Literie: Novel Discoveries-LQ15

1 Chapter 1 AZALEA POV The early morning sun cast a golden glow over the training grounds. I, Azalea Primrose, the soon-to-be female Alpha of the Dynamite Pack, knew the weight of expectations resting on my shoulders, but I also felt the gnawing doubt of my own perceived weakness. "Again." My mentor said as he watched me. "Shift. Again." I closed my eyes, trying hard to connect to my wolf Kina, but each time I tried to connect with her I got disconnected immediately without even doing much. I felt a wave of energy slap me and I took a few steps back. "Shit." "Azalea, the strength is not always measured by the muscles in your arm. It's measured by the fire and drive in your spirit," Roberto, my mentor, said. His sharp gaze pierced through me. "You and your wolf are one, but you need to connect yourselves before you can be one. Try again." I closed my eyes trying to focus on the primal energy within me but to my dismay... nothing happened. Being able to shift into wolf form was a crucial skill for any Alpha, but as for me? I was way too weak to do so. I lacked the strength of one. I collapsed on my knees after trying multiple times but failed. "Shit shit SHIT!" I cursed bitterly under my breath. Roberto came to my side, knelt beside me, and placed his arm on my shoulder. "The bond between you and your wolf is emotional just as much as it is physical. You have to find peace within yourself, and clear your head before you can unleash your true power, Again." I sucked in a deep breath and nodded. I squared my shoulders and took a deep breath, readying myself. But despite everything, I still couldn't shift and when I finally did, I couldn't control it. "Deep breaths Azalea, focus. focus." His words played right like a charm into my head, it sounded very soothing and eased my tension. I closed my eyes and took long deep breaths. Suddenly I could feel the urge of transformation. But as the fur started sprouting and my senses sharpened, I felt another wave of massive energy and I lost control, the steady transformation became wild and I struggled hard to control my primal instincts. As my wolf Kina and I struggled, the sound of rustling leaves and our howls mixed as one, as the cold freeze blew on our fur I sensed a new type of energy. Slowly and steadily I felt the control over my wolf. "That is it, control her, she is very much you as you are very much her, just keep tam, " He was cut short as two maids ran in interrupting us. "Princess Azalea." They bowed to me. "Mentor Roberto." They greeted me. "Pardon us for intruding like this but The elders have called for an urgent meeting concerning your sister's young princess's marriage to the Lycan prince." "Oh shit," I said mentally. I went back to the training grounds and shifted back to my human form. Taking a good look at my hands I sighed and changed into some casual clothes. "Alright then, let's go." The gathered wolves in the hall exchanged uneasy glares, as I stepped in every head turned towards me and bowed down. Elder Miller and my sister were in front of them. Miller had a wide grin on his face while my little sister Ophelia didn't seem quite happy. "Dear Lord." I walked over to them and them. "Miller, Ophelia," I said to them. "Azalea," He pulled me into a hug. I waved at Ophelia, my twin sister who had a scowl on her face. Tough day ugh? Yeah me too. "The maids said, " He cut me off. "Listen everyone!" He yelled, getting the attention of every gathered wild present. "Our dear princess Ophelia is now betrothed to the Lycan prince of the Red Moon pack." The hall roared with cheers and applause, He cleared his throat and continued with his speech. "For decades, this has always been the tradition and our duty. Ophelia, I trust you and have hope you will make us proud." I looked over to Ophelia, I knew exactly what was going on in her head. She didn't want this, well no one in their right senses would want to be stuck with the prince who was rumored to be cold and heartless. "Ophelia," I called out to her but she hissed and left the hall, everyone turned to her but she ignored us all. This is going to be difficult. "Well that would be all, everyone is dismissed," Miller said, he turned to me and smiled. "Surely, you can talk to your sister Princess Azalea." "I can try but then again I can't blame her, this sound, " "It's a