EMMELINE'S POV Lord Devlin's grin grew wider as he approached me, his eyes glinting with amusement. "We meet again, Lady Emmeline," he said, his voice low and smooth. Grace stepped forward, her eyes flashing with warning as she positioned herself between me and Lord Devlin.He chuckled, the sound sending a shiver down my spine. "Lady Emmeline, I saw you were stranded, so I decided to help. Please, get in the carriage, and let me drop you off." Grace turned to me, her brow furrowed in concern, and I nodded reassuringly. She stepped back, her eyes never leaving Lord Devlin's face.I forced a smile as I walked closer to Lord Devlin. "Indeed, we are stranded, but it would be unfair to burden you with such mundane tasks." Lord Devlin's expression didn't waver. "It would be a pleasure, my lady. Besides, it's nightfall already, and no coachman will come to this lane."His words were persuasive, but I couldn't shake off the feeling of unease. Lord Devlin's gaze seemed to bore into my skin,
Cedric's POV The sun was already up, and the birds were chirping when I woke. I turned to Emmeline, who was still deep in sleep beside me. I ran my hand through her curly hair, and she leaned closer to me instinctively. I smiled as I pecked her lips and gently moved her head from my chest. I climbed down from the bed and picked up my clothes from the ground, covering Emmeline with the blanket.Wearing my clothes, I walked out of the room, aware of the busy schedule ahead – training and a meeting with Ava and her father. Neither of which held my interest. Upon entering my room, I found a prepared bath and food waiting for me. I quickly undressed and stepped into the bathtub.After my bath, I dressed and skipped breakfast, heading straight to the field. Marci and a few pack warriors were already there, but it was surprising to see so few. The sun had already begun to set – where were the rest of my warriors?“Greetings, Lord Cedric,” the warriors chimed as they bowed in respect. I or
Emmeline's POV “Wow, you look stunning, my lady,” July complimented as she handed me a mirror. I smiled when I saw my reflection – the makeup and dress perfectly complemented my face. “I love it, thank you so much, Elara,” I said, excitement radiating from my voice as Elara retrieved the mirror from me.It had been a while since I'd dressed up so elegantly without a special occasion, and today I decided to treat myself.Plus, Elara had done an incredible job. “It's my job, and I'm delighted to help,” Elara replied, her warm smile filling the room. I nodded in acceptance as they both left me to my thoughts.I walked to my closet, my fingers tracing the edges of the pendant I'd bought for Cedric days ago. A pang of longing hit me as I thought about how I hadn't had the chance to give it to him yet. It had been almost two days since we'd last spoken, and I couldn't help but wonder if he was okay. He must be really busy with pack business, I told myself, trying to shake off the feeling
Cedric POVI sat in the courtyard, my annoyance simmering like a pot about to boil over. It had taken my aunt two agonizing days to return with the Warriors, and now I was faced with the devastating news of their ambush. The weight of their losses settled heavily on my shoulders as Beta delivered the grim report."It happened unexpectedly, and before we could all flee to safety, three warriors were unfortunately killed," Beta said, her voice laced with regret.Marci's face twisted in anger and grief. "Because of your carelessness, three pack mates lost their lives! As a beta, you're really failing in your job." His words cut deep, and I could see the pain and frustration etched on his face.Colima's eyes flashed with defensiveness. "Shut your mouth, you mutt! I went to Dogar to get help, and I'd do it all over again if I had to." Her voice trembled with emotion, and I could sense the turmoil brewing beneath her surface.Marci's anger didn't dissipate. "Okay, then where the hell is th
CEDRIC POVI stepped into the dungeon, the dim lighting and July's terrified gaze fueling my determination. Grace held her hair, pinning her in place, while Marci stood beside me, his torture equipment at the ready."Let's get to the point," I said, my voice low and menacing. "What are you hiding?"July's eyes flashed with defiance, but I saw the fear lurking beneath. "If I tell you, they'll kill me," she whispered.My anger flared, and I seized the hot charcoal iron, applying it to her thighs without hesitation. July's screams pierced the air, and I felt a twisted satisfaction, but it was tempered by a growing unease. Was I crossing a line?As July's tears streamed down her face, I sensed her resolve crumbling. "Look at me!" I growled, my voice barely above a whisper. "I'll kill you here without remorse, July."Her eyes met mine, and for a moment, I saw a glimmer of desperation. I leaned in, my curiosity piqued. "How did Grace miss whatever you're hiding?"July looked at us before sh
Emmeline's POVThe news of July's death spread like wildfire after her body was cremated. I had requested that her ashes be given to me, feeling it was the least I could do to lay her to rest. Though I still grappled with the secrets she took to her grave, she was once my friend.Standing by the river with Elara, I gripped the box containing July's ashes tightly. "You go first," Elara muttered, her voice cracking with emotion.I nodded and stepped forward, opening the box. I fetched a handful of ash and spread it across the river. "You were a mysterious girl, full of life and welcoming," I said, my voice barely above a whisper. "I don't know why you did what you did, but I forgive you, July."As the wind blew the ashes further away, my calm exterior hid the turmoil brewing inside. It was hard to believe July was truly gone, but the ashes in my hand were a harsh reminder.Elara scooped out a handful of ash and cast it into the river. "You've always wanted to be free...now you are." H
