Alpha Drake

Every girl dreamed of being treated like a princess. At such a young age, Emily experienced abuse and slavery from her own family—her father. The family she had left ever since her mother died. All she ever wanted was to be loved. To be treasured like how her mother did to her ever since she was a kid. However, it’s true that when you lose someone or something, people start to change.

Emily knew that it was a choice. Her father could choose between loving her and hurting her. But he chooses the latter.

People leave, and people come. Her father became worst when he met Amanda, her stepmother.

Emily knew she couldn’t control love, but as an Alpha of their pack, his father had choices, but he chose to accept Amanda and her son, Cole.

At first, Emily thought that when she met Amanda, she could feel motherly love once again. However, cruelty began in her life. She received strong punches every time she made one small mistake, being whipped and even molested by her stepbrother.

These all trigger her emotions and mental health. Emily even thinks to have suicide when she’s alone in her room, but it seems like someone is stopping her every time she thinks of it. Thus, even if she could feel her body wanting to give up, she still chooses to carry on. Because she knew the moon Goddess always had reasons.

Emily was about to turn off the small vintage lamp near her bed when she heard a thunder strike into the sky, joined by glimmered lightning. She sighed and closed her window and was about to bring down the curtain. However, she stopped pulling the string when she saw a water droplet fall on the window screen. Then suddenly, her eyes went to the old table near the window and saw the black pouch.

“Damn, I forgot about it,” she whispered.

She then grabbed the pouch, wore her slippers, and exited her room. She ran as fast as she could towards her father when she heard murmurs, making her halt.

She breathed heavily and gasped for air. She could feel muscle cramps in every part of her body, knowing this was bad. She looked at the pouch that she was holding and clenched it tight. It was the money she made this day. Then suddenly, her gaze landed on the bruises on her arm. It’s still in the color violet with green dots on some parts. This could be shown that she received a heavy beating the other day. Her bruises aren’t healed yet.

If there’s one thing that Emily would be grateful for, it’s her stamina. No matter how heavy the punishment she received from her father or stepmother or to that devil pervert stepbrother, she still wakes up every day and pushes herself to work.

However, deep inside, she knew that there could be a time that her body gave up.

‘Emily, you’re strong. You can do it!’ These are the words she always let out inside her thoughts to make her move daily.

“Leo, darling, you don’t have to worry about that bitch. We will get rid of her, remember?”

Emily’s eyes widened when she heard Amanda’s voice filled with evil intent. She let out a sigh and shook her head. She’s not dumbed not to know that she was the topic.

Didn’t Amanda want her out of the family? So, what’s new?

Emily had enough, but still, she thought she could perfectly do the art of being numb, but she was wrong. To ease the excruciating pain that she felt within her heart, she tried to get numb and ignore everything, then continue to move on because she believed that sooner, her father would realize her worth.

But hearing those words from Amanda again, she knew that the Alpha would choose what his Luna says once again, and Emily would be nothing—nothing but their slave.

“The important thing is the money, darling.”

Emily scoffed. Yeah, money!

They should have known that they were living under the same roof, that she might hear their conversation.

Seriously, talking in the living room where there’s a vast space?

Not unless they do it purposely.

“Eavesdropping, are we?”

Emily rolled her eyes and turned her back to face the man. No other than her stepbrother. She arched her brow.

“Wow, feisty. You can fight me now?” Cole asked as he walked closer to her.

Emily could feel how her heart reacted every time Cole was near her. It started to recognize danger.

“Don’t you dare?”

Cole let out a devilish chuckle which Emily knew drew attention.

“Dare what? Dare to touch you? Oh, come on. At least I will have a taste of you first before he takes you.”

Cole’s words made her confused. She knew that his words had a more profound meaning.

She steps backward every time Cole steps forward. “Please, Cole, I had—”

“Save your words when I let you feel what heaven looks—”

“What’s going on?”

Emily closed her eyes for seconds and gripped tightly on the pouch when suddenly, someone yanked it from behind, making her jerk forward and turn around. Her eyes filled with shock, and fear crossed them when she saw it was her father.

“Father,” she whispered.

Amanda arched her brow and met her son’s gaze. “What are you doing to Emily, Cole?”

Cole let out a soft chuckle. “You’ve seen it, mother. I didn’t do anything.”

Emily saw how Amanda’s gaze landed on her. “So, you’re seducing my son again, you slut!”

“Silence!”

“But Leo—”

“Let me handle this,” Emily’s father said and walked closer to her.

Emily was stunned by her father’s presence and didn’t even move.

“Is this all you got?” her father asked, his eyes fuming mad.

She nodded and was about to speak when her face was struck by a mighty blow, whacking her backward and onto the floor, making her sag to the ground, and the ringing in her ears masking her father’s angry roar.

At this moment, Emily knew that another bunch of beating would come once again. But this time, she didn’t beg, making her father angrier.

As if by a line of lightning, fists descend on her head and back. She clutched her head in her arms, saving it for great damage. The heavy beating made her fall into a catatonic state due to the terrible pain, and her vision began to blur.

Then suddenly, Emily heard Amanda screaming and stopping her Alpha. “Stop it, Leo! You’ll kill her!”

Finally, the Alpha stopped, and Emily felt a sharp relief, but surely, her head and body hurt big time. She remained in her position and just listened to their conversations.

“Are you out of your mind? If you ruin her and kill her, then you will also destroy everything!” The Luna’s voice roared into the vast space of their house.

“She’s a useless bitch!” Her father growled.

Hearing those words from her father, it seems like her heart has been squeezed, and at any moment, it will explode and end her life.

It’s painful to hear your father despises you. Especially when she didn’t grow up with this treatment, her father used to treasure his only princess, but now… things changed, and she doesn’t know when it will fix.

Suddenly, she felt a presence beside her, probably equaling her height. But she chooses not to lift her face. She doesn’t want them to see her tears.

“You seem different this day, Emily. I didn’t hear you beg.” It was Cole’s voice.

“Get away from her, Cole,” Amanda said. “Bring her to her room and let her get dressed. The guests will be here in a minute. They need to see her in good condition.”

Emily laughed inside her. Good condition? In fact, she knew that her body would give up at any moment, even if her mind didn’t want it.

“You already speak to their Beta, mother?”

Amanda nodded. “Yes, and they will take her today.”

Emily was shocked when she heard what Amanda said, making her lift her head and gaze at her.

“WWhat are you—”

“Oh, sweetie. You’ll know it when you meet them.”

“Mother, there’s no point to hide it,” Cole asserted, making Amanda laugh devilishly.

“Clever. Well,” Amanda walked towards Emily and knelt to equal her face, “—since you prove that you’re always useless to us. Why not let others test your ability?”

Emily wiped her tears, clenched her jaw, and pierced her eyes on Amanda.

“Fierce, huh?”

Cole laughed beside her. “Yeah, she’s different today. She doesn’t even beg when Father is beating her.”

Amanda shook her head as if she saw it as a bad thing. “Then that’s fine since the Alpha of Blue Moon Pack will take her. The ruthless Alpha needs a tryinghard, feisty wolf,” she said and burst into laughter when she stood up.

Emily’s eyes widened upon hearing it. At this moment, she knew that she was doomed.

The Alpha of the Blue Moon Pack, the East’s most potent pack leader, was infamous for his ruthlessness and hatred of the impolite. According to legend, he murdered most of his servants, and his reign was marked by bloodshed.

Nothing was too much for a man to do to ensure that those around him obeyed his every command. To him, it is preferable to slaughter the weak and bathe in their blood beneath the light of a harvest moon.

His wolf was said to be a monster with red eyes that glowed in the dark, watching its victims before tearing them apart.

And that killing machine will take her?

This idea frightened Emily; however, even if she begged not to let them give her or more to sell her, she knew that her father had already made his decision. And to him, she was just his useless daughter.

Suppose she will use her remaining strength, but who knows where it will put her. All she needs to do is to obey. She had enough of crying and begging.

Maybe this is what she is destined for—to be enslaved.

It was her choice to let them put their hands on her or not. But for five years, it was the path she took. She did everything for her father, but it turns out that amidst her efforts, he wasn’t pleased. And who knows what will be her fate in the hands of the ruthless Alpha?

Maybe even worse. Now, she’s twentyfive; she will be a slave to a new master again. For how long… again? Five? Ten? Or worst, lifetime or until her death.

“Can you move faster—what the fuck?!” Cole uttered when Emily slapped him out of shock.

While staring at her small cabinet, she was in deep thought and didn’t know that he was beside him.

Emily looked at her but never uttered an apology, making Cole angry.

“How could you—”

“I didn’t know—” she didn’t finish her words when Cole grabbed her jaw and pushed her towards her small bed, making her slump into it.

Fear lingered in her eyes when Cole started to take out his shirt.

“Don’t you fucking scream, or else I will fucking beat the hell out of you,” he warned, making Emily press her lips together.

She remained and let Cole hover on her and let him lift her blouse, exposing her cleavage.

She saw how Cole’s eyes twinkled in lust when he saw it. This is not the first time that he has dared to touch her.

