Aree’s POV“The decision has been made. No one can change it,” Callister marked.“No! Please, your majesty. Please spare us. Don’t do this, have mercy. I can’t lose my title,” I looked at Alpha Cornell and then at the King. Zavier just looked at him emotionlessly. No one can change his decision, even if they kneel to beg.“Aria, do you want to say something before we leave?” I bit my inner lips. He’s asking me if I have something to tell. I have much to say but I won’t lower my standard again.I shook my head, “Nothing.” I replied. Stella shoots me a glare, “Liar! I know you’re laughing now. Do you think you won because we were punished? You’re wrong! We’re not done yet, bitch!” My brow furrowed. Why she’s so mad at me? I didn’t do anything wrong to her.“What’s wrong with you, Stella? You are the reason why you’re in that situation. So, you have no right to blame anything on me,” I glared at her. She smirked and laughed sarcastically.“Really? It’s all your fault!” I shook my head. S
Aree’s POV They continue to talk. They did not mind me at all. I let out a deep sigh. My body went rigid when I felt him touch my hair. He took a curl of my hair and brought it close to his nose. My brow furrowed in confusion. What is he doing? “Do you feel anything?” Claude asked him vaguely. Zavier casually nodded and let my hair down. He reached for my shoulder and pulled me even closer. I looked at him in shock. He smirked when he saw my reaction. He released me and sighed. “Did they hurt you? Do you have any wounds or scars?” I blinked twice. Why is he asking me this now? Oh, he just wanted to check my shoulder earlier. “I have, but don’t worry. I’ll be fine,” I replied shyly and looked down. I heard him sigh, “Look for a senior healer. She needs to be treated immediately.” “Actually, I know a senior healer. She will arrive tomorrow after living abroad for a long time,” Claude smiled widely. “Are you talking about the girl from the same neighbourhood, Lyndsey?” Callister
Aree’s POV “Do you want to live in my room?” Zavier asked me casually while we were walking in the hallway. My eyes widened as I looked at him. I quickly shook my head, “No, I mean. That won’t be necessary. I mean, you’re the king and…” He looked at me and raised an eyebrow. “And?” I averted my gaze. “And… I’m just an omega. Everyone will be shocked if I live in your room,” I murmured. “She’s right, Zavier. Everyone will be jealous of her,” Claude agreed. Zavier looked at me, and then a few minutes later, he nodded. “All right then.” “Arrange a bedroom for her,” Claude nodded. “I’ll go and inform Beatrix,” he answered. Zavier nodded, but he was still looking at me. My cheeks burned in embarrassment. I quickly look away. Why did he ask me to live with him? I mean, we’re mates, but everything’s different. Claude was right. Everyone will question my existence here. I let out a sigh after a few minutes of walking. Claude came back with someone. That must be Beatrix he is talking abou
Aree’s POV“Who is she?” I heard them whisper. They looked at me as if I was the intruder. What’s wrong with them?“Is there something wrong with me?” I asked Beatrix. She shook her head, “No, my lady.” Then, what’s with their stares?“What pack do you come from?” One of them asked me. Beatrix tapped my shoulder, “Just ignore her, my lady. You don’t have to answer her question.”I closed my eyes and sighed, “It’s okay. I should tell them. If I won’t, they will secretly investigate me still,” I replied. I don’t want to say anything about me or my past, but I don’t have a choice either.“From Riverdale Pack,” I disclosed. Most of them looked at me with confusion in their eyes. “Riverdale? I haven’t seen you there. Are you sure?” The blonde girl said suspiciously.I bit my lip while nervously looking at them. Why do they have to be suspicious? Can they just ignore me? I don’t want to say I’m an omega of that pack.Someone was about to talk again, but one of the betas arrived and saved me
Aree’s POVI couldn’t look straight at him as I sat on the edge of his bed. Even though he is my mate, I still feel intimidated because I regard him as the king of Lycans.His eyes never left mine. He was looking at me as if he didn’t want me to lose in his sight. His eyes darkened as he started to walk in my direction.I quickly looked away. I wasn’t sure how he would treat me. Does he have the ability to heal others? Usually, wolves can only heal themselves but not everyone. Oh yes, I remember--- he’s not a normal wolf, after all. He’s a mighty Lycan King.I sighed and looked at him again. He was standing in front of me, just a few meters away. Should I ask him what I should do? If he would heal me, I should rest on the bed, right?I was about to lie down when his deep voice interrupted me. “Take off your clothes,” he said, causing me to look at him, shocked.“Pardon?” I asked. He didn’t talk and kept his gaze on me. I bit my bottom lips and closed my eyes. I don’t have any choice b
Aree’s POVZavier crossed his arm on his chest while looking at the twins. I found his grumpy face adorable. I closed my lips tightly to suppress my laughter and averted my gaze from him.Callister wiped the blood from the corner of his lips while still cursing. While Claude, his face was deadly serious. Zavier faked a cough to get their attention, “So, what happened?” Callister rolled his eyes and walked towards the sofa, and sat there.“His mate did that,” Claude answered for his brother. Zavier’s grumpy face changes to amusement. “Really? Kindly elaborate on it?”“Sure. Our mate---” Zavier stopped him. “Our mate?” he asked in surprise. Claude nodded, “Yes, Callister’s mate is my mate too. We haven’t seen her for years, so I never expect her to be our mutual mate.”Oh, that’s unexpected indeed. “Then? How did this mysterious lady manage to hurt him? I’m curious and amazed,” Zavier said while grinning widely. He’s doing everything not to laugh but still burst into laughter.“This is
