《SAVED BY THE LYCAN KING (Elisa)》


 Chapter 1

    ELISA''S POV


    The morning sunlight seeped into the room through the windows. Iid in my bed, staring at the ceiling. My thoughts were all jumbled up.


    Two years. It had been two years since I married Alpha Jackson of the Midnight Pack, and in all that time, I had never felt truly loved. My wolf, Lily, had always advised me to leave him. She always encouraged me to find a ce where I could be happy. But I loved Jackson too much. Despite our arranged marriage, I had always hoped that we could live as a happily married couple.


    A sudden noise snapped me out of my thoughts. The door to our room creaked open and Jackson entered. He had a cold expression on his face.


    "How are the final preparations for the ball going?" he demanded


    I blinked in confusion. What was he talking about? "The ball?"


    Jackson''s eyes red with anger. "Tonight is the fifth yearly Northern Pack Ball! Hurry up and get dressed. I might take Gina as mypany. She''s much more presentable than you!"


    With those words said, he turned away and mmed the door behind him, leaving me in shock and confusion.


    I couldn''t help the tears that fell from my eyes. Once again, I felt the ache of rejection. His actions caused a throbbing ache in my chest. Jackson had always neglected me. He usually forgot to inform me of important events. He always dismissed my efforts, and treated me like an afterthought. And now, he was threatening to take Gina, my stepsister, to the ball instead of me.


    Gina. She had always been the favored one, even though she was adopted. My parents had taken her in after the Beta''s untimely death, and she had effortlessly taken over the role of the golden child when I was kidnapped at the age of five. By the time I escaped and returned three years ago, Gina had already inserted herself in the hearts of my family and pack.


    I wiped away my tears. Jackson probably forgot to tell me about the ball. Now, I have to make preparationsst minute. I would do my best anyway. That way, he might even be impressed with me. That was what I always wanted.


    I heard Lily''s voice in my head "Elisa, you deserve better. You deserve to be loved."


    "I know, Lily," I whispered "But I love him. I can''t just walk away."


    "He clearly doesn''t love you"


    "I know. I just - I want to try. He will learn to love me with time"


    Lily sighed "Just promise me you won''t let him break you."


    I took a deep breath "I won''t let him. I promise"


    My chest ached from Jackson''s earlier words. I couldn''t shake the feeling of being unwanted. I took a deep breath and say up. I had to move on and make this night a sess. If not, Jackson will have my head.


    As I stood up and moved toward the closet to pick out a dress, I heard Gina''s voice from behind me.


    "Oh, looks like you guys are fighting again." she said excitedly.


    I turned to see her standing in the doorway. She was wearing a gold glittery dress that shimmered in the sunlight. She looked more like a Luna queen than I ever had. The sight of her made me self conscious. Gina was beautiful. Even a blind man could see that.


    "It''s none of your business, Gina. You have no right to ask." I said.


    Gina''s smile turned into an evil one "Bitch! You think you''re so cool, huh? You do know that Alpha Jackson doesn''t like you at all, right? You''re nothing but a contract Luna."


    Her words hit me like a p in the face. I clenched my fists, trying to control my anger. Gina had a way of getting on my nerves. Every single time, she would find a way to push me to the wall. It made her happy to see me down and I didn''t know why. I never did anything to her. For some reason, she just didn''t like me and she made sure to show me every chance she got.


    "Get out, Gina. Now." I said to her.


    I wasn''t in the mood to argue. I had a ball to n. Also, I didn''t want things to get out of hand. I could feel myself getting more aggravated by the second and I didn''t want to say or do something I would regret. I just wanted her gone so I could focus on the task at hand.


    Instead of leaving, Gina stepped closer. Her hand moved behind her back. Before I could react, she lunged at me with a small knife, As soon as I saw her, I gasped, panicking instantly. What the hell is she doing? I knew Gina never liked me but I never expected her to want


    theve


    to hurt me this badly.


    I moved to the side, dodging her attack. I reached out to grab her hand to stop her


    but I wasn''t lucky. The de cut deeply into my hand, making me scream.


    "Gina, stop!" I shouted, trying to push her away.


    "Never. I''ll teach you a lesson you''ll never forget"


    The struggle between us was intense. She pushed the knife further into my palm. The pain intensified. Out of desperation, I kicked her. Gina stumbled backward and fell, hitting her head on the dresser. She fell to the floor as a result.


    She cried out in pain, clutching her head. "Help, it hurts!"


    Just then, the door burst open, and Jackson stormed into the room. His eyes widened as he took in the scene - Gina lying on the floor, and me standing there with blood dripping from my hand. I tried to exin, but Gina spoke up first.


    "I don''t know why Luna hates me so much," she whimpered. "She used me of trying to take her ce..."


    Jackson red at me "Why did you do that, Elisa?"

 Chapter 2

    ELISA''S POV


    I looked at Gina in disbelief. I couldn''t believe what was happening. The worst part was that Jackson believed every word she said. He red at me like I was the devil.


    "That''s not true!" I shouted.


    Jackson acted like he didn''t hear me. He checked on Gina''s supposed injuries, asking her how she felt. As he spoke to her, I noticed how soft his voice was. He spoke to her in a tone that he had never used with me. He was so concerned about her. The sight of them together brought tears to my eyes. He looked at her the way I wished he would look at me.


    Gina give me an evil grin as Jackson fussed over her. Jackson didn''t seem to notice that.


    Jackson stood up and gave me a death re. If looks were knives, I''d be covered in blood by now.


    "Apologize to Gina," Jackson demanded.


    "You''re not listening to me" I retorted "I said I didn''t push her!"


    Jackson''s expression hardened. "You two are the only ones in this room. Who else could it be but you?"


    My body shook with rage. My hand throbbed painfully from where I had grabbed the knife. It hurt me that my own husband didn''t believe me. My heart felt like it was shattering into a million pieces.


    Just then, the door was suddenly pushed open, and to my surprise, my parents, the Alpha and Luna of the Blue Moon Pack, walked in.


    I gasped in surprise, forgetting everything that had happened. I was so excited to see them. I hadn''t seen them in a year. I was just about to hug them when they rushed right past me to Gina. They didn''t even bat an eysh at me.


    "Oh my god, baby Gina" my mom cried out "What happened to you? How did you fall so hard?"


    Baby Gina? My mom''s voice was filled with so much concern that it made me want to puke.


    "It was Elisa" Gina cried to them "She hurt me. I don''t know why she hates me. She thinks I want to take her position"


    My parents turned to me with stern expressions, clearly expecting an apology. I felt so hurt. This wasn''t fair at all.


    I hadn''t been treated fairly since I returned home. I had thought I could have a better life than when I was a rogue, but I was wrong. The home I had tried so desperately to return to was hell. My parents disliked me and always told me to learn from Gina.


    I smiled coldly and asked, "Do you guys think I did it too?"


    My father stepped forward "Elisa, even if you don''t like Gina, you can''t hit her! You''re the Luna. How can you be so evil? I thought you were better than this"


    "You know how important today is" my mom added "Yet you beat Gina like that. I am so disappointed in you."


    My lips quivered as I tried to hold the tears in. I didn''t want to cry now, not in front of them. But it was so hard to keep my emotions in check. They couldn''t see how hurt I was.


    "After I returned, you didn''t see me as your daughter" I spoke "You never believed what I said. So just tell me, what are you going to do with me?"


    Gina started to sob louder, clutching her head. "I just wanted to talk to her. I don''t know why she pushed me so hard. I don''t understand why she hates me."


    My father''s face turned red with anger. "Elisa, you need to learn some manners. This behavior is uneptable."


    "What kind of attitude is that!" Jackson yelled. "You hurt your sister but you won''t apologize?"


    "I''m the only daughter of my parents" I cried out "Where do I have a sister? I don''t have an evil sister like her,"


    I tried my possible best to get along with Gina but for some reason, she didn''t like me. She was hell bent on causing trouble for me and I had no idea why. She wasn''t my sister. Sisters don''t do this to each other.


    As soon as I said those words, my parents both gasped in horror. The next thing that happened shocked me to my core. My father stepped closer to me and pped me hard across the face.


    I gasped in surprise. Did he just....


    The sting of my father''s p lingered on my cheek. I could feel the heat radiating through my skin I stood there, shocked with my hand on my face. No... This can''t be happening.


    Tears pricked at my eyes even more and it took every self restraint in me not to cry. I didn''t want to give Gian the satisfaction of seeing me in tears.


    From the corner of my eye, I saw Gina''s smirk. It was obvious that she


    was pleased that her n had worked. Gina always had my parents wrapped around her finger. They didn''t care about me one bit


    Nobody did, not even my supposed


    husband.


    I was tired of it all. I''m a good person. I deserve to be loved and treated with


    respect. Why does this keep happening to me?


    "How dare you!" my father raised his voice "We didn''t teach you to behave this way"


    "How could you say that about your sister, Elisa?" my mom said "Why are you so cruel? Can''t you see your sister loves you? You keep pushing her away"


    I looked at them with tear blurry vision.


    "Why do you always take her side?" I asked them, my voice breaking. "I said it once and I''ll say it again. She''s not my sister because she''s evil. Can''t you see that? She''s deceiving you all"


    My father''s eyes zed with anger. He raised his hand to p me again but Gina stopped him.


    Gina sniffled, crying "Father don''t. Please, don''t hurt her. This is all my fault. I just..... I just want a bond with my sister. I don''t want you guys to fight"


    Jackson shook his head "Can you see how much she cares about you?"


    "She''s a liar! Can''t you all see it?" I shrieked


    "That''s enough. Apologize to Gina now!."


    I looked at Jackson, staring at him


    as if it would be for thest time.. My heart felt like it had been shattered into a thousand pieces. He was supposed to be my husband, my partner. But instead, he was always defending Gina.


    "No, I won''t apologize," I said "I''m done."


    "What did you say?" Jackson asked.


    "I said I''m done," I repeated.


    I meant it. I was done with everything - the unfairness, Gina''s preferential treatment, my parents'' and husband''s neglect. I deserved better than this. The next words I said shocked me.


    "Jackson, let''s get a divorce. From this day on, I''m no longer the Luna of the Midnight Pack."

 Chapter 3

    ELISA''S POV


    As soon as the words left my mouth, the room fell silent. It was so silent that you could hear a pin drop. I took in the looks on all their faces. Even Gina looked surprised. The shocked expressions on everyone''s faces told me they hadn''t expected this outburst or my words.


    I was surprised myself. I loved Jackson with all my heart. I never thought of divorcing him. Never in a million years would I have thought I would say this. Even with the way he treated me, I was still willing to stay, still willing to try and endure I couldn''t take it anymore. Every person had a limit and I had reached mine. Jackson along with my family had pushed me to the wall. Now, it''s time for me to fight back.


    I don''t know where the sudden confidence came from but now, I knew my worth. I knew I deserved better. I tried so hard to be the perfect daughter, to be the perfect wife but now, I could see that my efforts weren''t appreciated. They never would be, no matter how hard I tried. It felt like a veil covering my eyes just fell off. Why did I put up with this for so long? It would always be apetition between Gina and me, apetition that I could never win.


    My mother''s eyes narrowed in anger. She was the first to break the silence.


    "How dare you!" my mom shrieked" What the hell is wrong with you, Elisa? Do you know what you are saying?"


    My father stepped forward. He looked so angry that I could feel it radiating off him.


    "Whatever your problem is, keep it to yourself. You should know that the pack''s businesses first. Wait until the ball is over today. We can discuss thister"


    I looked at them, feeling a deep, aching sadness. It was clear to me now that they cared more about the pack''s image than about their own daughter. They didn''t even care about the fact that I wanted to divorce Jackson. All they cared about was the pack.


    Gina was right. I was nothing but a contract Luna. Why didn''t I realize this sooner? The realization hit me hard. My life was nothing but a series of sacrifices for people who didn''t truly care about me.


    Wiping the sweat from my forehead with my good hand, I turned to Jackson.


    "Do you still want me to be your Luna?" I asked. My voice tremblef with the effort to keep my emotions in check.


    Jackson''s face was filled with anger. "You are too bold, too reckless. You don''t act like ady should"


    "And how should I act?" I snapped back.


    "The way a good wife would. You should be submissive. How dare you talk to me that way?"


    I shook my head. This time, I couldn''t stop the tears from falling "Haven''t I been submissive enough? I literally do everything I''m told to. I never argue with you or talk back. Can''t you see how hard I try to please you?"


    "Enough with your drama. You just want attention. Everything will wait until the ball is over. Now go out with me and greet the guests! They''re already waiting."


    A bitterugh escaped my lips. Cold sweat ran into my eyes, making them sting and blur with tears. If my mind wasn''t made up before, it was now.


    I looked at everyone,. "Listen up, all of you. I want a divorce, and your opinions don''t matter to me. If you care about your precious faces, go figure it out yourselves. I am not your puppet."


    With that, I turned to the side and pulled open a nearby drawer, searching for a bandage. My hand hurt like hell. I didn''t want to wound to get infected. I found one and began to wrap my injured hand, ignoring the shocked and angry looks from everyone around me.


    My parents finally noticed my bleeding hand. For a moment, I could see the


    concerned look on my mother''s face.


    "What happened to your hand?" she asked.


    Before I could answer, Gina, ever the opportunist, jumped in.


    "She tried to hit me, so I defended myself. I may have identally hurt her hand." Gina cried out.


    I chuckled sadly. I didn''t even bother. Of course, Gina would turn this around in her favour. What else did I expect?


    My mother turned back to me. The look of concern on her face was reced with annoyance.


    "If you didn''t try to hurt Gina, your hand wouldn''t be hurt." she said.


    I felt so sad. There was an ache in my chest that throbbed deeply. I was hurt by the fact that my parents wouldn''t listen to me. They couldn''t even give me the benefit of the doubt.


    I took a deep breath and spoke "Mom, Dad, I was wrong. I shouldn''t havee back three years ago. I don''t belong in this family." My voice broke on thest word, but I held back the sobs. I couldn''t cry in front of them.


    Without waiting for a response, I turned and left the room. They stared at me intensely, like I had grown two heads but I didn''t care anymore.


    ve


    I walked down the hallway, making my way to the venue. I didn''t have enough time to get dressed. I knew ? looked a mess. I was dressed in a casual gown which was now wrinkled. My face was stained with tears, and my hands still bleed despite the bandage. I just wanted to get away from them all.


    As I stumbled down the hallway, my vision became blurred with tears. I clutched my chest, trying to soothe the pain felt in my heart. The pain I felt was so intense that I started to get dizzy. I cried loudly as I walked. It hurt so much.


    As I walked, I felt my strength being drained. Just as I was about to copse, a strong hand caught me, preventing my fall. I looked up, trying to focus through my tears.


    As I looked at him, I couldn''t help the gasp that escaped my lips.


    He was the most gorgeous man I had everid my eyes on.

 Chapter 4

    My breath caught in my throat as I looked at the man. He was the most handsome man I had everid eyes on. The word ''handsome'' didn''t do him any justice. He was straight up gorgeous. I couldn''t believe he was real. He looked like he just stepped out of a magazine.


    He had brown hair tied in a bun, framing his face perfectly. He had the most beautiful pair of blue eyes I had ever seen. His eyes reminded me of the ocean. I could get lost in them if I stared at him for too long. He was tall and muscr. He was three times my size, making it look like he could crush me if he wanted to. He had an aura of power and confidence that made me want to bow my head at him


    in respect.


    Who was he? I had never seen him before but from his aura, I could tell he was most likely a powerful noble. He probably came for the ball from a foreign pack.


    For a moment, we just stared at each other. For some reason, I felt a strong connection to him. The connection was a pull that stirred my wolf inside me. His face was cold. From his look alone, I could tell he was dominant.


    "Do you need help?" he asked.


    His deep voice made my wolf stir further inside me. His voice sent goosebumps down my spine.


    I nodded, unable to find my voice. He moved closer, and took my hand in his. I was surprised by his gesture. For someone who looked so tough, his touch was surprisingly gentle. As our hands touched, I felt sparks in my skin I watched in awe as he expertly removed the bandage and dressed it again.


    "There, that should do it," he said.


    Once again, his eyes met mine. I could see an emotion in his gaze. I was intrigued by him. I had never felt this kind of connection to someone like this before.


    "Thank you," I managed to whisper.


    "You''re wee."


    There was something familiar about his scent. That was weird because I had never seen him before. But before I could think about it, he handed me a mask.


    "Are you going to the ball?" he asked.


    I hesitated. I had no intention of going, especially not after the argument with Jackson and my family. But there was something about this man, something that made me want to follow him, to see what would happen next.


    "Yes," I said, surprising myself. "I suppose I am.¡±


    He raised an eyebrow but didn''t question me further. He was probably wondering why I was so casually dressed for a ball as grand as that. I took the mask and put it on. The man extended his arm, and I took it, feeling those sparks again. We walked together to the ball, and I couldn''t help the emotions I felt. I was nervous and confused at the same time.


    Why did I feel such a strong connection to this man?


    As we entered the grand hall, I saw Jackson across the room. He was talking to someone. I turned away from him, not wanting him to see me. I might have a mask on but Jackson would be able to recognize my dress.


    The man led me to a table. He pulled out a chair for me, helping me sit. I was in awe. Jackson had never done that for me before. The man set next to me. I could feel the heat radiating off him. My body came alive at the feeling of him being next to me.


    What was wrong with me?


    I focused my attention on the ball, trying to distract myself. The ball was in full swing. Couples danced in the center of the room. Conversation andughter filled the air. Despite all the action going on, all I could focus on was this man and the way his presence made me feel safe, intrigued, and strangely alive.


    My body hummed with electric energy just by being close to him. The connection I felt to him made my skin tingle and my heart race. I could barely concentrate on the ceremony.


    The ball was a gathering for the nobles to discuss and update everyone on pack matters. As I looked around, I noticed the questioning nces and heard the whispers from the people.


    "Why isn''t Luna here?"


    "How can she not show up for such an important event?"


    My heart sank in my chest at their words. I was the Luna, but it seemed I was no longer wee. My family didn''t care about me. They cared more about the pack than my own happiness. It sucked.


    Soon, Jackson appeared at the front, calmly calling the ball to order. He didn''t even nce in my direction. don''t think he even bothered to look for me I bowed my head, not really wanting to be here but too curious about this man to leave. Who was this handsome man who sat beside me, and why did I feel so drawn to him?


    Jackson stood at the front. His posturemanded attention as usual.


    "Good evening, everyone" he said "It is my great pleasure to inform you that the


    Lycan King has graced us with his presence for this ball."


    The room was filled with gasps. Even I was surprised. What''s the Lycan King doing here? The Lycan


    King was like a legend, So


    one had ever seen before.


    heard of him, of how powerful he was but had never seen him. That was how private he was was curious to finally know who he was.


    Jackson continued talking ¡°Before the meeting begins, I have a pack announcement to make. Elisa, the Luna of the Midnight pack, has broken pack rules and will no longer be Luna anymore. Gina will be the temporary Luna of our pack, and I hope you will support her."


    My blood ran cold as Jackson made that announcement. I felt a lump in my throat. My chest ached even more.


    To my horror, Gina walked up to stand next to Jackson. She had a shimmering red dress on, one that showed all her curves with heels. Her long hair was curled and her lips were so red that you could see the colour from a mile away.


    I couldn''t believe what I was hearing. How could he do this? I was the one who asked for a divorce, yet here he was, making it seem like I had abandoned them, like I was the one at fault.


    Tears fell freely from my eyes. I was d I had a mask on. If not I would have been a crying mess.


    The whispers around us grew louder. People murmured about the sudden change


    in leadership.


    "What could the Luna have done?"


    "I''m not surprised. She has always looked like a reckless person"


    "She grew up with rogues. What do you expect?"


    The whispers made me so harder. I felt humiliated, betrayed. It hadn''t taken


    Jackson long to rece me, to cast me aside like I was nothing.


    "I can''t believe this," I whispered "How could he do this to me?"

 Chapter 5

    ELISA''S POV


    The room seemed to close in on me, I sat there, stunned, as Jackson made his announcement. GINA stood beside him with a triumphant smile on her face as she held his arm. The spotlight was on her, and she was happy to be in it.


    I couldn''t believe it. Betrayed didn''t even begin to cover how I felt. Jackson had wasted no time in recing me, and with my sister, no less. It was like a cruel joke, one that cut deeper than any wound. I had always known I came second to Gina, but this... this was a new level of humiliation.


    "Are you alright?" I heard the man ask me, his breath hot against my ear. The feeling of his breath on my body sent tingles down my spine.


    I cleared my throat "Yes"


    I wondered how he knew something was wrong. I was wearing a mask, he couldn''t see my facial expressions or the tears that filled my eyes.


    "Are you sure? Your body is trembling"


    That was when I realized my whole body was shaking. No wonder he could tell.


    I couldn''t even begin to describe the hurt I felt. Jackson had crossed a line. He


    had shattered the final pieces of my heart. I loved him. I did everything to please him yet it wasn''t enough. He had always preferred my sister to me.