“Damn, you grew beautifully, Emily,” he said and lowered his lips into her chest, but Emily gathered all her strength and kicked Cole in between, then pushed him back, slumping him on the ground, clenching in pain.

Emily then took that moment to get up, grabbed the white dress on the side, and rushed towards the bathroom.

She heard Cole’s loud growl, cursing her, but Emily sighed in relief when she escaped from his evil intentions.

Emily leaned on the door, retook a deep breath, and sighed to calm herself. She was still slightly trembling.

‘That was close,’ she thought.

Then suddenly, she heard a knock on the bathroom door, making her jerk forward, and her heart thumped fast.

“Fuck you, Emily!”

“Oh, fuck yourself, Cole!” she exclaimed, making her gasp in surprise. She didn’t think of saying it aloud, but the words slipped out of her mouth.

Cole banged the door even louder, curing simultaneously when suddenly, Amanda’s voice was heard.

“What the hell is going on?! Cole?!”

Emily heard Cole’s devilish chuckle. “The bitch just kicked me on the balls!” he said, anger filling his voice.

“What?!”

Emily heard Amanda’s heels hitting the floor and knew that it was taking the direction of the bathroom. Indeed, she was right when Amanda started to call her name.

“How could you seduce my son, you slut! Get the hell out of there!” she roared.

Emily let out a scoff. Seduce his son?

‘Seriously? What made her think that I can do that?’ She thought.

Emily ignored Amanda’s rants and started to undress. She winced when she felt her body screams in pain. Her body calls to give up, but her mind doesn’t want to.

Since this will be her last day here—she’s not dumbed not to know it, then at least she will let herself become strong just for once, in front of her family—in front of her father.

After a couple of minutes, not minding Amanda talking nonstop outside the bathroom, she continued to fix herself.

“Move your ass out of there, whore! The guests are here, and we must not keep them waiting!” Amanda blurted.

“And you, Cole, get your hands out of her and go downstairs. The Beta of Blue Moon Pack is waiting,” she continued.

After a few moments, Emily heard the door open and closed, signifying that her evil stepmother had left.

Emily took a deep breath to calm herself before walking out of the bathroom. Soon as she stepped out, she met Cole’s eyes, burning with anger. But she managed to look at him in disgust.

“Luck will eventually run out, Emily,” he said. He dragged her by the jaw and pinned her on the wall.

Emily saw her reflection in his lusty eyes and touched her white dress. She clenched her jaw as she pierced her gaze into Cole’s. She grasped the side of her dress. And when she looked to the side, she saw their reflection in a lengthy mirror—Cole, who was holding her on the jaw while his free hand leaned on the wall, and herself, who saw a different her.

The straps of her dress revealed her soft shoulder and long jetblack hair. The embroidered bodice enhanced her slim figure, although she just saw it on the side; then, suddenly, she took a glimpse of her necklace—her mother’s necklace. It came from her father, and her mother passed it to her.

Her father dared to take it from her, but she begged for it. She received an endless beating because of it, but it was the only thing she had—that came from her family.

And at that moment, she knew she missed her mother so badly.

Emily looked at Cole and met his sharp gaze. “Get the hell out of me,” she said in a calm, stern voice, making Cole’s eyes widen.

“Playing strong, are we?”

She gritted her teeth and clenched her fist.

Cole smirked. “Don’t think you can’t be mine, Emily,” he said and let go of her.

Emily laughed, which totally surprised Cole.

“There’s nothing funny, bitch!” he said and was about to raise his hand when she spoke again.

“You can’t do that. They’re here,” she warned.

She felt like she had overcome her fear by talking to Cole like this for the first time. The feeling is different yet satisfying on her side. At least.

Cole formed a sly smirk. “Do you think I’m afraid of him?” he asked.

Emily smirked, and it was unusual for her to do it, but seeing the bafflement in Cole’s eyes, she wanted to give more.

“You know what. I can foresee what will happen to you when we step out of this room.”

When deep inside, she doesn’t. She just wants to try if it will work for him.

However, Cole just laughed and dragged her out of the room.

“Stop talking nonsense, slut,” he said, gritting his teeth in anger. But with the idea that the guests are here, he can’t beat Emily.

While walking towards the dining hall, Cole suddenly smacked her butt, making her come to a halt.

She turned to face him, and Cole let out a devilish smirk. “It’s quite tempting. And what’s with the glare? Could you stop pretending to be feisty? I used to see and hear you begging, bitch.”

Emily smiled at Cole, which made Cole’s eyes widen.

“Didn’t I tell you that I can foresee what will happen to you today? Also, you made it worst because you touched me… again,” she said.

Cole crosses his arms in front of his chest. “Really? Oh, I’m frightened,” he said sarcastically. After that, he pushed her to walk toward the main hall.

Emily stopped when she saw her father and looked at Cole, then at his clenched fist.

She frowned when she looked up and met Amanda’s smile.

Amanda stood up and clapped her hands. She smiled at the person who was on the side.

The man’s height and aura intimidated her. And she saw the two more shadowy figures standing beside the man. They remained immobile, and she could only see their silhouettes.

As she stepped forward, she heard Amanda’s cheerful tune. “Here comes our daughter, Emily.”

Daughter?

Emily wanted to burst into laughter upon hearing it. Since when did Amanda treat her as her own?

‘She got to be kidding me,’ she thought.

“She was honing her skills in preparation for your arrival, Dillon,” Amanda added.

“How did she get bruised?” Dillon’s deep voice jolted Emily. She didn’t hear such a voice like that.

The fact that he asked for her bruises, Emily couldn’t help but feel frightened once again.

“Oh…” it was Amanda, fake shocking voice, and looked at Emily, “—you tripped when you were running to bring a gift to your father the other day, right, Emily?”

Emily caught a glimpse of Amanda and her father’s stern glances—a sign that she needed to ride on.

But who will believe that excuse?

In the end, she still did her best to play dumb. “Uhm, yyes. Sorry,” she said before turning to face Dillon.

“Tripped?”

The man named Dillon does not appear to believe them. Just like what Emily expected.

Tripped? They’re funny. With violet and greenish bruises, just for tripping down?

Amanda flashed a smile at Dillon. “Well, let’s all gather and discuss a few—”

“No. Theirs is no reason for us to speak further. We already discussed everything over the phone,” Dillon said, full of authority that no one could defy.

Emily looked at her father when she heard him speak. “My wife prepared a small meal for you and your attendees. You must be hungry—”

“No.”

NO: One word, who put the hall in silence for a brief moment.

Suddenly, Dillon met Emily’s gaze and nodded at her. Emily didn’t make a move, making Cole growl and slap her on the behind, prompting her to leap. However, she lost her footing.

She closed her eyes when she knew that she was about to fall. However, she found herself in Dillon’s arms.

She stared at the Beta’s eyes, surprised and feeling grateful.

Dillon ensures her balance before releasing her.

“TThank you,” she whispered and managed to flash a smile, which she knew didn’t reach her eyes.

Dillon nodded and stated sternly, “You’re welcome, Miss.”

Emily bit her lower lip, mesmerized by the kindness of the guest when suddenly, she heard groans.

She turned to see it and gasped in shock when she saw Cole being beaten by one of the darkalluding figures standing beside Dillon earlier.

“Stop it!” Amanda screamed at this point, making Emily look at her.

‘What’s happening?’ she thought.

“Beta Dillon, please!” Amanda begged, which is unusual.

This is the first time she heard Amanda say the word: please.

“Beta…”

However, Dillion remained calm and just watched his attendees beating Cole.

Cole took the thrashing blow to blow. At this moment, he was powerless against the man beside Emily. He shrieks, and his mother pleaded with Dillion in tears—the sight that Emily wished to happen as Amanda’s karma.

She didn’t know that it would happen this very day.

However, even if she despised them to death, she still feels pity for them. She tried her luck and faced Dillon. When their eyes met, she whispered, “please, stop.”

Dillon didn’t show any expression, but suddenly, he issued his command, wearing his authoritative voice, and said, “Stop.”

Emily was about to talk when Dillon spoke once again.

“Cut off his hand.”

Emily’s eyes widened upon hearing it and gasped when she heard Amanda’s scream blend with Cole’s.

She closed her eyes when she saw blooddrenched on the floor and Cole’s hand being taken off his body.

Then suddenly, Amanda started to blame Emily, making Dillon pull her closer to him.

Emily gasped and opened her eyes when she felt the Beta’s hand. She looked up, but Dillon darted his gaze to her father.

“Control your Luna, Alpha,” Dillon said.

Emily was confused seeing her father like a tamed beast as he stood up and apologized.

“My apologies, Dillon, for the behavior of my stepson. I will take care of it,” he met Emily’s eyes, “Emily… is my precious daughter, a stunning lady who is extremely obedient, and it’s unbearable to see her leave—”

“Liar!” Emily screamed as tears started to pour down her cheeks, blending with the booming thunder. How could he? He is a monster.

'I am her daughter; a flesh came from him. How could he treat me like this?' she thought.

However, Emily knew that all her questions would be useless. It was clear as the droplets of her tears. Her father loathes everything about her. Does he even love her, genuinely? She bet not.

