Sable Sojourn Romance Facebook Ads

My sister, the pack's beloved future Luna, was dying of kidney failure. Axel, the Supreme Alpha and the man I had secretly loved my entire life, used his Alpha Command to force the pen into my trembling hand. "Sign the papers, Jana," he growled, his eyes glowing with a predatory red light. "Stop being selfish. Kyleigh needs a transplant, and you are the only match." I tried to beg. I tried to tell him that I couldn't survive the surgery. I tried to tell him that I had already secretly donated a kidney to our father five years ago-a sacrifice my sister had claimed credit for. But Axel threw a stack of falsified medical scans in my face. "Stop lying to save your own skin," he spat. "You are a useless, Wolfless Omega. This is your only chance to be of value to this pack." He didn't know that Kyleigh had been poisoning me with Wolfsbane for a decade to suppress my inner White Wolf. He didn't know that the anesthesia wouldn't work on my poisoned body. I felt every inch of the silver scalpel as they cut me open to harvest my only remaining kidney. I died on that table, listening to the man I loved call me dramatic. But death was not the end. My spirit floated above the chaos, watching as the surgeon's face turned pale with horror. "She only had one!" the doctor screamed, holding up the blackened organ. "Alpha, look at the old scars! We just ki**ed her!" Only after my heart stopped did the scent-masking dr**s fade. Axel fell to his knees in the bl**d-soaked room, finally smelling the scent of rain and pine he had been searching for his whole life. He realized he had just butchered his true mate to save a liar. "Jana?" he howled, clawing at his ch**t. But I was already gone. Chapter 1 Jana POV: The smell hit me before the door even opened. It was the scent of pine forests drenched in heavy rain, a smell that used to make my inner wolf curl up in delight. Now, it only brought 'a cold, paralyzing dread.' The heavy oak door of the isolation ward slammed open. Axel Donaldson stood there. He was the Supreme Alpha of the Silver Moon Pack, a man whose shoulders were broad enough to carry the weight of our entire territory. His eyes, usually the color of a stormy sea, were glowing with a faint, predatory red light. He was angry. "Sign the papers, Jana," he said. His voice was low, vibrating deep in his ch**t. I sat on the edge of the hospital bed. My hands were shaking. I tried to hide them under the thin white sheet. The air in the room felt heavy, charged with his dominance. "Axel, I can't," I whispered. My throat felt like I had swallowed broken glass. "You don't understand. My body... it can't take it." He took two steps forward. The space between us vanished. He threw a stack of documents onto the bedside table. They slid across the surface, stopping right next to a vase of wilted flowers that no one had bothered to change. "Kyleigh is dying," Axel growled. "Her wolf core has ruptured. She needs a transplant of Life Essence immediately. You are her twin. You are the only match." In our world, kidneys are not just organs for filtering bl**d. They are the storage vessels for a werewolf's Vital Essence. They hold the energy that allows us to shift from human to wolf. We have two, but we need at least one to survive. If a wolf loses both, their soul has nowhere to anchor. They don't just die; they vanish. They cannot return to the Moon Goddess. "I know she needs it," I said, tears pricking my eyes. "But Axel, listen to me. I don't have enough Essence left. If I give her one, I will die." "Stop lying!" he shouted. The sound was like a thunderclap in the small room. "You are an Omega. You are useless to the pack. You have never even shifted! You sit in your room while your sister, the future Luna, works herself to exhaustion for this family. This is your chance to finally do something of value." He didn't know. How could he? Kyleigh had made sure of that. For ten years, my sister had been slipping Wolfsbane into my food. It is a poison to our kind. It suppressed my wolf, kept me weak, and made everyone believe I was "Wolfless"-a defect. "Five years ago," I tried to speak faster, desperate to make him hear me. "When Dad had that accident at the construction site. He needed a transplant. Axel, I gave him my left kidney. I only have one left!" Axel froze for a second. His expression didn't soften; it hardened into disgust. "Kyleigh gave that kidney to your father," he said coldly. "She has the scar to prove it. I saw it myself. 'We have the medical files, Jana. I reviewed the scans this morning. Two healthy kidneys. Stop making up stories to save your own skin.'" "No," I shook my head, panic rising in my ch**t. "'Those scans are fake! That was a plastic surgery scar on her!' Mine is real. Please, 'just look at my side'-" "Enough!" The air in the room suddenly became solid. It pressed down on my shoulders, heavier than lead. "I, Axel Donaldson, Alpha of the Silver Moon Pack, command you." My body betrayed me. It was the Alpha's Command. It is an absolute law written into our biology. When an Alpha gives a direct order using his authority, a lower-ranking wolf physically cannot resist. My spine stiffened. My mouth snapped shut. My hands moved out from under the sheets against my will. "Pick up the pen," he ordered. My fingers wrapped around the cold metal of the pen. I wanted to scream. I wanted to throw it at him. But my hand moved robotically to the paper. "Sign it." I looked up at him one last time. I searched his eyes for the boy who had once pulled me out of a frozen lake when we were children. The boy who had wrapped his coat around me and promised to protect me. But that boy was gone. In his place was a man dr**ged by my sister's potions, a man whose nose was tricked into thinking Kyleigh was his Fated Mate. He couldn't smell the sickness on me. He couldn't smell the truth. The door opened again. My parents, Fred and Joyce, walked in. They were high-ranking members of the pack, dressed in expensive silk and leather. "Is it done?" my mother asked. She didn't look at me. She looked at the papers. "She is stalling," Axel said, crossing his arms. "Jana," my father said, his voice full of disappointment. "Don't be selfish. Your sister is in pain. She is going to be the Luna. She is the White Wolf of prophecy. What are you?" I wanted to tell him. 'I am the White Wolf. I am the one who saved your life, Dad.' But the Alpha's Command had locked my tongue. I could only do what I was told. "If you do this," my father added, adjusting his tie, "we will build you a small cottage on the edge of the territory. You can live there in peace. You won't be a burden to us anymore." A cottage. That was the price of my life. I looked out the window. The full moon was rising, huge and silver in the night sky. It was beautiful. It was the face of the Goddess who had abandoned me. I pressed the pen to the paper. 'I reject this life,' I thought. 'I reject this pain.' I signed my name. Axel snatched the papers away before the ink was even dry. He didn't say thank you. He didn't look back. He turned and marched out of the room, my parents trailing behind him like eager puppies. I was alone again. The scent of pine and rain lingered, mocking me. I touched my side, where my only remaining kidney struggled to filter the poison in my bl**d. Tonight, I would save my sister. And tonight, the Alpha would k**l his true mate. Chapter 2 Jana POV: The next morning, the hospital staff didn't bring me breakfast. They brought me a drafting table. I was weak. My skin was the color of old paper, and dark circles bruised the skin under my eyes. But Axel had returned. "Kyleigh is awake," he said. He stood by the door, refusing to come closer, as if my uselessness was contagious. "But she is too weak to hold a pencil. The deadline for the Northern Defense Wall is tomorrow. She needs to finish the blueprints." He placed a heavy roll of paper on the table. "You want me to draw it?" I asked, my voice barely a wh**per. "I want you to be her hands," Axel corrected. "She will tell you what to do via Mind-Link. You will draw exactly what she says." I looked at the blank paper. Architecture was the only thing I had left. It was the only thing Kyleigh couldn't fake. She didn't know the difference between a load-bearing wall and a decorative column. 'Start with the main gate,' Kyleigh's voice slithered into my head. It was the Mind-Link, the telepathic connection shared by all pack members. Her mental voice sounded sickeningly sweet. 'And don't make it look like your tr**h, Jana. Make it look like mine.' I picked up the charcoal pencil. My hand trembled, but as soon as the tip touched the paper, instinct took over. I began to sketch. I drew the reinforced arches that would withstand a Rogue attack. I drew the hidden tunnels for emergency evacuations. I poured my soul into the graphite lines. Hours passed. Axel watched me. For a moment, just a fleeting moment, I saw a spark of admiration in his eyes as he watched the complex structure emerge on the paper. "It's brilliant," he murmured, stepping closer. "Kyleigh's vision is... extraordinary." My heart cracked. "This is my design, Axel," I said softly. I couldn't help myself. "Look at the shading style. Look at the rune placement. I've been drawing this since I was twelve." Axel's face darkened. "Do not try to take credit for your sister's genius. You are just the tool she is using." My mother, Joyce, bustled into the room then, carrying a bowl of soup. She walked right past me and placed it on the side table, presumably for Axel. "Is it finished?" she asked. "The Elders are waiting. They want to see the future Luna's contribution to the pack's safety." "Almost," Axel said. He picked up the drawing. "It is perfect. The pack will be safe for generations." He looked at the drawing with such love, such pride. But that love was directed at a gh**t, a lie. 'Good job, little sister,' Kyleigh's voice echoed in my head. 'Now, destroy the evidence.' I froze. 'Do it,' she commanded mentally. 'Go to your attic. Burn your sketchbooks. Burn those little awards you won online under a fake name. If Axel finds out you can actually draw, he might get suspicious. We can't have that before the surgery, can we?' I looked at Axel. He was rolling up the blueprints, talking to my mother about the wedding ceremony. I stood up. My legs felt like jelly. I walked out of the room, and neither of them stopped me. I climbed the stairs to the attic of the Pack House, where they let me sl**p. It was a dusty, cramped space. Stacks of sketchbooks lined the walls-my life's work. My dreams of building a home where I was loved. I grabbed a metal tr**h can. I threw the books in. My hands were shaking so hard I could barely strike the match. The flame caught the edge of a page. It was a drawing of Axel I had made three years ago, sl**ping under a tree. The fire curled the paper, turning his face into ash. I coughed. It started as a tickle in my throat, then exploded into a violent spasm. I doubled over, clutching my ch**t. When I pulled my hand away from my mouth, my palm was covered in thick, black bl**d. It was the sign of a dying wolf. My body was shutting down. Suddenly, the attic door burst open. Axel stood there, my parents behind him. He held the blueprint I had just drawn. "What did you do?" he roared. I wiped the bl**d on my jeans, hiding it. "What?" "The calculations on the west wall!" He threw the paper at my feet. "They are wrong. If we built this, the wall would collapse on our own warriors!" "That's impossible," I gasped. "I checked them twice." "Kyleigh says you changed her numbers," my father spat. "She says she felt you altering the design through the Link. You tried to sabotage her!" "No!" I cried. "She doesn't know the math! She must have read the runes wrong when she checked it!" "Silence!" Axel used the Alpha Voice again. I fell to my knees. The impact sent a shockwave of pain through my failing kidneys. "You are jealous," Axel said, his voice dripping with venom. "You are petty and cruel. You would endanger the whole pack just to spite your sister." He looked at the burning tr**h can, at the ashes of my work. "Burning the evidence of your incompetence?" he sneered. He didn't see the art. He didn't see the love. He only saw what he wanted to see. "Get her out of my sight," Axel ordered the guards who had appeared behind him. "Take her to the prep room. The surgery is in two hours." Two guards grabbed my arms. They dragged me down the stairs. I didn't fight. My wolf was silent. She had already given up. Chapter 3 Jana POV: They didn't take me to a normal hospital room. They took me to the Pack Meeting Hall. It was a vast room with high ceilings and banners of the Silver Moon Pack hanging from the walls. But now, it was set up like a studio. Cameras were set up on tripods. Bright lights blinded me. Kyleigh sat in a wheelchair in the center of the room. She was wearing a pale blue hospital gown that made her look fragile and angelic. Her face was perfectly made up to look pale but beautiful. "Put her there," Kyleigh said, pointing to the floor beside her wheelchair. The guards threw me down. I hit the polished wood hard. My hip slammed against the floor, and I bit my tongue to keep from screaming. "What is this?" I asked, looking around. "A confession," Kyleigh said. She smiled, but her eyes were dead cold. "The pack needs to know the truth about the sabotage. We are going live in one minute." Axel stood behind Kyleigh's chair, his hand resting protectively on her shoulder. He looked like a statue of judgment. "You will admit to your crimes," Axel said. "You will tell the pack that you tried to ruin the Defense Wall because you were jealous of the future Luna." "I won't lie," I said, my voice trembling. Axel leaned down. His lips brushed my ear, but there was no intimacy in it. "If you don't, I will declare you a Rogue right now. I will banish you. You will die alone in the woods, hunted by vampires and strays. Is that how you want to end? Or do you want to save your sister and at least die with a name?" It was a cruel bargain. To die as a Rogue meant my soul would be lost forever, unconnected to the pack lands. To die as a pack member meant I could find peace with the Moon Goddess. "One minute!" a tech guy shouted. "Kneel," Axel commanded. The Alpha Voice slammed into me again. I scrambled to my knees. I felt small. I felt di**y. "Action!" Kyleigh's face instantly transformed. She looked into the camera with tears welling in her eyes. "My dear pack members," she said, her voice trembling perfectly. "I come to you with a heavy heart. Today, we found a flaw in the new wall designs. A flaw that could have ki**ed us." She looked down at me. The camera zoomed in on my face. I knew I looked like a monster-messy hair, di**y clothes, sullen eyes. "My sister, Jana," Kyleigh continued, "has something to say." Axel nudged me with his boot. A silent threat. I looked into the black lens of the camera. I saw my reflection. I saw a girl who had lost everything. "I..." My voice cracked. "I admit it." "Louder," Axel growled. "I admit it!" I shouted, tears finally spilling over. "I changed the numbers. I wanted to ruin the design. I was jealous. I am... I am a fake." I could see the comments scrolling on the screen set up to the side. 'Traitor!' 'She should be executed!' 'Why does the Alpha even keep her around?' 'Waste of space.' Every word was a kn**e. "Thank you for your honesty, sister," Kyleigh said. She reached out and patted my head, like one would pet a dog. "I forgive you. The pack forgives you. And now, you will do the right thing and help me heal, won't you?" "Yes," I whispered. 'Suddenly, Kyleigh gasped. Her hand flew to her ch**t, her back arching off the wheelchair.' '"Axel!" she screamed, bl**d spraying from her mouth onto the polished floor. "It burns! My core... it's breaking!"' 'The monitors hooked up to her portable unit began to wail. Her skin turned a terrifying shade of gray instantly.' '"Cut the feed!" Axel roared, catching her as she slumped forward.' '"She's crashing!" a medic shouted, rushing in. "Her Essence levels are zero. If we don't operate now, she's gone in ten minutes!"' 'Kyleigh looked at me, her eyes wide with genuine terror for the first time. "Take it," she gurgled, pointing a shaking finger at me. "Take her kidney now!"' 'Axel turned to the guards. His eyes were pure panic.' '"Get Jana to the OR," he bellowed. "Forget the prep. Forget the scans. Just cut her open and get that organ!"' 'I closed my eyes. Deep inside me, I felt a shift. It wasn't physical. It was spiritual.' My inner wolf, the white wolf that had been suppressed for so long, let out a long, mournful howl. It was a sound of absolute despair. And then, silence. She was gone. My wolf had retreated into the deepest darkness of my soul. She had severed her connection to the world to spare herself the pain. I was truly Wolfless now. "Take her!" Axel screamed again. The guards hauled me up. I was a ragdoll. I didn't look at Axel. I didn't look at my parents. I just stared at the floor, counting the steps to my execution. Chapter 4 Jana POV: The operating room was cold. It smelled of antiseptic and steel. It was a smell that promised nothing but oblivion. I lay on the narrow table. They had stripped me of my clothes and covered me with a thin blue sheet. Above me, the surgical lights were like giant, unblinking eyes. "Heart rate is erratic," a nurse said, looking at the monitor. Dr. Hermine Sanchez walked in. She was the Pack Healer, a woman known for her stern face and 'Magical Sight'. She could see illnesses that machines missed. 'But today, she looked flustered, dragged in from her home on a Sunday.' '"Where are the pre-op scans?" Dr. Sanchez demanded, snapping on her gloves. "I haven't seen the donor's chart. I need to check her aura compatibility."' '"There's no time!" Axel burst into the room. He was wearing a surgical gown over his suit, disregarding protocol. "Kyleigh's heart stopped twice in the hallway. Her personal physician sent over the files yesterday-they said Jana is a perfect match. Two healthy kidneys. Just do it!"' 'Dr. Sanchez hesitated, her eyes narrowing as she looked at me. "She looks septic, Alpha. Look at her skin color. I need five minutes to-"' '"You don't have five seconds!" Axel slammed his hand on the metal tray. "That is an order, Healer Sanchez. Save your Luna, or get out of my pack!"' 'Dr. Sanchez clenched her jaw. She was bound by the Alpha's order. She couldn't refuse, and she couldn't delay.' '"Fine," she spat. "Anesthesia?"' '"Administered," the nurse said nervously. "But... she's burning through it. Her metabolism is spiking."' 'Dr. Sanchez looked at me with pity. She didn't see the poison yet-the adrenaline and the chaotic energy in the room were masking my aura. She just saw a dying girl.' "Jana," she said softly. "We have to use silver scalpels. It's the only thing that cuts wolf skin. Because of your... 'resistance'... the anesthesia won't work fully. 'We can't wait for it to take effect.'" "I know," I whispered. "I will feel it." "I'm sorry," she said. And she meant it. Axel walked up to the table. He looked down at me. For a second, his hand hovered over my hand, as if he wanted to hold it. But then he pulled back, clenching his fist. "I deposited two million dollars into an account for you," he said. His voice was stiff. "When you wake up, you can go anywhere. Paris. Tokyo. You always wanted to travel." I looked at him. He remembered. He remembered that silly dream I told him when we were teenagers, sitting on the roof watching the stars. "You can't buy a life, Axel," I said. My voice was calm now. The fear was gone. Only exhaustion remained. "It's not payment," he snapped. "It's... care." "Care," I repeated. I let out a dry, rattling laugh. "Goodbye, Axel." He flinched. "It's not goodbye. You're just giving a kidney. Stop being dramatic." He turned his back on me. He walked to the observation window where Kyleigh was being prepped in the next room. He put his hand on the glass, looking at her with longing. "Start," he ordered. Dr. Sanchez sighed. She picked up the scalpel. The bl**e was made of pure silver. Even the sight of it made my skin crawl. "Count backward from ten, Jana," she said. "Ten," I said. The bl**e touched my skin. It wasn't just a cut. It was fire. It was liquid lightning pouring into my body. The silver reacted with my wolf bl**d, searing the edges of the wound instantly. "Nine." I gritted my teeth. I would not scream. I would not give them the satisfaction. "Eight." The pain dug deeper. They were cutting through muscle now. I felt the retractors pulling my ribs apart. Tears leaked from the corners of my eyes, hot and fast. "Seven." My heart monitor began to beep faster. 'Beep-beep-beep-beep.' "Six." I looked at the ceiling. I imagined the moon. I imagined running through a forest of snow, free, strong, loved. "Five." The pressure changed. They were clamping the artery. My breath hitched. "Four." The darkness was creeping in at the edges of my vision. It was a soft, welcoming velvet darkness. "Three." I saw a flash of white light. A wolf. A magnificent white wolf stood at the foot of the table. She looked at me and bowed her head. 'Come,' she seemed to say. 'It is time to rest.' "Two." The monitor changed its tone. The frantic beeping slowed down. "One." I didn't say zero. The pain stopped. The cold stopped. The sound of Axel's voice shouting something in the distance faded away. The line on the monitor went flat. A long, continuous tone filled the room. I closed my eyes, and I let go. &2&

"She was framed and lost everything, becoming a despised dandy. She spent three years in prison, learning to be calm and calculating. After being released from prison, she transformed herself into a mysterious investor, secretly making plans and gradually disintegrating the family that had pushed her into the abyss. Until one night, she made everyone understand: this seemingly weak woman was actually the manipulator's palm." ===== Chapter 1 Four Years After Her Imprisonment Inside Wront Prison, the July heat hung so heavy that it was hard to breathe. Just as she let her sleeve drop to cover the glaring scar on her arm, Maia Watson -- once known as Maia Morgan -- heard a correctional officer call out, "Maia, someone from the Morgan family is here to pick you up!" Her hand froze midway through the motion. Hearing "Morgan family" again was like tasting something bitter and familiar all at once. She had once been the daughter of the Morgan family. Everything fell apart four years ago, when the police knocked on their door and announced they'd tracked down Richard Morgan and Sandra Morgan's real daughter -- Rosanna Morgan. In the blink of an eye, Maia's identity was ripped away. She was branded a fraud, a fake. Her real parents had died long ago. To keep up appearances, the Morgans made a show of acceptance. They told the world that they still saw Maia as family. But anyone who had watched them for seventeen years would know better. Richard and Sandra had always been preoccupied with business ventures. Maia had been more like a guest in their home than a daughter. Then Rosanna came back, and suddenly, their entire world revolved around her. Then came the incident with Radiant Jewels. Rosanna stole a prized treasure and pinned the blame on Maia. It was an obvious setup, but the Morgans didn't care. They believed Rosanna without question. In fact, they helped her. They made public accusations and did it with such ease that Maia never stood a chance. Radiant Jewels belonged to the Cooper Group. The Coopers weren't just powerful. In Wront, they were practically royalty. The Morgans couldn't risk offending them -- not for someone who wasn't even their real daughter. They erased Maia's name from the Morgan family, told the public that she was taken in from a struggling family called the Watsons, and sent her straight to prison. At the memory, Maia's knuckles tightened until her nails bit into her skin. She had survived four years behind bars for a crime Rosanna committed. And now, that sentence was over. She was finally getting out. ... Just beyond the prison gates, the crowd of reporters buzzed with restless energy. Heat rippled through the air, and impatience showed on every face. Then, at last, the massive gates creaked open. Maia walked out into the sunlight, dressed in the same plain outfit she wore the day she was locked away. The second Sandra caught sight of Maia, her face lit up like she had just spotted a long-lost child. She rushed over, surrounded by a swarm of reporters waving microphones and flashing cameras. Maia watched the entire spectacle and nearly rolled her eyes. "Maia, my dear daughter, I came to bring you home," Sandra said, her voice catching as tears shimmered in her eyes. Even a few of the reporters nearby couldn't help but murmur in sympathy at the emotional performance. Unfazed, Maia stared her down and said coldly, "You must be mistaken, Mrs. Morgan. I'm not your daughter." Sandra stiffened where she stood. She quickly recovered and painted sorrow across her face. "How could you say that, Maia? I was the one who raised you. You lived under my roof for more than ten years. I've never once stopped thinking of you as my daughter." Maia's lips twitched into a cold smirk. "Is that right? Then remind me -- four years ago, when you framed me and cast me out, didn't you call me a Watson? You let me go to prison without a second thought. I stopped being your daughter the day you erased me from your family." Framed? To top it off, they said she wasn't even a Morgan -- she was a Watson? Maia's few words hit like a bomb. Reporters traded stunned looks, then chaos broke loose as they rushed forward, shoving microphones closer, eager to catch every word. With cameras pointed her way, Sandra had no room to lash out. Her face tightened, but she forced down the anger bubbling inside. Right then, a voice sliced through the commotion. "Maia! What kind of lies are you feeding everyone? The treasure from Radiant Jewels was found right in your bag -- you were caught red-handed! How dare you claim you were framed? You spent four years behind bars, and we still dragged ourselves through this heat to pick you up. And this is how you thank us? You sound like someone spitting at the hand that once fed you!" Jarrod Morgan was the one speaking -- the oldest son of Sandra and Richard. Maia had always thought of him as a big brother. But when the truth was twisted against her, he turned on her without hesitation to defend Rosanna, even going as far as shoving her to the floor. She had landed hard. Her arm struck the sharp corner of a table, ripping her skin open and leaving behind a scar that never truly faded. That infamous jewel? Rosanna had slipped it into Maia's bag while she was washing her hands in the restroom. At the time, Maia had genuinely believed that Rosanna meant well. She had seemed warm, honest, and eager to be friends. That was why, when Rosanna offered to help, Maia handed her the bag without a second guess. The thought that someone so soft-spoken and sweet could harbor such petty cruelty had never crossed Maia's mind. The reason behind it was that she saw Maia as a threat. Afraid that Maia might become more beloved in the Morgan family, Rosanna decided to eliminate her. That was the day Maia's eyes were opened to the truth about the Morgan family. Since then, her heart had been hardened by betrayal. "She must still be upset with me. That's why she's twisting everything..." Rosanna clung to Jarrod, her voice trembling as her lashes fluttered through misty eyes. "Maia, I swear I never came back to steal your place in the family. Please don't hate me for this." Tears spilled down her cheeks as her slender frame shook. Jarrod couldn't stand to see her cry. He pulled her close and said, "This isn't on you, Rosanna. Maia stole a life that was rightfully yours for seventeen years. She's the one who did wrong. If she can't admit it, then maybe more time behind bars will teach her." "That's enough!" Sandra gave him a sharp look, flicking her eyes toward the hovering press. With this many cameras rolling, she couldn't afford to lose control. Facing the press, she quickly put on a diplomatic smile. "It's been four years since Maia lived with us. She's clearly still adjusting, and I can understand her emotions. If she can acknowledge her mistakes and show some changes, she'll always be part of my family." Part of her family? Maia let out a laugh that was anything but amused. She arched a brow and looked her dead in the eye. "Mrs. Morgan, didn't you sign off on the paperwork that cut all ties between us? Is that it? You're saying you actually want me back in your family now?" Chapter 2 Her Husband Sandra's face darkened instantly. Back then, in order to cut off any connection with Maia, the Morgans had forced her to sign a severance document -- with a representative from the Cooper Group as witness, just to clear their name from any future accusations. It had been an act of desperation, not dignity. A swarm of reporters rushed in, shoving microphones toward Sandra. "Mrs. Morgan, is this true? You once said you wouldn't abandon Maia, that she was still your daughter even after reuniting with your biological child." Trying to keep her composure, Sandra mustered a smile that barely held. "That's… not true. Of course not." With a sly grin, Maia said, "So, Mrs. Morgan, do you have the nerve to call someone from the Cooper Group and find out if that severance document exists or not?" "Maia, don't go too far! The people from the Cooper Group aren't someone we can just summon at will!" Jarrod shouted, his anger flaring from the sidelines. With a smug tilt of her brow, Maia glanced his way. "So you're admitting you won't call them." Jarrod was left speechless. The image they had worked so hard to maintain was starting to fall apart, and Sandra scrambled to play the sympathy card. Her body shook with a sudden cough, loud and dramatic. Catching on quickly, Rosanna hurried to her mother's side and rubbed her back in gentle circles. "Mom, what's wrong? Are you okay?" Her gaze then shifted to Maia, filled with exaggerated grievance. "She's been worried sick ever since you were locked up. She cries every night, Maia. The doctor warned us that her health is getting worse. And if you still care -- even a little -- for everything she did for you growing up, don't make this harder. Just come back with us." Maia felt nauseated by Rosanna's pretentious act. Come back with them? Those words used to bring comfort to her. But now, they meant nothing anymore. The last thing she wanted was to get caught up with them again. There was no mistaking the resolve etched across her face. "That girl you all knew -- she died four years ago. And the Morgans were the ones who buried her." Maia said her piece, then strode through the crowd and walked away without looking back. The moment she was gone, Sandra dropped to the ground, putting on a show of sobs like her heart had just shattered. She took a dramatic, deep breath before collapsing in a faint. Panic erupted instantly as gasps and shouts filled the scene. Wasting no time, Jarrod lifted Sandra into his arms, while Rosanna trailed right behind him. The second the car doors shut and the cameras were behind them, Sandra's eyes snapped open, and she straightened up without effort. Had she not faked that collapse, everything might've unraveled beyond repair. This whole mess, in her mind, traced back to one person -- Maia. They had shown up at the prison, making a public effort to welcome her back with grace. And how did she respond? By dragging the entire Morgan name through the dirt in front of a crowd. There wasn't a single ounce of gratitude in that girl. "She's outrageous! We gave her everything and she turns on us like this!" Jarrod cursed angrily, gripping the steering wheel. The warmth in Sandra's face vanished, replaced by a sudden chill in her eyes. A bitter laugh escaped her lips. "No money. A criminal record that sticks to her like glue. She's got nothing to her name. Without us, she's done. There's no doubt Maia will return -- and when she does, I'll have more than enough ways to handle her!" ... Later that afternoon, Maia stood alone in front of City Hall in Wront, with some documents required for marriage registration in her handbag. There was still time before her appointment, so she leaned casually against a tree, eyes downcast, thoughts drifting far from the present. Back when she first stepped into prison four years ago, the torment seemed relentless, etched into every corner of her memory. one night, when