    A part of me wanted to say good riddance but another part of me was sad. Why didn''t he love me? What was wrong with me?


    The whispers grew louder and I knew that I would be the topic of pack discussion for about a week.


    I sniffled, trying to get a hold of myself. I wouldn''t let them break me. I would find a way around this.


    Before I could fully process my emotions, the man sitting next to me spoke loudly. His voice cut through the murmurs of the crowd.


    ¡°Deposing a Luna will require evidence of Luna''s serious infractions to be provided to the members of the Werewolf Council before you can do so." he said firmly.


    I was surprised by his words. He spoke so eloquently and fluently, like someone with a lot of power. Who was he really?


    The room fell silent. Everyone turned to look at him in shock, whispering and wondering who he was. Jackson''s face twisted with contempt. I could Jackson was a proud and ruthless Alpha. Nobody dared question him or speak when he''s in the center of the room. It made me wonder who this man was even more. He must be very powerful for him to question Jackson''s words.


    Jackson red at him as he spoke.


    "Who are you?"Jackson''s voice boomed" How dare you meddle in the affairs of my pack?"


    The man didn''t flinch. I was surprised by howposed he looked. He had a confident smirk in his face.


    "I''m a member of the Werewolf Council. You can provide me with evidence."


    My heart skipped a beat. A council member? Here? No wonder he spoke so powerfully.


    Jackson froze for a moment before regaining hisposure, though his voice wayered slightly. "You''re a member of the Werewolf Council? That''s not possible. There is no council member here today for the ball. You''re lying!"


    At that moment, a man appeared behind the mystery man. He had the symbol of


    a royal sigil on his suit.


    "How dare you!" the man raised his voice" How can you talk to him like that? You should bow when you see the Lycan King"


    Gasps filled the room. My own


    breath caught in my throat as the realization hit me. The Lycan King had never seen him before-no one had. The mystery man was the Lycan King? All of a sudden, started to get hot under my mask


    Jackson''s face went pale. His authoritative aura crumbled in an instant. Even Gina looked scared.


    "I''m sorry... I didn''t know you were the king," Jackson stammered, his body trembling with fear.


    I held onto my mask tighter, praying it would conceal my identity. My heart raced. I


    had been talking to the Lycan king? No way.


    Jackson bowed in front of him. The


    guests stood up and bowed too. I stood up to do the same but the


    mystery man held my hand, stopping me. It confused me even


    further. My body calmed under his


    touch.


    "I will be here for two weeks to help you with the leadership changes," the Lycan


    King said.


    His gaze scanned over everyone till his eyesnded on me.


    I felt like I was suffocating under his intense stare. I felt hot all over. I felt ttered


    and nervous at the same time.

 Chapter 6

    ELISA''S POV


    What did he see when he looked at me? Did he know who I was? And more importantly, why did my body respond to him this way? My mind raced with questions.


    The whispers in the room grew louder. I wanted to run, to escape, but my legs felt like lead. All I could do was sit there, frozen in ce.


    Jackson, still reeling from the shock, tried to recover.


    "Of course, Your Majesty. We are honored by your presence." he said.


    I had never seen Jacosn look so scared in my life. I never thought it was possible.


    The King''s eyes didn''t leave me, as he spoke


    "I will expect to see the evidence against your Luna," he said.


    Jackson nodded "Yes, Your Majesty."


    The King finally looked away, and I let out a breath I didn''t realize I was holding. My mind was a whirlwind of emotions-betrayal, fear, and sense of relief that someone, even if it was the Lycan King, was questioning Jackson''s actions.


    For some reason, I had a feeling that my encounter with the Lycan King would change my life.


    ******


    The ball went on. Soon, people started to really enjoy themselves. The room was filled with the clinking of sses, chatting of people and the sound of music. People danced in the center of the ball room with their various partners.


    I still couldn''t believe that I was sitting next to the famous Lycan King. It felt surreal. I should have known he was royalty. He had an air of authority right from the moment I met him.


    "I never got to know your name" he suddenly said.


    I swallowed hard. I felt ttered that he was interested enough to ask for my


    name. Is he as attracted to him as I was to him? How could he? I wasn''t even well dressed? I was a crying mess when he saw me.


    "I''m Elisa"


    "Elisa" he repeated.


    My name rolled over his tongue effortlessly. I wanted to hear him say it again. He said it like it was made for him to say it.


    "Are you enjoying the ball?" he questioned.


    I nodded "Yes, it''s beautiful."


    He smiled "You haven''t asked me my name."


    I felt my cheeks flush.


    "I''m sorry, your highness. What is your name?"


    "There''s no need for formalities, Elisa," he said "My name is Ferris"


    Ferris.


    I had heard so many stories about the Lycan King-how ruthless he could be, how powerful. Fear gripped me, but at the same time there was an undeniable pull towards him. Since we met, be had been nothing but kind.


    "It''s an honor to meet you, Your Majesty," I said. voice trembling slightly.


    "Please, call me Ferris," he insisted.


    I nodded, still trying to process the revtion.


    In front of me caught sight of Jackson and Gina. They stood close to each other,ughing. Jackson had his hand on her arm in a way that was far too familiar. It was like a stab to the heart. Less than a few hours, and he was already moving on. Our marriage had meant nothing to him. I felt ashamed and angry at the same time. How could I have been so blind?


    Ferris must have noticed my distress because he followed my gaze and frowned.


    "Is something bothering you, Elisa?"


    I shook my head, trying to push the hurt aside. "It''s nothing."


    He looked at me for a long moment "Would you like to dance?"


    I hesitated. Dancing with the Lycan King? The very thought made my heart race.


    "I... I don''t think I can."


    He leaned in closer and whispered into my ear "That wasn''t a request. It''s an order."


    I shivered


    on


    It was so hot, so...


    what the feeling of his b s to


    couldn''t even describe it.

 Chapter 7

    Before I could protest, he took my hand and led me to the dance floor. His touch was warm and firm. Despite my initial reluctance, I couldn''t deny the thrill I felt. The feeling of my hand in his made me feel warm all over. It felt right.


    We got to the dance floor with the rest of the others. He bowed to me and I curtsied. After that, we started dancing. We joined our hands together and moved slowly to the music. The orchestra changed the music as soon as they noticed him. As we moved together, the rest of the room seemed to fade away. The music sounded around us, and I found myself getting lost in his beautiful blue eyes.


    We moved in sync. Our steps were perfectly matched. I had never felt this way with anyone, not even Jackson. There was an intensity in Ferris'' gaze that made my heart flutter. He held me close at one point. His hand rested gently on my waist, guiding me effortlessly through the dance. Every touch, every look, sent shivers down my spine.


    "You''re a wonderful dancer," he murmured.


    This was the first time I was hearing that. Jackson used to tell me how awful I was


    at dancing. He even told me to learn from Gina.


    "Thank you," I managed to say "So are you."


    He smiled "Tell me, Elisa, what''s troubling you?"


    I looked away, not wanting to meet his gaze in the moment "It''s nothing, really."


    "Is it the Alpha?" he asked" I saw you looking at him"


    I felt a lump form in my throat. "Itsplicated"


    "Whatever it is, you''ll be fine. He''s an asshole anyway"


    I couldn''t help the chuckle that escaped my lips. His words made me feel better instantly.


    The music continued to y, but all I could hear was the sound of my own heartbeat. In that moment, nothing else mattered. The world around us disappeared, and it was just Ferris and me, moving together as if we were the only two people in existence.


    vel


    I felt desire within me, stronger than anything I had ever felt before. I was attracted to Ferris in a way that I couldn''t describe. His looks, his confidence, his aura-it was overwhelming. I wondered what it was about him that drew me in sopletely.


    As the dance came to an end, he held me for a moment longer, as if reluctant to let me go. And in that moment, I knew that whatever happened next, my life would never be the same.


    *


    The ball had ended a while ago. As soon as it did, I said goodbye to Ferris and went outside to clear my head. I thought about everything that went down with Jackson, Gina and my parents..


    I found a quiet corner in the gardens of the estate. I didn''t want to go back home to Jackson.


    I sat on a stone bench, my mind reying the events of the evening. Ferris'' kindness and the way he made me feel still warmed my heart, but the pain of seeing Jackson with Gina overshadowed it. How could he move on so quickly? Did I really mean nothing to him?


    My phone buzzed in my purse, snapping me out of my thoughts. I hesitated before pulling it out, dreading what I might see. As I expected, it was text message from Jackson.


    It read - - "I hope you don''t back out. I am definitely going to divorce you."


    I stared at the message. My heart sunk further as I read it over and over again. The audacity.


    I felt a bitter smile tug at my lips. Of course, he would divorce me. He had already moved on, and he wanted to make sure I knew it. I shook my head and turned off my phone without replying. There was nothing left to say.


    I just didn''t want to be falsely used of anything. I didn''t want to be seen as the one who gave up on our marriage. But the truth was, there was nothing left to fight for. Jackson had made his choice, and now I had to make mine.


    As I sat there, lost in my thoughts, a figure approached. A royal soldier stepped


    into the light.


    "Miss," he said, bowing slightly. "Our king wants to see you"

 Chapter 8

    ELISA''S POV


    I looked at the guard in disbelief. For a moment, I thought my ears were ying


    tricks on me.


    "I beg your pardon?" I said. The words came out before I could stop them. That was how surprised I was.


    "The Lycan King" the guard said "He wishes to see you. Kindly grant him his request"


    Of course, I will grant him his request. He''s royalty. And a part of me wanted to see him again.


    As I left the ballroom, I felt a bit sad, wondering if I would ever see him. It seems like now, my dreams areing true. I only wondered why he wanted to see me.. "Excuse me," I said "Where is he?"


    "In his residence. Please, follow me" I got up and followed him out of the garden. He led me to a red luxurious sports car. I admired it.


    The Lycan King had taste. I never expected less from him anyway. The guard opened the door for me. As soon as I got in, he closed the door then got in the front seat. As the car moved smoothly through the streets, my mind raced with questions.


    Why did the Lycan King want to see me? What could he possibly want with me? I felt nervous and excited at the same time.


    The thought of meeting the Lycan King again made me feel all warm inside. I couldn''t ce my finger on it but there was a connection between us. I could feel it.


    Shortly, we arrived at the tall gates of the Lycan King''s residence. I remembered helping Jackson prepare a residence for his representative for the ball. We didn''t know he would be joining us himself. The royal guard opened the car door for me, and I stepped out. I followed him as he led me inside.


    "Right this way, Luna Elisa," the guard said. Luna Elisa? They''ve figured out who I was. This means King Ferris must have asked about me.


    I followed him with my heart pounding in my chest. We entered arge room


    where HE was waiting. He stood by a window, looking outside with his arms folded behind his back. His presence wasmanding, and the air seemed to be filled with his authority.


    I bowed deeply, showing the respect he deserved. "Your Majesty," I said.


    King Ferris turned to look at me. He stood tall, making me feel small in his presence. "Do you have anything to say to me, Luna Elisa?" he asked.


    This proves even more that he knows about me. If he asked around, he must also know about what''s been happening between me and Jackson. I thought about it.


    He didn''t call me here to chat. He had far better things to do that that.


    Maybe I can ask him to grant Jackson and me a divorce? This is my chance.


    Who better to have on my side than the Lycan King himself? I took a deep breath, knowing this moment would change my life forever.


    "I want to file for divorce from Alpha Jackson," I said calmly. Ferris raised an eyebrow. "Reason? I heard you''ve always adored him." I shook my head.


    At the thought of Jackson, I got sad again. I remembered how taken he seemed with Gina. They both looked like they were having a nice time at the ball without me. They had always liked each other. This is their chance to be together. Jackson always admired my sister. He never liked me.


    "I loved him, but since he found a new love, I cannot ept a marriage of three. I deserve better than to be a part of a rtionship where I am not fully loved and respected." Ferris''s eyes softened slightly. I could see that he understood my plight.


    "Don''t worry," he said "I will grant you a divorce instead of letting him evict you. You deserve to be free and to find your own happiness." His words touched me deeply. Nobody had ever said such kind words to me.


    "Thank you! Your Majesty," I couldn''t be more grateful to him, though I don''t know why he''s helping me.


    Ferris cleared his throat "You can stay in my vi if you want. There are many rooms avable."


    His offer was


    as generous, and the


    thought of staying in such a ce was tempting. But I knew it would only fuel rumors. I didn''t want


    people to think I divorced Jackel.ne


    because I had an affair with the Lycan King. The pack members loved to gossip and I didn''t want to be the subject of attention. I had to think about my reputation and the dignity I wanted to maintain, even after my divorce.


    "I appreciate your offer, Your Majesty, but I think it''s best if I return to my own house for now," I replied. "I don''t want any misunderstandings or rumors to start about me."


    Ferris nodded. I could see the look of respect in his eyes. "I understand, Elisa. You have a reputation to keep. But know that my offer stands. If you ever need anything, my doors are always open to you."


    "Thank you, Your Majesty," I said "I appreciate your kindness and support."


    "You may leave. Please, let me know if you need anything" I bowed before him before leaving.


    As I left his residence, I felt relieved. I didn''t know what the future held but I knew that I had taken the first step towards turning my life around and finding my happiness.


    To hell with Jackson and Gina. They deserved each other. The car ride back home felt different. I realized


    that I was no longer just Alpha


    Jackson''s wife or the Luna one


    his


    pack. I was Elisa, a woman ready to take control of her life again. And for some reason, the thought excited me.

 Chapter 9

    ALPHA JACKSON''S POV


    I couldn''t believe it. Elisa had the audacity to demand a divorce.


    I was filled with so many emotions - anger and confusion, as I searched for her after the ball. How dare she? I had sent her a text and she didn''t even bother to respond.


    My wolf was just as furious, pacing restlessly in my mind, urging me to find her and demand an exnation. I stormed back into the ballroom, scanning the faces of the remaining guests. She was nowhere to be seen.


    The clock was ticking past midnight, and she still hadn''t returned home. This was the first time Elisa had stayed out thiste, and it disturbed me, making my blood boil. Gina stayed by my side and offered words offort.


    "Jackson, she''lle back. She probably just needs some time to cool off," Gina said gently. This was the reason I admired Gina. Even after everything Elisa did to her, she still tried to defend her sister. Gina ced a hand on my arm, but it did little to reduce my anger.


    "I don''t understand why she''s doing this," I said, clenching my fists. "How dare she think she can just walk away?" What got into Elisa? She never had the guts to do this before. If anyone should be demanding a divorce, it should be me. I was the Alpha. I was the one in charge.


    Gina sighed. ¡°Elisa''s been through a lot, sweetie. Maybe she just needs to sort things out on her own. But don''t worry, I''m here for you." We got back to the pce. Instead of resting after such a long day, I paced the living room, unable to calm the annoyance I felt.


    Gina sat on one of the couches, watching me. "Jackson, please sit down. You''re going to wear yourself out," she said.


    "I can''t just sit here, Gina! She''s out there somewhere, and she''s not answering her phone" Gina shrugged "Maybe she''s with someone else"


    I stopped in my tracks and looked at her. "What the hell did you say?" I asked her.


    "I''m just saying. I mean, think about it. Why else would she ask for a divorce? Maybe she''s with another man" I thought about it. The more I did, the more my blood boiled inside me.


    The thought of Elisa with another man made me annoyed. It made my wolf want toe out of my cage. She wouldn''t dare. Or would she? Elisa was mine. If I found out she was with another man, I''d.... Wait... Why do I care? I could care less if she lived or not. Right?


    The hours went by and still, Elisa had not returned. It was alreadyte, and I couldn''t help but wonder where she was and what she was doing Feelings of jealousy began to creep into my mind but I quickly shook them off. I convinced myself that I didn''t care.


    After all, I had no real feelings for Elisa.


    Gina was a far better option. She was here, supporting me, unlike Elisa who seemed to be far away.


    "Maybe you should just move on," Gina suggested "Elisa doesn''t seem to appreciate you. You deserve someone who does." I looked at Gina. Her words yed over and over in my mind.


    She was right. Elisa had the audacity to divorce me. Maybe it was time to let her go. Gina was always there for me, understanding and supportive. I had always liked Gina anyway. I never liked Elisa one bit. I was only with her because of our roles as royals in the pack.


    "You''re right," said "Maybe I should just move on. Elisa clearly doesn''t care." Gina smiled at me "Why don''t you go to the Lycan King tomorrow and make the first move? Tell him about the divorce. It''ll show Elisa that you''re serious and that you''re not waiting around for her."


    I hesitated, but Gina''s suggestion made sense. Taking control of the situation would put me in a position of strength. I would show Elisa that she was making a big mistake. Elisa probably didn''t want a divorce. She was just looking for attention. She wouldn''t get it. I would make sure that by the time I was done with her, she would be the one begging.


    "Yeah, I''ll do that," I agreed. "I''ll visit the king tomorrow." Gina got up and wrapped her arms around my shoulder.


    "Good. It''s the right thing to do." she said. My mind was now focused on the n. Tomorrow, I would go to the Lycan King and inform him about the divorce. I would show Elisa that I was not to be yed with. She couldn''t just walk out on me without consequences.


    I was the king of this pack and I


    deserved some respect. I looked into Gina''s beautiful brown eyes. She was one of the most gorgeous women I had seen. She was right there with me, and maybe, just maybe, she was the one I should have been with all along. Suddenly, the front door opened. I turned, and there she was-Elisa. I became angry at the sight of her. "Where have you been?!" I demanded.


    Elisa looked like she couldn''t be bothered "I''m not going to be Luna soon, so I don''t have to report to you." Her words hit me like a p. How dare she speak to me like that? I clenched my fists in annoyance, barely containing my rage.


    "Or really? !" I snapped. "You''ll sleep in the maiden''s room tonight!" Elisa''s eyes widened in disbelief. I could see the hurt on her face.


    "You would humiliate me like this?" she whispered. "You left me no choice," I retorted Gina held my arm softly


    "Jackson, please. Let''s not make this worse," Elisa turned away and walked to the stairs without another word. I watched her go.


    How could she do this to me? To us? Gina gently led me to the couch and stayed beside me.


    "You did the right thing, Jackson. She needs to understand the consequences of her actions," she murmured.


    "Right, I''ll talk to the Lycan King tomorrow. This needs to be resolved." I said firmly.

 Chapter 10

    ALPHA JACKSON''S POV


    The next morning, I got dressed in my finest attire and gathered my convoy. We headed to the Lycan King''s residence. I was determined to set things straight.


    When we arrived, the guards informed us that the King was busy and asked us to wait. I gritted my teeth, but nodded. We took our seats outside. I couldn''t believe the Lycan King would make me wait. He might be in a higher rank than I was but this was my pack. He should show me some respect, at least.


    The hours began to drag. Each hour, I asked the guards to let me in but they refused. I kept my anger in check, not wanting to cause a scene. Nobody in his right mind would want issues with the Lycan King. Still, I was losing my patience. After four long hours, my patience was wearing thin.


    I felt humiliated, sitting there like a fool or like an afterthought. Just as I was about to demand an update again, I heard whispers around me. "A beautiful woman came in the other day and the King actually met her," one guard murmured.


    "I think it was Luna Elise. She probably came to beg the King not to grant her a divorce from our Alpha," another added.


    My blood boiled at the sound of their words. I couldn''t believe my ears. This couldn''t be possible. Elisa had gone behind my back to see the King? I stood up instantly. Without a word, I stormed out of the pce. I needed to confront Elisa. This war between us had to end.


    ****


    On my way home, the words that I heard from the guards yed over and over in my mind again. I couldn''t focus on anything else. How the hell did Elise see the Lycan King?


    Nobody had seen his face till now. Howe she was able to have an audience with him? That little bitch. She probably seduced him or sold him a pity story. I wouldn''t put it past her.


    Gina might be right somehow. Could they have something romantic going out? I doubted it.


    The ball was the first time the Lycan King wasing to my pack. They couldn''t have met each other before that, right? My mind was clouded with feelings of fury and betrayal as the driver took me home. I couldn''t believe it. My heart was pounding so loudly in my chest that I could hear it. Elise-how could she betray me like this?


    The thought of her meeting with the Lycan King sent waves of rage crashing through me. More importantly, why did I care so much? As soon as I pulled up to the pce, I took out my phone and called my private investigator - Jonas.


    He answered on the second ring. "Find out if Elise met with the Lycan King yesterday," I barked into the phone.


    "Yes, Alpha Jackson," he responded promptly. I entered the pce. The guards and maids passing by bowed and greeted as I passed but I answered no one. I was filled with so much anger that my whole body was trembling.


    I entered the grand hall of the pce. I paced up and down, deep in thought. I thought of what Elise must have discussed with the Lycan King. Did she manage to sway him to her side? Did she tell him about the divorce? Elise was ying games with me. I wouldn''t let her get away with this.


    No matter what it took, I would destroy her. I am king. Nobody messes with me! My phone buzzed in my pocket. I pulled it out to see who it was. It was the investigator.