“We need to go, and payment will be made once the Alpha sees her,” Dillon interjected as he gently pulled Emily, who was fuming mad at her liar father.

“Let’s go,” Dillon said flatly.

Emily met Dillon’s gaze and nodded. She has no strength to fight once again nor beg. It was clear that her father had let her out of his life.

“Pardon me. I assumed we’d receive it upon your arrival.”

Hearing this, Emily never dared to look back and see her father’s face once more. Because at this moment, she had lost everything.

Dillon stopped and turned to face Leo. “Do you want to talk with the Alpha?”

Emily couldn’t see her father’s reaction but heard his soft chuckle. After everything is done to this day, he still manages to laugh.

“No big deal. As an Alpha, I understand,” her father said.

Dillon nodded. “Also, do remember, Alpha Leo. Soon as Alpha Drake has taken possession of her, you will never be again her owner.” After that, Dillon dragged her gently out of their house.

“What happened, Dillon?” inquired the woman wearing a white lab coat.

“She hasn’t stopped crying since we parted ways with their pack. Then she passed out. Her body is far too frail. You need to check on her, and she needs to be healed immediately,” Dillon said as he placed the unconscious Emily on the white bed.

The woman approached Emily’s body and then shook her head.

“This isn’t good, Dillon.”

“Do your best to heal her quickly; the Alpha does not understand the concept of patience,” Dillon warned as he turned around.

“How come her body is covered in bruises?”

“She tripped on the floor,” Dillion replied flatly. After a brief moment of silence, the woman chuckled.

“Pardon?”

Dillon gave a sly grin. “It is a fabrication perpetrated by Miss Emily’s stepmother.”

“Did they treat her like an animal? She is the daughter of an alpha. How heinous are they?” Even if their Alpha is far more than cruel, the woman is not fond of slavery.

“The Alpha is significantly more lethal.”

“Then she is not capable of bearing a child, Dillon. You are aware of this.”

Dillon inhaled deeply. “All you have to do is your best. I’ll have a look at her later.”

“The healing process will not be simple. What if she is also emotionally or psychologically disturbed—”

“As a medical attendee, that is your responsibility,” Dillon stated before leaving.

“Emily…”

Emily fell into a dream in which her mother repeatedly called her name. She tried to shout her mom’s name, but no voice came out.

She opened her mouth and attempted again but was unsuccessful. She tried to shift her limbs, but they appeared stuck in place.

Her mother smiled at her and called her name once more, motioning for her to come over. However, she is immobile.

Emily’s tears stream down her cheeks as she notices her mother’s figure fading.

She screamed ‘no,’ but there was no sound. She moved eagerly, but nothing happened.

Suddenly, a small hole appeared in front of her, sucking her inside. Everything became dark.

“I will do everything I can to help her...”

Emily nudged and groaned, unsure of her whereabouts. Her body screams in pain.

She slowly opened her eyes and shut them back when a light beamed into them.

“Ugh...” she groaned.

This time, she knew she wasn’t in her room, lying in her bed, or their packhouse.

Her eyes remained fixed on the white ceiling, perplexed.

“Dillon, you’ve returned.”

“How is she doing?”

“She’s already awake.”

“Bring food for her to eat. She must be starving. In an hour, the Alpha will arrive,” Dillon informed.

“Hey, Lilac!”

“Hello, Mildred,” Lilac said as she entered the room.

“What brought you here, Lilac?” Dillon asked as she turned to the woman who had just come in.

“I’m holding a tray of food,” Lilac arched her brow. “So, Beta Dillon, what are your thoughts?” she asked, sarcastically.

Dillon made no response and simply walked toward Emily’s bed.

Lilac and Mildred exchanged shrugs, let out soft chuckles, and then followed their Beta.

When Emily overheard those conversations, she frowned.

The white curtain that had been draped over her bed suddenly flew back, revealing a woman with fiery red hair and a beaming smile.

After everyone had their eyes on her, her body tensed.

Emily could not move much and then looked down, realizing she was no longer wearing her dress.

“Emily,” the woman next to the redhead called her name, then smiled at her, causing her to relax slightly. “I’m Mildred, or you can call me Millie. I am your attended physician,” she added.

Emily locked her gaze on Millie and immediately recognized her voice. She was the first girl with whom Dillon had spoken previously. She then attempted to smile, but she was aware that it did not reach her eyes.

“You must be hungry, Emily.” Lilac approached her and smiled.

‘What is it about them that makes them smile at me?’ she thought.

Emily abruptly shook her head. She is aware of the fact that she has already arrived at the Blue Moon pack. As a result, she cannot trust anyone.

Lilac pursed her lips and gave her a pitying look. “You look pale,” she said as she sat beside Emily. “But don’t be alarmed; you’re going to be fine. Millie is our pack’s best doctor,” she added, smiling at her.

Then suddenly, Lilac saw unrecognition in Emily’s eyes. “Oh, my apologies; I neglected to introduce myself.” She chuckled softly. “My name is Lilac, and I am Dillon’s sister,” she stated.

Emily was taken aback when she learned that Dillon had a sibling. However, she was aware that their personalities were distinct. Dillon is cold and authoritative; he’s a Beta, after all, whereas Lilac is a happygolucky one.

“We’re so relieved that you’ve regained consciousness,” Millie said as she assisted her in sitting up. “I’ll check your vital signs, and then you can eat, all right?”

Emily winced and backed away, but her entire body ached.

Millie glowed with a smile. “Do not be alarmed; I will not harm you,” she assured.

Emily then nodded and moved aside for Millie to check her. When her gaze met Lilac’s, the latter pushed the tray to the side of the bed. “Have some. It will aid in your healing process.”

Emily squinted. “II’m all right. I am not weak—”

“No!” Lilac and Millie spoke in unison, shocking Emily.

“You’re scaring her,” Dillon said and clenched his jaw.

At the moment, Emily doesn’t have any appetite, even if the food in front of her is appetizing. However, what if she doesn’t obey? It was clear as crystal that she was in the Blue Moon pack because her father traded her for money. It means to say; she doesn’t know what will happen to her at the moment.

What if they’ll kill her if she doesn’t obey?

Emily then reached for the tray, but her hand could not grasp it. She poured the bowl of food into the tray, and some of it strewn across the bedsheet.

“II’m sorry,” she said, her head bowed. She is averse to seeing their reaction; what if they are enraged? What if they are going to beat her?

She reasoned that she was already fine once she left the pack and her family; perhaps it was only her mind that was strong enough to accomplish anything, but her body did not appear to be.

Lilac sighed and cast her gaze toward her brother. “I will help her eat,” she said and turned to Emily. “Don’t worry. I’m here,” she added, her angelic voice calming Emily.

‘How come she is so kind to me?’ she thought.

“Go on. We must first prepare her. She must be strong enough before the Alpha takes her,” Dillon said, making Emily lift her head.

Her lips parted, and she wanted to ask about Dillon’s words. However, nothing came out of her mouth.

Emily is bewildered. Rumors claimed that Blue Moon wolves lacked empathy. However, this does not define their behavior toward her.

Although they claim that the Blue Moon pack has a bad reputation, it must be due to their ruthless Alpha.

Lilac is so gracious that it appears as though she is attempting to lighten the mood.

Despite Emily’s inability to comprehend their actions, she felt a spark of hope when she met them.

“Would you like to eat or rest for a while? Besides, the food spilled, and I need to get another—”

“Just get another bowl of it, Lilac,” It was Dillon.

Lilac rolled her eyes at her brother. “Yes, Beta,” she said, but sarcasm filled in.

“Uhm…” Emily piqued their interest.

Millie flashed a smile. “What is it?” she inquired as she scribbled the final detail she needed.

“WWhat am I going to do here? My father traded me in exchange for money, right? Will I become your Alpha’s slave?”

One, two, three… seconds passed, but no one responded.

“II’m sorry for asking about it.”

Millie smiled. “It’s all right. We under—”

Millie abruptly paused in midsentence, making her eyes widen, and Lilac stood up and moved closer to her brother.

“WWhat’s happening? Did I say something wrong?” Emily asked in a hushed tone.

Emily was perplexed by the sudden pause in the conversation.

Lilac appeared to be in a bad mood because her cheerful and upbeat demeanor had utterly vanished.

And the only difference between Dillon and Millie is that Dillon is standing up straight as he always does, whereas Millie, who was previously calm and easygoing, has adopted more professionalism, standing as if she is waiting for a command.

Then Emily became aware of approaching footsteps. She pulled the blanket with her trembling hands, and for the first time, she was able to accomplish what her mind desired. She was slowly pulling it up when the door opened.

A tall man walked inside. He has fair skin and jetblack hair and towered over everyone. His jawline was defined and emphasized the masculine characteristics he possessed. She had never seen a man move quite like him, gracefully but with an unforgiving glint hidden behind his piercing blue eyes.

Even though he was across the room, the aura surrounding him demonstrated the immense power he possessed, and she was frightened of what she saw.

She had come into contact with dangerous men. Throughout her life, her stepbrother Cole and even her father have shown her distress... However, neither of them possessed the same level of intimidation as this man.