traditional Azalea, it has always been so. She can't change that. And you on the other hand have a bigger task of getting over as Alpha, I trust you two sisters will make this pack proud and fulfill your duties." With that being added, he bowed and left, leaving me in the hall. "Well, that was tense," Mack said as he walked up to me. I smiled with relief and wrapped my arms around him when he returned. "Nothing makes sense here, minus you of course." I laughed. He had a warm smile on his face. "Come on you look stressed, let's go run a shower for you and talk." "Hmhm." "How was training?" He asked as we started walking side by side heading for my room. "Same as always, I still can't control Kina," I murmured under my breath but I'm sure he heard me. "Don't be so hard on yourself Azalea, you will do fine." "No, I have always been this way, and it's shifty as hell, why? Why can't I be strong enough? Why am I weak?" "You aren't weak." He stopped walking and held my shoulders. "You are a strong woman, one of the strongest I've ever seen. Plus you don't have to worry, I'm here with you. We will handle this together." I took a long pause. "You are right, we can do this together.” 2 Chapter 2 AZALEA POV After the walk with Mack, I went to my room to freshen up. When I was done, I stepped out of the palace to get some fresh air. That’s when I saw my sister Ophelia training in the open space. Unlike me, Ophelia could easily change into her wolf and control it. Her wolf Sylvia had grey fur and brown eyes. She was beautiful. I watched how Sylvia and Ophelia became one and worked together. She had the strength I didn’t have, and the courage I lacked. Even though I was the older twin, I always looked up to her and admired her. We were twins, but it was quite obvious who won the genetic lottery. Unlike me, who had silky midnight black hair, green eyes, and a petite, delicate frame that appeared weak, Ophelia had beautiful silky brunette hair she took from our mother, green eyes, and a strong, dominant female appearance. She was also taller, by two inches. “Hey, Ophelia!” I waved at her when I noticed she had shifted back to human. My warm greeting was met with a scowl. “Cut the attitude, cheer up, and give your sister a hug.” I walked toward her and spread my arms, but she slightly slapped them away. I sighed in defeat, guess she wasn’t in the mood. Typical Ophelia. Even though we were twins, sometimes it felt like we were strangers. Ophelia was tough, way too tough. She was the perfect fit to be the Alpha and had everything. “What do you want, Azalea?” “Let’s talk.” My tone turned serious. “About?” “I know you don’t want that marriage.” “You damn right I don’t!” She slammed her fist against the table in front of her. “I mean, who in their right mind would want to be married off to the almighty Fredrico De Luna, aka the ruthless and heartless Lycan prince? Do you even know the rumors? That he killed his first wife? Not to mention I don’t even love him, Azalea. I feel nothing for that man.” I knew what she was going through. I understood how hurt she was and how undeserving this all was. “Look, Ophelia, I und, ” She cut me off by raising her palm. “No, you don’t.” Her voice cracked. She tried to hide it, but I sensed it. My heart almost sank. “I do, and, ” “You don’t, Azalea! What the actual heck do you understand?! You have it easy for yourself. I mean, you have Mack, who you love so much and loves you back. You’re also going to be the new Alpha. So, tell me exactly, Azalea! What the fuck do you understand? Why are you the privileged one?!” “The privileged one? Do you think this is easy for me too? I can barely shift or control my wolf, and I have a dozen responsibilities breathing down my neck that I’m not even capable of handling. Do you think any of us have it easy? That’s just you being selfish, Ophelia. I understand you’re hurt, but don’t think you’re the only one carrying a heavy load. We all have our cross to bear.” She smirked. “Hmhm, sure. But in your case, you’re just a liability with a crown.” She said, and left. I don’t know how long I stood there. My heart felt heavy, and I wanted to cry. When I couldn’t hold it in any longer, I bent down and burst into tears. * “You’re just a liability with a crown.” “Liability.” “LIABILITY!” I jumped out of my bed, sweat beading on my forehead. I was panting hard, my