EX-MATE:Destined By Fate

(Lilac)

"2 million, that's my final offer," a man said with a slam of his hand on the armrest, the room was in utter silence. His loud, stern voice echoed throughout the small living room. The two people sitting across him exchanged shrewd glances. The woman dressed elegantly in a red floral dress let out a nervous chuckle.

"Mr. Clark...t-think it over...2 million isn't... Well," the woman said hesitantly, elbowing her husband to say something. The man they referred to as Mr. Clark shifted his gaze from the wife and husband before him.

"I'm doing you a favor...it's not like you are selling perfect goods," Mr. Clark snorted disdainfully and shifted from side to side. The woman nodded, although deep down she was angered. Her husband secretly nodded for her to keep calm.

"It's damaged goods, yes...but we just want you to...well, raise it a little...as it is, you'll have it for the rest of your life," the husband said shrewdly, the woman was impressed at how honey-tongued her husband was. Mr. Clark stared at them for a while, then let out a sigh.

"If not that I'm impressed with her...do you think I'd be here begging to buy a crippled girl," Mr. Clark said disdainfully, making the two people laugh nervously.

"I know she isn't good enough...but she can cook, clean very well...and hehehe Mr. Clark," the woman listed the things shyly, Mr. Clark saw through her last words and smiled. Of course, the old man was bewitched by the girl's beauty.

"They say don't judge a book by its cover...why don't you think about it..." the husband said, secretly blinking at his wife. Mr. Clark didn't utter a word, which was a good sign. He glanced at his wristwatch and nodded.

"Fine... I'll take her, but first... I need some assurance...why don't you send the little fairy to my mansion," Mr. Clark said shrewdly while licking his lips seductively. The two people chuckled mischievously and held each other's hands in excitement.

"Done...it's done, Mr. Clark...go home and wait for your package..." the woman remarked and rose to her feet. Her husband did the same and stumbled to get to Mr. Clark.

"Hehe, you are a generous man... I'll. Make sure your package is fully ready," the husband chimed in and poured some wine into Mr. Clark's glass.

"So...about the payment..."

"I'll send the payment after I taste the goods," Mr. Clark said shamelessly, making the two people giggle inwardly. Meanwhile, the girl standing by the stairs gripped her crutches tightly. Tears rained down her face. I had always felt safe and loved with my aunt and uncle, Mary and John. But this was out of control. I couldn't help but feel like I was unwanted, unloved, and alone. The thought of being taken away from the only family I had ever known made me feel like my heart was breaking into a million tiny pieces.

Tears streamed down my face as I tried to make sense of what I had just heard. How could the people I trusted and loved, who had given me a home and a family, even consider doing something like this? I slowly but surely used my clutches to get to my room. I could as well as blame my left leg for not being functional. It was hard to walk without crutches. But I managed to get to my room.

"Hey Lily, come to the shop. I have some work for you," I opened my phone and the first thing I heard was a voice message from my boss. Despite how I was in a bad mood, I had to go to work.

I didn't have a choice. My name is Lilac Anderson, people call me Lily for short. I'm a 22-year-old girl. I was born and raised in this big city, although we lived in a small neighborhood. I had no recollection of my childhood memories. All I knew was that my parents died when I was little. My aunt and uncle took me in and raised me. I worked at a small flower shop owned by the best granny that ever lived. Mrs. Williams was my boss. She gave me a job when everything seemed dark.

"And where are you going?" Mary asked me immediately as I was about to sneak out of the house. I was a little startled, but soon regained my wits.

"Well, I... Mrs Williams needs some help...so I'm heading there," I said hesitantly, not daring to look at her. I had to pretend as if I didn't know what they were planning.

"There's no need for you to work there anymore...your uncle and I found a way to pay back the debts," Mary said nonchalantly, I wasn't so surprised about it. I knew they found another target to milk money from. Biting back tears, I nodded.

"But I need to take care of my daughter... I..."

"She's not your daughter...at least that's what we agreed, Lily...do you think any man would want you," Mary cut me off and said disdainfully. I saw nothing but disgust in her eyes. Averting my eyes from her. I knew what she meant.

"Little Sophie is our child...what can a crippled girl do, huh...you can't even take care of yourself..." Mary spat out angrily and advanced. I didn't say a word to her.

