Ad ideas for Dreame for DL3 on Meta.

"Have you fkkkked her?" I asked my husband of 6 years who had just found his mate.
"No!" He yelled, as if insulted.
"Then reject her," I said with dead coldness.
"Ri, it will weaken my wolf...", he started the same song again and I wanted to laugh.
"You promised to reject your fated mate once you found her, Bray," I reminded my husband who had begged me to marry him. "That was why I agreed to marry you and brought my pack to merge with yours."
His lips twitched slightly. Sighing, he turned to his mate and spoke to her softly, "I am sorry. I'll make sure to take care of you afterwards. I promise."
"I, Alpha Brayden Thorn of the Silver River pack, reject...", he started to say in a firm voice, when the omega fell to her knees, bursting into tears.
"Please, no!" she whimpered, "I am still too weak! I will die if you reject me now! Please! I'll do anything!"
Bray froze. He turned to face me again. I could see pain in his eyes - he couldn't bring himself to reject this little delicate mate of his.
"She is staying! We'll find a way around everything!" Bray said, clenching his fists.
And this was the moment when I realized that everything was lost.

...

Riannon stood there not quite believing her eyes. Her husband of six years had his arm wrapped around a petite girl in the middle of their pack house. The cute ginger head peeked at her discretely and Ria could swear that she saw a smirk for half of a second.

“Ri, dear,” Brayden, her legal husband, chosen mate and the Alpha of their pack addressed her in a way he always did when they were alone, “I need to confess… I have found my true mate. Her name is Roxanne.”

The silence in the room was deadly from the moment the two of them walked in, holding hands. Everyone stopped doing what they were doing and all eyes were on the three of them. The Alpha, the Luna and the Alpha’s mate.

Ria couldn’t force herself to say anything, so Brayden took the lead.

“Listen, I know that we are chosen mates and you will always be my Luna, I assure you of that. But since my wolf saw Roxy, he is going nuts. It would be bad for the pack if I rejected her now. He wouldn’t be able to deal with it. And it will weaken us.”

There it was - the excuse!

The two of them were school sweethearts, the perfect couple. Rhiannon was a daughter and the heiress of a powerful Alpha from a very strong pack. Brayden was her father’s best friend’s son and the future Alpha of his own pack. Since they started dating when she was just 15 and he was 16, everybody couldn’t stop buzzing that they were true mates. They were always the IT couple and everyone envied their love. Besides, as a daughter of any alpha, Ria was educated to become a Luna one day. And not just any Luna. The perfect one. She spent all her free time studying what she would have to do for the rest of her life. And she mastered every single thing to perfection. So that when she was 18 and ready to marry Bray, she would be prepared.

But Bray’s 18th birthday was before hers. She trembled to meet him on that day, longing to hear the one and only most significant word of both of their lives - mate.

He got to her pack early that day and she ran down the stairs to greet him. But as she ran, both their smiles faded a bit. She couldn’t feel anything, but he already knew.

“We are not mates, aren’t we?” she asked, tears trickling down her chin.

“Not the fated ones,” Brayden sighed heavily and locked her in his arms, his lips touching her hair. They stood like this for quite some time, waiting for the disappointment to wash away. And when they were ready, Bray took her face into his hands and said, “It doesn’t matter, Ri! I choose you! I will always choose you! No matter what, no one can break the love between us. You will be my mate, my chosen mate! My one and only!”

It did help that their families practically planned the whole wedding at this point. Her father had no son anymore since Riannon’s older brother died young trying to save their little twin sisters from the rogues. All of them died as a result and Ria was the only one left. So, there was a pressing matter of who would be inheriting the pack. And Bray seemed like the obvious choice. The two of them loved each other and no family members were against the merger of the two strong packs.

A contract was drawn but Bray suggested waiting until Riannon was 19. He told her that he had made his choice but wanted her to try and find her mate before she made hers. They were visiting other packs for the whole year before her next birthday. And then got married one month later, since no mates were found but their feelings were only getting stronger.

They became the power couple of the werewolf world and merged both their packs into one, year by year, working to make it stronger. And now, at twenty-five, Ria was a renowned Luna whom everyone loved and admired.

Riannon traced her gaze around the room and saw the shocked faces of her packmates. Yet she couldn’t help but notice that not everyone seemed startled by the recent events. Her husband’s Beta was watching quietly from the distance, his hands crossed on his chest. But absolutely no surprise in his eyes.

However, the most stunned among them all was still Riannon herself. Although not for the reasons that they all assumed.

Her fingers were trembling and lips twitching slightly as she looked at her husband and his true mate with wide eyes.

“No,” she muttered, “It couldn’t be!”

Why would the Moon Goddess return her to that exact moment in time when all her life was turned upside down, leading to her demise?

What was going on? For her it was one year ago. And just seconds ago, Ria was crawling on the ground in the woods, fighting for her life as two creatures followed her closely. The wolf found her first, digging his sharp canines into her flesh and making her wince in pain.

She was a strong wolf herself, but unfortunately, someone drugged her with aconite, making her weak, unable to shift and practically paralysed.

The wolf growled as he ripped a part of her thigh off and, for the first time during this attack, Riannon screamed loudly.

“You can shout all you want,” the girl who stepped forward said, “No one is going to hear you here. Especially now.”

Ria recognised that voice at once. Her tormentor was none other than her husband’s true mate, Roxanne.

“You?!” Ria panted, trying to sit up, “Why are you doing it? You already took everything from me! My husband, my position as Luna, my pack…”

The wolf growled at her and she tried to recognize him, but it was too dark and she was too weak. The only thing that she knew was that the werewolf was brown. Yet there were many brown wolves in the world, so it did not help.

“I have my reasons,” Roxy smirked, rubbing her round belly, “And I don’t have to explain them to you. Not anymore. Your time has passed. You are done, Riannon.”

“They will find everything out!” the ex-Luna pleaded, “You will not get away with it!”

Resounding laughter was her answer as Roxy kneeled next to her and grabbed a fistful of her hair, “Dear, Riannon, don’t you get it? I already did!”

She then forcefully threw Ria towards the ground and ordered the wolf, “Finish her off. Make sure nothing is left.”

Her arms and her legs were not listening anymore as Riannon watched Roxy walk away leisurely. As if she did not just order her murder.

A tear trickled down Ria's cheek as the wolf had a moment of hesitation.

She did not deserve it!

It was not fair!

If she had another chance, she would do everything differently.

“I am waiting!” Roxanne’s sweet voice broke her train of thought as the wolf jumped over her and ended her life in seconds.

Riannon gasped as she suddenly found herself in the reception room of her house. Something was off because all the old furniture that she loved so much was in place. She couldn’t understand what was going on until Bran walked in with Roxy in his arms and she recognized the day as exactly one year ago.

“The Moon Goddess has some sick sense of humour!” Ria thought to herself, “Out of all of the moments of my life, she brought me back into this most miserable and unpleasant one. What is up with that?!”

Luckily, she was always reserved and knew how to hide her feelings pretty well. So, she just lifted her chin up and met her husband’s gaze.

“I understand that this is very sudden,” Bray tried to sound considerate and she barely managed to hold back a scoff. Sudden? He had no idea!

“I know our agreement, but my wolf is going nuts. You are not only my Luna, but also my best friend, who always understands me. And I know that you always want what’s best for the pack. Roxanne is an omega and an orphan in her pack… Ri, it was horrible how she was treated there! They abused her and treated the girl like a slave! I couldn’t leave her there. It would be horrible and my wolf would never forgive me. I just need her presence here. That's all.”

He finally let go of Roxanne, leaving the redhead alone and went to his wife, taking her hands in his.

“Let her stay in the pack for the sake of it. My wolf is stronger next to her, the rejection would kill him. And we can give Roxy a peaceful life here. She will…”

“No,” the answer sounded calm yet loud enough for everyone to hear...

A NOTE FROM THE AUTHOR: Hello, this is my first published book on Dreame and I am very excited to start this journey. I promise you a bumpy ride with loads of twists and turns. Don't be shy and leave me a comment. I also have a group called Marissa Gilbert's Reading Circle where readers discuss chapters, characters and share visuals.

Right now the book is taking part in the Dreame Ace Book Contest. Please, consider giving it your vote by clicking on a gift box or finding the book on the ranking page.

Chapter 2. Rejection

They all stared at her in shock. Bray’s eyes were as wide as two saucers.

“Ri, my wolf…”, he started the same song again and she wanted to laugh. She had already heard it all back in her previous life. He was bringing up his wolf every time he wanted to spend time with Roxy. He never rejected her like they agreed and very soon she became his mistress.

Riannon tried to close her eyes even though it was extremely painful for her. But she was the one who truly cared about the pack and tried to drown herself in work. This was her other mistake. But since she got a second chance, she was not going to repeat it. She was going to get rid of Roxy here and now. Before it was too late.

Back then, Bray told her that it was her choice, and she chose wrong. Letting Roxanne stay for the sake of the pack was a big mistake. People died because of that and not only her. Ria’s eyes met with her best friend Maya’s and tears almost rolled in her eyes. Maya was one of those killed in Roxy’s schemes. She had her doubts before, but now she knew for sure. She was going to get rid of this evil once and for all.

“I said no,” she repeated herself and looked back at her husband with coldness, “We talked about this before and came to an agreement. We’ll find a good pack for her, who will take care of her. But she will not stay here. You need to reject her just as we agreed.”

One question that was bothering her was why Bran chose to have this conversation in public. But it wasn’t the time to think about it. Now she had more pressing matters.

“Riannon,” Bray suddenly got serious, stepping in front of Roxanne, who was hiding behind him and shaking like a leaf in the wind, “Think about this. I wouldn’t ask you if it wasn’t important. I am the Alpha of our pack and my wolf is going crazy for his mate. We can’t risk…”

“Brayden,” she addressed him calmly, “Our pack is one of the strongest in the country. We are not at war with anyone. And you are a strong Alpha. I believe in you, I always did. You know that. I am sure that rejecting your true mate would not be easy, but we will get through it. As a family that we are.”

“I just want what’s best for the pack,” Bray mumbled, not sounding so sure anymore and Ria felt a prick of hope.

“If you want what’s best for the pack, do it now,” she said, “The longer you put it off, the harder it would get. And if she is anything, she is your weakness. You already go back on your word and this is day one.”

His lips twitched slightly, and Ria knew what it meant. Her victory was close. She almost got rid of this redhead monster.

Sighing, Bray turned to Roxanne and spoke to her softly, “I am sorry. I’ll make sure to take care of you afterwards. I promise…”

Ria did not notice how hard she clenched the fabric of her dress. Was it always this easy? Could she stop all the disasters that happened to her if she simply said no at once?

“I, Alpha Brayden Thorn of the Silver River pack, reject…”, her husband started to say in a firm voice, when the omega in front of him fell to her knees, bursting into tears.

“Please, no!” she whimpered, “I am still too weak! I will die if you reject me now! Please! I’ll do anything!”

Bray froze. He couldn’t bring himself to reject this little delicate mate of his. And this was the moment when Riannon realised that everything was lost. He turned to face her again and she held his gaze with pride.

“Please, Alpha!” Roxy started to sob and Ria had to give it to her. If she didn’t know who was before her, she would have bought it too. “I will be your slave! I can clean and I can cook! I can do anything! Just, please, spare me! Don’t do this! I will serve your Luna!”

A wave of electric shock went through Ria at the mention of her. She looked at her rival and met a gaze full of well-hidden hatred.

“Please, my Luna!” the girl kept begging still kneeling, “My fate is in your hands! Please, don’t kill me! Please, spare me! I will be your slave forever. Don’t kill me!”

No one spoke a word and the only sounds in the room were the pitiful sobs and sniffs of Roxanne.

“Sweet girl,” Riannon decided to try one last time, “There is no need for all that. You will be well taken care of, but just not here.”

“Please, my Luna!” Roxy crawled to her way faster than Ria managed to dodge her and grasped her dress, “The rejection will kill me! Please, spare me!”

“I…”, Ria wanted to say something but a loud growl made her stop.

“Enough!” Brayden roared, looking at her with his eyes shining red, meaning that his wolf was at the surface.

“Calm down,” his Luna said firmly but yet another growl emerged from him as he was furious.

“I said enough!” Brayden appeared next to Roxanne in no time and scooped her in his arms, “She is staying! We’ll find a way around everything!”

He walked firmly towards the huge staircase, taking his mate upstairs to one of the guestrooms. Ria knew very well which room it would be – the one in the far corner of the mansion, where her husband would practically move in no time. Roxanne’s head was tucked into Brayden’s neck and Riannon was sure that it was not a coincidence that she was now breathing into his collarbone, right where a mark should go.

Automatically, she touched the mark he gave her when she was nineteen and caught the omega’s gaze on herself. Roxanne was watching. And Ria knew that today she lost just like the last time.

Nothing changed. Her words and actions on that day played absolutely no part in what happened. It was like a very bad movie on repeat…

“Ri!” Maya came up to her when their Alpha was gone, “Are you okay?”

Riannon looked at her best friend, the one that she lost. Not thinking twice, she threw herself in Maya’s arms. After the death of her parents, this was the only person, apart from Brayden, whom she could trust with everything.

“There, there,” she patted her long platinum blonde hair, “It’s going to be all right. He will reconsider, I am sure.”

Only now did Ria realise how everything looked like to the people around her and distanced herself at once. She already lost her husband, there was no need to lose her face too.

“I am fine,” she said and caught the Beta’s gaze on her.

Ash nodded and gave her a soft sympathetic smile, before shouting loudly, “I feel like everyone forgot what they were supposed to be doing! The work is waiting!”

“Let’s go to your room,” Maya suggested, “We’ll talk about everything there.”

No, Ria did not need this conversation. She remembered it very well. Because they already had it.

What she really needed now was some time alone. Because she needed to process things and to come up with a new plan.

She couldn’t save her marriage, but she could still save Maya, other people who died with Roxy’s help, her pack and her own life.

“I just can’t right now,” she smiled at her friend, squeezing her hands, still not quite believing that she was here, “Let’s talk another time. I have a lot of work to do.”

“Work?” Maya’s eyes grew wide, “Are you serious?”

“Yes,” Ria fixed the creases on her dress, “Now that our Alpha is… busy, I have to step in. The pack comes first.”

She gave her friend another warm smile and added, “Everything is going to be all right, Maya. We are going to be fine. All of us.”

Riannon locked the door of her Luna office and tried to control her ragged breathing. Too much! Everything was too much for her. She needed to clear her head and think of everything. She needed a plan. And a good one. She had to save everyone, herself included.

But the office was too stuffy. And she needed to breathe!

Only one thing could help her and it was shifting into her wolf.

Riannon went into the woods that were surrounding their pack and stripped, preparing to change her form.

But nothing happened.

"Onyx, are you there?" she spoke to her wolf for the first time since her sudden rebirth less than an hour before but did not get a reply. It was alarming. Onyx was there her whole life.

"Onyx!" Ria called for her second half but was met with silence. Angry, she ran as fast as she could using her human legs. She was still super fast and strong, which could only mean that her wolf was somewhere there. She was not weak. But what was wrong?

Chapter 3. The Call

CHAPTER 3

The Call

It did not take her long to get to her most favourite place in the world – the Silver Mirror Lake. This was the only place where Riannon could be alone. It was far enough from the packhouse and close to the borders of the pack. But it was safe since they did not have any rogue attacks in that area. Just one pack away from here was the Lycans territory and it was rumoured that the Alpha King residence was also somewhere close. No one was foolish enough to enter these lands and check though.

So, Ria did not think twice when she stopped by the ledge of the lake, naked, and jumped into the water. It was cold but at the same time, it was exactly what she needed to calm herself down.

She let herself embrace the dark night when only the full moon shone upon her, making crystals of water sparkle on her skin when she felt someone’s presence. It was powerful and dominating, yet did not belong to her husband and made her alert at once.

Pretending that nothing happened, Ria carefully looked around and her eyes caught a figure of a huge wolf at a hill on the other side of the lake. He was dark, probably black. And his eyes were shining golden.

It was a bad sign. Very bad.

Riannon decided not to risk it and went underwater, getting to the shore as soon as she could and running for her life. Only a loud howl followed her.

She was back in the safe territory in no time. Luckily, her clothes were right where she left them. She pulled her dress on and tried to do the zipper at the back but her fingers were not reaching it.

“Let me help,” two hands touched her back and Beta Asher helped her with her little problem. Ria wondered if he had been there the whole time. But it did not matter in the long run. Werewolves were used to naked bodies. It wouldn’t be the first time he saw her without clothes. It wouldn’t be the last… probably.

“What are you doing here?” she asked the man, turning to face him.

“I’ve been waiting for you,” he said with an unreadable expression on his face, “Found your clothes and understood that you were on a run. But why didn’t you shift?”

“I did,” she lied without blinking. If anyone knew that she couldn’t shift, then her fate would be decided even sooner. She couldn’t afford that. Ria knew that she needed time. “But that’s not important,” she decided to change the subject quickly, “There was an intruder at the Silver Lake. Send wolves to check it out.”

“Of course, Luna,” he said and his eyes lost focus for a second as he was giving orders via the mind link.

Riannon decided not to wait for him and walked slowly into the house. But Ash caught up with her quickly and opened the door to the mansion for her.

“It’s going to be alright,” he said to her all of a sudden and she stopped. Back in the day, he used to say it to her all the time. Yet when decisions had to be made, he always took her husband’s side. It was one of the betrayals that hurt the most because she was sure that her relationship with the Beta was good prior to all that. Yet he didn’t even object when they stripped her of her title… There were a lot of things that she wanted to tell him but she couldn’t.

So, she just placed her delicate hand on his broad shoulder and looked him in the eye, smiling sadly, “You knew, didn’t you?”

His expression changed as if a flash of lightning hit him and his lips parted slightly.

“Yes, Luna,” he confessed, darting his eyes to the ground.

“It’s okay,” she patted him, “I understand. You can’t go against your Alpha’s command.”

“If I could…” he started to speak but she placed her finger to his mouth making a shushing sound.

“Doesn’t matter,” she shrugged her shoulders, “At least I will always have your support, Ash. Right?”

“Always, Luna,” his breathing became heavy and Ria tilted her head, watching him. This was an interesting development. Why was he reacting like that?

“Then, of course, I’ll be fine,” she chuckled and went inside. She had to think of what to do next.

Ria locked herself in her bedroom. She knew that Brayden would not be coming back tonight to share the bed with her. As far as she remembered, he hadn't been sleeping with Roxy at that point yet and spent the whole night in his private office drinking and thinking of life. In the morning, he would bring her flowers and gifts… and an apology even. But Roxy would still stay.

After a long and relaxing bath, Ria went to her desk and got her old journal. She hadn’t been using it for many years, but it was dear to her heart. And it was just the right place to write down every single event that was important and that was going to happen within the year leading to her death.

She tried to remember everything while she still could.

And she knew very well what she was going to do with this information. The game was on.

The plan was simple, really. Since she couldn’t change the main event and get rid of Roxy, she had to leave. But she couldn’t leave without her pack and without making sure that all her dear friends were alive and well. Not to mention, that it was particularly important to try and show Brayden and the rest Roxanne’s true face. Everybody around thought that she was an angel while, in fact, she was the devil. Ria was afraid to even think what would happen if Roxy became the Luna for real, because she for sure wouldn’t have the pack’s interests at heart.

And although Ria’s own heart craved revenge, she didn’t want her life's work to be ruined. Plus, she didn’t have it in her heart to hate everyone. She saved it for just a selected few. The ones who betrayed her trust and led to her demise, the ones who promised her respect and protection but gave her humiliation and suffering. Yes, those were the ones she was going to concentrate on.

The door suddenly opened, and Brayden walked in, making her close the journal with the list of events and names rapidly and hide it back in the drawer. Luckily, he didn’t pay attention to that.

Guilt was all over his face and Ria wanted to roll her eyes, but held herself back. She couldn’t give herself away. This event did not happen prior. In her past life, he didn’t visit her that night. This was new and she had to be cautious.

“Ri,” he walked further into the room, “Ash informed me that you encountered an intruder. Are you okay?”

This was funny. She was sitting there, clearly looking well and in one piece. Who was he kidding? Was it guilt because she put up a fight and he still chose his mate?

“It was unpleasant,” Riannon shrugged her shoulders and stood up. If he decided to ignore the big pink elephant in the room, she could do the same. In the end, it was for the best. Their past conversations about Roxy never ended well. He would never believe what a monster his mate was. So, the less Riannon talked about her, the better.

“And also disappointing”, she went to the window to hide her facial expression.

“How so?” Brayden caught the bait.

“We are one of the strongest packs and some wolf is just wandering on our territory, spying on your Luna who is swimming naked in the lake…”

“He what?” Brayden growled possessively. Back in the day, it would drive her crazy in the best sense of the word. But right now… she was annoyed. He just claimed another woman in front of so many people. He had no right to growl like that in her presence anymore. She didn’t put it into words, of course.

“You heard me,” she said, “And instead of looking for that wolf the Alpha is doing goddess knows what. No offence, but this is exactly what I was talking about earlier today. Your mate already distracted you from what was important.”

It was a low blow. But she needed him to be busy with something else right now. In the past, the closer he got to Roxy, the more power and supporters she received. And the worse it got for Riannon and her close people. If she could postpone the wheel of events for at least one day, she would do it.

“You are angry,” he sighed, “I understand, of course. I broke my promise to you. I…”

“Let’s not speak of it,” she stopped him, “It is what it is.”

“Ri, baby,” he nibbled on her neck, right where he marked her years ago, bonding their two wolves forever, acknowledging her as his chosen mate. “I hurt you and I will do anything to fix that.”

Not everything. She knew that too well.

“Only you can be my Luna, you know that, right?” he started peppering her neck with kisses, trying to unzip her dress at the same time.

This was… odd. She hadn’t slept with him for a while. Their paths went in different directions more than half a year ago in her past life. She was his abandoned and rejected wife…

Ria clenched her fists and then turned to face him.

“No!” she made him stop, “Not today.” Or ever. He had his last chance and he blew it. She did not want him anymore. If her wolf Onyx was here now, she would be howling from pain as she was attached to Brayden’s wolf Ragnar. But she didn’t feel Onyx now. She wasn’t under her influence. And she was furious.

She did not show it though. Her mom trained her well to conceal emotions. Finally, it was useful.

“Ri?” Brayden looked at her in shock. Before this day they were happy together. Which reminded Ria that he probably found Roxy earlier and was lying to her for the past few days. Or maybe weeks. “Honey, don’t do this. I love you and we are family. We will always be family.”

“Believe it or not, but I am not feeling well after everything that happened today,” she looked him in the eye, “But it will make me happy if you bring me the intruder’s head.”

He nodded quietly, “Anything for you, Ri.”

Her husband brushed her cheek and she tolerated that. Even forced a smile for the sake of the show.

“You’ll have his head in the morning!” he promised before leaving her alone.

Maya tried to reach her mentally but Riannon just asked her to wait until the morning.

After a mostly sleepless night, she knew what she had to do and she also knew her first step.

In her office, she dialled the number that none other werewolves would risk dialling. But she was left with no choice.

“Hello, Beta Reid speaking,” the annoyed male voice sounded on the other end and Riannon gulped before speaking.

“Hello, Beta. This is Luna Riannon Thorn. Nee Michaels.”

It didn’t ring a bell to him.

“And?” he seemed bored.

“Seven years ago I saved your nephew during a rogue attack in one of the boarding schools. Back then you gave me this number and told me that you owe me one.”

The lycan paused before answering her.

“And I guess you are calling to collect?” he chuckled, “And here I thought that there were selfless people in this world…”

“I wouldn’t ask if lives did not depend on it,” she interrupted him. Lycans were hard to get in touch with. They did not mingle with regular werewolves with rare exceptions. But sometimes they attended elite boarding schools for shifters. That’s when Ria’s luck was on her side.

“Fine,” the man agreed, “What do you want then?”

“I need to speak to the Lycan Alpha King,” Riannon said firmly.

Chapter 4. Royal Confrontation

“Bold, aren’t we?” the Beta chuckled and Ria didn’t know what to think. “Do you think that the King will do whatever I tell him?”

“I hope he respects you enough to do you a little favour,” she bit her lip. She was walking on thin ice here and was aware of that.

But she had no choice either.

“Fine,” the man grunted softly and for the first time Ria wondered what he was doing, “Crystle, dear, that’s enough of sucking. I need to go.”

Then he groaned again and Riannon’s ears turned red with embarrassment. Was he in bed with someone? Why did he pick up then?!

There were sounds of rustling and a female voice, “See you tonight, Beta.” And then sounds of steps.

“Just so that you know,” the Beta spoke again, “I am sacrificing a lot right now to pay you back. So, after you talk to him, Consider us done.”

“Of course,” Ria cleared her throat, “I appreciate your… sacrifice.”

He chucked and then she heard a sound of a creaking door.

“Hey, G. I need you to speak to someone,” the sounds were muffled but she could still understand everything.

“Not interested,” the other man growled and now Riannon was very afraid. She thought if the king was… busy as well. He sure wouldn’t sacrifice his pleasure time for her.

“I am not trying to set you up with anyone,” the Beta burst out laughing, “It’s just some werewolf Luna. I owe her one, okay?”

“Not interested,” was the reply and Ria’s heart sunk. This was it. It was her best chance… In her past life, she called Beta Reid as well. Later in the timeline of events. But he never picked up. Lycans had some kind of trouble in their lands too by the end of the year. He was probably too busy by the time she gained the courage to call. She called him again and again until the calls stopped coming through, meaning that he probably blocked her.

“Give her 5 minutes,” from the sounds of it, the man shoved the phone into his king’s hands. Another growl emerged and Ria was about to give up. But then she heard a resounding metallic voice.

“Hello, Alpha Gideon speaking,” the man said and she sucked in a breath. He didn’t even use his title. Was that really the Lycan King?

“Hello, your majesty,” she decided to address him formally anyway, “ My name is Riannon Thorn. I am the Luna of the Silver River pack.”

He was silent and it bothered her. But she remembered that she only had 5 minutes with him.

“I need your help,” she breathed out, “My husband is the Alpha Brayden Thorn and we are planning to divorce in the nearby future.”

“Fascinating,” the man said without any emotions in his voice, “ But what does it have to do with me? You can divorce any time you like without my help.”

“I know, Alpha,” she agreed and heard him growl slightly, “That’s not the part that I need your help with. You see, we are chosen mates. And when we got married, we merged our packs. What I really want from you is to help me to get my people and my territory back. You are the Alpha King and when I raise this dispute, your word will be the last at the Alpha Council. They wouldn't be able to decline.”

“Hmm,” he sounded amused, “And you think that the case would go that far? You do know that the Alpha council consists of male alphas. What makes you think at least anyone will support you?”

“They will if they know that you are on my side,” Riannon felt braver now, “But also I have proven myself as a leader and warrior. This shouldn’t be a problem.”

“Then maybe everything is awesome and you don’t need my help at all?” He chucked.

“I do, your majesty,” she assured him, “I really do. And I would really appreciate it.”

“This is a complex matter,” he said after a short pause, “Not something I would decide over the phone. And to be honest, it doesn’t sound serious enough to bother.”

Ria felt rage boiling her blood. Was he serious?! Was that it?!

“But…”

“There is nothing to talk about. You got married and gave your pack to your husband. You didn’t think this through and it was your mistake only. Now it’s too late,” the Alpha King seemed bored, “He will still owe you generous alimony according to our laws. You will keep your luxurious lifestyle if that’s what bothers you…”

“It’s not about that!” She gritted her teeth, “I can’t leave my people with them!”

“Them?” The king scoffed, “So, this is the problem. He found another and you are bitter about it?”

This was useless. Ria hit her desk with her fist, almost breaking it. This kind of mocking was not new to her. By now she heard it all. Even from the people who were considered her friends.

“I am not bitter!” She spat, “I am furious. Because only now do I see how many flaws our system has! How unfairly and unequally women are treated when a male doesn’t stand by her side anymore! How few chances we are given to prove ourselves. Sure, you will make a woman a warrior and speak about equality but when it comes to higher positions, you will make a woman work three times harder than a man to even consider her for the job! I was doing an Alpha’s job for years by my husband’s side and I’ve done it flawlessly. But all you see is a wounded woman who can’t get over her husband’s betrayal. And you know what, it hurts like but here I am, not whaling in pain but trying to figure out my next move. You don’t even know what is going on but you already judged me. What a disappointing introduction to my king!”

She threw her phone away with force, looking at how it smashed over the wall into several pieces.

What a joke!

Gideon sat in his huge leather chair behind his desk staring at his Beta’s phone. What the was that now? Did she scold him and then hang up?

“O-kay,” Reid carefully took his cell back, “I see that went well.”

“Remind me again who was it?” Gideon looked at his friend furrowing his thick brows.

“What?” Reid let out a nervous laugh, “Before I tell you… Are you going to kill her or…”

“REID!” Gideon growled so loudly that probably all members of his pack heard him well.

“Fine!” the Beta fell into the chair opposite of him, “She is the Luna of the Silver River pack.”

Silver River… not far from Silver Lake.

“What else?” the king tapped his fingers over the top of his desk impatiently.

“Her name is Riannon Thorn, if my memory does not fail me, she has been a Luna for five or six years. Seven maybe.”

“You said that you owed her,” Gideon was piercing Reid with his gaze, “How so? Is she one of your many whores?”

“Of course not!” the Beta sounded offended, “She… she saved Kyle seven years ago. The rogues attacked his boarding school and she was visiting some event there. She wasn’t a Luna back then, by the way. But she was preparing for the role.”

“She saved him?” Gideon rubbed the bridge of his nose.

“Yes, she killed a few rogues and protected him. He was just 12 back then. If she didn’t come on time…”

“Why didn’t you tell me?” the king groaned.

“There was no time!” Reid shook his shoulders, “And how could I know that you would be such a d*ck to her?!”

“Is there a good time to be a d*ck?” the Beta chuckled, just annoying him more.

“Find out where I can meet her,” Gideon cut him off, “I am intrigued. She does seem… feisty.”

“Just the way you hate them,” Reid stood up but when he noticed his Alpha’s glare, he wiped the smile off his face, “I’ll go… get to work.”

Gideon threw his back over his chair. He had a lot on his mind already and this woman… she got to him on some level. A smile curled onto his lips. It had been a while since someone dared to speak to him like that. Luna Riannon was amusing indeed.

And since she saved Kyle, he owed it to her to at least have a look at her case.

So be it.

Riannon prepared herself for the breakfast. She put on a simple yet elegant dress and brushed her hair so that it fell down her shoulders in soft waves. She didn’t use any makeup today because she knew very well what she was going to face once she went downstairs.

But she almost bumped into Maya at the door.

“Ria,” her friend tried to smile carelessly but she could tell that the latter was nervous, “How about we eat here and chat. Just the two of us?”

Riannon smiled. She knew that Maya tried to protect her from the new harsh reality. But luckily, she was ready for everything.

“Maybe another time,” she said, taking Maya’s hand and still not believing that she was alive, “Right now I need to do something. Just be by my side, okay?”

“Always,” Maya’s eyes glistened with tears.

The dining room was buzzing, but as soon as she stepped foot into it, everyone got quiet. On her first day in the pack, Roxy already sat at the table with the highest-ranked wolves and was clearly in the centre of the attention.

“Luna!” she jumped to her feet after she let Ria watch her succeed, “P-please, forgive my rudeness! I know my place!”

Here we go again…

Chapter 5. The Beta Female Best Friend

Goddess, she hated her. Roxy was looking at Ria with huge doe eyes in front of everyone and even shaking slightly to add some drama. She always did this. Their every meeting was a performance.

Riannon used to always be reserved towards her, leaving it her priority to supress her feelings and hide how hurt she was with the whole situation. And Roxy used it to her advantage masterfully, painting herself as the sweet girl and the Luna as the icy queen.

Well, Riannon wasn't going to let her do this anymore. This pattern had to change. Luckily, she had just the best teacher - Roxanne herself. She put her through so many awkward and humiliating situations in the past that now Ria was ready for everything.

Moreover, she knew that what she did before did not work.

So, she was going to try something else.

“I am so sorry, Luna,” Roxy prepared to fall to her knees again but Riannon rushed to her aid and gave her the biggest of hugs. The two women froze together like this while the room filled with awkward silence. Someone dropped a fork and from the corner of her eye Ria noticed that it was her friend Maya.

“Roxy,” Riannon finally distanced herself and sighed with a sad smile on her face, “I can call you that, right? I want you to know that this is a safe place for you. No one will ever hurt you. We are nothing like the pack that you came from. You will always be treated nicely here since you are a member now. The hard days for you are over.”

She grazed her eyes quickly over the room to see stunned expressions on the faces of her pack mates. They did not expect that. Back in her past life, she tried to ignore Roxanne as much as she could, while staying polite when they had to talk. Everyone understood but the more Roxy cried, the more they felt pity towards her. She found her way into people's hearts. Over time, a lot of them stood on her side because she was, after all, their Alpha’s true mate and she had a hard life prior. Meanwhile, Riannon was born with a silver spoon in her mouth. And however great of a Luna she was, they thought that it wasn’t a big deal since she was born and trained to do it. No one understood how much she worked and what she sacrificed to reach this perfection.

Suddenly, Roxy threw herself in Ria’s arms again.

“Thank you!” she whined, making Riannon want to strangle her. If Onyx, her wolf, was here, it could have ended fast. But Onyx wasn't close and she knew that this was a battle of acting skills now. Meanwhile Roxy went on, “I was sure that the nightmare in which I lived in this whole time would repeat here as well! But you are so kind! I am ready to do any job! However hard it is…I’ll be your personal maid if I have to.”

At the head of the table, her husband Brayden was watching them with his lips clenched. It was hard for Ria to hold back a laugh, since she knew by the way he looked that he had been busy all night looking for the intruder. He hated that his mate was ready to become a cleaner. And on top of that, his wife did not behave the way he expected her to. She was sure that she shocked him for life now.

Get used to that, my love.

“Don’t be ridiculous, Roxy!” Ria gasped and even forced a small tear to roll down her cheek. After all, hugging her worst enemy was horrible and a part of her did want to cry. “You suffered enough and my heart goes for you. I will assign you work according to your abilities. And if they aren’t enough at the moment for a decent job, we will send you to study at the local college. Everything will be fine, do not worry. You will not be mistreated here. Our pack is a fair one. Brayden and I were building it for years. Everybody gets what they deserve. And so will you.”

The omega frowned but quickly regained herself. Did she know that it was a promise?

“I am the luckiest girl alive,” she smiled innocently, flapping her eyelashes,“No wonder my mate… I mean, the Alpha is so in love with you, Luna. Now I see that what people say about you is true.”

“Oh, you will have to tell me later!” Ria giggled and pushed Roxy back to the chair she was sitting at prior. Luckily, she didn’t risk taking the Luna’s seat or the one right next to Bray. She would soon take it of course. But at least Ria didn’t have to deal with it today.

“I will be happy to!” Roxane shook her red locks and the oversized t-shirt that she was wearing fell off her shoulder “accidentally”, making Brayden look at her with eyes filled with lust. The mate bond was already working. And their time was slipping away.

“By the way,” Riannon took a sip of her coffee and it seemed more bitter than usual, “We need to assign a budget for Roxanne.”

Once again, the whole room went quiet.

“Are you sure, Luna?” Beta Asher spoke, “She is just an omega and…”

“She is not a simple omega,” Riannon raised her chin high and put a perfect smile on her face, “She is our Alpha’s mate. He did not reject her and she is a part of our pack now. She needs to look the part, so it’s time to throw away the worn-out t-shirts and jeans.”

“That’s very kind of you, Luna,” Maya couldn’t stay silent anymore, “Some would even say too kind. I mean, considering…”

“I do what I can,” Ria sent her best friend a warning gaze and as always, Maya understood her without words, “And let’s make this clear once and for all. I was very serious about Roxy being treated nicely here. I don’t want anyone to bully her just because the three of us are in a peculiar situation now. I wish her no harm and will have zero tolerance to the ones who try to do it.”

And with that, she started to eat her omelette as if nothing special happened, catching glances of her pack mates on her.

There they were. The looks they used to give to Roxy. Now they were rewarding Ria with those. Only that this time there was more respect than pity.

Back in the day, Ria did all the same things. But her mistake was not to announce it in front of everyone. And in the end, Roxy played them and made them believe that Ria mistreated her where she could.

She caught Brayden’s gaze on her and sent a small smile his way, startling him. At least she was getting exactly the reactions that she wanted. For the first day back, this was good.

Right after the breakfast Maya pulled her into the Luna office and made sure to lock the door properly. The room had sound isolation and they could talk in private without the fear of being overheard.

“What the are you doing?” she hissed at her friend, “You are welcoming his mate?! You should have insisted again and again on him rejecting her!”

“Oh, M,” Ria couldn’t help herself and hugged the girl once again. She still smelled of almonds and this made her broken heart warm again.

“Stupid perfect Luna! You can’t be this kind!” Maya almost sobbed, “You loved him all your life! He marked you for Goddess’s sake! What was he thinking?!”

“I know,” Ria sighed, stepping away, “But that ship has sailed. No one can fight the mate bond. That battle was lost the moment he met her and didn’t reject her.”

“You are so calm about it! I can’t believe this!” the girl shook her head, clear signs of worry on her face.

Ria contemplated for a few seconds but deep inside she knew, that if she could entrust this secret to anyone, it would be her best friend since childhood.

“I need to tell you something,” Riannon took Maya’s hands and led her to the armchair, sitting on the verge of her desk. “But I will need you to be open-minded about what I am about to say.”

She spoke and spoke, and the more she told her, the paler her friend became. She omitted the part about Maya’s own death. There was no need for that. She knew that the small fragments she was ready to share now would be enough for her.

When she was done, Maya looked at her with red eyes, “It’s…”

“Unbelievable, I know,” Riannon sighed.

“Horrible!” her friend took her hands and gave them a tight squeeze, “Ria! That’s awful! What you had to go through…”

“Wait, you meant you have no doubts in what I said now?” the Luna raised her brow. She expected that she would need longer to persuade her bestie.

“You wouldn’t joke about it at a moment like that,” Maya leaned back on her chair, “And as far as I know, you were madly in love with Brayden just yesterday. But now… You are so calm that it’s frightening. So this explains a lot. You don't get over love like that in one day.”

That was true. Riannon did not know for sure if all love she had for Brayden was gone, but she definitely wasn't the same girl from before. She was twenty-five but it felt as if she lived much longer now. Suffering and broken heart could do that to people.

“And it doesn’t bother you how crazy that sounds?” Ria decided to make sure they were on the same page.

“I believe in the Moon Goddess,” Maya shook her shoulders, “She may have wanted Brayden to be with someone like that… Roxanne. But I will never believe that she would want such a death for you! Anyone but you!”

“I missed you so much,” Ria couldn’t help herself and gave Maya another hug. She went quiet for a bit and I gave herself a promise that whatever happened, she would at least save her best friend. She was not going to lose her again.

“So, what’s the plan?” Maya went into the battle mode fast. She was one of those underappreciated wolves. They called her Luna’s assistant and both of them hated that. She had pure Beta blood and could take down an Alpha if she tried hard. Maybe not any Alpha but definitely most of them. They thought too much of themselves and always underestimated pretty girls.

“The plan is to divorce and take our pack back,” Ria smiled, knowing that she had a great ally on her side now, “The Pearl Moon.”

“Is this even possible?” Maya whistled, “I mean, if you quickly get pregnant with Brayden’s baby and then we kill him, we could get this all…”

“No, thank you,” Ria first with laughter, “Goddess you are so bloodthirsty!”

“My hands are just itching to cut his di…”

“I got you!” the Luna covered her face with her hands, trying to suppress another outburst of giggles.

“You know what, I have an idea!” Maya said all of a sudden, “How about we ask lycans for help?! This may actually…”

“Been there, done that. Their king is an a$shole,” Ria rolled her eyes.
“You what?!” her friend’s jaw dropped to the floor.

“I had one lycan who owed me and asked him to arrange a conversation with his king. But you have no idea how arrogant he is!” Ria explained.

“Worse than Brayden?” Maya chuckled.

“Worse than Brayden,” Ria confirmed.

“Okay then, what’s next?” the Beta female never gave up and this was one of the very many reasons they became friends in the first place.

“Simple, really. I need to get the support of as many Alphas as I can,” Riannon exhaled loudly, “So that when the divorce comes into force, they give me their votes when I raise the matter in the Alpha Counicl. And I will.”

“How many do you think will support you?” Maya asked bluntly, getting her cell our of her pocket, "Count on the alphas where mu cousins are Betas. I'll take care of them."

“Not sure yet, but I know where to strike first,” Ria tapped her fingers over the cold wood of her desk, waiting for Maya to tear her eyes off the phone and spare her a look.

“Do tell!” the girl seemed genuinely interested.

“The most important event of the year that is just around the corner,” Riannon smirked, "The annual Alpha ball"

Chapter 6. Dress to Impress

“Ri,” Brayden’s head popped out of the door of Riannon’s office right when she was finishing discussing the pack’s primary school budget with the headmistress, “Do you have a sec?”

“Yes, we are done here,” Ria handed the papers to the woman in front of her and the latter gave her a sympathetic smile. The Luna remembered very well that she was the one who stood by her by the very end. That was one of the reasons she managed to squeeze in a little extra cash for the school.

“Luna, Alpha,” the headmistress bowed her head and left, leaving the husband and the wife alone for the first time in a while. For the last few days, Riannon tried to avoid Brayden at all costs. She remembered too well that their every meeting in the past life was ending badly during those days. Back then she tried to keep her dignity and not approach him first. They had meals together with pack members as always. And work meetings with Beta, Gamma and so on. But other than that, every time Bray wanted to talk to her, Riannon was finding a perfect excuse to escape. There was no point in talking to him since nothing could be changed. She debated telling him the truth about her rebirth but swept that idea under the rug. He could decide that she was crazy and use that during their divorce when she planned to get her pack back.

The silence was getting awkward.

“Long time no see,” he came closer and she remained behind her desk to make it harder for him to approach her.

“Yeah, it’s been a while,” Ria threw herself back in her chair, “Is it about the Alpha Ball?”

“Did you get my flowers?” he asked.

The flowers kept coming. He was probably still feeling guilty.

“Yes, they are lovely,” she forced a smile, “Thank you. So, did you come to speak about the Alpha Ball?”

They already had this conversation. He caught her in her office and broke her heart.

“Yes,” Brayed pulled the collar of his shirt to make it easier to breathe while Ria watched him with an indifferent expression that was clearly making him uncomfortable. “It’s about Roxy… I mean Roxanne.”

“What about her?” she pretended not to know what it was about.

“Listen,” he sighed and averted her gaze, “I kind of promised her that I would take her to the ball as my partner.”

“Oh, really?” Riannon tilted her head, “I wonder when and how that happened?”

“It’s… a long story,” he cleared his throat, “Please, understand. My wolf is dying when she is unhappy. And she has never been to a ball like that.”

“Oh, my,” Ria gasped and shook her head, “Should I maybe take Enzo with me? He hasn’t seen an event like that either. And neither did Cole.”

She mentioned the hottest single warriors of the pack on purpose. And heard a growl emerge from her husband’s chest. That served him right.

“What is it with you lately, Ri?” he looked at her in disbelief, “My Luna will not be going with someone else!”

“But it’s okay if my Alpha goes with someone else? How is that fair?” she shot her brow up, challenging him. And Brayden hated challenge.

“Maybe you should sit this one out then!” he snarled at her and for the first time, she started to get worried here. She needed that ball. She needed it badly.

“No, thanks,” the Luna crossed her hands on her chest, “I got my own personal invitation. Besides, it’s important to mingle with other Lunas for the sake of our pack. We still need to organise student and warrior exchanges and a couple of mating events for over 18s. Or do you expect Roxy to be able to deal with it instead of enjoying her first big ball? What kind of Cinderella she would be then if she would have to work again?!”

He exhaled through his nostrils and she knew that she managed to win.

“Fine,” he grunted standing up, “But you will go with Ash then. He is going anyway since he is the pack’s Beta.”

“Now you are sucking the fun out of his life too?” Ria chuckled, “I am sure he had a girl to take there and impress.”

“He already agreed to be you plus one,” Brayden informed her, “He’ll protect you there too.”

“How thoughtful,” she decided just to go with it. Getting rid of Ash would be easy anyway. He would see some Alpha’s daughter and off he would go.

Brayden prepared to leave but stopped at the door and turned to look at her again

“Ri,” he looked her in the eye, “It’s just a transition period. We will get through this and everything will be fine.”

Lies.

“I will never take another Luna except for you.”

Lies.

“I still love you, it’s just that she had such a hard life and I am not a monster. She is just a sweet girl, she will never take your place.”

Lies, lies, lies.

“Thank you for telling me that,” she nodded, “I needed to hear that, Bray.”

She even forced a smile.

“Look, when the ball is over, let’s take a day off. Just you and me. What do you think?” he suggested all of a sudden and now she looked at him in surprise. This was new. It didn’t happen in the past.

“We’ll have to see our schedules for that,” she stretched her lips further, “But it’s a nice idea.”

“Then I’ll see you around?” he suddenly looked relieved as if he got rid of some kind of trouble here.

“I am your wife, am I not?” she chuckled and his smile faded.

He left and Ria’s phone buzzed with a notification that the dresses should have already arrived.

She paused just for a second. It worried her that he offered that day off thing. Was it a good sign or a bad? She wanted to change the events that caused so many disasters but this exact one wasn’t in her plans.

In the end, she was late for the fitting and entered the room full of the most important females of the pack. Maya was there along with their friends Tatiana and Aria. They greeted her in their usual friendly way. On the other side of the room sat Harper and her minions.

Harper was Brayden’s sister. And for some reason, she never liked Riannon too much since they were younger. She was one of the first to openly support Roxy. She was the one who opened the door for others who didn’t know what to do and actually promoted the evil redhead monster.

“Bring in the dresses,” Ria commanded firmly. She wanted to be done here quick.

It was a tradition of their pack that outfits for the ladies invited to the Alpha ball were chosen together and paid for by the pack. After all, they all were representing the Silver River pack and it was important to let others see how well they were doing.

A few omegas rolled in clothing racks with the most beautiful evening dresses from the top designers. Luna always was the first one to choose and then they went according to their ranks. The rest of the clothes was sent back.

Riannon knew very well which dress she was going to pick but still pretended to look at them all to avoid suspicion.

“How about that emerald one?” Harper suggested the colour that would never suit Riannon blonde hair and blue eyes.

“Do you like it?” she got the hanger and placed it to her chest with a smile, “It’s Zac Posen.”

“Beautiful!” her sister-in-law sneered.

“Then I will leave it for you,” Ria returned the facial expression and kept going. Soon she reached it. She remembered that dress well. Peach and shiny, with loads of rhinestones on the top.

She was choosing long enough and she took that one, moving to the mirror.

Any second now…

The door opened and Roxy barged in, gasping, “Oh, my goddess! Luna! I am so sorry! I’ll just go away not to ruin your mood.”

She was already doing it. Implying that just a sight of her was affecting Riannon.

And it was. But it was mean to bring this up.

“Stay,” Ria smiled gently and noticed how everyone was watching the two of them, “You are going to the ball too and you need an outfit.”

“I already got one,” Roxanne mumbled, “From all the money that you gave me. I got it in H&M.”

One of Harper’s minions snorted.

“This will not do,” Riannon turned and sighed, “You need a dress good enough for your new status.”

“And what is that?” Harper couldn’t help but ask the provocative question.

“Member of the Silver River pack,” Ria replied without any hesitation, “Look around. What do you like?”

A little sob emerged. And then a sniffle. Everybody turned to see the crying Roxy.

“This is so sweet!” she whined, “You are such a great Luna to take care of someone like me. I never had such a beautiful dress in my life!”

She pointed to the one that Riannon was holding.

“I thought I’d never…have… an opportunity.”

She burst out crying and Ria did her best not to roll her eyes.

“You can have it,” she stretched her hands with the garment towards the omega and pretty much everybody in the room was in shock.

“But Luna!” Aria gasped, “You need to be the first.”

“That’s fine,” Riannon shook her shoulders, “I saw a red one that I like too back there. Roxy can have that one since it’s the one that made you cry like that.”

Roxanne seemed a bit startled and Luna came closer, pushing the tasteless peach dress that was good enough for a middle school prom in some village.

“No, really,” Ria smirked, “I want you to have it.”

Their eyes met and Roxy gaped, realising that she had just been tricked.

“Now go to your room and try it on. It will look beautiful on you.” Or hideous.

As soon as Roxy left, Ria quickly went back to the rack and grabbed the first red dress she saw.

“I like this one,” she went out of the room as quickly as she could, followed by Maya, “Choose what you like, ladies.”

They came straight to Maya’s bedroom and as soon as they closed the door, they started laughing hysterically.

“Oh, my goddess!” Maya chuckled, “This was fun!”

“Indeed,” the Luna agreed, throwing away the red piece of fabric she had. Because the real dress that she was going to wear to the ball was right here. It was the most beautiful dress she had laid her eyes on. It was a stunning wine red off-shoulder gown made of silk chiffon, draped beautifully around the breast and down to the waist, creating a geometrical pattern and, but flowing freely to the ground.

It was a gown fit for a queen. And in the past life, Ria didn’t even order it for viewing as it was way out of her budget. But this time around she saw it again and thought to herself – just why the not?!

The last time she went to the Alpha Ball, it was the most awful experience for her. Roxanne was wearing a beautiful white dress and looking like the little innocent omega she loved to pretend, gaining everybody’s sympathy.

At the same time, Riannon gained pity from the Alphas and was mocked by some of the Lunas who never liked her. It was humiliating as it was to come as the third wheel for her husband and his mate. But on top of that, Brayden spent the whole evening by Roxy’s side. Ria was in a sour mood the whole time although she still managed to negotiate a few things.

This time, she knew what to expect and was ready. This time, she was going there to work.

“Do I look nice?” Maya grinned as she stepped out of the bathroom in a royal blue tight gown.

“You took one too, I see,” Riannon giggled as her friend twirled in front of her.

Today was a success thanks to Maya. She was the one who received all the dresses before the pack omegas got them and brought the one Ria wanted to her room without anyone seeing it.

“Of course,” she placed her hands onto her hips, “We are leaving this pack, so I am not going to save them money.”

“Just don’t shout about it around the mansion, okay?” Ria rolled her eyes, “It’s a secret after all. But you do look nice.”

“Thanks!” Maya seemed to agree, “Shame I am not going with you. But there is always next time, right?”

“When I am the Alpha and you are my Beta, you will attend it every year,” Luna winked at her.

***

In the evening, Ria finished her makeup and hair and walked out to the main part of her bedroom to find a blue box on the little table together with a new bouquet. She opened it and saw a luxurious and probably crazy expensive diamond necklace together with a simple card with one word only on it. Sorry.

“Huh,” she bit her lip, remembering that last time Brayden gave it to Roxy. And he got her some ruby earrings which she never wore. That changed too.

However, now wasn’t the time to think about all that.

She put the necklace on since it was finishing her look just perfect and left for the ball.

She was walking down the stairs, the skirt of her dress flowing beautifully as she looked at it. Most of her hair was up, with a few curly locks falling down her bare shoulders.

“You look beautiful tonight,” a male voice made her flinch.

...

Open the app and continue reading the rest of the story . 👉
(It will automatically jump to the book when you open the app)

"Have you fkkkked her?" I asked my husband of 6 years who had just found his mate.
"No!" He yelled, as if insulted.
"Then reject her," I said with dead coldness.
"Ri, it will weaken my wolf...", he started the same song again and I wanted to laugh.
"You promised to reject your fated mate once you found her, Bray," I reminded my husband who had begged me to marry him. "That was why I agreed to marry you and brought my pack to merge with yours."
His lips twitched slightly. Sighing, he turned to his mate and spoke to her softly, "I am sorry. I'll make sure to take care of you afterwards. I promise."
"I, Alpha Brayden Thorn of the Silver River pack, reject...", he started to say in a firm voice, when the omega fell to her knees, bursting into tears.
"Please, no!" she whimpered, "I am still too weak! I will die if you reject me now! Please! I'll do anything!"
Bray froze. He turned to face me again. I could see pain in his eyes - he couldn't bring himself to reject this little delicate mate of his.
"She is staying! We'll find a way around everything!" Bray said, clenching his fists.
And this was the moment when I realized that everything was lost.

...

Riannon stood there not quite believing her eyes. Her husband of six years had his arm wrapped around a petite girl in the middle of their pack house. The cute ginger head peeked at her discretely and Ria could swear that she saw a smirk for half of a second.

“Ri, dear,” Brayden, her legal husband, chosen mate and the Alpha of their pack addressed her in a way he always did when they were alone, “I need to confess… I have found my true mate. Her name is Roxanne.”

The silence in the room was deadly from the moment the two of them walked in, holding hands. Everyone stopped doing what they were doing and all eyes were on the three of them. The Alpha, the Luna and the Alpha’s mate.

Ria couldn’t force herself to say anything, so Brayden took the lead.

“Listen, I know that we are chosen mates and you will always be my Luna, I assure you of that. But since my wolf saw Roxy, he is going nuts. It would be bad for the pack if I rejected her now. He wouldn’t be able to deal with it. And it will weaken us.”

There it was - the excuse!

The two of them were school sweethearts, the perfect couple. Rhiannon was a daughter and the heiress of a powerful Alpha from a very strong pack. Brayden was her father’s best friend’s son and the future Alpha of his own pack. Since they started dating when she was just 15 and he was 16, everybody couldn’t stop buzzing that they were true mates. They were always the IT couple and everyone envied their love. Besides, as a daughter of any alpha, Ria was educated to become a Luna one day. And not just any Luna. The perfect one. She spent all her free time studying what she would have to do for the rest of her life. And she mastered every single thing to perfection. So that when she was 18 and ready to marry Bray, she would be prepared.

But Bray’s 18th birthday was before hers. She trembled to meet him on that day, longing to hear the one and only most significant word of both of their lives - mate.

He got to her pack early that day and she ran down the stairs to greet him. But as she ran, both their smiles faded a bit. She couldn’t feel anything, but he already knew.

“We are not mates, aren’t we?” she asked, tears trickling down her chin.

“Not the fated ones,” Brayden sighed heavily and locked her in his arms, his lips touching her hair. They stood like this for quite some time, waiting for the disappointment to wash away. And when they were ready, Bray took her face into his hands and said, “It doesn’t matter, Ri! I choose you! I will always choose you! No matter what, no one can break the love between us. You will be my mate, my chosen mate! My one and only!”

It did help that their families practically planned the whole wedding at this point. Her father had no son anymore since Riannon’s older brother died young trying to save their little twin sisters from the rogues. All of them died as a result and Ria was the only one left. So, there was a pressing matter of who would be inheriting the pack. And Bray seemed like the obvious choice. The two of them loved each other and no family members were against the merger of the two strong packs.

A contract was drawn but Bray suggested waiting until Riannon was 19. He told her that he had made his choice but wanted her to try and find her mate before she made hers. They were visiting other packs for the whole year before her next birthday. And then got married one month later, since no mates were found but their feelings were only getting stronger.

They became the power couple of the werewolf world and merged both their packs into one, year by year, working to make it stronger. And now, at twenty-five, Ria was a renowned Luna whom everyone loved and admired.

Riannon traced her gaze around the room and saw the shocked faces of her packmates. Yet she couldn’t help but notice that not everyone seemed startled by the recent events. Her husband’s Beta was watching quietly from the distance, his hands crossed on his chest. But absolutely no surprise in his eyes.

However, the most stunned among them all was still Riannon herself. Although not for the reasons that they all assumed.

Her fingers were trembling and lips twitching slightly as she looked at her husband and his true mate with wide eyes.

“No,” she muttered, “It couldn’t be!”

Why would the Moon Goddess return her to that exact moment in time when all her life was turned upside down, leading to her demise?

What was going on? For her it was one year ago. And just seconds ago, Ria was crawling on the ground in the woods, fighting for her life as two creatures followed her closely. The wolf found her first, digging his sharp canines into her flesh and making her wince in pain.

She was a strong wolf herself, but unfortunately, someone drugged her with aconite, making her weak, unable to shift and practically paralysed.

The wolf growled as he ripped a part of her thigh off and, for the first time during this attack, Riannon screamed loudly.

“You can shout all you want,” the girl who stepped forward said, “No one is going to hear you here. Especially now.”

Ria recognised that voice at once. Her tormentor was none other than her husband’s true mate, Roxanne.

“You?!” Ria panted, trying to sit up, “Why are you doing it? You already took everything from me! My husband, my position as Luna, my pack…”

The wolf growled at her and she tried to recognize him, but it was too dark and she was too weak. The only thing that she knew was that the werewolf was brown. Yet there were many brown wolves in the world, so it did not help.

“I have my reasons,” Roxy smirked, rubbing her round belly, “And I don’t have to explain them to you. Not anymore. Your time has passed. You are done, Riannon.”

“They will find everything out!” the ex-Luna pleaded, “You will not get away with it!”

Resounding laughter was her answer as Roxy kneeled next to her and grabbed a fistful of her hair, “Dear, Riannon, don’t you get it? I already did!”

She then forcefully threw Ria towards the ground and ordered the wolf, “Finish her off. Make sure nothing is left.”

Her arms and her legs were not listening anymore as Riannon watched Roxy walk away leisurely. As if she did not just order her murder.

A tear trickled down Ria's cheek as the wolf had a moment of hesitation.

She did not deserve it!

It was not fair!

If she had another chance, she would do everything differently.

“I am waiting!” Roxanne’s sweet voice broke her train of thought as the wolf jumped over her and ended her life in seconds.

Riannon gasped as she suddenly found herself in the reception room of her house. Something was off because all the old furniture that she loved so much was in place. She couldn’t understand what was going on until Bran walked in with Roxy in his arms and she recognized the day as exactly one year ago.

“The Moon Goddess has some sick sense of humour!” Ria thought to herself, “Out of all of the moments of my life, she brought me back into this most miserable and unpleasant one. What is up with that?!”

Luckily, she was always reserved and knew how to hide her feelings pretty well. So, she just lifted her chin up and met her husband’s gaze.

“I understand that this is very sudden,” Bray tried to sound considerate and she barely managed to hold back a scoff. Sudden? He had no idea!

“I know our agreement, but my wolf is going nuts. You are not only my Luna, but also my best friend, who always understands me. And I know that you always want what’s best for the pack. Roxanne is an omega and an orphan in her pack… Ri, it was horrible how she was treated there! They abused her and treated the girl like a slave! I couldn’t leave her there. It would be horrible and my wolf would never forgive me. I just need her presence here. That's all.”

He finally let go of Roxanne, leaving the redhead alone and went to his wife, taking her hands in his.

“Let her stay in the pack for the sake of it. My wolf is stronger next to her, the rejection would kill him. And we can give Roxy a peaceful life here. She will…”

“No,” the answer sounded calm yet loud enough for everyone to hear...

A NOTE FROM THE AUTHOR: Hello, this is my first published book on Dreame and I am very excited to start this journey. I promise you a bumpy ride with loads of twists and turns. Don't be shy and leave me a comment. I also have a group called Marissa Gilbert's Reading Circle where readers discuss chapters, characters and share visuals.

Right now the book is taking part in the Dreame Ace Book Contest. Please, consider giving it your vote by clicking on a gift box or finding the book on the ranking page.

Chapter 2. Rejection

They all stared at her in shock. Bray’s eyes were as wide as two saucers.

“Ri, my wolf…”, he started the same song again and she wanted to laugh. She had already heard it all back in her previous life. He was bringing up his wolf every time he wanted to spend time with Roxy. He never rejected her like they agreed and very soon she became his mistress.

Riannon tried to close her eyes even though it was extremely painful for her. But she was the one who truly cared about the pack and tried to drown herself in work. This was her other mistake. But since she got a second chance, she was not going to repeat it. She was going to get rid of Roxy here and now. Before it was too late.

Back then, Bray told her that it was her choice, and she chose wrong. Letting Roxanne stay for the sake of the pack was a big mistake. People died because of that and not only her. Ria’s eyes met with her best friend Maya’s and tears almost rolled in her eyes. Maya was one of those killed in Roxy’s schemes. She had her doubts before, but now she knew for sure. She was going to get rid of this evil once and for all.

“I said no,” she repeated herself and looked back at her husband with coldness, “We talked about this before and came to an agreement. We’ll find a good pack for her, who will take care of her. But she will not stay here. You need to reject her just as we agreed.”

One question that was bothering her was why Bran chose to have this conversation in public. But it wasn’t the time to think about it. Now she had more pressing matters.

“Riannon,” Bray suddenly got serious, stepping in front of Roxanne, who was hiding behind him and shaking like a leaf in the wind, “Think about this. I wouldn’t ask you if it wasn’t important. I am the Alpha of our pack and my wolf is going crazy for his mate. We can’t risk…”

“Brayden,” she addressed him calmly, “Our pack is one of the strongest in the country. We are not at war with anyone. And you are a strong Alpha. I believe in you, I always did. You know that. I am sure that rejecting your true mate would not be easy, but we will get through it. As a family that we are.”

“I just want what’s best for the pack,” Bray mumbled, not sounding so sure anymore and Ria felt a prick of hope.

“If you want what’s best for the pack, do it now,” she said, “The longer you put it off, the harder it would get. And if she is anything, she is your weakness. You already go back on your word and this is day one.”

His lips twitched slightly, and Ria knew what it meant. Her victory was close. She almost got rid of this redhead monster.

Sighing, Bray turned to Roxanne and spoke to her softly, “I am sorry. I’ll make sure to take care of you afterwards. I promise…”

Ria did not notice how hard she clenched the fabric of her dress. Was it always this easy? Could she stop all the disasters that happened to her if she simply said no at once?

“I, Alpha Brayden Thorn of the Silver River pack, reject…”, her husband started to say in a firm voice, when the omega in front of him fell to her knees, bursting into tears.

“Please, no!” she whimpered, “I am still too weak! I will die if you reject me now! Please! I’ll do anything!”

Bray froze. He couldn’t bring himself to reject this little delicate mate of his. And this was the moment when Riannon realised that everything was lost. He turned to face her again and she held his gaze with pride.

“Please, Alpha!” Roxy started to sob and Ria had to give it to her. If she didn’t know who was before her, she would have bought it too. “I will be your slave! I can clean and I can cook! I can do anything! Just, please, spare me! Don’t do this! I will serve your Luna!”

A wave of electric shock went through Ria at the mention of her. She looked at her rival and met a gaze full of well-hidden hatred.

“Please, my Luna!” the girl kept begging still kneeling, “My fate is in your hands! Please, don’t kill me! Please, spare me! I will be your slave forever. Don’t kill me!”

No one spoke a word and the only sounds in the room were the pitiful sobs and sniffs of Roxanne.

“Sweet girl,” Riannon decided to try one last time, “There is no need for all that. You will be well taken care of, but just not here.”

“Please, my Luna!” Roxy crawled to her way faster than Ria managed to dodge her and grasped her dress, “The rejection will kill me! Please, spare me!”

“I…”, Ria wanted to say something but a loud growl made her stop.

“Enough!” Brayden roared, looking at her with his eyes shining red, meaning that his wolf was at the surface.

“Calm down,” his Luna said firmly but yet another growl emerged from him as he was furious.

“I said enough!” Brayden appeared next to Roxanne in no time and scooped her in his arms, “She is staying! We’ll find a way around everything!”

He walked firmly towards the huge staircase, taking his mate upstairs to one of the guestrooms. Ria knew very well which room it would be – the one in the far corner of the mansion, where her husband would practically move in no time. Roxanne’s head was tucked into Brayden’s neck and Riannon was sure that it was not a coincidence that she was now breathing into his collarbone, right where a mark should go.

Automatically, she touched the mark he gave her when she was nineteen and caught the omega’s gaze on herself. Roxanne was watching. And Ria knew that today she lost just like the last time.

Nothing changed. Her words and actions on that day played absolutely no part in what happened. It was like a very bad movie on repeat…

“Ri!” Maya came up to her when their Alpha was gone, “Are you okay?”

Riannon looked at her best friend, the one that she lost. Not thinking twice, she threw herself in Maya’s arms. After the death of her parents, this was the only person, apart from Brayden, whom she could trust with everything.

“There, there,” she patted her long platinum blonde hair, “It’s going to be all right. He will reconsider, I am sure.”

Only now did Ria realise how everything looked like to the people around her and distanced herself at once. She already lost her husband, there was no need to lose her face too.

“I am fine,” she said and caught the Beta’s gaze on her.

Ash nodded and gave her a soft sympathetic smile, before shouting loudly, “I feel like everyone forgot what they were supposed to be doing! The work is waiting!”

“Let’s go to your room,” Maya suggested, “We’ll talk about everything there.”

No, Ria did not need this conversation. She remembered it very well. Because they already had it.

What she really needed now was some time alone. Because she needed to process things and to come up with a new plan.

She couldn’t save her marriage, but she could still save Maya, other people who died with Roxy’s help, her pack and her own life.

“I just can’t right now,” she smiled at her friend, squeezing her hands, still not quite believing that she was here, “Let’s talk another time. I have a lot of work to do.”

“Work?” Maya’s eyes grew wide, “Are you serious?”

“Yes,” Ria fixed the creases on her dress, “Now that our Alpha is… busy, I have to step in. The pack comes first.”

She gave her friend another warm smile and added, “Everything is going to be all right, Maya. We are going to be fine. All of us.”

Riannon locked the door of her Luna office and tried to control her ragged breathing. Too much! Everything was too much for her. She needed to clear her head and think of everything. She needed a plan. And a good one. She had to save everyone, herself included.

But the office was too stuffy. And she needed to breathe!

Only one thing could help her and it was shifting into her wolf.

Riannon went into the woods that were surrounding their pack and stripped, preparing to change her form.

But nothing happened.

"Onyx, are you there?" she spoke to her wolf for the first time since her sudden rebirth less than an hour before but did not get a reply. It was alarming. Onyx was there her whole life.

"Onyx!" Ria called for her second half but was met with silence. Angry, she ran as fast as she could using her human legs. She was still super fast and strong, which could only mean that her wolf was somewhere there. She was not weak. But what was wrong?

Chapter 3. The Call

CHAPTER 3

The Call

It did not take her long to get to her most favourite place in the world – the Silver Mirror Lake. This was the only place where Riannon could be alone. It was far enough from the packhouse and close to the borders of the pack. But it was safe since they did not have any rogue attacks in that area. Just one pack away from here was the Lycans territory and it was rumoured that the Alpha King residence was also somewhere close. No one was foolish enough to enter these lands and check though.

So, Ria did not think twice when she stopped by the ledge of the lake, naked, and jumped into the water. It was cold but at the same time, it was exactly what she needed to calm herself down.

She let herself embrace the dark night when only the full moon shone upon her, making crystals of water sparkle on her skin when she felt someone’s presence. It was powerful and dominating, yet did not belong to her husband and made her alert at once.

Pretending that nothing happened, Ria carefully looked around and her eyes caught a figure of a huge wolf at a hill on the other side of the lake. He was dark, probably black. And his eyes were shining golden.

It was a bad sign. Very bad.

Riannon decided not to risk it and went underwater, getting to the shore as soon as she could and running for her life. Only a loud howl followed her.

She was back in the safe territory in no time. Luckily, her clothes were right where she left them. She pulled her dress on and tried to do the zipper at the back but her fingers were not reaching it.

“Let me help,” two hands touched her back and Beta Asher helped her with her little problem. Ria wondered if he had been there the whole time. But it did not matter in the long run. Werewolves were used to naked bodies. It wouldn’t be the first time he saw her without clothes. It wouldn’t be the last… probably.

“What are you doing here?” she asked the man, turning to face him.

“I’ve been waiting for you,” he said with an unreadable expression on his face, “Found your clothes and understood that you were on a run. But why didn’t you shift?”

“I did,” she lied without blinking. If anyone knew that she couldn’t shift, then her fate would be decided even sooner. She couldn’t afford that. Ria knew that she needed time. “But that’s not important,” she decided to change the subject quickly, “There was an intruder at the Silver Lake. Send wolves to check it out.”

“Of course, Luna,” he said and his eyes lost focus for a second as he was giving orders via the mind link.

Riannon decided not to wait for him and walked slowly into the house. But Ash caught up with her quickly and opened the door to the mansion for her.

“It’s going to be alright,” he said to her all of a sudden and she stopped. Back in the day, he used to say it to her all the time. Yet when decisions had to be made, he always took her husband’s side. It was one of the betrayals that hurt the most because she was sure that her relationship with the Beta was good prior to all that. Yet he didn’t even object when they stripped her of her title… There were a lot of things that she wanted to tell him but she couldn’t.

So, she just placed her delicate hand on his broad shoulder and looked him in the eye, smiling sadly, “You knew, didn’t you?”

His expression changed as if a flash of lightning hit him and his lips parted slightly.

“Yes, Luna,” he confessed, darting his eyes to the ground.

“It’s okay,” she patted him, “I understand. You can’t go against your Alpha’s command.”

“If I could…” he started to speak but she placed her finger to his mouth making a shushing sound.

“Doesn’t matter,” she shrugged her shoulders, “At least I will always have your support, Ash. Right?”

“Always, Luna,” his breathing became heavy and Ria tilted her head, watching him. This was an interesting development. Why was he reacting like that?

“Then, of course, I’ll be fine,” she chuckled and went inside. She had to think of what to do next.

Ria locked herself in her bedroom. She knew that Brayden would not be coming back tonight to share the bed with her. As far as she remembered, he hadn't been sleeping with Roxy at that point yet and spent the whole night in his private office drinking and thinking of life. In the morning, he would bring her flowers and gifts… and an apology even. But Roxy would still stay.

After a long and relaxing bath, Ria went to her desk and got her old journal. She hadn’t been using it for many years, but it was dear to her heart. And it was just the right place to write down every single event that was important and that was going to happen within the year leading to her death.

She tried to remember everything while she still could.

And she knew very well what she was going to do with this information. The game was on.

The plan was simple, really. Since she couldn’t change the main event and get rid of Roxy, she had to leave. But she couldn’t leave without her pack and without making sure that all her dear friends were alive and well. Not to mention, that it was particularly important to try and show Brayden and the rest Roxanne’s true face. Everybody around thought that she was an angel while, in fact, she was the devil. Ria was afraid to even think what would happen if Roxy became the Luna for real, because she for sure wouldn’t have the pack’s interests at heart.

And although Ria’s own heart craved revenge, she didn’t want her life's work to be ruined. Plus, she didn’t have it in her heart to hate everyone. She saved it for just a selected few. The ones who betrayed her trust and led to her demise, the ones who promised her respect and protection but gave her humiliation and suffering. Yes, those were the ones she was going to concentrate on.

