Summary

Astraea has lived her life as one of the best kept secrets of her kind. It seemed that her life was meant to be nothing more, but then she meets Asher, her fated mate with the ability to set her free.

Chapter 1

Astraea

My name is Astraea Fiora, third child of Alpha Magnus Fiora and Luna Gloria Fiora. You may be thinking that being the only daughter to the alpha would come with certain privileges and in other packs, you might be right…but not here…not with my parents. My oldest brother, Ares, was worshiped by our parents. My brother, Apollo, is the middle child and while he receives less attention than our older brother did, he’s still considered a prized possession simply for the fact that he’s the right gender. Then there’s me, the useless daughter, a wolf with alpha blood that serves no purpose because a female can never become alpha and since they already have their sons, they have no need for me. I don’t know why they named us all after Greek gods and goddesses when they felt that only one of us was fit to be worthy of their unwavering love and affection.

I’ve spent my life being raised by the house staff at the packhouse and for the first twelve years of my life, it was actually not that bad. Everything changed the day of my thirteenth birthday. My birth wasn’t something that my family or pack celebrated because, as my parents love to remind me, I wasn’t meant to exist. My parents consulted a seer when they found out my mother was pregnant with me, hoping to find answers as to how she came to be with child since they hadn’t mated since Apollo’s birth. They were told I was a blessing, a gift from the goddess, but the second she told them they were blessed with a daughter, they had the seer put to death, believing she must’ve been a witch and that she had used her ‘dark’ magic to somehow cause my mother to fall pregnant. They saw me as a curse, not a blessing.

Anyway, the change in my boring, yet not awful, life began, as I said, on my thirteenth birthday. Since my birth was never celebrated, I had gone to the meadow in the middle of the forest to let my wolf run. I had run there many times before and my wolf, Vira, loved it there. That afternoon, she ran for hours, but we lost track of time. By the time I had shifted and gotten dressed, the sun was already beginning to set. It seems my presence actually had been missed because my parents sent Ares out to find me. He barely made it to the center of the meadow where I was standing before dropping to his knees, a silver arrow sticking out of his chest and blood running from the corner of his mouth, slithering down to his chin. His last word to me, a word that haunts me to this day, was spoken on a soft, shaky breath…‘run’.

I did exactly as Ares instructed, I ran and didn’t stop until I reached the packhouse. I was screaming and crying, not stopping until my parents and Apollo came storming downstairs to see what the hell all the noise was. I told them what happened and they all took off for the meadow. I sat on the back patio for an hour before I saw them walking back and my heart broke when I saw Ares cradled in my father’s arms. I knew he was gone because I felt his soul leave as I ran from the field, but seeing the pain and agony on my parents’ faces made my heart ache unbearably. I wish I had known that it was only going to get so much worse from that moment on.

From that day forward, I became a metaphorical and literal punching bag for my parents and Apollo. I was blamed for Ares’ death and was punished daily for it. Apollo was forced into alpha training, yet another thing I was blamed for. Why they blamed me for the fact that they neglected to prepare their second son for the possibility of becoming alpha is beyond me, but that’s somehow my fault too. Apollo is definitely not as strong as Ares was, nor as skilled at combat. He’s the lesser version in every way and our parents never let either of us forget it.

I’m honestly amazed that I’ve survived all the beatings I’ve taken, but I know the only reason I have is because of Vira. She always told me we were stronger than anyone knew, that we’re meant for something more than this life, but it wasn’t until today that I learned that there’s a lot more to us than I ever realized…like the fact that I shifted for the first time at the age of ten, but I didn’t know that wasn’t normal. I’m sure my parents would’ve made sure I was well aware of that fact if they had actually been around me enough to even know I got my wolf eight years early.

Today has been a day where I’ve learned many new things…like the fact that I’m not the only wolf who hates my parents. You see, one of my many punishments is my servant duties. I’m responsible for ensuring the alpha suite and my father’s office are cleaned daily. Usually, there are no documents on his desk or anywhere within sight, so I’m able to easily dust and vacuum then leave. Not today. Today it seems he left his office in a hurry and he failed to put away the stack of letters on his desk…more accurately a stack of formal complaints that have been filed with the high council. Now I find myself more grateful than ever that Ares taught me to read and write. It seems Alpha Asher is coming for a visit to investigate the claims on behalf of the council.

Yes, I read the letters and yes, I’ve read all about Alpha Asher and his violent, brutal nature. Everything I’ve read about him states that he’s a great alpha, one of the greatest, but I suppose it’s more his personality and the brutal way he resolves conflict that’s left him with such a distasteful reputation. The letter’s say he’ll be arriving today and I know I’ll be instructed to remain out of sight, but my curiosity is a cruel beast. My father’s hasty exit from his office now makes sense. I bet Asher’s already here. Looks like it’s time to do some investigating of my own!

I rush through the last of my chores then change into clean clothes, you know, the typical black leggings and a black shirt so I can hide in the shadows…or try to anyway. With my black hair pulled into a messy bun, I pull on my black extremely worn out slip-on shoes and head out the back door. Finding the unfamiliar scent is easy, but for some reason it’s so much stronger than I would’ve expected. Are all alpha’s scents this strong? I follow the scent toward the main part of our little town and easily catch up with them as they’re walking between two of the shops.

“As you can see, my pack members are very happy here and are treated very well.” I roll my eyes at my father’s blatant lie, but it’s not like Asher or my dad can see it.

“If it had been a single complaint, I wouldn’t be here, Alpha Magnus. We received dozens, not one, but many. That being said, as much as it inconveniences you, you’re stuck with…what…this isn’t possible…” Wait, what’s my dad stuck with and what isn’t possible?

“Is something wrong, Alpha Asher?” I hear heavy footsteps on the gravel between the buildings and try to quickly move around the back of the building, praying to the goddess that I don’t get caught.

“You…come here.” And…shit. I keep my head lowered, only giving myself a view of his perfectly polished shoes and the black slacks covering his long, thick legs. I know there’s no point in running now, but goddess how I want to!

“What’s your name?” He moves closer, but now there’s another set of feet standing not far behind him.

“Astraea! You were told to stay in the house and tend to your chores! Need I remind you what happens when you disobey me?!” I know better than to point out that he didn’t actually tell me to stay in the house this time because I know what the result would be.

“No alpha. I’ll return to the house right away.” I swear, Asher’s scent is intoxicating and it’s making my mind foggy, but answering my father is an automatic reaction after all these years. Hell, I could probably provide the expected response in my sleep.

“No, she’s going to stay right here. Look at me, little one.” Asher’s large hand raises up and gently grips my chin, sending electrical surges through me as he forces my head to rise until I meet his deep blue eyes with my pale green ones. It’s not possible. My mind tells me there’s no way it could be, but then there’s my wolf who’s throwing a damn party in my head and shouting out her one-word chant on constant repeat, the single word playing like a broken record…mate.

“I think I’ve seen enough for today. It looks like we have another matter to discuss, Alpha Magnus. Perhaps we should go to your office?” I can feel my father’s fury and I have no doubt that the minute he can get me alone, I’ll be feeling it full force…for several days. I keep my head lowered as we all walk back toward the packhouse, but my mind, rather than focusing on the punishment I’ll surely be facing once my father can get me alone, is running through all the information I’ve ever read about Alpha Asher and the warmth I can feel radiating from him as he walks beside me.

‘Vira, you know the stories about him, how he executed his mate for treason, so how the hell can he be our mate? The goddess doesn’t offer second chance mates to wolves who harm or reject their mates!’

‘Perhaps there’s more to his story than what we’ve read. All I know is that he’s definitely our mate and that means we can get away from this awful place!’

‘If his first mate was so terrible, why would he even want us?’

‘Oh, Astraea, we’re a gift from the goddess, just like that seer predicted! He’ll see that, surely he will.’

‘But what if he doesn’t? What if he rejects us?’

‘He won’t, but if he were willing to disgrace the goddess by rejecting such a gift, we’ll run. I’m done letting you suffer at the hands of those monsters. I feel something coming, Astraea, and I just know we’re meant for so much more than this life. Have faith in the goddess’s plan and have faith in us.’

‘I’m trying, Vira.’ I won’t lie, the fact that he executed his last mate, even if it was for treason, is a little nerve wrecking. Of everything I’ve read and all I’ve learned, there was very little written about his first mate and aside from stating that she had committed treason, there’s no details of what that treasonous act was. My thoughts stall out as we step into the packhouse and make our way to my father’s office where, once inside, the doors are shut behind us.

“Alpha Asher, might I ask what brings us back here before our tour was concluded?”I can see it in his eyes, he knows…and he’s afraid. Surely, he’s thinking that if Asher were to accept me, I might tell him about my father’s abuse and mistreatment of not only myself, but our other pack members as well. He’s right to fear what I might reveal…what I would happily reveal for the sake of this pack.

“Well, Alpha Magnus, this is a very unexpected situation we find ourselves in. It seems the goddess has been hard at work behind the scenes. It seems she deemed it necessary to give me a second chance mate…your daughter.” Okay, so he doesn’t exactly sound happy about it, but maybe he’s just in shock?

“My daughter…is your mate? I must admit, that certainly is…unexpected.” By unexpected, my father means infuriating, but his poorly veiled anger has Vira laughing, feeling highly amused by the whole mess.

“I must say, I wasn’t aware you even had a daughter.” I’m not surprised, not in the slightest. I wasn’t wanted by my parents, so why would they go around telling others about me? They would probably see such a thing as them exposing their shame to the masses.

“Yes, she’s a very shy and timid child.” Oh, he’s funny! There’s not a shy or timid bone in my body and he doesn’t even know how powerful and wild Vira can be.

“Well, as my mate, I’m sure you understand that she’ll be returning to my pack with me when I leave in two days. Until then, I would like to spend some time getting to know her in the evenings and we can focus on the investigation in the earlier part of the day.” The fact that he’s openly declared that he’s taking me with him must mean he’s not planning to reject me and while part of me is happy, the other part is terrified of what that means for me.

“Of course, Alpha Asher. Shall we continue our tour? My luna needs to speak with our daughter. She wishes to congratulate her on finding her mate and help her to start packing her things.” Asher gives a stiff nod then turns toward me, his entire presence seems to demand attention, though I’m forcing myself to look down, to not meet his eyes.

“Astraea, would you do me the honor of joining me for dinner this evening?” I…wasn’t expecting this. He wants to have dinner…with me? Just the two of us?

“Yes, alpha.” He does that thing again, he gently grabs my chin and tilts my head up until my eyes meet his and he just…stares at me? Why’s he looking at me like that?

“Please be ready to leave by six. We’ll be traveling to Auburn to have dinner.” I don’t even have to look at my father to know he’s not happy with this, not at all.

“I would feel much better if my daughter remained on our pack grounds, Alpha Asher. It’s not safe for her to be traveling without her guards.” guards? What guards? What the hell is he even talking about? Since when do I have guards?

“Are you questioning my ability to protect my mate and keep her safe, Magnus?” I definitely don’t miss the way he fails to address my father by his title…and my father doesn’t miss it either.

“Not at all, Alpha Asher. Astraea, your mother is waiting for you in her study.” My eyes are still locked onto the deep blue eyes of my mate, wondering what the hell he’s seeing when he looks at me, even more so when I see his eyes narrow slightly before he lets go of my chin and takes a step back.

“Best not keep the luna waiting. Remember, six o’clock.” I nod in acknowledgement before hurrying out of the room. Now to face my mother and I hope like hell the fact that I found my mate will be enough to keep her from punishing me today.

Chapter 2

Asher

The last thing I was expecting to find when I made my journey to the Lunar Crest Pack was a mate. I came to investigate claims of corruption, abuse of power, misappropriation of funds and several reports of pack members being directly abused by their alpha and luna. Magnus only knows of a few of the complaints we received, but one of the complaints I was investigating was one sent by one of his house staff who claimed he has been abusing his own daughter. The council was outraged by the claim, but not only because of the claim of abuse, but because Magnus and Gloria have never made it known that they had another child together. Any gathering they had attended in the past, they would bring their sons, Ares and Apollo, before Ares’s untimely death, but there was never mention of a daughter.

I was working under the radar during our little tour, letting him think we were just meeting pack members while touring the town so he could show me how perfect everything in his pack is. Anytime things in a pack appear to be perfect, it means that it’s anything but. I had been quite subtle with my questioning of his pack members and while their answers were always the most perfect answer they could possibly give, their body language betrayed them. I did manage to sneak in a few questions with one of the shopkeepers while Magnus stepped across the street to speak to one of his guards. I used this as my chance to slip in a question about the mysterious phantom daughter.

“I had been hoping to meet the alpha’s daughter during my trip, but it seems she’s away on pack business.” The woman’s eyes narrow and her brow furrows. I expect her to correct me, to claim the alpha has no daughter, but I couldn’t be more wrong.

“Strange, she was just here this morning to pick up some items that her mother had requested. She never leaves the pack lands…oh, but perhaps I’m mistaken.” She adds the last with a tremor in her voice while her eyes are focused behind me and the door to the shop opens seconds later. I place my finger to my lips, signaling for her to remain quiet.

“This is a lovely shop you have here and I truly appreciate you taking your time to answer my questions. I hope you have a wonderful day.” I quickly turn and let Magnus lead the way out of the shop. This bastard is definitely hiding something. As soon as we exit the shop, my wolf, Nero, becomes restless and is pacing and growling in my mind. I feel like we’re being watched, but when I scan the area, I see nothing that stands out.

“As you can see, my pack members are very happy here and are treated very well.” He’s so eager to convince me, too damn eager.

“If it had been a single complaint, I wouldn’t be here, Alpha Magnus. We received dozens, not one, but many. That being said, as much as it inconveniences you, you’re stuck with…what…this isn’t possible…” I lose my train of thought halfway through, the overwhelming scent of honey and jasmine flooding my senses and driving Nero mad. I follow the scent through the alley to the back of the shops and I spot her as she’s trying to slip away. I know who she is the second I see her…the mysterious daughter of Alpha Magnus…and apparently…my mate.

