Adeline's POV
Thwack!
The resounding slap woke me up from my sweet sleep, I wasn't surprised I was getting woken up like this by the screaming banshee in front of me. I would never be happy with the status quo. But that didn't change the fact if I want to continue to live here that I needed to.
"You lazy bone! I told you to wash these clothes last night, didn't I?" Eva, my younger sister yelled at me.
Don't be surprised that I'm being treated like this, it doesn't sit well with me too but I just have to follow her orders if I wanted to remain in this house.
I'm also a daughter of the Wyatt's family, in fact the first daughter. But I was a disappointment to my parents. Every other werewolves in my pack found their mates when they clocked eighteen but here am I; ninteen years of age, unmarked.
I don't even body shift when there's a full moon, a weak omega that's what I am. I have learnt to live with my pains and also accept the fact that I've been cursed by the Moon Goddess as everyone had told me.
I'm so much grateful that my family haven't thrown me out, but I'm not different from those maids. We were equals.
I bowed my head, staring at the tiled floor. I do not dare to look Eva in the face when she's talking to me or I might end up being skinned alive.
"I'm.. I'm sorry, Eva. I knew I had to wash your clothes but it escaped my mind. I'm deeply s..." Before I could finish apologising to her, she gave me a hotter slap on the face and I staggered backwards, almost falling to the floor.
I was surprised that I could maintain my stamina. Merely looking at my thin and lean self, anybody even a blind man can tell that I'm suffering from malnutrition.
I held my cheeks as hot tears rolled down, wetting my worn out pyjamas. Well, one of Eva's hand-me-downs.
"Have you forgotten your place in this house? You're my slave and you shouldn't forget that, okay?" She bickered at me and I nodded quickly to avoid being punished again.
"Now pick up the clothes and go the laundry room and remember.." She paused, flashing a hateful glare at me. "...wash them with your hands!"
I rushed out of the room, clutching the clothes tightly to my chest like my life depended on it. After I was done, I got dressed for school and I greeted my parents as I walk past the living room.
They were having breakfast with their adorable princess and noone needed to tell me that I wasn't wanted at the dining with them.
"Adeline." My mom, Fiona called, making me halt in my steps. I turned around and my eyes met with Eva who rolled her eyes at me.
"We have something to tell you when you're back from school." Mom mentioned and as I walked to school, I kept wondering what she wanted to tell me. Little did I know, my life would take a drastic turn today.
I was almost entering my class when I felt someone grabbed my hair. I turned back only to see, Eva and her friends- Olivia and Billie. I know they're here to bully me as always. I've gotten used to it and now saw it as part of my daily life but today, I feel so weak and the migraine I was having mixed with severe cramp pains made me feel like I would soon faint.
Eva spilled her milk shake on my uniform while Olivia poured her orange juice on my head and it sank down my body, wetting ny uniform.
As other students passed by, they mocked and gossiped me. I felt ashamed as I watched them but Eva's slap drifted my attention back to her and the other bullies.
"Shameless b*tch! Just take a look at yourself, you look so pathetic!" Eva laughed out and her friends joined in.
"Tell us, have you found your mate yet?" Billie asked but I kept quiet, staring at my feet. How on earth was I to answer that question? Eva took a grip of my neck and I choked, gasping for her air.
"You should talk when you're being questioned, you weakling!" Olivia gritted her teeth, pushing me away and I hit my butt on the hard floor, this time my stamina didn't help at all.
I shook my head, forcing words out of my mouth. "No...I haven't..." I stuttered.
They looked into eachother's faces and broke into laughter again.
"Well....." Eva shrugged. "You'll never find one, believe me. You're cursed, Adeline." She spelt out.
I wept bitterly, whenever she mentioned this I always feel like I'm being stabbed deep in my heart a thousand times. I feel the urge to talk back at her but I couldn't bring myself to do so.
Why is my life this way? Am I really cursed by the moon goddess? The silly question I asked myself made me chuckle inwardly, whose life would be miserable like this except one who's cursed?
I would always be the ill-fated one, I have to continue to believe that and live my life accordingly.
I was dealt with by Eva and her friends. I couldn't take it anymore, I shut my eyes and fell into the hard floor.
There was a blackout.
Just like garbage, Eva kicked me away and headed away with her friends. I remained there, cold, pale and almost dying. Nobody came to help me.
The next thing I felt was cold water being poured on my head. I opened my eyes immediately, breathing so fast. My sight was blurry for a while and I had to rub my eyes to have a better view of my surroundings.
I wasn't at school, I was at home now; in the living room.
"Hey!" Mom snapped her fingers and I stood up slowly, my legs failed me and I fell onto the floor.
Eva huffed. "Seriously? Are you trying to buy sympathy?"
My father, Gabriel moved closer and pointed at me. "Young woman, get up! There are a few things you need to know."
