Alpha's True Mate

**ARIA'S POV**

I panted heavily as I ran through the dark, eerie forest. The trees seemed to close in around me, their branches like skeletal fingers reaching out to snatch me. The moon cast long, ominous shadows on the ground, making it seem like the trees were moving, twisting and turning to trap me.

I could hear the sound of my own ragged breathing, and the pounding of my heart in my chest. My legs ached as I ran, my feet pounding against the dry earth. I could feel the rough bark of the trees scraping against my skin as I brushed past them.

Suddenly, I heard a low growl behind me. It was a deep, menacing sound that seemed to vibrate through the air. I didn't dare look back, fearing what I might see. Instead, I poured all my energy into running, my legs pumping furiously as I tried to put as much distance between myself and the unknown threat.

But no matter how fast I ran, the growling seemed to get closer. I could feel eyes on me, boring into my skin like cold, calculating fingers. My skin crawled with fear, and I knew I couldn't keep running forever.

Just when I thought my legs were going to give out, I tripped over a root and fell hard to the ground. I tried to scramble to my feet, but my ankle twisted beneath me, sending a searing pain through my leg.

As I looked up, I saw a massive grey werewolf emerging from the darkness. Its eyes glowed yellowish-golden in the moonlight, and its sharp teeth seemed to gleam with an otherworldly intelligence.

The werewolf began to stalk towards me, its eyes fixed on me like a predator sizing up its prey. I tried to scramble backward, but my legs felt heavy, as if rooted to the spot.

The werewolf's eyes seemed to bore into mine, and I felt a strange sense of recognition. And then, in an instant, the werewolf transformed into a tall, handsome man with torn clothes and piercing yellowish-golden eyes.

"Mate," he whispered, his voice low and husky-like velvet on broken glass.

And everything went black.

I woke up with a start, my heart still racing from the vivid dream. I sat up in bed, gasping for breath, and looked around my darkened room. The moonlight streaming through the window cast eerie shadows on the walls, making me feel like I was still trapped in the forest.

I rubbed my eyes, trying to shake off the feeling of unease that lingered from the dream. But the image of the werewolf's piercing yellowish-golden eyes stayed with me, haunting me like a ghost.

I threw off the covers and got out of bed, padding over to the window to gaze out at the night sky. The moon was full, casting a silver glow over the landscape. I felt a shiver run down my spine as I gazed out at the darkness, feeling a sense of vulnerability.

As I stood there, lost in thought, the vibration of my phone buzzing on the nightstand broke the silence. I picked it up, checking the screen. It was a text from Ella, asking me to meet up at the cafe tomorrow.

I smiled, feeling a sense of relief wash over me. Maybe getting out of the house and spending time with my friends would help me forget about the dream.

> *Ella: Hey babe! Let's meet at the café tomorrow 💖💬*

I stared at the screen, my pulse slowing.

> *Me: Sure. I need to get out anyway.*

But as I turned from the window, the werewolf's voice echoed in my mind.

**Mate.**

I couldn't shake off the feeling that something was off. The dream had felt so real, and the image of the werewolf's eyes lingered in my mind like a warning.

I pushed the thoughts aside and focused on getting ready for the day. I had no idea what lay ahead, but I was determined to face it head-on.

After breakfast, the dream still clung to me like fog. But I needed distraction-so I met Ella and Rose at our usual spot.

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**At the cafe**

As I walked into the cozy cafe, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, roasted hazelnuts and cinnamon enveloped me, and the soft hum of conversation filled the air. The kind of warmth that usually settled my nerves. But not today.

Ella waved me over, practically bouncing in her seat from a corner table by the window, where they sat watching the rain-soaked streets outside. Rose sat beside her, legs crossed, eyes flicking between her phone and the rainy street outside. They were my girls-my chaos and my calm.

Ella, with her long, curly brown hair and bright smile, was already sipping on a latte, her eyes sparkling with excitement. Rose, with her chic outfit and bold accessories, was typing away on her phone, her dry wit and clever observations always at the ready.

Ella is a bubbly and outgoing person with a contagious laugh. Her long, curly brown hair often cascaded down her back like a waterfall, and her bright smile could light up a room. Ella is always the first to offer advice or encouragement, and her positive energy is infectious.

Rose, on the other hand, is a bit more reserved, with a dry sense of humor that often caught me off guard. Her sharp wit and clever observations made her a loyal and trusted friend. Rose's style was effortlessly chic, with a fondness for bold accessories and statement pieces.

As I sat with Ella and Rose in our favorite corner of the café, the warm scent of cinnamon lattes filled the air. Rain drizzled softly against the windows, making everything outside look like a watercolor painting. For a moment, I let myself breathe.