chest rising and falling rapidly. It continued like that until I was finally able to calm down. For three days, three fucking days, Ophelia’s words haunted me in my sleep. I couldn’t sleep or think straight without remembering them. For those three days, I skipped breakfast most of the time. I spent all my time training, but nothing changed. I still couldn’t be strong. I wanted to prove them wrong. I wanted to prove her wrong. But more importantly, I wanted to prove I was useful. My weakness was also sadness, and I hated it. I needed a walk. A long walk. I removed my robes and changed into a pair of sweatpants and a tank top. I picked up my phone and put on my headphones. Putting my hands in my pockets, I walked out of the palace. “Where do I go? Might just walk anywhere nearby since it’s late.” I started walking around the palace but stopped when I noticed a shadow. “Who is it?” I heard no reply. I walked a bit closer but stopped when I saw who it was. “Oh heavens, Mack! You scared me.” “Sorry, I was taking a walk.” He laughed and hugged me. “What are you doing here at this hour? And where have you been for the past two days?” “Taking a walk. I couldn’t sleep.” I eyed him. He seemed a bit unsettled, his breath was heavy, and he was sweating, seriously. “A walk, ugh?” I swatted his arm away. “Why do you look like that? And you ignored my question.” “Because I was jogging, and I’ve been busy since Azalea. I had things to do.” “Really? Like what? Also, you said you were walking.” “I was. What? What’s wrong with you? Why are you acting up?” “Nothing, you just seem suspicious, that’s all.” “Seriously? Azalea, me? Come on, you’re overthinking. Okay, I’m sorry I wasn’t available, but I’ve been busy and caught up in my web of things. That’s why I barely called.” “Maybe, I guess so. I’m sorry.” “It’s fine. You look so tired and sad. What’s wrong?” “Nothing, it’s just...” “You’ve been thinking, haven’t you?” “You know me so well.” I laughed, but he didn’t. His face looked serious. “I’m serious, Azalea. You have to stop this. You’re just hurting yourself more.” “I know, but I can’t help it because it’s my harsh reality.” 3 Chapter 3 AZALEA POV "Learn to stop being so hard on yourself, Azalea. You didn’t make yourself this way. Why are you hurting yourself with negative thoughts?" "You’re not in my shoes, that’s why it’s easy for you to say that." I snorted. I knew he was right, but still, fuck it! It wasn’t easy. He stopped walking and took a deep breath. "I know challenges, Azalea. I have hard choices to make and things I must do, but sometimes I feel like I’m not capable either. But you know why I don’t give up? Because I can’t. The harder you try, the better." "Wow." "What?" "I never knew you were so smart." I joked. He clutched his chest dramatically. "Oh my gosh! That hurt my pride!" I laughed. "But thank you, and you’re right." "Of course I am, I’m always right." "Which is why you should be the Alpha." I stopped walking and faced him. His eyes almost popped out of their sockets. "Enough jokes, Azalea. Come on, be serious." "Do I joke around? I’m serious, Mack." He had an expression I couldn’t read. I sighed and kept talking. "I can’t rule this kingdom alone. I’m too weak for it. But you, my fiancé, my mate, my beta, you have more potential and strength than I do. I might have the Alpha blood, but I’m not fit to be one." "So, you want me to rule instead? I’m already by your side supporting you." "I know and I appreciate it, but I need more. Only you can do that. I’ll be your submissive Luna. Together, we’ll rule this kingdom as one." He took a step back and sat on the floor, lost in thought. "Azalea, this is a lot to take in." I bent down, placing a hand on his shoulder. "I know, but please consider it." His eyes met mine, and he smiled. "As you wish, Your Highness. I’ll accept it." "Thank you, Mack. I love you." "I love you too." He stood up and wrapped his arms around me. "This is a big decision, Azalea." "I know, but I trust you." "Have I ever given you a reason not to?" He laughed. "Nope, not once." * "Are you insane, Azalea?!" The elders’ voices echoed through the hall, sharp and unforgiving. Their eyes, heavy with disbelief and frustration, fixed on me like I’d just declared war on the entire pack. "That position is yours, not some plaything you toss around like it means nothing!" I clenched my