she was nearly beaten within an inch of her life, someone had stepped in to save her. It wasn't a guard. It was a woman -- an inmate with more influence than anyone else. Her cell looked more like a private suite, and even the correctional officers stayed out of her way. Most inmates feared her and kept far out of her path. But for some reason, she had taken an interest in Maia. She offered protection -- but it came with a condition. If Maia wanted that safety, she had to accept a marriage agreement and carry out a task afterward. Back then, trapped in a nightmare with no way out, Maia had no room to refuse. Survival meant sacrifice. Without hesitation, she agreed to the deal and pledged her loyalty to the woman who'd saved her. Fulfilling that promise had become her top priority now that she was free. That meant going through with the marriage agreement she'd accepted in prison. Not far away, a stretch Rolls-Royce Phantom was parked in the shadows. "Is that the one your aunt picked for you to marry, sir?" asked Brad Curtis, Chris Cooper's special assistant. The view through the car window revealed a woman with lowered eyes and a slim frame. Dressed in a plain white shirt and low-rise jeans, she moved with ease. When she stretched, her slim waist showed for just a moment. There was a boldness in her silence. An edge of defiance that didn't ask for approval. Pretty as she was, her past carried a criminal record that couldn't be ignored. Brad couldn't understand why Zoey Cooper had pushed for this match. What could she possibly see in a woman who had served time? Even more puzzling was the fact that Chris hadn't objected. Reclining in the back seat, Chris rested his arm with easy confidence, his rolled-up sleeve showing off a well-toned forearm. His eyes, narrowed slightly, settled on the woman's exposed waist, and an amused glint danced across his face. Without a word, he shoved the car door open and stepped out. "Are you Miss Maia Watson?" Maia turned when she heard someone call her name. She stood still for a second, caught off guard. A man in a fitted black shirt stood before her, tall enough to block the sun from her face. He looked unreal. Handsome in a way that made her pause. Each feature flawless, almost sculpted. Could this really be the illegitimate son of the Cooper family Zoey had mentioned? The one with a bad reputation and a trail of reckless rumors following him? A flicker of discomfort ran through her chest. "Are you... Mr. Chris Cooper?" she asked, uncertain. He gave her a small nod. Her eyes wandered back to him, studying every detail. His clothes were simple, but something refined clung to him. That faint smile hovered on his lips, never quite touching his eyes, leaving just enough mystery to stir her curiosity. "You've been staring for a while now, Miss Watson." Chris let out a soft laugh. Snapping out of it, Maia quickly turned her head, realizing just how obvious she'd been. "My bad… Should we head inside?" she asked, trying to recover. Together, they made their way into City Hall. When they came back out, a marriage certificate rested in Chris' hand. "I'll keep my end of the bargain, Mr. Cooper. Once Zoey's request is fulfilled, I won't stick around. I'll file for divorce right after," Maia said. Feelings weren't part of their arrangement, and she wasn't delusional. Most men wouldn't sign up for a life with someone who had a prison record. Chris tilted his head, casting her a look. Her dark hair danced in the breeze, and while her face was striking, there was something clear and honest in her eyes. Instead of answering her directly, he asked, "Is my aunt doing okay in there?" Thrown off by the change in topic, Maia answered quickly, "She's healthy. Nothing bad has happened to her." After a short pause, she pressed her lips together. Truth be told, Zoey didn't just survive in prison -- she thrived. It was practically her comfort zone. "Glad to hear it." Chris didn't ask anything more. He reached into his pocket, pulled out a sleek credit card, and handed it to her. "Here. A little something to welcome you in." Maia shook her head, hands raised in protest. "That's not necessary. I've got my own money." Sure, they were now legally married, but it was still their first day meeting. And from what Zoey had shared, Chris might've had the Cooper name, but he was treated like an outsider. His standing in the family and at the Cooper Group was practically nonexistent. From what she'd heard, he held no serious job title and spent most days drifting aimlessly. She figured that he probably didn't have much saved up either. The thought of accepting anything from him made her uncomfortable. But Chris didn't waver. He took her hand, placed the card firmly in her palm, and didn't let go. His eyes locked onto hers -- cool, enigmatic, and impossible to read. "We just completed the marriage registration, which technically makes me your husband now. That gives you every right to use my money. Or is it that you're turning it down because you're not ready to admit I'm your husband?" Hearing that word -- husband -- sent a faint flush across Maia's otherwise composed features. "I'm not saying that..." Maia began, trying to explain, but her voice trailed off before she could land on the right words. Without another word, she took the card and gave him a quiet, polite thank you. Seeing her relent, Chris showed a smile of approval. "So, where are you heading? I'll give you a ride." At that moment, a weight settled in Maia's chest. Her plan was to return to the Morgan family home. It wasn't the house she cared about. What mattered was the bracelet -- the last gift to her from her grandmother, Vicki Morgan. Back when Richard and Sandra treated her like an afterthought, Vicki had been the one constant. She had taught Maia everything from table manners to standing tall in a crowd. Though no blood tied them together, Vicki's love had been as real as any grandmother's. Maia knew, without doubt, that if Vicki had still been alive, she would've defended her with everything she had. That thought brought a quiet ache Maia didn't show. Still, she shook it off and gave Chris a calm smile. "There's something I need to handle, Mr. Cooper. I'll be fine on my own." "No problem. Just call if you need anything." He handed her his number, then stayed behind as she walked off. When her silhouette finally disappeared around the corner, he glanced down at the marriage certificate still in his hand. A knowing smile curved his lips. Divorce? Not happening. Nobody could guess how long he'd been waiting for this moment. Chapter 3 Returning To The Morgan Estate Again Maia stood outside Vista Villas, her finger pressing the doorbell of the Morgan estate. She had picked this time carefully -- she remembered how afternoons were usually quiet, each family member off chasing their own distractions. When the door creaked open, it was Tricia Scott, the longtime housekeeper. Her eyes flew wide at the sight. "Is that really you, Miss Morgan? I... I can't believe you're here!" The moment the words spilled out, Tricia covered her mouth with her hand, instantly regretting them. The title belonged to Rosanna now. As far as the Morgans were concerned, Maia didn't exist anymore. And if Rosanna happened to hear how Tricia had spoken to Maia, the fallout would be brutal. With a quiet, measured tone, Maia said, "I'm just here to pick up a few of my things." Then she walked in as if she'd never been gone. Just as she'd expected, the place felt empty -- eerily so. No voices, no footsteps. As she made her way toward the stairs, Tricia rushed after her in a fluster. "Miss... uh, Maia, what exactly are you looking for? I can help you search." "It's alright, Tricia. Everything I need should still be in my room. I'll just be a moment." But before she could take another step, Tricia blocked her path. Her gaze darted everywhere but Maia's face. "Well, um… about that…" A crease formed on Maia's forehead. Something didn't sit right. Her voice lost its calm edge. "Tricia, what happened?" With her shoulders sinking, Tricia finally gave in. A weary sigh escaped her. "Miss Morgan cleared everything out after you were imprisoned. And your old room -- it's not yours anymore. It's just a storage room now." Maia froze. Her eyes grew wide, disbelief settling in. "Everything?" So was the bracelet that Vicki had given her thrown away, too? A slow, regretful nod from Tricia confirmed what Maia had feared. The truth hit Maia hard, sudden and brutal, like a lightning strike. Someone like Rosanna wouldn't have had the guts to toss out her things unless Richard and Sandra were in on it too. Trembling from head to toe, Maia clenched her fists tight. That bracelet had been Vicki's last gift to her -- a symbol of love in a house that had offered her none. Anger swelled inside her, fierce and uncontrollable. She had tried to walk away from the Morgan family, to leave the past buried. But now, all that anger came roaring back. From behind, a voice she hadn't missed in the slightest cut through the room. "I knew you'd show your face again, Maia!" Maia turned to look. Jarrod was there, standing a short distance away, that same smug grin plastered across his face. Rosanna was by Sandra's side, gripping her arm as if playing the dutiful daughter for the cameras no one could see. Without saying another word, Tricia slipped out of the room, sensing the tension. Jarrod closed the space between them, towering slightly over Maia as he looked down with smug contempt. "You were really bold outside the prison this morning. What's the deal now? Sneaking back in like this? Let me guess. With a record like yours, no one's gonna hire you. So you came crawling back. We're the only ones still willing to throw you a scrap, aren't we?" With a lifted brow and a voice filled with sarcasm, he said, "Here's a thought -- admit everything now. Post a public apology to the Morgan family, and maybe we'll let you stick around out of pity. Sound fair?" Jarrod had been simmering with rage ever since that morning. That stunt Maia pulled with the press had bruised the Morgan name, and while he hadn't lashed out then, he was done holding it in. Now that she had walked straight into their home, he planned to crush whatever defiance she still had left from prison. Putting Maia in her place felt long overdue, and now that she had returned to the house, Jarrod believed it was his right to set her straight. An apology, a fresh start, and keeping her distance from Rosanna -- that was all it would take for him to consider letting Maia back into the family. The cost of keeping her around barely made a dent in the Morgan finances. Feeding her and offering shelter was no different from tossing away loose change. Still, even freeloaders usually had the sense to be polite. A bit of humility wasn't too much to expect. But Maia acted like the world owed her a debt. That attitude made his blood boil. When Maia stepped forward, Jarrod lifted a brow and folded his arms, fully expecting her to stop and beg for forgiveness. Instead, she walked right past him without a single glance, heading straight toward Rosanna. His smugness vanished in an instant. Then again, Rosanna was the one Maia had insulted publicly. Maybe this was her way of making things right. But what came out of Maia's mouth next shattered that assumption. "Where are my things, Rosanna?" Rosanna stiffened on the spot. A flicker of surprise passed through her eyes before she painted on a look of pure innocence. "What things? Maia, I have no idea what you're going on about." A cold fire lit up Maia's eyes, the kind that didn't just glare -- it cut. Her stare locked onto Rosanna like a blade, and her tone came out flat, stripped of emotion. "This is the last time I'll ask. Where did you put everything that was in my room?" Instantly, Rosanna's face crumpled into a pitiful expression, and tears spilled down her cheeks. "I didn't mean anything by it, Maia. I just… I thought they'd wear out if I left them there too long. I figured I'd replace them once you came back, so I--" Before she could finish, a loud slap cracked through the room, cutting the air like lightning. Chapter 4 It Ends Here Rosanna's cheek flared red with a vivid mark where Maia's hand had struck. Frozen in disbelief, she barely registered Maia's voice cutting through the moment like a whip. "Who gave you the right to go through my things?" Jarrod's expression twisted in shock, his eyes darkening with fury. In a rush, he moved in front of Rosanna, shielding her with his body. One look at her tear-streaked face, swollen from the rising bruise on her cheek, and something snapped inside him. His hands curled into fists. Maia striking Rosanna was enough to make his blood boil. It was clear she had no respect for him whatsoever. If she wouldn't listen, he'd make her. Today, she'd pay for that disrespect. He raised his hand, ready to strike -- but before it could fall, Maia's hand shot up and caught his wrist, stopping him cold. With one swift motion, she shoved him hard. Jarrod stumbled backward, nearly losing his balance. He stared, stunned, at the woman standing before him. The person he saw now felt like a stranger. The Maia he remembered had always trailed after him when he occasionally visited home, like a little shadow. But that version of her no longer existed. Four years behind bars had carved out someone sharper, someone who stood on her own. Where had this strength come from? He couldn't say. Back in her early days in prison, Maia faced constant bullying and abuse -- fresh bruises forming before the old ones even had a chance to fade. Still, she never cried for help. Never lowered her head. One day, pushed too far, she snapped. With pure rage, she sank her teeth into the prison's top dog and wrestled her to the floor. Blow after blow landed on her back, but Maia never let go. Over time, and with Zoey's relentless training, Maia sharpened her instincts and became a fighter no one dared to provoke. Eventually, the threats faded. She'd earned both her place and their fear. Jarrod stayed put, placing himself between Maia and Rosanna, his glare sharp and unwavering. "Maia, you've completely lost it! We're talking about some old clothes and random junk -- nothing worth a fight! And you hit Rosanna over that? Apologize. Now!" Maia's sudden outburst caught Sandra off guard. After a short pause, she wrapped Rosanna in her arms, worry etched across her face. She glared furiously at Maia as she said, "I'm the one who gave permission to throw out your things! Rosanna only meant well. She was going to buy everything back -- new and fresh -- so you wouldn't be haunted by the past! But you? You didn't just reject that. You hit her! After everything, I never thought you'd sink this low. Maia, you've truly disappointed me!" Disappointed? A cold laugh slipped from Maia's lips. That same line had been used four years ago -- right after they framed her. They'd shielded Rosanna back then too. And Maia? She'd been the target. If anyone deserved to feel disappointed, it was Maia. She had already buried every last bit of hope she once held for the Morgan family. Her eyes settled on Sandra -- the woman she used to call "Mom." There was a time Maia loved and respected Sandra, even if Sandra rarely showed she cared. Now, that love twisted into something sharp in her chest. "You've always known I can't stand people touching my belongings," Maia said, her voice tight with restraint. "And still, you let her throw them out. Did you even realize that Vicki's bracelet was among them?" Sandra had always been busy and seldom paid attention to Maia's life, but this particular habit of Maia's was something she knew clearly. But when it came to Rosanna, Sandra's judgment blurred. Years of guilt over being absent in Rosanna's life made her overcompensate. And when Rosanna wanted something, Sandra never said no. For more than ten years, Maia had lived the life that should've been Rosanna's -- or so Sandra believed. So what harm was there in throwing out a few of her things? To Sandra, even if Rosanna had been the one who stole the treasure from Radiant Jewels, she still thought that Maia should've taken the blame. That thought alone washed away any lingering guilt Sandra had ever felt toward her. "Let me remind you of your place, Maia. You're not one of us. You were only raised by us -- nothing more. That keepsake from Vicki? It was always meant for a true Morgan. Even if it were still around, Rosanna would have every right to it. Who do you think you are to lay claim to it? If she wanted to burn it, that would still be her right." A stabbing pain twisted in Maia's chest. She could sever ties with every Morgan in that house -- but not with Vicki. That woman had loved her, protected her, and made her feel like she belonged. And now Maia had failed to guard the one thing that still connected them. The ache in her heart deepened, sharp and unrelenting. From the sidelines, Jarrod let out a cruel laugh. "So that's why you flipped out over some garbage. Let me guess -- you're broke, and you came crawling back here to pawn whatever you could find!" Though he had once seen the bracelet, it looked cheap to him. He never imagined that it held any real value. With a sneer, he pulled a few bills from his wallet and tossed them at her feet. "This enough for your little trinket? Take the rest -- it's on me. Consider it charity." Maia's eyes burned with anger, rimmed red as she stared down the people she once called family. There had been a time she believed she owed them gratitude. After all, they'd raised her for seventeen years. That belief had led her to help them through their darkest years, without hesitation. But now? That illusion had shattered. What was taken from her -- she would get back. And the Morgans? They had chosen cruelty. It was time they learned that she didn't forgive and forget. Maia let her anger subside. She took the cash Jarrod threw and smiled. Without hesitation, she shredded the money into pieces and threw them straight at his face. "Keep your filthy money. I'd rather have nothing than take anything from you." With that, she turned and walked straight out of the villa, not sparing anyone a second glance. Fury twisted Jarrod's face as he clenched his jaw, burning with humiliation. His finger jabbed toward Maia's back as she disappeared through the doorway. "You'll regret this, you ungrateful bitch! Without us, you're nothing! You'll come crawling back -- I'll make sure of it!" Sandra's face flushed red with anger, her voice rising. "We picked you up from prison this morning, Maia! That was out of the goodness of our hearts! No one forced you to walk away -- you did that yourself. Don't bother returning once you leave. You made your choice. It ends here!" A cold, humorless laugh escaped Maia's lips. Even now, Sandra clung to the story that made her look like the victim. Her audacity was almost laughable. Turning slowly on her heel, Maia leveled the family with a chilling stare. "Drop the act. You're not fooling anyone. You called the press yourselves. Was that supposed to be a warm welcome? Or just a performance to make yourselves look like saints in front of the cameras? You know exactly what you were doing." And with that, she walked away, never once turning back. Behind her, the illusion shattered, leaving the Morgans standing stiff and speechless. Their masks had cracked wide open. Rosanna buried her face in Sandra's shoulder, voice trembling with tears. "This is all my fault. we could've been a real family." Instead of reflecting, Jarrod and Sandra focused on comforting Rosanna, acting like Maia didn't exist. Chapter 5 I Just Wanted To Make Sure You Were Alright Not a minute after stepping out of the Morgan estate, Maia pulled out her phone and made a single call. "Cut off all dealings with the Morgan family. Effective immediately." The call ended, and she slid the phone back into her coat pocket, turning around to give the house behind her one last, lingering look. That place no longer felt familiar. It might as well have belonged to a different lifetime. Everything that tied her to the Morgans was over. From here on, there would be no turning back. Drawing in a slow breath, Maia gathered herself. But just as she turned to walk away, she collided hard into a solid figure. The sudden impact made her stumble, but before she could fall, a hand reached out and caught her firmly by the arm. "Maia?" a deep voice asked. Her head tilted up, and for a rare moment, emotion flickered across her usually unreadable gaze. She hadn't thought her heart could still react like that. Yet somehow, it skipped more than just a beat. Of all people, it was Vince Ward standing in front of her -- the son of Wront's powerful Ward family, her ex-fiancé. Out of instinct, she yanked her arm free and put a few paces of space between them. Vince's brows tightened ever so slightly as he took in her cold, unreadable face. The woman standing there hardly resembled the bright, cheerful girl from the Morgan family Maia used to be. "You... came back," he said softly, choosing his words with care. He didn't say "got out" -- perhaps to spare her dignity -- but the gesture only made her chest tighten with disdain. There had been a time when she loved him out loud, without shame. She had spoiled him, learned to cook just to see him smile, done everything to win his affection. But he had never given her more than silence. He never once claimed her in public, never called her his. Still, she held a firm belief, convinced that kindness would melt the wall he kept so firmly built. And yet, on the day her world collapsed -- when she was framed and wrongly accused -- he stood right there. But he had stood by Rosanna's side, and the disgust and warning in his eyes matched those of the Morgans perfectly. Not a single word of defense had come from Vince when she needed it most. Years ago, it was Rosanna's grandfather who had pulled Vince's father from the wreckage of an accident. That one act of heroism had sealed a marriage promise between two families. Back then, the Morgan family's daughter had been Maia. Now, the daughter was Rosanna. Naturally, the arrangement had fallen onto Rosanna. So Vince siding with Rosanna wasn't surprising -- it was expected. But even now, whenever Maia thought back on it, a soft ache tugged at her heart. She tucked that pain away behind a polite smile, lifting her chin. "You must be here for Rosanna, Mr. Ward. I hear the engagement's coming up. Congratulations." She used to call him "Vince" with warmth, and now, being addressed so formally made him realize that the gap between them had been wider. Something twisted in Vince's chest, sudden and sharp. He stared at her, his voice rough around the edges. "Four years, Maia... and that's all you've got to say?" Back then, Maia would talk his ear off whenever she was near. Now, all he felt from her was a chill and a wall he couldn't get past. Her silence made his frown deepen, the quiet stretching too long. After a beat, he nodded toward the Morgan family villa behind her. "I heard your family came to pick you up today. Why are you already walking away?" Maia replied, "That's none of your business." Though her tone was cool, her eyes -- bright and guarded -- flickered with something unspoken. Those words struck Vince harder than he expected. "I just wanted to make sure you were alright." A bitter laugh escaped Maia's lips. "Seems like your concern's pointed in the wrong direction, Mr. Ward. Shouldn't it be aimed at your girlfriend? You're nearly engaged, aren't you? Imagine Rosanna catching you circling around me -- how do you think she'd take that? So, is the plan now to turn your back on the real Morgan daughter just to chase after someone like me -- a woman branded by a criminal past?" No words followed from Vince. There was just silence -- the same kind that had cut through her four years ago. Maia let out a sharp, humorless snort. "Why don't you do us both a favor and stay out of my sight, Mr. Ward?" But Vince's hand shot out, grabbing her wrist before she could take another step. He held on, refusing to let go. His voice dropped to a hush, rough with emotion. His eyes were turning red. "Maia, it's true. Rosanna and I are getting engaged. But things don't have to be any different -- if you're willing, we could still go back to the way things were." &11&

В день свадьбы жених оставил её, чтобы найти свою любимую. Она в гневе наугад выбрала другого брошенного мужчину с инвалидностью и вышла за него замуж, не ожидая, что он окажется скрытым миллиардером! ===== «Фёдор, свадьба скоро начнётся, ты не можешь просто так уйти!» - в панике произнесла Лина Бролова, одетая в белоснежное платье, и дрожащими пальцами вцепилась в руку Фёдора Власова. «Уйди. Жанна ранена. Она одна в больнице и, вероятно, сильно напугана. Я должен быть рядом с ней». Нахмурившись, он напряжённым от волнения голосом произнёс. Лина заметно побледнела. Сегодняшний день должен был стать их днём. Однако как раз перед началом церемонии Фёдор прочитал сообщение, повернулся к толпе и объявил об отмене свадьбы. Речь шла о Жанне Самсоновой, юношеской любви Фёдора. Лина начала встречаться с ним пять лет назад. И на протяжении этого времени, когда они куда-то выходили, стоило Жанне лишь позвать его - Фёдор бросал Лину. Он всегда настаивал на том, что считает Жанну сестрой, и просил Лину понять его. И та раз за разом это делала. Однако сейчас речь шла об их свадьбе. Ну и что, что Жанна нуждалась в нём? Значит ли это, что Лине предстояло быть покинутой тем, кто пообещал жениться на ней? Дрогнувшим голосом девушка прошептала: «Нет, ты не можешь уйти. Свадьба без тебя не состоится. Несмотря ни на что, сегодня ты должен остаться. Пожалуйста, Фёдор... Умоляю тебя». Однако его терпение лопнуло: «Хватит! Перестань вести себя так эгоистично и неразумно. Мы всегда можем перенести свадьбу. Но сейчас Жанна ранена. Если я не поеду, ты возьмёшь на себя ответственность? Уйди!» Прежде чем она успела сказать хоть слово, он протиснулся мимо неё. Лина пошатнулась, каблуки предательски заскользили по полированному полу, и она упала. Потрясённая девушка, затаив дыхание, смотрела, как Фёдор скрылся за дверью, даже не оглянувшись. В следующую секунду у неё зазвонил телефон. Не задумываясь, она ответила и тут же услышала самодовольный, ликующий голос женщины: «Лина, сегодня у вас с Фёдором большой день? Тебе понравился мой маленький подарок?» Тело Лины напряглось, когда до неё дошло. Сквозь стиснутые зубы она прошипела: «Жанна, ты сделала это нарочно. Ты специально выманила Фёдора, не так ли?» «Верно. И? Что ты собираешься с этим делать? Просто хотела напомнить тебе, что в сердце Фёдора я всегда буду на первом месте, - высокомерно заявила Жанна, не скрывая насмешки. - Могу поспорить, ты потратила месяцы на планирование церемонии, да? Какая жалость. Все усилия, все мечты - всё насмарку. Честно говоря, мне даже жаль тебя». Лина посмотрела на белоснежное платье и впервые осознала, что последние пять лет оказались просто насмешкой. Став сиротой, она отчаянно искала семью и любовь. Однако Фёдор... Он не собирался ей этого давать. Хватит выпрашивать то, что ей не суждено получить. Резкий, холодный смех сорвался с её губ. «Не забегай вперёд, Жанна. Свадьба состоится». Тон собеседницы мгновенно стал ядовитым: «Ты с ума сошла? Фёдор - жених. И его там нет. Как ты планируешь провести свадьбу без него?» Губы Лины медленно изогнулись в насмешливой улыбке. Кто сказал, что её женихом обязательно должен стать Фёдор? Если он так легко ушёл, то она найдёт другого, того, кто действительно заслуживал быть рядом с ней. Девушка уверенно заявила: «Сделай мне одолжение, Жанна, передай сообщение Фёдору. Скажи ему, что он мне больше не нужен. Он не стоит ни секунды моего времени. И раз уж ты так отчаянно хочешь его заполучить, пожалуйста. Бесхребетный мужчина и бесстыдная женщина - идеальная пара. Желаю удачи». Голос Жанны стал резким от гнева: «Лина, я тебя предупреждаю. Не играй с огнём!» Однако Лина, не желая её слушать, завершила разговор. До церемонии оставалось тридцать минут. Она хотела как можно скорее найти нового жениха. Подняв подол платья, девушка выбежала из комнаты. К её удивлению, у входа толпилось множество мужчин в чёрных костюмах. Их грозный вид говорил о том, что они кого-то искали. Среди них выделялся мужчина в свадебном костюме, сидевший в инвалидном кресле, а его осанка излучала непререкаемый авторитет. Безмолвный и неподвижный, он источал ледяное, почти недосягаемое величие. Внезапно он властным тоном обратился к телохранителю, стоявшему перед ним: «Церемония скоро начнётся. Вы уже нашли Арину?» Телохранитель заметно напрягся и нерешительно ответил: «Господин Радулов, мы всё обыскали, но не обнаружили следов госпожи Гуниной. Похоже, она сбежала». «Сбежала? - спокойно переспросил мужчина, но его взгляд стал холодным и беспощадным, как у хищника, оценивающего свою добычу. - Если свадьба не состоится вовремя, ты знаешь, что это значит». Лина ловила каждое слово и в одно мгновение поняла: этого человек бросили у алтаря, как и её. Не колеблясь, она подхватила подол платья и направилась к нему. Телохранители отреагировали мгновенно, встав перед ней с напряжёнными и настороженными выражениями лиц. «Что вы делаете?» Мужчина в инвалидном кресле обратил на неё внимание, подавляя своей энергетикой. Однако Лина не дрогнула. Она спокойно посмотрела ему в глаза и произнесла: «Я слышала, что ваша невеста сбежала. Если это так, позвольте мне занять её место. Я стану вашей невестой». Глава 2 Я не пожалею об этом Услышав слова Лины, мужчина слегка прищурился, а затем резко поинтересовался: «Вы уверены в этом? Я инвалид. Если выйдете за меня замуж, то рано или поздно об этом пожалеете». Лину не смутило его заявление. Не отводя глаз, она спросила: «Вы бросили бы свою жену ради другой женщины?» «Конечно нет», - мгновенно ответил он уверенным тоном. «Тогда я не пожалею об этом, - с непоколебимой решимостью заявила Лина. - Если вы согласны, я выйду за вас замуж». Увидев искренность в её глазах, мужчина не нашёл причин отказать ей. Медленно кивнув, он ответил: «Хорошо, тогда давайте поженимся». В итоге практически отменённая свадьбы Лины пошла своим чередом. В присутствии священника они спокойно обменялись клятвами. Когда они вышли из церкви, Лина ощутила странное чувство нереальности происходящего. Она только что вышла замуж за человека, которого ещё несколько часов назад даже не знала. Толкая инвалидное кресло мужа по ступенькам, девушка внезапно кое-что поняла. «Кстати, я даже не знаю вашего имени». «Кирилл Радулов», - спокойно ответил тот. Глаза Лины расширились от удивления. «Подождите, вы Кирилл Радулов? Старший сын Радуловых?» Кирилл увидел потрясение на её лице и ухмыльнулся, а затем насмешливо ответил: «В чём дело? Теперь, узнав, что вышла замуж за человека, которого все считают неудачником, ты жалеешь об этом?» Каждый в городе хоть раз слышал историю Кирилла - старшего сына семьи Радуловых. Его мать умерла при родах, а отец снова женился. После аварии Кирилл оказался в инвалидной коляске и в глазах общественности мгновенно стал никем. Когда мачеха родила сына, Кирилл стал изгоем в семье. Если бы не его бабушка, Ирина Радулова, которая всегда защищала и оберегала Кирилла, его, скорее всего, давно выбросили бы на улицу, оставив на произвол судьбы. По мнению Кирилла, ни одна женщина в здравом уме не вышла бы замуж за такого мужчину, как он, если бы только не нуждалась в деньгах. Он был не просто инвалидом, а ненужным сыном семьи Радуловых. Мужчина полагал, что Лина разочаруется, и приготовился увидеть на её лице сожаление или горечь. Однако, к удивлению Кирилла, девушка посмотрела на него не с жалостью или презрением, а с глубоким, невысказанным пониманием, словно увидела его настоящего - ещё одну душу, брошенную теми, кто должен любить его. Она нежно взяла его за руку и сжала её. «Я сказала вам, что, приняв решение, не пожалею об этом. Теперь, когда мы женаты, я позабочусь о том, чтобы ваш дом наполнился теплом и заботой». «Неужели? - скептически спросил Кирилл. - Посмотрим». Он ей не поверил. Ему стало любопытно, как долго девушка сможет притворяться, когда поймёт, что ничего от него не получит. Перед ними остановилась машина, прервав его размышления. «Пошли», - сказал Кирилл командным тоном. Лина замерла и неуверенно посмотрела на него. «Куда вы меня ведёте?» «Домой, конечно, - уверенно заявил мужчина. - Теперь мы женаты, поэтому, естественно, будем жить вместе». Домой? Это слово заставило сердце Лины замереть. Оно напомнило ей о доме, в котором она жила с Фёдором и который так старательно обустраивала для их совместного будущего. Однако поскольку она вышла замуж за Кирилла, то поняла, что ей придётся разорвать связи со своим