    "Do you have updates?" I asked him.


    "Yes, i do. It''s true, Alpha. She did meet with the Lycan King." I gripped the phone tighter.


    "Do you know what they talked about?"


    "Unfortunately, no. But my sources tell me the king seemed quite taken with her." He was taken with her? How?


    I didn''t even know she attended the ball. I looked for her everywhere. Where on earth did they meet each other?


    Elise was smart, smarter than I expected. I''ll give her that. She had probably been nning this for a long time. The phone call ended with my blood boiling hotter than ever. I was so mad that I three my phone at a wall.


    "Fuck!" I screamed. Elise had gone


    behind my back, epting an


    invitation from, the Lycan King


    without telling me. The betrayal I felt was too much to bear. I stormed through the pce halls. My body shook with annoyance as searched for Elise.


    On my way to the other side of the pce, I came across Gina. She sashayed towards me with a smile on her face. She had on a revealing red dress and heels.


    "Jackson, darling," she purred, trying to wrap her arms around me. "You''re home." I brushed her aside with annoyance.


    "Not now, Gina. Where''s Elise? I need to deal with her once and for all." Her smile faltered, and she stepped back.


    "Why are you looking for her?" she asked me. "I have my reasons. Do you know where she is or not?"


    "I think i saw her heading to the garden a little while ago." I moved past her without another word. As I walked down the hallway, I saw a pce maid.


    "Where is Elise?" I demanded. The maid''s eyes widened in terror. "I saw her in the garden, Alpha."


    I didn''t waste another second. I turned back and made my way outside towards the garden.


    Finally, I spotted her near a stone wall with her back turned to me. The sight of her made me even more annoyed. Without thinking, I rushed at her.


    My vision was narrowed to the single goal of making her pay. I grabbed her roughly, pinning her against the cold stone wall. My hand wrapped around her throat, squeezing tightly.


    She gasped and struggled against me. "Jackson, stop!" Elise said as her hands wed at me.


    But I couldn''t stop. I didn''t want to. The need to punish her was overwhelming. I tightened my grip, watching the panic in her eyes.


    "Why did you meet with him?" I hissed through clenched teeth.


    She couldn''t


    answer. Her breaths


    came in desperate, choked gasps. Gina appeared. I could see a smirk on her face as she watched us. She mademo move to help. She took a seat nearby, crossing her legs elegantly as if enjoying a private show. After struggling for a while, Elise managed to scratch at my


    eyes.


    I winced, cursing as pain seared through my vision. She took the opportunity to break free from me. I blinked away the pain, facing her again. I saw red as I pursued her. She ran away from me till she reached another wall.


    Now, she was cornered, trapped against a dead end. She turned to face me, her eyes wide with fear. "Please, Jackson," she pleaded, her voice trembling.


    "You don''t understand-"


    "Shut up, you bitch!" I roared, moving closer to jer. "You tried to blind me!" I brought out my ws.


    I really wanted to hurt her. I raised


    my arm, ready to strike her down. Elise closed her eyes, bracing for the impact. But the blow never came. A strong hand gripped my wrist, stopping me mid-strike. I whirled around, furious, to see who dared to


    intervene. Who the hell could it be?

 Chapter 11

    ELISE''S POV


    Jackson''s eyes were wild with fury. His ws were extended and ready to strike. I braced myself, knowing that the blow woulde any second. My mind raced with so many thoughts. I tried to understand what I had done to provoke this rage. What did I do to him?


    One minute I was in the garden all by myself and the next thing I know, I was being harassed by Jackson. Just as I squeezed my eyes shut, awaiting the blow, the impact never came. Instead, I felt a strange tension in the air.


    There was a pause in Jackson''s movement. I opened my eyes slowly, heart still pounding.


    To my surprise, there was a strong hand gripping Jackson''s wrist. Jackson, Gina, and I turned at the same time to see who it was. My breath caught in my throat. It was the Ferris.


    His calm, cool demeanor was different from Jackson''s sweaty, nervous appearance at the sight of him. What was King Ferris doing here?


    He stood tall. His presencemanded respect and exuded an air of authority as usual. His breathing was heavy. I could tell he was annoyed. My wolf stirred within me, rejoicing at the sight of him.


    Despite the fear and confusion I felt, I couldn''t help but admire how Ferris was dressed. He was dressed in a corporate shirt with pants. The shirt he had on emphasized his muscles even more. His hair was tied in a bun.


    "What do you think you''re doing?" King Ferris asked calmly, "Why do you dare to hit a woman?"


    Jackson''s face was filled with fear "She attacked me first, without provocation," That''s a lie! I wanted to scream and tell Ferris that Jackson was lying but I didn''t want to cause a scene.


    "I find that hard to believe," he said, waving Jackson''s words aside. "I warn you, Jackson, never touch Elise again." There was a deadly calm in Ferris''s voice as he spoke, which only made Jackson tremble more.


    Gina watched with a scowl on her face. I could sense her jealousy and annoyance that Ferris had saved me.


    Without another word, Ferris bent


    down and gently picked me up in his arms. I was taken aback by his gesture Gina gasped in shock.


    looked into his beautiful eyes


    sas he


    picked me up. I felt right in his arms.


    I wished I could stay here forever.


    As he moved, found myself leaning into his touch. I rested my head on his chest and sighed. It felt right. His strength enveloped me, and for the first time in a long while, I felt protected.


    "Thank you," I whispered, "You''re safe now," Ferris replied "I won''t let anyone hurt you."


    Gina''s angry gaze burned into my back as we left, but I couldn''t bring myself to care. All that mattered was that I was no longer at Jackson''s mercy.


    As Ferris carried me through the hallways of the pce, his grip was firm but gentle. I clung to him tightly. None of us said anything but the silence wasfortable. I couldn''t help but notice the tension radiating from Ferris.


    His jaw was clenched, and his fists were tight. He led me outside to a sleek ck.car waiting in the driveway. With a carefulness that surprised me, he set me down in the backseat. The door closed with a soft click, and Ferris slid in beside


    me.  ?wnovel


    The driver started the engine, and we began to move. Throughout the ride, we remained in silence. Ferris''s eyes stared straight ahead. His fists were still


    clenched tightly in hisp. I could feel the heat of his anger.


    My mind raced with so many questions, but I didn''t dare to speak, afraid of saying the wrong thing. Instead, I stole nces at him, trying to read his thoughts.


    Minutes felt like hours as the car moved. I couldn''t shake the image of Jackson''s furious face from my mind. The fear I had felt moments ago was still fresh, but now it was reced by safety.


    When we finally arrived at Ferris''s residence, he opened the door and helped me out of the car. His touch was still gentle, but his silence was disturbing a bit. He led me through the entrance of his house.

 Chapter 12

    "Follow me" he said. I swallowed hard. I followed Ferris till we got to a door. He opened the door, revealing a big luxurious looking room. He guided me inside, and I stood there.


    "Wait here," Ferris said. He stepped out of the room for a moment and returned with a maid following close behind.


    "Take care of her," he instructed the maid "Make sure she has everything she needs." The maid nodded. Before I could say anything else, Ferris left the room, banging the door behind him. I was more confused than ever. What the hell just happened?


    FERRIS'' POV


    As I left Elise''s room, I felt more annoyed than before.


    I couldn''t believe the audacity of Jackson, the sheer nerve of him to want toy a hand on Elise.


    My fists were still clenched, and I could feel the heat of my fury coursing through my veins. I needed to calm down, to clear my head, and think rationally about what to do next. I made my way to my office and closed the door behind me, shutting out the world.


    I sank into the chair behind my desk. My mind was a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions, all centered around Elise. Has Jackson hit her before? The thought of Elise being hurt my Jackson made me clench my fists so tightly that my mails drew blood.


    I went to the pce to see Jackson because I heard he was waiting for me for a while. Imagine I didn''t show up when I did. What would have happened? He would have hurt her. Elise''s face shed in my mind. The sight of her eyes wide with fear filled my mind. I couldn''t shake the image, and it only increased my anger.


    But alongside that anger was something else. There was something deeper and more confusing. I had a powerful attraction to Elise that I couldn''t deny. Her scent still lingered in my mind, a mix of Jasmine, vani and something uniquely her. It was intoxicating.


    My wolf became restless, craving her presence. I let out a frustrated sigh and ran a hand through my hair. This wasn''t like me. I was always, in contro alwaysposed. But Elise had turned my world upside down. I felt a connection to her that I had never felt with anyone else.


    I was pulled to her in a way that I couldn''t exin. My wolf growled in agreement, yearning for her touch her scent, her everything. I needed to clear my head, to channel this energy into something else. D decided to head to the arena. Training always helped me regain my focus, and right now, I needed that more than ever.


    ****


    The arena was empty when I arrived. I made my way to the punching bag. Wrapping my hands in tape, I positioned myself in front of the bag and took a deep breath. With each punch, I imagined Jackson''s face.


    Each punch was a release of my pent-up anger. The bag swung back and forth due to my heavy punches, but it wasn''t enough. Nothing seemed to be enough to stop my annoyance


    "How dare he?" I growled under my breath,nding a hard punch. The more I thought about it, the more my fury grew. He had hurt Elise, and for that, he would pay.


    But even as I pounded the bag, I couldn''t ignore the other emotions within me. I felt things towards Elise that I couldn''t exin - protectiveness, longing, the undeniable need to be near Elise.


    It was driving me crazy. After what felt like hours, I finally stopped. Sweat poured down my face and soaked my shirt, but the work out had done little to calm my mind.


    I leaned against the bag, trying to catch my breath. Suddenly, a guard appeared at the entrance to the arena.


    He bowed his head at me. "King Ferris," he said "There''s a situation outside your residence." I straightened up.


    "What is it?" I demanded, wiping the sweat from my brow. "It''s Elise''s parents," the guard exined. "They''re demanding to see her."

 Chapter 13

    ELSE''S POV


    I still couldn''t fully grasp that Ferris had saved me again, brought me to his house, and instructed a maid to care for me. We had only just met, yet he showed me more care and concern than anyone else ever had. It was overwhelming, and I was so grateful to him. From his appearance, he seemed cold but ever since we met, he had been nothing but kind to me.


    As Iid in thefortable bed, my mind wandered to Ferris. I closed my eyes, thinking of the way he had carried me in his strong muscr arms. I felt perfect inside his arms, like I belonged there, like it was meant to be.


    My wolf was always excited at the sight of him. He made me feel a sense of safety that I hadn''t felt in a long time. My body tingled at the thought of him. I had never felt this way about anyone before, not even Jackson. I was drawn to him, like a moth to a me. As I imagined myself in his arms, I imagined his arms in other ces of my body. He was sorge and strong and....


    Fuck! I shook my head, trying to clear off my thoughts. I reminded myself that I was still a married woman. My marriage might have been a nightmare, but it was still my reality.


    The door opened and I gasped in shock. Ferris stepped inside. His presence wasmanding as usual.


    As he stepped inside, therge room became too small all of a sudden. He took up space without even moving or saying anything.


    My heart started to beat faster in my chest. I wasn''t expecting to see him, and the sight of him took my breath away.


    "Elise," he said softly, walking closer to me "Your parents are outside. They want to see you."


    The mention of my parents sent a jolt of fear tbrough me. Oh no. This can''t be good. They were most likely here to talk about the divorce. The fact that I was in the Lycan King''s house wouldn''t sit right with them.


    I shook my head "No, I don''t want to see them.¡±


    Ferris looked taken aback by my reaction. "I thought you''d be happy to see your parents."


    "They don''t like me," I said, my voice trembling. "They''ve never cared about me." He frowned, clearly not understanding. "Elise, I''m sure you''re exaggerating. They''re your parents."


    I took a deep breath. "You don''t understand, Alpha. They''ve always med me for everything. They think I''m a failure."


    He moved closer to the bed with a soft expression. "I''m sorry, Elise. I didn''t know." His hand reached out and rested on mine.


    The touch was electric, sending a wave of sparks through me. Our proximity made my heart race, and for a moment, I thought he might kiss me. We were so close to each other that our noses were almost touching. I got lost in his beautiful orbs every time he was near me.


    "I''ll protect you," he whispered. "If things get rough, I''ll be here for you. Juste down. It''ll be rude to tell them to leave "With that, he got and left the room, leaving me breathless and my heart pounding louder than usual. I took a moment topose myself, then slowly got out of bed. I wondered why I reacted to Ferris the way I did. Why was I so attracted to him? I shifted my thoughts to the issue on ground.


    My parents were here. I couldn''t avoid them forever. I might as well get this over with. I left the room and made my way to the living room. My steps were slow. I wished there was a way I could avoid them. My legs felt heavy like lead as I walked. Ferris was there, talking quietly with my parents.


    When I arrived, Ferris excused himself to give us some privacy. As soon as my parents saw me, my mother''s expression became filled with anger.


    you


    "Elise," she snapped. "What have done now? You''ve embarrassed us again" As soon as she said that, regretteding to see them. 4 knew it would go like this. I knew they would find every way to me me.  s?novel


    "Elise," my father spoke. "What kind of cheap slut have you be?" My heart sank. A cheap slut?


    They don''t even know what happened. They were always so quick to judge me. "Father, please, it''s not what you think." I whispered.


    "You''ve disgraced our family," he continued "and you have the nerve to seduce the Lycan King?How dare you?"


    What? Where did they get that idea? Is that the reason Jackson was mad at me? Because he thought I had seduced Ferris? I was confused as hell.


    Ferris, who had been waiting outside the room, could hear everything. I nced


    at him, hoping for some support. He looked ready to intervene, but I wanted to try to handle it myself first.


    I gave him a signal to stop. "I did no such thing," I said, my voice trembling. "I haven''t cheated on Jackson. Please, just let me exin."


    "You''re a liar," my mother hissed. The contempt in her eyes broke my heart.


    "You''ve always been trouble. We should have known you''d bring shame to our name." Tears streamed down my face.


    "I''m telling the truth. Jackson has been hurting me for years. I couldn''t take it anymore. Alpha Ferris saved me."


    "Save your lies," my father snapped. "You''re no daughter of mine. You''re disowned, do you hear me? We want nothing to do with you." The words hit me like a knife to my chest and I copsed into a chair, sobbing uncontrobly.  s?novel


    It felt like my heart had been ripped out of my chest I felt so hurt and pained. Ferris entered the room at the time. "That''s enough," he said. "You need to leave." "This...is a family matter," my father retorted.


    Ferris''s eyes shed with anger. "Elise is under my protection now. If you can''t treat her with respect, you will leave this house immediately."


    My parents red at him, but when they refused to move, Ferris signaled to his security. Within moments, the guards appeared and escorted my parents out of the room.


    As the door closed behind them, I


    closed


    felt a wave of relief. I ced my face in my palms and cried my eyes out. My chest hurt literally. There was an ache in my heart. I couldn''t believe it. My parents had officially disowned me. Why was this happening?


    "Don''t cry, Elise" Ferris said. I could barely speak through the tears.


    "They hate me" I sobbed "They''ve always hated me. They never believe a word I


    say"


    Ferris stared into space "I need to have a word with Jackson"

 Chapter 14

    FERRIS'' POV


    I clenched my fists, feeling the anger boil within me. I badly wanted to confront Jackson. In fact, I wanted to do more than confront him. I wanted to smash his head into a wall and I knew I would seed.


    Jackson wouldn''tst two minutes in a fight with me. I knew this was all Jackson''s fault. He must have manipted Elise''s parents into thinking that this situation was somehow Elise''s fault. I bet he didn''t tell them about how he was about to hit her.


    Elise was scared of her parents. She told me how much they didn''t like her but I thought she was exaggerating. I didn''t imagine it would be this bad. Her parents were vile. How could they say such things to their daughter?


    The sight of her crying made my Lycan howl in rage. This is all Jackson''s fault. That fucking bastard! I swear if Iy my hands on him, he''ll wish for death.


    After much thought, I decided against confronting him. Confronting Jackson right now would be exactly what he wanted - a confrontation that would paint me as the aggressor and him as the victim. I took a deep breath, forcing myself to stay calm.


    My Lycan growled, eager for a fight, but I knew better. I needed to be smart about this. Turning on my heel, I left my residence and made my way back to the training arena.


    Why did I care so much about her? We had only just met, yet every fiber of my being wanted to shield her from pain. I hated seeing her cry. I just wanted to take her in my arms andfort her. I wanted to make sure nobody ever hurt her again.


    The more I thought about Elise, the more eager I became to protect her from Jackson and anyone else who would dare hurt her.


    My Lycan agreed. Its protective instincts matched with my own. I imagined Jackson''s face on the dummy as I kept throwing punches.


    I wished Jackson was the one being hit, instead of the dummy. After what seemed like hours of training, my fists began to hurt a bit. Sweat poured down my face, my muscles burned, but I didn''t stop. I couldn''t stop.


    "Your highness, are you okay?" a voice called out from behind me. I turned to see one of my guards.


    "I''m fine," I grunted, delivering a final blow that sent the dummy sprawling to the ground.


    "Just needed to blow off some steam."


    "You looked like you were about to destroy that thing," he teased.


    "Maybe I was," I replied, wiping the sweat from my forehead "I needed to clear my head." My guard nodded, sensing I didn''t want to talk about it. He bowed and left me alone.


    I took a moment to catch my breath. My mind raced, trying to figure out a way to deal with Jackson without stooping to his level. I needed a n, something that would protect Elise and ensure Jackson couldn''t hurt her again. An idea began to form in my mind. If I could gather evidence of Jackson''s true nature, expose him for the maniptive person he was, then the pack would see him for what he truly was. By the time I was done with Jackson, he wouldn''t know what hit him.


    ****


    As soon as I got back to my residence, I called my guards and sat at my desk. "Guard the entrance. Make sure no one disturbs me," I instructed.


    They nodded and took their positions outside. I pulled out myptop and began typing. Each word I typed felt like a small victory against Jackson.


    I could have had someone else do


    this but I wanted to do it myself. This was for Elise, to spite Jackson and to give her the freedom she deserved. I crafted the document with carefulness, ensuring there were no loopholes, no way for Jackson to contest it. When I was done, I printed it out. After that, I called for one of the senior guards.


    "Take this to the legal office in the council. Make sure it gets filed immediately," I ordered, handing him the document. He nodded and left without a word.


    With the document taken care of, I headed to Elise''s room. I needed to see her, to make sure she was okay. My heart ached at the thought of her suffering. I knocked softly on her door, waiting for her response.


    "Come in," she whispered. I entered and found her sitting on the bed. Her eyes were red from crying. She looked up at me, and my heart broke at the sight of her pain. I walked over and sat beside her.


    "Elise," I said gently "Are you okay?" I usually wasn''t this gentle. I didn''t care about women in any way, or anyone else in that matter. All my life, I had built walls around


    Anyone who knew me


    how


    ruthless I was. Yet here I was, trying tofort a woman I just met. She nodded with tears streaming down her face.


    "Yes, your majesty. I''m fine..."


    "Call me Ferris I reached out and pulled her into my arms. She buried her face in my chest, sobbing loudly. I held her tightly, letting her cry. I had nevertet a woman cry in my arms before. I didn''t know what to do. Do I pet her hair? Do I pat her back? I just sat there, feeling awkward as I let her cry.


    "It''s okay," I whispered, stroking her hair. "I''m here." After a while, she pulled away slightly and looked at me. She opened her mouth to say something but she paused when she looked into my eyes, as if she got lost in them.


    Our eyes locked, and for a moment, the world outside ceased to exist. I admired her beauty. Even while she cried, she was still so beautiful. My Lycan, usually so hard and detached, howled at the sight of her. He yearned for her in ways I couldn''t exin.


    Everything about her was perfect - the way strands of her curly hair framed her face, her big chocte brown eyes, her luscious pink lips. Dear moon goddess, she was gorgeous. The sight of her was breathtaking. She looked like she belonged in a painting at a museum.


    "Elise," I whispered. I could feel her breath on my skin and the feeling of her warmth radiating on me, when a sudden knock on the door shattered the moment.


    Fuck!


    "Your highness, are you in there?". I recognized the voice. It was my personal attendant. I sighed, feeling frustrated


    "Yes,e in." The door opened, and my attendant stepped inside.


    He bowed his head "I apologize foring in like this, your grace. But you need


    to see this." He grabbed the remote from the dresser and switched on the TV, changing it to the news channel.

 Chapter 15

    ELISE''S POV


    I sat on the edge of bed. My heart pounded loudly in my chest as Ferris'' personal attendant switched on the TV.


    I swallowed hard, trying to calm my fast beating heart. Ferris and I had been so close. Our faces and lips were inches apart. I could still feel his breath on our lips. The moment between us was so intense that I could hear both our heart beats. Sadly, there was a knock on the door.


    I almost groaned out loud due to the interruption Now that I thought about it, I wondered what it would feel like to kiss Ferris. I wondered how his lips would taste. I bet they taste just as good as they look The attendant fumbled with the TV remote, changing the channels.


