Tainted Alpha's Promise

I knelt by the altar with my head bowed down, struggling to keep my tears at bay.

"What is this?" Lucas sneered. "She's weak, her aura is faint. Can she even transform?"

I remained on my knees, digging my nails into my palms aggressively. The insults kept coming and each one felt like an arrow piercing through my chest.

"I, Alpha Lucas, reject this worthless thing as my Luna." He said. "She's a cursed child, what could she possibly bring to my pack?"

I could feel the heat of their eyes burning through my back, the hate they all felt for me just because I was nothing but the worthless child of the once great Alpha Gerrard.

The next Alpha approached me, his voice softer than the last. "I respect your father and will always look up to him. But I can not accept this union."

I got the same response from every single Alpha and the moment the blood moon was over, they all disappeared.

I remained frozen in place, my mind numb and foggy as I mindlessly scratched my palm with my premature nails. It wasn't until I felt the warm, sticky blood dripping down my finger, pooling in my palm that I stopped.

The pain snapped me back into reality. "I failed again." I muttered, my voice barely audible as tears streamed down my cheeks.

As I knelt there, lost in my own despair, I noticed a subtle change in the atmosphere. The once calm and still forest was now alive with tension. Slowly, I raised up my head to scan my surroundings.

That was when I saw them - three large wolves emerging from the darkness, their eyes fixed on me.

"Rouges." I breathed out.

The largest of the three werewolves, a towering figure with piercing yellow eyes, was heading towards my direction. Its growl grew louder, more menacing, and it sent a wave of fear over me. I opened my mouth to scream but nothing came out, my throat felt dry and words had deserted me.

The second werewolf was a bit smaller than the first, its fur as black as coal. It began to circle around me, its eyes fixed on me with an unnerving intensity. I tried to follow its movement, but my head felt heavy, my vision blurring at the edges.

The third werewolf, a smaller, scrappier-looking creature with a mottled brown coat, hung back, its eyes fixed on me with a curious expression. It seemed to be sizing me up, wondering if I was worth the trouble.

They began circling around me, their growls sending fear through my chest.

The largest of the three began walking towards me. Once it got closer, I felt his hot disgusting breath on my face and I tried to stand up to run but my knees buckled to the ground in fear.

"What do you want?" I asked, my voice no louder than a whisper.

His growls became louder and he was no farther than a foot away from me.

"You're our dinner!" He snarled and raised his claws in the air.

I shut my eyes closed, waiting for the impact of his claws but instead I heard a louder growl echo through the forest. Unlike theirs, this one seemed more powerful and dangerous.

I slowly opened my eyes and saw a man emerging from the forest, his eyes blazing red with intensity.

"I advise you boys to go find another prey unless you want me feeding you your hearts." He said, his voice dangerously calm.

The wolf in front of me took a fearful step back. "Let's go!" He snarled and ran off, the two others trailing behind him .

The man still kept his attention to the fleeing werewolves. When they were finally out of sight, he gazed at me and his expression softened.

He took a step closer. "Are you okay?" he asked, his voice low and husky.

I nodded, still trying to process all that had happened. If he hadn't come to save me, I would have been killed by those rogues, just like my father was.

He stretched out his hand to me. "Can you stand?

I looked up at him and felt a jolt of electricity run through me. His eyes were not as red as before, but still, they complimented his jet black hair and sharp features.

I hesitantly took his hand, it felt large and rough compared to my pale skinny hands. "I'm fine, thank you for saving me."

"You're welcome." He replied, his eyes never leaving mine. "My name is Drako, what's yours?"

"Hayley." I whispered, my heart beating hard against my chest.

Drako smiled. "Hayley." he repeated as he helped me up. "You're shaking like a leaf, come here."

Without waiting for my response, he slid one hand behind my leg, the other supporting my back and carried me.

I yelped in surprise and wrapped my hands around his shoulders.

