Becca tapped her foot against the cold marble floor, her arms crossed tightly against her chest as she stood alone in the hallway.Maids that passed stared at her weirdly and it was getting on her nerves.She gritted her teeth.Where the hell was Mira?Becca had told herself she would wait outside until her friend arrived. That had been the plan. But now, she couldn’t wait any longer.With a sharp inhale and squared shoulders, Becca pushed open the tall oak doors of the dining hall.The room was as grand and unwelcoming as ever and sitting near the far end were the two wolves she least wanted to see.Luna Seraphina, regal in her emerald silk gown, sat like a queen at the left side of the table.Next to her, Desmond lounged back in his chair, a cruel smirk playing at the corners of his mouth. And then there was Eugene.He sat at the head of the table, his handsome, regal, and cold face softened the instant he saw Becca step into the room.“Ah,” Eugene’s voice cut through the heavy s
The grand hall of the Blackwood Pack brimmed with uneasy tension. Sunlight filtered through the tall stained-glass windows, painting restless colors across the polished marble floor. The numerous sounds of shock and the hushed murmurs of onlookers mixed into a steady hum that seemed to press down on the gathering like a heavy storm cloud.At the center of it all, Alpha Eugene stood tall, his face a storm of fury. The last remnants of the calming potion in his system had already disappeared, and now his eyes burned with unrestrained rage."What is the meaning of this, explain yourself" Eugene demanded.“How dare you utter such a thing in my presence!” Desmond’s voice exploded through the hall, making the chandeliers tremble. “Guards! Seize her!”At once, two heavily muscular guards advanced on Mira, their boots echoing ominously against the marble floor. Other servants in the dining hall gasped collectively, several hands flying to their mouths as they watched the scene unfold.“Wa
It was as if the entire members of the Blackwood Pack had completely gone still. The once warm, inviting glow of sunlight now cast cruel shadows over every corner, reflecting the unease rippling through the gathered wolves. The scent of hatred and mockery lingered in the air, clashing with the sharp tang of tension and impending conflict.Alpha Eugene stood tall, the veins on his neck visible due to anger, his jaw clenched so hard it could have cracked stone. His icy glare swept over Mira, who struggled in the iron grip of the guards at either side of her. She tried to free herself but it was nearly impossible. “Speak, Mira,” Eugene growled, his voice rough, a deadly storm brewing beneath the surface. “You accused Luna Seraphina of poisoning me and my Becca. But when she ate from the said poisoned food, she was completely fine. Explain yourself. Now.”Mira swallowed, though her throat felt raw. Her limbs trembled under the guards’ hold, but her voice rose clear and firm, fueled
The cold, damp air of the dungeon clung to Mira’s skin, bringing back bitter memories of her time here the first time.The heavy iron door clanged shut behind the guards, leaving her in suffocating darkness except for a flickering torch on the far wall. The stone walls were rough and unwelcoming, the floor uneven beneath her. She swallowed hard, trying to will back the rising fear clawing at her chest.“You will get what’s coming to you, Omega trash,” one of the guards sneered, leaning against the bars. His lips curled into a mocking smile as the others chuckled behind him.“Yeah,” another chimed in. “Thinking you could open your mouth against Luna Seraphina like that? What a joke.”Mira straightened her shoulders, defiance burning in her chest despite the terror gnawing at her heart. “I spoke the truth,” she shot back, her voice shaking but fierce. “And you’ll regret mocking Luna Becca. She’s also your Luna now. She deserves your respect.”The guards burst into cruel laughter.“R
The late afternoon sun bathed the grand estate of the Blackwood Pack in warm gold, though inside Becca’s heart, a cold, gnawing dread settled in. It was practically impossible for her to sit tight and enjoy the beautiful colours that were plastered in the sky.She had so much more than she wanted fixed in her mind.The events of the chaotic breakfast replayed in her mind like a nightmare she couldn’t wake from — Mira being dragged away, accusations flying, Luna Seraphina’s smug defiance, and Eugene’s torn expression. Every step she took down the long corridor toward the garden felt heavier than the last.It felt like she was on a walk of shame, but without the theull of knowing you had dine a lot of nasty things a few minutes earlier with someone you loved.Her conversation with Eugene had given her an idea of a plan she could use to prevent Mira from being banished from the pack.She knew she had no choice. She would never grovel before Desmond, not after the venom he had spat in
The sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows across the garden. Becca's thoughts were heavy as she watched Luna Seraphina’s retreating form. The promise she had made to the devilish woman to give up her title was a weight that felt heavier than any crown.Luna Seraphina’s devilish smile still lingered in Becca’s mind as she walked back to where Max stood, his brow furrowed in concern. Max was watching her intently, the uncertainty clear in his eyes.“Becca, are you sure about this?” Max’s voice broke the silence, low and filled with concern.Becca’s gaze was focused on the distant horizon, the soft hues of the setting sun barely catching her attention. Her lips tightened into a line, and she turned slowly to face Max.“I don’t see another way,” she said quietly, her voice firm with conviction. “If giving up my title means helping Mira, then that’s what I’ll do.”Max let out a low breath, his eyes searching hers for any sign of doubt. “But you are the Luna, Becca. You’re our