The door suddenly opened, and Brayden walked in, making her close the journal with the list of events and names rapidly and hide it back in the drawer. Luckily, he didn’t pay attention to that.

Guilt was all over his face and Ria wanted to roll her eyes, but held herself back. She couldn’t give herself away. This event did not happen prior. In her past life, he didn’t visit her that night. This was new and she had to be cautious.

“Ri,” he walked further into the room, “Ash informed me that you encountered an intruder. Are you okay?”

This was funny. She was sitting there, clearly looking well and in one piece. Who was he kidding? Was it guilt because she put up a fight and he still chose his mate?

“It was unpleasant,” Riannon shrugged her shoulders and stood up. If he decided to ignore the big pink elephant in the room, she could do the same. In the end, it was for the best. Their past conversations about Roxy never ended well. He would never believe what a monster his mate was. So, the less Riannon talked about her, the better.

“And also disappointing”, she went to the window to hide her facial expression.

“How so?” Brayden caught the bait.

“We are one of the strongest packs and some wolf is just wandering on our territory, spying on your Luna who is swimming naked in the lake…”

“He what?” Brayden growled possessively. Back in the day, it would drive her crazy in the best sense of the word. But right now… she was annoyed. He just claimed another woman in front of so many people. He had no right to growl like that in her presence anymore. She didn’t put it into words, of course.

“You heard me,” she said, “And instead of looking for that wolf the Alpha is doing goddess knows what. No offence, but this is exactly what I was talking about earlier today. Your mate already distracted you from what was important.”

It was a low blow. But she needed him to be busy with something else right now. In the past, the closer he got to Roxy, the more power and supporters she received. And the worse it got for Riannon and her close people. If she could postpone the wheel of events for at least one day, she would do it.

“You are angry,” he sighed, “I understand, of course. I broke my promise to you. I…”

“Let’s not speak of it,” she stopped him, “It is what it is.”

“Ri, baby,” he nibbled on her neck, right where he marked her years ago, bonding their two wolves forever, acknowledging her as his chosen mate. “I hurt you and I will do anything to fix that.”

Not everything. She knew that too well.

“Only you can be my Luna, you know that, right?” he started peppering her neck with kisses, trying to unzip her dress at the same time.

This was… odd. She hadn’t slept with him for a while. Their paths went in different directions more than half a year ago in her past life. She was his abandoned and rejected wife…

Ria clenched her fists and then turned to face him.

“No!” she made him stop, “Not today.” Or ever. He had his last chance and he blew it. She did not want him anymore. If her wolf Onyx was here now, she would be howling from pain as she was attached to Brayden’s wolf Ragnar. But she didn’t feel Onyx now. She wasn’t under her influence. And she was furious.

She did not show it though. Her mom trained her well to conceal emotions. Finally, it was useful.

“Ri?” Brayden looked at her in shock. Before this day they were happy together. Which reminded Ria that he probably found Roxy earlier and was lying to her for the past few days. Or maybe weeks. “Honey, don’t do this. I love you and we are family. We will always be family.”

“Believe it or not, but I am not feeling well after everything that happened today,” she looked him in the eye, “But it will make me happy if you bring me the intruder’s head.”

He nodded quietly, “Anything for you, Ri.”

Her husband brushed her cheek and she tolerated that. Even forced a smile for the sake of the show.

“You’ll have his head in the morning!” he promised before leaving her alone.

Maya tried to reach her mentally but Riannon just asked her to wait until the morning.

After a mostly sleepless night, she knew what she had to do and she also knew her first step.

In her office, she dialled the number that none other werewolves would risk dialling. But she was left with no choice.

“Hello, Beta Reid speaking,” the annoyed male voice sounded on the other end and Riannon gulped before speaking.

“Hello, Beta. This is Luna Riannon Thorn. Nee Michaels.”

It didn’t ring a bell to him.

“And?” he seemed bored.

“Seven years ago I saved your nephew during a rogue attack in one of the boarding schools. Back then you gave me this number and told me that you owe me one.”

The lycan paused before answering her.

“And I guess you are calling to collect?” he chuckled, “And here I thought that there were selfless people in this world…”

“I wouldn’t ask if lives did not depend on it,” she interrupted him. Lycans were hard to get in touch with. They did not mingle with regular werewolves with rare exceptions. But sometimes they attended elite boarding schools for shifters. That’s when Ria’s luck was on her side.

“Fine,” the man agreed, “What do you want then?”

“I need to speak to the Lycan Alpha King,” Riannon said firmly.

Chapter 4. Royal Confrontation

“Bold, aren’t we?” the Beta chuckled and Ria didn’t know what to think. “Do you think that the King will do whatever I tell him?”

“I hope he respects you enough to do you a little favour,” she bit her lip. She was walking on thin ice here and was aware of that.

But she had no choice either.

“Fine,” the man grunted softly and for the first time Ria wondered what he was doing, “Crystle, dear, that’s enough of sucking. I need to go.”

Then he groaned again and Riannon’s ears turned red with embarrassment. Was he in bed with someone? Why did he pick up then?!

There were sounds of rustling and a female voice, “See you tonight, Beta.” And then sounds of steps.

“Just so that you know,” the Beta spoke again, “I am sacrificing a lot right now to pay you back. So, after you talk to him, Consider us done.”

“Of course,” Ria cleared her throat, “I appreciate your… sacrifice.”

He chucked and then she heard a sound of a creaking door.

“Hey, G. I need you to speak to someone,” the sounds were muffled but she could still understand everything.

“Not interested,” the other man growled and now Riannon was very afraid. She thought if the king was… busy as well. He sure wouldn’t sacrifice his pleasure time for her.

“I am not trying to set you up with anyone,” the Beta burst out laughing, “It’s just some werewolf Luna. I owe her one, okay?”

“Not interested,” was the reply and Ria’s heart sunk. This was it. It was her best chance… In her past life, she called Beta Reid as well. Later in the timeline of events. But he never picked up. Lycans had some kind of trouble in their lands too by the end of the year. He was probably too busy by the time she gained the courage to call. She called him again and again until the calls stopped coming through, meaning that he probably blocked her.

“Give her 5 minutes,” from the sounds of it, the man shoved the phone into his king’s hands. Another growl emerged and Ria was about to give up. But then she heard a resounding metallic voice.

“Hello, Alpha Gideon speaking,” the man said and she sucked in a breath. He didn’t even use his title. Was that really the Lycan King?

“Hello, your majesty,” she decided to address him formally anyway, “ My name is Riannon Thorn. I am the Luna of the Silver River pack.”

He was silent and it bothered her. But she remembered that she only had 5 minutes with him.

“I need your help,” she breathed out, “My husband is the Alpha Brayden Thorn and we are planning to divorce in the nearby future.”

“Fascinating,” the man said without any emotions in his voice, “ But what does it have to do with me? You can divorce any time you like without my help.”

“I know, Alpha,” she agreed and heard him growl slightly, “That’s not the part that I need your help with. You see, we are chosen mates. And when we got married, we merged our packs. What I really want from you is to help me to get my people and my territory back. You are the Alpha King and when I raise this dispute, your word will be the last at the Alpha Council. They wouldn't be able to decline.”

“Hmm,” he sounded amused, “And you think that the case would go that far? You do know that the Alpha council consists of male alphas. What makes you think at least anyone will support you?”

“They will if they know that you are on my side,” Riannon felt braver now, “But also I have proven myself as a leader and warrior. This shouldn’t be a problem.”

“Then maybe everything is awesome and you don’t need my help at all?” He chucked.

“I do, your majesty,” she assured him, “I really do. And I would really appreciate it.”

“This is a complex matter,” he said after a short pause, “Not something I would decide over the phone. And to be honest, it doesn’t sound serious enough to bother.”

Ria felt rage boiling her blood. Was he serious?! Was that it?!

“But…”

“There is nothing to talk about. You got married and gave your pack to your husband. You didn’t think this through and it was your mistake only. Now it’s too late,” the Alpha King seemed bored, “He will still owe you generous alimony according to our laws. You will keep your luxurious lifestyle if that’s what bothers you…”

“It’s not about that!” She gritted her teeth, “I can’t leave my people with them!”

“Them?” The king scoffed, “So, this is the problem. He found another and you are bitter about it?”

This was useless. Ria hit her desk with her fist, almost breaking it. This kind of mocking was not new to her. By now she heard it all. Even from the people who were considered her friends.

“I am not bitter!” She spat, “I am furious. Because only now do I see how many flaws our system has! How unfairly and unequally women are treated when a male doesn’t stand by her side anymore! How few chances we are given to prove ourselves. Sure, you will make a woman a warrior and speak about equality but when it comes to higher positions, you will make a woman work three times harder than a man to even consider her for the job! I was doing an Alpha’s job for years by my husband’s side and I’ve done it flawlessly. But all you see is a wounded woman who can’t get over her husband’s betrayal. And you know what, it hurts like but here I am, not whaling in pain but trying to figure out my next move. You don’t even know what is going on but you already judged me. What a disappointing introduction to my king!”

She threw her phone away with force, looking at how it smashed over the wall into several pieces.

What a joke!

Gideon sat in his huge leather chair behind his desk staring at his Beta’s phone. What the was that now? Did she scold him and then hang up?

“O-kay,” Reid carefully took his cell back, “I see that went well.”

“Remind me again who was it?” Gideon looked at his friend furrowing his thick brows.

“What?” Reid let out a nervous laugh, “Before I tell you… Are you going to kill her or…”

“REID!” Gideon growled so loudly that probably all members of his pack heard him well.

“Fine!” the Beta fell into the chair opposite of him, “She is the Luna of the Silver River pack.”

Silver River… not far from Silver Lake.

“What else?” the king tapped his fingers over the top of his desk impatiently.

“Her name is Riannon Thorn, if my memory does not fail me, she has been a Luna for five or six years. Seven maybe.”

“You said that you owed her,” Gideon was piercing Reid with his gaze, “How so? Is she one of your many whores?”

“Of course not!” the Beta sounded offended, “She… she saved Kyle seven years ago. The rogues attacked his boarding school and she was visiting some event there. She wasn’t a Luna back then, by the way. But she was preparing for the role.”

“She saved him?” Gideon rubbed the bridge of his nose.

“Yes, she killed a few rogues and protected him. He was just 12 back then. If she didn’t come on time…”

“Why didn’t you tell me?” the king groaned.

“There was no time!” Reid shook his shoulders, “And how could I know that you would be such a d*ck to her?!”

“Is there a good time to be a d*ck?” the Beta chuckled, just annoying him more.

“Find out where I can meet her,” Gideon cut him off, “I am intrigued. She does seem… feisty.”

“Just the way you hate them,” Reid stood up but when he noticed his Alpha’s glare, he wiped the smile off his face, “I’ll go… get to work.”

Gideon threw his back over his chair. He had a lot on his mind already and this woman… she got to him on some level. A smile curled onto his lips. It had been a while since someone dared to speak to him like that. Luna Riannon was amusing indeed.

And since she saved Kyle, he owed it to her to at least have a look at her case.

So be it.

Riannon prepared herself for the breakfast. She put on a simple yet elegant dress and brushed her hair so that it fell down her shoulders in soft waves. She didn’t use any makeup today because she knew very well what she was going to face once she went downstairs.

But she almost bumped into Maya at the door.

“Ria,” her friend tried to smile carelessly but she could tell that the latter was nervous, “How about we eat here and chat. Just the two of us?”

Riannon smiled. She knew that Maya tried to protect her from the new harsh reality. But luckily, she was ready for everything.

“Maybe another time,” she said, taking Maya’s hand and still not believing that she was alive, “Right now I need to do something. Just be by my side, okay?”

“Always,” Maya’s eyes glistened with tears.

The dining room was buzzing, but as soon as she stepped foot into it, everyone got quiet. On her first day in the pack, Roxy already sat at the table with the highest-ranked wolves and was clearly in the centre of the attention.

“Luna!” she jumped to her feet after she let Ria watch her succeed, “P-please, forgive my rudeness! I know my place!”

Here we go again…

Chapter 5. The Beta Female Best Friend

Goddess, she hated her. Roxy was looking at Ria with huge doe eyes in front of everyone and even shaking slightly to add some drama. She always did this. Their every meeting was a performance.

Riannon used to always be reserved towards her, leaving it her priority to supress her feelings and hide how hurt she was with the whole situation. And Roxy used it to her advantage masterfully, painting herself as the sweet girl and the Luna as the icy queen.

Well, Riannon wasn't going to let her do this anymore. This pattern had to change. Luckily, she had just the best teacher - Roxanne herself. She put her through so many awkward and humiliating situations in the past that now Ria was ready for everything.

Moreover, she knew that what she did before did not work.

So, she was going to try something else.

“I am so sorry, Luna,” Roxy prepared to fall to her knees again but Riannon rushed to her aid and gave her the biggest of hugs. The two women froze together like this while the room filled with awkward silence. Someone dropped a fork and from the corner of her eye Ria noticed that it was her friend Maya.

“Roxy,” Riannon finally distanced herself and sighed with a sad smile on her face, “I can call you that, right? I want you to know that this is a safe place for you. No one will ever hurt you. We are nothing like the pack that you came from. You will always be treated nicely here since you are a member now. The hard days for you are over.”

She grazed her eyes quickly over the room to see stunned expressions on the faces of her pack mates. They did not expect that. Back in her past life, she tried to ignore Roxanne as much as she could, while staying polite when they had to talk. Everyone understood but the more Roxy cried, the more they felt pity towards her. She found her way into people's hearts. Over time, a lot of them stood on her side because she was, after all, their Alpha’s true mate and she had a hard life prior. Meanwhile, Riannon was born with a silver spoon in her mouth. And however great of a Luna she was, they thought that it wasn’t a big deal since she was born and trained to do it. No one understood how much she worked and what she sacrificed to reach this perfection.

Suddenly, Roxy threw herself in Ria’s arms again.

“Thank you!” she whined, making Riannon want to strangle her. If Onyx, her wolf, was here, it could have ended fast. But Onyx wasn't close and she knew that this was a battle of acting skills now. Meanwhile Roxy went on, “I was sure that the nightmare in which I lived in this whole time would repeat here as well! But you are so kind! I am ready to do any job! However hard it is…I’ll be your personal maid if I have to.”

At the head of the table, her husband Brayden was watching them with his lips clenched. It was hard for Ria to hold back a laugh, since she knew by the way he looked that he had been busy all night looking for the intruder. He hated that his mate was ready to become a cleaner. And on top of that, his wife did not behave the way he expected her to. She was sure that she shocked him for life now.

Get used to that, my love.

“Don’t be ridiculous, Roxy!” Ria gasped and even forced a small tear to roll down her cheek. After all, hugging her worst enemy was horrible and a part of her did want to cry. “You suffered enough and my heart goes for you. I will assign you work according to your abilities. And if they aren’t enough at the moment for a decent job, we will send you to study at the local college. Everything will be fine, do not worry. You will not be mistreated here. Our pack is a fair one. Brayden and I were building it for years. Everybody gets what they deserve. And so will you.”

The omega frowned but quickly regained herself. Did she know that it was a promise?

“I am the luckiest girl alive,” she smiled innocently, flapping her eyelashes,“No wonder my mate… I mean, the Alpha is so in love with you, Luna. Now I see that what people say about you is true.”

“Oh, you will have to tell me later!” Ria giggled and pushed Roxy back to the chair she was sitting at prior. Luckily, she didn’t risk taking the Luna’s seat or the one right next to Bray. She would soon take it of course. But at least Ria didn’t have to deal with it today.

“I will be happy to!” Roxane shook her red locks and the oversized t-shirt that she was wearing fell off her shoulder “accidentally”, making Brayden look at her with eyes filled with lust. The mate bond was already working. And their time was slipping away.

“By the way,” Riannon took a sip of her coffee and it seemed more bitter than usual, “We need to assign a budget for Roxanne.”

Once again, the whole room went quiet.

“Are you sure, Luna?” Beta Asher spoke, “She is just an omega and…”

“She is not a simple omega,” Riannon raised her chin high and put a perfect smile on her face, “She is our Alpha’s mate. He did not reject her and she is a part of our pack now. She needs to look the part, so it’s time to throw away the worn-out t-shirts and jeans.”

“That’s very kind of you, Luna,” Maya couldn’t stay silent anymore, “Some would even say too kind. I mean, considering…”

“I do what I can,” Ria sent her best friend a warning gaze and as always, Maya understood her without words, “And let’s make this clear once and for all. I was very serious about Roxy being treated nicely here. I don’t want anyone to bully her just because the three of us are in a peculiar situation now. I wish her no harm and will have zero tolerance to the ones who try to do it.”

And with that, she started to eat her omelette as if nothing special happened, catching glances of her pack mates on her.

There they were. The looks they used to give to Roxy. Now they were rewarding Ria with those. Only that this time there was more respect than pity.

Back in the day, Ria did all the same things. But her mistake was not to announce it in front of everyone. And in the end, Roxy played them and made them believe that Ria mistreated her where she could.

She caught Brayden’s gaze on her and sent a small smile his way, startling him. At least she was getting exactly the reactions that she wanted. For the first day back, this was good.

Right after the breakfast Maya pulled her into the Luna office and made sure to lock the door properly. The room had sound isolation and they could talk in private without the fear of being overheard.

“What the are you doing?” she hissed at her friend, “You are welcoming his mate?! You should have insisted again and again on him rejecting her!”

“Oh, M,” Ria couldn’t help herself and hugged the girl once again. She still smelled of almonds and this made her broken heart warm again.

“Stupid perfect Luna! You can’t be this kind!” Maya almost sobbed, “You loved him all your life! He marked you for Goddess’s sake! What was he thinking?!”

“I know,” Ria sighed, stepping away, “But that ship has sailed. No one can fight the mate bond. That battle was lost the moment he met her and didn’t reject her.”

“You are so calm about it! I can’t believe this!” the girl shook her head, clear signs of worry on her face.

Ria contemplated for a few seconds but deep inside she knew, that if she could entrust this secret to anyone, it would be her best friend since childhood.

“I need to tell you something,” Riannon took Maya’s hands and led her to the armchair, sitting on the verge of her desk. “But I will need you to be open-minded about what I am about to say.”

She spoke and spoke, and the more she told her, the paler her friend became. She omitted the part about Maya’s own death. There was no need for that. She knew that the small fragments she was ready to share now would be enough for her.

When she was done, Maya looked at her with red eyes, “It’s…”

“Unbelievable, I know,” Riannon sighed.

“Horrible!” her friend took her hands and gave them a tight squeeze, “Ria! That’s awful! What you had to go through…”

“Wait, you meant you have no doubts in what I said now?” the Luna raised her brow. She expected that she would need longer to persuade her bestie.

“You wouldn’t joke about it at a moment like that,” Maya leaned back on her chair, “And as far as I know, you were madly in love with Brayden just yesterday. But now… You are so calm that it’s frightening. So this explains a lot. You don't get over love like that in one day.”

That was true. Riannon did not know for sure if all love she had for Brayden was gone, but she definitely wasn't the same girl from before. She was twenty-five but it felt as if she lived much longer now. Suffering and broken heart could do that to people.

“And it doesn’t bother you how crazy that sounds?” Ria decided to make sure they were on the same page.

“I believe in the Moon Goddess,” Maya shook her shoulders, “She may have wanted Brayden to be with someone like that… Roxanne. But I will never believe that she would want such a death for you! Anyone but you!”

“I missed you so much,” Ria couldn’t help herself and gave Maya another hug. She went quiet for a bit and I gave herself a promise that whatever happened, she would at least save her best friend. She was not going to lose her again.

“So, what’s the plan?” Maya went into the battle mode fast. She was one of those underappreciated wolves. They called her Luna’s assistant and both of them hated that. She had pure Beta blood and could take down an Alpha if she tried hard. Maybe not any Alpha but definitely most of them. They thought too much of themselves and always underestimated pretty girls.

“The plan is to divorce and take our pack back,” Ria smiled, knowing that she had a great ally on her side now, “The Pearl Moon.”

“Is this even possible?” Maya whistled, “I mean, if you quickly get pregnant with Brayden’s baby and then we kill him, we could get this all…”

“No, thank you,” Ria first with laughter, “Goddess you are so bloodthirsty!”

“My hands are just itching to cut his di…”

“I got you!” the Luna covered her face with her hands, trying to suppress another outburst of giggles.

“You know what, I have an idea!” Maya said all of a sudden, “How about we ask lycans for help?! This may actually…”

“Been there, done that. Their king is an a$shole,” Ria rolled her eyes.
“You what?!” her friend’s jaw dropped to the floor.

“I had one lycan who owed me and asked him to arrange a conversation with his king. But you have no idea how arrogant he is!” Ria explained.

“Worse than Brayden?” Maya chuckled.

“Worse than Brayden,” Ria confirmed.

“Okay then, what’s next?” the Beta female never gave up and this was one of the very many reasons they became friends in the first place.

“Simple, really. I need to get the support of as many Alphas as I can,” Riannon exhaled loudly, “So that when the divorce comes into force, they give me their votes when I raise the matter in the Alpha Counicl. And I will.”

“How many do you think will support you?” Maya asked bluntly, getting her cell our of her pocket, "Count on the alphas where mu cousins are Betas. I'll take care of them."

“Not sure yet, but I know where to strike first,” Ria tapped her fingers over the cold wood of her desk, waiting for Maya to tear her eyes off the phone and spare her a look.

“Do tell!” the girl seemed genuinely interested.

“The most important event of the year that is just around the corner,” Riannon smirked, "The annual Alpha ball"

Chapter 6. Dress to Impress

“Ri,” Brayden’s head popped out of the door of Riannon’s office right when she was finishing discussing the pack’s primary school budget with the headmistress, “Do you have a sec?”

“Yes, we are done here,” Ria handed the papers to the woman in front of her and the latter gave her a sympathetic smile. The Luna remembered very well that she was the one who stood by her by the very end. That was one of the reasons she managed to squeeze in a little extra cash for the school.

“Luna, Alpha,” the headmistress bowed her head and left, leaving the husband and the wife alone for the first time in a while. For the last few days, Riannon tried to avoid Brayden at all costs. She remembered too well that their every meeting in the past life was ending badly during those days. Back then she tried to keep her dignity and not approach him first. They had meals together with pack members as always. And work meetings with Beta, Gamma and so on. But other than that, every time Bray wanted to talk to her, Riannon was finding a perfect excuse to escape. There was no point in talking to him since nothing could be changed. She debated telling him the truth about her rebirth but swept that idea under the rug. He could decide that she was crazy and use that during their divorce when she planned to get her pack back.

The silence was getting awkward.

“Long time no see,” he came closer and she remained behind her desk to make it harder for him to approach her.

“Yeah, it’s been a while,” Ria threw herself back in her chair, “Is it about the Alpha Ball?”

“Did you get my flowers?” he asked.

The flowers kept coming. He was probably still feeling guilty.

“Yes, they are lovely,” she forced a smile, “Thank you. So, did you come to speak about the Alpha Ball?”

They already had this conversation. He caught her in her office and broke her heart.

“Yes,” Brayed pulled the collar of his shirt to make it easier to breathe while Ria watched him with an indifferent expression that was clearly making him uncomfortable. “It’s about Roxy… I mean Roxanne.”

“What about her?” she pretended not to know what it was about.

“Listen,” he sighed and averted her gaze, “I kind of promised her that I would take her to the ball as my partner.”

“Oh, really?” Riannon tilted her head, “I wonder when and how that happened?”

“It’s… a long story,” he cleared his throat, “Please, understand. My wolf is dying when she is unhappy. And she has never been to a ball like that.”

“Oh, my,” Ria gasped and shook her head, “Should I maybe take Enzo with me? He hasn’t seen an event like that either. And neither did Cole.”

She mentioned the hottest single warriors of the pack on purpose. And heard a growl emerge from her husband’s chest. That served him right.

“What is it with you lately, Ri?” he looked at her in disbelief, “My Luna will not be going with someone else!”

“But it’s okay if my Alpha goes with someone else? How is that fair?” she shot her brow up, challenging him. And Brayden hated challenge.

“Maybe you should sit this one out then!” he snarled at her and for the first time, she started to get worried here. She needed that ball. She needed it badly.

“No, thanks,” the Luna crossed her hands on her chest, “I got my own personal invitation. Besides, it’s important to mingle with other Lunas for the sake of our pack. We still need to organise student and warrior exchanges and a couple of mating events for over 18s. Or do you expect Roxy to be able to deal with it instead of enjoying her first big ball? What kind of Cinderella she would be then if she would have to work again?!”

He exhaled through his nostrils and she knew that she managed to win.

“Fine,” he grunted standing up, “But you will go with Ash then. He is going anyway since he is the pack’s Beta.”

“Now you are sucking the fun out of his life too?” Ria chuckled, “I am sure he had a girl to take there and impress.”

“He already agreed to be you plus one,” Brayden informed her, “He’ll protect you there too.”

“How thoughtful,” she decided just to go with it. Getting rid of Ash would be easy anyway. He would see some Alpha’s daughter and off he would go.

Brayden prepared to leave but stopped at the door and turned to look at her again

“Ri,” he looked her in the eye, “It’s just a transition period. We will get through this and everything will be fine.”

Lies.

“I will never take another Luna except for you.”

Lies.

“I still love you, it’s just that she had such a hard life and I am not a monster. She is just a sweet girl, she will never take your place.”

Lies, lies, lies.

“Thank you for telling me that,” she nodded, “I needed to hear that, Bray.”

She even forced a smile.

“Look, when the ball is over, let’s take a day off. Just you and me. What do you think?” he suggested all of a sudden and now she looked at him in surprise. This was new. It didn’t happen in the past.

“We’ll have to see our schedules for that,” she stretched her lips further, “But it’s a nice idea.”

“Then I’ll see you around?” he suddenly looked relieved as if he got rid of some kind of trouble here.

“I am your wife, am I not?” she chuckled and his smile faded.

He left and Ria’s phone buzzed with a notification that the dresses should have already arrived.

She paused just for a second. It worried her that he offered that day off thing. Was it a good sign or a bad? She wanted to change the events that caused so many disasters but this exact one wasn’t in her plans.

In the end, she was late for the fitting and entered the room full of the most important females of the pack. Maya was there along with their friends Tatiana and Aria. They greeted her in their usual friendly way. On the other side of the room sat Harper and her minions.

Harper was Brayden’s sister. And for some reason, she never liked Riannon too much since they were younger. She was one of the first to openly support Roxy. She was the one who opened the door for others who didn’t know what to do and actually promoted the evil redhead monster.

“Bring in the dresses,” Ria commanded firmly. She wanted to be done here quick.

It was a tradition of their pack that outfits for the ladies invited to the Alpha ball were chosen together and paid for by the pack. After all, they all were representing the Silver River pack and it was important to let others see how well they were doing.

A few omegas rolled in clothing racks with the most beautiful evening dresses from the top designers. Luna always was the first one to choose and then they went according to their ranks. The rest of the clothes was sent back.

Riannon knew very well which dress she was going to pick but still pretended to look at them all to avoid suspicion.

“How about that emerald one?” Harper suggested the colour that would never suit Riannon blonde hair and blue eyes.

“Do you like it?” she got the hanger and placed it to her chest with a smile, “It’s Zac Posen.”

“Beautiful!” her sister-in-law sneered.

“Then I will leave it for you,” Ria returned the facial expression and kept going. Soon she reached it. She remembered that dress well. Peach and shiny, with loads of rhinestones on the top.

She was choosing long enough and she took that one, moving to the mirror.

Any second now…

The door opened and Roxy barged in, gasping, “Oh, my goddess! Luna! I am so sorry! I’ll just go away not to ruin your mood.”

She was already doing it. Implying that just a sight of her was affecting Riannon.

And it was. But it was mean to bring this up.

“Stay,” Ria smiled gently and noticed how everyone was watching the two of them, “You are going to the ball too and you need an outfit.”

“I already got one,” Roxanne mumbled, “From all the money that you gave me. I got it in H&M.”

One of Harper’s minions snorted.

“This will not do,” Riannon turned and sighed, “You need a dress good enough for your new status.”

“And what is that?” Harper couldn’t help but ask the provocative question.

“Member of the Silver River pack,” Ria replied without any hesitation, “Look around. What do you like?”

A little sob emerged. And then a sniffle. Everybody turned to see the crying Roxy.

“This is so sweet!” she whined, “You are such a great Luna to take care of someone like me. I never had such a beautiful dress in my life!”

She pointed to the one that Riannon was holding.

“I thought I’d never…have… an opportunity.”

She burst out crying and Ria did her best not to roll her eyes.

“You can have it,” she stretched her hands with the garment towards the omega and pretty much everybody in the room was in shock.

“But Luna!” Aria gasped, “You need to be the first.”

“That’s fine,” Riannon shook her shoulders, “I saw a red one that I like too back there. Roxy can have that one since it’s the one that made you cry like that.”

Roxanne seemed a bit startled and Luna came closer, pushing the tasteless peach dress that was good enough for a middle school prom in some village.

“No, really,” Ria smirked, “I want you to have it.”

Their eyes met and Roxy gaped, realising that she had just been tricked.

“Now go to your room and try it on. It will look beautiful on you.” Or hideous.

As soon as Roxy left, Ria quickly went back to the rack and grabbed the first red dress she saw.

“I like this one,” she went out of the room as quickly as she could, followed by Maya, “Choose what you like, ladies.”

They came straight to Maya’s bedroom and as soon as they closed the door, they started laughing hysterically.

“Oh, my goddess!” Maya chuckled, “This was fun!”

“Indeed,” the Luna agreed, throwing away the red piece of fabric she had. Because the real dress that she was going to wear to the ball was right here. It was the most beautiful dress she had laid her eyes on. It was a stunning wine red off-shoulder gown made of silk chiffon, draped beautifully around the breast and down to the waist, creating a geometrical pattern and, but flowing freely to the ground.

It was a gown fit for a queen. And in the past life, Ria didn’t even order it for viewing as it was way out of her budget. But this time around she saw it again and thought to herself – just why the not?!

The last time she went to the Alpha Ball, it was the most awful experience for her. Roxanne was wearing a beautiful white dress and looking like the little innocent omega she loved to pretend, gaining everybody’s sympathy.

At the same time, Riannon gained pity from the Alphas and was mocked by some of the Lunas who never liked her. It was humiliating as it was to come as the third wheel for her husband and his mate. But on top of that, Brayden spent the whole evening by Roxy’s side. Ria was in a sour mood the whole time although she still managed to negotiate a few things.

This time, she knew what to expect and was ready. This time, she was going there to work.

“Do I look nice?” Maya grinned as she stepped out of the bathroom in a royal blue tight gown.

“You took one too, I see,” Riannon giggled as her friend twirled in front of her.

Today was a success thanks to Maya. She was the one who received all the dresses before the pack omegas got them and brought the one Ria wanted to her room without anyone seeing it.

“Of course,” she placed her hands onto her hips, “We are leaving this pack, so I am not going to save them money.”

“Just don’t shout about it around the mansion, okay?” Ria rolled her eyes, “It’s a secret after all. But you do look nice.”

“Thanks!” Maya seemed to agree, “Shame I am not going with you. But there is always next time, right?”

“When I am the Alpha and you are my Beta, you will attend it every year,” Luna winked at her.

***

In the evening, Ria finished her makeup and hair and walked out to the main part of her bedroom to find a blue box on the little table together with a new bouquet. She opened it and saw a luxurious and probably crazy expensive diamond necklace together with a simple card with one word only on it. Sorry.

“Huh,” she bit her lip, remembering that last time Brayden gave it to Roxy. And he got her some ruby earrings which she never wore. That changed too.

However, now wasn’t the time to think about all that.

She put the necklace on since it was finishing her look just perfect and left for the ball.

She was walking down the stairs, the skirt of her dress flowing beautifully as she looked at it. Most of her hair was up, with a few curly locks falling down her bare shoulders.

“You look beautiful tonight,” a male voice made her flinch.

...

Open the app and continue reading the rest of the story . 👉
(It will automatically jump to the book when you open the app)

"Have you fkkkked her?" I asked my husband of 6 years who had just found his mate.
"No!" He yelled, as if insulted.
"Then reject her," I said with dead coldness.
"Ri, it will weaken my wolf...", he started the same song again and I wanted to laugh.
"You promised to reject your fated mate once you found her, Bray," I reminded my husband who had begged me to marry him. "That was why I agreed to marry you and brought my pack to merge with yours."
His lips twitched slightly. Sighing, he turned to his mate and spoke to her softly, "I am sorry. I'll make sure to take care of you afterwards. I promise."
"I, Alpha Brayden Thorn of the Silver River pack, reject...", he started to say in a firm voice, when the omega fell to her knees, bursting into tears.
"Please, no!" she whimpered, "I am still too weak! I will die if you reject me now! Please! I'll do anything!"
Bray froze. He turned to face me again. I could see pain in his eyes - he couldn't bring himself to reject this little delicate mate of his.
"She is staying! We'll find a way around everything!" Bray said, clenching his fists.
And this was the moment when I realized that everything was lost.

...

Riannon stood there not quite believing her eyes. Her husband of six years had his arm wrapped around a petite girl in the middle of their pack house. The cute ginger head peeked at her discretely and Ria could swear that she saw a smirk for half of a second.

“Ri, dear,” Brayden, her legal husband, chosen mate and the Alpha of their pack addressed her in a way he always did when they were alone, “I need to confess… I have found my true mate. Her name is Roxanne.”

The silence in the room was deadly from the moment the two of them walked in, holding hands. Everyone stopped doing what they were doing and all eyes were on the three of them. The Alpha, the Luna and the Alpha’s mate.

Ria couldn’t force herself to say anything, so Brayden took the lead.

“Listen, I know that we are chosen mates and you will always be my Luna, I assure you of that. But since my wolf saw Roxy, he is going nuts. It would be bad for the pack if I rejected her now. He wouldn’t be able to deal with it. And it will weaken us.”

There it was - the excuse!

The two of them were school sweethearts, the perfect couple. Rhiannon was a daughter and the heiress of a powerful Alpha from a very strong pack. Brayden was her father’s best friend’s son and the future Alpha of his own pack. Since they started dating when she was just 15 and he was 16, everybody couldn’t stop buzzing that they were true mates. They were always the IT couple and everyone envied their love. Besides, as a daughter of any alpha, Ria was educated to become a Luna one day. And not just any Luna. The perfect one. She spent all her free time studying what she would have to do for the rest of her life. And she mastered every single thing to perfection. So that when she was 18 and ready to marry Bray, she would be prepared.

But Bray’s 18th birthday was before hers. She trembled to meet him on that day, longing to hear the one and only most significant word of both of their lives - mate.

He got to her pack early that day and she ran down the stairs to greet him. But as she ran, both their smiles faded a bit. She couldn’t feel anything, but he already knew.

“We are not mates, aren’t we?” she asked, tears trickling down her chin.

“Not the fated ones,” Brayden sighed heavily and locked her in his arms, his lips touching her hair. They stood like this for quite some time, waiting for the disappointment to wash away. And when they were ready, Bray took her face into his hands and said, “It doesn’t matter, Ri! I choose you! I will always choose you! No matter what, no one can break the love between us. You will be my mate, my chosen mate! My one and only!”

It did help that their families practically planned the whole wedding at this point. Her father had no son anymore since Riannon’s older brother died young trying to save their little twin sisters from the rogues. All of them died as a result and Ria was the only one left. So, there was a pressing matter of who would be inheriting the pack. And Bray seemed like the obvious choice. The two of them loved each other and no family members were against the merger of the two strong packs.

A contract was drawn but Bray suggested waiting until Riannon was 19. He told her that he had made his choice but wanted her to try and find her mate before she made hers. They were visiting other packs for the whole year before her next birthday. And then got married one month later, since no mates were found but their feelings were only getting stronger.

They became the power couple of the werewolf world and merged both their packs into one, year by year, working to make it stronger. And now, at twenty-five, Ria was a renowned Luna whom everyone loved and admired.

Riannon traced her gaze around the room and saw the shocked faces of her packmates. Yet she couldn’t help but notice that not everyone seemed startled by the recent events. Her husband’s Beta was watching quietly from the distance, his hands crossed on his chest. But absolutely no surprise in his eyes.

However, the most stunned among them all was still Riannon herself. Although not for the reasons that they all assumed.

Her fingers were trembling and lips twitching slightly as she looked at her husband and his true mate with wide eyes.

“No,” she muttered, “It couldn’t be!”

Why would the Moon Goddess return her to that exact moment in time when all her life was turned upside down, leading to her demise?

What was going on? For her it was one year ago. And just seconds ago, Ria was crawling on the ground in the woods, fighting for her life as two creatures followed her closely. The wolf found her first, digging his sharp canines into her flesh and making her wince in pain.

She was a strong wolf herself, but unfortunately, someone drugged her with aconite, making her weak, unable to shift and practically paralysed.

The wolf growled as he ripped a part of her thigh off and, for the first time during this attack, Riannon screamed loudly.

“You can shout all you want,” the girl who stepped forward said, “No one is going to hear you here. Especially now.”

Ria recognised that voice at once. Her tormentor was none other than her husband’s true mate, Roxanne.

“You?!” Ria panted, trying to sit up, “Why are you doing it? You already took everything from me! My husband, my position as Luna, my pack…”

The wolf growled at her and she tried to recognize him, but it was too dark and she was too weak. The only thing that she knew was that the werewolf was brown. Yet there were many brown wolves in the world, so it did not help.

“I have my reasons,” Roxy smirked, rubbing her round belly, “And I don’t have to explain them to you. Not anymore. Your time has passed. You are done, Riannon.”

“They will find everything out!” the ex-Luna pleaded, “You will not get away with it!”

Resounding laughter was her answer as Roxy kneeled next to her and grabbed a fistful of her hair, “Dear, Riannon, don’t you get it? I already did!”

She then forcefully threw Ria towards the ground and ordered the wolf, “Finish her off. Make sure nothing is left.”

Her arms and her legs were not listening anymore as Riannon watched Roxy walk away leisurely. As if she did not just order her murder.

A tear trickled down Ria's cheek as the wolf had a moment of hesitation.

She did not deserve it!

It was not fair!

If she had another chance, she would do everything differently.

“I am waiting!” Roxanne’s sweet voice broke her train of thought as the wolf jumped over her and ended her life in seconds.

Riannon gasped as she suddenly found herself in the reception room of her house. Something was off because all the old furniture that she loved so much was in place. She couldn’t understand what was going on until Bran walked in with Roxy in his arms and she recognized the day as exactly one year ago.

“The Moon Goddess has some sick sense of humour!” Ria thought to herself, “Out of all of the moments of my life, she brought me back into this most miserable and unpleasant one. What is up with that?!”

Luckily, she was always reserved and knew how to hide her feelings pretty well. So, she just lifted her chin up and met her husband’s gaze.

“I understand that this is very sudden,” Bray tried to sound considerate and she barely managed to hold back a scoff. Sudden? He had no idea!

“I know our agreement, but my wolf is going nuts. You are not only my Luna, but also my best friend, who always understands me. And I know that you always want what’s best for the pack. Roxanne is an omega and an orphan in her pack… Ri, it was horrible how she was treated there! They abused her and treated the girl like a slave! I couldn’t leave her there. It would be horrible and my wolf would never forgive me. I just need her presence here. That's all.”

He finally let go of Roxanne, leaving the redhead alone and went to his wife, taking her hands in his.

“Let her stay in the pack for the sake of it. My wolf is stronger next to her, the rejection would kill him. And we can give Roxy a peaceful life here. She will…”

“No,” the answer sounded calm yet loud enough for everyone to hear...

A NOTE FROM THE AUTHOR: Hello, this is my first published book on Dreame and I am very excited to start this journey. I promise you a bumpy ride with loads of twists and turns. Don't be shy and leave me a comment. I also have a group called Marissa Gilbert's Reading Circle where readers discuss chapters, characters and share visuals.

Right now the book is taking part in the Dreame Ace Book Contest. Please, consider giving it your vote by clicking on a gift box or finding the book on the ranking page.

Chapter 2. Rejection

They all stared at her in shock. Bray’s eyes were as wide as two saucers.

“Ri, my wolf…”, he started the same song again and she wanted to laugh. She had already heard it all back in her previous life. He was bringing up his wolf every time he wanted to spend time with Roxy. He never rejected her like they agreed and very soon she became his mistress.

Riannon tried to close her eyes even though it was extremely painful for her. But she was the one who truly cared about the pack and tried to drown herself in work. This was her other mistake. But since she got a second chance, she was not going to repeat it. She was going to get rid of Roxy here and now. Before it was too late.

Back then, Bray told her that it was her choice, and she chose wrong. Letting Roxanne stay for the sake of the pack was a big mistake. People died because of that and not only her. Ria’s eyes met with her best friend Maya’s and tears almost rolled in her eyes. Maya was one of those killed in Roxy’s schemes. She had her doubts before, but now she knew for sure. She was going to get rid of this evil once and for all.

“I said no,” she repeated herself and looked back at her husband with coldness, “We talked about this before and came to an agreement. We’ll find a good pack for her, who will take care of her. But she will not stay here. You need to reject her just as we agreed.”

One question that was bothering her was why Bran chose to have this conversation in public. But it wasn’t the time to think about it. Now she had more pressing matters.

“Riannon,” Bray suddenly got serious, stepping in front of Roxanne, who was hiding behind him and shaking like a leaf in the wind, “Think about this. I wouldn’t ask you if it wasn’t important. I am the Alpha of our pack and my wolf is going crazy for his mate. We can’t risk…”

“Brayden,” she addressed him calmly, “Our pack is one of the strongest in the country. We are not at war with anyone. And you are a strong Alpha. I believe in you, I always did. You know that. I am sure that rejecting your true mate would not be easy, but we will get through it. As a family that we are.”

“I just want what’s best for the pack,” Bray mumbled, not sounding so sure anymore and Ria felt a prick of hope.

“If you want what’s best for the pack, do it now,” she said, “The longer you put it off, the harder it would get. And if she is anything, she is your weakness. You already go back on your word and this is day one.”

His lips twitched slightly, and Ria knew what it meant. Her victory was close. She almost got rid of this redhead monster.

Sighing, Bray turned to Roxanne and spoke to her softly, “I am sorry. I’ll make sure to take care of you afterwards. I promise…”

Ria did not notice how hard she clenched the fabric of her dress. Was it always this easy? Could she stop all the disasters that happened to her if she simply said no at once?

“I, Alpha Brayden Thorn of the Silver River pack, reject…”, her husband started to say in a firm voice, when the omega in front of him fell to her knees, bursting into tears.

“Please, no!” she whimpered, “I am still too weak! I will die if you reject me now! Please! I’ll do anything!”

Bray froze. He couldn’t bring himself to reject this little delicate mate of his. And this was the moment when Riannon realised that everything was lost. He turned to face her again and she held his gaze with pride.

“Please, Alpha!” Roxy started to sob and Ria had to give it to her. If she didn’t know who was before her, she would have bought it too. “I will be your slave! I can clean and I can cook! I can do anything! Just, please, spare me! Don’t do this! I will serve your Luna!”

A wave of electric shock went through Ria at the mention of her. She looked at her rival and met a gaze full of well-hidden hatred.

“Please, my Luna!” the girl kept begging still kneeling, “My fate is in your hands! Please, don’t kill me! Please, spare me! I will be your slave forever. Don’t kill me!”

No one spoke a word and the only sounds in the room were the pitiful sobs and sniffs of Roxanne.

“Sweet girl,” Riannon decided to try one last time, “There is no need for all that. You will be well taken care of, but just not here.”

“Please, my Luna!” Roxy crawled to her way faster than Ria managed to dodge her and grasped her dress, “The rejection will kill me! Please, spare me!”

“I…”, Ria wanted to say something but a loud growl made her stop.

“Enough!” Brayden roared, looking at her with his eyes shining red, meaning that his wolf was at the surface.

“Calm down,” his Luna said firmly but yet another growl emerged from him as he was furious.

“I said enough!” Brayden appeared next to Roxanne in no time and scooped her in his arms, “She is staying! We’ll find a way around everything!”

He walked firmly towards the huge staircase, taking his mate upstairs to one of the guestrooms. Ria knew very well which room it would be – the one in the far corner of the mansion, where her husband would practically move in no time. Roxanne’s head was tucked into Brayden’s neck and Riannon was sure that it was not a coincidence that she was now breathing into his collarbone, right where a mark should go.

Automatically, she touched the mark he gave her when she was nineteen and caught the omega’s gaze on herself. Roxanne was watching. And Ria knew that today she lost just like the last time.

Nothing changed. Her words and actions on that day played absolutely no part in what happened. It was like a very bad movie on repeat…

“Ri!” Maya came up to her when their Alpha was gone, “Are you okay?”

Riannon looked at her best friend, the one that she lost. Not thinking twice, she threw herself in Maya’s arms. After the death of her parents, this was the only person, apart from Brayden, whom she could trust with everything.

“There, there,” she patted her long platinum blonde hair, “It’s going to be all right. He will reconsider, I am sure.”

Only now did Ria realise how everything looked like to the people around her and distanced herself at once. She already lost her husband, there was no need to lose her face too.

“I am fine,” she said and caught the Beta’s gaze on her.

Ash nodded and gave her a soft sympathetic smile, before shouting loudly, “I feel like everyone forgot what they were supposed to be doing! The work is waiting!”

“Let’s go to your room,” Maya suggested, “We’ll talk about everything there.”

No, Ria did not need this conversation. She remembered it very well. Because they already had it.

What she really needed now was some time alone. Because she needed to process things and to come up with a new plan.

She couldn’t save her marriage, but she could still save Maya, other people who died with Roxy’s help, her pack and her own life.

“I just can’t right now,” she smiled at her friend, squeezing her hands, still not quite believing that she was here, “Let’s talk another time. I have a lot of work to do.”

“Work?” Maya’s eyes grew wide, “Are you serious?”

“Yes,” Ria fixed the creases on her dress, “Now that our Alpha is… busy, I have to step in. The pack comes first.”

She gave her friend another warm smile and added, “Everything is going to be all right, Maya. We are going to be fine. All of us.”

Riannon locked the door of her Luna office and tried to control her ragged breathing. Too much! Everything was too much for her. She needed to clear her head and think of everything. She needed a plan. And a good one. She had to save everyone, herself included.

But the office was too stuffy. And she needed to breathe!

Only one thing could help her and it was shifting into her wolf.

Riannon went into the woods that were surrounding their pack and stripped, preparing to change her form.

But nothing happened.

"Onyx, are you there?" she spoke to her wolf for the first time since her sudden rebirth less than an hour before but did not get a reply. It was alarming. Onyx was there her whole life.

"Onyx!" Ria called for her second half but was met with silence. Angry, she ran as fast as she could using her human legs. She was still super fast and strong, which could only mean that her wolf was somewhere there. She was not weak. But what was wrong?

Chapter 3. The Call

CHAPTER 3

The Call

It did not take her long to get to her most favourite place in the world – the Silver Mirror Lake. This was the only place where Riannon could be alone. It was far enough from the packhouse and close to the borders of the pack. But it was safe since they did not have any rogue attacks in that area. Just one pack away from here was the Lycans territory and it was rumoured that the Alpha King residence was also somewhere close. No one was foolish enough to enter these lands and check though.

So, Ria did not think twice when she stopped by the ledge of the lake, naked, and jumped into the water. It was cold but at the same time, it was exactly what she needed to calm herself down.

She let herself embrace the dark night when only the full moon shone upon her, making crystals of water sparkle on her skin when she felt someone’s presence. It was powerful and dominating, yet did not belong to her husband and made her alert at once.

Pretending that nothing happened, Ria carefully looked around and her eyes caught a figure of a huge wolf at a hill on the other side of the lake. He was dark, probably black. And his eyes were shining golden.

It was a bad sign. Very bad.

Riannon decided not to risk it and went underwater, getting to the shore as soon as she could and running for her life. Only a loud howl followed her.

She was back in the safe territory in no time. Luckily, her clothes were right where she left them. She pulled her dress on and tried to do the zipper at the back but her fingers were not reaching it.

“Let me help,” two hands touched her back and Beta Asher helped her with her little problem. Ria wondered if he had been there the whole time. But it did not matter in the long run. Werewolves were used to naked bodies. It wouldn’t be the first time he saw her without clothes. It wouldn’t be the last… probably.

“What are you doing here?” she asked the man, turning to face him.

“I’ve been waiting for you,” he said with an unreadable expression on his face, “Found your clothes and understood that you were on a run. But why didn’t you shift?”

“I did,” she lied without blinking. If anyone knew that she couldn’t shift, then her fate would be decided even sooner. She couldn’t afford that. Ria knew that she needed time. “But that’s not important,” she decided to change the subject quickly, “There was an intruder at the Silver Lake. Send wolves to check it out.”

“Of course, Luna,” he said and his eyes lost focus for a second as he was giving orders via the mind link.

Riannon decided not to wait for him and walked slowly into the house. But Ash caught up with her quickly and opened the door to the mansion for her.

“It’s going to be alright,” he said to her all of a sudden and she stopped. Back in the day, he used to say it to her all the time. Yet when decisions had to be made, he always took her husband’s side. It was one of the betrayals that hurt the most because she was sure that her relationship with the Beta was good prior to all that. Yet he didn’t even object when they stripped her of her title… There were a lot of things that she wanted to tell him but she couldn’t.

So, she just placed her delicate hand on his broad shoulder and looked him in the eye, smiling sadly, “You knew, didn’t you?”

His expression changed as if a flash of lightning hit him and his lips parted slightly.

“Yes, Luna,” he confessed, darting his eyes to the ground.

“It’s okay,” she patted him, “I understand. You can’t go against your Alpha’s command.”

“If I could…” he started to speak but she placed her finger to his mouth making a shushing sound.

“Doesn’t matter,” she shrugged her shoulders, “At least I will always have your support, Ash. Right?”

“Always, Luna,” his breathing became heavy and Ria tilted her head, watching him. This was an interesting development. Why was he reacting like that?

“Then, of course, I’ll be fine,” she chuckled and went inside. She had to think of what to do next.

Ria locked herself in her bedroom. She knew that Brayden would not be coming back tonight to share the bed with her. As far as she remembered, he hadn't been sleeping with Roxy at that point yet and spent the whole night in his private office drinking and thinking of life. In the morning, he would bring her flowers and gifts… and an apology even. But Roxy would still stay.

After a long and relaxing bath, Ria went to her desk and got her old journal. She hadn’t been using it for many years, but it was dear to her heart. And it was just the right place to write down every single event that was important and that was going to happen within the year leading to her death.

She tried to remember everything while she still could.

And she knew very well what she was going to do with this information. The game was on.

The plan was simple, really. Since she couldn’t change the main event and get rid of Roxy, she had to leave. But she couldn’t leave without her pack and without making sure that all her dear friends were alive and well. Not to mention, that it was particularly important to try and show Brayden and the rest Roxanne’s true face. Everybody around thought that she was an angel while, in fact, she was the devil. Ria was afraid to even think what would happen if Roxy became the Luna for real, because she for sure wouldn’t have the pack’s interests at heart.

And although Ria’s own heart craved revenge, she didn’t want her life's work to be ruined. Plus, she didn’t have it in her heart to hate everyone. She saved it for just a selected few. The ones who betrayed her trust and led to her demise, the ones who promised her respect and protection but gave her humiliation and suffering. Yes, those were the ones she was going to concentrate on.

The door suddenly opened, and Brayden walked in, making her close the journal with the list of events and names rapidly and hide it back in the drawer. Luckily, he didn’t pay attention to that.

Guilt was all over his face and Ria wanted to roll her eyes, but held herself back. She couldn’t give herself away. This event did not happen prior. In her past life, he didn’t visit her that night. This was new and she had to be cautious.

“Ri,” he walked further into the room, “Ash informed me that you encountered an intruder. Are you okay?”

This was funny. She was sitting there, clearly looking well and in one piece. Who was he kidding? Was it guilt because she put up a fight and he still chose his mate?

“It was unpleasant,” Riannon shrugged her shoulders and stood up. If he decided to ignore the big pink elephant in the room, she could do the same. In the end, it was for the best. Their past conversations about Roxy never ended well. He would never believe what a monster his mate was. So, the less Riannon talked about her, the better.

“And also disappointing”, she went to the window to hide her facial expression.

“How so?” Brayden caught the bait.

“We are one of the strongest packs and some wolf is just wandering on our territory, spying on your Luna who is swimming naked in the lake…”

“He what?” Brayden growled possessively. Back in the day, it would drive her crazy in the best sense of the word. But right now… she was annoyed. He just claimed another woman in front of so many people. He had no right to growl like that in her presence anymore. She didn’t put it into words, of course.

“You heard me,” she said, “And instead of looking for that wolf the Alpha is doing goddess knows what. No offence, but this is exactly what I was talking about earlier today. Your mate already distracted you from what was important.”

It was a low blow. But she needed him to be busy with something else right now. In the past, the closer he got to Roxy, the more power and supporters she received. And the worse it got for Riannon and her close people. If she could postpone the wheel of events for at least one day, she would do it.

“You are angry,” he sighed, “I understand, of course. I broke my promise to you. I…”

“Let’s not speak of it,” she stopped him, “It is what it is.”

“Ri, baby,” he nibbled on her neck, right where he marked her years ago, bonding their two wolves forever, acknowledging her as his chosen mate. “I hurt you and I will do anything to fix that.”

Not everything. She knew that too well.

“Only you can be my Luna, you know that, right?” he started peppering her neck with kisses, trying to unzip her dress at the same time.

This was… odd. She hadn’t slept with him for a while. Their paths went in different directions more than half a year ago in her past life. She was his abandoned and rejected wife…

Ria clenched her fists and then turned to face him.

“No!” she made him stop, “Not today.” Or ever. He had his last chance and he blew it. She did not want him anymore. If her wolf Onyx was here now, she would be howling from pain as she was attached to Brayden’s wolf Ragnar. But she didn’t feel Onyx now. She wasn’t under her influence. And she was furious.

She did not show it though. Her mom trained her well to conceal emotions. Finally, it was useful.

“Ri?” Brayden looked at her in shock. Before this day they were happy together. Which reminded Ria that he probably found Roxy earlier and was lying to her for the past few days. Or maybe weeks. “Honey, don’t do this. I love you and we are family. We will always be family.”

“Believe it or not, but I am not feeling well after everything that happened today,” she looked him in the eye, “But it will make me happy if you bring me the intruder’s head.”

He nodded quietly, “Anything for you, Ri.”

Her husband brushed her cheek and she tolerated that. Even forced a smile for the sake of the show.

“You’ll have his head in the morning!” he promised before leaving her alone.

Maya tried to reach her mentally but Riannon just asked her to wait until the morning.

After a mostly sleepless night, she knew what she had to do and she also knew her first step.

In her office, she dialled the number that none other werewolves would risk dialling. But she was left with no choice.

“Hello, Beta Reid speaking,” the annoyed male voice sounded on the other end and Riannon gulped before speaking.

“Hello, Beta. This is Luna Riannon Thorn. Nee Michaels.”

It didn’t ring a bell to him.

“And?” he seemed bored.

“Seven years ago I saved your nephew during a rogue attack in one of the boarding schools. Back then you gave me this number and told me that you owe me one.”

The lycan paused before answering her.

“And I guess you are calling to collect?” he chuckled, “And here I thought that there were selfless people in this world…”

“I wouldn’t ask if lives did not depend on it,” she interrupted him. Lycans were hard to get in touch with. They did not mingle with regular werewolves with rare exceptions. But sometimes they attended elite boarding schools for shifters. That’s when Ria’s luck was on her side.

“Fine,” the man agreed, “What do you want then?”

“I need to speak to the Lycan Alpha King,” Riannon said firmly.

Chapter 4. Royal Confrontation

“Bold, aren’t we?” the Beta chuckled and Ria didn’t know what to think. “Do you think that the King will do whatever I tell him?”

“I hope he respects you enough to do you a little favour,” she bit her lip. She was walking on thin ice here and was aware of that.

But she had no choice either.

“Fine,” the man grunted softly and for the first time Ria wondered what he was doing, “Crystle, dear, that’s enough of sucking. I need to go.”

Then he groaned again and Riannon’s ears turned red with embarrassment. Was he in bed with someone? Why did he pick up then?!

There were sounds of rustling and a female voice, “See you tonight, Beta.” And then sounds of steps.

“Just so that you know,” the Beta spoke again, “I am sacrificing a lot right now to pay you back. So, after you talk to him, Consider us done.”

“Of course,” Ria cleared her throat, “I appreciate your… sacrifice.”

He chucked and then she heard a sound of a creaking door.

“Hey, G. I need you to speak to someone,” the sounds were muffled but she could still understand everything.

“Not interested,” the other man growled and now Riannon was very afraid. She thought if the king was… busy as well. He sure wouldn’t sacrifice his pleasure time for her.

“I am not trying to set you up with anyone,” the Beta burst out laughing, “It’s just some werewolf Luna. I owe her one, okay?”

“Not interested,” was the reply and Ria’s heart sunk. This was it. It was her best chance… In her past life, she called Beta Reid as well. Later in the timeline of events. But he never picked up. Lycans had some kind of trouble in their lands too by the end of the year. He was probably too busy by the time she gained the courage to call. She called him again and again until the calls stopped coming through, meaning that he probably blocked her.

“Give her 5 minutes,” from the sounds of it, the man shoved the phone into his king’s hands. Another growl emerged and Ria was about to give up. But then she heard a resounding metallic voice.

“Hello, Alpha Gideon speaking,” the man said and she sucked in a breath. He didn’t even use his title. Was that really the Lycan King?

“Hello, your majesty,” she decided to address him formally anyway, “ My name is Riannon Thorn. I am the Luna of the Silver River pack.”

He was silent and it bothered her. But she remembered that she only had 5 minutes with him.

“I need your help,” she breathed out, “My husband is the Alpha Brayden Thorn and we are planning to divorce in the nearby future.”

“Fascinating,” the man said without any emotions in his voice, “ But what does it have to do with me? You can divorce any time you like without my help.”

“I know, Alpha,” she agreed and heard him growl slightly, “That’s not the part that I need your help with. You see, we are chosen mates. And when we got married, we merged our packs. What I really want from you is to help me to get my people and my territory back. You are the Alpha King and when I raise this dispute, your word will be the last at the Alpha Council. They wouldn't be able to decline.”

“Hmm,” he sounded amused, “And you think that the case would go that far? You do know that the Alpha council consists of male alphas. What makes you think at least anyone will support you?”

“They will if they know that you are on my side,” Riannon felt braver now, “But also I have proven myself as a leader and warrior. This shouldn’t be a problem.”

“Then maybe everything is awesome and you don’t need my help at all?” He chucked.

“I do, your majesty,” she assured him, “I really do. And I would really appreciate it.”

“This is a complex matter,” he said after a short pause, “Not something I would decide over the phone. And to be honest, it doesn’t sound serious enough to bother.”

Ria felt rage boiling her blood. Was he serious?! Was that it?!

“But…”

“There is nothing to talk about. You got married and gave your pack to your husband. You didn’t think this through and it was your mistake only. Now it’s too late,” the Alpha King seemed bored, “He will still owe you generous alimony according to our laws. You will keep your luxurious lifestyle if that’s what bothers you…”

“It’s not about that!” She gritted her teeth, “I can’t leave my people with them!”

“Them?” The king scoffed, “So, this is the problem. He found another and you are bitter about it?”

This was useless. Ria hit her desk with her fist, almost breaking it. This kind of mocking was not new to her. By now she heard it all. Even from the people who were considered her friends.

“I am not bitter!” She spat, “I am furious. Because only now do I see how many flaws our system has! How unfairly and unequally women are treated when a male doesn’t stand by her side anymore! How few chances we are given to prove ourselves. Sure, you will make a woman a warrior and speak about equality but when it comes to higher positions, you will make a woman work three times harder than a man to even consider her for the job! I was doing an Alpha’s job for years by my husband’s side and I’ve done it flawlessly. But all you see is a wounded woman who can’t get over her husband’s betrayal. And you know what, it hurts like but here I am, not whaling in pain but trying to figure out my next move. You don’t even know what is going on but you already judged me. What a disappointing introduction to my king!”

She threw her phone away with force, looking at how it smashed over the wall into several pieces.

What a joke!

Gideon sat in his huge leather chair behind his desk staring at his Beta’s phone. What the was that now? Did she scold him and then hang up?

“O-kay,” Reid carefully took his cell back, “I see that went well.”

“Remind me again who was it?” Gideon looked at his friend furrowing his thick brows.

“What?” Reid let out a nervous laugh, “Before I tell you… Are you going to kill her or…”

“REID!” Gideon growled so loudly that probably all members of his pack heard him well.

“Fine!” the Beta fell into the chair opposite of him, “She is the Luna of the Silver River pack.”

Silver River… not far from Silver Lake.

“What else?” the king tapped his fingers over the top of his desk impatiently.

“Her name is Riannon Thorn, if my memory does not fail me, she has been a Luna for five or six years. Seven maybe.”

“You said that you owed her,” Gideon was piercing Reid with his gaze, “How so? Is she one of your many whores?”

“Of course not!” the Beta sounded offended, “She… she saved Kyle seven years ago. The rogues attacked his boarding school and she was visiting some event there. She wasn’t a Luna back then, by the way. But she was preparing for the role.”

“She saved him?” Gideon rubbed the bridge of his nose.

“Yes, she killed a few rogues and protected him. He was just 12 back then. If she didn’t come on time…”

“Why didn’t you tell me?” the king groaned.

“There was no time!” Reid shook his shoulders, “And how could I know that you would be such a d*ck to her?!”

“Is there a good time to be a d*ck?” the Beta chuckled, just annoying him more.

“Find out where I can meet her,” Gideon cut him off, “I am intrigued. She does seem… feisty.”

“Just the way you hate them,” Reid stood up but when he noticed his Alpha’s glare, he wiped the smile off his face, “I’ll go… get to work.”

Gideon threw his back over his chair. He had a lot on his mind already and this woman… she got to him on some level. A smile curled onto his lips. It had been a while since someone dared to speak to him like that. Luna Riannon was amusing indeed.

And since she saved Kyle, he owed it to her to at least have a look at her case.

So be it.

Riannon prepared herself for the breakfast. She put on a simple yet elegant dress and brushed her hair so that it fell down her shoulders in soft waves. She didn’t use any makeup today because she knew very well what she was going to face once she went downstairs.

But she almost bumped into Maya at the door.

“Ria,” her friend tried to smile carelessly but she could tell that the latter was nervous, “How about we eat here and chat. Just the two of us?”

Riannon smiled. She knew that Maya tried to protect her from the new harsh reality. But luckily, she was ready for everything.

“Maybe another time,” she said, taking Maya’s hand and still not believing that she was alive, “Right now I need to do something. Just be by my side, okay?”

“Always,” Maya’s eyes glistened with tears.

The dining room was buzzing, but as soon as she stepped foot into it, everyone got quiet. On her first day in the pack, Roxy already sat at the table with the highest-ranked wolves and was clearly in the centre of the attention.

“Luna!” she jumped to her feet after she let Ria watch her succeed, “P-please, forgive my rudeness! I know my place!”

Here we go again…

Chapter 5. The Beta Female Best Friend

Goddess, she hated her. Roxy was looking at Ria with huge doe eyes in front of everyone and even shaking slightly to add some drama. She always did this. Their every meeting was a performance.

Riannon used to always be reserved towards her, leaving it her priority to supress her feelings and hide how hurt she was with the whole situation. And Roxy used it to her advantage masterfully, painting herself as the sweet girl and the Luna as the icy queen.

Well, Riannon wasn't going to let her do this anymore. This pattern had to change. Luckily, she had just the best teacher - Roxanne herself. She put her through so many awkward and humiliating situations in the past that now Ria was ready for everything.

Moreover, she knew that what she did before did not work.

So, she was going to try something else.

“I am so sorry, Luna,” Roxy prepared to fall to her knees again but Riannon rushed to her aid and gave her the biggest of hugs. The two women froze together like this while the room filled with awkward silence. Someone dropped a fork and from the corner of her eye Ria noticed that it was her friend Maya.

“Roxy,” Riannon finally distanced herself and sighed with a sad smile on her face, “I can call you that, right? I want you to know that this is a safe place for you. No one will ever hurt you. We are nothing like the pack that you came from. You will always be treated nicely here since you are a member now. The hard days for you are over.”

She grazed her eyes quickly over the room to see stunned expressions on the faces of her pack mates. They did not expect that. Back in her past life, she tried to ignore Roxanne as much as she could, while staying polite when they had to talk. Everyone understood but the more Roxy cried, the more they felt pity towards her. She found her way into people's hearts. Over time, a lot of them stood on her side because she was, after all, their Alpha’s true mate and she had a hard life prior. Meanwhile, Riannon was born with a silver spoon in her mouth. And however great of a Luna she was, they thought that it wasn’t a big deal since she was born and trained to do it. No one understood how much she worked and what she sacrificed to reach this perfection.

Suddenly, Roxy threw herself in Ria’s arms again.

“Thank you!” she whined, making Riannon want to strangle her. If Onyx, her wolf, was here, it could have ended fast. But Onyx wasn't close and she knew that this was a battle of acting skills now. Meanwhile Roxy went on, “I was sure that the nightmare in which I lived in this whole time would repeat here as well! But you are so kind! I am ready to do any job! However hard it is…I’ll be your personal maid if I have to.”

At the head of the table, her husband Brayden was watching them with his lips clenched. It was hard for Ria to hold back a laugh, since she knew by the way he looked that he had been busy all night looking for the intruder. He hated that his mate was ready to become a cleaner. And on top of that, his wife did not behave the way he expected her to. She was sure that she shocked him for life now.

Get used to that, my love.

“Don’t be ridiculous, Roxy!” Ria gasped and even forced a small tear to roll down her cheek. After all, hugging her worst enemy was horrible and a part of her did want to cry. “You suffered enough and my heart goes for you. I will assign you work according to your abilities. And if they aren’t enough at the moment for a decent job, we will send you to study at the local college. Everything will be fine, do not worry. You will not be mistreated here. Our pack is a fair one. Brayden and I were building it for years. Everybody gets what they deserve. And so will you.”

The omega frowned but quickly regained herself. Did she know that it was a promise?

“I am the luckiest girl alive,” she smiled innocently, flapping her eyelashes,“No wonder my mate… I mean, the Alpha is so in love with you, Luna. Now I see that what people say about you is true.”

“Oh, you will have to tell me later!” Ria giggled and pushed Roxy back to the chair she was sitting at prior. Luckily, she didn’t risk taking the Luna’s seat or the one right next to Bray. She would soon take it of course. But at least Ria didn’t have to deal with it today.

“I will be happy to!” Roxane shook her red locks and the oversized t-shirt that she was wearing fell off her shoulder “accidentally”, making Brayden look at her with eyes filled with lust. The mate bond was already working. And their time was slipping away.

“By the way,” Riannon took a sip of her coffee and it seemed more bitter than usual, “We need to assign a budget for Roxanne.”

Once again, the whole room went quiet.

“Are you sure, Luna?” Beta Asher spoke, “She is just an omega and…”

“She is not a simple omega,” Riannon raised her chin high and put a perfect smile on her face, “She is our Alpha’s mate. He did not reject her and she is a part of our pack now. She needs to look the part, so it’s time to throw away the worn-out t-shirts and jeans.”

“That’s very kind of you, Luna,” Maya couldn’t stay silent anymore, “Some would even say too kind. I mean, considering…”

“I do what I can,” Ria sent her best friend a warning gaze and as always, Maya understood her without words, “And let’s make this clear once and for all. I was very serious about Roxy being treated nicely here. I don’t want anyone to bully her just because the three of us are in a peculiar situation now. I wish her no harm and will have zero tolerance to the ones who try to do it.”

And with that, she started to eat her omelette as if nothing special happened, catching glances of her pack mates on her.

There they were. The looks they used to give to Roxy. Now they were rewarding Ria with those. Only that this time there was more respect than pity.

Back in the day, Ria did all the same things. But her mistake was not to announce it in front of everyone. And in the end, Roxy played them and made them believe that Ria mistreated her where she could.

She caught Brayden’s gaze on her and sent a small smile his way, startling him. At least she was getting exactly the reactions that she wanted. For the first day back, this was good.

Right after the breakfast Maya pulled her into the Luna office and made sure to lock the door properly. The room had sound isolation and they could talk in private without the fear of being overheard.

“What the are you doing?” she hissed at her friend, “You are welcoming his mate?! You should have insisted again and again on him rejecting her!”

“Oh, M,” Ria couldn’t help herself and hugged the girl once again. She still smelled of almonds and this made her broken heart warm again.

“Stupid perfect Luna! You can’t be this kind!” Maya almost sobbed, “You loved him all your life! He marked you for Goddess’s sake! What was he thinking?!”

“I know,” Ria sighed, stepping away, “But that ship has sailed. No one can fight the mate bond. That battle was lost the moment he met her and didn’t reject her.”

“You are so calm about it! I can’t believe this!” the girl shook her head, clear signs of worry on her face.

Ria contemplated for a few seconds but deep inside she knew, that if she could entrust this secret to anyone, it would be her best friend since childhood.

“I need to tell you something,” Riannon took Maya’s hands and led her to the armchair, sitting on the verge of her desk. “But I will need you to be open-minded about what I am about to say.”

She spoke and spoke, and the more she told her, the paler her friend became. She omitted the part about Maya’s own death. There was no need for that. She knew that the small fragments she was ready to share now would be enough for her.

When she was done, Maya looked at her with red eyes, “It’s…”

“Unbelievable, I know,” Riannon sighed.

“Horrible!” her friend took her hands and gave them a tight squeeze, “Ria! That’s awful! What you had to go through…”

“Wait, you meant you have no doubts in what I said now?” the Luna raised her brow. She expected that she would need longer to persuade her bestie.

“You wouldn’t joke about it at a moment like that,” Maya leaned back on her chair, “And as far as I know, you were madly in love with Brayden just yesterday. But now… You are so calm that it’s frightening. So this explains a lot. You don't get over love like that in one day.”

That was true. Riannon did not know for sure if all love she had for Brayden was gone, but she definitely wasn't the same girl from before. She was twenty-five but it felt as if she lived much longer now. Suffering and broken heart could do that to people.

“And it doesn’t bother you how crazy that sounds?” Ria decided to make sure they were on the same page.

“I believe in the Moon Goddess,” Maya shook her shoulders, “She may have wanted Brayden to be with someone like that… Roxanne. But I will never believe that she would want such a death for you! Anyone but you!”

