Rasima walked into her room and laid flat on the bed, chuckling and turning from side to side as she spoke on the phone. The call she was on was so exciting, she could go on for hours without getting bored.
"Seriously babe, I miss you and wish you could just show up right here and now", the male caller said on the phone, making the warmth of color invade Rasima's cheeks.
"Mmm. I know, right? And trust me, I miss you more. I really can't wait to get done here and return home to your arms", she drawled, drawing invisible lines on the bed with her finger.
"You know, I hate coming back to this place. I didn't want to come." She added snappily.
And just like her words had reacted, her mum opened the door, showing up.
Rasima snapped her head at her and was surprised to find the woman all dressed up, looking gorgeous.
"My goodness! Rasima, why are you still in this dress? I thought you'd be ready by now", the middle - aged woman queried as she fixed the last ring on her ear.
"Hold on, let me call you back", Rasima whispered into the phone and dropped the call. Then, she turned to her mum.
"Seriously mum, I thought we talked about this already? I'm not interested in this party or whatever it is. For goodness sake, I just got home. Why do I have to go out?" She grumbled.
"Come on now, Rasima, don't be ridiculous. It's Alpha Jamin's birthday and everyone is literally attending. Why would you want to be left out?" Her mum scolded.
"I don't care how high his status is, and I don't care who has a birthday. I have no interest in your wolf pack activities. After all, I am not even a wolf. We are not the same kind!" Rasima rejected everything about the wolf pack.
Mrs Chantal sighed and sat on the edge of the bed. "I've told you countless times to disregard that thought, Rasima. Simply because you haven't turned doesn't mean you're not a wolf. You just need time, honey. Besides..."
"Oh! Stop with the pity quote, mum" Rasima interrupted with an eye roll. "To be honest, I'm so glad I'm not a wolf, it's the greatest gift ever. Frankly speaking, there's nothing special about being one.If I were a wolf, maybe I'd hate myself too!".
"Rasima!"
"What? It's the truth. The only reason I'm back here is because I don't want to keep getting your harassing calls and hearing your complaints all the time.Five more days and I'm out of here".
Mrs Chantal heaved a sigh. She couldn't fathom who her twenty-six year old daughter got her attitude from.
"Okay, fine. I won't argue with you anymore. But for today, just do me the favour and come with me. Your sister's already dressed and waiting in the lounge". Mrs Chantal tapped her hand.
"But, mum..."
"No buts. I already promised to introduce you to a few of my friends. So, If you still know I'm your mother, get ready and don't disrespect me".
Mrs Chantal stood up and left, not giving any more room for argument.
Begrudgingly, Rasima rolled her eyes and stood up, deciding to get something to wear.
"Just this once. After this time, we parted ways. ", she mumbled to herself.
***
She got one of her simplest outfits - a pair of jeans and a T-shirt - then went out to the lounge where she met her younger sister.
"Hey sis. You look like you're going over to steal the party", she quipped.
She had expected a chuckle from the young lady, but all she got in return was a straight face that had been maintained.
"My preference to look good doesn't mean I'm being extra. Obviously, After all look at you, we have distinctly different tastes, what is your outfit? Party waiter? ? Kylie answered subtly, releasing a light smile at the end as she gave Rasima a head - to - toe glance.
The young lady actually looked pretty in her long silver dress, with a complimenting makeup. It also complimented the bossy attitude she was giving.
Rasima could read the sarcasm in her words but decided to ignore. And just then, their mother walked in.
"For the creator's sake! You're looking this way to the Alpha's party?" She directed her question at Rasima who arched her brows and gave a downward look at herself.
"Well, sorry mum, but I don't find the occasion appealing enough. I'm only going there 'cause you want me to and have no intentions of pleasing anyone", she rolled her eyes.
"But Rasima..."
"You shouldn't stress it, mum. Class isn't meant for everyone. She's always so different, isn't she? Mom, why are you talking so much to her? Do you still expect her to pick a superior son-in-law for you ?", Kylie chipped in, as always, mocked.
