Chapter 18Xzen's POVI stand facing Aura in the training ground, the late afternoon sun dutifully casts long shadows across the empty training hall. It is six pm, and the other trainees have already retired for the day, leaving us alone."So, you were with Ace last night," I say, my tone neutral as I try to sound nonchalant despite the unease growing inside me.Aura nods, her eyes fixed on mine. "Yes, Alpha Xzen. We had a bonfire and celebrated." She smiles.I feel a surge of...disapproval, but quickly push it aside. I am just concerned about her safety, that's all. "Be careful around Ace," I warn her. "He's...reckless."Aura's gaze narrows slightly, her plump lips setting in a determined line. "I can take care of myself, Alpha Xzen."I raise an eyebrow, a small smile playing on my lips. "Oh? And how do you plan to do that?"Without hesitation, Aura drops into a fighting stance, her eyes holding a glint. Her feet is shoulder-width apart, her hands are up in a guard position. It is th
Xzen's POV Just as my resolve breaks and my lips are about to touch Aura's panting ones, a loud clearing of someone's throat breaks the spell. We spring away from her. My eyes narrow when I turn to find the intruder. I should have killed the smug bastard when I had the chance. Collins stands with the door wide open and a shit eating grin on his face. "Alpha Xzen,” He starts, clearing his throat again to get the laughter out of his system. “I'm sorry to interrupt,” He wasn't we both knew he wasn't. With that stupid glint in his eyes it was obvious he enjoyed this more than any of the silly pranks he's ever pulled on me in the past. “...but...there's a situation at the border. We've got a group of rogue wolves causing trouble." I growl, frustration burning through me. "Can't it wait?" This shouldn't be something Collins and the men can't handle. The fool hesitates, his gaze flicking to Aura's shy posture before returning to me. "I'm afraid not, Alpha. They're getting bolder by th
I stand tall, my heart racing, as Alpha Xzen looms over me. The dark walls of my bedroom appear to be closing in on me."Why did you follow us last night?" he growls, his voice low and menacing, with a hint of its familiar huskiness that sends a strange calm through me. I lift my chin, meeting his angry gaze. "I wanted to help," I say, my voice surprisingly steady. I know I should be scared but I'm not. Alpha Xzen's eyes narrow. "You could have gotten yourself killed," he snarls. "You're an omega, Aura. You're not even supposed to be involved in pack fights."I take a step forward, my anger rising. "That's not fair," I say, my voice firm. "I have more strength now. And I want to prove myself. Isn't that why you are training me?”Alpha Xzen's face darkened, his eyes flashing with fury. “Self defense and pack fights are two very different things," he states, his voice dripping with venom. My chest squeezes in pain at his belittling words. "Irrespective of your desires, Aura, I am the
I sit nervously in my healing class. My hands shake slightly as I gaze down at the rabbit in front of me. Giona drops her papers under her armpit as she glances around, nodding her head in approval at the way every one of us is concentrating on the task at hand. She, explains today's lesson will be a practical test of our learned skills - we are to connect with the rabbit's life source, sense its energy, and perform a simple healing.I can do this. I take a deep breath, trying as much as possible to calm my beating heart. I focus on the rabbit, its soft fur and gentle eyes. As I place my hands on its soft tiny body, I feel a gentle flow of energy. My heart trembles within my chest, and I try to ignore it. I close my eyes, concentrating on the sensation.Soon, I can feel the rabbit's life source, a gentle hum of energy flowing through its body. I sense its heartbeat, its calm breath, its very essence.But my own heart refuses to calm down. I can feel it pounding in my chest, a remind
Chapter 22For the first time since I arrived at Blackvine, I walk to class alone. Normally Hanna walks with me everyday but today, she isn't well. I wasn't even permitted to see her as other pack maidens hurriedly ushered me out. I know they probably didn't do it just to hurt me but considering I'm not a sworn in packmate, they might have well done so just to remind me of my place. Fever isn't a popular sickness among our kind. And Hanna isn't the type to fall ill often. She must be in pain. I'll have to see her once I get back irrespective of those ladies opinion. As I approach the classroom door, multiple voices welcome me. Almost every member of this class is older by at least two years and…well they are all packmates. So I do feel so out of place most times.I sigh when I eventually spot Emily standing by the entrance with her arms folded against her chest. I step in front of her, a scowl etched on her face."Well, well, well. Look what's here," Emily taunts, her voice drippi
Xzen's POVThere's no way. There's simply no way. I run a hand through my growing hair. When had things gotten this messed up? I can be as delusional as I want to but it won't change the fact that things can't work between us. The sound of repeated tappings of my feet echoes as I pace back and forth in my study. My mind is troubled with doubts and concerns.Perhaps I should have been a bit softer with my approach. No, I don't regret my decision to keep a bit of distance between myself and Aura. I do regret ever taking up the task to train her. I shouldn't have gotten myself in that circle to begin with. "Why does she affect me like this?" I mutter to myself, frustration etched on my face.The not-so-timid Omega has somehow managed to burrow deep into my heart. Her mere presence ignites a raw fire within me, making me feel alive. But I know I must resist because there no way we'll be together. "She's not mated, Xzendray" I groan to myself. I need to take something, anything to stop
