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“You'll do this or never enter these walls again,” my mother's voice is harsh, unyielding, and her expression is thunderous.
My sister Marissa is speechless. For as long as I can remember, our mother has never spoken to her in that way. She had always been doted on, treated like a fragile porcelain doll that may break from the merest touch. She grew up spoiled, the centre of MaryAnne Sinclair's world, and firmly believed the world revolved around her. This was, therefore, quite shocking to her.
“Do you think that I spent all this time teaching you, grooming you to become the perfect wife, was in vain?” our mother breathed, rising smoothly from her chair and regarding Marissa with narrowed eyes.
For once, the focus was on my twin sister rather than me. My mother's eyes softened, and her tone suddenly became more cajoling. “This isn't just anyone, Marissa. It's Alpha Hades of the Blood Moon Pack that wants an alliance with our pack and you as his contract bride.”
Alpha Hades. It was rumoured that he had killed his own father to take over the role of Alpha of Blood Moon Pack. Within just a few years, he had built a massive empire, growing his pack, amassing a large amount of wealth, and extending his territory until he became the most powerful pack in the country. Not an easy feat when his pack had been one of the weakest to begin with. It was said he was cold, ruthless, and willing to kill anyone who dared to offend him or even look at him wrong. I would rather die than be married to a man with that kind of reputation. He might also be reputed to be one of the most handsome Alpha's to exist, but good looks certainly were not enough to forget everything else. Marissa was more than welcome to him.
“Alpha Hades,” Marissa's voice is filled with wonder. “Isn't he worth billions?” Her voice rises in excitement.
I knew she would only be thinking of the money. Marissa was, quite literally, the very stereotypical dumb blonde, and that was putting it politely.
“Exactly,” our mother relaxed, “and he wants you as his Luna. He needs an heir. He has no living relatives that I know of and he doesn't want his bloodline to die out. Think of the power you'll hold as the Luna of the strongest pack in the country? Everybody will have to respect you, and whatever you want will be at your fingertips. This is the best possible marriage you could have hoped for.”
“When do I leave?” Marissa seems to have entirely forgotten her previous protests in her sudden excitement at the prospect of getting her greedy little hands on Alpha Hades's money.
“Tomorrow morning. He's expecting you. You'll become officially engaged first, and then a wedding will be held. I'm warning you, Marissa,” our mother's voice turns hard, “you need to behave exactly as I've taught you and be the very example of the perfect lady. That means no mistakes. Until you're marked, there is always the possibility of Alpha Hades breaking the contract. You have to do your best to win him over, using all your tricks and looks.”
It's a warning not to become complacent or depend entirely on the marriage going forward without some sort of effort coming from Marissa. There was no disputing the fact that she was abhorrently lazy.
Marissa nods, obedient as always. My mother's gaze turns to me. “Raven will, of course, accompany you to Blood Moon Pack.”
“Raven?” Marissa sounds dismayed, “why? Isn't she better off here with you? Besides,” she huffed, “what if Alpha Hades takes a liking to her instead?”
It was almost laughable. The thought that I would be anywhere near Marissa's league was ridiculous. My mother echoed the same sentiments. “Why on earth would Alpha Hades show any interest in an ugly mutt like her when he has somebody as beautiful as you in comparison?”
The words no longer stung. I had grown used to the insults, the degradation, and the different treatment I was given in relation to my twin sister. Now it was like water off a duck's back.
For as long as I can remember, my mother has always despised me. Despite being fraternal twins, Marissa and I couldn't look more different. She resembled our mother, fair-haired, blue eyed, ivory-skinned, and with a slender figure. My hair, on the other hand was midnight black, thick and wavy, my eyes dark green like emeralds. My hips were curvy and I was short; my complexion was lightly tanned from being outdoors all the time. I was the black sheep of the family and there were often times I wondered whether I was truly my mother's daughter at all.
Nothing I did ever pleased her. I remember the first time she punished me for having the nerve to touch Marissa's precious ball when I was still a young. That day, she had beaten me so hard that I could barely stand, and the bruises that littered my body took weeks to heal. As I grew older, the punishments became even more severe, my mother finding any excuse to teach me a lesson. Wanting to please her, I tried to become perfect in her eyes. I tried to mimic Marissa, learning etiquette on my own, changing my voice to become sweet and gentle like hers. I perfected my posture, spending hours walking back and forth with torn and ripped books on my head for balancing. I became quiet, reserved, and blindly obedient. But nothing ever changed.
I was still given leftovers to eat from their plates as my only source of food. My clothes consisted of second-hand wear-me-downs from sympathetic omegas. Occasionally Marissa would give me one of her dresses when they became stained or ripped, unable to wear them out in public. My feet were burned, dirty and blistered, shoes apparently too much of a luxury for my mother to provide them. I slept in a makeshift shelter outdoors, the structure doing little to keep out the freezing cold in winter and provide protection against the heat in summer. I became an omega, spending long hours cleaning and maintaining the household. Finally, something inside of me snapped, and I rebelled.
