Chapter 3

Freya's p.o.v

"I'm so sorry you had to go through all of that, Freya," Evelyn apologized as we chatted about my journey to Luparia in the kitchen while I got busy with preparing lunch. She insisted on lending a helping hand as other maids got super busy with cleaning the manor and other chores.

Just like humans, Elina and Evelyn attend schools too, but Evelyn would be having her class later than her sister today. I have been able to learn a few things from them some of which include magic. Perhaps, that contributed to my senses starting to get hyper these days.

"It's fine, Evelyn."

It's been weeks since I reached Luparia(a term used by the humans/Homines for where the werewolves live in general) and it's safe to know that I am now pretty much acquainted with a lot of things here. I know there's no way out of here even if I dare to— not after what Evelyn had told me about the Fenrirs' guarding the wolfgates. I would literally be putting my life at risk—every risk imaginable.

"I don't think I'd be able to make it to lunch anymore. I'd just take my leave now. I'm pretty sure Elina should soon be on her way home," Evelyn said, dropping the vegetables and scurrying out of the kitchen. "I'd see you at diner."

Despite being a slave at Madame Selene's house, we have always been treated as living beings and not like the other way at the slave market the other time. I thank the stars for bringing Madame Selene my way and compared to Dorothy, I'd rather stay stuck here in Luparia than go back there. But I miss Gina and Cole, they would have cried their heart out, probably thinking I am dead now.

Even though Madame Selene isn't around, she had compelled me to always make food for everyone in the manor and ensure they are well fed. Although, some of us are just getting well accustomed to their food here. She is for sure a high dignitary in Luparia and from the constant visits by people who look pretty much like her to hosting tea parties, anyone could easily tell.

"Hmm... that smells like heaven," Helen, one of the other maids and my closest friend strode into the kitchen. "Girl, you are so good."

I grinned. "Hey, Helen. How's the work going?"

"Done." She opened one of the pots and inhaled the aroma. "God. Please, tell me lunch is ready."

"Of course, Helen. And I'd appreciate it if you can help me notify others too."

My brain froze for a second. "Oh, God!"

"What, Freya?"

"I can't believe I forgot to pluck some mushrooms the other time. I'd be needing it for dinner."

"That's like almost half a mile walk from here, Freya."

"You know what, I'd just quickly take the satchel and go now before it gets too late. It's Madame Selene's favorite and I can't afford to let her down."

"Right, Freya. Don't take long."

~~

I left the manor and began my journey to the forest. Madame Selene has always been a fan of mushroom soup for dinner and I wouldn't want to disappoint her when she comes back at dinner. She had complained about the mushroom from the market the other time and I wouldn't want such to repeat itself.

After about many walks, I reached a wild and I am pretty sure it was the one I had come to the other time. I walked deeper into it and I didn't even realize I am half way gone into it. I reached the mushroom garden and was happy to find them in abundant.

I dropped my satchel down and began to pluck one by one.

After I had plucked enough to at least suffice for a week, I began to head back home.

But then, before I could take five steps, I heard a rustle. I couldn't see what or who it was since the surrounding area of the garden are covered in tall plants—tall enough for only your eyes to see its crown and anyone or thing could easily be preyed on.

I flinched.

The plants danced again and I heard another rustle. My human heart skipped a beat.

"Hello?" I called out.

No one answered and I heard the rustle behind me again. I turned back and yet couldn't find anyone or anything.

I began to take subconscious steps back towards the mushroom garden, which is the only safe space free from tall grasses on the field.

The rustle intensified and I started to fidget on the spot. "Show yourself!"

I felt my heart drop in my mouth as the field fell silent again. Suddenly, a hand grab me from behind, knocking me to the ground.

"Human," he sneered at my face as his heavy weight loomed over me. "A good pleasure."

He sniffed me like a dog and my strength was nothing compared to his as I wiggle to break free under him.

"Let go off me," I cried out for help.

Only with one of his hands, he turned me over and pulled the satchel away from me before flipping me over to face him again.

"Beautiful eyes, succulent lips, lustrous hair. How I love a human," he kept chanting as his eyes began to lust all over my body with his focus on my breasts.

He was huge, way too huge I don't stand a chance.

"I bet you too taste like heaven."

He began to violently rip my clothes off and every attempt to stop him only fuelled him the more.

"Please, don't..." I pleaded with him as tears began to stream down my eyes hoping he would get his nasty hands and body off of me.

His tore off my dress at the front to expose by chest and bra and I screamed loudly hoping someone would come to my aid.

His hands got to my underwear and it was then I knew it was over for me.

"Let go now human. No one is coming to save you..."

"That's enough play, Ryan. Now, get off her," a deep voice commanded and even though I was too tired to turn back and look at who it was, I know I will forever be grateful to him for this. "Now."

Ryan growled as he reluctantly came off me and I gasped—my breath trying to race normally.

I felt tired from the scream trying to break free from Ryan's hold insomuch that I just turned while still on the ground, but not towards the voice's direction.

When I finally gathered the strength to stand up, I was surprised I couldn't find anyone.

Neither Ryan nor the other person was anywhere around.

They were both gone— into the wind.