“I missed you so much,” Ria couldn’t help herself and gave Maya another hug. She went quiet for a bit and I gave herself a promise that whatever happened, she would at least save her best friend. She was not going to lose her again.

“So, what’s the plan?” Maya went into the battle mode fast. She was one of those underappreciated wolves. They called her Luna’s assistant and both of them hated that. She had pure Beta blood and could take down an Alpha if she tried hard. Maybe not any Alpha but definitely most of them. They thought too much of themselves and always underestimated pretty girls.

“The plan is to divorce and take our pack back,” Ria smiled, knowing that she had a great ally on her side now, “The Pearl Moon.”

“Is this even possible?” Maya whistled, “I mean, if you quickly get pregnant with Brayden’s baby and then we kill him, we could get this all…”

“No, thank you,” Ria first with laughter, “Goddess you are so bloodthirsty!”

“My hands are just itching to cut his di…”

“I got you!” the Luna covered her face with her hands, trying to suppress another outburst of giggles.

“You know what, I have an idea!” Maya said all of a sudden, “How about we ask lycans for help?! This may actually…”

“Been there, done that. Their king is an a$shole,” Ria rolled her eyes.
“You what?!” her friend’s jaw dropped to the floor.

“I had one lycan who owed me and asked him to arrange a conversation with his king. But you have no idea how arrogant he is!” Ria explained.

“Worse than Brayden?” Maya chuckled.

“Worse than Brayden,” Ria confirmed.

“Okay then, what’s next?” the Beta female never gave up and this was one of the very many reasons they became friends in the first place.

“Simple, really. I need to get the support of as many Alphas as I can,” Riannon exhaled loudly, “So that when the divorce comes into force, they give me their votes when I raise the matter in the Alpha Counicl. And I will.”

“How many do you think will support you?” Maya asked bluntly, getting her cell our of her pocket, "Count on the alphas where mu cousins are Betas. I'll take care of them."

“Not sure yet, but I know where to strike first,” Ria tapped her fingers over the cold wood of her desk, waiting for Maya to tear her eyes off the phone and spare her a look.

“Do tell!” the girl seemed genuinely interested.

“The most important event of the year that is just around the corner,” Riannon smirked, "The annual Alpha ball"

Chapter 6. Dress to Impress

“Ri,” Brayden’s head popped out of the door of Riannon’s office right when she was finishing discussing the pack’s primary school budget with the headmistress, “Do you have a sec?”

“Yes, we are done here,” Ria handed the papers to the woman in front of her and the latter gave her a sympathetic smile. The Luna remembered very well that she was the one who stood by her by the very end. That was one of the reasons she managed to squeeze in a little extra cash for the school.

“Luna, Alpha,” the headmistress bowed her head and left, leaving the husband and the wife alone for the first time in a while. For the last few days, Riannon tried to avoid Brayden at all costs. She remembered too well that their every meeting in the past life was ending badly during those days. Back then she tried to keep her dignity and not approach him first. They had meals together with pack members as always. And work meetings with Beta, Gamma and so on. But other than that, every time Bray wanted to talk to her, Riannon was finding a perfect excuse to escape. There was no point in talking to him since nothing could be changed. She debated telling him the truth about her rebirth but swept that idea under the rug. He could decide that she was crazy and use that during their divorce when she planned to get her pack back.

The silence was getting awkward.

“Long time no see,” he came closer and she remained behind her desk to make it harder for him to approach her.

“Yeah, it’s been a while,” Ria threw herself back in her chair, “Is it about the Alpha Ball?”

“Did you get my flowers?” he asked.

The flowers kept coming. He was probably still feeling guilty.

“Yes, they are lovely,” she forced a smile, “Thank you. So, did you come to speak about the Alpha Ball?”

They already had this conversation. He caught her in her office and broke her heart.

“Yes,” Brayed pulled the collar of his shirt to make it easier to breathe while Ria watched him with an indifferent expression that was clearly making him uncomfortable. “It’s about Roxy… I mean Roxanne.”

“What about her?” she pretended not to know what it was about.

“Listen,” he sighed and averted her gaze, “I kind of promised her that I would take her to the ball as my partner.”

“Oh, really?” Riannon tilted her head, “I wonder when and how that happened?”

“It’s… a long story,” he cleared his throat, “Please, understand. My wolf is dying when she is unhappy. And she has never been to a ball like that.”

“Oh, my,” Ria gasped and shook her head, “Should I maybe take Enzo with me? He hasn’t seen an event like that either. And neither did Cole.”

She mentioned the hottest single warriors of the pack on purpose. And heard a growl emerge from her husband’s chest. That served him right.

“What is it with you lately, Ri?” he looked at her in disbelief, “My Luna will not be going with someone else!”

“But it’s okay if my Alpha goes with someone else? How is that fair?” she shot her brow up, challenging him. And Brayden hated challenge.

“Maybe you should sit this one out then!” he snarled at her and for the first time, she started to get worried here. She needed that ball. She needed it badly.

“No, thanks,” the Luna crossed her hands on her chest, “I got my own personal invitation. Besides, it’s important to mingle with other Lunas for the sake of our pack. We still need to organise student and warrior exchanges and a couple of mating events for over 18s. Or do you expect Roxy to be able to deal with it instead of enjoying her first big ball? What kind of Cinderella she would be then if she would have to work again?!”

He exhaled through his nostrils and she knew that she managed to win.

“Fine,” he grunted standing up, “But you will go with Ash then. He is going anyway since he is the pack’s Beta.”

“Now you are sucking the fun out of his life too?” Ria chuckled, “I am sure he had a girl to take there and impress.”

“He already agreed to be you plus one,” Brayden informed her, “He’ll protect you there too.”

“How thoughtful,” she decided just to go with it. Getting rid of Ash would be easy anyway. He would see some Alpha’s daughter and off he would go.

Brayden prepared to leave but stopped at the door and turned to look at her again

“Ri,” he looked her in the eye, “It’s just a transition period. We will get through this and everything will be fine.”

Lies.

“I will never take another Luna except for you.”

Lies.

“I still love you, it’s just that she had such a hard life and I am not a monster. She is just a sweet girl, she will never take your place.”

Lies, lies, lies.

“Thank you for telling me that,” she nodded, “I needed to hear that, Bray.”

She even forced a smile.

“Look, when the ball is over, let’s take a day off. Just you and me. What do you think?” he suggested all of a sudden and now she looked at him in surprise. This was new. It didn’t happen in the past.

“We’ll have to see our schedules for that,” she stretched her lips further, “But it’s a nice idea.”

“Then I’ll see you around?” he suddenly looked relieved as if he got rid of some kind of trouble here.

“I am your wife, am I not?” she chuckled and his smile faded.

He left and Ria’s phone buzzed with a notification that the dresses should have already arrived.

She paused just for a second. It worried her that he offered that day off thing. Was it a good sign or a bad? She wanted to change the events that caused so many disasters but this exact one wasn’t in her plans.

In the end, she was late for the fitting and entered the room full of the most important females of the pack. Maya was there along with their friends Tatiana and Aria. They greeted her in their usual friendly way. On the other side of the room sat Harper and her minions.

Harper was Brayden’s sister. And for some reason, she never liked Riannon too much since they were younger. She was one of the first to openly support Roxy. She was the one who opened the door for others who didn’t know what to do and actually promoted the evil redhead monster.

“Bring in the dresses,” Ria commanded firmly. She wanted to be done here quick.

It was a tradition of their pack that outfits for the ladies invited to the Alpha ball were chosen together and paid for by the pack. After all, they all were representing the Silver River pack and it was important to let others see how well they were doing.

A few omegas rolled in clothing racks with the most beautiful evening dresses from the top designers. Luna always was the first one to choose and then they went according to their ranks. The rest of the clothes was sent back.

Riannon knew very well which dress she was going to pick but still pretended to look at them all to avoid suspicion.

“How about that emerald one?” Harper suggested the colour that would never suit Riannon blonde hair and blue eyes.

“Do you like it?” she got the hanger and placed it to her chest with a smile, “It’s Zac Posen.”

“Beautiful!” her sister-in-law sneered.

“Then I will leave it for you,” Ria returned the facial expression and kept going. Soon she reached it. She remembered that dress well. Peach and shiny, with loads of rhinestones on the top.

She was choosing long enough and she took that one, moving to the mirror.

Any second now…

The door opened and Roxy barged in, gasping, “Oh, my goddess! Luna! I am so sorry! I’ll just go away not to ruin your mood.”

She was already doing it. Implying that just a sight of her was affecting Riannon.

And it was. But it was mean to bring this up.

“Stay,” Ria smiled gently and noticed how everyone was watching the two of them, “You are going to the ball too and you need an outfit.”

“I already got one,” Roxanne mumbled, “From all the money that you gave me. I got it in H&M.”

One of Harper’s minions snorted.

“This will not do,” Riannon turned and sighed, “You need a dress good enough for your new status.”

“And what is that?” Harper couldn’t help but ask the provocative question.

“Member of the Silver River pack,” Ria replied without any hesitation, “Look around. What do you like?”

A little sob emerged. And then a sniffle. Everybody turned to see the crying Roxy.

“This is so sweet!” she whined, “You are such a great Luna to take care of someone like me. I never had such a beautiful dress in my life!”

She pointed to the one that Riannon was holding.

“I thought I’d never…have… an opportunity.”

She burst out crying and Ria did her best not to roll her eyes.

“You can have it,” she stretched her hands with the garment towards the omega and pretty much everybody in the room was in shock.

“But Luna!” Aria gasped, “You need to be the first.”

“That’s fine,” Riannon shook her shoulders, “I saw a red one that I like too back there. Roxy can have that one since it’s the one that made you cry like that.”

Roxanne seemed a bit startled and Luna came closer, pushing the tasteless peach dress that was good enough for a middle school prom in some village.

“No, really,” Ria smirked, “I want you to have it.”

Their eyes met and Roxy gaped, realising that she had just been tricked.

“Now go to your room and try it on. It will look beautiful on you.” Or hideous.

As soon as Roxy left, Ria quickly went back to the rack and grabbed the first red dress she saw.

“I like this one,” she went out of the room as quickly as she could, followed by Maya, “Choose what you like, ladies.”

They came straight to Maya’s bedroom and as soon as they closed the door, they started laughing hysterically.

“Oh, my goddess!” Maya chuckled, “This was fun!”

“Indeed,” the Luna agreed, throwing away the red piece of fabric she had. Because the real dress that she was going to wear to the ball was right here. It was the most beautiful dress she had laid her eyes on. It was a stunning wine red off-shoulder gown made of silk chiffon, draped beautifully around the breast and down to the waist, creating a geometrical pattern and, but flowing freely to the ground.

It was a gown fit for a queen. And in the past life, Ria didn’t even order it for viewing as it was way out of her budget. But this time around she saw it again and thought to herself – just why the not?!

The last time she went to the Alpha Ball, it was the most awful experience for her. Roxanne was wearing a beautiful white dress and looking like the little innocent omega she loved to pretend, gaining everybody’s sympathy.

At the same time, Riannon gained pity from the Alphas and was mocked by some of the Lunas who never liked her. It was humiliating as it was to come as the third wheel for her husband and his mate. But on top of that, Brayden spent the whole evening by Roxy’s side. Ria was in a sour mood the whole time although she still managed to negotiate a few things.

This time, she knew what to expect and was ready. This time, she was going there to work.

“Do I look nice?” Maya grinned as she stepped out of the bathroom in a royal blue tight gown.

“You took one too, I see,” Riannon giggled as her friend twirled in front of her.

Today was a success thanks to Maya. She was the one who received all the dresses before the pack omegas got them and brought the one Ria wanted to her room without anyone seeing it.

“Of course,” she placed her hands onto her hips, “We are leaving this pack, so I am not going to save them money.”

“Just don’t shout about it around the mansion, okay?” Ria rolled her eyes, “It’s a secret after all. But you do look nice.”

“Thanks!” Maya seemed to agree, “Shame I am not going with you. But there is always next time, right?”

“When I am the Alpha and you are my Beta, you will attend it every year,” Luna winked at her.

***

In the evening, Ria finished her makeup and hair and walked out to the main part of her bedroom to find a blue box on the little table together with a new bouquet. She opened it and saw a luxurious and probably crazy expensive diamond necklace together with a simple card with one word only on it. Sorry.

“Huh,” she bit her lip, remembering that last time Brayden gave it to Roxy. And he got her some ruby earrings which she never wore. That changed too.

However, now wasn’t the time to think about all that.

She put the necklace on since it was finishing her look just perfect and left for the ball.

She was walking down the stairs, the skirt of her dress flowing beautifully as she looked at it. Most of her hair was up, with a few curly locks falling down her bare shoulders.

“You look beautiful tonight,” a male voice made her flinch.

...

Open the app and continue reading the rest of the story . 👉
(It will automatically jump to the book when you open the app)

"Have you fkkked her?" I asked my husband of 6 years who had just found his mate.
"No!" He yelled, as if insulted.
"Then reject her," I said with dead coldness.
"Ri, it will weaken my wolf...", he started the same song again and I wanted to laugh.
"You promised to reject your fated mate once you found her, Bray," I reminded my husband who had begged me to marry him. "That was why I agreed to marry you and brought my pack to merge with yours."
His lips twitched slightly. Sighing, he turned to his mate and spoke to her softly, "I am sorry. I'll make sure to take care of you afterwards. I promise."
"I, Alpha Brayden Thorn of the Silver River pack, reject...", he started to say in a firm voice, when the omega fell to her knees, bursting into tears.
"Please, no!" she whimpered, "I am still too weak! I will die if you reject me now! Please! I'll do anything!"
Bray froze. He turned to face me again. I could see pain in his eyes - he couldn't bring himself to reject this little delicate mate of his.
"She is staying! We'll find a way around everything!" Bray said, clenching his fists.
And this was the moment when I realized that everything was lost.

...

Riannon stood there not quite believing her eyes. Her husband of six years had his arm wrapped around a petite girl in the middle of their pack house. The cute ginger head peeked at her discretely and Ria could swear that she saw a smirk for half of a second.

“Ri, dear,” Brayden, her legal husband, chosen mate and the Alpha of their pack addressed her in a way he always did when they were alone, “I need to confess… I have found my true mate. Her name is Roxanne.”

The silence in the room was deadly from the moment the two of them walked in, holding hands. Everyone stopped doing what they were doing and all eyes were on the three of them. The Alpha, the Luna and the Alpha’s mate.

Ria couldn’t force herself to say anything, so Brayden took the lead.

“Listen, I know that we are chosen mates and you will always be my Luna, I assure you of that. But since my wolf saw Roxy, he is going nuts. It would be bad for the pack if I rejected her now. He wouldn’t be able to deal with it. And it will weaken us.”

There it was - the excuse!

The two of them were school sweethearts, the perfect couple. Rhiannon was a daughter and the heiress of a powerful Alpha from a very strong pack. Brayden was her father’s best friend’s son and the future Alpha of his own pack. Since they started dating when she was just 15 and he was 16, everybody couldn’t stop buzzing that they were true mates. They were always the IT couple and everyone envied their love. Besides, as a daughter of any alpha, Ria was educated to become a Luna one day. And not just any Luna. The perfect one. She spent all her free time studying what she would have to do for the rest of her life. And she mastered every single thing to perfection. So that when she was 18 and ready to marry Bray, she would be prepared.

But Bray’s 18th birthday was before hers. She trembled to meet him on that day, longing to hear the one and only most significant word of both of their lives - mate.

He got to her pack early that day and she ran down the stairs to greet him. But as she ran, both their smiles faded a bit. She couldn’t feel anything, but he already knew.

“We are not mates, aren’t we?” she asked, tears trickling down her chin.

“Not the fated ones,” Brayden sighed heavily and locked her in his arms, his lips touching her hair. They stood like this for quite some time, waiting for the disappointment to wash away. And when they were ready, Bray took her face into his hands and said, “It doesn’t matter, Ri! I choose you! I will always choose you! No matter what, no one can break the love between us. You will be my mate, my chosen mate! My one and only!”

It did help that their families practically planned the whole wedding at this point. Her father had no son anymore since Riannon’s older brother died young trying to save their little twin sisters from the rogues. All of them died as a result and Ria was the only one left. So, there was a pressing matter of who would be inheriting the pack. And Bray seemed like the obvious choice. The two of them loved each other and no family members were against the merger of the two strong packs.

A contract was drawn but Bray suggested waiting until Riannon was 19. He told her that he had made his choice but wanted her to try and find her mate before she made hers. They were visiting other packs for the whole year before her next birthday. And then got married one month later, since no mates were found but their feelings were only getting stronger.

They became the power couple of the werewolf world and merged both their packs into one, year by year, working to make it stronger. And now, at twenty-five, Ria was a renowned Luna whom everyone loved and admired.

Riannon traced her gaze around the room and saw the shocked faces of her packmates. Yet she couldn’t help but notice that not everyone seemed startled by the recent events. Her husband’s Beta was watching quietly from the distance, his hands crossed on his chest. But absolutely no surprise in his eyes.

However, the most stunned among them all was still Riannon herself. Although not for the reasons that they all assumed.

Her fingers were trembling and lips twitching slightly as she looked at her husband and his true mate with wide eyes.

“No,” she muttered, “It couldn’t be!”

Why would the Moon Goddess return her to that exact moment in time when all her life was turned upside down, leading to her demise?

What was going on? For her it was one year ago. And just seconds ago, Ria was crawling on the ground in the woods, fighting for her life as two creatures followed her closely. The wolf found her first, digging his sharp canines into her flesh and making her wince in pain.

She was a strong wolf herself, but unfortunately, someone drugged her with aconite, making her weak, unable to shift and practically paralysed.

The wolf growled as he ripped a part of her thigh off and, for the first time during this attack, Riannon screamed loudly.

“You can shout all you want,” the girl who stepped forward said, “No one is going to hear you here. Especially now.”

Ria recognised that voice at once. Her tormentor was none other than her husband’s true mate, Roxanne.

“You?!” Ria panted, trying to sit up, “Why are you doing it? You already took everything from me! My husband, my position as Luna, my pack…”

The wolf growled at her and she tried to recognize him, but it was too dark and she was too weak. The only thing that she knew was that the werewolf was brown. Yet there were many brown wolves in the world, so it did not help.

“I have my reasons,” Roxy smirked, rubbing her round belly, “And I don’t have to explain them to you. Not anymore. Your time has passed. You are done, Riannon.”

“They will find everything out!” the ex-Luna pleaded, “You will not get away with it!”

Resounding laughter was her answer as Roxy kneeled next to her and grabbed a fistful of her hair, “Dear, Riannon, don’t you get it? I already did!”

She then forcefully threw Ria towards the ground and ordered the wolf, “Finish her off. Make sure nothing is left.”

Her arms and her legs were not listening anymore as Riannon watched Roxy walk away leisurely. As if she did not just order her murder.

A tear trickled down Ria's cheek as the wolf had a moment of hesitation.

She did not deserve it!

It was not fair!

If she had another chance, she would do everything differently.

“I am waiting!” Roxanne’s sweet voice broke her train of thought as the wolf jumped over her and ended her life in seconds.

Riannon gasped as she suddenly found herself in the reception room of her house. Something was off because all the old furniture that she loved so much was in place. She couldn’t understand what was going on until Bran walked in with Roxy in his arms and she recognized the day as exactly one year ago.

“The Moon Goddess has some sick sense of humour!” Ria thought to herself, “Out of all of the moments of my life, she brought me back into this most miserable and unpleasant one. What is up with that?!”

Luckily, she was always reserved and knew how to hide her feelings pretty well. So, she just lifted her chin up and met her husband’s gaze.

“I understand that this is very sudden,” Bray tried to sound considerate and she barely managed to hold back a scoff. Sudden? He had no idea!

“I know our agreement, but my wolf is going nuts. You are not only my Luna, but also my best friend, who always understands me. And I know that you always want what’s best for the pack. Roxanne is an omega and an orphan in her pack… Ri, it was horrible how she was treated there! They abused her and treated the girl like a slave! I couldn’t leave her there. It would be horrible and my wolf would never forgive me. I just need her presence here. That's all.”

He finally let go of Roxanne, leaving the redhead alone and went to his wife, taking her hands in his.

“Let her stay in the pack for the sake of it. My wolf is stronger next to her, the rejection would kill him. And we can give Roxy a peaceful life here. She will…”

“No,” the answer sounded calm yet loud enough for everyone to hear...

A NOTE FROM THE AUTHOR: Hello, this is my first published book on Dreame and I am very excited to start this journey. I promise you a bumpy ride with loads of twists and turns. Don't be shy and leave me a comment. I also have a group called Marissa Gilbert's Reading Circle where readers discuss chapters, characters and share visuals.

Right now the book is taking part in the Dreame Ace Book Contest. Please, consider giving it your vote by clicking on a gift box or finding the book on the ranking page.

Chapter 2. Rejection

They all stared at her in shock. Bray’s eyes were as wide as two saucers.

“Ri, my wolf…”, he started the same song again and she wanted to laugh. She had already heard it all back in her previous life. He was bringing up his wolf every time he wanted to spend time with Roxy. He never rejected her like they agreed and very soon she became his mistress.

Riannon tried to close her eyes even though it was extremely painful for her. But she was the one who truly cared about the pack and tried to drown herself in work. This was her other mistake. But since she got a second chance, she was not going to repeat it. She was going to get rid of Roxy here and now. Before it was too late.

Back then, Bray told her that it was her choice, and she chose wrong. Letting Roxanne stay for the sake of the pack was a big mistake. People died because of that and not only her. Ria’s eyes met with her best friend Maya’s and tears almost rolled in her eyes. Maya was one of those killed in Roxy’s schemes. She had her doubts before, but now she knew for sure. She was going to get rid of this evil once and for all.

“I said no,” she repeated herself and looked back at her husband with coldness, “We talked about this before and came to an agreement. We’ll find a good pack for her, who will take care of her. But she will not stay here. You need to reject her just as we agreed.”

One question that was bothering her was why Bran chose to have this conversation in public. But it wasn’t the time to think about it. Now she had more pressing matters.

“Riannon,” Bray suddenly got serious, stepping in front of Roxanne, who was hiding behind him and shaking like a leaf in the wind, “Think about this. I wouldn’t ask you if it wasn’t important. I am the Alpha of our pack and my wolf is going crazy for his mate. We can’t risk…”

“Brayden,” she addressed him calmly, “Our pack is one of the strongest in the country. We are not at war with anyone. And you are a strong Alpha. I believe in you, I always did. You know that. I am sure that rejecting your true mate would not be easy, but we will get through it. As a family that we are.”

“I just want what’s best for the pack,” Bray mumbled, not sounding so sure anymore and Ria felt a prick of hope.

“If you want what’s best for the pack, do it now,” she said, “The longer you put it off, the harder it would get. And if she is anything, she is your weakness. You already go back on your word and this is day one.”

His lips twitched slightly, and Ria knew what it meant. Her victory was close. She almost got rid of this redhead monster.

Sighing, Bray turned to Roxanne and spoke to her softly, “I am sorry. I’ll make sure to take care of you afterwards. I promise…”

Ria did not notice how hard she clenched the fabric of her dress. Was it always this easy? Could she stop all the disasters that happened to her if she simply said no at once?

“I, Alpha Brayden Thorn of the Silver River pack, reject…”, her husband started to say in a firm voice, when the omega in front of him fell to her knees, bursting into tears.

“Please, no!” she whimpered, “I am still too weak! I will die if you reject me now! Please! I’ll do anything!”

Bray froze. He couldn’t bring himself to reject this little delicate mate of his. And this was the moment when Riannon realised that everything was lost. He turned to face her again and she held his gaze with pride.

“Please, Alpha!” Roxy started to sob and Ria had to give it to her. If she didn’t know who was before her, she would have bought it too. “I will be your slave! I can clean and I can cook! I can do anything! Just, please, spare me! Don’t do this! I will serve your Luna!”

A wave of electric shock went through Ria at the mention of her. She looked at her rival and met a gaze full of well-hidden hatred.

“Please, my Luna!” the girl kept begging still kneeling, “My fate is in your hands! Please, don’t kill me! Please, spare me! I will be your slave forever. Don’t kill me!”

No one spoke a word and the only sounds in the room were the pitiful sobs and sniffs of Roxanne.

“Sweet girl,” Riannon decided to try one last time, “There is no need for all that. You will be well taken care of, but just not here.”

“Please, my Luna!” Roxy crawled to her way faster than Ria managed to dodge her and grasped her dress, “The rejection will kill me! Please, spare me!”

“I…”, Ria wanted to say something but a loud growl made her stop.

“Enough!” Brayden roared, looking at her with his eyes shining red, meaning that his wolf was at the surface.

“Calm down,” his Luna said firmly but yet another growl emerged from him as he was furious.

“I said enough!” Brayden appeared next to Roxanne in no time and scooped her in his arms, “She is staying! We’ll find a way around everything!”

He walked firmly towards the huge staircase, taking his mate upstairs to one of the guestrooms. Ria knew very well which room it would be – the one in the far corner of the mansion, where her husband would practically move in no time. Roxanne’s head was tucked into Brayden’s neck and Riannon was sure that it was not a coincidence that she was now breathing into his collarbone, right where a mark should go.

Automatically, she touched the mark he gave her when she was nineteen and caught the omega’s gaze on herself. Roxanne was watching. And Ria knew that today she lost just like the last time.

Nothing changed. Her words and actions on that day played absolutely no part in what happened. It was like a very bad movie on repeat…

“Ri!” Maya came up to her when their Alpha was gone, “Are you okay?”

Riannon looked at her best friend, the one that she lost. Not thinking twice, she threw herself in Maya’s arms. After the death of her parents, this was the only person, apart from Brayden, whom she could trust with everything.

“There, there,” she patted her long platinum blonde hair, “It’s going to be all right. He will reconsider, I am sure.”

Only now did Ria realise how everything looked like to the people around her and distanced herself at once. She already lost her husband, there was no need to lose her face too.

“I am fine,” she said and caught the Beta’s gaze on her.

Ash nodded and gave her a soft sympathetic smile, before shouting loudly, “I feel like everyone forgot what they were supposed to be doing! The work is waiting!”

“Let’s go to your room,” Maya suggested, “We’ll talk about everything there.”

No, Ria did not need this conversation. She remembered it very well. Because they already had it.

What she really needed now was some time alone. Because she needed to process things and to come up with a new plan.

She couldn’t save her marriage, but she could still save Maya, other people who died with Roxy’s help, her pack and her own life.

“I just can’t right now,” she smiled at her friend, squeezing her hands, still not quite believing that she was here, “Let’s talk another time. I have a lot of work to do.”

“Work?” Maya’s eyes grew wide, “Are you serious?”

“Yes,” Ria fixed the creases on her dress, “Now that our Alpha is… busy, I have to step in. The pack comes first.”

She gave her friend another warm smile and added, “Everything is going to be all right, Maya. We are going to be fine. All of us.”

Riannon locked the door of her Luna office and tried to control her ragged breathing. Too much! Everything was too much for her. She needed to clear her head and think of everything. She needed a plan. And a good one. She had to save everyone, herself included.

But the office was too stuffy. And she needed to breathe!

Only one thing could help her and it was shifting into her wolf.

Riannon went into the woods that were surrounding their pack and stripped, preparing to change her form.

But nothing happened.

"Onyx, are you there?" she spoke to her wolf for the first time since her sudden rebirth less than an hour before but did not get a reply. It was alarming. Onyx was there her whole life.

"Onyx!" Ria called for her second half but was met with silence. Angry, she ran as fast as she could using her human legs. She was still super fast and strong, which could only mean that her wolf was somewhere there. She was not weak. But what was wrong?

Chapter 3. The Call

CHAPTER 3

The Call

It did not take her long to get to her most favourite place in the world – the Silver Mirror Lake. This was the only place where Riannon could be alone. It was far enough from the packhouse and close to the borders of the pack. But it was safe since they did not have any rogue attacks in that area. Just one pack away from here was the Lycans territory and it was rumoured that the Alpha King residence was also somewhere close. No one was foolish enough to enter these lands and check though.

So, Ria did not think twice when she stopped by the ledge of the lake, naked, and jumped into the water. It was cold but at the same time, it was exactly what she needed to calm herself down.

She let herself embrace the dark night when only the full moon shone upon her, making crystals of water sparkle on her skin when she felt someone’s presence. It was powerful and dominating, yet did not belong to her husband and made her alert at once.

Pretending that nothing happened, Ria carefully looked around and her eyes caught a figure of a huge wolf at a hill on the other side of the lake. He was dark, probably black. And his eyes were shining golden.

It was a bad sign. Very bad.

Riannon decided not to risk it and went underwater, getting to the shore as soon as she could and running for her life. Only a loud howl followed her.

She was back in the safe territory in no time. Luckily, her clothes were right where she left them. She pulled her dress on and tried to do the zipper at the back but her fingers were not reaching it.

“Let me help,” two hands touched her back and Beta Asher helped her with her little problem. Ria wondered if he had been there the whole time. But it did not matter in the long run. Werewolves were used to naked bodies. It wouldn’t be the first time he saw her without clothes. It wouldn’t be the last… probably.

“What are you doing here?” she asked the man, turning to face him.

“I’ve been waiting for you,” he said with an unreadable expression on his face, “Found your clothes and understood that you were on a run. But why didn’t you shift?”

“I did,” she lied without blinking. If anyone knew that she couldn’t shift, then her fate would be decided even sooner. She couldn’t afford that. Ria knew that she needed time. “But that’s not important,” she decided to change the subject quickly, “There was an intruder at the Silver Lake. Send wolves to check it out.”

“Of course, Luna,” he said and his eyes lost focus for a second as he was giving orders via the mind link.

Riannon decided not to wait for him and walked slowly into the house. But Ash caught up with her quickly and opened the door to the mansion for her.

“It’s going to be alright,” he said to her all of a sudden and she stopped. Back in the day, he used to say it to her all the time. Yet when decisions had to be made, he always took her husband’s side. It was one of the betrayals that hurt the most because she was sure that her relationship with the Beta was good prior to all that. Yet he didn’t even object when they stripped her of her title… There were a lot of things that she wanted to tell him but she couldn’t.

So, she just placed her delicate hand on his broad shoulder and looked him in the eye, smiling sadly, “You knew, didn’t you?”

His expression changed as if a flash of lightning hit him and his lips parted slightly.

“Yes, Luna,” he confessed, darting his eyes to the ground.

“It’s okay,” she patted him, “I understand. You can’t go against your Alpha’s command.”

“If I could…” he started to speak but she placed her finger to his mouth making a shushing sound.

“Doesn’t matter,” she shrugged her shoulders, “At least I will always have your support, Ash. Right?”

“Always, Luna,” his breathing became heavy and Ria tilted her head, watching him. This was an interesting development. Why was he reacting like that?

“Then, of course, I’ll be fine,” she chuckled and went inside. She had to think of what to do next.

Ria locked herself in her bedroom. She knew that Brayden would not be coming back tonight to share the bed with her. As far as she remembered, he hadn't been sleeping with Roxy at that point yet and spent the whole night in his private office drinking and thinking of life. In the morning, he would bring her flowers and gifts… and an apology even. But Roxy would still stay.

After a long and relaxing bath, Ria went to her desk and got her old journal. She hadn’t been using it for many years, but it was dear to her heart. And it was just the right place to write down every single event that was important and that was going to happen within the year leading to her death.

She tried to remember everything while she still could.

And she knew very well what she was going to do with this information. The game was on.

The plan was simple, really. Since she couldn’t change the main event and get rid of Roxy, she had to leave. But she couldn’t leave without her pack and without making sure that all her dear friends were alive and well. Not to mention, that it was particularly important to try and show Brayden and the rest Roxanne’s true face. Everybody around thought that she was an angel while, in fact, she was the devil. Ria was afraid to even think what would happen if Roxy became the Luna for real, because she for sure wouldn’t have the pack’s interests at heart.

And although Ria’s own heart craved revenge, she didn’t want her life's work to be ruined. Plus, she didn’t have it in her heart to hate everyone. She saved it for just a selected few. The ones who betrayed her trust and led to her demise, the ones who promised her respect and protection but gave her humiliation and suffering. Yes, those were the ones she was going to concentrate on.

The door suddenly opened, and Brayden walked in, making her close the journal with the list of events and names rapidly and hide it back in the drawer. Luckily, he didn’t pay attention to that.

Guilt was all over his face and Ria wanted to roll her eyes, but held herself back. She couldn’t give herself away. This event did not happen prior. In her past life, he didn’t visit her that night. This was new and she had to be cautious.

“Ri,” he walked further into the room, “Ash informed me that you encountered an intruder. Are you okay?”

This was funny. She was sitting there, clearly looking well and in one piece. Who was he kidding? Was it guilt because she put up a fight and he still chose his mate?

“It was unpleasant,” Riannon shrugged her shoulders and stood up. If he decided to ignore the big pink elephant in the room, she could do the same. In the end, it was for the best. Their past conversations about Roxy never ended well. He would never believe what a monster his mate was. So, the less Riannon talked about her, the better.

“And also disappointing”, she went to the window to hide her facial expression.

“How so?” Brayden caught the bait.

“We are one of the strongest packs and some wolf is just wandering on our territory, spying on your Luna who is swimming naked in the lake…”

“He what?” Brayden growled possessively. Back in the day, it would drive her crazy in the best sense of the word. But right now… she was annoyed. He just claimed another woman in front of so many people. He had no right to growl like that in her presence anymore. She didn’t put it into words, of course.

“You heard me,” she said, “And instead of looking for that wolf the Alpha is doing goddess knows what. No offence, but this is exactly what I was talking about earlier today. Your mate already distracted you from what was important.”

It was a low blow. But she needed him to be busy with something else right now. In the past, the closer he got to Roxy, the more power and supporters she received. And the worse it got for Riannon and her close people. If she could postpone the wheel of events for at least one day, she would do it.

“You are angry,” he sighed, “I understand, of course. I broke my promise to you. I…”

“Let’s not speak of it,” she stopped him, “It is what it is.”

“Ri, baby,” he nibbled on her neck, right where he marked her years ago, bonding their two wolves forever, acknowledging her as his chosen mate. “I hurt you and I will do anything to fix that.”

Not everything. She knew that too well.

“Only you can be my Luna, you know that, right?” he started peppering her neck with kisses, trying to unzip her dress at the same time.

This was… odd. She hadn’t slept with him for a while. Their paths went in different directions more than half a year ago in her past life. She was his abandoned and rejected wife…

Ria clenched her fists and then turned to face him.

“No!” she made him stop, “Not today.” Or ever. He had his last chance and he blew it. She did not want him anymore. If her wolf Onyx was here now, she would be howling from pain as she was attached to Brayden’s wolf Ragnar. But she didn’t feel Onyx now. She wasn’t under her influence. And she was furious.

She did not show it though. Her mom trained her well to conceal emotions. Finally, it was useful.

“Ri?” Brayden looked at her in shock. Before this day they were happy together. Which reminded Ria that he probably found Roxy earlier and was lying to her for the past few days. Or maybe weeks. “Honey, don’t do this. I love you and we are family. We will always be family.”

“Believe it or not, but I am not feeling well after everything that happened today,” she looked him in the eye, “But it will make me happy if you bring me the intruder’s head.”

He nodded quietly, “Anything for you, Ri.”

Her husband brushed her cheek and she tolerated that. Even forced a smile for the sake of the show.

“You’ll have his head in the morning!” he promised before leaving her alone.

Maya tried to reach her mentally but Riannon just asked her to wait until the morning.

After a mostly sleepless night, she knew what she had to do and she also knew her first step.

In her office, she dialled the number that none other werewolves would risk dialling. But she was left with no choice.

“Hello, Beta Reid speaking,” the annoyed male voice sounded on the other end and Riannon gulped before speaking.

“Hello, Beta. This is Luna Riannon Thorn. Nee Michaels.”

It didn’t ring a bell to him.

“And?” he seemed bored.

“Seven years ago I saved your nephew during a rogue attack in one of the boarding schools. Back then you gave me this number and told me that you owe me one.”

The lycan paused before answering her.

“And I guess you are calling to collect?” he chuckled, “And here I thought that there were selfless people in this world…”

“I wouldn’t ask if lives did not depend on it,” she interrupted him. Lycans were hard to get in touch with. They did not mingle with regular werewolves with rare exceptions. But sometimes they attended elite boarding schools for shifters. That’s when Ria’s luck was on her side.

“Fine,” the man agreed, “What do you want then?”

“I need to speak to the Lycan Alpha King,” Riannon said firmly.

Chapter 4. Royal Confrontation

“Bold, aren’t we?” the Beta chuckled and Ria didn’t know what to think. “Do you think that the King will do whatever I tell him?”

“I hope he respects you enough to do you a little favour,” she bit her lip. She was walking on thin ice here and was aware of that.

But she had no choice either.

“Fine,” the man grunted softly and for the first time Ria wondered what he was doing, “Crystle, dear, that’s enough of sucking. I need to go.”

Then he groaned again and Riannon’s ears turned red with embarrassment. Was he in bed with someone? Why did he pick up then?!

There were sounds of rustling and a female voice, “See you tonight, Beta.” And then sounds of steps.

“Just so that you know,” the Beta spoke again, “I am sacrificing a lot right now to pay you back. So, after you talk to him, Consider us done.”

“Of course,” Ria cleared her throat, “I appreciate your… sacrifice.”

He chucked and then she heard a sound of a creaking door.

“Hey, G. I need you to speak to someone,” the sounds were muffled but she could still understand everything.

“Not interested,” the other man growled and now Riannon was very afraid. She thought if the king was… busy as well. He sure wouldn’t sacrifice his pleasure time for her.

“I am not trying to set you up with anyone,” the Beta burst out laughing, “It’s just some werewolf Luna. I owe her one, okay?”

“Not interested,” was the reply and Ria’s heart sunk. This was it. It was her best chance… In her past life, she called Beta Reid as well. Later in the timeline of events. But he never picked up. Lycans had some kind of trouble in their lands too by the end of the year. He was probably too busy by the time she gained the courage to call. She called him again and again until the calls stopped coming through, meaning that he probably blocked her.

“Give her 5 minutes,” from the sounds of it, the man shoved the phone into his king’s hands. Another growl emerged and Ria was about to give up. But then she heard a resounding metallic voice.

“Hello, Alpha Gideon speaking,” the man said and she sucked in a breath. He didn’t even use his title. Was that really the Lycan King?

“Hello, your majesty,” she decided to address him formally anyway, “ My name is Riannon Thorn. I am the Luna of the Silver River pack.”

He was silent and it bothered her. But she remembered that she only had 5 minutes with him.

“I need your help,” she breathed out, “My husband is the Alpha Brayden Thorn and we are planning to divorce in the nearby future.”

“Fascinating,” the man said without any emotions in his voice, “ But what does it have to do with me? You can divorce any time you like without my help.”

“I know, Alpha,” she agreed and heard him growl slightly, “That’s not the part that I need your help with. You see, we are chosen mates. And when we got married, we merged our packs. What I really want from you is to help me to get my people and my territory back. You are the Alpha King and when I raise this dispute, your word will be the last at the Alpha Council. They wouldn't be able to decline.”

“Hmm,” he sounded amused, “And you think that the case would go that far? You do know that the Alpha council consists of male alphas. What makes you think at least anyone will support you?”

“They will if they know that you are on my side,” Riannon felt braver now, “But also I have proven myself as a leader and warrior. This shouldn’t be a problem.”

“Then maybe everything is awesome and you don’t need my help at all?” He chucked.

“I do, your majesty,” she assured him, “I really do. And I would really appreciate it.”

“This is a complex matter,” he said after a short pause, “Not something I would decide over the phone. And to be honest, it doesn’t sound serious enough to bother.”

Ria felt rage boiling her blood. Was he serious?! Was that it?!

“But…”

“There is nothing to talk about. You got married and gave your pack to your husband. You didn’t think this through and it was your mistake only. Now it’s too late,” the Alpha King seemed bored, “He will still owe you generous alimony according to our laws. You will keep your luxurious lifestyle if that’s what bothers you…”

“It’s not about that!” She gritted her teeth, “I can’t leave my people with them!”

“Them?” The king scoffed, “So, this is the problem. He found another and you are bitter about it?”

This was useless. Ria hit her desk with her fist, almost breaking it. This kind of mocking was not new to her. By now she heard it all. Even from the people who were considered her friends.

“I am not bitter!” She spat, “I am furious. Because only now do I see how many flaws our system has! How unfairly and unequally women are treated when a male doesn’t stand by her side anymore! How few chances we are given to prove ourselves. Sure, you will make a woman a warrior and speak about equality but when it comes to higher positions, you will make a woman work three times harder than a man to even consider her for the job! I was doing an Alpha’s job for years by my husband’s side and I’ve done it flawlessly. But all you see is a wounded woman who can’t get over her husband’s betrayal. And you know what, it hurts like but here I am, not whaling in pain but trying to figure out my next move. You don’t even know what is going on but you already judged me. What a disappointing introduction to my king!”

She threw her phone away with force, looking at how it smashed over the wall into several pieces.

What a joke!

Gideon sat in his huge leather chair behind his desk staring at his Beta’s phone. What the was that now? Did she scold him and then hang up?

“O-kay,” Reid carefully took his cell back, “I see that went well.”

“Remind me again who was it?” Gideon looked at his friend furrowing his thick brows.

“What?” Reid let out a nervous laugh, “Before I tell you… Are you going to kill her or…”

“REID!” Gideon growled so loudly that probably all members of his pack heard him well.

“Fine!” the Beta fell into the chair opposite of him, “She is the Luna of the Silver River pack.”

Silver River… not far from Silver Lake.

“What else?” the king tapped his fingers over the top of his desk impatiently.

“Her name is Riannon Thorn, if my memory does not fail me, she has been a Luna for five or six years. Seven maybe.”

“You said that you owed her,” Gideon was piercing Reid with his gaze, “How so? Is she one of your many whores?”

“Of course not!” the Beta sounded offended, “She… she saved Kyle seven years ago. The rogues attacked his boarding school and she was visiting some event there. She wasn’t a Luna back then, by the way. But she was preparing for the role.”

“She saved him?” Gideon rubbed the bridge of his nose.

“Yes, she killed a few rogues and protected him. He was just 12 back then. If she didn’t come on time…”

“Why didn’t you tell me?” the king groaned.

“There was no time!” Reid shook his shoulders, “And how could I know that you would be such a d*ck to her?!”

“Is there a good time to be a d*ck?” the Beta chuckled, just annoying him more.

“Find out where I can meet her,” Gideon cut him off, “I am intrigued. She does seem… feisty.”

“Just the way you hate them,” Reid stood up but when he noticed his Alpha’s glare, he wiped the smile off his face, “I’ll go… get to work.”

Gideon threw his back over his chair. He had a lot on his mind already and this woman… she got to him on some level. A smile curled onto his lips. It had been a while since someone dared to speak to him like that. Luna Riannon was amusing indeed.

And since she saved Kyle, he owed it to her to at least have a look at her case.

So be it.

Riannon prepared herself for the breakfast. She put on a simple yet elegant dress and brushed her hair so that it fell down her shoulders in soft waves. She didn’t use any makeup today because she knew very well what she was going to face once she went downstairs.

But she almost bumped into Maya at the door.

“Ria,” her friend tried to smile carelessly but she could tell that the latter was nervous, “How about we eat here and chat. Just the two of us?”

Riannon smiled. She knew that Maya tried to protect her from the new harsh reality. But luckily, she was ready for everything.

“Maybe another time,” she said, taking Maya’s hand and still not believing that she was alive, “Right now I need to do something. Just be by my side, okay?”

“Always,” Maya’s eyes glistened with tears.

The dining room was buzzing, but as soon as she stepped foot into it, everyone got quiet. On her first day in the pack, Roxy already sat at the table with the highest-ranked wolves and was clearly in the centre of the attention.

“Luna!” she jumped to her feet after she let Ria watch her succeed, “P-please, forgive my rudeness! I know my place!”

Here we go again…

Chapter 5. The Beta Female Best Friend

Goddess, she hated her. Roxy was looking at Ria with huge doe eyes in front of everyone and even shaking slightly to add some drama. She always did this. Their every meeting was a performance.

Riannon used to always be reserved towards her, leaving it her priority to supress her feelings and hide how hurt she was with the whole situation. And Roxy used it to her advantage masterfully, painting herself as the sweet girl and the Luna as the icy queen.

Well, Riannon wasn't going to let her do this anymore. This pattern had to change. Luckily, she had just the best teacher - Roxanne herself. She put her through so many awkward and humiliating situations in the past that now Ria was ready for everything.

Moreover, she knew that what she did before did not work.

So, she was going to try something else.

“I am so sorry, Luna,” Roxy prepared to fall to her knees again but Riannon rushed to her aid and gave her the biggest of hugs. The two women froze together like this while the room filled with awkward silence. Someone dropped a fork and from the corner of her eye Ria noticed that it was her friend Maya.

“Roxy,” Riannon finally distanced herself and sighed with a sad smile on her face, “I can call you that, right? I want you to know that this is a safe place for you. No one will ever hurt you. We are nothing like the pack that you came from. You will always be treated nicely here since you are a member now. The hard days for you are over.”

She grazed her eyes quickly over the room to see stunned expressions on the faces of her pack mates. They did not expect that. Back in her past life, she tried to ignore Roxanne as much as she could, while staying polite when they had to talk. Everyone understood but the more Roxy cried, the more they felt pity towards her. She found her way into people's hearts. Over time, a lot of them stood on her side because she was, after all, their Alpha’s true mate and she had a hard life prior. Meanwhile, Riannon was born with a silver spoon in her mouth. And however great of a Luna she was, they thought that it wasn’t a big deal since she was born and trained to do it. No one understood how much she worked and what she sacrificed to reach this perfection.

Suddenly, Roxy threw herself in Ria’s arms again.

“Thank you!” she whined, making Riannon want to strangle her. If Onyx, her wolf, was here, it could have ended fast. But Onyx wasn't close and she knew that this was a battle of acting skills now. Meanwhile Roxy went on, “I was sure that the nightmare in which I lived in this whole time would repeat here as well! But you are so kind! I am ready to do any job! However hard it is…I’ll be your personal maid if I have to.”

At the head of the table, her husband Brayden was watching them with his lips clenched. It was hard for Ria to hold back a laugh, since she knew by the way he looked that he had been busy all night looking for the intruder. He hated that his mate was ready to become a cleaner. And on top of that, his wife did not behave the way he expected her to. She was sure that she shocked him for life now.

Get used to that, my love.

“Don’t be ridiculous, Roxy!” Ria gasped and even forced a small tear to roll down her cheek. After all, hugging her worst enemy was horrible and a part of her did want to cry. “You suffered enough and my heart goes for you. I will assign you work according to your abilities. And if they aren’t enough at the moment for a decent job, we will send you to study at the local college. Everything will be fine, do not worry. You will not be mistreated here. Our pack is a fair one. Brayden and I were building it for years. Everybody gets what they deserve. And so will you.”

The omega frowned but quickly regained herself. Did she know that it was a promise?

“I am the luckiest girl alive,” she smiled innocently, flapping her eyelashes,“No wonder my mate… I mean, the Alpha is so in love with you, Luna. Now I see that what people say about you is true.”

“Oh, you will have to tell me later!” Ria giggled and pushed Roxy back to the chair she was sitting at prior. Luckily, she didn’t risk taking the Luna’s seat or the one right next to Bray. She would soon take it of course. But at least Ria didn’t have to deal with it today.

“I will be happy to!” Roxane shook her red locks and the oversized t-shirt that she was wearing fell off her shoulder “accidentally”, making Brayden look at her with eyes filled with lust. The mate bond was already working. And their time was slipping away.

“By the way,” Riannon took a sip of her coffee and it seemed more bitter than usual, “We need to assign a budget for Roxanne.”

Once again, the whole room went quiet.

“Are you sure, Luna?” Beta Asher spoke, “She is just an omega and…”

“She is not a simple omega,” Riannon raised her chin high and put a perfect smile on her face, “She is our Alpha’s mate. He did not reject her and she is a part of our pack now. She needs to look the part, so it’s time to throw away the worn-out t-shirts and jeans.”

“That’s very kind of you, Luna,” Maya couldn’t stay silent anymore, “Some would even say too kind. I mean, considering…”

“I do what I can,” Ria sent her best friend a warning gaze and as always, Maya understood her without words, “And let’s make this clear once and for all. I was very serious about Roxy being treated nicely here. I don’t want anyone to bully her just because the three of us are in a peculiar situation now. I wish her no harm and will have zero tolerance to the ones who try to do it.”

And with that, she started to eat her omelette as if nothing special happened, catching glances of her pack mates on her.

There they were. The looks they used to give to Roxy. Now they were rewarding Ria with those. Only that this time there was more respect than pity.

Back in the day, Ria did all the same things. But her mistake was not to announce it in front of everyone. And in the end, Roxy played them and made them believe that Ria mistreated her where she could.

She caught Brayden’s gaze on her and sent a small smile his way, startling him. At least she was getting exactly the reactions that she wanted. For the first day back, this was good.

Right after the breakfast Maya pulled her into the Luna office and made sure to lock the door properly. The room had sound isolation and they could talk in private without the fear of being overheard.

“What the are you doing?” she hissed at her friend, “You are welcoming his mate?! You should have insisted again and again on him rejecting her!”

“Oh, M,” Ria couldn’t help herself and hugged the girl once again. She still smelled of almonds and this made her broken heart warm again.

“Stupid perfect Luna! You can’t be this kind!” Maya almost sobbed, “You loved him all your life! He marked you for Goddess’s sake! What was he thinking?!”

“I know,” Ria sighed, stepping away, “But that ship has sailed. No one can fight the mate bond. That battle was lost the moment he met her and didn’t reject her.”

“You are so calm about it! I can’t believe this!” the girl shook her head, clear signs of worry on her face.

Ria contemplated for a few seconds but deep inside she knew, that if she could entrust this secret to anyone, it would be her best friend since childhood.

“I need to tell you something,” Riannon took Maya’s hands and led her to the armchair, sitting on the verge of her desk. “But I will need you to be open-minded about what I am about to say.”

She spoke and spoke, and the more she told her, the paler her friend became. She omitted the part about Maya’s own death. There was no need for that. She knew that the small fragments she was ready to share now would be enough for her.

When she was done, Maya looked at her with red eyes, “It’s…”

“Unbelievable, I know,” Riannon sighed.

“Horrible!” her friend took her hands and gave them a tight squeeze, “Ria! That’s awful! What you had to go through…”

“Wait, you meant you have no doubts in what I said now?” the Luna raised her brow. She expected that she would need longer to persuade her bestie.

“You wouldn’t joke about it at a moment like that,” Maya leaned back on her chair, “And as far as I know, you were madly in love with Brayden just yesterday. But now… You are so calm that it’s frightening. So this explains a lot. You don't get over love like that in one day.”

That was true. Riannon did not know for sure if all love she had for Brayden was gone, but she definitely wasn't the same girl from before. She was twenty-five but it felt as if she lived much longer now. Suffering and broken heart could do that to people.

“And it doesn’t bother you how crazy that sounds?” Ria decided to make sure they were on the same page.

“I believe in the Moon Goddess,” Maya shook her shoulders, “She may have wanted Brayden to be with someone like that… Roxanne. But I will never believe that she would want such a death for you! Anyone but you!”

“I missed you so much,” Ria couldn’t help herself and gave Maya another hug. She went quiet for a bit and I gave herself a promise that whatever happened, she would at least save her best friend. She was not going to lose her again.

“So, what’s the plan?” Maya went into the battle mode fast. She was one of those underappreciated wolves. They called her Luna’s assistant and both of them hated that. She had pure Beta blood and could take down an Alpha if she tried hard. Maybe not any Alpha but definitely most of them. They thought too much of themselves and always underestimated pretty girls.

“The plan is to divorce and take our pack back,” Ria smiled, knowing that she had a great ally on her side now, “The Pearl Moon.”

“Is this even possible?” Maya whistled, “I mean, if you quickly get pregnant with Brayden’s baby and then we kill him, we could get this all…”

“No, thank you,” Ria first with laughter, “Goddess you are so bloodthirsty!”

“My hands are just itching to cut his di…”

“I got you!” the Luna covered her face with her hands, trying to suppress another outburst of giggles.

“You know what, I have an idea!” Maya said all of a sudden, “How about we ask lycans for help?! This may actually…”

“Been there, done that. Their king is an a$shole,” Ria rolled her eyes.
“You what?!” her friend’s jaw dropped to the floor.

“I had one lycan who owed me and asked him to arrange a conversation with his king. But you have no idea how arrogant he is!” Ria explained.

“Worse than Brayden?” Maya chuckled.

“Worse than Brayden,” Ria confirmed.

“Okay then, what’s next?” the Beta female never gave up and this was one of the very many reasons they became friends in the first place.

“Simple, really. I need to get the support of as many Alphas as I can,” Riannon exhaled loudly, “So that when the divorce comes into force, they give me their votes when I raise the matter in the Alpha Counicl. And I will.”

“How many do you think will support you?” Maya asked bluntly, getting her cell our of her pocket, "Count on the alphas where mu cousins are Betas. I'll take care of them."

“Not sure yet, but I know where to strike first,” Ria tapped her fingers over the cold wood of her desk, waiting for Maya to tear her eyes off the phone and spare her a look.

“Do tell!” the girl seemed genuinely interested.

“The most important event of the year that is just around the corner,” Riannon smirked, "The annual Alpha ball"

Chapter 6. Dress to Impress

“Ri,” Brayden’s head popped out of the door of Riannon’s office right when she was finishing discussing the pack’s primary school budget with the headmistress, “Do you have a sec?”

“Yes, we are done here,” Ria handed the papers to the woman in front of her and the latter gave her a sympathetic smile. The Luna remembered very well that she was the one who stood by her by the very end. That was one of the reasons she managed to squeeze in a little extra cash for the school.

“Luna, Alpha,” the headmistress bowed her head and left, leaving the husband and the wife alone for the first time in a while. For the last few days, Riannon tried to avoid Brayden at all costs. She remembered too well that their every meeting in the past life was ending badly during those days. Back then she tried to keep her dignity and not approach him first. They had meals together with pack members as always. And work meetings with Beta, Gamma and so on. But other than that, every time Bray wanted to talk to her, Riannon was finding a perfect excuse to escape. There was no point in talking to him since nothing could be changed. She debated telling him the truth about her rebirth but swept that idea under the rug. He could decide that she was crazy and use that during their divorce when she planned to get her pack back.

The silence was getting awkward.

“Long time no see,” he came closer and she remained behind her desk to make it harder for him to approach her.

“Yeah, it’s been a while,” Ria threw herself back in her chair, “Is it about the Alpha Ball?”

“Did you get my flowers?” he asked.

The flowers kept coming. He was probably still feeling guilty.

“Yes, they are lovely,” she forced a smile, “Thank you. So, did you come to speak about the Alpha Ball?”

They already had this conversation. He caught her in her office and broke her heart.

“Yes,” Brayed pulled the collar of his shirt to make it easier to breathe while Ria watched him with an indifferent expression that was clearly making him uncomfortable. “It’s about Roxy… I mean Roxanne.”

“What about her?” she pretended not to know what it was about.

“Listen,” he sighed and averted her gaze, “I kind of promised her that I would take her to the ball as my partner.”

“Oh, really?” Riannon tilted her head, “I wonder when and how that happened?”

“It’s… a long story,” he cleared his throat, “Please, understand. My wolf is dying when she is unhappy. And she has never been to a ball like that.”

“Oh, my,” Ria gasped and shook her head, “Should I maybe take Enzo with me? He hasn’t seen an event like that either. And neither did Cole.”

She mentioned the hottest single warriors of the pack on purpose. And heard a growl emerge from her husband’s chest. That served him right.

“What is it with you lately, Ri?” he looked at her in disbelief, “My Luna will not be going with someone else!”

“But it’s okay if my Alpha goes with someone else? How is that fair?” she shot her brow up, challenging him. And Brayden hated challenge.

“Maybe you should sit this one out then!” he snarled at her and for the first time, she started to get worried here. She needed that ball. She needed it badly.

“No, thanks,” the Luna crossed her hands on her chest, “I got my own personal invitation. Besides, it’s important to mingle with other Lunas for the sake of our pack. We still need to organise student and warrior exchanges and a couple of mating events for over 18s. Or do you expect Roxy to be able to deal with it instead of enjoying her first big ball? What kind of Cinderella she would be then if she would have to work again?!”

He exhaled through his nostrils and she knew that she managed to win.

“Fine,” he grunted standing up, “But you will go with Ash then. He is going anyway since he is the pack’s Beta.”

“Now you are sucking the fun out of his life too?” Ria chuckled, “I am sure he had a girl to take there and impress.”

“He already agreed to be you plus one,” Brayden informed her, “He’ll protect you there too.”

“How thoughtful,” she decided just to go with it. Getting rid of Ash would be easy anyway. He would see some Alpha’s daughter and off he would go.

Brayden prepared to leave but stopped at the door and turned to look at her again

“Ri,” he looked her in the eye, “It’s just a transition period. We will get through this and everything will be fine.”

Lies.

“I will never take another Luna except for you.”

Lies.

“I still love you, it’s just that she had such a hard life and I am not a monster. She is just a sweet girl, she will never take your place.”

Lies, lies, lies.

“Thank you for telling me that,” she nodded, “I needed to hear that, Bray.”

She even forced a smile.

“Look, when the ball is over, let’s take a day off. Just you and me. What do you think?” he suggested all of a sudden and now she looked at him in surprise. This was new. It didn’t happen in the past.

“We’ll have to see our schedules for that,” she stretched her lips further, “But it’s a nice idea.”

“Then I’ll see you around?” he suddenly looked relieved as if he got rid of some kind of trouble here.

“I am your wife, am I not?” she chuckled and his smile faded.

He left and Ria’s phone buzzed with a notification that the dresses should have already arrived.

She paused just for a second. It worried her that he offered that day off thing. Was it a good sign or a bad? She wanted to change the events that caused so many disasters but this exact one wasn’t in her plans.

In the end, she was late for the fitting and entered the room full of the most important females of the pack. Maya was there along with their friends Tatiana and Aria. They greeted her in their usual friendly way. On the other side of the room sat Harper and her minions.

Harper was Brayden’s sister. And for some reason, she never liked Riannon too much since they were younger. She was one of the first to openly support Roxy. She was the one who opened the door for others who didn’t know what to do and actually promoted the evil redhead monster.

“Bring in the dresses,” Ria commanded firmly. She wanted to be done here quick.

It was a tradition of their pack that outfits for the ladies invited to the Alpha ball were chosen together and paid for by the pack. After all, they all were representing the Silver River pack and it was important to let others see how well they were doing.

A few omegas rolled in clothing racks with the most beautiful evening dresses from the top designers. Luna always was the first one to choose and then they went according to their ranks. The rest of the clothes was sent back.

Riannon knew very well which dress she was going to pick but still pretended to look at them all to avoid suspicion.

“How about that emerald one?” Harper suggested the colour that would never suit Riannon blonde hair and blue eyes.

“Do you like it?” she got the hanger and placed it to her chest with a smile, “It’s Zac Posen.”

“Beautiful!” her sister-in-law sneered.

“Then I will leave it for you,” Ria returned the facial expression and kept going. Soon she reached it. She remembered that dress well. Peach and shiny, with loads of rhinestones on the top.

She was choosing long enough and she took that one, moving to the mirror.

Any second now…

The door opened and Roxy barged in, gasping, “Oh, my goddess! Luna! I am so sorry! I’ll just go away not to ruin your mood.”

She was already doing it. Implying that just a sight of her was affecting Riannon.

And it was. But it was mean to bring this up.

“Stay,” Ria smiled gently and noticed how everyone was watching the two of them, “You are going to the ball too and you need an outfit.”

“I already got one,” Roxanne mumbled, “From all the money that you gave me. I got it in H&M.”

One of Harper’s minions snorted.

“This will not do,” Riannon turned and sighed, “You need a dress good enough for your new status.”

“And what is that?” Harper couldn’t help but ask the provocative question.

“Member of the Silver River pack,” Ria replied without any hesitation, “Look around. What do you like?”

A little sob emerged. And then a sniffle. Everybody turned to see the crying Roxy.

“This is so sweet!” she whined, “You are such a great Luna to take care of someone like me. I never had such a beautiful dress in my life!”

She pointed to the one that Riannon was holding.

“I thought I’d never…have… an opportunity.”

She burst out crying and Ria did her best not to roll her eyes.

“You can have it,” she stretched her hands with the garment towards the omega and pretty much everybody in the room was in shock.

“But Luna!” Aria gasped, “You need to be the first.”

“That’s fine,” Riannon shook her shoulders, “I saw a red one that I like too back there. Roxy can have that one since it’s the one that made you cry like that.”

Roxanne seemed a bit startled and Luna came closer, pushing the tasteless peach dress that was good enough for a middle school prom in some village.

“No, really,” Ria smirked, “I want you to have it.”

Their eyes met and Roxy gaped, realising that she had just been tricked.

“Now go to your room and try it on. It will look beautiful on you.” Or hideous.

As soon as Roxy left, Ria quickly went back to the rack and grabbed the first red dress she saw.

“I like this one,” she went out of the room as quickly as she could, followed by Maya, “Choose what you like, ladies.”

They came straight to Maya’s bedroom and as soon as they closed the door, they started laughing hysterically.

“Oh, my goddess!” Maya chuckled, “This was fun!”

“Indeed,” the Luna agreed, throwing away the red piece of fabric she had. Because the real dress that she was going to wear to the ball was right here. It was the most beautiful dress she had laid her eyes on. It was a stunning wine red off-shoulder gown made of silk chiffon, draped beautifully around the breast and down to the waist, creating a geometrical pattern and, but flowing freely to the ground.

It was a gown fit for a queen. And in the past life, Ria didn’t even order it for viewing as it was way out of her budget. But this time around she saw it again and thought to herself – just why the not?!

The last time she went to the Alpha Ball, it was the most awful experience for her. Roxanne was wearing a beautiful white dress and looking like the little innocent omega she loved to pretend, gaining everybody’s sympathy.

At the same time, Riannon gained pity from the Alphas and was mocked by some of the Lunas who never liked her. It was humiliating as it was to come as the third wheel for her husband and his mate. But on top of that, Brayden spent the whole evening by Roxy’s side. Ria was in a sour mood the whole time although she still managed to negotiate a few things.

This time, she knew what to expect and was ready. This time, she was going there to work.

“Do I look nice?” Maya grinned as she stepped out of the bathroom in a royal blue tight gown.

“You took one too, I see,” Riannon giggled as her friend twirled in front of her.

Today was a success thanks to Maya. She was the one who received all the dresses before the pack omegas got them and brought the one Ria wanted to her room without anyone seeing it.

“Of course,” she placed her hands onto her hips, “We are leaving this pack, so I am not going to save them money.”

“Just don’t shout about it around the mansion, okay?” Ria rolled her eyes, “It’s a secret after all. But you do look nice.”

“Thanks!” Maya seemed to agree, “Shame I am not going with you. But there is always next time, right?”

“When I am the Alpha and you are my Beta, you will attend it every year,” Luna winked at her.

***

In the evening, Ria finished her makeup and hair and walked out to the main part of her bedroom to find a blue box on the little table together with a new bouquet. She opened it and saw a luxurious and probably crazy expensive diamond necklace together with a simple card with one word only on it. Sorry.

“Huh,” she bit her lip, remembering that last time Brayden gave it to Roxy. And he got her some ruby earrings which she never wore. That changed too.

However, now wasn’t the time to think about all that.

She put the necklace on since it was finishing her look just perfect and left for the ball.

She was walking down the stairs, the skirt of her dress flowing beautifully as she looked at it. Most of her hair was up, with a few curly locks falling down her bare shoulders.

“You look beautiful tonight,” a male voice made her flinch.

...

Open the app and continue reading the rest of the story . 👉
(It will automatically jump to the book when you open the app)

"Have you fkkkked her?" I asked my husband of 6 years who had just found his mate.
"No!" He yelled, as if insulted.
"Then reject her," I said with dead coldness.
"Ri, it will weaken my wolf...", he started the same song again and I wanted to laugh.
"You promised to reject your fated mate once you found her, Bray," I reminded my husband who had begged me to marry him. "That was why I agreed to marry you and brought my pack to merge with yours."
His lips twitched slightly. Sighing, he turned to his mate and spoke to her softly, "I am sorry. I'll make sure to take care of you afterwards. I promise."
"I, Alpha Brayden Thorn of the Silver River pack, reject...", he started to say in a firm voice, when the omega fell to her knees, bursting into tears.
"Please, no!" she whimpered, "I am still too weak! I will die if you reject me now! Please! I'll do anything!"
Bray froze. He turned to face me again. I could see pain in his eyes - he couldn't bring himself to reject this little delicate mate of his.
"She is staying! We'll find a way around everything!" Bray said, clenching his fists.
And this was the moment when I realized that everything was lost.

...

Riannon stood there not quite believing her eyes. Her husband of six years had his arm wrapped around a petite girl in the middle of their pack house. The cute ginger head peeked at her discretely and Ria could swear that she saw a smirk for half of a second.

“Ri, dear,” Brayden, her legal husband, chosen mate and the Alpha of their pack addressed her in a way he always did when they were alone, “I need to confess… I have found my true mate. Her name is Roxanne.”

The silence in the room was deadly from the moment the two of them walked in, holding hands. Everyone stopped doing what they were doing and all eyes were on the three of them. The Alpha, the Luna and the Alpha’s mate.

Ria couldn’t force herself to say anything, so Brayden took the lead.

“Listen, I know that we are chosen mates and you will always be my Luna, I assure you of that. But since my wolf saw Roxy, he is going nuts. It would be bad for the pack if I rejected her now. He wouldn’t be able to deal with it. And it will weaken us.”

There it was - the excuse!

The two of them were school sweethearts, the perfect couple. Rhiannon was a daughter and the heiress of a powerful Alpha from a very strong pack. Brayden was her father’s best friend’s son and the future Alpha of his own pack. Since they started dating when she was just 15 and he was 16, everybody couldn’t stop buzzing that they were true mates. They were always the IT couple and everyone envied their love. Besides, as a daughter of any alpha, Ria was educated to become a Luna one day. And not just any Luna. The perfect one. She spent all her free time studying what she would have to do for the rest of her life. And she mastered every single thing to perfection. So that when she was 18 and ready to marry Bray, she would be prepared.

But Bray’s 18th birthday was before hers. She trembled to meet him on that day, longing to hear the one and only most significant word of both of their lives - mate.

He got to her pack early that day and she ran down the stairs to greet him. But as she ran, both their smiles faded a bit. She couldn’t feel anything, but he already knew.

“We are not mates, aren’t we?” she asked, tears trickling down her chin.

“Not the fated ones,” Brayden sighed heavily and locked her in his arms, his lips touching her hair. They stood like this for quite some time, waiting for the disappointment to wash away. And when they were ready, Bray took her face into his hands and said, “It doesn’t matter, Ri! I choose you! I will always choose you! No matter what, no one can break the love between us. You will be my mate, my chosen mate! My one and only!”

It did help that their families practically planned the whole wedding at this point. Her father had no son anymore since Riannon’s older brother died young trying to save their little twin sisters from the rogues. All of them died as a result and Ria was the only one left. So, there was a pressing matter of who would be inheriting the pack. And Bray seemed like the obvious choice. The two of them loved each other and no family members were against the merger of the two strong packs.

A contract was drawn but Bray suggested waiting until Riannon was 19. He told her that he had made his choice but wanted her to try and find her mate before she made hers. They were visiting other packs for the whole year before her next birthday. And then got married one month later, since no mates were found but their feelings were only getting stronger.

They became the power couple of the werewolf world and merged both their packs into one, year by year, working to make it stronger. And now, at twenty-five, Ria was a renowned Luna whom everyone loved and admired.

Riannon traced her gaze around the room and saw the shocked faces of her packmates. Yet she couldn’t help but notice that not everyone seemed startled by the recent events. Her husband’s Beta was watching quietly from the distance, his hands crossed on his chest. But absolutely no surprise in his eyes.

However, the most stunned among them all was still Riannon herself. Although not for the reasons that they all assumed.

Her fingers were trembling and lips twitching slightly as she looked at her husband and his true mate with wide eyes.

“No,” she muttered, “It couldn’t be!”

Why would the Moon Goddess return her to that exact moment in time when all her life was turned upside down, leading to her demise?

What was going on? For her it was one year ago. And just seconds ago, Ria was crawling on the ground in the woods, fighting for her life as two creatures followed her closely. The wolf found her first, digging his sharp canines into her flesh and making her wince in pain.

She was a strong wolf herself, but unfortunately, someone drugged her with aconite, making her weak, unable to shift and practically paralysed.

The wolf growled as he ripped a part of her thigh off and, for the first time during this attack, Riannon screamed loudly.

“You can shout all you want,” the girl who stepped forward said, “No one is going to hear you here. Especially now.”

Ria recognised that voice at once. Her tormentor was none other than her husband’s true mate, Roxanne.

“You?!” Ria panted, trying to sit up, “Why are you doing it? You already took everything from me! My husband, my position as Luna, my pack…”

The wolf growled at her and she tried to recognize him, but it was too dark and she was too weak. The only thing that she knew was that the werewolf was brown. Yet there were many brown wolves in the world, so it did not help.

“I have my reasons,” Roxy smirked, rubbing her round belly, “And I don’t have to explain them to you. Not anymore. Your time has passed. You are done, Riannon.”

“They will find everything out!” the ex-Luna pleaded, “You will not get away with it!”

Resounding laughter was her answer as Roxy kneeled next to her and grabbed a fistful of her hair, “Dear, Riannon, don’t you get it? I already did!”

She then forcefully threw Ria towards the ground and ordered the wolf, “Finish her off. Make sure nothing is left.”

Her arms and her legs were not listening anymore as Riannon watched Roxy walk away leisurely. As if she did not just order her murder.

A tear trickled down Ria's cheek as the wolf had a moment of hesitation.

She did not deserve it!

It was not fair!

If she had another chance, she would do everything differently.

“I am waiting!” Roxanne’s sweet voice broke her train of thought as the wolf jumped over her and ended her life in seconds.

Riannon gasped as she suddenly found herself in the reception room of her house. Something was off because all the old furniture that she loved so much was in place. She couldn’t understand what was going on until Bran walked in with Roxy in his arms and she recognized the day as exactly one year ago.

“The Moon Goddess has some sick sense of humour!” Ria thought to herself, “Out of all of the moments of my life, she brought me back into this most miserable and unpleasant one. What is up with that?!”