"If...you tell me who the father is..."

"Look at you...you don't even know how you got pregnant...anyway I have no time for you," Mary added and turned away elegantly "I want you to go to Mr. Clark...he has a job for you," Mary said, and I knew what this was all about. I only nodded and struggled to open the front door because my crutches kept getting in the way. Or was I eager to leave the forsaken house?

"Go and come back before 4 pm," I heard her shout after me when I slammed the door shut. Letting out an exhalation I glanced at the sky, it was a beautiful sunny day. The harsh rays were quite blinking. It was summer, it got even hotter. But this was to my advantage. Only if I could remember a few things. Then everything would be better. Unfortunately, I didn't, my memory was blurred. I sighed and left our house to Mrs. Williams's shop. I wasn't going to see that old flabby man. I'd rather die than be a mistress to such a disgusting old man.

As the sun rose over the city, the streets were alive with the sound of bustling activity. It was summertime, and the air was filled with the sweet smell of blooming flowers, echoing from the countless parks and gardens that dotted the landscape. Skyscrapers towered high above, casting shadows on the narrow cobblestone streets that wound their way through the old town.

The buildings were adorned with ornate balconies and colorful awnings, their vibrant hues contrasting against the elegant stone facades. People strolled along the sidewalk, some with ice cream cones in hand, while others sat on benches and enjoyed the warm breeze. It was a city that buzzed with an energy that only summertime could bring.

In the midst of this vibrant scene, Lilac with crutches made her way slowly through the crowds. The heat of the sun beat down on her, but she was determined to reach her destination. She walked with a determined look on her face, her curly, auburn hair cascading gently down her back.

As she turned onto a small cobbled alleyway, her eyes fell upon a quaint flower shop nestled between two tall buildings. The storefront was alive with colors and scents, bursting with carefully arranged bouquets and potted plants. She hobbled towards the door, her movements slow and measured, and pushed it open with a jingle.Despite her disability, she greeted the other shop assistants with a warm smile. They acknowledged her kindly.

"And there you are!" It was Mrs Williams who said as she helped me to sit down.

"Granny, you sound worried...I'm here," I said trying to ease her burden...she saw me and smiled.

"Is it an emergency...you know I'm at your beck and call," I said cheerfully knowing I enjoyed my work more than anyone. The reason why Mrs Williams preferred me to other workers.

"I'm sorry sweetie I called you like this...but I need your help," Mrs Williams remarked, she seemed busy that I saw. I also saw a van outside and the others loading various flowers.

"Did you see Gage...he came around," Mrs Williams said and handed me a card. It was a pass card. I knew at first glance that I was delivering flowers to a wealthy family.

"The Moondragon family are hosting a party this evening...they ordered flowers at the last minute...I need you to deliver them for me," she explained while I went through the order and address. I shook my head in denial.

"B-but...why not give Tessa...She's..." the family in question frightened me. The fact that it was the most wealthy and well known made me feel uncomfortable.

"You are a sweet girl...you make everyone like you at first glance...please Lily," Mrs Williams pleaded with a soft gaze. I wanted to refuse but no.

"Alright, I'll go," I agreed, although I didn't want this. It was better than going to that old man.

"You know Gage works there...I'm sure he'll guide you," Mrs Williams added and I managed to get my crutches, of course. Gage was my best friend. He was 26 years old. He worked for the Moondragon family. Although he had such a good job and a good position at their prestigious company. Gage was down to earth.

"Come on, load up...and take care of my baby!" Mrs Williams shouted at the men getting in the van while she helped me get in the front seat.

"Careful," she mumbled as I settled down "here," she handed me my crutches. I nodded at the driver as a way of greeting him and the car started.

As the car drove to our destination. I kept thinking, not glancing outside and spotted a school bus. A smile crept on my face admiring all the students. I didn't get a chance to finish my studies because of my condition.

Not like I was bothered but Mary said I was better off at home. To be honest, I worked day and night so I could save up enough money and get custody of my lovely daughter. Sophie was 3 years old. A jovial and intelligent little girl. However I wasn't allowed to meet her. All I wanted was to know who I was. And the father of my child.

