His True Luna

NOW “Aria!” Aria spins around, her heart sinking the moment she spots Madam Kate, the Chief of Staff, marching toward her, a bucket in one hand and a mop in the other. Her face is set in that all-too-familiar scowl, and Aria knows exactly what that look means—trouble. Panic pricks at her. She has already finished her work. What now? “Yes, ma’am,” she says, keeping her tone respectful. Madam Kate halts right in front of her, her gaze sweeping over her from head to toe with obvious disdain. “And where do you think you’re going?” “Uhm… home?” Aria replies cautiously in a polite voice. Madam Kate has no problem using her hands when she’s displeased. “My shift is over for today.” “No, it’s not,” Madam Kate snaps. “Did you not hear about the Alpha coming to our pack today?” Of course, Aria has heard. It’s all anyone has been talking about for the past week, especially the she-wolves. The Winter Pack is practically buzzing with excitement over his arrival. She even stayed up l

ARIA Aria entered her cramped room, seeking refuge from the day's trials that had left her clothes stained with dirt and her spirit burdened. She stood before the mirror, gazing at her own reflection. Her cheeks bore red marks from the numerous slaps she had endured, and the month was only half over. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she recalled how Xavier treated her a few minutes ago. She squeezed her eyes shut, attempting to erase the memory of his indifference, his face and everything else that had happened in her life. She sniffed and wiped her cheeks, wincing at the sting. She didn't know why he pretended like he did not know her. She turned her back to the mirror and unbuttoned her shirt, revealing the ligature marks and whip lines etched on her back. She blinked, reached inside the small cabinet in her room, and took out her painkiller meds, only to find out that the bottle was empty. Sighing, she slumped onto her tiny bed, realising that she couldn't afford m

SEVEN YEARS AGO... "Do you have a favourite song?" Aria inquired, walking backward to face Xavier. The evening embraced them as they strolled along a cobblestone path, surrounded by walls of lush green foliage. The lamppost's gentle glow illuminated their way. Xavier chuckled in response. "Must I have a favourite song?" "Absolutely," Aria affirmed, but her foot caught on a broken cobblestone, nearly causing her to stumble. Xavier, swift as ever, caught her just in time. He steadied her, his hands gently gripping hers, a touch of concern in his furrowed brow. "Are you alright?" he inquired. "Of course. I didn't even hit the ground." "Aria, I've reminded you numerous times to walk facing forward. You nearly fell, and if I hadn't been quick, you might have injured yourself." Aria playfully jabbed his chest. "You worry too much. But as long as you are with me, I won't be falling. I want to see your face whenever I can, for the times when I won't be a