I mustered some strength and stood up again. I'm so curious right now. Are they going to throw me out of the house now?
"You're getting married, Adeline." Dad announced and I raised my brows in surprise. Marriage? I'm just 19 for hell's sake! Who am I even getting married to?
As if my mom was reading my mind, she replied, "Aiden Albert is his name and you'll be wedded tomorrow."
Tomorrow? What the hell!
Morever, the name sounded familiar. I overheard dad and mom talking about Eva getting married to Aiden Albert. Why did they change their mind? Why me?
I've heard a lot about him and I know his family is fucking wealthy. The Eva that I know would want to have such man as her husband, since she loves enjoying luxury. Something is definitely wrong somewhere.
Eva patted my back looking at me with a smirk. "I'm sure you'll love him, Adeline. A blind man, tsk tsk, I can never marry such person."
I looked at my mother, maybe she'll be able to explain this better. Aiden Albert was blind? How can a wealthy man like that lack sight?
"Mom? I...."
"Yes, we just got to know yesterday when his uncle called. Aiden turned blind a year ago." Mom interrupted me.
"Initially, Eva was supposed to be married to him but no no, I can't allow my precious get engaged to a man without eyes."
Dad joined in, "Sorry, Adeline. We're so so sorry, okay?"
I knew he wasn't sincere with the apology. It was clear, so obvious. Besides, it couldn't change the fact that I'll be given out to a blind man and my parents wouldn't change their mind.
"You're a weakling and he is too, you both are a perfect match." Mom grinned.
"Thankfully, for the first time in your pathetic life, you're being useful. This marriage would bring us wealth and I can't wait for the juicy contracts to start coming our way."She gushed.
Darn it! I can't believe my parents hated me to this extent. Giving out their daughter to a blind man; that's pure cruelty!
Well, maybe it wouldn't be so bad. Maybe I'll get to live a better life after the marriage. At least, I'll be able to escape these devils who call themselves my family.
I braced myself up for what was to come my way. I felt a glimmer of hope. Maybe this isn't so bad.
Adeline's POV
I sighed when the Bugatti halted in front of the Albert's mansion. As I walked in, I kept looking around in amazement. The compound looked so big and the environment was so serene. Merely looking at the exterior designs, one should know the Albert's family are wealthy people.
None of my family was here with me, only a car was sent by the Albert's to pick me up. A maid brought out my small luggage from the car's boot; it literally contained nothing but rags and worn-out dresses.
I never wore anything nice but I picked the dresses myself, since they were a bit manageable.
As I stepped in, I was completely mesmerized. Gosh! The furniture and wall designs, especially the chandeliers.
The living room was empty except for the maids who were busy with their jobs. Does this family really want me? Noone is even here to welcome me.
I heard approaching footsteps and when I looked up, I saw a man in his fifties coming downstairs followed by a petite young lady and a guy too.
Aiden Albert's parents were late and I suppose the man I saw just now, is his uncle. The guy and the lady, maybe his cousins cause he had no siblings.
"Good morning, uncle...." I trailed off, I didn't know his name.
He nodded. "Yes, I'm Aiden's uncle and my name's Thane." He introduced himself.
"Alright, it's nice to meet you." I gave a little smile, bowing my head.
He nodded again and gestured towards the lady and the guy beside him. "This is Gabriella and that's Hudson."
The glare I received from the lady referred to as Gabriella, made me withdraw my hand which I had stretched earlier for an handshake. And the guy, he was staring seductively at me and I began to doubt if my life would get any better as I've thought.
"Gabriella will take you to your room." Uncle Thane said before leaving.
Gabriella chuckled and rolled her eyes at me. "And you are?"
"A.. Adeline." I answered.
"Good Adeline. I've heard a lot about you. Heard you're a dummy and an omega; a weakling just like Aiden. Am I right?"
I guess I was wrong when I thought living here would be 'fun'. It's no different to that hell of a house I came from and I can sense that this Gabriella girl is nothing but a bad ass just like Eva, if not more worst.
Also, I'm not sure if Hudson is mentally alright, he just keeps staring at me and I don't feel comfortable, at all.
"Just do you best to stay away from me if you don't want trouble, okay? Stick to your blind husband!" Gabriella hissed and walked away.
Nice one! Fantastic! Gabriella is just so sharp mouthed and rude just like Eva. I just pity the man that'll get married to my sister. I doubt if their marriage would last cause she might think she's still with her parents who do nothing but over pamper her.
Sigh.
I scolded myself. Can I just focus on my life and stop thinking about her for now? I can sense the tantrums ahead I'll get to face in future. Can I even handle it?
I doubt if I can.
I watched Gabriella ascend the stairs, I thought she was to show me to my room. My gaze was still fixed on her when I felt a hand on my waist.