I stopped being blindly obedient. I spoke back, regardless of the punishment. I stopped trying to be perfect and I threw away the etiquette and perfect posture. My tone became normal again. I attempted to escape numerous times, but was always dragged back by force. Eventually, I became resigned to never being treated like family, and the fragile bond that once bound me to them became a thread on the verge of dissolving.
“What if I refuse?” My voice is low and challenging.
I had no desire to go to Blood Moon Pack, let alone meet Alpha Hades.
My mother's smile turns chilling. “Oh, trust me, I've already made preparations in anticipation of that. You'll leave tomorrow with Marissa, whether you want to or not.”
There was something about the way she was eyeing me that made my blood run cold.
Chapter 2
Raven's POV
“I can't believe mother made me travel in this disgusting car,” Marissa complained for the hundredth time as I gritted my teeth and forced myself to remain silent.
It had been hours, and she still hadn't let up. Her objections ranged from the make of the car, which was a plain black SUV rather than the sports car and Ferraris she was accustomed to travelling in, to the amount of space there was in the backseat, to the scenery passing by, and even the food and water that was not to her taste. Even the driver looked as though he was having a hard time keeping his temper as he drove towards Blood Moon Pack. I was already beginning to consider throwing her out of the car while it was still moving, and it was oh so tempting.
My hand goes to my ribcage, subconsciously touching it, unable to forget yesterday's traumatic events.
It hurts. I wriggle but can't move. Two warriors hold me down, one pinning my arms above my head, the other one holding down my legs. My body is sideways, a heavily tattooed bald man sitting on my hips, preventing me from getting up and making a run for it. I feel every prick of the needle as it penetrates my flesh, staining it permanently. I whimper, twisting my head back, but can't see what he is doing, only feel the burning pain as it continues.
She watches with a smirk on her face. She's enjoying my pain. It feels like a lifetime before it stops. The man climbs off me and speaks a few nonsensical words. Pain flares across my ribcage and it feels like I've been struck by flames. My head tilts back, and I scream. The pain fades. The man nods to my mother and then leaves, taking his equipment with him. She nods and the warriors finally release me, leaving me alone as I climb awkwardly to my feet.
My hands tremble as I slowly lift my shirt. My eyes slowly look down, and then my breath catches. A witch's knot. The ink has already dried and it's pure black with dried blood spread over it. I look at my mother, my body shaking violently. I thought I knew what she was capable of but she had just proven she was even more cruel than I could have ever envisioned.
“Did you think I would simply send you off with Marissa without some sort of guarantee you wouldn't attempt to escape?” she said with amusement.
“What does this do?” I whispered, feeling nauseated.
“Don't worry, I have the same one on my neck,” she said calmly, “the witch I hired used a special ink. Now we're bound to each other. A thread binds us, one that only I can see. This means if you so much as try to run, I'll be able to find you easily. You'll never be able to escape me.”
Her voice is dripping with satisfaction, the sick twisted bxxch.
“Why?” my voice shook, “why go to such extremes?”
She gives a chilling laugh. “Because you'll always be at my beck and call for as long as you live. You'll attend to Marissa's every need while you're at Blood Moon Pack and do whatever it takes to make her happy. Once she's happily married, you'll come back and return to being my servant.”
“What did I do to deserve this?” I rasped, still in shock.
A strange expression flashes across her face. She doesn't deign to answer. “So long as you or I, for that matter is alive, the spell remains. Consider yourself lucky. I've even granted you a new wardrobe for the role you're about to play as Marissa's maidservant. I'm warning you now, don't ever reveal your true identity as Marissa's sister. Nobody needs to know. Your only priority is playing the role of an omega and obediently following your sister's wishes.”
“I'm your daughter too.”
It's futile. There's no room in her heart for the likes of me. Only Marissa.
She's unmoved. In fact, her face turns to stone. “Enough of your constant whining. Go and pack. If you're late leaving tomorrow, I won't hesitate to punish you one last time,” she threatened.
“Raven, are you even listening to me?” Marissa grows exasperated.
I blinked, coming back to reality. She groans and folds her arms across her chest. “What on earth is your deal? I hope you get with the program soon,” she snapped, “we're almost at the Blood Moon Pack, and you're supposed to be my servant. Why can't you just act like a normal human being?”
I open my mouth to retort and then fall silent. What would she care? Marissa was just as malicious as our mother. She looked innocent on the outside but on the inside, she was just as vindictive and mean.
“I know,” my voice is tight, “you don't need to remind me.”