Luckily, she was always reserved and knew how to hide her feelings pretty well. So, she just lifted her chin up and met her husband’s gaze.

“I understand that this is very sudden,” Bray tried to sound considerate and she barely managed to hold back a scoff. Sudden? He had no idea!

“I know our agreement, but my wolf is going nuts. You are not only my Luna, but also my best friend, who always understands me. And I know that you always want what’s best for the pack. Roxanne is an omega and an orphan in her pack… Ri, it was horrible how she was treated there! They abused her and treated the girl like a slave! I couldn’t leave her there. It would be horrible and my wolf would never forgive me. I just need her presence here. That's all.”

He finally let go of Roxanne, leaving the redhead alone and went to his wife, taking her hands in his.

“Let her stay in the pack for the sake of it. My wolf is stronger next to her, the rejection would kill him. And we can give Roxy a peaceful life here. She will…”

“No,” the answer sounded calm yet loud enough for everyone to hear...

A NOTE FROM THE AUTHOR: Hello, this is my first published book on Dreame and I am very excited to start this journey. I promise you a bumpy ride with loads of twists and turns. Don't be shy and leave me a comment. I also have a group called Marissa Gilbert's Reading Circle where readers discuss chapters, characters and share visuals.

Right now the book is taking part in the Dreame Ace Book Contest. Please, consider giving it your vote by clicking on a gift box or finding the book on the ranking page.

Chapter 2. Rejection

They all stared at her in shock. Bray’s eyes were as wide as two saucers.

“Ri, my wolf…”, he started the same song again and she wanted to laugh. She had already heard it all back in her previous life. He was bringing up his wolf every time he wanted to spend time with Roxy. He never rejected her like they agreed and very soon she became his mistress.

Riannon tried to close her eyes even though it was extremely painful for her. But she was the one who truly cared about the pack and tried to drown herself in work. This was her other mistake. But since she got a second chance, she was not going to repeat it. She was going to get rid of Roxy here and now. Before it was too late.

Back then, Bray told her that it was her choice, and she chose wrong. Letting Roxanne stay for the sake of the pack was a big mistake. People died because of that and not only her. Ria’s eyes met with her best friend Maya’s and tears almost rolled in her eyes. Maya was one of those killed in Roxy’s schemes. She had her doubts before, but now she knew for sure. She was going to get rid of this evil once and for all.

“I said no,” she repeated herself and looked back at her husband with coldness, “We talked about this before and came to an agreement. We’ll find a good pack for her, who will take care of her. But she will not stay here. You need to reject her just as we agreed.”

One question that was bothering her was why Bran chose to have this conversation in public. But it wasn’t the time to think about it. Now she had more pressing matters.

“Riannon,” Bray suddenly got serious, stepping in front of Roxanne, who was hiding behind him and shaking like a leaf in the wind, “Think about this. I wouldn’t ask you if it wasn’t important. I am the Alpha of our pack and my wolf is going crazy for his mate. We can’t risk…”

“Brayden,” she addressed him calmly, “Our pack is one of the strongest in the country. We are not at war with anyone. And you are a strong Alpha. I believe in you, I always did. You know that. I am sure that rejecting your true mate would not be easy, but we will get through it. As a family that we are.”

“I just want what’s best for the pack,” Bray mumbled, not sounding so sure anymore and Ria felt a prick of hope.

“If you want what’s best for the pack, do it now,” she said, “The longer you put it off, the harder it would get. And if she is anything, she is your weakness. You already go back on your word and this is day one.”

His lips twitched slightly, and Ria knew what it meant. Her victory was close. She almost got rid of this redhead monster.

Sighing, Bray turned to Roxanne and spoke to her softly, “I am sorry. I’ll make sure to take care of you afterwards. I promise…”

Ria did not notice how hard she clenched the fabric of her dress. Was it always this easy? Could she stop all the disasters that happened to her if she simply said no at once?

“I, Alpha Brayden Thorn of the Silver River pack, reject…”, her husband started to say in a firm voice, when the omega in front of him fell to her knees, bursting into tears.

“Please, no!” she whimpered, “I am still too weak! I will die if you reject me now! Please! I’ll do anything!”

Bray froze. He couldn’t bring himself to reject this little delicate mate of his. And this was the moment when Riannon realised that everything was lost. He turned to face her again and she held his gaze with pride.

“Please, Alpha!” Roxy started to sob and Ria had to give it to her. If she didn’t know who was before her, she would have bought it too. “I will be your slave! I can clean and I can cook! I can do anything! Just, please, spare me! Don’t do this! I will serve your Luna!”

A wave of electric shock went through Ria at the mention of her. She looked at her rival and met a gaze full of well-hidden hatred.

“Please, my Luna!” the girl kept begging still kneeling, “My fate is in your hands! Please, don’t kill me! Please, spare me! I will be your slave forever. Don’t kill me!”

No one spoke a word and the only sounds in the room were the pitiful sobs and sniffs of Roxanne.

“Sweet girl,” Riannon decided to try one last time, “There is no need for all that. You will be well taken care of, but just not here.”

“Please, my Luna!” Roxy crawled to her way faster than Ria managed to dodge her and grasped her dress, “The rejection will kill me! Please, spare me!”

“I…”, Ria wanted to say something but a loud growl made her stop.

“Enough!” Brayden roared, looking at her with his eyes shining red, meaning that his wolf was at the surface.

“Calm down,” his Luna said firmly but yet another growl emerged from him as he was furious.

“I said enough!” Brayden appeared next to Roxanne in no time and scooped her in his arms, “She is staying! We’ll find a way around everything!”

He walked firmly towards the huge staircase, taking his mate upstairs to one of the guestrooms. Ria knew very well which room it would be – the one in the far corner of the mansion, where her husband would practically move in no time. Roxanne’s head was tucked into Brayden’s neck and Riannon was sure that it was not a coincidence that she was now breathing into his collarbone, right where a mark should go.

Automatically, she touched the mark he gave her when she was nineteen and caught the omega’s gaze on herself. Roxanne was watching. And Ria knew that today she lost just like the last time.

Nothing changed. Her words and actions on that day played absolutely no part in what happened. It was like a very bad movie on repeat…

“Ri!” Maya came up to her when their Alpha was gone, “Are you okay?”

Riannon looked at her best friend, the one that she lost. Not thinking twice, she threw herself in Maya’s arms. After the death of her parents, this was the only person, apart from Brayden, whom she could trust with everything.

“There, there,” she patted her long platinum blonde hair, “It’s going to be all right. He will reconsider, I am sure.”

Only now did Ria realise how everything looked like to the people around her and distanced herself at once. She already lost her husband, there was no need to lose her face too.

“I am fine,” she said and caught the Beta’s gaze on her.

Ash nodded and gave her a soft sympathetic smile, before shouting loudly, “I feel like everyone forgot what they were supposed to be doing! The work is waiting!”

“Let’s go to your room,” Maya suggested, “We’ll talk about everything there.”

No, Ria did not need this conversation. She remembered it very well. Because they already had it.

What she really needed now was some time alone. Because she needed to process things and to come up with a new plan.

She couldn’t save her marriage, but she could still save Maya, other people who died with Roxy’s help, her pack and her own life.

“I just can’t right now,” she smiled at her friend, squeezing her hands, still not quite believing that she was here, “Let’s talk another time. I have a lot of work to do.”

“Work?” Maya’s eyes grew wide, “Are you serious?”

“Yes,” Ria fixed the creases on her dress, “Now that our Alpha is… busy, I have to step in. The pack comes first.”

She gave her friend another warm smile and added, “Everything is going to be all right, Maya. We are going to be fine. All of us.”

Riannon locked the door of her Luna office and tried to control her ragged breathing. Too much! Everything was too much for her. She needed to clear her head and think of everything. She needed a plan. And a good one. She had to save everyone, herself included.

But the office was too stuffy. And she needed to breathe!

Only one thing could help her and it was shifting into her wolf.

Riannon went into the woods that were surrounding their pack and stripped, preparing to change her form.

But nothing happened.

"Onyx, are you there?" she spoke to her wolf for the first time since her sudden rebirth less than an hour before but did not get a reply. It was alarming. Onyx was there her whole life.

"Onyx!" Ria called for her second half but was met with silence. Angry, she ran as fast as she could using her human legs. She was still super fast and strong, which could only mean that her wolf was somewhere there. She was not weak. But what was wrong?

Chapter 3. The Call

CHAPTER 3

The Call

It did not take her long to get to her most favourite place in the world – the Silver Mirror Lake. This was the only place where Riannon could be alone. It was far enough from the packhouse and close to the borders of the pack. But it was safe since they did not have any rogue attacks in that area. Just one pack away from here was the Lycans territory and it was rumoured that the Alpha King residence was also somewhere close. No one was foolish enough to enter these lands and check though.

So, Ria did not think twice when she stopped by the ledge of the lake, naked, and jumped into the water. It was cold but at the same time, it was exactly what she needed to calm herself down.

She let herself embrace the dark night when only the full moon shone upon her, making crystals of water sparkle on her skin when she felt someone’s presence. It was powerful and dominating, yet did not belong to her husband and made her alert at once.

Pretending that nothing happened, Ria carefully looked around and her eyes caught a figure of a huge wolf at a hill on the other side of the lake. He was dark, probably black. And his eyes were shining golden.

It was a bad sign. Very bad.

Riannon decided not to risk it and went underwater, getting to the shore as soon as she could and running for her life. Only a loud howl followed her.

She was back in the safe territory in no time. Luckily, her clothes were right where she left them. She pulled her dress on and tried to do the zipper at the back but her fingers were not reaching it.

“Let me help,” two hands touched her back and Beta Asher helped her with her little problem. Ria wondered if he had been there the whole time. But it did not matter in the long run. Werewolves were used to naked bodies. It wouldn’t be the first time he saw her without clothes. It wouldn’t be the last… probably.

“What are you doing here?” she asked the man, turning to face him.

“I’ve been waiting for you,” he said with an unreadable expression on his face, “Found your clothes and understood that you were on a run. But why didn’t you shift?”

“I did,” she lied without blinking. If anyone knew that she couldn’t shift, then her fate would be decided even sooner. She couldn’t afford that. Ria knew that she needed time. “But that’s not important,” she decided to change the subject quickly, “There was an intruder at the Silver Lake. Send wolves to check it out.”

“Of course, Luna,” he said and his eyes lost focus for a second as he was giving orders via the mind link.

Riannon decided not to wait for him and walked slowly into the house. But Ash caught up with her quickly and opened the door to the mansion for her.

“It’s going to be alright,” he said to her all of a sudden and she stopped. Back in the day, he used to say it to her all the time. Yet when decisions had to be made, he always took her husband’s side. It was one of the betrayals that hurt the most because she was sure that her relationship with the Beta was good prior to all that. Yet he didn’t even object when they stripped her of her title… There were a lot of things that she wanted to tell him but she couldn’t.

So, she just placed her delicate hand on his broad shoulder and looked him in the eye, smiling sadly, “You knew, didn’t you?”

His expression changed as if a flash of lightning hit him and his lips parted slightly.

“Yes, Luna,” he confessed, darting his eyes to the ground.

“It’s okay,” she patted him, “I understand. You can’t go against your Alpha’s command.”

“If I could…” he started to speak but she placed her finger to his mouth making a shushing sound.

“Doesn’t matter,” she shrugged her shoulders, “At least I will always have your support, Ash. Right?”

“Always, Luna,” his breathing became heavy and Ria tilted her head, watching him. This was an interesting development. Why was he reacting like that?

“Then, of course, I’ll be fine,” she chuckled and went inside. She had to think of what to do next.

Ria locked herself in her bedroom. She knew that Brayden would not be coming back tonight to share the bed with her. As far as she remembered, he hadn't been sleeping with Roxy at that point yet and spent the whole night in his private office drinking and thinking of life. In the morning, he would bring her flowers and gifts… and an apology even. But Roxy would still stay.

After a long and relaxing bath, Ria went to her desk and got her old journal. She hadn’t been using it for many years, but it was dear to her heart. And it was just the right place to write down every single event that was important and that was going to happen within the year leading to her death.

She tried to remember everything while she still could.

And she knew very well what she was going to do with this information. The game was on.

The plan was simple, really. Since she couldn’t change the main event and get rid of Roxy, she had to leave. But she couldn’t leave without her pack and without making sure that all her dear friends were alive and well. Not to mention, that it was particularly important to try and show Brayden and the rest Roxanne’s true face. Everybody around thought that she was an angel while, in fact, she was the devil. Ria was afraid to even think what would happen if Roxy became the Luna for real, because she for sure wouldn’t have the pack’s interests at heart.

And although Ria’s own heart craved revenge, she didn’t want her life's work to be ruined. Plus, she didn’t have it in her heart to hate everyone. She saved it for just a selected few. The ones who betrayed her trust and led to her demise, the ones who promised her respect and protection but gave her humiliation and suffering. Yes, those were the ones she was going to concentrate on.

The door suddenly opened, and Brayden walked in, making her close the journal with the list of events and names rapidly and hide it back in the drawer. Luckily, he didn’t pay attention to that.

Guilt was all over his face and Ria wanted to roll her eyes, but held herself back. She couldn’t give herself away. This event did not happen prior. In her past life, he didn’t visit her that night. This was new and she had to be cautious.

“Ri,” he walked further into the room, “Ash informed me that you encountered an intruder. Are you okay?”

This was funny. She was sitting there, clearly looking well and in one piece. Who was he kidding? Was it guilt because she put up a fight and he still chose his mate?

“It was unpleasant,” Riannon shrugged her shoulders and stood up. If he decided to ignore the big pink elephant in the room, she could do the same. In the end, it was for the best. Their past conversations about Roxy never ended well. He would never believe what a monster his mate was. So, the less Riannon talked about her, the better.

“And also disappointing”, she went to the window to hide her facial expression.

“How so?” Brayden caught the bait.

“We are one of the strongest packs and some wolf is just wandering on our territory, spying on your Luna who is swimming naked in the lake…”

“He what?” Brayden growled possessively. Back in the day, it would drive her crazy in the best sense of the word. But right now… she was annoyed. He just claimed another woman in front of so many people. He had no right to growl like that in her presence anymore. She didn’t put it into words, of course.

“You heard me,” she said, “And instead of looking for that wolf the Alpha is doing goddess knows what. No offence, but this is exactly what I was talking about earlier today. Your mate already distracted you from what was important.”

It was a low blow. But she needed him to be busy with something else right now. In the past, the closer he got to Roxy, the more power and supporters she received. And the worse it got for Riannon and her close people. If she could postpone the wheel of events for at least one day, she would do it.

“You are angry,” he sighed, “I understand, of course. I broke my promise to you. I…”

“Let’s not speak of it,” she stopped him, “It is what it is.”

“Ri, baby,” he nibbled on her neck, right where he marked her years ago, bonding their two wolves forever, acknowledging her as his chosen mate. “I hurt you and I will do anything to fix that.”

Not everything. She knew that too well.

“Only you can be my Luna, you know that, right?” he started peppering her neck with kisses, trying to unzip her dress at the same time.

This was… odd. She hadn’t slept with him for a while. Their paths went in different directions more than half a year ago in her past life. She was his abandoned and rejected wife…

Ria clenched her fists and then turned to face him.

“No!” she made him stop, “Not today.” Or ever. He had his last chance and he blew it. She did not want him anymore. If her wolf Onyx was here now, she would be howling from pain as she was attached to Brayden’s wolf Ragnar. But she didn’t feel Onyx now. She wasn’t under her influence. And she was furious.

She did not show it though. Her mom trained her well to conceal emotions. Finally, it was useful.

“Ri?” Brayden looked at her in shock. Before this day they were happy together. Which reminded Ria that he probably found Roxy earlier and was lying to her for the past few days. Or maybe weeks. “Honey, don’t do this. I love you and we are family. We will always be family.”

“Believe it or not, but I am not feeling well after everything that happened today,” she looked him in the eye, “But it will make me happy if you bring me the intruder’s head.”

He nodded quietly, “Anything for you, Ri.”

Her husband brushed her cheek and she tolerated that. Even forced a smile for the sake of the show.

“You’ll have his head in the morning!” he promised before leaving her alone.

Maya tried to reach her mentally but Riannon just asked her to wait until the morning.

After a mostly sleepless night, she knew what she had to do and she also knew her first step.

In her office, she dialled the number that none other werewolves would risk dialling. But she was left with no choice.

“Hello, Beta Reid speaking,” the annoyed male voice sounded on the other end and Riannon gulped before speaking.

“Hello, Beta. This is Luna Riannon Thorn. Nee Michaels.”

It didn’t ring a bell to him.

“And?” he seemed bored.

“Seven years ago I saved your nephew during a rogue attack in one of the boarding schools. Back then you gave me this number and told me that you owe me one.”

The lycan paused before answering her.

“And I guess you are calling to collect?” he chuckled, “And here I thought that there were selfless people in this world…”

“I wouldn’t ask if lives did not depend on it,” she interrupted him. Lycans were hard to get in touch with. They did not mingle with regular werewolves with rare exceptions. But sometimes they attended elite boarding schools for shifters. That’s when Ria’s luck was on her side.

“Fine,” the man agreed, “What do you want then?”

“I need to speak to the Lycan Alpha King,” Riannon said firmly.

Chapter 4. Royal Confrontation

“Bold, aren’t we?” the Beta chuckled and Ria didn’t know what to think. “Do you think that the King will do whatever I tell him?”

“I hope he respects you enough to do you a little favour,” she bit her lip. She was walking on thin ice here and was aware of that.

But she had no choice either.

“Fine,” the man grunted softly and for the first time Ria wondered what he was doing, “Crystle, dear, that’s enough of sucking. I need to go.”

Then he groaned again and Riannon’s ears turned red with embarrassment. Was he in bed with someone? Why did he pick up then?!

There were sounds of rustling and a female voice, “See you tonight, Beta.” And then sounds of steps.

“Just so that you know,” the Beta spoke again, “I am sacrificing a lot right now to pay you back. So, after you talk to him, Consider us done.”

“Of course,” Ria cleared her throat, “I appreciate your… sacrifice.”

He chucked and then she heard a sound of a creaking door.

“Hey, G. I need you to speak to someone,” the sounds were muffled but she could still understand everything.

“Not interested,” the other man growled and now Riannon was very afraid. She thought if the king was… busy as well. He sure wouldn’t sacrifice his pleasure time for her.

“I am not trying to set you up with anyone,” the Beta burst out laughing, “It’s just some werewolf Luna. I owe her one, okay?”

“Not interested,” was the reply and Ria’s heart sunk. This was it. It was her best chance… In her past life, she called Beta Reid as well. Later in the timeline of events. But he never picked up. Lycans had some kind of trouble in their lands too by the end of the year. He was probably too busy by the time she gained the courage to call. She called him again and again until the calls stopped coming through, meaning that he probably blocked her.

“Give her 5 minutes,” from the sounds of it, the man shoved the phone into his king’s hands. Another growl emerged and Ria was about to give up. But then she heard a resounding metallic voice.

“Hello, Alpha Gideon speaking,” the man said and she sucked in a breath. He didn’t even use his title. Was that really the Lycan King?

“Hello, your majesty,” she decided to address him formally anyway, “ My name is Riannon Thorn. I am the Luna of the Silver River pack.”

He was silent and it bothered her. But she remembered that she only had 5 minutes with him.

“I need your help,” she breathed out, “My husband is the Alpha Brayden Thorn and we are planning to divorce in the nearby future.”

“Fascinating,” the man said without any emotions in his voice, “ But what does it have to do with me? You can divorce any time you like without my help.”

“I know, Alpha,” she agreed and heard him growl slightly, “That’s not the part that I need your help with. You see, we are chosen mates. And when we got married, we merged our packs. What I really want from you is to help me to get my people and my territory back. You are the Alpha King and when I raise this dispute, your word will be the last at the Alpha Council. They wouldn't be able to decline.”

“Hmm,” he sounded amused, “And you think that the case would go that far? You do know that the Alpha council consists of male alphas. What makes you think at least anyone will support you?”

“They will if they know that you are on my side,” Riannon felt braver now, “But also I have proven myself as a leader and warrior. This shouldn’t be a problem.”

“Then maybe everything is awesome and you don’t need my help at all?” He chucked.

“I do, your majesty,” she assured him, “I really do. And I would really appreciate it.”

“This is a complex matter,” he said after a short pause, “Not something I would decide over the phone. And to be honest, it doesn’t sound serious enough to bother.”

Ria felt rage boiling her blood. Was he serious?! Was that it?!

“But…”

“There is nothing to talk about. You got married and gave your pack to your husband. You didn’t think this through and it was your mistake only. Now it’s too late,” the Alpha King seemed bored, “He will still owe you generous alimony according to our laws. You will keep your luxurious lifestyle if that’s what bothers you…”

“It’s not about that!” She gritted her teeth, “I can’t leave my people with them!”

“Them?” The king scoffed, “So, this is the problem. He found another and you are bitter about it?”

This was useless. Ria hit her desk with her fist, almost breaking it. This kind of mocking was not new to her. By now she heard it all. Even from the people who were considered her friends.

“I am not bitter!” She spat, “I am furious. Because only now do I see how many flaws our system has! How unfairly and unequally women are treated when a male doesn’t stand by her side anymore! How few chances we are given to prove ourselves. Sure, you will make a woman a warrior and speak about equality but when it comes to higher positions, you will make a woman work three times harder than a man to even consider her for the job! I was doing an Alpha’s job for years by my husband’s side and I’ve done it flawlessly. But all you see is a wounded woman who can’t get over her husband’s betrayal. And you know what, it hurts like but here I am, not whaling in pain but trying to figure out my next move. You don’t even know what is going on but you already judged me. What a disappointing introduction to my king!”

She threw her phone away with force, looking at how it smashed over the wall into several pieces.

What a joke!

Gideon sat in his huge leather chair behind his desk staring at his Beta’s phone. What the was that now? Did she scold him and then hang up?

“O-kay,” Reid carefully took his cell back, “I see that went well.”

“Remind me again who was it?” Gideon looked at his friend furrowing his thick brows.

“What?” Reid let out a nervous laugh, “Before I tell you… Are you going to kill her or…”

“REID!” Gideon growled so loudly that probably all members of his pack heard him well.

“Fine!” the Beta fell into the chair opposite of him, “She is the Luna of the Silver River pack.”

Silver River… not far from Silver Lake.

“What else?” the king tapped his fingers over the top of his desk impatiently.

“Her name is Riannon Thorn, if my memory does not fail me, she has been a Luna for five or six years. Seven maybe.”

“You said that you owed her,” Gideon was piercing Reid with his gaze, “How so? Is she one of your many whores?”

“Of course not!” the Beta sounded offended, “She… she saved Kyle seven years ago. The rogues attacked his boarding school and she was visiting some event there. She wasn’t a Luna back then, by the way. But she was preparing for the role.”

“She saved him?” Gideon rubbed the bridge of his nose.

“Yes, she killed a few rogues and protected him. He was just 12 back then. If she didn’t come on time…”

“Why didn’t you tell me?” the king groaned.

“There was no time!” Reid shook his shoulders, “And how could I know that you would be such a d*ck to her?!”

“Is there a good time to be a d*ck?” the Beta chuckled, just annoying him more.

“Find out where I can meet her,” Gideon cut him off, “I am intrigued. She does seem… feisty.”

“Just the way you hate them,” Reid stood up but when he noticed his Alpha’s glare, he wiped the smile off his face, “I’ll go… get to work.”

Gideon threw his back over his chair. He had a lot on his mind already and this woman… she got to him on some level. A smile curled onto his lips. It had been a while since someone dared to speak to him like that. Luna Riannon was amusing indeed.

And since she saved Kyle, he owed it to her to at least have a look at her case.

So be it.

Riannon prepared herself for the breakfast. She put on a simple yet elegant dress and brushed her hair so that it fell down her shoulders in soft waves. She didn’t use any makeup today because she knew very well what she was going to face once she went downstairs.

But she almost bumped into Maya at the door.

“Ria,” her friend tried to smile carelessly but she could tell that the latter was nervous, “How about we eat here and chat. Just the two of us?”

Riannon smiled. She knew that Maya tried to protect her from the new harsh reality. But luckily, she was ready for everything.

“Maybe another time,” she said, taking Maya’s hand and still not believing that she was alive, “Right now I need to do something. Just be by my side, okay?”

“Always,” Maya’s eyes glistened with tears.

The dining room was buzzing, but as soon as she stepped foot into it, everyone got quiet. On her first day in the pack, Roxy already sat at the table with the highest-ranked wolves and was clearly in the centre of the attention.

“Luna!” she jumped to her feet after she let Ria watch her succeed, “P-please, forgive my rudeness! I know my place!”

Here we go again…

Chapter 5. The Beta Female Best Friend

Goddess, she hated her. Roxy was looking at Ria with huge doe eyes in front of everyone and even shaking slightly to add some drama. She always did this. Their every meeting was a performance.

Riannon used to always be reserved towards her, leaving it her priority to supress her feelings and hide how hurt she was with the whole situation. And Roxy used it to her advantage masterfully, painting herself as the sweet girl and the Luna as the icy queen.

Well, Riannon wasn't going to let her do this anymore. This pattern had to change. Luckily, she had just the best teacher - Roxanne herself. She put her through so many awkward and humiliating situations in the past that now Ria was ready for everything.

Moreover, she knew that what she did before did not work.

So, she was going to try something else.

“I am so sorry, Luna,” Roxy prepared to fall to her knees again but Riannon rushed to her aid and gave her the biggest of hugs. The two women froze together like this while the room filled with awkward silence. Someone dropped a fork and from the corner of her eye Ria noticed that it was her friend Maya.

“Roxy,” Riannon finally distanced herself and sighed with a sad smile on her face, “I can call you that, right? I want you to know that this is a safe place for you. No one will ever hurt you. We are nothing like the pack that you came from. You will always be treated nicely here since you are a member now. The hard days for you are over.”

She grazed her eyes quickly over the room to see stunned expressions on the faces of her pack mates. They did not expect that. Back in her past life, she tried to ignore Roxanne as much as she could, while staying polite when they had to talk. Everyone understood but the more Roxy cried, the more they felt pity towards her. She found her way into people's hearts. Over time, a lot of them stood on her side because she was, after all, their Alpha’s true mate and she had a hard life prior. Meanwhile, Riannon was born with a silver spoon in her mouth. And however great of a Luna she was, they thought that it wasn’t a big deal since she was born and trained to do it. No one understood how much she worked and what she sacrificed to reach this perfection.

Suddenly, Roxy threw herself in Ria’s arms again.

“Thank you!” she whined, making Riannon want to strangle her. If Onyx, her wolf, was here, it could have ended fast. But Onyx wasn't close and she knew that this was a battle of acting skills now. Meanwhile Roxy went on, “I was sure that the nightmare in which I lived in this whole time would repeat here as well! But you are so kind! I am ready to do any job! However hard it is…I’ll be your personal maid if I have to.”

At the head of the table, her husband Brayden was watching them with his lips clenched. It was hard for Ria to hold back a laugh, since she knew by the way he looked that he had been busy all night looking for the intruder. He hated that his mate was ready to become a cleaner. And on top of that, his wife did not behave the way he expected her to. She was sure that she shocked him for life now.

Get used to that, my love.

“Don’t be ridiculous, Roxy!” Ria gasped and even forced a small tear to roll down her cheek. After all, hugging her worst enemy was horrible and a part of her did want to cry. “You suffered enough and my heart goes for you. I will assign you work according to your abilities. And if they aren’t enough at the moment for a decent job, we will send you to study at the local college. Everything will be fine, do not worry. You will not be mistreated here. Our pack is a fair one. Brayden and I were building it for years. Everybody gets what they deserve. And so will you.”

The omega frowned but quickly regained herself. Did she know that it was a promise?

“I am the luckiest girl alive,” she smiled innocently, flapping her eyelashes,“No wonder my mate… I mean, the Alpha is so in love with you, Luna. Now I see that what people say about you is true.”

“Oh, you will have to tell me later!” Ria giggled and pushed Roxy back to the chair she was sitting at prior. Luckily, she didn’t risk taking the Luna’s seat or the one right next to Bray. She would soon take it of course. But at least Ria didn’t have to deal with it today.

“I will be happy to!” Roxane shook her red locks and the oversized t-shirt that she was wearing fell off her shoulder “accidentally”, making Brayden look at her with eyes filled with lust. The mate bond was already working. And their time was slipping away.

“By the way,” Riannon took a sip of her coffee and it seemed more bitter than usual, “We need to assign a budget for Roxanne.”

Once again, the whole room went quiet.

“Are you sure, Luna?” Beta Asher spoke, “She is just an omega and…”

“She is not a simple omega,” Riannon raised her chin high and put a perfect smile on her face, “She is our Alpha’s mate. He did not reject her and she is a part of our pack now. She needs to look the part, so it’s time to throw away the worn-out t-shirts and jeans.”

“That’s very kind of you, Luna,” Maya couldn’t stay silent anymore, “Some would even say too kind. I mean, considering…”

“I do what I can,” Ria sent her best friend a warning gaze and as always, Maya understood her without words, “And let’s make this clear once and for all. I was very serious about Roxy being treated nicely here. I don’t want anyone to bully her just because the three of us are in a peculiar situation now. I wish her no harm and will have zero tolerance to the ones who try to do it.”

And with that, she started to eat her omelette as if nothing special happened, catching glances of her pack mates on her.

There they were. The looks they used to give to Roxy. Now they were rewarding Ria with those. Only that this time there was more respect than pity.

Back in the day, Ria did all the same things. But her mistake was not to announce it in front of everyone. And in the end, Roxy played them and made them believe that Ria mistreated her where she could.

She caught Brayden’s gaze on her and sent a small smile his way, startling him. At least she was getting exactly the reactions that she wanted. For the first day back, this was good.

Right after the breakfast Maya pulled her into the Luna office and made sure to lock the door properly. The room had sound isolation and they could talk in private without the fear of being overheard.

“What the are you doing?” she hissed at her friend, “You are welcoming his mate?! You should have insisted again and again on him rejecting her!”

“Oh, M,” Ria couldn’t help herself and hugged the girl once again. She still smelled of almonds and this made her broken heart warm again.

“Stupid perfect Luna! You can’t be this kind!” Maya almost sobbed, “You loved him all your life! He marked you for Goddess’s sake! What was he thinking?!”

“I know,” Ria sighed, stepping away, “But that ship has sailed. No one can fight the mate bond. That battle was lost the moment he met her and didn’t reject her.”

“You are so calm about it! I can’t believe this!” the girl shook her head, clear signs of worry on her face.

Ria contemplated for a few seconds but deep inside she knew, that if she could entrust this secret to anyone, it would be her best friend since childhood.

“I need to tell you something,” Riannon took Maya’s hands and led her to the armchair, sitting on the verge of her desk. “But I will need you to be open-minded about what I am about to say.”

She spoke and spoke, and the more she told her, the paler her friend became. She omitted the part about Maya’s own death. There was no need for that. She knew that the small fragments she was ready to share now would be enough for her.

When she was done, Maya looked at her with red eyes, “It’s…”

“Unbelievable, I know,” Riannon sighed.

“Horrible!” her friend took her hands and gave them a tight squeeze, “Ria! That’s awful! What you had to go through…”

“Wait, you meant you have no doubts in what I said now?” the Luna raised her brow. She expected that she would need longer to persuade her bestie.

“You wouldn’t joke about it at a moment like that,” Maya leaned back on her chair, “And as far as I know, you were madly in love with Brayden just yesterday. But now… You are so calm that it’s frightening. So this explains a lot. You don't get over love like that in one day.”

That was true. Riannon did not know for sure if all love she had for Brayden was gone, but she definitely wasn't the same girl from before. She was twenty-five but it felt as if she lived much longer now. Suffering and broken heart could do that to people.

“And it doesn’t bother you how crazy that sounds?” Ria decided to make sure they were on the same page.

“I believe in the Moon Goddess,” Maya shook her shoulders, “She may have wanted Brayden to be with someone like that… Roxanne. But I will never believe that she would want such a death for you! Anyone but you!”

“I missed you so much,” Ria couldn’t help herself and gave Maya another hug. She went quiet for a bit and I gave herself a promise that whatever happened, she would at least save her best friend. She was not going to lose her again.

“So, what’s the plan?” Maya went into the battle mode fast. She was one of those underappreciated wolves. They called her Luna’s assistant and both of them hated that. She had pure Beta blood and could take down an Alpha if she tried hard. Maybe not any Alpha but definitely most of them. They thought too much of themselves and always underestimated pretty girls.

“The plan is to divorce and take our pack back,” Ria smiled, knowing that she had a great ally on her side now, “The Pearl Moon.”

“Is this even possible?” Maya whistled, “I mean, if you quickly get pregnant with Brayden’s baby and then we kill him, we could get this all…”

“No, thank you,” Ria first with laughter, “Goddess you are so bloodthirsty!”

“My hands are just itching to cut his di…”

“I got you!” the Luna covered her face with her hands, trying to suppress another outburst of giggles.

“You know what, I have an idea!” Maya said all of a sudden, “How about we ask lycans for help?! This may actually…”

“Been there, done that. Their king is an a$shole,” Ria rolled her eyes.
“You what?!” her friend’s jaw dropped to the floor.

“I had one lycan who owed me and asked him to arrange a conversation with his king. But you have no idea how arrogant he is!” Ria explained.

“Worse than Brayden?” Maya chuckled.

“Worse than Brayden,” Ria confirmed.

“Okay then, what’s next?” the Beta female never gave up and this was one of the very many reasons they became friends in the first place.

“Simple, really. I need to get the support of as many Alphas as I can,” Riannon exhaled loudly, “So that when the divorce comes into force, they give me their votes when I raise the matter in the Alpha Counicl. And I will.”

“How many do you think will support you?” Maya asked bluntly, getting her cell our of her pocket, "Count on the alphas where mu cousins are Betas. I'll take care of them."

“Not sure yet, but I know where to strike first,” Ria tapped her fingers over the cold wood of her desk, waiting for Maya to tear her eyes off the phone and spare her a look.

“Do tell!” the girl seemed genuinely interested.

“The most important event of the year that is just around the corner,” Riannon smirked, "The annual Alpha ball"

Chapter 6. Dress to Impress

“Ri,” Brayden’s head popped out of the door of Riannon’s office right when she was finishing discussing the pack’s primary school budget with the headmistress, “Do you have a sec?”

“Yes, we are done here,” Ria handed the papers to the woman in front of her and the latter gave her a sympathetic smile. The Luna remembered very well that she was the one who stood by her by the very end. That was one of the reasons she managed to squeeze in a little extra cash for the school.

“Luna, Alpha,” the headmistress bowed her head and left, leaving the husband and the wife alone for the first time in a while. For the last few days, Riannon tried to avoid Brayden at all costs. She remembered too well that their every meeting in the past life was ending badly during those days. Back then she tried to keep her dignity and not approach him first. They had meals together with pack members as always. And work meetings with Beta, Gamma and so on. But other than that, every time Bray wanted to talk to her, Riannon was finding a perfect excuse to escape. There was no point in talking to him since nothing could be changed. She debated telling him the truth about her rebirth but swept that idea under the rug. He could decide that she was crazy and use that during their divorce when she planned to get her pack back.

The silence was getting awkward.

“Long time no see,” he came closer and she remained behind her desk to make it harder for him to approach her.

“Yeah, it’s been a while,” Ria threw herself back in her chair, “Is it about the Alpha Ball?”

“Did you get my flowers?” he asked.

The flowers kept coming. He was probably still feeling guilty.

“Yes, they are lovely,” she forced a smile, “Thank you. So, did you come to speak about the Alpha Ball?”

They already had this conversation. He caught her in her office and broke her heart.

“Yes,” Brayed pulled the collar of his shirt to make it easier to breathe while Ria watched him with an indifferent expression that was clearly making him uncomfortable. “It’s about Roxy… I mean Roxanne.”

“What about her?” she pretended not to know what it was about.

“Listen,” he sighed and averted her gaze, “I kind of promised her that I would take her to the ball as my partner.”

“Oh, really?” Riannon tilted her head, “I wonder when and how that happened?”

“It’s… a long story,” he cleared his throat, “Please, understand. My wolf is dying when she is unhappy. And she has never been to a ball like that.”

“Oh, my,” Ria gasped and shook her head, “Should I maybe take Enzo with me? He hasn’t seen an event like that either. And neither did Cole.”

She mentioned the hottest single warriors of the pack on purpose. And heard a growl emerge from her husband’s chest. That served him right.

“What is it with you lately, Ri?” he looked at her in disbelief, “My Luna will not be going with someone else!”

“But it’s okay if my Alpha goes with someone else? How is that fair?” she shot her brow up, challenging him. And Brayden hated challenge.

“Maybe you should sit this one out then!” he snarled at her and for the first time, she started to get worried here. She needed that ball. She needed it badly.

“No, thanks,” the Luna crossed her hands on her chest, “I got my own personal invitation. Besides, it’s important to mingle with other Lunas for the sake of our pack. We still need to organise student and warrior exchanges and a couple of mating events for over 18s. Or do you expect Roxy to be able to deal with it instead of enjoying her first big ball? What kind of Cinderella she would be then if she would have to work again?!”

He exhaled through his nostrils and she knew that she managed to win.

“Fine,” he grunted standing up, “But you will go with Ash then. He is going anyway since he is the pack’s Beta.”

“Now you are sucking the fun out of his life too?” Ria chuckled, “I am sure he had a girl to take there and impress.”

“He already agreed to be you plus one,” Brayden informed her, “He’ll protect you there too.”

“How thoughtful,” she decided just to go with it. Getting rid of Ash would be easy anyway. He would see some Alpha’s daughter and off he would go.

Brayden prepared to leave but stopped at the door and turned to look at her again

“Ri,” he looked her in the eye, “It’s just a transition period. We will get through this and everything will be fine.”

Lies.

“I will never take another Luna except for you.”

Lies.

“I still love you, it’s just that she had such a hard life and I am not a monster. She is just a sweet girl, she will never take your place.”

Lies, lies, lies.

“Thank you for telling me that,” she nodded, “I needed to hear that, Bray.”

She even forced a smile.

“Look, when the ball is over, let’s take a day off. Just you and me. What do you think?” he suggested all of a sudden and now she looked at him in surprise. This was new. It didn’t happen in the past.

“We’ll have to see our schedules for that,” she stretched her lips further, “But it’s a nice idea.”

“Then I’ll see you around?” he suddenly looked relieved as if he got rid of some kind of trouble here.

“I am your wife, am I not?” she chuckled and his smile faded.

He left and Ria’s phone buzzed with a notification that the dresses should have already arrived.

She paused just for a second. It worried her that he offered that day off thing. Was it a good sign or a bad? She wanted to change the events that caused so many disasters but this exact one wasn’t in her plans.

In the end, she was late for the fitting and entered the room full of the most important females of the pack. Maya was there along with their friends Tatiana and Aria. They greeted her in their usual friendly way. On the other side of the room sat Harper and her minions.

Harper was Brayden’s sister. And for some reason, she never liked Riannon too much since they were younger. She was one of the first to openly support Roxy. She was the one who opened the door for others who didn’t know what to do and actually promoted the evil redhead monster.

“Bring in the dresses,” Ria commanded firmly. She wanted to be done here quick.

It was a tradition of their pack that outfits for the ladies invited to the Alpha ball were chosen together and paid for by the pack. After all, they all were representing the Silver River pack and it was important to let others see how well they were doing.

A few omegas rolled in clothing racks with the most beautiful evening dresses from the top designers. Luna always was the first one to choose and then they went according to their ranks. The rest of the clothes was sent back.

Riannon knew very well which dress she was going to pick but still pretended to look at them all to avoid suspicion.

“How about that emerald one?” Harper suggested the colour that would never suit Riannon blonde hair and blue eyes.

“Do you like it?” she got the hanger and placed it to her chest with a smile, “It’s Zac Posen.”

“Beautiful!” her sister-in-law sneered.

“Then I will leave it for you,” Ria returned the facial expression and kept going. Soon she reached it. She remembered that dress well. Peach and shiny, with loads of rhinestones on the top.

She was choosing long enough and she took that one, moving to the mirror.

Any second now…

The door opened and Roxy barged in, gasping, “Oh, my goddess! Luna! I am so sorry! I’ll just go away not to ruin your mood.”

She was already doing it. Implying that just a sight of her was affecting Riannon.

And it was. But it was mean to bring this up.

“Stay,” Ria smiled gently and noticed how everyone was watching the two of them, “You are going to the ball too and you need an outfit.”

“I already got one,” Roxanne mumbled, “From all the money that you gave me. I got it in H&M.”

One of Harper’s minions snorted.

“This will not do,” Riannon turned and sighed, “You need a dress good enough for your new status.”

“And what is that?” Harper couldn’t help but ask the provocative question.

“Member of the Silver River pack,” Ria replied without any hesitation, “Look around. What do you like?”

A little sob emerged. And then a sniffle. Everybody turned to see the crying Roxy.

“This is so sweet!” she whined, “You are such a great Luna to take care of someone like me. I never had such a beautiful dress in my life!”

She pointed to the one that Riannon was holding.

“I thought I’d never…have… an opportunity.”

She burst out crying and Ria did her best not to roll her eyes.

“You can have it,” she stretched her hands with the garment towards the omega and pretty much everybody in the room was in shock.

“But Luna!” Aria gasped, “You need to be the first.”

“That’s fine,” Riannon shook her shoulders, “I saw a red one that I like too back there. Roxy can have that one since it’s the one that made you cry like that.”

Roxanne seemed a bit startled and Luna came closer, pushing the tasteless peach dress that was good enough for a middle school prom in some village.

“No, really,” Ria smirked, “I want you to have it.”

Their eyes met and Roxy gaped, realising that she had just been tricked.

“Now go to your room and try it on. It will look beautiful on you.” Or hideous.

As soon as Roxy left, Ria quickly went back to the rack and grabbed the first red dress she saw.

“I like this one,” she went out of the room as quickly as she could, followed by Maya, “Choose what you like, ladies.”

They came straight to Maya’s bedroom and as soon as they closed the door, they started laughing hysterically.

“Oh, my goddess!” Maya chuckled, “This was fun!”

“Indeed,” the Luna agreed, throwing away the red piece of fabric she had. Because the real dress that she was going to wear to the ball was right here. It was the most beautiful dress she had laid her eyes on. It was a stunning wine red off-shoulder gown made of silk chiffon, draped beautifully around the breast and down to the waist, creating a geometrical pattern and, but flowing freely to the ground.

It was a gown fit for a queen. And in the past life, Ria didn’t even order it for viewing as it was way out of her budget. But this time around she saw it again and thought to herself – just why the not?!

The last time she went to the Alpha Ball, it was the most awful experience for her. Roxanne was wearing a beautiful white dress and looking like the little innocent omega she loved to pretend, gaining everybody’s sympathy.

At the same time, Riannon gained pity from the Alphas and was mocked by some of the Lunas who never liked her. It was humiliating as it was to come as the third wheel for her husband and his mate. But on top of that, Brayden spent the whole evening by Roxy’s side. Ria was in a sour mood the whole time although she still managed to negotiate a few things.

This time, she knew what to expect and was ready. This time, she was going there to work.

“Do I look nice?” Maya grinned as she stepped out of the bathroom in a royal blue tight gown.

“You took one too, I see,” Riannon giggled as her friend twirled in front of her.

Today was a success thanks to Maya. She was the one who received all the dresses before the pack omegas got them and brought the one Ria wanted to her room without anyone seeing it.

“Of course,” she placed her hands onto her hips, “We are leaving this pack, so I am not going to save them money.”

“Just don’t shout about it around the mansion, okay?” Ria rolled her eyes, “It’s a secret after all. But you do look nice.”

“Thanks!” Maya seemed to agree, “Shame I am not going with you. But there is always next time, right?”

“When I am the Alpha and you are my Beta, you will attend it every year,” Luna winked at her.

***

In the evening, Ria finished her makeup and hair and walked out to the main part of her bedroom to find a blue box on the little table together with a new bouquet. She opened it and saw a luxurious and probably crazy expensive diamond necklace together with a simple card with one word only on it. Sorry.

“Huh,” she bit her lip, remembering that last time Brayden gave it to Roxy. And he got her some ruby earrings which she never wore. That changed too.

However, now wasn’t the time to think about all that.

She put the necklace on since it was finishing her look just perfect and left for the ball.

She was walking down the stairs, the skirt of her dress flowing beautifully as she looked at it. Most of her hair was up, with a few curly locks falling down her bare shoulders.

“You look beautiful tonight,” a male voice made her flinch.

...

Open the app and continue reading the rest of the story . 👉
(It will automatically jump to the book when you open the app)

“You’re soaked, honey.” Calix voice was husky. “If you need to come, you have 3 mates who are more than capable of satisfying you.”

“Feel what you do to us sweetheart.” Alex boldly took my hands and put one on his mennber and the other on Felix’s.

“I'd never been with more than one person at once...” I had heard of girls with multiple mates passing out because their rgasms were so intense. I felt overwhelmed just thinking about it.

“We’ll be going easy on you babe.” said Felix with hungry eyes at my chest. “Gosh they are gorgeous. I can’t wait to taste them.”

I couldn’t help but let out a groan.

“I want... All of you. Now.” I opened my leegs wider and blurted out.

------

Tomorrow was my birthday, not that anyone cared or even remembered because it was also the birthday of the Thorn Triplets. The Thorn Triplets were the pride and joy of the Winter Moon Pack. They were the sons of Alpha Romeo Thorn. They were filthy rich, devilishly handsome and disgustingly arrogant. All the young she-wolves adored them wholeheartedly and stroked their egos on a daily basis. I was cursed to share a birthday and a home with them.

At the tender age of nine, my drug-addicted parents left the pack to go rogue and had not been seen or heard from since. They left no instructions regarding their wishes for me so I was taken into the pack house under the care of Alpha Romeo and his wife, Ronnie. As if I had not been devastated enough, I now had three twelve-year old tormenters. The identical triplet sons of the Alpha were, in order of birth, Alex, Felix and Calix. They despised me and ensured that I knew I was beneath them. My parents had incurred a huge debt due to their drug seeking habits which was paid off by the Alpha. Thus, I had to earn my keep and repay my debt by doing as many chores as possible while the triplets enjoyed an idyllic childhood in the very same house.

In some packs the new Alpha ascends at age eighteen when they first shift but in mine, the age for ascension was twenty one. Thus tomorrow, on November eleventh, the triplets would turn twenty-one and take over the pack while I would turn eighteen and experience my first shift. Eighteen was also the minimum age when werewolves found their fated mate but I did not care about that. All I wanted was to come of age so I could leave this behind.

At least, the pack house had beautiful scenery. We were close to the north pole so snow was an everyday affair though there was no sign of Santa Claus. I certainly did not expect any birthday presents this November or Christmas presents come December. The pack made it clear that I owed them money and they were subtracting everything they did not spend on me from the huge debt. They also subtracted my “wages” from the debt so I was never given any money. I was allowed food, clothes and shelter, the basics.

I slowly got out of bed. The sun was just peeking out from behind a snow-covered horizon. Everything glistened. I gazed out my window at the wintry terrain. I sighed. I had to start making breakfast for everyone. Despite the huge size of the pack house with its luxurious bedrooms and bathrooms, I was given a small empty storage room to stay in. I had a cot, a shelf of second-hand books and a single drawer full of second hand clothes. The other drawers contained extra cleaning supplies as I did the housekeeping work also.

I used the common room’s bathroom, showering quickly. I looked at myself in the mirror. My parents had name me Chasity but everyone in the pack called me Charity. This was started by the triplets as a joke and because they said it so often, even decent pack members thought it was my real name. I was so shy and scared as a child that I never bothered to correct them so it had stuck.

I detangled my waist-length dark blonde curls and put them up in a huge bun. Whenever I left them down the triplets would pull my hair ever since we were little. They had not grown out of this habit even in adulthood. I sighed. There were dark circles forming under my large brown eyes. My light brown skin looked sallow. I had been overworking myself or rather the Thorn family had been overworking me. They used to have a maid and a cook with me as the sole assistant of both, but they had fired them last month after numerous conflicts between them and the spoilt triplets. For the past month, I had been drowning in work while attending my final year of high school. I had seven more months of high school before I could leave this place. That was the deal. At eighteen and after high school, I got my freedom and whatever I had paid off by then would be the end of it. The current Alpha and Luna seemed to think they were being extremely generous.

The pack house had a really good heating system so despite the fact that outside looked like the frigid tundra, inside was pretty warm. I put on a long-sleeved white babydoll top that covered my behind as I was wearing just black leggings underneath. I started on breakfast. As it was the Triplets’ “birthday week” and they would soon be Alphas, everyday was a feast day. I made waffles, pancakes, bacon, scrambled eggs and sausages. I put the butter and maple syrup on the table. I made coffee. I quickly drank some sweet, milky coffee for some energy and started setting the table.

Luna Ronnie entered the dining room, eyeing me, scrutinising my handy-work. She was a tall woman with dark brown long straight hair, pale skin and green eyes.

“The table looks nice,” she said, a rare compliment. “But have you washed all the wares? Wash them all before you eat!”

Alpha Romeo sauntered in, kissing his Luna gently. He nodded in approval at the breakfast spread. I smiled feebly at him. I heard heavy footsteps on the stairs and I took a deep breath. The Triplet Terrors were coming. They towered over me at six feet and four inches each, exactly a foot taller than me. They resembled their father with their shoulder-length thick shiny black hair, chiseled faces, baby blue eyes, dimples and chin-clefts. As they were Alphas they were all broad-shouldered and muscled blessed with super speed and super strength even beyond what was considered extraordinary for a werewolf. They were perfectly identical and perfectly heinous or at least they were to me. Their deep voices boomed as they shouted excitedly, shoving each other playfully. They would be twenty-one tomorrow but they still acted like they were twelve.

Alex was the eldest and the most serious and severe. He would surely rule with an iron fist and a surly demeanour. Felix as the middle triplet loved being the centre of attention and was naturally filled with wise-cracks, jokes and quips. Classic middle child. The youngest, Calix, was the charmer, a professional sweet-talker and Mommy’s favourite. He almost treated me like I was human.

“Did you make all of this, Charity?” Asked Calix, immediately trying to pull my hair out of its bun. I nodded, dodging him, only to bump into Felix who smirked and slipped my hair tie off. My curls tumbled down all around me. Felix and Calix laughed.

“Stop!” I implored them, reaching for my only hair tie. Felix held it high above my head. He threw it to Alex who caught it and put it in his pocket. I tried to lunge towards Alex but Felix grabbed me. Felix and Alex started shoving me back and forth between them like I was a ball and they were playing catch.

“I give up! I give up!” I said while they snickered.

Calix said, “All right. Cut it out. Let her go wash the wares. Mom wants the place kept as clean as possible so there’ll be less to do tomorrow.”

The elder two relinquished me. I ran into the kitchen. My heart was racing. I started on the dishes. By the time I was done, the family of five hungry werewolves, four of them from Alpha stock, had devoured literally everything I made except for one pancake. The chairs were all empty. I went to get the last pancake but Felix snatched it up. He had zoomed in out of nowhere, fast as a cheetah and quiet as a mouse.

“I haven’t eaten anything,” I told him, my eyes wide.

“Good, you’re fat enough as it is,” he said, sneering. He ate the pancake in two bites.

I sighed. I refused to cry. I had not cried in front of them since the first year of torment when I was nine. My tenth birthday marked a very important vow I had made to myself after crying almost every single day at aged nine. The vow was that I would never let the Triplets make me cry ever again. I would be strong. I had kept that vow successfully for eight years come tomorrow. The comment stung though. The Triplets were widely regarded as the most handsome eligible bachelors in the Pack. They constantly attacked my weight. I was not overweight but I had a curvy hourglass figure. My waist was slender. I wore about a size 4 in clothes which was small enough in my opinion but all the Triplets had stick-thin size 0 girlfriends.

I had to take the bus to school. I had thrown on a man’s black coat over my white top and leggings, another hand-me-down. I managed to find another hair tie but this was truly the last one. The Pack high school was called Winter Moon High after the pack. Our pack colours, and therefore also the school colours, were white, blue and silver. The whole school was decorated with streamers and balloons in celebration of the new Alphas, the Triplets.

“You’re so lucky, Charity,” said Mina Toros, the most popular girl in my senior year. She tossed her long dark hair back and pursed her plump red lips in her locker’s inside mirror. She was wearing a pink skirt short enough to qualify as belt. Thank goodness she had opaque tights on underneath. She usually ignored me except for the occasional pronouncement of how “lucky” I was.

“The things I’d to those Triplets if I lived in that house,” Mina said, licking her lips.

“You’d have to drop out!” Squealed her best friend, the second most popular girl, Tina Gregory. “You’d get pregnant the first month there.”

Tina had flawless dark brown skin with curly hair. She was tall and waif-like and also wore a pink skirt short enough to be a belt with opaque tights. Mina and Tina usually matched as though they were twins. Mina cackled at Tina’s joke.

“You know, Charity,” said Mina suddenly. “You’re not totally hideous.”

Gee, thanks.

“Ok,” I said, clutching my books. The girls were blocking my locker which was sandwiched between their two lockers. Lucky me, indeed.

“Yeah,” agreed Tina. “Your hair is actually pretty. You’re like a biracial Goldie Locks.”

I smiled. That sounded like a real compliment.

“Thanks Tina!” I said.

“Ohhh! And those Triplets are the three bears!” Shrieked Mina. “If I were their Goldie Locks I’d make sure everything was just right, get it?”

“Or too big,” said Tina, giggling.

“That means one of the triplets has to be too small,” I said softly.

Being werewolves, Mina and Tina heard me and they burst out laughing. Wow. I was actually getting along with them for five minutes.

“That was a good one, Charity, surprising,” said Tina, looking at me like she was now seeing me for the first time.

“Yeah,” said Mina giving me the same strange appraising look. “You know, if you had the money, imagine how cute you could look.”

I fidgeted uncomfortably, suddenly hyperaware of the patches in my clothes. Mina and Tina strutted off and I hurriedly opened my locker and got out my Math book. Mr Johnson who coached football and taught Math looked like he should be an Alpha too. He was huge and really attractive for a teacher. He was married though to his mate, the Art teacher, Mrs Johnson. He handed out our graded tests while Tina and Mina made flirty faces at him. Those flirty faces were not doing them any good. I noticed they got an F and an F minus respectively. I did not know F minus existed before today. He smiled at me and winked. My heart skipped a beat. “A plus as usual Math champ,” he boomed. Mr Johnson was one of the few people in my life who was nice to me.

“Mina and Tina, see me after class,” Mr Johnson said.

After class, Ashton Peters, a tall buff redhead who played football and was well-liked in the pack, pretended to knock into my desk.The stack of papers on my desk went flying all over the room. Mr Johnson spotted it.

“Stay and help her pick those up, Aston, my boy,” boomed Mr Johnson.

“Aww, coach, I’ll be late for football practice,” he whined.

“And we’ll be late for cheerleading practice,” said Mina and Tina in unison, pouting.

“I’m the coach, Aston, go ahead and be late. I’ll explain to your cheerleading coach ok, girls,” said Mr Johnson.

Ashton grumbled. He glared at me as if this were my fault. He started picking up papers at werewolf speed which cause the ones I was picking up to fly around due to the displaced wind. I eavesdropped on the meeting with Mina and Tina.

“Mina, Tina, I’m giving you a homework assignment to make up those grades. If you don’t ace it there won’t be any cheerleading,” he said.

The girls gasped. He handed them a stack of papers each and told them they could work on it together and that he set the questions himself so they would not find the answers online. I snatched up the last few papers from the floor and took the stack Ashton was handing me without looking at me.

“Thanks,” I said softly to him.

He glanced down at me, surprised by my thanks. He looked a little guilty all of a sudden. Mr Johnson left the room, leaving Mina and Tina looking dejected. Ashton grabbed the hair tie from my hair just like Calix had this morning. My curls came tumbling down again. I shrieked. I was so fed up. Ashton laughed and ran away to football practice. There went my last hair tie and my birthday was tomorrow.

“Aren’t you going to cheerleading?” I asked the girls, actually feeling sorry for them as they had been sort of nice earlier.

“No,” said Mina.

“What’s the use. We’ll never ace this homework so we’ll fail the class and be banned from the squad anyway,” explained Tina.

I walked up to them and looked at the homework assignment. I snorted. I could get 100% in this in my sleep. I was suddenly struck by an idea.

“Remember how you girls said I had…potential,” I said, looking at them.

They shrugged.

“I’ll do the assignment and you copy it over in your handwritings and ace it ok,” I offered.

The girls squealed. They jumped up hugging each other and me.

“Wait!” Said Mina, raising her eyebrows.

“What’s the catch?” Asked Tina, narrowing her eyes.

“I’m turning eighteen tomorrow too,” I said.

They gasped.

“You have the same birthday as the triplets?” Mina asked.

“Wait that means everyone ignores your birthday like every single year,” said Tina.

It was my turn to shrug.

“And they will this year too but I at least wanna feel…special. I’m gonna shift for the first time at midnight and who knows…I might see my mate at the big party…not that I care…” I rambled.

“You wanna look hot! Is that it?” Mina said smirking.

“Yeah you want us to make you over?” Tina asked, smiling.

I nodded.

Chapter 2: Makeover!

I was supposed to go home immediately after school to help with the preparations for the huge birthday party tomorrow night for the Triplets but I had to do the assignment for the girls and they had to make me over. I knew I would pay for it later but whatever. The Thorns had hired a party planner. They should be okay for a few hours without their werewolf Cinderella.

I did the assignment for the girls literally in the car on the way to the mall. It was that easy. Math was my thing. I was a nerd in general and I was proud of this even though werewolves prized brawn and beauty over brains any day.

The girls were impressed. They quickly copied it over sitting in the freezing car parking lot with the heater turned up. Mina drove a sports car. I did not know what kind but I knew that Mina and Tina were almost as rich as the Alpha and his family. They dragged me into the mall, squealing excitedly as though I was doing them a favour even when it came to the makeover. I reminded them I had no money. They rolled their eyes and ignored me. I guessed I could consider the stuff they bought as part of the deal.

I tried on outfit after outfit. Mina and Tina rated each one and seemed to having a blast. This was actually kind of fun. They encouraged me to pick out a lot of miniskirts and mini dresses. They said I had “great legs” and “nice boobs” even though the Triplets called me fat. Honestly, the clothes they picked for me did look great. I had some trouble walking in heels but the girls made me practice in the store like it was a runway. They pretended to be on a catwalk too. They were so confident. I had to marvel at them. Next they showed me what makeup to wear and how to style my hair at Tina’s house. They did a test run. I looked in Tina’s floor-length mirror and my jaw dropped.

I had on high heeled black ankle boots with a mini pleated black skirt. I was wearing black stockings as it was cold out even for a werewolf. My long-sleeved white top had a sweetheart neckline that was really flattering. My hair was so shiny in loose bouncy curls down my back. My skin glowed and I had cat eyeliner and red lips that surprisingly suited me. I hugged Mina and Tina. Did I just make two friends?

They drove me to the pack house hoping to catch a glimpse of the triplets but they were not at home yet. Thank goodness! I started helping the party planner sort out all the decorations and the food. It was tomorrow night but there was a lot to do. I did my own homework in between all of this. I was a master multitasker. I heard three cars parking. It was the triplets. Alpha and Luna were out shopping for even more gifts despite the fact that I had already wrapped like a dozen gifts. The party planner was a bleached blonde in her thirties who was obsessed with the hunk-i-ness of the triplets. She seemed to dislike me even though I was the only one helping her. She had been over everyday this week and always tried to make me look bad in front of the triplets. I wanted to tell her that they already hated me so she could relax. Her name was Ronda Something. I kept forgetting her last name.

The triplets walked in. Each had their arm around a girl. They had different girlfriends every two months or so. It did not make sense learning the girls’ names. Also, the triplets were anxious to find their real mate. They were not sure if they had three separate mates or just one mate to share. Sounds crazy but when it came to identical multiples like twins and triplets, they usually shared a single mate since they had been one egg and one sperm that split to form the multiples. So theoretically identical twins and triplets were naturally occurring clones. Every girl wished she was their mate. That was so crazy to me. The triplets were handsome but they were awful and three mates sounded so complicated.

Ronda glared at their girlfriends, jealousy evident in her beady eyes. The girls did not stay long and when they left, Ronda told the triplets I had showed up really late to help her. I sighed. I had been under the table literally as I wrapped tiny presents for door prizes. All the pack members got to pick a mystery present from a huge box tomorrow.

I crawled out from under the table to make myself known before they had to look for me. Hiding from them would just set them off. The triplets stared at me, their eyes wide. They looked at each other. I remembered my makeover. I did not think they would notice or even care. Alex licked his lips, trailing his eyes from my head to my toes. I took a step back. Felix looked flabbergasted and Calix smirked at me.

“Leave it to us, Ronda,” said Felix, recovering his usual haughty sneer, “We’ll punish her.”

Ronda smiled maliciously at me. She was the most immature adult I had ever met including the triplets and that was saying something. The triplets had me backed against the kitchen island.

“I’m sorry,” I said, “I had to do some extra math for Mr Johnson.”

It was not a complete lie. The triplets knew Mr Johnson because they were his football stars back when they went to High school. They also knew I had won Math competitions before. They had really enjoyed making fun of me then.

“Ok,” said Felix simply. He took a step towards me. “What’s all of this?” He gestured to my outfit, makeup and hair.

“My eighteenth birthday is tomorrow too. I’m just trying out how I wanna look,” I said, looking down, waiting for them to insult me or call me fat.

“Do you have a boyfriend, is that it?” Asked Alex, anger rising in his voice.

Why did he even care?

“I’m too fat to get a boyfriend, remember?” I said, repeating one of their classic insults.

“Don’t play games with us,” said Felix softly. “Is all of this for your mate? Have you figured out who he is?”

“No!” I said. They were acting so strange like I had done something underhanded.

“You’ll only know for sure tomorrow. Your inner wolf will tell you who your mate is,” said Calix.

“I don’t want a mate,” I said honestly. I had never had a guy be nice to me and I could not picture it happening.

“Why the not?” Alex asked like I was crazy for saying that. The Triplets were eager to find their real mate. They talked about it every birthday. They would visit other packs hoping to get a whiff of their mate. They thought maybe their mate was younger than them. That would explain why they could not pick up her scent. Only mates who had come of age could be discovered.

“Because he’d just be mean to me and call me names and I get enough of that from you,” I snapped. I should not have snapped. I was a little frightened now. The triplets had not hit me since we were little. The last fight happened when I was eleven and they were fourteen. I had punched Calix, breaking his nose for calling me a “fat nasty ” with “dead druggie parents”. My parents whereabouts had never been confirmed and I always liked to think they were alive. After he had let out a blood-curdling scream and told his elder brothers about his nose, Alex slapped me and then Felix slapped me. Calix had been reluctant but they made him hit me. They dragged me out to the frozen river behind the pack house. There was a hole in it for fishing. I was small enough to dip in the hole. They had held me under the water until I blacked out. Their parents had been furious. I went to the hospital for hypothermia. I never knew what their punishments had been but after that we never got physical with each other, nothing more than a shove.

“Are you stupid?” Asked Alex.

I shrugged.

“No werewolf would insult his own mate or be mean to her,” said Felix, rolling his eyes.

“Don’t you know anything?” Added Calix.

“Ok, thanks, I get it now,” I said simply.

“You dressed up for us, didn’t you?” Said Felix smirking and rubbing his chin. The other two grinned. My heart leapt a little at the sight of their dimples. I shook my head. What was wrong with me? The triplets were monsters and good looks did not absolve them of that.

“Don’t make her admit it,” said Calix. “She’s embarrassed, Felix.”

“Admit it! You did this for us!” Felix exclaimed, grinning wickedly. He kept coming closer and my back was pressed against the kitchen island now.

Alex was quiet, smiling faintly and watching me closely. I just wanted them to go away. I was so frustrated with my whole life. There would not be a single present for me tomorrow. No one had counselled me about my shift at midnight and I was scared. I knew it would be painful and I did not need this from these three privileged assh0les who did not deserve the title of Alpha. They were physically Alphas but they had no integrity. They could not lead this pack. What a joke! I decided to play along.

“Yeah, ok,” I said softly, looking down to feign embarrassment and hugging myself tightly. “I dressed up for you. I asked two girls at school to help me. I really did have a math thing but I went to get dolled up after so that made me late as well. I’m sorry.”

I hid my face in my hands, stifling my laughter. They seemed to think I was crying.

“Hey, you know, we aren’t the stupid little boys we used to be when we would fight with you,” said Alex gently. “We’re taking over this pack tomorrow and as you’re part of this pack we just wanna know what’s going on with you that’s all.”

Huh?

“Don’t cry, stupid,” said Felix exasperadteay.

“Don’t insult her when you’re trying to cheer her up, stupid,” said Calix, turning on Felix. “Chasity,” said Calix, using my real name for the first time in nine years.

I dropped my hands. I was shocked. I just stared at him.

“You look pretty, ok” said Calix, winking.

My heart skipped a beat. He was bending down. His face was really close to me.

“Thanks for dressing up for us. I hope you wear an even shorter skirt tomorrow,” he said softly, smirking.

I rolled my eyes. Alex and Felix burst into laughter. I tried to brush past them but Felix grabbed my arms and put my back against the island again. My breath hitched in my throat.

“Did I say you could leave?” He asked, his nose brushing against my nose as he bent towards me. I squirmed in his arms.

“You need to have respect for your Alphas, Charity,” Alex said, using my awful nickname. The spell that Calix had cast on me was broken.

“Shoot you!” I screamed. “Let me go! Three Alpha males against one omega female is insane. You have no honour,” I cried, struggling against Felix. He released me.

“We were just playing with you Charity!” Said Felix “Good grief! Go! Run upstairs!”

I ran upstairs and to my room. I locked the door. I sat on my cot, hugging my knees to my chest. The Alpha and Luna came knocking on my door when darkness fell. I went out to them.

“We almost forgot, you have your first shift at midnight, same birthday as the triplets,” said Alpha Romeo rubbing the back of his neck.

I smiled. Were they going to counsel me or give me a gift?

“Yeah, so make sure and be out of the house at least by 11:45pm so you don’t break anything or make any mess when you shift,” said Luna Ronnie.

I nodded. I supposed that was one piece of advice. I left the house at half past eleven wearing my old clothes. I crunched through the snow. It was pitch-black. I sighed. I was nervous. I was scared of the pain. I wished my parents could be here. For the first nine years old my life, they had been in and out of rehabs. They were inconsistent but they actually seemed to love me a lot. They would always make my birthdays and holidays special no matter how high they were. They were deeply in love with each other as mates and back then I almost looked forward to having a mate of my own. It was almost midnight. I did not want to rip my clothes so I removed them and stood in the snow naked and barefoot my curls covering me to my waist. If I had not been a werewolf I would have frozen to death.

Midnight came and I felt my bones breaking.

Chapter 3: Shift and Sniff and Squirt

The pain shot through me. It was excruciating. I screamed. My bones lengthened and rearranged themselves. Sandy-coloured fur enveloped my form. My eyesight and hearing became so sharp. I stood on all fours. I howled. I was a wolf. I ran through the night, white snow beneath me and black sky above me. I practically flew. When I had tired of running. I made my way back to my clothes. They would probably so cold after lying in the snow. I focused on what I looked like human and my bones started breaking again. It was painful but not nearly as bad as the first time. I put on my clothes and headed inside. The triplets had gone out to ring in the first few minutes of their twenty-first birthday with some of their friends at a bar.

I passed by their rooms. The house had three floors. The Alpha and Luna slept on the top floor. The Triplets and I slept on the middle floor. I had a tiny converted storage room and each triplet had a master bedroom and bathroom. There was the most delicious smell coming from Calix’s room. I snuck in. He was the least scary of the triplets so I did not mind if he caught my scent when he came home and realised I had been in his home. His room literally smelled like freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. I looked around. Maybe he had pot cookies or something. I did not find anything. Ugh. I had put my scent all over some of his stuff for nothing.

I walked out and caught another scrumptious scent. This one was coming from the middle master bedroom that belonged to Felix. I dared not go in there but I sniffed the doorway. The smell reminded me of sweet coconut shavings. There was a tropical edge to it. I breathed it in, wondering why I had never picked it up before. My heart started to race. I was afraid to go near Alex’s room but I had to know. If all three rooms suddenly smelled great to me then…

I refused to think about it. I walked over to Alex’s door. I picked up the scent. The strong smell of coffee and cocoa hit me. My mouth watered a little. Did Alex smell that good? The window blew open suddenly and all three scents wafted down the hallway. Their combined scents hit me and moisture pooled in my underwear. I was in big trouble. I went to my tiny room and locked the door. I tried to fall asleep but I kept tossing and turning. Those scents were plaguing me. Would they smell me when they returned home? Would I suddenly smell different now to them? I did not want to analyse it too much. Maybe my enhanced sense of smell was just picking up a lot that I had not noticed before. Maybe everyone smelled this good.

Third Person

Calix, Felix and Alex sauntered in the house at around three in the morning. It was Saturday. Later tonight, they had their official birthday party and alpha ceremony. Celebrating with their girlfriends and their “bros” from the town had left them exhausted and a little tipsy. It was difficult for werewolves to get drunk no matter how much alcohol they had but the triplets had really done their best. They said good night and happy birthday to each other and parted ways.

Calix stumbled into his room. A familiar scent greeted him but there was some unmistakable new element to it like a new ingredient enhancing an old favourite recipe of his. Someone had been in his room. A girl. She smelled like roses and honeysuckle. He shivered. That scent was driving him crazy. He could not sleep. It was all over everything. He felt as if he recognised the smell but he could not say exactly who it was. Surely he would have noticed and remembered someone who smelled this good.

He could not take it anymore when the sun came up. He banged on his brothers’ doors. They greeted him still half-asleep.

“What’s wrong, little bro?” Asked Alex, concern evident on his face.

“It better be good. It’s six o’ clock in the morning. We partied last night and we’re partying tonight,” said Felix, doing a little dance and yawning.

“Smell my room,” said Calix.

His brothers laughed. He walked away from them. They followed him.

“Enough !” Said Felix storming into Calix’s room. Felix stopped in his tracks. Alex entered and his eyes widened.

“Oh my God,” said Felix. “What is that?” The Alpha started sniffing about his brother’s room.

“Little Bro, who was in your room?” Asked Alex sharply.

“You’ve been with our mate!” Said Felix, growling. “You’re keeping her all to yourself.”