The heavy oak doors of Desmond’s study creaked open, spilling warm golden light from the crystal chandelier across the lavish room. Rich tapestries adorned the walls, and a grand mahogany desk sat at the center, filled with scrolls and papers sealed with blood-red wax.Behind it sat Desmond himself, his broad frame hunched as his sharp eyes scanned over an open document. His dark hair was slicked back today, and his lips curled faintly in satisfaction as he made a final note with the quill.The heavy scent of cigars and alcohol hung in the air, wrapping around the room like a suffocating cloak.Luna Seraphina stepped in with a noticeable sway in her hips, her green silk gown hugging her figure as she walked toward the desk. A smile tugged at the corner of her ruby-painted lips — a smile that only grew wider at the sight of Desmond’s preoccupied expression.Desmond didn’t look up at first, but he noticed the shift in atmosphere. The air practically vibrated with Seraphina’s smug ex
The sun was beginning to sink lower in the sky, casting a soft glow over the Blackwood Estate.Alpha Eugene sat in the meditation area on a wide stone slab, his eyes closed in meditation.But no matter how hard he tried, his mind would not quiet. The storm inside him had been brewing for days and it ate at his control like a feral beast. His wolf was restless, pacing at the edges of his sanity, demanding blood and justice.The rustle of leaves announced a presence, and he opened his eyes to find Becca walking toward him. She looked tired, her face pale but set with determined resolve. Her eyes were bright with something raw and unyielding. Eugene sighed, sensing that whatever peace he had tried to claim here was about to be shattered.“Becca,” he said, his voice low, but carrying a warning edge. “This better be good.”Becca didn’t flinch. She stopped in front of him, her hands clenched at her sides.She drew a deep breath, then spoke.“I’ve found a way to save Mira,” she began.
The music of the ballroom had begun to rise in pace, a graceful but commanding melody moving through the air. Lights flickered softly against the high golden ceilings, and the scent of expensive cologne, perfume, and sweet wine saturated the space. Amidst it all, Jack moved like a man with a mission.He scanned the crowd, eyes sharp, his lips thinned. Alpha Desmond had vanished. One moment, he was at the stairs, watching Eugene and Becca with that sinister smile curling at his lips. The next, he was gone. Slipped into the crowd like a serpent through grass. Jack’s instincts were prickling. Something wasn’t right. He pushed past a group of laughing elders, muttering polite apologies, but his mind was already turning.That was when it happened.Jack turned a corner a little too quickly and collided into someone."Oh!"A gasp escaped the woman as red wine splashed down the front of her pink satin gown. She blinked, stunned. Jack’s eyes widened, horrified."I’m—I’m so sorry," Jack s
The ballroom glowed in warm candlelight and the radiant shimmer of magical orbs that hovered delicately in the air. It was a scene of splendor and elegance, wolves in finely tailored garments moving with grace across the polished marble floor, the sound of soft violins painting an air of civility over the tension that buzzed underneath. Becca walked beside Eugene, her arm securely linked with his, and both wore soft smiles as they mingled with the crowd.Eugene’s expression was calm, almost serene, but Becca could feel the tension in his muscles. Every step he took was calculated. Every breath measured. Yet she kept herself close to him, their linked arms serving not just as a show of affection but as an anchor. An assurance.Behind them, Max followed a few feet away, his posture stiff and his face furrowed in deep worry. Mira walked beside him, her gaze movinv from couple to couple before landing on Max. The concern etched into his features wasn’t subtle."Max," she said softly
The heavy double doors of the Alpha’s study groaned slightly as Max pushed them open, revealing the spacious, dimly lit room within. The thick scent of cedarwood and a trace of something sharp—anger, maybe—hung in the air. Becca stepped in first, Mira close behind her, and Max followed them silently. The atmosphere was tense, as though the walls themselves had soaked in the fury of the man pacing before the wide window.Alpha Eugene stood stiffly, his back to them, his shoulders tight with frustration. The pale moonlight filtering through the tall windows struck the side of his face, outlining his clenched jaw. His hands were balled into fists by his sides. His chest rose and fell heavily, controlled but strained.When he heard the door close, he turned—and the moment his eyes landed on Becca, his expression darkened further."Max," he growled, his voice sharp. "I told you I didn't want to see anyone. Especially her."Becca stopped in her tracks, her heart tightening at the sheer