But even here, even with my friends chattering beside me, that dream clung to the edges of my mind like smoke I couldn't wave away.

"So..." Rose sipped her drink, then glanced at me with a raised brow. "You're still thinking about that dream, aren't you?"

I didn't answer right away.

Ella leaned closer. "You've been quiet since you got here. What's going on?"

I hesitated. "It felt so real. Like it was more than a dream."

Rose didn't miss a beat. "Because you probably are." Rose said, nonchalant. "Come on, Aria. Weird dreams, intense feelings, mysterious guy... classic mate drama.".

"Don't start," I groaned, rolling my eyes.

"She thinks-no, insists-that I'm fated to some werewolf."

"What? I didn't say anything-yet." She smirked.

"I'm serious. I'm not going to be mated to a werewolf. It's not happening. Those... monsters destroyed my family." My voice tightened, even though I kept my tone low.

Rose leaned forward, voice gentler. "Because of your parents?"

Ella shot Rose a warning glare, sensing where this was heading. But Rose didn't back down. "Because of your parents?"

I nodded, my fingers tightening around my cup. "They were murdered by werewolves during the war. My mom was human. My dad... was a vampire. He loved her more than life itself, and they died protecting Kai and me. Werewolves didn't care about love. They never have. That's why I can't-won't-ever accept being tied to one of them."

A heavy silence fell. Outside, the rain intensified, streaking down the window like melting glass.

Ella reached out and squeezed my hand gently. "You don't have to justify it to us, Aria."

Rose leaned back in her chair. "I get it. But you know the bond chooses you. You don't choose it." Rose said quietly. "And... an Alpha, Aria. That's rare."

"I'm aware," I muttered. "But if I had a choice... I'd end up with someone like my dad. A vampire. Kind, loyal, and controlled. Not some wild animal with a temper."

Ella let out a dramatic sigh. "Honestly, I've always dreamed of being the mate of a werewolf. They're strong, protective, totally hot-"

"Until they lose control and rip someone apart," I said flatly.

"Okay, yes, some of them are dangerous," Ella admitted, "but not all of them. Some alphas are known to be gentle with their mates."

"I'm not buying it," I replied. "Vampires are more restrained and refined.

Just then, a handsome stranger caught my eye. He sat alone at the far end of the cafe, his eyes fixed on his phone. There was something about him that drew me in.

"Who's that?" I whispered to Ella, nodding discreetly toward the stranger.

Ella followed my gaze and smiled knowingly. "That's Jason, the new student. He's a vampire."

My eyes widened in surprise. "A vampire?"

Rose chimed in, "Word is, he's from a pretty influential family."

As we watched, Jason looked up and caught my eye, flashing a brief smile before returning to his phone. Those red beautiful eyes that had stared back at me for a few seconds made me feel butterflies in my stomach.

But deep down, I couldn't deny the flutter in my chest. If I ever dared to hope for a future like my parents had... it wouldn't be with a werewolf. It would be with someone like him.

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**In the School Hallway**

After classes, I returned to my locker, the dull clatter of students filling the halls around me. Just as I closed it, I felt a presence behind me-quiet, composed, but unmistakably there.

I turned slowly.

Jason stood a few feet away, leaning against a locker with one shoulder, arms crossed, red eyes calm but watching me. There was something magnetic about him-like the calm before a storm.

"Hi," he said, his deep voice, velvet smooth sending a flutter through my chest.

I blinked, caught off guard. "Hey."

Jason pushed off the locker and walked towards me, his eyes never leaving mine. "I'm Jason," he said, his voice low and smooth. "But you can call me Jay."

I felt a blush rise to my cheeks as he stood close to me, his eyes scanning my face. "I'm Aria," I replied, trying to sound casual.

Jason smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Beautiful name for a beautiful girl."

I felt my heart skip a beat at his words. No one had ever called me beautiful before, and I didn't know how to react.

I felt the blush creeping into my cheeks. "Thanks."

Jason chuckled, his eyes still on me. "You're welcome."

We stood there for a moment, the silence between us awkward but not uncomfortable. I couldn't help but notice how handsome Jason was, with his chiseled features and piercing red eyes.

It was so clear that he was from a rich family judging from the clothes he was wearing.

His thick brows were neatly carved upwards giving him a cool look over his attractive features. His red eyes matched his red hair and tanned skin. His nose was pointed and straight and his lips were gorgeously red and I felt like touching them to feel how soft it was.

Finally, Jason broke the silence. "I saw you staring at me in the cafe earlier."

I felt a flush rise to my cheeks. "I wasn't staring," I lied, I totally was.