He shifted his gaze to her.

The way his blue eyes seemed to pierce into her very soul was something she couldn't help but notice.

She was startled when she felt a banging in her chest and she could hear the booming rhythm of her heart.

'How could someone be both dangerous and attractive at the same time?' she thought.

What was it about him that made her feel drawn to him?

The three with her earlier were all looking down at the ground with their necks turned slightly towards him, which is a common sign of submission among wolves.

In her experience, wolves only acted in this manner on one occasion, and that was when they were in front of their Alpha.

When the realization dawned on Emily, she felt a pang of fear.

How could she be unaware?

He must be the Alpha of Blue Moon!

… And this was confirmed when Dillon called him. "Alpha!" and greeted the man with respect.

It takes only a simple nod from the enormously attractive man to acknowledge Dillon, an aura of authority emanating from him that was far greater than Dillon's own.

He turned to face Millie, who had already pulled out her report.

"Alpha, Miss Emily remains quite frail, but she should improve significantly within a month with adequate treatment," she explained.

Emily frowned. 'Am I that weak? But I'm just fine when Dillon fetches me. I have bruises, but I get used to it,' she wondered.

However, she realizes Millie was right; remembering what she did earlier, her hands couldn't perform correctly.

The Alpha's expression remained unchanged when he learned the news from Millie. But he moved, and he's heading in her direction.

Emily was utterly taken aback. She had never encountered a wolf as exquisite and quick as this one. He moved so swiftly as lightning struck on the land. The next thing she knew, he was already standing at her bedside.

She was surrounded by the faint scent of a musky odor. The earthy aroma reminded her of being in the forest on a rainy day, and it took the place of the sterile chemical smell that pervaded the room. It was chilly, but it had a kaleidoscopic quality to it—defining him.

Emily couldn't stop herself from lowering her head.

The man’s black leather shoes had come to a halt right next to her bed, with the toe of the shoe pointing in her direction, which she had noticed through the gap in her hair.

She could feel his eyes piercing at her.

"Look at me." His voice was deep and resounded in her ears, sending shivers on her spines and tingling up to her head.

Suddenly, the icy reflection of his silver cufflinks came into her field of vision. By this time, his hand had already reached out toward her face. His fingers were lengthy and robust, drawn in a perfect size and shape.

Emily grits her teeth when she doesn't like the thoughts that are running through her head.

His warm fingers pressed hard on her chin, forcing her head up.

Indeed, the Alpha of Blue Moon was not a patient man.

Emily's face was flushing, and she was thankful her long, loose hair still covered her face.

"Don't ever make me repeat what I have said."

Emily had no choice. She then looked at him. When she met his gaze, she felt pushed into hell.

The ward's cold white light cast a soft glow around him and viewed him like a king, a royally handsome one.

A crease ran between his sculpted, jetblack brows. He frowned as if he despised this world.

His piercing blue eyes locked on hers as he bent down.

She trembled, wondering if he'd swoop down and seize her, either take her up into the dark forest or throw her down the ridge mountains. She forgot how to breathe in his hands.

The disturbing rhythm of her heart was the only sound she could hear.

She caught a glimpse of his right arm moving. Her body quivered, and she winced, expecting a slap on the face, as her father would have done before, but she ceased because she remembered his warning not to close her eyes.

She wouldn't rebel. She then barely kept her eyes open.

Seconds passed, but she didn't feel a heavy slap on her cheek. Instead, he reached up and brushed her hair away.

Her hair brushed against her cheeks, and she could smell his musky odor again, engulfing her in a nest of softness and comfort.

He scanned her face with his piercing blue orbs as if remembering every feature.

Those blue eyes were like high waves in the sea, ready to take and end lives at any time. She noticed how evident and magnificent his eyes were when he stared at her intently.

His gaze absorbed her. Suddenly, her depression and uncertainty dimmed, leaving only his pure and wonderful color in his eyes.

However, Emily saw her reflection in them. She was a defenseless girl sitting on a hospital bed, forced to look up at her new master.

She felt like crying, but she knew nothing would happen if she chose to.

Suddenly, she had to stifle a soft howl as his skin touched hers again. She had never felt this before—this foreign feeling.

Then, as if certain, he let go of her face, stepped back, and turned around.

He was a few steps away from her when she realized that she needed to know something.

"Hey!"

Emily was aware of her action. Calling out for the powerful Alpha just like that may lead to a punishment. However, she’s the girl who was used to it.

She needs to find something. She has to know something, and she will only get those answers from their Alpha.

There's no way that her father would trade her just like that. She understands about the money but there has to be a deeper reason. And she knows her role is to be her new master’s slave. She would serve him until he said so. But for how long?

“II’m sorry…” she whispered.

“AAlpha.” It’s a little bit hard for her to say that title. Knowing the fact that she’s facing the most powerful and ruthless Alpha of all.

“As your new slave. I… I will do my best to serve you. Just let me go once you don’t need my service anymore.”

Emily did her best to catch his attention. However, he remained immobile. She couldn’t see his reaction because he never turned back. All she could see was his broad back.

She was on her knees in the hospital bed, willing to rush after him if necessary, demonstrating her fear of him.

It was an immense comfort when he turned around and raised an eyebrow at her. He appeared to be thinking about what she had said. She also doesn’t have to look around to see what everyone else is thinking. They may believe she is losing her mind, which is OK with her.

She’s too desperate to have answers and clarifications.

“A slave?” He pierced his eyes on her when he said that. In a swift move, he’s already near her, sitting on the side of the bed.

She unknowingly moved closer to him due to the sheer indentation left by his weight on the bed. Her body trembled in eagerness and anxiety as she came closer to him because of the proximity of his body.

Emily felt strange because, at this moment, she wanted to be closer to him. Her heart was thumping so fast, making her breathe rapidly.

Despair, interest, confusion, and yearning lingers inside her. And these emotions mingled and distorted her perception of the situation.

“Are you kidding me, woman?”

His deep, stern voice evaded Emily, making her tremble in fear.

“Who says I need a slave?” this time, his voice is gentle. Regardless of how delicate it may have appeared, her instincts told her he was not pleased.

Emily was baffled. She didn’t know what was going on. But seeing the Alpha’s reaction, it seems like she’s the only one who doesn’t see a thing.

‘Did my father hide something from me?’

All she knew was that his father loathes her and that he even traded her for money. She was their slave, so this could be the only reason why she’s here. Or she might be mistaken?

“Guess your father doesn’t even enlighten you about it?” He reached for her hair, covering half of her face, and brushed them off to the side.

Emily’s eyes widened; her heart thumped fast—it seemed like an electrifying shot jolted inside her the moment get contact with her.

He locked his gaze on her and said, “To clear things, your stay here is to carry a child of mine.”

“PPardon?”

Emily heard it clearly, before their distance together. However, she has to make sure. But her mind screams she doesn’t need to listen to it once again. It was clear enough that she had a new role.

A new role that she doesn’t expect.

Why?

Of all people, why does it has to be her?

To a girl like her—an Alpha daughter will only carry a child? Like every princess wanting a prince charming, Emily also wanted to bear a child only if she met her mate.

But for a person she doesn’t love nor is destined to be hers, claim her and make her carry his child? That would be a nightmare.

“NNo,” she gritted her teeth as she stared at the Alpha’s blue eyes, “I can’t be your breeder. There’s no way I will be your breeder!” she yelled.

The Alpha was unmoved, and his gaze grew colder. At that moment, he narrowed his eyes, expressing his displeasure.

She knew his mighty hand could easily sever her throat and kill her.

Every fiber of her knew that the best course of action would be to quit talking and pull back from this dangerous man, but she felt compelled to act—anything to keep her morals intact.

“I… I’m an alpha daughter, and mating is important to me. But will only give it all to my destiny. So, please…” she said, more of a beg. Even if Emily was sick of begging, she still tried it at this moment.

The blinding white light in the ward had been chilly and glaringly vibrant.

Emily roamed her gaze around the room, heart thumping rapidly, and saw that they were all standing there, not exerting any noise, afraid that he would slit their throat, watching her.

Despite the kindness they showed to her, they only took orders from their Alpha. They serve him with loyalty.

She has no one who will save her but herself. She couldn’t stay here any longer. She needs to get out!

‘You can do this, Emily,’ she thought as she took a deep breath and tried to move her body. She got off the bed, and the familiar coldness from the floor filled her feet.

She tried to run, but she just slumped on the cold floor.

The guards standing on the sides of the room stepped in and dragged her back to the bed.

Emily couldn’t let out a scream. She was sick of it. She didn’t speak for a moment and let them do their thing.

Her body is weak, and she cursed herself for making that reckless move.

‘What have they done to me?’ she thought.

Yesterday, she managed to step out of their packhouse, but when she woke up, she was lying in a hospital bed and couldn’t even move adequately.

Seeing Emily’s state, Lilac couldn’t help but walk closer to her amidst the cold gaze of their Alpha.

Lilac sat beside Emily and held her on her shoulder. She nodded as if she was calming her down. Afterward, she turned to face their Alpha, who was still sitting on the other side of the bed.