    "What exactly is the problem?" Ferris asked him. "I wouldn''t be able to exin it to you, your highness. It''s better you see for yourself" I stared at him in shock. What could be so important? From his tone, it sounded like it was something important. The attendant stopped on a particr channel.


    To my surprise, Jackson appeared on the screen. The sight of Jackson once made me happy. I was so eager to be with him, to please him. Now, the sight of him made my stomach turn in a bad way.


    I couldn''t believe he wanted to hurt me today. I watched as he stood before the press. His expression was stern andposed. It seemed like he was doing some sort of interview. I wondered what it was for. Thest I checked, he didn''t have any schedule with the press. I was the one usually in charge of nning his daily activities.


    "Today, I am officially dropping Elise as my Luna," Jackson announced. His voice was devoid of any emotion.


    "She is ipetent and has broken pack rules. Gina, her sister, will be the new Luna, and she''ll make a better Luna than Elise ever could."


    "What the -" Ferris mumbled. "It gets much worse" the attendant said.


    "What exactly did Luna Elise do?" one of the press members asked him.


    "Do not refer to her like that!" Jackson snapped "She isn''t worthy to bear the title. She''s a disgrace. She should never have been queen"


    "Are you saying you regret the marriage?"


    "Yes, I did. Elise betrayed me. She betrayed us all. But do not worry, Gina will step up to the challenge. I want you all to ept her and help her with everything she needs"


    I couldn''t believe what I was hearing. In that moment, it felt like the world had stopped.


    A stray tear fell from my eyes before I could stop it His words hit me like a knife pierced deep in my chest. It knocked me off bnce,, knocking the air from my lungs. My vision blurred, and for a moment, I couldn''t breathe. Ipetent? I had done everything he asked me and more.


    I had covered his tracks when he messed up with pack matters. Broken pack rules? How could he lie so effortlessly, so convincingly? My mind became a mess as I tried to process the betrayal that unraveled before me. The pain was unlike anything I had ever felt. It was a deep ache that came from my chest.the pain spread outwards until it consumed every part of me.


    I felt the sting of hot tears at the back of my eyes. Jackson had not only discarded me; he had shattered my reputation, my dignity, with a few cold words. I couldn''t stay there, couldn''t face anyone in that moment. It felt like my life was over. My parents had disowned me. Jackson had ruined my dignity. The walls seemed to close in on me and the air in the room became suffocating. I couldn''t stay there anymore.


    "Elise" Ferris whispered "Are you alright?" The pain in my chest intensified. I couldn''t form the words I had in my mind. I couldn''t speak. I stood up and bolted from the room.


    I thought of what I had just heard. Jackson threw me under the bus and he lied on my name. The hallway was empty. I copsed against the wall and slid to the floor. The sounds of my sobs echoed through the ce. How could he do this to me? I had given him everything, and he had repaid me with betrayal and humiliation. I thought of our time together, looking for something to hold on to.


    I searched my mind for a single happy memory from our marriage, but all I found were feelings of disappointment and pain. Our marriage was filled with my


    vel


    attempts to please him and to make him love me. I needed air. needed to clear my head. Stumbling to my feet, I made my way outside. I wandered aimlessly with no clue to where I was going or what I was doing. All I knew was that I needed some fresh air.


    To my surprise, I came across Gina and Helen, her friend. A few guards stood behind Gina, protecting her. She was already settling into her new position nicely. She finally got what she wanted. She had always wanted what was mine.


    "Well, well, well," Gina sneered, blocking my path.


    "Look who it is. The former Luna, dethroned and humiliated." Helenughed


    "It must be so hard for you, Elise, watching from the sidelines as Gina takes her rightful ce."


    "Get out of my way," I snapped, trying to push past them. I wasn''t in the mood for their mockery. But Gina stepped closer with a cruel smile on her face


    "Oh, but why should we? You''re nothing now. Just a discarded toy." Her words cut deep, and something inside me made me angry. She had seeded in finally ruining me. This was what she wanted all along.


    "You''re nothing but a gold digger, Gina," I spat. "You''ve always wanted what I had, and now you have it. You might think you''ve won but let me tell you something - you''ll never be anything more than a pathetic shadow." Gina''s expression turned into an annoyed one.


    "Seize her," she ordered her guards At first, the guards hesitated, ncing at each other.


    "Do it!" Gina screamed. "Now!" Reluctantly, the guards stepped forward. Their hands gripped my arms tightly.


    "What are you doing?" I demanded, struggling against their hold. "Remove the upper part of her clothing," Ginamanded. The guards hesitated again, clearly ufortable. "Make it quick!" she yelled "Strip her off her dignity. She thinks she''s so much better than me. I''ll show you, Elise. I''ll make sure you''re reminded that you''re nothing"


    I struggled against the guards "No!" Just as one of the guards reached for my clothes, a voice sounded behind us.


    "What do you think you''re doing?"

 Chapter 16

    "What do you think you''re doing?" a calm voice said.


    I turned, and there stood Ferris. I noticed his clenched fists and the fury in his


    eyes yet he was calm. His presence seemed tomand the very air around him. There was a cruel smile ying on his lips.


    The sight of him, so calm yet so dangerous, stunned everyone into silence. The guards immediately released me, stepping back in fear. Even Helen took the opportunity to flee.


    Gina''s face drained of color. Her eyes widened in surprise. She bowed her head and curtsied. "Your highness," she mumbled, her voice shaking.


    I couldn''t hold back my tears any longer. My body shivered uncontrobly as I cried. The ache in my chest grew stronger. I couldn''t take it - the betrayal, the humiliation, it was all too much. Ferris looked down at me. His eyes softened for a moment before they hardened again as he turned his attention to Gina.


    "How dare you?" he demanded. From the corner of my eye, I could see Gina flinch.


    She bowed her head, unable to meet his gaze. "I''m sorry, your grace," she whiepred. Her arrogance and confidence had vanished, reced by fear.


    Ferris took a step forward and walked closer to her "If you ever try to harm Elise again, I will make sure you regret it. Do you understand?"


    Gina nodded "Yes, your highness. I''m sorry." With a final re, Ferris turned his back on her. He wrapped his arms around me and took me away from the scene of my humiliation.


    My head rested against his chest, and I could hear the steady beat of his heart. The further we got from Gina and her guards, the safer I felt.


    "I''m so sorry you had to go through that," Ferris murmured "I should have been there sooner." I shook my head, unable to find the words. The fear and humiliation I felt were still fresh, but Ferris''s presence soothed me.


    When we got back to his residence, he took me back the room I stayed in. "Are you okay?" he asked softly, brushing a strand of hair from my face.


    "I am now," I whispered "Thank you, Ferris." He nodded "What they did to you is unforgivable. I won''t let anyone hurt you like that again."


    I believed him. I had just met Ferris yet he made me feel safer than I had in years. I reached out, cing my hand over his.


    "You''ve already done so much for me." Ferris shook his head. "You deserve to be treated with kindness, Elise. Nothing less." His words brought a fresh wave of tears to my eyes, but this time, they were tears of happiness.


    "Thank you," I said again "For everything"


    FERRIS'' POV


    The anger flowed through my veins as I stormed back into my office, mming the door behind me with a force that shook the walls. My fists clenched at my sides Elise was hurt. Again. And it was all because l hadn''t been there to protect her.


    "Dammit!" I roared. I roared my fist roared. into the wall with all the strength I


    could muster. The ste


    tel.


    and crumbled under the force, leaving a hole in it. I leaned my forehead against the wall, trying to control my temper. Every time I closed my eyes, I saw Elise''s face filled with tears. It was unbearable.


    "Rafael!" I called. My attendant appeared almost instantly. "Yes, your highness?" Rafael spoke, bowing his head.


    "I want the press outside my residence. Now," Imanded "I want to address them"


    "Yes, sir. Right away." He turned and left the room sank into my chair, trying to calm the anger inside mez Elise had been through enough. She deserved to feel safe, to know that someone would protect her. And I would be damned if I let anyone hurt her again.


    Minutes felt like hours as I waited for Rafael to return. In a short while, he finally


    came.


    "The media is assembled outside, Alpha." "Good," I said, rising to my feet and heading towards the door.

 Chapter 17

    "Let''s go." As I stepped outside, I was greeted by the sight of the press gathered outside. Cameras shed, and reporters shouted questions, but I raised a hand, signaling for silence.


    "I appreciate you all foring on such short notice," I began "I have an important announcement to make." The press men held their microphones to my mouth, eager to hear what I had to say.


    "As of this moment, Elise is untouchable," I dered. "Anyone who dares to harm her will have to answer to me."


    The crowd was filled with murmurs and hands shot up as reporters fought for my attention. I pointed to one of them to answer. "Alpha Ferris, why are you making this deration now? What has happened to prompt this?" she asked me.


    "Elise has been hurt. I will not stand by and allow it to happen again. She is under my protection now, and I n on taking her with me when I return to my pack." The crowd became filled with murmurs of questions, but I raised my hand once


    more.


    "That is all I have to say on the matter. Thank you." I said. I turned away and entered back inside, ignoring the shouted questions and the shing cameras. As I stepped inside, the door closed behind me.


    "Is there anything else you need, Alpha Ferris?" Rafael asked me.


    I shook my head "No. That will be all." Elise will not be hurt again. Not if I had anything to say about it. I had made my promise, and I intended to keep it. Elise would be safe.


    And anyone who tried to hurt her would face my wrath. I would start by bringing her back to my pack, where she would be safe from harm. No one would ever hurt her again. Not while I was around.


    ****


    I tried to focus on the words in the report before me, but they blurred together. No matter how hard I tried, my mind kept drifting back to Elise. I sighed closing the report booklet and rubbing my temples. I needed to find a way to calm my thoughts, to center myself. But how could I, when the woman I cared about was in pain?


    A knock on the door pulled me from my thoughts. "Come in" I said. The door opened, revealing Elise. My breath got caught in my throat at the sight of her. Elise walked in with a determined look on her face.


    My heart skipped a beat at the sight of her beautiful face, but I forced myself to remainposed. "Elise," I said "What brings you here?"


    She bowed her head "I need to talk to you," I nodded, gesturing for her to take a


    seat.


    "Of course. What''s on your mind?"


    She remained standing "I want to thank you for protecting me so far. But I need you to understand something. I don''t want you to take me in out of pity."


    "What do you"I heard about your announcement. You see, I''ve been through a lot, a lot that you can''t imagine and I can take care of myself. I appreciate your help, but I don''t need your pity. If you''re


    offering me protection, I need to


    know that it''s because you believe I


    deserve it, not because you feel


    sorry for me."


    I stared at her in shock. She was strong, stronger than I had ever given her credit


    for.


    "Elise," I said, "I''m not doing this because I pity you." She raised an eyebrow "Then why? Why are you so determined to protect me?" I hesitated. The words I wanted to say got caught in my throat.


    How could I tell her that she had been on my mind every moment since we met? That the thought of her in pain drove me to the brink of madness? How could I tell her that I cared about her more than anyone?


    I cleared my throat "We''ll discuss thister. I have a meeting now" I got up and left the room, leaving Elise looking at me with a stunned expression.

 Chapter 18

    ELISE''S POV


    The next day, I went shopping for a new dress. The activity felt foreign to me. It had been long since I shopped for something. As Luna, I had people who did this for me. If I needed a dress for a special asion, a royal fashion designer would be sent to get the designs for the dress I wanted.


    Now, that wouldn''t be possible. Since I wasn''t Luna anymore, I wouldn''t have ess to the luxurious royal wardrobe anymore. I wasn''t even allowed in Jackson''s wing of the pce. He made me sleep in the guest rooms with the maids. Now, as I sifted through racks of dresses in the small boutique, I felt a pang of loss.


    Being Luna had its perks, and one of them was certainly not having to worry about trivial things like clothes. I would miss being queen but I knew it was for the best. Jackson never appreciated my efforts and he never will. If he believed Gina would do a better job than me then so be it.


    While I shopped, I thought of Ferris.


    I tried to focus but every single time I closed my eyes, the image of his handsome face would appear in my mind. He was so kind to me. He made me feel safe and protected in ways that I never imagined. I felt attracted to him in a way I never thought was possible.


    I was drawn to him, like a moth to a me. We had a special connection that I couldn''t put my finger on. I didn''t know how to exin it but I felt it. It was there. I shook my head, trying to clear my thoughts.


    I shouldn''t be thinking of him like this yet I couldn''t help it. We just met. Besides, he''s the feared Lycan King. He probably doesn''t feel the same way about me. I mean, why would he? I wasn''t a royal anymore. My parents had disowned me and I was publicly humiliated in the pack.


    I was also divorced. Nobody wanted a divorcee I ran my fingers over a soft beautiful blue dress, considering buying it. I was just about to pick it when a loud, angry voice interrupted my thoughts. I turned forward see Helen at the cashier''s counter. She was in a heated argument with the cashier.


    "You can''t refuse me service! Do you know who my best friend is?" Helen shouted. Her expression was filled with annoyance. Her body shook with rage.


    The cashier, a young woman who looked barely out of high school, was trying to remain calm. "I''m sorry, ma''am, but your credit limit has been maxed out. I can''t extend any more credit." Helen''s anger only grew.


    "Gina is the new Luna! You can''t treat me like this! Do you know who I am?" From what I could hear, it seemed like Helen was trying to buy a dress on credit but she couldn''t because her score wasn''t good enough. Typical Helen. I always heard rumpus about her bad spending habits. She and Gina had the same attitude when it came to spending money recklessly.


    I sighed, feeling a sense of d¨¦j¨¤ vu. Helen was just as spiteful as Gina, if not


    worse.


    Part of me wanted to walk away and let her deal with her own mess, but another part of me a part that still held on to the values of being Luna-feltpelled to help.


    I took a deep breath and approached the counter."Excuse me," I said softly. "I''lI cover the rest of her bill." Helen turned to me, her eyes narrowing. She clenched her fists.


    "Elise? What are you doing here?" she snapped. "I was just shopping for a new dress," I replied calmly.


    "I heard themotion and thought


    I could help." Helen''s face twisted into a sneer: "You think I need your charity?rd rather get run over by a truck than let you pay for my stuff." I hesitated, taken aback by the anger in her words.


    5


    "I just wanted to help," I said quietly, stepping back.


    "Wait," Helen called after me. Her tone changed abruptly. "Actually, why don''t you lend me the money? I''ll pay you back." I nodded, reaching into my purse and handing her the money she needed. "Here," I said. "This should cover it."


    Helen took the money without a word of thanks and gave it to the cashier. The cashier quickly processed the payment. I let out a breath I didn''t know I was holding. I was d that it was over.


    I grabbed my things after paying for them and left the shop. Outside, Helen blocked my path. I was taken aback by her presence.


    What did she want?


    "Please," she said in a low tone "Don''t tell Gina about this. She can''t know I needed help." I looked at her.


    I could see the desperation in her eyes. I wasn''t nning on saying anything anyway.


    "I won''t tell anyone," I promised. Helen stepped aside, allowing me to leave. Just as I reached the door, a car pulled up outside. Gina stepped out. Gina scowled as soon as she saw me. "What are you doing here, Elise?" Gina asked.. Helen quickly jumped in. Her demeanor changed once again.


    "I saw her shopping" Helen said in a teasing tone was talking to her before you came in" Gina frowned "What about?" "Oh nothing. Just making sure Elise knows her ce," she said with a smirk. Gina raised an eyebrow, looking between the two of us.


    "Is that so?"


    "Of course," Helen said with an evil smile "She was just leaving." I nodded, forcing


    a smile.


    "Yes, I was. Have a good day, Gina." As I walked past them and out of the area. Helen might have tried to turn the situation to her advantage, but I knew the truth. And I had helped her, despite everything.


    I grinned to myself as I walked away from them. Life might be different now, but I was still capable of making a difference, even in small ways. And that, I realized, was something to be proud of.

 Chapter 19

    JACKSON''S POV


    I stormed into my office, mming the door behind me. My vision was blurred with rage, and I could barely think straight. I had just heard the announcement Ferris made on the news.


    What the hell? The news that Ferris was nning to take Elise back to his pack felt like someone had dug a dagger in my chest. My wolf, Shadow, howled in anger.


    "Damn it!" I roared. In one swift motion, I pushed everything off my desk and flipped the table over. Papers, books, and myptop crashed to the floor with a loud thud.. I didn''t care. None of it mattered right now.


    The only thing that mattered was Elise. I wanted her to suffer for her betrayal, for everything she had done. And now, Ferris was going to take her away, robbing me of my chance to make her pay. I paced the room with my hands clenched into fists at my sides.


    How could this happen? How could Ferris, of all people, be allowed to take her? My mind became a mess, trying to think of a way to stop him, but every idea seemed pointless. I needed help. "Jason!" I screamed out. Within moments, Jason, my Beta, appeared at the door. He entered and bowed his head.


    "What''s wrong, Alpha?" he asked. His eyes flickered to the mess I had made. "It''s Ferris," I growled "The damn Lycan King came here and ruined everything.


    He''s nning to take Elise back to his pack. I can''t let that happen." Jason''s brows furrowed


    "I''m sorry to say this but Alpha Ferris has every right to take her. He''s the Lycan King. He has power over us and many other packs" I mmed my fist into the wall.


    "I don''t care about that! I need her here. I need her to suffer for what she''s done." Jason sighed "I''ll do what I can, but this is tricky. Ferris is not someone we can easily oppose without repercussions."


    "I don''t care about repercussions," I snapped. "I just need a way to keep her here. Think, Jason. There has to be something we can do."


    "We could try to im she''s needed here for some pack business, but that won''t hold up for long. She''s not Luna anymore. Besides, Ferris is smart; he''ll see through any flimsy excuses we make." I growled in frustration, mming my palm against the wall again


    "There has to be something!" Jason remained silent. He stared into space as he tried toe up with a solution. But the longer he stood there, the more I got more annoyed.


    "What about... appealing to Ferris directly?" Jason suggested hesitantly. "Maybe if we offer him something in return, he''ll reconsider." I shook my head "Ferris is a stubborn bastard. He won''t be swayed by offers or negotiations. He wants Elise. Why? I have no idea."


    Jason looked defeated "Then I don''t know what else to suggest, Alpha. If Ferris is determined to take her, there might not be anything we can do to stop him." I turned away from him and faced the window.


    The thought of Elise leaving with Ferris filled me with emotions I couldn''t describe. Why did he like her so much?


    I couldn''t stand the idea of her being with someone else, especially someone who seemed to care for her.


    "Leave me," I muttered "I need to think." Jason noddrd and exited the room, leaving me alone with my thoughts. I copsed into my chair, staring outside the window. Elise had always been useless to me but now, the thought of losing her, of not having her under my control, was unbearable.


    Shadow growled within me, urging me to take action, to do something, anything, to keep Elise here. But every n I came up with seemed useless.


    Ferris was too powerful. I needed a new angle, a new approach. As I sat there, the anger slowly began to morph into something else.


    Something darker. I realized that my desire to make Elise suffer wasn''t just about revenge.


    It was about control. I needed to control her, to make sure she knew her ce.And Ferris was threatening to take that away from me. No. I couldn''t let that happen.


    Ferris might have the upper hand now, but I would find a way to turn the tables. Elise would stay here, where she belonged, and she would suffer for what she had done. She would learn that crossing me was the biggest mistake she ever made.


    *****


    FERRIS'' POV


    The next day, Elise and I walked around in my garden. The silence of this ce made everything feel peaceful. Elise''s presence only heightened that feeling. Her softughter stirred my Lycan within.


    Elise sighed "Everything is so peaceful. It''s so different from what I''m used to."


    "How so?" "When I was Luna, I never had peace. was always doing my best to impress Jackson and my parents but it seemed like jothing was ever good enough. If I wasn''t in apetition with my sister was trying to prove myself to Jackson and my parents. It was all so exhausting"


    The sad look on Elise''s face made my heart ache. It seemed like she had been through a whole lot.


    "You didn''t deserve that" Iforted her "Sorry that happened to you"


    She shrugged "I''m used to it, I guess.


    Tell me about your pack" "My pack is different from here. In my Lycan pack, we believe in equality. Women are treated as equals in every sense. Many of my noblemen are actually women, and my Beta is a strong female warrior. We value strength and intelligence, no matter the gender." Elise''s eyes widened in surprise.


    "That''s incredible. Your Beta is a woman?."


    "Shocking, isn''t it? It''s shocking to a lot of people but to me it isn''t" She smiled "l''ye, never heard anything like that before. It sounds... wonderful." Before could respond, Rafael appeared at the edge of the garden. He walked towards us and bowed.


    "Alpha Ferris, Alpha Jackson is here to see you" he said. My mood darkened at


    the sound of his name. I could also see Elise stiffen beside me.


    "For what?" "He ims he has important business to discuss." "I have no business with Jackson. Send him away." Rafael hesitated, ncing at Elise before looking back at me.


    "He says it''s serious, Alpha. Perhaps you should hear him out."


    "Oh no" Elise murmured "I hope he''s not here for me"


    "Don''t worry" I said "I won''t let Jackson get to you." She nodded, but the fear in


    her eyes remained. I turned back to Rafael.