fists, trying to hold back the turmoil bubbling inside me. The weight of their disappointment crushed me, but I had to stand firm. This wasn’t just about me, it was about survival, about the future. The next morning, I summoned an urgent meeting with the elders. The great hall was cold and silent when they arrived at exactly 10 a.m., their faces still etched with suspicion and concern. After the formal greetings were exchanged, I took a deep breath and laid out my plan with steady resolve: Mack would become Alpha, and I would step down and support him as his Luna. A murmur rippled through the room. "I understand the weight of the title," I said softly, "but I’m not fit for that role, not right now. My wolf is unstable, and if I were to lead, our enemies would see weakness. That weakness could destroy us all. Mack is strong and steady. He is the right choice." Miller, ever fierce and passionate, slammed his fist against the wooden table, making the elders jump. "Then make yourself fit, Azalea!" His voice cracked with urgency. "What would your father say if he saw you now? Would he be proud of you running away from your duty?" I shook my head, my heart pounding. "He’d say a lot of things, but after seeing what kind of Alpha I’d be... I believe in myself, but I know my limits. This decision isn’t a weakness. It’s wisdom. I need Mack’s strength. Together, we can protect this pack." Miller’s eyes burned as he took a step forward, voice louder than before. "He’s already by your side! He’s loyal, but this is your responsibility, not his! Don’t you see what you’re doing? You’re giving up, handing over everything!" "No," I said, voice steady but fierce. "He’s the perfect fit. Trust me, my judgment is never wrong. Mack will be Alpha, and I’ll stand as his Luna. We will rule this pack together. It’s the only way." Miller approached me slowly, placing a heavy hand on my shoulder, his touch both comforting and commanding. "Azalea, I know you care deeply. You want what’s best for the pack, and I respect that. But this isn’t the right path. You’re running away from your fate." I was about to argue when Elder Simon’s gravelly voice cut through the tension. "It’s not the best idea, maybe, but it’s practical. If our enemies discover our Alpha can’t shift or control her wolf, they’ll tear us apart. This is about survival, not pride." His words stung. I hated feeling diminished as if my strength wasn’t enough. But he was right. I swallowed my pride and glanced at Miller. "I know you care about me, Miller. You’re like the father I never had. But this is for all of us. I can’t lead like this, not yet. We need stability." He sighed, reluctantly removing his hand from my shoulder. "You have ten days to think it over, Azalea. To end this madness before it consumes you." The weight of his words pressed down on me like a suffocating cloud. Here we go again, I thought bitterly. "I’ve already made my decision," I said quietly. "No," Miller insisted, shaking his head. "You’re overthinking this. You want the easy way out. This is your duty. Don’t abandon it. Don’t abandon us." "I’m not running," I replied firmly, locking eyes with him. "I’m protecting what matters most, our people, our future." "Azalea," he said softly, pain and worry flickering across his face, "you’re like my own child. I don’t want to see you hurt yourself or lose your way." "I won’t," I promised. "Not this time." He stood then, his expression pleading. "Please reconsider. It’s not too late to walk back from this." "I’m sorry, Miller," I whispered, voice breaking just a little. "But my mind is made up. Either you stand with me, or you don’t." Without looking back, I turned and walked away, the heavy silence of the room following me out. Deep down, I felt guilty, guilty for breaking his heart, guilty for letting go of a role I’d once dreamed of owning. But my decision was final. Mack will be Alpha. Together, we will face whatever comes next. 4 Chapter 4 AZALEA POV Ten days later It was time; everything had been done. Today, Mack was finally going to be crowned the Alpha. Words couldn’t explain how happy I was. A big party was thrown, and the people seemed happy too. At first, I feared I might face an angry mob, but everyone liked the idea. I felt so proud and happy. Everyone seemed to be having a nice time, everyone except Miller. I noticed him sitting down in a