“No, I don’t know whose scent it is and it’s driving me crazy,” said Calix with tired eyes.

“Our mate’s been in this room,” said Felix gleefully. “She found us! Oh I can’t wait to get my hands on her.” Felix growled again.

“What about Sandra, Tonya and Avery?” Asked Calix, mentioning their current girlfriends.

“We’ve only been dating them like a couple weeks! They know they’re not our mates so it was a temporary thing! I’m gonna end it with Tonya over the phone,” said Felix dismissively.

“Yeah,” agreed Alex. “If we can find our mate in time for the party we don’t want the girls showing up and harassing her.”

“Yeah, they’d be jealous,” said Calix. “And there’s one of her and three of them so we better tell them before tonight.”

The brothers were in agreement, all sitting on Calix’s bed.

“Who would be in my room?” Calix wondered.

“There’s something familiar about the smell,” said Alex, smiling. “It kinda smells a little like…” Alex paused, frowning. He got up and ran down the hallway. He stood in front of the door to Chasity’s little makeshift room. The same smell hit him. It made him shiver. Honeysuckle and Roses. He sighed. He found her door unlocked and opened it eagerly to reveal an empty room with the cot in the corner made. His face fell.

It suddenly dawned on him just how small Chasity’s room was compared to the other bedrooms in the house. There were empty guest bedrooms bigger than this room. Why didn’t his parents give her one of those?

His brothers came up behind him. Felix looked dumbfounded. Calix walked into Chasity’s room and lay in her cot, hugging her pillow, deeply inhaling her scent.

“I’m gonna wait for her to come back, right here,” he said, curling up on her tiny cot. It was comically small for the six-foot-four Alpha.

“I wanna go get her right now,” said Felix, his eyes worried. “We have a lot of talking to do.”

“Relax, Felix,” said Alex. “Our mate already lives with us so we’re good,” said the eldest Alpha grinning.

“No, we’re not good you idiots!” Said Felix staring at them. “Our mate is Charity. Charity!”

“Don’t call her that!” Snarled Calix, his blue eyes turning black.

“Sorry! Sorry! Shit! It’s a bad habit. Chasity,” Felix said. Her real name felt good to say out loud.

“What’s your problem?” Asked Alex. He was looking through Chasity’s things, thinking of all the stuff he was going to buy her. She hardly had anything so she would be easy to surprise. It was her birthday too after all.

“We have to go to the mall as soon as it opens at ten,” he told his younger brothers. “It’s Chasity’s birthday too and I’m sure Mom and Dad didn’t get her anything.”

“Are you hearing yourself?” Asked Felix.

“Again! What is your problem?” Alex asked Felix. Calix opened his eyes to glare at Felix.

“Chasity is our mate! We had no idea because she was not of age until today!” Felix said, waving his arms around like a mad man.

Calix and Alex were not following.

“We’ve treated Chasity like shit! When she realises she’s our mate, she’s going to reject us!” Said Felix.

Calix shot up into a sitting position. “No, she’s not,” the youngest said. “No, she can’t. We’ve been waiting three years for our mate.”

“Chasity said she didn’t want a mate, remember?” Said Felix, spelling it out for them.

“Yeah,” said Alex. “But when the mate bond actually hits her, she’ll be putty in our hands.”

Calix beamed, grinning at Alex. “Yep,” Calix agreed.

Felix rolled his eyes. “Do you remember why Chasity did not want a mate? She said because he’d be mean to her like we were. Her mate is literally us.”

Calix and Alex were starting to look worried.

“She’s going to freak out!” Said Felix. “She’s going to try to leave. Remember, she’s been talking about turning eighteen, finishing high school and leaving!”

Alex smirked. “She has seven more months of high school. It’s November. We have until June or July with her to convince her otherwise.”

Felix calmed down a little, thinking it over.

Calix grinned wickedly, his dimples showing, mischief in his baby blue eyes, “Chasity might hate us now but by next summer we’ll be making her squirt.”

His elder brothers burst into laughter.

Chapter 4: Dangerously Cute

Chasity’s POV

I had to wake up at the crack of dawn as usual on the day of the party despite going to bed after midnight. I was so tired. I passed as far away from the Triplet’s rooms as I could so I would not have to smell those delicious scents. I had to keep away from them. I could not bear to look them in the eyes if just their smell was driving me wild now that I was eighteen. How could fate be so cruel? I wondered if they would be horrible abusive mates. I would not let it reach to that. I had never even had one boyfriend, now I had three mates. What would I be expected to do? How would I handle that? I felt overwhelmed just thinking about it. There was a heat in the lower part of my tummy when I thought about all three of them and me. They were all so big and with three of them I would not even know who was doing what to me. I bit my lip. I was getting hot again. I quickly pushed those dirty thoughts away.

Maybe they will reject me outright? I thought.

My heart threatened to cleave in two or maybe three when I thought about that. My inner wolf whimpered. I hushed her soothingly. My wolf kept pushing thoughts of the triplets into my mind as I worked on all the last minute party details. Felix would be the roughest. Calix would be the gentlest. I was not sure what Alex would be like. He would probably boss me around, telling me to have respect for him as his mate and Luna. A chill crept through me. Luna. The current Luna hated me. She would not want me as her successor. I did not think the current Alpha would care much. Around half past five in the morning, Ronda, the party planner showed up to help.

“Where are the birthday boys?” She said excitedly. I rolled my eyes. My inner wolf growled. She was possessive. I looked at Ronda’s micro mini skirt and tiny tube top. I was surprised she did not freeze to death on the way here. She was holding three identical baby blue gift bags.

“They’re asleep,” I said, frowning. “They usually don’t wake up until noon on weekends,”

“Oh,” she said. She looked crestfallen. She put a coat over her tiny outfit, probably to unveil it at noon. Around six o’clock, I heard heavy steps. It couldn’t be! The Triplets woke up early! I ran out of the house without thinking. I shifted. Ronda ran out after me, her eyes wide with shock. I went bounding through the snow. I had ripped my clothes shifting suddenly like that. I needed to clear my head and stay clear of the Triplets until I decided what to do.

Third Person

“This is stupid!” Said Calix. “I need my mate, right now. I want Chasity!”

He stormed out of her room and down the stairs with his brothers on his heels. He was surprised to find Ronda in the kitchen.

“Where’s Chasity?” Asked Calix, still sleep-deprived and grumpy.

“Hey, sleepy head! Good morning!” Cooed Ronda.

“Have you seen Chasity, Ronda?” Asked Alex.

“I have presents for the birthday boys!” She squealed.

“Is she here?” Felix asked, getting annoyed.

“Who?” Asked Ronda, handing each triplet a gift bag.

“Thanks, Ronda!” Said Alex. “Chasity! Where is she?”

Ronda frowned. “She shifted and went for a run,” Ronda said.

“Oh yeah!” Said Alex. “She can shift now,” he said, grinning. He was excited to see her wolf and go running through the snow with her.

“Ok,” said Ronda, rolling her eyes. “Since when do you guys care about Charity?”

Calix snarled. Alex glared at Ronda. Ronda was taken aback.

“It’s Chasity,” corrected Felix, though he was the one who originally gave her the nickname.

Chasity’s POV

I had been running for a few hours all around the pack lands. I started to tire out. I knew I would be in pain when I shifted back. My wolf was strong but my human form was weak. I had never been athletic. I could not shift back without going home because I did not have my clothes. I was stealthy on my way back to the pack house. I saw that one of the Triplet’s cars was gone. Hopefully they had all gone. I shifted back and snuck in a side door. I crept up the stairs as quickly as I could. I squealed when I reached my room. The door was closed and all three scents were incredibly strong. Were they in there? I peaked under the door. I sighed in relief and went in.

I put on my clothes. My clothes smelled like Alex. They had been here. All of them. Recently. Their scents were heavenly. Every single item of clothing and every book smelled like Alex. The bed smelled intensely like Calix. Felix’s scent was concentrated near the door. They knew. That’s the only thing that would have led them to my room. They enjoyed teasing me but in the last nine years they had never set foot in my room, not a single time.

I went back to the kitchen to find a seething party planner. Ronda was furious at me for taking off. The Triplets scents were here too. They probably had not noticed her skimpy outfit. I laughed to myself as I worked alongside her. I was incredibly jumpy, expecting the Triplets to return at any minute. I dared not ask Ronda where they had gone. The time passed by quickly. Before I knew it, it was four o’ clock. The party started at six in the evening and I needed enough time to get ready.

I was walking up the stairs when the Luna spotted me.

“Oh! Hey, I’m so sorry but one of the servers called in sick, so we’ll need you to help out with the serving? Ok?” She asked though it was not really a question. It was not like I could refuse. I did have one condition though.

“That’s fine but I’m not wearing a uniform,” I said, laughing.

She laughed too as if she had not even considered it but I bet she would have made me wear one if I had not brought it up first. Every pack member would be here soon. Thankfully, the pack house was huge with a sprawling living room. The DJ was setting up in there now. All the decorations were hung and the lights were dimmed. I wondered if I would have to watch the Triplets dance with their girlfriends. They would obviously be at the party. I sighed. I needed to stop feeling entitled to being with the Triplets. They were my mates but they hated me and I hated them.

I showered methodically. My muscles ached. I knew I would pay for that long run. My skin no longer looked sallow though. It was golden and had a healthy glow. My dark circles were still there though. My body needed some rest but I was always working or studying. I sighed. My hair looked shiny. I left it down. Mina and Tina seemed to think my dark blonde curls were my best feature. I put on the outfit they had picked out for me, a black sequin mini dress and high heels. I did my makeup the way they had taught me. I was pleasantly surprised with the result. I spritzed on some perfume and ran down the stairs.

People started arriving a bit early. I greeted them and took their coats. Everyone called me “Charity” genuinely thinking that was my name and it was too late to correct them. I would be leaving this place in a matter of months. My inner wolf growled at me. I sighed. I noticed Sandra, Tonya and Avery all arrived together, holding hands, looking disgruntled in their mini dresses. Their eyes were red. They approached me to talk for the first time ever.

“Hey…uh…Charity,” said Sandra, tossing her flaming red hair back.

“Hey girl!” Tonya said. She had long straight black hair and olive skin.

“Nice to see you again,” Avery said with a smile. She had shoulder-length blonde hair.

“Hey girls, welcome, please help yourselves, feel free,” I said, awkwardly motioning towards the refreshment tables.

“Have you seen the Triplets today?” Sandra asked, narrowing her green eyes at me.

“No,” I said honestly in the most innocent tone I could muster.

“Ok, well, here’s the thing…” Tonya paused exchanging glances with the other two.

“The guys broke up with us!” Blurted out Avery. The other two glared at her. “Well, it’s true,” she said to them.

My heart was pounding.

“I’m so sorry to hear that,” I said stiffly.

“They said they found their mate,” Sandra added tensely.

I felt lightheaded. I stumbled backwards a little but caught my balance, leaning against the wall.

“They brushed us off…they said we’d only been together six weeks,” Tonya said, folding her arms.

That was true. The longest relationships the Triplets had were all about two months so the girls were only missing out on two more weeks.

“So since you live here, we figured you’d know who she is,” said Avery. “Their mate.”

I braced myself against the wall. I felt nauseated. The Triplets had already ended their relationships…for me? They would have ended them anyway but I felt awful for the three girls. I bit my lip. Did that mean the Triplets wanted me? Like right away? They had wasted no time breaking up with their girlfriends. I did not answer the girls’ question.

“Please, excuse me, girls,” I said feebly. I went into the kitchen. What was I going to do when the Triplets arrived?

Third Person

The Triplets were late for their own party after spending so much time bickering at the mall over what to get Chasity. They ended up getting her a whole host of things and getting it wrapped and gift bagged at the mall. They loaded the stuff out of the car, greeting guests as they entered the pack house. They narrowly avoided a confrontation with their three ex-girlfriends. All three girls stormed out together hand in hand. At least they had each other. They showered and got dressed in a matter of minutes, all three in matching black blazers, black trousers and baby blue shirts.

“She’s not in her room,” said Calix anxiously.

“Of course, not,” said Felix. “Mom and Dad are making her help with the party”

“Ok, before we do anything else, we need to have a serious conversation with Chasity,” said Alex, the Alpha even among Alphas.

His younger brothers nodded.

Chasity’s POV

I stayed hidden in the kitchen until the Luna came in and found me doing nothing. She glared at me and handed me a tray of champagne glasses to serve so the current Alpha could make a toast to his sons before he officially handed over the position. My mates would be Alphas in a matter of minutes. I passed out the champagne. Everyone smiled. The pack members were in a great mood. I even got a few thank yous and a few compliments on my outfit. I was a really low ranking member of the pack but because I served the Alpha and his family everyone knew my name or at least they knew my cruel nickname.

I refilled the tray with more glasses and more champagne. I spotted the party planner in an even skimpier outfit than this morning if that were possible. I remembered the blue gift bags she had brought. I had not gotten my mates anything even though I helped put this party together. I had literally zero dollars and zero cents. I hope they understood that. Mina and Tina grinned at me. I hugged them. They actually seemed to like me now. Our hug elicited a few glares and disapproving looks from older pack members nearby. Mina and Tina were the daughters of rich pack members and some people considered me trash because my parents were addicts who borrowed a lot of money from the pack funds and pack members. I had been so little then. I felt it was unfair to blame me but I was the only one around to blame. I pushed those old memories away.

Mina and Tina said happy birthday to me. I was so happy, I got a little teary-eyed. They were the only ones who had remembered or said anything. They each handed me a sparkly pink gift bag. I was shocked. They had already bought me clothes as part of our deal.

“Girls! Thank you! I’m shocked!” I said, taking the bags.

“It’s nothing!” Said Mina.

“We dropped off our homework assignments during Saturday morning football practice cause we were so excited!” Said Tina.

“Just like you promised, we aced it! He corrected it right in front of us!” Added Mina.

I grinned. They flipped their hair in unison. They were wearing identical hot pink dresses.

The Luna caught me socialising and I quickly scampered off to get more champagne. I handed a glass to the Luna who smiled coldly. The Alpha took a glass and nodded at me. I almost dropped my tray when I turned around and saw the Triplets. They looked unbelievably handsome. My inner wolf was howling. Their scents were out of this world. They were staring at me. I could not read their expressions. I could not be with them but I could not be without them. I just hoped they would not reject me right away. It was my birthday too and I just wanted to enjoy it a little, without worrying too much.

I offered them the champagne glasses. Alex took the whole tray away from me to his mother’s chagrin. He handed the tray to an offended-looking Ronda. Calix grabbed my hand, causing tingles to shoot through my arm. Felix put his hands on either side of my waist from behind. My core started to moisten just from that. I bit my lip. Some pack members were regarding us with curiosity. Alex led us up the stairs with Calix pulling me by the hand and Felix gently pushing me forwards as he gripped my waist.

They took me to Calix’s room and shut the door, locking it. I quickly scurried away from them to the other side of the room, pressing my back against the wall. The spell of seeing my mates for the first time since I had come of age had broken now that we were alone and they were very real threats.

“Don’t be scared, Chasity,” pleaded Calix, his blue eyes widening with hurt due to me letting go of his hand. He was using my real name.

“We’re not gonna hurt you, Baby,” purred Felix, eyeing me intensely.

I was shocked at the pet name. The heat in my lower tummy was back.

“We need to talk,” said Alex sternly. “Ok, Chasity?”

At least they were being respectful for once and using my real name with the exception of Felix who seemed to think I was already his Baby.

The brothers sat on Calix’s bed on one side of the room. I sat in the chair by his desk with his computer. The chair had wheels. I spun on it a little. I had never been in any of their rooms at all before until early this morning when I inspected Calix’s room. The Triplets cleaned their own rooms. We had lived together but emotionally we were like strangers in a way. I knew the Triplets had to have normal personalities outside of bullying me because they were certainly admired by everyone else and I had seen them be good to others with my own eyes. It stung thinking that they had reserved their venom for just me. What had I done? Besides be born unfortunate? Just like that, I broke an eight year long promise to myself as the tears streamed down my face without warning.

Alex looked despondent.

“Shh, Baby, it’s ok,” said Felix softly, handing me a tissue.

Calix grabbed my hand again and pulled the chair, wheeling it over to them. I was within arms reach of all three of them now. My heart raced due to fear and my core moistened at the same time. My body was really confused when it came to them. I knew they could hear my heartbeat and smell my arousal.

“As you probably already know, Chasity,” Alex said gently, “you’re our mate. All three of us. Triplets tend to have just one mate because…”

“I know,” I said, annoyed. I was probably better at science than them. They were always treating me like I was stupid. Normally they would glare at me for interrupting them and even curse and complain but they just stared at me intently. “Because identical triplets are naturally occurring clones, one fertilised egg that split into three so one mate.”

“Exactly,” said Alex smiling. I dried my eyes and blew my nose.

“You smell so good, Baby,” said Felix. His eyes were black. He reached out and caressed my knee. I shivered.

“Easy, Felix!” Warned Alex, removing his brother’s hand from my knee. Alex sighed.

“We’re so so so sorry, Chasity,” murmured Alex. “The way we’ve treated you is disgusting. We won’t make any excuses for it. We don’t deserve you but we want you as our mate and Luna. We’re willing to spend the rest of our lives making everything up to you.”

I was shocked. I had always wanted an apology. Now I had one, I wasn’t sure if it would suffice.

“We’re so sorry, Chasity,” said Calix. “Please let us love you!”

I blushed. Calix was always so dramatic.

“We’re really sorry, Baby,” said Felix. I was pretty sure I would never hear my horrid nickname or my real name come out of him ever again. I was henceforth Baby as far as he was concerned. I giggled at that thought. That was the wrong move because it set Felix’s wolf off.

“Oh, you’re so cute!” Growled Felix just before he grabbed me."

"Chapter 5: Happy Birthday

Felix grabbed me before Alex could stop him. He pinned me to the wall. He pressed his nose against my neck, inhaling deeply. He bared his canines. He was going to mark me!

“Stop!” I squealed but Felix’s eyes were black. His wolf was in control. I was completely not ready for this. I was not even sure if I wanted to be with them.

In a flash, his brothers pulled him off of me. They pinned him to the other wall.

“Calm down!” Bellowed Alex in his Alpha voice making the whole room shake.

Felix took a few deep breaths. His eyes slowly turned blue. His brothers walked him back to the bed and they all sat down again.

“Oh my God,” he said, panting. “Chasity!” He said my name! “I’m so sorry, Baby.” We were back to Baby again.

“It’s…ok,” I said slowly. I laughed half-heartedly. “Actually that’s not the worst thing you’ve done to me by a long shot. That won’t even make the top ten.”

I laughed at my own feeble joke. The Triplets looked horrified and guilty.

“So after Felix has gone and ruined the scrap of a chance we had left…what do you say?” Said Calix.

That actually made me laugh. The brothers all smiled. I had seven more months until high school was over and I was still angry as with the Triplets but I was no fool. Rejecting them would mean I would have to move out. I had no idea what I wanted. My wolf craved them. She was filling my head with positions that I had not known were possible. I had never even been kissed. If I even decided to be with them, only one of them could be my first kiss. My eyes went instinctively to Calix. He grinned. The other two looked a little jealous, wondering why I was staring at just him all of a sudden.

“I don’t know what I want,” I told them honestly.

“That’s completely fine!” Said Calix.

“Take your time,” said Alex.

“All the time you need,” added Felix who had pinned me to a wall a few moments ago to try to forcibly mark me as his mate. Yeah, sure.

“Ok, that brings us to the second part of this discussion,” said Alex.

Huh?

“Happy birthday, Chasity!” Said the Triplets in unison.

I smiled. They pulled a lot of gifts out from under Calix’s bed. I squealed and then I felt guilty. I bit my lip and frowned.

“Baby, what’s wrong?” Asked Felix quickly.

“I had thought about getting you something but I really couldn’t. I had literally no money,” I said apologetically, feeling ashamed.

Felix laughed. “Baby, we know you have no money. That’s ok.”

“You never let me forget it,” I muttered.

Felix frowned. They started prompting me to open my gifts. There were so many. It was so awkward for me. I had not gotten a single gift in nine years until today. Mina and Nina gave me gifts and now the Triplets had bought the whole mall. I wanted to open all my gifts later in the privacy of my room. I had already put the bags from Mina and Nina in there.

“Alex, Felix, Calix,” I said. They all reacted to their names. They all looked so gleeful.

“I want to open these later ok, when I’m thinking about stuff,” I said.

“We wanted to see your face…” pleaded Calix.

“It’s not about what we want,” interrupted Alex. I smiled.

“I’m just going to put the gifts in my room. Thank you so much!” I said.

I approached them shyly. We had never hugged before. Felix snatched me up first just as I expected. He squeezed me tightly, lifting my feet off the ground. I giggled. He let me down. Calix bent down to hug me gently, massaging my back soothingly with his hands. Alex lifted me by the waist and spun me around like I was a little princess. He put me gently on my feet. I started carrying an armful of gifts to my room.

“Wait!” They all said.

“You can’t stay in that room. It’s too small. We will organise the best guest room and turn it into your room,” Alex said.

This should have made me happy but it actually made me angry suddenly.

“So this room isn’t good enough for me now but it was good enough when you didn’t give a !” I snapped.

I immediately regretted saying that. I waited for the huge argument to start. They were quiet.

“If you’re not ready for your new room yet, that’s ok but I’m very uncomfortable with you staying there. It’s not even a bedroom and it’s a complete disgrace that my parents put you there,” said Alex.

We did not talk anymore as we moved the gifts to my room and went back down the stairs where everyone was still waiting impatiently for the birthday boys.

“Boys!” Said Luna Ronnie, narrowing her eyes. “Where have you been?” She seemed shocked to see me coming down the stairs with them.

“Do another lap to see if anyone needs more champagne,” she ordered me. Ronda handed me a fresh tray filled with glasses. The party planner had a smug look on her face.

Alex took the tray from me again and put it on the floor this time.

“Alex!” Said Ronnie to her eldest son.

“Let’s start the toast!” Said Alpha Romeo.

The Pack members cheered. Everyone gathered around the grand staircase and Alpha Romeo stood a few steps up so that everyone could see him. The Triplets pulled me with them to the same step as Alpha Romeo. The Luna who stood next to her husband was eyeing me suspiciously. I was pretty sure she was putting two and two together or in this case, one and three together. Alpha Romeo began his speech. It literally started with him meeting his mate, the Luna, their love, their wedding, honeymoon, childless years, having the triplets, their childhood, their teenage years and now their manhood and ascension to Alphas. It made literally no mention of me despite me being there for the past nine years since the triplets were twelve but the Alpha and Luna truly viewed me as a servant so I knew I should not expect to be mentioned. A lot of people kept glancing at me, wondering why I was there in the limelight. I tried to descend the stairs a few times but Alex kept grabbing my wrist. Felix put his hand absentmindedly on my behind. I stifled a gasp. He squeezed it and rubbed it gently. I started to cream my underwear. I glared at him and he blew me a kiss which many people noticed.

“I present to you, Alpha Alex, Alpha Felix and Alpha Calix Thorn, the Triplet Alphas,” boomed former Alpha Romeo using his Alpha voice for the last time.

The Pack members cheered. Their screams were deafening. Many girls shrieked and squealed over the Triplet Alphas. The Alpha Triplets went around the room to be congratulated by important pack members. They dragged me with them. No one asked about me but everyone’s eyes darted to me. Finally the Luna could take it no more. She marched her sons, me and the former alpha into the kitchen. The party planner nosily followed us.

“Since when are you three so close with Charity?” Asked the Luna.

“It’s Chasity, Mom,” said Felix.

“Sorry,” said the Luna. People truly thought my name was Charity so I never held it against them.

“She’s our mate,” said Alex, getting straight to the point. There was utter silence.

“And you’ve accepted her as your mate?” Said Romeo.

I felt a little offended. “Of course,” said Calix. “We want her more than anything.”

My cheeks burned. Felix started massaging my butt again.

“And has she accepted?” Asked the Luna.

There was more silence.

“I want to finish high school while I think about it,” I said.

The Luna laughed. “She wants to live here for as long as possible before she rejects you the day after she graduates high school and then goes off to search for her gambling drug-addicted parents.”

“Mom!” Said Calix, the Luna’s favourite.

She stared at him. “Honey! I…”

“Chasity has not been treated well here and you know it!” Said Calix.

The Luna sighed.

“She’s our mate and things around here will reflect that,” said Alex firmly.

The eavesdropping party planner was looking at me with so much envy I actually feared for my life a little.

“She hates you three you know,” said Ronda the party planner. “She thinks you’re all arrogant overrated snobs.”

I paled. I looked at the Triplets, half-expecting them to turn on me. Calix had not even been listening to her. He was still pleading with his Mother with his eyes. Alex was looking at the big birthday cake and Felix was still massaging my behind and looking at me, smirking. Felix was definitely going to try to sneak into my room tonight. I felt really warm thinking about it.

“They’re old enough to decide,” said Romeo.

“Let’s cut the cake with Chasity,” said Alex.

Ronda wheeled the huge cake out to the guests. Everyone began singing happy birthday and snapping pictures. I knew people wanted me out of the shot. They wanted pictures of the identical triplet alphas and birthday boys but the guys would not let me go. Calix grabbed one wrist and Alex grabbed the other. Felix was standing behind me, squeezing my waist. This was the first time all three of the Triplets had their hands on me and I felt like fainting. I was so overwhelmed. What was I going to do when they all really got their hands on me? I had thought I did not have to worry about that anytime soon but looking back on it, I should’ve worried more because all three brothers snuck me into one of their rooms that very night."

...
Open the app and continue reading the rest of the story . 👉(It will automatically jump to the book when you open the app)

“You’re soaked, honey.” Calix voice was husky. “If you need to come, you have 3 mates who are more than capable of satisfying you.”

“Feel what you do to us sweetheart.” Alex boldly took my hands and put one on his mennber and the other on Felix’s.

“I'd never been with more than one person at once...” I had heard of girls with multiple mates passing out because their rgasms were so intense. I felt overwhelmed just thinking about it.

“We’ll be going easy on you babe.” said Felix with hungry eyes at my chest. “Gosh they are gorgeous. I can’t wait to taste them.”

I couldn’t help but let out a groan.

“I want... All of you. Now.” I opened my leegs wider and blurted out.

------

Tomorrow was my birthday, not that anyone cared or even remembered because it was also the birthday of the Thorn Triplets. The Thorn Triplets were the pride and joy of the Winter Moon Pack. They were the sons of Alpha Romeo Thorn. They were filthy rich, devilishly handsome and disgustingly arrogant. All the young she-wolves adored them wholeheartedly and stroked their egos on a daily basis. I was cursed to share a birthday and a home with them.

At the tender age of nine, my drug-addicted parents left the pack to go rogue and had not been seen or heard from since. They left no instructions regarding their wishes for me so I was taken into the pack house under the care of Alpha Romeo and his wife, Ronnie. As if I had not been devastated enough, I now had three twelve-year old tormenters. The identical triplet sons of the Alpha were, in order of birth, Alex, Felix and Calix. They despised me and ensured that I knew I was beneath them. My parents had incurred a huge debt due to their drug seeking habits which was paid off by the Alpha. Thus, I had to earn my keep and repay my debt by doing as many chores as possible while the triplets enjoyed an idyllic childhood in the very same house.

In some packs the new Alpha ascends at age eighteen when they first shift but in mine, the age for ascension was twenty one. Thus tomorrow, on November eleventh, the triplets would turn twenty-one and take over the pack while I would turn eighteen and experience my first shift. Eighteen was also the minimum age when werewolves found their fated mate but I did not care about that. All I wanted was to come of age so I could leave this behind.

At least, the pack house had beautiful scenery. We were close to the north pole so snow was an everyday affair though there was no sign of Santa Claus. I certainly did not expect any birthday presents this November or Christmas presents come December. The pack made it clear that I owed them money and they were subtracting everything they did not spend on me from the huge debt. They also subtracted my “wages” from the debt so I was never given any money. I was allowed food, clothes and shelter, the basics.

I slowly got out of bed. The sun was just peeking out from behind a snow-covered horizon. Everything glistened. I gazed out my window at the wintry terrain. I sighed. I had to start making breakfast for everyone. Despite the huge size of the pack house with its luxurious bedrooms and bathrooms, I was given a small empty storage room to stay in. I had a cot, a shelf of second-hand books and a single drawer full of second hand clothes. The other drawers contained extra cleaning supplies as I did the housekeeping work also.

I used the common room’s bathroom, showering quickly. I looked at myself in the mirror. My parents had name me Chasity but everyone in the pack called me Charity. This was started by the triplets as a joke and because they said it so often, even decent pack members thought it was my real name. I was so shy and scared as a child that I never bothered to correct them so it had stuck.

I detangled my waist-length dark blonde curls and put them up in a huge bun. Whenever I left them down the triplets would pull my hair ever since we were little. They had not grown out of this habit even in adulthood. I sighed. There were dark circles forming under my large brown eyes. My light brown skin looked sallow. I had been overworking myself or rather the Thorn family had been overworking me. They used to have a maid and a cook with me as the sole assistant of both, but they had fired them last month after numerous conflicts between them and the spoilt triplets. For the past month, I had been drowning in work while attending my final year of high school. I had seven more months of high school before I could leave this place. That was the deal. At eighteen and after high school, I got my freedom and whatever I had paid off by then would be the end of it. The current Alpha and Luna seemed to think they were being extremely generous.

The pack house had a really good heating system so despite the fact that outside looked like the frigid tundra, inside was pretty warm. I put on a long-sleeved white babydoll top that covered my behind as I was wearing just black leggings underneath. I started on breakfast. As it was the Triplets’ “birthday week” and they would soon be Alphas, everyday was a feast day. I made waffles, pancakes, bacon, scrambled eggs and sausages. I put the butter and maple syrup on the table. I made coffee. I quickly drank some sweet, milky coffee for some energy and started setting the table.

Luna Ronnie entered the dining room, eyeing me, scrutinising my handy-work. She was a tall woman with dark brown long straight hair, pale skin and green eyes.

“The table looks nice,” she said, a rare compliment. “But have you washed all the wares? Wash them all before you eat!”

Alpha Romeo sauntered in, kissing his Luna gently. He nodded in approval at the breakfast spread. I smiled feebly at him. I heard heavy footsteps on the stairs and I took a deep breath. The Triplet Terrors were coming. They towered over me at six feet and four inches each, exactly a foot taller than me. They resembled their father with their shoulder-length thick shiny black hair, chiseled faces, baby blue eyes, dimples and chin-clefts. As they were Alphas they were all broad-shouldered and muscled blessed with super speed and super strength even beyond what was considered extraordinary for a werewolf. They were perfectly identical and perfectly heinous or at least they were to me. Their deep voices boomed as they shouted excitedly, shoving each other playfully. They would be twenty-one tomorrow but they still acted like they were twelve.

Alex was the eldest and the most serious and severe. He would surely rule with an iron fist and a surly demeanour. Felix as the middle triplet loved being the centre of attention and was naturally filled with wise-cracks, jokes and quips. Classic middle child. The youngest, Calix, was the charmer, a professional sweet-talker and Mommy’s favourite. He almost treated me like I was human.

“Did you make all of this, Charity?” Asked Calix, immediately trying to pull my hair out of its bun. I nodded, dodging him, only to bump into Felix who smirked and slipped my hair tie off. My curls tumbled down all around me. Felix and Calix laughed.

“Stop!” I implored them, reaching for my only hair tie. Felix held it high above my head. He threw it to Alex who caught it and put it in his pocket. I tried to lunge towards Alex but Felix grabbed me. Felix and Alex started shoving me back and forth between them like I was a ball and they were playing catch.

“I give up! I give up!” I said while they snickered.

Calix said, “All right. Cut it out. Let her go wash the wares. Mom wants the place kept as clean as possible so there’ll be less to do tomorrow.”

The elder two relinquished me. I ran into the kitchen. My heart was racing. I started on the dishes. By the time I was done, the family of five hungry werewolves, four of them from Alpha stock, had devoured literally everything I made except for one pancake. The chairs were all empty. I went to get the last pancake but Felix snatched it up. He had zoomed in out of nowhere, fast as a cheetah and quiet as a mouse.

“I haven’t eaten anything,” I told him, my eyes wide.

“Good, you’re fat enough as it is,” he said, sneering. He ate the pancake in two bites.

I sighed. I refused to cry. I had not cried in front of them since the first year of torment when I was nine. My tenth birthday marked a very important vow I had made to myself after crying almost every single day at aged nine. The vow was that I would never let the Triplets make me cry ever again. I would be strong. I had kept that vow successfully for eight years come tomorrow. The comment stung though. The Triplets were widely regarded as the most handsome eligible bachelors in the Pack. They constantly attacked my weight. I was not overweight but I had a curvy hourglass figure. My waist was slender. I wore about a size 4 in clothes which was small enough in my opinion but all the Triplets had stick-thin size 0 girlfriends.

I had to take the bus to school. I had thrown on a man’s black coat over my white top and leggings, another hand-me-down. I managed to find another hair tie but this was truly the last one. The Pack high school was called Winter Moon High after the pack. Our pack colours, and therefore also the school colours, were white, blue and silver. The whole school was decorated with streamers and balloons in celebration of the new Alphas, the Triplets.

“You’re so lucky, Charity,” said Mina Toros, the most popular girl in my senior year. She tossed her long dark hair back and pursed her plump red lips in her locker’s inside mirror. She was wearing a pink skirt short enough to qualify as belt. Thank goodness she had opaque tights on underneath. She usually ignored me except for the occasional pronouncement of how “lucky” I was.

“The things I’d to those Triplets if I lived in that house,” Mina said, licking her lips.

“You’d have to drop out!” Squealed her best friend, the second most popular girl, Tina Gregory. “You’d get pregnant the first month there.”

Tina had flawless dark brown skin with curly hair. She was tall and waif-like and also wore a pink skirt short enough to be a belt with opaque tights. Mina and Tina usually matched as though they were twins. Mina cackled at Tina’s joke.

“You know, Charity,” said Mina suddenly. “You’re not totally hideous.”

Gee, thanks.

“Ok,” I said, clutching my books. The girls were blocking my locker which was sandwiched between their two lockers. Lucky me, indeed.

“Yeah,” agreed Tina. “Your hair is actually pretty. You’re like a biracial Goldie Locks.”

I smiled. That sounded like a real compliment.

“Thanks Tina!” I said.

“Ohhh! And those Triplets are the three bears!” Shrieked Mina. “If I were their Goldie Locks I’d make sure everything was just right, get it?”

“Or too big,” said Tina, giggling.

“That means one of the triplets has to be too small,” I said softly.

Being werewolves, Mina and Tina heard me and they burst out laughing. Wow. I was actually getting along with them for five minutes.

“That was a good one, Charity, surprising,” said Tina, looking at me like she was now seeing me for the first time.

“Yeah,” said Mina giving me the same strange appraising look. “You know, if you had the money, imagine how cute you could look.”

I fidgeted uncomfortably, suddenly hyperaware of the patches in my clothes. Mina and Tina strutted off and I hurriedly opened my locker and got out my Math book. Mr Johnson who coached football and taught Math looked like he should be an Alpha too. He was huge and really attractive for a teacher. He was married though to his mate, the Art teacher, Mrs Johnson. He handed out our graded tests while Tina and Mina made flirty faces at him. Those flirty faces were not doing them any good. I noticed they got an F and an F minus respectively. I did not know F minus existed before today. He smiled at me and winked. My heart skipped a beat. “A plus as usual Math champ,” he boomed. Mr Johnson was one of the few people in my life who was nice to me.

“Mina and Tina, see me after class,” Mr Johnson said.

After class, Ashton Peters, a tall buff redhead who played football and was well-liked in the pack, pretended to knock into my desk.The stack of papers on my desk went flying all over the room. Mr Johnson spotted it.

“Stay and help her pick those up, Aston, my boy,” boomed Mr Johnson.

“Aww, coach, I’ll be late for football practice,” he whined.

“And we’ll be late for cheerleading practice,” said Mina and Tina in unison, pouting.

“I’m the coach, Aston, go ahead and be late. I’ll explain to your cheerleading coach ok, girls,” said Mr Johnson.

Ashton grumbled. He glared at me as if this were my fault. He started picking up papers at werewolf speed which cause the ones I was picking up to fly around due to the displaced wind. I eavesdropped on the meeting with Mina and Tina.

“Mina, Tina, I’m giving you a homework assignment to make up those grades. If you don’t ace it there won’t be any cheerleading,” he said.

The girls gasped. He handed them a stack of papers each and told them they could work on it together and that he set the questions himself so they would not find the answers online. I snatched up the last few papers from the floor and took the stack Ashton was handing me without looking at me.

“Thanks,” I said softly to him.

He glanced down at me, surprised by my thanks. He looked a little guilty all of a sudden. Mr Johnson left the room, leaving Mina and Tina looking dejected. Ashton grabbed the hair tie from my hair just like Calix had this morning. My curls came tumbling down again. I shrieked. I was so fed up. Ashton laughed and ran away to football practice. There went my last hair tie and my birthday was tomorrow.

“Aren’t you going to cheerleading?” I asked the girls, actually feeling sorry for them as they had been sort of nice earlier.

“No,” said Mina.

“What’s the use. We’ll never ace this homework so we’ll fail the class and be banned from the squad anyway,” explained Tina.

I walked up to them and looked at the homework assignment. I snorted. I could get 100% in this in my sleep. I was suddenly struck by an idea.

“Remember how you girls said I had…potential,” I said, looking at them.

They shrugged.

“I’ll do the assignment and you copy it over in your handwritings and ace it ok,” I offered.

The girls squealed. They jumped up hugging each other and me.

“Wait!” Said Mina, raising her eyebrows.

“What’s the catch?” Asked Tina, narrowing her eyes.

“I’m turning eighteen tomorrow too,” I said.

They gasped.

“You have the same birthday as the triplets?” Mina asked.

“Wait that means everyone ignores your birthday like every single year,” said Tina.

It was my turn to shrug.

“And they will this year too but I at least wanna feel…special. I’m gonna shift for the first time at midnight and who knows…I might see my mate at the big party…not that I care…” I rambled.

“You wanna look hot! Is that it?” Mina said smirking.

“Yeah you want us to make you over?” Tina asked, smiling.

I nodded.

Chapter 2: Makeover!

I was supposed to go home immediately after school to help with the preparations for the huge birthday party tomorrow night for the Triplets but I had to do the assignment for the girls and they had to make me over. I knew I would pay for it later but whatever. The Thorns had hired a party planner. They should be okay for a few hours without their werewolf Cinderella.

I did the assignment for the girls literally in the car on the way to the mall. It was that easy. Math was my thing. I was a nerd in general and I was proud of this even though werewolves prized brawn and beauty over brains any day.

The girls were impressed. They quickly copied it over sitting in the freezing car parking lot with the heater turned up. Mina drove a sports car. I did not know what kind but I knew that Mina and Tina were almost as rich as the Alpha and his family. They dragged me into the mall, squealing excitedly as though I was doing them a favour even when it came to the makeover. I reminded them I had no money. They rolled their eyes and ignored me. I guessed I could consider the stuff they bought as part of the deal.

I tried on outfit after outfit. Mina and Tina rated each one and seemed to having a blast. This was actually kind of fun. They encouraged me to pick out a lot of miniskirts and mini dresses. They said I had “great legs” and “nice boobs” even though the Triplets called me fat. Honestly, the clothes they picked for me did look great. I had some trouble walking in heels but the girls made me practice in the store like it was a runway. They pretended to be on a catwalk too. They were so confident. I had to marvel at them. Next they showed me what makeup to wear and how to style my hair at Tina’s house. They did a test run. I looked in Tina’s floor-length mirror and my jaw dropped.

I had on high heeled black ankle boots with a mini pleated black skirt. I was wearing black stockings as it was cold out even for a werewolf. My long-sleeved white top had a sweetheart neckline that was really flattering. My hair was so shiny in loose bouncy curls down my back. My skin glowed and I had cat eyeliner and red lips that surprisingly suited me. I hugged Mina and Tina. Did I just make two friends?

They drove me to the pack house hoping to catch a glimpse of the triplets but they were not at home yet. Thank goodness! I started helping the party planner sort out all the decorations and the food. It was tomorrow night but there was a lot to do. I did my own homework in between all of this. I was a master multitasker. I heard three cars parking. It was the triplets. Alpha and Luna were out shopping for even more gifts despite the fact that I had already wrapped like a dozen gifts. The party planner was a bleached blonde in her thirties who was obsessed with the hunk-i-ness of the triplets. She seemed to dislike me even though I was the only one helping her. She had been over everyday this week and always tried to make me look bad in front of the triplets. I wanted to tell her that they already hated me so she could relax. Her name was Ronda Something. I kept forgetting her last name.

The triplets walked in. Each had their arm around a girl. They had different girlfriends every two months or so. It did not make sense learning the girls’ names. Also, the triplets were anxious to find their real mate. They were not sure if they had three separate mates or just one mate to share. Sounds crazy but when it came to identical multiples like twins and triplets, they usually shared a single mate since they had been one egg and one sperm that split to form the multiples. So theoretically identical twins and triplets were naturally occurring clones. Every girl wished she was their mate. That was so crazy to me. The triplets were handsome but they were awful and three mates sounded so complicated.

Ronda glared at their girlfriends, jealousy evident in her beady eyes. The girls did not stay long and when they left, Ronda told the triplets I had showed up really late to help her. I sighed. I had been under the table literally as I wrapped tiny presents for door prizes. All the pack members got to pick a mystery present from a huge box tomorrow.

I crawled out from under the table to make myself known before they had to look for me. Hiding from them would just set them off. The triplets stared at me, their eyes wide. They looked at each other. I remembered my makeover. I did not think they would notice or even care. Alex licked his lips, trailing his eyes from my head to my toes. I took a step back. Felix looked flabbergasted and Calix smirked at me.

“Leave it to us, Ronda,” said Felix, recovering his usual haughty sneer, “We’ll punish her.”

Ronda smiled maliciously at me. She was the most immature adult I had ever met including the triplets and that was saying something. The triplets had me backed against the kitchen island.

“I’m sorry,” I said, “I had to do some extra math for Mr Johnson.”

It was not a complete lie. The triplets knew Mr Johnson because they were his football stars back when they went to High school. They also knew I had won Math competitions before. They had really enjoyed making fun of me then.

“Ok,” said Felix simply. He took a step towards me. “What’s all of this?” He gestured to my outfit, makeup and hair.

“My eighteenth birthday is tomorrow too. I’m just trying out how I wanna look,” I said, looking down, waiting for them to insult me or call me fat.

“Do you have a boyfriend, is that it?” Asked Alex, anger rising in his voice.

Why did he even care?

“I’m too fat to get a boyfriend, remember?” I said, repeating one of their classic insults.

“Don’t play games with us,” said Felix softly. “Is all of this for your mate? Have you figured out who he is?”

“No!” I said. They were acting so strange like I had done something underhanded.

“You’ll only know for sure tomorrow. Your inner wolf will tell you who your mate is,” said Calix.

“I don’t want a mate,” I said honestly. I had never had a guy be nice to me and I could not picture it happening.

“Why the not?” Alex asked like I was crazy for saying that. The Triplets were eager to find their real mate. They talked about it every birthday. They would visit other packs hoping to get a whiff of their mate. They thought maybe their mate was younger than them. That would explain why they could not pick up her scent. Only mates who had come of age could be discovered.

“Because he’d just be mean to me and call me names and I get enough of that from you,” I snapped. I should not have snapped. I was a little frightened now. The triplets had not hit me since we were little. The last fight happened when I was eleven and they were fourteen. I had punched Calix, breaking his nose for calling me a “fat nasty ” with “dead druggie parents”. My parents whereabouts had never been confirmed and I always liked to think they were alive. After he had let out a blood-curdling scream and told his elder brothers about his nose, Alex slapped me and then Felix slapped me. Calix had been reluctant but they made him hit me. They dragged me out to the frozen river behind the pack house. There was a hole in it for fishing. I was small enough to dip in the hole. They had held me under the water until I blacked out. Their parents had been furious. I went to the hospital for hypothermia. I never knew what their punishments had been but after that we never got physical with each other, nothing more than a shove.

“Are you stupid?” Asked Alex.

I shrugged.

“No werewolf would insult his own mate or be mean to her,” said Felix, rolling his eyes.

“Don’t you know anything?” Added Calix.

“Ok, thanks, I get it now,” I said simply.

“You dressed up for us, didn’t you?” Said Felix smirking and rubbing his chin. The other two grinned. My heart leapt a little at the sight of their dimples. I shook my head. What was wrong with me? The triplets were monsters and good looks did not absolve them of that.

“Don’t make her admit it,” said Calix. “She’s embarrassed, Felix.”

“Admit it! You did this for us!” Felix exclaimed, grinning wickedly. He kept coming closer and my back was pressed against the kitchen island now.

Alex was quiet, smiling faintly and watching me closely. I just wanted them to go away. I was so frustrated with my whole life. There would not be a single present for me tomorrow. No one had counselled me about my shift at midnight and I was scared. I knew it would be painful and I did not need this from these three privileged assh0les who did not deserve the title of Alpha. They were physically Alphas but they had no integrity. They could not lead this pack. What a joke! I decided to play along.

“Yeah, ok,” I said softly, looking down to feign embarrassment and hugging myself tightly. “I dressed up for you. I asked two girls at school to help me. I really did have a math thing but I went to get dolled up after so that made me late as well. I’m sorry.”

I hid my face in my hands, stifling my laughter. They seemed to think I was crying.

“Hey, you know, we aren’t the stupid little boys we used to be when we would fight with you,” said Alex gently. “We’re taking over this pack tomorrow and as you’re part of this pack we just wanna know what’s going on with you that’s all.”

Huh?

“Don’t cry, stupid,” said Felix exasperadteay.

“Don’t insult her when you’re trying to cheer her up, stupid,” said Calix, turning on Felix. “Chasity,” said Calix, using my real name for the first time in nine years.

I dropped my hands. I was shocked. I just stared at him.

“You look pretty, ok” said Calix, winking.

My heart skipped a beat. He was bending down. His face was really close to me.

“Thanks for dressing up for us. I hope you wear an even shorter skirt tomorrow,” he said softly, smirking.

I rolled my eyes. Alex and Felix burst into laughter. I tried to brush past them but Felix grabbed my arms and put my back against the island again. My breath hitched in my throat.

“Did I say you could leave?” He asked, his nose brushing against my nose as he bent towards me. I squirmed in his arms.

“You need to have respect for your Alphas, Charity,” Alex said, using my awful nickname. The spell that Calix had cast on me was broken.

“Shoot you!” I screamed. “Let me go! Three Alpha males against one omega female is insane. You have no honour,” I cried, struggling against Felix. He released me.

“We were just playing with you Charity!” Said Felix “Good grief! Go! Run upstairs!”

I ran upstairs and to my room. I locked the door. I sat on my cot, hugging my knees to my chest. The Alpha and Luna came knocking on my door when darkness fell. I went out to them.

“We almost forgot, you have your first shift at midnight, same birthday as the triplets,” said Alpha Romeo rubbing the back of his neck.

I smiled. Were they going to counsel me or give me a gift?

“Yeah, so make sure and be out of the house at least by 11:45pm so you don’t break anything or make any mess when you shift,” said Luna Ronnie.

I nodded. I supposed that was one piece of advice. I left the house at half past eleven wearing my old clothes. I crunched through the snow. It was pitch-black. I sighed. I was nervous. I was scared of the pain. I wished my parents could be here. For the first nine years old my life, they had been in and out of rehabs. They were inconsistent but they actually seemed to love me a lot. They would always make my birthdays and holidays special no matter how high they were. They were deeply in love with each other as mates and back then I almost looked forward to having a mate of my own. It was almost midnight. I did not want to rip my clothes so I removed them and stood in the snow naked and barefoot my curls covering me to my waist. If I had not been a werewolf I would have frozen to death.

Midnight came and I felt my bones breaking.

Chapter 3: Shift and Sniff and Squirt

The pain shot through me. It was excruciating. I screamed. My bones lengthened and rearranged themselves. Sandy-coloured fur enveloped my form. My eyesight and hearing became so sharp. I stood on all fours. I howled. I was a wolf. I ran through the night, white snow beneath me and black sky above me. I practically flew. When I had tired of running. I made my way back to my clothes. They would probably so cold after lying in the snow. I focused on what I looked like human and my bones started breaking again. It was painful but not nearly as bad as the first time. I put on my clothes and headed inside. The triplets had gone out to ring in the first few minutes of their twenty-first birthday with some of their friends at a bar.

I passed by their rooms. The house had three floors. The Alpha and Luna slept on the top floor. The Triplets and I slept on the middle floor. I had a tiny converted storage room and each triplet had a master bedroom and bathroom. There was the most delicious smell coming from Calix’s room. I snuck in. He was the least scary of the triplets so I did not mind if he caught my scent when he came home and realised I had been in his home. His room literally smelled like freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. I looked around. Maybe he had pot cookies or something. I did not find anything. Ugh. I had put my scent all over some of his stuff for nothing.

I walked out and caught another scrumptious scent. This one was coming from the middle master bedroom that belonged to Felix. I dared not go in there but I sniffed the doorway. The smell reminded me of sweet coconut shavings. There was a tropical edge to it. I breathed it in, wondering why I had never picked it up before. My heart started to race. I was afraid to go near Alex’s room but I had to know. If all three rooms suddenly smelled great to me then…

I refused to think about it. I walked over to Alex’s door. I picked up the scent. The strong smell of coffee and cocoa hit me. My mouth watered a little. Did Alex smell that good? The window blew open suddenly and all three scents wafted down the hallway. Their combined scents hit me and moisture pooled in my underwear. I was in big trouble. I went to my tiny room and locked the door. I tried to fall asleep but I kept tossing and turning. Those scents were plaguing me. Would they smell me when they returned home? Would I suddenly smell different now to them? I did not want to analyse it too much. Maybe my enhanced sense of smell was just picking up a lot that I had not noticed before. Maybe everyone smelled this good.

Third Person

Calix, Felix and Alex sauntered in the house at around three in the morning. It was Saturday. Later tonight, they had their official birthday party and alpha ceremony. Celebrating with their girlfriends and their “bros” from the town had left them exhausted and a little tipsy. It was difficult for werewolves to get drunk no matter how much alcohol they had but the triplets had really done their best. They said good night and happy birthday to each other and parted ways.

Calix stumbled into his room. A familiar scent greeted him but there was some unmistakable new element to it like a new ingredient enhancing an old favourite recipe of his. Someone had been in his room. A girl. She smelled like roses and honeysuckle. He shivered. That scent was driving him crazy. He could not sleep. It was all over everything. He felt as if he recognised the smell but he could not say exactly who it was. Surely he would have noticed and remembered someone who smelled this good.

He could not take it anymore when the sun came up. He banged on his brothers’ doors. They greeted him still half-asleep.

“What’s wrong, little bro?” Asked Alex, concern evident on his face.

“It better be good. It’s six o’ clock in the morning. We partied last night and we’re partying tonight,” said Felix, doing a little dance and yawning.

“Smell my room,” said Calix.

His brothers laughed. He walked away from them. They followed him.

“Enough !” Said Felix storming into Calix’s room. Felix stopped in his tracks. Alex entered and his eyes widened.

“Oh my God,” said Felix. “What is that?” The Alpha started sniffing about his brother’s room.

“Little Bro, who was in your room?” Asked Alex sharply.

“You’ve been with our mate!” Said Felix, growling. “You’re keeping her all to yourself.”

“No, I don’t know whose scent it is and it’s driving me crazy,” said Calix with tired eyes.

“Our mate’s been in this room,” said Felix gleefully. “She found us! Oh I can’t wait to get my hands on her.” Felix growled again.

“What about Sandra, Tonya and Avery?” Asked Calix, mentioning their current girlfriends.

“We’ve only been dating them like a couple weeks! They know they’re not our mates so it was a temporary thing! I’m gonna end it with Tonya over the phone,” said Felix dismissively.

“Yeah,” agreed Alex. “If we can find our mate in time for the party we don’t want the girls showing up and harassing her.”

“Yeah, they’d be jealous,” said Calix. “And there’s one of her and three of them so we better tell them before tonight.”

The brothers were in agreement, all sitting on Calix’s bed.

“Who would be in my room?” Calix wondered.

“There’s something familiar about the smell,” said Alex, smiling. “It kinda smells a little like…” Alex paused, frowning. He got up and ran down the hallway. He stood in front of the door to Chasity’s little makeshift room. The same smell hit him. It made him shiver. Honeysuckle and Roses. He sighed. He found her door unlocked and opened it eagerly to reveal an empty room with the cot in the corner made. His face fell.

It suddenly dawned on him just how small Chasity’s room was compared to the other bedrooms in the house. There were empty guest bedrooms bigger than this room. Why didn’t his parents give her one of those?

His brothers came up behind him. Felix looked dumbfounded. Calix walked into Chasity’s room and lay in her cot, hugging her pillow, deeply inhaling her scent.

“I’m gonna wait for her to come back, right here,” he said, curling up on her tiny cot. It was comically small for the six-foot-four Alpha.

“I wanna go get her right now,” said Felix, his eyes worried. “We have a lot of talking to do.”

“Relax, Felix,” said Alex. “Our mate already lives with us so we’re good,” said the eldest Alpha grinning.

“No, we’re not good you idiots!” Said Felix staring at them. “Our mate is Charity. Charity!”

“Don’t call her that!” Snarled Calix, his blue eyes turning black.

“Sorry! Sorry! Shit! It’s a bad habit. Chasity,” Felix said. Her real name felt good to say out loud.

“What’s your problem?” Asked Alex. He was looking through Chasity’s things, thinking of all the stuff he was going to buy her. She hardly had anything so she would be easy to surprise. It was her birthday too after all.

“We have to go to the mall as soon as it opens at ten,” he told his younger brothers. “It’s Chasity’s birthday too and I’m sure Mom and Dad didn’t get her anything.”

“Are you hearing yourself?” Asked Felix.

“Again! What is your problem?” Alex asked Felix. Calix opened his eyes to glare at Felix.

“Chasity is our mate! We had no idea because she was not of age until today!” Felix said, waving his arms around like a mad man.

Calix and Alex were not following.

“We’ve treated Chasity like shit! When she realises she’s our mate, she’s going to reject us!” Said Felix.

Calix shot up into a sitting position. “No, she’s not,” the youngest said. “No, she can’t. We’ve been waiting three years for our mate.”

“Chasity said she didn’t want a mate, remember?” Said Felix, spelling it out for them.

“Yeah,” said Alex. “But when the mate bond actually hits her, she’ll be putty in our hands.”

Calix beamed, grinning at Alex. “Yep,” Calix agreed.

Felix rolled his eyes. “Do you remember why Chasity did not want a mate? She said because he’d be mean to her like we were. Her mate is literally us.”

Calix and Alex were starting to look worried.

“She’s going to freak out!” Said Felix. “She’s going to try to leave. Remember, she’s been talking about turning eighteen, finishing high school and leaving!”

Alex smirked. “She has seven more months of high school. It’s November. We have until June or July with her to convince her otherwise.”

Felix calmed down a little, thinking it over.

Calix grinned wickedly, his dimples showing, mischief in his baby blue eyes, “Chasity might hate us now but by next summer we’ll be making her squirt.”

His elder brothers burst into laughter.

Chapter 4: Dangerously Cute

Chasity’s POV

I had to wake up at the crack of dawn as usual on the day of the party despite going to bed after midnight. I was so tired. I passed as far away from the Triplet’s rooms as I could so I would not have to smell those delicious scents. I had to keep away from them. I could not bear to look them in the eyes if just their smell was driving me wild now that I was eighteen. How could fate be so cruel? I wondered if they would be horrible abusive mates. I would not let it reach to that. I had never even had one boyfriend, now I had three mates. What would I be expected to do? How would I handle that? I felt overwhelmed just thinking about it. There was a heat in the lower part of my tummy when I thought about all three of them and me. They were all so big and with three of them I would not even know who was doing what to me. I bit my lip. I was getting hot again. I quickly pushed those dirty thoughts away.

Maybe they will reject me outright? I thought.

My heart threatened to cleave in two or maybe three when I thought about that. My inner wolf whimpered. I hushed her soothingly. My wolf kept pushing thoughts of the triplets into my mind as I worked on all the last minute party details. Felix would be the roughest. Calix would be the gentlest. I was not sure what Alex would be like. He would probably boss me around, telling me to have respect for him as his mate and Luna. A chill crept through me. Luna. The current Luna hated me. She would not want me as her successor. I did not think the current Alpha would care much. Around half past five in the morning, Ronda, the party planner showed up to help.

“Where are the birthday boys?” She said excitedly. I rolled my eyes. My inner wolf growled. She was possessive. I looked at Ronda’s micro mini skirt and tiny tube top. I was surprised she did not freeze to death on the way here. She was holding three identical baby blue gift bags.

“They’re asleep,” I said, frowning. “They usually don’t wake up until noon on weekends,”

“Oh,” she said. She looked crestfallen. She put a coat over her tiny outfit, probably to unveil it at noon. Around six o’clock, I heard heavy steps. It couldn’t be! The Triplets woke up early! I ran out of the house without thinking. I shifted. Ronda ran out after me, her eyes wide with shock. I went bounding through the snow. I had ripped my clothes shifting suddenly like that. I needed to clear my head and stay clear of the Triplets until I decided what to do.

Third Person

“This is stupid!” Said Calix. “I need my mate, right now. I want Chasity!”

He stormed out of her room and down the stairs with his brothers on his heels. He was surprised to find Ronda in the kitchen.

“Where’s Chasity?” Asked Calix, still sleep-deprived and grumpy.

“Hey, sleepy head! Good morning!” Cooed Ronda.

“Have you seen Chasity, Ronda?” Asked Alex.

“I have presents for the birthday boys!” She squealed.

“Is she here?” Felix asked, getting annoyed.

“Who?” Asked Ronda, handing each triplet a gift bag.

“Thanks, Ronda!” Said Alex. “Chasity! Where is she?”

Ronda frowned. “She shifted and went for a run,” Ronda said.

“Oh yeah!” Said Alex. “She can shift now,” he said, grinning. He was excited to see her wolf and go running through the snow with her.

“Ok,” said Ronda, rolling her eyes. “Since when do you guys care about Charity?”

Calix snarled. Alex glared at Ronda. Ronda was taken aback.

“It’s Chasity,” corrected Felix, though he was the one who originally gave her the nickname.

Chasity’s POV

I had been running for a few hours all around the pack lands. I started to tire out. I knew I would be in pain when I shifted back. My wolf was strong but my human form was weak. I had never been athletic. I could not shift back without going home because I did not have my clothes. I was stealthy on my way back to the pack house. I saw that one of the Triplet’s cars was gone. Hopefully they had all gone. I shifted back and snuck in a side door. I crept up the stairs as quickly as I could. I squealed when I reached my room. The door was closed and all three scents were incredibly strong. Were they in there? I peaked under the door. I sighed in relief and went in.

I put on my clothes. My clothes smelled like Alex. They had been here. All of them. Recently. Their scents were heavenly. Every single item of clothing and every book smelled like Alex. The bed smelled intensely like Calix. Felix’s scent was concentrated near the door. They knew. That’s the only thing that would have led them to my room. They enjoyed teasing me but in the last nine years they had never set foot in my room, not a single time.

I went back to the kitchen to find a seething party planner. Ronda was furious at me for taking off. The Triplets scents were here too. They probably had not noticed her skimpy outfit. I laughed to myself as I worked alongside her. I was incredibly jumpy, expecting the Triplets to return at any minute. I dared not ask Ronda where they had gone. The time passed by quickly. Before I knew it, it was four o’ clock. The party started at six in the evening and I needed enough time to get ready.

I was walking up the stairs when the Luna spotted me.

“Oh! Hey, I’m so sorry but one of the servers called in sick, so we’ll need you to help out with the serving? Ok?” She asked though it was not really a question. It was not like I could refuse. I did have one condition though.

“That’s fine but I’m not wearing a uniform,” I said, laughing.

She laughed too as if she had not even considered it but I bet she would have made me wear one if I had not brought it up first. Every pack member would be here soon. Thankfully, the pack house was huge with a sprawling living room. The DJ was setting up in there now. All the decorations were hung and the lights were dimmed. I wondered if I would have to watch the Triplets dance with their girlfriends. They would obviously be at the party. I sighed. I needed to stop feeling entitled to being with the Triplets. They were my mates but they hated me and I hated them.

I showered methodically. My muscles ached. I knew I would pay for that long run. My skin no longer looked sallow though. It was golden and had a healthy glow. My dark circles were still there though. My body needed some rest but I was always working or studying. I sighed. My hair looked shiny. I left it down. Mina and Tina seemed to think my dark blonde curls were my best feature. I put on the outfit they had picked out for me, a black sequin mini dress and high heels. I did my makeup the way they had taught me. I was pleasantly surprised with the result. I spritzed on some perfume and ran down the stairs.

People started arriving a bit early. I greeted them and took their coats. Everyone called me “Charity” genuinely thinking that was my name and it was too late to correct them. I would be leaving this place in a matter of months. My inner wolf growled at me. I sighed. I noticed Sandra, Tonya and Avery all arrived together, holding hands, looking disgruntled in their mini dresses. Their eyes were red. They approached me to talk for the first time ever.

“Hey…uh…Charity,” said Sandra, tossing her flaming red hair back.

“Hey girl!” Tonya said. She had long straight black hair and olive skin.

“Nice to see you again,” Avery said with a smile. She had shoulder-length blonde hair.

“Hey girls, welcome, please help yourselves, feel free,” I said, awkwardly motioning towards the refreshment tables.

“Have you seen the Triplets today?” Sandra asked, narrowing her green eyes at me.

“No,” I said honestly in the most innocent tone I could muster.

“Ok, well, here’s the thing…” Tonya paused exchanging glances with the other two.

“The guys broke up with us!” Blurted out Avery. The other two glared at her. “Well, it’s true,” she said to them.

My heart was pounding.

“I’m so sorry to hear that,” I said stiffly.

“They said they found their mate,” Sandra added tensely.

I felt lightheaded. I stumbled backwards a little but caught my balance, leaning against the wall.

“They brushed us off…they said we’d only been together six weeks,” Tonya said, folding her arms.

That was true. The longest relationships the Triplets had were all about two months so the girls were only missing out on two more weeks.

“So since you live here, we figured you’d know who she is,” said Avery. “Their mate.”

I braced myself against the wall. I felt nauseated. The Triplets had already ended their relationships…for me? They would have ended them anyway but I felt awful for the three girls. I bit my lip. Did that mean the Triplets wanted me? Like right away? They had wasted no time breaking up with their girlfriends. I did not answer the girls’ question.

“Please, excuse me, girls,” I said feebly. I went into the kitchen. What was I going to do when the Triplets arrived?

Third Person

The Triplets were late for their own party after spending so much time bickering at the mall over what to get Chasity. They ended up getting her a whole host of things and getting it wrapped and gift bagged at the mall. They loaded the stuff out of the car, greeting guests as they entered the pack house. They narrowly avoided a confrontation with their three ex-girlfriends. All three girls stormed out together hand in hand. At least they had each other. They showered and got dressed in a matter of minutes, all three in matching black blazers, black trousers and baby blue shirts.

“She’s not in her room,” said Calix anxiously.

“Of course, not,” said Felix. “Mom and Dad are making her help with the party”

“Ok, before we do anything else, we need to have a serious conversation with Chasity,” said Alex, the Alpha even among Alphas.

His younger brothers nodded.

Chasity’s POV

I stayed hidden in the kitchen until the Luna came in and found me doing nothing. She glared at me and handed me a tray of champagne glasses to serve so the current Alpha could make a toast to his sons before he officially handed over the position. My mates would be Alphas in a matter of minutes. I passed out the champagne. Everyone smiled. The pack members were in a great mood. I even got a few thank yous and a few compliments on my outfit. I was a really low ranking member of the pack but because I served the Alpha and his family everyone knew my name or at least they knew my cruel nickname.

I refilled the tray with more glasses and more champagne. I spotted the party planner in an even skimpier outfit than this morning if that were possible. I remembered the blue gift bags she had brought. I had not gotten my mates anything even though I helped put this party together. I had literally zero dollars and zero cents. I hope they understood that. Mina and Tina grinned at me. I hugged them. They actually seemed to like me now. Our hug elicited a few glares and disapproving looks from older pack members nearby. Mina and Tina were the daughters of rich pack members and some people considered me trash because my parents were addicts who borrowed a lot of money from the pack funds and pack members. I had been so little then. I felt it was unfair to blame me but I was the only one around to blame. I pushed those old memories away.

Mina and Tina said happy birthday to me. I was so happy, I got a little teary-eyed. They were the only ones who had remembered or said anything. They each handed me a sparkly pink gift bag. I was shocked. They had already bought me clothes as part of our deal.

“Girls! Thank you! I’m shocked!” I said, taking the bags.

“It’s nothing!” Said Mina.

“We dropped off our homework assignments during Saturday morning football practice cause we were so excited!” Said Tina.

“Just like you promised, we aced it! He corrected it right in front of us!” Added Mina.

I grinned. They flipped their hair in unison. They were wearing identical hot pink dresses.

The Luna caught me socialising and I quickly scampered off to get more champagne. I handed a glass to the Luna who smiled coldly. The Alpha took a glass and nodded at me. I almost dropped my tray when I turned around and saw the Triplets. They looked unbelievably handsome. My inner wolf was howling. Their scents were out of this world. They were staring at me. I could not read their expressions. I could not be with them but I could not be without them. I just hoped they would not reject me right away. It was my birthday too and I just wanted to enjoy it a little, without worrying too much.

I offered them the champagne glasses. Alex took the whole tray away from me to his mother’s chagrin. He handed the tray to an offended-looking Ronda. Calix grabbed my hand, causing tingles to shoot through my arm. Felix put his hands on either side of my waist from behind. My core started to moisten just from that. I bit my lip. Some pack members were regarding us with curiosity. Alex led us up the stairs with Calix pulling me by the hand and Felix gently pushing me forwards as he gripped my waist.

They took me to Calix’s room and shut the door, locking it. I quickly scurried away from them to the other side of the room, pressing my back against the wall. The spell of seeing my mates for the first time since I had come of age had broken now that we were alone and they were very real threats.

“Don’t be scared, Chasity,” pleaded Calix, his blue eyes widening with hurt due to me letting go of his hand. He was using my real name.

“We’re not gonna hurt you, Baby,” purred Felix, eyeing me intensely.

I was shocked at the pet name. The heat in my lower tummy was back.

“We need to talk,” said Alex sternly. “Ok, Chasity?”

At least they were being respectful for once and using my real name with the exception of Felix who seemed to think I was already his Baby.

The brothers sat on Calix’s bed on one side of the room. I sat in the chair by his desk with his computer. The chair had wheels. I spun on it a little. I had never been in any of their rooms at all before until early this morning when I inspected Calix’s room. The Triplets cleaned their own rooms. We had lived together but emotionally we were like strangers in a way. I knew the Triplets had to have normal personalities outside of bullying me because they were certainly admired by everyone else and I had seen them be good to others with my own eyes. It stung thinking that they had reserved their venom for just me. What had I done? Besides be born unfortunate? Just like that, I broke an eight year long promise to myself as the tears streamed down my face without warning.

Alex looked despondent.

“Shh, Baby, it’s ok,” said Felix softly, handing me a tissue.

Calix grabbed my hand again and pulled the chair, wheeling it over to them. I was within arms reach of all three of them now. My heart raced due to fear and my core moistened at the same time. My body was really confused when it came to them. I knew they could hear my heartbeat and smell my arousal.

“As you probably already know, Chasity,” Alex said gently, “you’re our mate. All three of us. Triplets tend to have just one mate because…”

“I know,” I said, annoyed. I was probably better at science than them. They were always treating me like I was stupid. Normally they would glare at me for interrupting them and even curse and complain but they just stared at me intently. “Because identical triplets are naturally occurring clones, one fertilised egg that split into three so one mate.”

“Exactly,” said Alex smiling. I dried my eyes and blew my nose.

“You smell so good, Baby,” said Felix. His eyes were black. He reached out and caressed my knee. I shivered.

“Easy, Felix!” Warned Alex, removing his brother’s hand from my knee. Alex sighed.

“We’re so so so sorry, Chasity,” murmured Alex. “The way we’ve treated you is disgusting. We won’t make any excuses for it. We don’t deserve you but we want you as our mate and Luna. We’re willing to spend the rest of our lives making everything up to you.”

I was shocked. I had always wanted an apology. Now I had one, I wasn’t sure if it would suffice.

“We’re so sorry, Chasity,” said Calix. “Please let us love you!”

I blushed. Calix was always so dramatic.

“We’re really sorry, Baby,” said Felix. I was pretty sure I would never hear my horrid nickname or my real name come out of him ever again. I was henceforth Baby as far as he was concerned. I giggled at that thought. That was the wrong move because it set Felix’s wolf off.

“Oh, you’re so cute!” Growled Felix just before he grabbed me."

"Chapter 5: Happy Birthday

Felix grabbed me before Alex could stop him. He pinned me to the wall. He pressed his nose against my neck, inhaling deeply. He bared his canines. He was going to mark me!

“Stop!” I squealed but Felix’s eyes were black. His wolf was in control. I was completely not ready for this. I was not even sure if I wanted to be with them.

In a flash, his brothers pulled him off of me. They pinned him to the other wall.

“Calm down!” Bellowed Alex in his Alpha voice making the whole room shake.

Felix took a few deep breaths. His eyes slowly turned blue. His brothers walked him back to the bed and they all sat down again.

“Oh my God,” he said, panting. “Chasity!” He said my name! “I’m so sorry, Baby.” We were back to Baby again.

“It’s…ok,” I said slowly. I laughed half-heartedly. “Actually that’s not the worst thing you’ve done to me by a long shot. That won’t even make the top ten.”

I laughed at my own feeble joke. The Triplets looked horrified and guilty.

“So after Felix has gone and ruined the scrap of a chance we had left…what do you say?” Said Calix.

That actually made me laugh. The brothers all smiled. I had seven more months until high school was over and I was still angry as with the Triplets but I was no fool. Rejecting them would mean I would have to move out. I had no idea what I wanted. My wolf craved them. She was filling my head with positions that I had not known were possible. I had never even been kissed. If I even decided to be with them, only one of them could be my first kiss. My eyes went instinctively to Calix. He grinned. The other two looked a little jealous, wondering why I was staring at just him all of a sudden.

“I don’t know what I want,” I told them honestly.

“That’s completely fine!” Said Calix.

“Take your time,” said Alex.