Slap. My head hits the window as she strikes me across the face with the palm of her hand. “Lesson one, never talk back to your mistress,” she snarled.
I put a hand to my cheek, which is still stinging. Marissa sits back with satisfaction written all over her face. She's been waiting for the perfect opportunity to hit me, and I had just given it to her.
The car begins to speed up, causing Marissa to give a squeal.
“What are you doing?” she screeched at the driver whose hands had tightened on the steering wheel.
“Apologies, Miss Sinclair but we have two cars following behind us. They've been tracking us for a while.”
“Is it rogues?” Marissa's voice is panicked.
The driver shakes his head. “I don't think so. I think they are human,” he said thickly.
“If we make it to the Blood Moon Pack territory, we'll be saved. Gods, they could be hunters,” Marissa's voice becomes hysterical.
The driver steps on the gas. It's pointless. The other two cars, also SUVs, manage to manoeuvre us between them, effectively trapping us. The driver opens his door and bolts for the woods without a second glance. I kick open the door and jump out, reaching back in for Marissa, who shakes her head, her face going ashen.
“Move,” I shouted, “or do you want to die here?”
She takes my hand, and I pull her out. Men instantly surround us. She shrieks and uses my body as a shield. I study them. These aren't rogues or hunters. Their aura is normal, and their appearance is like any normal human being. The leader opens his mouth to speak, and it soon becomes clear who exactly they are, and my mouth goes dry as I realize that the danger we faced, was more than we could have anticipated.
Chapter 3
Raven POV
“Well, well, well, look at what we have here. Two beauties sure to fetch a pretty price at auction,” the leader drawled, looking at his mates who nodded with wide smiles on their faces.
Human traffickers. It's almost a relief. I would rather face them than rogues or hunters. Marissa doesn't share the same sentiment, gripping my shoulder, her voice high, “Please don't kill us,” she whimpered.
“Kill you?” the man scoffed, “we're not going to kill you. We need you alive or there won't be any money in it for us,” he added darkly.
Marissa gave a sob. I rolled my eyes. For somebody who possessed a white wolf, said to be the rarest of our kind, possessing the strength and agility that was rumored to surpass even an Alpha's, she was acting cowardly. I hadn't expected anything less.
“We can do this the hard way, girls, or the easy way,” the man closest to us, the leader, gave a chilling smile. “I would prefer the easy way. It would be a shame to mark your beautiful skin,” he added, raking his gaze over us as he licked his lips.
“What if we don't want to?” I said quietly, folding my arms and tilting my head.
They withdraw knives from their pockets. “I doubt we need guns for the likes of you. This should be enough to make you cooperate,” the leader growled.
There are four of them. All males who looked fully prepared to use their weapons if the need arose.
“I don't want to die,” Marissa howled, her voice so high-pitched it causes me to wince.
Instead of shifting and taking them on, she did something else entirely. I felt her hands on my back, violently shoving me as I desperately tried to avoid stumbling into the leader and then took off running, heading directly towards the forest in the same direction that our driver had bolted. She didn't even look over her shoulder or show any remorse for leaving me to die or be taken.
“Get her,” the leader snarled.
One of the men took off running in hot pursuit, leaving three behind for me to contend with. The leader gave me an unpleasant smile.” Hopefully, you aren't as stupid as your friend is.”
I held up my hands in surrender, holding my breath. Taking that as a sign of agreement, the leader started forward, knife still in hand. When he got within inches, I moved, stepping quickly to the side and grabbing his wrist as he stared at me stunned. I used my momentum to yank his wrist back, breaking it. He dropped the dagger as I turned my body, kneeing him hard in the groin. As he gave a shout and fell to his knees, I grasped his head and swiftly turned it, breaking his neck. I dropped him to the ground. The other two men gaped at me, shocked.
“No,” the second one shouted, lunging towards me and gaining his composure.
I dodged side to side as he brandished the dagger at me. One came within an inch of my face, and I gasped, before blocking his next attack with my forearm as he brought the dagger downwards. I headbutted him, sending him backwards and onto his back. I stomped on his stomach and grabbed the hand still holding the dagger, turning it on himself and plunging it quickly into his chest. His eyes opened wide, and he gave a gurgling sound, the light fading from his eyes.
Another one down.
The third one eyed me warily. I had put up a fight instead of resisting as they had expected. I saw him glance towards the car inwarly debating with himself.
“Don't tell me you're afraid of a little girl,” I said icily, antagonizing him.
“I'm afraid of no one, especially not you,” he shouted, lunging directly at me.