Jason raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Really?"

I nodded, feeling a little embarrassed. "Yeah, really."

Jason smiled, his eyes glinting with humor. "Okay, I won't push the issue."

We stood there for another moment, the tension between us palpable. I couldn't help but wonder what Jason was thinking, what he wanted from me.

"Well, it was nice meeting you, Aria," Jason said finally, breaking the silence.

"Yeah, you too," I replied, feeling a little disappointed that our encounter was ending so soon.

As Jason turned to leave, I called out to him. "Hey, Jason?"

He turned back, his eyes questioning. "Yeah?"

"You didn't tell me your last name," I said, feeling a little silly.

Jason smiled, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "That's because I didn't want to overwhelm you with too much information at once."

I laughed, feeling a sense of relief. "Fair enough."

Jason nodded, his eyes still on mine. "I'll see you around, Aria."

With that, he turned and walked off, disappearing into the sea of students like a shadow melting into the fog.

As he walked away, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement.

A hiss from behind broke the moment. I turned to see a few girls glaring daggers at me-witches, vampires, even a couple of humans.

I ignored them.

Let them stare.

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**Home**

As I walked into my house, I dropped my backpack on the floor, the soft thud echoing through the hallway. I kicked off my shoes, feeling the cool wooden floor beneath my feet. The creaking of the floorboards beneath my feet was a familiar sound, one that brought me comfort.

As I entered my room, I felt a wave of relief wash over me. My sanctuary. My haven. The soft lighting and plush furnishings enveloped me, calming my frazzled nerves. I glanced around the room, taking in the familiar sights. The walls were painted a soothing shade of light purple, and the furniture was a mix of modern and vintage pieces. My favorite books, artwork, and sentimental trinkets adorned the shelves, each one telling a story.

I walked over to my desk, cluttered with books, papers, and writing supplies. My bookshelf was filled with my favorite novels and poetry collections, the worn spines a testament to my love for reading. A string of fairy lights hung from the ceiling, casting a warm glow over the room.

It was raining outside, the sound of raindrops hitting the windowpane creating a soothing melody. I was grateful to be indoors, wrapped up in my fur coat jacket and thick socks to ward off the chill.

I walked over to my nightstand and picked up my phone, wrapped in a purple cover. I slipped on my Bluetooth earbuds and selected Elastic Heart by Sia. The music filled my ears, and I felt my tension ease.

As the music played, I flopped down on my bed, feeling exhausted from the day's events. My mind began to replay the encounter with Jason, the vampire guy who had talked to me after school and I couldn't help but smile. I couldn't believe it had actually happened.

Jason's voice still echoed in my head.

"Beautiful name for a beautiful girl."

I flopped down on my bed and grabbed a piece of chocolate from my drawer. The sweetness melted on my tongue, but it didn't melt away the tension twisting in my chest.

I opened WhatsApp and typed out a message to my friends.

**WhatsApp Group: Best Friends Forever**

I texted my friends:

> *"Hi girls, guess what? The hot new vampire guy talked to me today. I almost blushed to death."*

Almost instantly:

> **Ella:** *OMG are you serious???*

> **Rose:** *You're kidding.*

> **Ella again:** *Say something! What did he say?*

I laughed softly.

> *"He's even cuter up close. I swear, I thought I'd pass out."*

They exploded with questions, but Rose ended it with:

> *"Details. Tomorrow. Don't hold out."*

> *"Smiles... Sure. Good night, love you guys."*

> *"Sweet dreams!"* - from both.

I kept my phone back on the nightstand and turned off the light. As I covered myself with the duvet, my mind began to replay my conversation with Jason. The memory sent a flutter through my chest, and I closed my eyes, a sweet smile still on my face.

As I drifted off to sleep, my thoughts lingered on Jason, and I wondered what would tomorrow bring?

### **The Next Morning**

Aria stretched, a slow smile curving her lips as she arched her back and extended her arms above her head. She let out a gentle yawn, covering her mouth with the back of her hand. The warm sunlight streaming through the bedroom window highlighted the dust motes dancing in the air, and the soft hum of the refrigerator provided a comforting background noise.

Spilling across her blankets in gold, and for the first time in days, she hadn't woken up gasping, heart racing, the grey werewolf's breath on her neck. . .

Just warmth. Quiet.

Her smile widened. No nightmare-and she'd see Jason today.

She tossed off the duvet and slipped her feet into her purple flip-flops, the ones with floppy rabbit ears she refused to throw out, no matter how worn they were. The soft lining tickled between her toes as she padded toward the bathroom, her steps light.