    "Fine. I''ll see what he wants." I excused myself from Elise''s presence and walked towards the entrance.


    When I got there, I sighted Jackson. "King Ferris" Jackson said.


    I cleared my throat "Alpha Jackson. What do you want?" He brought out an envelope "I have documents here that show Elise broke our pack''s rules. I thought you''d want to see them."


    I took them from him "You expect me to believe this?"


    "Go through it. The evidence is there. Have a good day, Your highness" With that,


    Jackson turned and walked away. I watched him as he left, wondering what the hell could be inside this envelope that made him so confident.

 Chapter 20

    FERRIS'' POV


    I sat in my office, staring at the stack of documents Jackson had handed me.


    The sight of the papers alone felt like torture to me. I had gone through them countless times, searching for any issues, any hint of falsification. But Jackson had been thorough.


    Everything appeared legitimate in the documents. The documents proved that Elise had broken pack rules and deserved to be stripped off her title. Therefore, she couldn''te with me to my pack. She needed to stay here to face the wrath of the Alpha.


    The council''s rules were clear, and unless I could prove the documents were falsified, I had no choice but to send Elise back. The thought made my heart ache. Elise hade to mean so much to me in such a short time. Her personality, her kindness, her spirit - all of it had captivated me.


    I enjoyed being with her. We had just met but it felt like we had known each other for a long time. The connection between was was obvious and I had grown to be protective of her. My Lycan stirred inside, restless and angry at the thought of losing her. But rules were rules, and until I had concrete evidence.


    My hands were tied. "Rafael," I called. Rafael entered, bowing his head.


    "Yes, Alpha?"


    "Bring Elise to me," I ordered, trying to keep my emotions in check. "It''s urgent." Rafael nodded and left the room.


    I leaned back in my chair, closing my eyes for a moment. How was I going to tell her? How could I break her heart like this? I knew she didn''t want to go back to that bastard. The fact that she would go back there, to people who were cruel to her, broke my heart.


    She didn''t deserve that. She deserved to be with someone who would care for her. What do I do now? A few minutester, the door opened, and Elise stepped in. She smiled softly at me. Her smile never failed to warm my heart each time. The sight of her happy made me feel worse about what was about to happen.


    "Ferris" she bowed.


    I took a deep breath. "Elise, please sit down."


    As soon as I said that, the smile disappeared from her face. In that moment, she knew I had something serious to say. She sat across from me, her eyes searching mine for answers. I pushed the documents toward her.


    "These are the documents Jackson brought. ording to them, you broke pack rules." I said. Her eyes widened in shock. She quickly looked through the papers.


    "This is all false. I didn''t do any of


    31


    this!" she said. She didn''t have to tell me. I knew Elise wasn''t capable the heinous things in the documents. They had used her of theft, of moneyundering and stealing the funds in the official pack ount to purchase luxury items and many more. There was


    evidence of her being unfaithful too.


    "I know," I said. "I believe you, Elise. But the documents look legitimate, and until I


    can prove otherwise, the council''s rules dictate that you must go back."


    Tears filled her eyes, and she shook her head.


    "No, Ferris, please. I can''t go back


    there. You don''t understand what


    he''ll do to me." Her words cut


    through me like a knife. I wanted to reachout, to hold her, to promise her that everything would be okay. But I couldn''t. My duty, the rules they bound me like chains.


    "I will do everything in my power to prove these documents are false," I said "But


    for now, my hands are tied. Please, give me some time."


    She looked at me with pleading eyes. "Your majesty, please. Don''t send me back. I don''t want to leave. I''m happy here. I can''t remember thest time I was this happy and at peace." She stood up and moved closer to md, clutching my arm in desperation.


    I could feel her pain, her fear, and it broke me. "Elise," I said. "I don''t want to let you go. It pains me to do this, believe me. But right now, there''s nothing I can do."


    The door burst open, and a few guards entered. They were dressed like pce guards. It was obvious that Jackson had sent them. Elise turned to them, her eyes wide with fear. "No, please!" she cried, clutching me tighter. One of the guards stepped forward pulling her away from me.


    "I''m sorry, Miss Elise, but we have our orders." I stood there, helpless, as they took her away. Her cries echoed in my ears. I wanted to stop them, to fight them, to do anything to keep her with me. But I knew that would only make things worse.


    "I''ll find a way," I promised "I swear, Elise. I''ll bring you back." The door closed behind them, and the room became silent again.


    I sank back into my chair. . I had never felt so helpless, so powerless. Elise''s absence left a void in my heart. I had to find a way to expose Jackson''s lies and bring her back to safety.


    As I sat there, alone in my office, I made a vow. I would not rest until I had proven Elise''s innocence.


    No matter what it took, no matter the cost, I would bring her back. She deserved freedom, happiness, and I would do everything in my power to give that to her. But for now, all I could do was wait, and hope that the truth woulde to light before it was toote.

 Chapter 21

    JACKSON''S POV


    I stood by the window, watching the scene unfold. A grin spread across my face


    as I watched the guards drag Elise out of the car and into the pce.


    The sound of her sobs and the sight of her tear-streaked face sent a thrill of satisfaction through me. Everything had gone ording to n, and now she was right where she belonged-under my control. Soon enough, I heard a knock on my door. I knew it was them.


    "Bring her in," Imanded. The guardsplied. They opened the door, shoving her forward until she stumbled and fell to her knees at my feet. I looked down at her, enjoying how vulnerable she looked. She was a mess- her eyes were puffy from crying, her hair was disheveled, her body wracked with sobs and her clothes were torn from the rough handling. It was a beautiful sight.


    "Leave us," I ordered the guards, waving them away.


    "Prepare for her arrival." They nodded and exited the room without a word, leaving Elise and me alone. I took a step closer, enjoying the way she moved away from me.


    "Wee back, Elise," I said. "I have to say, it''s quite satisfying to see you like this." Her eyes zed with hatred as she looked up at me.


    "You bastard," she spat "You set me up. You humiliated me. You won''t get away with this."


    Iughed loudly "Oh, Elise, you''re in no position to make threats. Look at you. Pathetic, weak, andpletely at my mercy."


    Tears glistened in her eyes but she blinked them away.


    "I hate you," she whispered, her voice breaking. I crouched down in front of her, close enough to see the tears falling from her eyes.


    "I know you do. And I have to admit, I''m quite enjoying your pain. It''s a fitting punishment for a stupid bitch like you." She flinched at my words. More tears spilled from her eyes.


    "Why are you doing this?" she asked, her voice trembling. "What did I ever do to you?"


    I stood up and walked over to the window, looking out with a satisfied expression. "You defied me, Elise. You thought you could escape my wrath. But now you see, no one escapes me."


    She let out a sob "You''re a monster,"


    I turned back to her with a grin. "Perhaps," I said with a shrug. "But I''m a monster who gets what he wants."


    I gestured to one of the guards standing by the door. "Take her to her new room," I ordered.


    The guard stepped forward and roughly pulled her to her feet. As she was dragged away, she looked back at me. I simply smiled and waved.


    Once she was gone, I turned back to the window. Everything had worked out perfectly. Elise was back where she belonged, and I had her right where I wanted her. No one defied me and got away with it. No one.


    As I stood there, I couldn''t help but think back to how it all began. Elise had been a thorn in my side for too long, always challenging me, always trying to escape.


    But now, I had finally broken her spirit. She was mine to control, to punish as I saw fit. Ferris thought he could take her away. I wouldn''t let that happen. Elise was mine to do with as I deemed fit. I had always known that I would win in the end. It was only a matter of time.


    Now, with Elise back under my control, I could finally enjoy torturing her. Elise would learn her ce, and I would make sure she never forgot who held the power. Everything had worked out in the end. And I couldn''t be happier.


    ******


    ELISE''S POV


    The guards dragged me down a long dark hallway in the pce. They stopped at a door and opened it.


    I stumbled as they pushed me, hitting the floor hard. My hands scraped against the rough concrete and the pain shot up my arms. I bit my lip to keep from myself from crying out, not wanting to give them the satisfaction of seeing me break. Tears blurred my vision, but I blinked them away.


    The room looked like a nightmaree to life. It was small, dark, and reeked of mold and other terrible things.


    The bed was a rusty metal frame with a few, torn nkets thrown on top. I noticed insects skittering across the floor. I pulled myself up.


    My whole body trembled with fear. The smell alone was enough to make me gag.


    I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself. I couldn''t afford to show weakness now. Not when I was already so vulnerable.


    "Ferris..." I whispered his name, my voice cracking. Thinking of him was both a form offort and sadness. I missed him already. In his presence, I felt safe, protected and happy. Now, I''m back to the O nightmare that''s my life. The guards


    echoed down the corridor.


    I listened to the sound of their footsteps fade away, and then the silence closed in. I forced myself to move, to take a look around. There was nothing in the room besides the bed and a small, rusted bucket in the corner that I assumed was meant to serve as a toilet. I slowly approached the bed, my skin crawling at the sight of it. It was covered in dirt and rust.


    The metal frame creakef as I sat down. I could feel the cold seeping through my clothes. I tried to find a position that was at least somewhatfortable, but it was impossible. Every movement made the bed groan and shift, and the nkets did little to provide warmth.


    Closing my eyes, I tried to block out the reality of my situation. I willed myself to sleep, but the cold and the difort kept me awake.


    Every time I started to drift off, I would jerk awake, my body aching from the hard surface. Suddenly, I felt a slimy touch on my leg. I jumped back in shock.


    To my surprise, I could see a figure standing by the bed. His outline was barely visible, but the smell of his body filled the room. It was a horrible smell.


    "Who''s there?whispered in fear. A slowugh echoed through the room. "You''re not alone, sweetheart,"


    I moved to the far side of the bed, My wolf stirred inside me. The man took a step closer, and I could see his twisted grin. Heughed loudly. From his looks, I could tell he was insane.


    "Get away from me!" I screamed.

 Chapter 22

    ELISE''S POV


    The bad smelling from him was suffocating. I could see the madness in his eyes.


    Looking at him, anyone could tell he was insane. . He threw his head back andughed loudly. Hisughter echoed throughout the room. I felt a cold sweat break out across my forehead. Fear gripped my heart tightly.


    I struggled to understand what was going on. Was this some sort of mistake? Who had brought this man here? Was this some sort of punishment? Had I annoyed someone so much that they would send an insane man to torment me?


    It didn''t take a genius to know that either Jackson or Gina were behind this. They were the only ones cruel enough to y this kind of prank. What did they hope to achieve with this exactly?


    Taking a deep breath,, I asked "What are you doing here?" He grinned "I''m here to have a good time with you," My heart pounded in my chest.


    "Go away!" I screamed at him "Get out of here!" He took a step closer, his grin widening.


    "Oh, but I insist. We''re going to have so much fun," Fear spread through my body as I realized he had no intention of leaving.


    I nced towards the door, but he moved to block my path. I had to get out of here. I had to escape. This man was insane. He could literally hurt me.


    I darted towards the other side of the room, hoping to find another way out, but he was quick, faster than I expected. He lunged at me, and I barely managed to avoid his grasp. Hisughter grew louder, more frenzied.


    "Stay away from me!" I cried, my voice breaking as tears streamed down my face.


    But he didn''t listen. He kept chasing me around the room with his hands reaching out to grab me. The smell of him, a mix of sweat and filth, made my stomach turn in disgust. I felt a wave of nausea wash over me, but I couldn''t stop.


    I had to keep running. I made another desperate attempt for the door, but he was there, blocking my way. I could feel the walls closing in on me. The room grew smaller with every passing second. My breaths came in ragged gasps. Tears streamed down from my face.


    "Please," I begged "Please, leave me alone." He tilted his head "Why would I do that? The fun is just beginning."


    I felt a sob rise in my throat. I didn''t know what to do. I was trapped, with no way out. My mind was a jumbled mess, trying toe up with a n, but every option seemed hopeless.


    I backed away, pressing myself against the wall, as he approached slowly, savoring the moment. I could see the madness in his eyes. He was enjoying my fear, feeding off it.


    "You''re scared," he whispered "I like it when you''re scared." I shook my head, my vision blurred by tears.


    "Please," I whispered, "just go away." He didn''t respond, just kepting closer. I closed my eyes, praying for some miracle, some way out of this nightmare. The madman''sughter echoed in my ears as I ran around the room, trying to find a way out. My lungs and my legs burned with the effort of running.


    I could feel his eyes on me, following my every move and getting excited by my fear. Just as I thought I couldn''t take it anymore, the door creaked open. I sighed in relief thinking someone had finallye to save me. My relief was short lived when I noticed who was standing in the doorway. It was Gina. She had a satisfied smug smile on her face.


    "Gina!" I cried out "What the hell is going on?" Instead of the help I hoped for, Gina walked in with a smile. Her heels echoed against the floor as she walked. "Well, well, well. Look at you, Elise. Finally, back where you belong," she said.


    "What are you talking about?" I asked, backing away from the madman. The man came closer to me and yed with a lock of my hair. His fingers were greasy and rough. I shuddered at his touch.


    Gina''s smile widened as she took in the scene. "I personally put this delightful gentleman in here to have a good time with you. Thought you''d enjoy somepany."


    She said with a smile "You''ve been away for too long and now that you''re back, I nned a warm wee for you"


    My instincts were right all along. It really was Gina.


    I wasn''t surprised. She had a wicked mind, wicked enough to put me through such torture. I thought of all the ways Gina had betrayed me. I wondered what I ever did to deserve it. For some reason, she hated me.


    "Why, Gina? Why are you doing this?" I asked "What did i ever do to you? I never understood why you hated me so much" The mad man pulled at my dress this time. I screamed and moved away from him. Heughed.


    Ginaughed as well "Because I can. Because you deserve it. You''ve always thought you were better than everyone else, but look at you now. Just a scared little maid, right where you belong." Tears streamed down my face as the madman''s fingers tugged at my hair. His breath was hot on my neck.


    I pulled away, feeling disgust and fear. "I don''t understand. I''ve never done anything to you."


    Gina''s eyes shed with anger. "That''s the problem, Elise. You''ve always been the perfect one. The one everyone loved. While I was just the leftover. I hate you for it." Her words cut deeper than any knife could.


    "What the hell do you mean?" I shrieked "If anyone is supposed to be saying that, it''s me. You''ve always been the one our parents favored. You''re basically the golden child. How could I be the perfect one?


    ording to everyone else, I never get anything right" "You considered yourself high and mighty because you were Luna. I could see how highly you thought of yourself. Well, look at you. You''re not so proud now, are you?" I didn''t understand her point.


    I never acted with pride, even when I was Luna. I felt like the same old Elise that I always was.


    "Gina, please," I begged, "just let me go." She shook her head,ughing again."Oh, no. I want you to enjoy yourself. Have fun with your new friend." With that, she turned and left, closing the door behind her.


    I heard her lock the door. As soon as I realized the door was locked, I became more scared. Now, there was no escape.


    I felt the man''s hands on my legs. His touch made me flinch in irritation. I kicked out, trying to free myself, but his grip tightened. I ran towards the other side of the


    room in fear. My eyes scanned the room, searching for an escape.


    "Stay away from me!" I screamed, but hisughter only grew louder.

 Chapter 23

    FERRIS'' POV


    I sat on a couch and stared out the window of my living room. It was night yet I couldn''t sleep. Every time I closed my eyes, I would see her face. Elise. Her name echoed in my mind. For once in my life, I felt helpless. I couldn''t protect her. I couldn''t stop Jackson from taking her away.


    The image of her terrified eyes as I told her she had to leave haunted me. She looked so vulnerable, so scared, and it tore at my heart. I closed my eyes and let out a deep breath. How could I have let this happen? Elise was incapable of the things Jackson used her of.


    The documents he presented were false; I was sure of it. But proving it was another matter. Jackson had been very careful in crafting those documents. The documents were perfect. Sudenky, I felt a presence behind me. I knew who it was before he even walked forward. It was Rafael.


    I could feel his calm aura. "Your Majesty" he said "You''re awake"


    "I couldn''t sleep"


    "You should rest, your highness. It''ste,"


    "I can''t sleep, Rafael. My mind is too upied." Rafael ced a ss he was holding on the table beside me. "It''s about Miss Elise, isn''t it?" he asked.


    I didn''t respond immediately. The thought of Elise being anywhere near Jackson made my blood boil. I knew how cruel he could be and I knew he wanted to hurt her. The thought of it all made me angry. I couldn''t imagine her going through all that.


    "Yes," admitted. "I can''t stop thinking about her. I feel... responsible for this."


    "You care for her deeply, your majesty."


    "She didn''t want to leave," I said "And I... I didn''t want her to go."


    "Then do something about it, your grace. Look at the documents again. There might be something you missed, something that can prove her innocence." I nodded, knowing he was right.


    But it wasn''t just about the documents. There was something more, something deeper. We hadn''t known each other for too long yet I felt protective about her. It was driving me insane.


    "I apologize for asking" Rafael said "But do you by any chance have feelings for miss Elise?"


    My Lycan growled in response. I felt connected to her in a way I had never felt before. I was drawn to her in ways I couldn''t describe. I was intrigued by her in every way - her smile, her face, her personality.


    Elise was like a breath of fresh air. I couldn''t exin this. I kept quiet, not wanting to admit my feelings.


    "I believe I already know my answer" Rafael said with a smile.


    "Shut up" I murmured.


    Rafaelughed "Your Majesty, ever since miss Elise came into your life, you''ve been different. More... alive." Alive. It seemed too simple a word for what I felt.


    Elise made me feel seen, noticed. I was d whenever I was the focus of her attention. What I felt for her was an ache, a longing to be with her at every waking moment.


    My Lycan craved her, craved her presence. But I was a king. I couldn''t let my feelings control me.


    "As a king, I have to make decisions for the good of people, not based on personal feelings." I said. "Perhaps, Your Majesty. But sometimes, what is good for the kingdom aligns with what is good for the heart."


    I shook my head "I don''t know what to do, Rafael. I feel like I''m losing my mind." "Start with the documents. If Jackson falsified them, there will be evidence. And when you find it, you can bring Elise back where she belongs."


    "You''re right. I''ll look at them again." Rafael smiled warmly. "Good night, Your Majesty. And remember, having feelings for someone is not a weakness. It''s a strength." With those words, Rafael walked away.


    I took a deep breath. I would start fresh in the morning. I would get an analyst to go through the document''s again. I would find evidence I needed to prove


    innocence. I would bringet


    For now, though, I allowed myself to close my eyes. Her face was thest thing I saw before sleep finally imed me.


    *****


    ELISE''S POV


    I stayed curled up on the thin mattress in the corner of my room. Tears streamed uncontrobly down my face. The madman''sughter echoed in my ears. I barely sleptst night. I was too terrified to close my eyes. Besides that, I spent the whole night running away from the man. I felt exhausted but there was nothing I could do..


    The door creaked open, and I flinched, half-expecting Jackson or Gina to walk in. Instead, it was the guards. I didn''t wait for them to speak; I rushed out


    immediately, desperate to escape the room.


    "Follow us," one of the guards said firmly. "You have kitchen duties."


    I looked at him in disbelief. Kitchen duties? Jackson had reduced me to a maid? used to be a Luna, the queen of this pack. Now, I was being reduced to scrubbing pots and pans. I couldn''t believe it. How could


    Jackson be so cruel? After everything I''d done for him. The guards took me to the kitchen.


    I could feel the eyes of the maids on me as soon as I entered. Whispers filled the


    room, and I caught bits of their conversations.


    "Isn''t that the Luna?"


    "What is she doing here?"


    "The Alpha must really hate her."


    "She must have done something terrible" The head maid, Ms Kelly, walked towards me.


    When I was Luna, I used to like her a lot. She was a no nonsense person who always got the job done.


    "You''rete," she snapped. "You need to be here at dawn. Do you understand?" I couldn''t believe what was going on. Ms Kelly used to treat me with respect just like everyone else. It''s surprising how things have changed.


    I felt hurt but there was nothing I could do. This was my life now. I nodded, unable to speak. The humiliation was overwhelming.


    "Good," she continued. "You''ll start by washing the dishes. And make sure you do


    it properly. I won''t tolerate any mistakes." I swallowed hard and made my way to the sink.


    The other maids still whispered and casted nces my way. My hands shook as I started washing the dishes. I tried to focus on the task at hand, but my mind kept drifting to Ferris.


    Ferris. The thought of him brought a fresh feeling of tears to my eyes. I missed him so much it hurt. He had been so kind to me, so protective. But now, it felt like


    he was miles away and I was stuck here, treated like a servant. "Elise, you''re not scrubbing hard enough," Ms Kelly barked, snapping me out of my thoughts. I bit my lip and scrubbed harder.


    "Look at her," one of the maids whispered to another. "She thinks she''s too good for this."


    "Yeah, just because she was a Luna," the other replied. "Not anymore."


    I clenched my fists, making the soapy water drip onto the floor. I wasn''t too good


    for this. I would do whatever it took to survive, to find a way out.