corner, sipping a glass of wine. I walked over to him and smiled. “Looks like someone’s the Grinch,” I joked, but he just ignored me. I frowned. “Look, Miller, I know this seems crazy to you, but it’s the only way.” “You could have worked harder, Azalea, but no, you chose to run away. If you had put the same faith in yourself that you have in him, dear heavens, I fear the kind of courage and power you would have. I believed in you, Azalea.” I almost teared up while listening, but I held it in. “You can’t just throw away your title like that.” “Exactly, Miller. It’s just a title. I’m not running away, I’m still here.” “But he’s on the throne, and you’re not. You’re nothing but a submissive Luna to him now.” “Mack is a good man. I just hope you realize that one day.” “I’ve never doubted his faith and loyalty, but power changes people, Azalea. You may not have everything, but I watched you grow, and you know how to control power.” I scoffed in disbelief. “I can’t even control my wolf, but I’m supposed to control power?” “All you needed was faith in yourself. But the deed has been done already. I just hope we all have a happy ending.” “We will, don’t worry.” I smiled and stole his drink. “Little thief.” He laughed. “Thank you for everything. You’re like a parent to me.” “And you’re like an annoying daughter I can’t wait to get rid of.” “Unfortunately for you, I’m worse than a leech.” “Agreed.” “Now where’s my Luna?” Mack walked over to me and kissed my cheek. “Oh, hi there, Miller.” He burped and waved at Miller, who slightly bowed in return. “Good evening, Alpha.” “Oh, calling me that already?” Mack laughed. “Not going to lie, it feels so unreal.” I noticed how silly Mack was acting and sighed. “You’re drunk, aren’t you?” “A bit tipsy, but I’m fine.” He hiccupped. “Alright then, imma leave you two and go have some fun! Alpha rocks!” Miller raised a brow at me, and I smiled awkwardly, mouthing, “Well, at least he’s the fun type.” “Sure, might as well ask the enemies to drink with him and avoid wars from happening. Smart move.” He mind-linked me. I rolled my eyes at Miller and turned my attention back to Mack, who was sitting close to me, slightly dozing off. I looked at him, but my eyes caught something. I pulled his shirt down by the collar to see what it was. I noticed a red bump on the side of his neck, and I was shocked. It looked like a hickey. Wait, what? I tapped him and started rushing questions at him. “What’s that on your neck? Why do you have hickeys on your neck? Mack? Hello?” I felt myself becoming paranoid. “Hm, what?” He answered, eyes still closed. “Your neck.” My teeth gritted. “You have a hickey.” “That was you from yesterday evening. What the fuck, Azalea? Have you forgotten? You sucked the shit out of my neck like it was a lollipop.” Oh, that’s true... We spent the past few days together and made out almost every time... Shit, can’t believe I got worked up for nothing. “I’m sorry.” I apologized. “I overreacted.” “Nah, it’s fine.” He grinned and tried to get up but failed. “Plus, you’re going to put a whole lot more later tonight.” I felt very embarrassed when he said that, as Miller gasped in disgust. “Mack, we don’t talk about shits like that outside,” I said through clenched teeth. “Right, right.” He nodded. Miller stood up and tapped my shoulders. “Knock yourself out, kid.” “Oh, Lord.” I groaned and looked over at Mack, who had already fallen into a deep sleep. * The Next Morning I woke up to Mack smiling at me, his eyes still half closed but awake. “Good morning!” I chirped happily. “Morning,” he replied, his voice very deep and tired. “Ah God, my head hurts badly!” He hissed and turned over to the side. I chuckled. “Well, you did party hard last night, Alpha Mack.” He turned to look at me with a smile. “Say it again.” “Alpha Mack?” “It sounds so foreign, to be honest.” He sat up and faced me. “It feels somehow unreal.” “I know, but I’m happy because now we’re 100% official. I can’t wait for you to mark me and make me your Luna.” “Soon.” He pecked my lips. “Soon, don’t worry.” “I’m not worried.” “Come on, let’s shower and get ready. We’ve got a long day ahead of us today.” He tried to get up, but I held his hand, pulling him back onto the bed. “Where the fuck are you going?” “To get dressed, Azalea. You also need to. We have things to do.” “They can wait,” I said as I straddled him, slowly