"You're twenty-four, Kylie. But it's obvious your brain works half your age", Rasima said, making Kylie's eyes glint.
Mrs Chantal noticed the feud coming and quickly stepped in.
"Not a single word. Now, everyone out", she urged.
Shooting Rasima a glare, Kylie flounced out of the room.
"Talk to your daughter, mum. Her pretty face may may recruit you a golden son-in-law. However, her unbeatable attitude may have to attract trouble. Rasima dropped the warning with her mum before walking out of the room.
*****************
In a well - ventilated room,
Wide and refurbished, and made to give comfort to it's occupant. Lady Joelle stood with an austere mood, just gazing through the window and seeing how numerous guests trooped into the pack house.
The parking lot was almost filled up and the numerous lights made the entire place so colorful. The party was drawing closer - her Alpha's party.
Lady Joelle was a young fine lady, who's beauty was always accompanied with burden and sadness. Her pretty eyes were always cold. The temperature of her eyes was given to only one person, and that was her Alpha.
The night of the party, she looked exceptionally beautiful. Her long - smoothly brushed hair rested on her back, having a glossy effect.
And it was so perfect on her long blue dress that screamed luxury.
Jewelries were not missing from the right places and neither was the appropriate makeup.
That evening, she wanted to look beautiful; she wanted to be happy. But she couldn't tell why she felt so scared with each tick. She hoped that the right person would show up tonight, and if not, she would have to make a quick decision.
She dashed to the table where her drink was and slugged more from the wine until it became empty. Then, she placed a hand on her tummy and sighed.
"My babies", she called softly.
The Alpha's babies.
Her bump wasn't so big yet, but she enjoyed touching it and envisaging the moment she'd get to hold them. It was unfortunate that she was only considered a surrogate for the Alpha and could never be loved by him. It was truly unfortunate.
A knock hit the door and next, it went open with a maid showing up.
Lady Joelle was startled by the raised voice.
She was too preoccupied with thinking about the flow of the night.
The young maiden bowed: "Sorry for disturbing, my lady, but it's time to come down for the party".
Joelle drew a deep breath and pulled herself together.
"Alright", she muttered and left the room.
She was a little nervous, wondering if all the arrangements could be carried out smoothly?
This is a plan that is only allowed to succeed, not to fail.
Rasima arrived at the party with her mum and couldn't help but feel irritated at the numerous display of events, all for the Alpha's party.You know, when you don't like something, anything related to it can make you hate it.
The big hall was filled with too many distinguished - looking guests, Rasima felt that she was the only person who didn't seem to fit in. Kylie left them at once, mixing into the crowd to associate with her dear friends. Rasima could see that Kylie and her friends cast contemptuous glances and discussed with each other from time to time.
Rasima didn't have time to accompany her. She sniffed at her sister's way of doing things.
Rasima stood behind her mum the whole time, following her around as she greeted her own friends.
Rasima couldn't explain it, but she felt safer being around her mum, since she was in the midst of wolves.
She just didn't want to be left alone.
She didn't want to cause unnecessary trouble. She just wanted the party to go smoothly.
"Wow! Rasima is so grown up already", one of her mum's friends exclaimed after an introduction was made. "The last time I saw her was like...eight years ago? I can't even remember".
"And she's also grown into a beautiful woman", another commented.
Rasima couldn't stop her eye roll. She knew it wasn't right, but she just didn't like the comments. Her mother had to twitch her finger to get her to respond to the women.
"Oh. Thank you", she feigned a smile and looked away.
Shortly, the noise in the hall reduced as a young lady entered.
Everyone had stopped talking and focused on the strange lady that walked in. Who was she?
She was adorned in a long blue dress - a dazzling dress that snatched her waist so perfectly. Her hair was mecury-red and plunged over her shoulder; her delicate ears framed her dainted nose.
