Olivia’s povI kept my distance, noting every single reaction. Each murmured word, every worried glance—they all fed the tension simmering beneath my exterior. I had mastered the art of composure, especially now when everything depended on maintaining the facade. Samuel’s voice echoed through the hall, drawing everyone's attention. "His body bore marks consistent with attacks from rogue wolves. However, it appears they were made post-mortem. The cause of Derek's death is still uncertain, but it does not look like a simple rogue attack."I let out the breath I hadn’t realised I’d been holding. But just as I thought the worst might be over, movement in the crowd caught my eye. Adam was pushing through the milling bodies. His eyes locked on Lidia with a predatory intensity. A chill travelled down my spine. He would not hurt my sister. I surged forward, heart pounding, but despite my efforts, Adam reached Lidia first. He grabbed her wrist, yanking her toward him with a vicious sneer. B
Olivia’s povI stared, shocked, as Alpha Reed stood in front of me, shaking off the pain from his hand, his knuckles bloody from the impact. The room descended into stunned silence, save for the laboured breathing of Adam, now sprawled on the floor. Victor, his voice laden with authority and restrained fury, commanded, "Adam, leave the hall immediately." Adam pushed himself up, wiping blood from his mouth, and shot a venomous glare at Reed before staggering toward the exit. His final words, echoing through the tense atmosphere, left a foreboding chill, "This isn't over." One by one, everyone else began to disperse. Reed turned to me, his eyes softening from the steel they held moments ago. "Are you okay, Olivia?" he asked, concern threading through his deep voice. I nodded, my breath returning to normal. "Thank you, Reed. I didn’t expect that..." He smiled despite his battered knuckles. "Sometimes, strength is in stepping up when it's least expected." As the hall emptied, I caug
Alexander’s POV I hadn’t slept a wink last night. The worry for Olivia's safety ate away at me. Even though we had gotten away with Derek's murder, I couldn't shake the feeling that this was still far from over. Last night's events played on a loop in my mind, a knot tightening in my chest each time I thought of Olivia. She had become strong, so different from the delicate, wolfless girl she once was. But I couldn't shake the feeling that it was causing her more harm than good. My gaze shifted to the clock; I had a mission today, and it was one I couldn't delay. Adam was a ticking time bomb, and if he was anything like his deceased Alpha, he wouldn't let this go easily. I needed to ensure the safety of Olivia and Lidia before things spiralled out of control. I left my room and made my way to Victor’s hotel. The city bustled around me, completely unaware of the tension lingering in the background. Reaching Victor's door, I knocked firmly, hearing his footsteps approach quickly. "A
Olivia’s POV I decided to step away from the confines of the suffocating walls and venture outside. Fresh air often worked wonders, clearing my mind even when emotions threatened to engulf me. Descending the ornate staircase, the faint echoes of a conversation drew my attention toward the main hall. Victor was engaged in a low-voiced discussion with Reed. My gaze inadvertently fixated on Reed, making his eyes snap to mine. His face lit up with a wide smile, something that should have given me butterflies, but still, I couldn’t seem to feel that way about him. Reed stepped away from Victor, his feet carrying him quickly to my side. Gently taking my hand in his, he brought it to his lips, placing a tender kiss on my knuckles. "Good morning, beautiful," he said, his voice soft and filled with genuine concern. "I just thought I would come and see how you are feeling after last night." My cheeks warmed at his attentiveness. "Good morning, Reed. I'm okay, really. I was just about to go f
Victor's POV Surrounded by stacks of documents and reports from various sectors of the kingdom, I allowed myself a moment of respite, my eyes drifting to a framed portrait of Olivia, Lidia, and me from years ago. The bond we shared had always been a source of strength, even through our most challenging times. The voices of Olivia and Reed abruptly pulled me from my thoughts. Their conversation echoed from the hallway, carrying a tone I could barely recognise. I strained to make out words, concern gnawing at me. I stood abruptly, my chair scraping against the floor, and moved toward my door just as Olivia's room door closed softly. Opening my door slightly, I was greeted by Reed’s forced smile. "Is everything alright, Reed?" I asked, folding my arms casually yet ready to spring into action if needed. Reed shrugged, his smile unwavering. "Of course, Victor. Olivia just wanted to see the twins." I nodded, but before I could close the door, Reed kept talking. "Victor, it's just so
Beta Adam's POV My hatred for Olivia and Lidia had become an all-consuming fire that burned through my every waking moment. I would make them pay if it was the last thing I ever did. As I prowled the shadows outside the hotel, I couldn't tear my eyes away from Olivia. She appeared strong now, her wolf fully awakened, but all I saw was a deceitful murderer. My hands clenched into fists, fingernails digging painfully into my palms as I watched her take a walk with Reed. Reed’s protective stance only fuelled my rage further. He was a tangible obstacle now, a barrier between me and my vengeance. The sneer on my lips stayed firmly in place as I trailed behind them from a safe distance, my heart throbbing with barely contained fury. “How dare she laugh and smile as if my Alpha’s death meant nothing to her?” I muttered under my breath, relishing the idea of bringing her laughter to an end. Every step I took shadowing her was a step closer to justice. But every glance she shared with Ree