“You’ve seen her state, Alpha. She is currently unable to breed due to her longterm abuse.” Lilac drew a glance away from the Alpha, her bright eyes lowering. She turned to the doctor for help.

Millie sighed, looking at Lilac. “Alpha, please excuse me. I’m still waiting on some tests,” she lowered her voice, “However, from what I can see, Miss Emily is famished, exhausted, and abused severely. Some of the internal wounds appear worn. So please give me time to get her healthy. I’d hate to see her or the child suffer if she doesn’t fully heal.”

Lilac and Millie continue to defend Emily.

Emily was still confused and pain lingered inside her, physically and emotionally. Millie’s words are all true. However, she won’t let herself get even weaker. She needs to be strong. She’s an Alpha daughter, after all.

Maybe this was the moon goddess destined her to be. In that case, she will slowly accept it.

However, she had doubts about what she could do. A breeder? How can she possibly carry a child from the man she doesn’t love or her mate?

Emily couldn’t take herself to their conversations anymore, but she still heard their chattering when suddenly, she heard Dillon’s voice, silencing his sister.

Dillon’s derisive snort jolted Emily back to reality.

Emily looked up, and she saw how the Alpha furrowed his brows. She couldn’t help but question his devoid of emotion earlier.

His face was flushed with rage.

The atmosphere in the room had become tense like a storm was approaching.

Dillon’s rebuke was to protect his sister from Drake’s punishment.

“Alpha…” Emily whispered as sweet as chocolates, which led the ambiance into deafening silence. And she wasn’t expecting that she could draw his attention away from Lilac and Talon.

Now, he’s looking at her. His silence was terrifying, and the cold light in his eyes made her shiver.

At this moment, Emily knew that she would never escape, and she needed to be strong. Besides, she had already lost everything.

“I will stay and do whatever it takes. However, let me know the years of my stay and the money he makes by trading me,” she asked courageously. But her words do not point to being a breeder. It’s about her being a slave.

Alpha Drake just gazed at her, his eyes like a beam of light seeing right through her.

She blinked her eyes and felt a little bit dizzy. She saw how he arched his brows. His handsome appearance drew her in even in the terrible moment. Her heart jumped. But, of course, the Alpha was unaware of her feelings.

The Alpha just glanced at Dillon. “Tell her,” he commanded.

Dillon fixed his gaze on Emily. “I’m afraid your point will not going to happen, Miss Emily. Alpha Drake just saved your pack.”

Emily’s brows frowned. “WWhat do you mean?”

“Your father has a large debt, and our Alpha gave him money, and it was your father’s will to give you. If your father can’t pay the person with whom he got a debt, your pack will be at stake. And Alpha Drake doesn’t need a slave.”

After Dillon was done, Alpha Drake stood up from her bed.

“Emily,” the way her name rolled off his lips sent shivers down her spine. He looked down and fixed his cuffs, “you have no choice. Not unless you want your pack to be gone for good,” he added. After that, he turned his back away from her and walked towards the door.

Emily spoke before he could step out of the room. “What will happen after the baby is born?”

Drake halted but never turned to face her. “Then, you’ll be set free. I will give you two weeks to prepare. Get healed.”

Set free?

A wellknown ruthless Alpha king like him will set her free?

Emily has doubts about it. She can’t trust anyone even if she finds him attractive.

“Look after her, Lilac. I’ll follow him,” Dillon said before he exited the room.

When he left, the thick atmosphere loosened, and she could only see the bright smiles of Lilac and Millie.

“We will do our best to help you,” Lilac stated. “At the same time, you have to cooperate with us, okay?” she flashed a smile at Emily.

She pressed Emily’s hand and said, “you don’t have to be afraid. We’re not what you believe we are. Rumors about the Alpha might be true. However, you knew rumors will not always tell the exact truth,” she added.

Emily nodded.

“Alright, please get some food, Lilac for her, and I will run some tests on the lab,” Millie said.

Emily thought she couldn’t flash a smile after the encounter with their Alpha, but the two women with her kept the vibe back, and she somehow felt relaxed.

“TThank you,” her voice was gentle yet unlively.

Lilac and Millie looked at each other before meeting Emily’s gaze. “Our pleasure, Miss Emily.”

Emily shook her head. “You can call me Emily. After all, I am just a tool here.”

“Tool?!” Lilac and Millie said in unison.

“What made you think that you’re just a tool?! And what kind of tool?!” Lilac’s voice filled with a shade of anger and confusion.

Emily pressed her lips together and looked down. Silence filled in when suddenly she saw how a tear fell on her hand. She wiped it away and looked up at them again as Lilac was already standing up beside Millie.

“I will just be his bearer. A breeder. I will carry his child, and who knows what will happen to me once I delivered the baby? Knowing how ruthless he was… do you think he will really set me free?”

Emily saw how confusion lit Lilac’s eyes, and to Millie, she saw pity.

She let out a soft chuckle. “Don’t mind me. Don’t worry; I will not be a burden to the two of you, so as to Beta Dillon. I will do my best to cooperate and hope for a better result,” she assured.

AS the second in command, Dillon knew that Drake didn’t go with the plan. He was confused by what Drake said to Emily earlier.

Before he became the Beta, Dillon was Drake’s best friend. He pledged loyalty to him.

Dillon constantly witnesses what his Alpha has been through, and he is surprised by him, showing a slight emotion in front of a stranger.

He moved swifter to catch up with Drake, but the Alpha dashed swiftly towards the royal packhouse.

Dillon pushed the double doors and saw Drake walking up the stairs and stopped when he saw him.

Drake’s face was devoid of emotion, and in a blink of an eye, he swirled into the wind, and Dillon saw how his office door closed.

Dillon heaved a deep sigh and rushed towards Drake’s office.

“State your business, Beta,” Alpha Drake said, without darting a glance at Dillon soon as he stepped in.

“Alpha—”

“If you’re here to ask about my words, you already know the answer, Beta,” he said, wearing her cold voice. “The plan stays the same. Setting her free doesn’t mean not killing her.”

Dillon wasn’t really pointing out the Alpha’s plan to Emily. Yes, he needs clarification, but he could feel that something is bothering the Alpha.

“We’ve known each—”

“Focus on work, Dillon. I’m not acknowledging informality here. Go out and train recruits. Prepare our warriors for the battle,” he commanded. Still, his eyes were fixed on the newspaper that he was holding.

Dillon heaved a sigh. Guess he was mistaken about his sudden reaction earlier.

Drake will still be Drake. A ruthless alpha king.

Dillon exited the room and got back to the hospital on the other side of the royal packhouse to check for Emily once more before he ran errands at the training grounds and to the border.

“EMILY, don’t even think that Drake will kill you after you bear his child,” Lilac started while peeling some oranges.

“You don’t know. And he’s an alpha—not just an alpha but known as the most powerful of all.”

Lilac laughed and handed over the plate to her.

“Even the most powerful has its weakness. He must not have it right now, but who knows?” Lilac said, which led to Emily being confused.

“Drake, Dillon, and I were friends before he became our king. We supported him always. But if he will decide to kill you,” Lilac paused for a moment and met Emily’s eyes, “I don’t know if I let him do it.”

Emily smiled. “Don’t bother helping useless women like me. Don’t worry. I am used to being thrown out just like what my pack did.”

Lilac could feel Emily’s pain, making her hold her hand. “You have to learn how to fight for your right—” she didn’t finish her words when Dillon went in.

“What are you doing again, Lilac?” he asked as he walked towards Emily’s bed.

Lilac arched her brow. “Doing what? Can’t you see? I am helping her—”

“I heard you. If the Alpha hears about it—”

“What? He’ll kill me?”

“Lilac!” Dillon’s raging voice echoed in the four corners of the room. “How often do I have to remind you to stop defying orders.”

Lilac stood up and crossed her arms in front of her chest. “I am not doing anything. Can’t you just leave us? Emily needs to take a rest.”

“And you think she’ll get one if you’re here?”

“Just get out, Dillon,” Lilac said, her voice seeming tired.

Emily bit her lower lip and looked up, meeting Dillon’s gaze. “I’m fine. And Lilac is a big help. I… I didn’t want to be alone, so I asked her to stay. I’m sorry.”

Dillon’s eyes brightened in sympathy. He then nodded. “If it’s your command then, I’ll depart—”

“Stop being formal, Dillon. It doesn’t suit you,” Lilac interrupted her brother, making Dillon shake his head.

“I’ll get going then,” he said and left.

Emily couldn’t feel but to get amazed.

“You don’t have to be rude to your brother,” she said, making Lilac arch her brow.

“And please don’t get intimidated by those males. We’re females and mostly the ones who are submitting ourselves to males, but hell, never! I won’t follow those rules. I am for who I am. So, I hope this enlightens you.”

Emily sighed. “I don’t know. Alpha Drake is…”

“Different?”

Emily bit her lower lip and nodded.

“Of course, he’s different. A ruthless king who’s hungry by blood and war, but I know there will be a time that his heart will soften, and if that will happen, I will really tease him to the bones and let him regret all what he—”

“You like him?”