    And I would prove them wrong. I would show them that I was stronger than they thought. I''ll make sure they all regret this. Every single one of them.

 Chapter 24

    ELISE''S POV


    I was in the kitchen, busy scrubbing the pots from breakfast. My hands were hurting from the hot water. The other maids worked quietly around me. Every now and then, they would look at me and whisper. I didn''t me them.


    Just a few days ago, I was the Luna of the pack and now, I was working with them. I guess life really doese at you fast. I was lost in thought, remembering the days when I used to be the Luna. I was the one giving orders instead of taking them. What did I do to deserve this?


    My only offense was wanting to divorce Jackson, to leave my toxic marriage.


    ¡°ELISE!¡± I heard a voice scream my name. Instantly, I knew it was Gina..


    Ms. Kelly appeared in the doorway "Elise, the Luna is calling for you," I flinched at the word "Luna."


    It hurt every time I heard it. It reminded me of all I had lost. I used to be the Luna, and now, I was nothing more than a maid. Swallowing my pride, I nodded and dried my hands on a towel.


    "Yes. I''ll go right away." I walked through the familiar halls of the pce. Using my wolf senses, I traced her voice and realized it wasing from the dining hall.


    As I approached the dining hall, my heart grew heavier. The doors were open, and I could see Gina sitting at the head of the table. My parents were there too. The sight of them made my stomach turn in fear. I had a feeling that this wouldn''t go well.


    Taking a deep breath, I stepped into the room. "You called for me, Gina?" I said. Gina''s eyes lit up. She smiled lovingly at me


    "Ah, Elise. There you are" she said "It''s good to see you. How are you holding up?"


    I looked at her confusedly "I''m fine, thank you"


    I faced my parents and bowed my head "Good day, mother, father"


    They ignored me. Their facial expressions were one of displeasure. They eyed me up and down.


    "Well, if it isn''t the disgrace of the family," . My father spoke next "How far you''ve fallen, Elise. From Luna to kitchen maid. We had such high hopes for you" The words hurt more than I cared to admit.


    My eyes filled with tears, but I fought to keep them at bay.


    "Oh father" Gina said in a sweet tone "You really shouldn''t talk to Elise like that. It''s not fair. She''s already suffering enough"


    "She deserves it!" my father snapped.


    "No" Gina choked on a sob "It pains me to see her like this. She''s my sister. I hate the fact she''s being punished. It pains me every time. I even n to talk to Jackson about it"


    My mother looked at her with gleaming eyes "You''re such a kind hearted soul"


    Gina held my hand and looked at me lovingly "Anything for my sister"


    I blinked repeatedly, looking at her in disbelief. In what alternate universe was Gina nice to me? That was when I realized - my parents were here. She was pretending. She always pretended to be a


    sweetheart to my parents.


    My mother red at me "You see, Elise? That''s how to be a good person. You


    should consider yourself lucky that Gina is standing by you"


    My father stood up "We''ll be back in a few hours. We have a meeting with the council now"


    "Alright" Gina said with a sweet smile "See you soon"


    Gina waved to them with a sweet smile as they left. As soon as they were gone, she faced me with a re.


    "I want sunny side eggs" she demanded "Now!"


    There''s the Gina I know.


    "Of course"


    I turned to leave, but Gina''s voice stopped me.


    "Oh, and Elise?" "Yes?" I asked, barely able to meet her gaze.


    "Make sure they''re perfect. I have very high standards." I nodded and hurried back to the kitchen.


    The tears finally spilled over. I wiped them away angrily. Crying wouldn''t help me now. I had to focus, had to keep going, even if it felt like I was being torn apart from the inside. I got to the kitchen and got started. I cracked the eggs into a pan, watching them sizzle.


    My mind raced with thoughts of how my life hade to this. I was the Luna once, respected and loved. Now, I was a shadow of my former self. Now, I was serving the people who took everything from me. When the eggs were done, I ced them carefully on a te and carried them back to the dining hall. Gina and my parents wereughing about something.


    I ced the te in front of Gina. "Here are your eggs, Luna."


    She barely nced at them before wrinkling her nose. "These aren''t right," she


    said.


    She picked up the te and threw it against the wall. The sound of shattering


    ss echoed through the room. I looked at her in disbelief.


    "Try again, Elise," she said with a smirk.

 Chapter 25

    *


    I clenched my fists, my nails digging into my palms.


    "Of course, Gina" I said.


    "It''s Luna to you, you little brat. Got it?"


    I took a deep breath "Yes Luna"


    As I turned away, I could hear Gina''sughter. Back in the kitchen, I started over. My hands were shaking, and I could feel the hot tears streaming down my face.


    I tried to focus on the task, but I was filled with pain and anger. I made the eggs again, praying that this time they would be eptable. When I returned to the dining hall, I ced the new te of eggs in front of Gina.


    She didn''t even bother to look at them before throwing them across the room.


    "These are terrible! Can''t you do anything right?" she snapped.


    I took in a deep breath, wondering what bad deed I must have done for the moon goddess to punish me like this.


    "I''m waiting!" Gina screeched.


    I turned back to the kitchen, feeling utterly defeated. I made the eggs one more time, putting all my effort into getting them just right.


    My heart was heavy, and I felt like I was on the verge of breaking. When I


    finished, I took a deep breath and carried the te back to the dining hall. I ced the te in front of Gina, my hands shaking. She picked up her fork and took a bite.


    For a moment, there was silence. Then, she nodded. "This is good" she said.


    I sighed in relief. "Thank goodness" I muttered.


    I was busy in the kitchen when I heard Gina call my name again.


    What did she want now? I wiped my hands on my apron and made my way to the living room. Gina was


    there, sitting on the couch with an et


    smirkon her face. My parents sat beside her. I stood in the doorway, unsure of what to expect.


    "You called for me, Luna?" I asked. Gina''s eyes gleamed "Yes, Elise. We have an announcement to make. Just watch." She pointed to the TV.


    I watched it with a pounding heart, wondering what was going on. Gina grabbed the remote and turned on the TV. The screen changed to.


    as I saw Jackson being interviewed by the press. Oh no. What is it now?


    news broadcast. My stomach ad


    "We have with us today Alpha Jackson of the Silver Crescent pack. Alpha Jackson, there have been rumors about the former Luna, Elise. Can you confirm if she has been permanently stripped of her title?"


    Jackson nodded "Yes, that is correct. Elise has been permanently stripped of her title as Luna." I felt a sharp pain in my chest, but it was nothingpared to what came next.


    "Can you tell us why?" the reporter asked. Jackson''s expression darkened, "Elise cheated on me with a noble andmitted numerous horrible crimes. Her actions were a disgrace to our pack and to me personally."


    The press gasped. In that moment, I felt like the ground had been ripped out from under me.


    I couldn''t believe what I was hearing. Jackson was lying, and he was doing it so convincingly. This was the second time he was embarrassing me publicly. My parents stood up.


    "It''s the Lycan King, isn''t it?" my mom shrieked "I knew it! *


    "You betrayed your pack and your family?" my dad asked.


    "No!" I cried "That isn''t true! I didn''t do any of those things!" My father''s eyes were cold.


    "You''ve brought shame upon us all, Elise." I tried to defend myself "I swear, I didn''t do any of it! Jackson is lying!"


    My mother walked forward and pped me. I gasped in shock. "I wish you had died when you were kidnapped by the rogues," she spat.


    Tears streamed down my face as I stumbled back. The pain and betrayal I felt was overwhelming. "How can you say that? I''m your daughter!"


    "You''re no daughter of mine," my mother hissed. "You''re a disgrace." I couldn''t take it anymore.


    Their usations and the lies being broadcasted for the world to see were too much. I turned and ran away with tears in my eyes.

 Chapter 26

    ELISE''S POV


    I blinked, looking at them in disbelief. I was scared.


    Why did they want me to follow them?


    "Get up," one of them said, grabbing my arm roughly. The other seized my other arm, and together they dragged me to my feet. My legs wobbled, barely supporting my weight after the harsh wake-up.


    "What''s happening?" I asked. The guards didn''t respond. They just dragged me out of the room.


    My bare feet scraped against the hard floor as they dragged me. In that moment, I started to panic. They led me through the hallways. Finally, we stopped in front of a familiar door.


    Jackson''s chambers. The guards opened the door and threw me inside. I stumbled and fell to my knees, right at Jackson''s feet. My heart pounded as I looked up at him. I couldn''t believe this was the man I had once loved.


    "Jackson," I whispered, my voice trembling. "Why are you doing this?" He smirked.


    "Elise, Elise. Always so dramatic." He leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms over his chest. "Why? Because you deserve it." I couldn''t believe what I was hearing.


    "After everything I did for you while we were married, this is how you treat me? Why are you being so cruel? I loved you"


    Jackson''s smirk widened. "Oh, Elise, you were useful once. But now? Now, you''re just an inconvenience." His words cut deep into my heart like a knife.


    It hurt me so much. I had given everything to this man, and now he was treating me like garbage.


    "I can''t believe I ever loved you," I spat "I regret everything I ever did for you."


    Jackson''s eyes shed with anger, and he stood up, towering over me. He grabbed my arm and pulled me to my feet.


    "Regret, huh? You''ll regret even more soon enough." He pushed me back, and I stumbled, barely keeping my bnce.


    "What do you mean?" I asked. "You''re going to be Gina''s new personal maid," he said, his voice dripping with mockery.


    "I''m sure she''ll enjoy having you around." Nooked at him in horror Gina was already terrible to me and


    w, he wants me to be her


    now,


    ver


    personal maid? To be at her Deck and call?


    The thought of serving her, of being at her mercy, was unbearable. I knew this wouldn''t end well.


    "No," I whispered, shaking my head. "You can''t do this to me"


    Jacksonughed "Oh, but I can. And I will."


    My lips trembled. "I was once Luna. I deserve some respect, at least. I didn''t do anything to you. I don''t know why you would treat me like this"


    "You don''t deserve anything. Your life ended the day you wanted to divorce me. You think you can turn against me and get away with Think@gain. You''re at my mercy now. Deal with it" He turned to the guards.


    2


    "Take her away." The guards grabbed me again, and I struggled against them, desperate to escape.


    "After everything we''ve been through, this is how you treat me?" I cried.


    Jackson didn''t even look at me. "Get her out of my sight," he ordered.


    They dragged me out of the room. I fought against them, but they were too strong. At a point, I stopped. There was no use. They had direct orders on what to do. They carried me outside the pce building and to the backyard where a small farm w¨¢s.


    They dragged them me near a pigsty. When I saw the pigsty, I knew this wouldn''t end well. I knew what they were about to do.


    "No, please," I begged "Don''t do this." But they ignored me. They opened the gate and pushed me inside, right into a pile of filth.


    Inded hard in a huge pile of poop. I struggled to get up, but the slippery muck made it difficult. I looked up at them.


    My body trembled with feelings of anger, and humiliation. The guards stood there, watching me with cold eyes.


    "This is your new home, Elise," one of them said in a mocking tone.


    I wanted to scream, to fight back, but I was too exhausted, too broken. I copsed


    into the muck, sobbing uncontrobly. How had my lifee to this? How had I fallen so far?

 Chapter 27

    I thought of the life I had before, the love I once felt for Jackson.


    I had given him everything, and in return, he had given me nothing but pain and humiliation. The smell was unbearable and the poop clung to my skin. It took every strength I had to get up from the pile.


    "Clean it all up," one of them ordered. "And don''t even think about cking off. We''ll be checking on you."


    I stared at him.How could they expect me to clean up this mess? It was degrading beyond words.


    Not only did they push me into a pile of shit, they expected me to clean it up too? I wanted to say something but I knew better than to protest. I had no power here, no one to stand up for me. It was night time already.


    The chill of the night air began to seep into my bones, making me feel cold. With a resigned sigh, I forced myself to get started on the job. The filth clung to me, making every movement feel like a struggle.


    I found a broken shovel against the fence and began the disgusting task. Each scoop I took brought fresh tears to my eyes. It was the most degrading thing I had ever been through. The yard was silent. The only sounds I could hear were mybored breathing and the rustle of leaves in the wind. I was so absorbed in my task that I didn''t hear Gina approach until she was right behind me.


    "Well, well, Look at you, Elise," Gina''s voice dripped with mockery. "From Luna to the pack''s personal cleaner. How the mighty have fallen."


    I straightened up, turning to face her. She stood there in hervish gold dress and fancy jewelry.


    She was wearing a crown on her head, my crown! She smiled evily at me. I clenched the handle of the shovel tightly "What do you want, Gina?"


    "Just came to see how you''re doing. Looks like you''re fitting right in."


    "I don''t need your pity," I spat.


    "Pity? Oh, darling, this isn''t pity. This is pure joy. I''ve never been happier."


    She took a step closer "You see, Jackson promised me I could have a bit of fun with you. And I n to make the most of it. You''re my personal maid now. He told you, didn''t he?."


    I swallowed hard, forcing myself to hold her gaze.


    "What have I ever done to you? We''re supposed to be sisters"


    Gina''s smile widened. "You existed. That''s enough. You were always so perfect, so adored. But now? Now you''re nothing. And it''s glorious."


    I bit my lip, trying to keep myposure. "I didn''t ask for any of this. I just want to be left alone."


    "Well, you don''t get that luxury," she hissed.


    "Not anymore This is your life now,


    Elise. Get used to it." She turned on her heels and walked away. As her footsteps faded, I let out a deep breath. The tears I''d been holding back finally spilled over, mixing with the filth on my cheeks. I looked at the pile of poop I still had to clean. I still had a long way to go. It was going to be a long night.

 Chapter 28

    FERRIS'' POV


    I sat in the boardroom with Jackson and the council of his pack. Jackson sat at the head of the table.


    I leaned in my chair, trying to maintain a calm demeanor but on the inside, I was filled with so much frustration and anger that I found it hard to keep it in. My thoughts kept drifting back to Elise, to everything Jackson must have done to her.


    I clenched my fists under the table, forcing myself to focus on the meeting. This meeting was important. We were here to discuss strategies to deal with the rival packs and to bring about a much-needed peace. I had to keep my emotions in check, at least for now.


    I wished I could see Elise, just to set my eyes on her and make sure she was okay. I knew she was in the pce but I didn''t know where.


    I might have to ask some of the workers here. I was so near to her and still, I felt far from her. Jackson cleared his throat and spoke up.


    "We are facing threats from the rival packs. We need to make up a strategy that not only secures our safety but also opens up avenues for alliances and trade. The rivalry has caused issues with our trade these past few months. Things are getting worse"


    An elder spoke up "We should consider approaching the Lyceria pack. They have been neutral for a long time and might be open to an alliance."


    Jackson shook his head "Neutrality can be a sign of weakness.. We need strong allies, not fence-sitters."


    I couldn''t hold back any longer. "Neutrality can also be a sign of wisdom, Jackson. The Lyceria pack could provide a stable partnership, given the right incentives."


    Jackson''s gaze shifted to me, his eyes narrowing slightly. "And what incentives would you suggest, king Ferris?"


    "Trade agreements. They have resources youck, and you can offer them protection in return. It''s a mutually beneficial arrangement."


    "Protection, your highness? You think offering protection is enough to sway them? They have remained neutral because they don''t trust anyone. Offering them protection might be seen as a threat."


    "Not if you approach them with respect and a genuine offer of coboration," I''d do anything to wipe off the smirk off his face. The sight of him alone made me


    ver


    annoyed. He thought he was so high and mighty.


    5


    Jackson waved his hand dismissively. "Your idea is admirable, but not practical. We need to show strength, not appeasement."


    I bit back a retort, feeling the frustration inside me rise even more. Every time I


    tried to contribute, Jackson found a way to belittle my ideas.


    It was clear he was doing this deliberately, and it infuriated me. But I couldn''t let him see how much he was getting to me.


    Another Slender spoke up "the Lycan King has a point. We should consider all options before dismissing them. Forming alliances through trade could strengthen our position without conflict."


    Jackson''s eyes flicked to the elder. "Of course, Miriam. All options should be considered. But we must remember that our primary objective is to ensure the safety and dominance of our pack."


    The discussion continued, with various elders offering their insights. I tried to focus on the strategies being proposed, but my mind kept drifting back to Elise.


    I hoped she was okay. Finally,


    another elder spoke. "We must find a


    bnce between strength and


    diplomacy. King Ferris'' suggestion of trade agreements is worth


    exploring, as is Alpha''s Jackson''s emphasis on showing strength. Perhaps we canbine these approaches."


    Jackson tilted his head slightly "Very well. We''ll consider both strategies. King Ferris, if you believe in this trade approach, you can enlighten us on how to go about it"


    He smiled at me in a mocking way. I clenched my fists tightly on the table. "Of course" I said through gritted teeth.

 Chapter 29

    Leaving the council room, I could still feel Jackson''s cold gaze burning into my back.


    Anger coursed through my veins. Jackson''s petty games and his constant maniption were pushing me to my limits.


    Istormed down the hallway. I was walking so fast that I barely noticed that I had collided with someone. We both bumped into each other. It was Gina. Great. Just the person I needed to see.


    She widened her eyes in surprise when she realized my presence. She smiled and bowed her head "Good day, your higherness"


    "Gina," I murmured, trying to step around her. She didn''t let me pass so easily. She stood in front of my way before I could move.


    She grinned widely "I was actually looking for you, your grace"


    I raised my eyebrow "For me? What''s the problem?"


    "Nothing. I just wanted to make sure you''re enjoying your stay in the pack"


    No, I''m not. The woman I care about has been maltreated and humiliated publicly and it''s all your fault along with Jackson''s.


    "I''m fine" I said firmly. I tried to leave but she stepped in front of me again.


    "What do you want?" I snapped at her. She touched my arm. Her hand felt cold against mine, like a thousand ants were crawling up my skin. I was irritated.


    "You look tense, your grace. Maybe I can help you rx". I felt disgusted at her attitude. Was she trying to seduce me?


    I pulled my arm away from her grasp. "I''m not interested" Her smile faltered slightly, but she pressed on, stepping closer. "Oh,e on, Alpha. We could have some fun. You need to loosen up."


    I stared at her, my expression hardening. "I said, I''m not interested. Now move!"


    Gina''s eyes shed with surprise, but she finally stepped aside "You''ll change your mind. And when you do, I''ll be right here waiting" I didn''t bother to respond.


    I pushed past her, my mood darkening even further. I needed air. I needed to clear my head.


    Without thinking, I headed outside and made my way towards the garden. The moment I stepped


    outside, Het out a deep breath


    didn''t even know I was holding looked straight ahead, trying to steady myself.


    That''s when I saw her. Elise.


    She was crouched by a flower bed. Her hands were covered in dirt as she tended to the nts. Her once shiny curly long hair was now duff and tied back in a messy knot. She had lost so much weight that her clothes hung loosely on her body..


    She moved mechanically, as if she was tired. I looked at her in disbelief.


    Elise was a queen. Why was she being punished like this?


    I didn''t realize things were so bad for her. Jackson was the biggest asshole I had


    ever met. I would make him pay for this. I promise.


    How could Jackson do this to her? How could anyone treat her this way?


    "Elise," I called softly. She looked up at me.


    As soon as she saw me, she gasped


    in surprise. For a moment, time seemed to stop. Our eyes locked


    and once again, I felt my Lycan stir I inside me. Looking at her alone sent jolts of electricity down my spine.


    "Ferris?" she whispered.

 Chapter 30

    ELISE''S POV


    One hot afternoon, I crouched down by a flower bed in the garden, cleaning up the mess.


    I had been given specific instructions by Gina to do this. Each movement I made had me in pain. The past few days been hectic for me, and I was exhausted.


    I had been working from dawn till dusk, doing chores that left me drained and numb. Gina was ruthless when it came to sending errands. As I bent down to gather the leaves into a pile, a familiar voice called out my name.


    "Elise!" I looked up, and there he was-Ferris.


    At the sight of him, I gasped. I had never been so happy to see someone in my life.


    Looking at him felt like a breath of fresh air. Despite everything, seeing him made me feel hopeful. His presence was a reminder that there was still someone who cared about me.


    "Ferris," I whispered. With a huge smile on my face, I started to walk towards him. But before I could reach him, two guards blocked my path. They grabbed my


    arms.


    "No!" I protested, trying to break free. "Let go of me!" The guards didn''t listen. They dragged me away.


    I twisted my head to look at Ferris. Tears filled up in my eyes as our gazes met.


    He looked shocked. "Elise" I heard him say.


    The guards dragged me inside the pce and took me to Gina''s room.


    What did she want now? More work for me to do? I couldn''t take this treatment any much longer.


    I was exhausted. They knocked on the door then pushed me inside the


    room. "Well,if it isn''t our little garden maid," she said mockingly. "Did you speak to the Lycan King?"


    I looked at her" No "


    "Good. Because if you do, I''ll make your life even more miserable than it already is. Do you understand?"


    I nodded, tears slipping down my cheeks.