“All the time you need,” added Felix who had pinned me to a wall a few moments ago to try to forcibly mark me as his mate. Yeah, sure.

“Ok, that brings us to the second part of this discussion,” said Alex.

Huh?

“Happy birthday, Chasity!” Said the Triplets in unison.

I smiled. They pulled a lot of gifts out from under Calix’s bed. I squealed and then I felt guilty. I bit my lip and frowned.

“Baby, what’s wrong?” Asked Felix quickly.

“I had thought about getting you something but I really couldn’t. I had literally no money,” I said apologetically, feeling ashamed.

Felix laughed. “Baby, we know you have no money. That’s ok.”

“You never let me forget it,” I muttered.

Felix frowned. They started prompting me to open my gifts. There were so many. It was so awkward for me. I had not gotten a single gift in nine years until today. Mina and Nina gave me gifts and now the Triplets had bought the whole mall. I wanted to open all my gifts later in the privacy of my room. I had already put the bags from Mina and Nina in there.

“Alex, Felix, Calix,” I said. They all reacted to their names. They all looked so gleeful.

“I want to open these later ok, when I’m thinking about stuff,” I said.

“We wanted to see your face…” pleaded Calix.

“It’s not about what we want,” interrupted Alex. I smiled.

“I’m just going to put the gifts in my room. Thank you so much!” I said.

I approached them shyly. We had never hugged before. Felix snatched me up first just as I expected. He squeezed me tightly, lifting my feet off the ground. I giggled. He let me down. Calix bent down to hug me gently, massaging my back soothingly with his hands. Alex lifted me by the waist and spun me around like I was a little princess. He put me gently on my feet. I started carrying an armful of gifts to my room.

“Wait!” They all said.

“You can’t stay in that room. It’s too small. We will organise the best guest room and turn it into your room,” Alex said.

This should have made me happy but it actually made me angry suddenly.

“So this room isn’t good enough for me now but it was good enough when you didn’t give a !” I snapped.

I immediately regretted saying that. I waited for the huge argument to start. They were quiet.

“If you’re not ready for your new room yet, that’s ok but I’m very uncomfortable with you staying there. It’s not even a bedroom and it’s a complete disgrace that my parents put you there,” said Alex.

We did not talk anymore as we moved the gifts to my room and went back down the stairs where everyone was still waiting impatiently for the birthday boys.

“Boys!” Said Luna Ronnie, narrowing her eyes. “Where have you been?” She seemed shocked to see me coming down the stairs with them.

“Do another lap to see if anyone needs more champagne,” she ordered me. Ronda handed me a fresh tray filled with glasses. The party planner had a smug look on her face.

Alex took the tray from me again and put it on the floor this time.

“Alex!” Said Ronnie to her eldest son.

“Let’s start the toast!” Said Alpha Romeo.

The Pack members cheered. Everyone gathered around the grand staircase and Alpha Romeo stood a few steps up so that everyone could see him. The Triplets pulled me with them to the same step as Alpha Romeo. The Luna who stood next to her husband was eyeing me suspiciously. I was pretty sure she was putting two and two together or in this case, one and three together. Alpha Romeo began his speech. It literally started with him meeting his mate, the Luna, their love, their wedding, honeymoon, childless years, having the triplets, their childhood, their teenage years and now their manhood and ascension to Alphas. It made literally no mention of me despite me being there for the past nine years since the triplets were twelve but the Alpha and Luna truly viewed me as a servant so I knew I should not expect to be mentioned. A lot of people kept glancing at me, wondering why I was there in the limelight. I tried to descend the stairs a few times but Alex kept grabbing my wrist. Felix put his hand absentmindedly on my behind. I stifled a gasp. He squeezed it and rubbed it gently. I started to cream my underwear. I glared at him and he blew me a kiss which many people noticed.

“I present to you, Alpha Alex, Alpha Felix and Alpha Calix Thorn, the Triplet Alphas,” boomed former Alpha Romeo using his Alpha voice for the last time.

The Pack members cheered. Their screams were deafening. Many girls shrieked and squealed over the Triplet Alphas. The Alpha Triplets went around the room to be congratulated by important pack members. They dragged me with them. No one asked about me but everyone’s eyes darted to me. Finally the Luna could take it no more. She marched her sons, me and the former alpha into the kitchen. The party planner nosily followed us.

“Since when are you three so close with Charity?” Asked the Luna.

“It’s Chasity, Mom,” said Felix.

“Sorry,” said the Luna. People truly thought my name was Charity so I never held it against them.

“She’s our mate,” said Alex, getting straight to the point. There was utter silence.

“And you’ve accepted her as your mate?” Said Romeo.

I felt a little offended. “Of course,” said Calix. “We want her more than anything.”

My cheeks burned. Felix started massaging my butt again.

“And has she accepted?” Asked the Luna.

There was more silence.

“I want to finish high school while I think about it,” I said.

The Luna laughed. “She wants to live here for as long as possible before she rejects you the day after she graduates high school and then goes off to search for her gambling drug-addicted parents.”

“Mom!” Said Calix, the Luna’s favourite.

She stared at him. “Honey! I…”

“Chasity has not been treated well here and you know it!” Said Calix.

The Luna sighed.

“She’s our mate and things around here will reflect that,” said Alex firmly.

The eavesdropping party planner was looking at me with so much envy I actually feared for my life a little.

“She hates you three you know,” said Ronda the party planner. “She thinks you’re all arrogant overrated snobs.”

I paled. I looked at the Triplets, half-expecting them to turn on me. Calix had not even been listening to her. He was still pleading with his Mother with his eyes. Alex was looking at the big birthday cake and Felix was still massaging my behind and looking at me, smirking. Felix was definitely going to try to sneak into my room tonight. I felt really warm thinking about it.

“They’re old enough to decide,” said Romeo.

“Let’s cut the cake with Chasity,” said Alex.

Ronda wheeled the huge cake out to the guests. Everyone began singing happy birthday and snapping pictures. I knew people wanted me out of the shot. They wanted pictures of the identical triplet alphas and birthday boys but the guys would not let me go. Calix grabbed one wrist and Alex grabbed the other. Felix was standing behind me, squeezing my waist. This was the first time all three of the Triplets had their hands on me and I felt like fainting. I was so overwhelmed. What was I going to do when they all really got their hands on me? I had thought I did not have to worry about that anytime soon but looking back on it, I should’ve worried more because all three brothers snuck me into one of their rooms that very night."

...
Open the app and continue reading the rest of the story . 👉(It will automatically jump to the book when you open the app)

“You’re soaked, honey.” Calix voice was husky. “If you need to come, you have 3 mates who are more than capable of satisfying you.”

“Feel what you do to us sweetheart.” Alex boldly took my hands and put one on his mennber and the other on Felix’s.

“I'd never been with more than one person at once...” I had heard of girls with multiple mates passing out because their rgasms were so intense. I felt overwhelmed just thinking about it.

“We’ll be going easy on you babe.” said Felix with hungry eyes at my chest. “Gosh they are gorgeous. I can’t wait to taste them.”

I couldn’t help but let out a groan.

“I want... All of you. Now.” I opened my leegs wider and blurted out.

------

Tomorrow was my birthday, not that anyone cared or even remembered because it was also the birthday of the Thorn Triplets. The Thorn Triplets were the pride and joy of the Winter Moon Pack. They were the sons of Alpha Romeo Thorn. They were filthy rich, devilishly handsome and disgustingly arrogant. All the young she-wolves adored them wholeheartedly and stroked their egos on a daily basis. I was cursed to share a birthday and a home with them.

At the tender age of nine, my drug-addicted parents left the pack to go rogue and had not been seen or heard from since. They left no instructions regarding their wishes for me so I was taken into the pack house under the care of Alpha Romeo and his wife, Ronnie. As if I had not been devastated enough, I now had three twelve-year old tormenters. The identical triplet sons of the Alpha were, in order of birth, Alex, Felix and Calix. They despised me and ensured that I knew I was beneath them. My parents had incurred a huge debt due to their drug seeking habits which was paid off by the Alpha. Thus, I had to earn my keep and repay my debt by doing as many chores as possible while the triplets enjoyed an idyllic childhood in the very same house.

In some packs the new Alpha ascends at age eighteen when they first shift but in mine, the age for ascension was twenty one. Thus tomorrow, on November eleventh, the triplets would turn twenty-one and take over the pack while I would turn eighteen and experience my first shift. Eighteen was also the minimum age when werewolves found their fated mate but I did not care about that. All I wanted was to come of age so I could leave this behind.

At least, the pack house had beautiful scenery. We were close to the north pole so snow was an everyday affair though there was no sign of Santa Claus. I certainly did not expect any birthday presents this November or Christmas presents come December. The pack made it clear that I owed them money and they were subtracting everything they did not spend on me from the huge debt. They also subtracted my “wages” from the debt so I was never given any money. I was allowed food, clothes and shelter, the basics.

I slowly got out of bed. The sun was just peeking out from behind a snow-covered horizon. Everything glistened. I gazed out my window at the wintry terrain. I sighed. I had to start making breakfast for everyone. Despite the huge size of the pack house with its luxurious bedrooms and bathrooms, I was given a small empty storage room to stay in. I had a cot, a shelf of second-hand books and a single drawer full of second hand clothes. The other drawers contained extra cleaning supplies as I did the housekeeping work also.

I used the common room’s bathroom, showering quickly. I looked at myself in the mirror. My parents had name me Chasity but everyone in the pack called me Charity. This was started by the triplets as a joke and because they said it so often, even decent pack members thought it was my real name. I was so shy and scared as a child that I never bothered to correct them so it had stuck.

I detangled my waist-length dark blonde curls and put them up in a huge bun. Whenever I left them down the triplets would pull my hair ever since we were little. They had not grown out of this habit even in adulthood. I sighed. There were dark circles forming under my large brown eyes. My light brown skin looked sallow. I had been overworking myself or rather the Thorn family had been overworking me. They used to have a maid and a cook with me as the sole assistant of both, but they had fired them last month after numerous conflicts between them and the spoilt triplets. For the past month, I had been drowning in work while attending my final year of high school. I had seven more months of high school before I could leave this place. That was the deal. At eighteen and after high school, I got my freedom and whatever I had paid off by then would be the end of it. The current Alpha and Luna seemed to think they were being extremely generous.

The pack house had a really good heating system so despite the fact that outside looked like the frigid tundra, inside was pretty warm. I put on a long-sleeved white babydoll top that covered my behind as I was wearing just black leggings underneath. I started on breakfast. As it was the Triplets’ “birthday week” and they would soon be Alphas, everyday was a feast day. I made waffles, pancakes, bacon, scrambled eggs and sausages. I put the butter and maple syrup on the table. I made coffee. I quickly drank some sweet, milky coffee for some energy and started setting the table.

Luna Ronnie entered the dining room, eyeing me, scrutinising my handy-work. She was a tall woman with dark brown long straight hair, pale skin and green eyes.

“The table looks nice,” she said, a rare compliment. “But have you washed all the wares? Wash them all before you eat!”

Alpha Romeo sauntered in, kissing his Luna gently. He nodded in approval at the breakfast spread. I smiled feebly at him. I heard heavy footsteps on the stairs and I took a deep breath. The Triplet Terrors were coming. They towered over me at six feet and four inches each, exactly a foot taller than me. They resembled their father with their shoulder-length thick shiny black hair, chiseled faces, baby blue eyes, dimples and chin-clefts. As they were Alphas they were all broad-shouldered and muscled blessed with super speed and super strength even beyond what was considered extraordinary for a werewolf. They were perfectly identical and perfectly heinous or at least they were to me. Their deep voices boomed as they shouted excitedly, shoving each other playfully. They would be twenty-one tomorrow but they still acted like they were twelve.

Alex was the eldest and the most serious and severe. He would surely rule with an iron fist and a surly demeanour. Felix as the middle triplet loved being the centre of attention and was naturally filled with wise-cracks, jokes and quips. Classic middle child. The youngest, Calix, was the charmer, a professional sweet-talker and Mommy’s favourite. He almost treated me like I was human.

“Did you make all of this, Charity?” Asked Calix, immediately trying to pull my hair out of its bun. I nodded, dodging him, only to bump into Felix who smirked and slipped my hair tie off. My curls tumbled down all around me. Felix and Calix laughed.

“Stop!” I implored them, reaching for my only hair tie. Felix held it high above my head. He threw it to Alex who caught it and put it in his pocket. I tried to lunge towards Alex but Felix grabbed me. Felix and Alex started shoving me back and forth between them like I was a ball and they were playing catch.

“I give up! I give up!” I said while they snickered.

Calix said, “All right. Cut it out. Let her go wash the wares. Mom wants the place kept as clean as possible so there’ll be less to do tomorrow.”

The elder two relinquished me. I ran into the kitchen. My heart was racing. I started on the dishes. By the time I was done, the family of five hungry werewolves, four of them from Alpha stock, had devoured literally everything I made except for one pancake. The chairs were all empty. I went to get the last pancake but Felix snatched it up. He had zoomed in out of nowhere, fast as a cheetah and quiet as a mouse.

“I haven’t eaten anything,” I told him, my eyes wide.

“Good, you’re fat enough as it is,” he said, sneering. He ate the pancake in two bites.

I sighed. I refused to cry. I had not cried in front of them since the first year of torment when I was nine. My tenth birthday marked a very important vow I had made to myself after crying almost every single day at aged nine. The vow was that I would never let the Triplets make me cry ever again. I would be strong. I had kept that vow successfully for eight years come tomorrow. The comment stung though. The Triplets were widely regarded as the most handsome eligible bachelors in the Pack. They constantly attacked my weight. I was not overweight but I had a curvy hourglass figure. My waist was slender. I wore about a size 4 in clothes which was small enough in my opinion but all the Triplets had stick-thin size 0 girlfriends.

I had to take the bus to school. I had thrown on a man’s black coat over my white top and leggings, another hand-me-down. I managed to find another hair tie but this was truly the last one. The Pack high school was called Winter Moon High after the pack. Our pack colours, and therefore also the school colours, were white, blue and silver. The whole school was decorated with streamers and balloons in celebration of the new Alphas, the Triplets.

“You’re so lucky, Charity,” said Mina Toros, the most popular girl in my senior year. She tossed her long dark hair back and pursed her plump red lips in her locker’s inside mirror. She was wearing a pink skirt short enough to qualify as belt. Thank goodness she had opaque tights on underneath. She usually ignored me except for the occasional pronouncement of how “lucky” I was.

“The things I’d to those Triplets if I lived in that house,” Mina said, licking her lips.

“You’d have to drop out!” Squealed her best friend, the second most popular girl, Tina Gregory. “You’d get pregnant the first month there.”

Tina had flawless dark brown skin with curly hair. She was tall and waif-like and also wore a pink skirt short enough to be a belt with opaque tights. Mina and Tina usually matched as though they were twins. Mina cackled at Tina’s joke.

“You know, Charity,” said Mina suddenly. “You’re not totally hideous.”

Gee, thanks.

“Ok,” I said, clutching my books. The girls were blocking my locker which was sandwiched between their two lockers. Lucky me, indeed.

“Yeah,” agreed Tina. “Your hair is actually pretty. You’re like a biracial Goldie Locks.”

I smiled. That sounded like a real compliment.

“Thanks Tina!” I said.

“Ohhh! And those Triplets are the three bears!” Shrieked Mina. “If I were their Goldie Locks I’d make sure everything was just right, get it?”

“Or too big,” said Tina, giggling.

“That means one of the triplets has to be too small,” I said softly.

Being werewolves, Mina and Tina heard me and they burst out laughing. Wow. I was actually getting along with them for five minutes.

“That was a good one, Charity, surprising,” said Tina, looking at me like she was now seeing me for the first time.

“Yeah,” said Mina giving me the same strange appraising look. “You know, if you had the money, imagine how cute you could look.”

I fidgeted uncomfortably, suddenly hyperaware of the patches in my clothes. Mina and Tina strutted off and I hurriedly opened my locker and got out my Math book. Mr Johnson who coached football and taught Math looked like he should be an Alpha too. He was huge and really attractive for a teacher. He was married though to his mate, the Art teacher, Mrs Johnson. He handed out our graded tests while Tina and Mina made flirty faces at him. Those flirty faces were not doing them any good. I noticed they got an F and an F minus respectively. I did not know F minus existed before today. He smiled at me and winked. My heart skipped a beat. “A plus as usual Math champ,” he boomed. Mr Johnson was one of the few people in my life who was nice to me.

“Mina and Tina, see me after class,” Mr Johnson said.

After class, Ashton Peters, a tall buff redhead who played football and was well-liked in the pack, pretended to knock into my desk.The stack of papers on my desk went flying all over the room. Mr Johnson spotted it.

“Stay and help her pick those up, Aston, my boy,” boomed Mr Johnson.

“Aww, coach, I’ll be late for football practice,” he whined.

“And we’ll be late for cheerleading practice,” said Mina and Tina in unison, pouting.

“I’m the coach, Aston, go ahead and be late. I’ll explain to your cheerleading coach ok, girls,” said Mr Johnson.

Ashton grumbled. He glared at me as if this were my fault. He started picking up papers at werewolf speed which cause the ones I was picking up to fly around due to the displaced wind. I eavesdropped on the meeting with Mina and Tina.

“Mina, Tina, I’m giving you a homework assignment to make up those grades. If you don’t ace it there won’t be any cheerleading,” he said.

The girls gasped. He handed them a stack of papers each and told them they could work on it together and that he set the questions himself so they would not find the answers online. I snatched up the last few papers from the floor and took the stack Ashton was handing me without looking at me.

“Thanks,” I said softly to him.

He glanced down at me, surprised by my thanks. He looked a little guilty all of a sudden. Mr Johnson left the room, leaving Mina and Tina looking dejected. Ashton grabbed the hair tie from my hair just like Calix had this morning. My curls came tumbling down again. I shrieked. I was so fed up. Ashton laughed and ran away to football practice. There went my last hair tie and my birthday was tomorrow.

“Aren’t you going to cheerleading?” I asked the girls, actually feeling sorry for them as they had been sort of nice earlier.

“No,” said Mina.

“What’s the use. We’ll never ace this homework so we’ll fail the class and be banned from the squad anyway,” explained Tina.

I walked up to them and looked at the homework assignment. I snorted. I could get 100% in this in my sleep. I was suddenly struck by an idea.

“Remember how you girls said I had…potential,” I said, looking at them.

They shrugged.

“I’ll do the assignment and you copy it over in your handwritings and ace it ok,” I offered.

The girls squealed. They jumped up hugging each other and me.

“Wait!” Said Mina, raising her eyebrows.

“What’s the catch?” Asked Tina, narrowing her eyes.

“I’m turning eighteen tomorrow too,” I said.

They gasped.

“You have the same birthday as the triplets?” Mina asked.

“Wait that means everyone ignores your birthday like every single year,” said Tina.

It was my turn to shrug.

“And they will this year too but I at least wanna feel…special. I’m gonna shift for the first time at midnight and who knows…I might see my mate at the big party…not that I care…” I rambled.

“You wanna look hot! Is that it?” Mina said smirking.

“Yeah you want us to make you over?” Tina asked, smiling.

I nodded.

Chapter 2: Makeover!

I was supposed to go home immediately after school to help with the preparations for the huge birthday party tomorrow night for the Triplets but I had to do the assignment for the girls and they had to make me over. I knew I would pay for it later but whatever. The Thorns had hired a party planner. They should be okay for a few hours without their werewolf Cinderella.

I did the assignment for the girls literally in the car on the way to the mall. It was that easy. Math was my thing. I was a nerd in general and I was proud of this even though werewolves prized brawn and beauty over brains any day.

The girls were impressed. They quickly copied it over sitting in the freezing car parking lot with the heater turned up. Mina drove a sports car. I did not know what kind but I knew that Mina and Tina were almost as rich as the Alpha and his family. They dragged me into the mall, squealing excitedly as though I was doing them a favour even when it came to the makeover. I reminded them I had no money. They rolled their eyes and ignored me. I guessed I could consider the stuff they bought as part of the deal.

I tried on outfit after outfit. Mina and Tina rated each one and seemed to having a blast. This was actually kind of fun. They encouraged me to pick out a lot of miniskirts and mini dresses. They said I had “great legs” and “nice boobs” even though the Triplets called me fat. Honestly, the clothes they picked for me did look great. I had some trouble walking in heels but the girls made me practice in the store like it was a runway. They pretended to be on a catwalk too. They were so confident. I had to marvel at them. Next they showed me what makeup to wear and how to style my hair at Tina’s house. They did a test run. I looked in Tina’s floor-length mirror and my jaw dropped.

I had on high heeled black ankle boots with a mini pleated black skirt. I was wearing black stockings as it was cold out even for a werewolf. My long-sleeved white top had a sweetheart neckline that was really flattering. My hair was so shiny in loose bouncy curls down my back. My skin glowed and I had cat eyeliner and red lips that surprisingly suited me. I hugged Mina and Tina. Did I just make two friends?

They drove me to the pack house hoping to catch a glimpse of the triplets but they were not at home yet. Thank goodness! I started helping the party planner sort out all the decorations and the food. It was tomorrow night but there was a lot to do. I did my own homework in between all of this. I was a master multitasker. I heard three cars parking. It was the triplets. Alpha and Luna were out shopping for even more gifts despite the fact that I had already wrapped like a dozen gifts. The party planner was a bleached blonde in her thirties who was obsessed with the hunk-i-ness of the triplets. She seemed to dislike me even though I was the only one helping her. She had been over everyday this week and always tried to make me look bad in front of the triplets. I wanted to tell her that they already hated me so she could relax. Her name was Ronda Something. I kept forgetting her last name.

The triplets walked in. Each had their arm around a girl. They had different girlfriends every two months or so. It did not make sense learning the girls’ names. Also, the triplets were anxious to find their real mate. They were not sure if they had three separate mates or just one mate to share. Sounds crazy but when it came to identical multiples like twins and triplets, they usually shared a single mate since they had been one egg and one sperm that split to form the multiples. So theoretically identical twins and triplets were naturally occurring clones. Every girl wished she was their mate. That was so crazy to me. The triplets were handsome but they were awful and three mates sounded so complicated.

Ronda glared at their girlfriends, jealousy evident in her beady eyes. The girls did not stay long and when they left, Ronda told the triplets I had showed up really late to help her. I sighed. I had been under the table literally as I wrapped tiny presents for door prizes. All the pack members got to pick a mystery present from a huge box tomorrow.

I crawled out from under the table to make myself known before they had to look for me. Hiding from them would just set them off. The triplets stared at me, their eyes wide. They looked at each other. I remembered my makeover. I did not think they would notice or even care. Alex licked his lips, trailing his eyes from my head to my toes. I took a step back. Felix looked flabbergasted and Calix smirked at me.

“Leave it to us, Ronda,” said Felix, recovering his usual haughty sneer, “We’ll punish her.”

Ronda smiled maliciously at me. She was the most immature adult I had ever met including the triplets and that was saying something. The triplets had me backed against the kitchen island.

“I’m sorry,” I said, “I had to do some extra math for Mr Johnson.”

It was not a complete lie. The triplets knew Mr Johnson because they were his football stars back when they went to High school. They also knew I had won Math competitions before. They had really enjoyed making fun of me then.

“Ok,” said Felix simply. He took a step towards me. “What’s all of this?” He gestured to my outfit, makeup and hair.

“My eighteenth birthday is tomorrow too. I’m just trying out how I wanna look,” I said, looking down, waiting for them to insult me or call me fat.

“Do you have a boyfriend, is that it?” Asked Alex, anger rising in his voice.

Why did he even care?

“I’m too fat to get a boyfriend, remember?” I said, repeating one of their classic insults.

“Don’t play games with us,” said Felix softly. “Is all of this for your mate? Have you figured out who he is?”

“No!” I said. They were acting so strange like I had done something underhanded.

“You’ll only know for sure tomorrow. Your inner wolf will tell you who your mate is,” said Calix.

“I don’t want a mate,” I said honestly. I had never had a guy be nice to me and I could not picture it happening.

“Why the not?” Alex asked like I was crazy for saying that. The Triplets were eager to find their real mate. They talked about it every birthday. They would visit other packs hoping to get a whiff of their mate. They thought maybe their mate was younger than them. That would explain why they could not pick up her scent. Only mates who had come of age could be discovered.

“Because he’d just be mean to me and call me names and I get enough of that from you,” I snapped. I should not have snapped. I was a little frightened now. The triplets had not hit me since we were little. The last fight happened when I was eleven and they were fourteen. I had punched Calix, breaking his nose for calling me a “fat nasty ” with “dead druggie parents”. My parents whereabouts had never been confirmed and I always liked to think they were alive. After he had let out a blood-curdling scream and told his elder brothers about his nose, Alex slapped me and then Felix slapped me. Calix had been reluctant but they made him hit me. They dragged me out to the frozen river behind the pack house. There was a hole in it for fishing. I was small enough to dip in the hole. They had held me under the water until I blacked out. Their parents had been furious. I went to the hospital for hypothermia. I never knew what their punishments had been but after that we never got physical with each other, nothing more than a shove.

“Are you stupid?” Asked Alex.

I shrugged.

“No werewolf would insult his own mate or be mean to her,” said Felix, rolling his eyes.

“Don’t you know anything?” Added Calix.

“Ok, thanks, I get it now,” I said simply.

“You dressed up for us, didn’t you?” Said Felix smirking and rubbing his chin. The other two grinned. My heart leapt a little at the sight of their dimples. I shook my head. What was wrong with me? The triplets were monsters and good looks did not absolve them of that.

“Don’t make her admit it,” said Calix. “She’s embarrassed, Felix.”

“Admit it! You did this for us!” Felix exclaimed, grinning wickedly. He kept coming closer and my back was pressed against the kitchen island now.

Alex was quiet, smiling faintly and watching me closely. I just wanted them to go away. I was so frustrated with my whole life. There would not be a single present for me tomorrow. No one had counselled me about my shift at midnight and I was scared. I knew it would be painful and I did not need this from these three privileged assh0les who did not deserve the title of Alpha. They were physically Alphas but they had no integrity. They could not lead this pack. What a joke! I decided to play along.

“Yeah, ok,” I said softly, looking down to feign embarrassment and hugging myself tightly. “I dressed up for you. I asked two girls at school to help me. I really did have a math thing but I went to get dolled up after so that made me late as well. I’m sorry.”

I hid my face in my hands, stifling my laughter. They seemed to think I was crying.

“Hey, you know, we aren’t the stupid little boys we used to be when we would fight with you,” said Alex gently. “We’re taking over this pack tomorrow and as you’re part of this pack we just wanna know what’s going on with you that’s all.”

Huh?

“Don’t cry, stupid,” said Felix exasperadteay.

“Don’t insult her when you’re trying to cheer her up, stupid,” said Calix, turning on Felix. “Chasity,” said Calix, using my real name for the first time in nine years.

I dropped my hands. I was shocked. I just stared at him.

“You look pretty, ok” said Calix, winking.

My heart skipped a beat. He was bending down. His face was really close to me.

“Thanks for dressing up for us. I hope you wear an even shorter skirt tomorrow,” he said softly, smirking.

I rolled my eyes. Alex and Felix burst into laughter. I tried to brush past them but Felix grabbed my arms and put my back against the island again. My breath hitched in my throat.

“Did I say you could leave?” He asked, his nose brushing against my nose as he bent towards me. I squirmed in his arms.

“You need to have respect for your Alphas, Charity,” Alex said, using my awful nickname. The spell that Calix had cast on me was broken.

“Shoot you!” I screamed. “Let me go! Three Alpha males against one omega female is insane. You have no honour,” I cried, struggling against Felix. He released me.

“We were just playing with you Charity!” Said Felix “Good grief! Go! Run upstairs!”

I ran upstairs and to my room. I locked the door. I sat on my cot, hugging my knees to my chest. The Alpha and Luna came knocking on my door when darkness fell. I went out to them.

“We almost forgot, you have your first shift at midnight, same birthday as the triplets,” said Alpha Romeo rubbing the back of his neck.

I smiled. Were they going to counsel me or give me a gift?

“Yeah, so make sure and be out of the house at least by 11:45pm so you don’t break anything or make any mess when you shift,” said Luna Ronnie.

I nodded. I supposed that was one piece of advice. I left the house at half past eleven wearing my old clothes. I crunched through the snow. It was pitch-black. I sighed. I was nervous. I was scared of the pain. I wished my parents could be here. For the first nine years old my life, they had been in and out of rehabs. They were inconsistent but they actually seemed to love me a lot. They would always make my birthdays and holidays special no matter how high they were. They were deeply in love with each other as mates and back then I almost looked forward to having a mate of my own. It was almost midnight. I did not want to rip my clothes so I removed them and stood in the snow naked and barefoot my curls covering me to my waist. If I had not been a werewolf I would have frozen to death.

Midnight came and I felt my bones breaking.

Chapter 3: Shift and Sniff and Squirt

The pain shot through me. It was excruciating. I screamed. My bones lengthened and rearranged themselves. Sandy-coloured fur enveloped my form. My eyesight and hearing became so sharp. I stood on all fours. I howled. I was a wolf. I ran through the night, white snow beneath me and black sky above me. I practically flew. When I had tired of running. I made my way back to my clothes. They would probably so cold after lying in the snow. I focused on what I looked like human and my bones started breaking again. It was painful but not nearly as bad as the first time. I put on my clothes and headed inside. The triplets had gone out to ring in the first few minutes of their twenty-first birthday with some of their friends at a bar.

I passed by their rooms. The house had three floors. The Alpha and Luna slept on the top floor. The Triplets and I slept on the middle floor. I had a tiny converted storage room and each triplet had a master bedroom and bathroom. There was the most delicious smell coming from Calix’s room. I snuck in. He was the least scary of the triplets so I did not mind if he caught my scent when he came home and realised I had been in his home. His room literally smelled like freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. I looked around. Maybe he had pot cookies or something. I did not find anything. Ugh. I had put my scent all over some of his stuff for nothing.

I walked out and caught another scrumptious scent. This one was coming from the middle master bedroom that belonged to Felix. I dared not go in there but I sniffed the doorway. The smell reminded me of sweet coconut shavings. There was a tropical edge to it. I breathed it in, wondering why I had never picked it up before. My heart started to race. I was afraid to go near Alex’s room but I had to know. If all three rooms suddenly smelled great to me then…

I refused to think about it. I walked over to Alex’s door. I picked up the scent. The strong smell of coffee and cocoa hit me. My mouth watered a little. Did Alex smell that good? The window blew open suddenly and all three scents wafted down the hallway. Their combined scents hit me and moisture pooled in my underwear. I was in big trouble. I went to my tiny room and locked the door. I tried to fall asleep but I kept tossing and turning. Those scents were plaguing me. Would they smell me when they returned home? Would I suddenly smell different now to them? I did not want to analyse it too much. Maybe my enhanced sense of smell was just picking up a lot that I had not noticed before. Maybe everyone smelled this good.

Third Person

Calix, Felix and Alex sauntered in the house at around three in the morning. It was Saturday. Later tonight, they had their official birthday party and alpha ceremony. Celebrating with their girlfriends and their “bros” from the town had left them exhausted and a little tipsy. It was difficult for werewolves to get drunk no matter how much alcohol they had but the triplets had really done their best. They said good night and happy birthday to each other and parted ways.

Calix stumbled into his room. A familiar scent greeted him but there was some unmistakable new element to it like a new ingredient enhancing an old favourite recipe of his. Someone had been in his room. A girl. She smelled like roses and honeysuckle. He shivered. That scent was driving him crazy. He could not sleep. It was all over everything. He felt as if he recognised the smell but he could not say exactly who it was. Surely he would have noticed and remembered someone who smelled this good.

He could not take it anymore when the sun came up. He banged on his brothers’ doors. They greeted him still half-asleep.

“What’s wrong, little bro?” Asked Alex, concern evident on his face.

“It better be good. It’s six o’ clock in the morning. We partied last night and we’re partying tonight,” said Felix, doing a little dance and yawning.

“Smell my room,” said Calix.

His brothers laughed. He walked away from them. They followed him.

“Enough !” Said Felix storming into Calix’s room. Felix stopped in his tracks. Alex entered and his eyes widened.

“Oh my God,” said Felix. “What is that?” The Alpha started sniffing about his brother’s room.

“Little Bro, who was in your room?” Asked Alex sharply.

“You’ve been with our mate!” Said Felix, growling. “You’re keeping her all to yourself.”

“No, I don’t know whose scent it is and it’s driving me crazy,” said Calix with tired eyes.

“Our mate’s been in this room,” said Felix gleefully. “She found us! Oh I can’t wait to get my hands on her.” Felix growled again.

“What about Sandra, Tonya and Avery?” Asked Calix, mentioning their current girlfriends.

“We’ve only been dating them like a couple weeks! They know they’re not our mates so it was a temporary thing! I’m gonna end it with Tonya over the phone,” said Felix dismissively.

“Yeah,” agreed Alex. “If we can find our mate in time for the party we don’t want the girls showing up and harassing her.”

“Yeah, they’d be jealous,” said Calix. “And there’s one of her and three of them so we better tell them before tonight.”

The brothers were in agreement, all sitting on Calix’s bed.

“Who would be in my room?” Calix wondered.

“There’s something familiar about the smell,” said Alex, smiling. “It kinda smells a little like…” Alex paused, frowning. He got up and ran down the hallway. He stood in front of the door to Chasity’s little makeshift room. The same smell hit him. It made him shiver. Honeysuckle and Roses. He sighed. He found her door unlocked and opened it eagerly to reveal an empty room with the cot in the corner made. His face fell.

It suddenly dawned on him just how small Chasity’s room was compared to the other bedrooms in the house. There were empty guest bedrooms bigger than this room. Why didn’t his parents give her one of those?

His brothers came up behind him. Felix looked dumbfounded. Calix walked into Chasity’s room and lay in her cot, hugging her pillow, deeply inhaling her scent.

“I’m gonna wait for her to come back, right here,” he said, curling up on her tiny cot. It was comically small for the six-foot-four Alpha.

“I wanna go get her right now,” said Felix, his eyes worried. “We have a lot of talking to do.”

“Relax, Felix,” said Alex. “Our mate already lives with us so we’re good,” said the eldest Alpha grinning.

“No, we’re not good you idiots!” Said Felix staring at them. “Our mate is Charity. Charity!”

“Don’t call her that!” Snarled Calix, his blue eyes turning black.

“Sorry! Sorry! Shit! It’s a bad habit. Chasity,” Felix said. Her real name felt good to say out loud.

“What’s your problem?” Asked Alex. He was looking through Chasity’s things, thinking of all the stuff he was going to buy her. She hardly had anything so she would be easy to surprise. It was her birthday too after all.

“We have to go to the mall as soon as it opens at ten,” he told his younger brothers. “It’s Chasity’s birthday too and I’m sure Mom and Dad didn’t get her anything.”

“Are you hearing yourself?” Asked Felix.

“Again! What is your problem?” Alex asked Felix. Calix opened his eyes to glare at Felix.

“Chasity is our mate! We had no idea because she was not of age until today!” Felix said, waving his arms around like a mad man.

Calix and Alex were not following.

“We’ve treated Chasity like shit! When she realises she’s our mate, she’s going to reject us!” Said Felix.

Calix shot up into a sitting position. “No, she’s not,” the youngest said. “No, she can’t. We’ve been waiting three years for our mate.”

“Chasity said she didn’t want a mate, remember?” Said Felix, spelling it out for them.

“Yeah,” said Alex. “But when the mate bond actually hits her, she’ll be putty in our hands.”

Calix beamed, grinning at Alex. “Yep,” Calix agreed.

Felix rolled his eyes. “Do you remember why Chasity did not want a mate? She said because he’d be mean to her like we were. Her mate is literally us.”

Calix and Alex were starting to look worried.

“She’s going to freak out!” Said Felix. “She’s going to try to leave. Remember, she’s been talking about turning eighteen, finishing high school and leaving!”

Alex smirked. “She has seven more months of high school. It’s November. We have until June or July with her to convince her otherwise.”

Felix calmed down a little, thinking it over.

Calix grinned wickedly, his dimples showing, mischief in his baby blue eyes, “Chasity might hate us now but by next summer we’ll be making her squirt.”

His elder brothers burst into laughter.

Chapter 4: Dangerously Cute

Chasity’s POV

I had to wake up at the crack of dawn as usual on the day of the party despite going to bed after midnight. I was so tired. I passed as far away from the Triplet’s rooms as I could so I would not have to smell those delicious scents. I had to keep away from them. I could not bear to look them in the eyes if just their smell was driving me wild now that I was eighteen. How could fate be so cruel? I wondered if they would be horrible abusive mates. I would not let it reach to that. I had never even had one boyfriend, now I had three mates. What would I be expected to do? How would I handle that? I felt overwhelmed just thinking about it. There was a heat in the lower part of my tummy when I thought about all three of them and me. They were all so big and with three of them I would not even know who was doing what to me. I bit my lip. I was getting hot again. I quickly pushed those dirty thoughts away.

Maybe they will reject me outright? I thought.

My heart threatened to cleave in two or maybe three when I thought about that. My inner wolf whimpered. I hushed her soothingly. My wolf kept pushing thoughts of the triplets into my mind as I worked on all the last minute party details. Felix would be the roughest. Calix would be the gentlest. I was not sure what Alex would be like. He would probably boss me around, telling me to have respect for him as his mate and Luna. A chill crept through me. Luna. The current Luna hated me. She would not want me as her successor. I did not think the current Alpha would care much. Around half past five in the morning, Ronda, the party planner showed up to help.

“Where are the birthday boys?” She said excitedly. I rolled my eyes. My inner wolf growled. She was possessive. I looked at Ronda’s micro mini skirt and tiny tube top. I was surprised she did not freeze to death on the way here. She was holding three identical baby blue gift bags.

“They’re asleep,” I said, frowning. “They usually don’t wake up until noon on weekends,”

“Oh,” she said. She looked crestfallen. She put a coat over her tiny outfit, probably to unveil it at noon. Around six o’clock, I heard heavy steps. It couldn’t be! The Triplets woke up early! I ran out of the house without thinking. I shifted. Ronda ran out after me, her eyes wide with shock. I went bounding through the snow. I had ripped my clothes shifting suddenly like that. I needed to clear my head and stay clear of the Triplets until I decided what to do.

Third Person

“This is stupid!” Said Calix. “I need my mate, right now. I want Chasity!”

He stormed out of her room and down the stairs with his brothers on his heels. He was surprised to find Ronda in the kitchen.

“Where’s Chasity?” Asked Calix, still sleep-deprived and grumpy.

“Hey, sleepy head! Good morning!” Cooed Ronda.

“Have you seen Chasity, Ronda?” Asked Alex.

“I have presents for the birthday boys!” She squealed.

“Is she here?” Felix asked, getting annoyed.

“Who?” Asked Ronda, handing each triplet a gift bag.

“Thanks, Ronda!” Said Alex. “Chasity! Where is she?”

Ronda frowned. “She shifted and went for a run,” Ronda said.

“Oh yeah!” Said Alex. “She can shift now,” he said, grinning. He was excited to see her wolf and go running through the snow with her.

“Ok,” said Ronda, rolling her eyes. “Since when do you guys care about Charity?”

Calix snarled. Alex glared at Ronda. Ronda was taken aback.

“It’s Chasity,” corrected Felix, though he was the one who originally gave her the nickname.

Chasity’s POV

I had been running for a few hours all around the pack lands. I started to tire out. I knew I would be in pain when I shifted back. My wolf was strong but my human form was weak. I had never been athletic. I could not shift back without going home because I did not have my clothes. I was stealthy on my way back to the pack house. I saw that one of the Triplet’s cars was gone. Hopefully they had all gone. I shifted back and snuck in a side door. I crept up the stairs as quickly as I could. I squealed when I reached my room. The door was closed and all three scents were incredibly strong. Were they in there? I peaked under the door. I sighed in relief and went in.

I put on my clothes. My clothes smelled like Alex. They had been here. All of them. Recently. Their scents were heavenly. Every single item of clothing and every book smelled like Alex. The bed smelled intensely like Calix. Felix’s scent was concentrated near the door. They knew. That’s the only thing that would have led them to my room. They enjoyed teasing me but in the last nine years they had never set foot in my room, not a single time.

I went back to the kitchen to find a seething party planner. Ronda was furious at me for taking off. The Triplets scents were here too. They probably had not noticed her skimpy outfit. I laughed to myself as I worked alongside her. I was incredibly jumpy, expecting the Triplets to return at any minute. I dared not ask Ronda where they had gone. The time passed by quickly. Before I knew it, it was four o’ clock. The party started at six in the evening and I needed enough time to get ready.

I was walking up the stairs when the Luna spotted me.

“Oh! Hey, I’m so sorry but one of the servers called in sick, so we’ll need you to help out with the serving? Ok?” She asked though it was not really a question. It was not like I could refuse. I did have one condition though.

“That’s fine but I’m not wearing a uniform,” I said, laughing.

She laughed too as if she had not even considered it but I bet she would have made me wear one if I had not brought it up first. Every pack member would be here soon. Thankfully, the pack house was huge with a sprawling living room. The DJ was setting up in there now. All the decorations were hung and the lights were dimmed. I wondered if I would have to watch the Triplets dance with their girlfriends. They would obviously be at the party. I sighed. I needed to stop feeling entitled to being with the Triplets. They were my mates but they hated me and I hated them.

I showered methodically. My muscles ached. I knew I would pay for that long run. My skin no longer looked sallow though. It was golden and had a healthy glow. My dark circles were still there though. My body needed some rest but I was always working or studying. I sighed. My hair looked shiny. I left it down. Mina and Tina seemed to think my dark blonde curls were my best feature. I put on the outfit they had picked out for me, a black sequin mini dress and high heels. I did my makeup the way they had taught me. I was pleasantly surprised with the result. I spritzed on some perfume and ran down the stairs.

People started arriving a bit early. I greeted them and took their coats. Everyone called me “Charity” genuinely thinking that was my name and it was too late to correct them. I would be leaving this place in a matter of months. My inner wolf growled at me. I sighed. I noticed Sandra, Tonya and Avery all arrived together, holding hands, looking disgruntled in their mini dresses. Their eyes were red. They approached me to talk for the first time ever.

“Hey…uh…Charity,” said Sandra, tossing her flaming red hair back.

“Hey girl!” Tonya said. She had long straight black hair and olive skin.

“Nice to see you again,” Avery said with a smile. She had shoulder-length blonde hair.

“Hey girls, welcome, please help yourselves, feel free,” I said, awkwardly motioning towards the refreshment tables.

“Have you seen the Triplets today?” Sandra asked, narrowing her green eyes at me.

“No,” I said honestly in the most innocent tone I could muster.

“Ok, well, here’s the thing…” Tonya paused exchanging glances with the other two.

“The guys broke up with us!” Blurted out Avery. The other two glared at her. “Well, it’s true,” she said to them.

My heart was pounding.

“I’m so sorry to hear that,” I said stiffly.

“They said they found their mate,” Sandra added tensely.

I felt lightheaded. I stumbled backwards a little but caught my balance, leaning against the wall.

“They brushed us off…they said we’d only been together six weeks,” Tonya said, folding her arms.

That was true. The longest relationships the Triplets had were all about two months so the girls were only missing out on two more weeks.

“So since you live here, we figured you’d know who she is,” said Avery. “Their mate.”

I braced myself against the wall. I felt nauseated. The Triplets had already ended their relationships…for me? They would have ended them anyway but I felt awful for the three girls. I bit my lip. Did that mean the Triplets wanted me? Like right away? They had wasted no time breaking up with their girlfriends. I did not answer the girls’ question.

“Please, excuse me, girls,” I said feebly. I went into the kitchen. What was I going to do when the Triplets arrived?

Third Person

The Triplets were late for their own party after spending so much time bickering at the mall over what to get Chasity. They ended up getting her a whole host of things and getting it wrapped and gift bagged at the mall. They loaded the stuff out of the car, greeting guests as they entered the pack house. They narrowly avoided a confrontation with their three ex-girlfriends. All three girls stormed out together hand in hand. At least they had each other. They showered and got dressed in a matter of minutes, all three in matching black blazers, black trousers and baby blue shirts.

“She’s not in her room,” said Calix anxiously.

“Of course, not,” said Felix. “Mom and Dad are making her help with the party”

“Ok, before we do anything else, we need to have a serious conversation with Chasity,” said Alex, the Alpha even among Alphas.

His younger brothers nodded.

Chasity’s POV

I stayed hidden in the kitchen until the Luna came in and found me doing nothing. She glared at me and handed me a tray of champagne glasses to serve so the current Alpha could make a toast to his sons before he officially handed over the position. My mates would be Alphas in a matter of minutes. I passed out the champagne. Everyone smiled. The pack members were in a great mood. I even got a few thank yous and a few compliments on my outfit. I was a really low ranking member of the pack but because I served the Alpha and his family everyone knew my name or at least they knew my cruel nickname.

I refilled the tray with more glasses and more champagne. I spotted the party planner in an even skimpier outfit than this morning if that were possible. I remembered the blue gift bags she had brought. I had not gotten my mates anything even though I helped put this party together. I had literally zero dollars and zero cents. I hope they understood that. Mina and Tina grinned at me. I hugged them. They actually seemed to like me now. Our hug elicited a few glares and disapproving looks from older pack members nearby. Mina and Tina were the daughters of rich pack members and some people considered me trash because my parents were addicts who borrowed a lot of money from the pack funds and pack members. I had been so little then. I felt it was unfair to blame me but I was the only one around to blame. I pushed those old memories away.

Mina and Tina said happy birthday to me. I was so happy, I got a little teary-eyed. They were the only ones who had remembered or said anything. They each handed me a sparkly pink gift bag. I was shocked. They had already bought me clothes as part of our deal.

“Girls! Thank you! I’m shocked!” I said, taking the bags.

“It’s nothing!” Said Mina.

“We dropped off our homework assignments during Saturday morning football practice cause we were so excited!” Said Tina.

“Just like you promised, we aced it! He corrected it right in front of us!” Added Mina.

I grinned. They flipped their hair in unison. They were wearing identical hot pink dresses.

The Luna caught me socialising and I quickly scampered off to get more champagne. I handed a glass to the Luna who smiled coldly. The Alpha took a glass and nodded at me. I almost dropped my tray when I turned around and saw the Triplets. They looked unbelievably handsome. My inner wolf was howling. Their scents were out of this world. They were staring at me. I could not read their expressions. I could not be with them but I could not be without them. I just hoped they would not reject me right away. It was my birthday too and I just wanted to enjoy it a little, without worrying too much.

I offered them the champagne glasses. Alex took the whole tray away from me to his mother’s chagrin. He handed the tray to an offended-looking Ronda. Calix grabbed my hand, causing tingles to shoot through my arm. Felix put his hands on either side of my waist from behind. My core started to moisten just from that. I bit my lip. Some pack members were regarding us with curiosity. Alex led us up the stairs with Calix pulling me by the hand and Felix gently pushing me forwards as he gripped my waist.

They took me to Calix’s room and shut the door, locking it. I quickly scurried away from them to the other side of the room, pressing my back against the wall. The spell of seeing my mates for the first time since I had come of age had broken now that we were alone and they were very real threats.

“Don’t be scared, Chasity,” pleaded Calix, his blue eyes widening with hurt due to me letting go of his hand. He was using my real name.

“We’re not gonna hurt you, Baby,” purred Felix, eyeing me intensely.

I was shocked at the pet name. The heat in my lower tummy was back.

“We need to talk,” said Alex sternly. “Ok, Chasity?”

At least they were being respectful for once and using my real name with the exception of Felix who seemed to think I was already his Baby.

The brothers sat on Calix’s bed on one side of the room. I sat in the chair by his desk with his computer. The chair had wheels. I spun on it a little. I had never been in any of their rooms at all before until early this morning when I inspected Calix’s room. The Triplets cleaned their own rooms. We had lived together but emotionally we were like strangers in a way. I knew the Triplets had to have normal personalities outside of bullying me because they were certainly admired by everyone else and I had seen them be good to others with my own eyes. It stung thinking that they had reserved their venom for just me. What had I done? Besides be born unfortunate? Just like that, I broke an eight year long promise to myself as the tears streamed down my face without warning.

Alex looked despondent.

“Shh, Baby, it’s ok,” said Felix softly, handing me a tissue.

Calix grabbed my hand again and pulled the chair, wheeling it over to them. I was within arms reach of all three of them now. My heart raced due to fear and my core moistened at the same time. My body was really confused when it came to them. I knew they could hear my heartbeat and smell my arousal.

“As you probably already know, Chasity,” Alex said gently, “you’re our mate. All three of us. Triplets tend to have just one mate because…”

“I know,” I said, annoyed. I was probably better at science than them. They were always treating me like I was stupid. Normally they would glare at me for interrupting them and even curse and complain but they just stared at me intently. “Because identical triplets are naturally occurring clones, one fertilised egg that split into three so one mate.”

“Exactly,” said Alex smiling. I dried my eyes and blew my nose.

“You smell so good, Baby,” said Felix. His eyes were black. He reached out and caressed my knee. I shivered.

“Easy, Felix!” Warned Alex, removing his brother’s hand from my knee. Alex sighed.

“We’re so so so sorry, Chasity,” murmured Alex. “The way we’ve treated you is disgusting. We won’t make any excuses for it. We don’t deserve you but we want you as our mate and Luna. We’re willing to spend the rest of our lives making everything up to you.”

I was shocked. I had always wanted an apology. Now I had one, I wasn’t sure if it would suffice.

“We’re so sorry, Chasity,” said Calix. “Please let us love you!”

I blushed. Calix was always so dramatic.

“We’re really sorry, Baby,” said Felix. I was pretty sure I would never hear my horrid nickname or my real name come out of him ever again. I was henceforth Baby as far as he was concerned. I giggled at that thought. That was the wrong move because it set Felix’s wolf off.

“Oh, you’re so cute!” Growled Felix just before he grabbed me."

"Chapter 5: Happy Birthday

Felix grabbed me before Alex could stop him. He pinned me to the wall. He pressed his nose against my neck, inhaling deeply. He bared his canines. He was going to mark me!

“Stop!” I squealed but Felix’s eyes were black. His wolf was in control. I was completely not ready for this. I was not even sure if I wanted to be with them.

In a flash, his brothers pulled him off of me. They pinned him to the other wall.

“Calm down!” Bellowed Alex in his Alpha voice making the whole room shake.

Felix took a few deep breaths. His eyes slowly turned blue. His brothers walked him back to the bed and they all sat down again.

“Oh my God,” he said, panting. “Chasity!” He said my name! “I’m so sorry, Baby.” We were back to Baby again.

“It’s…ok,” I said slowly. I laughed half-heartedly. “Actually that’s not the worst thing you’ve done to me by a long shot. That won’t even make the top ten.”

I laughed at my own feeble joke. The Triplets looked horrified and guilty.

“So after Felix has gone and ruined the scrap of a chance we had left…what do you say?” Said Calix.

That actually made me laugh. The brothers all smiled. I had seven more months until high school was over and I was still angry as with the Triplets but I was no fool. Rejecting them would mean I would have to move out. I had no idea what I wanted. My wolf craved them. She was filling my head with positions that I had not known were possible. I had never even been kissed. If I even decided to be with them, only one of them could be my first kiss. My eyes went instinctively to Calix. He grinned. The other two looked a little jealous, wondering why I was staring at just him all of a sudden.

“I don’t know what I want,” I told them honestly.

“That’s completely fine!” Said Calix.

“Take your time,” said Alex.

“All the time you need,” added Felix who had pinned me to a wall a few moments ago to try to forcibly mark me as his mate. Yeah, sure.

“Ok, that brings us to the second part of this discussion,” said Alex.

Huh?

“Happy birthday, Chasity!” Said the Triplets in unison.

I smiled. They pulled a lot of gifts out from under Calix’s bed. I squealed and then I felt guilty. I bit my lip and frowned.

“Baby, what’s wrong?” Asked Felix quickly.

“I had thought about getting you something but I really couldn’t. I had literally no money,” I said apologetically, feeling ashamed.

Felix laughed. “Baby, we know you have no money. That’s ok.”

“You never let me forget it,” I muttered.

Felix frowned. They started prompting me to open my gifts. There were so many. It was so awkward for me. I had not gotten a single gift in nine years until today. Mina and Nina gave me gifts and now the Triplets had bought the whole mall. I wanted to open all my gifts later in the privacy of my room. I had already put the bags from Mina and Nina in there.

“Alex, Felix, Calix,” I said. They all reacted to their names. They all looked so gleeful.

“I want to open these later ok, when I’m thinking about stuff,” I said.

“We wanted to see your face…” pleaded Calix.

“It’s not about what we want,” interrupted Alex. I smiled.

“I’m just going to put the gifts in my room. Thank you so much!” I said.

I approached them shyly. We had never hugged before. Felix snatched me up first just as I expected. He squeezed me tightly, lifting my feet off the ground. I giggled. He let me down. Calix bent down to hug me gently, massaging my back soothingly with his hands. Alex lifted me by the waist and spun me around like I was a little princess. He put me gently on my feet. I started carrying an armful of gifts to my room.

“Wait!” They all said.

“You can’t stay in that room. It’s too small. We will organise the best guest room and turn it into your room,” Alex said.

This should have made me happy but it actually made me angry suddenly.

“So this room isn’t good enough for me now but it was good enough when you didn’t give a !” I snapped.

I immediately regretted saying that. I waited for the huge argument to start. They were quiet.

“If you’re not ready for your new room yet, that’s ok but I’m very uncomfortable with you staying there. It’s not even a bedroom and it’s a complete disgrace that my parents put you there,” said Alex.

We did not talk anymore as we moved the gifts to my room and went back down the stairs where everyone was still waiting impatiently for the birthday boys.

“Boys!” Said Luna Ronnie, narrowing her eyes. “Where have you been?” She seemed shocked to see me coming down the stairs with them.

“Do another lap to see if anyone needs more champagne,” she ordered me. Ronda handed me a fresh tray filled with glasses. The party planner had a smug look on her face.

Alex took the tray from me again and put it on the floor this time.

“Alex!” Said Ronnie to her eldest son.

“Let’s start the toast!” Said Alpha Romeo.

The Pack members cheered. Everyone gathered around the grand staircase and Alpha Romeo stood a few steps up so that everyone could see him. The Triplets pulled me with them to the same step as Alpha Romeo. The Luna who stood next to her husband was eyeing me suspiciously. I was pretty sure she was putting two and two together or in this case, one and three together. Alpha Romeo began his speech. It literally started with him meeting his mate, the Luna, their love, their wedding, honeymoon, childless years, having the triplets, their childhood, their teenage years and now their manhood and ascension to Alphas. It made literally no mention of me despite me being there for the past nine years since the triplets were twelve but the Alpha and Luna truly viewed me as a servant so I knew I should not expect to be mentioned. A lot of people kept glancing at me, wondering why I was there in the limelight. I tried to descend the stairs a few times but Alex kept grabbing my wrist. Felix put his hand absentmindedly on my behind. I stifled a gasp. He squeezed it and rubbed it gently. I started to cream my underwear. I glared at him and he blew me a kiss which many people noticed.

“I present to you, Alpha Alex, Alpha Felix and Alpha Calix Thorn, the Triplet Alphas,” boomed former Alpha Romeo using his Alpha voice for the last time.

The Pack members cheered. Their screams were deafening. Many girls shrieked and squealed over the Triplet Alphas. The Alpha Triplets went around the room to be congratulated by important pack members. They dragged me with them. No one asked about me but everyone’s eyes darted to me. Finally the Luna could take it no more. She marched her sons, me and the former alpha into the kitchen. The party planner nosily followed us.

“Since when are you three so close with Charity?” Asked the Luna.

“It’s Chasity, Mom,” said Felix.

“Sorry,” said the Luna. People truly thought my name was Charity so I never held it against them.

“She’s our mate,” said Alex, getting straight to the point. There was utter silence.

“And you’ve accepted her as your mate?” Said Romeo.

I felt a little offended. “Of course,” said Calix. “We want her more than anything.”

My cheeks burned. Felix started massaging my butt again.

“And has she accepted?” Asked the Luna.

There was more silence.

“I want to finish high school while I think about it,” I said.

The Luna laughed. “She wants to live here for as long as possible before she rejects you the day after she graduates high school and then goes off to search for her gambling drug-addicted parents.”

“Mom!” Said Calix, the Luna’s favourite.

She stared at him. “Honey! I…”

“Chasity has not been treated well here and you know it!” Said Calix.

The Luna sighed.

“She’s our mate and things around here will reflect that,” said Alex firmly.

The eavesdropping party planner was looking at me with so much envy I actually feared for my life a little.

“She hates you three you know,” said Ronda the party planner. “She thinks you’re all arrogant overrated snobs.”

I paled. I looked at the Triplets, half-expecting them to turn on me. Calix had not even been listening to her. He was still pleading with his Mother with his eyes. Alex was looking at the big birthday cake and Felix was still massaging my behind and looking at me, smirking. Felix was definitely going to try to sneak into my room tonight. I felt really warm thinking about it.

“They’re old enough to decide,” said Romeo.

“Let’s cut the cake with Chasity,” said Alex.

Ronda wheeled the huge cake out to the guests. Everyone began singing happy birthday and snapping pictures. I knew people wanted me out of the shot. They wanted pictures of the identical triplet alphas and birthday boys but the guys would not let me go. Calix grabbed one wrist and Alex grabbed the other. Felix was standing behind me, squeezing my waist. This was the first time all three of the Triplets had their hands on me and I felt like fainting. I was so overwhelmed. What was I going to do when they all really got their hands on me? I had thought I did not have to worry about that anytime soon but looking back on it, I should’ve worried more because all three brothers snuck me into one of their rooms that very night."

...
Open the app and continue reading the rest of the story . 👉(It will automatically jump to the book when you open the app)

“You’re soaked, honey.” Calix voice was husky. “If you need to come, you have 3 mates who are more than capable of satisfying you.”

“Feel what you do to us sweetheart.” Alex boldly took my hands and put one on his mennber and the other on Felix’s.

“I'd never been with more than one person at once...” I had heard of girls with multiple mates passing out because their rgasms were so intense. I felt overwhelmed just thinking about it.

“We’ll be going easy on you babe.” said Felix with hungry eyes at my chest. “Gosh they are gorgeous. I can’t wait to taste them.”

I couldn’t help but let out a groan.

“I want... All of you. Now.” I opened my leegs wider and blurted out.

------

Tomorrow was my birthday, not that anyone cared or even remembered because it was also the birthday of the Thorn Triplets. The Thorn Triplets were the pride and joy of the Winter Moon Pack. They were the sons of Alpha Romeo Thorn. They were filthy rich, devilishly handsome and disgustingly arrogant. All the young she-wolves adored them wholeheartedly and stroked their egos on a daily basis. I was cursed to share a birthday and a home with them.

At the tender age of nine, my drug-addicted parents left the pack to go rogue and had not been seen or heard from since. They left no instructions regarding their wishes for me so I was taken into the pack house under the care of Alpha Romeo and his wife, Ronnie. As if I had not been devastated enough, I now had three twelve-year old tormenters. The identical triplet sons of the Alpha were, in order of birth, Alex, Felix and Calix. They despised me and ensured that I knew I was beneath them. My parents had incurred a huge debt due to their drug seeking habits which was paid off by the Alpha. Thus, I had to earn my keep and repay my debt by doing as many chores as possible while the triplets enjoyed an idyllic childhood in the very same house.

In some packs the new Alpha ascends at age eighteen when they first shift but in mine, the age for ascension was twenty one. Thus tomorrow, on November eleventh, the triplets would turn twenty-one and take over the pack while I would turn eighteen and experience my first shift. Eighteen was also the minimum age when werewolves found their fated mate but I did not care about that. All I wanted was to come of age so I could leave this behind.

At least, the pack house had beautiful scenery. We were close to the north pole so snow was an everyday affair though there was no sign of Santa Claus. I certainly did not expect any birthday presents this November or Christmas presents come December. The pack made it clear that I owed them money and they were subtracting everything they did not spend on me from the huge debt. They also subtracted my “wages” from the debt so I was never given any money. I was allowed food, clothes and shelter, the basics.

I slowly got out of bed. The sun was just peeking out from behind a snow-covered horizon. Everything glistened. I gazed out my window at the wintry terrain. I sighed. I had to start making breakfast for everyone. Despite the huge size of the pack house with its luxurious bedrooms and bathrooms, I was given a small empty storage room to stay in. I had a cot, a shelf of second-hand books and a single drawer full of second hand clothes. The other drawers contained extra cleaning supplies as I did the housekeeping work also.

I used the common room’s bathroom, showering quickly. I looked at myself in the mirror. My parents had name me Chasity but everyone in the pack called me Charity. This was started by the triplets as a joke and because they said it so often, even decent pack members thought it was my real name. I was so shy and scared as a child that I never bothered to correct them so it had stuck.

I detangled my waist-length dark blonde curls and put them up in a huge bun. Whenever I left them down the triplets would pull my hair ever since we were little. They had not grown out of this habit even in adulthood. I sighed. There were dark circles forming under my large brown eyes. My light brown skin looked sallow. I had been overworking myself or rather the Thorn family had been overworking me. They used to have a maid and a cook with me as the sole assistant of both, but they had fired them last month after numerous conflicts between them and the spoilt triplets. For the past month, I had been drowning in work while attending my final year of high school. I had seven more months of high school before I could leave this place. That was the deal. At eighteen and after high school, I got my freedom and whatever I had paid off by then would be the end of it. The current Alpha and Luna seemed to think they were being extremely generous.

The pack house had a really good heating system so despite the fact that outside looked like the frigid tundra, inside was pretty warm. I put on a long-sleeved white babydoll top that covered my behind as I was wearing just black leggings underneath. I started on breakfast. As it was the Triplets’ “birthday week” and they would soon be Alphas, everyday was a feast day. I made waffles, pancakes, bacon, scrambled eggs and sausages. I put the butter and maple syrup on the table. I made coffee. I quickly drank some sweet, milky coffee for some energy and started setting the table.

Luna Ronnie entered the dining room, eyeing me, scrutinising my handy-work. She was a tall woman with dark brown long straight hair, pale skin and green eyes.

“The table looks nice,” she said, a rare compliment. “But have you washed all the wares? Wash them all before you eat!”

Alpha Romeo sauntered in, kissing his Luna gently. He nodded in approval at the breakfast spread. I smiled feebly at him. I heard heavy footsteps on the stairs and I took a deep breath. The Triplet Terrors were coming. They towered over me at six feet and four inches each, exactly a foot taller than me. They resembled their father with their shoulder-length thick shiny black hair, chiseled faces, baby blue eyes, dimples and chin-clefts. As they were Alphas they were all broad-shouldered and muscled blessed with super speed and super strength even beyond what was considered extraordinary for a werewolf. They were perfectly identical and perfectly heinous or at least they were to me. Their deep voices boomed as they shouted excitedly, shoving each other playfully. They would be twenty-one tomorrow but they still acted like they were twelve.

Alex was the eldest and the most serious and severe. He would surely rule with an iron fist and a surly demeanour. Felix as the middle triplet loved being the centre of attention and was naturally filled with wise-cracks, jokes and quips. Classic middle child. The youngest, Calix, was the charmer, a professional sweet-talker and Mommy’s favourite. He almost treated me like I was human.

“Did you make all of this, Charity?” Asked Calix, immediately trying to pull my hair out of its bun. I nodded, dodging him, only to bump into Felix who smirked and slipped my hair tie off. My curls tumbled down all around me. Felix and Calix laughed.

“Stop!” I implored them, reaching for my only hair tie. Felix held it high above my head. He threw it to Alex who caught it and put it in his pocket. I tried to lunge towards Alex but Felix grabbed me. Felix and Alex started shoving me back and forth between them like I was a ball and they were playing catch.

“I give up! I give up!” I said while they snickered.

Calix said, “All right. Cut it out. Let her go wash the wares. Mom wants the place kept as clean as possible so there’ll be less to do tomorrow.”

The elder two relinquished me. I ran into the kitchen. My heart was racing. I started on the dishes. By the time I was done, the family of five hungry werewolves, four of them from Alpha stock, had devoured literally everything I made except for one pancake. The chairs were all empty. I went to get the last pancake but Felix snatched it up. He had zoomed in out of nowhere, fast as a cheetah and quiet as a mouse.

“I haven’t eaten anything,” I told him, my eyes wide.

“Good, you’re fat enough as it is,” he said, sneering. He ate the pancake in two bites.

I sighed. I refused to cry. I had not cried in front of them since the first year of torment when I was nine. My tenth birthday marked a very important vow I had made to myself after crying almost every single day at aged nine. The vow was that I would never let the Triplets make me cry ever again. I would be strong. I had kept that vow successfully for eight years come tomorrow. The comment stung though. The Triplets were widely regarded as the most handsome eligible bachelors in the Pack. They constantly attacked my weight. I was not overweight but I had a curvy hourglass figure. My waist was slender. I wore about a size 4 in clothes which was small enough in my opinion but all the Triplets had stick-thin size 0 girlfriends.

I had to take the bus to school. I had thrown on a man’s black coat over my white top and leggings, another hand-me-down. I managed to find another hair tie but this was truly the last one. The Pack high school was called Winter Moon High after the pack. Our pack colours, and therefore also the school colours, were white, blue and silver. The whole school was decorated with streamers and balloons in celebration of the new Alphas, the Triplets.

“You’re so lucky, Charity,” said Mina Toros, the most popular girl in my senior year. She tossed her long dark hair back and pursed her plump red lips in her locker’s inside mirror. She was wearing a pink skirt short enough to qualify as belt. Thank goodness she had opaque tights on underneath. She usually ignored me except for the occasional pronouncement of how “lucky” I was.

“The things I’d to those Triplets if I lived in that house,” Mina said, licking her lips.

“You’d have to drop out!” Squealed her best friend, the second most popular girl, Tina Gregory. “You’d get pregnant the first month there.”

Tina had flawless dark brown skin with curly hair. She was tall and waif-like and also wore a pink skirt short enough to be a belt with opaque tights. Mina and Tina usually matched as though they were twins. Mina cackled at Tina’s joke.

“You know, Charity,” said Mina suddenly. “You’re not totally hideous.”

Gee, thanks.

“Ok,” I said, clutching my books. The girls were blocking my locker which was sandwiched between their two lockers. Lucky me, indeed.

“Yeah,” agreed Tina. “Your hair is actually pretty. You’re like a biracial Goldie Locks.”

I smiled. That sounded like a real compliment.

“Thanks Tina!” I said.

“Ohhh! And those Triplets are the three bears!” Shrieked Mina. “If I were their Goldie Locks I’d make sure everything was just right, get it?”

“Or too big,” said Tina, giggling.

“That means one of the triplets has to be too small,” I said softly.

Being werewolves, Mina and Tina heard me and they burst out laughing. Wow. I was actually getting along with them for five minutes.

“That was a good one, Charity, surprising,” said Tina, looking at me like she was now seeing me for the first time.

“Yeah,” said Mina giving me the same strange appraising look. “You know, if you had the money, imagine how cute you could look.”

I fidgeted uncomfortably, suddenly hyperaware of the patches in my clothes. Mina and Tina strutted off and I hurriedly opened my locker and got out my Math book. Mr Johnson who coached football and taught Math looked like he should be an Alpha too. He was huge and really attractive for a teacher. He was married though to his mate, the Art teacher, Mrs Johnson. He handed out our graded tests while Tina and Mina made flirty faces at him. Those flirty faces were not doing them any good. I noticed they got an F and an F minus respectively. I did not know F minus existed before today. He smiled at me and winked. My heart skipped a beat. “A plus as usual Math champ,” he boomed. Mr Johnson was one of the few people in my life who was nice to me.

“Mina and Tina, see me after class,” Mr Johnson said.

After class, Ashton Peters, a tall buff redhead who played football and was well-liked in the pack, pretended to knock into my desk.The stack of papers on my desk went flying all over the room. Mr Johnson spotted it.

“Stay and help her pick those up, Aston, my boy,” boomed Mr Johnson.

“Aww, coach, I’ll be late for football practice,” he whined.

“And we’ll be late for cheerleading practice,” said Mina and Tina in unison, pouting.

“I’m the coach, Aston, go ahead and be late. I’ll explain to your cheerleading coach ok, girls,” said Mr Johnson.

Ashton grumbled. He glared at me as if this were my fault. He started picking up papers at werewolf speed which cause the ones I was picking up to fly around due to the displaced wind. I eavesdropped on the meeting with Mina and Tina.

“Mina, Tina, I’m giving you a homework assignment to make up those grades. If you don’t ace it there won’t be any cheerleading,” he said.

The girls gasped. He handed them a stack of papers each and told them they could work on it together and that he set the questions himself so they would not find the answers online. I snatched up the last few papers from the floor and took the stack Ashton was handing me without looking at me.

“Thanks,” I said softly to him.

He glanced down at me, surprised by my thanks. He looked a little guilty all of a sudden. Mr Johnson left the room, leaving Mina and Tina looking dejected. Ashton grabbed the hair tie from my hair just like Calix had this morning. My curls came tumbling down again. I shrieked. I was so fed up. Ashton laughed and ran away to football practice. There went my last hair tie and my birthday was tomorrow.

“Aren’t you going to cheerleading?” I asked the girls, actually feeling sorry for them as they had been sort of nice earlier.

“No,” said Mina.

“What’s the use. We’ll never ace this homework so we’ll fail the class and be banned from the squad anyway,” explained Tina.

I walked up to them and looked at the homework assignment. I snorted. I could get 100% in this in my sleep. I was suddenly struck by an idea.

“Remember how you girls said I had…potential,” I said, looking at them.

They shrugged.

“I’ll do the assignment and you copy it over in your handwritings and ace it ok,” I offered.

The girls squealed. They jumped up hugging each other and me.

“Wait!” Said Mina, raising her eyebrows.

“What’s the catch?” Asked Tina, narrowing her eyes.

“I’m turning eighteen tomorrow too,” I said.

They gasped.

“You have the same birthday as the triplets?” Mina asked.

“Wait that means everyone ignores your birthday like every single year,” said Tina.

It was my turn to shrug.

“And they will this year too but I at least wanna feel…special. I’m gonna shift for the first time at midnight and who knows…I might see my mate at the big party…not that I care…” I rambled.

“You wanna look hot! Is that it?” Mina said smirking.

“Yeah you want us to make you over?” Tina asked, smiling.

I nodded.

Chapter 2: Makeover!