Lilac’s eyes widened as she met Emily’s gaze. “Hell, No!”

Days passed so swiftly, and Emily staying in the four corners of the hospital kept her even better. She thought she couldn’t make it, but Millie and Lilac happily helped her with her fastest recovery. It’s a must. She was aware that they were preparing her until the Alpha claimed her.

Emily thought about these many times during the past few days. She keeps asking herself if she will do it or not. Part of her doesn’t want to, but she’s also afraid of him. What if he kills her if she disobeys?

For a moment, she also wished to have a peaceful life—she was seeking her freedom.

If only her mother had been there beside her, things would be different.

She’s looking for one reason to push through, and when she meets Lilac and Millie, it seems they gave her hope. They’re too kind for her. It’s been a long time since she met genuine people who show care and love for her.

“I’m sorry if you have to endure all of this, Emily.” Millie’s voice pulled her back to reality.

Emily let out a smile—a brighter one compared to her first day at the hospital. “It’s okay, Millie. I understand,” she replied.

As a doctor, Millie must ensure her fast recovery—by checking her vital signs every day, injecting some fluid into her, and more tests that she’s doing. At the same time, Lilac makes sure that she’s eating everything that she brought for her.

Sometimes, the three of them eat together, and at those times, Emily forgets about her past and what she’s been through.

She even regretted that she thought of them as cruel people like their Alpha on the first day, but when Lilac stepped in front of the Alpha and sat beside her, Emily knew that they were genuine enough for a stranger like her.

“Thank you, Millie.”

Millie smiled at her. “You’re always welcome, Emily. I will do my best to keep you healthy,” she replied and smiled at her.

Emily is a beautiful and kind girl that can melt hearts. She’s brave and tough despite her past.

Millie saw her cuts and scars. Some of it was deep, and some were not. It’s a sign that they enslaved her. She even wonders how Emily endure everything. And by looking at this, she knew that she can even stronger than she had ever imagined. She could also feel that the wolf hiding inside her was as brave as Emily.

“You’re tough, so don’t even try to overthink, okay? Lilac and I will always be here for you, Emily,” Millie’s soft angelic voice touches Emily’s heart, making her smile wide.

“There it is, the smile that I am looking for!” Millie exclaimed in delight. “You see, you’re a brave girl. And I know your wolf too,” she added and winked at her.

Emily shook her head and pouted her lips.

“What’s wrong?” Millie asked when she saw her reaction.

“I never let her out,” she replied as she pulled the white blanket and lay her back on the bed.

Millie walked closer to meet her gaze. “Why? How did you even control it? You’re already twentyfive.”

“My father banned me from letting her out. If I dare, I will face heavy punishment.”

Millie’s eyes widened in shock. “How cruel is he? Why does he have to do that? What if your wolf makes you a rogue? You have to—”

“I can calm her down, Millie. I don’t know, but one day, when she tried to come out, I talked to her—I always do. Until days… years passed, I managed to control her.”

“God! You’re the daughter of an Alpha! A future Luna. What the—” Millie didn’t finish her words when the door opened, and Dillon stepped in.

“Millie.”

“Dillon. Do you need something?” Millie asked as she turned to face Dillon.

Dillon glanced at Emily for a moment before meeting Millie’s gaze. “Can we talk for a moment?”

Millie nodded. She turned to Emily. “I will be right back,” she said and smiled.

Emily then nodded.

When Dillon and Millie went out, Emily stared at the ceiling and put into deep thought. Suddenly, the beautiful blue orbs of the Alpha of Bane flashed inside her mind. She knew deep inside her that she was attracted to him.

“Drake…” she whispered his name.

She doesn’t know, but her heart beats so fast when he’s near her, and her breath goes rapid. Her body trembles and a shiver runs down her spine.

‘You like him, Emily,’ Leia said. Her wolf.

She closed her eyes and ignored her.

‘Admit it. You like him.’

“Stop it, Leia. She’s ruthless,” she said softly as she stared at the ceiling again.

“IS there a problem, Beta?” Millie asked while they walked in the hallway.

“How is she?”

“She’s a strong girl. She’s doing much better… physically.”

“What do you mean?” Dillon asked. You could see confusion in his eyes when he glanced at Millie.

“She was abused for years. They treat her like….” Millie shook her head; she couldn’t say a word. Looking at Emily, she felt pity for her. Even if Emily is showing a stern expression, Millie knows that her heart is aching.

“What?”

Millie shook her head again. “I know that the Alpha needs her. However, she’s not ready for claiming yet. She needs to be mentally and emotionally stable.”

“We won’t like to feel the Alpha’s wrath, Millie. I know you’re doing your best, but the deadline will be over in a few days. She needs to be there.”

“But…”

“She should stay at the royal house, Millie. That’s the Alpha’s order.”

“Do you think she can take it when the Alpha claimed her? She’s a virgin….” Dillon coughed, making Millie frown but continued, “—after all.”

“That’s why she needs you, to make sure that she can make it, Millie. Also, Lilac will also be there.”

“How about you?” Millie asked.

Dillon sighed. “I will be watching the border and training the recruits,” he replied.

“Emily is still—”

“You’ve here the Alpha’s order, Millie. She wants her inside the royal house as soon as possible before the given deadline. Don’t make me repeat it.”

Millie lowered her head and stopped. “I understand, Beta.”

Dillon nodded. “You knew what room she would be in.”

“Yes, the royal guestroom.”

“No. The room next to the King’s room,” he said, and after that, he left.

AFTER a talk with the Beta, Millie got back to Emily’s room and told her about the Alpha’s order.

At first, Emily was anxious. She doesn’t know what will happen to her when she gets there. However, Millie ensures that there will be no harm.

The royal house is surrounded by warriors that ensure the King’s safety. Also, Lilac and Millie will visit and check on her every day.

“There’s nothing to be afraid of, Emily. You’ll be fine. He’s just next to you.”

“But that room is for your queen—the Luna of Bane pack. Why do I have to stay there?”

Millie smiled. “He needs to make sure that you’re in his sight.”

Upon hearing this, Emily’s heart thumped fast again. Anxiety and excitement filled in. She was anxious about what the Alpha will do.

Will he claim her every day?

She’s not dumbed not to know that if the Alpha wants her to carry his child, this means to say, they were going to do that—sex.

But the big question is… Does she want it?

“I don’t think I could do it, Millie,” she said as she met Millie’s gaze.

Millie smiled at her. “Yes, you can. But of course, you’re not fully healed yet.”

Emily shook her head. “Look at the bigger picture. I will do that with him—no attraction, no love….”

Millie pressed her lips together and couldn’t say a thing.

“Even if I was in the dark for how many years. I also wish that one day, I will find my mate.”

Millie heaved a deep sigh and nodded. She understands her. Guess she still has many doubts about it.

“I… I don’t want to do it.” I’m afraid to do it. She wants to add.

“The Moon Goddess has better plans for us. Be strong, Emily. I know you can do it.”

“But what if I fail? What if I can’t bear a child? What if we can’t—”

Millie let out a soft chuckle that cut off Emily. “Relaxed, Emily. You’re a daughter of an Alpha. Drake is an Alpha King. Your blood is powerful, and he is even more.”

“But why does he need a carrier—a breeder? Why can’t he just—”

“That’s not for me to tell, Emily. Like you, I don’t know either.” Millie smiled.

The sun glimmered on the horizon, lighting up the blue sky; clouds were like dots in it, giving a perfect scenery. The wind swirls, making the trees sway as if they’re hailing Emily as their Queen. The expansive lawn was filled with green grasses as if it were pulling you to lay on it. A bed of different kinds of flowers surrounds the royal house.

Emily was delighted to see that the place of the wellknown ruthless Alpha doesn’t describe who he is. The place is totally a royal one.

He is the king, after all.

Emily was brought to the royal house three days before the deadline. She was guided towards her room—the Queen’s room.

She couldn’t imagine what life she would have inside the royal house. And the fact that she didn’t even see him again after that night, she felt a missing part of her.

Why?

Why does she need to feel this way?

Part of her wanted to see him, and part of her wanted to stay away from him.

‘I’m telling you, it’s because you like that coldhearted Alpha!’ her wolf screamed inside her again.

She pinched the bridge of her nose and shook her head, ignoring her.

‘You like him—’ Leia didn’t finish it when they heard a knock outside.

She was about to climb down off her vast bed when the door opened and Lilac came in with a smile drawn on her face.

“Good morning, your royal highness; here’s your breakfast!” Lilac chirped, making Emily shake her head.

“Emily would do, and thank you,” she said faintly.

“I made it for you, so please eat them all. Also, feel at ease. You have Millie and me.”

Emily sighed as she got off her bed and walked toward the table near the couch. “I don’t know a lot of this place and also the people in here—”

“You have us, Emily. We will take good care of you.”

“What if…” she paused, “what if I am not his breeder. Will you still care for—”

“Of course!” Lilac cut in and approached her. They both sat on the couch. “You should not doubt us.”

Emily bowed her head and played with her fingers. “I’m sorry.”

“Stop apologizing, Emily. You’re not doing anything wrong.”