As I watch my mate leave the alpha’s office, Nero is furious. The second I first locked eyes with her, I realized that she’s unlike any wolf I’ve ever met. Her eyes are so expressive and when I look into them, I can read her every emotion without even trying. This time, I saw the hint of fear in them and it took everything in me to not force her to stay by my side. I never thought I’d receive another mate, not when I’m the one who ended the life of my first mate, but the goddess clearly has other plans. I swear on everything that’s holy, if these bastards lay a finger on my future luna, I will end them!

“Shall we continue with our tour, Alpha Asher?” I have to keep my temper, and Nero, under control, so I force a smile and gesture for him to lead the way. Hopefully I can get Astraea to open up during dinner tonight because I need some damn answers.

Through the rest of the ridiculous and obviously staged tour, I forced myself to remain impassive, not allowing my emotions to show, though Nero wants nothing more than to punish this bastard for the crimes we both are certain he committed. While I’m sure I could sway the council to forgive my actions, I refuse to let myself be seen as an unfair alpha by other packs, to prove myself to be the heartless monster so many already believe me to be. This means I need to bide my time until I can gather the necessary information to support what I already know. Hopefully my dinner tonight with Astraea will help me to do that, or at the very least grant me some unfiltered insight into how Magnus runs things.

I’m waiting in the foyer at ten minutes till six and the second Nero starts pacing, I know she’s coming. I look up the stairs just in time to see her stop at the top, her raven black hair is in a loose braid that hangs over her right shoulder, her face is void of makeup which only makes her look more perfect and she’s wearing a long sleeve black dress that hugs her every curve and stops an inch above her knees. She is, in one word, perfection. She gracefully descends the stairs, a feat that seems like it should be impossible with the five inch black heels she’s wearing, then stops after stepping off the last step. Since our first meeting, she’s never willingly met my gaze, so when she raises her head and locks her gaze with mine of her own accord, I can’t help but smile.

“Shall we?” I offer her my arm and she doesn’t even hesitate to link hers with it and allows me to lead her out of the packhouse to my car that’s already waiting for us with my head guard, Alex, behind the wheel and my beta, Luke, in the passenger seat. Once we’re both seated, we pull away and I begin the introductions.

“Astraea, this is my beta and best friend, Luke. The big beast driving us tonight is my head guard, also another friend of mine, Alex. Guys, this is Alpha Magnus and Luna Gloria’s daughter, Astraea.” I can see the confusion written all over their faces because, just like the rest of the world outside this pack, no one even knew she existed.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Astraea. Might I ask how old you are?” Luke’s question doesn’t seem to bother her at all, in fact, it even brings a smile to her face.

“I don’t mind, feel free to ask anything. I turned eighteen two weeks ago.” When Luke’s brow furrows, I know he’s thinking the same thing that I am. Her pack hosted a mating ball last week and all unmated wolves of mating age were to attend, yet she wasn’t there…but Alex was.

“Oh, I don’t recall seeing you at the mating ball.” She shifts her gaze to the view out the window, but she’s not aimlessly gazing, oh no, she’s searching…she’s looking for something…or someone.

“I was unable to attend, I’m afraid.” Her answer is too perfect, too rehearsed…and she knows it. The second she turns her head and locks her eyes with mine, I see the hidden warning there and give a subtle nod before linking Alex and Luke.

‘No further questions about her role in the pack or anything pack related until we’re off pack lands. We’re being followed.’ I hear Alex’s low growl, but both of them nod in agreement. With our conversation topics being so limited, we end up remaining silent until roughly one mile after we pass the Lunar Crest border.

“Alright, Astraea, what the hell’s going on? Who was following us?” I don’t mean for my voice to sound so harsh, but the thought of someone from her own pack preventing her from voicing the truth infuriates me. Much to my surprise, my angry tone doesn’t seem to startle her at all.

“Beta Darren and his guards. I’m not allowed to leave the packhouse unattended.” She makes it sound like this is normal, but considering she’s with her damn mate, their guards were not needed.

“Yet you were alone when I found you earlier?” I quirk my brow, but when she mimics my expression, I realize my tone sounded challenging, as if I doubt what she’s telling me.

“True, but that’s because I snuck out of the packhouse when I was supposed to be tending to my chores. I wasn’t supposed to leave the house, let alone be seen by the guests of my mother and father.” I swear, the more I learn about the bastard, the more I want to just end him and be done with it.

“Yes, your father did seem rather unhappy. Are you aware of my reason for visiting your pack?” She nods her head and I notice her hands playing with the hem of her dress, but she doesn’t seem nervous, it’s more like the simple action is helping to ground her.

“I figured it out when I was cleaning the alpha’s office. He forgot to put away the letters sent by the council. I know I shouldn’t have read them, but I did and that’s what made me curious enough to sneak out.” Nero is practically purring with approval, loving the fact that she’s being honest, even about doing something that she knew she wasn’t supposed to do.

“What are your thoughts on the complaints that were issued against your parents? Do you believe the accusations that he’s abusing his pack members?” I don’t mention the fact that someone reported that he’s been abusing her too, but it turns out I don’t need to. She glances up at Alex and Luke, who are both watching the road while still listening, then back at me. My brow furrows when she grabs the left sleeve of her dress and begins pulling it up, quickly revealing bruises in various stages of healing, many of them are small handprints, roughly the size of a she-wolf’s hands.

“Yes, I do believe them. I know them to be true because I’ve lived with their abuse for five years.” She then pulls up the right sleeve, both sleeves stopping at her elbow, but both arms bearing the same bruising.

“When did this happen?” Nero is furious because we both know that some of them are fresh which means they happened while I was here! She was being hurt while I was touring her pack with one of her damn tormentors!

“Some are from earlier when I met with my mother, others are from yesterday when she was angry because I didn’t clean her room to her liking.” She doesn’t hesitate in her response and I have a feeling she’ll be the key to taking down the bastard alpha and his bitch luna. We reach the restaurant in Auburn just before seven and once Alex quickly verifies the location is safe, I help Astraea out of the car and lead her inside as soon as she’s pulled her sleeves down to cover her bruises. We’re quickly seated in a private dining area in the back and there’s already a chilled bottle of wine and two glasses of ice water waiting for us.

“I was hoping to have this dinner be all about us getting to know each other, but I don’t know how much of a chance I’ll have to ask you questions about the pack once we return tonight.” I don’t want her to think I don’t prioritize her, but I also have to prioritize the well-being of her entire pack.

“You’re absolutely right. So, ask whatever questions you have and I’ll answer to the best of my ability.” Her answer both surprises and pleases me because that simple answer tells me she values the members of her pack enough to put them before herself, just like a true luna.

“The first question I’m eager to get an answer to is why your parents hid you away. I’m not sure if you’re aware, but no other packs even know you exist.” I expect her to look hurt, or at least a little bothered, but instead she gives me a sad smile as she nods her head.

“I figured as much. My parents were finished having children after my brother, Apollo, was born, but then my mother fell pregnant with me, though she swore she had not mated my father or any other wolf since the birth of my brother. They met with a seer who told them the goddess gifted them with me, a daughter, but that information is what led to the seer’s death at the hands of my father. They assumed she must’ve been a witch and that she was responsible for my mother falling pregnant. They assumed she had cursed them with a daughter, a weak child with no purpose or value.” Hearing this, the way they looked down on her for simply existing, it’s enough to make my blood boil.

“Have they always treated you so horribly?” She takes a moment and I can see her genuinely thinking about her answer before delivering it, but…I was not prepared.

“No, not always. Up until I was thirteen, I simply didn’t exist to them, or in the rare occasion where they couldn’t avoid my presence, they treated me like an inconvenience, but that was it.” The fact that their abuse didn’t start until she was thirteen tells me that something changed, something big.

“Why did they start hurting you? What changed?” I have no doubt that her answer is going to throw me and she quickly proves just how right I am.

“I’m the reason my brother Ares was killed.”

Chapter 3

Astraea

I hadn’t planned to tell him everything so soon, but Vira insisted we be honest, hold nothing back. I can tell he wasn’t expecting my answer…the reason my life went to hell in such spectacular fashion. If it wasn’t for Vira assuring me we’re doing the right thing, the tense silence that has settled over us for the last five minutes would’ve sent me into a panic. I finally notice a shift in his posture as he reaches for his glass of water and takes a large drink before setting it down and leaning back in his chair.

“Tell me everything you know about his death.” My mind is screaming at me not to tell him anything, but Vira, the stubborn wolf, pushes forward, taking control without shifting and leaving me watching the chaos from the backseat.

“I can do one better. Let me show you.” She lays our hand on the table, palm up and I see his hesitation, his doubt, but after a tense moment, he slowly reaches forward and lays his hand on ours. I can tell that he wasn’t sure what the hell to expect and it’s fair since the books I’ve read on our kind say the ability to share memories and visions is a trait shifters don’t have…but I do. Vira focuses on the memory of our thirteenth birthday, showing him the flashes of us running through the meadow and chasing small prey until we reach the moment when Ares enters the meadow.

‘You know you’ve upset mom and dad. You’ve been out here all day, Astra. Happy birthday, little sister.’ His bright smile fills me with warmth. Ares is the only one in our family who doesn’t view my entire existence as a mistake or a curse.

‘Thanks, Arie. I didn’t mean to be out here so long, but Vira and I just lost track of time.’ I watch as he slowly starts crossing the meadow, but something about his posture seems…off.

‘Astra…’ He stops a few feet away from me just as a high-pitched whistle tears through the peaceful ambience and my head whips around, seeking the source, but finding nothing. When my eyes return to my big brother, my heart clenches. He stares straight ahead with wide eyes that slowly lower as he drops to his knees. His eyes lock onto the object that I suddenly notice sticking out of his chest…a silver arrow. I watch as a stream of blood begins to flow from the corner of his mouth before he speaks the last word I’ll ever hear from him.

‘Run!’ Without a single thought, I listen to him just like I always do. I run, even as my muscles burn and protest against the strain. I reach the field behind the packhouse and that’s when I start screaming, crying for help until my father, mother and Apollo come rushing out, all of them angry with me for disturbing them. As soon as I tell them Ares is hurt and is in the meadow, they abandon me there to go to him. I sit alone on the back patio for what feels like an eternity until they finally emerge from the darkness, my father heading the group with Ares’ lifeless body cradled in his arms.

‘What have you done! Oh, my sweet baby! Goddess, why?! It should’ve been you! You’re a worthless, pathetic mutt! It’s all your fault! My son is gone when it should’ve been you!’ Every word is like a dagger to my heart as I sit in silence, watching my mother collapse to the ground where my father lays Ares in the soft grass. My body trembles as he approaches me, grabbing a fistful of my hair as he drags me back into the packhouse, down the cellar stairs then he throws me into a dark room, shutting and locking the door as he exits.

As Vira pulls back from the memory, I feel Asher’s rage surging through him which only makes me retract my hand that much faster. The second our physical connection is broken, his hand curls into a fist and he drags it back across the table, letting it drop into his lap.

“He was killed…by hunters, yet they blamed you?! A mere child?! They punished you, abused and neglected you…all for something you played no part in?!” He’s shouting and my human side is trembling, but Vira feels calm, peaceful even.

“If I hadn’t been out there so late, he would never have come for me and he would never have been shot. I may not have been the one to bury that arrow in his chest, but I was the reason it ended up there.” He stands up and walks around the table then drops to one knee in front of me before taking both of my hands in his, setting them ablaze with warm, electrical sparks.

“You need to let go of your guilt because his death was in no way your fault. The hunters made it onto your pack’s land undetected and could’ve gotten to him anywhere. If anyone failed your brother, it was the wolves on patrol for not preventing them from reaching you both. You’re not to blame for his death and I know he wouldn’t want you to hold the blame.” He gives my hands a squeeze then returns to his chair before returning to his questioning.

“What can you tell me about the complaints of your father using pack funds for personal use?” I sit back in my chair, trying to think of anything I may have seen to support this.

“Honestly, I’m not sure. If he has been misusing pack funds, the proof would be in his personal ledgers. He keeps two sets, one that he submits to the pack’s financial advisor and one he locks away in his desk. I could get them tomorrow when I clean his office…make copies and return them before he even knows they’re missing. If you can keep him distracted, it would be relatively simple.” He seems to be genuinely surprised by my suggestion, but I don’t think he’s upset by it.

“I don’t want you to do anything that might get you hurt…” I wave off his concern, knowing I can pull this off with his help.

“Oh, I won’t. All I need is for you to get him out of the packhouse for an hour. If you ask him to give you a tour of the clinic and the prison’s holding cells, that should buy me all the time I need. He keeps all his confidential files locked in the bottom drawer in his desk with his ledgers, so I can make copies of anything that might be of use to you. If this will help the pack to stop suffering at the hands of my parents, then I’ll do whatever is necessary.” He looks at me with an emotion I’m not entirely familiar with, something that looks an awful lot like pride.

“If it’s a distraction you need, then a distraction you’ll have. I’ll be requesting that your mother join us for the tour since the clinic should be managed by the luna. As for the other complaints, have you ever witnessed your parents abusing other members of your pack?” I nod my head, focusing on memories of the many times I’ve walked in on them abusing the house staff only to interrupt them so their attention would be on me and not the others.

“I have. Over the last five years, I’ve interrupted them many times while they were punishing the house staff. I did anything I could to turn the attention to me so they would spare the staff from suffering.” I hear his low growl as he lets out a heavy sigh.

“So, you took their punishment for them then.” It’s not a question, but I still nod in response.

“Yes.” Before we can continue, a waiter carries in two plates and sets them in front of us as I stare with wide eyes at the large cut of prime rib with mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli.

“I think we’ve discussed the situation with your pack enough. Let’s try to enjoy the rest of the night. I hope you don’t mind that I had placed our order when I made the reservation. Do you like prime rib?” Oh goddess, he’s not going to like my answer.

“I’ve never tried it, but it looks and smells amazing.” He narrows his eyes and I already know he has questions.

“You’ve never had prime rib? But it’s one of the most common dishes served at pack gatherings and holiday meals?” I nod and hum in agreement because I know he’s right.

“I’ve never been allowed to attend the pack events. My parents often have things like prime rib, steak and roast, but since there’s never any left over, I haven’t had the chance to try any of them.” It’s easy to see how hard he’s trying to fight his anger, likely not wanting to ruin the night, but he has to know that simply being here with him, even if we are discussing my awful parents, makes this the best night of my life so far.