прошлым. Глубоко вздохнув, девушка повернулась к нему и сказала: «Сначала мне нужно кое-что сделать. Вы можете дать мне свои контактные данные и адрес? Я приеду, как только всё улажу». Кирилл приподнял бровь, пронзительно глядя на неё. «Хочешь, я тебя подвезу?» «Нет, всё в порядке, - ответила она твёрдым, но ласковым голосом. - Я сама справлюсь. Не хочу вас беспокоить». Мужчина не стал спорить. Обменявшись с ней контактными данными, он сел в машину и уехал. Через полчаса Лина стояла перед квартирой, которую когда-то делила с Фёдором. Когда она повернула ключ в замке, дверь со скрипом открылась, и на девушку мгновенно нахлынули воспоминания. Лина вошла внутрь, скользя взглядом по каждому знакомому предмету - скатерти, растениям в горшках - всё здесь она выбрала собственными руками, чтобы создать уют. Однако сейчас это больше напоминало тюрьму. Не раздумывая, она сорвала декор, с корнем вырвала растения и выбросила всё в мусорное ведро. Девушка решила начать с чистого листа, а значит, оставить прошлое позади. Даже если это больно. Избавившись от остатков старой жизни, она начала собирать вещи. Погружённая в свои мысли, Лина не услышала звука приближающихся шагов. Потрясённый Фёдор застыл в дверях и недоверчиво наблюдал за происходящим, а затем, не сдержавшись, выпалил: «Лина, какого чёрта ты творишь?» Глава 3 Не трогай меня В квартире, когда-то уютной и наполненной теплом, царил хаос, полностью лишивший помещение очарования. Лина продолжала упаковывать оставшиеся вещи в чемодан и действовала при этом уверенно, намереваясь полностью стереть свои следы в этом доме. Фёдор на мгновение замер, обводя взглядом разруху, а затем недоверчиво бросился к девушке. «Лина, ты с ума сошла? - раздражённо выпалил он, повысив голос. - За моё недолгое отсутствие ты в истерике всё здесь разворотила? - мужчина резко вдохнул, пытаясь сдержать свой гнев, и рявкнул: - Даю тебе один час. Верни всё на место!» Не обращая на него внимания, Лина закончила упаковывать вещь, а затем медленно повернулась к нему лицом. Выражение её лица оставалось холодным и отстранённым, словно перед ней стоял незнакомец. Слабая насмешливая улыбка тронула её губы, когда она ответила: «Фёдор, ты что, не догадался? Что-то потеряв, ты этого уже не вернёшь. Уже не сделаешь так, как было раньше». Фёдор нахмурился ещё сильнее, нетерпеливо глядя на неё. «Что, чёрт возьми, ты хочешь сказать?» Лина почувствовала дерзость в его тоне. Неужели он действительно не понял? Возможно, такие люди, как он, всегда считали себя правыми. Однако это не так. Он проявлял нежность лишь к одному человеку - Жанне, женщине, которую по-настоящему любил. Смело глядя на собеседника, Лина уверенно ответила, и каждое её слово, казалось, несло в себе тяжесть всего, что ей пришлось пережить: «В день нашей свадьбы ты бросил меня, проигнорировав мои мольбы и растоптав моё достоинство. Ты хоть представляешь, что я чувствовала? Фёдор, ты хоть раз задумывался обо мне? Ты меня унизил и сейчас заявляешь, что я просто устраиваю истерику?» Не моргая, она пристально смотрела ему в глаза, и внезапно ранее подавляемая боль выплеснулась наружу, а зрение затуманилось от навернувшихся слёз. Охваченная решимостью, Лина не отвела взгляда. Увидев её в таком состоянии, Фёдор ощутил мимолётный укол вины, но быстро отмахнулся от него. Он поступал так бесчисленное количество раз. На протяжении многих лет мужчина постоянно причинял ей боль, но она всегда прощала его. Он не понимал, почему в этот раз должно быть иначе. Фёдор полагал, что если её немного очаровать, она уступит, как делала всегда. Так уж сложились отношения между ними. При этой мысли его гнев рассеялся, сменившись сдержанной, практически самодовольной улыбкой. «Лина, ладно, я понял. Ты расстроена, - начал он мягким, покровительственным голосом. - Но тебе не следует так себя вести. Посмотри, что ты сделала с нашим домом, - его улыбка смягчилась, когда он протянул руки и с притворной нежностью положил их девушке на плечи, словно пытался успокоить. - Давай, веди себя хорошо. Ты выпустила свой гнев, поэтому давай больше не будем устраивать сцен, ладно? А как насчёт этого? Мы выберем другой день, получше, и я обещаю, что у нас будет ещё более роскошная, великолепная свадьба. Что скажешь?» Лина не сводила глаз с улыбки Фёдора. Несмотря на ласковые слова, его ледяной взгляд выдавал безразличие. Казалось, он не сомневался, что она клюнет на его уловку. А почему ему думать иначе? Так всегда происходило. Лина горько усмехнулась. Она дала ему слишком много шансов, и теперь он полагал, что ему не нужно относиться к ней с должным уважением. С отстранённым выражением лица девушка молча сбросила его руки, словно надоедливый груз. «Не трогай меня. От тебя у меня мурашки по коже», - равнодушно бросила она. Фёдор замер, а его глаза расширились от потрясения. Он никогда раньше не слышал, чтобы она так с ним разговаривала. Ледяным голосом девушка продолжила: «Фёдор, со свадьбой покончено. У меня нет желания устраивать ещё одну. Я приехала сюда, чтобы забрать свои вещи и съехать». Ошеломлённый её отказом, Фёдор нахмурился в замешательстве, пытаясь осознать происходящее. «Съехать?» Лина кивнула, демонстрируя решимость. «Да. Я ухожу». Он глухо усмехнулся, словно только что услышал самую нелепую шутку. «И куда ты собираешься идти?» Мужчина прекрасно знал, что у Лины нет семьи, к которой можно обратиться за помощью, и никто не подставит ей плечо. Кроме этой квартиры, у неё больше ничего нет. Последние пять лет её мир вращался вокруг него. Он был уверен, что она не сможет его оставить. Мужчина считал, что этот так называемый переезд - не более чем попытка заставить его подчиниться её воле. Покачав головой в недоумении, он открыл рот, чтобы продолжить, но его прервал голос позади. Это оказалась Жанна. «Фёдор, разве ты не говорил, что спустишься через минуту, как только соберёшься? Что тебя задержало?» Когда Жанна вошла, её голос эхом разнёсся по комнате. Увидев Лину, стоявшую напротив Фёдора, она удивлённо воскликнула: «Лина, что ты здесь делаешь?» Лина бросила на Жанну холодный взгляд и ледяным тоном ответила: «Это моя квартира, не так ли? Мне надо объяснять, что я здесь делаю? Вопрос в том, что ты здесь делаешь?» Жанна опустила взгляд, изображая смущение и невинность. «Я случайно по**залась ножом для фруктов, и Фёдор так разволновался, что настоял на том, чтобы остаться со мной на несколько дней, - затем её взгляд метнулся к чемодану рядом с Линой, и она театрально ахнула, прикрыв рот рукой. - Лина, что ты делаешь? Ты расстроилась? Полагаю, что это неуместно. Если тебя что-то беспокоит, ты можешь поговорить со мной. Я извинюсь, если это тебя успокоит. Во всём этом нет необходимости». Губы Лины изогнулись в холодной, почти жестокой улыбке, когда она медленно шагнула вперёд к Жанне. «Ты действительно собираешься извиниться? Серьёзно?» Зная, что Фёдор наблюдает за ней, Жанна с фальшивой искренностью кивнула: «Конечно. Если это поможет, я сделаю всё возможное». «Ну, ладно. Почему нет? - улыбка Лины стала шире, но в её глазах поселился холодный расчёт. - Поскольку ты так искренна, полагаю, я смогу тебе помочь». С этими словами она замахнулась. Резкий звук по**чины эхом разнёсся по комнате, когда ладонь Лины коснулась лица Жанны, подтверждая окончательность её слов. Глава 4 Лина, ты действительно изменилась Жанна пронзительно вскрикнула от удара и на мгновение застыла. Схватившись за горящую щёку, она уставилась на Лину, широко распахнув глаза от недоверия. «Лина, как ты посмела дать мне пощёчину?» - прошипела она дрожащим от ярости голосом. Губы Лины скривились в ледяной, насмешливой улыбке, а глаза холодно сверкнули. «А почему я не могу? Ты сама этого просила. Ты же хотела извиниться, да? Но одна по**чина вряд ли успокоит мой гнев. Может, вторая поможет». С этими словами она снова подняла руку, не отрывая взгляда от лица Жанны. Фёдор, всё ещё не оправившийся от шока, наконец вздрогнул и, с яростным криком бросившись вперёд, оттолкнул Лину в сторону. «Хватит! Лина, не заходи слишком далеко!» Обняв Жанну, взволнованный мужчина начал что-то бормотать, пытаясь успокоить её. Лина отшатнулась назад, с лёгкостью восстановила равновесие и, равнодушно окинув их взглядом, с сарказмом произнесла: «Это заходит слишком далеко? Жанна сама заявила, что хочет извиниться. Фёдор, ты глухой? Если она действительно хотела извиниться, ей следовало просто промолчать и дать мне выпустить пар. Я просто ударила её. Неужели это заходит слишком далеко? То, что я с ней сделала, ничто по сравнению с тем, что вы двое сделали со мной, - с горечью глядя на них, она продолжила: - Вы оба отвратительные обманщики. И однажды, когда правда выйдет наружу, кто поверит хоть одному вашему слову?» Фёдор застыл, ошеломлённый потоком обвинений. Он открыл рот, но не смог произнести ни единого слова в свою защиту. Прижимая Жанну к себе, словно защищая её, мужчина, прищурившись, смотрел на Лину с растущим раздражением. После долгого напряжённого молчания он наконец злобно произнёс: «Даже если Жанна хотела извиниться, тебе не следовало давать ей пощёчину. Это всего лишь извинения. Насилием проблемы не решить. Ты ведёшь себя как дикое животное!» Лина слегка наклонила голову и холодно ухмыльнулась, а затем небрежно согнула запястье. «Я посчитаю это комплиментом, - ответила она, пристально глядя на него. - Раз уж ты такого высоко обо мне мнения, может, мне ещё пару раз её ударить, чтобы оправдать твои похвалы?» Услышав насмешливый ответ, потрясённый Фёдор с открытым ртом уставился на неё. На мгновение ему показалось, что женщина перед ним - вовсе не та Лина, которую он знал. Не менее ошеломлённая Жанна смотрела на Лину с недоверием, пытаясь осмыслить ситуацию. Она и раньше издевалась над Линой бесчисленное количество раз, но всё происходило иначе. Та никогда так не сопротивлялась. Неужели Лина сошла с ума? Напряжение в комнате нарастало, и внезапно Жанна почувствовала неладное. Может, Лина делала это намеренно, чтобы привлечь внимание Фёдора? Она бросила быстрый тревожный взгляд на мужчину и обнаружила, что тот полностью поглощён Линой и не сводит с неё глаз. Жанна почувствовала ревность. Она приложила немало усилий, чтобы отобрать его у Лины, и ни за что не позволит последней вернуть его. Запаниковав, Жанна крепче сжала руку Фёдора, притягивая его к себе, а затем с напускной любезностью сказала: «Фёдор, не говори так. Лина, вероятно, просто расстроена. Я не возражаю. Если она перестанет на нас злиться, меня всё устроит». Сердце Фёдора переполнилось сочувствием к Жанне, а её слова лишь усилили его злость по отношению к Лине. «Лина, ты действительно изменилась, - сказал он с нескрываемым разочарованием в голосе. - Лина, которую я знал, никогда так себя не повела бы. Если продолжишь вести себя подобным образом...» Лина прервала его, прежде чем он успел договорить, и язвительно парировала: «Конечно, я изменилась. Я, наверное, сошла с ума, если раньше терпела тебя. Но больше не буду. Я поумнела. Только и**от будет продолжать унижаться, как я. Фёдор, позволь мне прояснить ситуацию: между нами всё кончено. Окончательно!» Не говоря больше ни слова, девушка схватила свой чемодан и с каменным выражением лица отвернулась. Фёдор застыл, поражённый таким решительным заявлением. Он никогда раньше не видел её такой. Когда она вышла из комнаты, волоча за собой чемодан, его грудь сжалась от паники, душившей его. По причинам, которые мужчина не мог понять, его тяготило тяжёлое чувство надвигающейся утраты, словно самая важная часть его жизни ускользала сквозь пальцы. «Лина!» - в отчаянии крикнул он, пытаясь догнать её. Глаза Жанны расширились от шока. Она не ожидала, что Фёдор отреагирует подобным образом. Не задумываясь, девушка приложила руку к щеке и тихо, драматично всхлипнула. «Федя, моё лицо... Мне так больно. У меня идёт к**вь?» Фёдор замер, а его сердце сжалось при звуке её печального голоса. Он неохотно повернулся к ней. На щеке Жанны виднелись едва заметные красные полосы, и у мужчины заныло в груди от этого зрелища. «Жанна, не плачь, - обеспокоенно пробормотал он. - Я отвезу тебя в больницу. Мы нанесём мазь, и всё будет хорошо». Жанна громко всхлипнула, театрально разрыдавшись. На мгновение она заколебалась, а затем, смягчившись, с притворной тревогой произнесла: «Федя, Лина действительно уходит. Может, тебе стоит пойти за ней, а не беспокоиться обо мне. Со мной всё будет хорошо». Фёдор прикусил губу, а затем поморщился. «На этот раз Лина перешла черту. Я больше не буду ей потакать. Пусть выпустит пар, а потом сама приползёт обратно. Когда она это сделает, я заставлю её извиниться перед тобой». Жанна почувствовала удовлетворение и, прижавшись к мужчине, приторно-сладким голосом пробормотала: «Федя, ты так добр ко мне». Её план работал идеально. Девушка самодовольно подумала, что у неё всё под контролем. Лина - просто д*ра, если думала, что сможет вернуть Фёдора. Однако когда Фёдор обнимал Жанну, тепло её ласк не помогало унять грызущее его беспокойство. В его груди шевельнулось странное беспокойство. Почему он так тревожился? Подавив беспокойство, мужчина попытался улыбнуться Жанне с напускным терпением. Однако как бы он ни старался, его взгляд возвращался к двери, за которой скрылась Лина. Лине некуда идти. В конце концов она вернётся. Он в этом не сомневался. Глава 5 Давай поспорим Вернувшись на виллу Светлая, Кирилл направился в кабинет. Общество видело в нём лишь беспомощного инвалида, но теперь он стоял гордо, без тени прежнего отчаяния. Мужчина остановился у французского окна и с непроницаемым выражением лица смотрел на пейзаж. В этот момент у него зазвонил телефон. На экране появился номер Даниила Варламова, его друг детства. «Привет, Кирилл, - небрежно произнёс Даниил. - Я проверил информацию о твоей жене и не нашёл ничего подозрительного. Её биография подтвердилась. Она вышла за тебя замуж, потому что жених бросил её у алтаря, - Даниил внезапно сменил тон и игриво заметил: - Знаешь, все богатые девушки в городе избегают тебя как чумы. Они считают тебя инвалидом, которого выгнали из семьи, - идеальный образ изгоя. А Лина? У неё хватило смелости подойти к тебе и выйти за тебя замуж. Должен сказать, что она мужественная, - после короткой паузы Даниил добавил с задумчивым вздохом: - Хотя мне и интересно... Когда она узнает правду, то как это воспримет?» Кирилл бесстрастным голосом ответил: «У неё не будет такой возможности. Как только она поняла, кто я на самом деле, то придумала оправдание и ушла. Вероятно, она не вернётся». Он не удивился, поскольку после аварии отвержение и презрение стали частью его жизни. Низкое положение в семье Радуловых лишь усиливало его изоляцию, но он безразлично относился ко всему происходящему. Люди часто говорили, что выйти замуж за такого мужчину, как он, человека без будущего, - всё равно что поставить крест на жизни женщины. Однако Даниил не согласился с другом. «Не думаю, что она такая, - с усмешкой возразил он. - Подумай, сколько женщин осмелились бы сменить жениха на своей свадьбе? Чутьё подсказывает мне, что Лина не сбежит. Поскольку она вышла за тебя замуж, то вряд ли просто исчезнет, - с каждым словом Даниил всё сильнее волновался. - Ты мне не веришь? Давай поспорим. Держу пари, Лина скоро вернётся. Если я выиграю, ты отдашь мне тот участок земли на окраине города. Договорились?» Кирилл приподнял бровь и расчётливым тоном ответил: «А если проиграешь?» Даниил пренебрежительно усмехнулся: «Я не проиграю, понятно? - внезапно почувствовав холодность собеседника даже через телефон, он непроизвольно вздрогнул и поспешно отступил: - Ладно, ладно. Если я проиграю, можешь попросить о чём-то равноценном. Договорились?» Кирилл ни на секунду не поверил, что Лина вернётся, поэтому холодно фыркнул, что Даниил воспринял как молчаливое согласие. Когда Кирилл собирался повесить трубку, в дверь постучали, а затем раздался голос экономки: «Господин Радулов, приехала госпожа Радулова». ...... Что будет дальше? Количество глав здесь ограничено, нажмите на кнопку ниже, чтобы установить приложение и продолжить чтение более захватывающих глав! (Вы будете автоматически перенаправлены на книгу, когда откроете приложение) &3&

В день свадьбы жених оставил её, чтобы найти свою любимую. Она в гневе наугад выбрала другого брошенного мужчину с инвалидностью и вышла за него замуж, не ожидая, что он окажется скрытым миллиардером! ===== «Фёдор, свадьба скоро начнётся, ты не можешь просто так уйти!» - в панике произнесла Лина Бролова, одетая в белоснежное платье, и дрожащими пальцами вцепилась в руку Фёдора Власова. «Уйди. Жанна ранена. Она одна в больнице и, вероятно, сильно напугана. Я должен быть рядом с ней». Нахмурившись, он напряжённым от волнения голосом произнёс. Лина заметно побледнела. Сегодняшний день должен был стать их днём. Однако как раз перед началом церемонии Фёдор прочитал сообщение, повернулся к толпе и объявил об отмене свадьбы. Речь шла о Жанне Самсоновой, юношеской любви Фёдора. Лина начала встречаться с ним пять лет назад. И на протяжении этого времени, когда они куда-то выходили, стоило Жанне лишь позвать его - Фёдор бросал Лину. Он всегда настаивал на том, что считает Жанну сестрой, и просил Лину понять его. И та раз за разом это делала. Однако сейчас речь шла об их свадьбе. Ну и что, что Жанна нуждалась в нём? Значит ли это, что Лине предстояло быть покинутой тем, кто пообещал жениться на ней? Дрогнувшим голосом девушка прошептала: «Нет, ты не можешь уйти. Свадьба без тебя не состоится. Несмотря ни на что, сегодня ты должен остаться. Пожалуйста, Фёдор... Умоляю тебя». Однако его терпение лопнуло: «Хватит! Перестань вести себя так эгоистично и неразумно. Мы всегда можем перенести свадьбу. Но сейчас Жанна ранена. Если я не поеду, ты возьмёшь на себя ответственность? Уйди!» Прежде чем она успела сказать хоть слово, он протиснулся мимо неё. Лина пошатнулась, каблуки предательски заскользили по полированному полу, и она упала. Потрясённая девушка, затаив дыхание, смотрела, как Фёдор скрылся за дверью, даже не оглянувшись. В следующую секунду у неё зазвонил телефон. Не задумываясь, она ответила и тут же услышала самодовольный, ликующий голос женщины: «Лина, сегодня у вас с Фёдором большой день? Тебе понравился мой маленький подарок?» Тело Лины напряглось, когда до неё дошло. Сквозь стиснутые зубы она прошипела: «Жанна, ты сделала это нарочно. Ты специально выманила Фёдора, не так ли?» «Верно. И? Что ты собираешься с этим делать? Просто хотела напомнить тебе, что в сердце Фёдора я всегда буду на первом месте, - высокомерно заявила Жанна, не скрывая насмешки. - Могу поспорить, ты потратила месяцы на планирование церемонии, да? Какая жалость. Все усилия, все мечты - всё насмарку. Честно говоря, мне даже жаль тебя». Лина посмотрела на белоснежное платье и впервые осознала, что последние пять лет оказались просто насмешкой. Став сиротой, она отчаянно искала семью и любовь. Однако Фёдор... Он не собирался ей этого давать. Хватит выпрашивать то, что ей не суждено получить. Резкий, холодный смех сорвался с её губ. «Не забегай вперёд, Жанна. Свадьба состоится». Тон собеседницы мгновенно стал ядовитым: «Ты с ума сошла? Фёдор - жених. И его там нет. Как ты планируешь провести свадьбу без него?» Губы Лины медленно изогнулись в насмешливой улыбке. Кто сказал, что её женихом обязательно должен стать Фёдор? Если он так легко ушёл, то она найдёт другого, того, кто действительно заслуживал быть рядом с ней. Девушка уверенно заявила: «Сделай мне одолжение, Жанна, передай сообщение Фёдору. Скажи ему, что он мне больше не нужен. Он не стоит ни секунды моего времени. И раз уж ты так отчаянно хочешь его заполучить, пожалуйста. Бесхребетный мужчина и бесстыдная женщина - идеальная пара. Желаю удачи». Голос Жанны стал резким от гнева: «Лина, я тебя предупреждаю. Не играй с огнём!» Однако Лина, не желая её слушать, завершила разговор. До церемонии оставалось тридцать минут. Она хотела как можно скорее найти нового жениха. Подняв подол платья, девушка выбежала из комнаты. К её удивлению, у входа толпилось множество мужчин в чёрных костюмах. Их грозный вид говорил о том, что они кого-то искали. Среди них выделялся мужчина в свадебном костюме, сидевший в инвалидном кресле, а его осанка излучала непререкаемый авторитет. Безмолвный и неподвижный, он источал ледяное, почти недосягаемое величие. Внезапно он властным тоном обратился к телохранителю, стоявшему перед ним: «Церемония скоро начнётся. Вы уже нашли Арину?» Телохранитель заметно напрягся и нерешительно ответил: «Господин Радулов, мы всё обыскали, но не обнаружили следов госпожи Гуниной. Похоже, она сбежала». «Сбежала? - спокойно переспросил мужчина, но его взгляд стал холодным и беспощадным, как у хищника, оценивающего свою добычу. - Если свадьба не состоится вовремя, ты знаешь, что это значит». Лина ловила каждое слово и в одно мгновение поняла: этого человек бросили у алтаря, как и её. Не колеблясь, она подхватила подол платья и направилась к нему. Телохранители отреагировали мгновенно, встав перед ней с напряжёнными и настороженными выражениями лиц. «Что вы делаете?» Мужчина в инвалидном кресле обратил на неё внимание, подавляя своей энергетикой. Однако Лина не дрогнула. Она спокойно посмотрела ему в глаза и произнесла: «Я слышала, что ваша невеста сбежала. Если это так, позвольте мне занять её место. Я стану вашей невестой». Глава 2 Я не пожалею об этом Услышав слова Лины, мужчина слегка прищурился, а затем резко поинтересовался: «Вы уверены в этом? Я инвалид. Если выйдете за меня замуж, то рано или поздно об этом пожалеете». Лину не смутило его заявление. Не отводя глаз, она спросила: «Вы бросили бы свою жену ради другой женщины?» «Конечно нет», - мгновенно ответил он уверенным тоном. «Тогда я не пожалею об этом, - с непоколебимой решимостью заявила Лина. - Если вы согласны, я выйду за вас замуж». Увидев искренность в её глазах, мужчина не нашёл причин отказать ей. Медленно кивнув, он ответил: «Хорошо, тогда давайте поженимся». В итоге практически отменённая свадьбы Лины пошла своим чередом. В присутствии священника они спокойно обменялись клятвами. Когда они вышли из церкви, Лина ощутила странное чувство нереальности происходящего. Она только что вышла замуж за человека, которого ещё несколько часов назад даже не знала. Толкая инвалидное кресло мужа по ступенькам, девушка внезапно кое-что поняла. «Кстати, я даже не знаю вашего имени». «Кирилл Радулов», - спокойно ответил тот. Глаза Лины расширились от удивления. «Подождите, вы Кирилл Радулов? Старший сын Радуловых?» Кирилл увидел потрясение на её лице и ухмыльнулся, а затем насмешливо ответил: «В чём дело? Теперь, узнав, что вышла замуж за человека, которого все считают неудачником, ты жалеешь об этом?» Каждый в городе хоть раз слышал историю Кирилла - старшего сына семьи Радуловых. Его мать умерла при родах, а отец снова женился. После аварии Кирилл оказался в инвалидной коляске и в глазах общественности мгновенно стал никем. Когда мачеха родила сына, Кирилл стал изгоем в семье. Если бы не его бабушка, Ирина Радулова, которая всегда защищала и оберегала Кирилла, его, скорее всего, давно выбросили бы на улицу, оставив на произвол судьбы. По мнению Кирилла, ни одна женщина в здравом уме не вышла бы замуж за такого мужчину, как он, если бы только не нуждалась в деньгах. Он был не просто инвалидом, а ненужным сыном семьи Радуловых. Мужчина полагал, что Лина разочаруется, и приготовился увидеть на её лице сожаление или горечь. Однако, к удивлению Кирилла, девушка посмотрела на него не с жалостью или презрением, а с глубоким, невысказанным пониманием, словно увидела его настоящего - ещё одну душу, брошенную теми, кто должен любить его. Она нежно взяла его за руку и сжала её. «Я сказала вам, что, приняв решение, не пожалею об этом. Теперь, когда мы женаты, я позабочусь о том, чтобы ваш дом наполнился теплом и заботой». «Неужели? - скептически спросил Кирилл. - Посмотрим». Он ей не поверил. Ему стало любопытно, как долго девушка сможет притворяться, когда поймёт, что ничего от него не получит. Перед ними остановилась машина, прервав его размышления. «Пошли», - сказал Кирилл командным тоном. Лина замерла и неуверенно посмотрела на него. «Куда вы меня ведёте?» «Домой, конечно, - уверенно заявил мужчина. - Теперь мы женаты, поэтому, естественно, будем жить вместе». Домой? Это слово заставило сердце Лины замереть. Оно напомнило ей о доме, в котором она жила с Фёдором и который так старательно обустраивала для их совместного будущего. Однако поскольку она вышла замуж за Кирилла, то поняла, что ей придётся разорвать связи со своим прошлым. Глубоко вздохнув, девушка повернулась к нему и сказала: «Сначала мне нужно кое-что сделать. Вы можете дать мне свои контактные данные и адрес? Я приеду, как только всё улажу». Кирилл приподнял бровь, пронзительно глядя на неё. «Хочешь, я тебя подвезу?» «Нет, всё в порядке, - ответила она твёрдым, но ласковым голосом. - Я сама справлюсь. Не хочу вас беспокоить». Мужчина не стал спорить. Обменявшись с ней контактными данными, он сел в машину и уехал. Через полчаса Лина стояла перед квартирой, которую когда-то делила с Фёдором. Когда она повернула ключ в замке, дверь со скрипом открылась, и на девушку мгновенно нахлынули воспоминания. Лина вошла внутрь, скользя взглядом по каждому знакомому предмету - скатерти, растениям в горшках - всё здесь она выбрала собственными руками, чтобы создать уют. Однако сейчас это больше напоминало тюрьму. Не раздумывая, она сорвала декор, с корнем вырвала растения и выбросила всё в мусорное ведро. Девушка решила начать с чистого листа, а значит, оставить прошлое позади. Даже если это больно. Избавившись от остатков старой жизни, она начала собирать вещи. Погружённая в свои мысли, Лина не услышала звука приближающихся шагов. Потрясённый Фёдор застыл в дверях и недоверчиво наблюдал за происходящим, а затем, не сдержавшись, выпалил: «Лина, какого чёрта ты творишь?» Глава 3 Не трогай меня В квартире, когда-то уютной и наполненной теплом, царил хаос, полностью лишивший помещение очарования. Лина продолжала упаковывать оставшиеся вещи в чемодан и действовала при этом уверенно, намереваясь полностью стереть свои следы в этом доме. Фёдор на мгновение замер, обводя взглядом разруху, а затем недоверчиво бросился к девушке. «Лина, ты с ума сошла? - раздражённо выпалил он, повысив голос. - За моё недолгое отсутствие ты в истерике всё здесь разворотила? - мужчина резко вдохнул, пытаясь сдержать свой гнев, и рявкнул: - Даю тебе один час. Верни всё на место!» Не обращая на него внимания, Лина закончила упаковывать вещь, а затем медленно повернулась к нему лицом. Выражение её лица оставалось холодным и отстранённым, словно перед ней стоял незнакомец. Слабая насмешливая улыбка тронула её губы, когда она ответила: «Фёдор, ты что, не догадался? Что-то потеряв, ты этого уже не вернёшь. Уже не сделаешь так, как было раньше». Фёдор нахмурился ещё сильнее, нетерпеливо глядя на неё. «Что, чёрт возьми, ты хочешь сказать?» Лина почувствовала дерзость в его тоне. Неужели он действительно не понял? Возможно, такие люди, как он, всегда считали себя правыми. Однако это не так. Он проявлял нежность лишь к одному человеку - Жанне, женщине, которую по-настоящему любил. Смело глядя на собеседника, Лина уверенно ответила, и каждое её слово, казалось, несло в себе тяжесть всего, что ей пришлось пережить: «В день нашей свадьбы ты бросил меня, проигнорировав мои мольбы и растоптав моё достоинство. Ты хоть представляешь, что я чувствовала? Фёдор, ты хоть раз задумывался обо мне? Ты меня унизил и сейчас заявляешь, что я просто устраиваю истерику?» Не моргая, она пристально смотрела ему в глаза, и внезапно ранее подавляемая боль выплеснулась наружу, а зрение затуманилось от навернувшихся слёз. Охваченная решимостью, Лина не отвела взгляда. Увидев её в таком состоянии, Фёдор ощутил мимолётный укол вины, но быстро отмахнулся от него. Он поступал так бесчисленное количество раз. На протяжении многих лет мужчина постоянно причинял ей боль, но она всегда прощала его. Он не понимал, почему в этот раз должно быть иначе. Фёдор полагал, что если её немного очаровать, она уступит, как делала всегда. Так уж сложились отношения между ними. При этой мысли его гнев рассеялся, сменившись сдержанной, практически самодовольной улыбкой. «Лина, ладно, я понял. Ты расстроена, - начал он мягким, покровительственным голосом. - Но тебе не следует так себя вести. Посмотри, что ты сделала с нашим домом, - его улыбка смягчилась, когда он протянул руки и с притворной нежностью положил их девушке на плечи, словно пытался успокоить. - Давай, веди себя хорошо. Ты выпустила свой гнев, поэтому давай больше не будем устраивать сцен, ладно? А как насчёт этого? Мы выберем другой день, получше, и я обещаю, что у нас будет ещё более роскошная, великолепная свадьба. Что скажешь?» Лина не сводила глаз с улыбки Фёдора. Несмотря на ласковые слова, его ледяной взгляд выдавал безразличие. Казалось, он не сомневался, что она клюнет на его уловку. А почему ему думать иначе? Так всегда происходило. Лина горько усмехнулась. Она дала ему слишком много шансов, и теперь он полагал, что ему не нужно относиться к ней с должным уважением. С отстранённым выражением лица девушка молча сбросила его руки, словно надоедливый груз. «Не трогай меня. От тебя у меня мурашки по коже», - равнодушно бросила она. Фёдор замер, а его глаза расширились от потрясения. Он никогда раньше не слышал, чтобы она так с ним разговаривала. Ледяным голосом девушка продолжила: «Фёдор, со свадьбой покончено. У меня нет желания устраивать ещё одну. Я приехала сюда, чтобы забрать свои вещи и съехать». Ошеломлённый её отказом, Фёдор нахмурился в замешательстве, пытаясь осознать происходящее. «Съехать?» Лина кивнула, демонстрируя решимость. «Да. Я ухожу». Он глухо усмехнулся, словно только что услышал самую нелепую шутку. «И куда ты собираешься идти?» Мужчина прекрасно знал, что у Лины нет семьи, к которой можно обратиться за помощью, и никто не подставит ей плечо. Кроме этой квартиры, у неё больше ничего нет. Последние пять лет её мир вращался вокруг него. Он был уверен, что она не сможет его оставить. Мужчина считал, что этот так называемый переезд - не более чем попытка заставить его подчиниться её воле. Покачав головой в недоумении, он открыл рот, чтобы продолжить, но его прервал голос позади. Это оказалась Жанна. «Фёдор, разве ты не говорил, что спустишься через минуту, как только соберёшься? Что тебя задержало?» Когда Жанна вошла, её голос эхом разнёсся по комнате. Увидев Лину, стоявшую напротив Фёдора, она удивлённо воскликнула: «Лина, что ты здесь делаешь?» Лина бросила на Жанну холодный взгляд и ледяным тоном ответила: «Это моя квартира, не так ли? Мне надо объяснять, что я здесь делаю? Вопрос в том, что ты здесь делаешь?» Жанна опустила взгляд, изображая смущение и невинность. «Я случайно по**залась ножом для фруктов, и Фёдор так разволновался, что настоял на том, чтобы остаться со мной на несколько дней, - затем её взгляд метнулся к чемодану рядом с Линой, и она театрально ахнула, прикрыв рот рукой. - Лина, что ты делаешь? Ты расстроилась? Полагаю, что это неуместно. Если тебя что-то беспокоит, ты можешь поговорить со мной. Я извинюсь, если это тебя успокоит. Во всём этом нет необходимости». Губы Лины изогнулись в холодной, почти жестокой улыбке, когда она медленно шагнула вперёд к Жанне. «Ты действительно собираешься извиниться? Серьёзно?» Зная, что Фёдор наблюдает за ней, Жанна с фальшивой искренностью кивнула: «Конечно. Если это поможет, я сделаю всё возможное». «Ну, ладно. Почему нет? - улыбка Лины стала шире, но в её глазах поселился холодный расчёт. - Поскольку ты так искренна, полагаю, я смогу тебе помочь». С этими словами она замахнулась. Резкий звук по**чины эхом разнёсся по комнате, когда ладонь Лины коснулась лица Жанны, подтверждая окончательность её слов. Глава 4 Лина, ты действительно изменилась Жанна пронзительно вскрикнула от удара и на мгновение застыла. Схватившись за горящую щёку, она уставилась на Лину, широко распахнув глаза от недоверия. «Лина, как ты посмела дать мне пощёчину?» - прошипела она дрожащим от ярости голосом. Губы Лины скривились в ледяной, насмешливой улыбке, а глаза холодно сверкнули. «А почему я не могу? Ты сама этого просила. Ты же хотела извиниться, да? Но одна по**чина вряд ли успокоит мой гнев. Может, вторая поможет». С этими словами она снова подняла руку, не отрывая взгляда от лица Жанны. Фёдор, всё ещё не оправившийся от шока, наконец вздрогнул и, с яростным криком бросившись вперёд, оттолкнул Лину в сторону. «Хватит! Лина, не заходи слишком далеко!» Обняв Жанну, взволнованный мужчина начал что-то бормотать, пытаясь успокоить её. Лина отшатнулась назад, с лёгкостью восстановила равновесие и, равнодушно окинув их взглядом, с сарказмом произнесла: «Это заходит слишком далеко? Жанна сама заявила, что хочет извиниться. Фёдор, ты глухой? Если она действительно хотела извиниться, ей следовало просто промолчать и дать мне выпустить пар. Я просто ударила её. Неужели это заходит слишком далеко? То, что я с ней сделала, ничто по сравнению с тем, что вы двое сделали со мной, - с горечью глядя на