She looked so calm, so beautiful.
However, it seemed that she was unhappy?
Rasima saw her smile, but it was strange that she could notice the hidden sadness in her eyes.
The man seemed to feel the gaze from Rasima. She turned around and saw Rasima.
Joelle suddenly opened her eyes wide and quickly looked away.
"Joelle looks so pretty today", One of her mum's friends suddenly said, wearing a wry smile.
Rasima's eyes beamed immediately. Oh! That was the Joelle she had been hearing about?
Each time her mum called, she never missed blabbing about all the events happening in the city. And from what she knew about Joelle, she was simply a lady that was pregnant for the Alpha.
The Alpha already had a mate - a lady chosen for him by their Selene. But she had fertility issues and couldn't get pregnant for him. Hence, they needed to look for a surrogate.
The Alpha got intimate with a few ladies who couldn't get pregnant after their first intercourse, except for Joelle. Joelle had taken in right after their intercourse, but the Alpha was enraged when he found out she was never a wolf, but a witch instead. She had hid it from him and just wanted to carry his child since she loved him that much, but Alpha Jamin didn't see it in that light. He never intended to have kids with the blood of a witch. But since the error had already been made, he had no choice but to accept the twin pregnancy. Although, it made him detest Joelle so much.
Rasima crossed her hands and watched as she got to the high table and took a seat. For a moment, she nearly felt pity for her. But, wasn't she so dumb? She wasn't a wolf. So, why would she be trying so hard to be one of them? She probably had no idea how mean and selfish they were. She clicked her tongue at the thought of it.
Slowly, the noise resumed as the guests went back to chit-chatting. But when another presence was known, the hall went dead - silent. It was so quiet, the drop of a pin could likely be heard.
Rasima looked at the door and found a young man walking in, a woman beside him.
His Titan's shoulders were so broad and complimented how he moved around with a tiger - like thread. His sea - rover blue eyes appeared so cold, they gave him the devil-did-not-care look. His dark glossy hair was shoulder - length and brushed into a ponytail, giving him a Mafia Lord look. And his smooth, spade shaped beards was the perfect match his hair needed.
Truly, Rasima disliked the wolves with everything in her, but she couldn't deny the fact that the man coming in front of her, was the hottest male she had ever set her eyes on.
She stared at him, frozen, as he walked in with the other lady. The other lady was pretty, but walking beside him, she could barely be noticed as his grace shadowed her. Rasima needed no one to tell her he was the Alpha King, Alpha of the River Ash Pack - Alpha Jamin.
The last time Rasima saw him was ten years ago, and he wasn't all that bold and manly. As a matter of fact, he had changed a lot. A whole lot.
No wonder the people feared and respected him. His features were intimidating enough.
Rasima got lost, staring at him. But she was dragged back to her senses when suddenly, he stopped in front of her.
At first, she wanted to believe there was a mistake. Perhaps, she was mistaking his angle. But slowly, his icy eyes rested on her.
Rasima wrinkled her brows inquisitively. What was going on? Why was he in front of her? And the lady beside him - who was probably his mate - had also stopped and was staring at her.
Not knowing what she did wrong, Rasima folded her hands and lowered her gaze. These bloody wolves weren't getting her. She was trying so hard not to focus on the Alpha's crazy scent that was swirling around him.
"How dare you look me in the face while I walk by?Didn't anyone teach you the most basic etiquette? " She suddenly heard a rasp, gravelly voice.
She snapped her head up at the Alpha to behold his blue eyes staring intently at her. At that moment, his beautiful eyes looked harmful.
"Or do you want to use such a bold method to attract my attention? "Alpha Jamin lifted Rasima's chin with his right hand.
I have to say, you have a decent face. However, your seduction skills are too clumsy. "Alpha increased his strength.
Rasima snorted in pain.
Sorry, I just came back and I don't know the rules of wolf packs. But don't worry, I'm not interested in you, "Rasima said coldly.