“You’re only permitted to eat leftovers?” I try to give him a reassuring smile, wanting to calm him, but knowing it’s an impossible task to take on when every new thing he learns about me only seems to increase his anger.

“Yeah, but our cooks are amazing and always hide away what they can for me. My favorite is when the head chef, Beth, hides away some bacon for me.” He gives me a sad smile, but I can tell my genuine excitement over something as simple as a few pieces of bacon has calmed his anger some…okay, only a tiny bit, but I’ll take it.

“We leave your pack the day after tomorrow, so how about we stop for breakfast on our way and I’ll get you as much bacon as your little stomach can handle.” We both let out a gentle laugh, but Vira’s all for it…bring on the bacon!

“I’ll hold you to it, alpha.” The rest of our dinner is spent with us actually getting to know each other, asking questions and sharing laughs over his stories about the mischievous shenanigans of him, Alex and Luke when they were pups. We almost fell back into the heavier conversation when I told him I’ve never been able to use the pack’s mind link because my father used his alpha command to block me when I was still a pup, but we recovered, thank the goddess. We reluctantly head back to the pack once we’re finished and as soon as we arrive, I know my father is furious because he’s already waiting outside when we pull up, likely having been linked by his guards when we crossed the border.

“Alpha Asher, we never got the chance to show you and your men to your rooms. Please, follow me and I’ll show you the way so you can get settled. Astraea your mother wishes to speak with you in our private quarters.” I know that speaking is the last thing she wants to do. Just as I prepare to make my way inside, Asher speaks up and throws us all off with his sudden and very unexpected request.

“Actually, Alpha Magnus, seeing as how Astraea is my mate, my wolf won’t tolerate her sleeping far from me. I need her to be placed in the room beside mine for the duration of my stay.” My…father…is…pissed.

“I think that’s highly inappropriate, Alpha Asher.” Oh, dear sweet goddess, that was clearly the wrong thing to say!

“You’re absolutely right. I want her moved to my room. I’m sure my wolf will sleep much better with my mate in my arms and him knowing she’s safe and sound.” I can hear the challenge in his tone and am actually surprised when my father doesn’t take the bait.

“Very well. Follow me and, Astraea, you best go see your mother before you move your things to the alpha’s room.” His voice is more of a growl, but I don’t hesitate to take the win here. I rush inside and up the two flights of stairs to the alpha’s suite where my mother is waiting in the living room.

“You think you’re so special, don’t you? I bet you’re thinking you found yourself a mate who’s going to love you and take care of you, but don’t forget, he killed his first mate after falsely accusing her of treason. He’s a murderer and if the goddess has any sense, she’ll let him end you too. You think your suffering ends here, but you’re wrong. You deserve a life of misery and pain.” I don’t even have a chance to react before she rushes at me, her fist colliding with my ribs and, judging from the crack I hear, successfully breaking at least one of them. She lands several more hits before my legs give out, but then she begins kicking me in the stomach, back and sides, anywhere she can reach aside from my face. I feel my vision blurring just as the door flies open and my father begins growling and shouting.

“What the hell have you done?! Asher expects her in his room right away! I can’t send her down like this and if I don’t send her down, he’ll tear this entire house apart till he finds her!” They begin discussing how to get rid of me and it seems they’ve settled on smuggling me out of the packhouse and having the guards remove me from the pack’s territory, but Vira insists she has a plan. I can feel her reaching out, almost like she’s leaving our body as I feel my consciousness slipping away. As I struggle to cling to the last thread of my consciousness, I hear a loud, earth-shaking growl followed by yelling, a few loud screams and then absolute silence.

Chapter 4

Asher

As I sit in my room waiting for Astraea, I run through everything I learned during our dinner tonight. Our plans to save her pack are just within our reach and Nero seems to have become quite comfortable with having such a brave, strong and beautiful mate. I’m beginning to get frustrated with how long I’ve been waiting for her to come to my room when suddenly Nero becomes frantic, growling and trying to take control.

‘Mate’s in trouble! We need to get to her, NOW!’ I don’t question him, though I wonder how the hell he knows our mate is in trouble. I let him push to the front of my mind, seemingly following some unseen force that leads us up the stairs that lead to the third floor where I pick up the sound of the alpha and luna as they discuss ‘disposing of’ my mate! Nero unleashes the most feral growl as he rushes up the last few stairs and kicks down the door to the alpha suite where I find them standing over the bruised and bloodied body of my mate. Luckily, Alex and Luke heard my growl and followed behind me, both looking completely shocked by the scene in front of us.

“I want them both placed in the holding cells, shackled, collared and isolated. If I had it my way, I’d rip your fucking throats out where you stand, but for the sake of every pack member who suffered under your rule, I’ll make sure they get the chance to witness the moment where justice is served.” Luke and Alex make short work of subduing the pair, injecting them with wolfsbane then carrying them away like the trash they are. I drop to my knees beside Astraea and carefully lift her into my arms just as a small she-wolf peeks through the door.

“Alpha Asher, I let the pack doctor know he’s needed. He’ll be here in a few minutes. We should move her to your room so she can be more comfortable and not be surrounded by their scent.” I can barely think of a response and don’t dare to speak with how enraged I am right now, so I offer a single nod as she leads the way down to my room.

The list of her injuries is jarring and it takes every ounce of my self-restraint to not charge to the cells and slaughter the bastards responsible. The doctor does everything he can for her, but there wasn’t much he could do beyond cleaning her up. With our plans for the morning no longer being necessary, I send Luke to the alpha’s office with instructions to locate the locked drawer on his desk and open it by any means necessary. While I knew there would be something of use there, I didn’t realize just how much evidence we would find that would prove his crimes beyond a shadow of a doubt. I don’t leave Astraea’s side other than to use the bathroom attached to my room and, thank the goddess, she begins waking up just before the sun begins to rise.

“Where am I?” Her raspy voice combined with the way her nose scrunches up when she’s assaulted by the light coming through the window is adorable, but the worry about her injuries is still weighing heavily on me.

“You’re in my room. When I found you and heard what those bastards planned to do with you…I almost lost control of Nero…now I’m wishing I had. Goddess, I was so worried. How are you feeling?” Her beautiful green eyes widen, but I have a feeling it’s a result of her not being used to having people show concern for her and that shit pisses me off.

“I hurt…pretty much everywhere. Ugh…I need a shower.” She adds the last after leaning forward and catching the lingering scent of her disgusting parents that still clings to her clothes.

“I think that’s a good idea. I’ll give you one of my shirts and a pair of shorts to wear. We’ll go to some of the shops in town after breakfast and get you all the clothes you need. I doubt any amount of washing will rid the ones you have now of the stench of those bastards.” With the smile that lights up her face, I’d buy her every single thing in every one of the damn shops here without blinking.

“Thank you.” I help her out of the bed and into the bathroom then get some clothes set on the bed for her before making my way to the kitchen where I find the head cook, Beth, already preparing breakfast.

“I assume you’re Beth, correct?” The older woman turns to face me and bows her head as she delivers her response.

“Yes, alpha. Is there something I can get you?” I remember Astraea telling me about this woman sneaking her food and since she’s shown my mate kindness when her own parents failed to, I want to show her some too.

“My mate informed me that you’ve been ensuring she’s fed and have always been kind toward her. I’d like for you to make her a large breakfast, lots of bacon and anything else she likes, but I want you to make enough for yourself as well because you’ll be joining us. Astraea seems quite fond of you, so I think I might have an offer for you.” When I mention my mate’s name, her eyes light up and she flashes a bright smile as she nods her head.

“This is such wonderful news! If anyone is deserving of finding a good mate, it’s that poor child. I’ll get to work and we’ll eat in an hour.” She wastes no time diving back into making breakfast, but I’m glad I have a little time since this is when Luke decides to link me and asks that I meet him in the alpha’s office. The second I walk through the door, I can feel the tension in the room and it’s not just coming from Luke, but from Alex who’s staring out the window with every muscle in his body wound tight.

“Alpha, things here are much worse than we thought. You should have a seat.” I take a seat in one of the chairs in front of the desk then watch as he turns the computer monitor toward me, showing me a screen that has my blood running cold. Luke and Alex are two of the only living beings who know the truth about how deep my former mate’s betrayal ran, so he knew the second he showed me this, there was a good chance I would spiral.

My former mate, Julia, didn’t just betray our pack as the reports indicated. We had found evidence of her working with witches to try to take over my pack. She had been screwing one of the bastards from the coven, but he had found a way to block our bond so I couldn’t sense her betrayal. She was a talented actress, so much so that not even Nero could sense her deceit. This is why both Nero and I are struggling to reel in our anger as we stare at a screen containing message between the alpha and the very same coven that Julia had been working with. Could Astraea be a part of this? Could her innocence all be an act?

“Is there anything to indicate that Astraea is involved in this?” I don’t want to believe she could do something so fucking unbelievable, but if Julia taught me anything, it’s that the people you trust the most are capable of the deepest betrayal.

“Nothing I’ve found so far shows any involvement on her part. In fact, there are many mentions of their worthless accursed daughter and their plans to rid themselves of her. There’s one here where the alpha requested the witch council look into Astraea because it seems they thought a seer had cursed the luna, causing her to become pregnant through the use of dark magic, but the seer told them the child was a gift from the goddess. There’s no message in response, so I don’t know what they may have found, if anything.” I can tell that Luke is hopeful for her innocence to be proven and while I want to hope for it too, my past taught me that hope and trust are dangerous things.

“Um, alpha, we might want to get outside.” I move to stand beside Alex at the window and follow his gaze to see several of the pack members standing outside and standing before them is none other than my mate. I don’t hesitate to rush out of the packhouse, arriving just as one of the pack members asks my mate a question that has me stopping in my tracks.

“Is it true that the alpha and luna have hurt you too? It wasn’t just those of us working under them?” Astraea nods, but the small wolf who had called for the pack doctor last night is the one to answer and I wasn’t prepared, but neither were the others.

“It’s true! The morning before her mate arrived, the luna had dragged me to the alpha quarters then began punishing me because I was a few minutes late bringing her breakfast to her room. Astraea came in and used her body to shield me, taking each hit from her mother just to spare me! She’s done this many times and I’ve helped tend to her injuries far too many times. She’s been through more than any of us, so if she says we need to give our testimony to the council, we need to listen! We need to make sure the alpha and luna can never harm our pack again!” She’s rallying them against her parents? I never did tell her that her parents are locked away and I never told her that Luke retrieved the files and ledgers from her father’s office, so while I still have my suspicions, I guess she’s trying to help?

“What will happen to us if the alpha and luna are removed from the pack?” This is truly a situation so few packs ever have to face, so it’s unsurprising that they have questions.

“I don’t know how this will work, but I know my mate will make sure the council protects you all and I’ll relay any questions you may have to him and I will make sure we get you the answers you need.” Hearing how much faith she has in me, it’s amazing and helps to dull my doubt in her a little. I decide that it’s time to make my presence known since the breeze has, thus far, helped keep my scent from reaching her.

“I’ll gladly answer your questions, but perhaps it would be best for us to hold a meeting with the entire pack present. Spread the word and we’ll meet at noon in front of the packhouse. For now, I need to make sure my mate gets fed.” Astraea gives me a stunning smile while the gathered pack members seem appeased for now. I place my hand on the small of her back and guide her toward the front doors then straight to the dining room where Beth is just finishing setting the table. While we sit down to eat, I ask Beth if she’d like to accompany us when we return to my home and she’s quick to accept the offer, which very clearly makes my mate happy.

“Alpha, not that I’m bothered by their absence, but have my parents gone somewhere?” I probably should’ve told her sooner, but with everything Luke found and the doubt it brought to life, I wasn’t sure if I should. It looks like it’s time though.

“They’re in the holding cells, awaiting the arrival of the council.” Her brow raises, but she nods her head.

“And Beta Darren?” I know she can see the confusion written plainly on my face, but…what about him?

“I haven’t spoken with him. Why?” Her reaction is instantaneous. First her eyes widen, then her breath catches and her face pales.

“He’s gone…” With the look of panic on her face, I quickly link Luke to have him and Alex come down then do my best to bring her focus back and calm her down.

“What do you mean? Was he involved in any of the things we’re investigating?” I take her hands in mine and Nero growls when I feel them trembling in my own.

“He was involved in everything. I need to get the files from his desk!” She stands up like her damn chair’s on fire, but I jump up with her and place my hands on her shoulders to get her attention.

“Luke already got them and has been looking through them all morning, but there was no mention of the beta.” Luke nods to confirm my statement, but she only furrows her brows while shaking her head.

“No…no, they were there! I know they were!” Luke and I share a confused look, but he gestures with his head, silently telling me to take her to the office so she can see for herself.

Chapter 5

Asher

I guide her out of the dining room and straight to the office. She rushes behind the desk, pulling open the drawer and finding it empty. She then starts sifting through the files on the desk, growing more frustrated by the second until she suddenly freezes, her eyes shifting from their pale green to a lightly glowing teal color before her head slowly turns until she’s staring at the bookshelf along the wall on the left side of the room. She slowly walks over to it, her eyes scanning over the books on the top shelf then moving to the shelf below it where she stops and reaches for one of the books, pulls it forward which makes a loud clicking noise as the bookshelf jerks forward almost an entire inch. She steps to the side of the bookshelf and pushes the side, leaving all three of us stunned when it simply rolls to the side, revealing a room barely bigger than a coat closet that’s lined with shelves that all hold several boxes.

“I believe you’ll find what you’re looking for in here.” How the hell does she know what we’re looking for? Is she meaning that we’ll find proof of the beta’s involvement? It would be easy to think that, but I feel like there’s much more to her statement. How the hell did she even know this was here?!

“What are we going to find, Astraea?” I don’t hide the suspicion in my tone and she definitely catches it. Her teal eyes narrow at me, letting me know she caught the tone and the shift in my emotions.

“Does it matter? Clearly you think us to be a part of the corruption here, don’t you?” I know it’s her wolf speaking, but I refuse to let myself be jaded by her words. If she truly is innocent here, I need to see proof of her innocence. I refuse to take her at her word like I did with Julia.