них, она продолжила: - Вы оба отвратительные обманщики. И однажды, когда правда выйдет наружу, кто поверит хоть одному вашему слову?» Фёдор застыл, ошеломлённый потоком обвинений. Он открыл рот, но не смог произнести ни единого слова в свою защиту. Прижимая Жанну к себе, словно защищая её, мужчина, прищурившись, смотрел на Лину с растущим раздражением. После долгого напряжённого молчания он наконец злобно произнёс: «Даже если Жанна хотела извиниться, тебе не следовало давать ей пощёчину. Это всего лишь извинения. Насилием проблемы не решить. Ты ведёшь себя как дикое животное!» Лина слегка наклонила голову и холодно ухмыльнулась, а затем небрежно согнула запястье. «Я посчитаю это комплиментом, - ответила она, пристально глядя на него. - Раз уж ты такого высоко обо мне мнения, может, мне ещё пару раз её ударить, чтобы оправдать твои похвалы?» Услышав насмешливый ответ, потрясённый Фёдор с открытым ртом уставился на неё. На мгновение ему показалось, что женщина перед ним - вовсе не та Лина, которую он знал. Не менее ошеломлённая Жанна смотрела на Лину с недоверием, пытаясь осмыслить ситуацию. Она и раньше издевалась над Линой бесчисленное количество раз, но всё происходило иначе. Та никогда так не сопротивлялась. Неужели Лина сошла с ума? Напряжение в комнате нарастало, и внезапно Жанна почувствовала неладное. Может, Лина делала это намеренно, чтобы привлечь внимание Фёдора? Она бросила быстрый тревожный взгляд на мужчину и обнаружила, что тот полностью поглощён Линой и не сводит с неё глаз. Жанна почувствовала ревность. Она приложила немало усилий, чтобы отобрать его у Лины, и ни за что не позволит последней вернуть его. Запаниковав, Жанна крепче сжала руку Фёдора, притягивая его к себе, а затем с напускной любезностью сказала: «Фёдор, не говори так. Лина, вероятно, просто расстроена. Я не возражаю. Если она перестанет на нас злиться, меня всё устроит». Сердце Фёдора переполнилось сочувствием к Жанне, а её слова лишь усилили его злость по отношению к Лине. «Лина, ты действительно изменилась, - сказал он с нескрываемым разочарованием в голосе. - Лина, которую я знал, никогда так себя не повела бы. Если продолжишь вести себя подобным образом...» Лина прервала его, прежде чем он успел договорить, и язвительно парировала: «Конечно, я изменилась. Я, наверное, сошла с ума, если раньше терпела тебя. Но больше не буду. Я поумнела. Только и**от будет продолжать унижаться, как я. Фёдор, позволь мне прояснить ситуацию: между нами всё кончено. Окончательно!» Не говоря больше ни слова, девушка схватила свой чемодан и с каменным выражением лица отвернулась. Фёдор застыл, поражённый таким решительным заявлением. Он никогда раньше не видел её такой. Когда она вышла из комнаты, волоча за собой чемодан, его грудь сжалась от паники, душившей его. По причинам, которые мужчина не мог понять, его тяготило тяжёлое чувство надвигающейся утраты, словно самая важная часть его жизни ускользала сквозь пальцы. «Лина!» - в отчаянии крикнул он, пытаясь догнать её. Глаза Жанны расширились от шока. Она не ожидала, что Фёдор отреагирует подобным образом. Не задумываясь, девушка приложила руку к щеке и тихо, драматично всхлипнула. «Федя, моё лицо... Мне так больно. У меня идёт к**вь?» Фёдор замер, а его сердце сжалось при звуке её печального голоса. Он неохотно повернулся к ней. На щеке Жанны виднелись едва заметные красные полосы, и у мужчины заныло в груди от этого зрелища. «Жанна, не плачь, - обеспокоенно пробормотал он. - Я отвезу тебя в больницу. Мы нанесём мазь, и всё будет хорошо». Жанна громко всхлипнула, театрально разрыдавшись. На мгновение она заколебалась, а затем, смягчившись, с притворной тревогой произнесла: «Федя, Лина действительно уходит. Может, тебе стоит пойти за ней, а не беспокоиться обо мне. Со мной всё будет хорошо». Фёдор прикусил губу, а затем поморщился. «На этот раз Лина перешла черту. Я больше не буду ей потакать. Пусть выпустит пар, а потом сама приползёт обратно. Когда она это сделает, я заставлю её извиниться перед тобой». Жанна почувствовала удовлетворение и, прижавшись к мужчине, приторно-сладким голосом пробормотала: «Федя, ты так добр ко мне». Её план работал идеально. Девушка самодовольно подумала, что у неё всё под контролем. Лина - просто д*ра, если думала, что сможет вернуть Фёдора. Однако когда Фёдор обнимал Жанну, тепло её ласк не помогало унять грызущее его беспокойство. В его груди шевельнулось странное беспокойство. Почему он так тревожился? Подавив беспокойство, мужчина попытался улыбнуться Жанне с напускным терпением. Однако как бы он ни старался, его взгляд возвращался к двери, за которой скрылась Лина. Лине некуда идти. В конце концов она вернётся. Он в этом не сомневался. Глава 5 Давай поспорим Вернувшись на виллу Светлая, Кирилл направился в кабинет. Общество видело в нём лишь беспомощного инвалида, но теперь он стоял гордо, без тени прежнего отчаяния. Мужчина остановился у французского окна и с непроницаемым выражением лица смотрел на пейзаж. В этот момент у него зазвонил телефон. На экране появился номер Даниила Варламова, его друг детства. «Привет, Кирилл, - небрежно произнёс Даниил. - Я проверил информацию о твоей жене и не нашёл ничего подозрительного. Её биография подтвердилась. Она вышла за тебя замуж, потому что жених бросил её у алтаря, - Даниил внезапно сменил тон и игриво заметил: - Знаешь, все богатые девушки в городе избегают тебя как чумы. Они считают тебя инвалидом, которого выгнали из семьи, - идеальный образ изгоя. А Лина? У неё хватило смелости подойти к тебе и выйти за тебя замуж. Должен сказать, что она мужественная, - после короткой паузы Даниил добавил с задумчивым вздохом: - Хотя мне и интересно... Когда она узнает правду, то как это воспримет?» Кирилл бесстрастным голосом ответил: «У неё не будет такой возможности. Как только она поняла, кто я на самом деле, то придумала оправдание и ушла. Вероятно, она не вернётся». Он не удивился, поскольку после аварии отвержение и презрение стали частью его жизни. Низкое положение в семье Радуловых лишь усиливало его изоляцию, но он безразлично относился ко всему происходящему. Люди часто говорили, что выйти замуж за такого мужчину, как он, человека без будущего, - всё равно что поставить крест на жизни женщины. Однако Даниил не согласился с другом. «Не думаю, что она такая, - с усмешкой возразил он. - Подумай, сколько женщин осмелились бы сменить жениха на своей свадьбе? Чутьё подсказывает мне, что Лина не сбежит. Поскольку она вышла за тебя замуж, то вряд ли просто исчезнет, - с каждым словом Даниил всё сильнее волновался. - Ты мне не веришь? Давай поспорим. Держу пари, Лина скоро вернётся. Если я выиграю, ты отдашь мне тот участок земли на окраине города. Договорились?» Кирилл приподнял бровь и расчётливым тоном ответил: «А если проиграешь?» Даниил пренебрежительно усмехнулся: «Я не проиграю, понятно? - внезапно почувствовав холодность собеседника даже через телефон, он непроизвольно вздрогнул и поспешно отступил: - Ладно, ладно. Если я проиграю, можешь попросить о чём-то равноценном. Договорились?» Кирилл ни на секунду не поверил, что Лина вернётся, поэтому холодно фыркнул, что Даниил воспринял как молчаливое согласие. Когда Кирилл собирался повесить трубку, в дверь постучали, а затем раздался голос экономки: «Господин Радулов, приехала госпожа Радулова». ...... Что будет дальше? Количество глав здесь ограничено, нажмите на кнопку ниже, чтобы установить приложение и продолжить чтение более захватывающих глав! (Вы будете автоматически перенаправлены на книгу, когда откроете приложение) &3&

To him, she was the only woman who could give him the perfect s*x. Yet after that night, she vanished. He never imagined the ugly woman he'd been searching for was his Luna. He decisively drove away her despicable ex-mate and publicly declared his love for her. ===== "You used me! Mating with me was your ladder to power, Roderick! Your Pack climbed the ranks because of me! Now that you've achieved your ambition, you don't need the ugly girl anymore, is that it? But you were willing to mate with me a year ago!" I sobbed, crying to my mate who just rejected me. "Oh, spare me!" Roderick rolled his eyes. "Don't act like you didn't know I'd have left you at some point. Hold on, did you really think I'd have made you the Luna of my Pack? I can barely stand the sight of you, Lyric. How do you expect me to take you to Alpha meetings and present you to others? You are disgusting!" "But I did not give this scar to myself!" I cried bitterly. "And you promised you'd take me to the best doctors. You didn't do any of that, Roderick! It'd have helped!" "What? Even your own family doesn't care enough to take you to doctors, and you think I would? Quit, dreaming, Lyric and get out of my Pack!" Tears blurred my vision. It wasn't the first time I was being called ugly, but it hurt more each time it came from Roderick. I knew Roderick had no love for me when my family paired me with him a year ago. For a year, we lived like strangers despite being mated. I was still a vi**in as he could not even bring himself to touch me. It wasn't my fault I was ugly. I was burnt with a silver-base branding iron when I was a kid, leaving a huge scar by the side of my face. I still didn't know who was responsible for it, but I've had to grow up with this sting of rejection. Even my own family hated me and were embarrassed by my appearance. But I thought Roderick would be different. I thought he'd love me. Apparently, in a world where ranks mattered the most to Pack Leaders, deceit was bound to happen. I glared at him. I'd truly loved this man and wished he'd love me back. But now, I wish he'd suffer for what he did to me. "You are a monster," I gritted the words. "And I hope you pay for this someday." He threw back his head and laughed, a hollow sound. "Cu**ed Lyric, how exactly is that going to happen? I am currently the third most powerful Alpha now. My Pack is up the ranks while your family is beneath me! There is nothing you can do to me anymore. You have always been and will always be worthless! "Listen, I have rejected you already, and you have accepted. Although, there is one final formality left, but as far as I'm concerned, you're not longer anything to me. So, get your disgusting face out of my pack! This instant, before I have the guards throw you out!" His glare was icy, and before I could respond, he walked out. ......... After I managed to pull myself together, I left Roderick's Pack and decided to head home-to my father's Pack. I hadn't been home since I moved into Roderick's Pack, and I hoped they'd be willing to take me in. My family had never really liked me. Everything started falling apart after my mother left-abandoning me when I was four. My father chose a new mate and suddenly didn't have enough time for me. Then, I got my scar and he became even more distant. The guards let me through the gate, but when I rang the bell of the lounge, my stepsister and her mother opened up. To my surprise, they wouldn't let me in. "Go back to Roderick and beg him some more, Lyric. There is no room for you here," Nora said after I explained everything to them. Despite my attempt to get them to pity me, letting them understand I had nowhere else to go, they ordered the guards to see me out. They've always taken me to be a disgrace to the family and were happy when I left for Roderick's Pack. Now, they didn't want me back. ......... By evening, I was seated in a b*r, my favorite b*r-Faceless Drunk. Over here, they mixed portions strong enough to get a wolf drunk, and you didn't have to worry about being recognized and judged as every customer made use of masks. It had been my favorite b*r for years. If people had to see my face, they'd think I was getting drunk because I was ugly. "You're too ugly." I'd heard those words too many times, I could recite them in my sl**p without missing a beat. But above all, it was Roderick's betrayal that cut deep. It was even more painful that I could not do anything for him. His Pack was very powerful now, and I was an ugly, rejected girl who didn't even have a family to return to. Nobody could ever want me. What was the point of living? I emptied the last of my drink and was trying to stand when someone spoke from nowhere: "A refill for the lady, please." I turned in surprise to find a man taking the seat beside me. The ba**ender nodded and proceeded to get a refill. I furrowed my brows in surprise as I looked at the newcomer. I couldn't see his face as he was wearing a mask just like me, but something about the way he appeared told me he was sophisticated. His suit was a Mason Étoile brand, and his watch was an Aristo Tempus watch. An average Wolf couldn't afford these things. "You've been coming here to drink alone for some time now," he said, surprising me. His voice... It was soothing and impossible to ignore. I lowered my eyes, feeling a little ashamed. How can he even tell? "I don't know what you're talking about." "Your mask." He tipped his chin toward me. "You've never changed it." Oh. "That means you also come here a lot." "I do. It's not quite up to my standard, but it's my favorite place. I like it when I don't get judged by anyone." The barman returned with my drink. I thanked the newcomer before drinking from my glass. "From the look of things, you must be troubled. I am, too. So, why don't we make a deal, Miss? Have fun for the night and go our separate ways by morning?" I looked at him in shock. He was offering a one-ni**t affiar! "But y-you don't even know me," I muttered shyly. "I do not need to. It is simply for fun." There was something about the way he spoke. I could tell he was a man who didn't care about the feelings of others and was only out to get what he wanted. "Although, I must warn you," he asked. "It will be a long night. I have... problems fi**shing on a woman. I never. So, like I said, it is simply for the fun of it." Huh? He could not cl**ax during in**macy? But I heard that was the best part of it. How could he enjoy in**macy if he had never fi**shed on a woman before? The thought of it was sad. Despite how absurd it sounded, a part of me was te**ted. I'd always been curious about intimacy. No one has ever liked me because of my scar, not even my mate-ex-mate. After much conviction from the newcomer, I gave it a thought. "Can we keep our masks on?" You'll hate me just like the others if you see how ugly I am. "Sure." He shrugged. "Your wish is my command, Princess." Princess? My stomach churned. Oh, no. He didn't know I looked like a monster. If he knew, he'd run off like the others. I was tempted to cry. Sometimes, I really did wish I were treated like a 'Princess.' Chapter 2 LYRIC'S POV 02 We left the b*r together, heading to his ho**l as he called it. We drove off in his Arcanis GT. It was one of the most expensive cars in the world. Whoever this man was, he was filthy rich. Could he possibly be an Alpha? A part of me had been tempted to ask questions, but none of it mattered. We were simply going to m**e l**e and never see each other again. ...... It was the best night of my life. The stranger had been shocked to know I was a vi**in. The entire session, he kept asking if I was fine and needed him to be more gentle. For the first time, someone cared about my feelings. But something unusual happened during the process. Everything had been going so fine until he suddenly jerked and came with a deep gr**n. I was shocked, but we were both in the moment and could not ask questions. He got off me almost immediately, sitting on the edge of the b*d. "That is strange," he muttered to himself. I was equally confused. He looked at me, and from how long it was, I could tell he was staring at me like I was a puzzle. "Who are you?" He ran a finger along my jaw. The touch was electric. I swallowed hard. I am just an ugly girl who has been abandoned by everyone she's ever come across. To my surprise, he took off his mask. My mouth fell open in shock at the face before me. Good Moon! If he wasn't the most stunning man I'd ever met! He was too good-looking. I could never have someone like him. He was too good for me. I pulled the duvet further to conceal my body. "You should've told me you were a vi**in at the bar," he said. What did it matter? I didn't care anymore. Slowly, his hand reached for my face. Realizing what he had in mind, I gasped and recoiled. "No." I shook my head, gripping the duvet tight. "Why? You've seen my face." Still, I shook my head. "Our deal still stands. There's nothing to be afraid of." He added. You don't understand! You'll hate me if you see my face. The night was going too smoothly. I didn't want anything to ruin it. "I'm ugly." I mumbled, dipping my head. He seemed surprised. He reached for my face again and this time, I didn't try to stop him. This was my fate. He pulled off the mask, put a finger under my chin and tipped my head up to meet his gaze. Tears glistened in my eyes as I stared into his silver charming eyes. He was staring right at my face, at my scar. He was going to run away now. I shivered and closed my eyes when he ran a finger along the scar. What was he doing? "What happened?" His tone was soft, his fingers still ca**ssing my face. I met his gaze and so far, there was no resentment in his eyes. "S-Someone attacked me." I swallowed. "I was abducted and blindfolded while they hurt me. I've visited a lot of doctors, but none have been able to help." Seconds passed. He didn't take his eyes off me. "You're beautiful," he murmured. I frowned. What was he talking about? "You really think the scar makes you ugly?" I shook my head, pulling my face away from his grasp. "I am ugly. Everyone tells me." More to my surprise, he pulled me in beside him, wrapping his arms around my shoulder. "Until tonight, I don't think I've ever met a lady as stunning as you, Princess." My heart quickened as I listened to his heartbeat with my head on his ch**t. Uncontrollably, a tear escaped my eye. He was lying. He only wanted me to feel better. "Do you think we could adjust our deal? I'd love to spend another day with you," he said, shocking me to the core. What!? This was not possible. "I-I-" "Please." My heart melted instantly. For the first time in my life, I was being begged to stay. Not leave. I buried my face in his ch**t as I responded: "I'd love to." ........ But like everyone else, he lied to me. Like everyone else, I was deceived. By morning, he was gone. I woke up and couldn't find him. There was no note, no trace that he had even been with me aside from the ache in-between my legs. And to make it worse, someone showed up at the door, asking me to leave. "The man I came with last night, do you think he'd come back?" I asked the man, my heart racing in my ch**t. "No. It was his idea to get you to leave. He said he doesn't want to see you anywhere near this property. Please, leave this instant," the man said and left. And just like that, my heart was shattered all over. But surprisingly, it hurt more than when I had been rejected by Roderick. Chapter 3 LYRIC'S POV 03 "I'm sorry, ma'am; but I'm here to pick someone. I can't give you a free ride, if that's what you're asking." I struggled to hold back my laughter as I listened to Rufus, one of my father's oldest guards say, his eyes darting past my shoulder, looking out for the person he had been assigned to pick from the airport. "I know. You have been sent to pick Lyric Harper, right? It's me, Rufus." His eyes narrowed with suspicion. "You still haven't told me how you know my name. And... And how can you be Lyric? It's not possible." He shook his head. "Lyric is-" "Ugly?" I finished for him, a broad smile on my face. He frowned as he shook his head. Back then, Rufus was the only one that had never been able to call me ugly. He was among the very few that had cared about my feelings, and even now, to a stranger, he still couldn't call me ugly. I laughed. "Well, would it help if I reminded you that your favorite soup was butternut squash and you and little Lyric used to play Chutes and Ladders?" Recognition beamed in his eyes. His jaw dropped in astonishment. "Seraphis have mercy! Lyric, it's really you!" He opened his arms, and I didn't hesitate to fall in for a warm hug. Back then, Rufus and I barely had time together, but he always made the few times we met worth it. He was the closest thing I had to a parent. "How is this possible?" He inquired after asking how I was. "Your face... My goodness! You look gorgeous! You've only been gone for five years and... I-I can't believe this." "It's a long story, Rufus. But for now, let's just say fates decided to smile on me." "Oh, Lyric! You do not know how happy I am to see you. I am sure your father must be delighted seeing you're not...un-beautiful anymore." I laughed at his attempt not to use the word 'ugly' on me. Well, as for my father, I rolled my eyes in my head. I felt a little sad that I was forced to return here after five years because of him. My life was perfect in Draconis. "Here. I'll take this to the car," Rufus said, taking my luggage. "You do that and I'll meet you in the car. I need to pick up an extra luggage. Don't worry, I'll be quick." I turned around and had barely taken three separate Rufus called my attention, "You dropped something." Looking at the floor, I found the scanned image. My heart jumped into my throat as I quickly crouched to retrieve it. Rufus watched with me with surprise. Obviously, he had seen the X-ray and would be wondering why the h**l something of that nature had been in my back pocket. Oh, Lyric. You couldn't be a little careful? "It's-It's not mine," I cleared my throat, hoping my lie was plausible. I mean, who carried X-ray photos of fetuses in their back pocket? Tucking it back into the pocket, I hurried away. ..... I had my hands crossed over my ch**t as I waited at the collecting center. My extra luggage would be brought to me at any moment. As I waited idly, disturbing thoughts ran through my mind. Father wanted me home for two reasons. The first was to completely cut ties with Roderick. In our world, when two wolves were getting mated, they tied a ribbon as a sign of their union and had it stored in a temple. So, when they wanted to part ways, there were two steps involved. First, they'd have to denounce themselves as mates with the words of their mouths, and secondly, cut the ribbon together. After Roderick denounced me as his mate, we didn't get the chance to see each other again. Circumstances happened that pulled me away. But now, he was desperate to finish the final steps. Apparently, he'd chosen a new mate but couldn't accept her when he was still partially bound to me. Well, I'd been looking forward to the day when I get to end things with the as**ole. He was my past, and the st**id ribbon was the final thing holding us together. "Excuse me, Ms. I'd like a moment of your time, please," someone said behind me. I turned to see a well-built man in a black suit and dark shades over his eyes. I didn't need anyone to tell me he was a guard. "Can I help you?" I furrowed my brows. "Kind of. The Alpha over there demands an audience with you." I looked to where he pointed-a mini b*r-but couldn't see the man he was referring to. His face was shielded by a counter. I fought the urge to roll my eyes. These days, it was tiring. It was obvious there would never be a day where I'd step out without garnering attention from the opposite gender. "I'm in a hurry. Tell him I'm sorry." I responded. The guard's jaw tightened. "You can't ignore him." I read the unspoken words from his tone: He's a powerful Alpha. You can't simply ignore his request. But I really wasn't interested in meeting anyone. "I'm sorry. I really am." I looked away. It was disrespectful to ignore an Alpha's call. In a world where ranks mattered, he could be one of the powerful ones and could punish me severely, but I really wasn't in the mood to talk to anyone. "It's Alpha Roderick of Nightshade." The guard added as if to entice me. But he had no idea, he had just reopened old wounds. My eyes moved to him, then quickly flicked to the b*r where the man was seated. Roderick? As in my ex-mate Roderick? The one I was here to end things with? No way. My ch**t tightened with pain and it was all I could do to keep my emotions intact. "More reason not to see him," I mumbled, turning away. "Did you say something?" "I said I am not seeing him." I gritted the words, my nails digging into my palms. The guard gave me a disapproving stare before walking away, and I released a shaky breath. Now, where the h**l was my luggage? I met one of the workers and demanded an update, and he assured me it'd be here any minute. Unfortunately, they were not fast enough as shortly, I saw Roderick approaching me. Chapter 4 LYRIC'S POV 04 Roderick Fletcher. The one man I'd hoped would love me but never did. The mind was a bi**h. I thought I was over Roderick's betrayal and wouldn't feel a thing when I met him. But watching him as he approached me, looking like he was the one in charge made my eyes rim with tears. I sniffled and looked away, forcing the tears back in. "So, I had to come over to speak to you myself," he leaned against the counter beside me. "How daring." My throat was tight, unable to find any words. I feared there would be a crack in my voice if I managed to speak. Three guards hovered beside him, their eyes darting around. Roderick looked sophisticated, like he'd obviously been having a good life. What was he even doing here? Was he picking someone? "What's the name?" He tilted his head as he asked. I said nothing, won't even look at him. "Hello?" "I don't feel like disclosing my name to strangers," I finally managed. My voice was tight. His eyes beamed with amusement. And here was a man who never smiled at me when we were together for one year. "Let's just say I'm overly excited today," he sighed. "I'm here, waiting for a certain bi**h to arrive." When I gave him a puzzled look,he added, "Ex-mate. We are through with the first step and just have the tiny little step to go. I'd finally be free of her." I scoffed. He was unbelievable. "I'd have done this sooner, you know? But the horrid girl has been missing for years. Stressed us the h**l out to find her." He spoke with raw disdain. "What makes you call her horrid?" I found myself asking before I could stop. He chuckled. "Trust me, honey; she's a monster. If you see her, you'd have the same opinion. She's the ugliest thing I've ever seen." Something hot exploded in my ch**t. It was all I could do not to let my emotions rush out. No. This was not the right place. But Roderick was the true monster. He had no idea he was standing before the very woman he despised. What would proud he do if he gets to know? It made sense why he was waiting at the airport. He clearly wanted to drag me to the temple to cut the ribbon. Well, I wouldn't let him humiliate me in public. Not again. Fortunately, my luggage finally arrived. "Sorry for the delay, ma'am," the young man said as he rolled it to me. Not looking at Roderick, I made to leave. That must have surprised him. "I'd love to speak to you some other time. Your contact, if you don't mind." For a moment, I stood with my back to him, contemplating my words. I turned around when I found the most polite one I could give; "Even if I have to give up my number to save myself from you, I wouldn't do it. Alpha." When my words sank in, surprise danced in her eyes, followed by a hint of hurt. Something blossomed in my ch**t. It was pride. So, I rolled my luggage away, leaving him standing there in shock. ****†****† Rufus and I arrived home to the party. It was my stepmother's birthday party. Not that I had any intention of attending-may the moon forbid it-I just arrived at a coincidentally perfect time. I wasn't dressed for the party. Had my simple jeans and shirt on with my hair in a ponytail. Yet, when I entered the hall, heads turned in my direction. I felt awkward for a moment. The whole attention thing was still new to me. I never knew I could receive so much compliments until I was free of my scar. Now, people could hardly stare at me without telling me how beautiful I was. My stepsister, Nora, walked up to me with a smile. "Hi! You're a little late for the party. What's your name?" Typical Nora. From young, she's always wanted to be friends with the hot girls. She despised me so much as I brought a 'stain' to her name. A scarred lady being her sister. Five years ago, she had slammed the door inh face, not letting me in despite my pleas. Now, she was being all nice. "I'm not here for the party," I answered her coldly and looked away, scouring around for my father. I found him in a corner with my stepmother and some guests. He was the reason I was here. I needed to know what was so urgent aside from cutting ties with Roderick. He had his eyes on me, staring suspiciously. I went toward him. "Hey! Who are you?" Nora came after me, sounding a little hurt. But I ignored her until I reached father. My father was a well known Alpha, hence the party filled with dignitaries. I did well to bow my head to them as I stood before father. "Who are you?" My stepmother asked. I met her gaze with a smirk. "Am I that different that you can't recognize me?" I looked to father. "What about you, father? Am I too different?" Audible g**ps rippled around me. Nora's hand went over her mouth. "It's not possible," she muttered, shaking her head. "Lyric?" Father's eyes were filled with shock and recognition. "Who's this impersonator?" My stepmother snapped. "Do you think we lack knowledge of what Lyric looks like? You think we'd fall for this scam?" I focused my gaze on dad. "I'm only here 'cause you said there was something important you needed to talk to me about. If you don't mind, I'd like for us to have that conversation now." Father took me to his study, leaving numerous shocked persons behind who couldn't utter a word. I wouldn't deny how good it felt to know I was the reason they were speechless. They couldn't call me ugly. As a matter of fact, I'd never be called ugly by anyone, ever again. "What happened to you, Lyric? Your scar was impossible to get rid of," Father asked. "I don't wish to discuss it now." Or the horrible things that happened within five years. I was still trying to run from them. "Just tell me why you needed me here." "Yes, that." his countenance soured. "You have no idea how happy I was when. I found you after searching for years. You just... vanished." He sighed. "We have a problem, Lyric. Our Pack is in a deep mess with Darkspire. I-I made some mistake and lost a lot of money-a whole lot-making me indebted to Darkspire." Okay, I did not like where this was headed. Darkspire was a generational wolf pack, known to produce only the strongest Alphas. The Alphas that always ranked first in the hierarchy system. They were avoided as much as possible as they were known to be vicious. One did not get tangled with them for any reason. "If word of this gets out, we'd be doomed. We'd go down the ranks, and coming from a pack that was used to being at the top, believe me, it is not a good thing for us. But they're willing to let it go." I furrowed my brows. It didn't make any sense. I sensed a huge 'But' coming. "But they need a Luna from this family, for just a year." Chapter 5 LYRIC'S POV 05 It had to be a joke. Or at the very least, not what I was thinking. Father's eyes turned more serious as he moved toward me. "I thought of offering Nora to him, but she's already with someone else, and the Alpha King might become furious if he thinks we're trying to offer him someone else's woman. This is the reason you're the only choice we have, Lyric. And... you have no idea how perfect it is that you have your face back. Initially, I had been worried we'd have issues with the Alpha King accepting you, but now, I am confident he'll be thrilled." "Hold on," I scoffed, placing a hand on my thigh. "Please don't tell me you made me travel all the way from Draconis just to be told that I am about to be sacrificed to a demon." No wolf was stranger to the name ' Darkspire'. Even me who knew little of Pack matters still knew how dangerous they were and nobody wanted to have anything to do with them; not in this life, not in another. "Alpha Jaris is not a demon," Father said with surprise. "But that is exactly what he is. Years ago, you said the same thing." Alpha Jaris Dreadmoor was the most vicious man I'd ever heard about. Tales of how he had conquered his enemies-and sometimes, his friends-were no news to the Pack. Being from a family that produced only the strongest Alphas, he was currently the Alpha King of Darkspire, a man everyone feared and didn't wish to end in his bad books. I didn't know what he looked like. I'd never been privileged enough to meet someone like Jaris Dreadmoor. Not