The air was crisp against her skin as she shuffled to the bathroom to wash up. After brushing her teeth and splashing her face with cold water, she padded into the dining room.

By the time she reached the kitchen, the scent of toasted bread and sizzling bacon greeted her like an old friend. Sunlight poured through the windows, catching on floating dust motes. Familiar, peaceful.

"Good morning, sweetie!" her aunt–no, mom–Sandra, said with a smile, as she poured herself a cup of coffee. The clinking of cups and saucers accompanied her movements.

"Morning, Mom," Aria replied, giving her a quick hug. It didn't feel weird calling Sandra that anymore. Not after everything.

"Morning, mom," chirped Kai from the table.

Kai sat swinging his feet slightly, already dressed and tapping away at a game on his tablet. At first glance, he looked like an ordinary boy-messy black hair, fair skin, and a mischievous grin that never quite faded. But his glowing red eyes gave away what he truly was. A vampire, born with power pulsing through his veins. Still just a kid, though, and the most important person in Aria's life. Fiercely curious, fiercely protective, and annoyingly quick with a comeback.

"Morning, Kai," Aria greeted, ruffling his hair as she sat beside him.

"Hey, sis," he mumbled, not looking up from his screen.

Aria rolled her eyes and grabbed a seat beside him, pouring herself a glass of juice. Some things never changed.

Their uncle–dad–Diamond, looked up from his newspaper, the rustle of the pages a familiar sound, peering at them over the rim,"Stay out of trouble in school, kids. Try not to make the principal call me today, yeah?"He said, his voice warm and gentle.

"We'll try," Aria said with mock innocence.

Kai added, "No promises."

Sandra gave them both a look, one brow arched. "Eat your breakfast and don't be late. You know how the school gates love to slam shut at eight."

Aria took a bite of her toast-warm, crunchy, perfect. But her thoughts drifted, unspooling quietly beneath the surface. Would Jason smile at her again? Say something more than hi this time? Maybe today he'd actually talk to her. Maybe today she wouldn't feel like just some invisible new girl.

"Got your bag?" Sandra asked.

Aria blinked out of her thoughts and nodded. "Yeah. We're taking a taxi."

"You sure?" her aunt asked, the worry already settling into her expression.

"We'll be fine, Mom," Kai answered, standing and slinging his backpack over one shoulder.

"Okay, be careful then," Sandra said, concern etched on her face.

"We will, mom," Kai said, already heading out the door.

Aunt Sandra and Uncle Diamond had told them to call them mom and dad since they had no child of their own and Aria and Kai didn't have a problem with that.

Aria followed, brushing crumbs from her shirt. She hesitated just a second before stepping out-just long enough for the old fear to try and creep back in.

But it didn't. The forest was far away. The dream was over.

And Jason was waiting.

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### **At School**

After dropping Kai off at his class, Aria hurried down the hall, the soles of her shoes squeaking against the polished floor. First period was minutes away, and she didn't want to risk being late-especially not for Mr. Mike's math class.

She slipped through the classroom door just in time, her breath catching in her throat as she sank into her seat by the window. Relief washed over her. Mr. Mike hadn't arrived yet.

Two minutes later, the door creaked open, and he strode in with his usual no-nonsense glare. Aria straightened instinctively, but when their eyes met, his gaze softened-barely.

He'd never admit it, but she knew he went easy on her. Probably because she aced every problem he threw at the class.

The hum of chatter faded as the lesson began, chalk tapping rhythmically against the board. Aria tried to focus, but her eyes scanned the room, searching-until they found him.

Jason.

He sat two seats away, posture relaxed, eyes trained on the teacher. The sunlight framed his dark hair, catching on the curve of his cheekbone. Something about the way he held himself-calm, focused, unreadable-made her heart skip.

Aria smiled and gave a little wave.

Jason's eyes flicked toward her.

Then... nothing.

No smile. No wave. Just a blank look before he turned back to the front.

Her hand fell slowly to her lap. A tiny pout tugged at her lips.

What was that? Yesterday he'd looked at her like she mattered. Like he saw her. Had she imagined it?

She tried to refocus, but her thoughts kept drifting. Maybe he was having a bad day. Maybe he didn't see her. Or maybe... he regretted noticing her at all.

"Miss Nightshade."

The sharp voice yanked her back.

She blinked. Mr. Mike stood by the board, marker in hand, eyebrow raised. "Are you paying attention?"

Heat crept up her neck. "Yes, sir."

"Excellent. Then you can solve this."

Aria rose, smoothing her skirt with a breath to steady herself. She approached the board, mind still spinning. But numbers had always been her refuge.

She solved the equation swiftly, her hand steady even as her thoughts tugged elsewhere.

