Jake's POV I was standing by the window, looking into the distant dark clouds. I was in deep thoughts, still pondering over everything I had overheard the werewolves who had attacked me say amongst themselves.“What are you thinking about again?” Seth asked as he walked into my room. He had become a constant visitor in my room, always coming in uninvited, but not unwanted. His company was always needed, always having the right words to say.“Hope you're not here to remind me of the meeting with the Alpha?”“Definitely! That's why I'm here,” Seth chuckled. “Your brother has decided not to proceed with the meeting unless you're present.”“Then it's as good as saying the meeting won't hold.” I scoffed.“Come one Jake. I don't expect this from you.. You're also an Alpha.”“No I'm not, Seth,” I interrupted him. “John leads the pack. I'm just a figurehead.”“I don't care how you see it Jake, but huu can't change the fact that in this pack, there are two Alphas. You and your brother,”“Is t
Jake's POV I drew in a clear breath as I walked out of the conference room, my mind pondering over everything that had been discussed inside. I almost wanted to tell John about the three Werewolves I had battled in the woods, but for some unknown reasons, I didn't.I needed to clear my head, and for at that point, there was only one way to do that – the open air, and a female’s body. I knew just the right one to visit.Diane was sitting by her window when the I walked in. She had once been a Luna of another pack, but was rejected by her mate when he caught her in the arms of another. “What can I say – my mother was a whore, I’m no different,” she had said to me as she narrated her story, blowing out smoke from her mouth, a thin cigarette held between her fore and middle finger. That had been three years ago when she had first settled in our pack, and until now, she was still one of my favorites, always at my beck and call whenever I needed someone to ease off with. “It’s been a w
Marcus' POV “We will strike in two days,” My voice echoed in the room. Myself and the other members of my pack have been mapping out a strategy to attack the werewolf who had dealt with my men.Ryan had done a good job finding out everything that we needed to know about the pack which had cost us that colossal loss. I've only heard it was the late Williams’ pack which was now being ruled by his eldest son, John.“It was Jake, William's youngest son who beat up our men,” Ryan reported.“Jake,” I sighed. “He's always been trouble since he was kid,” It was obvious the rest of my pack members didn't know much about Williams's family, nor the dark past that connected us.Williams and I were very close. We practically did everything together and were inseparable, until Williams was declared Alpha of the pack by that lords.It was after a battle with an enemy pack. Both Williams and I, who were still Betas in training, fought valiantly, subduing the enemy pack with ease.Both Williams and
Jake's POV A knock resounded through the door as Seth walked in, his eyes taking in the pack of cigarettes and other items on the table. I was standing behind the window, looking out.From his posture, Seth could swear that I was in a complicated mood from having stayed with him for almost all his life. “You look__”“What news did you bring?” I asked, not wanting to beat around the bush.I knew Seth too well. He wouldn't just come into my room unless he has something important to say to me. Sometimes I wonder if he just loved breaking terrible news to me, or passing John's instructions to me?“You're thinking again, I can see it, your shoulders are slumping.” “It's my business Seth," I scoffed."Your business? Is that so?" Seth never ceased to remind me of my mom. "How's my brother? Did he send you to come and fetch me?” I asked, this time turning around to look at Seth“Last i checked, he was with Lord Bernard. The other lords are coming down tonight.""The other lords? Why?" I j
Diane's POV I sat down at the edge of the bed, my thoughts swirling as I replayed Nene’s words in my mind. The lords were coming to pick a mate for the Alpha. This was unexpected. John had always been quiet about his intentions when it came to choosing a Luna, and now the decision was being forced upon him. Was he aware of this? Or was this a decision being made behind his back?I took another slow drag from the cigarette, the smoke trailing upwards as I exhaled. If the lords were coming, it meant the selection would be public. Whoever they chose would hold incredible influence over the pack—and over John.But why hadn’t I heard about it sooner? How could something this important be whispered about only among sentinels? There had to be more to it than what Nene overheard.And then there was Stephanie. I’d been keeping my distance, watching her with careful eyes ever since she arrived. There was something too polished about her story, something too perfect. It wasn’t that I didn’t be
Sarah's POV"Are you ready to talk now?" Booted feet walked into the room as Marcus raised his head. "Get lost!" I spat at them angrily."Oh, Sarah," Marcus pulled my hair, increasing the agony I was going through. With both hands tied and suspended from the ground, and with his firm grip on my hair, I felt like I was already losing it."You'll never get anything from me, Marcus," I was firm in my decision. I already saw this torture coming, but I still decided to keep my lips sealed, never to reveal Stephanie's whereabouts to him, even if it meant I'll have to sacrifice my life for it."You think you're tough, huh?" Marcus pulled harder. I screamed out loud, as the pain was so unbearable.I bit my lips hard, my teeth getting, as I tried to endure the pain. "No matter how much you torture me, you'll never get anything from me."I had given up my freedom just to make sure Stephanie got away in one piece. Marcus and his pack members had come for her when he came to attack our pack. We