that I ever wanted to. "There are rumors that he k**led his own father and brother!" I raised my hand in the air. "How do you want me to be with someone like that?" "Those are mere speculations, Lyric. Besides, you'll only be with him for a year." "You don't need a year to k**l someone, dad. All it takes is a minute, tops. But for someone like Jaris, I'm sure half a minute would do. Besides, why does it even have to be for a year?" From what I heard, Darkspire didn't have a Luna yet since Jaris' rise to ascension. But if he wanted to take up a Luna, wouldn't it be long term or something? Why was he only asking for a year? "Honestly, I don't know, Lyric." "And you don't care," I cut in, pain edging toward my heart. "All you care about is giving him a Luna so you can get the problem off your back. You don't care about the problem you're putting on mine." For a fraction of a second, wonder flashed across his face. The Lyric he knew would never argue with him. She'd have humbly agreed to anything he wanted. Well, let's just say I got to know my worth when I realized how beautiful I was. This Lyric was tired of being people's puppets. Father came close enough to take my hand. This time, he looked so troubled, I feared he might go on his knees. "Lyric, please." He gave my hand a little squeeze. "This is the last I'll ask of you as your father. Just do this for me, for only a year. And I promise, you'll make me the happiest father." ***** Hours later, I stood in my room-or what used to be my room-staring at my reflection in the mirror. I was wearing a long red dress with my hair falling over my shoulder. I was fully ready to meet Alpha Jaris, even though I'd rather I don't. Something didn't feel right. Him wanting a Luna for only a year....it was wrong. But father had nearly gone on his knees begging me earlier. I could disappoint him. Besides, before he got mated to his second wife, there were times he'd been good to me. I tried to resist the te**tation as I stared at the drawer before me. But failing woefully, I still opened it and retrieved the scan. My heart fractured completely, old wounds reopening. It was the one picture in the world that had the power to k**l me every single time I looked at it, yet it was like a d**g to me. I was addicted and could barely go an hour without touching it. Feeling it. A tear dropped from my eye as I glided my finger across the images outlining the shapes of the unborn babies in the womb. Five years, yet still the best thing that's happened to me. And the worse. But I'd rather hold onto the fact that it was the best. It hurt so bad staring at them, but I couldn't stop. The sound of someone trying to open my door broke into my thoughts. I jerked back to reality and quickly hid the picture. I'd made sure to lock the door a while ago, not wanting anyone to see me with the photo. Getting the door, I found Nora, fuming. "How did you get rid of your scar?" Her voice blared with indignation. "And what exactly is your plan? You want everyone to see the beautiful you, don't you?" I rolled my eyes, my earlier pain dissolving temporarily. "Please, don't tell me you knocked on my door just to whine about how good I look. What, you really thought I'd look that heinous forever?" Her glare turned even icier. "Well, just so you know, this won't change a thing between you and Roderick. Soon, he'll be here, both of you would go to the temple and finish your breakup." It dawned on me instantly. Oh, no. "Wait," I blinked. "You and Roderick?" A triumphant smile played on her lips. "Years ago, things didn't work between us. But now, he's ready to choose me." Well, if Roderick wasn't a bigger ba**ard. "Ugh, you disappoint me, Nora. Using my leftovers?" I tsked. "Considering you've always thought yourself the pretty one, I expected better from you." A tense glare pulled her brows together. She opened her mouth to say something, but I caught her off. "You don't have to worry. I'm done with Roderick and can't wait to fully end things with him." I slammed the door in her face. ...... A while later, father and I arrived Darkspire in one of his luxury cars. The Pack, which was known to be the biggest and wealthiest, was just as beautiful as people said. I was dazzled by the sight and couldn't believe for a moment that I'd be Luna here. Alighting our car, father and I were led into one of the buildings by some maids while his guards remained outside. The Grand Luna-Jaris' mother-was in the large living room to welcome us. "Bennett! I am so glad you made it," the Luna said, her eyes holding little amusement. "Greetings, Luna." I dipped my head. She regarded me with surprise. "Is this your daughter?" She asked dad. "Well, bless Seraphis, she's gorgeous!" I couldn't help my smile. Luna Isolde, during her time, was a formidable Luna. She had ruled beside her late husband with an iron fist, destroying everyone who dared cross her path. I'd always wished to meet her. "Please, come sit while we wait for Alpha Jaris. He'll be joining us shortly," she showed us to the couch. Her version of 'shortly' turned out to be almost an hour later. Father and I were already exhausted and kept staring at the door, wondering how long it'd take the Alpha to arrive. Wasn't he aware he'd be having guests? His... new Luna? At a point, Isolde looked angry and left. When she returned, she reassured us he'd soon be here. And indeed, he did come. The air shifted in the room the second the door opened, revealing a man and two others behind him. The Luna drew in a breath of relief as she rose to her feet. Father and I did same. It was easy spotting who the Alpha was as the two other men flanked him. But the moment I had a clear view of his face, my world shattered. No. No. Horror gripped my ch**t, squeezing it until I felt pain. This had to be some twisted joke. Because how in Selene's name was I staring at the face of the very man that had ruined me five years ago? ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5&

To him, she was the only woman who could give him the perfect s*x. Yet after that night, she vanished. He never imagined the ugly woman he'd been searching for was his Luna. He decisively drove away her despicable ex-mate and publicly declared his love for her. ===== "You used me! Mating with me was your ladder to power, Roderick! Your Pack climbed the ranks because of me! Now that you've achieved your ambition, you don't need the ugly girl anymore, is that it? But you were willing to mate with me a year ago!" I sobbed, crying to my mate who just rejected me. "Oh, spare me!" Roderick rolled his eyes. "Don't act like you didn't know I'd have left you at some point. Hold on, did you really think I'd have made you the Luna of my Pack? I can barely stand the sight of you, Lyric. How do you expect me to take you to Alpha meetings and present you to others? You are disgusting!" "But I did not give this scar to myself!" I cried bitterly. "And you promised you'd take me to the best doctors. You didn't do any of that, Roderick! It'd have helped!" "What? Even your own family doesn't care enough to take you to doctors, and you think I would? Quit, dreaming, Lyric and get out of my Pack!" Tears blurred my vision. It wasn't the first time I was being called ugly, but it hurt more each time it came from Roderick. I knew Roderick had no love for me when my family paired me with him a year ago. For a year, we lived like strangers despite being mated. I was still a vi**in as he could not even bring himself to touch me. It wasn't my fault I was ugly. I was burnt with a silver-base branding iron when I was a kid, leaving a huge scar by the side of my face. I still didn't know who was responsible for it, but I've had to grow up with this sting of rejection. Even my own family hated me and were embarrassed by my appearance. But I thought Roderick would be different. I thought he'd love me. Apparently, in a world where ranks mattered the most to Pack Leaders, deceit was bound to happen. I glared at him. I'd truly loved this man and wished he'd love me back. But now, I wish he'd suffer for what he did to me. "You are a monster," I gritted the words. "And I hope you pay for this someday." He threw back his head and laughed, a hollow sound. "Cu**ed Lyric, how exactly is that going to happen? I am currently the third most powerful Alpha now. My Pack is up the ranks while your family is beneath me! There is nothing you can do to me anymore. You have always been and will always be worthless! "Listen, I have rejected you already, and you have accepted. Although, there is one final formality left, but as far as I'm concerned, you're not longer anything to me. So, get your disgusting face out of my pack! This instant, before I have the guards throw you out!" His glare was icy, and before I could respond, he walked out. ......... After I managed to pull myself together, I left Roderick's Pack and decided to head home-to my father's Pack. I hadn't been home since I moved into Roderick's Pack, and I hoped they'd be willing to take me in. My family had never really liked me. Everything started falling apart after my mother left-abandoning me when I was four. My father chose a new mate and suddenly didn't have enough time for me. Then, I got my scar and he became even more distant. The guards let me through the gate, but when I rang the bell of the lounge, my stepsister and her mother opened up. To my surprise, they wouldn't let me in. "Go back to Roderick and beg him some more, Lyric. There is no room for you here," Nora said after I explained everything to them. Despite my attempt to get them to pity me, letting them understand I had nowhere else to go, they ordered the guards to see me out. They've always taken me to be a disgrace to the family and were happy when I left for Roderick's Pack. Now, they didn't want me back. ......... By evening, I was seated in a b*r, my favorite b*r-Faceless Drunk. Over here, they mixed portions strong enough to get a wolf drunk, and you didn't have to worry about being recognized and judged as every customer made use of masks. It had been my favorite b*r for years. If people had to see my face, they'd think I was getting drunk because I was ugly. "You're too ugly." I'd heard those words too many times, I could recite them in my sl**p without missing a beat. But above all, it was Roderick's betrayal that cut deep. It was even more painful that I could not do anything for him. His Pack was very powerful now, and I was an ugly, rejected girl who didn't even have a family to return to. Nobody could ever want me. What was the point of living? I emptied the last of my drink and was trying to stand when someone spoke from nowhere: "A refill for the lady, please." I turned in surprise to find a man taking the seat beside me. The ba**ender nodded and proceeded to get a refill. I furrowed my brows in surprise as I looked at the newcomer. I couldn't see his face as he was wearing a mask just like me, but something about the way he appeared told me he was sophisticated. His suit was a Mason Étoile brand, and his watch was an Aristo Tempus watch. An average Wolf couldn't afford these things. "You've been coming here to drink alone for some time now," he said, surprising me. His voice... It was soothing and impossible to ignore. I lowered my eyes, feeling a little ashamed. How can he even tell? "I don't know what you're talking about." "Your mask." He tipped his chin toward me. "You've never changed it." Oh. "That means you also come here a lot." "I do. It's not quite up to my standard, but it's my favorite place. I like it when I don't get judged by anyone." The barman returned with my drink. I thanked the newcomer before drinking from my glass. "From the look of things, you must be troubled. I am, too. So, why don't we make a deal, Miss? Have fun for the night and go our separate ways by morning?" I looked at him in shock. He was offering a one-ni**t affiar! "But y-you don't even know me," I muttered shyly. "I do not need to. It is simply for fun." There was something about the way he spoke. I could tell he was a man who didn't care about the feelings of others and was only out to get what he wanted. "Although, I must warn you," he asked. "It will be a long night. I have... problems fi**shing on a woman. I never. So, like I said, it is simply for the fun of it." Huh? He could not cl**ax during in**macy? But I heard that was the best part of it. How could he enjoy in**macy if he had never fi**shed on a woman before? The thought of it was sad. Despite how absurd it sounded, a part of me was te**ted. I'd always been curious about intimacy. No one has ever liked me because of my scar, not even my mate-ex-mate. After much conviction from the newcomer, I gave it a thought. "Can we keep our masks on?" You'll hate me just like the others if you see how ugly I am. "Sure." He shrugged. "Your wish is my command, Princess." Princess? My stomach churned. Oh, no. He didn't know I looked like a monster. If he knew, he'd run off like the others. I was tempted to cry. Sometimes, I really did wish I were treated like a 'Princess.' Chapter 2 LYRIC'S POV 02 We left the b*r together, heading to his ho**l as he called it. We drove off in his Arcanis GT. It was one of the most expensive cars in the world. Whoever this man was, he was filthy rich. Could he possibly be an Alpha? A part of me had been tempted to ask questions, but none of it mattered. We were simply going to m**e l**e and never see each other again. ...... It was the best night of my life. The stranger had been shocked to know I was a vi**in. The entire session, he kept asking if I was fine and needed him to be more gentle. For the first time, someone cared about my feelings. But something unusual happened during the process. Everything had been going so fine until he suddenly jerked and came with a deep gr**n. I was shocked, but we were both in the moment and could not ask questions. He got off me almost immediately, sitting on the edge of the b*d. "That is strange," he muttered to himself. I was equally confused. He looked at me, and from how long it was, I could tell he was staring at me like I was a puzzle. "Who are you?" He ran a finger along my jaw. The touch was electric. I swallowed hard. I am just an ugly girl who has been abandoned by everyone she's ever come across. To my surprise, he took off his mask. My mouth fell open in shock at the face before me. Good Moon! If he wasn't the most stunning man I'd ever met! He was too good-looking. I could never have someone like him. He was too good for me. I pulled the duvet further to conceal my body. "You should've told me you were a vi**in at the bar," he said. What did it matter? I didn't care anymore. Slowly, his hand reached for my face. Realizing what he had in mind, I gasped and recoiled. "No." I shook my head, gripping the duvet tight. "Why? You've seen my face." Still, I shook my head. "Our deal still stands. There's nothing to be afraid of." He added. You don't understand! You'll hate me if you see my face. The night was going too smoothly. I didn't want anything to ruin it. "I'm ugly." I mumbled, dipping my head. He seemed surprised. He reached for my face again and this time, I didn't try to stop him. This was my fate. He pulled off the mask, put a finger under my chin and tipped my head up to meet his gaze. Tears glistened in my eyes as I stared into his silver charming eyes. He was staring right at my face, at my scar. He was going to run away now. I shivered and closed my eyes when he ran a finger along the scar. What was he doing? "What happened?" His tone was soft, his fingers still ca**ssing my face. I met his gaze and so far, there was no resentment in his eyes. "S-Someone attacked me." I swallowed. "I was abducted and blindfolded while they hurt me. I've visited a lot of doctors, but none have been able to help." Seconds passed. He didn't take his eyes off me. "You're beautiful," he murmured. I frowned. What was he talking about? "You really think the scar makes you ugly?" I shook my head, pulling my face away from his grasp. "I am ugly. Everyone tells me." More to my surprise, he pulled me in beside him, wrapping his arms around my shoulder. "Until tonight, I don't think I've ever met a lady as stunning as you, Princess." My heart quickened as I listened to his heartbeat with my head on his ch**t. Uncontrollably, a tear escaped my eye. He was lying. He only wanted me to feel better. "Do you think we could adjust our deal? I'd love to spend another day with you," he said, shocking me to the core. What!? This was not possible. "I-I-" "Please." My heart melted instantly. For the first time in my life, I was being begged to stay. Not leave. I buried my face in his ch**t as I responded: "I'd love to." ........ But like everyone else, he lied to me. Like everyone else, I was deceived. By morning, he was gone. I woke up and couldn't find him. There was no note, no trace that he had even been with me aside from the ache in-between my legs. And to make it worse, someone showed up at the door, asking me to leave. "The man I came with last night, do you think he'd come back?" I asked the man, my heart racing in my ch**t. "No. It was his idea to get you to leave. He said he doesn't want to see you anywhere near this property. Please, leave this instant," the man said and left. And just like that, my heart was shattered all over. But surprisingly, it hurt more than when I had been rejected by Roderick. Chapter 3 LYRIC'S POV 03 "I'm sorry, ma'am; but I'm here to pick someone. I can't give you a free ride, if that's what you're asking." I struggled to hold back my laughter as I listened to Rufus, one of my father's oldest guards say, his eyes darting past my shoulder, looking out for the person he had been assigned to pick from the airport. "I know. You have been sent to pick Lyric Harper, right? It's me, Rufus." His eyes narrowed with suspicion. "You still haven't told me how you know my name. And... And how can you be Lyric? It's not possible." He shook his head. "Lyric is-" "Ugly?" I finished for him, a broad smile on my face. He frowned as he shook his head. Back then, Rufus was the only one that had never been able to call me ugly. He was among the very few that had cared about my feelings, and even now, to a stranger, he still couldn't call me ugly. I laughed. "Well, would it help if I reminded you that your favorite soup was butternut squash and you and little Lyric used to play Chutes and Ladders?" Recognition beamed in his eyes. His jaw dropped in astonishment. "Seraphis have mercy! Lyric, it's really you!" He opened his arms, and I didn't hesitate to fall in for a warm hug. Back then, Rufus and I barely had time together, but he always made the few times we met worth it. He was the closest thing I had to a parent. "How is this possible?" He inquired after asking how I was. "Your face... My goodness! You look gorgeous! You've only been gone for five years and... I-I can't believe this." "It's a long story, Rufus. But for now, let's just say fates decided to smile on me." "Oh, Lyric! You do not know how happy I am to see you. I am sure your father must be delighted seeing you're not...un-beautiful anymore." I laughed at his attempt not to use the word 'ugly' on me. Well, as for my father, I rolled my eyes in my head. I felt a little sad that I was forced to return here after five years because of him. My life was perfect in Draconis. "Here. I'll take this to the car," Rufus said, taking my luggage. "You do that and I'll meet you in the car. I need to pick up an extra luggage. Don't worry, I'll be quick." I turned around and had barely taken three separate Rufus called my attention, "You dropped something." Looking at the floor, I found the scanned image. My heart jumped into my throat as I quickly crouched to retrieve it. Rufus watched with me with surprise. Obviously, he had seen the X-ray and would be wondering why the h**l something of that nature had been in my back pocket. Oh, Lyric. You couldn't be a little careful? "It's-It's not mine," I cleared my throat, hoping my lie was plausible. I mean, who carried X-ray photos of fetuses in their back pocket? Tucking it back into the pocket, I hurried away. ..... I had my hands crossed over my ch**t as I waited at the collecting center. My extra luggage would be brought to me at any moment. As I waited idly, disturbing thoughts ran through my mind. Father wanted me home for two reasons. The first was to completely cut ties with Roderick. In our world, when two wolves were getting mated, they tied a ribbon as a sign of their union and had it stored in a temple. So, when they wanted to part ways, there were two steps involved. First, they'd have to denounce themselves as mates with the words of their mouths, and secondly, cut the ribbon together. After Roderick denounced me as his mate, we didn't get the chance to see each other again. Circumstances happened that pulled me away. But now, he was desperate to finish the final steps. Apparently, he'd chosen a new mate but couldn't accept her when he was still partially bound to me. Well, I'd been looking forward to the day when I get to end things with the as**ole. He was my past, and the st**id ribbon was the final thing holding us together. "Excuse me, Ms. I'd like a moment of your time, please," someone said behind me. I turned to see a well-built man in a black suit and dark shades over his eyes. I didn't need anyone to tell me he was a guard. "Can I help you?" I furrowed my brows. "Kind of. The Alpha over there demands an audience with you." I looked to where he pointed-a mini b*r-but couldn't see the man he was referring to. His face was shielded by a counter. I fought the urge to roll my eyes. These days, it was tiring. It was obvious there would never be a day where I'd step out without garnering attention from the opposite gender. "I'm in a hurry. Tell him I'm sorry." I responded. The guard's jaw tightened. "You can't ignore him." I read the unspoken words from his tone: He's a powerful Alpha. You can't simply ignore his request. But I really wasn't interested in meeting anyone. "I'm sorry. I really am." I looked away. It was disrespectful to ignore an Alpha's call. In a world where ranks mattered, he could be one of the powerful ones and could punish me severely, but I really wasn't in the mood to talk to anyone. "It's Alpha Roderick of Nightshade." The guard added as if to entice me. But he had no idea, he had just reopened old wounds. My eyes moved to him, then quickly flicked to the b*r where the man was seated. Roderick? As in my ex-mate Roderick? The one I was here to end things with? No way. My ch**t tightened with pain and it was all I could do to keep my emotions intact. "More reason not to see him," I mumbled, turning away. "Did you say something?" "I said I am not seeing him." I gritted the words, my nails digging into my palms. The guard gave me a disapproving stare before walking away, and I released a shaky breath. Now, where the h**l was my luggage? I met one of the workers and demanded an update, and he assured me it'd be here any minute. Unfortunately, they were not fast enough as shortly, I saw Roderick approaching me. Chapter 4 LYRIC'S POV 04 Roderick Fletcher. The one man I'd hoped would love me but never did. The mind was a bi**h. I thought I was over Roderick's betrayal and wouldn't feel a thing when I met him. But watching him as he approached me, looking like he was the one in charge made my eyes rim with tears. I sniffled and looked away, forcing the tears back in. "So, I had to come over to speak to you myself," he leaned against the counter beside me. "How daring." My throat was tight, unable to find any words. I feared there would be a crack in my voice if I managed to speak. Three guards hovered beside him, their eyes darting around. Roderick looked sophisticated, like he'd obviously been having a good life. What was he even doing here? Was he picking someone? "What's the name?" He tilted his head as he asked. I said nothing, won't even look at him. "Hello?" "I don't feel like disclosing my name to strangers," I finally managed. My voice was tight. His eyes beamed with amusement. And here was a man who never smiled at me when we were together for one year. "Let's just say I'm overly excited today," he sighed. "I'm here, waiting for a certain bi**h to arrive." When I gave him a puzzled look,he added, "Ex-mate. We are through with the first step and just have the tiny little step to go. I'd finally be free of her." I scoffed. He was unbelievable. "I'd have done this sooner, you know? But the horrid girl has been missing for years. Stressed us the h**l out to find her." He spoke with raw disdain. "What makes you call her horrid?" I found myself asking before I could stop. He chuckled. "Trust me, honey; she's a monster. If you see her, you'd have the same opinion. She's the ugliest thing I've ever seen." Something hot exploded in my ch**t. It was all I could do not to let my emotions rush out. No. This was not the right place. But Roderick was the true monster. He had no idea he was standing before the very woman he despised. What would proud he do if he gets to know? It made sense why he was waiting at the airport. He clearly wanted to drag me to the temple to cut the ribbon. Well, I wouldn't let him humiliate me in public. Not again. Fortunately, my luggage finally arrived. "Sorry for the delay, ma'am," the young man said as he rolled it to me. Not looking at Roderick, I made to leave. That must have surprised him. "I'd love to speak to you some other time. Your contact, if you don't mind." For a moment, I stood with my back to him, contemplating my words. I turned around when I found the most polite one I could give; "Even if I have to give up my number to save myself from you, I wouldn't do it. Alpha." When my words sank in, surprise danced in her eyes, followed by a hint of hurt. Something blossomed in my ch**t. It was pride. So, I rolled my luggage away, leaving him standing there in shock. ****†****† Rufus and I arrived home to the party. It was my stepmother's birthday party. Not that I had any intention of attending-may the moon forbid it-I just arrived at a coincidentally perfect time. I wasn't dressed for the party. Had my simple jeans and shirt on with my hair in a ponytail. Yet, when I entered the hall, heads turned in my direction. I felt awkward for a moment. The whole attention thing was still new to me. I never knew I could receive so much compliments until I was free of my scar. Now, people could hardly stare at me without telling me how beautiful I was. My stepsister, Nora, walked up to me with a smile. "Hi! You're a little late for the party. What's your name?" Typical Nora. From young, she's always wanted to be friends with the hot girls. She despised me so much as I brought a 'stain' to her name. A scarred lady being her sister. Five years ago, she had slammed the door inh face, not letting me in despite my pleas. Now, she was being all nice. "I'm not here for the party," I answered her coldly and looked away, scouring around for my father. I found him in a corner with my stepmother and some guests. He was the reason I was here. I needed to know what was so urgent aside from cutting ties with Roderick. He had his eyes on me, staring suspiciously. I went toward him. "Hey! Who are you?" Nora came after me, sounding a little hurt. But I ignored her until I reached father. My father was a well known Alpha, hence the party filled with dignitaries. I did well to bow my head to them as I stood before father. "Who are you?" My stepmother asked. I met her gaze with a smirk. "Am I that different that you can't recognize me?" I looked to father. "What about you, father? Am I too different?" Audible g**ps rippled around me. Nora's hand went over her mouth. "It's not possible," she muttered, shaking her head. "Lyric?" Father's eyes were filled with shock and recognition. "Who's this impersonator?" My stepmother snapped. "Do you think we lack knowledge of what Lyric looks like? You think we'd fall for this scam?" I focused my gaze on dad. "I'm only here 'cause you said there was something important you needed to talk to me about. If you don't mind, I'd like for us to have that conversation now." Father took me to his study, leaving numerous shocked persons behind who couldn't utter a word. I wouldn't deny how good it felt to know I was the reason they were speechless. They couldn't call me ugly. As a matter of fact, I'd never be called ugly by anyone, ever again. "What happened to you, Lyric? Your scar was impossible to get rid of," Father asked. "I don't wish to discuss it now." Or the horrible things that happened within five years. I was still trying to run from them. "Just tell me why you needed me here." "Yes, that." his countenance soured. "You have no idea how happy I was when. I found you after searching for years. You just... vanished." He sighed. "We have a problem, Lyric. Our Pack is in a deep mess with Darkspire. I-I made some mistake and lost a lot of money-a whole lot-making me indebted to Darkspire." Okay, I did not like where this was headed. Darkspire was a generational wolf pack, known to produce only the strongest Alphas. The Alphas that always ranked first in the hierarchy system. They were avoided as much as possible as they were known to be vicious. One did not get tangled with them for any reason. "If word of this gets out, we'd be doomed. We'd go down the ranks, and coming from a pack that was used to being at the top, believe me, it is not a good thing for us. But they're willing to let it go." I furrowed my brows. It didn't make any sense. I sensed a huge 'But' coming. "But they need a Luna from this family, for just a year." Chapter 5 LYRIC'S POV 05 It had to be a joke. Or at the very least, not what I was thinking. Father's eyes turned more serious as he moved toward me. "I thought of offering Nora to him, but she's already with someone else, and the Alpha King might become furious if he thinks we're trying to offer him someone else's woman. This is the reason you're the only choice we have, Lyric. And... you have no idea how perfect it is that you have your face back. Initially, I had been worried we'd have issues with the Alpha King accepting you, but now, I am confident he'll be thrilled." "Hold on," I scoffed, placing a hand on my thigh. "Please don't tell me you made me travel all the way from Draconis just to be told that I am about to be sacrificed to a demon." No wolf was stranger to the name ' Darkspire'. Even me who knew little of Pack matters still knew how dangerous they were and nobody wanted to have anything to do with them; not in this life, not in another. "Alpha Jaris is not a demon," Father said with surprise. "But that is exactly what he is. Years ago, you said the same thing." Alpha Jaris Dreadmoor was the most vicious man I'd ever heard about. Tales of how he had conquered his enemies-and sometimes, his friends-were no news to the Pack. Being from a family that produced only the strongest Alphas, he was currently the Alpha King of Darkspire, a man everyone feared and didn't wish to end in his bad books. I didn't know what he looked like. I'd never been privileged enough to meet someone like Jaris Dreadmoor. Not that I ever wanted to. "There are rumors that he k**led his own father and brother!" I raised my hand in the air. "How do you want me to be with someone like that?" "Those are mere speculations, Lyric. Besides, you'll only be with him for a year." "You don't need a year to k**l someone, dad. All it takes is a minute, tops. But for someone like Jaris, I'm sure half a minute would do. Besides, why does it even have to be for a year?" From what I heard, Darkspire didn't have a Luna yet since Jaris' rise to ascension. But if he wanted to take up a Luna, wouldn't it be long term or something? Why was he only asking for a year? "Honestly, I don't know, Lyric." "And you don't care," I cut in, pain edging toward my heart. "All you care about is giving him a Luna so you can get the problem off your back. You don't care about the problem you're putting on mine." For a fraction of a second, wonder flashed across his face. The Lyric he knew would never argue with him. She'd have humbly agreed to anything he wanted. Well, let's just say I got to know my worth when I realized how beautiful I was. This Lyric was tired of being people's puppets. Father came close enough to take my hand. This time, he looked so troubled, I feared he might go on his knees. "Lyric, please." He gave my hand a little squeeze. "This is the last I'll ask of you as your father. Just do this for me, for only a year. And I promise, you'll make me the happiest father." ***** Hours later, I stood in my room-or what used to be my room-staring at my reflection in the mirror. I was wearing a long red dress with my hair falling over my shoulder. I was fully ready to meet Alpha Jaris, even though I'd rather I don't. Something didn't feel right. Him wanting a Luna for only a year....it was wrong. But father had nearly gone on his knees begging me earlier. I could disappoint him. Besides, before he got mated to his second wife, there were times he'd been good to me. I tried to resist the te**tation as I stared at the drawer before me. But failing woefully, I still opened it and retrieved the scan. My heart fractured completely, old wounds reopening. It was the one picture in the world that had the power to k**l me every single time I looked at it, yet it was like a d**g to me. I was addicted and could barely go an hour without touching it. Feeling it. A tear dropped from my eye as I glided my finger across the images outlining the shapes of the unborn babies in the womb. Five years, yet still the best thing that's happened to me. And the worse. But I'd rather hold onto the fact that it was the best. It hurt so bad staring at them, but I couldn't stop. The sound of someone trying to open my door broke into my thoughts. I jerked back to reality and quickly hid the picture. I'd made sure to lock the door a while ago, not wanting anyone to see me with the photo. Getting the door, I found Nora, fuming. "How did you get rid of your scar?" Her voice blared with indignation. "And what exactly is your plan? You want everyone to see the beautiful you, don't you?" I rolled my eyes, my earlier pain dissolving temporarily. "Please, don't tell me you knocked on my door just to whine about how good I look. What, you really thought I'd look that heinous forever?" Her glare turned even icier. "Well, just so you know, this won't change a thing between you and Roderick. Soon, he'll be here, both of you would go to the temple and finish your breakup." It dawned on me instantly. Oh, no. "Wait," I blinked. "You and Roderick?" A triumphant smile played on her lips. "Years ago, things didn't work between us. But now, he's ready to choose me." Well, if Roderick wasn't a bigger ba**ard. "Ugh, you disappoint me, Nora. Using my leftovers?" I tsked. "Considering you've always thought yourself the pretty one, I expected better from you." A tense glare pulled her brows together. She opened her mouth to say something, but I caught her off. "You don't have to worry. I'm done with Roderick and can't wait to fully end things with him." I slammed the door in her face. ...... A while later, father and I arrived Darkspire in one of his luxury cars. The Pack, which was known to be the biggest and wealthiest, was just as beautiful as people said. I was dazzled by the sight and couldn't believe for a moment that I'd be Luna here. Alighting our car, father and I were led into one of the buildings by some maids while his guards remained outside. The Grand Luna-Jaris' mother-was in the large living room to welcome us. "Bennett! I am so glad you made it," the Luna said, her eyes holding little amusement. "Greetings, Luna." I dipped my head. She regarded me with surprise. "Is this your daughter?" She asked dad. "Well, bless Seraphis, she's gorgeous!" I couldn't help my smile. Luna Isolde, during her time, was a formidable Luna. She had ruled beside her late husband with an iron fist, destroying everyone who dared cross her path. I'd always wished to meet her. "Please, come sit while we wait for Alpha Jaris. He'll be joining us shortly," she showed us to the couch. Her version of 'shortly' turned out to be almost an hour later. Father and I were already exhausted and kept staring at the door, wondering how long it'd take the Alpha to arrive. Wasn't he aware he'd be having guests? His... new Luna? At a point, Isolde looked angry and left. When she returned, she reassured us he'd soon be here. And indeed, he did come. The air shifted in the room the second the door opened, revealing a man and two others behind him. The Luna drew in a breath of relief as she rose to her feet. Father and I did same. It was easy spotting who the Alpha was as the two other men flanked him. But the moment I had a clear view of his face, my world shattered. No. No. Horror gripped my ch**t, squeezing it until I felt pain. This had to be some twisted joke. Because how in Selene's name was I staring at the face of the very man that had ruined me five years ago? ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5&