When she returned to her seat, Jason hadn't looked at her once.

### **Later...**

After third period ended, Aria lingered in the hallway, scanning the crowd. No sign of Jason.

Her chest tightened. She'd meant to ask him what was wrong. Or at least say hi. But he'd disappeared the moment the bell rang.

Her friends called out to her, waving from the cafeteria doors. She forced a smile and joined them, but her thoughts remained elsewhere.

Something's off.

And she wasn't imagining it.

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The bell rang, but Jason didn't move.

Around him, chairs scraped against tile, students murmured their goodbyes, footsteps shuffled out the door-but his eyes stayed on the whiteboard. Blank now, just like his thoughts.

No.

Not blank.

Blurred.

There'd been a girl. Two seats away. She'd waved at him.

He remembered the shape of her smile-soft, expectant. Familiar, somehow. Like the echo of a dream just out of reach.

But her name?

Gone.

He hadn't meant to ignore her. It just happened. Like something inside him short-circuited the moment their eyes met.

And then came the pressure-again.

That invisible weight behind his eyes. The cold, creeping static in his brain. A whisper without words, pushing down hard enough to make his jaw clench and his throat go dry.

Every time he looked at someone too closely-especially her-it pressed harder. Stronger.

Like it didn't want him to remember her.

Jason exhaled slowly through his nose, trying to ease the tension coiled beneath his skin. He hated this. This fog in his head. This leash on his instincts.

The girl-whoever she was-had looked right at him. Smiled like she knew him. Like they'd shared something.

Had they?

His gut said yes.

His brain said no.

And the thing wrapped around his mind said don't.

Jason ran a hand down his face and finally stood. He shoved his hands into his jacket pockets and stepped into the hallway, letting the noise of students fill the silence inside him.

He needed answers. Now.

Because if he didn't figure out what was happening soon...

He might forget her completely.

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**At the Café**

Aria stared down at her half-empty latte, the warm hum of the café fading beneath her thoughts.

"She waved at him. He looked right at her. Then-nothing." Ella's voice cut in, sharp with disbelief.

Rose shrugged, picking at her sandwich. "Maybe he's just not that into you?"

Aria's heart clenched. "It's not that," she whispered. "Something's wrong. He approached me first. Why act like a stranger now?"

"I don't like this," Ella muttered, scanning the café. "And where is he, anyway?"

Before anyone could answer, a voice sliced through the air behind them.

"Hey, heads up, moron."

Aria lifted her head-and froze.

Three girls stood a few steps away. The one in the center-black hair, arms crossed, expression carved from ice-locked eyes with Aria. Her presence radiated danger.

On her left stood a red-haired girl, her crimson eyes gleaming. Vampire.

To her right, a silver-haired girl smirked, twirling a silver ring between her fingers. Witch.

Recognition hit Aria like a slap. The black-haired one-she'd seen her yesterday. The glare after Jason left. And now she was here.

"You really think you can steal Jason's attention?" the leader hissed, voice smooth and poisonous.

Aria's spine stiffened. Her pulse thundered.

"Who the hell are you to tell her anything?" Ella snapped, rising halfway from her seat. Her eyes glinted dangerously. "Back off."

The red-haired girl stepped forward, fangs bared. "Shut up, slut. This doesn't concern you."

Ella jolted, fury blazing across her face. "Did you just call me-?"

"Ella, don't," Aria whispered, grabbing her friend's wrist. "She wants a reaction."

The black-haired witch smiled like a cat playing with its prey. "Stay away from Jason," she said softly. "Or things will get messy."

Aria rose slowly, heart pounding. "You think you can control him?"

The girl tilted her head. "Maybe. Maybe not. But he won't remember you. Not while I have him."

Then she leaned in. "Try again, and he'll reject you worse next time. We're not done."

She turned on her heel. "Come on, girls."

As the girls turned to leave, Aria felt a surge of defiance. She wasn't going to back down.

"Hey," Aria said, her voice firm. "Who are you, anyway?"

The black-haired girl turned, her eyes glinting with amusement. "Someone who will make sure you stay away from Jason."

The girl's smile was cold and calculating. "You'll find out soon enough. Just remember, Jason is off-limits."

"Even if you try to talk to him again, he would still ignore you just like the way he did today in class as long as I have him under my spell.... Let's go girls" She said and they walked away, leaving Aria and her friends stunned."

They walked off-silent, smooth, dangerous. The air felt colder after they left.

Rose swallowed. "That... was a threat, right?"

"Damn right it was," Ella growled. "She admitted the spell."

Aria sank into her seat, stunned. "That explains everything."