Upon hearing Rasima's words, Alpha snorted and let go of her chin, "It's best that way."
"Her face actually looks new around here. She might be an intruder", The lady beside him suddenly said.
Rasima's eyes went to her at once with an expression of 'i'd punch you if you say one more word about me'.
"Please, Alpha!" Her mother suddenly stepped in, her palms clasped together.
"She... she's my daughter - Rasima - and isn't so familiar with our laws around here. Actually, she just returned to the country yesterday and..."
"Please Alpha, she's truly sorry", her mother added in a plea.
Alpha Jamin's cold gaze stayed on her for a while, then extending his gaze to her toes, he finally looked away and resumed walking.
"Educate your daughter well, madam. Next time, I will help you educate her on her rudeness."
Rasima rolled her eyes the moment they left. More reasons to actually hate these people called wolves. To think he wanted a god treatment when he was born of the flesh? It was audacious. Now, she might have to reduce her stay and leave in two days time.
"Rasima! I'm sure I mentioned this before. You're meant to lower your head whenever the Alpha's making such an entrance. You really want to get the into trouble, huh?" Mrs Chantal twitched Rasima's hand.
Staring further, Rasima noticed the beautiful lady in blue staring at her - Joelle.
As usual, there were shadows of sadness in her eyes, but Rasima noticed something else - something she couldn't name.
When Rasima stared long enough, Joelle finally looked away.
Alpha Jamin got to his table with his mate and took his seat. Then, a coordinator came up to commence the party.
*************
...
After a while, Rasima became pressed and excused herself to use the restroom. But when she arrived, she realized she wasn't just pressed but had needed some space. God! It was more like the presence of the wolves were choking her.
After using the restroom, she remained there, not wanting to leave. At least, it was quiet and free of wolves. She brought out her phone to call Lucas, but his both lines were switched off. Urgh! Just when she needed someone to talk to.
She decided to drop him a text, telling him how boring the party was and how much she wanted to go home. Done, she brushed her fingers into her hair and left the restroom.
Returning to the party hall, the energy was just the same. Everyone was drinking, eating, laughing and having fun. Rasima rolled her eyes, finding even their celebration irritating.
She brought out her phone to perhaps, play some games. But her eyes left her phone when she suddenly heard people shrieking in the hall.
She looked up in panic to find someone on the floor - choking.
Rasima gasped. It was Joelle!
The music was turned off at once as a few needed people ran to her on the floor - including Alpha Jamin.
"What's happening to her?!" Alpha Jamin questioned hoarsely as he bent a knee on the floor beside her, holding her hand.
"Get Meredith! Quickly!"
"Get the doctor!"
The entire hall was in disarray. Rasima watched with her hand on her chest. God, no, no. She couldn't witness a tragedy. What was going on?
Joelle moved unconsciously on the floor as she gasped for breath. She looked like she was losing it - losing her life.
Rasima noticed she suddenly forced her right palm open and struggled to say some obfuscated words. Obviously, she was trying to cast spells to save herself - as she should.
Rasima squeezed her hands sweatily as she watched the lady and prayed whatever survival spell she was casting worked. She couldn't witness a tragedy, no.
"Where is Meredith?!" The Alpha yelled at them, still holding Joelle's other hand.
He held her hand with so much fear and worry, the people were surprised that the Alpha could show so much concern toward the witch. Obviously, he was only concerned because his babies were involved.
Joelle continued gasping for breath while trying to chant whatever she was chanting, until finally,her hand fell weakly.
Okay, why did she give up? Didn't it work or something? Rasima thought worriedly.
The Meredith they had been waiting for finally came running in, but as she crouched in front of Joelle, Joelle's eyes seemed to go close. Her body stopped struggling, and her entire being became still.
That instance, Rasima felt something heavy hit hard at her. She couldn't explain it, but it made her so dizzy. The next thing she felt were her eyes going close as her body reached for the floor.