"We are here" I was startled back to my senses when the driver spoke. Regaining my wits. I glanced out the window and I was shocked by the beautiful scenery. The Moondragon Mansion was a grand and imposing sight to behold. It stood tall and proud at the end of a winding driveway, flanked by perfectly manicured lawns and pristine gardens. The mansion itself was made of smooth white marble, with intricate carvings and ornate details that hinted at the great wealth and power of its owners.

"Wow," I've heard stories from my co-workers but this was heaven. The entrance was guarded by two massive stone lions, their fierce expressions suggesting that only the most important and powerful guests were welcome here. The front doors were made of solid mahogany, towering over those who approached them, their brass door knobs polished to a shine.

"Welcome, come on get to work," we were greeted by an overly energetic lady. She guided us in as soon as the van parked by the entrance. As we stepped inside, we were greeted with a breathtaking view of the grand foyer. A grand chandelier hung high above, lighting up the room with a warm, golden glow. The walls were adorned with tapestries and paintings, each one more elaborate and intricate than the last. Elegant furniture was scattered throughout the space, inviting guests to sit and admire the splendor of their surroundings.

"And you are?" Someone asked from behind, I turned around only to be greeted by a tall slim blonde haired woman. She was wearing an awfully short dress. I guessed she was one of the family members.

"I..." I started but another person walked in taking the lady's attention.

"Is she here...what did I tell you," the blonde haired lady started talking to another woman. This one had dark hair with an oval shaped face, she was a little chubby and short.

"Is she the one?" I heard them say that when I realized they were staring at me. Both of them, I was a bit uncomfortable thinking I wasn't dressed accordingly. Holding my crutches tightly. I prepared to speak when.

"She's even better than I imagined...look at this," the blonde woman said as she walked closer to me. I didn't know what they were saying but they seemed to have mistaken me for someone else.

"Yeah, it's just what we want...girl I'm sure you were told what to do...tell Kate to take her to the room and get her ready," the chubby lady said seriously, I shook my head trying to stop them.

"Then she better do his right or else," the blonde warned with a glare. I was so confused.

"Esme, don't worry...she guaranteed me that this girl is the best," the chubby one remarked and came to inspect me. I didn't know what to do. But I was just a flower girl.

"I'm sorry but..."

"Don't blow this...go Kelly, make sure she's ready for tonight," the blonde said like an order and left from there.

"Come with me...it seems you can't walk without those crutches ...at least you can talk and have a beautiful face," the lady she called Kelly said, eyeing me from head to toe. I was hesitant but she dragged me away without hearing me out.

"Please...let me out...I don't know what's going on here but there's a huge mistake!" I shouted while banging on the door. The lady took me to a room upstairs and locked me up. She said something about executing the plan at tonight's party and left.

"No, this can't be." I was helpless as I watched the sun going down. Only then did I realize how beautiful the room I was in was. To know my phone was downstairs in that waiting room I went to.

"Argh," I sat on the floor and placed my crutches to the sides. It was getting dark, I would wait for those people to come back so I could explain everything

(Lilac)

I was woken up by something cold splashing on me.

"Ahh," I was freezing to death as I lifted myself off the hard floor. I blinked confused, not sure where I was. But when I fully opened my eyes.

"Wake up, girl...do you think this is a hotel!" A middle-aged woman shouted while splashing water on me. I was confused, as I pushed myself until I was sitting.

"Huh?" I didn't know what was happening, but glancing around. I soon realized everything.

"Please ma'am, the two were mistaken, I'm not..." I said desperately and tried to stand, but darn it. I forgot where I put my crutches. The lady frowned disdainfully and shifted her eyes around. I followed her gaze and spotted my crutches by the bed.

"At least they should have found someone who can walk," the lady snorted disdainfully and walked to the bed. She took my crutches and came back with them.

"The alpha is here... I'll help you get ready, so you see his face then we can start," the woman said while helping me up, I was confused.

"Alpha?" I asked, not sure what she meant. Who was alpha and what did it have to do with me.

"Ma'am, please..."

"I'm Kate... I'm not an old lady so call me Kate...in fact, while living in his house, you should respect me!" The lady spat out bitterly, by now I was on my feet supported by crutches.

"Sorry Kate...but where is that blonde woman...this is..."