Moments later, laughter erupted near the café window. Aria turned-and saw Jason walk in.

With them.

He sat at their table like he belonged, his smile easy, his eyes light. Like none of it mattered. Like Aria didn't exist.

"It's obvious he was under a spell." Rose said with a low voice.

Ella's eyes flashed with anger. "We need to do something about it. We can't just sit here and watch him be controlled like that."

"I'm going to break that spell," Aria whispered, her fists clenched. "Even if I have to tear it out of him myself."

The girls watched in silence as Jason continued to laugh and chat with the girls, his eyes never once meeting Aria's.

" She wasn't lying when she said that she had him under her spell " Ella said gritting her teeth.

" We have to do something about it guys " Aria said as she hit her fist on the table angrily.

" After school we will follow him and when he's alone Ella will break the spell on him with her powers " Rose said.

" Are you sure those fools won't keep an eye on him " Ella said.

" We will have to be very careful " Aria said.

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### **Alpha Lyrien's Pack – Morning**

Lyrien stood before the floor-to-ceiling window, silent as stone. Beyond the glass, the garden bloomed in a riot of color, untouched by the storm brooding in his chest. Sunlight spilled over the forest treetops, but it felt distant-mocking.

He sipped from his water glass, his cold lips brushing the rim. His yellow eyes narrowed, sharp and unblinking. Inside, his beast stirred-restless, prowling. He could almost feel the soil beneath his paws, the wind slicing through his fur. But he remained still, jaw clenched, fists tight in his pockets.

The Moon Goddess had cursed them.

Not just any punishment. She had bound him-the strongest Alpha of the North-to a human. The weakest creature of all.

His twin brother Lykon had accepted it, even embraced it. His human mate now walked proudly as Luna of her pack, earning loyalty and peace.

But Lyrien?

He felt nothing but contempt. For the goddess. For humans. And for the trembling truth buried beneath it all-that part of him burned to find her. Claim her. Bind her to him, forever.

He turned away from the window, shoulders squared. The scent of aged leather and polished wood clung to the air, mingling with the faint crackle of fire behind him. This mansion, this legacy-it was all built on power. Not love.

The memory of his last outburst flickered through his mind-claws ripping flesh, bones snapping under his grip. One careless insult, one wrong glance, and the young wolf had paid the price. Since that day, not a single pack member dared cross him.

He closed his eyes. When he opened them again, they were black as midnight-his beast rising. He blinked, and they returned to their golden hue.

> **\[Get here. Now.]**

> His voice cut through the mind link like a blade, slicing into the silence.

Moments later, Mason, his Beta, stumbled into the room still in his pajamas, the collar askew. He bowed his head low, eyes glued to the floor.

Manson was slightly younger than Lyrien, broad-shouldered and battle-hardened. His light brown hair always looked tousled, like he'd just come from a fight or from bed-sometimes both. His face was usually unreadable, but there was a steadiness in his green eyes, a soldier's discipline under pressure. He wore a plain black T-shirt and pajama pants, clearly pulled from sleep, but he didn't complain. He never did. Loyal, capable... but not foolish.

"Alpha?"

"I want the warriors ready in ten minutes." Lyrien's voice was calm, but it held the weight of a command that could not be disobeyed. "We're going to find my mate."

Mason blinked. "Your- Alpha, she's... human."

A muscle twitched in Lyrien's jaw. He didn't turn. "And?"

"You've always said-"

"**Do you question me?**"

The room grew colder.

Mason flinched, hands raised in surrender. "No, Alpha. I'll prepare the warriors immediately."

Lyrien finally looked at him-eyes glowing, unreadable. "Good. And not a word to Lykon. Not yet."

The Beta bowed once more and backed out of the room, the door closing softly behind him.

Silence fell again, heavy and charged.

Lyrien moved back to the window. The forest stretched out before him, wild and endless. Somewhere out there, the human girl carried the other half of his soul. A cruel twist of fate.

He would find her.

He would bind her.

But love? That was a luxury he would never offer.

"I don't need to love you," he murmured, more to himself than to her. "I only need you close enough to never leave."

**...After School...**

Aria, Ella, and Rose stood near the school gates, their faces tight with concern.

"They must've known we were going to follow them," Aria said, arms crossed, frustration crackling in her voice.

"I don't think so," Ella replied, brow furrowed in thought. "Rose, did you hear anything weird back at the café?"

Rose nodded. "I tried. But all I caught was murmuring. They must've used a shielding spell-something strong."

Ella groaned, her eyes flashing. "Ugh. I can't wait to get my hands on that redhead who called me a slut."