A light chuckle escaped from his lips that sent heat to my cheeks.

"You look like you were going to pass out any second. Tell me where you live so I can take you home."

"You..you really don't have to." I stammered.

He smiled at me. "I want to. It's late and those rogues could still be lurking around."

The thought of the rogues coming back to finish what they had started prevented me from arguing further.

"You are an Alpha, I didn't see you at the blood moon ritual." I said.

"Ah, so you're the Omega we Alpha's were summoned to choose as our Luna." He looked at me. "Seeing as I found you almost eaten by rogues, I take it didn't go well."

His words had sent a sharp pain to my chest. "I'm cursed." I said quietly.

He nodded his head slightly. "Aren't we all."

"You didn't answer my questions as to why I never saw you at the ritual and I don't think I have ever seen you before either."

He grinned at me. "You've never heard of a certain Alpha Drako of the Silver moon's pack."

I gasped at the sudden realization. I was in the arms of one of the most powerful Alpha in Crescent city.

"So does that answer your question as to why I don't have time for nitty bitty rituals like that." He stopped walking. "Now, left or right."

I pointed to the right, still unable to wrap my head around all that was happening. I stole a glance at his face and couldn't help but notice how attractive he was.

I tried to keep my head in focus so I could direct him properly but the closeness between the both of us sent me on edge. He sent warmth throughout my body and his scent; It was a mixture of earth and wood. I felt like I could sleep peacefully in his arms for a very long time.

***

"Hayley!" My mother embraced me as we entered the living room. "Where were you? The festival ended hours ago, I was so worried."

I gave her a reassuring smile. "I'm sorry mum, I got a little carried away."

She smacked my arm. "Carried away doing what?! The woods are dangerous by this time of the night, there are rogues everywhere."

"I know, but I'm fine mum, really. I didn't bump into any rogues."

I could feel his gaze as I said that but I couldn't worry my mum more than she already was.

That was when she noticed Drako standing behind me.

"Dr..Drako?" She stammered, her eyes wide with surprise.

His mouth widened in a grin, showing off his canines. "Hello Theresa, what a pleasant surprise."

I glanced between my mum who had shock registered on her face and Drako who looked amused by that.

"You both know each other?" I asked.

Drako stood before my mother and gave her a slight bow. "Luna Theresa, it has been a minute since I last saw you. You look just as beautiful."

My mother beamed happily. "I see you're still as flattering as ever."

"Can someone tell me what's going on?" I asked again.

"Drako used to be in your father's pack, he was a clumsy little beta back then, but look at you now, Alpha Drako."

"I wouldn't have gotten to the position without the help of Gerrard, he was a good Alpha. I am sorry for your loss."

My mother waved his words off. "Enough of all that, why don't you stay for dinner?"

Drako glanced at me and smiled. "That sounds wonderful."

As we sat down for dinner, I couldn't help but steal glances at Drako. He was charming and charismatic. He narrated stories about his time as Beta and how hard it was for him as an Alpha presently.

I was glad to see my mother in high spirits, laughing and chatting with him like they were old friends. Ever since the death of my father and the discovery about her disease, it was almost like the light in her eyes got snuffed out. I knew it was an effort everyday to stand before me with a bright smile on her face and I'm glad to see her act like her old self again, even if it was just for a moment.

I couldn't help but feel the sensation of Drako's gaze on me. He has been quietly staring at me all night, His eyes lingering on me a little too long.

"All those damned Alpha's treating us like we're outcasts." My mother grimaced. "When Gerrard was alive all they did was kiss ass and claim to be family. The second things went bad, they turned their back on us."

"Alpha's are selfish creatures, all they ever care about is themselves and their pack. They only kissed up to Gerrard because they couldn't stand a chance against him." Drako said.

My mother's frown deepened. "Cowardly bastards."

"For the record," he said, his gaze on me. "I don't think Hayley is cursed like the rumors, there's something special about her, I can feel it."

