally show me mercy, that this could be my moment. But as the full moon reached its peak, the howls of joy and transformation echoed around me, and I felt a familiar pain of disappointment. Once again, I didn’t get my wolf.I was once again forgotten. My friends had gotten their happy endings while I was not certain of my own.Tears filled my eyes. I was devastated, I thought the moon goddess was in the season of showing mercy and granting heart desires. She just wanted me to be happy fo
Maxine PovLife had taken on a new rhythm, one that I found surprisingly comforting. My friends and I worked hard, doing odd jobs around the pack to make a little money and help out where we could. Things were going smoothly, and I had almost entirely forgotten about Liam. I mean, why would I remember a person who had caused me so much pain and sadness?My new friends, responsibilities, and sense of community kept me busy. I helped my friends and Elena with her pregnancy and assisted Tobias' mate in settling in. Since I couldn't have what I wanted, I decided to focus on helping those I loved. It seemed that I had carved out a new life for myself.Clara, on the other hand, lived a confused life. Her mood swings made her unpredictable, and because of that, I decided to distance myself from her. I didn’t have time for negative energy or anyone who would cause me problems. This decision led me to stop training, even though, sometimes, I missed Liam and wished he would call me. But that dr
Liam PovI sat in my study, immersed in my work, when a soft knock interrupted my privacy. I frowned and wondered who could be knocking at this hour. I hadn't scheduled any appointments, and no guard had informed me of a visitor. After a moment's hesitation, I called out, "Come in," readying myself for whatever might come through the door.To my shock, it was Maxine. "What are you doing here without informing me first?" I demanded, ignoring her greeting.Maxine stood there, looking humbled and scared. "I'm sorry for coming in without informing you duly, Master," she said, her voice trembling slightly.After much hesitation, I granted her audience but didn’t permit her to sit. "Speak," I ordered.Maxine took a deep breath. "Thank you for releasing me from the dungeon, Master," she began. I was surprised she even appreciated it, but he suspected there was more to it. After almost five months, why was she thanking me now? Something wasn't right."What do you want? And make it very fast."
Maxine PovI was sitting in the small kitchen area of my room, savoring the meal that Ella had brought over. The food was good, but I couldn't help but notice that she seemed distant and sad, her usually bright character was clouded by something heavy on her mind. I set my plate down, my appetite immediately faded as my concern for my friend grew.Although I have had almost enough."Ella, what's wrong?" I asked gently, watching as she fidgeted with the hem of her dress.Tears welled up in her eyes, and she took a deep breath before speaking. "Maxine, I've been trying to get pregnant, but it’s not working. I've done everything, but nothing seems to help. It's making me feel like I am not woman enough. I'm worried and no longer comfortable."I felt a twitch of empathy for her. "Have you spoken to Tobias about this? Is he putting pressure on you? What’s he saying? Because his own opinion matters more in this issue."Ella shook her head. "No, Tobias has been very understanding. He hasn't
Maxine PovMaxine carefully measured out the herbs, her hands moving with practiced precision. She believed in the power of nature's remedies, she was convinced that this blend would work wonders for Ella. With each gentle stir, she whispered words of encouragement, her faith unyielding.“I know it's bitter but trust me, it will work. It takes time but will work. Just don't give up.”Ella squeezed her face, she still didn't want to take it. She had been taking this herb for a few weeks and nothing seemed to be happening. She is gradually losing interest. “Maxine, I don't think I can continue with this. I'm tired and frustrated. This is too much. Why is the moon goddess suffering me? What did I do wrong? Why is she punishing me? She gave me a mate but can't give us children to make our joy complete?” she said, crying.I knew she was heartbroken but she should praise me for enduring this hardship, she has a mate and a wolf. She's even leaving with her mate. and he still loves and respec