"Rasima!!" She heard her mother's voice faintly, but she didn't find the strength to stay awake.
Slowly, Rasima's eyes opened.
She felt a light headache at first which made her shut her eyes right back.
She heard someone whispering around her.
She couldn't help but open her eyes and search for the source of the sound.
Her vision was a little blurred, but slowly, they became clearer and she was able to recognize the ceiling of her room. She was home. And with the ray of sunlight shinning on her face, she could tell it was a new day.
The brightness of the room made her eyes squint as she struggled to sit up. The last she could remember was passing out at the party.
Her strained grunt while trying to sit attracted the doctor in the room. He had been backing her while fixing some things on the table, but the moment he heard her voice, he turned quickly at her.
Rasima, on the other hand, had no idea there had been someone in the room. So, when she saw the young doctor, dressed professionally in his white robe, smiles lit up her face.
"Miles!" She screamed in excitement as she spread out her arms for a hug which the young man received.
"Hey, hey, someone's going to choke me", he laughed.
"Oh, my God! I can't believe this. When did you get here?" Rasima was still beaming as she pulled from the hug, but had him sit on the bed with her.
"As soon as I got a call from mum, telling me what happened. I didn't want some other doctor taking care of you", His reply got Rasima blushing.
"So, you refused to come see me when I told you I was home, but you can rush over when you heard I collapsed. Such irony", she tweaked his ear.
"Taking a leave from work isn't so easy, Rasima, especially when it's just for fun. But the moment it involves my little sister's life, I can damn my superior".
"I've told you to stop calling me little. I'm twenty-six!"
"Oh! I've missed you".
Rasima hugged him again - more tightly.
Her brother was one person she loved the most and deeply wish she could turn into a full human like she was. His looks were everything for her as he had a really charming face. Back then, when they all still lived together, a lot of girls usually fought over him.
Funny memories. Those days, Rasima was actually very proud having such brother. She still was.
"So, tell me, how do you feel now?" Miles asked as he stretched her eyes and flashed an ophthalmoscope at it.
"Well...it feels like a party is going on in my head. It comes and goes. My throat feels so sore, my back and waist aches a lot and I am so hungry, I could eat a lion right now.I have never had such a strong desire for food! ", she laughed in the end.
"By the way,Wow, what kind of fragrance is this!! It's bean soup! Is Mom making bean soup?? I want to drink a big bowl!!?" She sniffed in.
Miles chuckled. "What're you talking about? No one's making bean soup".
"Stop joking! The aroma is as strong as your flirty lifestyle".
Miles pulled her hair.
"I didn't know you had a dog nose.
No matter what it is, even without bean soup, I also want to eat something now! Miles, I need to eat!"
"Hold on; the pregnant lady! Wh... what happened to her?" She asked with eyes wide open.
"She passed away. The rumors says she was poisoned", Miles shrugged.
Poisoned?? Rasima couldn't believe it. By who?? Who would dare poison her?Who dares to commit such crimes under Alpha's nose?
She brushed her fingers into her hair as she leaned on the bed-head. Goodness! She didn't understand why she felt so painful hearing her death?This inexplicable emotion made her very puzzled.
This inexplicable emotion made her very puzzled.
Recalling her calm, pretty face at the party, it was a pity such beauty was gone. She had seen her muttering some spells at the party. Sadly, the spells didn't save her. Now, Rasima was really hurt.
"But who was it? Who poisoned her?" She looked back at Miles.
"No one knows. At least, not yet".
Rasima recalled - she hadn't eaten or drank anything at the party. So, she must've been poisoned before the party.
Damn that murderer. More reason to keep hating the wolves.
***
Just then, the door went open with her mum walking in, and the woman's face lit up the moment she saw Rasima.
"Oh! Gracious, you're awake!" She dropped the bowl she had in her hand and rushed over to hug Rasima.
"For Selene's sake, Rasima! You gave me a huge scare! My baby...!" She cooed.