“Tell me, Astraea, how did you know this was here? How did you know which book would open the door?” She smirks as her eyes shift from me to the book still hanging on the shelf.

“Because that bastard is arrogant, entitled and thought he was invincible. Master of the Realm is the title that he would find most suiting for his ego, don’t you think?” I hear a low growl come from my left and turn to see Luke looking in one of the boxes.

“It looks like the witch council found some things about Astraea after all.” He shoots a cautious look at her then pulls out the top file and hands it to me. I open it to the first page and start reading, but it’s not what I was expecting.

Blood tests on subject Astraea Fiora show traces of DNA that is not of shifter origin. Her wolf first presented itself at the age of ten and her abilities far surpass those of a shifter. She’s presented signs of the ability to transfer memories that began developing at the age of eleven. The council requests further testing to be done once the subject is of age. Alpha Magnus Fiora, the assumed paternal parent has agreed to our terms and will arrange for the subject to be brough to us on the first full moon following her eighteenth birthday.

The date on the records was from six years ago, when she was only twelve years old. The next few pages are enough to make my stomach turn as I read about how the council believes she could be part witch and how they wish to use her as a weapon to bring down the alphas of the larger packs in the country to help them gain control over the rest of us. There’s nothing that indicates that she’s involved, but the fact that she might be part witch is enough to raise further doubt about my mate.

“How should we handle this alpha?” I’m pretty sure Alex really means to ask how we should handle her, but I’m torn. Before I can devise a response, my mate seems to have had enough.

“You don’t trust us, you and your wolf believe we’re in alliance with these foul creatures. No need to worry, I’ll make the decision for you.” She turns and walks out of the office and Alex is quick to follow her, knowing we need to keep an eye on her in case she really is a part of this mess. I don’t know what she did, but suddenly Nero seems quite sure she’s not involved, while every other part of me is convinced that she has to have a hand in this. Luke and I get back to looking through the boxes, but then I get a mind link from Alex that has both of us rushing out of the office.

‘Alpha, she’s just entered the prison!’ My mind immediately rushes to the most obvious reason she would be there…to free her parents. Could all of this really be a clever ploy to infiltrate my pack? The abuse, the neglect? Would she truly allow herself to be beaten to sell her story? It takes us only five minutes to reach the front of the prison where Alex is sitting on the steps with a look of shock and confusion.

“Why aren’t you in there with her?! What if she lets them go?!” He releases a heavy sigh as he rakes his hand through his hair.

“She’s not setting them free, alpha.” I storm past him and through the doors then down the hall, following her scent until I’m nearly brought to my knees by the sight of her sitting in one of the cells, the one right next to her father. As if seeing her locked up isn’t horrifying enough, I’m watching as she secures the silver shackles around her ankles then picks up a spelled collar and fastens it around her neck before sitting on the cot in the cell and staring at her father. I know she can sense me, but her father has her undivided attention and with his back to me and his senses dulled, he doesn’t even know I’m here.

“Hello, father. You wouldn’t believe all the documents, emails, letters and reports we found in your office, you’ve been a busy little shit, haven’t you?” Her tone is menacing and she doesn’t even hide how she’s taunting him.

“You have no idea, you fucking useless bitch! I can’t believe the spell slinging fools think you’re a powerful weapon! Can you believe it?! They said you have celestial DNA! The foolish bastards! I had planned to trade you to them in exchange for money and support in the upcoming fight, but just like everything else with you, you had to go and fuck it all up!” She tilts her head to the side and lets out a laugh that’s almost sinister, but Nero fucking loves it.

“Awe, did I ruin your plans, father? Just like I ruined your lives by causing the death of your only worthy child which left you stuck with the lesser son?” Now the alpha is laughing and while she tries to appear unaffected, I can see she’s confused by his sudden mood change.

“You still haven’t figured it out, have you? Oh, you pathetic fucking bitch! I had Ares killed! That disappointing little fuck was getting too strong-willed and he planned to make changes, to undo everything I had spent decades creating! I didn’t need an alpha son, I needed a puppet whose strings could be pulled easily and what better mindless beast than my dear Apollo?” Though it should be impossible for her wolf to come forward with the collar and shackles, I see her eyes shift to Vira’s teal ones as she stands up and slowly approaches the bars that separate her and her psychotic father, stopping only when the chains from the shackles and collar are pulled tight enough for the silver to be digging into her skin.

“You had your own son murdered because he was too good at doing your job?! And to think, you call me pathetic!” His dark chuckle echoes off the stone walls in the narrow space combined with the rattling of the chains that connect his shackle and collar to the wall as he leans forward.

“Tell me, daughter, does your mate think you’re as wicked as your parents? Does he trust you to be a good and loyal mate, or does he think you’ll betray him like his former bitch of a mate?” For the first time since I walked in here, her eyes meet mine and my heart aches when I see the hurt and uncertainty there, but he doesn’t wait for her answer before continuing to spew his vile shit.

“I bet none of them have figured out that she was working with us. The bitch couldn’t even follow simple instructions! She was supposed to gather information on your mate and his pack then deliver it to the coven, but no, she had to go and fuck one of those spell slinging pricks! He did us all a favor the day he ripped that bitch’s heart out. Maybe I can slip that worthless prick a little information, let him think you’re betraying him just like his first bitch did. Hell, maybe he’ll let me watch as he rips your heart out too.” He unleashes a laugh that makes him sound like he lost his damn mind, but clearly, he has.

“That won’t be happening, Magnus, sorry to disappoint you. You realize that monologuing your entire plan is some B rated crime novel shit, right? Luke! Get her the hell out of there!” Luke rushes around me and already has the keys in his hand. It takes him only a few minutes to get the door open and remove the collar and shackles, both of which have left visible burns on her milky white skin.

“Come on, let’s go have the doctor take a look at those.” Luke’s soft voice is met with a cold glare from her before she steps around him and walks down the hall and out the door with us both hurrying to follow after her. We barely make it out the door when Alex points toward the field behind the packhouse where I see my mate’s retreating figure heading toward the tree line. As if we aren’t already stunned by her actions, she then takes it a step further by shifting, practically exploding into an opalescent white wolf whose teal eyes give us a cold look over her shoulder before she takes off, vanishing into the thick forest.

“So…you going to be able to fix that?” Alex tilts his chin toward where she disappeared and I don’t miss the slight edge to his voice.

“I sure the hell hope so.” Goddess do I ever.

“I think we need to figure out where the hell the beta disappeared to and you have fifteen minutes until your meeting with the pack to answer their questions.” Luke’s reminder is met with a sharp growl from Nero who firmly believes we should be chasing down our mate and working to fix the mess I’ve made.

“Let’s get this over with. Maybe one of the members of the pack will have an idea of where the beta might’ve gone.” We spend over an hour answering questions and reassuring everyone that their pack will be protected and that the council will bring in an alpha who will help to clean things up here, but no one has information on the beta. By the time we’re finished, there’s still no sign of Astraea and I’m more than a little worried. I’m standing at the back door by the kitchen, staring out at the field as I wait for any sign of my mate when Beth walks in and starts pulling out ingredients for dinner.

“Is everything alright, alpha?” I turn to look at her and, while I know it’s a long shot, I decide to see if she can help.

“I screwed up and upset Astraea, she took off hours ago and no one’s seen or heard from her, so I’m a little worried about her.” She smiles and nods her head as if this is a situation that she’s quite accustomed to.

“She’s probably just out in the meadow. It’s her favorite place to clear her head. I think it’s because it’s the only place where she still feels close to Ares.” At the mention of Astraea’s deceased brother, I see the sadness flicker across her features before she turns her head away.

“Could you tell me how to get there?” I sense her hesitation that’s obviously brought on by her loyalty to my mate, so I’m eternally grateful when she begins explaining how to get there. As soon as I’m out the door, I strip down and shift then secure my clothes in my mouth before taking off to find my mate.

Chapter 6

Asher

It takes almost forty minutes to reach the edge of the meadow, but I was able to pick up her scent almost a mile back, so I know she’s here. When I spot her in the middle of the field, sitting on a large rock that’s surrounded by wild flowers while her hair blows in the breeze, I’m stunned by her beauty all over again. She must have clothes that she stashed out here because she’s wearing a pair of black leggings and a grey long sleeve shirt now, but I don’t question it as I slowly move closer.

“Why are you here?” Her tone is icy, but I can hear the hurt laced through it and it damn near kills me. I shift and quickly start pulling my clothes back on before stepping closer as she continues to keep her back to me.

“I was worried that something may have happened to you. You’ve been gone for several hours and even missed the meeting with the pack.” She doesn’t react, not so much as a muscle twitch as she continues to sit there.

“I’m sure you did just fine without me, alpha.” The way she uses my title, speaking the word like it’s venom on her tongue, it makes my stomach churn with unease.

“I would’ve preferred to handle it with you by my side.” And judging by the growl she unleashes, that was clearly the wrong thing to say.

“You don’t trust me and yet you want me by your side? Why? So you can keep a better eye on your untrustworthy, treacherous mate?” Maybe I’m crazy, but I continue to move closer, I need to be closer to her.

“No, because I screwed up and I need my mate to know how much I’m sorry and how much I want her with me. I know I had no right to not trust you, but with my past experience, it’s not always easy to trust others. I know you aren’t Julia and I was wrong for even thinking you could be like her, but once there was even a sliver of room for doubt, my mind ran with it. It’s like I felt history trying to repeat itself and I didn’t know how to handle it.” As I take another step closer, I notice words carved into the large rock she’s sitting on and the realization of what it says is punctuated by a soft sniffle from the stunning creature sitting on top of it. ‘Ares Antonio Fiora, Beloved brother and protector, You maybe be gone from this earth, but you’ll forever be in my heart’.

“You’re right, I’m not her. I refuse to be punished for someone else’s sins, especially by you. I’ve spent my entire life being punished for things beyond my control, so if this is the life you have to offer me, then do us both a favor and reject me now.” Nero is fucking losing it, fighting to take control at the mention of us rejecting her, even though I’m not the one who mentioned it!

“I’m so sorry I hurt you, Astraea. I promise to do better and I promise you’ll never be doubted by me again. I also promise that I will never reject you. Hell, I never thought I could ever be lucky enough to even get a second chance at having a mate, so there’s not a chance in hell I’m going to throw it away. Please, Astraea, I’m begging you to forgive me.” I emphasize my point by dropping to my knees and the sound seems to be enough to get her to turn around and when her eyes widen, I’m hoping she’s at least considering it.

“This is where he died…where my father had him shot like a rabid dog. Ares used to always tell me that it’s easier to hold onto anger than it is to forgive, but anger will poison you slowly over time where forgiveness has the power to heal. I’ll forgive you and I won’t be foolish enough to think a situation won’t arise where your trust in me is tested, but I expect to be given the benefit of the doubt until there’s evidence to prove the suspicions are warranted. It’s no less than I would do for you.” And just like that, she proves just how lucky I am to have her as my mate. It looks like I owe the goddess one hell of a big thank you for being given this chance with her.

Astraea

I honestly hadn’t expected for Asher to come find me, least of all while I was in the place I hold most sacred. I think the only thing I expected less was to turn and see him on his knees. I, Astraea Fiora, the useless child of Alpha Magnus, brought the almighty alpha Asher to his knees as he begged for my forgiveness. It truly would’ve been easier to hold onto my anger and hurt, but Ares had never once been wrong before, so I choose to trust him now. As we head back to the packhouse, there’s a tense silence and I can tell he’s struggling to figure out if I’ve truly forgiven him and how to move forward, so I decide to ease his suffering.

“How did the meeting with the pack go?” I feel the tension instantly ease a little as he breathes a sigh of relief.

“I think it went well. Your pack asked a lot of really good questions and seemed pleased with the answers they were given. Alex brought up the fact that we need to try to locate Beta Darren. I tried asking the pack members, seeing if anyone might know where he could be or where he might go, but no one seemed to know anything.” I can help provide answers to part of what he seeks, but the answer won’t do much to ease his concerns.

“He left the territory through the southern border. I followed his scent and there were four others with him, probably the head guard and his friends. If they went south, they’re likely heading to the Starlight coven. If that’s the case, we should have my parents transported immediately.” My steps falter when his hand wraps around mine, the electric jolt his touch provides momentarily stunning my system.

“We’ll call the council before we sit down for dinner. We need to have them intercept Apollo as well. He should be returning from his training soon, right?” I force a smile and give a stiff nod.

“Yeah, next week. His training should’ve ended three weeks ago, but he’s struggling. He was never meant to be alpha, but now I see that the plan was for him to never truly be alpha.” We reach the packhouse and I see Alex and Luke waiting on the back patio with Luke looking shocked when we approach them with our hands linked, but Alex looks relieved.

“Luna Astraea, we’re glad you’re back. There’s someone waiting inside who asked to speak with you.” I look up at Asher with my brow furrowed and he looks just as confused as me. Alex leads us inside with Luke following behind and I freeze when I see a woman sitting at the dining table who has grey hair and milky white eyes.

“So, it’s true! You really are a magnificent beast. Come, let me see you, dear.” She holds out her boney hand to me and for some unexplainable reason, I feel compelled to take it. I slowly place my hand in hers and feel a comforting warmth flow through me.

“My sister did well with your bindings and it seems they lasted just long enough for your savior to arrive. Oh, and he is a strong mate, but it seems you both have troubled pasts.” I suddenly realize who this being is and it’s equal parts terrifying and exciting.

“Your sister…she was the seer, wasn’t she?” She nods in confirmation and gives me a bright smile.

“Indeed, she was. She was given a vision that predicted your creation, a being born of the flesh with a celestial soul. What your mother and father saw as a curse, was truly a blessing from the goddess herself. You’re not just born of her likeness, but of her flesh and as such, you possess abilities that no other of your kind ever will. Your purity, strength and skill will make you an unparalleled ally, but you will also be a formidable foe to all who stand against you. I can see that you and your mate have faced some unforeseen obstacles, but it seems you’ve may have found your way. You both must trust in each other, support and encourage one another. You both will be tested and only you can decide the outcome.