I was supposed to go home immediately after school to help with the preparations for the huge birthday party tomorrow night for the Triplets but I had to do the assignment for the girls and they had to make me over. I knew I would pay for it later but whatever. The Thorns had hired a party planner. They should be okay for a few hours without their werewolf Cinderella.

I did the assignment for the girls literally in the car on the way to the mall. It was that easy. Math was my thing. I was a nerd in general and I was proud of this even though werewolves prized brawn and beauty over brains any day.

The girls were impressed. They quickly copied it over sitting in the freezing car parking lot with the heater turned up. Mina drove a sports car. I did not know what kind but I knew that Mina and Tina were almost as rich as the Alpha and his family. They dragged me into the mall, squealing excitedly as though I was doing them a favour even when it came to the makeover. I reminded them I had no money. They rolled their eyes and ignored me. I guessed I could consider the stuff they bought as part of the deal.

I tried on outfit after outfit. Mina and Tina rated each one and seemed to having a blast. This was actually kind of fun. They encouraged me to pick out a lot of miniskirts and mini dresses. They said I had “great legs” and “nice boobs” even though the Triplets called me fat. Honestly, the clothes they picked for me did look great. I had some trouble walking in heels but the girls made me practice in the store like it was a runway. They pretended to be on a catwalk too. They were so confident. I had to marvel at them. Next they showed me what makeup to wear and how to style my hair at Tina’s house. They did a test run. I looked in Tina’s floor-length mirror and my jaw dropped.

I had on high heeled black ankle boots with a mini pleated black skirt. I was wearing black stockings as it was cold out even for a werewolf. My long-sleeved white top had a sweetheart neckline that was really flattering. My hair was so shiny in loose bouncy curls down my back. My skin glowed and I had cat eyeliner and red lips that surprisingly suited me. I hugged Mina and Tina. Did I just make two friends?

They drove me to the pack house hoping to catch a glimpse of the triplets but they were not at home yet. Thank goodness! I started helping the party planner sort out all the decorations and the food. It was tomorrow night but there was a lot to do. I did my own homework in between all of this. I was a master multitasker. I heard three cars parking. It was the triplets. Alpha and Luna were out shopping for even more gifts despite the fact that I had already wrapped like a dozen gifts. The party planner was a bleached blonde in her thirties who was obsessed with the hunk-i-ness of the triplets. She seemed to dislike me even though I was the only one helping her. She had been over everyday this week and always tried to make me look bad in front of the triplets. I wanted to tell her that they already hated me so she could relax. Her name was Ronda Something. I kept forgetting her last name.

The triplets walked in. Each had their arm around a girl. They had different girlfriends every two months or so. It did not make sense learning the girls’ names. Also, the triplets were anxious to find their real mate. They were not sure if they had three separate mates or just one mate to share. Sounds crazy but when it came to identical multiples like twins and triplets, they usually shared a single mate since they had been one egg and one sperm that split to form the multiples. So theoretically identical twins and triplets were naturally occurring clones. Every girl wished she was their mate. That was so crazy to me. The triplets were handsome but they were awful and three mates sounded so complicated.

Ronda glared at their girlfriends, jealousy evident in her beady eyes. The girls did not stay long and when they left, Ronda told the triplets I had showed up really late to help her. I sighed. I had been under the table literally as I wrapped tiny presents for door prizes. All the pack members got to pick a mystery present from a huge box tomorrow.

I crawled out from under the table to make myself known before they had to look for me. Hiding from them would just set them off. The triplets stared at me, their eyes wide. They looked at each other. I remembered my makeover. I did not think they would notice or even care. Alex licked his lips, trailing his eyes from my head to my toes. I took a step back. Felix looked flabbergasted and Calix smirked at me.

“Leave it to us, Ronda,” said Felix, recovering his usual haughty sneer, “We’ll punish her.”

Ronda smiled maliciously at me. She was the most immature adult I had ever met including the triplets and that was saying something. The triplets had me backed against the kitchen island.

“I’m sorry,” I said, “I had to do some extra math for Mr Johnson.”

It was not a complete lie. The triplets knew Mr Johnson because they were his football stars back when they went to High school. They also knew I had won Math competitions before. They had really enjoyed making fun of me then.

“Ok,” said Felix simply. He took a step towards me. “What’s all of this?” He gestured to my outfit, makeup and hair.

“My eighteenth birthday is tomorrow too. I’m just trying out how I wanna look,” I said, looking down, waiting for them to insult me or call me fat.

“Do you have a boyfriend, is that it?” Asked Alex, anger rising in his voice.

Why did he even care?

“I’m too fat to get a boyfriend, remember?” I said, repeating one of their classic insults.

“Don’t play games with us,” said Felix softly. “Is all of this for your mate? Have you figured out who he is?”

“No!” I said. They were acting so strange like I had done something underhanded.

“You’ll only know for sure tomorrow. Your inner wolf will tell you who your mate is,” said Calix.

“I don’t want a mate,” I said honestly. I had never had a guy be nice to me and I could not picture it happening.

“Why the not?” Alex asked like I was crazy for saying that. The Triplets were eager to find their real mate. They talked about it every birthday. They would visit other packs hoping to get a whiff of their mate. They thought maybe their mate was younger than them. That would explain why they could not pick up her scent. Only mates who had come of age could be discovered.

“Because he’d just be mean to me and call me names and I get enough of that from you,” I snapped. I should not have snapped. I was a little frightened now. The triplets had not hit me since we were little. The last fight happened when I was eleven and they were fourteen. I had punched Calix, breaking his nose for calling me a “fat nasty ” with “dead druggie parents”. My parents whereabouts had never been confirmed and I always liked to think they were alive. After he had let out a blood-curdling scream and told his elder brothers about his nose, Alex slapped me and then Felix slapped me. Calix had been reluctant but they made him hit me. They dragged me out to the frozen river behind the pack house. There was a hole in it for fishing. I was small enough to dip in the hole. They had held me under the water until I blacked out. Their parents had been furious. I went to the hospital for hypothermia. I never knew what their punishments had been but after that we never got physical with each other, nothing more than a shove.

“Are you stupid?” Asked Alex.

I shrugged.

“No werewolf would insult his own mate or be mean to her,” said Felix, rolling his eyes.

“Don’t you know anything?” Added Calix.

“Ok, thanks, I get it now,” I said simply.

“You dressed up for us, didn’t you?” Said Felix smirking and rubbing his chin. The other two grinned. My heart leapt a little at the sight of their dimples. I shook my head. What was wrong with me? The triplets were monsters and good looks did not absolve them of that.

“Don’t make her admit it,” said Calix. “She’s embarrassed, Felix.”

“Admit it! You did this for us!” Felix exclaimed, grinning wickedly. He kept coming closer and my back was pressed against the kitchen island now.

Alex was quiet, smiling faintly and watching me closely. I just wanted them to go away. I was so frustrated with my whole life. There would not be a single present for me tomorrow. No one had counselled me about my shift at midnight and I was scared. I knew it would be painful and I did not need this from these three privileged assh0les who did not deserve the title of Alpha. They were physically Alphas but they had no integrity. They could not lead this pack. What a joke! I decided to play along.

“Yeah, ok,” I said softly, looking down to feign embarrassment and hugging myself tightly. “I dressed up for you. I asked two girls at school to help me. I really did have a math thing but I went to get dolled up after so that made me late as well. I’m sorry.”

I hid my face in my hands, stifling my laughter. They seemed to think I was crying.

“Hey, you know, we aren’t the stupid little boys we used to be when we would fight with you,” said Alex gently. “We’re taking over this pack tomorrow and as you’re part of this pack we just wanna know what’s going on with you that’s all.”

Huh?

“Don’t cry, stupid,” said Felix exasperadteay.

“Don’t insult her when you’re trying to cheer her up, stupid,” said Calix, turning on Felix. “Chasity,” said Calix, using my real name for the first time in nine years.

I dropped my hands. I was shocked. I just stared at him.

“You look pretty, ok” said Calix, winking.

My heart skipped a beat. He was bending down. His face was really close to me.

“Thanks for dressing up for us. I hope you wear an even shorter skirt tomorrow,” he said softly, smirking.

I rolled my eyes. Alex and Felix burst into laughter. I tried to brush past them but Felix grabbed my arms and put my back against the island again. My breath hitched in my throat.

“Did I say you could leave?” He asked, his nose brushing against my nose as he bent towards me. I squirmed in his arms.

“You need to have respect for your Alphas, Charity,” Alex said, using my awful nickname. The spell that Calix had cast on me was broken.

“Shoot you!” I screamed. “Let me go! Three Alpha males against one omega female is insane. You have no honour,” I cried, struggling against Felix. He released me.

“We were just playing with you Charity!” Said Felix “Good grief! Go! Run upstairs!”

I ran upstairs and to my room. I locked the door. I sat on my cot, hugging my knees to my chest. The Alpha and Luna came knocking on my door when darkness fell. I went out to them.

“We almost forgot, you have your first shift at midnight, same birthday as the triplets,” said Alpha Romeo rubbing the back of his neck.

I smiled. Were they going to counsel me or give me a gift?

“Yeah, so make sure and be out of the house at least by 11:45pm so you don’t break anything or make any mess when you shift,” said Luna Ronnie.

I nodded. I supposed that was one piece of advice. I left the house at half past eleven wearing my old clothes. I crunched through the snow. It was pitch-black. I sighed. I was nervous. I was scared of the pain. I wished my parents could be here. For the first nine years old my life, they had been in and out of rehabs. They were inconsistent but they actually seemed to love me a lot. They would always make my birthdays and holidays special no matter how high they were. They were deeply in love with each other as mates and back then I almost looked forward to having a mate of my own. It was almost midnight. I did not want to rip my clothes so I removed them and stood in the snow naked and barefoot my curls covering me to my waist. If I had not been a werewolf I would have frozen to death.

Midnight came and I felt my bones breaking.

Chapter 3: Shift and Sniff and Squirt

The pain shot through me. It was excruciating. I screamed. My bones lengthened and rearranged themselves. Sandy-coloured fur enveloped my form. My eyesight and hearing became so sharp. I stood on all fours. I howled. I was a wolf. I ran through the night, white snow beneath me and black sky above me. I practically flew. When I had tired of running. I made my way back to my clothes. They would probably so cold after lying in the snow. I focused on what I looked like human and my bones started breaking again. It was painful but not nearly as bad as the first time. I put on my clothes and headed inside. The triplets had gone out to ring in the first few minutes of their twenty-first birthday with some of their friends at a bar.

I passed by their rooms. The house had three floors. The Alpha and Luna slept on the top floor. The Triplets and I slept on the middle floor. I had a tiny converted storage room and each triplet had a master bedroom and bathroom. There was the most delicious smell coming from Calix’s room. I snuck in. He was the least scary of the triplets so I did not mind if he caught my scent when he came home and realised I had been in his home. His room literally smelled like freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. I looked around. Maybe he had pot cookies or something. I did not find anything. Ugh. I had put my scent all over some of his stuff for nothing.

I walked out and caught another scrumptious scent. This one was coming from the middle master bedroom that belonged to Felix. I dared not go in there but I sniffed the doorway. The smell reminded me of sweet coconut shavings. There was a tropical edge to it. I breathed it in, wondering why I had never picked it up before. My heart started to race. I was afraid to go near Alex’s room but I had to know. If all three rooms suddenly smelled great to me then…

I refused to think about it. I walked over to Alex’s door. I picked up the scent. The strong smell of coffee and cocoa hit me. My mouth watered a little. Did Alex smell that good? The window blew open suddenly and all three scents wafted down the hallway. Their combined scents hit me and moisture pooled in my underwear. I was in big trouble. I went to my tiny room and locked the door. I tried to fall asleep but I kept tossing and turning. Those scents were plaguing me. Would they smell me when they returned home? Would I suddenly smell different now to them? I did not want to analyse it too much. Maybe my enhanced sense of smell was just picking up a lot that I had not noticed before. Maybe everyone smelled this good.

Third Person

Calix, Felix and Alex sauntered in the house at around three in the morning. It was Saturday. Later tonight, they had their official birthday party and alpha ceremony. Celebrating with their girlfriends and their “bros” from the town had left them exhausted and a little tipsy. It was difficult for werewolves to get drunk no matter how much alcohol they had but the triplets had really done their best. They said good night and happy birthday to each other and parted ways.

Calix stumbled into his room. A familiar scent greeted him but there was some unmistakable new element to it like a new ingredient enhancing an old favourite recipe of his. Someone had been in his room. A girl. She smelled like roses and honeysuckle. He shivered. That scent was driving him crazy. He could not sleep. It was all over everything. He felt as if he recognised the smell but he could not say exactly who it was. Surely he would have noticed and remembered someone who smelled this good.

He could not take it anymore when the sun came up. He banged on his brothers’ doors. They greeted him still half-asleep.

“What’s wrong, little bro?” Asked Alex, concern evident on his face.

“It better be good. It’s six o’ clock in the morning. We partied last night and we’re partying tonight,” said Felix, doing a little dance and yawning.

“Smell my room,” said Calix.

His brothers laughed. He walked away from them. They followed him.

“Enough !” Said Felix storming into Calix’s room. Felix stopped in his tracks. Alex entered and his eyes widened.

“Oh my God,” said Felix. “What is that?” The Alpha started sniffing about his brother’s room.

“Little Bro, who was in your room?” Asked Alex sharply.

“You’ve been with our mate!” Said Felix, growling. “You’re keeping her all to yourself.”

“No, I don’t know whose scent it is and it’s driving me crazy,” said Calix with tired eyes.

“Our mate’s been in this room,” said Felix gleefully. “She found us! Oh I can’t wait to get my hands on her.” Felix growled again.

“What about Sandra, Tonya and Avery?” Asked Calix, mentioning their current girlfriends.

“We’ve only been dating them like a couple weeks! They know they’re not our mates so it was a temporary thing! I’m gonna end it with Tonya over the phone,” said Felix dismissively.

“Yeah,” agreed Alex. “If we can find our mate in time for the party we don’t want the girls showing up and harassing her.”

“Yeah, they’d be jealous,” said Calix. “And there’s one of her and three of them so we better tell them before tonight.”

The brothers were in agreement, all sitting on Calix’s bed.

“Who would be in my room?” Calix wondered.

“There’s something familiar about the smell,” said Alex, smiling. “It kinda smells a little like…” Alex paused, frowning. He got up and ran down the hallway. He stood in front of the door to Chasity’s little makeshift room. The same smell hit him. It made him shiver. Honeysuckle and Roses. He sighed. He found her door unlocked and opened it eagerly to reveal an empty room with the cot in the corner made. His face fell.

It suddenly dawned on him just how small Chasity’s room was compared to the other bedrooms in the house. There were empty guest bedrooms bigger than this room. Why didn’t his parents give her one of those?

His brothers came up behind him. Felix looked dumbfounded. Calix walked into Chasity’s room and lay in her cot, hugging her pillow, deeply inhaling her scent.

“I’m gonna wait for her to come back, right here,” he said, curling up on her tiny cot. It was comically small for the six-foot-four Alpha.

“I wanna go get her right now,” said Felix, his eyes worried. “We have a lot of talking to do.”

“Relax, Felix,” said Alex. “Our mate already lives with us so we’re good,” said the eldest Alpha grinning.

“No, we’re not good you idiots!” Said Felix staring at them. “Our mate is Charity. Charity!”

“Don’t call her that!” Snarled Calix, his blue eyes turning black.

“Sorry! Sorry! Shit! It’s a bad habit. Chasity,” Felix said. Her real name felt good to say out loud.

“What’s your problem?” Asked Alex. He was looking through Chasity’s things, thinking of all the stuff he was going to buy her. She hardly had anything so she would be easy to surprise. It was her birthday too after all.

“We have to go to the mall as soon as it opens at ten,” he told his younger brothers. “It’s Chasity’s birthday too and I’m sure Mom and Dad didn’t get her anything.”

“Are you hearing yourself?” Asked Felix.

“Again! What is your problem?” Alex asked Felix. Calix opened his eyes to glare at Felix.

“Chasity is our mate! We had no idea because she was not of age until today!” Felix said, waving his arms around like a mad man.

Calix and Alex were not following.

“We’ve treated Chasity like shit! When she realises she’s our mate, she’s going to reject us!” Said Felix.

Calix shot up into a sitting position. “No, she’s not,” the youngest said. “No, she can’t. We’ve been waiting three years for our mate.”

“Chasity said she didn’t want a mate, remember?” Said Felix, spelling it out for them.

“Yeah,” said Alex. “But when the mate bond actually hits her, she’ll be putty in our hands.”

Calix beamed, grinning at Alex. “Yep,” Calix agreed.

Felix rolled his eyes. “Do you remember why Chasity did not want a mate? She said because he’d be mean to her like we were. Her mate is literally us.”

Calix and Alex were starting to look worried.

“She’s going to freak out!” Said Felix. “She’s going to try to leave. Remember, she’s been talking about turning eighteen, finishing high school and leaving!”

Alex smirked. “She has seven more months of high school. It’s November. We have until June or July with her to convince her otherwise.”

Felix calmed down a little, thinking it over.

Calix grinned wickedly, his dimples showing, mischief in his baby blue eyes, “Chasity might hate us now but by next summer we’ll be making her squirt.”

His elder brothers burst into laughter.

Chapter 4: Dangerously Cute

Chasity’s POV

I had to wake up at the crack of dawn as usual on the day of the party despite going to bed after midnight. I was so tired. I passed as far away from the Triplet’s rooms as I could so I would not have to smell those delicious scents. I had to keep away from them. I could not bear to look them in the eyes if just their smell was driving me wild now that I was eighteen. How could fate be so cruel? I wondered if they would be horrible abusive mates. I would not let it reach to that. I had never even had one boyfriend, now I had three mates. What would I be expected to do? How would I handle that? I felt overwhelmed just thinking about it. There was a heat in the lower part of my tummy when I thought about all three of them and me. They were all so big and with three of them I would not even know who was doing what to me. I bit my lip. I was getting hot again. I quickly pushed those dirty thoughts away.

Maybe they will reject me outright? I thought.

My heart threatened to cleave in two or maybe three when I thought about that. My inner wolf whimpered. I hushed her soothingly. My wolf kept pushing thoughts of the triplets into my mind as I worked on all the last minute party details. Felix would be the roughest. Calix would be the gentlest. I was not sure what Alex would be like. He would probably boss me around, telling me to have respect for him as his mate and Luna. A chill crept through me. Luna. The current Luna hated me. She would not want me as her successor. I did not think the current Alpha would care much. Around half past five in the morning, Ronda, the party planner showed up to help.

“Where are the birthday boys?” She said excitedly. I rolled my eyes. My inner wolf growled. She was possessive. I looked at Ronda’s micro mini skirt and tiny tube top. I was surprised she did not freeze to death on the way here. She was holding three identical baby blue gift bags.

“They’re asleep,” I said, frowning. “They usually don’t wake up until noon on weekends,”

“Oh,” she said. She looked crestfallen. She put a coat over her tiny outfit, probably to unveil it at noon. Around six o’clock, I heard heavy steps. It couldn’t be! The Triplets woke up early! I ran out of the house without thinking. I shifted. Ronda ran out after me, her eyes wide with shock. I went bounding through the snow. I had ripped my clothes shifting suddenly like that. I needed to clear my head and stay clear of the Triplets until I decided what to do.

Third Person

“This is stupid!” Said Calix. “I need my mate, right now. I want Chasity!”

He stormed out of her room and down the stairs with his brothers on his heels. He was surprised to find Ronda in the kitchen.

“Where’s Chasity?” Asked Calix, still sleep-deprived and grumpy.

“Hey, sleepy head! Good morning!” Cooed Ronda.

“Have you seen Chasity, Ronda?” Asked Alex.

“I have presents for the birthday boys!” She squealed.

“Is she here?” Felix asked, getting annoyed.

“Who?” Asked Ronda, handing each triplet a gift bag.

“Thanks, Ronda!” Said Alex. “Chasity! Where is she?”

Ronda frowned. “She shifted and went for a run,” Ronda said.

“Oh yeah!” Said Alex. “She can shift now,” he said, grinning. He was excited to see her wolf and go running through the snow with her.

“Ok,” said Ronda, rolling her eyes. “Since when do you guys care about Charity?”

Calix snarled. Alex glared at Ronda. Ronda was taken aback.

“It’s Chasity,” corrected Felix, though he was the one who originally gave her the nickname.

Chasity’s POV

I had been running for a few hours all around the pack lands. I started to tire out. I knew I would be in pain when I shifted back. My wolf was strong but my human form was weak. I had never been athletic. I could not shift back without going home because I did not have my clothes. I was stealthy on my way back to the pack house. I saw that one of the Triplet’s cars was gone. Hopefully they had all gone. I shifted back and snuck in a side door. I crept up the stairs as quickly as I could. I squealed when I reached my room. The door was closed and all three scents were incredibly strong. Were they in there? I peaked under the door. I sighed in relief and went in.

I put on my clothes. My clothes smelled like Alex. They had been here. All of them. Recently. Their scents were heavenly. Every single item of clothing and every book smelled like Alex. The bed smelled intensely like Calix. Felix’s scent was concentrated near the door. They knew. That’s the only thing that would have led them to my room. They enjoyed teasing me but in the last nine years they had never set foot in my room, not a single time.

I went back to the kitchen to find a seething party planner. Ronda was furious at me for taking off. The Triplets scents were here too. They probably had not noticed her skimpy outfit. I laughed to myself as I worked alongside her. I was incredibly jumpy, expecting the Triplets to return at any minute. I dared not ask Ronda where they had gone. The time passed by quickly. Before I knew it, it was four o’ clock. The party started at six in the evening and I needed enough time to get ready.

I was walking up the stairs when the Luna spotted me.

“Oh! Hey, I’m so sorry but one of the servers called in sick, so we’ll need you to help out with the serving? Ok?” She asked though it was not really a question. It was not like I could refuse. I did have one condition though.

“That’s fine but I’m not wearing a uniform,” I said, laughing.

She laughed too as if she had not even considered it but I bet she would have made me wear one if I had not brought it up first. Every pack member would be here soon. Thankfully, the pack house was huge with a sprawling living room. The DJ was setting up in there now. All the decorations were hung and the lights were dimmed. I wondered if I would have to watch the Triplets dance with their girlfriends. They would obviously be at the party. I sighed. I needed to stop feeling entitled to being with the Triplets. They were my mates but they hated me and I hated them.

I showered methodically. My muscles ached. I knew I would pay for that long run. My skin no longer looked sallow though. It was golden and had a healthy glow. My dark circles were still there though. My body needed some rest but I was always working or studying. I sighed. My hair looked shiny. I left it down. Mina and Tina seemed to think my dark blonde curls were my best feature. I put on the outfit they had picked out for me, a black sequin mini dress and high heels. I did my makeup the way they had taught me. I was pleasantly surprised with the result. I spritzed on some perfume and ran down the stairs.

People started arriving a bit early. I greeted them and took their coats. Everyone called me “Charity” genuinely thinking that was my name and it was too late to correct them. I would be leaving this place in a matter of months. My inner wolf growled at me. I sighed. I noticed Sandra, Tonya and Avery all arrived together, holding hands, looking disgruntled in their mini dresses. Their eyes were red. They approached me to talk for the first time ever.

“Hey…uh…Charity,” said Sandra, tossing her flaming red hair back.

“Hey girl!” Tonya said. She had long straight black hair and olive skin.

“Nice to see you again,” Avery said with a smile. She had shoulder-length blonde hair.

“Hey girls, welcome, please help yourselves, feel free,” I said, awkwardly motioning towards the refreshment tables.

“Have you seen the Triplets today?” Sandra asked, narrowing her green eyes at me.

“No,” I said honestly in the most innocent tone I could muster.

“Ok, well, here’s the thing…” Tonya paused exchanging glances with the other two.

“The guys broke up with us!” Blurted out Avery. The other two glared at her. “Well, it’s true,” she said to them.

My heart was pounding.

“I’m so sorry to hear that,” I said stiffly.

“They said they found their mate,” Sandra added tensely.

I felt lightheaded. I stumbled backwards a little but caught my balance, leaning against the wall.

“They brushed us off…they said we’d only been together six weeks,” Tonya said, folding her arms.

That was true. The longest relationships the Triplets had were all about two months so the girls were only missing out on two more weeks.

“So since you live here, we figured you’d know who she is,” said Avery. “Their mate.”

I braced myself against the wall. I felt nauseated. The Triplets had already ended their relationships…for me? They would have ended them anyway but I felt awful for the three girls. I bit my lip. Did that mean the Triplets wanted me? Like right away? They had wasted no time breaking up with their girlfriends. I did not answer the girls’ question.

“Please, excuse me, girls,” I said feebly. I went into the kitchen. What was I going to do when the Triplets arrived?

Third Person

The Triplets were late for their own party after spending so much time bickering at the mall over what to get Chasity. They ended up getting her a whole host of things and getting it wrapped and gift bagged at the mall. They loaded the stuff out of the car, greeting guests as they entered the pack house. They narrowly avoided a confrontation with their three ex-girlfriends. All three girls stormed out together hand in hand. At least they had each other. They showered and got dressed in a matter of minutes, all three in matching black blazers, black trousers and baby blue shirts.

“She’s not in her room,” said Calix anxiously.

“Of course, not,” said Felix. “Mom and Dad are making her help with the party”

“Ok, before we do anything else, we need to have a serious conversation with Chasity,” said Alex, the Alpha even among Alphas.

His younger brothers nodded.

Chasity’s POV

I stayed hidden in the kitchen until the Luna came in and found me doing nothing. She glared at me and handed me a tray of champagne glasses to serve so the current Alpha could make a toast to his sons before he officially handed over the position. My mates would be Alphas in a matter of minutes. I passed out the champagne. Everyone smiled. The pack members were in a great mood. I even got a few thank yous and a few compliments on my outfit. I was a really low ranking member of the pack but because I served the Alpha and his family everyone knew my name or at least they knew my cruel nickname.

I refilled the tray with more glasses and more champagne. I spotted the party planner in an even skimpier outfit than this morning if that were possible. I remembered the blue gift bags she had brought. I had not gotten my mates anything even though I helped put this party together. I had literally zero dollars and zero cents. I hope they understood that. Mina and Tina grinned at me. I hugged them. They actually seemed to like me now. Our hug elicited a few glares and disapproving looks from older pack members nearby. Mina and Tina were the daughters of rich pack members and some people considered me trash because my parents were addicts who borrowed a lot of money from the pack funds and pack members. I had been so little then. I felt it was unfair to blame me but I was the only one around to blame. I pushed those old memories away.

Mina and Tina said happy birthday to me. I was so happy, I got a little teary-eyed. They were the only ones who had remembered or said anything. They each handed me a sparkly pink gift bag. I was shocked. They had already bought me clothes as part of our deal.

“Girls! Thank you! I’m shocked!” I said, taking the bags.

“It’s nothing!” Said Mina.

“We dropped off our homework assignments during Saturday morning football practice cause we were so excited!” Said Tina.

“Just like you promised, we aced it! He corrected it right in front of us!” Added Mina.

I grinned. They flipped their hair in unison. They were wearing identical hot pink dresses.

The Luna caught me socialising and I quickly scampered off to get more champagne. I handed a glass to the Luna who smiled coldly. The Alpha took a glass and nodded at me. I almost dropped my tray when I turned around and saw the Triplets. They looked unbelievably handsome. My inner wolf was howling. Their scents were out of this world. They were staring at me. I could not read their expressions. I could not be with them but I could not be without them. I just hoped they would not reject me right away. It was my birthday too and I just wanted to enjoy it a little, without worrying too much.

I offered them the champagne glasses. Alex took the whole tray away from me to his mother’s chagrin. He handed the tray to an offended-looking Ronda. Calix grabbed my hand, causing tingles to shoot through my arm. Felix put his hands on either side of my waist from behind. My core started to moisten just from that. I bit my lip. Some pack members were regarding us with curiosity. Alex led us up the stairs with Calix pulling me by the hand and Felix gently pushing me forwards as he gripped my waist.

They took me to Calix’s room and shut the door, locking it. I quickly scurried away from them to the other side of the room, pressing my back against the wall. The spell of seeing my mates for the first time since I had come of age had broken now that we were alone and they were very real threats.

“Don’t be scared, Chasity,” pleaded Calix, his blue eyes widening with hurt due to me letting go of his hand. He was using my real name.

“We’re not gonna hurt you, Baby,” purred Felix, eyeing me intensely.

I was shocked at the pet name. The heat in my lower tummy was back.

“We need to talk,” said Alex sternly. “Ok, Chasity?”

At least they were being respectful for once and using my real name with the exception of Felix who seemed to think I was already his Baby.

The brothers sat on Calix’s bed on one side of the room. I sat in the chair by his desk with his computer. The chair had wheels. I spun on it a little. I had never been in any of their rooms at all before until early this morning when I inspected Calix’s room. The Triplets cleaned their own rooms. We had lived together but emotionally we were like strangers in a way. I knew the Triplets had to have normal personalities outside of bullying me because they were certainly admired by everyone else and I had seen them be good to others with my own eyes. It stung thinking that they had reserved their venom for just me. What had I done? Besides be born unfortunate? Just like that, I broke an eight year long promise to myself as the tears streamed down my face without warning.

Alex looked despondent.

“Shh, Baby, it’s ok,” said Felix softly, handing me a tissue.

Calix grabbed my hand again and pulled the chair, wheeling it over to them. I was within arms reach of all three of them now. My heart raced due to fear and my core moistened at the same time. My body was really confused when it came to them. I knew they could hear my heartbeat and smell my arousal.

“As you probably already know, Chasity,” Alex said gently, “you’re our mate. All three of us. Triplets tend to have just one mate because…”

“I know,” I said, annoyed. I was probably better at science than them. They were always treating me like I was stupid. Normally they would glare at me for interrupting them and even curse and complain but they just stared at me intently. “Because identical triplets are naturally occurring clones, one fertilised egg that split into three so one mate.”

“Exactly,” said Alex smiling. I dried my eyes and blew my nose.

“You smell so good, Baby,” said Felix. His eyes were black. He reached out and caressed my knee. I shivered.

“Easy, Felix!” Warned Alex, removing his brother’s hand from my knee. Alex sighed.

“We’re so so so sorry, Chasity,” murmured Alex. “The way we’ve treated you is disgusting. We won’t make any excuses for it. We don’t deserve you but we want you as our mate and Luna. We’re willing to spend the rest of our lives making everything up to you.”

I was shocked. I had always wanted an apology. Now I had one, I wasn’t sure if it would suffice.

“We’re so sorry, Chasity,” said Calix. “Please let us love you!”

I blushed. Calix was always so dramatic.

“We’re really sorry, Baby,” said Felix. I was pretty sure I would never hear my horrid nickname or my real name come out of him ever again. I was henceforth Baby as far as he was concerned. I giggled at that thought. That was the wrong move because it set Felix’s wolf off.

“Oh, you’re so cute!” Growled Felix just before he grabbed me."

"Chapter 5: Happy Birthday

Felix grabbed me before Alex could stop him. He pinned me to the wall. He pressed his nose against my neck, inhaling deeply. He bared his canines. He was going to mark me!

“Stop!” I squealed but Felix’s eyes were black. His wolf was in control. I was completely not ready for this. I was not even sure if I wanted to be with them.

In a flash, his brothers pulled him off of me. They pinned him to the other wall.

“Calm down!” Bellowed Alex in his Alpha voice making the whole room shake.

Felix took a few deep breaths. His eyes slowly turned blue. His brothers walked him back to the bed and they all sat down again.

“Oh my God,” he said, panting. “Chasity!” He said my name! “I’m so sorry, Baby.” We were back to Baby again.

“It’s…ok,” I said slowly. I laughed half-heartedly. “Actually that’s not the worst thing you’ve done to me by a long shot. That won’t even make the top ten.”

I laughed at my own feeble joke. The Triplets looked horrified and guilty.

“So after Felix has gone and ruined the scrap of a chance we had left…what do you say?” Said Calix.

That actually made me laugh. The brothers all smiled. I had seven more months until high school was over and I was still angry as with the Triplets but I was no fool. Rejecting them would mean I would have to move out. I had no idea what I wanted. My wolf craved them. She was filling my head with positions that I had not known were possible. I had never even been kissed. If I even decided to be with them, only one of them could be my first kiss. My eyes went instinctively to Calix. He grinned. The other two looked a little jealous, wondering why I was staring at just him all of a sudden.

“I don’t know what I want,” I told them honestly.

“That’s completely fine!” Said Calix.

“Take your time,” said Alex.

“All the time you need,” added Felix who had pinned me to a wall a few moments ago to try to forcibly mark me as his mate. Yeah, sure.

“Ok, that brings us to the second part of this discussion,” said Alex.

Huh?

“Happy birthday, Chasity!” Said the Triplets in unison.

I smiled. They pulled a lot of gifts out from under Calix’s bed. I squealed and then I felt guilty. I bit my lip and frowned.

“Baby, what’s wrong?” Asked Felix quickly.

“I had thought about getting you something but I really couldn’t. I had literally no money,” I said apologetically, feeling ashamed.

Felix laughed. “Baby, we know you have no money. That’s ok.”

“You never let me forget it,” I muttered.

Felix frowned. They started prompting me to open my gifts. There were so many. It was so awkward for me. I had not gotten a single gift in nine years until today. Mina and Nina gave me gifts and now the Triplets had bought the whole mall. I wanted to open all my gifts later in the privacy of my room. I had already put the bags from Mina and Nina in there.

“Alex, Felix, Calix,” I said. They all reacted to their names. They all looked so gleeful.

“I want to open these later ok, when I’m thinking about stuff,” I said.

“We wanted to see your face…” pleaded Calix.

“It’s not about what we want,” interrupted Alex. I smiled.

“I’m just going to put the gifts in my room. Thank you so much!” I said.

I approached them shyly. We had never hugged before. Felix snatched me up first just as I expected. He squeezed me tightly, lifting my feet off the ground. I giggled. He let me down. Calix bent down to hug me gently, massaging my back soothingly with his hands. Alex lifted me by the waist and spun me around like I was a little princess. He put me gently on my feet. I started carrying an armful of gifts to my room.

“Wait!” They all said.

“You can’t stay in that room. It’s too small. We will organise the best guest room and turn it into your room,” Alex said.

This should have made me happy but it actually made me angry suddenly.

“So this room isn’t good enough for me now but it was good enough when you didn’t give a !” I snapped.

I immediately regretted saying that. I waited for the huge argument to start. They were quiet.

“If you’re not ready for your new room yet, that’s ok but I’m very uncomfortable with you staying there. It’s not even a bedroom and it’s a complete disgrace that my parents put you there,” said Alex.

We did not talk anymore as we moved the gifts to my room and went back down the stairs where everyone was still waiting impatiently for the birthday boys.

“Boys!” Said Luna Ronnie, narrowing her eyes. “Where have you been?” She seemed shocked to see me coming down the stairs with them.

“Do another lap to see if anyone needs more champagne,” she ordered me. Ronda handed me a fresh tray filled with glasses. The party planner had a smug look on her face.

Alex took the tray from me again and put it on the floor this time.

“Alex!” Said Ronnie to her eldest son.

“Let’s start the toast!” Said Alpha Romeo.

The Pack members cheered. Everyone gathered around the grand staircase and Alpha Romeo stood a few steps up so that everyone could see him. The Triplets pulled me with them to the same step as Alpha Romeo. The Luna who stood next to her husband was eyeing me suspiciously. I was pretty sure she was putting two and two together or in this case, one and three together. Alpha Romeo began his speech. It literally started with him meeting his mate, the Luna, their love, their wedding, honeymoon, childless years, having the triplets, their childhood, their teenage years and now their manhood and ascension to Alphas. It made literally no mention of me despite me being there for the past nine years since the triplets were twelve but the Alpha and Luna truly viewed me as a servant so I knew I should not expect to be mentioned. A lot of people kept glancing at me, wondering why I was there in the limelight. I tried to descend the stairs a few times but Alex kept grabbing my wrist. Felix put his hand absentmindedly on my behind. I stifled a gasp. He squeezed it and rubbed it gently. I started to cream my underwear. I glared at him and he blew me a kiss which many people noticed.

“I present to you, Alpha Alex, Alpha Felix and Alpha Calix Thorn, the Triplet Alphas,” boomed former Alpha Romeo using his Alpha voice for the last time.

The Pack members cheered. Their screams were deafening. Many girls shrieked and squealed over the Triplet Alphas. The Alpha Triplets went around the room to be congratulated by important pack members. They dragged me with them. No one asked about me but everyone’s eyes darted to me. Finally the Luna could take it no more. She marched her sons, me and the former alpha into the kitchen. The party planner nosily followed us.

“Since when are you three so close with Charity?” Asked the Luna.

“It’s Chasity, Mom,” said Felix.

“Sorry,” said the Luna. People truly thought my name was Charity so I never held it against them.

“She’s our mate,” said Alex, getting straight to the point. There was utter silence.

“And you’ve accepted her as your mate?” Said Romeo.

I felt a little offended. “Of course,” said Calix. “We want her more than anything.”

My cheeks burned. Felix started massaging my butt again.

“And has she accepted?” Asked the Luna.

There was more silence.

“I want to finish high school while I think about it,” I said.

The Luna laughed. “She wants to live here for as long as possible before she rejects you the day after she graduates high school and then goes off to search for her gambling drug-addicted parents.”

“Mom!” Said Calix, the Luna’s favourite.

She stared at him. “Honey! I…”

“Chasity has not been treated well here and you know it!” Said Calix.

The Luna sighed.

“She’s our mate and things around here will reflect that,” said Alex firmly.

The eavesdropping party planner was looking at me with so much envy I actually feared for my life a little.

“She hates you three you know,” said Ronda the party planner. “She thinks you’re all arrogant overrated snobs.”

I paled. I looked at the Triplets, half-expecting them to turn on me. Calix had not even been listening to her. He was still pleading with his Mother with his eyes. Alex was looking at the big birthday cake and Felix was still massaging my behind and looking at me, smirking. Felix was definitely going to try to sneak into my room tonight. I felt really warm thinking about it.

“They’re old enough to decide,” said Romeo.

“Let’s cut the cake with Chasity,” said Alex.

Ronda wheeled the huge cake out to the guests. Everyone began singing happy birthday and snapping pictures. I knew people wanted me out of the shot. They wanted pictures of the identical triplet alphas and birthday boys but the guys would not let me go. Calix grabbed one wrist and Alex grabbed the other. Felix was standing behind me, squeezing my waist. This was the first time all three of the Triplets had their hands on me and I felt like fainting. I was so overwhelmed. What was I going to do when they all really got their hands on me? I had thought I did not have to worry about that anytime soon but looking back on it, I should’ve worried more because all three brothers snuck me into one of their rooms that very night."

...
Open the app and continue reading the rest of the story . 👉(It will automatically jump to the book when you open the app)

"Have you fkkked her?" I asked my husband of 6 years who had just found his mate.
"No!" He yelled, as if insulted.
"Then reject her," I said with dead coldness.
"Ri, it will weaken my wolf...", he started the same song again and I wanted to laugh.
"You promised to reject your fated mate once you found her, Bray," I reminded my husband who had begged me to marry him. "That was why I agreed to marry you and brought my pack to merge with yours."
His lips twitched slightly. Sighing, he turned to his mate and spoke to her softly, "I am sorry. I'll make sure to take care of you afterwards. I promise."
"I, Alpha Brayden Thorn of the Silver River pack, reject...", he started to say in a firm voice, when the omega fell to her knees, bursting into tears.
"Please, no!" she whimpered, "I am still too weak! I will die if you reject me now! Please! I'll do anything!"
Bray froze. He turned to face me again. I could see pain in his eyes - he couldn't bring himself to reject this little delicate mate of his.
"She is staying! We'll find a way around everything!" Bray said, clenching his fists.
And this was the moment when I realized that everything was lost.
...

Riannon stood there not quite believing her eyes. Her husband of six years had his arm wrapped around a petite girl in the middle of their pack house. The cute ginger head peeked at her discretely and Ria could swear that she saw a smirk for half of a second.

“Ri, dear,” Brayden, her legal husband, chosen mate and the Alpha of their pack addressed her in a way he always did when they were alone, “I need to confess… I have found my true mate. Her name is Roxanne.”

The silence in the room was deadly from the moment the two of them walked in, holding hands. Everyone stopped doing what they were doing and all eyes were on the three of them. The Alpha, the Luna and the Alpha’s mate.

Ria couldn’t force herself to say anything, so Brayden took the lead.

“Listen, I know that we are chosen mates and you will always be my Luna, I assure you of that. But since my wolf saw Roxy, he is going nuts. It would be bad for the pack if I rejected her now. He wouldn’t be able to deal with it. And it will weaken us.”

There it was - the excuse!

The two of them were school sweethearts, the perfect couple. Rhiannon was a daughter and the heiress of a powerful Alpha from a very strong pack. Brayden was her father’s best friend’s son and the future Alpha of his own pack. Since they started dating when she was just 15 and he was 16, everybody couldn’t stop buzzing that they were true mates. They were always the IT couple and everyone envied their love. Besides, as a daughter of any alpha, Ria was educated to become a Luna one day. And not just any Luna. The perfect one. She spent all her free time studying what she would have to do for the rest of her life. And she mastered every single thing to perfection. So that when she was 18 and ready to marry Bray, she would be prepared.

But Bray’s 18th birthday was before hers. She trembled to meet him on that day, longing to hear the one and only most significant word of both of their lives - mate.

He got to her pack early that day and she ran down the stairs to greet him. But as she ran, both their smiles faded a bit. She couldn’t feel anything, but he already knew.

“We are not mates, aren’t we?” she asked, tears trickling down her chin.

“Not the fated ones,” Brayden sighed heavily and locked her in his arms, his lips touching her hair. They stood like this for quite some time, waiting for the disappointment to wash away. And when they were ready, Bray took her face into his hands and said, “It doesn’t matter, Ri! I choose you! I will always choose you! No matter what, no one can break the love between us. You will be my mate, my chosen mate! My one and only!”

It did help that their families practically planned the whole wedding at this point. Her father had no son anymore since Riannon’s older brother died young trying to save their little twin sisters from the rogues. All of them died as a result and Ria was the only one left. So, there was a pressing matter of who would be inheriting the pack. And Bray seemed like the obvious choice. The two of them loved each other and no family members were against the merger of the two strong packs.

A contract was drawn but Bray suggested waiting until Riannon was 19. He told her that he had made his choice but wanted her to try and find her mate before she made hers. They were visiting other packs for the whole year before her next birthday. And then got married one month later, since no mates were found but their feelings were only getting stronger.

They became the power couple of the werewolf world and merged both their packs into one, year by year, working to make it stronger. And now, at twenty-five, Ria was a renowned Luna whom everyone loved and admired.

Riannon traced her gaze around the room and saw the shocked faces of her packmates. Yet she couldn’t help but notice that not everyone seemed startled by the recent events. Her husband’s Beta was watching quietly from the distance, his hands crossed on his chest. But absolutely no surprise in his eyes.

However, the most stunned among them all was still Riannon herself. Although not for the reasons that they all assumed.

Her fingers were trembling and lips twitching slightly as she looked at her husband and his true mate with wide eyes.

“No,” she muttered, “It couldn’t be!”

Why would the Moon Goddess return her to that exact moment in time when all her life was turned upside down, leading to her demise?

What was going on? For her it was one year ago. And just seconds ago, Ria was crawling on the ground in the woods, fighting for her life as two creatures followed her closely. The wolf found her first, digging his sharp canines into her flesh and making her wince in pain.

She was a strong wolf herself, but unfortunately, someone drugged her with aconite, making her weak, unable to shift and practically paralysed.

The wolf growled as he ripped a part of her thigh off and, for the first time during this attack, Riannon screamed loudly.

“You can shout all you want,” the girl who stepped forward said, “No one is going to hear you here. Especially now.”

Ria recognised that voice at once. Her tormentor was none other than her husband’s true mate, Roxanne.

“You?!” Ria panted, trying to sit up, “Why are you doing it? You already took everything from me! My husband, my position as Luna, my pack…”

The wolf growled at her and she tried to recognize him, but it was too dark and she was too weak. The only thing that she knew was that the werewolf was brown. Yet there were many brown wolves in the world, so it did not help.

“I have my reasons,” Roxy smirked, rubbing her round belly, “And I don’t have to explain them to you. Not anymore. Your time has passed. You are done, Riannon.”

“They will find everything out!” the ex-Luna pleaded, “You will not get away with it!”

Resounding laughter was her answer as Roxy kneeled next to her and grabbed a fistful of her hair, “Dear, Riannon, don’t you get it? I already did!”

She then forcefully threw Ria towards the ground and ordered the wolf, “Finish her off. Make sure nothing is left.”

Her arms and her legs were not listening anymore as Riannon watched Roxy walk away leisurely. As if she did not just order her murder.

A tear trickled down Ria's cheek as the wolf had a moment of hesitation.

She did not deserve it!

It was not fair!

If she had another chance, she would do everything differently.

“I am waiting!” Roxanne’s sweet voice broke her train of thought as the wolf jumped over her and ended her life in seconds.

Riannon gasped as she suddenly found herself in the reception room of her house. Something was off because all the old furniture that she loved so much was in place. She couldn’t understand what was going on until Bran walked in with Roxy in his arms and she recognized the day as exactly one year ago.

“The Moon Goddess has some sick sense of humour!” Ria thought to herself, “Out of all of the moments of my life, she brought me back into this most miserable and unpleasant one. What is up with that?!”

Luckily, she was always reserved and knew how to hide her feelings pretty well. So, she just lifted her chin up and met her husband’s gaze.

“I understand that this is very sudden,” Bray tried to sound considerate and she barely managed to hold back a scoff. Sudden? He had no idea!

“I know our agreement, but my wolf is going nuts. You are not only my Luna, but also my best friend, who always understands me. And I know that you always want what’s best for the pack. Roxanne is an omega and an orphan in her pack… Ri, it was horrible how she was treated there! They abused her and treated the girl like a slave! I couldn’t leave her there. It would be horrible and my wolf would never forgive me. I just need her presence here. That's all.”

He finally let go of Roxanne, leaving the redhead alone and went to his wife, taking her hands in his.

“Let her stay in the pack for the sake of it. My wolf is stronger next to her, the rejection would kill him. And we can give Roxy a peaceful life here. She will…”

“No,” the answer sounded calm yet loud enough for everyone to hear...

A NOTE FROM THE AUTHOR: Hello, this is my first published book on Dreame and I am very excited to start this journey. I promise you a bumpy ride with loads of twists and turns. Don't be shy and leave me a comment. I also have a group called Marissa Gilbert's Reading Circle where readers discuss chapters, characters and share visuals.

Right now the book is taking part in the Dreame Ace Book Contest. Please, consider giving it your vote by clicking on a gift box or finding the book on the ranking page.

Chapter 2. Rejection

They all stared at her in shock. Bray’s eyes were as wide as two saucers.

“Ri, my wolf…”, he started the same song again and she wanted to laugh. She had already heard it all back in her previous life. He was bringing up his wolf every time he wanted to spend time with Roxy. He never rejected her like they agreed and very soon she became his mistress.

Riannon tried to close her eyes even though it was extremely painful for her. But she was the one who truly cared about the pack and tried to drown herself in work. This was her other mistake. But since she got a second chance, she was not going to repeat it. She was going to get rid of Roxy here and now. Before it was too late.

Back then, Bray told her that it was her choice, and she chose wrong. Letting Roxanne stay for the sake of the pack was a big mistake. People died because of that and not only her. Ria’s eyes met with her best friend Maya’s and tears almost rolled in her eyes. Maya was one of those killed in Roxy’s schemes. She had her doubts before, but now she knew for sure. She was going to get rid of this evil once and for all.

“I said no,” she repeated herself and looked back at her husband with coldness, “We talked about this before and came to an agreement. We’ll find a good pack for her, who will take care of her. But she will not stay here. You need to reject her just as we agreed.”

One question that was bothering her was why Bran chose to have this conversation in public. But it wasn’t the time to think about it. Now she had more pressing matters.

“Riannon,” Bray suddenly got serious, stepping in front of Roxanne, who was hiding behind him and shaking like a leaf in the wind, “Think about this. I wouldn’t ask you if it wasn’t important. I am the Alpha of our pack and my wolf is going crazy for his mate. We can’t risk…”

“Brayden,” she addressed him calmly, “Our pack is one of the strongest in the country. We are not at war with anyone. And you are a strong Alpha. I believe in you, I always did. You know that. I am sure that rejecting your true mate would not be easy, but we will get through it. As a family that we are.”

“I just want what’s best for the pack,” Bray mumbled, not sounding so sure anymore and Ria felt a prick of hope.

“If you want what’s best for the pack, do it now,” she said, “The longer you put it off, the harder it would get. And if she is anything, she is your weakness. You already go back on your word and this is day one.”

His lips twitched slightly, and Ria knew what it meant. Her victory was close. She almost got rid of this redhead monster.

Sighing, Bray turned to Roxanne and spoke to her softly, “I am sorry. I’ll make sure to take care of you afterwards. I promise…”

Ria did not notice how hard she clenched the fabric of her dress. Was it always this easy? Could she stop all the disasters that happened to her if she simply said no at once?

“I, Alpha Brayden Thorn of the Silver River pack, reject…”, her husband started to say in a firm voice, when the omega in front of him fell to her knees, bursting into tears.

“Please, no!” she whimpered, “I am still too weak! I will die if you reject me now! Please! I’ll do anything!”

Bray froze. He couldn’t bring himself to reject this little delicate mate of his. And this was the moment when Riannon realised that everything was lost. He turned to face her again and she held his gaze with pride.

“Please, Alpha!” Roxy started to sob and Ria had to give it to her. If she didn’t know who was before her, she would have bought it too. “I will be your slave! I can clean and I can cook! I can do anything! Just, please, spare me! Don’t do this! I will serve your Luna!”

A wave of electric shock went through Ria at the mention of her. She looked at her rival and met a gaze full of well-hidden hatred.

“Please, my Luna!” the girl kept begging still kneeling, “My fate is in your hands! Please, don’t kill me! Please, spare me! I will be your slave forever. Don’t kill me!”

No one spoke a word and the only sounds in the room were the pitiful sobs and sniffs of Roxanne.

“Sweet girl,” Riannon decided to try one last time, “There is no need for all that. You will be well taken care of, but just not here.”

“Please, my Luna!” Roxy crawled to her way faster than Ria managed to dodge her and grasped her dress, “The rejection will kill me! Please, spare me!”

“I…”, Ria wanted to say something but a loud growl made her stop.

“Enough!” Brayden roared, looking at her with his eyes shining red, meaning that his wolf was at the surface.

“Calm down,” his Luna said firmly but yet another growl emerged from him as he was furious.

“I said enough!” Brayden appeared next to Roxanne in no time and scooped her in his arms, “She is staying! We’ll find a way around everything!”

He walked firmly towards the huge staircase, taking his mate upstairs to one of the guestrooms. Ria knew very well which room it would be – the one in the far corner of the mansion, where her husband would practically move in no time. Roxanne’s head was tucked into Brayden’s neck and Riannon was sure that it was not a coincidence that she was now breathing into his collarbone, right where a mark should go.

Automatically, she touched the mark he gave her when she was nineteen and caught the omega’s gaze on herself. Roxanne was watching. And Ria knew that today she lost just like the last time.

Nothing changed. Her words and actions on that day played absolutely no part in what happened. It was like a very bad movie on repeat…

“Ri!” Maya came up to her when their Alpha was gone, “Are you okay?”

Riannon looked at her best friend, the one that she lost. Not thinking twice, she threw herself in Maya’s arms. After the death of her parents, this was the only person, apart from Brayden, whom she could trust with everything.

“There, there,” she patted her long platinum blonde hair, “It’s going to be all right. He will reconsider, I am sure.”

Only now did Ria realise how everything looked like to the people around her and distanced herself at once. She already lost her husband, there was no need to lose her face too.

“I am fine,” she said and caught the Beta’s gaze on her.

Ash nodded and gave her a soft sympathetic smile, before shouting loudly, “I feel like everyone forgot what they were supposed to be doing! The work is waiting!”

“Let’s go to your room,” Maya suggested, “We’ll talk about everything there.”

No, Ria did not need this conversation. She remembered it very well. Because they already had it.

What she really needed now was some time alone. Because she needed to process things and to come up with a new plan.

She couldn’t save her marriage, but she could still save Maya, other people who died with Roxy’s help, her pack and her own life.

“I just can’t right now,” she smiled at her friend, squeezing her hands, still not quite believing that she was here, “Let’s talk another time. I have a lot of work to do.”

“Work?” Maya’s eyes grew wide, “Are you serious?”

“Yes,” Ria fixed the creases on her dress, “Now that our Alpha is… busy, I have to step in. The pack comes first.”

She gave her friend another warm smile and added, “Everything is going to be all right, Maya. We are going to be fine. All of us.”

Riannon locked the door of her Luna office and tried to control her ragged breathing. Too much! Everything was too much for her. She needed to clear her head and think of everything. She needed a plan. And a good one. She had to save everyone, herself included.

But the office was too stuffy. And she needed to breathe!

Only one thing could help her and it was shifting into her wolf.

Riannon went into the woods that were surrounding their pack and stripped, preparing to change her form.

But nothing happened.

"Onyx, are you there?" she spoke to her wolf for the first time since her sudden rebirth less than an hour before but did not get a reply. It was alarming. Onyx was there her whole life.

"Onyx!" Ria called for her second half but was met with silence. Angry, she ran as fast as she could using her human legs. She was still super fast and strong, which could only mean that her wolf was somewhere there. She was not weak. But what was wrong?

Chapter 3. The Call

CHAPTER 3

The Call

It did not take her long to get to her most favourite place in the world – the Silver Mirror Lake. This was the only place where Riannon could be alone. It was far enough from the packhouse and close to the borders of the pack. But it was safe since they did not have any rogue attacks in that area. Just one pack away from here was the Lycans territory and it was rumoured that the Alpha King residence was also somewhere close. No one was foolish enough to enter these lands and check though.

So, Ria did not think twice when she stopped by the ledge of the lake, naked, and jumped into the water. It was cold but at the same time, it was exactly what she needed to calm herself down.

She let herself embrace the dark night when only the full moon shone upon her, making crystals of water sparkle on her skin when she felt someone’s presence. It was powerful and dominating, yet did not belong to her husband and made her alert at once.

Pretending that nothing happened, Ria carefully looked around and her eyes caught a figure of a huge wolf at a hill on the other side of the lake. He was dark, probably black. And his eyes were shining golden.

It was a bad sign. Very bad.

Riannon decided not to risk it and went underwater, getting to the shore as soon as she could and running for her life. Only a loud howl followed her.

She was back in the safe territory in no time. Luckily, her clothes were right where she left them. She pulled her dress on and tried to do the zipper at the back but her fingers were not reaching it.

“Let me help,” two hands touched her back and Beta Asher helped her with her little problem. Ria wondered if he had been there the whole time. But it did not matter in the long run. Werewolves were used to naked bodies. It wouldn’t be the first time he saw her without clothes. It wouldn’t be the last… probably.

“What are you doing here?” she asked the man, turning to face him.

“I’ve been waiting for you,” he said with an unreadable expression on his face, “Found your clothes and understood that you were on a run. But why didn’t you shift?”

“I did,” she lied without blinking. If anyone knew that she couldn’t shift, then her fate would be decided even sooner. She couldn’t afford that. Ria knew that she needed time. “But that’s not important,” she decided to change the subject quickly, “There was an intruder at the Silver Lake. Send wolves to check it out.”

“Of course, Luna,” he said and his eyes lost focus for a second as he was giving orders via the mind link.

Riannon decided not to wait for him and walked slowly into the house. But Ash caught up with her quickly and opened the door to the mansion for her.

“It’s going to be alright,” he said to her all of a sudden and she stopped. Back in the day, he used to say it to her all the time. Yet when decisions had to be made, he always took her husband’s side. It was one of the betrayals that hurt the most because she was sure that her relationship with the Beta was good prior to all that. Yet he didn’t even object when they stripped her of her title… There were a lot of things that she wanted to tell him but she couldn’t.

So, she just placed her delicate hand on his broad shoulder and looked him in the eye, smiling sadly, “You knew, didn’t you?”

His expression changed as if a flash of lightning hit him and his lips parted slightly.

“Yes, Luna,” he confessed, darting his eyes to the ground.

“It’s okay,” she patted him, “I understand. You can’t go against your Alpha’s command.”

“If I could…” he started to speak but she placed her finger to his mouth making a shushing sound.

“Doesn’t matter,” she shrugged her shoulders, “At least I will always have your support, Ash. Right?”

“Always, Luna,” his breathing became heavy and Ria tilted her head, watching him. This was an interesting development. Why was he reacting like that?

“Then, of course, I’ll be fine,” she chuckled and went inside. She had to think of what to do next.

Ria locked herself in her bedroom. She knew that Brayden would not be coming back tonight to share the bed with her. As far as she remembered, he hadn't been sleeping with Roxy at that point yet and spent the whole night in his private office drinking and thinking of life. In the morning, he would bring her flowers and gifts… and an apology even. But Roxy would still stay.

After a long and relaxing bath, Ria went to her desk and got her old journal. She hadn’t been using it for many years, but it was dear to her heart. And it was just the right place to write down every single event that was important and that was going to happen within the year leading to her death.

She tried to remember everything while she still could.

And she knew very well what she was going to do with this information. The game was on.

The plan was simple, really. Since she couldn’t change the main event and get rid of Roxy, she had to leave. But she couldn’t leave without her pack and without making sure that all her dear friends were alive and well. Not to mention, that it was particularly important to try and show Brayden and the rest Roxanne’s true face. Everybody around thought that she was an angel while, in fact, she was the devil. Ria was afraid to even think what would happen if Roxy became the Luna for real, because she for sure wouldn’t have the pack’s interests at heart.

And although Ria’s own heart craved revenge, she didn’t want her life's work to be ruined. Plus, she didn’t have it in her heart to hate everyone. She saved it for just a selected few. The ones who betrayed her trust and led to her demise, the ones who promised her respect and protection but gave her humiliation and suffering. Yes, those were the ones she was going to concentrate on.

The door suddenly opened, and Brayden walked in, making her close the journal with the list of events and names rapidly and hide it back in the drawer. Luckily, he didn’t pay attention to that.

Guilt was all over his face and Ria wanted to roll her eyes, but held herself back. She couldn’t give herself away. This event did not happen prior. In her past life, he didn’t visit her that night. This was new and she had to be cautious.

“Ri,” he walked further into the room, “Ash informed me that you encountered an intruder. Are you okay?”

This was funny. She was sitting there, clearly looking well and in one piece. Who was he kidding? Was it guilt because she put up a fight and he still chose his mate?

“It was unpleasant,” Riannon shrugged her shoulders and stood up. If he decided to ignore the big pink elephant in the room, she could do the same. In the end, it was for the best. Their past conversations about Roxy never ended well. He would never believe what a monster his mate was. So, the less Riannon talked about her, the better.

“And also disappointing”, she went to the window to hide her facial expression.

“How so?” Brayden caught the bait.

“We are one of the strongest packs and some wolf is just wandering on our territory, spying on your Luna who is swimming naked in the lake…”

“He what?” Brayden growled possessively. Back in the day, it would drive her crazy in the best sense of the word. But right now… she was annoyed. He just claimed another woman in front of so many people. He had no right to growl like that in her presence anymore. She didn’t put it into words, of course.

“You heard me,” she said, “And instead of looking for that wolf the Alpha is doing goddess knows what. No offence, but this is exactly what I was talking about earlier today. Your mate already distracted you from what was important.”

It was a low blow. But she needed him to be busy with something else right now. In the past, the closer he got to Roxy, the more power and supporters she received. And the worse it got for Riannon and her close people. If she could postpone the wheel of events for at least one day, she would do it.

“You are angry,” he sighed, “I understand, of course. I broke my promise to you. I…”

“Let’s not speak of it,” she stopped him, “It is what it is.”

“Ri, baby,” he nibbled on her neck, right where he marked her years ago, bonding their two wolves forever, acknowledging her as his chosen mate. “I hurt you and I will do anything to fix that.”

Not everything. She knew that too well.

“Only you can be my Luna, you know that, right?” he started peppering her neck with kisses, trying to unzip her dress at the same time.

This was… odd. She hadn’t slept with him for a while. Their paths went in different directions more than half a year ago in her past life. She was his abandoned and rejected wife…

Ria clenched her fists and then turned to face him.

“No!” she made him stop, “Not today.” Or ever. He had his last chance and he blew it. She did not want him anymore. If her wolf Onyx was here now, she would be howling from pain as she was attached to Brayden’s wolf Ragnar. But she didn’t feel Onyx now. She wasn’t under her influence. And she was furious.

She did not show it though. Her mom trained her well to conceal emotions. Finally, it was useful.

“Ri?” Brayden looked at her in shock. Before this day they were happy together. Which reminded Ria that he probably found Roxy earlier and was lying to her for the past few days. Or maybe weeks. “Honey, don’t do this. I love you and we are family. We will always be family.”

“Believe it or not, but I am not feeling well after everything that happened today,” she looked him in the eye, “But it will make me happy if you bring me the intruder’s head.”

He nodded quietly, “Anything for you, Ri.”

Her husband brushed her cheek and she tolerated that. Even forced a smile for the sake of the show.

“You’ll have his head in the morning!” he promised before leaving her alone.

Maya tried to reach her mentally but Riannon just asked her to wait until the morning.

After a mostly sleepless night, she knew what she had to do and she also knew her first step.

In her office, she dialled the number that none other werewolves would risk dialling. But she was left with no choice.

“Hello, Beta Reid speaking,” the annoyed male voice sounded on the other end and Riannon gulped before speaking.

“Hello, Beta. This is Luna Riannon Thorn. Nee Michaels.”

It didn’t ring a bell to him.

“And?” he seemed bored.

“Seven years ago I saved your nephew during a rogue attack in one of the boarding schools. Back then you gave me this number and told me that you owe me one.”

The lycan paused before answering her.

“And I guess you are calling to collect?” he chuckled, “And here I thought that there were selfless people in this world…”

“I wouldn’t ask if lives did not depend on it,” she interrupted him. Lycans were hard to get in touch with. They did not mingle with regular werewolves with rare exceptions. But sometimes they attended elite boarding schools for shifters. That’s when Ria’s luck was on her side.

“Fine,” the man agreed, “What do you want then?”

“I need to speak to the Lycan Alpha King,” Riannon said firmly.

Chapter 4. Royal Confrontation

“Bold, aren’t we?” the Beta chuckled and Ria didn’t know what to think. “Do you think that the King will do whatever I tell him?”

“I hope he respects you enough to do you a little favour,” she bit her lip. She was walking on thin ice here and was aware of that.

But she had no choice either.

“Fine,” the man grunted softly and for the first time Ria wondered what he was doing, “Crystle, dear, that’s enough of sucking. I need to go.”

Then he groaned again and Riannon’s ears turned red with embarrassment. Was he in bed with someone? Why did he pick up then?!

There were sounds of rustling and a female voice, “See you tonight, Beta.” And then sounds of steps.

“Just so that you know,” the Beta spoke again, “I am sacrificing a lot right now to pay you back. So, after you talk to him, Consider us done.”

“Of course,” Ria cleared her throat, “I appreciate your… sacrifice.”

He chucked and then she heard a sound of a creaking door.

“Hey, G. I need you to speak to someone,” the sounds were muffled but she could still understand everything.

“Not interested,” the other man growled and now Riannon was very afraid. She thought if the king was… busy as well. He sure wouldn’t sacrifice his pleasure time for her.

“I am not trying to set you up with anyone,” the Beta burst out laughing, “It’s just some werewolf Luna. I owe her one, okay?”

“Not interested,” was the reply and Ria’s heart sunk. This was it. It was her best chance… In her past life, she called Beta Reid as well. Later in the timeline of events. But he never picked up. Lycans had some kind of trouble in their lands too by the end of the year. He was probably too busy by the time she gained the courage to call. She called him again and again until the calls stopped coming through, meaning that he probably blocked her.

“Give her 5 minutes,” from the sounds of it, the man shoved the phone into his king’s hands. Another growl emerged and Ria was about to give up. But then she heard a resounding metallic voice.

“Hello, Alpha Gideon speaking,” the man said and she sucked in a breath. He didn’t even use his title. Was that really the Lycan King?

“Hello, your majesty,” she decided to address him formally anyway, “ My name is Riannon Thorn. I am the Luna of the Silver River pack.”

He was silent and it bothered her. But she remembered that she only had 5 minutes with him.

“I need your help,” she breathed out, “My husband is the Alpha Brayden Thorn and we are planning to divorce in the nearby future.”

“Fascinating,” the man said without any emotions in his voice, “ But what does it have to do with me? You can divorce any time you like without my help.”

“I know, Alpha,” she agreed and heard him growl slightly, “That’s not the part that I need your help with. You see, we are chosen mates. And when we got married, we merged our packs. What I really want from you is to help me to get my people and my territory back. You are the Alpha King and when I raise this dispute, your word will be the last at the Alpha Council. They wouldn't be able to decline.”

“Hmm,” he sounded amused, “And you think that the case would go that far? You do know that the Alpha council consists of male alphas. What makes you think at least anyone will support you?”

“They will if they know that you are on my side,” Riannon felt braver now, “But also I have proven myself as a leader and warrior. This shouldn’t be a problem.”

“Then maybe everything is awesome and you don’t need my help at all?” He chucked.

“I do, your majesty,” she assured him, “I really do. And I would really appreciate it.”

“This is a complex matter,” he said after a short pause, “Not something I would decide over the phone. And to be honest, it doesn’t sound serious enough to bother.”

Ria felt rage boiling her blood. Was he serious?! Was that it?!

“But…”

“There is nothing to talk about. You got married and gave your pack to your husband. You didn’t think this through and it was your mistake only. Now it’s too late,” the Alpha King seemed bored, “He will still owe you generous alimony according to our laws. You will keep your luxurious lifestyle if that’s what bothers you…”

“It’s not about that!” She gritted her teeth, “I can’t leave my people with them!”

“Them?” The king scoffed, “So, this is the problem. He found another and you are bitter about it?”

This was useless. Ria hit her desk with her fist, almost breaking it. This kind of mocking was not new to her. By now she heard it all. Even from the people who were considered her friends.

“I am not bitter!” She spat, “I am furious. Because only now do I see how many flaws our system has! How unfairly and unequally women are treated when a male doesn’t stand by her side anymore! How few chances we are given to prove ourselves. Sure, you will make a woman a warrior and speak about equality but when it comes to higher positions, you will make a woman work three times harder than a man to even consider her for the job! I was doing an Alpha’s job for years by my husband’s side and I’ve done it flawlessly. But all you see is a wounded woman who can’t get over her husband’s betrayal. And you know what, it hurts like but here I am, not whaling in pain but trying to figure out my next move. You don’t even know what is going on but you already judged me. What a disappointing introduction to my king!”

She threw her phone away with force, looking at how it smashed over the wall into several pieces.

What a joke!

Gideon sat in his huge leather chair behind his desk staring at his Beta’s phone. What the was that now? Did she scold him and then hang up?

“O-kay,” Reid carefully took his cell back, “I see that went well.”

“Remind me again who was it?” Gideon looked at his friend furrowing his thick brows.

“What?” Reid let out a nervous laugh, “Before I tell you… Are you going to kill her or…”

“REID!” Gideon growled so loudly that probably all members of his pack heard him well.

“Fine!” the Beta fell into the chair opposite of him, “She is the Luna of the Silver River pack.”

Silver River… not far from Silver Lake.

“What else?” the king tapped his fingers over the top of his desk impatiently.

“Her name is Riannon Thorn, if my memory does not fail me, she has been a Luna for five or six years. Seven maybe.”

“You said that you owed her,” Gideon was piercing Reid with his gaze, “How so? Is she one of your many whores?”

“Of course not!” the Beta sounded offended, “She… she saved Kyle seven years ago. The rogues attacked his boarding school and she was visiting some event there. She wasn’t a Luna back then, by the way. But she was preparing for the role.”

“She saved him?” Gideon rubbed the bridge of his nose.

“Yes, she killed a few rogues and protected him. He was just 12 back then. If she didn’t come on time…”

“Why didn’t you tell me?” the king groaned.

“There was no time!” Reid shook his shoulders, “And how could I know that you would be such a d*ck to her?!”

“Is there a good time to be a d*ck?” the Beta chuckled, just annoying him more.

“Find out where I can meet her,” Gideon cut him off, “I am intrigued. She does seem… feisty.”

“Just the way you hate them,” Reid stood up but when he noticed his Alpha’s glare, he wiped the smile off his face, “I’ll go… get to work.”

Gideon threw his back over his chair. He had a lot on his mind already and this woman… she got to him on some level. A smile curled onto his lips. It had been a while since someone dared to speak to him like that. Luna Riannon was amusing indeed.

And since she saved Kyle, he owed it to her to at least have a look at her case.

So be it.

Riannon prepared herself for the breakfast. She put on a simple yet elegant dress and brushed her hair so that it fell down her shoulders in soft waves. She didn’t use any makeup today because she knew very well what she was going to face once she went downstairs.

But she almost bumped into Maya at the door.

“Ria,” her friend tried to smile carelessly but she could tell that the latter was nervous, “How about we eat here and chat. Just the two of us?”

Riannon smiled. She knew that Maya tried to protect her from the new harsh reality. But luckily, she was ready for everything.

“Maybe another time,” she said, taking Maya’s hand and still not believing that she was alive, “Right now I need to do something. Just be by my side, okay?”

“Always,” Maya’s eyes glistened with tears.

The dining room was buzzing, but as soon as she stepped foot into it, everyone got quiet. On her first day in the pack, Roxy already sat at the table with the highest-ranked wolves and was clearly in the centre of the attention.

“Luna!” she jumped to her feet after she let Ria watch her succeed, “P-please, forgive my rudeness! I know my place!”

Here we go again…

Chapter 5. The Beta Female Best Friend

Goddess, she hated her. Roxy was looking at Ria with huge doe eyes in front of everyone and even shaking slightly to add some drama. She always did this. Their every meeting was a performance.

Riannon used to always be reserved towards her, leaving it her priority to supress her feelings and hide how hurt she was with the whole situation. And Roxy used it to her advantage masterfully, painting herself as the sweet girl and the Luna as the icy queen.

Well, Riannon wasn't going to let her do this anymore. This pattern had to change. Luckily, she had just the best teacher - Roxanne herself. She put her through so many awkward and humiliating situations in the past that now Ria was ready for everything.

Moreover, she knew that what she did before did not work.

So, she was going to try something else.