To him, she was the only woman who could give him the perfect s*x. Yet after that night, she vanished. He never imagined the ugly woman he'd been searching for was his Luna. He decisively drove away her despicable ex-mate and publicly declared his love for her. ===== "You used me! Mating with me was your ladder to power, Roderick! Your Pack climbed the ranks because of me! Now that you've achieved your ambition, you don't need the ugly girl anymore, is that it? But you were willing to mate with me a year ago!" I sobbed, crying to my mate who just rejected me. "Oh, spare me!" Roderick rolled his eyes. "Don't act like you didn't know I'd have left you at some point. Hold on, did you really think I'd have made you the Luna of my Pack? I can barely stand the sight of you, Lyric. How do you expect me to take you to Alpha meetings and present you to others? You are disgusting!" "But I did not give this scar to myself!" I cried bitterly. "And you promised you'd take me to the best doctors. You didn't do any of that, Roderick! It'd have helped!" "What? Even your own family doesn't care enough to take you to doctors, and you think I would? Quit, dreaming, Lyric and get out of my Pack!" Tears blurred my vision. It wasn't the first time I was being called ugly, but it hurt more each time it came from Roderick. I knew Roderick had no love for me when my family paired me with him a year ago. For a year, we lived like strangers despite being mated. I was still a vi**in as he could not even bring himself to touch me. It wasn't my fault I was ugly. I was burnt with a silver-base branding iron when I was a kid, leaving a huge scar by the side of my face. I still didn't know who was responsible for it, but I've had to grow up with this sting of rejection. Even my own family hated me and were embarrassed by my appearance. But I thought Roderick would be different. I thought he'd love me. Apparently, in a world where ranks mattered the most to Pack Leaders, deceit was bound to happen. I glared at him. I'd truly loved this man and wished he'd love me back. But now, I wish he'd suffer for what he did to me. "You are a monster," I gritted the words. "And I hope you pay for this someday." He threw back his head and laughed, a hollow sound. "Cu**ed Lyric, how exactly is that going to happen? I am currently the third most powerful Alpha now. My Pack is up the ranks while your family is beneath me! There is nothing you can do to me anymore. You have always been and will always be worthless! "Listen, I have rejected you already, and you have accepted. Although, there is one final formality left, but as far as I'm concerned, you're not longer anything to me. So, get your disgusting face out of my pack! This instant, before I have the guards throw you out!" His glare was icy, and before I could respond, he walked out. ......... After I managed to pull myself together, I left Roderick's Pack and decided to head home-to my father's Pack. I hadn't been home since I moved into Roderick's Pack, and I hoped they'd be willing to take me in. My family had never really liked me. Everything started falling apart after my mother left-abandoning me when I was four. My father chose a new mate and suddenly didn't have enough time for me. Then, I got my scar and he became even more distant. The guards let me through the gate, but when I rang the bell of the lounge, my stepsister and her mother opened up. To my surprise, they wouldn't let me in. "Go back to Roderick and beg him some more, Lyric. There is no room for you here," Nora said after I explained everything to them. Despite my attempt to get them to pity me, letting them understand I had nowhere else to go, they ordered the guards to see me out. They've always taken me to be a disgrace to the family and were happy when I left for Roderick's Pack. Now, they didn't want me back. ......... By evening, I was seated in a b*r, my favorite b*r-Faceless Drunk. Over here, they mixed portions strong enough to get a wolf drunk, and you didn't have to worry about being recognized and judged as every customer made use of masks. It had been my favorite b*r for years. If people had to see my face, they'd think I was getting drunk because I was ugly. "You're too ugly." I'd heard those words too many times, I could recite them in my sl**p without missing a beat. But above all, it was Roderick's betrayal that cut deep. It was even more painful that I could not do anything for him. His Pack was very powerful now, and I was an ugly, rejected girl who didn't even have a family to return to. Nobody could ever want me. What was the point of living? I emptied the last of my drink and was trying to stand when someone spoke from nowhere: "A refill for the lady, please." I turned in surprise to find a man taking the seat beside me. The ba**ender nodded and proceeded to get a refill. I furrowed my brows in surprise as I looked at the newcomer. I couldn't see his face as he was wearing a mask just like me, but something about the way he appeared told me he was sophisticated. His suit was a Mason Étoile brand, and his watch was an Aristo Tempus watch. An average Wolf couldn't afford these things. "You've been coming here to drink alone for some time now," he said, surprising me. His voice... It was soothing and impossible to ignore. I lowered my eyes, feeling a little ashamed. How can he even tell? "I don't know what you're talking about." "Your mask." He tipped his chin toward me. "You've never changed it." Oh. "That means you also come here a lot." "I do. It's not quite up to my standard, but it's my favorite place. I like it when I don't get judged by anyone." The barman returned with my drink. I thanked the newcomer before drinking from my glass. "From the look of things, you must be troubled. I am, too. So, why don't we make a deal, Miss? Have fun for the night and go our separate ways by morning?" I looked at him in shock. He was offering a one-ni**t affiar! "But y-you don't even know me," I muttered shyly. "I do not need to. It is simply for fun." There was something about the way he spoke. I could tell he was a man who didn't care about the feelings of others and was only out to get what he wanted. "Although, I must warn you," he asked. "It will be a long night. I have... problems fi**shing on a woman. I never. So, like I said, it is simply for the fun of it." Huh? He could not cl**ax during in**macy? But I heard that was the best part of it. How could he enjoy in**macy if he had never fi**shed on a woman before? The thought of it was sad. Despite how absurd it sounded, a part of me was te**ted. I'd always been curious about intimacy. No one has ever liked me because of my scar, not even my mate-ex-mate. After much conviction from the newcomer, I gave it a thought. "Can we keep our masks on?" You'll hate me just like the others if you see how ugly I am. "Sure." He shrugged. "Your wish is my command, Princess." Princess? My stomach churned. Oh, no. He didn't know I looked like a monster. If he knew, he'd run off like the others. I was tempted to cry. Sometimes, I really did wish I were treated like a 'Princess.' Chapter 2 LYRIC'S POV 02 We left the b*r together, heading to his ho**l as he called it. We drove off in his Arcanis GT. It was one of the most expensive cars in the world. Whoever this man was, he was filthy rich. Could he possibly be an Alpha? A part of me had been tempted to ask questions, but none of it mattered. We were simply going to m**e l**e and never see each other again. ...... It was the best night of my life. The stranger had been shocked to know I was a vi**in. The entire session, he kept asking if I was fine and needed him to be more gentle. For the first time, someone cared about my feelings. But something unusual happened during the process. Everything had been going so fine until he suddenly jerked and came with a deep gr**n. I was shocked, but we were both in the moment and could not ask questions. He got off me almost immediately, sitting on the edge of the b*d. "That is strange," he muttered to himself. I was equally confused. He looked at me, and from how long it was, I could tell he was staring at me like I was a puzzle. "Who are you?" He ran a finger along my jaw. The touch was electric. I swallowed hard. I am just an ugly girl who has been abandoned by everyone she's ever come across. To my surprise, he took off his mask. My mouth fell open in shock at the face before me. Good Moon! If he wasn't the most stunning man I'd ever met! He was too good-looking. I could never have someone like him. He was too good for me. I pulled the duvet further to conceal my body. "You should've told me you were a vi**in at the bar," he said. What did it matter? I didn't care anymore. Slowly, his hand reached for my face. Realizing what he had in mind, I gasped and recoiled. "No." I shook my head, gripping the duvet tight. "Why? You've seen my face." Still, I shook my head. "Our deal still stands. There's nothing to be afraid of." He added. You don't understand! You'll hate me if you see my face. The night was going too smoothly. I didn't want anything to ruin it. "I'm ugly." I mumbled, dipping my head. He seemed surprised. He reached for my face again and this time, I didn't try to stop him. This was my fate. He pulled off the mask, put a finger under my chin and tipped my head up to meet his gaze. Tears glistened in my eyes as I stared into his silver charming eyes. He was staring right at my face, at my scar. He was going to run away now. I shivered and closed my eyes when he ran a finger along the scar. What was he doing? "What happened?" His tone was soft, his fingers still ca**ssing my face. I met his gaze and so far, there was no resentment in his eyes. "S-Someone attacked me." I swallowed. "I was abducted and blindfolded while they hurt me. I've visited a lot of doctors, but none have been able to help." Seconds passed. He didn't take his eyes off me. "You're beautiful," he murmured. I frowned. What was he talking about? "You really think the scar makes you ugly?" I shook my head, pulling my face away from his grasp. "I am ugly. Everyone tells me." More to my surprise, he pulled me in beside him, wrapping his arms around my shoulder. "Until tonight, I don't think I've ever met a lady as stunning as you, Princess." My heart quickened as I listened to his heartbeat with my head on his ch**t. Uncontrollably, a tear escaped my eye. He was lying. He only wanted me to feel better. "Do you think we could adjust our deal? I'd love to spend another day with you," he said, shocking me to the core. What!? This was not possible. "I-I-" "Please." My heart melted instantly. For the first time in my life, I was being begged to stay. Not leave. I buried my face in his ch**t as I responded: "I'd love to." ........ But like everyone else, he lied to me. Like everyone else, I was deceived. By morning, he was gone. I woke up and couldn't find him. There was no note, no trace that he had even been with me aside from the ache in-between my legs. And to make it worse, someone showed up at the door, asking me to leave. "The man I came with last night, do you think he'd come back?" I asked the man, my heart racing in my ch**t. "No. It was his idea to get you to leave. He said he doesn't want to see you anywhere near this property. Please, leave this instant," the man said and left. And just like that, my heart was shattered all over. But surprisingly, it hurt more than when I had been rejected by Roderick. Chapter 3 LYRIC'S POV 03 "I'm sorry, ma'am; but I'm here to pick someone. I can't give you a free ride, if that's what you're asking." I struggled to hold back my laughter as I listened to Rufus, one of my father's oldest guards say, his eyes darting past my shoulder, looking out for the person he had been assigned to pick from the airport. "I know. You have been sent to pick Lyric Harper, right? It's me, Rufus." His eyes narrowed with suspicion. "You still haven't told me how you know my name. And... And how can you be Lyric? It's not possible." He shook his head. "Lyric is-" "Ugly?" I finished for him, a broad smile on my face. He frowned as he shook his head. Back then, Rufus was the only one that had never been able to call me ugly. He was among the very few that had cared about my feelings, and even now, to a stranger, he still couldn't call me ugly. I laughed. "Well, would it help if I reminded you that your favorite soup was butternut squash and you and little Lyric used to play Chutes and Ladders?" Recognition beamed in his eyes. His jaw dropped in astonishment. "Seraphis have mercy! Lyric, it's really you!" He opened his arms, and I didn't hesitate to fall in for a warm hug. Back then, Rufus and I barely had time together, but he always made the few times we met worth it. He was the closest thing I had to a parent. "How is this possible?" He inquired after asking how I was. "Your face... My goodness! You look gorgeous! You've only been gone for five years and... I-I can't believe this." "It's a long story, Rufus. But for now, let's just say fates decided to smile on me." "Oh, Lyric! You do not know how happy I am to see you. I am sure your father must be delighted seeing you're not...un-beautiful anymore." I laughed at his attempt not to use the word 'ugly' on me. Well, as for my father, I rolled my eyes in my head. I felt a little sad that I was forced to return here after five years because of him. My life was perfect in Draconis. "Here. I'll take this to the car," Rufus said, taking my luggage. "You do that and I'll meet you in the car. I need to pick up an extra luggage. Don't worry, I'll be quick." I turned around and had barely taken three separate Rufus called my attention, "You dropped something." Looking at the floor, I found the scanned image. My heart jumped into my throat as I quickly crouched to retrieve it. Rufus watched with me with surprise. Obviously, he had seen the X-ray and would be wondering why the h**l something of that nature had been in my back pocket. Oh, Lyric. You couldn't be a little careful? "It's-It's not mine," I cleared my throat, hoping my lie was plausible. I mean, who carried X-ray photos of fetuses in their back pocket? Tucking it back into the pocket, I hurried away. ..... I had my hands crossed over my ch**t as I waited at the collecting center. My extra luggage would be brought to me at any moment. As I waited idly, disturbing thoughts ran through my mind. Father wanted me home for two reasons. The first was to completely cut ties with Roderick. In our world, when two wolves were getting mated, they tied a ribbon as a sign of their union and had it stored in a temple. So, when they wanted to part ways, there were two steps involved. First, they'd have to denounce themselves as mates with the words of their mouths, and secondly, cut the ribbon together. After Roderick denounced me as his mate, we didn't get the chance to see each other again. Circumstances happened that pulled me away. But now, he was desperate to finish the final steps. Apparently, he'd chosen a new mate but couldn't accept her when he was still partially bound to me. Well, I'd been looking forward to the day when I get to end things with the as**ole. He was my past, and the st**id ribbon was the final thing holding us together. "Excuse me, Ms. I'd like a moment of your time, please," someone said behind me. I turned to see a well-built man in a black suit and dark shades over his eyes. I didn't need anyone to tell me he was a guard. "Can I help you?" I furrowed my brows. "Kind of. The Alpha over there demands an audience with you." I looked to where he pointed-a mini b*r-but couldn't see the man he was referring to. His face was shielded by a counter. I fought the urge to roll my eyes. These days, it was tiring. It was obvious there would never be a day where I'd step out without garnering attention from the opposite gender. "I'm in a hurry. Tell him I'm sorry." I responded. The guard's jaw tightened. "You can't ignore him." I read the unspoken words from his tone: He's a powerful Alpha. You can't simply ignore his request. But I really wasn't interested in meeting anyone. "I'm sorry. I really am." I looked away. It was disrespectful to ignore an Alpha's call. In a world where ranks mattered, he could be one of the powerful ones and could punish me severely, but I really wasn't in the mood to talk to anyone. "It's Alpha Roderick of Nightshade." The guard added as if to entice me. But he had no idea, he had just reopened old wounds. My eyes moved to him, then quickly flicked to the b*r where the man was seated. Roderick? As in my ex-mate Roderick? The one I was here to end things with? No way. My ch**t tightened with pain and it was all I could do to keep my emotions intact. "More reason not to see him," I mumbled, turning away. "Did you say something?" "I said I am not seeing him." I gritted the words, my nails digging into my palms. The guard gave me a disapproving stare before walking away, and I released a shaky breath. Now, where the h**l was my luggage? I met one of the workers and demanded an update, and he assured me it'd be here any minute. Unfortunately, they were not fast enough as shortly, I saw Roderick approaching me. Chapter 4 LYRIC'S POV 04 Roderick Fletcher. The one man I'd hoped would love me but never did. The mind was a bi**h. I thought I was over Roderick's betrayal and wouldn't feel a thing when I met him. But watching him as he approached me, looking like he was the one in charge made my eyes rim with tears. I sniffled and looked away, forcing the tears back in. "So, I had to come over to speak to you myself," he leaned against the counter beside me. "How daring." My throat was tight, unable to find any words. I feared there would be a crack in my voice if I managed to speak. Three guards hovered beside him, their eyes darting around. Roderick looked sophisticated, like he'd obviously been having a good life. What was he even doing here? Was he picking someone? "What's the name?" He tilted his head as he asked. I said nothing, won't even look at him. "Hello?" "I don't feel like disclosing my name to strangers," I finally managed. My voice was tight. His eyes beamed with amusement. And here was a man who never smiled at me when we were together for one year. "Let's just say I'm overly excited today," he sighed. "I'm here, waiting for a certain bi**h to arrive." When I gave him a puzzled look,he added, "Ex-mate. We are through with the first step and just have the tiny little step to go. I'd finally be free of her." I scoffed. He was unbelievable. "I'd have done this sooner, you know? But the horrid girl has been missing for years. Stressed us the h**l out to find her." He spoke with raw disdain. "What makes you call her horrid?" I found myself asking before I could stop. He chuckled. "Trust me, honey; she's a monster. If you see her, you'd have the same opinion. She's the ugliest thing I've ever seen." Something hot exploded in my ch**t. It was all I could do not to let my emotions rush out. No. This was not the right place. But Roderick was the true monster. He had no idea he was standing before the very woman he despised. What would proud he do if he gets to know? It made sense why he was waiting at the airport. He clearly wanted to drag me to the temple to cut the ribbon. Well, I wouldn't let him humiliate me in public. Not again. Fortunately, my luggage finally arrived. "Sorry for the delay, ma'am," the young man said as he rolled it to me. Not looking at Roderick, I made to leave. That must have surprised him. "I'd love to speak to you some other time. Your contact, if you don't mind." For a moment, I stood with my back to him, contemplating my words. I turned around when I found the most polite one I could give; "Even if I have to give up my number to save myself from you, I wouldn't do it. Alpha." When my words sank in, surprise danced in her eyes, followed by a hint of hurt. Something blossomed in my ch**t. It was pride. So, I rolled my luggage away, leaving him standing there in shock. ****†****† Rufus and I arrived home to the party. It was my stepmother's birthday party. Not that I had any intention of attending-may the moon forbid it-I just arrived at a coincidentally perfect time. I wasn't dressed for the party. Had my simple jeans and shirt on with my hair in a ponytail. Yet, when I entered the hall, heads turned in my direction. I felt awkward for a moment. The whole attention thing was still new to me. I never knew I could receive so much compliments until I was free of my scar. Now, people could hardly stare at me without telling me how beautiful I was. My stepsister, Nora, walked up to me with a smile. "Hi! You're a little late for the party. What's your name?" Typical Nora. From young, she's always wanted to be friends with the hot girls. She despised me so much as I brought a 'stain' to her name. A scarred lady being her sister. Five years ago, she had slammed the door inh face, not letting me in despite my pleas. Now, she was being all nice. "I'm not here for the party," I answered her coldly and looked away, scouring around for my father. I found him in a corner with my stepmother and some guests. He was the reason I was here. I needed to know what was so urgent aside from cutting ties with Roderick. He had his eyes on me, staring suspiciously. I went toward him. "Hey! Who are you?" Nora came after me, sounding a little hurt. But I ignored her until I reached father. My father was a well known Alpha, hence the party filled with dignitaries. I did well to bow my head to them as I stood before father. "Who are you?" My stepmother asked. I met her gaze with a smirk. "Am I that different that you can't recognize me?" I looked to father. "What about you, father? Am I too different?" Audible g**ps rippled around me. Nora's hand went over her mouth. "It's not possible," she muttered, shaking her head. "Lyric?" Father's eyes were filled with shock and recognition. "Who's this impersonator?" My stepmother snapped. "Do you think we lack knowledge of what Lyric looks like? You think we'd fall for this scam?" I focused my gaze on dad. "I'm only here 'cause you said there was something important you needed to talk to me about. If you don't mind, I'd like for us to have that conversation now." Father took me to his study, leaving numerous shocked persons behind who couldn't utter a word. I wouldn't deny how good it felt to know I was the reason they were speechless. They couldn't call me ugly. As a matter of fact, I'd never be called ugly by anyone, ever again. "What happened to you, Lyric? Your scar was impossible to get rid of," Father asked. "I don't wish to discuss it now." Or the horrible things that happened within five years. I was still trying to run from them. "Just tell me why you needed me here." "Yes, that." his countenance soured. "You have no idea how happy I was when. I found you after searching for years. You just... vanished." He sighed. "We have a problem, Lyric. Our Pack is in a deep mess with Darkspire. I-I made some mistake and lost a lot of money-a whole lot-making me indebted to Darkspire." Okay, I did not like where this was headed. Darkspire was a generational wolf pack, known to produce only the strongest Alphas. The Alphas that always ranked first in the hierarchy system. They were avoided as much as possible as they were known to be vicious. One did not get tangled with them for any reason. "If word of this gets out, we'd be doomed. We'd go down the ranks, and coming from a pack that was used to being at the top, believe me, it is not a good thing for us. But they're willing to let it go." I furrowed my brows. It didn't make any sense. I sensed a huge 'But' coming. "But they need a Luna from this family, for just a year." Chapter 5 LYRIC'S POV 05 It had to be a joke. Or at the very least, not what I was thinking. Father's eyes turned more serious as he moved toward me. "I thought of offering Nora to him, but she's already with someone else, and the Alpha King might become furious if he thinks we're trying to offer him someone else's woman. This is the reason you're the only choice we have, Lyric. And... you have no idea how perfect it is that you have your face back. Initially, I had been worried we'd have issues with the Alpha King accepting you, but now, I am confident he'll be thrilled." "Hold on," I scoffed, placing a hand on my thigh. "Please don't tell me you made me travel all the way from Draconis just to be told that I am about to be sacrificed to a demon." No wolf was stranger to the name ' Darkspire'. Even me who knew little of Pack matters still knew how dangerous they were and nobody wanted to have anything to do with them; not in this life, not in another. "Alpha Jaris is not a demon," Father said with surprise. "But that is exactly what he is. Years ago, you said the same thing." Alpha Jaris Dreadmoor was the most vicious man I'd ever heard about. Tales of how he had conquered his enemies-and sometimes, his friends-were no news to the Pack. Being from a family that produced only the strongest Alphas, he was currently the Alpha King of Darkspire, a man everyone feared and didn't wish to end in his bad books. I didn't know what he looked like. I'd never been privileged enough to meet someone like Jaris Dreadmoor. Not that I ever wanted to. "There are rumors that he k**led his own father and brother!" I raised my hand in the air. "How do you want me to be with someone like that?" "Those are mere speculations, Lyric. Besides, you'll only be with him for a year." "You don't need a year to k**l someone, dad. All it takes is a minute, tops. But for someone like Jaris, I'm sure half a minute would do. Besides, why does it even have to be for a year?" From what I heard, Darkspire didn't have a Luna yet since Jaris' rise to ascension. But if he wanted to take up a Luna, wouldn't it be long term or something? Why was he only asking for a year? "Honestly, I don't know, Lyric." "And you don't care," I cut in, pain edging toward my heart. "All you care about is giving him a Luna so you can get the problem off your back. You don't care about the problem you're putting on mine." For a fraction of a second, wonder flashed across his face. The Lyric he knew would never argue with him. She'd have humbly agreed to anything he wanted. Well, let's just say I got to know my worth when I realized how beautiful I was. This Lyric was tired of being people's puppets. Father came close enough to take my hand. This time, he looked so troubled, I feared he might go on his knees. "Lyric, please." He gave my hand a little squeeze. "This is the last I'll ask of you as your father. Just do this for me, for only a year. And I promise, you'll make me the happiest father." ***** Hours later, I stood in my room-or what used to be my room-staring at my reflection in the mirror. I was wearing a long red dress with my hair falling over my shoulder. I was fully ready to meet Alpha Jaris, even though I'd rather I don't. Something didn't feel right. Him wanting a Luna for only a year....it was wrong. But father had nearly gone on his knees begging me earlier. I could disappoint him. Besides, before he got mated to his second wife, there were times he'd been good to me. I tried to resist the te**tation as I stared at the drawer before me. But failing woefully, I still opened it and retrieved the scan. My heart fractured completely, old wounds reopening. It was the one picture in the world that had the power to k**l me every single time I looked at it, yet it was like a d**g to me. I was addicted and could barely go an hour without touching it. Feeling it. A tear dropped from my eye as I glided my finger across the images outlining the shapes of the unborn babies in the womb. Five years, yet still the best thing that's happened to me. And the worse. But I'd rather hold onto the fact that it was the best. It hurt so bad staring at them, but I couldn't stop. The sound of someone trying to open my door broke into my thoughts. I jerked back to reality and quickly hid the picture. I'd made sure to lock the door a while ago, not wanting anyone to see me with the photo. Getting the door, I found Nora, fuming. "How did you get rid of your scar?" Her voice blared with indignation. "And what exactly is your plan? You want everyone to see the beautiful you, don't you?" I rolled my eyes, my earlier pain dissolving temporarily. "Please, don't tell me you knocked on my door just to whine about how good I look. What, you really thought I'd look that heinous forever?" Her glare turned even icier. "Well, just so you know, this won't change a thing between you and Roderick. Soon, he'll be here, both of you would go to the temple and finish your breakup." It dawned on me instantly. Oh, no. "Wait," I blinked. "You and Roderick?" A triumphant smile played on her lips. "Years ago, things didn't work between us. But now, he's ready to choose me." Well, if Roderick wasn't a bigger ba**ard. "Ugh, you disappoint me, Nora. Using my leftovers?" I tsked. "Considering you've always thought yourself the pretty one, I expected better from you." A tense glare pulled her brows together. She opened her mouth to say something, but I caught her off. "You don't have to worry. I'm done with Roderick and can't wait to fully end things with him." I slammed the door in her face. ...... A while later, father and I arrived Darkspire in one of his luxury cars. The Pack, which was known to be the biggest and wealthiest, was just as beautiful as people said. I was dazzled by the sight and couldn't believe for a moment that I'd be Luna here. Alighting our car, father and I were led into one of the buildings by some maids while his guards remained outside. The Grand Luna-Jaris' mother-was in the large living room to welcome us. "Bennett! I am so glad you made it," the Luna said, her eyes holding little amusement. "Greetings, Luna." I dipped my head. She regarded me with surprise. "Is this your daughter?" She asked dad. "Well, bless Seraphis, she's gorgeous!" I couldn't help my smile. Luna Isolde, during her time, was a formidable Luna. She had ruled beside her late husband with an iron fist, destroying everyone who dared cross her path. I'd always wished to meet her. "Please, come sit while we wait for Alpha Jaris. He'll be joining us shortly," she showed us to the couch. Her version of 'shortly' turned out to be almost an hour later. Father and I were already exhausted and kept staring at the door, wondering how long it'd take the Alpha to arrive. Wasn't he aware he'd be having guests? His... new Luna? At a point, Isolde looked angry and left. When she returned, she reassured us he'd soon be here. And indeed, he did come. The air shifted in the room the second the door opened, revealing a man and two others behind him. The Luna drew in a breath of relief as she rose to her feet. Father and I did same. It was easy spotting who the Alpha was as the two other men flanked him. But the moment I had a clear view of his face, my world shattered. No. No. Horror gripped my ch**t, squeezing it until I felt pain. This had to be some twisted joke. Because how in Selene's name was I staring at the face of the very man that had ruined me five years ago? ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5&