Rasima felt herself choking.
"Come on, mum. I'm fine now", she coughed lightly as she pulled back from the hug.
Mrs Chantal turned to Miles. "Tell me, how's she?"
"All she needs is a lot of rest, mum. She's fine", Miles smiled - charmingly.
Mrs Chantal cupped Rasima's cheeks.
"I can't believe you passed out when Joelle died. The sight must've been so terrible for you, right? I actually feel worst for the Alpha. He was in so much pain and had nearly burnt down the pack house with his anger. Losing those babies can never be easy for him" Mrs Chantal sulked.
Rasima only felt pity for the innocent babies that were lost - and their mother as well.
For Alpha, he can also conceive new children with other women.
Anyway, Rasima couldn't sympathize with Alpha.
It is undeniable that at the same time as the pregnant woman died, she also fainted.
In the past, she had witnessed death, so it wasn't enough to make her faint.
But she did not know the reason for her fainting,surely.
All of this happened too quickly.
"It's a good thing you're fine now. Come on, I'll help you freshen up so we can go down for breakfast", Mrs Chantal tried helping her up from the bed.
"Hold on, mum. You're making bean soup, right?" Rasima questioned.
"No. Why would I do that? Why would you even ask?"
Rasima looked around, confused.
"Then, who the hell is? I can perceive it so strongly, I wish I could eat it right now".
Mrs Chantal glanced at Miles, beady - eyed.
"You're the only one perceiving it, Rasima. Whatever, come with me".
She helped her from the bed and took her to the bathroom.
**********************
THE PACK HOUSE
******
Jamin sat forlornly in his swing seat, his head leaned back with his eyes closed. He sat like one who was asleep, but the whole time, his ears listened to the conversation his mum was having with the workers.
He needed no one to tell him how frightened the workers were, just staring at him. They knew he was awake, and that his silence was worst than his rage. He seemed just like a wounded predator, waiting on a prey.
"But both of you had dressed her up for the party", Madame Ava said, pointing at two ladies. "Surely, you should know something about the drink".
One of the accused went down on her knees.
"I swear on my life, ma'am, Lady Joelle already had that drink with her before we went in. We didn't see who had given it to her".
The second lady went on her knees as well and did the same.
Madame Ava grunted. She looked at her son and felt so bad seeing him that way. The workers weren't the only ones scared but she was scared as well of his rage.
Since the previous night, he hadn't eaten nor spoken to anyone.
A light knock hit the door and Ava went to get it. It was Meredith - the pack's doctor.
"Good mor..."
"What is it?" Madame Ava cut her off.
Her son wasn't the only one that was pissed.
The doctor, looking pretty in her white robe, peeped into the room and sighed.
"I need to speak to the Alpha. It's very important", she said.
Madame Ava glanced back at the Alpha who was still in his silent mood.
"I don't think you can see him now. He's..."
"Let her in", Alpha Jamin suddenly said, making his mother surprised.
He could hear them?
Madame Ava stepped away from the door and Meredith went in.
"Good morning, Alpha", she bowed when she stood in front of him.
Alpha Jamin said nothing, and neither did his eyes go open.
Meredith, despite being older than him, felt so much fear as she looked at him. She had to lower gaze.
She was afraid to bear his anger.
Alpha has been looking forward to his successor for a long time.
He finally had twins, but now his mother is dead...
"Um... actually, there's a discovery. Al... although, I don't know if there'd be a solution yet", she faltered.
Alpha Jamin said nothing. He didn't react.
"It's...it's concerning the babies".
Instantly, his eyes shut open. They were so sore and looked dangerous, Meredith felt shivers just glancing at them.
"What about them?" He asked throatily.
Meredith swallowed hard. "Um..the thing is, last night, I ran some tests to see if there was a way the babies could be saved. I knew it was pointless, but... I was just being desperate. But during the scan, I discovered something strange. There were no babies in her womb".