    Gina''s smile widened. "Good. Now, I have a new task for you." She gestured to arge pile of dirty clothes in the corner of the room. "Wash these. By hand. And make sure they''re spotless."


    My heart dropped to my stomach at the sight of the huge pile. By hand? We had washing machines.


    "But..." I started to protest.


    "No buts," Gina snapped. "Get to work. Now."


    ******


    Washing clothes was more exhausting than I thought it would be. I sat outside, scrubbing each piece of Gina''s clothes despite the exhaustion felt.


    As I washed, felt my muscles ache with pain. Though my body screamed rest, I forced myself to continue. I didn''t want to upset Gina. I couldn''t bear any more of her punishments. I had had enough. The sun beat down on me relentlessly, and sweat trickled down my face.


    My thoughts drifted to Ferris. I was so excited to see him. He was the one person I wanted to talk to before the guards dragged me away. His eyes were filled with concern, and I wished I could have told him everything that was going on. I took some of the clothes I had washed and hung them to dry. As I hung the clothes, I could hear theughter from the maids nearby.


    They didn''t see me. "Did you hear about Elise?" one of them said "She''s nothing but a slut."


    I froze, the piece of clothing slipping from my fingers. My heart pounded in my chest as I listened to their cruel words.


    "I always knew she was trouble," another maid spoke "Acting all high and mighty, but look at her now."


    "I can''t believe she cheated on Alpha Jackson. He''s hot as hell!" "What if she cheated with the Lycan King? That man is the most gorgeous man I''ve ever seen. If she cheated with him then I don''t me her" They bothughed.


    I gripped the clothes tightly in my hand, trying to steady my breathing. I felt so hurt and betrayed. This is all because of the lies Jackson spread about me.


    My reputation was ruined. Even the maids spoke about me. They stopped talking as soon as they saw me. I could feel their eyes on me, judging me and watching my every move.


    "How dare you talk about me like that?" I asked.


    One of the maids stepped forward with a cold expression. She crossed her arms and red at me "We can say whatever we want, Elise. You''re no better than us now. We''re equals."


    The words hut more than I cared to admit. I turned away, blinking back tears, and walked back to theundry.


    As I walked, I could hear the sounds of theirughter. I finished theundry in silence. My vision was blurred with tears. I felt like my life was crumbling down right in front of me.


    When I was done, I gathered the supplies I used and headed back to the pce. My heart ached with every step I take, but I didn''t want anyone to have the satisfaction of seeing me break.


    As I entered the pce, I saw someone I hadn''t seen in a long time - Lady Elena, Jackson''s mother. She''s a mature woman with kind eyes and aforting presence.


    She had always been kind to me. "Elise, dear," she said as soon as she saw me "How are you?"


    "I...I''m fine, Lady Elena," I replied with a bow "Good day" She eyed me up and down.


    She looked at me with concern... She sighed, shaking her head "Oh Elise, what have they done to you?"


    I bent my head, trying to hide the tears that filled my eyes. I didn''t know what to say. Before I could open my mouth, the sound of


    footsteps were heard. Jackson


    appeared before us. He had a cold expression on his face.


    "Elise, get out," he ordered.


    "Jackson! That''s no way to speak to her," Lady Elena scolded him.


    "It''s okay, Lady Elena," I said, forcing a smile. Lady Elena always treated me


    good. But I''m divorcing Jackson and need to stay away from her too.


    "I should go." I walked away, feeling Jackson''s eyes on me.

 Chapter 31

    JACKSON''S POV


    Sitting at my desk, I tried to focus on the stack of paperwork in front of me, but my mind kept drifting back to Elise.


    Images of her face filled my mind, making it impossible for me to focus. I clenched my jaw, trying to shove her out of my thoughts. She''s nothing but a nobody, I tell myself. Yet, my wolf stirred inside me, growling with dissatisfaction at my attempts to deny my feelings.


    I leaned back in my chair and ran a hand through my hair. The tension in my body at the thought of her refused to go away. I thought about our marriage. Even I couldn''t deny the fact that Elise was the perfect wife. She was submissive and always ready to please me in all ways.


    She stroked my ego and made me feel like the king that I was. She was always at my beck and call, willing to do whatever I said.


    Where did it all go wrong? Why then did she ask for a divorce? I shook my head, clearing my thoughts.


    I began to think of more important things. The documents I submitted to Ferris still haven''t been approved. I felt a little anxious at the thought of it. What if he realizes the documents are fake? What if he exposes everything to the council?


    I''ve worked too hard to let everything fall apart now. The door to my office creaked open, and I looked up to see Ginaing in. She was dressed in a flimsy lingerie set and heels. She smiled seductively at me.


    "Surprise," she purred, closing the door behind her. A wee distraction. I pushed thoughts of Elise and the council aside as my eyes raked over Gina''s amazing body.


    "Gina," I smiled "What are you doing here?"


    "Giving you a break,¡± she replied, dropping to her knees in front of me. She reached for my belt.


    The sight of her ready and willing ignited a spark of lust in me.


    For a moment, I managed to forget everything else. Gina''s hands were skilled, and soon she had me undone.


    She bent her head and sucked my cock. I leaned back in my chair, closing my eyes, and let out a low groan But even in this moment of pleasure, Elise''s face shed in my mind.


    I saw her eyes, filled with hurt and confusion, and the sound of her crying echoed in my ears.


    I tried to push it away, to focus on Gina, but the more I tried, the more insistent the thoughts became.


    My wolf growled, wing at me from within, making it clear he''s not pleased with my attempts to ignore the truth.


    "Fuck," I muttered under my breath


    Gina''s pace quickened, and the


    instead of her name, it was Elise''s name that slips from my lips.


    pleasure builded inside me, n¨¦t


    "Elise..." I muttered. Gina pulled back abruptly, looking up at me with a mix of anger and confusion.


    "What did you just say?" she shrieked.


    Oh fuck.


    I turned and left the room, ignoring Gina''s


    gry stare. I didn''t know


    wrong with me, and I


    vel


    I really need some fresh air.


    As I made my rounds of the pack I saw Elise working at the corner of the utility


    room, talking to my mom.


    Was she trying to use my mom to get back together with me?


    I clenched my fist, resisting the urge to ask her. Instead, I gave her a scornful look


    and walked away.


    I would wait until she begged me to be with her again.

 Chapter 32

    FERRIS'' POV


    Later that evening, I took a swim in the private pool of the pack. The water felt cool against my skin as I cut through it with each stroke.


    Swimming helped to clear my mind. Well, boxing helped too but I was tired of having violent thoughts towards Jackson.


    I was in the mood for a peaceful activity. As u moved through the water, found myself thinking of Elise. Elise. Her name alone sent a feeling of pain through my chest. I couldn''t stand seeing her trapped in the situation she was in.


    She had been turned into a maid! Elise was a Luna and now, they had degraded her and humiliated her so much. She didn''t deserve that.


    But breaking her free from him was proving to be more challenging than I had anticipated. Jackson had crafted those documents perfectly and finding mistakes in them was a lot harder than I imagined.


    I swam to the edge of the pool and leaned against the side, wiping the water from my face. As I did, I noticed a figure approaching. Gina.


    Damn. She was thest person I wanted to see. She was wearing a skimpy swimsuit that left little to the imagination.


    I fought the urge to roll eyes. What did she want now?


    She walked closer to me and bowed her head "Good evening, King Ferris. It''s the perfect weather for a swim, isn''t it?"


    I ignored her, hoping she would take the hint and leave me alone.


    Instead, she walked closer, her hips swaying deliberately. I sighed inwardly. Thest thing I needed was Gina''s attention right now. I had better things to think about.


    "You look tense," she said, crouching down and cing her legs in the pool. "Maybe I can help you rx."


    I pushed off from the edge and swam to the other side, putting some distance between us.


    "I''m fine" I said. "Who gave you permission toe in?"


    "Oh,e on, your highness," she purred "We could have some fun. You know, take your mind off things."


    I clenched my jaw, my patience wearing thin. "I AM NOT interested."


    She pouted. "It''s fine. I know the game you''re ying. I find it sexy actually."


    Game? She thinks this is a game? I don''t desire her even the slightest bit. The only woman I have desired so much was Elise.


    Gina could never be half the woman Elise was. I ignored her and pulled myself out of the pool, grabbing my towel and heading towards my room. I needed to get away from her before I said something I''d regret.


    Before I entered my residence, I stayed outside and took deep breaths. I thought of what I could do to free Elise from her prison. There has to be something. I''d gone over the documents a hundred times yet I couldn''t find any inconsistencies.


    This was frustrating. An innocent woman was suffering for crimes she didn''tmit. After staying outside for a while, I decided to go in. The guards bowed as I made my way inside. I stepped into my room and I froze immediately. Gina was there, sprawled out on my bed.


    Her swimsuit was on the floor. She was under my sheets. I blinked, trying to process how she had gotten here so quickly. How did she get past my guards?


    "Gina, what the hell are you doing in my bed?" I demanded "And how did you get past my guards !"


    "I''m at least the Luna of this pack" she said can go wherever I please. Plus, I helped pick out this residence for you. There''s a secret passage. I didn''t want to pass through the front so we don''t have attention to us.


    She smirked, stretching further "I thought we could have some fun together."


    "Get out," I snapped "Now!!" Damn, I thought I need to get back to my kingdom sooner.


    She pouted again, clearly enjoying this game. "I can offer you pleasures you can''t even imagine. More than Elise ever could."


    I felt my anger rise at the sound of Elise''s name. "You know nothing about Elise" I snapped.


    She rolled her eyes "I know her enough. She''s my sister. Besides, I''m sure she''s awful in bed. Jackson said so himself. He says she just lies down like a log of wood"


    "Shut the fuck up!" I couldn''t resist pping her!


    If not for the fact that she was a woman, I''d have punched her in the face right


    now. "Don''t talk about her like that ever!" I growled.


    She covered her face in surprise "Why? She''s a nobody..."


    "I don''t have time for this. You shouldn''t be here. You are Jackson''s Luna. You should be ashamed of yourself."


    Gina waved her hand dismissively. "Jackson doesn''t matter. I''d rather be your Luna. Think of all the things we could achieve together. I could pleasure you in ways you never expected."


    I had heard enough. I walked over to the bed and grabbed the sheets, wrapping them around her body like a sausage roll.


    She screamed in surprise as I lifted her and carried her to the door.


    "What, what are you doing?" she shrieked.


    "I''m throwing you out," I said through gritted teeth. I opened the door and tossed her out into the hallway.


    She screamed for me to stop but I didn''t care. I mmed the door shut and leaned against it, taking deep breaths to calm myself.


    "Rafael!" I called out. In seconds, Rafael knocked and opened my door.


    He bowed his head "Yes, your highness" "I want everywhere guarded. Check for


    all secret entrances. I want them all blocked now!"


    "As


    you wish, your grace. He bowed before leaving. Gina and Jackson deserved each other. I didn''t give a fuck about them. I only carried about Elise. I needed to find a way to help her and fast.


    I couldn''t let her be dragged down by Jackson and his maniptive Luna.


    But how? The question echoed in


    my mind as I sank onto the bed,


    feeling more exhausted than ever. Elise deserved better. And somehow, I would find a way to give her that. No matter what it took.

 Chapter 33

    GINA''S POV


    I took a deep breath and tried to focus on the pottery session in front of me. The noble of the pack chatted andughed around me. I tried to focus in how their hands shaped the y but I couldn''t focus on anything else but my thoughts.


    Our pottery session today was supposed to be a rxing activity. It was also a chance for us to bond and for me to fulfill my duties as Luna. But my mind was filled with emotions couldn''t control. I couldn''t belived Alpha Ferris refused me! He even said I couldn''tpete with Elise, on what grounds! I''m Luna afterall.


    Suddenly, Jackson''s voice echoed in my mind, taunting me.


    "Elise..." he had moaned as I sucked his cock. At the thought of that day, I gripped the y so hard it began to crumble under my finger.


    My frustration seeped into the very material I was supposed to be molding. How could he still be thinking of her? Elise. What was so special about her? She was practically a maid now.


    I thought Jackson never cared about Elise. What the hell was going on now? I needed to find a way to humiliate her even more. That way, I would get her out of his mind and bring his main focus to me.


    That little bitch. She was always getting in the way of everything. I wondered what was so special about her anyway. She was nothing, a nobody.


    "Careful, Luna Gina," Lady J said gently. She sat beside me. Her eyes flickered to my hands.


    I forced a smile, trying to control myself.. "I will be" I said "Thank you"


    I tried to focus on the y, trying to shape it into something presentable, but my thoughts betrayed me again.


    This time, I thought of Alpha Ferris. His name alone made my cheeks heat up in embarrassment. The Lycan King had been myst hope, my n to seduce him for a powerful alliance.


    Sure, I was Jackson''s Luna but there was nothing wrong with aiming higher. Alpha Ferris was the Lycan King - the most feared leader on the continent. His name alone made people shiver in fear. I wanted to get on his good side.


    What other way that to entice a man than to seduce him? I mean, my good looks and charm have always worked for me but not this time. I couldn''t believe what happened that day. He pushed me out of his room without a second thought.


    My grip on the y tightened once more, and before I knew it, the pot I was shaping copsed into a soggy mess. Wet y sttered onto my dress, staining the fine and expensive fabric.


    "Damn it!" I snapped. My voice came out harsher than I intended. The attendant closest to me flinched


    "Let me help you out, your grace" She tried to help me wipe off the stain but I was so angry that I pped her hand away. "Don''t fucking touch me, you peasant!"


    Her eyes widened in shock. She bowed her head "I''m sorry, Luna" Realizing my outburst, I took a deep breath and forced a tight smile.


    "I''m sorry, that was uncalled for. Please forgive me." The attendant nodded quickly then left. The nobledies exchanged nces and whispered.


    I instantly regretted my outburst. They knew my parents, and I couldn''t afford to have them gossiping about my tantrums. I had to keep up the golden child image.


    "I need to excuse myself," I said. I stood, brushing the y from my dress as best


    as I could, and walked out of the room. The moment I was alone, I let out a scream of frustration. What the hell is happening?


    I paced back and forth in my room. I


    was filled with frustration and anger.


    I needed to vent to someone so called Helen. She sat on the edge of my bed, listening to me or sol thought.


    "How does one seduce the Lycan King anyway?" I asked "He seems so hard to please. No man has ever rejected me before. No one! Why doesn''t he like me? I don''t get it"


    There was no response from Helen so I looked at her. I could see she was absent-minded. She looked outside the window.


    "Helen?" I shrieked. She flinched in shock "Yes Gina".


    "Do you even understand what I''ve been through?" I snapped, throwing my hands in the air.


    "It''s like everyone is out to get me! First, Alpha Ferris humiliates me,


    and then Jackson-don''t even get me started on Jackson!" Helen''s quickly e


    eyes widened, and she Hel


    nodded, trying to appear more attentive.


    "I''m sorry. I''m listening. Tell me what happened." I could feel my blood boiling as I continued.


    "Elise is trying to make aplete


    fool out of me. Jackson moaned her name while we were intimate. What does that even mean?" Helen''s nods were more enthusiastic now, but I could see that she still wasn''t fully present.


    It was like talking to a wall. My anger increased, and before I could stop myself, I snapped at her. "Are you even paying attention, Helen? Or are you just pretending to listen?"


    I spat out. Helen flinched, her cheeks turning red with embarrassment. "I-I''m sorry. I didn''t mean to "


    "Didn''t mean to what? Ignore me? Make me feel even more alone?" Helen''s eyes filled with tears, and she quickly wiped them away.


    "No. I really am sorry. Please, continue. I''m here for you." Before I could respond, there was a knock at the door.


    "Who is it?" I asked.


    "A royal guard"


    "Come in" A guard entered and bowed his head "Luna Gina, the tournament has already begun. I was sent here to remind you"


    The tournament? I had forgotten all about that. It was an avenue for fighters and other kinds of warriors to showcase themselves andpete.


    At the mention of the tournament, something clicked in my head.


    "Who''s there?" I asked. The guard listed a few names, but my attention snapped


    into focus when he mentioned King Ferris.


    A n began to form in my mind. If King Ferris was there, this could be my chance to make him like me.


    I turned to the guard "Send for Elise. Tell her I need to speak with her immediately." The guard nodded and left the room. Helen looked at me in confusion "What are you nning?"


    I grinned "I''m going to make a fool of Elise"

 Chapter 34

    ELISE''S POV


    I spent my day doing the chores I had been assigned. It seemed as if I was given


    arger share of the chores and I didn''t know why. I guess it was Gina''s way of punishing me and Ms Kelly''s way of making sure I stayed in my space. As I worked, my muscles ached with exhaustion. I had been working since morning with no break.


    Finally, I found a moment of peace when I had finished. I went to my room andid on the hard metal bed. It wasn''tfortable in the slightest but at least, I could rest a bit now. The room was so little and so dark that it made it almost impossible to find solitude here but I had no other choice. After all, it was better than standing on my tired legs.


    I closed my eyes, letting the quiet of the room envelop me. The sounds of the house-the clinking of cutlery, the murmurs of conversation from the other maids, the asional shout from the guards-faded into the background. My mind began to wander. Soon enough, I found myself dreaming of the past.


    In my dreams, I saw my childhood home. I grew up in a pce. My parents ruled peacefully as Alpha and Luna. I was a young child who was do full of life and joy. I was always happy.


    My childhood was a different world, one of golden afternoons andughter. I smiled as I remembered how my parents would throw parties for my birthday.


    I remembered a particr birthday of mine. It was one to remember. It was the happiest day of my life. I remembered the way my mother''s eyes sparkled as she watched me unwrap my gifts. In that moment, I realized how much I missed her smile. I couldn''t remember thest time my mother smiled at me.


    My friends''ughter echoed through the halls. I had been so excited, running from room to room to see what was going on.


    And then there was Jackson. I could picture him so clearly. He was a handsome boy with shiny brown hair and a mischievous grin that was always stered to his face. He was so charming. fade. I recalled how he came to me, holding a small wrapped box.


    "Happy birthday, Elise," he had said.


    I unwrapped the gift with eager fingers. Inside, was a ballerina box. When I rolled the lever, the ballerina started dancing. I looked at it in awe.


    "It''s beautiful, Jackson," I had whispered.


    His grin widened "I''m d you like it. I saw it when I travelled abroad with my parents. As soon as I saw it, I thought of you"


    I looked at him with so much


    admiration. My heart swelled with so much love that I thought my chest would explode. That was the day I knew I wanted to marry him."


    But now, as Iid on my hard bed, those memories felt like they never happened. My parents hated me. Jackson despised me. Gina used every opportunity she could to punish me.


    Where did it all go wrong?


    My peace was broken by a knock on the door. I groaned inwardly. What is it now? "Elise, Gina wants to see you. Now." a man''s voice sounded from the other wide.


    I pushed myself up from the bed. The thought of what awaited me filled me dread.


    I stood up and made my way to Gina''s room. When I finally reached her door, I knocked softly.


    "Come in" she said.


    I entered. Gina was in front of a mirror, dressed in her training gear.


    "You''rete, Elise!" she snapped "Do you have any idea how much time you''ve wasted?"


    "I''m sorry, Gina. I didn''t mean to¡ª"


    "Sorry?¡± Gina interrupted "Sorry doesn''t fix anything. You''ll have to make up for this dy."


    Before I could protest, Gina walked


    round the room to get some bags


    and


    gear from a near


    dropped them at my feet.


    MS

 Chapter 35

    ¡°Here,¡± she said "You''ll carry these to the tournament grounds. I expect you to be at my side the entire time. And don''t think for a second that you''ll get a break."


    I looked at the bags in horror. Surely, she was joking. There was no way I could carry these bags all the way there. I struggled to lift them, feeling the strain in my arms and shoulders as I adjusted their weight. Without another word, I nodded and began carrying them. Gina didn''t seem to care that I was visibly struggling. In fact, I''m sure she enjoyed it.


    We left her room and made our way downstairs. Gina got inside a car waiting for her.


    "Walk to the grounds" she said "I''m sure you could use the exercise"


    I watched in disbelief as she got in and the car moved past me. I sighed, preparing myself for the long trip.


    I started walking to the grounds. Carrying the bags, I could feel sweat trickling down my back. The heavy bags caused me to walk slowly. The sun was hot and I was already exhausted. I gritted my teeth and kept moving.


    The journey felt like it would take forever. My clothes grew soaked with sweat, and the bags seemed to grow heavier with every step.


    Finally, after what seemed like hours, I arrived at the tournament grounds. The grounds were filled with shouts of the pack members. In the middle of the grounds, warriors were engaged in intense fightingpetitions.


    In a special elevated area, members of the royal family were seated, watching the events. My parents were seated there. Gina sat next to Jackson.


    I walked up to them and dropped the bags.


    "Good day, mother" I said "Father"


    They pretended like I didn''t exist. They looked ahead, like I wasn''t there. I sighed, feeling my heart break again.


    I stood beuind Gina.