“Alpha, your faith has been shaken and trust has been broken, but this gift you’ve been given should never be forsaken. She’s your salvation just as much as you are hers. Believe in your mate and trust in the goddess. You both are meant for greatness. Now, I must go and prepare myself, but we shall meet again when the time is right.” And just like that, she fades out in a puff of smoke.

“So, what I hear is that our future luna is a total badass.” Alex gives me a playful smirk and nudges my shoulder with his, but Luke looks like he’s lost in thought.

“What did she mean when she said her sister did well with your bindings and was she implying that whatever the bindings are, that they’re wearing off?” I look up at Asher, trying to gauge his reaction to Luke’s question, one I certainly don’t have an answer for, but he’s simply smiling down at me.

“I think it means my mate is going to shock us all and from the sounds of it, we won’t be waiting long. Now, let’s go call the council so we can sit down and eat.” We all head to my father’s office and Asher calls the council to explain the situation. After a fifteen minute phone call, the council has agreed to extract Apollo from the training program and will have a transport here tomorrow to fetch my parents so they can all be placed in the dungeon at the council headquarters while they review the evidence against them all. It may have had nothing to do with these mysterious bindings the seer mentioned, but I did shock Asher when I let him know the entire encounter in the holding cells was recorded which will give the council my father’s full confession, unedited, with sound and 4K picture quality. The council brought up another issue, which is what we’re currently discussing as we sit down for dinner.

“You heard what they said. They don’t have a suitable replacement for alpha and with Astraea being the only surviving member of her bloodline that isn’t going to be standing trial, technically everything here falls into her hands until one can be found. Our options are to have you both remain here until they find a replacement, or merge both of our packs and bring the pack members from Lunar Crest back with us.” As Luke finishes explaining the options to us…once again…everyone’s attentions shifts to me and I hate it, but then Vira offers a solution.

“Vira says we should hold a pack meeting and let the pack decide. Many of the members have too many bad memories here and would greatly benefit from a change of scenery. Hell, they’d thrive in a place where they’re not weighed down by the darkness that stains this land.” Asher stares at me with a wide smile while the others nod in agreement.

“Spoken like a true luna. Beth, could you alert the pack that we’re meeting at nine tomorrow morning to explain the council’s decision?” Beth agrees without hesitation and links them all right away. Once we all finish eating, I decide that I’m going to take a shower and head to bed early since today’s events have officially left me exhausted. This will be the first night I share the bed with Asher and Vira is eager to feel our mate’s warmth wrap around us. By the time I’m showered and have dressed in one of Asher’s shirts that I took from the closet, he’s already sitting in the bed wearing only a pair of boxer briefs that do little to hide how well-endowed my mate is.

“I may never get used to seeing you in my clothes. You look stunning. Come on, let’s get some sleep. We have a busy day tomorrow.” I had always thought that if I ever found my mate, I’d feel shy or nervous around them, but when it comes to Asher, I feel confident, brave even. I walk around to my side of the bed and crawl under the covers, scooting myself toward the center as Asher copies me until we’re close enough for him to wrap his arms around me.

“I know I’ve already said it, but thank you for forgiving me. Thank you for giving me a chance to prove that I can be a mate that’s worthy of you.” He presses the most tender kiss on my forehead and I snuggle into him, loving the warmth of his body against mine that’s accompanied with the addicting electrical charge that feels like tiny flashes of lightning licking at my skin.

“You don’t need to keep thanking me.” He lets out a playful growl and shakes his head in protest.

“You’re wrong and I’ll keep apologizing every day until I’m one hundred percent certain that you have no doubt how much I mean it.” His playful tone has me smiling against his chest, feeling more loved and cared for in this single unexpectedly playful moment than I have in the five years since Ares died.

“Then you’ve succeeded because I do know. I believe you, Asher. You heard the seer, we’ve overcome many obstacles already and this is just one of them.” His arms tighten around me and he places one last kiss on my forehead before we both slowly drift into the peaceful darkness.

Chapter 7

Astraea

After the most amazing night’s sleep, I woke before dawn and already had showered and started helping Beth with making breakfast before Asher even made his way down. We ate breakfast with Luke and Alex before meeting with the pack who passed a unanimous vote to merge our pack with Asher’s, everyone eager and ready for a fresh start in a place that isn’t tainted with the corruption of my parents. Speaking of my parents, the council’s guards are here to collect them right now and, against the request of my amazing mate, I’m standing with the rest of the pack, waiting for them to be escorted from the holding cell to the armored transport car that was sent for them. As much as he hates that I insisted on being here, Asher is standing at my side, his fingers laced with mine in a silent show of support.

I don’t know what I was expecting to see or feel when they were brought out into the daylight, but all I feel is nothing, a whole lot of absolutely nothing. We all watch as they load my parents into the car then everyone retreats to their homes to get to work packing. We’re leaving tomorrow and Asher made arrangements for a group of his men to make trips to help move the larger items from each house as new houses are built to accommodate the new pack members we’re bringing to his pack, of which there are seventy-six, not including myself and Beth.

“You handled that much better than I was expecting.” Asher’s words come out on a heavy breath as he pulls me into his arms.

“It was pretty anticlimactic, really. I was expecting some surge of emotions, or maybe I thought they might say something, but they just…left. No drama, no parting words, just…disappointing.” He smiles down at me as I rest my chin on his chest so I can look up at him.

“Will you be ready to leave in the morning?” If he only knew!

“Goddess, I’m ready to leave now. I think most of us are. I’m leaving everything of mine from the house here except my pictures of Ares. Beth already picked me up some new clothes that are packed and loaded in the car, so I’m more than ready. I just want to leave this place behind and start fresh.” I watch as his eyes glaze over and his smile slowly widens, becoming absolutely beautiful as it lights his face up when the haze fades.

“Luke had Beth check with the others and they’re all ready too. He’s having the remaining guards here meet the pack members at their homes to load their things into the trucks, so we can leave in about an hour.” In an act that surprises even me, I stretch up on my toes and place a soft kiss on his perfect lips.

“Perfect! Let’s go grab my photo album then we can wait for the others out front of the pack house!” It only takes forty minutes for the guards to gather the pack members and their belongings and another ten to start our journey to our new home. The drive to the Blood Spire Pack’s territory, our new home, takes five hours, but when we finally arrive, it was all worth it. The land is lush and green with thick forests stretching as far as the eye can see on either side of the road. Just under thirty minutes after crossing the border, the outskirts of the small town comes into view and it’s nothing short of amazing.

“Welcome home, my luna.” Asher gives my hand a gentle squeeze and I can tell he’s proud to see how excited I am to see the place he’s helped to build and protect for the last five years.

“This place is everything I hoped it would be and more, Asher. This is the perfect place for us to start the new chapter of our lives.” I knew the packhouse would be amazing just by looking at how beautiful the rest of the buildings and homes are, but the thing is more than twice the size of the one at Lunar Crest! Asher assured me there are more than enough rooms to accommodate our new members, but something he forgot to mention, something I’ve literally just figured out, is that we won’t be living in the packhouse! While the other cars continue up the drive to the packhouse, our car turns left down a narrow dirt road that leads up a small hill to the east of the packhouse. At the top of the hill sits a beautiful two story log cabin style house and I hear Asher chuckle when I gasp at the sight of the stunning home that our car pulls right up in front of.

“This is our home. Do you like it?” He almost sounds nervous, but he has no reason to be because I’m in love with this home and all its large windows that I have no doubt will flood the whole house with natural light during the day.

“Like could never begin to describe how I feel about this masterpiece.” Alex opens my door and I don’t even hesitate to climb out so I can get a better look. As soon as Asher is at my side, he leads the way up the steps to the large wraparound porch then straight through the front door. Everything is decorated in shades of grey and blue, not necessarily masculine, but a perfect balance that makes it seem so welcoming.

“I had my sister help with decorating, but if there’s anything you don’t like, want to change or want to add, you have free reign. Fair warning, she’ll be more than eager to meet you.” I had read about Asher’s family and I know his younger sister is a talented healer, just like his mother was. He had a younger brother too, but he was killed in the same rogue attack that took his parents from him.

“I would love to meet her.” Another memory of the things I read about the alpha flashes in my mind and I know it’s Vira’s doing, but she can’t help herself. It turns out she’s a bit of a jealous wolf.

“Have there been other…” I snap my mouth closed, unsure of how to ask such a question without sounding like a jealous bitch in heat, but he seems to catch on to what’s on my mind.

“You’re the only wolf other than my sister, Alex and Luke to be inside this house. I had it built after everything with Julia. I needed a place that was untouched by her betrayal.” He takes my hand and leads me upstairs, bypassing all the doors, with nothing more than a brief mention of what the rooms contain, then leads us into the room at the end of the hall that’s clearly the master suite and it…is…glorious. With the shades of burgundy and dark grey that adorn the room, this is my favorite room yet.

“Your sister outdid herself. I absolutely love the colors and these paintings are so beautiful!” There are six paintings in total and each one is of the forest surrounding the pack grounds.

“Actually, this one was all me.” I swear I see his cheeks flush a light shade of pink before he turns away and pushes open the first door on the left side of the room that leads to a luxurious ensuite with a large jacuzzi tub, a shower that could easily fit four people and the granite counter tops are so beautiful!

“I love it, Asher. It’s perfect and I don’t want to change a thing.” I can tell he’s pleased with my reaction, but I mean every word.

“We should head to the packhouse. I need to swear in the new members and my beautiful mate. I need to warn you that you may feel overwhelmed by the pack link at first. I can help you figure out how to filter out conversations and how to focus on specific people through the link. Once we mark each other, you and I will have a special link of our very own.” It’s obvious that he’s excited about the idea of our mating and while I’m inexperienced, I can’t help being a little excited too.

“When will that be?” He clearly wasn’t expecting that question and it takes him longer than normal to formulate an answer.

“I figure it’ll happen whenever you’re ready. I won’t rush you, Astraea. We’re doing this at whatever pace you set.” Oh, goddess, he must think I’m some delicate, emotionally fragile creature. It’s time we shut that down!

“Then I suggest we hurry and handle swearing them in.” I give him a wicked grin then slowly walk out of the room, leaving him standing in the ensuite with wide eyes and his mouth hanging open. I’m halfway down the stairs when I hear his heavy footsteps thundering toward me just before I’m lifted off my feet and pulled against his firm, warm chest.

“You’re walking too slow.” He rushes to the door and once we’re outside and the door closes behind us, he takes off running down the hill while I burst out laughing at his eagerness. The swearing in takes thirty minutes…but maybe that’s because my mate was speaking like a madman, though the members of my former pack found it rather amusing. Asher was right about the pack link being a little overwhelming, but Vira figured out how to block it out pretty quickly and assured me that she can help me sort it all out in the morning. She honestly seems almost more excited than Asher…you know, my mate who’s currently holding me like a bride as he runs back to our house because I ‘walk too slow’. As soon as we reach the cabin, he rushes through the door then shuts and locks it, but I marvel at how quickly he goes from rushed to slow and gentle. His beautiful blue eyes lock with mine and I watch his lips curl into a breathtaking smile.

“Are you absolutely sure about this? I’m willing to wait for you if you’re not ready.” I give him a playful eye roll then do the only thing I can think of to prove to him that I’m more than ready…I lean my head toward him while using my arms that are already around his neck to bring his face down until he’s close enough for our lips to touch. The sparks of electricity are so intense that I can’t help the gasp that slips out of me which gives Asher the opportunity to deepen our kiss and he doesn’t waste it!

Chapter 8

Astraea

The walk up the stairs to our room passes in a blur of deep kisses and loving caresses until I find myself being carefully set back on my feet next to the bed. He takes a step back, his eyes never leaving mine, then slowly grabs the hem of his shirt, pulling it up over his head then tosses it on the ground. I mimic his actions, first with my shirt, then following his lead as he removes his pants as well.

By the time we finish undressing, we both are standing bare before each other, allowing ourselves a moment for our eyes to map out every inch of the body before us. In a move that surprises us both, I step forward, letting my hand rise up so that my fingers can gently stroke his cheek, then allowing them to slowly glide across his jaw, down over his pulse point and down the hard ridges of each muscle on his chest.

“You’re magnificent, a god in the flesh.” The reverence in my voice makes his breath catch, but he recovers quickly, his lips crashing into mine and his arms holding me tightly against him. I hadn’t even realized we were moving until I feel my legs press against the bed. He slowly guides me back until I’m laying on the mattress beneath him then it’s his turn to let his hands wander and I revel in the feeling of the delicious fire they leave in their wake.

Each touch, caress and kiss has my body feeling electrified…feeling alive. His lips are worshiping me which momentarily distracted me from his large hands until I feel his fingers graze my most intimate place, a place untouched by any other and it has my back arching off the bed, pressing my chest firmly against his from just the lightest of touches.

The gentle touch becomes more intense, purposeful and his deft fingers graze a part of me that has my body jolting from the pleasure. I feel his fingers focus on that location, moving in a gentle circular motion that has my entire body heating and a strange tension building in my lower belly that feels like a wire being wound tightly.

I can barely focus on his body, his hand causing new sensations to surge through me while his lips kiss, lick and smile against me with every soft moan he pulls from my body that’s being overwhelmed by the pleasure he’s bringing me. During the moment of mental distraction, I feel one of his large fingers slowly slide inside me, forcing out a sound that’s half moan, half gasp.

I’ve never been intimate before, but it seems my body has this whole thing figured out. As a second finger slowly joins the first, my hips begin rocking of their own accord, the movement increasing the sensations surging through me as a third finger stretches me further, adding a slight stinging sensation that only seems to wind that wire tighter.

His thumb presses more firmly against the bundle of nerves above my core and that wire, the one he wound so damn tight, finally snaps. I cry out his name as waves of pleasure crash into me, causing my body to writhe and tremble in pleasure as he watches from above me, looking rather pleased with himself. I would be inclined to think it can’t get any better than this, but the fire in his eyes tells me I’m about to see just how much better it can get.

He slowly slides his fingers out of me while I struggle to catch my breath and I’m oblivious to his movements until I feel his chest press back into mine and I feel something pressed against my entrance as my eyes open to meet his beautiful blue ones.