kissing his neck. “It’s 8 a.m., and you’re horny already?” He laughed. I smiled sheepishly and batted my lashes innocently as I raised my face. He tilted his head to the side and smiled as he checked his phone. “What?” I asked, noticing the smile on his face. “Nothing, it’s just I realized...” He flipped us over and was now on top. “I think we have some minutes to spare.” He said as he crashed his lips on mine. 5 Chapter 5 AZALEA POV Two Months Later Two months. Two fucking months. I sat slumped in my chair, my head heavy, eyes fixed on the peeling paint of the ceiling above. The silence in the room was suffocating, broken only by my ragged breath. I couldn’t believe how quickly everything had spiraled out of control. Miller was dead. It still didn’t feel real. The man who had been like a father to me was gone, found lifeless in his apartment under suspicious circumstances. Murder, they said. But the truth? No one knew who did it. No clues. No suspects. No justice. We had tried everything to find the killer. Mack and I poured over every lead, interrogated every witness, followed every whisper, but it was like the world swallowed all evidence whole. Nothing. Silence. And with every passing day, my world crumbled a little more. But the hardest part wasn’t just Miller’s death. It was Mack. The man I had loved, trusted, fought for, the man who had been crowned Alpha two months ago, was no longer the same. A few days after his coronation, everything changed. He grew distant. Cold. He stopped sleeping beside me, stopped holding me, stopped looking at me like I mattered. I was no longer his Luna, at least, not in the way I thought I was supposed to be. He hadn’t marked me. He hadn’t even acknowledged me as his. Every time I asked, every time I pushed, he gave me the same excuse: “I’m busy.” Busy. Like I was some trivial task to be put on the back burner. I tried so hard to believe it was just the weight of leadership, the burdens of power that consumed him. Maybe he was right, maybe this wasn’t the right time. But the truth? I felt so alone. So lost. And Ophelia? My twin, my other half? She was drifting away, too. More distant than ever. I couldn’t confide in her either. She had her own battles, her own plans, meeting the Lycan Prince soon, an event I was supposed to support her through, but even that felt empty. I swallowed the lump in my throat, tears threatening to spill. Maybe Miller was right. Maybe I was a fool for believing in Mack. Or maybe I was just overthinking everything. Was I clinging to hope that wasn’t there? Or was I just scared to let go? A knock at the door broke my spiraling thoughts. I ignored it. Another knock, louder this time. “Who is it?” I called out, voice strained. “It’s me, Princess Azalea,” came the familiar voice of one of Mack’s guards. “Alpha Mack requests your presence in his office.” Princess? I snapped, fists tightening. It’s Luna, damn it! I pushed myself up from the chair. “Okay, I’ll be there.” * The hallway felt colder than usual as I made my way to Mack’s office. I’d showered and dressed simply, nothing flashy, just enough to not look like a ghost drifting through the halls. When I entered, Mack and the elders stopped their discussion and turned to face me. “Good morning, Princess, ” “SHUT THE FUCK UP!” I cut them off sharply, anger bubbling up like a volcano about to erupt. “Who the fuck calls me Princess? It’s Luna, for fuck’s sake!” Mack’s face darkened. “Azalea, calm down.” “I’m calm,” I shot back, voice trembling with fury. “Tell me, Mack, how long are you going to keep pushing me aside? Ignoring me? Treating me like I’m nothing?” He sighed, a small, tired smile playing on his lips. “I’ve been busy, okay? There are things I have to handle. I’ll do what’s needed… but now is not the time.” “Busy? Busy with what? Saving the fucking world? When will it be the right time? When I’m old and gray? Marry me, make me your Luna, fucking mark me! I’m your fiancée! Is that so hard to understand?” His hand found my shoulder, and I flinched. “Azalea, please. Like I said, I will when the time is right. Right now, I have important Alpha matters to attend to.” “Like what?” I challenged, folding my arms stubbornly. “Alpha things. You wouldn’t understand.” His smile was innocent but tinged with irritation like I was a child pestering him for nonsense. “And what about Miller?” The