It was stupid. He was frantic, no grace to his movements. He lashed out blindly, over and over again. He cut my arm as I stepped back, a twisted smile on his lips. He tripped on a stone and stumbled. I pulled his arm over me and elbowed him in the head, forcing the dagger out of his hand. I brought my foot down on his left one and then threw him with excessive force over my shoulder. He fell, gasping for air. I moved closer and then paused as I heard the sound of more cars heading in our general direction.
“More of your friends?” I hissed.
I couldn't take on that many. Not even with my skills.
He wildly shakes his head, trying to scramble to his feet. Car doors opened and slammed shut. He managed to stand and attempted to turn, intending to run. The sound of a shot rang out, and he fell, a bullet hole directly between his eyes.
I could do hand-to-hand combat, but I couldn't fight against guns. I turned and held up my hands as a man and several men came striding towards me, their eyes so intense it felt like they were looking into my very soul. Shifters. A fair few of them.
I stared at one in particular, absolutely mesmerized. The man in the lead was unlike any other man I had ever seen. His hair was dark, a slight shade lighter than mine. His eyes were hazel, reminding me of the forest, and his body was large, towering over me. A scar ran along his left cheek. He was beautiful. A male adonis in my eyes. Even the way he moved was highly masculine and arousing. He stopped directly in front of me, his eyes carefully observing my expression.
“Are you Marissa Sinclair?”
The question surprises me. Realization dawns. I gape at the man. “You're Alpha Hades.”
It's like a bucket of ice water is thrown over me. I shiver, realizing I'm speaking to the man himself.
He dips his head. “I'm a little confused. I was led to believe my fiancée was blonde?”
“I'm not Marissa. I'm her maidservant, Raven." My voice is a little touchy.
“Then where is she?” he demanded suspiciously, starting to eye me as though I had done something to his precious fiancée.
Screams erupted from behind us. Two warriors dragged a frightened Marissa out of the forest nearby, their grip surprisingly gentle as she sobbed, looking a complete mess. I pointed at her, my expression rueful as Hades swiftly turned his head.
“That's your fiancée, Marissa Sinclair,"
God help him, I thought slightly maliciously, enjoying the stunned look on his face.
Silence. Marissa is released and stands there, rubbing her arms and looking pitiful.
“We found her hiding while a trafficker tried to hunt her down. He's dead now,” the warrior's voice is calm as Hades nods in affirmation.
“Thanks, Jackson. Get the men to clean up this mess and make sure there are no traces left behind. Marissa,” he speaks gruffly to her as she looks up, her eyes still filled with tears, “you can come in my car. Raven,” he turns to me, “Jackson will drive you back to Blood Moon Pack. I apologize for this unfortunate incident. If I had become aware of the situation sooner, you wouldn't have had to suffer such grievances.”
Marissa sniffles. Comprehension has dawned on her to who this man is. She falls against him, putting her hand on his chest. His expression is inscrutable.
“I was so scared,” she whimpered, fluttering her eyelashes at him.
He gently dislodged her hands. “Let's get you back to my pack and situated. You'll feel better when we get there.”
He strides off, leaving a stunned Marissa staring at his back. Nobody had ever resisted her feminine wiles before.
Chapter 4
Hades POV
She clutches at me with trembling hands, her eyes imploring me. “Hades,” she whimpers, “you don't know how terrifying that was.”
I want to yank her hands away. I dislike being touched in general. She's meant to be my fiancée however and for that, I grant her some leeway. She's not exactly as I envisioned. One of the reasons I had insisted on this contract marriage had been because Marissa possessed a white wolf, one of the rarest, most powerful wolves of our kind. Instead of hiding she should have been easily able to overpower the human traffickers. Why had she hesitated and why had she left her maidservant of all people to fend them off? It had virtually been a death sentence and had it been any other woman, they would have died. I'm in awe of Raven, who successfully held her own despite the odds, although I don't voice it.
“They were merely human. Easy to take care off,” my voice is harsh, “I would have thought a white wolf such as yourself would have easily subdued them.”
She looks slightly panicked. “I um, wasn't thinking straight. My human side got the better of me,” she stammered, “and I knew that Raven was capable of looking after herself.”
Why did I have the distinct feeling she was lying to me? I detested liars. She flutters her eyelashes at me and I inwardly roll my eyes. If she thinks using such pathetic womanly tricks like that were going to soften me, she was in for a shock. I didn't play games, not like that. I preferred women who were honest, blunt and not afraid to speak their minds. Somehow, I already knew that Marissa did not fit into that category.
“But you used a gun,” she whispered shakily.
It was hardly a comparison. I fought to hide my annoyance.
“I used a gun because it covered the distance quicker than if I shifted and attacked. Besides, it was not necessary to shift. I could have easily defeated the man in a fight in my human form.”
She falls silent. I take the chance to pry her hands away from me. When we arrive back at my pack, I climb out of the car, feeling relieved. Just her perfume alone, strong and overly sweet, was enough to make me feel nauseas.