Xzen's POVI stride calmly across the courtyard, my footsteps echoing off the stone walls. The warm sunlight casts a serene glow, contrasting with the turmoil brewing within me. Aura follows quietly behind, her soft footsteps and gentle rustling of clothes the only sounds betraying her presence.When I stormed between her and Ace, I'd ft foolish and stuck without an excuse for my presence but then my lips had moved on their own. My desperation forcing me to think at a rushed pace. “Training starts in two minutes, Aura. Come along.” I'd said and walked off. At first I thought she wasn't going to follow but she's proved me wrong once again.The air is alive with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the distant chirping of birds, a tranquil atmosphere that belies my inner conflict. My mind is a chaos as warring thoughts clash like opposing forces.I have no idea why I interrupted her moment with Ace? Why do I feel this primal urge to claim her attention all to myself?I push aside m
Chapter 25With a sob I stand frozen, my back against the door, my heart racing. Why does he keep toying with my emotions? Why deliberately make my heart skip a beat, only to crush it once more?Tears stream down my face as I replay his words. He was going to call it a mistake again. His intense gaze, his gentle touch, his whispered words... all contradict this his harsh rejection.It already hurts enough to be avoiding Hanna. I know I won't be able to bear seeing how happy she is without me. Our friendship lies in tatters if there's anything left of it at all.Although Hanna's betrayal hurt me, Alpha Xzen's actions cut deeper. He must enjoy seeing me so vulnerable? Why does he take pleasure in my pain?I angrily wipe away tears. I won't let him break me. I won't be his plaything.I turn to step away from the door, that's when I hear a faint sound.." Aura..."My heart skips a beat. Alpha Xzen's low, husky voice involuntarily sends shivers down my spine. What does he want now?"What
Aura's POVAt first we don't notice the sky darkening, too lost in the heated kiss to realize. But then raindrops begin to fall, gently at first, then it intensifies into a relentless downpour. “Hmm,” I moan against Alpha Xzen's lips a second before he pulls me up to wrap my legs around his waist. My fingers tangle in Alpha Xzen's hair while his hands roam my curves like a starved man. But our bliss is short-lived. A squeak leaves my lips when the rain suddenly becomes a torrent, forcing us to seek refuge. Alpha Xzen grasps my hand, “follow me!” He shouts under the rain, pulling me along with him. Laughter escapes my chest as we run like two pups in the rain. Xzen glances back at me, his eyes warm. I run after him, feeling my heart lighten as I'm led back to my shelter. Our footsteps splashing in puddles.Michel and Henry must be in their outside rooms on both sides of the small house, as they are nowhere to be found when we burst through the shelter's entrance.The door barely ge
As I walk up to meet Alpha Xzen, my heart pounds heavily in my chest. He stands a few feet away, two guards standing beside him but not too close. His eyes are fixed on me as I step closer, expecting him to say something– anything that'll give me some indication of why he's waiting for me. But instead, Alpha Xzen's eyes shine as he simply gently tugs me away from the rising murmur of the small groups of individuals standing and sitting in the green field. A kind shiver graces my spine at the warm contact. I inhale, noting how good he smells. Alpha Xzen's thumb rubs softly the back of my tensed hand and I instantly relax, feeling a calm heat course through my hand to my heart. I stumble slightly, caught off guard by his sudden quick movement, like he's scared I'll refuse to follow him. "W...where are you taking me?" I ask, trying to hide the uncertainty in my voice. No, it's not that I'm scared of Alpha Xzen, but because I'm not sure what to expect from him. He doesn't respond resp
Aura's POVThe grass is wet today. Wet drops quickly slip into my sandals as myself and Bay stroll down to class. Today's our exam. It's our final practical class, one that I and Bay have been studying hard for. Like every other day, Bay came to wait at my door so we can stroll to class together but I don't believe that's the only reason. Considering how interested in Henry she was when I got out, I'd say he's the main reason she keeps showing up. As we stroll, I silently listen to Bay rant on about how Michel is always ruining her fun with Henry and how unfair it is. “I mean, I'm no longer with that cheating count so why can't I mate with a mateless beauty?!” Bay unsurprisingly yells.Yes, she's is... a lot. She's loud, blunt, and very dramatic, but somehow it all just works. Most days she's like a breath of fresh air to my worrisome mind, stirring things up and keeping me in the present.I realize, as we walk, that I've never known anyone like Bay. Someone who's so unapologetical
