1: Crumpled Letter

“Marry me or your family suffers,” he said coldly, staring at me with his evil eyes.

I have never imagined that the person who was trusted the most by my family betrayed us just so he could replace my father as the alpha. I should have known better than to trust anyone, let alone a man full of greed and ambitions.

“Give me your decision, Madeline. I don’t like waiting,” he demanded.

I wished I was more than just an alpha’s daughter. I wished I had more power than what I have. I could have protected my family from such ruin. I could have protected our pack from Benedict. He was my father’s trusted apprentice, a son of a beta. He was so good in his pretense that I wasn’t able to see through his disguise.

“But you know we are not mated,” I said, trying to find a reason so he wouldn't push this pathetic marriage. I wished to marry for love and not marry someone who caused my family and pack’s demise!

“Of course, we are not, but that is the least of my concern now. You should be thankful that I am willing to have you as my luna, else your family will be thrown out of this place and suffer in the wilderness as poor dogs.”

I clenched my fists. I wanted to kill him and demand justice on how he overthrew my father’s rule but I was furious but not foolish. There was no way that I could outpower him. not only I will put my life on the line but also my family’s. I can’t let Benedict win this battle. I can’t act rashly but neither can I give up.

“Fine, then. I will marry you,” I said through gritted teeth.

But the next morning, I saw a letter left in my bed that changed my whole life.

‘My dearest daughter, we are sorry if we have to leave you this way but we think it is for the best. We don’t want you to carry the burden and marry a devil. Please do remember that we will always love you. You are now free, sweetie. Run, Maddy. Run away from home and have the life you deserve.’

- From Mama and Papa

Tears stung my eyes. I didn’t have to know what happened. I know what decision they have made. And as much as I want to make Benedict pay for it, I don’t have the power to do so.

But that won’t always remain that way.

I crumpled the letter, my hand trembling in anger.

I promise to come back and claim what is rightfully mine.