Aree’s POVWhile I’m sleeping, I feel like someone’s embracing me. His scent lingers on my nose as I breathe in. I buried my face in the pillows even more and inhaled deeply. I don’t want to think he’s here with me because I know he’s not. I’m not as special as they think. Why would the king spend more time with a girl like me?I closed my eyes tighter as I pulled up the blanket. I refuse to think about nonsense matters. I’m only being delusional. I let myself fall into the darkness. When I woke up, I realized I was alone. I’m right; I’m just hallucinating.I rubbed my eyes and stretched my body. This is the most fantastic sleep of my life. I never thought I would rest like this after what I experienced before. I slowly looked around; I couldn’t help but wonder where he was. Maybe he’s busy, or he’s with someone else.I dismissed that strange thought and shrugged my shoulder. I should get up now. I was about to open the door when someone suddenly entered. The door nearly hit me, but I
Aree’s POVHer smile widened when she saw my confused expression didn’t change. She moved closer and tapped my shoulder, “Don’t be shocked. I’m telling the truth. And to let you know, my power lies in healing, not in reading minds,” she playfully said.Oh, if that’s the case. Is she the senior healer? Callister and Claude’s mate? I was slightly shocked to see her this early. After what happened to her and the twins, I thought she wouldn't return anymore. It seems likely that the twins must have done something to bring her back this soon.As I glanced around, I realised that the girls who had mocked me earlier were still here, making me feel self-conscious all over again. Their disapproving glares bore into me as they shook their head in dissatisfaction.In just a few seconds, they started to leave one by one. Once they had all left, I found myself alone with the healer. I saw her shake her head in disbelief, “Just ignore their words. They were only jealous because the king values you,
ARIAFor months I stayed inside fearing to come outside. Not because of my bulging belly I couldn't hide anymore but because of the accusations. The rumour of Aaliya’s child loss and the king's first heir had spread like wildfire.Aaliya had spiralled into madness after losing her baby. She became angry, blaming both Zavier and I for her loss and deep down, I bore the guilt. The first and last time I visited her, she had lost control.Her once-beautiful features were twisted with grief and rage. “You took everything from me!” She had screamed, snatching a pair of scissors from her drawer.I ran back, dodging her and pleading with her. “Please don't Aaliya, I'm sorry.”“If you hadn't run off he wouldn't have come after you and my child would have still been alive. That's all you wanted isn't it? You get pregnant and I lose mine.”She had thrown the scissors but Artemis had come just in time to get me out of there. Aaliya had been taken to the clinic and it was suggested that it was be
ARIAAt the first light of dawn, I moved quickly through the palace, my heart pounding in her chest as I kept looking behind my shoulders.The air was cold, the kind that clung to your skin and made you feel alive. I had secured a few of my belongings under my cloak and the pressure made it difficult to walk but I didn't stop. Not this time.“My lady,” One of the guards called, causing me to halt in my footsteps. How did they camouflage in the dark cause I could swear I saw no one.“Flynn,” I say, turning around with a fake smile plastered on my face.He stepped out of the dark, his Armour glistening in the moonlight as he took a bow.“You dropped this,” he said and gestured to the pink scarf in his hands. Oh shit! He must've seen it fall from under my clothes.“Thank you,” I said nervously as I gingerly took it from him. “I barely even realised.“Where are you headed so early my Lady? The palace is still asleep,” he said, eyeing me suspiciously.“I want to take sparkles for a race an
ARIA Panic surged through my veins, my body going cold despite the warmth of the atmosphere and the heat of his gaze on me.“Why didn't you tell me about the child, ARIA?” He demanded, his voice low but dangerous.My eyes widened and my breath hitched in my throat. How did he know? Who had told him, could it be Artemis? No– I was in the damn clinic. The doctor must have had me tested. My mind screamed for me to run, to get away from him and everyone but rather I couldn't move. Couldn't speak.“Answer me! “ He growled, his voice growing impatient by the minute.“I… I don't—” I stammered, taking a shaky step backward but my legs felt heavy and slow like I was trying to walk through quick sand.Before I could move again, his hand shot out, grabbing my wrist firmly and pinning me against the wall. His hold wasn't painful, but it was enough to stop me and make me feel trapped. “Don't lie to me Aria,” he warned, an edge of pain to his voice. “Don't you dare lie to me.You're carrying my c