“This will hurt, but I promise it won’t last long and I’ll make it up to you.” I place my hand on his cheek and smile softly at his loving tone. I could never have hoped to have such an amazing, caring and considerate mate…yet here he is and I couldn’t be more grateful to have been blessed with him.

“A few moments of pain to mark the start of a lifetime of happiness. I’m ready, Asher. I trust you.” He lowers his lips to mine, the urgent kisses from moments ago are replaced by a gentle, passionate kiss as he slowly slides into me, inch by impressive and slightly painful inch. I feel the resistance when he reaches the barrier of my innocence, but as my nails dig into his back in anticipation of the pain I know is coming, he draws out slightly then thrusts forward, burring himself to the hilt in a single thrust that steals the breath from my lungs. He stills inside me and focuses on peppering my face with kisses while using his thumbs to wipe my tears away.

“I’m sorry, I’m so sorry. I promise it won’t be like this after this. It won’t hurt like this again, I promise.” After a few painful minutes, I finally feel the burning in my core dying down and open my eyes that had clenched tightly closed, being met with his eyes that are glistening with unshed tears. I cradle his face in my hands and lean up until our lips meet, trying to comfort him just as he works to comfort me. I feel him slowly withdraw then gently thrust into me and the pain is barely noticeable now. He’s being gentle, but I can feel how tightly wound his muscles are as he fights to restrain himself, to hold back…and he’s doing it for me….he’s trying to be gentle for me.

“Stop holding back. Claim what’s yours, Asher.” The words, whispered in a heated breath straight into his ear, seem to shatter the little self-restraint he had left. He begins thrusting deeper, harder, but his eyes are locked on mine, watching for any sign that it might be too much…caring for me even as he’s losing control. My hips begin rocking, meeting each powerful thrust and winding that damn wire tight as the room fills with the sounds of heavy breaths, soft moans and skin colliding against skin.

I feel myself reaching my peak again, but I can tell he’s right there with me, his thrusts becoming sloppy, more intense. I feel Vira pushing forward and I let her take the reins, knowing her instincts will guide us. When his blue eyes connect with mine, I know he can see Vira there with us and the flash of gold that mixes with his blue tells me Nero is there too, all of us ready and eager to seal our fate, to merge our souls.

Just as I fall off the cliff, crying his name, I feel his teeth sink into the soft flesh at the junction where my neck and shoulder meet and Vira follows his lead, our sharp teeth sinking into his pulse point as he cries out in pleasure, my name leaving his lips like a prayer to the goddess as he spills his seed deep inside me.

We both lick the other’s wound clean, sealing the mark and feeling our bond explode into place with a rush of shared memories, emotions and the faint lingering pleasure of our intimate moment. He rests his forehead against mine as the memories of our past continue to flash between us, but that’s when it happens…I feel something wet hit my cheek and open my eyes to see him already looking down at me with tears falling freely from his eyes. I know what he saw, I know every memory, every living nightmare.

“You’ve endured so much pain, Astraea, survived through so much. If there’s one promise I can make you, it’s that you’ll never again feel such pain.” He presses his lips to mine gently, as if he’s afraid some of the injuries he witnessed may still exist.

“I know…I trust you, Asher. Why don’t we go take a shower?” He clearly likes the idea because he’s standing and helping me up in the blink of an eye then leads me to the ensuite where we take our time washing and worshiping each other until we’re finally too exhausted to function. He carries me to our bed, lays me down in the middle then curls tightly around me, his body protecting me like a cocoon as we both easily find sleep in each other’s arms.

Chapter 9

Asher

I had been awake for almost an hour, watching Astraea sleep peacefully in my arms, when I heard Luke’s voice cut through the pack link.

‘Alpha, Councilman Jeffries called. I sent over all the files from Alpha Magnus’s office as well as the recording from the holding cells. They’ve notified all of the surrounding packs and instructed them to keep a look out for Beta Darren.’ The mention of the bastard that got away causes my body to tense and that’s all it takes to wake my beautiful mate.

“Good morning, beautiful.” I press a soft kiss to her temple that earns me the sweetest smile.

“Good morning. You seem tense, is everything okay?” I don’t want her to worry, but I refuse to give her a reason not to trust me after all she’s done to earn and prove that she deserves my trust.

“The council sent out an alert to the other packs to have them watch out for Darren. Luke handled sending over everything we found at your pack as well as the video from the holding cells. I imagine your parents’ trial will be over quickly. Did you want to be there for it?” Nero and I are both against the idea of her being present for it, especially when their execution will be handled immediately after the verdict is handed down, but we’ll support her no matter what she chooses.

“Honestly…no. I’ve closed that chapter in my life and have no desire to revisit it. If they need me to testify, can I do it by video call from here?” I don’t even bother concealing my relief as I smile down at her.

“Of course, you can, but I don’t think it’ll be necessary with all the evidence they have stacked against them. I think, at this point, the trial is merely a formality. We should get dressed so we can go have breakfast with the pack. I asked Beth to make extra bacon for you.” The fact that something as small as an extra serving of bacon is enough to make her face light up, it makes the differences between her and Julia stand out even more.

That’s where my thoughts are as we’re both getting dressed, comparing the two and realizing how Julia never truly fit with me. Where Astraea is strong, brave, selfless and kind…Julia was cold, materialistic, arrogant and always considered her own needs before those of the pack. I can’t help wondering how the goddess ever thought she would make a good mate, let alone a good luna.

“Hey, you alright over there?” I look down into the dazzling pale green eyes of my mate and offer a reassuring smile.

“More than alright.” She approaches me, her eyes carefully assessing me, studying me.

“You were lost for a second there.” I reach forward, my hand gently cupping her cheek.

“I was just thinking about how lucky I am. Having you here, having you be my mate, it’s more than I could ever have hoped for. Your asshole parents may have failed to see you for what you are, but I see it all. You are, without a doubt, a blessing.” I lower my hand and take hers, lacing our fingers together then lead her out of the house and down the hill. As soon as we walk through the back door that leads into the dining hall, we’re met with over one hundred of our pack members, some new and some old. I lead her to her chair, pulling it out for her and helping push it in before taking my seat beside her.

“So, Astraea, you going to watch us train today?” Alex has a bright smile as he addresses his luna and I can see he already feels the pull to protect her. As my gamma and lead warrior, it’s specifically his job to protect my mate, so his dedication that I can already see shining through pleases both Nero and I greatly.

“I’d love to.” You would think she just gave him the world with how thrilled he is to know she’ll be there to watch and support our fighters. Beth walks out carrying two plates, setting one in front of me and the other, that’s loaded with easily a pound of bacon, in front of my mate. I see Alex’s eyes widen comically as his mouth drops open.

“There’s bacon?! None of us got bacon! The hell?!” I can’t even stop myself from bursting out laughing and even though Astraea looked so damn excited when the plate, that’s ninety percent bacon, was set before her, she stuns everyone in the room when she reaches over and grabs Alex’s plate then place nearly half her bacon on it before giving it back. My pack got used to having a greedy, bitch for a luna, so seeing a luna who’s willing to sacrifice something she wants for a member of our pack, they don’t seem to know how to react.

“Did anyone else want some?” The innocent look on her face as she offers has everyone smiling brightly as they all shake their heads and return to eating.

“You’re amazing and I think you’ve made a friend for life in Alex.” She looks over at him as they both move in perfect sync, lifting a piece of bacon to their mouths and eating half of the strip in one bite.

“Huh, bonding over bacon…I can be okay with that.” The two strange wolves then proceed to tap their half strips of bacon together as if toasting to their new bond before shoving them in their mouths.

“So, the council sent an email and I guess they only reviewed the footage from the cells and read through the first file before reaching their verdict. Their carrying out the execution this evening.” I feel Astraea tense next to me, but she doesn’t pause her eating. The best part of our being marked is being able to sense her emotions and she doesn’t feel sad or fearful…no, my mate feels relieved. We finish eating and I have to practically force Astraea to walk out with me just to stop her from trying to gather everyone’s dishes, much to the amusement of our pack.

After we go home and change, I lead her down to the training fields where several of our fighters are already sparring. We’re almost to the bleachers when I spot someone I hadn’t wanted to deal with, though I’m clearly not getting a choice as she starts walking over. Now, I wasn’t a perfect saint after Julia’s death, I made a few mistakes and this she-wolf, Hannah, was the biggest one of all.

“Asher! I’m so glad your back!” Her shrill voice has Nero growling in protest, but it’s the mixture of amusement and irritation coming through the bond that has my body tensing.

“Hannah, you’ll address me by my title. It’s Alpha Asher to you.” Hannah, being the oblivious and stubborn thing she is, ignores the warning in my tone and, more infuriatingly, she ignores my mate who’s standing right beside me!

“I was thinking that maybe I could help relieve some of your stress after training.” The amusement I felt seconds ago is gone and now her anger is mixing with my own.

“You know as well as everyone else in this pack that I found my mate and now you have the nerve to stand here and insult her by not only failing to acknowledge her presence, but then you have the nerve to proposition me in front of her?!” I’m fucking livid, but it seems her survival instincts are non-existent.

“Oh, I heard. Our new broken luna. In fact, this seems as good a time as any. I challenge your mate for her position as luna. Our pack deserves a luna who’s strong and this weak little mutt standing next to you isn’t fit for the role.” I open my mouth to object, to put this bitch in her place, but a soft hand on my arm and the sharp tone of my mate silence me.

“Challenge accepted. Let’s get on with this so you have time to lick your wounds before the luna ceremony.” Astraea takes a step toward the sparring ring where everyone has already stopped their training to watch the scene unfold. I grab her arm, my eyes pleading with her not to do this because I know she’s had no formal training while Hannah has been training for the last eight years.

“Astraea, you don’t have to do this. You don’t have anything to prove.” She reaches her other hand up and gently strokes my cheek while smiling up at me.

“Not to you, but to your pack…I have everything to prove. She may speak out of jealousy, but I’m not foolish enough to believe she’s the only one who thinks I’m not fit to be their luna…so, let me show them.” I don’t want her to do this, but I have to trust her, so with a single nod, I release my hold on her and watch her walk to the center of the ring where Hannah waits with a sinister smile on her face. I think part of me knew that Hannah had no plans to fight fair, but when she launches her attack as Luke is preparing to announce the rules for their fight, I barely manage to hold Nero back.

Hannah takes several swings at Astraea and even attempts a leg sweep, but my beautiful mate dodges each attack with expert ease. Just when I think she isn’t planning to fight back, I catch the shift in her eyes, the teal bleeding into the green as Hannah charges at her. In a move that’s so quick I almost miss it, Astraea crouches slightly then thrusts her fist forward, crashing it into Hannah’s sternum and the sound of the bone cracking echoes through the silence in the field and is accompanied by a loud yelp before Hannah falls to the ground.

“Your behavior is disgraceful and reflects poorly on your pack. You dared to challenge me for a position you will never be fit to hold?! If you ever challenge me again, your life will be forfeit! Is there anyone else who would like to question my ability to do my duty as your luna?” She’s met with absolute silence as every member lowers their head with their necks bared in submission.

“Troy! Take this pathetic mutt to the infirmary!” Alex shouts his order, but his tone is filled with pride and his smile is wide as he looks at my mate with awe. She turns and walks over to me, straight into my open arms.

“You’re incredible.” Her arms around my waist give a squeeze before she tilts her head up and rests her chin on my chest so she can look up into my eyes.

“Can we go for a run later?” Nero answers with a growl that has her lips pulling up into a beautiful, heart melting smile.

“We can definitely arrange that. Let’s get this training session over and I’ll take you somewhere special.” Her face lights up and she gives me a nod before turning to face the field as the fighters slowly return to their training. Though she’s intently watching the training session taking place in front of us, she remains in front of me, leaning back against me while my arms stay wrapped around her. Once they wrap up, we head to the dining hall for lunch then head to our house so we can strip down and shift. I lead her the three miles to the waterfall that feeds into the river that runs through our pack. Vira and Nero spent the whole trip here playing and chasing each other, but the minute we reach the peaceful oasis in the middle of the forest, I feel Nero push me back as he takes the reigns and things quickly get…heated. After being knotted with my mate for almost thirty minutes, he finally retreats, feeling too exhausted to maintain control. As soon as we’re both shifted, I look over and find Astraea smiling down at her reflection in the churning water.

“I swear, that wasn’t the reason I brought you out here.” We both fall into a fit of laughter, but it’s easy to see that neither of us are bothered by it. Hell, we owed it to our wolves to let them complete their part of the mating ritual. Now that our bond is fully formed, I can feel all of her emotions tenfold and the most overwhelming sense of happiness hits me.

“Now we know how they felt when we were mating and they were stuck riding in the backseat.” She glances up at me with a playful glint in her eyes.

“So, what you’re saying is they decided to get paybacks for all the fun they missed out on last night? Yeah, that’s fair.” She bursts out laughing, slowly shaking her head at me.

“Something like that. It’s really beautiful out here.” Her eyes scan our surroundings, taking it all in as I close the distance between us and kneel down beside her while she continues to gaze into the water.

“I like to come out here to clear my head. I found this place when I was eight. My dad and I had an argument because I was supposed to be in training, but I went to play tag with Luke instead. I decided I was going to run away from home and I ended up here. I spent a few hours just staring at the water like you are now and that’s when I finally started to understand the weight of the position I was born into. I never missed another day of training, but I still come out here anytime there’s too much going on in my head.” I see the soft smile curling her lips, but there’s a faint sadness flowing through our bond that contradicts it.

Chapter 10

Asher

“That’s what the meadow was for me. Ares took me out there when I first started showing signs that my wolf had awakened. He was with me in that meadow the first time I shifted. He talked me through it, supported me and never once did he let on to the fact that it’s not normal to shift at the age of ten. Anytime my life got to be too much, or the neglect from my family was just too much to take, I would go to the meadow and let Vira run.” I reach my hand for hers and my heart warms when she doesn’t even hesitate to take it. I pull her into my arms and settle onto the ground with my legs stretched out along the riverbank with her settled in my lap.

“So, you mentioned the luna ceremony…when would you like to have it?” The luna ceremony is always held on the full moon, but that thought brings another to the front of my mind…the agreement between her father and the witch council to deliver her to them on the next full moon which is in four days.