Emmeline's POV It’s been a week since July's demise, and the manor has been uneasy ever since. I could barely see my mate because he’s always in town attending countless meetings.The women and children are back from Dowin, and nobody knows when the witches will decide to attack again.I didn’t know who spread the news of how July was killed, but it created more panic and unrest. If the witches could kill someone in such a guarded dungeon, then we are all just walking dead.The worst part is, after the latest discovery of my father's involvement with the witches, the pack members practically ignore me now. Elara, my only friend left, is still mourning July’s death, so I gave her weeks off duty.I sighed as I slapped the ink on the paper harshly. I was tired of being cooped up in my room all day but too scared to leave.A knock on the door broke my reverie, and I looked up from my painting. "Come in," I muttered, noticing the door was already open. Grace entered with a tray of food, a
EMMELINE'S POV "Nima!" I exclaimed, tears of joy streaming down my face as I threw my arms around her. She held me tightly, her familiar scent and warmth a comfort after so long. "How did you survive?" I asked, my voice muffled against her shoulder. "I saw them kill you..."Nima's gentle touch soothed my frazzled nerves as she stroked my hair. "It was a miracle," she whispered. "I'm alive and well." I pulled back, my eyes brimming with tears, and smiled at her. "I'm so happy you're alive."Nima's gaze softened as she lifted my chin. "What are you doing here all alone, Emmeline?" she asked, her voice laced with concern. I hesitated, feeling a wave of embarrassment wash over me. "I'm a concubine," I admitted, the word feeling bitter on my tongue. "I serve in the Rogue King's manor."Nima's expression darkened, her eyes flashing with anger. "Rogue King?" she spat. "I heard you'd been punished for your master's deeds, but I never thought they'd reduce you to this." Her words stung, bu
*******Devlin's POV******I paced the room, jaw clenched in rage. It had been three days…three excruciating days…since Emmeline disappeared, and there was still no trace of her.Had she run away?Or worse… had someone taken her?But that didn’t make sense. My pack was tightly secured. No one could breach the territory without my knowledge. Still, the silence around her disappearance was maddening.“Alpha Devlin, the Council Leader is here to see you,” Belle announced as she stepped into the room.What does that old man want now?“I’ll be there,” I muttered, and she bowed before leaving.With a deep frown, I fixed my hair and schooled my expression, forcing on my infamous smile—the one that made people believe they were always in control.When I arrived at the courtyard, he was already there, standing with that ever-present glint of amusement in his eyes.“Greetings, Uncle,” I said smoothly, bowing with calculated grace. “Why go through the trouble of traveling so far just to see your
*******CEDRIC POV******I sat in my office, deep in thought. Emmeline didn’t know that I knew about Devlin’s baby. I wasn’t sure why I hadn’t told her, maybe the words just felt too heavy to say.Since she tried to escape, the security around her room had been increased. Her leg was also chained to the bed.“My Lord,” Grace bowed as she entered, a frustrated look on her face.“What is it?” I asked.“Mistress Emmeline has refused to eat anything since she arrived,” she replied.I sighed, rubbing my temples. It had been two days of her starving herself. What was she trying to achieve with this?“Have you sent Elara in?” I asked. Since Elara was her friend, I thought she’d be the best person to convince her to eat.Grace shook her head. “It was no use… Emmeline smashed the food against the wall.”Was she trying to kill the baby?I waved her off. “I’ll handle this.”She bowed and left. I adjusted my clothes as I stood and made my way to Emmeline’s room. After taking a deep breath, I pushe
*****AVA’S POV*****I hurried back to my room the moment I heard footsteps near the door; I’d been eavesdropping on Cedric.My chest tightened. Santos Gray is innocent. Those words kept echoing in my head. How could that be true?My father and the rest of the Council had conducted a full investigation. All the evidence pointed to Santos. Unless… there was something my father hadn’t told me?But what stung the most was Devlin. How could he betray me like this? He saved that wretched girl, knowing full well what the Master's orders were.I bit my lip, pacing the room. I had to act. Cedric would toss me out the moment Emmeline returned to full strength. I could feel it.But what could I do? I couldn’t risk trying to kill her again. Cedric would be watching her like a hawk now.Just then, the door burst open and Mario stormed in.