Chapter 1 The Birthday before the Storm

~NOVA~

Loud music from the venue was heard to me from the distance. In the vibrant city of Vegas, co-existing with humans, we werewolves were gathering together for the grandest event of this year.

It's my birthday bash!

My name is Nova Storm, the only daughter of my dear father, Storm, and my mother Lyra.

They are the best parents I could ever ask for.

On my eighteenth birthday, today, when everything might be changing in my life for good, my parents have arranged the most lavish party the world has ever seen.

Our talks are all over the world. Every news channel I saw in the morning was anchoring and reporting about my grand birthday bash.

How lucky am I to have such luxury and splendor in my life? I love my parents...

Although they haven't reached the venue yet. I can't sense them. Maybe they're stuck in traffic or taking a different route?

Turning to face Calla, one of my werewolf friends, I smile at her whilst clinking our glasses to toast for me.

We were traveling in a Lamborghini, a long black one that was custom-ordered just for my needs.

"This birthday, our youngest girlie turns 18. I'm way too happy to contain my excitement tonight, Nova . I'm so happy for you~"

Giving me a gentle side hug, Calla kissed my cheek in a friendly way.

"This is nothing compared to the excitement you'd feel with the strings dad pulled to invite the guests of tonight, Calla. Just wait and watch."

A gasp was heard from the other side of the car,"Don't tell me...is Roman Vale invited!?"

Her excited shriek made me wince a little.

"Of course, sweetheart. Aria, whom do you take me for!? Every big shot in the werewolf and human world is invited tonight! I didn't stutter when I said we have 'grand guests' tonight, did I?"

Aria took a sip from her glass, making a face of pride.

"You did, Nova. You did."

I then shifted my gaze to look at the woman who quietly sipped on her champagne. This is very much unlike her.

She is dressed unreasonably simple yet elegant tonight, too. I wonder why.

"So, Maris, don't you have to say something to me? It's my birthday, come on!"

I know Maris is the quiet one amongst us, but not tonight!

"Oh, what do you want me to tell you, Miss Richie-Rich? Your father's so well off that you have to experience the grandest party ever orchestrated on the planet. How about this?

Congratulations on turning 18, Nova. I hope you have a big, grand gift from my side tonight. I mean it."

I gasped.

"A grand gift from you!? It'd mean the world to me, Nova! Thank you!"

I was excited of course, but the slight fake smile dancing on her lips made me feel different.

We reached the venue, and lots of cameras already beginning to flash. We four girls hype each other up to face the cameras and be on our best behaviors...until we walk into the venue that is.

"Phew! Did you hear what they said about Maris?" Aria stated, making my eyebrows furrow.

"They said she isn't trying harder to look like your friend. I mean, look at us. We look grand. She looks like our mother in that dress!"

Aria spoke as I turned my head to take a glance at Maris. Indeed. She's dressed way too simply for the occasion.

"Honey. I don't care. Tonight is all about me, and I hope you know that."

"Yeah. That's right. But let's hope she didn't hear us, however." Calla was being mindful as she whispered.

"Right."

Rejoining with Maris, we four enter the second door which introduces us to the world of the privileged!

My eyes turned into stars.

Many, and I mean MANY big shots and powerful men have arrived before me and were having a party of their own!

Suddenly, the lights dimmed down as a spotlight was thrown into my face. I grinned way too big, the MC was speaking all about me!

Fifteen minutes into the party...I felt bored.

Old people aren't fun. Whilst my three friends walked away to entertain themselves with food and other things. I haven't even cut the cake yet.

"Hello, miss."

The presence is powerful, yet I don't recognize the person. Turning around with the glass of wine in my hand, I stare at the tall man and widen my eyes. I've never seen such a man of elegance in my life. Ever.

"Care for a dance? The show is just about to begin...for you."

"I'd love to, but you see, I already have a fiance."

Flashing the man with my engagement ring, I see a bright grin shine on his lips. Whoa...what the hell was that?

"I'm a man, you're a woman. What's wrong with a small, carefree dance together? Your fiance can find you any time and steal you away from me."

I grew pissed with every word he said.

"Excuse me. Sir. I don't know who you are. And you seem powerful. So please stop making me uncomfortable at my party?"

...His smile doesn't fade away.

"Alright, Nova Storm. Just so you know,a kind man like me just wanted to give the birthday girl some company. If it bothers you, then I'm better off."

Bowing politely, the man walked away and found a charming dance partner right in front of me.

He was dancing with Maris...

I've never seen her smile so big, as if honored to dance with him. Who was he...?

Suddenly, I felt the presence of a familiar scent behind me. He calms me so quickly.

A small gasp leaves my lips, my waist was being held delicately by this man who is also my fiance!

Elias Thorne, Alpha of Crimson Hallow pack.

He proposed to me in the most romantic way three months ago, and I couldn't help but choose him over whoever shall enter my life as a mate next.

After all, love can make a wolf like me reject anyone who isn't worthy of my hand.

And Elias...is all worthy for my hand in his.