I told you this was a mistake, my wolf whispered triumphantly, you should have listened to me.
I ignored Lucifer, studying my fiancée's reaction. She looked put out as she got out of the car and when she saw the packhouse her face instantly turned to one of disappointment, making me feel even more frustrated.
“Is this it?” she doesn't even bother to hide her disdain.
I grit my teeth, reminding myself that my packhouse would not be to everyone's liking. Still it infuriated me that she was being blatantly rude about it.
Jackson's car pulls up. The girl, Raven gets out and excitedly views the house. She puts a hand to her mouth while Marissa continues to stare, perhaps hoping the house will transform in front of her eyes. She's out of luck. This was now her home whether she liked it or not.
“This house is like something out of a fairytale,” Raven breathed, her voice slightly musical as she eagerly scans the exterior. “It's exactly how a packhouse should look like.”
My packhouse is a large cabin like structure, consisting of several different levels and made from wood. It has all the modern amenities but I had designed it with large open windows and balconies so that pack members could appreciate the beautiful scenery surrounding us. It was carefully maintained, flower beds spotting bright and vibrant flowers. The appreciative look on Raven's face makes me feel a burning pride. There's something about this woman that made me instantly like her, even as I kept my expression neutral. I'm not supposed to like her and I'm not supposed to be distracted by her. Not when my own fiancee is standing not even five feet away from me.
“But, I thought, that you would have a mansion,” Marissa seems stunned and in state of disbelief.
“This cabin is huge,” Raven's voice is filled with awe, “it's better than a mansion,” she exclaimed and I felt like a peacock preening in front of her.
Marissa looks glum. My Beta glances between her and Raven, silently judging the both of them. I can already see his strong dislike for Marissa. I gesture impatiently. “Maybe the inside will be more to your liking,” I snarl, taking Marissa aback.
“I doubt it,” she muttered under her breath, not intending for me to hear.
It took every ounce of will power not to respond in that moment. I was amazed at my ability to control myself.
Marissa's expression does not change once we enter the packhouse. If anything, her expression becomes more brooding. I notice Raven nudge her out of the corner of my eye, silently prompting her and she plasters a fake smile on her face.
“It's quaint,” she said faintly.
“It's marvellous,” Raven can't contain her enthusiasm, “these paintings, they're so amazing. Look Marissa,” she clutches at her arm and I frown as Marissa impatiently pulls her maidservant's arm away, “they all have wolves in them. Don't you see?”
Jackson smiles warmly at Raven. “It was Alpha Hades idea to bring in the outdoors inside. Our paintings pay homage to our shifter side and allow us to feel more comfortable.”
She nods adamantly, still looking around, her head whipping back and forth.
“It's so minimal but it doesn't need anything else.”
Despite myself, my lips curve up slightly. It's impossible to ignore her enthusiasm. I'm glad somebody appreciates the home I took such care to build. My fiancée merely bit her lip, making no effort to show any appreciation at all. Clearly, she was used to far more luxurious surroundings.
“I thought you were rich,” Marissa wrinkled her nose.
Jackson gives a low growl, angry now, “Just because we have wealth doesn't mean we see the need to announce it to the world. Hades has always been humble. Don't tell me you're one of those women who only want the most expensive things in life?”
She sniffed and looked offended. Raven quickly takes charge. “Marissa why don't we get settled in. You're distraught after all. A rest might make you feel a bit more…” she paused, “charitable,” she muttered.
“Jackson, take them upstairs. Give them the room next to mine,” I instructed heavily.
Unable to bear her presence any longer, I turned swiftly on my heel and headed for my study, intending to while away the next few hours doing pack business, knowing I needed some form of distraction.
Chapter 5
Raven POV
The moment the door shuts behind us, Marissa instantly begins to show her true colours, the mask slipping. She slams a pillow against the wall in frustration.
“What was my mother thinking, sending me to a hellhole like this?” she cried.
A hellhole? This packhouse was my own personal version of paradise. Large and spacious with large open windows and stunning balconies. Paintings of wolves adorned the walls, creating a cozy atmosphere. It was everything a person like me could have dreamed of. I was surrounded by nature and mother earth. It was wild. It was exhilarating and it was so unexpected of an Alpha as fearless as Alpha Hades. I had misjudged him.
“There's nothing wrong with this house,” I told her quietly, “it's just that you aren't used to such,” I hesitated, “simplistic surroundings.”
I could hardly call her a spoiled bxxch to her face now could I?
“Whatever,” she snapped, “I can't stand it. I'm going to demolish this eyesore the moment I become Luna and make Hades build me a grand mansion.”