I jolted when I felt the tingling touch on my skin. I was amused when I saw Hudson behind me, his head rested on my shoulder.
I tried to push him away but
his grip on me only tightened.
"H..Hudson." I stammered. I was provoked but it felt so difficult to stop him. Why would he touch me? I'm his...his cousin's wife for God's sake!
"You look so ravishing, just like the sunshine. Your glow drives me crazy." He whispered into my ear.
I drive him crazy? I'm not sure this guy is alright, he needs the urgent attention of a doctor. I must say his brain needs to be checked.
Everyone called me ugly and I even confirmed it from the mirror. A broomstick; that's what I am. So lean.....and my face looks so pale and unattractive.
"Since you haven't found your mate yet, we can have eachother to ourselves. Forget about my brother, he's just a blind man and he'll never notice."
Hudson's words disgusted me and I was forced to push him away but he grabbed my wrist. "Calm down, Aiden's never gonna find out." He said, trying to touch my breast.
I shoved his hand away and the next thing he did was kissing me.
What a pervert! I never believed the Albert's family would ever have an animal like this as a member of their respectable family. He's going too far and the fact that I'm finding it hard to defend myself, annoys me right now.
He pushed me onto the chaise lounge and pinned me down. I struggled to break free but he was stronger than I was. I just feel like slapping some sense into his head but I could do nothing.
"If you really love yourself, you should follow my orders. Don't be so afraid of Aiden, he would do nothing." Hudson mentioned.
I gazed into his eyeballs, filled with lust. I know he felt nothing but to strip me naked and have his way but I can't allow him.
As far as I'm concerned, I have my dignity to protect and even though I didn't willingly get married to Aiden, I can't cheat on him.
Hudson was about to loosen the ropes that were fastened to cover my chest when his phone rang. I let out a deep sigh, inwardly thanking whoever had called him.
"Yes, I'll be there. Some bottles of beer wouldn't hurt. Yeah, bring a lot of girls please." He said to the person on the other line and immediately I knew he was nothing but a womaniser.
He was almost stepping out the living room when he turned back and I fretted, taking a few steps backwards.
"I'll be back for you." He mentioned before leaving.
I quickly ran upstairs but fell down when I got to the hallway. I gasped for air as I fanned myself with my hands.
I wondered if my life can ever get any better? I've simply moved from frypan to fire, and I must say I'm so overwhelmed by the circumstances that surrounded me.
I stood up and began walking down, all the doors looked alike and I don't know which one is mine.
"Ma'am?" The maid that took my luggage from me earlier called, stopping in front of me.
I looked up. "Yes, Adeline, call me Adeline." I said cause I don't feel comfortable with the way she addressed me. I'm just a college girl and I'm sure she is older than I am.
The lady named Nora, shook her head. "Ma'am would be fine. You're Mr Aiden Albert's wife, aren't you?" She asked and I nodded.
"Come, I'll take you to his room." Nora said and I furrowed my brows. His room? Are we staying together in a room?
Christ! This is so bad.
"You're his wife, so you have to share a room. Morever, you should be able to care of him since he doesn't allow anyone come near him, maybe he'll accept you." Nora explained when she noticed the puzzled expression on my face.
I guess Aiden Albert would be a hard nut to crack. How on earth is he able to do things all by himself when he can't see?
There's no doubt, he's going to dislike me too if not more than the others.
When we reached the doorstep, Nora gestured for me to knock and she bowed before leaving.
My heart raced hard and I could hear its loud beats. I just hope things don't go wrong.
Squeaking!The door open, a gasp escaped my lips when I beheld the stunningly handsome man in front of me. God! I quickly shut the door.
Fuck! Fuck! Why did I look down, he is naked! What have I done? I made to escape because I thought he didn't see me until I felt a strong arm grab my waist and pull me in, slamming the door shut.
Adeline's POV
The room was silent and Aiden sat on the bed, his gaze fixed on me. He had been staring at me for twenty minutes now and I couldn't help but wonder if he can see me.
I kept wondering why I forgot to knock before opening the door. If I had done that at least I wouldn't be in this awkward situation. What was he going to do now? Punish me?
"You deserve to be punished!" Aiden's baritone voice snapped me out of my thoughts and I jolted, was he reading my mind?
I began stuttering, I didn't know where to start from. Okay...okay Adeline, say something. He doesn't bite.
"Umm.....ummm..." I sighed, slapping my head. Stop it Adeline, what's wrong with you? I was about to open my mouth again when he spoke.
"Is that how you barge into people's room without knocking? Do you even have manners?"
"I'm... I'm so sorry."
"Judging by your scent, I don't know you. What are you doing in my room?" He asked.
"I'm... I'm Adeline." I said and his brows scrunched up. He stood up and walked in slow strides towards the window.
"Adeline."