“As soon as possible. I know about my father’s plan to trade me to the council. Do you think they’d come after me?” The fact that she openly voices my silent concerns leaves me no choice but to answer her.

“I honestly don’t know. If we’re doing this, the ceremony will take place in four days, so we’ll increase security and I can call in a few favors from our allies, have them bring extra guards just in case.” She nods her head against my chest, but I feel her worry and I hate that I can’t just make it go away.

“Let’s do it. Four days should be enough time, right? Or do you think we should do it next month?” I know that she doesn’t want to wait, but I don’t want to either.

“No, four days is plenty of time. We can have my sister, Ella, help out and the omegas will be more than happy to help arrange everything. With Ella running the show, she could probably have it ready in a day.” We spend the next several hours talking about the pack, the ceremony and she tells me several more stories about Ares that make me realize that she at least had one person in her family who loved and cared for her. We finally head back an hour before dinner will be served and manage to take a shower and change before heading to the dining hall.

“Asher! I hear your mate put Hannah in her place during training!” Ella’s excited voice is the first thing to greet us when we walk through the doors and it’s obvious she didn’t notice my perfect little mate entering behind me with her hand still holding mine.

“You heard correctly. Ella, this is Astraea. Astraea, this is my sister, Ella. We were actually going to meet with you after dinner to see if you’d be up for helping plan the luna ceremony that will take place on the next full moon.” I don’t get why women do it, but she lets out one of those goddess awful screeches and starts jumping around like a crazy person while my mate stares at her with a mixture of confusion and amusement.

“Wait! That’s four days away! Oh, I need to get to planning! It was so nice meeting you, Astraea. Give me two days and I’ll show you what I have planned so you can let me know if you want to make any changes!” She doesn’t even wait for us to respond before bouncing off and right out the door to the dining hall.

“And that was my sister.” She’s fighting back her laughter, I can see it, but she simply pulls me along to our seats where Alex is watching us with sheer amusement and Luke even looks more than a little entertained by the whole encounter. The rest of our night is filled with laughter and as I watch it all unfold, I realize that it’s not only me who’s lucky to have Astraea in my life, but my whole pack is lucky. In the short time she’s been here, the whole pack seems more alive and it’s something I never even realized we were missing.

It’s been two days, two long days filled with ceremony preparations and Ella constantly commandeering far too much of my mate’s time. It’s not like I’m some needy beast who requires every ounce of his mate’s attention, but I can even feel her frustration through our bond. The whole thing has really put me in a shit mood and, unfortunately, it resulted in Alex and I having a rather heated argument. I don’t even know what brought it up, but somehow the discussion went back to the day in Alpha Magnus’s office when Luke showed me the messages between her father and the Starlight Coven.

I had thought, at the time, that the tension I felt from Alex was because of the possibility that my mate had betrayed me just like Julia did. I was wrong. It turns out he was pissed off at me because he could feel me starting to doubt Astraea. She was my mate for less than twenty-four hours and he was already wanting to protect her while I had been ready to doubt her at the first opportunity. I know she says she’s forgiven me, but seeing that my gamma was willing to trust her when her own mate couldn’t, it makes me feel like she might’ve forgiven me too easily.

That argument is what led us to this moment, the one where my mate just damn near kicked down the door to my office to get to me because she felt my anger and guilt flooding our bond. Without a word, she points to the door and both Luke and Alex leave, closing the door behind them.

“Okay, care to tell me why I was in the middle of lunch and had the sudden urge to wolf out and tear the dining hall to shreds?” She keeps her tone light, but it does nothing to mask the worry in her eyes, or the fact that I can feel it flowing through the bond.

“Alex and I had a disagreement.” I know that won’t be enough explanation for her, but goddess I was hoping it would be.

“What were you arguing about?” I can’t help but look away from her, not wanting her to see the shame that hangs heavy in my heart, though I know she can feel it.

“About the day in your dad’s office. Did you know that Alex believed in your innocence from the start while I practically clung to the first chance I was given to doubt you?” She lets out a soft sigh and quickly closes the distance between us, lifts my hands and settles into my lap.

“Look, I can offer you forgiveness every second of everyday for the rest of our lives, but it won’t mean anything until you learn to forgive yourself. You had your reasons to be suspicious and a past that made it easy to doubt others. You weren’t the only one hurt by what that treacherous bitch did, your whole pack was…so of course you would be leery of trusting me after what you found.” I know she’s right, but the guilt is still there and with the guilt, comes the anger of knowing I had wrongfully believed my mate to be some lying, scheming she-wolf without gathering the evidence to prove it.

“Yeah, I’ll have to work on that.” I didn’t intend for my tone to sound so hostile, each word delivered too sharply.

“I’m just trying to help, Asher. It’s not good for you to carry around guilt for something that no one else blames you for.” Goddess, I feel the words pouring out of me before I can stop them and I want to erase them from existence the second they leave my lips!

“Don’t act like you know how I feel. You don’t have to walk around feeling guilt gnawing at you every damn day. Guilt for letting someone harm your pack and then there’s the guilt for screwing things up with my mate, the second chance mate that the goddess somehow thought me worthy of, less than twenty-four hours after meeting her.” I regret the words instantly and no matter how much I want to take them back, it’s too late. I can both see and feel the pain, anger and fucking heartbreak that rips through her before she shoots up out of my lap like she’s been burned by me.

“Sure, because it’s not like I’ve spent the last five years blaming myself for the death of the only person who ever loved me. It’s not like I could possibly feel guilt for everything my parents did to the members of my pack while I could do nothing to stop them. It’s not like I feel the crushing weight of it all even right now, after learning his death had nothing to do with me. You’re right though, I don’t know how you feel. You doubted my loyalty for less than a day, but me? I was responsible for the death of someone whose only sin was caring about me. I was the reason that the only chance my pack had at a bright future was ripped away from them. You want to compare pain? You want to compare sins? The way I see it, I have you beat by a mile. So, go ahead, wallow in pity and take your anger out on everyone else, but trust me when I say that it won’t fix a damn thing.” Without another word, she throws open the door to my office and storms out. As if my own conscience isn’t already tearing me apart, Nero is losing his shit because I hurt our mate…again! It only makes it worse when I feel her block our bond, leaving me feeling absolutely nothing from her.

She’s been gone for two hours and Ella has been mind linking me every few minutes with questions about where Astraea is, why she’s not able to link her and she’s asked me at least a dozen questions about the ceremony. I don’t know how the hell my mate has handled being around her so much the past two days. As yet another link comes through from my sister, I’ve hit my limit. I get up and march my ass out of my room, determined to find my mate and get to work fixing yet another mess I’ve managed to make.

After searching our house and finding it empty, it’s easy to guess where she’ll be since she hasn’t had time to explore much of the pack lands yet. I step out the back door and shift before running into the forest, heading straight for the waterfall. I catch her scent easily when I’m less than a mile out and it feels like the area is saturated with it. As I break into the small clearing, I’m frozen by the sight of her opalescent white wolf sitting at the top of the waterfall with her head tilted up to the sky. Without so much as sparing me a glance, she unleashes a sorrowful howl that draws Nero to the surface as he quickly joins in, letting our mate know that we’re hurting too.

At the sound of our howl, her head lowers until she’s staring down at me and the pained whimper that leaves her fucking breaks me. Nero quickly rushes up the side of the hill to her, only stopping once we reach her side. He lets out a soft whimper which she echoes in response. I did this to us. My anger and guilt drove me to be a fucking monster to my own mate when all she wanted to do was help me.

Nero lays on his belly and carefully inches closer to her, unsure of what to expect or how she might react, but then she completely shocks us both when leans into him and nuzzles him with her nose. It’s in that moment that I feel the block on our bond lift and the flood of emotions crushes me. I feel everything from sadness, fear, heartache, guilt, grief and uncertainty.

‘I’m so sorry, Astraea. I just keeping fucking things up with you, don’t I?’ I think I was convinced she wouldn’t respond because the sound of her voice echoing in my mind startles the hell out of me.

‘I’m sorry too.’ I hate that she even thinks she has a reason to apologize. This one was one hundred percent on me.

‘Can we go home so I can hold my beautiful mate?’ Vira nudges us with her nose then stands and starts making her way down the hill. Once we make it back to our room, we don’t even bother with a shower before crawling into bed where, just as I requested, she lets me hold her until we both succumb to our exhaustion.

Chapter 11

Astraea

The day of my luna ceremony has finally arrived and while I’m more than excited for it, I woke up and everything just feels…off. It’s like the air feels heavier and there’s a sense of unease that I just can’t shake. I’ve managed to conjure up every possible reason for me to feel this way, but all I’ve accomplished is finding dozens of things that definitely aren’t the cause. The location for the ceremony is all set up, the food is being cooked, guests are already trickling in, security is already in place, I woke up with my mate and Beth had my bacon waiting for me in the dining hall. Nothing seems out of place and there are no ceremony preparation details left to worry about.

I’ve just finished doing a final check on everything when Asher links me to ask that I meet him in his office and maybe my mood is rubbing off on him, because now he seems a little off too! I tell Ella I’ll meet her in her room in an hour then head to Asher’s office where I find Luke, Asher and the all-too-familiar seer waiting for me.

“Luna Astraea, it’s good to see you again. We have much to discuss. As you’ve already discovered, the Starlight Coven and witches council were working with your father and they had agreed to offer him assistance in the war he planned to wage against several packs in the northern territory. Their end of the deal would only be upheld once they had you in their possession. It’s clear that will no longer be an option, but that doesn’t mean they’ve given up. Your father was a foolish beast and he played right into the coven’s hands…him and that pathetic mutt he called his beta.

“Just as my sister had seen visions of your conception, the coven’s seer received a vision as well. They had hoped to get their hands on you at the time when you reach full power, the first full moon after your eighteenth birthday. Seline’s blessing will be bestowed upon you at tonight’s ceremony and you will officially hold power like the world has never before known. They didn’t count on you finding your mate though. Now, your ceremony must be completed and I will help to ensure the safety of both you and your mate. I need to make preparations for a warding spell and you and your mate need to finish getting ready!” And once again, she vanishes in a puff of smoke before any of us can say a word.

“That was annoyingly unhelpful. Does she think the coven is coming for her? Is that the reason she’s warding shit?” Asher and I both look at Luke, feeling equally confused as we both shrug.

“Even if she doesn’t, Alpha Harris brought fifty of his guards to help our security team, so I’m going to meet with them and increase the security around the luna.” I smile at Alex, finding both comfort and amusement in his protective tone.

“Sounds good. I think we should also speak with Alpha Joshua. He’s already here now, but with his pack bordering ours, maybe he can send some of his guards to help with the border patrols.” Luke nods in agreement to Asher’s suggestion.

“Harris’s guards are meeting with ours now, so I’ll go down and get them all set up with their stations.” Alex gives us a slight bow and flashes me a reassuring smile before exiting the office.

“I’ll go speak with Joshua.” Luke hurries out of the office too, leaving me and Asher behind with the door closing, blocking out the outside world for a few peaceful minutes.

“Are you feeling nervous?” I can understand why he would think that, but it’s not so much nervousness that’s plaguing me and I don’t know exactly how to explain what I’m feeling, but I know I need to try.

“No, not really. I just woke up feeling like something isn’t quite right. I feel uneasy, but not about the ceremony…I’m excited for the ceremony. Things just seem so…off balance.” Asher opens his arms to me and I don’t even hesitate to walk into them.

“Are you worried about the coven showing up?” I nod against his chest without even really thinking about it. Now that he asked the question, I can’t help but realize that it truly is a large part of the issue causing me discomfort, though I have a feeling there’s more to it.

“Yeah, but I don’t think that’s all. I think there’s something else, but I can’t figure out what it is. Even Vira seems to sense it.” He tightens his arms around me and I feel the effects immediately as he tries to calm me.

“Maybe we should postpone the ceremony, have it next month and just focus on the threat from the coven for now.” While it sounds reasonable, Vira is quite insistent that we need to continue with our plans and, honestly, I agree.

“I don’t want those bastards controlling my life any more than they already have. I refuse to behave like a puppet the way my parents did. I won’t let them keep me from this.” He pulls back and looks down at me with pride, but I can still feel and see his worry.

“Alright, we’ll stick to the plan. If they’re going to show up, this would be the best time to do it since we have the extra wolves here already. Alright, you have an hour to get ready then it’s show time.” He gives me a soft kiss then lets his forehead rest against mine.

“Alright, I’m going to meet up with Ella so she can work her magic. I’ll see you soon.” With one last kiss, I leave his office and head straight to Ella’s room so we can get to work. I let Ella choose my dress and she settled on a Greek style, floor length white gown with a silver cord that ties around the waist and silver cord straps instead of sleeves. She honestly tried to get me to wear a pair of strappy silver heels, but I won that battle and will be walking across the field to Asher barefoot. Once she has my hair styled and applied only enough makeup to accentuate my features, it’s time to go.

As I take my first step through the door to the backyard, I hear the silence that falls over everyone. I take slow, sure steps, walking down the aisle toward the stand where Asher is waiting for me with a look of awe and pride. When I step up onto the stage, the pack elder begins the ceremony, but truthfully, I don’t hear a thing he’s saying. It isn’t until I feel Asher squeeze my hands that I know it’s time for me to recite the oath.

“Do you, Astraea Fiora, hereby swear to protect, support and nurture the members of the Blood Spire Pack?”

“I do.”

“Do you swear to uphold our laws, to lead with an honest heart and strong mind?”

“I do.”

“With the sacred blade, you will now cut your palm and allow your blood to spill into the blessed chalice.” I follow his instructions then set the blade back on the altar as my blood drips into the golden chalice. Asher takes the blade and mimics my actions.

“Now, join hands, palm to palm and let your blood unite you.” We clasp our hands together, the blood from our cuts combining as a surge of power flows through me.

“Blood Spire, I present to you Luna Astraea!” The crowd cheers and whistles, but it seems we aren’t done yet. The cloud cover that had been blocking out the sky for most of the afternoon finally parts, revealing the full moon and sends energy coursing through me in waves. I feel like my body is overheating, my vision blurs and I feel something pulsing in my mind, yet Vira is completely calm.