To him, she was the only woman who could give him the perfect s*x. Yet after that night, she vanished. He never imagined the ugly woman he'd been searching for was his Luna. He decisively drove away her despicable ex-mate and publicly declared his love for her. ===== "You used me! Mating with me was your ladder to power, Roderick! Your Pack climbed the ranks because of me! Now that you've achieved your ambition, you don't need the ugly girl anymore, is that it? But you were willing to mate with me a year ago!" I sobbed, crying to my mate who just rejected me. "Oh, spare me!" Roderick rolled his eyes. "Don't act like you didn't know I'd have left you at some point. Hold on, did you really think I'd have made you the Luna of my Pack? I can barely stand the sight of you, Lyric. How do you expect me to take you to Alpha meetings and present you to others? You are disgusting!" "But I did not give this scar to myself!" I cried bitterly. "And you promised you'd take me to the best doctors. You didn't do any of that, Roderick! It'd have helped!" "What? Even your own family doesn't care enough to take you to doctors, and you think I would? Quit, dreaming, Lyric and get out of my Pack!" Tears blurred my vision. It wasn't the first time I was being called ugly, but it hurt more each time it came from Roderick. I knew Roderick had no love for me when my family paired me with him a year ago. For a year, we lived like strangers despite being mated. I was still a vi**in as he could not even bring himself to touch me. It wasn't my fault I was ugly. I was burnt with a silver-base branding iron when I was a kid, leaving a huge scar by the side of my face. I still didn't know who was responsible for it, but I've had to grow up with this sting of rejection. Even my own family hated me and were embarrassed by my appearance. But I thought Roderick would be different. I thought he'd love me. Apparently, in a world where ranks mattered the most to Pack Leaders, deceit was bound to happen. I glared at him. I'd truly loved this man and wished he'd love me back. But now, I wish he'd suffer for what he did to me. "You are a monster," I gritted the words. "And I hope you pay for this someday." He threw back his head and laughed, a hollow sound. "Cu**ed Lyric, how exactly is that going to happen? I am currently the third most powerful Alpha now. My Pack is up the ranks while your family is beneath me! There is nothing you can do to me anymore. You have always been and will always be worthless! "Listen, I have rejected you already, and you have accepted. Although, there is one final formality left, but as far as I'm concerned, you're not longer anything to me. So, get your disgusting face out of my pack! This instant, before I have the guards throw you out!" His glare was icy, and before I could respond, he walked out. ......... After I managed to pull myself together, I left Roderick's Pack and decided to head home-to my father's Pack. I hadn't been home since I moved into Roderick's Pack, and I hoped they'd be willing to take me in. My family had never really liked me. Everything started falling apart after my mother left-abandoning me when I was four. My father chose a new mate and suddenly didn't have enough time for me. Then, I got my scar and he became even more distant. The guards let me through the gate, but when I rang the bell of the lounge, my stepsister and her mother opened up. To my surprise, they wouldn't let me in. "Go back to Roderick and beg him some more, Lyric. There is no room for you here," Nora said after I explained everything to them. Despite my attempt to get them to pity me, letting them understand I had nowhere else to go, they ordered the guards to see me out. They've always taken me to be a disgrace to the family and were happy when I left for Roderick's Pack. Now, they didn't want me back. ......... By evening, I was seated in a b*r, my favorite b*r-Faceless Drunk. Over here, they mixed portions strong enough to get a wolf drunk, and you didn't have to worry about being recognized and judged as every customer made use of masks. It had been my favorite b*r for years. If people had to see my face, they'd think I was getting drunk because I was ugly. "You're too ugly." I'd heard those words too many times, I could recite them in my sl**p without missing a beat. But above all, it was Roderick's betrayal that cut deep. It was even more painful that I could not do anything for him. His Pack was very powerful now, and I was an ugly, rejected girl who didn't even have a family to return to. Nobody could ever want me. What was the point of living? I emptied the last of my drink and was trying to stand when someone spoke from nowhere: "A refill for the lady, please." I turned in surprise to find a man taking the seat beside me. The ba**ender nodded and proceeded to get a refill. I furrowed my brows in surprise as I looked at the newcomer. I couldn't see his face as he was wearing a mask just like me, but something about the way he appeared told me he was sophisticated. His suit was a Mason Étoile brand, and his watch was an Aristo Tempus watch. An average Wolf couldn't afford these things. "You've been coming here to drink alone for some time now," he said, surprising me. His voice... It was soothing and impossible to ignore. I lowered my eyes, feeling a little ashamed. How can he even tell? "I don't know what you're talking about." "Your mask." He tipped his chin toward me. "You've never changed it." Oh. "That means you also come here a lot." "I do. It's not quite up to my standard, but it's my favorite place. I like it when I don't get judged by anyone." The barman returned with my drink. I thanked the newcomer before drinking from my glass. "From the look of things, you must be troubled. I am, too. So, why don't we make a deal, Miss? Have fun for the night and go our separate ways by morning?" I looked at him in shock. He was offering a one-ni**t affiar! "But y-you don't even know me," I muttered shyly. "I do not need to. It is simply for fun." There was something about the way he spoke. I could tell he was a man who didn't care about the feelings of others and was only out to get what he wanted. "Although, I must warn you," he asked. "It will be a long night. I have... problems fi**shing on a woman. I never. So, like I said, it is simply for the fun of it." Huh? He could not cl**ax during in**macy? But I heard that was the best part of it. How could he enjoy in**macy if he had never fi**shed on a woman before? The thought of it was sad. Despite how absurd it sounded, a part of me was te**ted. I'd always been curious about intimacy. No one has ever liked me because of my scar, not even my mate-ex-mate. After much conviction from the newcomer, I gave it a thought. "Can we keep our masks on?" You'll hate me just like the others if you see how ugly I am. "Sure." He shrugged. "Your wish is my command, Princess." Princess? My stomach churned. Oh, no. He didn't know I looked like a monster. If he knew, he'd run off like the others. I was tempted to cry. Sometimes, I really did wish I were treated like a 'Princess.' Chapter 2 LYRIC'S POV 02 We left the b*r together, heading to his ho**l as he called it. We drove off in his Arcanis GT. It was one of the most expensive cars in the world. Whoever this man was, he was filthy rich. Could he possibly be an Alpha? A part of me had been tempted to ask questions, but none of it mattered. We were simply going to m**e l**e and never see each other again. ...... It was the best night of my life. The stranger had been shocked to know I was a vi**in. The entire session, he kept asking if I was fine and needed him to be more gentle. For the first time, someone cared about my feelings. But something unusual happened during the process. Everything had been going so fine until he suddenly jerked and came with a deep gr**n. I was shocked, but we were both in the moment and could not ask questions. He got off me almost immediately, sitting on the edge of the b*d. "That is strange," he muttered to himself. I was equally confused. He looked at me, and from how long it was, I could tell he was staring at me like I was a puzzle. "Who are you?" He ran a finger along my jaw. The touch was electric. I swallowed hard. I am just an ugly girl who has been abandoned by everyone she's ever come across. To my surprise, he took off his mask. My mouth fell open in shock at the face before me. Good Moon! If he wasn't the most stunning man I'd ever met! He was too good-looking. I could never have someone like him. He was too good for me. I pulled the duvet further to conceal my body. "You should've told me you were a vi**in at the bar," he said. What did it matter? I didn't care anymore. Slowly, his hand reached for my face. Realizing what he had in mind, I gasped and recoiled. "No." I shook my head, gripping the duvet tight. "Why? You've seen my face." Still, I shook my head. "Our deal still stands. There's nothing to be afraid of." He added. You don't understand! You'll hate me if you see my face. The night was going too smoothly. I didn't want anything to ruin it. "I'm ugly." I mumbled, dipping my head. He seemed surprised. He reached for my face again and this time, I didn't try to stop him. This was my fate. He pulled off the mask, put a finger under my chin and tipped my head up to meet his gaze. Tears glistened in my eyes as I stared into his silver charming eyes. He was staring right at my face, at my scar. He was going to run away now. I shivered and closed my eyes when he ran a finger along the scar. What was he doing? "What happened?" His tone was soft, his fingers still ca**ssing my face. I met his gaze and so far, there was no resentment in his eyes. "S-Someone attacked me." I swallowed. "I was abducted and blindfolded while they hurt me. I've visited a lot of doctors, but none have been able to help." Seconds passed. He didn't take his eyes off me. "You're beautiful," he murmured. I frowned. What was he talking about? "You really think the scar makes you ugly?" I shook my head, pulling my face away from his grasp. "I am ugly. Everyone tells me." More to my surprise, he pulled me in beside him, wrapping his arms around my shoulder. "Until tonight, I don't think I've ever met a lady as stunning as you, Princess." My heart quickened as I listened to his heartbeat with my head on his ch**t. Uncontrollably, a tear escaped my eye. He was lying. He only wanted me to feel better. "Do you think we could adjust our deal? I'd love to spend another day with you," he said, shocking me to the core. What!? This was not possible. "I-I-" "Please." My heart melted instantly. For the first time in my life, I was being begged to stay. Not leave. I buried my face in his ch**t as I responded: "I'd love to." ........ But like everyone else, he lied to me. Like everyone else, I was deceived. By morning, he was gone. I woke up and couldn't find him. There was no note, no trace that he had even been with me aside from the ache in-between my legs. And to make it worse, someone showed up at the door, asking me to leave. "The man I came with last night, do you think he'd come back?" I asked the man, my heart racing in my ch**t. "No. It was his idea to get you to leave. He said he doesn't want to see you anywhere near this property. Please, leave this instant," the man said and left. And just like that, my heart was shattered all over. But surprisingly, it hurt more than when I had been rejected by Roderick. Chapter 3 LYRIC'S POV 03 "I'm sorry, ma'am; but I'm here to pick someone. I can't give you a free ride, if that's what you're asking." I struggled to hold back my laughter as I listened to Rufus, one of my father's oldest guards say, his eyes darting past my shoulder, looking out for the person he had been assigned to pick from the airport. "I know. You have been sent to pick Lyric Harper, right? It's me, Rufus." His eyes narrowed with suspicion. "You still haven't told me how you know my name. And... And how can you be Lyric? It's not possible." He shook his head. "Lyric is-" "Ugly?" I finished for him, a broad smile on my face. He frowned as he shook his head. Back then, Rufus was the only one that had never been able to call me ugly. He was among the very few that had cared about my feelings, and even now, to a stranger, he still couldn't call me ugly. I laughed. "Well, would it help if I reminded you that your favorite soup was butternut squash and you and little Lyric used to play Chutes and Ladders?" Recognition beamed in his eyes. His jaw dropped in astonishment. "Seraphis have mercy! Lyric, it's really you!" He opened his arms, and I didn't hesitate to fall in for a warm hug. Back then, Rufus and I barely had time together, but he always made the few times we met worth it. He was the closest thing I had to a parent. "How is this possible?" He inquired after asking how I was. "Your face... My goodness! You look gorgeous! You've only been gone for five years and... I-I can't believe this." "It's a long story, Rufus. But for now, let's just say fates decided to smile on me." "Oh, Lyric! You do not know how happy I am to see you. I am sure your father must be delighted seeing you're not...un-beautiful anymore." I laughed at his attempt not to use the word 'ugly' on me. Well, as for my father, I rolled my eyes in my head. I felt a little sad that I was forced to return here after five years because of him. My life was perfect in Draconis. "Here. I'll take this to the car," Rufus said, taking my luggage. "You do that and I'll meet you in the car. I need to pick up an extra luggage. Don't worry, I'll be quick." I turned around and had barely taken three separate Rufus called my attention, "You dropped something." Looking at the floor, I found the scanned image. My heart jumped into my throat as I quickly crouched to retrieve it. Rufus watched with me with surprise. Obviously, he had seen the X-ray and would be wondering why the h**l something of that nature had been in my back pocket. Oh, Lyric. You couldn't be a little careful? "It's-It's not mine," I cleared my throat, hoping my lie was plausible. I mean, who carried X-ray photos of fetuses in their back pocket? Tucking it back into the pocket, I hurried away. ..... I had my hands crossed over my ch**t as I waited at the collecting center. My extra luggage would be brought to me at any moment. As I waited idly, disturbing thoughts ran through my mind. Father wanted me home for two reasons. The first was to completely cut ties with Roderick. In our world, when two wolves were getting mated, they tied a ribbon as a sign of their union and had it stored in a temple. So, when they wanted to part ways, there were two steps involved. First, they'd have to denounce themselves as mates with the words of their mouths, and secondly, cut the ribbon together. After Roderick denounced me as his mate, we didn't get the chance to see each other again. Circumstances happened that pulled me away. But now, he was desperate to finish the final steps. Apparently, he'd chosen a new mate but couldn't accept her when he was still partially bound to me. Well, I'd been looking forward to the day when I get to end things with the as**ole. He was my past, and the st**id ribbon was the final thing holding us together. "Excuse me, Ms. I'd like a moment of your time, please," someone said behind me. I turned to see a well-built man in a black suit and dark shades over his eyes. I didn't need anyone to tell me he was a guard. "Can I help you?" I furrowed my brows. "Kind of. The Alpha over there demands an audience with you." I looked to where he pointed-a mini b*r-but couldn't see the man he was referring to. His face was shielded by a counter. I fought the urge to roll my eyes. These days, it was tiring. It was obvious there would never be a day where I'd step out without garnering attention from the opposite gender. "I'm in a hurry. Tell him I'm sorry." I responded. The guard's jaw tightened. "You can't ignore him." I read the unspoken words from his tone: He's a powerful Alpha. You can't simply ignore his request. But I really wasn't interested in meeting anyone. "I'm sorry. I really am." I looked away. It was disrespectful to ignore an Alpha's call. In a world where ranks mattered, he could be one of the powerful ones and could punish me severely, but I really wasn't in the mood to talk to anyone. "It's Alpha Roderick of Nightshade." The guard added as if to entice me. But he had no idea, he had just reopened old wounds. My eyes moved to him, then quickly flicked to the b*r where the man was seated. Roderick? As in my ex-mate Roderick? The one I was here to end things with? No way. My ch**t tightened with pain and it was all I could do to keep my emotions intact. "More reason not to see him," I mumbled, turning away. "Did you say something?" "I said I am not seeing him." I gritted the words, my nails digging into my palms. The guard gave me a disapproving stare before walking away, and I released a shaky breath. Now, where the h**l was my luggage? I met one of the workers and demanded an update, and he assured me it'd be here any minute. Unfortunately, they were not fast enough as shortly, I saw Roderick approaching me. Chapter 4 LYRIC'S POV 04 Roderick Fletcher. The one man I'd hoped would love me but never did. The mind was a bi**h. I thought I was over Roderick's betrayal and wouldn't feel a thing when I met him. But watching him as he approached me, looking like he was the one in charge made my eyes rim with tears. I sniffled and looked away, forcing the tears back in. "So, I had to come over to speak to you myself," he leaned against the counter beside me. "How daring." My throat was tight, unable to find any words. I feared there would be a crack in my voice if I managed to speak. Three guards hovered beside him, their eyes darting around. Roderick looked sophisticated, like he'd obviously been having a good life. What was he even doing here? Was he picking someone? "What's the name?" He tilted his head as he asked. I said nothing, won't even look at him. "Hello?" "I don't feel like disclosing my name to strangers," I finally managed. My voice was tight. His eyes beamed with amusement. And here was a man who never smiled at me when we were together for one year. "Let's just say I'm overly excited today," he sighed. "I'm here, waiting for a certain bi**h to arrive." When I gave him a puzzled look,he added, "Ex-mate. We are through with the first step and just have the tiny little step to go. I'd finally be free of her." I scoffed. He was unbelievable. "I'd have done this sooner, you know? But the horrid girl has been missing for years. Stressed us the h**l out to find her." He spoke with raw disdain. "What makes you call her horrid?" I found myself asking before I could stop. He chuckled. "Trust me, honey; she's a monster. If you see her, you'd have the same opinion. She's the ugliest thing I've ever seen." Something hot exploded in my ch**t. It was all I could do not to let my emotions rush out. No. This was not the right place. But Roderick was the true monster. He had no idea he was standing before the very woman he despised. What would proud he do if he gets to know? It made sense why he was waiting at the airport. He clearly wanted to drag me to the temple to cut the ribbon. Well, I wouldn't let him humiliate me in public. Not again. Fortunately, my luggage finally arrived. "Sorry for the delay, ma'am," the young man said as he rolled it to me. Not looking at Roderick, I made to leave. That must have surprised him. "I'd love to speak to you some other time. Your contact, if you don't mind." For a moment, I stood with my back to him, contemplating my words. I turned around when I found the most polite one I could give; "Even if I have to give up my number to save myself from you, I wouldn't do it. Alpha." When my words sank in, surprise danced in her eyes, followed by a hint of hurt. Something blossomed in my ch**t. It was pride. So, I rolled my luggage away, leaving him standing there in shock. ****†****† Rufus and I arrived home to the party. It was my stepmother's birthday party. Not that I had any intention of attending-may the moon forbid it-I just arrived at a coincidentally perfect time. I wasn't dressed for the party. Had my simple jeans and shirt on with my hair in a ponytail. Yet, when I entered the hall, heads turned in my direction. I felt awkward for a moment. The whole attention thing was still new to me. I never knew I could receive so much compliments until I was free of my scar. Now, people could hardly stare at me without telling me how beautiful I was. My stepsister, Nora, walked up to me with a smile. "Hi! You're a little late for the party. What's your name?" Typical Nora. From young, she's always wanted to be friends with the hot girls. She despised me so much as I brought a 'stain' to her name. A scarred lady being her sister. Five years ago, she had slammed the door inh face, not letting me in despite my pleas. Now, she was being all nice. "I'm not here for the party," I answered her coldly and looked away, scouring around for my father. I found him in a corner with my stepmother and some guests. He was the reason I was here. I needed to know what was so urgent aside from cutting ties with Roderick. He had his eyes on me, staring suspiciously. I went toward him. "Hey! Who are you?" Nora came after me, sounding a little hurt. But I ignored her until I reached father. My father was a well known Alpha, hence the party filled with dignitaries. I did well to bow my head to them as I stood before father. "Who are you?" My stepmother asked. I met her gaze with a smirk. "Am I that different that you can't recognize me?" I looked to father. "What about you, father? Am I too different?" Audible g**ps rippled around me. Nora's hand went over her mouth. "It's not possible," she muttered, shaking her head. "Lyric?" Father's eyes were filled with shock and recognition. "Who's this impersonator?" My stepmother snapped. "Do you think we lack knowledge of what Lyric looks like? You think we'd fall for this scam?" I focused my gaze on dad. "I'm only here 'cause you said there was something important you needed to talk to me about. If you don't mind, I'd like for us to have that conversation now." Father took me to his study, leaving numerous shocked persons behind who couldn't utter a word. I wouldn't deny how good it felt to know I was the reason they were speechless. They couldn't call me ugly. As a matter of fact, I'd never be called ugly by anyone, ever again. "What happened to you, Lyric? Your scar was impossible to get rid of," Father asked. "I don't wish to discuss it now." Or the horrible things that happened within five years. I was still trying to run from them. "Just tell me why you needed me here." "Yes, that." his countenance soured. "You have no idea how happy I was when. I found you after searching for years. You just... vanished." He sighed. "We have a problem, Lyric. Our Pack is in a deep mess with Darkspire. I-I made some mistake and lost a lot of money-a whole lot-making me indebted to Darkspire." Okay, I did not like where this was headed. Darkspire was a generational wolf pack, known to produce only the strongest Alphas. The Alphas that always ranked first in the hierarchy system. They were avoided as much as possible as they were known to be vicious. One did not get tangled with them for any reason. "If word of this gets out, we'd be doomed. We'd go down the ranks, and coming from a pack that was used to being at the top, believe me, it is not a good thing for us. But they're willing to let it go." I furrowed my brows. It didn't make any sense. I sensed a huge 'But' coming. "But they need a Luna from this family, for just a year." Chapter 5 LYRIC'S POV 05 It had to be a joke. Or at the very least, not what I was thinking. Father's eyes turned more serious as he moved toward me. "I thought of offering Nora to him, but she's already with someone else, and the Alpha King might become furious if he thinks we're trying to offer him someone else's woman. This is the reason you're the only choice we have, Lyric. And... you have no idea how perfect it is that you have your face back. Initially, I had been worried we'd have issues with the Alpha King accepting you, but now, I am confident he'll be thrilled." "Hold on," I scoffed, placing a hand on my thigh. "Please don't tell me you made me travel all the way from Draconis just to be told that I am about to be sacrificed to a demon." No wolf was stranger to the name ' Darkspire'. Even me who knew little of Pack matters still knew how dangerous they were and nobody wanted to have anything to do with them; not in this life, not in another. "Alpha Jaris is not a demon," Father said with surprise. "But that is exactly what he is. Years ago, you said the same thing." Alpha Jaris Dreadmoor was the most vicious man I'd ever heard about. Tales of how he had conquered his enemies-and sometimes, his friends-were no news to the Pack. Being from a family that produced only the strongest Alphas, he was currently the Alpha King of Darkspire, a man everyone feared and didn't wish to end in his bad books. I didn't know what he looked like. I'd never been privileged enough to meet someone like Jaris Dreadmoor. Not that I ever wanted to. "There are rumors that he k**led his own father and brother!" I raised my hand in the air. "How do you want me to be with someone like that?" "Those are mere speculations, Lyric. Besides, you'll only be with him for a year." "You don't need a year to k**l someone, dad. All it takes is a minute, tops. But for someone like Jaris, I'm sure half a minute would do. Besides, why does it even have to be for a year?" From what I heard, Darkspire didn't have a Luna yet since Jaris' rise to ascension. But if he wanted to take up a Luna, wouldn't it be long term or something? Why was he only asking for a year? "Honestly, I don't know, Lyric." "And you don't care," I cut in, pain edging toward my heart. "All you care about is giving him a Luna so you can get the problem off your back. You don't care about the problem you're putting on mine." For a fraction of a second, wonder flashed across his face. The Lyric he knew would never argue with him. She'd have humbly agreed to anything he wanted. Well, let's just say I got to know my worth when I realized how beautiful I was. This Lyric was tired of being people's puppets. Father came close enough to take my hand. This time, he looked so troubled, I feared he might go on his knees. "Lyric, please." He gave my hand a little squeeze. "This is the last I'll ask of you as your father. Just do this for me, for only a year. And I promise, you'll make me the happiest father." ***** Hours later, I stood in my room-or what used to be my room-staring at my reflection in the mirror. I was wearing a long red dress with my hair falling over my shoulder. I was fully ready to meet Alpha Jaris, even though I'd rather I don't. Something didn't feel right. Him wanting a Luna for only a year....it was wrong. But father had nearly gone on his knees begging me earlier. I could disappoint him. Besides, before he got mated to his second wife, there were times he'd been good to me. I tried to resist the te**tation as I stared at the drawer before me. But failing woefully, I still opened it and retrieved the scan. My heart fractured completely, old wounds reopening. It was the one picture in the world that had the power to k**l me every single time I looked at it, yet it was like a d**g to me. I was addicted and could barely go an hour without touching it. Feeling it. A tear dropped from my eye as I glided my finger across the images outlining the shapes of the unborn babies in the womb. Five years, yet still the best thing that's happened to me. And the worse. But I'd rather hold onto the fact that it was the best. It hurt so bad staring at them, but I couldn't stop. The sound of someone trying to open my door broke into my thoughts. I jerked back to reality and quickly hid the picture. I'd made sure to lock the door a while ago, not wanting anyone to see me with the photo. Getting the door, I found Nora, fuming. "How did you get rid of your scar?" Her voice blared with indignation. "And what exactly is your plan? You want everyone to see the beautiful you, don't you?" I rolled my eyes, my earlier pain dissolving temporarily. "Please, don't tell me you knocked on my door just to whine about how good I look. What, you really thought I'd look that heinous forever?" Her glare turned even icier. "Well, just so you know, this won't change a thing between you and Roderick. Soon, he'll be here, both of you would go to the temple and finish your breakup." It dawned on me instantly. Oh, no. "Wait," I blinked. "You and Roderick?" A triumphant smile played on her lips. "Years ago, things didn't work between us. But now, he's ready to choose me." Well, if Roderick wasn't a bigger ba**ard. "Ugh, you disappoint me, Nora. Using my leftovers?" I tsked. "Considering you've always thought yourself the pretty one, I expected better from you." A tense glare pulled her brows together. She opened her mouth to say something, but I caught her off. "You don't have to worry. I'm done with Roderick and can't wait to fully end things with him." I slammed the door in her face. ...... A while later, father and I arrived Darkspire in one of his luxury cars. The Pack, which was known to be the biggest and wealthiest, was just as beautiful as people said. I was dazzled by the sight and couldn't believe for a moment that I'd be Luna here. Alighting our car, father and I were led into one of the buildings by some maids while his guards remained outside. The Grand Luna-Jaris' mother-was in the large living room to welcome us. "Bennett! I am so glad you made it," the Luna said, her eyes holding little amusement. "Greetings, Luna." I dipped my head. She regarded me with surprise. "Is this your daughter?" She asked dad. "Well, bless Seraphis, she's gorgeous!" I couldn't help my smile. Luna Isolde, during her time, was a formidable Luna. She had ruled beside her late husband with an iron fist, destroying everyone who dared cross her path. I'd always wished to meet her. "Please, come sit while we wait for Alpha Jaris. He'll be joining us shortly," she showed us to the couch. Her version of 'shortly' turned out to be almost an hour later. Father and I were already exhausted and kept staring at the door, wondering how long it'd take the Alpha to arrive. Wasn't he aware he'd be having guests? His... new Luna? At a point, Isolde looked angry and left. When she returned, she reassured us he'd soon be here. And indeed, he did come. The air shifted in the room the second the door opened, revealing a man and two others behind him. The Luna drew in a breath of relief as she rose to her feet. Father and I did same. It was easy spotting who the Alpha was as the two other men flanked him. But the moment I had a clear view of his face, my world shattered. No. No. Horror gripped my ch**t, squeezing it until I felt pain. This had to be some twisted joke. Because how in Selene's name was I staring at the face of the very man that had ruined me five years ago? ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5&