Rose placed a calming hand on her arm. "You'll get your chance. But first-we break the spell on Jason."

Aria sighed, rubbing her temple. "I still don't get it. Why use a spell like that on him? That's not how you make someone like you."

"She's a witch," Rose muttered. "They're used to taking, not asking."

Ella tilted her head. "I wonder what Jason will do when we snap him out of it."

"He's gonna be pissed," Ella added with a bitter laugh. "At them. At himself. Maybe even at us."

The trio fell into a tense silence, each lost in thought.

Then Aria straightened, her voice firm. "We need to find Jason. Ella-can you do a locator spell?"

Ella nodded. "Yes, but I'll need my spellbook-and something that belongs to him. Something personal."

Rose frowned. "And where are we supposed to find that now?"

Aria turned to her. "His locker. Maybe there's something useful there."

Ella's face lit up. "Smart. Let's go."

They slipped into the building, avoiding the lingering staff. When they reached Jason's locker, Rose cursed under her breath. "Damn. It's locked."

Ella smirked. "Not for long."

With a flick of her fingers, the lock clicked open.

Rose raised a brow. "You guys always forget you've got a badass witch in the group."

Ella grinned, proud. "And don't you forget it."

They rifled through the locker. Books. A water bottle. A crumpled flyer. Then Ella pulled out a small photo of Jason with his dog.

"This will do," she said, her voice low with focus.

"How long until you can find him?" Aria asked.

"I'm not sure. But I should have his location by tomorrow morning," Ella replied. "I'll call you both once I know."

"Okay." Rose nodded. "We meet up tomorrow-and we break the spell before school Monday."

Aria exhaled, the tension in her shoulders easing just a little. "Right. See you guys then."

They each went their separate ways. Aria turned and headed down the hall to get Kai from his classroom, her thoughts already spinning toward what came next.

(⁠｡⁠♡⁠‿⁠♡⁠｡⁠)

**...On the Way to Aria's House...**

Rawon, his blond hair catching the sunlight as he leaned forward, lowered his voice to a whisper. "Did you ever find out what made Alpha suddenly care about finding his mate?"

As Lyrien's Gamma-the third in command-Rawon was used to watching from the sidelines. Manson, the Beta and second in command, sat in the passenger seat, arms crossed and eyes locked on the road.

"Why don't you ask him yourself?" Manson said, his tone flat, almost bored.

Rawon's gaze flicked to the back seat, where Lyrien sat with his eyes closed. His posture was calm, His chest rose and fell with a steady rhythm–but Rawon knew he wasn't sleeping. "Think he'd snap my neck if I did?" he whispered, half-joking, half-afraid.

Manson sighed and tilted his head back slightly. "Focus on driving, Rawon. Try not to kill us."

Rawon muttered under his breath. "A yes or no would've done the trick..."

Suddenly, Lyrien's eyes snapped open.

"Both of you-shut up."

His voice sliced through the air, sharp and cold.

Silence fell like a blanket over the car. Rawon's hands stiffened on the wheel. Manson didn't move.

Neither dared look back. They'd already pushed their luck.

(⁠｡⁠♡⁠‿⁠♡⁠｡⁠)

**At Aria's House**

Aria's eyes snapped open, her chest heaving as she gasped for breath. The dream clung to her like smoke-those piercing eyes, that guttural voice, the word echoing through her skull:

"Mate."

She sat upright, throwing the covers aside. Same dream. Same werewolf. Same message. Always the same.

The image of him-half-shifted, eyes locked on hers, torn clothes hanging off his body-was burned into her mind.

Rose was right, Aria thought grimly. Being a werewolf's mate is a curse, and her determination hardened. She would never allow that to happen. The thought sent a shiver down her spine.

She stood, trembling slightly, and whispered to the moonlit window, "Please, Selena the moon goddess... Don't let this be my fate. Not this."

She padded to the bathroom, brushed her teeth, and tried to shake the haunting tension. But the sense of unease clung to her as she joined her family for breakfast.

At the dining table, Aria picked at her bacon and eggs, her gaze distant.

Aunt Sandra glanced at her, concern softening her red eyes. "Why the gloomy face today, Aria? Did something happen?"

Aria's eyes met Aunt Sandra's, the warmth in her red eyes a comforting reminder of her father. "It's nothing, Mom," Aria said with a forced smile, forcing a smile as she ate her bacon and eggs.

Sandra didn't look convinced. "You can talk to me."

Aria sighed and relented. She told them about school, the girls from the café, the locator spell Ella was trying to cast. "She said she'd call this morning," she added, "but I haven't heard anything yet."

Sandra gave a reassuring smile, though worry still tugged at the corners of her mouth. "Don't stress. Ella will come through."