The golden chandeliers blazed above the ballroom, casting warm glows upon shimmering gowns, ornate masks, and regal suits. Becca stood beside Mira, locked in polite conversation with the charming and soft-spoken Lady Aveline.“...And what I’ve envisioned,” Becca said earnestly, “are smaller healing centers set up across the various towns. Clinics that don’t require permission or status to enter—just wolves helping other wolves.”Lady Aveline’s green eyes sparkled with interest. “That’s such a noble vision, my lady. It’s rare to hear someone in the Alpha’s court speak of the commonfolk with such passion. And it would certainly raise the morale across the districts.”Mira smiled, proud of Becca’s poise and clarity. “Luna Becca has always been someone who sees people beyond titles,” she added.Before Aveline could respond, a pair of elegant arms swept around her from behind. A rich, familiar laugh laced with subtle poison interrupted their calm.“Darling Aveline, I was wondering wher
Luna Seraphina, Alpha Desmond, and Jack moved through the crowd with a shared sense of triumph, their faces adorned with smiles.Desmond's broad shoulders held the weight of authority. His walk was confident, almost predatory, as if he had just claimed something precious. Luna Seraphina walked beside him, her regal aura matching her composure.Jack, on the other hand, felt the creeping tendrils of guilt wrap around him. His face was expressionless, a mask he had perfected, but inside, his heart churned. Jack swallowed, wishing desperately to be anywhere but here.Luna Seraphina leaned toward Desmond, her voice barely audible above the soft hum of the crowd. “Do you think he’ll come tonight?” she asked, her tone dripping with amusement.Desmond’s smile widened, a cruel edge to it. “Eugene?” he asked, his voice mocking. “He’s too scared to show his face, Seraphina. He knows what’s coming. By the time the full moon reaches its peak, he won’t be able to control himself. He’ll be a mo
The ballroom was alive with music, the sounds of violins and piano strings mingling with the soft chatter of the guests below. Becca stood at the top of the staircase, hands trembling slightly as she smoothed the fabric of her gown. It was beautiful—too beautiful for someone like her, she thought.Her face was composed, yet inside, her heart hammered like a war drum. She hated this feeling, the overwhelming sensation that everyone was judging her. Her eyes moved to Mira, who was adjusting her own gown.“You look amazing,” Becca said quietly, a nervous smile on her lips as she attempted to ease the tension in her own chest. “I still can’t believe this is happening.”Mira turned to her, a bright but nervous smile on her face. “You too, Becca. You look like you belong here. Don’t worry, we’ve got this. Together.”Becca squeezed Mira’s hand as they walked toward the top of the staircase. She could feel Mira’s palm sweating in hers, the anxiety almost palpable in the air between them
The late afternoon sun spilled golden light across the floor of Becca’s room, painting soft patterns through the white curtains that danced in the gentle breeze. A quiet energy filled the room as Mira fastened the final pin into her hair, looking at her reflection in the mirror with a soft smile. She looked beautiful in her moon-silver gown, a color that shimmered when she moved, adding to the glow in her skin. The faint sounds of violins being tuned floated in from the distant ballroom, carried up the stairs by open windows and echoing laughter.Becca stood by the wardrobe, carefully slipping into a deep emerald dress with gold designs at the sleeves and neckline. Her fingers worked quickly, but her eyes held a trace of apprehension. The dress clung to her form with just the right amount of grace, and her long hair fell in soft waves over her shoulders, the last bits still damp from her earlier bath.“You’re awfully quiet,” Mira said, turning and giving her friend a look. “Not h
Luna Seraphina, Alpha Desmond, and Jack hurried down the long, dimly lit hallways. Their footsteps echoed sharply off the floors as they approached Eugene’s study. Desmond and Seraphina led the way, their eyes flickering with determination, while Jack followed reluctantly behind.“Jack,” Seraphina’s voice cut through the silence, her tone laced with irritation, “you really think it’s acceptable to waste time like this? We’re on a tight schedule, and you didn’t even check the study for the elixir after you were supposed to.”Jack glanced at her, his eyes narrowing, but he kept his voice calm and polite. “I understand your frustration, Luna Seraphina, but I’ve been handling preparations for the Moon Festival. You know how important it is. It’s a lot of work.”Desmond, walking beside Seraphina, grunted dismissively. “The festival? You think that matters right now, Jack? Eugene’s elixir is more important. You should’ve checked the study first, not gotten distracted with petty celebrat
Mira’s eyes sparkled with admiration as she looked at Becca and Eugene dancing together, their bodies intertwined like they were one.“They look... perfect together,” Mira whispered, almost to herself.Max turned his head to look at her. The way her lips curled in a small, genuine smile made something warm and aching move inside his chest.For a moment, Max’s fingers twitched at his sides. He wanted to reach out, to tell her something—anything—just to hear her voice.He opened his mouth, about to speak, when—A sharp, loud laugh shattered the moment.They all turned in unison, their heads snapping toward the grand staircase.At the top, like a queen descending to oversee her court, stood Luna Seraphina. Trailing behind her were Desmond and Jack, both in dark ceremonial attire, their faces fixed into perfect, impassive masks. Except Jack—his eyes flickered briefly when they landed on Mira, but his expression quickly smoothed over.“Oh, what a precious sight,” she said mockingly. “A