“Do you ever knock?” I snapped.He didn’t answer, just sighed and walked further in. His cheek was swollen, his lip split and bleeding. Someone had clearly rough
******Emmeline's POV*****A sharp pain throbbed at the side of my head as I stirred awake, my body aching with every movement. My stomach twisted uneasily as I opened my eyes—familiar walls, dark furniture, and the faint scent of cedar.Cedric’s room.I was back in the manor.My hands trembled as I tried to piece it together. The last thing I remembered was Marci… taking me from Devlin’s pack. He must have brought me here.But why?So Cedric could continue his emotional torment? So I could serve out my punishment like some chained prisoner?The door creaked open. Grace stepped in, carrying a tray. “I suppose you’ll be hungry now,” she said, her tone unreadable.I didn’t respond. Instead, I moved to sit up only to be yanked back by cold metal around my wrist. My right hand was chained to the bedpost.“What the hell is this?!” I screamed, yanking at the chain until the skin around my wrist reddened with strain. Panic and rage surged through me. “Release me now!”“You’re hurting yourself
***CEDRIC POV****I paced my room in silence, my footsteps echoing softly against the polished floor. When Marci told me my mate was with Lord Devlin—Ava’s cousin, I was outraged. I should’ve known. Of course Ava was behind it. Who else could’ve orchestrated something so twisted?I ran a hand through my hair, restless. Marci had told me to be patient, to trust him. He promised he’d go to Dogar and bring Emmeline back safely. But now, two days have gone by with nothing but silence. No word, no message…The waiting was unbearable. It gnawed at my nerves, Something wasn’t right.The door creaked open, the sound snapping me out of my thoughts. Ava stepped in without a word, her presence immediately souring the air. She didn’t look at me. She just walked in like she belonged here and sank onto the edge of the bed, perfectly at ease.I frowned, rolling my eyes as I clenched my fists by my sides. I had to keep it together. Letting my anger get the best of me could trigger the shift—and tha
*****EMMELINE'S POV*****“Hey, are you okay?” Belle asked as she touched my forehead. I nodded, leaning against the wall and panting heavily.I felt so tired, even though I had just woken up from sleep — rest never seemed to be enough lately.“I’m fine, Belle. You’ve asked that question three times now,” I teased weakly.She walked over and took the shovel from my hands. I had insisted on helping her plant flowers since I had nothing else to do.“You should go inside and rest, Matilda. You don’t look so good,” Belle said, her tone serious.“I’ve been resting for days, Belle. I can help you,” I insisted, reaching for the shovel again.But Belle shook her head firmly. “I mean it… you look burnt out.”“But I can…”“No. Don’t even argue or I’ll call Alpha Devlin,” she warned, tossing the shovel to the ground. She motioned for me to go.Belle being serious was a rare sight, but the command in her voice reminded me that she was still a Beta.I glared at her and stomped off toward the pack h
******EMMELINE'S POV*******The pack was silent as each member said their final goodbyes to Skylar. The physician claimed she died from blood loss.Belle gently pressed her arm against mine, offering quiet comfort as I stared at the coffin. I couldn’t find the words.We weren’t friends, but I would never have wished her dead. The image of her, lifeless in a pool of her own blood, had haunted me for days. It was almost impossible to forget.“May the goddess accept your soul,” I whispered as I sprinkled a handful of sand over her coffin, then stepped away.I sat on the balcony, watching the others say their final words. It felt pathetic, thinking about how she died.Luna Maya had said Skylar fell from upstairs, possibly slipped because the floor was wet. But I didn’t buy it.Something happened… someone…“Here,” Devlin said, handing me a bottle of water.“Thank you,” I murmured, chugging it down. I hadn’t even realized how thirsty I was.He took the seat beside me. “How are you holding
I opened my eyes with a loud yawn, feeling like every bone in my body had been shattered into a thousand pieces.A wave of exhaustion weighed me down, heavy and suffocating.Then it hit me—the shift.The transformation in the woods last night.But... I was in my bed. In my room.Had it all just been a dream?The throbbing pain coursing through my body told me otherwise.The door creaked open, and Grace stepped inside carrying a glass of water.“I figured you’d be awake by now,” she muttered, setting the glass down on the table beside me.Before I could even sit up, Marci pushed the door wider, Colima slipping in right behind him.“Are you okay, Cedric?” Colima asked gently, making her way to my bed and sitting down at the edge.“I feel... okay,” I croaked out, my throat dry and raw. The simple act of moving sent a fresh wave of aches through me.Seeing my struggle, Marci stepped forward and carefully helped me sit up against the headboard. “Here, my Lord,” Grace said, handing me the g
*****EMMELINE'S POV*****For days, I had been hiding in my room, too embarrassed to face the pack after being caught in such a compromising position with Devlin.The shame gnawed at me, but even more pressing was the fear — fear that Skylar might go back on her word and expose me.Quentin had been the one bringing me food, making sure I didn't starve.When I heard a knock at the door, a smile tugged at my lips. It was about the usual time Quentin brought lunch.But my smile faltered the moment I opened the door and found Luna Maya standing there, Belle grinning mischievously at her side.I flushed in embarrassment as I stepped back to let them in."Greetings, Luna," I said, bowing respectfully.Luna Maya waved off the formality with a warm smile. "How are you feeling today?"I had lied and said I was sick to avoid everyone. Now, caught off guard, I mumbled, scratching the back of my head,"Uh... better.""Wonderful," she said, her eyes bright. "Because tonight, the pack is hosting a h