Emily could tell that Lilac was worried about her. She could feel that she was treating her as her friend, not just because she was an essential tool for their Alpha.

At this moment, she was a little bit scared that she would lose her… and Millie.

“Thank you, Lilac.”

Lilac smiled and hugged her. Her embrace keeps her warm—a feeling for a true friend.

‘Yes, she loves you,’ she heard Leia’s voice.

Lilac pinched her cheeks when she let go of the hug. “Also, Dillon will fetch you later.”

Emily’s forehead. “Why?”

“I don’t know. But he ordered me to deliver the message to you,” she said.

Emily nodded and started to eat.

“Oh! Wait up!” Lilac said and dashed outside the room, making Emily’s brows furrow.

“What’s wrong with her?” she whispered.

‘I don’t know,’ Leia replied.,

Emily smiled. “I am not talking to you, Leia.”

Her wolf didn’t respond, and suddenly, the door opened and closed again.

“Where have you been?” she asked softly as she drank the glass of milk.

Lilac raised the dress that she was holding and smiled at her. “You have to wear this. I’m sorry, but we didn’t buy you new clothes yet, so I think this will do.”

Emily was confused about why does she need to wear it. What is waiting for her?

Or is it a who?

Could it be Drake?

‘See, you like that coldhearted, Alpha,’ Leia said once again, making Emily shake her head.

“Anyway, Emily…” Lilac caught her attention, “—you may not wish to be just a carrier of his child, but still, you must know that you will always be part of this pack when you deliver his heir,” she added and smiled at her.

Emily nodded. “Thank you, Lilac. But there’s still a part of me thinking, what if I failed him? Will he kill me?”

Lines knitted into Lilac’s forehead. “Why would he do that?!”

Emily shrugged. He was known to be ruthless—a killing machine.

“Drake only punished those impolite and his enemies who tried to get a piece of his land. He will never kill an innocent lovely girl like you. And it’s not that we let him. He will go through Millie and me first if he does that,” she said genuinely.

Upon hearing it, Emily couldn’t feel but touched, and suddenly, tears clouded her vision, and they fell into her soft cheeks.

Lilac sighed and walked closer to her. She reached for her hands and pressed them. “Stop worrying. We’re here, okay?”

Emily nodded.

Lilac then wiped her tears away and smiled. “No more crying, Emily.”

She let out a soft chuckle. “I can’t promise,” she replied.

Lilac shook her head. “Think about it. I’ll leave you for a while. I need to help Millie at the hospital and run some errands too. It’s an order from my brother, the Beta,” she said and rolled her eyes.

Emily smiled. “You have to obey.”

“No way. I do it in my way. I need to be extra careful, though,” she said and winked at her. “I need to go. Wait for Dillon here,” she added and left.

STANDING near the window while looking at the expansive lawn, Emily has been thinking about how to escape.

However, the Blue Moon pack is wellguarded. She’s aware of that. By looking at the tall trees surrounding the pack, she knew that she had no chance to escape.

The moon goddess did let her take this fate. If this was what the goddess wanted, she knew she couldn’t change nor alter it.

She blew the hair covering the side of her face and heaved a sigh. She closed her eyes and thought about it again. Would it be best for her to carry his child? Can she, do it?

Even she has doubts about herself. She’s a weakling. But it is not too late to fight, right? To make decisions on her own… to fight. There is still time for her to grow even better to fight for her right.

The thing is, she’s with the ruthless Alpha. How could she ever tame him and ask him to let her go?

A knock from the door blended with her silence. Then suddenly, it opened, and when she turned around, she saw Beta Dillon.

Dillon walked closer to her. “Let’s go,” he said.

Emily nodded and followed Dillon.

“How are you feeling?” Dillon asked while they were walking in the carpeted hallway.

“I’m feeling better. Millie and Lilac… they’re helping me out,” she replied as she wandered her gaze around.

She was brought to the royal house—their king’s den and so far, she was treated well. Millie and Lilac tried their best to make her feel better, calming her mind and her heart. Even him—the Beta.

Dillon always visits her, sometimes late at night with Lilac, and leaves after a couple of minutes.

“Good to hear that,” he said, and she just nodded.

Dillon took her down to the corridors until they stopped in front of the two large golden doors—this reminds her of all the colors of the doors inside the royal house. It’s all in the shade of gold.

Two warriors opened it, and Emily didn’t expect the man standing in front of her, and the person beside him.

“Father,” she whispered.

“My beautiful stepdaughter!” Amanda exclaimed, faking her reaction.

Emily couldn’t help but frown when she darted her gaze toward Amanda. Amidst what had happened, Amanda is still the same. Fake and irritating.

She glanced at Dillon, her eyes asking why her father was there, but Dillon moved backward and stood near the door. As if guarding her.

She gritted her teeth and faced the two again.

“Are you here to bring me back to the pack?” she asked, even if she knew that they would never do that.

Still, she was trying to see if there was a tint of pity left in her father’s heart.

But when her father shook his head, she knew that she was right.

Money is more important than his daughter.

But Emily looked at the bigger picture. Even if the Alpha of the Blue Moon is scary, they never treated her like how her father did.

“The Alpha summon me to convince you to proceed in carrying his child.”

Emily frowned. Why would he do that?

‘I made my decision already,’ she thought.

“Who are you again?” she asked. She tried to make her voice firm and cold.

She saw how shock filled in her father and Amanda’s eyes.

“Ah, the one who traded his daughter for money. Don’t worry. Your pack is already saved since the Alpha already gave you the money soon as I get here, right?”

Emily took a moment to talk, and even if she wanted to shout at him, she couldn’t. She was his father, whom she loved, but things changed the moment he pushed her away. She no longer has a father.

For one last time, she was waiting on how he would react—if he would show care for her, but she waited for nothing but Amanda’s applause.

“Great! This means you’re accepting the Alpha’s wants?” she asked, her eyes filled with joy, making Emily clench her fist.

“How thickfaced you are, Amanda. How could you show up here wearing a smile after what you’ve done to me?” she uttered, angerfilled in her voice. As much as she wanted to calm down, Amanda’s smiles made her blood boil.

Amanda arched her brow and crossed her arms in front of her chest. “We’re afraid you’re being stubborn here. That’s why we came in to help you make the decision—”

“Help me?” Emily scoffed and laughed sarcastically. She nodded twice and smiled. “Help me. Yes, that’s great. But I don’t need your help,” she added.

Dillon could feel Emily’s rage out of pain. Her body was trembling, and she was just controlling herself not to get wild.

He felt pity for her, but he was letting her deal with her father.

“You’re the Alpha. The strongest in the pack. The protector of all his subordinates, yet you failed to protect your own daughter.” Emily’s voice is filled with rage and pain; it’s stern and cold.

Emily keeps her body strong even if she knows her heart is already shattered.

Seeing her father with no reaction of concern, care or love broke her into pieces.

‘Don’t cry,’ she chanted inside her.

“Emily… we’re helping you—”

“Dillon,” Emily mumbled, making Dillon step forward. “I already told my decision to Lilac the other night, and you’re aware of it. Why does the Alpha need to summon them?”

Dillon looked at Emily’s father. “The Alpha will give the balance to your father. And our father wished to see you—”

“You mean to see if I am suffering?” Emily pierced her eyes on her father. “Even for the last time, you’re still lying and playing at me. Help me? Really? Don’t worry. The moment I stepped out of the pack. I no longer have a father nor a family.”

Emily turned around and left the room with Dillon, leaving her father and Amanda in shock.

Soon as she got back to her room, Dillon left, and that was the moment Emily let go of the tears that wanted to pour down when she saw her father.

She clutched her dress as she slumped on the floor, crying hard that shatters her heart. For once, she was lost, and something died inside her.

Days went by so fast, and Emily did her best to follow Millie’s instructions. Amidst the missing piece in her heart, she still continued to move on. She tried to forget everything about her past. Though it will take time, it will eventually vanish like bubbles into thin air sooner.

At this moment, the deadline that the Alpha had given them is long overdue another week.

Day by day, she’s getting better… physically. Her body is slowly coming back. A healthy body when her mother is taking good care of her.

When silence covered her room, her thoughts traveled to the Alpha’s whereabouts.

‘Certainly, you’re missing him,’ Leia spoke through mind link again.

Emily shook her head, walked towards the window, and sat on the single couch. This has been her favorite spot since she was brought into the royal house.

Looking at the view outside keeps her calm. Sometimes, she’s staring at the vast space outside, watching the trees dance, or listening to the birds as they serenade her, comforting her with their wonderful harmony. And when the night came, she would look up in the sky and watch the stars glimmering as if they were winking at her, saying… “everything will be fine,” then to the moon, which sometimes hid in the dusky clouds.

She was smiling while looking at the moon when she heard a knock at the door.

“Come in,” she said, but her eyes were fixed on the scenery outside.

“Good evening, Miss Emily.”

Emily frowned as she had never heard that voice and turned to face the owner.

Aside from Lilac, Millie, and Dillon. They also have maids in the royal house to do things for her. But this one, she was afraid they had never met.

“GGood day. My apology, but we haven’t met before.”

She stood up and walked closer to the old lady.