Reyna's POV"You're aren't leaving, Reyna," John held my hands, his eyes searching through mine."But...." I tried to hesitate, but John wouldn't let me. Every time I looked at him, all I could see is a guy who really cared about me."There are no buts, Reyna. You're staying and that's final," He took my hands. His lips came down against mine. It was gentle and soft, and I could feel my heart thump within me.He pulled away and then his voice came out soft, "I want you to be in the ball room tonight,""But I don't belong there. I'm not a werewolf,""That's not true, Reyna. You're one of us. You just... just haven't found out how to become one yet.""But Lord Bernard....""Other lords will be present. He'll not be the only one to decide on how things should be. Besides, my mate will be declared tonight," "Is that why you want me to be around?" I could see the look of hope on his eyes. I knew what was going on in his mind. He was probably thinking of the possibility of me being his mat
Diane's POVI watched as Reyna and Stephanie walked into the ballroom, and to my surprise, they both exuded a confidence that seemed out of place. Reyna, in particular, was drawing the attention of nearly everyone in the room. Her dress clung to her figure, flowing elegantly with every step she took. I couldn’t help but feel a surge of jealousy rise within me. She was glowing, radiant in a way that made it clear she knew how much power she held tonight.Nene leaned in again, whispering, "Reyna looks stunning, doesn't she? I thought you'd care."I scoffed, trying to hide the annoyance brewing in my chest. "She's irrelevant. Don't let her looks fool you."But even as I said that, I couldn’t take my eyes off her. There was something about Reyna that bothered me—a deeper mystery I couldn’t yet unravel. She had become too comfortable, too confident in a pack where she should have felt like an outsider. And tonight, it felt like she was preparing for something bigger than just an evening w
Reyna's POV The warm water had done little to wash away the exhaustion clinging to my bones, but at least I no longer felt like a walking pile of dirt. Stepping out of the bathroom, I wrapped a towel around myself and ran a hand through my damp hair.Just as I reached for a fresh set of clothes, the door swung open.Diane.I sighed heavily, rolling my eyes. “You’re the last person I want to see right now. Get the hell out of my room.”She smirked, leaning against the doorframe like she had all the time in the world. “Too bad. You don’t get to order me around.”I turned my back on her, picking up my clothes. “Fine. Sit there and watch me dress up, then. You seem to have a talent for babysitting.”That got under her skin. I heard her sharp intake of breath before she moved.A hand swung toward my face, but I caught her wrist mid-air, gripping it tightly. Slowly, I turned to face her, my expression blank, but my eyes burning with warning.“What do you think Damon would say?” I asked sof
Stephanie's POV I led Sarah to my bedroom, quietly shutting the door behind us. She had been silent the entire way up, but now, she was watching me with an expression I couldn’t quite place.“What?” I asked, raising an eyebrow.She tilted her head. “You didn’t tell me you’ve met your mate.”I blinked, completely thrown off. “What are you talking about?”Sarah’s lips curled into a knowing smirk, but then her expression shifted to one of confusion. “Wait—you don’t know?”I crossed my arms. “Know what?”Her confusion faded into amusement. “Oh, now I get it,” she laughed, shaking her head. “I was wondering why your energy felt different. But now it makes sense.”I frowned. “What makes sense?”She gave me a pointed look. “You look more radiant, Steph. Stronger. Happier.” She paused, studying me. “Don’t you know why?”I scoffed. “I haven’t noticed anything.”Sarah rolled her eyes. “Liar. You’re just trying to push it down.”I stiffened. “That’s not—”She cut me off, stepping closer. “You k
Marcus POV I clenched my jaw as the call ended, my grip on the phone tightening until my knuckles turned white. That woman. Diane had just laughed in my face, dismissing me like I was nothing. As if she had never owed me a damn thing.Jacob sat across from me, watching with mild curiosity. “What’s wrong?” he asked, arms crossed over his chest. “What did Diane say?”I exhaled sharply, shoving my phone into my pocket. “Forget Diane,” I said. “You should be more concerned about how we’re going to get your daughter away from that man.”Jacob snorted, an amused smirk playing on his lips. “Do you really think I’m bothered about that?”I frowned. “What the hell are you talking about?”Jacob leaned back, shaking his head. “I don’t care, Marcus. Damon can do whatever he wants with Reyna. It’s none of my business.”My stomach twisted in disbelief. I took a step toward him, trying to read his expression, but there was nothing—just a blank, indifferent stare. “What the hell are you saying?” I de