words slipped out before I could stop them. “Have you found anything about his death?” Mack’s expression darkened. He called over Elder Simon, who approached carrying a small bag. Simon handed it to Mack, who opened it carefully. My breath hitched when I saw its contents, bottles of pills, prescription drugs, sleeping tablets. “This,” Mack said softly, “was found under Miller’s bed. He was addicted to them. The autopsy revealed antidepressants in his system.” I shook my head, disbelief and pain crashing over me like a tidal wave. “Miller was like a father to me. He wouldn’t hide something like this from me.” “Sometimes people hide their deepest wounds,” Mack said gently. “He wanted to spare you the pain. It’s not easy to accept, but it’s true. The cause of death wasn’t murder or suicide, at least not exactly. There was no gun, no knife. No signs of forced entry.” I stared at him, searching for any hint of deception, but his eyes were sincere, filled with regret. “Can I… hug you?” The words escaped in a whisper. “Of course.” Mack pulled me close, his lips brushing my forehead. “I’m sorry, Azalea. I’ll make this right. Just give me time.” “I love you.” “Love you, too.” He kissed my lips lightly. “Now go rest. We have a long day ahead.” * 10 PM I woke again, the fifth time that night, but Mack was nowhere to be found. The bed felt cold and empty. I sighed, heavy with defeat. I needed air. Throwing on a hoodie, I slipped out of my room and wandered outside, finding a quiet spot in the palace garden. The sky was a dark canvas sprinkled with stars, but instead of feeling calm, my mind raced with memories and questions. Why, Miller? Why did you hurt yourself? The pain of losing him burned sharp, and I couldn’t shake the feeling that there were pieces of his story I’d never know. Lost in thought, I suddenly heard voices drifting from the open window of the room nearby. Curious, I crept closer, pressing my ear against the glass. “Ophelia, we have to act fast,” said a deep male voice, Mack’s voice. My heart skipped. “What do you want to do?” Ophelia answered. They sounded tense, and urgent. Why hadn’t they told me? Was I being left out of something important? Was there a war brewing behind closed doors, a plan I didn’t know about? Then, something chilling made my blood run cold. “After all, I'm pregnant… and it’s yours.” My mouth fell open. No. It couldn’t be. 6 Chapter 6 I felt my body go numb as if my veins were filled with ice. *Pregnant?* My sister, pregnant... carrying Mack's baby? It seemed too good to be true. Perhaps I had misunderstood. Perhaps my thoughts were deceiving me. However, I was aware of the truth deep inside. I heard it. Every word. The pain struck me with the force of a blow to the stomach, leaving me breathless. What possible reasons could have led them to do this? What could have driven *him* to do such a thing? I couldn't remain in that spot anymore. The burden of what I had heard was overwhelming. I spun around and clumsily made my way back to my room, feeling my heart beating rapidly in my chest. My mind was filled with swirling questions, each one more painful than the previous one. What is the reason? How could Mack betray me in such a way? And with Ophelia, of all individuals? I fell onto my bed and buried my face in the pillow, feeling as if the walls of my room were closing in on me. Tears clouded my sight, yet I resisted the urge to weep. Not at this moment. I required answers immediately. Responses that only *he* could provide me with. The weather was so perfect that we decided to have a picnic in the park. The following day, I woke up feeling determined and refreshed. I could not allow the betrayal to linger without being addressed. I had to face him, despite the pain it caused. I felt my heart pounding as I headed to Mack's office, going over every detail of their conversation in my mind repeatedly. I didn't bother knocking when I got to the door. I forced it to open and rushed in. Mack sat at his desk, surrounded by older individuals, talking about topics I presumed to be related to Alpha issues. All of them glanced at me, surprised by my abrupt arrival. Mack started with "Azalea," his voice showing a blend of puzzlement and worry. "What's happening?” I stared angrily at him, feeling my heart racing in my chest. "We must have a conversation." Presently. An elder coughed to get