The old lady smiled at her. “I am Senior Helga, the head maid of the royal house. The Alpha sent me,” she said.

Alpha?

Hearing this word made Emily’s heart skip a beat, and shivers ran down her spine, which confused her.

“The AAlpha? Why?

“He wants me to make sure that you are prepared for tonight,” Senior Helga said.

Emily’s eyes widened as confusion faded in. ‘Are we going to do it? Is he going to claim me tonight?’ she wondered.

“WWhat should I do?” she asked, her body slightly trembling.

The old lady clapped her hand gracefully as she summons the other maids that were waiting outside of the room.

“We will help you prepare for tonight, Miss Emily,” Senior Helga said as she motioned to the maids who lined up on her both sides.

Emily didn’t speak further and let the maids assist her.

The maids are like robots who don’t even pay attention to her. They just did their work as Senior Helga instructed and Emily was there watching them as they bathed, scrubbed, and even shampooed her hair.

Her mind is drawn to the thought that she will lose her virginity tonight. She was scared about where will this goes through. Can she, do it? Does it hurt for the first time? What will happen after their intercourse?

Can she let him plunge inside her and claim her?

For every girl like her, she wished to give her purity to the man destined for her—her mate. But she was unfortunate.

This is frightening for her because she will do it with a man she doesn’t know nor love. She was doing this as part of a bribe.

She needs to perform her role.

In the end, she is the one who gets lost and even saves her father. The loser is always her.

When will she ever win?

Drowning in her thoughts, she doesn’t even realize that she’s all set. The room is filled with aromatic scents, making her more anxious than she thinks.

‘Calm down, Emily. I can feel your longing,’ Leia, the dire wolf, teased her.

Emily didn’t talk and ignored Leia’s stupid humor.

“You’re beautiful, Miss Emily,” Senior Helga gives her an honest compliment after the maid combed her hair.

“TThank you, Senior.”

Emily looked down at her and grasped into the lacy white dress that they made her wear. She never wore any thin clothing and daring like the dress she’s wearing her entire life.

She understands that this outfit suits a perfect pleasurable night, but there’s no love involved. It will only be as a business between her and the Alpha.

And as the cold wind passed through the window, she felt coldness between her legs. And at this moment, she realizes that she’s wearing nothing inside except for this white lacy dress.

She gasped in horror when Senior Helga spoke once again and bade her goodbyes. When she left with the maids, silence filled the room, and it was deafening.

Emily could even hear the loud thumping of her heart. She took a deep breath and sighed many times to calm herself.

It will only take nine months, right?

Soon as she delivers the child, she will be set free. That’s what the Alpha said the first time they met.

“You got this, Emily,” she whispered.

‘Of course, you will, girl. Fighting. And I can’t wait to get out!’ Leia talked.

“No, Leia. I don’t know if my body can make it if I shift.”

She heard Leia growl. ‘You can do it. The Alpha is handsome and damn; his biceps is so perfect—’

“Leia…” Emily paused when the door suddenly opened. Her eyes widened when she met his gaze.

“AAlpha…” she whispered; her body started to tremble.

Alpha Drake kicked the side of the door, and its sound made her gasp.

Emily’s heart thumped even swifter. Her chest moved up and down.

Alpha Drake walked forward, making Emily step backward, and when the Alpha stopped, she stopped and stared at him.

It’s been a while since he saw him. At this moment, the Alpha is even more handsome in her eyes with his black shirt paired with his pants.

The way he stared at her made her feel the chill—freezing her, and she averted her gaze.

Alpha Drake frowned and roamed his eyes around the room, then gazed back at Emily.

“Look at me.”

Three words, yet it seems like Emily is burying his feet on the ground.

Frightened, she still locked her gaze on him.

His blue eyes seem like the ocean that can drown her to death. Emily found it gorgeous the first time. But this time, it’s even colder, just like him.

Locking her gaze into his, making her stand there like a statue. She was afraid to move.

She was afraid of getting punished.

The atmosphere is deafeningly quiet, making her hear the pounding of her heart. Shivers ran down her spine up to her head, making her scalp numb.

Emily never met a man who held the same aura as Alpha Drake. Even her father.

Alpha Drake stepped forward once again, and this time, Emily didn’t dare to step back. She waited for him until they were just a meter apart.

“Undress.”

His voice made Emily jolt in fear. She knew it was a command, and she needed to oblige. He is her master—even if Drake didn’t acknowledge her as his slave, she still was a tool required to fulfill her role. And it doesn’t differ from a slave.

She needs to do what the Alpha asks her to do. And who knows what will he do if she disobeys?

“Don’t make me repeat—”

“PPlease…” she mumbled as she met his gaze.

Even if his blue eyes shot cold gazes, she still managed to stare at them. She wants to show how she truly feels.

“Undress. Make me repeat it one more time, and I will be the—”

“I… I’ll do it,” she said; her voice was shaky and broken. She closed her eyes and started to pull down the strap of her dress slowly.

She breathes deeply to calm herself and let go of the fear that made her shake. The chills touch her bare shoulders, and at that moment, her dress falls down to the floor, creating a tiny soft sound.

She bowed her head as she opened her eyes. She saw her breast. Her firm nipples aroused as if they were startled by the presence of Drake in front of her.

The cold wind passes through the window, clouding the inside, and enveloping her with a chilly, eerie vibe.

At this moment, she felt ashamed and scared in front of the Alpha. Who knows what is he thinking at this moment? What if he decided to punish her, beat her until…?

‘Stop, overthinking, and face the Alpha,’ Leia talked.

Her eyes widened when she saw his feet move closer to her. She could hear the pounding of her heart. She couldn’t think straight at the moment. Fear lingers inside her. She wanted to scream out loud. She thought of begging, but she knew begging could only make her look weak even more, and the Alpha hates it.

“Look at me,” he said; his voice was cold yet seductive, making her heart tremble even more.

She slowly lifted her head to meet his eyes and when she saw her reflection in it, shyness veiled in her.

She was naked in front of him, and they were just inches apart. She could hear his calm breathing and could feel his dangerous aura.

“Do you know what will happen to those people who disobey me?”

She pressed her lips and didn’t talk. She just stares into his eyes.

He leaned forward, making her stunned and frozen in her place.

“I punish them,” he whispered, making her gasp when she felt his warm breath touches her skin.

“I…” she paused when she moved backward and met her gaze.

She saw how Drake scanned her from head to toe. She could feel the coldness in his eyes while they were piercing every part of her body.

She balled her fist as she muttered, “please,” and met his gaze. However, Drake tilted his head to the left, gesturing for her to climb on the bed.

Her lips parted as her breath became rough. She needs to do it, or else she will get punished.

‘You got this, Emily,’ Leia said.

She manages to walk backward amidst the shyness that she feels. It’s not because she’s naked but the fact that he will see her scars that are imperfectly drawn into her body.

She lowered her head as she sat on the comfy bed. She grasped the sheet as she pulled her feet together and lay down.

She closed her eyes as she waited for his presence so close to her. In a swift moment, she felt a soft bounce. Her heart thumped even faster, making her breathe rapidly.

She clutches the comforter beneath her as she felt him on top of her.

Are they really going to do it?

She knew what would happen when the Alpha got near her. She had thought about it for the past few days.

And here they are, yet she’s not prepared. She wanted to run, but she knew she couldn’t.

“Open your eyes.”

Subconsciously, she opened it and gasped in horror when she saw him shirtless. She could clearly see his broad shoulders and chiseled chest.

Panic lingers inside her. “AAlpha…”

Hearing her voice, Drake gritted his teeth. He forcedly held her hands and pinned them above her head, making her gasp.

His hands went down to her left thigh, tracing his fingers on her side.

Emily could feel the intense sensation it gave and even feel his rage. His grip tightened, making her groan.

She gasped, and her eyes filled with fear when he suddenly landed his right palm above her left breast.

When he started to knead it, she closed her eyes and was brought back to the memories of where Cole touched her. She was scared and disgusted while her stepbrother felt her everywhere.

Emily’s tears stream down her cheeks until it touches her ears. She doesn’t want to think of the past again.

‘Emily! He’s not Cole!’

She heard her wolf voice inside her mind, but her tears overflowed, making Drake stop and let go of her.

“Fuck!” he cursed out loud, and at that moment, Emily knew that she had messed up. “Fuck it!”

When she heard the Alpha cursing in rage, Emily was afraid to open her eyes.

She doesn’t want to look at him. She failed. And worst… she angered him.

At the moment, she could only muster the vaguest sound. “I’m sorry,” she murmured and opened her eyes.

She met his gaze and saw his cold stare piercing at her. She can’t identify what emotions his eyes bring, but she knows Drake is in a rage.

“I… I’m sorry. I was just occupied. I promise I won’t do it again. YYou can have me now—”

“Not with your fuck upstate,” he replied and grabbed his black shirt from the side table. “I want a strong heir. If you keep pushing yourself back to your past, you remain weak, and you’ll get killed,” he added and turned away.

Emily felt the depths of his words, making her chest tighten.

She thinks she just makes things worst. She felt Drake’s frustration.