Jake’s POVI stared at the map spread out in front of me, my fingers tracing the rough paper as I tried to focus. Damon’s territory was vast, deep in the heart of rogue land, surrounded by thick forests and treacherous terrain. It wouldn’t be easy to get in, and getting out with Reyna would be even harder.My jaw clenched as my mind replayed the last few hours Reyna’s empty room, the lifeless sentinels, the destroyed security footage. Someone had helped them. Someone had made it easy for them to take her.The door creaked open behind me, and I turned sharply, my eyes narrowing when I saw Stephanie walk in.John, who stood on the other side of the table, straightened. “Steph,” he acknowledged, his tone neutral.I wasn’t as polite. “What the hell are you doing here?” My voice was sharp, cutting through the tense air. “You should be in the dungeon, not roaming freely like nothing happened.”Stephanie sighed, folding her arms. “I’m here to help.”I scoffed. “Help? How do we know you’re no
Reyna's POV “Who are you and what are you doing here? Who the hell are you?” I screamed,his eyes took in the wolf's bane and silver blade which lined the walls.I'm sure he must be very glad.He walked deeper into the room,his eyes scanning me from head to toe. “I'm sorry I didn't get to introduce myself earlier on when you were brought in. I am Alpha Damon. I am sure my name rings a bell.” A little smug covered his face as his eyes bore holes into every nook and cranny of my body.“Our wedding is coming up in a few days and I want you to be in the very best condition which is suitable for a bride. I wouldn't want people thinking I'm maltreating my Bride although running away from your father, you should serve some punishment but I'm going to tell you this I'm a very generous alpha and husband so I will let go and I will let it slide.” I laughed really hard and stood up from the bed “so tell me something Alpha should I thank you or perhaps I should delete your shoes because that's wh
Reyna’s POVI stirred, blinking slowly as my surroundings came into focus. The room was dimly lit, the air heavy with a faint metallic scent that made my nose twitch. As I tried to sit up, I realized my hands and legs weren’t bound. That surprised me I wasn’t exactly a captive, or so it seemed.The events of earlier began to flood back, and my heart sank. The van, the masked men, and the searing pain in my shoulder from the tranquilizer they all came back in vivid flashes.“Who were those men?” I muttered under my breath, my voice hoarse.I tried to reach out to my wolf, to feel her power surge through me, but something was wrong. There was nothing. Just silence. Panic rose in my chest, and I looked around the room for answers. My eyes landed on the counter nearby, where several silver blades and small vials of wolfsbane were arranged neatly.“Of course,” I whispered bitterly, realizing why my wolf was silent. The silver and wolfsbane in this room weren’t here by accident they were he
Stephanie’s POVThe familiar path to the pack’s gates felt different this time, though I couldn’t quite put my finger on why. I returned under the cover of the fading moonlight, weary but determined to act as if nothing had happened. Whatever Sarah and I had discussed earlier would remain between us at least until I could figure out my next steps.As I approached the gates, two sentinels stepped forward, their expressions unreadable.“Stephanie,” one of them said curtly, “Alpha John and Jake are waiting for you.”My steps faltered. “Waiting for me? Why?”Neither of them answered. They only exchanged a glance, their faces cold and void of emotion.“What happened?” I pressed, trying to ignore the sinking feeling in my chest.Again, no response.The silence sent my mind spinning, and my heart began to pound. Something was wrong very wrong. The atmosphere was colder, heavier, and every step toward the Alpha’s office felt like walking into a storm.I swallowed hard as I reached the door. I
Stephanie’s POVThe dense woods felt like they were closing in around me as I made my way down the narrow, winding trail. The darkness was oppressive, with only faint slivers of moonlight peeking through the towering trees. My pulse raced with every crunch of leaves beneath my boots.When I reached the small, hidden house nestled deep in the forest, I glanced around one last time to make sure I wasn’t followed. The familiar wooden door stood slightly ajar, its creak echoing as I knocked twice.The door opened, and Sarah’s wary face appeared. She motioned me inside quickly, shutting the door firmly behind me and bolting it.“Thanks for coming,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper.“I didn’t have much of a choice,” I replied, pulling off my scarf. The room was dim, lit only by a single oil lamp on a rickety table. “Sarah, we need to talk. You can’t keep hiding here forever.”She sighed, collapsing into a chair and motioning for me to do the same. “You think I don’t know that?” sh
Reyna's POV I sat on the edge of my bed, staring at the moonlight filtering through the curtains. My thoughts were a tangled mess, replaying every word and glance Stephanie had exchanged earlier. Who was Sarah? And why had Steph looked so startled when she saw me?I sighed, running a hand through my hair. Something wasn’t right, and I couldn’t shake the feeling that Steph was hiding something big. But what could it be? We had always been close, so why would she keep secrets now? My chest tightened as doubt crept in. Maybe I was overthinking it… or maybe not.I glanced at the clock on the wall. It was late, and exhaustion pulled at me, but my mind refused to rest. I stood and began preparing for bed, hoping sleep might offer some clarity. Slipping into my nightgown, I walked over to the vanity to brush my hair. As I stared at my reflection, I couldn’t help but notice how weary I looked. Tonight had been a whirlwind of revelations and emotions, and it was taking its toll.Just as I set