“Don't you think you're being slightly overboard? Your attitude is hardly going to win him over?” I pointed out, bracing myself for the inevitable tantrum sure to follow my offending words.
She glares at me and then relaxes slightly, a thoughtful expression on her face. “You're right,” she said tartly, “I need to remember what mother taught me. There's plenty of time to make Hades bend to my will. Right now my priority is getting him to agree to the marriage.”
I exhaled relieved. “Raven, I want you to run a bath for me,” she ordered, fiddling with her hair and twining it around her finger over and over. “I need to look perfect for tonight's dinner.”
Luckily, somebody had already brought our luggage up. I headed into the adjoining bathroom and almost wept with joy. A large wooden tub sat in the corner, an open shower on the opposite wall. A timber vanity with a porcelain sink was situated close to the door and the room even contained a toilet. I started the water and headed back into the bedroom, unable to contain my joy.
“The bath is ready. Just wait until you see the bathroom.”
Marissa lifts her chin and then storms past me, clearly not as enthusiastic. She all but slams the door shut behind her.
She takes forever. By the time she gets out the water is cold. “You can use the water already in there,” she shrugs.
How nice, I think to myself sardonically.
I comply, shivering as I wash myself with haste and climb back out of the tub. Marissa dresses in a skin tight black one with no straps, while I put on simple trousers and shirt. I see no need to overdress. Marissa is the one trying to capture Hade's attention, not me. I put her hair up in a chiffon and help her apply her makeup, exhausted by the time I'm finished. She puts on heels, looking into the mirror with a satisfied expression, running her hands down her dress, and smoothing out the slight crinkles.
“He won't be able to resist me,” she purrs.
I put on sneakers, thoughtfully provided by mother, a knock sounding at the door.
“Come in,” Marissa's voice is low and seductive.
Jackson pokes his head in, his eyes twinkling. Marissa deflates slightly. “I'm here to escort you for dinner,” his voice is warm.
He goes to take Marissa's arm but she deftly steps out of the way. He shrugs and then takes mine, walking into the corridor. We slow down our pace, making concessions for Marissa in heels, and make it to the formal dining room. My stomach growls making Jackson laugh.
“Hungry?” he teased.
“Famished,” I moaned, as Marissa huffs behind me, “I'm so hungry I could eat a horse.”
He escorted me to the table, seating me. The seat beside Hades was empty and Marissa strode confidently to it and looked at Hades expectantly, waiting for him to pull her chair out for her. Jackson hurriedly pulled out her chair isntead and she pouted, sitting down and eyeing Hades with misgiving. He was not making a favourable impression on her. If it wasn't for his wealth or powerful position she might have left already.
Jackson sits beside me. There are pack members all along the table. Omegas begin to carry out plates, putting them in the middle of the dining table, the pack members eagerly beginning to dig in. It was like a family, all of them passing the dishes to each other and not expecting anybody to serve them. It was, I thought with a pang, exactly like I imagined how a family behaved.
“Raven, have some mashed potatoes,” Jackson scooped it onto my plate, giving me a generous portion and winked at me. “You said you were starving. Don't tell me you're one of those girls who hardly eat anything.”
I laughed. He put a large piece of steak on my plate. “Oh, I think you'd be amazed how much I can put away.”
He grinned. “That sounds like a challenge.”
It was impossible to dislike this man. I shot a glance towards Marissa who appeared to be seething. Her back was ramrod straight and she was clearly expecting Hades to fill her plate for her. He did nothing of the kind, leaving her to fend for herself. I saw Jackson subtly shake his head.
“That one's a princess through and through. We've never stood on ceremony. Everybody is treated like equals here,” he muttered.
“Even omegas?” I couldn't contain my curiosity.
“Even omegas. They're given a fair wage, provided uniforms and given annual leave. They work hard to maintain the pack house and grounds. Why shouldn't they be rewarded for it?” he asked wisely.
Shock washes over me. It's the first time anybody's put my exact thoughts into words. I see Marissa looking disgustedly at the omegas who are chatting quite comfortably with several of the pack members and some even sitting down with them.
“Was this all-Alpha Hade's idea?”
“Sure was. He wanted a harmonious pack and one that felt like family. He had his reasons,” Jackson's voice was pained, “but as you can, the result was more than worth it. “
“Why did you fill my plate then?” I paused between bites and eyed him with interest.
“Because you're a guest and I can actually stand to be around you,” he blithely looked at Marissa whose smile was downturned, “whereas I haven't made a decision one way or the other when it comes to your mistress.”
Famous last words because Marissa's next action would instantly alienate her from everyone. The moon goddess herself couldn't fix the mess she was about to create.