“Hey, look at me, tell me what’s wrong.” I didn’t even notice that Asher had moved to stand in front of me, his hands firmly holding my waist to steady me.

“I…I don’t know.” I barely get the words out before the first howl sounds out from the patrols…the border has been breeched.

“All elderly, untrained and children head to the bunker now!” I hear Asher shouting his commands, but I feel the power settling into me, my mind clearing and Vira…she’s ready to see what the hell we just awakened.

‘A dozen witches breeched the north border! Heading toward the packhouse, be on guard!’ When the mind link comes through, Asher looks at me with wide eyes and I know he wants to tell me to go with the others, but I’m not about to let them fight this battle without me, especially not when I’m the one those pricks are after. With his hands still holding me, I feel my anger surging through my veins and next thing I know, we’re suddenly standing in the middle of the forest and I can smell the sage and spices of the witches as they approach.

“How the hell?” I give him a reassuring smile then let Vira surge forward, shifting faster than ever before and I swear, I feel the power rippling through every muscle, every damn cell of my body, as she stalks forward, taking in the scent of the witches that’s growing stronger by the second. Asher shifts into Nero and quickly makes his way to my side just as the first line of the witches comes into view. I watch them move like a perfectly cohesive unit, raising their arms out to their sides then flinging them forward, sending visible orbs of energy at us, but Vira leaps in front of Nero, letting them all hit us. Instead of being harmed by the energy, I feel our body absorb it and it makes me feel impossibly stronger.

Vira steps forward and I feel the white light of the moon shining down on me almost as if the goddess herself is encouraging me, supporting me. Vira rises up onto her hind legs then slams her front paws into the ground, sending a rippling pulse of energy straight at them, knocking them all off their feet from the sheer force of it. I hear the thundering of dozens of wolves paws hitting the ground as the others rush to join us, so Vira decides to keep the bastards distracted until they arrive.

I have no idea what to do with whatever this power is that we awakened, but when Vira unleashes an ear piercing howl, I feel stunned when I see not only the first line of the witches fall to the ground, but the second and third line as well. There are a lot more than a dozen witches here! Their bodies are laying lifeless on the forest floor, but it’s just the break we needed because the others are now here and we all charge in to take out the last line of defense. We eliminate most of them, but there are several who retreat, running back across the border while leaving their brothers and sisters here to die.

“We need the pack doctor!” Vira turns to the direction the shout comes from and I see one of Alpha Harris’s guards kneeling beside Harris, who looks like he was hit with ball of fire. There’s a large, round burn on his chest that’s left his ribs and sternum exposed and the poor wolf is writhing in agony. Vira walks over to him and shifts into my human form once we’re beside him. I listen as she urges me to hold my hands over the injury, then I watch as they begin to emit a bright, white light once I do. His wounds begin to slowly heal, the flesh regenerating until no sign of the injury remains.

“What are you?” I can hear both fear and curiosity in the guard’s voice, but before I can answer him, Harris speaks up for me.

“She’s a celestial born and she saved your alpha’s life, so show some damn respect, Jacob.” Harris flashes me a grateful smile then quickly gets to his feet just as Asher reaches down and helps me to mine.

“You’re fucking amazing, so damn perfect.” His lips crash into mine and, without breaking our kiss, he sweeps his arm under my legs and begins the walk back to our house with Alex and Luke following us. As soon as his lips leave mine, I lay my head against his shoulder and am quickly overtaken by my exhaustion.

Chapter 12

Asher

I have a feeling that I should be feeling something about everything that went down tonight. I mean, I’m proud, I’m happy, but I feel like maybe I should be worried, or maybe even afraid to at least some small extent. No matter how much I think about it, though, all I feel is pride in my beautiful mate. Speaking of my mate, she not only teleported us to the battle, but she absorbed the attacks those witches threw her way then healed the critical injuries Harris had suffered in the blink of an eye! I can’t believe I ever thought to doubt her!

After I got us back to our room last night, I laid her in our bed, slid in beside her and then I simply…watched her sleep. She’s so beautiful, loving, strong and the fact that she’s forgiven me for being an asshole makes her a damn saint. I have no doubt that I don’t deserve her, but I’m so glad she’s mine. After waking up this morning, I refused to move a muscle as I continued to hold her, loving the way her small body fits so perfectly with mine.

“I need a shower…and bacon…” Her raspy, sleepy voice has me smiling brightly at her as her beautiful green eyes meet mine, lit up by a smile of her own.

“I think that can be arranged. How are you feeling?” I know that’s been part of my inability to sleep, not knowing what changes she underwent since we didn’t exactly have a chance to talk about it with the events that took place.

“I’m feeling…different…but in a good way, I think. How are you feeling? I didn’t even get a chance to make sure you hadn’t been hurt last night.” I feel a glimmer of guilt from her and I shut it down right away.

“No, I wasn’t hurt. I’m feeling great, the whole pack is…because of you. Last night…you were amazing, Astraea. I…am so proud of you.” I press my lips to hers, giving her a tender kiss before carefully untangling myself from her and heading to the bathroom to get the shower going for her. I spend what is probably an unnecessary amount of time carefully washing her with her returning the favor before we finally get out, get dressed and head to the packhouse for breakfast.

“Alpha Asher, Luna Astraea, we received word from the Gold Ridge Pack this morning. The former beta was spotted passing their borders with three other wolves just before dawn.” Luke’s voice is low when he speaks, ensuring the others in the room don’t overhear.

“Let’s eat and then we’ll discuss this in my office.” I can feel a strange mixture of emotions coming from my beautiful mate, the most potent being anger and fear, so I pull her into my arms and place a kiss on her forehead.

“Come on, Beth made extra bacon for you and Alex.” That gets a soft smile, but it doesn’t quite reach her eyes. Breakfast is a quiet affair with Astraea, Luke and I thinking about what Luke found out this morning and most of the others likely still processing the events of last night. If I had any question about how heavily Luke’s news affected my mate, the fact that she barely touched her bacon would’ve given her away. As soon as it’s clear we’ve all eaten as much as we can for now, I lead Astraea to my office with Alex and Luke following behind us.

“Alright, tell us everything Alpha Fredrick told you and leave nothing out.” I get straight to it the second the door closes while leading my mate around my desk then pulling her into my lap as soon as I sit down in my chair.

“Fredrick’s patrols saw four wolves passing by their border and positively identified former beta Darren Grant among them. He was heading east…” he doesn’t even need to finish the sentence because we all know what’s to the east of the Gold Ridge territory…we are.

“You said no witches were spotted with them? Are they sure?” He nods, but I can see there’s more to it.

“They saw no one else, but…he said the patrol reported a strange smell that they couldn’t identify. They said it was like sage and something else they couldn’t pinpoint.” While Alex, Luke and I are trying to figure out what the hell the connection might be between the beta and the strange smell the patrol picked up, I feel Astraea’s emotions morph into what I can only describe as shock.

“Hey, what’s wrong?” She turns and looks at me with wide eyes then surprises us all.

“Last night…the patrol reported only a dozen witches breeching the border, but when we met them, there were easily three times as many. There’s no way nearly thirty witches could cross the border unseen…unless…maybe they’ve found a way to cloak themselves…to hide right out in the open? I don’t know what kind of magic a witch is capable of, but if it’s possible…it would explain some things. Perhaps the scent the patrol picked up was the witches, only they couldn’t see them.” Goddess…it makes sense, though I wish it didn’t.

“She’s right. We need to notify the council and reach out to the neighboring packs, our allies and then we need to up our training. Gold Ridge is only a fourteen hour drive which means it should take them a few days to get here, depending on how many they’re traveling with. We need to be prepared and make sure the saferoom is fully stocked.” Astraea is nodding in agreement, clearly pleased with the plan.

“Yes, alpha. I’ll reach out to the other packs. Alex, can you please handle setting up and implementing the new training schedule?” Alex quickly nods his agreement then Astraea and I watch as they both leave the office, closing the door behind them.

“I want you to join the training sessions with me. I saw for myself that you can handle yourself, but I’d feel better knowing you have the technical aspects down. It’d be for my own peace of mind.” I don’t want her to feel like I doubt her abilities, but I worry that with her lack of training, she may have a harder time standing up to a physical attack. Sure, she handled Hannah and the witches, but I have no doubt that the beta and the guards who fled with him are more highly trained and physically stronger than Hannah’s pathetic ass.

“Okay. I think it’s actually a really good idea. Vira seems confident in our ability to handle whatever abilities we unlocked, but I agree that when it comes to physical defense, we need to learn at least the basics.” I feel immediate relief hearing this and can’t even resist pulling her lips to mine for a passionate kiss.

We’ve had three weeks so far of training and planning for an attack that can happen any time without warning and there’s been no signs of the witches or the former beta, Darren. Astraea has blown us all away with her natural fighting abilities, but I’m not really surprised that she’s picked everything up so easily. She came into training with absolutely no knowledge of how to properly fight and in only three weeks, she can now take down Luke with relative ease.

Even with the looming threat of war, my mate seems to find relief in our passionate moments, but I can’t complain since I find relief in them too. We’ve actually just finished ravaging each other only minutes ago, but that’s when the pack link opens and the words flowing through have us both rushing for the door.

‘All fighters to the eastern border! More than fifty witches and there are three unidentified wolves among them!’ We’re out the door in under a minute and shift immediately, quickly reaching the others by the eastern border.

“Ah, Astraea, it’s good to see you again. I must say, you’ve caused a lot of issues with that stunt you pulled. Now, you have two choices. You either come with us willingly and we’ll spare all of these wolves with you, or you refuse and we’ll kill every last one of them then I’ll make you come with us.” At this point, I can’t even tell which anger is mine and which is hers.

“I’m not going anywhere with you. The way I see it, you have two choices…surrender, or die.” Her voice is cold, each word sharp and laced with rage.

“Well, it looks like the weak pup finally grew a backbone. Alright, Astraea, don’t say I didn’t give you a chance to resolve this without bloodshed. Just remember, the deaths to come are on your hands!” It seems he gave his order because the witches all begin summoning energy then fling it forward. We all brace for the impact, but it never comes. Just as the orbs of energy cross the border, they hit an unseen barrier and I look over to see the glowing streams of light flowing into Astraea as she stands beside me, her green eyes are glowing brightly and I can see the energy pulsing through her veins, causing her skin to emit a faint glow.

“So, you saw who I once was, but perhaps it’s time I show you who I truly am.” Her voice is more of a growl as she steps forward, delivering each word like a dark promise. She extends her arms out to her side, palm up as energy crackles in the air around us. I see the flicker of uncertainty in Darren’s eyes and the unease among the witches is impossible to miss. The electrical charge in the air intensifies then she suddenly slams her hands together in front of her, the clap when they connect sounds like thunder and causes the energy to explode forward, knocking every damn one of the witches and all three wolves off their feet.

“I see you learned a few tricks, but do you really think it will be enough to save you? To save this pack?!” My mate has always looked so sweet, so damn innocent, but right now, she looks downright murderous as she gives him a wicked little grin.

“Want to see another little trick I’ve learned?” She doesn’t wait for an answer before drawing in a deep breath and as she exhales, the air around the witches begins swirling and the air fills with their screams.

“Let’s see how powerful your army is without their powers, shall we? Attack!” Every member of our pack and all those from the other packs who’ve joined us charge in, tearing into the witches who are nothing more than humans, thanks to my amazing mate. While our people handle the witch army, I see Astraea approaching Darren, the pathetic bastards wide as saucers with the realization that he’s already lost.

“Astraea, let’s be reasonable here. You’re not a killer. You won’t be able to kill me.” His weak attempt to save himself amuses me, but I know that even he can see it in her eyes…she’s not stopping until she’s put an end to this. She stops only a few feet from him and I can see that he thinks he’s getting to her, that she’s considering letting him live.

“You’re right, I’m not a killer…or at least I wasn’t. You and my parents…you made me one and while I can’t guarantee that your dea will be the last caused by my hands, I can guarantee that I’ll feel no remorse for what I do today and you…you’ll find no peace in death, Darren.” I see her hand partially shifting, her claws extending as she swipes her hand toward him, the razor sharp claws tearing through his neck. She remains still, his blood dripping from her claws as his body collapses, left laying lifeless on the forest floor.

“It’s over now, Astraea.” I slowly approach her, unable to sort through her emotions through our bond to determine what she’s feeling most strongly right now. There’s guilt, anger, relief, sadness, confusion…it’s like a hurricane raging within her.

“Let’s go home.” I can’t fight my smile, especially when every wolf around us is nodding in agreement.

“You take her home. We can handle cleaning up this mess.” Alpha Harris’s offer is met with a smile from both me and my mate.

“Thank you…all of you.” Astraea’s voice reveals just how tired she is, so without a word, I sweep her into my arms and begin the walk home.

Chapter 13 – Epilogue

Astraea – Epilogue

It’s been just over a year since I met Asher and in that time, we’ve fought together, we’ve both managed to put our past behind us and we’ve found happiness. Sure, life isn’t perfect, it rarely ever is, but it’s as close as it can get. While the battle against the Starlight Coven had the potential to destroy us, it helped bring us together, gave us allies we never expected and strengthened friendships that we still cherish to this day.

Asher’s sister, Ella, found her mate in Alpha Harris’s pack and has been living with him there for the last two months while Luke met his mate a few days ago from Alpha Joshua’s pack and they’re currently packing her things to bring her here. Alex hasn’t found his mate yet, but I have a strong feeling he won’t be waiting much longer.

Our pack, in spite of all we’ve faced, is thriving. The members who came here from my old pack have found a home, every one of them welcomed with open arms and easily finding their place here. As for the Starlight Coven, they’ve been formally dismantled by the witch’s council and all remaining members have been imprisoned and set to stand trial, though we don’t keep tabs on the progress because that’s part of the past that we’re more than happy to walk away from.

It’s still hard for me to believe that my life went from being a living nightmare to being what it is now. I endured the worst life had to offer just to get to this point and I’d do it all again if it brought me here. I had been brought up to think I was a mistake…a curse…yet it turns out, I was truly a blessing after all.