Maxine PovAs Tobias and Ella came out from the living room, they were knotted, holding hands, with beaming smiles that could light up the whole neighborhood. It was one of those moments that made you believe in love, even if it wasn't for me.I had craved love, for a good mate and a perfect family but it wasn't forthcoming. I love love, I want to feel it, to experience it, and to enjoy it.I had been surrounded by love so my job was just to see, and witness it. And be happy for the lucky ones.I watched them with a mix of admiration and envy. Their love seemed so effortless, so pure. I couldn't help but wish Liam would treat me the same way. But dwelling on my own love life wouldn't do any good tonight, rather it would only bring me sadness and at this point, there’s no room for that. This was about Tobias and Ella, their happiness, and their journey together."Ella, Tobias, you both look bright, parenthood would fit you both," I said, unable to contain my smile. Tobias who I know, i
MAXINEI got a job working at the pack hospital again. This time, I signed up to be a real medical practitioner. I was going to become a midwife. There were a few familiar faces at the hospital and lots of new ones.Still, I was grateful to Ronan for giving them this opportunity again.That evening, I walked back into my apartment. The dead herbs were still in a box on the floor in the kitchen. I wondered if I would go back. I used to pick herbs and sell them to women who wanted to get pregnant.It felt like eons ago. Times were simpler. Back then, I saved lives not help take them. That was a time when I didn’t have blood on my hands.I sighed, running my fingers through my hair. I wanted my simple life again. It was simple but everything made sense. I didn't have to try to untangle myself from this mess that was my reality.A knock on the door brought me back. Zel was back from work. She worked as a bartender a little while from our apartment. Zel had gotten the job. After the manag
MAXINEI nodded, not trusting myself to speak without crying. Ella was right. I needed to let myself grieve. The love I once had for Ronan still occupied my heart.Lindsey reached out and held my hand. "We’re here for you, Maxine."I squeezed her hand, grateful for their support. They were right. I didn’t have to go through this alone. I had them.Maybe it wasn't so bad after all.***Going back to my old life felt like stepping into a strange place. There was the feeling of losing something. My apartment felt like a place from a faraway memory. Zel was gone and I was feeling so sad.I was back from saying goodbye. I unlocked the door and stepped inside. The space was just as I’d left it. There was still dust over everything. At least, I had something to do with my time.I took a deep breath. I hadn't lost everything. I was still okay.I began to clean up slowly. Lindsey stopped by to help me out and together, we covered a lot. As I was cleaning, I heard a knock on the door.“Are you
MAXINEI wanted to believe her that everything would be okay but deep down, I felt guilt and grief. This was my fault. I pulled back from her and wiped my eyes. I gave her a shaky smile. “It doesn’t feel like it.”She cupped my cheek. “Everything isn't always as it seems, my dear. But, I can tell you one thing I know for sure.” She said.“What's that?”“It's not your fault. I'm sure you don't know where to go from here, what to do, or where you belong. You want to come with me, you want to continue your life back at the place where you and Zel liked and you want to go back to how things were in this pack.” Cinder explained.“But, I see you staying here. This is where your strength lies, where hope lives, where you have friends and support.” She lowered her eyes and winked. “It's where you have a future.”“And, we'll always be here for you to fall back on, regardless of what happens. We're your home away from home.” The Luna Queen said, putting her hand on my shoulder. “I'm very proud.