"Esme is downstairs at the party...if you keep talking nonstop we might not finish, and she'll cut our heads off," the lady cut me off again and dragged me to the dressing table. I was bothered by their constant attitude of not letting me finish my sentences ls. It seemed as if the behavior ran in their family to cut people off.

"The room will be dark... I don't think the alpha will see your face...so let's just get this done," Kate remarked while taking out some fancy dresses and perfumes. I sat there quietly. Whatever it was, I had to escape. It seemed they mistook me for someone else.

___

It didn't take a while before the lady was done. She chose a little pink flower dress and some glass slippers. Due to my condition with my bent left foot. I was unable to wear any other shoes apart from open flat shoes. She pinned my hair in a beat bun, although some strands were falling over my face.

"You need to memorize this mansion like the back of your hand," Kate said as we walked down the passageway. She showed me various rooms and explained who they belonged to. Soon we took a turn and I heard the sound of music. The chattering of people.

"That's Esmé...the eldest daughter of this family...that's Kelly, the cousin to the alpha," Kate kept pointing down the party hall, showing me people I didn't know. We were at the top of the stairs watching what was unfolding down below. Indeed, the family held up to their reputation. I saw the men did justice with the flower decorations.

"I..." I wanted to ask when I spotted someone in the crowd. Everyone was unique, unfortunately this man had my attention. I was only seeing half of his face, but I was drawn to him.

"That's alpha Alejandro...take note...he's the target," Kate said, breaking my trail of thoughts. Alejandro Moondragon was a man who commanded respect and admiration wherever he went. With sharp, chiseled features and piercing blue eyes, he was undeniably handsome, with a rugged charm that made him all the more alluring. His physique was nothing short of impressive, well-toned and muscular, a testament to his physical prowess.

"He's the alpha of our pack...it's an honor to be given this task, girl...make sure you don't fail," Kate said with some pride to her voice while describing the man. I've heard of him, they said he was the most powerful at a young age. Alejandro's confidence and swagger were undeniable, exuding a sense of power and authority that made others both envious and eager to please him. His voice was deep and commanding, his presence filling any room he entered.

"Come with me," Kate dragged me away when the man glanced up, our eyes nearly met, but she whisked me away.

"What's an alpha?" I asked, this had been bothering me. Why were they addressing him as the alpha? The lady stared at me blankly and led me down the other path. This place was a bit isolated from the others.

"No one is allowed here except the alpha... This is his bedroom," the lady pushed the brown door open, revealing a breathtaking room. I didn't get to see it properly when she pushed me inside.

"Drink this and wait," she handed me a glass of water. I stared at her for a while, not sure what to say.

"I can't..."

"Drink it now," she ordered sternly. I was frightened; hence I gulped down the liquid in one go and handed back the glass.

"Good girl," she said with a smile and patted me on the head. "Wait and let the show begin," Kate remarked mischievously and left the room. The door closed and I sat there. She took my crutches with her. How was I to leave the bed?

"I should leave," I muttered and prepared to stand. Unfortunately, I ended up falling on the bed, my head was spinning. My vision was blurry.

"Ahh," my body was getting hot. I tried to move, but I couldn't. I patted on the bed trying to control myself, unfortunately I failed.

"Who's there," I heard a stern voice ask, my eyes flickered open to see who it was. I only saw a man stumbling toward the bed. He was stripping, and tossing his clothes away.

"Damn this," the man muttered as he attempted to open his eyes. Why was he feeling this way? He felt hot and restless. He lost balance and ended up falling on the bed.

"Mmm," he heard a girl groaning, only to realize he had fallen on her. To his surprise, she crawled on top of him. Her touch soothed him. Before he knew it, he grabbed her by the waist and pushed her down the bed.

"Ahh," his hands roamed on her body. Fighting to feel her smooth skin. She seemed to be enjoying his touch because she was touching him back and kissing his exposed flesh.

While the two got lost in satisfying each other's lust. The door to the room closed shut. Three women stood outside cheerfully.

"Done...he won't escape this one...it's time to prepare for the alpha's wedding," it was Esme who said and the two nodded.

"Too bad it's the a crippled girl," Kelly chimed in lazily, but they had no choice.