ZAVIERFor weeks, I tried to adjust to the changes around me. Aria barely had dinner or breakfast with me. She was always reserved, and I barely caught a glimpse of her. Aaliya had made me bring most of her things to my room because she needed my attention and believed it formed a bond with the baby. I was exhausted by her constant presence, but all I wanted was for her to have the baby, nurse him for three months, and then I’d pay her off to leave.I missed Aria terribly. She never came out of her room, and when she did, it was only for brief moments. I saw her from afar sometimes, but often, she seemed to disappear entirely. The palace felt empty without her presence. The betas, who used to be lively and engaging, had become more quiet and reserved since Irish left. They barely told me things or joked with me anymore. I considered bringing Irish back, knowing she always made Aria happy and that would please the betas.One morning, while having breakfast with Aaliya and my betas, Ari
ARIAWhen I woke up, a shadow loomed over me. Startled, I jerked up to see Artemis towering above my bed. "Get off!" I yelled, and she jumped back, her eyes wide with fear."Sorry! I was just—" she stammered."What were you doing?" I demanded, sitting up fully."I was checking your temperature," she explained, trying to compose herself."Why?" I narrowed my eyes. "Are you gay or something? Look, I’m not homophobic, but I’m not interested in women.”Artemis burst out laughing. "No, no. I was genuinely checking your temperature. You seemed unwell.”I frowned. "I caught you staring at my lips."She took a deep breath and stared at me. "Why were you drinking last night, Aria?”I threw my hands up in exasperation. "Why is everyone trying to be my parent? And did you forget the rules? Stay out of my business.”"Drinking is unhealthy for you," she replied calmly. "You need to be careful, especially now that you’re early.”"Early?" I repeated, confusion clouding my mind. "What do you mean by
THIRD PERSON POVAria woke up to an empty room. Artemis was gone for now, and for that, she felt a wave of relief. It wasn’t that she hated her, but she couldn’t get used to someone new. She relished the solitude for a moment before deciding to start her day.After a quick shower, she realized most of her clothes were still in Zavier’s room. With a sigh, she wrapped herself in a robe, letting her dripping wet hair rest on her shoulders, creating a messy trail down her back. She called for her maid, Beatrix.Beatrix entered the room with a smile. "Good morning, my lady. What do you need?”"I need you to get my things from Zavier’s room. Most of my dresses are at his and my undergarments too," Aria said, trying to sound casual.Beatrix paused, her smile faltering. "Okay my lady. Are you coming for the event today, my lady?”Aria raised an eyebrow. "What event?”Beatrix looked at her, a little confused. "The celebration for the king’s expected child.”Aria felt a chill run down her spine
ARIAAs soon as I made myself invisible, I slipped out of the palace, my heart pounding in my chest. I had to find Onyx. He was the only friend I had left. The only one who hadn't been driven away by Zavier. My mind raced with thoughts of Irish's departure and the unbearable loneliness that seemed to grow every day.Onyx agreed to meet me in our secret space, a hidden alcove in the forest where we used to train together. When he arrived, his face lit up at the sight of me, but I noticed he was keeping a ridiculous amount of distance."Onyx," I called softly as I made myself visible. He looked relieved to see me but still stayed a few steps back."Aria," he said, his voice warm but cautious. "It's good to see you. What's wrong?”I couldn't hold back my tears any longer. "Irish left. The king made her go.”He nodded, as if he had expected it. "I figured it would happen. The king is removing everyone you're close to, Aria. That's why... that's why I've made up my mind too.”"What do you
ZAVIERHer fiery gaze burned deep holes into my skin, causing my stare at her to waver. She was hurt but there wasn't a thing I was willing to do about it. I detested the way everything was.She needed to learn and with Irish around, she wouldn't. Irish needed to leave for her to live in understanding. Irish didn't teach Aria bad values but if she offended, she knew the healer would always take her in and then she would see no reason to apologise for her wrongdoing or learn from her mistakes.She approached me, picking her steps carefully. “I hate you Zavier.”“I know, and that's okay,” I said and gripped her wrist in my fist. “I've asked the guards to move most of your things to her bedroom so that way, you'll feel more connected.”“You are a sadistic fucker,” she cursed but I could hear the pain in her voice.My eyes followed the long queue and came in contact with Irish. She flashed me a bright smile and waved at me. My heart clenched but I nodded at her.After Irish left, I watche
ARIAIrish stormed into the room with tears rolling down her cheeks. I jumped from my seat in a shock and rushed to her, wondering what had caused her to elict tears.“Irish,” I said, rushing to her side. “What's going on?”Before she had the chance to say a word, her door was forced open with a force that made my heart skip a beat. Three guards walked in with an ugly look on their face. They didn't spare me a glance. Instead they walked up to Irish and began to yell at her to pack up.“What is wrong with you?” I screamed at them at the top of my lungs.Still, they pushed her hard against the wall and began to scatter the room. I couldn't wrap my arms around what was going on. I rushed to the guard who was constantly hitting her and threw myself at him. I was fueled by anger and frustration.“Leave her the fuck alone,” I screamed, punching him hard in the face even though I knew one sing of his arm was all I needed to end up in bed.“Stay out of this, Aree,” Irish whispered, blood tri