Olivia's POVI stood my ground, my senses hyper-focused on the figure advancing toward me. The forest was eerily silent. The only sound was the crunch of leaves under the approaching creature’s paws. As it emerged from the shadows, its form became clear—a wolf, its eyes shining with predatory hunger and its fur bristling in anticipation.Refusing to show fear, I made a quick decision, darting to the right just as the wolf lunged. It missed me by a hair, its claws swiping through the empty air where I had just been. Without hesitation, I took off running, confident in my speed and agility. I knew the wolf had little chance of catching up with me.As I weaved through the dense canopy of trees, my thoughts raced, and I reached out to Alexander with my mind. I needed to warn him about the threat. *There are wolves after me,* I projected urgently.His response came almost instantly, his voice steady but tinged with urgency. *I know, Olivia. This is part of your training.*Understanding hit
Olivia's POVAs Alexander and I approached the towering gates of our palace, One of the palace guards hurried towards us. His steps were quick and purposeful, and as he reached us, his face showed more than just the usual seriousness. “Alpha,” he began, bowing his head. “Catherine Miller is here. She wishes to speak with both of you.”I saw Alexander’s shoulders tense. He let out a heavy sigh, opening his mouth to speak. But I gently placed a hand on his arm, stopping him. “I’ll talk to her,” I said softly.Alexander hesitated, his eyes searching mine for a moment before nodding. “Go and see the children,” I continued, squeezing his arm for reassurance. “I’ll handle this.”“She’s already seen her daughter,” Alexander said, his voice weary.“I know,” I replied, meeting his gaze. “But it’s hard to turn your back on your own blood. It’s not Catherine's fault that Cassandra did all those horrible things.”Alexander gave a resigned nod and turned to make his way to the children’s playroom.
**Cassandra’s POV**Chains clanked as I adjusted, the cold metal biting into my wrists. The dungeon's darkness pressed down on me like a suffocating weight, but even in this despair, I held onto a sliver of hope—Reed would come for me. Each footstep down the corridor made my heart race, anticipation gripping my soul, but they had always led to disappointment. The resolve in me was slowly eroding.Suddenly, a different sound echoed through the stone chamber—footsteps I couldn't mistake. My heart lifted briefly, but it sank just as quickly when I saw the familiar figure before me. It wasn’t Reed. It was my mother."Mum?" My voice cracked with the strain of days of disuse."Cassandra," she breathed, rushing to my side. Her appearance stunned me. It hadn't been long since I last saw her, but she looked like she had aged years in mere days. Her usually bright eyes were clouded with worry and exhaustion. I hated that I was the one coursing all of her pain, and for the first time, I wished t
Cassandra’s povI took a deep breath, steeling myself for what I had to say. I knew this was my last chance, and if Alexander didn't hear me out or believe me, I would never get another. "Alexander," I began, my voice wavering slightly, "I know I've made terrible mistakes. But my parents... they love me, and I've hurt them enough. I need to make things right."His eyes flickered with a mix of scepticism and something else—maybe a sliver of curiosity. "And why should that matter to me?"I swallowed hard, choosing my words carefully. "Because I have information that could help you. If you promise to show some leniency during my trial, I’ll tell you everything."Alexander's lips curled into a mocking smile. "I don’t make deals with people like you."I took a deep breath, knowing that everything hinged on what I was about to say. "Alexander, I understand your mistrust. I've done terrible things, but there are things you don’t know. Reed," I paused, trying to gather my courage, "Reed is my