attention. "Maybe we should allow the Alpha and his partner some alone time." Mack lifted his hand, gesturing for them to remain. "No, this will be quick." His contemptuous manner escalated my rage. "I don't care how long it takes," I snapped angrily, my voice shaking. I inadvertently listened to your discussion last evening. You and Ophelia. Briefly, his expression wavered as a hint of guilt passed over his face. However, he regained his composure swiftly, speaking in a calm voice. "Azalea, it's not as you imagine—" "Isn't that my opinion?" I interrupted him, my voice getting louder. "Mack, she's expecting a baby!" "And you are the dad!" Mack rose to his feet and approached me with his hands raised in a calming manner. "Pay attention to me, Azalea." "It's convoluted." "Is it complex?" I chuckled bitterly. "You have been intentionally ignoring me for several weeks." You will not label me, will not designate me as your Luna. And now I discover that you've been... been with *her*? "Is that my very own sister?" I noticed a softening in his eyes and briefly thought I detected a hint of regret. However, he let out a sigh while running his hand through his hair. "I am now in charge as the leader." I have duties that are beyond your comprehension. What are your duties? Is that the term you're using at the moment? I spoke with a heavy dose of sarcasm in my voice. "Do you honestly believe that justifies your act of betrayal? Do you believe that justifies it?” "I didn't wish for this to occur," he whispered, his voice quiet. "Ophelia and I... it was never meant to be significant." "Do you understand?" I struggled to hold back the rage growing within me. Mack, she is pregnant with your baby. This is not an error that can be easily hidden. He moved nearer, his eyes begging to mine. Azalea, if you don't mind. I'm attempting to defend the group. This event involving Ophelia is connected to a larger situation. A strategy for ensuring our future. I looked at him with astonishment. "What difference does it make?" Do I have to simply acknowledge and agree to this? To witness and not intervene while you and my sister—” "He interrupted and said firmly, 'Azalea, I love you.'" I want to be with you, you are the one. "You will be my moon." I nodded in disagreement and moved a step away. "How can I trust you after all your actions?" His lack of words provided a sufficient response. The cat was staring at the mouse with intense focus. My shaking didn't cease until I arrived at Ophelia's living space. I banged on her door, no longer concerned about being discreet. The door swung open, and there stood my sister with an inscrutable expression on her face. "Flower of the genus Azalea." "We must have a conversation." My tone was icy, and composed. Ophelia moved out of the way, allowing me to enter silently. After entering, I spun around to confront her, feeling my heart pounding in my chest. "How did you manage to do that?" Her head was slightly tilted, and her expression was calm, unnervingly calm. "I did what needed to be done for the group. "Is it required?" I found it difficult to believe what I was hearing. "You're expecting a baby, Ophelia! Having Mack's offspring! She didn't move, keeping her gaze unwavering. Mack and I concluded. The offspring of the Alpha and a skilled witch would enhance the bloodline of the pack. "It was the most rational decision to make." "Does that make sense?" I was excited. "Are you even listening to what you're saying?" What about myself? How about your very own *sister*? Ophelia let out a sigh as she crossed her arms. This does not concern you, Azalea. It was never the case. We are at the forefront. We must be willing to make sacrifices for the common good. I felt tears in my eyes, but I resisted letting them drop. I had faith in you. The two of you. How could you deceive me in such a way? Ophelia's eyes softened, yet they held no regret. "I apologize for your sentiments, but it was necessary." The words she spoke were like sharp blades, piercing deep within me. I had never experienced such loneliness before. That evening, I remained seated beside the window, gazing into the darkness. All that I was familiar with, all that I believed in, had vanished. Mack's act of disloyalty. Ophelia's chilliness. The passing of Miller. It was too overwhelming. I could no longer remain in this place. I had to go.