“I am so sorry, Luna,” Roxy prepared to fall to her knees again but Riannon rushed to her aid and gave her the biggest of hugs. The two women froze together like this while the room filled with awkward silence. Someone dropped a fork and from the corner of her eye Ria noticed that it was her friend Maya.

“Roxy,” Riannon finally distanced herself and sighed with a sad smile on her face, “I can call you that, right? I want you to know that this is a safe place for you. No one will ever hurt you. We are nothing like the pack that you came from. You will always be treated nicely here since you are a member now. The hard days for you are over.”

She grazed her eyes quickly over the room to see stunned expressions on the faces of her pack mates. They did not expect that. Back in her past life, she tried to ignore Roxanne as much as she could, while staying polite when they had to talk. Everyone understood but the more Roxy cried, the more they felt pity towards her. She found her way into people's hearts. Over time, a lot of them stood on her side because she was, after all, their Alpha’s true mate and she had a hard life prior. Meanwhile, Riannon was born with a silver spoon in her mouth. And however great of a Luna she was, they thought that it wasn’t a big deal since she was born and trained to do it. No one understood how much she worked and what she sacrificed to reach this perfection.

Suddenly, Roxy threw herself in Ria’s arms again.

“Thank you!” she whined, making Riannon want to strangle her. If Onyx, her wolf, was here, it could have ended fast. But Onyx wasn't close and she knew that this was a battle of acting skills now. Meanwhile Roxy went on, “I was sure that the nightmare in which I lived in this whole time would repeat here as well! But you are so kind! I am ready to do any job! However hard it is…I’ll be your personal maid if I have to.”

At the head of the table, her husband Brayden was watching them with his lips clenched. It was hard for Ria to hold back a laugh, since she knew by the way he looked that he had been busy all night looking for the intruder. He hated that his mate was ready to become a cleaner. And on top of that, his wife did not behave the way he expected her to. She was sure that she shocked him for life now.

Get used to that, my love.

“Don’t be ridiculous, Roxy!” Ria gasped and even forced a small tear to roll down her cheek. After all, hugging her worst enemy was horrible and a part of her did want to cry. “You suffered enough and my heart goes for you. I will assign you work according to your abilities. And if they aren’t enough at the moment for a decent job, we will send you to study at the local college. Everything will be fine, do not worry. You will not be mistreated here. Our pack is a fair one. Brayden and I were building it for years. Everybody gets what they deserve. And so will you.”

The omega frowned but quickly regained herself. Did she know that it was a promise?

“I am the luckiest girl alive,” she smiled innocently, flapping her eyelashes,“No wonder my mate… I mean, the Alpha is so in love with you, Luna. Now I see that what people say about you is true.”

“Oh, you will have to tell me later!” Ria giggled and pushed Roxy back to the chair she was sitting at prior. Luckily, she didn’t risk taking the Luna’s seat or the one right next to Bray. She would soon take it of course. But at least Ria didn’t have to deal with it today.

“I will be happy to!” Roxane shook her red locks and the oversized t-shirt that she was wearing fell off her shoulder “accidentally”, making Brayden look at her with eyes filled with lust. The mate bond was already working. And their time was slipping away.

“By the way,” Riannon took a sip of her coffee and it seemed more bitter than usual, “We need to assign a budget for Roxanne.”

Once again, the whole room went quiet.

“Are you sure, Luna?” Beta Asher spoke, “She is just an omega and…”

“She is not a simple omega,” Riannon raised her chin high and put a perfect smile on her face, “She is our Alpha’s mate. He did not reject her and she is a part of our pack now. She needs to look the part, so it’s time to throw away the worn-out t-shirts and jeans.”

“That’s very kind of you, Luna,” Maya couldn’t stay silent anymore, “Some would even say too kind. I mean, considering…”

“I do what I can,” Ria sent her best friend a warning gaze and as always, Maya understood her without words, “And let’s make this clear once and for all. I was very serious about Roxy being treated nicely here. I don’t want anyone to bully her just because the three of us are in a peculiar situation now. I wish her no harm and will have zero tolerance to the ones who try to do it.”

And with that, she started to eat her omelette as if nothing special happened, catching glances of her pack mates on her.

There they were. The looks they used to give to Roxy. Now they were rewarding Ria with those. Only that this time there was more respect than pity.

Back in the day, Ria did all the same things. But her mistake was not to announce it in front of everyone. And in the end, Roxy played them and made them believe that Ria mistreated her where she could.

She caught Brayden’s gaze on her and sent a small smile his way, startling him. At least she was getting exactly the reactions that she wanted. For the first day back, this was good.

Right after the breakfast Maya pulled her into the Luna office and made sure to lock the door properly. The room had sound isolation and they could talk in private without the fear of being overheard.

“What the are you doing?” she hissed at her friend, “You are welcoming his mate?! You should have insisted again and again on him rejecting her!”

“Oh, M,” Ria couldn’t help herself and hugged the girl once again. She still smelled of almonds and this made her broken heart warm again.

“Stupid perfect Luna! You can’t be this kind!” Maya almost sobbed, “You loved him all your life! He marked you for Goddess’s sake! What was he thinking?!”

“I know,” Ria sighed, stepping away, “But that ship has sailed. No one can fight the mate bond. That battle was lost the moment he met her and didn’t reject her.”

“You are so calm about it! I can’t believe this!” the girl shook her head, clear signs of worry on her face.

Ria contemplated for a few seconds but deep inside she knew, that if she could entrust this secret to anyone, it would be her best friend since childhood.

“I need to tell you something,” Riannon took Maya’s hands and led her to the armchair, sitting on the verge of her desk. “But I will need you to be open-minded about what I am about to say.”

She spoke and spoke, and the more she told her, the paler her friend became. She omitted the part about Maya’s own death. There was no need for that. She knew that the small fragments she was ready to share now would be enough for her.

When she was done, Maya looked at her with red eyes, “It’s…”

“Unbelievable, I know,” Riannon sighed.

“Horrible!” her friend took her hands and gave them a tight squeeze, “Ria! That’s awful! What you had to go through…”

“Wait, you meant you have no doubts in what I said now?” the Luna raised her brow. She expected that she would need longer to persuade her bestie.

“You wouldn’t joke about it at a moment like that,” Maya leaned back on her chair, “And as far as I know, you were madly in love with Brayden just yesterday. But now… You are so calm that it’s frightening. So this explains a lot. You don't get over love like that in one day.”

That was true. Riannon did not know for sure if all love she had for Brayden was gone, but she definitely wasn't the same girl from before. She was twenty-five but it felt as if she lived much longer now. Suffering and broken heart could do that to people.

“And it doesn’t bother you how crazy that sounds?” Ria decided to make sure they were on the same page.

“I believe in the Moon Goddess,” Maya shook her shoulders, “She may have wanted Brayden to be with someone like that… Roxanne. But I will never believe that she would want such a death for you! Anyone but you!”

“I missed you so much,” Ria couldn’t help herself and gave Maya another hug. She went quiet for a bit and I gave herself a promise that whatever happened, she would at least save her best friend. She was not going to lose her again.

“So, what’s the plan?” Maya went into the battle mode fast. She was one of those underappreciated wolves. They called her Luna’s assistant and both of them hated that. She had pure Beta blood and could take down an Alpha if she tried hard. Maybe not any Alpha but definitely most of them. They thought too much of themselves and always underestimated pretty girls.

“The plan is to divorce and take our pack back,” Ria smiled, knowing that she had a great ally on her side now, “The Pearl Moon.”

“Is this even possible?” Maya whistled, “I mean, if you quickly get pregnant with Brayden’s baby and then we kill him, we could get this all…”

“No, thank you,” Ria first with laughter, “Goddess you are so bloodthirsty!”

“My hands are just itching to cut his di…”

“I got you!” the Luna covered her face with her hands, trying to suppress another outburst of giggles.

“You know what, I have an idea!” Maya said all of a sudden, “How about we ask lycans for help?! This may actually…”

“Been there, done that. Their king is an a$shole,” Ria rolled her eyes.
“You what?!” her friend’s jaw dropped to the floor.

“I had one lycan who owed me and asked him to arrange a conversation with his king. But you have no idea how arrogant he is!” Ria explained.

“Worse than Brayden?” Maya chuckled.

“Worse than Brayden,” Ria confirmed.

“Okay then, what’s next?” the Beta female never gave up and this was one of the very many reasons they became friends in the first place.

“Simple, really. I need to get the support of as many Alphas as I can,” Riannon exhaled loudly, “So that when the divorce comes into force, they give me their votes when I raise the matter in the Alpha Counicl. And I will.”

“How many do you think will support you?” Maya asked bluntly, getting her cell our of her pocket, "Count on the alphas where mu cousins are Betas. I'll take care of them."

“Not sure yet, but I know where to strike first,” Ria tapped her fingers over the cold wood of her desk, waiting for Maya to tear her eyes off the phone and spare her a look.

“Do tell!” the girl seemed genuinely interested.

“The most important event of the year that is just around the corner,” Riannon smirked, "The annual Alpha ball"

Chapter 6. Dress to Impress

“Ri,” Brayden’s head popped out of the door of Riannon’s office right when she was finishing discussing the pack’s primary school budget with the headmistress, “Do you have a sec?”

“Yes, we are done here,” Ria handed the papers to the woman in front of her and the latter gave her a sympathetic smile. The Luna remembered very well that she was the one who stood by her by the very end. That was one of the reasons she managed to squeeze in a little extra cash for the school.

“Luna, Alpha,” the headmistress bowed her head and left, leaving the husband and the wife alone for the first time in a while. For the last few days, Riannon tried to avoid Brayden at all costs. She remembered too well that their every meeting in the past life was ending badly during those days. Back then she tried to keep her dignity and not approach him first. They had meals together with pack members as always. And work meetings with Beta, Gamma and so on. But other than that, every time Bray wanted to talk to her, Riannon was finding a perfect excuse to escape. There was no point in talking to him since nothing could be changed. She debated telling him the truth about her rebirth but swept that idea under the rug. He could decide that she was crazy and use that during their divorce when she planned to get her pack back.

The silence was getting awkward.

“Long time no see,” he came closer and she remained behind her desk to make it harder for him to approach her.

“Yeah, it’s been a while,” Ria threw herself back in her chair, “Is it about the Alpha Ball?”

“Did you get my flowers?” he asked.

The flowers kept coming. He was probably still feeling guilty.

“Yes, they are lovely,” she forced a smile, “Thank you. So, did you come to speak about the Alpha Ball?”

They already had this conversation. He caught her in her office and broke her heart.

“Yes,” Brayed pulled the collar of his shirt to make it easier to breathe while Ria watched him with an indifferent expression that was clearly making him uncomfortable. “It’s about Roxy… I mean Roxanne.”

“What about her?” she pretended not to know what it was about.

“Listen,” he sighed and averted her gaze, “I kind of promised her that I would take her to the ball as my partner.”

“Oh, really?” Riannon tilted her head, “I wonder when and how that happened?”

“It’s… a long story,” he cleared his throat, “Please, understand. My wolf is dying when she is unhappy. And she has never been to a ball like that.”

“Oh, my,” Ria gasped and shook her head, “Should I maybe take Enzo with me? He hasn’t seen an event like that either. And neither did Cole.”

She mentioned the hottest single warriors of the pack on purpose. And heard a growl emerge from her husband’s chest. That served him right.

“What is it with you lately, Ri?” he looked at her in disbelief, “My Luna will not be going with someone else!”

“But it’s okay if my Alpha goes with someone else? How is that fair?” she shot her brow up, challenging him. And Brayden hated challenge.

“Maybe you should sit this one out then!” he snarled at her and for the first time, she started to get worried here. She needed that ball. She needed it badly.

“No, thanks,” the Luna crossed her hands on her chest, “I got my own personal invitation. Besides, it’s important to mingle with other Lunas for the sake of our pack. We still need to organise student and warrior exchanges and a couple of mating events for over 18s. Or do you expect Roxy to be able to deal with it instead of enjoying her first big ball? What kind of Cinderella she would be then if she would have to work again?!”

He exhaled through his nostrils and she knew that she managed to win.

“Fine,” he grunted standing up, “But you will go with Ash then. He is going anyway since he is the pack’s Beta.”

“Now you are sucking the fun out of his life too?” Ria chuckled, “I am sure he had a girl to take there and impress.”

“He already agreed to be you plus one,” Brayden informed her, “He’ll protect you there too.”

“How thoughtful,” she decided just to go with it. Getting rid of Ash would be easy anyway. He would see some Alpha’s daughter and off he would go.

Brayden prepared to leave but stopped at the door and turned to look at her again

“Ri,” he looked her in the eye, “It’s just a transition period. We will get through this and everything will be fine.”

Lies.

“I will never take another Luna except for you.”

Lies.

“I still love you, it’s just that she had such a hard life and I am not a monster. She is just a sweet girl, she will never take your place.”

Lies, lies, lies.

“Thank you for telling me that,” she nodded, “I needed to hear that, Bray.”

She even forced a smile.

“Look, when the ball is over, let’s take a day off. Just you and me. What do you think?” he suggested all of a sudden and now she looked at him in surprise. This was new. It didn’t happen in the past.

“We’ll have to see our schedules for that,” she stretched her lips further, “But it’s a nice idea.”

“Then I’ll see you around?” he suddenly looked relieved as if he got rid of some kind of trouble here.

“I am your wife, am I not?” she chuckled and his smile faded.

He left and Ria’s phone buzzed with a notification that the dresses should have already arrived.

She paused just for a second. It worried her that he offered that day off thing. Was it a good sign or a bad? She wanted to change the events that caused so many disasters but this exact one wasn’t in her plans.

In the end, she was late for the fitting and entered the room full of the most important females of the pack. Maya was there along with their friends Tatiana and Aria. They greeted her in their usual friendly way. On the other side of the room sat Harper and her minions.

Harper was Brayden’s sister. And for some reason, she never liked Riannon too much since they were younger. She was one of the first to openly support Roxy. She was the one who opened the door for others who didn’t know what to do and actually promoted the evil redhead monster.

“Bring in the dresses,” Ria commanded firmly. She wanted to be done here quick.

It was a tradition of their pack that outfits for the ladies invited to the Alpha ball were chosen together and paid for by the pack. After all, they all were representing the Silver River pack and it was important to let others see how well they were doing.

A few omegas rolled in clothing racks with the most beautiful evening dresses from the top designers. Luna always was the first one to choose and then they went according to their ranks. The rest of the clothes was sent back.

Riannon knew very well which dress she was going to pick but still pretended to look at them all to avoid suspicion.

“How about that emerald one?” Harper suggested the colour that would never suit Riannon blonde hair and blue eyes.

“Do you like it?” she got the hanger and placed it to her chest with a smile, “It’s Zac Posen.”

“Beautiful!” her sister-in-law sneered.

“Then I will leave it for you,” Ria returned the facial expression and kept going. Soon she reached it. She remembered that dress well. Peach and shiny, with loads of rhinestones on the top.

She was choosing long enough and she took that one, moving to the mirror.

Any second now…

The door opened and Roxy barged in, gasping, “Oh, my goddess! Luna! I am so sorry! I’ll just go away not to ruin your mood.”

She was already doing it. Implying that just a sight of her was affecting Riannon.

And it was. But it was mean to bring this up.

“Stay,” Ria smiled gently and noticed how everyone was watching the two of them, “You are going to the ball too and you need an outfit.”

“I already got one,” Roxanne mumbled, “From all the money that you gave me. I got it in H&M.”

One of Harper’s minions snorted.

“This will not do,” Riannon turned and sighed, “You need a dress good enough for your new status.”

“And what is that?” Harper couldn’t help but ask the provocative question.

“Member of the Silver River pack,” Ria replied without any hesitation, “Look around. What do you like?”

A little sob emerged. And then a sniffle. Everybody turned to see the crying Roxy.

“This is so sweet!” she whined, “You are such a great Luna to take care of someone like me. I never had such a beautiful dress in my life!”

She pointed to the one that Riannon was holding.

“I thought I’d never…have… an opportunity.”

She burst out crying and Ria did her best not to roll her eyes.

“You can have it,” she stretched her hands with the garment towards the omega and pretty much everybody in the room was in shock.

“But Luna!” Aria gasped, “You need to be the first.”

“That’s fine,” Riannon shook her shoulders, “I saw a red one that I like too back there. Roxy can have that one since it’s the one that made you cry like that.”

Roxanne seemed a bit startled and Luna came closer, pushing the tasteless peach dress that was good enough for a middle school prom in some village.

“No, really,” Ria smirked, “I want you to have it.”

Their eyes met and Roxy gaped, realising that she had just been tricked.

“Now go to your room and try it on. It will look beautiful on you.” Or hideous.

As soon as Roxy left, Ria quickly went back to the rack and grabbed the first red dress she saw.

“I like this one,” she went out of the room as quickly as she could, followed by Maya, “Choose what you like, ladies.”

They came straight to Maya’s bedroom and as soon as they closed the door, they started laughing hysterically.

“Oh, my goddess!” Maya chuckled, “This was fun!”

“Indeed,” the Luna agreed, throwing away the red piece of fabric she had. Because the real dress that she was going to wear to the ball was right here. It was the most beautiful dress she had laid her eyes on. It was a stunning wine red off-shoulder gown made of silk chiffon, draped beautifully around the breast and down to the waist, creating a geometrical pattern and, but flowing freely to the ground.

It was a gown fit for a queen. And in the past life, Ria didn’t even order it for viewing as it was way out of her budget. But this time around she saw it again and thought to herself – just why the not?!

The last time she went to the Alpha Ball, it was the most awful experience for her. Roxanne was wearing a beautiful white dress and looking like the little innocent omega she loved to pretend, gaining everybody’s sympathy.

At the same time, Riannon gained pity from the Alphas and was mocked by some of the Lunas who never liked her. It was humiliating as it was to come as the third wheel for her husband and his mate. But on top of that, Brayden spent the whole evening by Roxy’s side. Ria was in a sour mood the whole time although she still managed to negotiate a few things.

This time, she knew what to expect and was ready. This time, she was going there to work.

“Do I look nice?” Maya grinned as she stepped out of the bathroom in a royal blue tight gown.

“You took one too, I see,” Riannon giggled as her friend twirled in front of her.

Today was a success thanks to Maya. She was the one who received all the dresses before the pack omegas got them and brought the one Ria wanted to her room without anyone seeing it.

“Of course,” she placed her hands onto her hips, “We are leaving this pack, so I am not going to save them money.”

“Just don’t shout about it around the mansion, okay?” Ria rolled her eyes, “It’s a secret after all. But you do look nice.”

“Thanks!” Maya seemed to agree, “Shame I am not going with you. But there is always next time, right?”

“When I am the Alpha and you are my Beta, you will attend it every year,” Luna winked at her.

***

In the evening, Ria finished her makeup and hair and walked out to the main part of her bedroom to find a blue box on the little table together with a new bouquet. She opened it and saw a luxurious and probably crazy expensive diamond necklace together with a simple card with one word only on it. Sorry.

“Huh,” she bit her lip, remembering that last time Brayden gave it to Roxy. And he got her some ruby earrings which she never wore. That changed too.

However, now wasn’t the time to think about all that.

She put the necklace on since it was finishing her look just perfect and left for the ball.

She was walking down the stairs, the skirt of her dress flowing beautifully as she looked at it. Most of her hair was up, with a few curly locks falling down her bare shoulders.

“You look beautiful tonight,” a male voice made her flinch.

...

Open the app and continue reading the rest of the story . 👉
(It will automatically jump to the book when you open the app)

"Have you fkkkked her?" I asked my husband of 6 years who had just found his mate.
"No!" He yelled, as if insulted.
"Then reject her," I said with dead coldness.
"Ri, it will weaken my wolf...", he started the same song again and I wanted to laugh.
"You promised to reject your fated mate once you found her, Bray," I reminded my husband who had begged me to marry him. "That was why I agreed to marry you and brought my pack to merge with yours."
His lips twitched slightly. Sighing, he turned to his mate and spoke to her softly, "I am sorry. I'll make sure to take care of you afterwards. I promise."
"I, Alpha Brayden Thorn of the Silver River pack, reject...", he started to say in a firm voice, when the omega fell to her knees, bursting into tears.
"Please, no!" she whimpered, "I am still too weak! I will die if you reject me now! Please! I'll do anything!"
Bray froze. He turned to face me again. I could see pain in his eyes - he couldn't bring himself to reject this little delicate mate of his.
"She is staying! We'll find a way around everything!" Bray said, clenching his fists.
And this was the moment when I realized that everything was lost.
...

Riannon stood there not quite believing her eyes. Her husband of six years had his arm wrapped around a petite girl in the middle of their pack house. The cute ginger head peeked at her discretely and Ria could swear that she saw a smirk for half of a second.

“Ri, dear,” Brayden, her legal husband, chosen mate and the Alpha of their pack addressed her in a way he always did when they were alone, “I need to confess… I have found my true mate. Her name is Roxanne.”

The silence in the room was deadly from the moment the two of them walked in, holding hands. Everyone stopped doing what they were doing and all eyes were on the three of them. The Alpha, the Luna and the Alpha’s mate.

Ria couldn’t force herself to say anything, so Brayden took the lead.

“Listen, I know that we are chosen mates and you will always be my Luna, I assure you of that. But since my wolf saw Roxy, he is going nuts. It would be bad for the pack if I rejected her now. He wouldn’t be able to deal with it. And it will weaken us.”

There it was - the excuse!

The two of them were school sweethearts, the perfect couple. Rhiannon was a daughter and the heiress of a powerful Alpha from a very strong pack. Brayden was her father’s best friend’s son and the future Alpha of his own pack. Since they started dating when she was just 15 and he was 16, everybody couldn’t stop buzzing that they were true mates. They were always the IT couple and everyone envied their love. Besides, as a daughter of any alpha, Ria was educated to become a Luna one day. And not just any Luna. The perfect one. She spent all her free time studying what she would have to do for the rest of her life. And she mastered every single thing to perfection. So that when she was 18 and ready to marry Bray, she would be prepared.

But Bray’s 18th birthday was before hers. She trembled to meet him on that day, longing to hear the one and only most significant word of both of their lives - mate.

He got to her pack early that day and she ran down the stairs to greet him. But as she ran, both their smiles faded a bit. She couldn’t feel anything, but he already knew.

“We are not mates, aren’t we?” she asked, tears trickling down her chin.

“Not the fated ones,” Brayden sighed heavily and locked her in his arms, his lips touching her hair. They stood like this for quite some time, waiting for the disappointment to wash away. And when they were ready, Bray took her face into his hands and said, “It doesn’t matter, Ri! I choose you! I will always choose you! No matter what, no one can break the love between us. You will be my mate, my chosen mate! My one and only!”

It did help that their families practically planned the whole wedding at this point. Her father had no son anymore since Riannon’s older brother died young trying to save their little twin sisters from the rogues. All of them died as a result and Ria was the only one left. So, there was a pressing matter of who would be inheriting the pack. And Bray seemed like the obvious choice. The two of them loved each other and no family members were against the merger of the two strong packs.

A contract was drawn but Bray suggested waiting until Riannon was 19. He told her that he had made his choice but wanted her to try and find her mate before she made hers. They were visiting other packs for the whole year before her next birthday. And then got married one month later, since no mates were found but their feelings were only getting stronger.

They became the power couple of the werewolf world and merged both their packs into one, year by year, working to make it stronger. And now, at twenty-five, Ria was a renowned Luna whom everyone loved and admired.

Riannon traced her gaze around the room and saw the shocked faces of her packmates. Yet she couldn’t help but notice that not everyone seemed startled by the recent events. Her husband’s Beta was watching quietly from the distance, his hands crossed on his chest. But absolutely no surprise in his eyes.

However, the most stunned among them all was still Riannon herself. Although not for the reasons that they all assumed.

Her fingers were trembling and lips twitching slightly as she looked at her husband and his true mate with wide eyes.

“No,” she muttered, “It couldn’t be!”

Why would the Moon Goddess return her to that exact moment in time when all her life was turned upside down, leading to her demise?

What was going on? For her it was one year ago. And just seconds ago, Ria was crawling on the ground in the woods, fighting for her life as two creatures followed her closely. The wolf found her first, digging his sharp canines into her flesh and making her wince in pain.

She was a strong wolf herself, but unfortunately, someone drugged her with aconite, making her weak, unable to shift and practically paralysed.

The wolf growled as he ripped a part of her thigh off and, for the first time during this attack, Riannon screamed loudly.

“You can shout all you want,” the girl who stepped forward said, “No one is going to hear you here. Especially now.”

Ria recognised that voice at once. Her tormentor was none other than her husband’s true mate, Roxanne.

“You?!” Ria panted, trying to sit up, “Why are you doing it? You already took everything from me! My husband, my position as Luna, my pack…”

The wolf growled at her and she tried to recognize him, but it was too dark and she was too weak. The only thing that she knew was that the werewolf was brown. Yet there were many brown wolves in the world, so it did not help.

“I have my reasons,” Roxy smirked, rubbing her round belly, “And I don’t have to explain them to you. Not anymore. Your time has passed. You are done, Riannon.”

“They will find everything out!” the ex-Luna pleaded, “You will not get away with it!”

Resounding laughter was her answer as Roxy kneeled next to her and grabbed a fistful of her hair, “Dear, Riannon, don’t you get it? I already did!”

She then forcefully threw Ria towards the ground and ordered the wolf, “Finish her off. Make sure nothing is left.”

Her arms and her legs were not listening anymore as Riannon watched Roxy walk away leisurely. As if she did not just order her murder.

A tear trickled down Ria's cheek as the wolf had a moment of hesitation.

She did not deserve it!

It was not fair!

If she had another chance, she would do everything differently.

“I am waiting!” Roxanne’s sweet voice broke her train of thought as the wolf jumped over her and ended her life in seconds.

Riannon gasped as she suddenly found herself in the reception room of her house. Something was off because all the old furniture that she loved so much was in place. She couldn’t understand what was going on until Bran walked in with Roxy in his arms and she recognized the day as exactly one year ago.

“The Moon Goddess has some sick sense of humour!” Ria thought to herself, “Out of all of the moments of my life, she brought me back into this most miserable and unpleasant one. What is up with that?!”

Luckily, she was always reserved and knew how to hide her feelings pretty well. So, she just lifted her chin up and met her husband’s gaze.

“I understand that this is very sudden,” Bray tried to sound considerate and she barely managed to hold back a scoff. Sudden? He had no idea!

“I know our agreement, but my wolf is going nuts. You are not only my Luna, but also my best friend, who always understands me. And I know that you always want what’s best for the pack. Roxanne is an omega and an orphan in her pack… Ri, it was horrible how she was treated there! They abused her and treated the girl like a slave! I couldn’t leave her there. It would be horrible and my wolf would never forgive me. I just need her presence here. That's all.”

He finally let go of Roxanne, leaving the redhead alone and went to his wife, taking her hands in his.

“Let her stay in the pack for the sake of it. My wolf is stronger next to her, the rejection would kill him. And we can give Roxy a peaceful life here. She will…”

“No,” the answer sounded calm yet loud enough for everyone to hear...

A NOTE FROM THE AUTHOR: Hello, this is my first published book on Dreame and I am very excited to start this journey. I promise you a bumpy ride with loads of twists and turns. Don't be shy and leave me a comment. I also have a group called Marissa Gilbert's Reading Circle where readers discuss chapters, characters and share visuals.

Right now the book is taking part in the Dreame Ace Book Contest. Please, consider giving it your vote by clicking on a gift box or finding the book on the ranking page.

Chapter 2. Rejection

They all stared at her in shock. Bray’s eyes were as wide as two saucers.

“Ri, my wolf…”, he started the same song again and she wanted to laugh. She had already heard it all back in her previous life. He was bringing up his wolf every time he wanted to spend time with Roxy. He never rejected her like they agreed and very soon she became his mistress.

Riannon tried to close her eyes even though it was extremely painful for her. But she was the one who truly cared about the pack and tried to drown herself in work. This was her other mistake. But since she got a second chance, she was not going to repeat it. She was going to get rid of Roxy here and now. Before it was too late.

Back then, Bray told her that it was her choice, and she chose wrong. Letting Roxanne stay for the sake of the pack was a big mistake. People died because of that and not only her. Ria’s eyes met with her best friend Maya’s and tears almost rolled in her eyes. Maya was one of those killed in Roxy’s schemes. She had her doubts before, but now she knew for sure. She was going to get rid of this evil once and for all.

“I said no,” she repeated herself and looked back at her husband with coldness, “We talked about this before and came to an agreement. We’ll find a good pack for her, who will take care of her. But she will not stay here. You need to reject her just as we agreed.”

One question that was bothering her was why Bran chose to have this conversation in public. But it wasn’t the time to think about it. Now she had more pressing matters.

“Riannon,” Bray suddenly got serious, stepping in front of Roxanne, who was hiding behind him and shaking like a leaf in the wind, “Think about this. I wouldn’t ask you if it wasn’t important. I am the Alpha of our pack and my wolf is going crazy for his mate. We can’t risk…”

“Brayden,” she addressed him calmly, “Our pack is one of the strongest in the country. We are not at war with anyone. And you are a strong Alpha. I believe in you, I always did. You know that. I am sure that rejecting your true mate would not be easy, but we will get through it. As a family that we are.”

“I just want what’s best for the pack,” Bray mumbled, not sounding so sure anymore and Ria felt a prick of hope.

“If you want what’s best for the pack, do it now,” she said, “The longer you put it off, the harder it would get. And if she is anything, she is your weakness. You already go back on your word and this is day one.”

His lips twitched slightly, and Ria knew what it meant. Her victory was close. She almost got rid of this redhead monster.

Sighing, Bray turned to Roxanne and spoke to her softly, “I am sorry. I’ll make sure to take care of you afterwards. I promise…”

Ria did not notice how hard she clenched the fabric of her dress. Was it always this easy? Could she stop all the disasters that happened to her if she simply said no at once?

“I, Alpha Brayden Thorn of the Silver River pack, reject…”, her husband started to say in a firm voice, when the omega in front of him fell to her knees, bursting into tears.

“Please, no!” she whimpered, “I am still too weak! I will die if you reject me now! Please! I’ll do anything!”

Bray froze. He couldn’t bring himself to reject this little delicate mate of his. And this was the moment when Riannon realised that everything was lost. He turned to face her again and she held his gaze with pride.

“Please, Alpha!” Roxy started to sob and Ria had to give it to her. If she didn’t know who was before her, she would have bought it too. “I will be your slave! I can clean and I can cook! I can do anything! Just, please, spare me! Don’t do this! I will serve your Luna!”

A wave of electric shock went through Ria at the mention of her. She looked at her rival and met a gaze full of well-hidden hatred.

“Please, my Luna!” the girl kept begging still kneeling, “My fate is in your hands! Please, don’t kill me! Please, spare me! I will be your slave forever. Don’t kill me!”

No one spoke a word and the only sounds in the room were the pitiful sobs and sniffs of Roxanne.

“Sweet girl,” Riannon decided to try one last time, “There is no need for all that. You will be well taken care of, but just not here.”

“Please, my Luna!” Roxy crawled to her way faster than Ria managed to dodge her and grasped her dress, “The rejection will kill me! Please, spare me!”

“I…”, Ria wanted to say something but a loud growl made her stop.

“Enough!” Brayden roared, looking at her with his eyes shining red, meaning that his wolf was at the surface.

“Calm down,” his Luna said firmly but yet another growl emerged from him as he was furious.

“I said enough!” Brayden appeared next to Roxanne in no time and scooped her in his arms, “She is staying! We’ll find a way around everything!”

He walked firmly towards the huge staircase, taking his mate upstairs to one of the guestrooms. Ria knew very well which room it would be – the one in the far corner of the mansion, where her husband would practically move in no time. Roxanne’s head was tucked into Brayden’s neck and Riannon was sure that it was not a coincidence that she was now breathing into his collarbone, right where a mark should go.

Automatically, she touched the mark he gave her when she was nineteen and caught the omega’s gaze on herself. Roxanne was watching. And Ria knew that today she lost just like the last time.

Nothing changed. Her words and actions on that day played absolutely no part in what happened. It was like a very bad movie on repeat…

“Ri!” Maya came up to her when their Alpha was gone, “Are you okay?”

Riannon looked at her best friend, the one that she lost. Not thinking twice, she threw herself in Maya’s arms. After the death of her parents, this was the only person, apart from Brayden, whom she could trust with everything.

“There, there,” she patted her long platinum blonde hair, “It’s going to be all right. He will reconsider, I am sure.”

Only now did Ria realise how everything looked like to the people around her and distanced herself at once. She already lost her husband, there was no need to lose her face too.

“I am fine,” she said and caught the Beta’s gaze on her.

Ash nodded and gave her a soft sympathetic smile, before shouting loudly, “I feel like everyone forgot what they were supposed to be doing! The work is waiting!”

“Let’s go to your room,” Maya suggested, “We’ll talk about everything there.”

No, Ria did not need this conversation. She remembered it very well. Because they already had it.

What she really needed now was some time alone. Because she needed to process things and to come up with a new plan.

She couldn’t save her marriage, but she could still save Maya, other people who died with Roxy’s help, her pack and her own life.

“I just can’t right now,” she smiled at her friend, squeezing her hands, still not quite believing that she was here, “Let’s talk another time. I have a lot of work to do.”

“Work?” Maya’s eyes grew wide, “Are you serious?”

“Yes,” Ria fixed the creases on her dress, “Now that our Alpha is… busy, I have to step in. The pack comes first.”

She gave her friend another warm smile and added, “Everything is going to be all right, Maya. We are going to be fine. All of us.”

Riannon locked the door of her Luna office and tried to control her ragged breathing. Too much! Everything was too much for her. She needed to clear her head and think of everything. She needed a plan. And a good one. She had to save everyone, herself included.

But the office was too stuffy. And she needed to breathe!

Only one thing could help her and it was shifting into her wolf.

Riannon went into the woods that were surrounding their pack and stripped, preparing to change her form.

But nothing happened.

"Onyx, are you there?" she spoke to her wolf for the first time since her sudden rebirth less than an hour before but did not get a reply. It was alarming. Onyx was there her whole life.

"Onyx!" Ria called for her second half but was met with silence. Angry, she ran as fast as she could using her human legs. She was still super fast and strong, which could only mean that her wolf was somewhere there. She was not weak. But what was wrong?

Chapter 3. The Call

CHAPTER 3

The Call

It did not take her long to get to her most favourite place in the world – the Silver Mirror Lake. This was the only place where Riannon could be alone. It was far enough from the packhouse and close to the borders of the pack. But it was safe since they did not have any rogue attacks in that area. Just one pack away from here was the Lycans territory and it was rumoured that the Alpha King residence was also somewhere close. No one was foolish enough to enter these lands and check though.

So, Ria did not think twice when she stopped by the ledge of the lake, naked, and jumped into the water. It was cold but at the same time, it was exactly what she needed to calm herself down.

She let herself embrace the dark night when only the full moon shone upon her, making crystals of water sparkle on her skin when she felt someone’s presence. It was powerful and dominating, yet did not belong to her husband and made her alert at once.

Pretending that nothing happened, Ria carefully looked around and her eyes caught a figure of a huge wolf at a hill on the other side of the lake. He was dark, probably black. And his eyes were shining golden.

It was a bad sign. Very bad.

Riannon decided not to risk it and went underwater, getting to the shore as soon as she could and running for her life. Only a loud howl followed her.

She was back in the safe territory in no time. Luckily, her clothes were right where she left them. She pulled her dress on and tried to do the zipper at the back but her fingers were not reaching it.

“Let me help,” two hands touched her back and Beta Asher helped her with her little problem. Ria wondered if he had been there the whole time. But it did not matter in the long run. Werewolves were used to naked bodies. It wouldn’t be the first time he saw her without clothes. It wouldn’t be the last… probably.

“What are you doing here?” she asked the man, turning to face him.

“I’ve been waiting for you,” he said with an unreadable expression on his face, “Found your clothes and understood that you were on a run. But why didn’t you shift?”

“I did,” she lied without blinking. If anyone knew that she couldn’t shift, then her fate would be decided even sooner. She couldn’t afford that. Ria knew that she needed time. “But that’s not important,” she decided to change the subject quickly, “There was an intruder at the Silver Lake. Send wolves to check it out.”

“Of course, Luna,” he said and his eyes lost focus for a second as he was giving orders via the mind link.

Riannon decided not to wait for him and walked slowly into the house. But Ash caught up with her quickly and opened the door to the mansion for her.

“It’s going to be alright,” he said to her all of a sudden and she stopped. Back in the day, he used to say it to her all the time. Yet when decisions had to be made, he always took her husband’s side. It was one of the betrayals that hurt the most because she was sure that her relationship with the Beta was good prior to all that. Yet he didn’t even object when they stripped her of her title… There were a lot of things that she wanted to tell him but she couldn’t.

So, she just placed her delicate hand on his broad shoulder and looked him in the eye, smiling sadly, “You knew, didn’t you?”

His expression changed as if a flash of lightning hit him and his lips parted slightly.

“Yes, Luna,” he confessed, darting his eyes to the ground.

“It’s okay,” she patted him, “I understand. You can’t go against your Alpha’s command.”

“If I could…” he started to speak but she placed her finger to his mouth making a shushing sound.

“Doesn’t matter,” she shrugged her shoulders, “At least I will always have your support, Ash. Right?”

“Always, Luna,” his breathing became heavy and Ria tilted her head, watching him. This was an interesting development. Why was he reacting like that?

“Then, of course, I’ll be fine,” she chuckled and went inside. She had to think of what to do next.

Ria locked herself in her bedroom. She knew that Brayden would not be coming back tonight to share the bed with her. As far as she remembered, he hadn't been sleeping with Roxy at that point yet and spent the whole night in his private office drinking and thinking of life. In the morning, he would bring her flowers and gifts… and an apology even. But Roxy would still stay.

After a long and relaxing bath, Ria went to her desk and got her old journal. She hadn’t been using it for many years, but it was dear to her heart. And it was just the right place to write down every single event that was important and that was going to happen within the year leading to her death.

She tried to remember everything while she still could.

And she knew very well what she was going to do with this information. The game was on.

The plan was simple, really. Since she couldn’t change the main event and get rid of Roxy, she had to leave. But she couldn’t leave without her pack and without making sure that all her dear friends were alive and well. Not to mention, that it was particularly important to try and show Brayden and the rest Roxanne’s true face. Everybody around thought that she was an angel while, in fact, she was the devil. Ria was afraid to even think what would happen if Roxy became the Luna for real, because she for sure wouldn’t have the pack’s interests at heart.

And although Ria’s own heart craved revenge, she didn’t want her life's work to be ruined. Plus, she didn’t have it in her heart to hate everyone. She saved it for just a selected few. The ones who betrayed her trust and led to her demise, the ones who promised her respect and protection but gave her humiliation and suffering. Yes, those were the ones she was going to concentrate on.

The door suddenly opened, and Brayden walked in, making her close the journal with the list of events and names rapidly and hide it back in the drawer. Luckily, he didn’t pay attention to that.

Guilt was all over his face and Ria wanted to roll her eyes, but held herself back. She couldn’t give herself away. This event did not happen prior. In her past life, he didn’t visit her that night. This was new and she had to be cautious.

“Ri,” he walked further into the room, “Ash informed me that you encountered an intruder. Are you okay?”

This was funny. She was sitting there, clearly looking well and in one piece. Who was he kidding? Was it guilt because she put up a fight and he still chose his mate?

“It was unpleasant,” Riannon shrugged her shoulders and stood up. If he decided to ignore the big pink elephant in the room, she could do the same. In the end, it was for the best. Their past conversations about Roxy never ended well. He would never believe what a monster his mate was. So, the less Riannon talked about her, the better.

“And also disappointing”, she went to the window to hide her facial expression.

“How so?” Brayden caught the bait.

“We are one of the strongest packs and some wolf is just wandering on our territory, spying on your Luna who is swimming naked in the lake…”

“He what?” Brayden growled possessively. Back in the day, it would drive her crazy in the best sense of the word. But right now… she was annoyed. He just claimed another woman in front of so many people. He had no right to growl like that in her presence anymore. She didn’t put it into words, of course.

“You heard me,” she said, “And instead of looking for that wolf the Alpha is doing goddess knows what. No offence, but this is exactly what I was talking about earlier today. Your mate already distracted you from what was important.”

It was a low blow. But she needed him to be busy with something else right now. In the past, the closer he got to Roxy, the more power and supporters she received. And the worse it got for Riannon and her close people. If she could postpone the wheel of events for at least one day, she would do it.

“You are angry,” he sighed, “I understand, of course. I broke my promise to you. I…”

“Let’s not speak of it,” she stopped him, “It is what it is.”

“Ri, baby,” he nibbled on her neck, right where he marked her years ago, bonding their two wolves forever, acknowledging her as his chosen mate. “I hurt you and I will do anything to fix that.”

Not everything. She knew that too well.

“Only you can be my Luna, you know that, right?” he started peppering her neck with kisses, trying to unzip her dress at the same time.

This was… odd. She hadn’t slept with him for a while. Their paths went in different directions more than half a year ago in her past life. She was his abandoned and rejected wife…

Ria clenched her fists and then turned to face him.

“No!” she made him stop, “Not today.” Or ever. He had his last chance and he blew it. She did not want him anymore. If her wolf Onyx was here now, she would be howling from pain as she was attached to Brayden’s wolf Ragnar. But she didn’t feel Onyx now. She wasn’t under her influence. And she was furious.

She did not show it though. Her mom trained her well to conceal emotions. Finally, it was useful.

“Ri?” Brayden looked at her in shock. Before this day they were happy together. Which reminded Ria that he probably found Roxy earlier and was lying to her for the past few days. Or maybe weeks. “Honey, don’t do this. I love you and we are family. We will always be family.”

“Believe it or not, but I am not feeling well after everything that happened today,” she looked him in the eye, “But it will make me happy if you bring me the intruder’s head.”

He nodded quietly, “Anything for you, Ri.”

Her husband brushed her cheek and she tolerated that. Even forced a smile for the sake of the show.

“You’ll have his head in the morning!” he promised before leaving her alone.

Maya tried to reach her mentally but Riannon just asked her to wait until the morning.

After a mostly sleepless night, she knew what she had to do and she also knew her first step.

In her office, she dialled the number that none other werewolves would risk dialling. But she was left with no choice.

“Hello, Beta Reid speaking,” the annoyed male voice sounded on the other end and Riannon gulped before speaking.

“Hello, Beta. This is Luna Riannon Thorn. Nee Michaels.”

It didn’t ring a bell to him.

“And?” he seemed bored.

“Seven years ago I saved your nephew during a rogue attack in one of the boarding schools. Back then you gave me this number and told me that you owe me one.”

The lycan paused before answering her.

“And I guess you are calling to collect?” he chuckled, “And here I thought that there were selfless people in this world…”

“I wouldn’t ask if lives did not depend on it,” she interrupted him. Lycans were hard to get in touch with. They did not mingle with regular werewolves with rare exceptions. But sometimes they attended elite boarding schools for shifters. That’s when Ria’s luck was on her side.

“Fine,” the man agreed, “What do you want then?”

“I need to speak to the Lycan Alpha King,” Riannon said firmly.

Chapter 4. Royal Confrontation

“Bold, aren’t we?” the Beta chuckled and Ria didn’t know what to think. “Do you think that the King will do whatever I tell him?”

“I hope he respects you enough to do you a little favour,” she bit her lip. She was walking on thin ice here and was aware of that.

But she had no choice either.

“Fine,” the man grunted softly and for the first time Ria wondered what he was doing, “Crystle, dear, that’s enough of sucking. I need to go.”

Then he groaned again and Riannon’s ears turned red with embarrassment. Was he in bed with someone? Why did he pick up then?!

There were sounds of rustling and a female voice, “See you tonight, Beta.” And then sounds of steps.

“Just so that you know,” the Beta spoke again, “I am sacrificing a lot right now to pay you back. So, after you talk to him, Consider us done.”

“Of course,” Ria cleared her throat, “I appreciate your… sacrifice.”

He chucked and then she heard a sound of a creaking door.

“Hey, G. I need you to speak to someone,” the sounds were muffled but she could still understand everything.

“Not interested,” the other man growled and now Riannon was very afraid. She thought if the king was… busy as well. He sure wouldn’t sacrifice his pleasure time for her.

“I am not trying to set you up with anyone,” the Beta burst out laughing, “It’s just some werewolf Luna. I owe her one, okay?”

“Not interested,” was the reply and Ria’s heart sunk. This was it. It was her best chance… In her past life, she called Beta Reid as well. Later in the timeline of events. But he never picked up. Lycans had some kind of trouble in their lands too by the end of the year. He was probably too busy by the time she gained the courage to call. She called him again and again until the calls stopped coming through, meaning that he probably blocked her.

“Give her 5 minutes,” from the sounds of it, the man shoved the phone into his king’s hands. Another growl emerged and Ria was about to give up. But then she heard a resounding metallic voice.

“Hello, Alpha Gideon speaking,” the man said and she sucked in a breath. He didn’t even use his title. Was that really the Lycan King?

“Hello, your majesty,” she decided to address him formally anyway, “ My name is Riannon Thorn. I am the Luna of the Silver River pack.”

He was silent and it bothered her. But she remembered that she only had 5 minutes with him.

“I need your help,” she breathed out, “My husband is the Alpha Brayden Thorn and we are planning to divorce in the nearby future.”

“Fascinating,” the man said without any emotions in his voice, “ But what does it have to do with me? You can divorce any time you like without my help.”

“I know, Alpha,” she agreed and heard him growl slightly, “That’s not the part that I need your help with. You see, we are chosen mates. And when we got married, we merged our packs. What I really want from you is to help me to get my people and my territory back. You are the Alpha King and when I raise this dispute, your word will be the last at the Alpha Council. They wouldn't be able to decline.”

“Hmm,” he sounded amused, “And you think that the case would go that far? You do know that the Alpha council consists of male alphas. What makes you think at least anyone will support you?”

“They will if they know that you are on my side,” Riannon felt braver now, “But also I have proven myself as a leader and warrior. This shouldn’t be a problem.”

“Then maybe everything is awesome and you don’t need my help at all?” He chucked.

“I do, your majesty,” she assured him, “I really do. And I would really appreciate it.”

“This is a complex matter,” he said after a short pause, “Not something I would decide over the phone. And to be honest, it doesn’t sound serious enough to bother.”

Ria felt rage boiling her blood. Was he serious?! Was that it?!

“But…”

“There is nothing to talk about. You got married and gave your pack to your husband. You didn’t think this through and it was your mistake only. Now it’s too late,” the Alpha King seemed bored, “He will still owe you generous alimony according to our laws. You will keep your luxurious lifestyle if that’s what bothers you…”

“It’s not about that!” She gritted her teeth, “I can’t leave my people with them!”

“Them?” The king scoffed, “So, this is the problem. He found another and you are bitter about it?”

This was useless. Ria hit her desk with her fist, almost breaking it. This kind of mocking was not new to her. By now she heard it all. Even from the people who were considered her friends.

“I am not bitter!” She spat, “I am furious. Because only now do I see how many flaws our system has! How unfairly and unequally women are treated when a male doesn’t stand by her side anymore! How few chances we are given to prove ourselves. Sure, you will make a woman a warrior and speak about equality but when it comes to higher positions, you will make a woman work three times harder than a man to even consider her for the job! I was doing an Alpha’s job for years by my husband’s side and I’ve done it flawlessly. But all you see is a wounded woman who can’t get over her husband’s betrayal. And you know what, it hurts like but here I am, not whaling in pain but trying to figure out my next move. You don’t even know what is going on but you already judged me. What a disappointing introduction to my king!”

She threw her phone away with force, looking at how it smashed over the wall into several pieces.

What a joke!

Gideon sat in his huge leather chair behind his desk staring at his Beta’s phone. What the was that now? Did she scold him and then hang up?

“O-kay,” Reid carefully took his cell back, “I see that went well.”

“Remind me again who was it?” Gideon looked at his friend furrowing his thick brows.

“What?” Reid let out a nervous laugh, “Before I tell you… Are you going to kill her or…”

“REID!” Gideon growled so loudly that probably all members of his pack heard him well.

“Fine!” the Beta fell into the chair opposite of him, “She is the Luna of the Silver River pack.”

Silver River… not far from Silver Lake.

“What else?” the king tapped his fingers over the top of his desk impatiently.

“Her name is Riannon Thorn, if my memory does not fail me, she has been a Luna for five or six years. Seven maybe.”

“You said that you owed her,” Gideon was piercing Reid with his gaze, “How so? Is she one of your many whores?”

“Of course not!” the Beta sounded offended, “She… she saved Kyle seven years ago. The rogues attacked his boarding school and she was visiting some event there. She wasn’t a Luna back then, by the way. But she was preparing for the role.”

“She saved him?” Gideon rubbed the bridge of his nose.

“Yes, she killed a few rogues and protected him. He was just 12 back then. If she didn’t come on time…”

“Why didn’t you tell me?” the king groaned.

“There was no time!” Reid shook his shoulders, “And how could I know that you would be such a d*ck to her?!”

“Is there a good time to be a d*ck?” the Beta chuckled, just annoying him more.

“Find out where I can meet her,” Gideon cut him off, “I am intrigued. She does seem… feisty.”

“Just the way you hate them,” Reid stood up but when he noticed his Alpha’s glare, he wiped the smile off his face, “I’ll go… get to work.”

Gideon threw his back over his chair. He had a lot on his mind already and this woman… she got to him on some level. A smile curled onto his lips. It had been a while since someone dared to speak to him like that. Luna Riannon was amusing indeed.

And since she saved Kyle, he owed it to her to at least have a look at her case.

So be it.

Riannon prepared herself for the breakfast. She put on a simple yet elegant dress and brushed her hair so that it fell down her shoulders in soft waves. She didn’t use any makeup today because she knew very well what she was going to face once she went downstairs.

But she almost bumped into Maya at the door.

“Ria,” her friend tried to smile carelessly but she could tell that the latter was nervous, “How about we eat here and chat. Just the two of us?”

Riannon smiled. She knew that Maya tried to protect her from the new harsh reality. But luckily, she was ready for everything.

“Maybe another time,” she said, taking Maya’s hand and still not believing that she was alive, “Right now I need to do something. Just be by my side, okay?”

“Always,” Maya’s eyes glistened with tears.

The dining room was buzzing, but as soon as she stepped foot into it, everyone got quiet. On her first day in the pack, Roxy already sat at the table with the highest-ranked wolves and was clearly in the centre of the attention.

“Luna!” she jumped to her feet after she let Ria watch her succeed, “P-please, forgive my rudeness! I know my place!”

Here we go again…

Chapter 5. The Beta Female Best Friend

Goddess, she hated her. Roxy was looking at Ria with huge doe eyes in front of everyone and even shaking slightly to add some drama. She always did this. Their every meeting was a performance.

Riannon used to always be reserved towards her, leaving it her priority to supress her feelings and hide how hurt she was with the whole situation. And Roxy used it to her advantage masterfully, painting herself as the sweet girl and the Luna as the icy queen.

Well, Riannon wasn't going to let her do this anymore. This pattern had to change. Luckily, she had just the best teacher - Roxanne herself. She put her through so many awkward and humiliating situations in the past that now Ria was ready for everything.

Moreover, she knew that what she did before did not work.

So, she was going to try something else.

“I am so sorry, Luna,” Roxy prepared to fall to her knees again but Riannon rushed to her aid and gave her the biggest of hugs. The two women froze together like this while the room filled with awkward silence. Someone dropped a fork and from the corner of her eye Ria noticed that it was her friend Maya.

“Roxy,” Riannon finally distanced herself and sighed with a sad smile on her face, “I can call you that, right? I want you to know that this is a safe place for you. No one will ever hurt you. We are nothing like the pack that you came from. You will always be treated nicely here since you are a member now. The hard days for you are over.”

She grazed her eyes quickly over the room to see stunned expressions on the faces of her pack mates. They did not expect that. Back in her past life, she tried to ignore Roxanne as much as she could, while staying polite when they had to talk. Everyone understood but the more Roxy cried, the more they felt pity towards her. She found her way into people's hearts. Over time, a lot of them stood on her side because she was, after all, their Alpha’s true mate and she had a hard life prior. Meanwhile, Riannon was born with a silver spoon in her mouth. And however great of a Luna she was, they thought that it wasn’t a big deal since she was born and trained to do it. No one understood how much she worked and what she sacrificed to reach this perfection.

Suddenly, Roxy threw herself in Ria’s arms again.

“Thank you!” she whined, making Riannon want to strangle her. If Onyx, her wolf, was here, it could have ended fast. But Onyx wasn't close and she knew that this was a battle of acting skills now. Meanwhile Roxy went on, “I was sure that the nightmare in which I lived in this whole time would repeat here as well! But you are so kind! I am ready to do any job! However hard it is…I’ll be your personal maid if I have to.”

At the head of the table, her husband Brayden was watching them with his lips clenched. It was hard for Ria to hold back a laugh, since she knew by the way he looked that he had been busy all night looking for the intruder. He hated that his mate was ready to become a cleaner. And on top of that, his wife did not behave the way he expected her to. She was sure that she shocked him for life now.

Get used to that, my love.

“Don’t be ridiculous, Roxy!” Ria gasped and even forced a small tear to roll down her cheek. After all, hugging her worst enemy was horrible and a part of her did want to cry. “You suffered enough and my heart goes for you. I will assign you work according to your abilities. And if they aren’t enough at the moment for a decent job, we will send you to study at the local college. Everything will be fine, do not worry. You will not be mistreated here. Our pack is a fair one. Brayden and I were building it for years. Everybody gets what they deserve. And so will you.”

The omega frowned but quickly regained herself. Did she know that it was a promise?

“I am the luckiest girl alive,” she smiled innocently, flapping her eyelashes,“No wonder my mate… I mean, the Alpha is so in love with you, Luna. Now I see that what people say about you is true.”

“Oh, you will have to tell me later!” Ria giggled and pushed Roxy back to the chair she was sitting at prior. Luckily, she didn’t risk taking the Luna’s seat or the one right next to Bray. She would soon take it of course. But at least Ria didn’t have to deal with it today.

“I will be happy to!” Roxane shook her red locks and the oversized t-shirt that she was wearing fell off her shoulder “accidentally”, making Brayden look at her with eyes filled with lust. The mate bond was already working. And their time was slipping away.

“By the way,” Riannon took a sip of her coffee and it seemed more bitter than usual, “We need to assign a budget for Roxanne.”

Once again, the whole room went quiet.

“Are you sure, Luna?” Beta Asher spoke, “She is just an omega and…”

“She is not a simple omega,” Riannon raised her chin high and put a perfect smile on her face, “She is our Alpha’s mate. He did not reject her and she is a part of our pack now. She needs to look the part, so it’s time to throw away the worn-out t-shirts and jeans.”

“That’s very kind of you, Luna,” Maya couldn’t stay silent anymore, “Some would even say too kind. I mean, considering…”

“I do what I can,” Ria sent her best friend a warning gaze and as always, Maya understood her without words, “And let’s make this clear once and for all. I was very serious about Roxy being treated nicely here. I don’t want anyone to bully her just because the three of us are in a peculiar situation now. I wish her no harm and will have zero tolerance to the ones who try to do it.”

And with that, she started to eat her omelette as if nothing special happened, catching glances of her pack mates on her.

There they were. The looks they used to give to Roxy. Now they were rewarding Ria with those. Only that this time there was more respect than pity.

Back in the day, Ria did all the same things. But her mistake was not to announce it in front of everyone. And in the end, Roxy played them and made them believe that Ria mistreated her where she could.

She caught Brayden’s gaze on her and sent a small smile his way, startling him. At least she was getting exactly the reactions that she wanted. For the first day back, this was good.

Right after the breakfast Maya pulled her into the Luna office and made sure to lock the door properly. The room had sound isolation and they could talk in private without the fear of being overheard.

“What the are you doing?” she hissed at her friend, “You are welcoming his mate?! You should have insisted again and again on him rejecting her!”

“Oh, M,” Ria couldn’t help herself and hugged the girl once again. She still smelled of almonds and this made her broken heart warm again.

“Stupid perfect Luna! You can’t be this kind!” Maya almost sobbed, “You loved him all your life! He marked you for Goddess’s sake! What was he thinking?!”

“I know,” Ria sighed, stepping away, “But that ship has sailed. No one can fight the mate bond. That battle was lost the moment he met her and didn’t reject her.”

“You are so calm about it! I can’t believe this!” the girl shook her head, clear signs of worry on her face.

Ria contemplated for a few seconds but deep inside she knew, that if she could entrust this secret to anyone, it would be her best friend since childhood.

“I need to tell you something,” Riannon took Maya’s hands and led her to the armchair, sitting on the verge of her desk. “But I will need you to be open-minded about what I am about to say.”

She spoke and spoke, and the more she told her, the paler her friend became. She omitted the part about Maya’s own death. There was no need for that. She knew that the small fragments she was ready to share now would be enough for her.

When she was done, Maya looked at her with red eyes, “It’s…”

“Unbelievable, I know,” Riannon sighed.

“Horrible!” her friend took her hands and gave them a tight squeeze, “Ria! That’s awful! What you had to go through…”

“Wait, you meant you have no doubts in what I said now?” the Luna raised her brow. She expected that she would need longer to persuade her bestie.

“You wouldn’t joke about it at a moment like that,” Maya leaned back on her chair, “And as far as I know, you were madly in love with Brayden just yesterday. But now… You are so calm that it’s frightening. So this explains a lot. You don't get over love like that in one day.”

That was true. Riannon did not know for sure if all love she had for Brayden was gone, but she definitely wasn't the same girl from before. She was twenty-five but it felt as if she lived much longer now. Suffering and broken heart could do that to people.

“And it doesn’t bother you how crazy that sounds?” Ria decided to make sure they were on the same page.

“I believe in the Moon Goddess,” Maya shook her shoulders, “She may have wanted Brayden to be with someone like that… Roxanne. But I will never believe that she would want such a death for you! Anyone but you!”

“I missed you so much,” Ria couldn’t help herself and gave Maya another hug. She went quiet for a bit and I gave herself a promise that whatever happened, she would at least save her best friend. She was not going to lose her again.

“So, what’s the plan?” Maya went into the battle mode fast. She was one of those underappreciated wolves. They called her Luna’s assistant and both of them hated that. She had pure Beta blood and could take down an Alpha if she tried hard. Maybe not any Alpha but definitely most of them. They thought too much of themselves and always underestimated pretty girls.

“The plan is to divorce and take our pack back,” Ria smiled, knowing that she had a great ally on her side now, “The Pearl Moon.”

“Is this even possible?” Maya whistled, “I mean, if you quickly get pregnant with Brayden’s baby and then we kill him, we could get this all…”

“No, thank you,” Ria first with laughter, “Goddess you are so bloodthirsty!”

“My hands are just itching to cut his di…”

“I got you!” the Luna covered her face with her hands, trying to suppress another outburst of giggles.

“You know what, I have an idea!” Maya said all of a sudden, “How about we ask lycans for help?! This may actually…”

“Been there, done that. Their king is an a$shole,” Ria rolled her eyes.
“You what?!” her friend’s jaw dropped to the floor.

“I had one lycan who owed me and asked him to arrange a conversation with his king. But you have no idea how arrogant he is!” Ria explained.

“Worse than Brayden?” Maya chuckled.

“Worse than Brayden,” Ria confirmed.

“Okay then, what’s next?” the Beta female never gave up and this was one of the very many reasons they became friends in the first place.

“Simple, really. I need to get the support of as many Alphas as I can,” Riannon exhaled loudly, “So that when the divorce comes into force, they give me their votes when I raise the matter in the Alpha Counicl. And I will.”

“How many do you think will support you?” Maya asked bluntly, getting her cell our of her pocket, "Count on the alphas where mu cousins are Betas. I'll take care of them."

“Not sure yet, but I know where to strike first,” Ria tapped her fingers over the cold wood of her desk, waiting for Maya to tear her eyes off the phone and spare her a look.

“Do tell!” the girl seemed genuinely interested.

“The most important event of the year that is just around the corner,” Riannon smirked, "The annual Alpha ball"

Chapter 6. Dress to Impress

“Ri,” Brayden’s head popped out of the door of Riannon’s office right when she was finishing discussing the pack’s primary school budget with the headmistress, “Do you have a sec?”

“Yes, we are done here,” Ria handed the papers to the woman in front of her and the latter gave her a sympathetic smile. The Luna remembered very well that she was the one who stood by her by the very end. That was one of the reasons she managed to squeeze in a little extra cash for the school.

“Luna, Alpha,” the headmistress bowed her head and left, leaving the husband and the wife alone for the first time in a while. For the last few days, Riannon tried to avoid Brayden at all costs. She remembered too well that their every meeting in the past life was ending badly during those days. Back then she tried to keep her dignity and not approach him first. They had meals together with pack members as always. And work meetings with Beta, Gamma and so on. But other than that, every time Bray wanted to talk to her, Riannon was finding a perfect excuse to escape. There was no point in talking to him since nothing could be changed. She debated telling him the truth about her rebirth but swept that idea under the rug. He could decide that she was crazy and use that during their divorce when she planned to get her pack back.

The silence was getting awkward.

“Long time no see,” he came closer and she remained behind her desk to make it harder for him to approach her.

“Yeah, it’s been a while,” Ria threw herself back in her chair, “Is it about the Alpha Ball?”

“Did you get my flowers?” he asked.

The flowers kept coming. He was probably still feeling guilty.

“Yes, they are lovely,” she forced a smile, “Thank you. So, did you come to speak about the Alpha Ball?”

They already had this conversation. He caught her in her office and broke her heart.

“Yes,” Brayed pulled the collar of his shirt to make it easier to breathe while Ria watched him with an indifferent expression that was clearly making him uncomfortable. “It’s about Roxy… I mean Roxanne.”

“What about her?” she pretended not to know what it was about.

“Listen,” he sighed and averted her gaze, “I kind of promised her that I would take her to the ball as my partner.”

“Oh, really?” Riannon tilted her head, “I wonder when and how that happened?”

“It’s… a long story,” he cleared his throat, “Please, understand. My wolf is dying when she is unhappy. And she has never been to a ball like that.”

“Oh, my,” Ria gasped and shook her head, “Should I maybe take Enzo with me? He hasn’t seen an event like that either. And neither did Cole.”

She mentioned the hottest single warriors of the pack on purpose. And heard a growl emerge from her husband’s chest. That served him right.

“What is it with you lately, Ri?” he looked at her in disbelief, “My Luna will not be going with someone else!”

“But it’s okay if my Alpha goes with someone else? How is that fair?” she shot her brow up, challenging him. And Brayden hated challenge.

“Maybe you should sit this one out then!” he snarled at her and for the first time, she started to get worried here. She needed that ball. She needed it badly.

“No, thanks,” the Luna crossed her hands on her chest, “I got my own personal invitation. Besides, it’s important to mingle with other Lunas for the sake of our pack. We still need to organise student and warrior exchanges and a couple of mating events for over 18s. Or do you expect Roxy to be able to deal with it instead of enjoying her first big ball? What kind of Cinderella she would be then if she would have to work again?!”

He exhaled through his nostrils and she knew that she managed to win.

“Fine,” he grunted standing up, “But you will go with Ash then. He is going anyway since he is the pack’s Beta.”

“Now you are sucking the fun out of his life too?” Ria chuckled, “I am sure he had a girl to take there and impress.”

“He already agreed to be you plus one,” Brayden informed her, “He’ll protect you there too.”

“How thoughtful,” she decided just to go with it. Getting rid of Ash would be easy anyway. He would see some Alpha’s daughter and off he would go.

Brayden prepared to leave but stopped at the door and turned to look at her again

“Ri,” he looked her in the eye, “It’s just a transition period. We will get through this and everything will be fine.”

Lies.

“I will never take another Luna except for you.”

Lies.

“I still love you, it’s just that she had such a hard life and I am not a monster. She is just a sweet girl, she will never take your place.”

Lies, lies, lies.

“Thank you for telling me that,” she nodded, “I needed to hear that, Bray.”

She even forced a smile.

“Look, when the ball is over, let’s take a day off. Just you and me. What do you think?” he suggested all of a sudden and now she looked at him in surprise. This was new. It didn’t happen in the past.

“We’ll have to see our schedules for that,” she stretched her lips further, “But it’s a nice idea.”

“Then I’ll see you around?” he suddenly looked relieved as if he got rid of some kind of trouble here.

“I am your wife, am I not?” she chuckled and his smile faded.

He left and Ria’s phone buzzed with a notification that the dresses should have already arrived.

She paused just for a second. It worried her that he offered that day off thing. Was it a good sign or a bad? She wanted to change the events that caused so many disasters but this exact one wasn’t in her plans.

In the end, she was late for the fitting and entered the room full of the most important females of the pack. Maya was there along with their friends Tatiana and Aria. They greeted her in their usual friendly way. On the other side of the room sat Harper and her minions.

Harper was Brayden’s sister. And for some reason, she never liked Riannon too much since they were younger. She was one of the first to openly support Roxy. She was the one who opened the door for others who didn’t know what to do and actually promoted the evil redhead monster.

“Bring in the dresses,” Ria commanded firmly. She wanted to be done here quick.

It was a tradition of their pack that outfits for the ladies invited to the Alpha ball were chosen together and paid for by the pack. After all, they all were representing the Silver River pack and it was important to let others see how well they were doing.

A few omegas rolled in clothing racks with the most beautiful evening dresses from the top designers. Luna always was the first one to choose and then they went according to their ranks. The rest of the clothes was sent back.

Riannon knew very well which dress she was going to pick but still pretended to look at them all to avoid suspicion.

“How about that emerald one?” Harper suggested the colour that would never suit Riannon blonde hair and blue eyes.

“Do you like it?” she got the hanger and placed it to her chest with a smile, “It’s Zac Posen.”

“Beautiful!” her sister-in-law sneered.

“Then I will leave it for you,” Ria returned the facial expression and kept going. Soon she reached it. She remembered that dress well. Peach and shiny, with loads of rhinestones on the top.

She was choosing long enough and she took that one, moving to the mirror.

Any second now…

The door opened and Roxy barged in, gasping, “Oh, my goddess! Luna! I am so sorry! I’ll just go away not to ruin your mood.”

She was already doing it. Implying that just a sight of her was affecting Riannon.

And it was. But it was mean to bring this up.

“Stay,” Ria smiled gently and noticed how everyone was watching the two of them, “You are going to the ball too and you need an outfit.”

“I already got one,” Roxanne mumbled, “From all the money that you gave me. I got it in H&M.”

One of Harper’s minions snorted.

“This will not do,” Riannon turned and sighed, “You need a dress good enough for your new status.”

“And what is that?” Harper couldn’t help but ask the provocative question.

“Member of the Silver River pack,” Ria replied without any hesitation, “Look around. What do you like?”

A little sob emerged. And then a sniffle. Everybody turned to see the crying Roxy.

“This is so sweet!” she whined, “You are such a great Luna to take care of someone like me. I never had such a beautiful dress in my life!”

She pointed to the one that Riannon was holding.

“I thought I’d never…have… an opportunity.”

She burst out crying and Ria did her best not to roll her eyes.

“You can have it,” she stretched her hands with the garment towards the omega and pretty much everybody in the room was in shock.

“But Luna!” Aria gasped, “You need to be the first.”

“That’s fine,” Riannon shook her shoulders, “I saw a red one that I like too back there. Roxy can have that one since it’s the one that made you cry like that.”

Roxanne seemed a bit startled and Luna came closer, pushing the tasteless peach dress that was good enough for a middle school prom in some village.

“No, really,” Ria smirked, “I want you to have it.”

Their eyes met and Roxy gaped, realising that she had just been tricked.

“Now go to your room and try it on. It will look beautiful on you.” Or hideous.

As soon as Roxy left, Ria quickly went back to the rack and grabbed the first red dress she saw.

“I like this one,” she went out of the room as quickly as she could, followed by Maya, “Choose what you like, ladies.”

They came straight to Maya’s bedroom and as soon as they closed the door, they started laughing hysterically.

“Oh, my goddess!” Maya chuckled, “This was fun!”

“Indeed,” the Luna agreed, throwing away the red piece of fabric she had. Because the real dress that she was going to wear to the ball was right here. It was the most beautiful dress she had laid her eyes on. It was a stunning wine red off-shoulder gown made of silk chiffon, draped beautifully around the breast and down to the waist, creating a geometrical pattern and, but flowing freely to the ground.

It was a gown fit for a queen. And in the past life, Ria didn’t even order it for viewing as it was way out of her budget. But this time around she saw it again and thought to herself – just why the not?!

The last time she went to the Alpha Ball, it was the most awful experience for her. Roxanne was wearing a beautiful white dress and looking like the little innocent omega she loved to pretend, gaining everybody’s sympathy.

At the same time, Riannon gained pity from the Alphas and was mocked by some of the Lunas who never liked her. It was humiliating as it was to come as the third wheel for her husband and his mate. But on top of that, Brayden spent the whole evening by Roxy’s side. Ria was in a sour mood the whole time although she still managed to negotiate a few things.

This time, she knew what to expect and was ready. This time, she was going there to work.

“Do I look nice?” Maya grinned as she stepped out of the bathroom in a royal blue tight gown.

“You took one too, I see,” Riannon giggled as her friend twirled in front of her.

Today was a success thanks to Maya. She was the one who received all the dresses before the pack omegas got them and brought the one Ria wanted to her room without anyone seeing it.

“Of course,” she placed her hands onto her hips, “We are leaving this pack, so I am not going to save them money.”

“Just don’t shout about it around the mansion, okay?” Ria rolled her eyes, “It’s a secret after all. But you do look nice.”

“Thanks!” Maya seemed to agree, “Shame I am not going with you. But there is always next time, right?”

“When I am the Alpha and you are my Beta, you will attend it every year,” Luna winked at her.

***

In the evening, Ria finished her makeup and hair and walked out to the main part of her bedroom to find a blue box on the little table together with a new bouquet. She opened it and saw a luxurious and probably crazy expensive diamond necklace together with a simple card with one word only on it. Sorry.

“Huh,” she bit her lip, remembering that last time Brayden gave it to Roxy. And he got her some ruby earrings which she never wore. That changed too.

However, now wasn’t the time to think about all that.

She put the necklace on since it was finishing her look just perfect and left for the ball.

She was walking down the stairs, the skirt of her dress flowing beautifully as she looked at it. Most of her hair was up, with a few curly locks falling down her bare shoulders.

“You look beautiful tonight,” a male voice made her flinch.

...

Open the app and continue reading the rest of the story . 👉
(It will automatically jump to the book when you open the app)