A Voice Behind the Door

Abby's POV

“Alpha Hayden Roche of Duskfire’s pack,” she declared, loud and clear, “I’m carrying your child.”

Cameras clicked. Gasps rippled through the crowd. I froze where I was.

I stared at Hayden but he didn’t flinch. His expression remained stone-cold. My heart twisted or perhaps it leaped in joy.

Could this be it? My miracle? My way out?

I looked at my parents. Mother’s eyes flicked in confusion. Father’s jaw tightened. Panic shimmered beneath their composed faces.

I laughed inside.

They might see disgrace and disappointment.

But all I saw was freedom.

Hayden’s men, Beta Alex and a few high-ranking pack members had quickly surrounded the woman. They didn’t shove her, neither did they bark orders. They spoke to her with quiet urgency before escorting her out.

Who was she for them to respect her that much?

There was commotion in the hall. Elder Lucius stood perplexed.

Still, Hayden’s men without waiting for their alpha's order, moved with swift precision, calming the crowd like seasoned warriors. Only Alphas with presence and power earned such loyalty.

Beta Alex returned. He leaned toward Hayden, and whispered something.

Hayden straightened and faced the crowd.

“This,” his voice boomed, “is how far some will go to cling to power they were never destined for.”

Murmurs silenced.

“There will be a paternity test. If it’s a lie, she’ll face consequences. Until then, the wedding continues.”

I stopped breathing.

The wedding continues?

I stared at him, numb. He didn’t even glance my way.

I turned to my parents.

Life returning to their faces like a burden had just been lifted. They nodded along, like everything was going according to plan.

Freya gave me a single nod as well. cold, final.

Is this really my family?

I swallowed hard, forcing back tears. My father’s warning from the night before echoed in my mind. No tears. No weakness.

The hall commotion has been realised as if nothing happened.

And just like that, the noise and commotion had stopped. The crowd were settled. As if nothing had happened.

Nothing more to think of, my fate is already sealed.

Elder Lucius cleared his throat and resumed. Vows were exchanged.

And I became someone’s wife.

As the last guests departed, I lingered in the hall, drained, heartbroken and even longing to escape my bridal gown for a cold shower as my skin is already burning from all the drama.

I let out a shaky hot breath. “There's no turning back now.” I Muttered to myself.

“Abby, let’s go.” Hayden said, breaking my thoughts. “Alex is waiting outside to drive us.”

“Alright,” I said quietly.

He didn’t let it slide. “Alright, Alpha,” he corrected, his tone cool, firm.

My chest tightened. I lowered my gaze. “Alright, Alpha,” I echoed, barely audible.

Minutes after. We arrived at Hayden’s mansion, a grand estate that felt intimidating just like him. It was breathtaking. So breathtaking, I didn’t even realize I said it out loud. “This place is… massive.”

“It’s a reflection of who I am,” Hayden said with a hint of pride. His face remained straight. “I’m glad it makes an impression.”

The maids appeared, handling my luggage as if they’d rehearsed it a hundred times. Hayden led me inside and took me to his private chamber. Now our private chamber, if I’m not getting ahead of myself.

The room was twice the size of my father’s master bedroom.

“Welcome home,” Hayden said. “I had my PA stock the wardrobe with everything to make you comfortable.”

“Oh, thanks.” I said, but his warning glare made me quickly correct myself. “T-thanks, Alpha,” I stammered, heading toward the impressive wardrobe. “Wow, these are beautiful,” I said, admiring the elegant dresses.

“I’m heading to my room,” Hayden said, catching me off guard.

I spun around to face him. “Your room?” I asked.

He nodded. “This is your room,” he replied, looking away.

My heart sank. I swallowed the lump in my throat. He must hate me that much. He wouldn’t even look me in the eye.

I nodded in agreement. Realization dawned. We’re staying in separate rooms.

Without hesitation, he left the room.

Tears spilled down my face. This is what father wants for me right? I gathered the strength remaining in me and stepped into the bathroom.

After a quick shower, I emerged in a simple nightgown. I stepped back into the room and found Hayden standing there.

His intense gaze made my heart race. “What is he doing here?

“This looks beautiful on you,” he said, stepping closer as our eyes locked.

“Ah, yes,” I replied, my breath catching in my throat.

Hayden’s proximity made my pulse quicken. His eyes bore into mine, and I almost leaned in when he suddenly pulled back. “I left my car key,” he muttered, walking past me. “I need something from the car.”

My pulse faltered. “Oh… I see,” I said, trying to mask my disappointment.

He paused at the door. His eyes softened. Then hardened again. “Rest well,” he said, and disappeared.

Fresh tears started gushing out again. I wish I had the courage to run away from this marriage when I had the chance. This is going to be harder than I thought.

Then the scene of the woman entering the wedding hall flashed in my mind. Her words still ringing loud in my ears. “I’m carrying your child.”

What’s my fate now? What if the paternity test comes out positive? I scoffed. My throat was dry now. I walked to the mini-freezer in the room. It was filled with assorted drinks and fruit juices, but no water.

“I need only water now,” I murmured. It was night already, so I stepped out, hoping to find my way to the kitchen.

I almost got lost in the house before a maid showed me the way. Out of curiosity, I asked the maid where Hayden’s room was, and she told me.

To satisfy my curiosity, I headed there. Not far from mine. The door was bigger, more sophisticated. I stood outside his door.

I turned to leave when my ear caught a female voice inside. “Want me to unbutton your shirt?”

It wasn’t a maid.