    "Ah, sister" she said with a mocking tone. "Just in time. I see you''re getting quite the workout. You need it. You were getting too fat anyways."


    I stood silently behind her. My whole body ached. I just wanted to lie down. The sounds of people''s shouts filled the air as they chanted and cheered for their favourite warrior.


    Suddenly, a small movement spread through the crowd. I nced up to see Ferris making his entrance. As soon as he came down from his convoy of cars, the whole


    vern


    tournament went quiet. Even the warriors stopped fighting Everyone stood still, bowing their heads as Ferris walked by.


    When he got to our elevated area, Jackson, Gina and even my parents stood up and bowed their heads.


    bowed my head in shame. I was


    aware of how bad I looked. My clothes were dirty, and my hair was stered to my forehead with


    sweat. I didn''t want Ferris to see me like this, but there was nothing I could do. I kept my gaze fixed on the ground, hoping he wouldn''t notice me. It was hard to do so when all I wanted to do was run into his arms.


    Ferris took his seat. His presence alonemanded respect. When he wasfortably seated, the


    tournament continued. From then eto


    corner of my eye, I noticed that his gaze lingered on me for a moment. I quickly looked away with my cheeks burning with embarrassment.


    The shes of steel, fists and the roar of the crowd shook the grounds. After


    hours, the tournament was finally closing anding to an end.


    Just then, Gina stood up "Its not over yet. I wish to show my skills to everyone"


    Everyone looked at her in surprise. Hushed whispers filled the crowd.


    "The Luna wants to fight?" people whispered amongst themselves.


    Even I was surprised. But it''s Gina we''re talking about. She''ll do anything for attention.


    "That''s impressive, my dear" my mom said with a smile. My father nodded in agreement.


    "And who would you like to challenge, my love?" Jackson asked her.


    Gina turned to me with an evil smile "Elise"

 Chapter 36

    I looked at Gina in surprise.


    "Me?!" I shrieked


    Jacksonughed loudly. Even my parents joined in.


    "Gina, darling,¡± he said, "pick a better opponent. Elise here couldn''t handle a feather, let alone a real fight."


    "You''re right" my mom said "Don''t waste your time on her, my dear"


    My parents exchanged nces and chuckled. They had always considered me too wild, too untamed. The thought that I might actually be able to hold my own in a fight was something they clearly couldn''t entertain.


    "Do not judge a book by its cover," Ferris said,manding everyone''s attention. Everywhere became silent as he spoke.


    "Elise is strong" Ferris said "How can you not see that?"


    "Surely, you must be mistaken, your grace" my father said "Elise wouldn''tst a minute in a fight with anyone. She''s our daughter. We''re sure of this".


    "You might be surprised"


    Ferris'' encouragement warmed my heart. He was the only person who stood up for me.


    I tried to refuse Gina''s challenge. I didn''t want things to end up badly for both of us. This couldn''t go well, no matter what the oue was.


    "Gina, this isn''t necessary. We don''t need to resort to violence," I said, hoping to avoid the confrontation. "Let''s just "


    Gina''s eyes narrowed "Oh, so now you''re trying to back out? What''s the matter, Elise? Afraid you might actually have to defend yourself?"


    She turned to Jackson "I guess Elise thinks she''s too good to fight me. Or maybe she just doesn''t have the guts."


    Jackson turned to face me with an annoyed expression


    "What''s this nonsense?" he barked at me "How dare you refuse your Luna?"


    "But -" I started.


    "Elise, you''ve been called out. Obey your Luna and do as you''re told."


    I took a deep breath, knowing I had little choice now. My options were limited, and


    I couldn''t afford to refuse Gina.


    I nodded slowly" Alright. I''ll fight"


    Gina smiled "Perfect. Let''s go"


    Gine and I stepped down and walked down the field. The crowd parted for us, creating a ring in the center of it all. Gina and I stepped down to the middle. The ce went silent.


    I looked at Gina. She had a smile stered on her face, like she was sure she was going to win.


    The thing is Nobody knows that I was rescued by an old woman when I was taken by Scar. This woman and her son took me in, cared for me and taught me so many things.


    The woman taught me the art of healing and potion making amongst other things. Her son, who was a warrior in his former pack, taught me martial arts. He taught me how to fight in all kinds of forms and with weapons as well. When I came back, I never told anyone or practiced fighting because already, my parents saw me as too wild and untamed. I didn''t want to give them or anyone else further reasons to think I wasn''t fit to be queen so I kept my skills to myself.


    It''s the reason I didn''t want to fight Gina. I knew she wouldn''t win.


    The referee came in between us and asked "Fists or swords?"


    "Fists" Gina said.


    As soon as the referee left, Gina charged forward at me with a right hook aimed at my head. I shifted my weight to my back foot, smoothly dodging her punch. I felt the rush of air as Gina''s fists moved past me. Everyone gasped. Even Gina looked surprised.


    Gina blinked repeatedly. She definitely didn''t expect that. Despite everything she did to me, I didn''t want to hurt her.


    Ginaposed herself and lunged at me again. She tried to punch me but I blocked the punch with my forearm, redirecting the force to the side. Gina stumbled and fell as a result.


    "I don''t want to fight you" I said.


    Gina let out a frustrated sigh. She got up again and punched me severally. I dodged all of her punches swiftly. I was focusing more on defending myself. I didn''t want to hurt her.


    I sidestepped Gina''s attacks without even breaking a sweat. I dodged and countered all her punches with my arms held up. Gina aimed a kick at my midsection, but I anticipated it. Inded on my back foot and swept my arm down to deflect the kick.


    Gina''s nose red in anger "Fight back, coward! You''re such a cheap slut"


    I didn''t let the words get to me. Everyone was on their feet now, intrigued by the


    fight. They were all watching, waiting to see what would happen.


    Gina''s taunts grew harsher. She whispered so that nobody else would hear.


    "You''re nothing, Elise! Always hiding, always weak!"


    That was when I started to get angry. I could feel the rage pumping in my veins. I was tired of Gina treating me like shit. It was time to show her who''s really weak.


    Gina threw a kiek aiming at my head. I saw an opening. I side stepped the kick by dodging immediately and going to the other side. I delivered a side blow to Gina''s ribs. The impact made Gina gasp. It was the first time I had hit her since the fight started. Before Gina could recover,


    delivered a round house kick to her stomach. Gina staggered backward, hurt and off-bnce.


    I delivered another kick to her face, making Gina scream. I finally ended the fight


    with a sweeping leg kick. Gina''s legs out from under her, sending her crashing to


    the ground. Ginay there, gasping for breath and staring up at me with wide


    eyes.


    Gina let out a loud scream, turned to the side and held her face. She began writhing in pain. Jackson and my parents rushed to her side immediately. They crouched down and checked on her. Gina kept screaming and rolling on the floor in pain. I didn''t even hit her that hard. She was obviously pretending.


    "How could you?" my father screamed at me.


    I looked at them in disbelief "She challenged me! She started it"


    "You''ve never liked her" my mom cried "You''ve always wanted to hurt your sister. How could you be so mean?"


    "You''re such an animal!" my father barked.


    His words hurt me deeper than any knife ever could. How could they treat me like this? I had done nothing to deserve their hatred.


    I couldn''t believe it. Even when Gina was at fault, I would still be med. There


    was nothing I could do to change that. It was sad but it was the truth. "Well, If the winner needs to be punished, then I think I really don''t fit in here." Without another word, I ran away from the fields with anger in my eyes.

 Chapter 37

    I ran as fast as I could out of the arena. I ran until I reached the woods. My breath came in ragged gasps as I ran.


    I ran through the trees, thinking of everything that had happened. The pain of seeing my once loving parents now so cold and distant tore at my heart. The words my father said to me echoed in my head.


    "You''re such an animal!" he said.


    The tears fell freely from my eyes now. There was an ache in my chest from all the pain I felt inside. I felt bad for hurting Gina, but she had started it. She was the one who challenged me. She was the one who made me angry. Even at that, it was somehow my fault. It was always my fault. I didn''t matter to anyone. Nobody cared about me.


    No one wanted me anymore. Not my parents, not Jackson, not even the pack members. The people who were supposed to love me, to support me, had turned their backs on me. Maybe I''d be better off dead.


    I found a secluded spot in the forest, hidden from view. I copsed onto the ground and started sobbing. The ache in my chest grew more painful with each passing second. I pulled out the hairpin from my hair and stared at the sharp point. My hands shook as I pressed it against my wrist, feeling the cold metal press against my skin. The pain was a strange kind of relief. It served as a distraction for me.


    Just as I was about to press down harder, a strong hand grabbed my wrist, stopping me. I looked up, startled, and found myself staring into Ferris''s eyes.


    "Elise, what are you doing?" he asked, pulling me up to face him.


    "Let me go," I sobbed, trying to pull away. "I just want it to end. Please, Ferris, just let me go."


    He didn''t say anything. He just tightened his grip on my wrist, gently but firmly. His presence calmed me. I realized how much I had missed him.


    I struggled against him, desperate to end the pain, but he didn''t let go.


    "Why do you care?" I choked out. "No one cares. My parents hate me. They think I''m a monster."


    Ferris''s eyes softened. He pulled the hairpin from my hand, tossing it away. "Elise, I care. I''m not going to let you hurt yourself."


    Something in his voice, the sincerity, the concern, broke through the wall of sadness I had built around myself. I copsed against him, sobbing loudly. He wrapped his arms around me, holding me close as I cried.


    "It''s okay, Elise," he murmured "You''re not alone. You''re not a monster."


    I cried harder. All the pain, fear and guilt I felt poured out of me through my tears. Ferris held me. He didn''t let go, even as my sobs turned into hups. He just stood there with me,forting me and patting my back softly. Nobody had ever been there for me like this before. No one has ever held me when I cried.


    After what felt like an eternity, my sobs began to subside. The sadness I felt before now turned to tiredness. My eyes grew heavy and my body ached as if the crying had drained my strength.


    I took a deep breath and pulled away from Ferris, wiping the tears from my face


    with the back of my hand. My eyes felt puffy and sore and my throat was raw from crying.


    "Thank you," I murmured "Thank you for stopping me. I... I wasn''t thinking straight."


    Ferris removed some strands of hair from my face. The action sent warmth through my body. I leaned into his touch even more.


    "You don''t say?" he teased" And here I was, thinking it was just one of your PMS mood swings. I knowdies get like that sometimes."


    I stared at him for a moment, stunned by his audacity, and then, to my surprise, Iughed. I couldn''t remember thest time Iughed. In the midst of all this pain, it was exactly what I needed. Ferrisughed too.


    As ourughter subsided, Ferris looked at me with an intensity that made my breath get caught in my throat


    He cupped my cheeks in his hand "Elise, I promise you, I''m going to find a way to get you out of


    Jackson''s house. You don''t deserve this, and I won''t let you stay in that helthole any longer than necessary."


    His words warmed my heart. In that moment, I stared into his eyes, feeling emotions I couldn''t describe. The air around us cackled with intensity and warmth and... Something else.


    I"Thank yo. You have no idea how much that means to me."


    For a moment, we both stood there, staring into each other''s eyes. The world seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of us in our own bubble. I could see the concern in his eyes. His gaze dropped to my lips, and I felt a maic pull, a strong force drawing us closer.


    Time seemed to slow down as we leaned in. The space between us shrunk until I could feel his breath on my skin. My heart pounded in my chest each beat echoing in my ears. Just as our lips were about to meet, I felt a jolt, a sudden feeling of rity. I pulled back and cleared my throat.


    "I... I should go," I said, avoiding his gaze. "I still have a lot of chores to do."


    Ferris blinked. The spell between us was broken. He nodded slowly, releasing my face. ¡°I understand. Give me some time and I''ll get you out of here."


    I gave him a small smile before hurrying away. As I walked back to the pce, my mind was filled with different emotions. The connection I felt with Ferris was undeniable, but I couldn''t afford to get lost in it.


    Not now, not while I was still trapped in Jackson''s house.

 Chapter 38

    GINA''S POV


    I slipped into a special dress that I had picked out myself. It was a tight ck dress that hugged my curves in all the right ces.


    I smiled as I looked at myself in the mirror. I recalled the events at the tournament. I''ll admit, I never expected Elise to be so strong. For a moment, I thought I was going to be embarrassed but then, I found a way to turn everything in my favour. Everyone looked at Elise like she was a monster and that was exactly what I wanted. Even our parents got mad at her. I loved it when I got my way.


    I wore this dress so I''d see Jackson and hopefully, get something out of him. I had my eyes on am expensive set of diamond earrings that I wanted him to buy for me. This dress should do the trick. After what happened at the arena, Jackson was surely done with Elise. It was my turn now.


    I made my way to Jackson''s office with the sound of my heels echoing in the hallway. I stered a charming smile on my face. I already had the perfect n in my mind. By the time I was done with him, he wouldn''t realize when he would write the cheque for me to purchase the earrings. The thought of it excited me.


    When I reached his door, I took a deep breath and knocked gently. There was no response. I could hear his voice from inside. It sounded like he was talking to


    someone.


    I knocked again. He didn''t answer so I opened the door and slipped inside. Jackson was on the phone, pacing up and down behind his desk. His face was masked with anger. I sat down in one of the leather chairs, crossing my legs slowly to draw his attention, but he didn''t even nce my way. That''s weird. He would be all over me by now.


    "You can''t be serious!" Jackson barked at the person on the other line. "How could you not have everything in ce by now? I specifically told you¡ª¡±


    His conversation was heated. I couldn''t really make out all the words but he talked about ns falling apart and ack ofmunication. I watched him, feeling a bit impatient. Was my dress not good enough? Or was it my hair? I did everything perfectly just the way he liked it. I even put on his favourite red lipstick.


    This wasn''t how I''d nned it, but maybe I could use this to my advantage. Distract him, help him unwind.


    An idea came into in my mind, one that made me grin wickedly. I stood up and slowly, I began to strip off my dress. Jackson''s back was to me, still engrossed in his call. I walked over to him and slipped my hand around his waist.


    "Gina, what the-" he started, but I cut him off, pressing myself against him and running my hand down his chest.


    "Shh," I whispered into his ear. "You need to rx."


    I reached for his belt and removed it in an instant. Jackson froze for a moment. I unbuttoned his pants, eyeing him seductively. Jackson then grabbed my wrist just as I was about to touch him. He ended his call instantly and turned to face me.


    "What do you think you''re doing?" he asked harshly.


    I was a bit taken aback by his tone. Jackson had never spoken to me like this before. What''s the matter?


    "Helping you rx," I said, pouting a little. "You seem so tense."


    He sighed and let go of my wrist. Instead of pulling me closer, he stepped back.


    "Gina, stop. This isn''t what I need right now."


    I stared at him, stunned. This wasn''t how it was supposed to go.


    "Jackson, I thought¡ª"


    "Did you get any lettersst week?" he interrupted.


    "What?" I blinked in confusion "What letters?"


    "Letters from the entertainment council. I sent them a letter to ask if we could host


    the annual Luna ball and they sent an approval letter to you. Didn''t you get it?"


    I stared into space, trying to remember if I had received


    something of the sort. I remembered one of the maids telling me about a


    letter but I waved her off and told


    her to deal with it.


    "Gina! " Jackson snapped at me, making me flinch a little..


    "I don''t know, okay? Maybe. I think I received it but that has nothing to do with me.


    That''s the maid''s job."


    Jackson''s eyes red with anger. "The maid''s job? Are you serious? Since when do maids handle official letters? You''re supposed to handle all sensitive information. Did you even look at the letters?"


    "Why are you being like this?" I snapped at him.


    "Because," Jackson said through gritted teeth, you missed the memo informing us that we''re hosting the annual Luna''s gathering this weekend. It''s a huge event, and didn''t


    nothing is ready because t


    do your job. I didn''t even know they approved it because the letter was directed to the Luna and not me."


    I opened my mouth to defend myself, but no words came out.


    How could I have missed something so important?


    "I never had to worry about this with Elise," Jackson muttered, more to himself than to me. ¡°If you can''t handle your duties, maybe you should talk to her for


    help."


    "Are you serious?" I exploded, unable to hold back my anger. "You want me to go to Elise for help? After everything?"


    Jackson didn''t respond. He just shook his head. He had a disappointed expression on his face. I could see his body trembling from anger as well.


    With a loud scream, he threw the books on his table to the floor.


    "Fuck this!" he screamed.


    He pushed past me and stormed out of the room, banging the door loudly behind


    him.

 Chapter 39

    GINA''S POV


    I had never felt such anger boiling in my veins. Jackson had the audacity to


    fault.


    With Helen at my side, we stormed toward where Elise was. She was supposed to be washing guards in the backyard.


    "I can''t believe him!" I shrieked.


    "I can''t either. How dare hepare you to her? She''s a nobody"


    "Exactly! He has no right and neither does she"


    When we got to the backyard, we saw Elise there. She was busy, hunched over a line of freshly washed clothes. She had her back to us. Perfect.


    "What do you want to do now?" Helen asked.


    "Just watch me," I muttered, my eyes narrowing at the sight of Elise. "She needs to know her ce."


    We reached the clothesline, and without a second thought, I pulled hard on the rope, sending the wet clothes into the dirt. Elise turned around. Her eyes were wide with shock and confusion. For a moment, there was silence as she took in the scene, then her eyes met mine.


    "Gina, what are you doing?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly.


    "It''s Luna to you! Don''t you ever call me by my name again"


    Elise took a deep breath "Luna, what are you doing"


    I smiled "Oh, just helping you out, Elise. Wouldn''t want you to get toofortable in your new position."


    Elise''s face flushed red. "I have no idea what''s going on. I don''t understand why you''re doing this."


    Helen stepped forward, crossing her arms over her chest. "Maybe if you weren''t so busy ying the victim, you''d realize why."


    I could see the hurt in Elise''s eyes, and it only fueled my anger.


    "Jacksonpared you to me, can you believe that?" I spat out. "As if you could ever measure up."


    Elise''s eyes flickered with something I couldn''t quite ce¡ªdefiance maybe? "I''m not trying to measure up to anyone."


    "That''s because you can''t," I snapped back. "You''re nothing but a maid now. Remember that."


    She opened her mouth to respond, but I cut her off. "Oh, by the way, I''ll be nning this year''s Lunas gathering. It''s in three days."


    Her face paled when I said that. I could see how even more hurt she was. When she was Luna, she was the one who would n it but now, I had taken over her position. I wanted to rub it in her face every chance I got.


    Elise blinked, clearly taken aback. "Three days? But I don''t even have the guest list or any information."


    I smirked. "That''s not your problem. You''re not Luna anymore"


    "Oh" she murmured, looking down at the grounds there anything I can do to help? I have the experience. could help you out. If you could give me the guest list, I could tell you what the Lunas like. They all have their meal preferences and


    "No. Just shut up! It''s none of your business. I''ll handle it. And remember, you have no right to make demands from me or try to help me. I''m your Luna now. Don''t you ever forget that."


    The defeated look in her eyes was almost too satisfying. This turned out better than I expected. This wasn''t the end. I was going to crush Elise''s spirit to the point of no return. I wanted her to know that there was no redemption for her. My n was working perfectly now. I was queen and I wanted it to remain that way.


    "Yes, Luna," she whispered.


    I turned to leave, feeling very satisfied with how things turned out. Helen followed closely behind. We had shown Elise her ce. She was nothing, and I would make sure she never forgot it.


    As we walked away, I couldn''t resist onest nce over my shoulder. Elise stood there, looking lost and broken among the scattered clothes on the ground.


    It was perfect. A smile crept on to my lips at the sight of her.


    She needed to understand that in this world, there were those who led and those who followed. And Elise, she was meant to follow.


    ELISE''S POV


    I stood there, dumbfounded, as Gina and Helen stormed off. Theirughter echoed in my ears as they walked off.


    The clothes I had hand-washed nowid scattered on the dirty ground. My hands trembled as I took in the scene before me. What had I done to make Gina so angry this time?


    As I bent down to pick up the clothes, I couldn''t help but rey the confrontation in my mind. Gina''s words cut deep. Her words felt like knives being pierced in my heart.


    I was nothing but a maid to her now, and she relished in reminding me of my new, diminished status. But why? Why was she so furious with me?


    I felt bad. I was supposed to be the one nning the Luna gathering, not her. In fact, I had looked forward to it all year. I couldn''t believe this was my life now.


    I was lost in my thoughts when I heard footsteps approaching. I looked up to see Helen rushing back towards me. At the sight of her, I thought she wanted to taunt me again.


    Before I could react, she slipped a small piece of paper into my hand and ran away, rejoining Gina without a word.


    I stared at her retreating figure in disbelief. What was that about?


    I unfolded the note, my fingers fumbling with the crumpled paper. The note read: Meet me by the back garden this evening. ¡ªHelen


    I stared at the note, looking at it repeatedly to make sure my mind wasn''t ying tricks on me.


    Why would Helen want to meet me in secret? And why did she slip me the note in a hidden manner?


    I had so many questions in my head but one thing was clear-I had to find out what Helen wanted.


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