It's been days since I last saw Alpha Xzen, and weeks since I moved out of the pack house. Through out this time a lot of things have been inconsistent. Although I hate to say it, I'm better off within the pack house where every thing is set in motion for me. Here at the shelter I can hardly coordinate myself. It's only now that I've tried living on my own, without the help of the pack that I realize just how much was being done for me back there. I never had to make my own meals, never had to wash the dishes, never had to worry for anything materialistic, Alpha Elena ensured I had it all even before I asked. It saddens me to remember I never once really thanked her before moving out. I'd been too blinded by hurt. Also I have noticed how most pack members tend to stare when I pass by. At first I'd quicken my pace and hurry off but ever since Bay made it her duty to walk me home, I've realized they all are simply curious about me. Most times whenever Bay waves at them they run up
Xzen's POVOne look at Aura and I'm suddenly transported back to that evening…when I saw her with Ace. My frustration rises as I remember how close they both were to each other. I felt a pang of jealousy then, and I feel it now.I've tried so hard to get her to open up to me but she chooses to share space with Ace. Someone who's barely in the pack these days. How could she spend time with him so easily, when every time I take a step towards her, she takes a hundred back? It doesn't make sense. Hell, I thought I knew her, thought I understood her fears and her boundaries. But now, I'm not so sure.Aura's expression is confused, her brow furrowed in concern. She takes a cautious step back, her eyes darting towards the door like she's reminding herself of the available escape. Her stance is frightened, her weight shifting on to a leg as if she's ready to flee at any moment.I also notice how her tiny hands are clenched into fists, her knuckles white with tension. She's trembling, ever
Xzen's POV"And where is he?!’’ I glare deadly at the guard, my demand shaking the room. The man, a tall, confident figure with chiseled features and a strong jaw line, bows submissively, but answers calmly, ‘'I do not know, Alpha.’'I take a step closer, my anger escalating. ‘'When last did he report to duty?!'’ I question, my chest heaving. I'm hit with a pang of irritation when I notice Collins sitting at a corner of the room, frowning.'’Relax, Alpha,'’ Collins says as he tries to intervene. '’It's just a training session. I'm sure someone else can stand in for Ace.'’I whirl around, directing my fury at him. '’You've been gone for a while, you have no idea just how lackadaisical he's been,'’ I snarl, my eyes flashing with anger.The guard seems to sense ann opportunity and speaks up, '’Alpha Xzen, I could fetch Ace if you desire.' He lifts his head a bit, his confident demeanor permanent. Just as trained.I frown, my eyes darkening. ‘'From this day forward, he ceases to be the Pa
Ace's POVI'm aware that whatever I'm about to say will possibly make no sense to Aura at this moment. My words might hold no value to her but I must at least try. I've tried getting her alone, in a quiet setting where my thoughts would be more organized but if I keep waiting for that time, I may never find it. That bright and radiant eyes or the petite omega now look dull. The sight causes an unpleasant feeling in my chest, and although I'd like to wipe it off with a joke, I know now's not the time. We are sitting on a bench in the open filled outside her healing class. I notice some trainees checking us out but I pay them no mind.As I prepare myself to speak, I notice how Aura's shoulders are slumped, her arms wrapped tightly around herself, as if trying to hold together the shattered pieces of her heart. I should have been there for her. I would have been there for her. I still wish to be there for her, if she'd let me.. I take a deep breath, my own heart racing with a mix of
My heart drums in rhythm with my feet pounding against the damp earth, mud coats my bare feet, slipping through my toes just like my breath coming in ragged gasps as the wolves close in around me. Panic claws at my heart when I spare a glance behind me. Their eyes glow like lanterns in the dark, the zeal to kill burning like wild fire in their orbs. I move faster, my soul freezing, blood curdling as my mother's scream pierces the air. I don't see him at first but as I get closer, the trees around me blur and I see my father standing in the direction I'm heading. Blood pours down his eyes and the open slit in his throat. My steps falter as hot tears break free. “P…Pa!” I scream. He gazes at me with accusing eyes. His voice is barely above a whisper, "You caused this." Those words sear into my mind like a branding iron, the guilt and horror boldly threatening to consume me.“NO! NO!” I scream in fright when sharp claws dig into my skin, scraping against my bone. Alpha Mich pays me
With a drop in my aching shoulders, I step out of the warm pack house, and the silence itself is deafening. No one speaks, not even a whisper. Everyone's eyes follow me, their faces etched with sadness and…guilt. Some gaze down, unable to meet my eyes, while others watch with muted emotions that mirror my own.I feel like I'm walking through a sea of regret, their unspoken words hanging in the air like a challenge. But what's there to be sad about? I'd been the one to make the wrong decision of running away. I'd caused the death of my unborn pup. I'd caused it all and now that I think of it I feel I've mistaken their pitiful stares for guilt. But they have every reason to pity the weak omega. The fool who lost her pup when she tried to find a better route in life. Two guards approach me, their expressions calm. They both offer to help me move my belongings. I nod at them, grateful for their assistance, as I'm still a bit tired. It's been over a week but my body is still recovering.