Cassandra's POV I’d barely settled into my room when a rapid, almost frantic knock shook the door. My pulse quickened. I crossed the room in swift, silent strides and, without bothering to check, thrust the door open. A young pack member stood before me, eyes wide with anxiety. "What are you, stupid?" I hissed, yanking him inside with a strength unexpected from someone my size. "If anyone sees you here..." He squared his shoulders, forcing an air of composure. "Beta Adam sent me with an urgent message. He wants you to meet him tonight." I eyed him for a moment, weighing the significance of the message. "Tell him I'll be there," I replied evenly, pushing him back toward the door. As soon as he left, I closed my eyes and reached out with my mind, honing in on the familiar, comforting presence of my mate. **I need to see you before tonight. Can you meet me in an hour? ** His response was quick and reassuring: **Yes, Cassandra. I’ll be there. ** Satisfied, I moved to the mirror, a
Cassandra's POV A dull ache throbbed at the back of my head as consciousness slowly returned. My throat felt parched and sore, each breath a dry rasp. Opening my eyes, I was greeted by darkness and the clinking sound of metal against stone. As my vision adjusted, muted shapes began to form around me. Panic set in when I realised I was chained to a chair, cold and unforgiving against my skin. My heart pounded erratically as I strained against the chains, but they held firm. Every movement sent jolts of pain through my bruised wrists. I desperately scanned the room, the dim light revealing only bare walls and a thick wooden door. The unmistakable scent of dampness and decay permeated the air. *What is this place? Where am I? * Questions swam through my mind in rapid succession. I tried to recall how I ended up here, and flashes of memory returned—my confrontation with Adam, his grip on my throat, the encroaching darkness. A muffled voice outside the door drew my attention. It grew l
Olivia's povThe shop door chimed softly as we entered. The dressmaker, a kind older woman with an eye for detail and warmth to match, greeted us with a beaming smile. Bolts of exquisite fabrics lined the walls, their colours are vibrant, each one telling its own tale. I knew the one I held within my heart today—a tale of love, resilience, and hope.Lidia followed me closely, her earlier doubts seeming to melt away amid the excitement of the shop. "I’ve been waiting for this," she confessed softly, leaning closer as she took in the palatial display of elegant gowns. "Getting to see you in your wedding dress is like a dream."We approached the mirrored dais, where an array of wedding dresses awaited—each one a masterpiece of lace and silk and dreams sewn into reality. As I stepped upon the dais, emotions welled within me, teetering precariously on a tide of sentiment and expectation. I reached for a gown gently, fingers trailing over the delicate beadwork, feeling the promise imbued w
Olivia's povI knew Ethan was trying to muster his courage. His hands trembled slightly as he thumbed the edges of the box, cooling his earlier confidence. Finally, he opened the box, revealing a stunning ring. The large moonstone at its centre caught the light, casting an ethereal glow that seemed to shimmer with life."Olivia, this ring has been in my family for hundreds of years," Ethan said, his voice tinged with reverence and nerves. The raw honesty in his eyes touched me deeply.“It’s beautiful," I murmured, genuinely captivated by the artifact's majesty and the legacy it represented.Ethan went red-cheeked, the usual bravado he donned so effortlessly slipping away. "I was wondering if you would…" He paused, his words stumbling over one another like a landslide. I waited, offering him patience and a soft smile of reassurance.After a moment, he cleared his throat and started again. "I mean, I'm here to ask for Lidia's hand in marriage. I haven't seen Victor yet, but he'll under
alexanders povThe anticipation that pulsed through my veins was far stronger than any battle I'd waged, any beast I'd fought. Tonight was the night Olivia and I would affirm what we already knew in our hearts: that we were meant to be together. Our bond had withstood countless trials, and now it would be sealed under the moonlight with the people we loved.Despite the day’s beauty, echoes of concern lingered. Red flags flew in my mind every time I thought of Reed. His absence was like a splinter under my skin—a constant irritation that could not be ignored. But tonight was not about him. Tonight was about Olivia, about our family, and about the life we were building together.The palace was bustling with excitement. People flitted about, preparing for the evening’s festivities. I had instructed everyone to keep the atmosphere relaxed yet festive. Even though she opted for a simple ceremony, Olivia deserved a night filled with joy and laughter.Maneuvering through the busy rooms, I fi