MAXINEI didn't feel anything. No pain from a stab whatsoever. I looked between us and that's when Ronan smiled. His lips were close to my ear and he whispered, “I would never hurt you on purpose, love.”I didn't know when I screamed.Ronan collapsed into my arms, taking the both of us down to the ground with him. I tried my best to hold his head up on my lap. My eyes traveled down to the blood pouring down the stab wound in his belly.“Ronan,” I called, tears filling my eyes and rolling down my cheeks. He had stabbed himself.My hand shook as it hovered over the wound. I didn't know what to do. The dagger was in his chest.Ronan had chosen death. Death over a life without me.“Maxine…” he called, his voice unnaturally calm for someone who was dying. He reached up to touch me and I guided his hand to my cheek.“I'm here, I'm here,” I cried. “I'm sorry,” I whispered the last part. My hands shook as I held him. I never wanted this. I didn’t want him to die.Ronan gasped. He looked up
MAXINEI held my breath as Ronan kept his eyes on mine. When he was close enough, he stopped. Neither of us said a word. The battle continued around us but I couldn't get myself to make the first move.He didn't either. I wondered if it was hard for him to see me. I wondered if he thought he could fight me. I also wondered if he thought that he could kill me.I spoke up first. “Ronan,” I called. My voice was sounding more longing than I wanted.I missed him, to be honest. I missed sitting down in the quiet and reading books. Strangely, I missed making his cinnamon coffee.Ronan didn't say anything. Instead, he took a step closer. “You don’t have to do this,” he said.There was no hurt, no anger in his voice, just nothing but kindness. I wished he would yell. I wished he would curse me and call me evil for everything I've done.“Come with me.” He said, softly. I heard it regardless of the noise. “We can fix this, Maxine. We'll leave everything behind together.”It sounded so good. But,
MAXINEHe caught me off guard. It meant that he still cared about me. I didn't focus on that though. “I won’t, I promise,” I replied.We stood there in silence for a while, neither of us knowing what to say. I could feel it though. I could feel it. The unspoken feelings and questions we didn't have the time to ask.Or we didn't dare to ask, I guess.After everything that had happened, I still wasn’t sure where we stood. I said I was okay with him hating me but, I didn't know anymore. The lines between us were confusing now. I didn't know how to fix that.But now wasn’t the time to focus on that. We had a mission and that was a priority. Every other thing could come after. We would cross that bridge later.For some reason, Liam stepped closer and I held my breath. “Regardless of what has happened between us, out there?” He said, “No matter what happens, we’ll get through this together. Do you understand?”I nodded. “Together,” I repeated.Before I could say anything else, Zel appeared
MAXINECinder gave me and Zel a brief of the plans that night when she showed us a bedroom. She and the Luna Queen were sharing the one right next to us. They told us to come to them if we faced any issues.Sleep didn't come easy because my mind was entirely on Ronan. I didn't know how I was going to face him again after betraying his trust. But, I knew I couldn't sit out of this fight.The sun had not even risen when I was woken up by the sound of Liam's voice. He was given instructions and I heard more footsteps around the house than the number of people I had seen the previous day.It meant that Liam was already up and gathering the troops. I could hear him giving commands like it hadn't been two months since he was last in power. He was a natural-born leader. He carried this air of authority around him.He was giving orders, explaining ranks and positions for this fight. Every single detail was important to winning.Zel was still asleep, of course. She wasn't a wolf so she wouldn'
MAXINEI chuckled bitterly. “What about now?” I asked. “Will you take me back now that I have a wolf? Isn't that what you've always wanted?”His eyes widened slightly but he kept himself composed. “That would be unfair to you. It would be wrong. If you want to come back to me, I will take you but the choice is yours now. You have a choice and I see now that I was wrong. I’m so sorry, Maxine. I hope you can forgive me.”Tears welled up in my eyes. I hadn't thought about this but I let the anger roll away from me. He was still family. He was my father. “I forgive you. You're my father, whether you abandon me or not.” I said.“Thank you, Maxine.” He said. He reached for me hesitantly. I would have settled for a handshake but he wrapped his hands around me. For the first time in what I knew was forever, my father hugged me.I didn't know what to feel about that.LIAMAfter Maxine spoke to her father, they returned to the living room. However, she moved toward the far end of the room, away
LIAMDespite everything that was unfolding in front of me, my thoughts were stuck on one thing.Maxine had a wolf.I couldn't wrap my head around it. After everything that had happened to her, it didn’t make sense. I glanced at her. The strange white-haired girl was sitting between us.Maxine was staring out of the window. The white-haired girl squeezed her hand. Maxine turned to look at her and offered her a small smile. That was when she caught me staring. She looked away, taking her eyes back to the window.It left me confused. Was she pissed at me? I was the one who had the right to be mad at her. She had chosen him over me. Well, the distance between us was necessary.I didn't know what I would say or do if I were sitting next to her. Kris took a sharp turn, causing Maxine to grab the handle of the car door. I opened my mouth to say something but I stopped myself. There would be time for questions later.“You alright back there?” Varis asked.“We’re fine,” I said. I didn't know i