Just then, Kai chimed in between bites of toast. "Mom, can I go see Kent after breakfast? He got a new bike."

Sandra nodded. Aria smirked. "Trying to ditch us already, huh?"

Their quiet moment shattered with a sharp knock at the front door.

Uncle Diamond stood. "Were we expecting anyone?"

"No," Sandra replied, her brows furrowing.

Aunt Sandra's shoulders shrugged, but Aria's instincts whispered warning. Who could be visiting at this hour?

A tense silence filled the room as Diamond walked toward the front door. Voices murmured low from the hallway.

He returned a moment later, his face tight with anger.

"What is it?" Sandra asked, rising to her feet.

"There's a group of werewolves outside," he said grimly. "They say they've come for Aria."

Aria stood, shock hitting her like ice. "Werewolves?"

Sandra stepped in front of her. "Why? What do they want with her?"

"They claim she's their Alpha's mate," Diamond said, his voice sharp with disbelief.

Two large men in black suits stepped into the dining room like shadows, eyes locked on Aria.

"The Alpha has chosen," the silver-haired one said. "She belongs to him."

Aria's blood boiled. "Belongs? Excuse me?"

The men advanced.

"Stop right there!" Sandra shouted, protective fire in her voice. "There must be a mistake-she's not your Alpha's mate!"

"The mate bond is never wrong," the silver-haired man said coldly. "Step aside."

"I don't care about your Alpha!" Aria shouted, backing away. "I'm not going anywhere with you."

"You don't have a choice," the black-haired man said, stepping forward.

They moved to seize her.

Aria struggled, thrashing wildly, but their grips were iron. "Let me go!"

If only I had powers like Ella... or Rose's strength, she thought bitterly. I'm just human. Pathetic, useless.

"Leave my sister alone!" Kai's voice rang out.

All eyes snapped to the small boy, his fangs bared, red eyes blazing.

The men froze, surprised.

"Kai-" Aria gasped.

She twisted in the moment of hesitation, breaking free and grabbing his hand. "Go! Hide upstairs!"

He hesitated, but she pushed him away. "Now!"

Then she turned back to the werewolves. "Get your flirty hands off me this instant!" she spat.

The black-haired one chuckled. "Stubborn little thing, aren't you?"

"Let's just take her," the silver-haired man said flatly. "The Alpha is waiting."

Aria thrashed and screamed, her anger and fear boiling over. She kicked and struggled until they finally released her, leaving her standing alone outside the house.

Breathless and furious, Aria surveyed her surroundings. Ten men in black suits waited around a sleek black car, their faces impassive. Aria's eyes narrowed as she crossed her arms over her chest.

"Well, where is your stupid Alpha?" she demanded, her voice laced with venom. "Let me give him a piece of my mind."

The werewolves' eyes widened in unison, their faces pale. Aria knew she'd crossed a line, but she didn't care. She wanted to confront the Alpha, to tell him exactly what she thought of his claims.

Aria's gaze fell on the black car, her anger and frustration simmering. She knew the Alpha was inside, probably watching her through the tinted windows. "I know you're in there, dimwit," she taunted. "Get out and face me."

Sandra and Diamond emerged from the house, their faces etched with worry and helplessness. They knew they couldn't intervene, and Aria's defiance only seemed to escalate the situation.

Minutes ticked by, and the car's door remained closed. Aria's anger boiled over. "Useless bunch of werewolves and useless Alpha," she spat.

A brown-haired man stepped forward, his yellow eyes flashing with anger. "How dare you insult our Alpha?"

Aria shrugged. "Like I care. I'm going back inside." She turned to leave, but then finally the car door opened with a click.

As the men parted, Aria's gaze fell upon the Alpha, her heart racing with anticipation. He emerged from the car, exuding confidence and power.

He wore a tailored black suit that clung to a perfectly sculpted body. Around six feet tall, his movements were fluid, controlled-every step spoke of dominance.

Aria's breath hitched.

His features were carved like stone: a strong and defined jawline, straight nose, full lips stained a natural shade of red, seemed almost inviting. His black hair gleamed under the morning light and Aria felt an inexplicable urge to touch it.

But it was his eyes that rooted her in place-pitch black, unfathomable, deadly.

Black eyes, she realized, He's furious.

Aria knew that black eyes in werewolves signified intense anger, and a shiver ran down her spine as she realized she'd gotten on his bad side. That look wasn't just rage-it was **possession**.

Aria swallowed, her fists clenching at her sides sensing the Alpha's power and authority. She'd challenged an Alpha-and now, she was staring at the storm she'd summoned.