To him, she was the only woman who could give him the perfect s*x. Yet after that night, she vanished. He never imagined the ugly woman he'd been searching for was his Luna. He decisively drove away her despicable ex-mate and publicly declared his love for her. ===== "You used me! Mating with me was your ladder to power, Roderick! Your Pack climbed the ranks because of me! Now that you've achieved your ambition, you don't need the ugly girl anymore, is that it? But you were willing to mate with me a year ago!" I sobbed, crying to my mate who just rejected me. "Oh, spare me!" Roderick rolled his eyes. "Don't act like you didn't know I'd have left you at some point. Hold on, did you really think I'd have made you the Luna of my Pack? I can barely stand the sight of you, Lyric. How do you expect me to take you to Alpha meetings and present you to others? You are disgusting!" "But I did not give this scar to myself!" I cried bitterly. "And you promised you'd take me to the best doctors. You didn't do any of that, Roderick! It'd have helped!" "What? Even your own family doesn't care enough to take you to doctors, and you think I would? Quit, dreaming, Lyric and get out of my Pack!" Tears blurred my vision. It wasn't the first time I was being called ugly, but it hurt more each time it came from Roderick. I knew Roderick had no love for me when my family paired me with him a year ago. For a year, we lived like strangers despite being mated. I was still a vi**in as he could not even bring himself to touch me. It wasn't my fault I was ugly. I was burnt with a silver-base branding iron when I was a kid, leaving a huge scar by the side of my face. I still didn't know who was responsible for it, but I've had to grow up with this sting of rejection. Even my own family hated me and were embarrassed by my appearance. But I thought Roderick would be different. I thought he'd love me. Apparently, in a world where ranks mattered the most to Pack Leaders, deceit was bound to happen. I glared at him. I'd truly loved this man and wished he'd love me back. But now, I wish he'd suffer for what he did to me. "You are a monster," I gritted the words. "And I hope you pay for this someday." He threw back his head and laughed, a hollow sound. "Cu**ed Lyric, how exactly is that going to happen? I am currently the third most powerful Alpha now. My Pack is up the ranks while your family is beneath me! There is nothing you can do to me anymore. You have always been and will always be worthless! "Listen, I have rejected you already, and you have accepted. Although, there is one final formality left, but as far as I'm concerned, you're not longer anything to me. So, get your disgusting face out of my pack! This instant, before I have the guards throw you out!" His glare was icy, and before I could respond, he walked out. ......... After I managed to pull myself together, I left Roderick's Pack and decided to head home-to my father's Pack. I hadn't been home since I moved into Roderick's Pack, and I hoped they'd be willing to take me in. My family had never really liked me. Everything started falling apart after my mother left-abandoning me when I was four. My father chose a new mate and suddenly didn't have enough time for me. Then, I got my scar and he became even more distant. The guards let me through the gate, but when I rang the bell of the lounge, my stepsister and her mother opened up. To my surprise, they wouldn't let me in. "Go back to Roderick and beg him some more, Lyric. There is no room for you here," Nora said after I explained everything to them. Despite my attempt to get them to pity me, letting them understand I had nowhere else to go, they ordered the guards to see me out. They've always taken me to be a disgrace to the family and were happy when I left for Roderick's Pack. Now, they didn't want me back. ......... By evening, I was seated in a b*r, my favorite b*r-Faceless Drunk. Over here, they mixed portions strong enough to get a wolf drunk, and you didn't have to worry about being recognized and judged as every customer made use of masks. It had been my favorite b*r for years. If people had to see my face, they'd think I was getting drunk because I was ugly. "You're too ugly." I'd heard those words too many times, I could recite them in my sl**p without missing a beat. But above all, it was Roderick's betrayal that cut deep. It was even more painful that I could not do anything for him. His Pack was very powerful now, and I was an ugly, rejected girl who didn't even have a family to return to. Nobody could ever want me. What was the point of living? I emptied the last of my drink and was trying to stand when someone spoke from nowhere: "A refill for the lady, please." I turned in surprise to find a man taking the seat beside me. The ba**ender nodded and proceeded to get a refill. I furrowed my brows in surprise as I looked at the newcomer. I couldn't see his face as he was wearing a mask just like me, but something about the way he appeared told me he was sophisticated. His suit was a Mason Étoile brand, and his watch was an Aristo Tempus watch. An average Wolf couldn't afford these things. "You've been coming here to drink alone for some time now," he said, surprising me. His voice... It was soothing and impossible to ignore. I lowered my eyes, feeling a little ashamed. How can he even tell? "I don't know what you're talking about." "Your mask." He tipped his chin toward me. "You've never changed it." Oh. "That means you also come here a lot." "I do. It's not quite up to my standard, but it's my favorite place. I like it when I don't get judged by anyone." The barman returned with my drink. I thanked the newcomer before drinking from my glass. "From the look of things, you must be troubled. I am, too. So, why don't we make a deal, Miss? Have fun for the night and go our separate ways by morning?" I looked at him in shock. He was offering a one-ni**t affiar! "But y-you don't even know me," I muttered shyly. "I do not need to. It is simply for fun." There was something about the way he spoke. I could tell he was a man who didn't care about the feelings of others and was only out to get what he wanted. "Although, I must warn you," he asked. "It will be a long night. I have... problems fi**shing on a woman. I never. So, like I said, it is simply for the fun of it." Huh? He could not cl**ax during in**macy? But I heard that was the best part of it. How could he enjoy in**macy if he had never fi**shed on a woman before? The thought of it was sad. Despite how absurd it sounded, a part of me was te**ted. I'd always been curious about intimacy. No one has ever liked me because of my scar, not even my mate-ex-mate. After much conviction from the newcomer, I gave it a thought. "Can we keep our masks on?" You'll hate me just like the others if you see how ugly I am. "Sure." He shrugged. "Your wish is my command, Princess." Princess? My stomach churned. Oh, no. He didn't know I looked like a monster. If he knew, he'd run off like the others. I was tempted to cry. Sometimes, I really did wish I were treated like a 'Princess.' Chapter 2 LYRIC'S POV 02 We left the b*r together, heading to his ho**l as he called it. We drove off in his Arcanis GT. It was one of the most expensive cars in the world. Whoever this man was, he was filthy rich. Could he possibly be an Alpha? A part of me had been tempted to ask questions, but none of it mattered. We were simply going to m**e l**e and never see each other again. ...... It was the best night of my life. The stranger had been shocked to know I was a vi**in. The entire session, he kept asking if I was fine and needed him to be more gentle. For the first time, someone cared about my feelings. But something unusual happened during the process. Everything had been going so fine until he suddenly jerked and came with a deep gr**n. I was shocked, but we were both in the moment and could not ask questions. He got off me almost immediately, sitting on the edge of the b*d. "That is strange," he muttered to himself. I was equally confused. He looked at me, and from how long it was, I could tell he was staring at me like I was a puzzle. "Who are you?" He ran a finger along my jaw. The touch was electric. I swallowed hard. I am just an ugly girl who has been abandoned by everyone she's ever come across. To my surprise, he took off his mask. My mouth fell open in shock at the face before me. Good Moon! If he wasn't the most stunning man I'd ever met! He was too good-looking. I could never have someone like him. He was too good for me. I pulled the duvet further to conceal my body. "You should've told me you were a vi**in at the bar," he said. What did it matter? I didn't care anymore. Slowly, his hand reached for my face. Realizing what he had in mind, I gasped and recoiled. "No." I shook my head, gripping the duvet tight. "Why? You've seen my face." Still, I shook my head. "Our deal still stands. There's nothing to be afraid of." He added. You don't understand! You'll hate me if you see my face. The night was going too smoothly. I didn't want anything to ruin it. "I'm ugly." I mumbled, dipping my head. He seemed surprised. He reached for my face again and this time, I didn't try to stop him. This was my fate. He pulled off the mask, put a finger under my chin and tipped my head up to meet his gaze. Tears glistened in my eyes as I stared into his silver charming eyes. He was staring right at my face, at my scar. He was going to run away now. I shivered and closed my eyes when he ran a finger along the scar. What was he doing? "What happened?" His tone was soft, his fingers still ca**ssing my face. I met his gaze and so far, there was no resentment in his eyes. "S-Someone attacked me." I swallowed. "I was abducted and blindfolded while they hurt me. I've visited a lot of doctors, but none have been able to help." Seconds passed. He didn't take his eyes off me. "You're beautiful," he murmured. I frowned. What was he talking about? "You really think the scar makes you ugly?" I shook my head, pulling my face away from his grasp. "I am ugly. Everyone tells me." More to my surprise, he pulled me in beside him, wrapping his arms around my shoulder. "Until tonight, I don't think I've ever met a lady as stunning as you, Princess." My heart quickened as I listened to his heartbeat with my head on his ch**t. Uncontrollably, a tear escaped my eye. He was lying. He only wanted me to feel better. "Do you think we could adjust our deal? I'd love to spend another day with you," he said, shocking me to the core. What!? This was not possible. "I-I-" "Please." My heart melted instantly. For the first time in my life, I was being begged to stay. Not leave. I buried my face in his ch**t as I responded: "I'd love to." ........ But like everyone else, he lied to me. Like everyone else, I was deceived. By morning, he was gone. I woke up and couldn't find him. There was no note, no trace that he had even been with me aside from the ache in-between my legs. And to make it worse, someone showed up at the door, asking me to leave. "The man I came with last night, do you think he'd come back?" I asked the man, my heart racing in my ch**t. "No. It was his idea to get you to leave. He said he doesn't want to see you anywhere near this property. Please, leave this instant," the man said and left. And just like that, my heart was shattered all over. But surprisingly, it hurt more than when I had been rejected by Roderick. Chapter 3 LYRIC'S POV 03 "I'm sorry, ma'am; but I'm here to pick someone. I can't give you a free ride, if that's what you're asking." I struggled to hold back my laughter as I listened to Rufus, one of my father's oldest guards say, his eyes darting past my shoulder, looking out for the person he had been assigned to pick from the airport. "I know. You have been sent to pick Lyric Harper, right? It's me, Rufus." His eyes narrowed with suspicion. "You still haven't told me how you know my name. And... And how can you be Lyric? It's not possible." He shook his head. "Lyric is-" "Ugly?" I finished for him, a broad smile on my face. He frowned as he shook his head. Back then, Rufus was the only one that had never been able to call me ugly. He was among the very few that had cared about my feelings, and even now, to a stranger, he still couldn't call me ugly. I laughed. "Well, would it help if I reminded you that your favorite soup was butternut squash and you and little Lyric used to play Chutes and Ladders?" Recognition beamed in his eyes. His jaw dropped in astonishment. "Seraphis have mercy! Lyric, it's really you!" He opened his arms, and I didn't hesitate to fall in for a warm hug. Back then, Rufus and I barely had time together, but he always made the few times we met worth it. He was the closest thing I had to a parent. "How is this possible?" He inquired after asking how I was. "Your face... My goodness! You look gorgeous! You've only been gone for five years and... I-I can't believe this." "It's a long story, Rufus. But for now, let's just say fates decided to smile on me." "Oh, Lyric! You do not know how happy I am to see you. I am sure your father must be delighted seeing you're not...un-beautiful anymore." I laughed at his attempt not to use the word 'ugly' on me. Well, as for my father, I rolled my eyes in my head. I felt a little sad that I was forced to return here after five years because of him. My life was perfect in Draconis. "Here. I'll take this to the car," Rufus said, taking my luggage. "You do that and I'll meet you in the car. I need to pick up an extra luggage. Don't worry, I'll be quick." I turned around and had barely taken three separate Rufus called my attention, "You dropped something." Looking at the floor, I found the scanned image. My heart jumped into my throat as I quickly crouched to retrieve it. Rufus watched with me with surprise. Obviously, he had seen the X-ray and would be wondering why the h**l something of that nature had been in my back pocket. Oh, Lyric. You couldn't be a little careful? "It's-It's not mine," I cleared my throat, hoping my lie was plausible. I mean, who carried X-ray photos of fetuses in their back pocket? Tucking it back into the pocket, I hurried away. ..... I had my hands crossed over my ch**t as I waited at the collecting center. My extra luggage would be brought to me at any moment. As I waited idly, disturbing thoughts ran through my mind. Father wanted me home for two reasons. The first was to completely cut ties with Roderick. In our world, when two wolves were getting mated, they tied a ribbon as a sign of their union and had it stored in a temple. So, when they wanted to part ways, there were two steps involved. First, they'd have to denounce themselves as mates with the words of their mouths, and secondly, cut the ribbon together. After Roderick denounced me as his mate, we didn't get the chance to see each other again. Circumstances happened that pulled me away. But now, he was desperate to finish the final steps. Apparently, he'd chosen a new mate but couldn't accept her when he was still partially bound to me. Well, I'd been looking forward to the day when I get to end things with the as**ole. He was my past, and the st**id ribbon was the final thing holding us together. "Excuse me, Ms. I'd like a moment of your time, please," someone said behind me. I turned to see a well-built man in a black suit and dark shades over his eyes. I didn't need anyone to tell me he was a guard. "Can I help you?" I furrowed my brows. "Kind of. The Alpha over there demands an audience with you." I looked to where he pointed-a mini b*r-but couldn't see the man he was referring to. His face was shielded by a counter. I fought the urge to roll my eyes. These days, it was tiring. It was obvious there would never be a day where I'd step out without garnering attention from the opposite gender. "I'm in a hurry. Tell him I'm sorry." I responded. The guard's jaw tightened. "You can't ignore him." I read the unspoken words from his tone: He's a powerful Alpha. You can't simply ignore his request. But I really wasn't interested in meeting anyone. "I'm sorry. I really am." I looked away. It was disrespectful to ignore an Alpha's call. In a world where ranks mattered, he could be one of the powerful ones and could punish me severely, but I really wasn't in the mood to talk to anyone. "It's Alpha Roderick of Nightshade." The guard added as if to entice me. But he had no idea, he had just reopened old wounds. My eyes moved to him, then quickly flicked to the b*r where the man was seated. Roderick? As in my ex-mate Roderick? The one I was here to end things with? No way. My ch**t tightened with pain and it was all I could do to keep my emotions intact. "More reason not to see him," I mumbled, turning away. "Did you say something?" "I said I am not seeing him." I gritted the words, my nails digging into my palms. The guard gave me a disapproving stare before walking away, and I released a shaky breath. Now, where the h**l was my luggage? I met one of the workers and demanded an update, and he assured me it'd be here any minute. Unfortunately, they were not fast enough as shortly, I saw Roderick approaching me. Chapter 4 LYRIC'S POV 04 Roderick Fletcher. The one man I'd hoped would love me but never did. The mind was a bi**h. I thought I was over Roderick's betrayal and wouldn't feel a thing when I met him. But watching him as he approached me, looking like he was the one in charge made my eyes rim with tears. I sniffled and looked away, forcing the tears back in. "So, I had to come over to speak to you myself," he leaned against the counter beside me. "How daring." My throat was tight, unable to find any words. I feared there would be a crack in my voice if I managed to speak. Three guards hovered beside him, their eyes darting around. Roderick looked sophisticated, like he'd obviously been having a good life. What was he even doing here? Was he picking someone? "What's the name?" He tilted his head as he asked. I said nothing, won't even look at him. "Hello?" "I don't feel like disclosing my name to strangers," I finally managed. My voice was tight. His eyes beamed with amusement. And here was a man who never smiled at me when we were together for one year. "Let's just say I'm overly excited today," he sighed. "I'm here, waiting for a certain bi**h to arrive." When I gave him a puzzled look,he added, "Ex-mate. We are through with the first step and just have the tiny little step to go. I'd finally be free of her." I scoffed. He was unbelievable. "I'd have done this sooner, you know? But the horrid girl has been missing for years. Stressed us the h**l out to find her." He spoke with raw disdain. "What makes you call her horrid?" I found myself asking before I could stop. He chuckled. "Trust me, honey; she's a monster. If you see her, you'd have the same opinion. She's the ugliest thing I've ever seen." Something hot exploded in my ch**t. It was all I could do not to let my emotions rush out. No. This was not the right place. But Roderick was the true monster. He had no idea he was standing before the very woman he despised. What would proud he do if he gets to know? It made sense why he was waiting at the airport. He clearly wanted to drag me to the temple to cut the ribbon. Well, I wouldn't let him humiliate me in public. Not again. Fortunately, my luggage finally arrived. "Sorry for the delay, ma'am," the young man said as he rolled it to me. Not looking at Roderick, I made to leave. That must have surprised him. "I'd love to speak to you some other time. Your contact, if you don't mind." For a moment, I stood with my back to him, contemplating my words. I turned around when I found the most polite one I could give; "Even if I have to give up my number to save myself from you, I wouldn't do it. Alpha." When my words sank in, surprise danced in her eyes, followed by a hint of hurt. Something blossomed in my ch**t. It was pride. So, I rolled my luggage away, leaving him standing there in shock. ****†****† Rufus and I arrived home to the party. It was my stepmother's birthday party. Not that I had any intention of attending-may the moon forbid it-I just arrived at a coincidentally perfect time. I wasn't dressed for the party. Had my simple jeans and shirt on with my hair in a ponytail. Yet, when I entered the hall, heads turned in my direction. I felt awkward for a moment. The whole attention thing was still new to me. I never knew I could receive so much compliments until I was free of my scar. Now, people could hardly stare at me without telling me how beautiful I was. My stepsister, Nora, walked up to me with a smile. "Hi! You're a little late for the party. What's your name?" Typical Nora. From young, she's always wanted to be friends with the hot girls. She despised me so much as I brought a 'stain' to her name. A scarred lady being her sister. Five years ago, she had slammed the door inh face, not letting me in despite my pleas. Now, she was being all nice. "I'm not here for the party," I answered her coldly and looked away, scouring around for my father. I found him in a corner with my stepmother and some guests. He was the reason I was here. I needed to know what was so urgent aside from cutting ties with Roderick. He had his eyes on me, staring suspiciously. I went toward him. "Hey! Who are you?" Nora came after me, sounding a little hurt. But I ignored her until I reached father. My father was a well known Alpha, hence the party filled with dignitaries. I did well to bow my head to them as I stood before father. "Who are you?" My stepmother asked. I met her gaze with a smirk. "Am I that different that you can't recognize me?" I looked to father. "What about you, father? Am I too different?" Audible g**ps rippled around me. Nora's hand went over her mouth. "It's not possible," she muttered, shaking her head. "Lyric?" Father's eyes were filled with shock and recognition. "Who's this impersonator?" My stepmother snapped. "Do you think we lack knowledge of what Lyric looks like? You think we'd fall for this scam?" I focused my gaze on dad. "I'm only here 'cause you said there was something important you needed to talk to me about. If you don't mind, I'd like for us to have that conversation now." Father took me to his study, leaving numerous shocked persons behind who couldn't utter a word. I wouldn't deny how good it felt to know I was the reason they were speechless. They couldn't call me ugly. As a matter of fact, I'd never be called ugly by anyone, ever again. "What happened to you, Lyric? Your scar was impossible to get rid of," Father asked. "I don't wish to discuss it now." Or the horrible things that happened within five years. I was still trying to run from them. "Just tell me why you needed me here." "Yes, that." his countenance soured. "You have no idea how happy I was when. I found you after searching for years. You just... vanished." He sighed. "We have a problem, Lyric. Our Pack is in a deep mess with Darkspire. I-I made some mistake and lost a lot of money-a whole lot-making me indebted to Darkspire." Okay, I did not like where this was headed. Darkspire was a generational wolf pack, known to produce only the strongest Alphas. The Alphas that always ranked first in the hierarchy system. They were avoided as much as possible as they were known to be vicious. One did not get tangled with them for any reason. "If word of this gets out, we'd be doomed. We'd go down the ranks, and coming from a pack that was used to being at the top, believe me, it is not a good thing for us. But they're willing to let it go." I furrowed my brows. It didn't make any sense. I sensed a huge 'But' coming. "But they need a Luna from this family, for just a year." Chapter 5 LYRIC'S POV 05 It had to be a joke. Or at the very least, not what I was thinking. Father's eyes turned more serious as he moved toward me. "I thought of offering Nora to him, but she's already with someone else, and the Alpha King might become furious if he thinks we're trying to offer him someone else's woman. This is the reason you're the only choice we have, Lyric. And... you have no idea how perfect it is that you have your face back. Initially, I had been worried we'd have issues with the Alpha King accepting you, but now, I am confident he'll be thrilled." "Hold on," I scoffed, placing a hand on my thigh. "Please don't tell me you made me travel all the way from Draconis just to be told that I am about to be sacrificed to a demon." No wolf was stranger to the name ' Darkspire'. Even me who knew little of Pack matters still knew how dangerous they were and nobody wanted to have anything to do with them; not in this life, not in another. "Alpha Jaris is not a demon," Father said with surprise. "But that is exactly what he is. Years ago, you said the same thing." Alpha Jaris Dreadmoor was the most vicious man I'd ever heard about. Tales of how he had conquered his enemies-and sometimes, his friends-were no news to the Pack. Being from a family that produced only the strongest Alphas, he was currently the Alpha King of Darkspire, a man everyone feared and didn't wish to end in his bad books. I didn't know what he looked like. I'd never been privileged enough to meet someone like Jaris Dreadmoor. Not that I ever wanted to. "There are rumors that he k**led his own father and brother!" I raised my hand in the air. "How do you want me to be with someone like that?" "Those are mere speculations, Lyric. Besides, you'll only be with him for a year." "You don't need a year to k**l someone, dad. All it takes is a minute, tops. But for someone like Jaris, I'm sure half a minute would do. Besides, why does it even have to be for a year?" From what I heard, Darkspire didn't have a Luna yet since Jaris' rise to ascension. But if he wanted to take up a Luna, wouldn't it be long term or something? Why was he only asking for a year? "Honestly, I don't know, Lyric." "And you don't care," I cut in, pain edging toward my heart. "All you care about is giving him a Luna so you can get the problem off your back. You don't care about the problem you're putting on mine." For a fraction of a second, wonder flashed across his face. The Lyric he knew would never argue with him. She'd have humbly agreed to anything he wanted. Well, let's just say I got to know my worth when I realized how beautiful I was. This Lyric was tired of being people's puppets. Father came close enough to take my hand. This time, he looked so troubled, I feared he might go on his knees. "Lyric, please." He gave my hand a little squeeze. "This is the last I'll ask of you as your father. Just do this for me, for only a year. And I promise, you'll make me the happiest father." ***** Hours later, I stood in my room-or what used to be my room-staring at my reflection in the mirror. I was wearing a long red dress with my hair falling over my shoulder. I was fully ready to meet Alpha Jaris, even though I'd rather I don't. Something didn't feel right. Him wanting a Luna for only a year....it was wrong. But father had nearly gone on his knees begging me earlier. I could disappoint him. Besides, before he got mated to his second wife, there were times he'd been good to me. I tried to resist the te**tation as I stared at the drawer before me. But failing woefully, I still opened it and retrieved the scan. My heart fractured completely, old wounds reopening. It was the one picture in the world that had the power to k**l me every single time I looked at it, yet it was like a d**g to me. I was addicted and could barely go an hour without touching it. Feeling it. A tear dropped from my eye as I glided my finger across the images outlining the shapes of the unborn babies in the womb. Five years, yet still the best thing that's happened to me. And the worse. But I'd rather hold onto the fact that it was the best. It hurt so bad staring at them, but I couldn't stop. The sound of someone trying to open my door broke into my thoughts. I jerked back to reality and quickly hid the picture. I'd made sure to lock the door a while ago, not wanting anyone to see me with the photo. Getting the door, I found Nora, fuming. "How did you get rid of your scar?" Her voice blared with indignation. "And what exactly is your plan? You want everyone to see the beautiful you, don't you?" I rolled my eyes, my earlier pain dissolving temporarily. "Please, don't tell me you knocked on my door just to whine about how good I look. What, you really thought I'd look that heinous forever?" Her glare turned even icier. "Well, just so you know, this won't change a thing between you and Roderick. Soon, he'll be here, both of you would go to the temple and finish your breakup." It dawned on me instantly. Oh, no. "Wait," I blinked. "You and Roderick?" A triumphant smile played on her lips. "Years ago, things didn't work between us. But now, he's ready to choose me." Well, if Roderick wasn't a bigger ba**ard. "Ugh, you disappoint me, Nora. Using my leftovers?" I tsked. "Considering you've always thought yourself the pretty one, I expected better from you." A tense glare pulled her brows together. She opened her mouth to say something, but I caught her off. "You don't have to worry. I'm done with Roderick and can't wait to fully end things with him." I slammed the door in her face. ...... A while later, father and I arrived Darkspire in one of his luxury cars. The Pack, which was known to be the biggest and wealthiest, was just as beautiful as people said. I was dazzled by the sight and couldn't believe for a moment that I'd be Luna here. Alighting our car, father and I were led into one of the buildings by some maids while his guards remained outside. The Grand Luna-Jaris' mother-was in the large living room to welcome us. "Bennett! I am so glad you made it," the Luna said, her eyes holding little amusement. "Greetings, Luna." I dipped my head. She regarded me with surprise. "Is this your daughter?" She asked dad. "Well, bless Seraphis, she's gorgeous!" I couldn't help my smile. Luna Isolde, during her time, was a formidable Luna. She had ruled beside her late husband with an iron fist, destroying everyone who dared cross her path. I'd always wished to meet her. "Please, come sit while we wait for Alpha Jaris. He'll be joining us shortly," she showed us to the couch. Her version of 'shortly' turned out to be almost an hour later. Father and I were already exhausted and kept staring at the door, wondering how long it'd take the Alpha to arrive. Wasn't he aware he'd be having guests? His... new Luna? At a point, Isolde looked angry and left. When she returned, she reassured us he'd soon be here. And indeed, he did come. The air shifted in the room the second the door opened, revealing a man and two others behind him. The Luna drew in a breath of relief as she rose to her feet. Father and I did same. It was easy spotting who the Alpha was as the two other men flanked him. But the moment I had a clear view of his face, my world shattered. No. No. Horror gripped my ch**t, squeezing it until I felt pain. This had to be some twisted joke. Because how in Selene's name was I staring at the face of the very man that had ruined me five years ago? ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5&