**Olivia's POV**I took a breath, the pleasant scent of roses filling my nose. The garden was alive with nature's symphony, a perfect backdrop for what could be the most significant day of my life. Alexander had already set to arranging everything needed for our moonlit wedding. Tonight would be magic.I left the garden, excitement twirling within me as I ventured toward the dressmaker to see if she had anything that I could wear tonight with such short notice. I noticed there was no time for me to have something made, but I didn't care. The dress was not important; marrying my mate was the only thing that mattered. My footsteps echoed softly off the cobblestone path, each step a rhythmic countdown to becoming Alexander’s wife.As I approached, the gentle hum of early morning activity filled the air. People were setting up stalls for the evening's festival, laughter mingling with the scents of freshly baked goods. We hadn’t had a true celebration in so long; spirits were high, and eve
Reed’s POVThe damp air clung to my skin as I hunkered down in the grimy drain pipe, its confines offering an unwanted intimacy with persistent, rank odours. Though suffocated by shadows, this location was my asylum, for now, a perfect vantage point to observe their kingdom’s every move—without being observed myself. They should be celebrating their victories, echoing the laughter of conquerors throughout the kingdom, but instead, silence hung heavy, a ghostly whisper of unrest and anticipation.An eerie thrill coursed through me as I contemplated my slow, methodical plan for Lidia and Victor.Their names, like promises, formed stepping stones towards Olivia and Alexander, ultimately leading to the ultimate destruction of their spirit. Each one taken was a piece stripped away from their false sense of security.Lida would be first. Her face haunted my mind, but soon, it would be snuffed out by shadows she couldn’t escape. Olivia idolised her, and losing her would weaken her along with
**Olivia’s POV**Morning light peeked through the ornate curtains, wrapping softly around the room. Slowly blinking awake, I stretched, only to find Alexander’s side of the bed empty. My heart sank slightly at the absence, but it was quickly quelled by the knowledge of his duties. Besides, our life since the battle had seldom allowed us to lay in bed together.I sighed, throwing off the warm covers and swinging my feet over the edge, ready to face the day. After getting dressed, I tied my hair back into a loose ponytail, catching a glimpse of myself in the mirror. Today felt different; in a good way, I held no worries in my heart anymore.Making my way down the elegant staircase, the sound of laughter filled the air. It was the twins, no doubt causing their usual joyful chaos. I smiled to myself, relish in the simple, beautiful moments of motherhood.Before I could reach the dining hall, Lidia appeared at the end of the corridor. “Good morning, sleepyhead,” she called out, her grin wi
Reed’s POVThe forest was quiet, the only noises the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant calls of wildlife. My leg throbbed with every stride, the pain a consistent companion during my escape, but it fueled my resolve rather than diminished it. I leaned heavily on my makeshift crutch, every step deliberate, every breath a challenge overcome.How long had I been on the run now? Time was a shapeless blur, marking moments only by the exhaustion that weighed on my bones. The elders’ guards pursued me tirelessly, and Alexander’s as well, all seeking my head. I had played my cards poorly, underestimating the strength of my enemies and overreaching my ambition—or so they thought. Maybe there was truth in it. Perhaps I needed this moment, this fall, to truly measure the darkness within me and to harness it against those who wronged me.I knew Olivia had what I needed to rise again—her power, her essence. Once she recognised that we were meant to be, she would come around. I could almost f
Alexander’s POVThe grand palace gates opened before us, the magnificent structure standing as a testament to our return and the resilience we'd found within ourselves. As the carriage came to a stop, I watched as Olivia took in the scene. Her gaze was both wistful and hopeful, a blend of emotions she wore eloquently.“Daddy, can we go play?” Liam’s eager voice brought my attention back to our lively twins, who were practically vibrating with excitement.“Yes, but be careful,” I chuckled, unable to resist the buoyant energy only children possessed. "Stay within the gardens."With a flurry of giggles, they bolted off, leaving behind an iridescent trail of joy in their wake. Olivia stood beside me, a serene presence amidst the chaos. I watched her eyes follow the twins, a softness etching across her features.The warmth of the sun bathed us, the golden glow amplifying the sense of homecoming that swelled within my chest. “It feels so good to be home,” Olivia murmured, her head finding a
Alexander’s POVThe carriage rolled over the crest of the hill, unveiling the sprawling kingdom beneath us. My heart felt a gentle release, the homecoming marking the end of turmoil. Olivia sat beside me, her presence as comforting as the view before us. The twins, Liam and Sarah, bounced in their seats, their excitement contagious. After what felt like an eternity of darkness and trials, being home seemed like a new dawn.“We're home,” Olivia said softly, her voice like a soothing melody that wrapped around the world, infusing it with warmth and love.I looked over at her, my heart swelling with a gratitude I couldn’t quite express in words. Her smile was like the sun piercing through the overcast sky of our past struggles. “Yes, we are,” I replied, feeling the tensions of the past slowly slipping away.The twins burst out of the carriage the moment it came to a halt, their laughter echoing around us as they raced toward the palace. Their footfalls were light against the ground, a st