Cedric's POV I gazed at Emmeline's unconscious form, my eyes fixed on her as the physician tended to her head injury. The physician's words barely registered, "She just needs plenty of rest, she'll be fine."I hummed a response, my attention still focused on Emmeline. The physician bowed and departed, leaving me alone with my thoughts.As sunrise cast its glow over the manor, the bustling sounds of the household staff filled the air. I hadn't slept a wink since Emmeline's return last night, my concern for her well-being unsettling.Grace entered with a tray of food, bowing as she greeted me. "Greetings, my lord. How is Lady Emmeline today?"I walked to the window, my eyes drifting toward the gardens. "Still unconscious, but the physician assures me she'll recover."Grace sighed in relief. "Thank the goddess she's alright. I heard from our spy that the guests spent hours searching for her."I turned to Grace, my interest piqued. "Is it done?"Grace nodded. "Beta Colima informed me tha
EMMELINE'S POV Waking up beside Cedric had become a regular occurrence since my escape from Lord Carlos's manor. I felt a gentle kiss on my forehead and opened my eyes to find Cedric standing above me, a warm smile on his face."Good morning, mate," he said, his voice low and soothing.I muttered a greeting, my voice still husky from sleep. Cedric, on the other hand, looked every inch the noble lord in his shiny gold robe and black pants. He exuded an air of confidence and handsomeness that made my heart skip a beat."I'm heading to the pack borders," he informed me, turning to leave. "I'm not sure how long I'll be gone."I was taken aback by his consideration in keeping me informed about his plans. This newfound attitude was both endearing and unsettling. Our interactions had become surprisingly calm and normal, leaving my omega heart leaping with joy."Stay safe...mate," I whispered, hesitant to express my concern.But to my surprise, Cedric turned to me with a gentle smile. "You t
Cedric's POV Marci and I had spent several nights at the pack borders. I had received intel that a coven of witches was headed to my pack. I suspected it had to do with Juliet, who, even after undergoing a series of gruesome tortures, had refused to speak. It was both admirable and disheartening. If I could get someone like Juliet to work for me, I knew she would never betray me. However, it was disheartening because I needed to know what was coming for my pack.With a sigh, I headed back to the tent that the Warriors had set up for me, with Marci trailing behind me. "My lord, are you sure about this information?" Marci asked, concern etched on his face. "We've been camping here for days."I nodded adamantly. "Grace doesn't say things she's not sure about!" Marci sighed in frustration. "I'm just concerned because we don't have enough resources to camp here another night." I stomped my foot on the ground. "Fine, then tell the Warriors to gather the tent. We're leaving." Marci grinne
EMMELINE'S POV The crowd held its collective breath as the figure stumbled out of the cage. It resembled a werewolf, but its body was grotesquely twisted, with half of it rotting away. The creature's shriek was like nothing we'd ever heard before - it sent shivers down our spines.Cedric stepped forward, his eyes devoid of emotion. "What are you?" he asked, his voice firm but laced with a hint of curiosity.The creature lifted its head, making strange, inhuman noises. Cedric called out to Marci, who promptly handed him a sword. Blood oozed from the creature's eyes as it mouthed a word to Grace, who looked like she was about to collapse."What is it saying?" Cedric asked, his curiosity getting the better of him. Tears streamed down Grace's face as she struggled to answer."It's a rogue wolf, my lord... Lord Santo's experiments turned him into this..." Grace muttered, her voice trembling as she looked at me with sadness.I felt a lump form in my throat as I bit my lip to hold back tear
Cedric's POV Marci announced, "I have prepared the horses." I closed my book, and we both headed to the gates. Today was the emergency Council meeting Marci had arranged. It had been three days since the attack; the pack had moved on, and all activities continued as if nothing had happened.As rogue wolves, we aren't as attached to each other as other werewolves. So, it doesn't take long for us to move on when a pack mate dies. My horse, Kaelos, was standing next to Marci's horse. I smiled as I petted his ears, and he neighed at my touch."Hello, you taunting beast," I teased, as he leaned into my touch. These past months had been hectic, and I hadn't had time to go running with my horse. We mounted the horses and set off to the Council house, located in the main town of Elgin."It feels just like old times, eh?" Marci chimed, as our horses ran at the same pace. Kaelos, being a show-off, ran faster when he heard Marci's words. I was grateful; I didn't have the energy to listen to le
EMMELINE'S POV As the weeks passed since the attack, time seemed to fly by in a whirlwind. Cedric dedicated himself to training with the pack members, while I retreated to the safety of my room. Fearful of the pack's hostility, I locked myself away, seeking refuge from their sharp words.Cedric, however, showed kindness by sending Grace to fetch more oil and paper for my paintings. This small gesture kept me sane, providing a sense of purpose amidst the chaos.A knock on the door broke the silence, and I hastily put away my paintbrush. I walked to the door, unlocking it to reveal Cedric standing before me. It was a shock to see him, as we hadn't spoken in over two weeks."Are you going to let me in or keep staring at me like some creep?" Cedric asked, his brows furrowed in amusement.I apologized, stepping aside to let him enter. After locking the door behind him, Cedric walked straight to my bed, removing his shoes before sitting down. I stood awkwardly, unsure of what to say or do,
EMMELINE'S POV As morning dawned, Cedric lay beside me, his peaceful slumber a stark contrast to the turmoil that often surrounded him. The warm sunlight dancing across his face highlighted the relaxed lines of his features, and for a moment, I forgot about the dangers and responsibilities that weighed upon us.I gently raised my head, drinking in the sight of him. His chest rose and fell with each steady breath, and his lips, usually set in a firm line, were slightly parted. It was a rare, vulnerable moment, and my heart swelled with emotion.But as the sun continued its ascent, guilt pricked at my conscience. The pack's training session was about to begin, and Cedric needed to be there. I lightly tapped his shoulder, hesitant to disturb him. "Cedric... it's already sunset."He stirred, his eyes fluttering open as he released a tired sigh. For a moment, he simply stared at me, his gaze sleepy but affectionate. Then, a dazzling grin spread across his face. "Good morning, mate."As I
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 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
*******AVA'S POV*******My father glared at me as Cedric stormed out of the Council meeting. I lowered my head in apology before rushing outside to try and talk some sense into him.But as soon as I stepped out, I spotted him already mounted on Kaelos, his favorite horse, thundering away down the dirt path. I sighed in frustration, clenching my fists helplessly before turning back toward the Council chamber.The moment I reentered, Lord Carlos was already on his feet, his face red with rage.“We cannot keep accepting such blatant disrespect from that brat!” he shouted, slamming his fist onto the table. His furious gaze found me instantly, like it was somehow my fault.My father pinched the bridge of his nose, exhaling heavily. “There’s no need for everyone to twist their panties over this,” he muttered. “Ava will keep him in check.”I straightened and bowed my head low. “Yes, Father,” I said quietly.I turned to the rest of the room and offered another stiff bow. “I apologize for Cedr