**Alexander's POV**I stood there in sheer disbelief, ice gripping my heart as I watched Cassandra convulse on the ground, blood pouring from her nose, mouth, and ears. Her screams of agony cut through the silence, echoing in my ears with a haunting resonance."Guards!" I bellowed, my voice cracking with urgency. "Get the healer! Now!"Cassandra’s body arched with another spasm, her face contorted with unimaginable pain. The room seemed to spin, darkening as I tried to make sense of her sudden collapse. My thoughts hammered relentlessly, circling back to our last conversation.She had just been telling me that Reed was her mate, and then this—I couldn't help but feel a mix of anger and helplessness bubble inside me. The name "Reed" reverberated through my mind, tinged with bitter loathing. What had he done to her?In the distance, swift footsteps heralded Olivia's arrival. She burst into the room, her eyes landing on Cassandra with horror. "Alexander, what happened?" she asked, her vo
**Olivia’s POV**Catherine clung to me as if holding on to the last fragment of hope she had. She was shaking, her tears soaking through my shirt. I held her tighter, my heart breaking for her. No one should ever have to feel the pain she was experiencing, the unbearable sorrow of losing a child, regardless of the mistakes they made.“Olivia,” Catherine sobbed, her voice barely a whisper. “Why did this happen? How could she die like this?”I had no answers. All I could do was give her the comfort of my presence. “I’m so sorry, Catherine. We’ll find out what happened, I promise.”The healer waved for the guards to help him take Cassandra’s body away. They handled her with great care as if hoping it would ease the pain of Catherine watching her daughter’s lifeless form being taken from her. The healer mentioned he needed to examine the body to understand what caused such a sudden, violent death. It was the least we could do for Catherine to ensure that Cassandra’s death was not in vain.
**Alexander’s POV**The morning of the trial arrived, and it felt like the weight of the entire world pressed down on my shoulders. I hadn't slept at all last night. Cassandra's death kept replaying in my mind, the look of fear and pain on her lifeless face haunting my every thought. Despite the restless night, I knew I had to push through. Today, Rebecca's trial would come to an end, and I needed to focus.Walking into the grand hall, I was greeted by the solemn faces of pack members. Rebecca’s father stood at the front, waiting with a few others. I took my seat, feeling the tension in the air grow as Rebecca was brought into the room, her wrists bound with chains.Her father stepped forward, a desperate edge to his voice. “Alpha Alexander, my daughter is not guilty of killing Cassandra. She has been through enough. Please, show her mercy.”I glanced between Rebecca and her father, the weight of my responsibilities crashing down on me. “Rebecca had every intention of killing Cassandr
**Olivia's POV**I stood there in shock, Alexander’s words echoing in my mind. "Luna Queen." He hadn’t discussed this with me beforehand; the announcement had taken me completely by surprise. I looked down at Liam and Sarah, who were beaming with joy. Their father’s announcement had evidently filled them with pride and happiness.Alexander, sensing the mix of emotions radiating from me, gently excused us and began leading the way back into the palace. With each step, the crowd's buzz slowly faded into a distant hum, swallowed by the palace walls.Once inside, the grandeur and quiet of the palace offered a contrast to the frenzy outside. I turned to Alexander, my brows furrowed in both confusion and concern. “Alexander, you didn’t have to do that,” I admonished, my voice gentle but firm.Alexander turned to me, his eyes softening as they met mine. “Yes, I did, Olivia,” he said tenderly, taking my hands in his. “You’ve been my strength and the heart of this pack, even when you didn’t ho
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
Reeds povI didn't know how long I had been trapped in that cave with the witches' burnt and rotting bodies. Everything was a blur, and my mind struggled to piece things together, only fragments passing through every now and again like echoes of a fading nightmare. I vaguely remembered their chants, the strange words resonating in a rhythm that seemed to align with the throbbing pain in my leg. Natasha lay nearby, her eyes open but unseeing, a haunting reminder of what happened when the moon's light came through that cursed cave.As the days passed, the fog obscuring my thoughts began to lift. My survival instincts took over, pushing me toward a gruelling reality: I needed to escape, to move before they found me.With grim determination, I dragged myself from the darkness of the cave, the memory of Natasha and the others burning in my mind. I felt disconnected from the world around me, hollowed out and raw from the loss of my leg. Pain lanced through me with each movement, a constant