Chapter 6
Raven POV
A sudden shriek fills the air. The table falls silent, pack members turning their heads to see the source of the commotion. Dread rises inside of me. I already know instinctively that Marissa is the source of it. A young omega stands beside her, her mouth open in shock as Marissa abruptly stands, looking angrily at her dress, which is now stained, I presume, from the wine glass that has tipped over on the table in front of her.
“I'm so sorry,” the young woman begins to apologize profusely, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment.
Shrug it off, Marissa, I think to myself, almost silently begging her. Shrug it off and pretend it's nothing. I'm trying desperately to telepath my thoughts to her, unable to mind-link as I was an anomaly, as they called it, a shifter who possessed no wolf.
It was unsuccessful. Marissa's expression turned vindictive, and before anybody could comprehend what she was about to do, Hades included, she swung back her arm and slapped the omega with the full strength of her power. The young girl let out a scream, clutching at her cheek and staring at Marissa with shock on her face. Jackson began to stand while pack members pointed and whispered. Hades stood up and faced her, his expression thunderous. Marissa had well and truly done it this time. For god sake why was it so hard for her to act like a decent human being?
“What do you think you are doing?” Hades voice is dangerous, “laying a hand on one of my pack members?"
“I was disciplining her,” Marissa was unrepentant, “and teaching her what happens when you make a mistake.”
Even I knew that this was an overstep of her authority. Back home, she had free rein to treat the omegas as she saw fit, but this was not her pack, and she was not Luna yet. She had no right to hit that poor girl. I see Jackson shaking his head in disgust and other pack members staring at her with condemnation. I rise to my feet, grabbed my serviette and dipped it in my glass of water, which I had not touched. I wrung it out and moved, heading directly for the girl who seemed paralysed, unable to believe what had just happened to her. No doubt it had been a shock. I felt nothing but sympathy for the young girl, who seemed incapable of moving.
“Here,” I whispered as Hades and Marissa stared at each other, Marissa in defiance and Hades in a rage, pressing the serviette against her cheek gently. “This should help with the swelling. Why don't you go and take a break,” I suggested very quietly, “and let somebody else take over for now.”
She nods gratefully and scurries from the room, her face wreathed in tears.
“Why are you acting so offended?” Marissa sounds genuinely perplexed, “Omegas are nothing more than servants. A simple strike shouldn't be so surprising.”
Damnit Marissa. How blind and stupid can you be? Hades looks on the verge of erupting. I swiftly get between them.
“Forgive her, Alpha Hades. The customs and rules back at our River Moon Pack are vastly different to your own. Marissa doesn't realize she's overstepped. She's sincerely sorry for what she did, aren't you, Marissa?” I turn to her, narrowing my eyes.
She finally grasps the gravity of the situation, her eyes widening as she begins to nod emphatically. Thank god. She wasn't entirely without a brain then.
“Yes,” she said with a hint of desperation, trying immediately to gain forgiveness, “I'm afraid that my temper got the better of me. I didn't understand that your pack has different rules from mine. I'm used to more traditional rules I think, and yours are confusing and overwhelming to me. I'll try harder to learn your ways and it won't happen again," she promised, her voice dripping sweetly.
Like hell it wouldn't. Then again, she still had her punching bag, which was me. Maybe if she vented out all her anger on me, she would leave the innocent omegas alone. Jackson looks at me, his expression one I can't quite put my finger on. Hades clenches his jaw, indicating that he's still furious with Marissa.
“See that it doesn't,” he growled, “I can only make excuses for you so many times. Jackson will get you up to speed on how our pack runs, but let this be a lesson for you. Overstep too many times, and I won't hesitate to break off the engagement. My pack is my first priority and my contract to you comes second. Do you understand me?”
His voice is so chilling it sends shivers down my spine. Here is the ruthless man that was often spoken about, the one who wouldn't easily allow offense. Marissa was playing with fire, and she didn't even know it.
“Raven,” he finally looks me in the eyes and it takes all my restraint to keep my feet anchored to the floor instead of jumping in fright. “As much as I appreciate you apologizing for your mistress, next time, Marissa should apologize herself. It was a nice thing you did for that omega,” he added lowly, surprising me and then deliberately looking over his shoulder at a red faced Marissa, “your mistress should learn from you,” he finished in a deadly tone.
I was going to pay for that compliment later. I could already see the anger in Marissa's eyes.
The pack members began to whisper to themselves, pointing disapprovingly at Marissa. Hades sat back down, viciously cutting into his steak. Meekly, Marissa seated herself. I walked back around the table, Jackson letting out a wolf whistle as I sat down.
“Who knew Hades would be so polite to you?” he said as I stared at him dazed, “trust me, he doesn't compliment just anyone. You impressed him with your kindness.”
“I wasn't trying to,” I said dismayed. “I just wanted to help her.”
I knew more than anyone how hard Marissa could hit when she was pissed.