His voice was deep but so sweet to my ears, so melodious. And the way he called my name gave me goosebumps.
"Your uncle has told you about me, right?"
He turned around and faced me. The ray of Sunlight shone brightly on his face and for a moment I was stunned. He has beautiful eyes, blue ones to be precise but I could say his was extraordinary.
Aiden has a well built body and gosh, his hair it was too long for a man. It flowed down his back and stopped midway. I just wish he could see with his eyes then he'll be a perfect man.
"Are you done staring at me?" He folded his arms across his broad chest, gazing at me, again.
I quickly composed myself and clasped my hands, my eyes fixed on my feet.
"I am a blind man but you should know I have inner eyes and I can sense things. Adeline, I'll advise you to keep your distance from me." He said.
What more do I expect? Noone can ever like me, everyone sees me as a piece of trash and I disgust them.
"Al... right." I nodded.
"Uncle Thane told me I'd be getting married to Eva and I wonder why your parents changed their mind." He mentioned with a shrug.
Good! It's clear he wants Eva and not me...
"Well, whether it's you or your sister, I don't care. I...I just want to be alone." Aiden spelt out.
I can see he's a strict man but how do I take care of him if he wants me faraway. It's clear my parents wants me to be his caregiver, if not they wouldn't have gotten me married to someone... blind.
"I guess your parents told you we're only going to get married for a year."
Yes, mom told me about that. My parents just sees me as a toy and I've come to understand that they gave me out for money. I'm just supposed to take care of Aiden for a year, perform my duties as a wife and then we'd divorce. I'll be back to square one.
I'm just confused right now. Even Aiden doesn't want me, I can see trouble, big trouble. I just pray I don't get on his bad side cause I don't want to be punished, he's obviously going to do that since everyone loves to assault me.
He had a towel wrapped around his body now and when he went to his wardrobe to pick a cloth, I wondered how he's going to pick the right thing.
But to my surprise, he picked a pair of brown trousers and a matching shirt. He's just so good for a blind man.
After that, he halted and watched me for a while. I guess he wants me to leave the room so he could dress up. I was about to do that when he called me back.
"Just turn around." He said and I raised questioning brows at him. Turn around?
I quickly obeyed and did has he had said. And when he was done dressing up, I faced him but he didn't button his shirt properly.
I stuttered, not knowing how to tell him. If he goes out like that then others might mock him.
"Umm, Aiden. Y...your shirt. It's.. the buttons. Do I help you with that?"
I needed to ask, if I go on without his permission then I might just get slapped on the face or beaten up just like Eva did. Now, my greatest fear was offending him.
He ignored me and tried to button up the right way but this time it wasn't any better but worse.
"Aiden you're...."
"Come help with it then."
I moved closer in slow steps, his nice scent wafting through my nose; just like strawberries. I unbuttoned his shirt and his built muscles came into view.
I was dumbstruck as I kept staring at him. His extraordinary blue eyes, straight nose, plump cherry lips; Aiden was the exact description of an angel.
I was carried away, his body seemed to drive me crazy and the more my eyes lingered on him, the more the image of his naked body I saw earlier keeps appearing in my face.
All my life, this is the first time I'm drooling over a guy. No man was attractive to me and even the problems that surrounded me made me blinded towards opposite attractions.
"It's all done." I said, fastening the last button. I led him to sit on the bed and when he glared at me, I shifted away from him.
"Don't treat me with sympathy. I hate it when people think I'm pathetic. Am I?" Aiden paused and chuckled. "I feel stupid for asking that question, what could you possibly think of a blind man?"
I shook my head, "No Aiden, I don't see you as a pathetic person. You're better than I am, I'm.. just an ill-fated weak girl and I feel..I feel cumbered by the weight of inferiority."
"Stop it, Adeline!"
I couldn't fight back my tears, no amount of words can express the pain of rejection I feel.
Aiden was provoked and I guess my words irritated him. He finally spoke after keeping quiet for a while.
"My dreams, aspirations, everything is crumbled before my own eyes. My companies, my wealth, I can't even enjoy any. All I do is sulk, I have lost faith in my own self. I can't be any better. All I'll ever be is a blind man."
"Aiden..." I tried to touch him but he moved away.
"Do you know how old I am? I'm 32 and yet I haven't found my mate yet. I am supposed to be the next Alpha after my parents death but I can't. What clan would want a blind and weak person to rule over them. I'm just an omega, a blind weak omega." He mentioned his brows knitted into a deep frown.
"Aiden..." I called. "One thing you don't understand is the fact that your life can still be amended."
"What do you mean?" He raised questioning brows at me.
I nodded. "Yes. Considering, who I am, I know I'm not fit to say these words. But you have to believe in yourself. Do you know what?"
"W....what?"
"Your eyes can be healed, Aiden. You would see again."