“That's why he thanked you. It's a shame your mistress,” he said, eyeing Marissa with dislike, “doesn't exhibit the same behaviour. I hope she's learned her lesson because Hades doesn't tolerate fools.”
“I'm sure she will be more tolerant in the future,” I lied, avoiding his eyes.
He grunted, not believing me in the slightest. Maybe I was bad at lying, I mused, or maybe Jackson was one of the few people who could see beyond Marissa's beauty and see the truth behind her personality.
I had more than an inkling that Marissa was none too happy with the attention that Hades had showered on me and by the time I made it back to the room, I became vehemently aware of her displeasure as she took the opportunity to show me exactly how she was feeling.
Chapter 7
Raven POV
The door bursts open with a loud bang and Marissa comes storming inside, her hands clenched tightly into fists, her expression vicious and filled with pure rage.
“You embarrassed me in front of everyone,” she hissed, swinging her arm and hitting me hard.
She's strong but she also has a wolf, and not just any wolf, a white wolf.
“You embarrassed yourself,” I said scornfully, touching my cheek and eyeing her with disgust. “You chose to hit that girl and draw attention to yourself. Maybe you need to relearn etiquette,” I snarled, standing up tall and challenging her.
Screw it. She was going to punish me regardless; I might as well get a few good hits in myself.
I was sick of her. Sick of her and that crazy mother of ours.
She screamed with rage and pummelled me with both hands, even as I dodged the majority of them, her face turning more and more red as time went on. Eventually she grew tired and stepped away. I felt bruises forming on my skin as I ignored the pain, I was long accustomed to.
“I'm the one marrying Hades,” she breathed, “not you. You're just a goddamn servant. Hades won't even look at you twice. I'm done playing Raven,” she warned me, chest heaving up and down, “if you keep this up then I won't hesitate to show you a valuable lesson in being obedient to your mistress. I can make your life more miserable than ever,” she whispered, “more painful than you've ever experienced. You think just now was bad?” she scoffed, “that was just a warm up to what I'll do to you if you don't stop.”
I stared at her. Took in the rage in her eyes, the coldness of her gaze. I looked at the way she glanced at me, her nostrils flaring as though she was smelling something so rank it offended her. Every movement she made was precise, calculated. For so long now, I had tried to be the sister who forgave everything, who tried to see the silver lining in everything but now? Now it was like everything inside of me turned cold. My twin sister was never going to accept me, like me or even treat me as a decent human being. She'd become a bitter, malicious human being who thrived on my misery.
“What did I ever do to you?” I asked quietly, my chest hurting. “What did I do to make you hate me so much?” my voice broke.
My emotions got the better of me. For a moment I stood there, unmoving, my throat tightening. All these years of their hatred of me became overwhelming and too much. I blurted the words out without thinking.
I just wanted answers. Something to explain why they both treated me like garbage when I was meant to be of their blood. Marissa was my twin and she still acted as though I was invisible.
I look at her as though she's some kind of evil monster, because to me, she is.
“You didn't have to do anything,” Marissa breathed, “you were born. You were a mistake,” she glared at me, “and since you were a baby you've been in my way. A threat to me,” she snarled.
“A threat?” I said with a bitter laugh, “All I've ever done is try to love you and our mother. I used to look up to you when we were young. I used to play with you and we would run outside and play games together. We used to be best friends,” I whispered, “and then you just changed and started to hate me. I can't count all the times that you've used me as your private punching bag or humiliated me. You left me to die when we were attacked by those traffickers,” I shouted, waving my arm around, “and I still did what I could to protect and save you. Doesn't that count for anything?” I exclaimed.
Something inscrutable flashes across her face. Her body relaxes slightly and she looks at me with softened eyes. For a moment she looks on the verge of saying something and then she snaps back to her usual cold, vindictive self.
“It means nothing,” she sneered, “you did what you were supposed to do. I was only nice to you when we were kids because I didn't know…” she suddenly stopped, a stricken look on her face.
She'd let something slip. Something I wasn't meant to know. I stepped closer, desperation warring inside of me.
“Because what?” I demanded fiercely, “what made you change so much? What made you turn on me?”
“You're not. You're not…” she stammered, and then drew her shoulders back.
“I'm not what?” I whispered.
“A slip of the tongue, nothing more,” Marissa dismissed, shaking her head. “Now if you'll excuse me, I have a party to get back to. I strongly suggest you keep yourself hidden. Those bruises look quite nasty,” she said with an edge to her voice.
She stormed away, leaving me staring blankly after her. What had Marissa been on the verge of saying before she forced herself to stop?
“You're not,” I murmured to myself and frowned. “I'm not what?”
It was a secret but one that would not be contained for very long. A sudden twist of fate would suddenly bring everything into light and change my entire world.
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