Heat creeped up to my cheeks as I looked away. "Do you always flirt with every girl you meet?"

"Hayley!" My mother warned. "He's an Alpha, have some respect. It would do you some good to at least have one on your side."

Drako's smile widened. "It's okay Theresa. In this house, I have no title. I'm simply Drako."

I grinned. "An humble Alpha, that'll be the first."

We kept our eyes locked on each other and I could hear my heart beating rapidly.

My mother cleared her throat and stood up. "I'm going to clear the dishes."

I pulled my gaze away from his. "I'll do that, you should rest."

"I'm sick, not immobile. Besides, it'll give you both a chance to get to know each other." She winked at me before she walked away.

"I didn't know your mother was sick." Drako said quietly.

I sighed. "Wolfsbane. It happened a couple of months after my father's death, it wasn't one of the worst news we've heard but it was bad." I began to pick at my half healed palm again. "There's no cure, it's in her blood so she's going to die slowly."

"I'm sorry to hear that." Drako said softly.

I forced a smile. "Thanks."

"You shouldn't do that, you know." He pointed to my hands. "You're not giving your wound enough time to heal before you start shredding it again, it could cause an infection."

I stared down at my blood stained palm. "Bad habit I guess."

"Dangerous habit." He handed me a napkin.

"Thank you."

We were both silent, lost in our thoughts.

"It must be hard," He said quietly. "Being the only child of a powerful pack and not being able to live up to it."

"I would have if the pack didn't abandon me and my mother, If the stupid traditions didn't subject the females to live for nothing except a support system for an Alpha." I snapped.

I could still remember clearly, it happened on the day of my father's funeral. They all showed up because of the respect they had for him but that was it. Since my father didn't have a male son to lead the pack then the next person in line takes the position.

"It's why I left your father's pack and started mine. I didn't want a family that would turn their back on me the second things go bad." He leaned forward and placed his hands on mine. "Your father was my family, you are my family Hayley. I know that we just met, but what do you think about being my Luna?"

"What?" I gasped

"You don't have to give me your answer now." He stared at his watch and stood up. "I have something important to do right now but I'll be sure to reach out to you soon."

I was too stunned to speak or to understand all what he was saying. He wanted me to be his Luna, Why? We had just met.

"Tell your mother I apologize for leaving abruptly, and I will come visit her again." He said and headed for the door.

"What are you doing?!" Someone said in a hushed whisper. I glanced towards the direction of the sound and saw my mother hiding behind a wall.

"Escort him to the door!" She said, a disapproving look on her face.

I stood up immediately and ran after him. "Wait, Drako!"

He was already at the door wearing his shoes. "Is something wrong?" He asked.

"I wanted to see you off." I said, my voice felt tiny for some reason.

He smiled at me, his eyes brighter. "You really didn't have to, I should be apologizing for leaving abruptly."

"No, you're doing a great job protecting your pack and territory, an Alpha's work is never easy."

"It isn't, and I thank your father for all he taught me. He always believed that having power isn't a reason to oppress the weak. I hope I can be like him someday."

I smiled up at him. "You already are."

Our gazes lingered for another heartbeat before he pulled away and walked out of the house.

"Goodnight Drako." I said quietly as I watched him walk away, a strange feeling in my chest.

I closed the door and retreated back to the living room, where my mum was seated with a bright smile on her face.

"So...?" She asked, unable to hide her curiosity.

I shrugged. "He's alright."

"He asked you to be his Luna!" My mother squealed.

"I can't believe you were eavesdropping mum." I groaned.

"I wasn't planning to but when he asked you to be his Luna, I couldn't help it." She walked towards me and pulled me into her embrace. "Those Alpha's don't know how much of a blessing they just missed."

"I hope you're right." I muttered.

Days passed and still no call or message from Drako. Worry began to take root in my chest and countless questions swarmed my mind. Was he okay? Did he finally realize how much of a mess I was and chicken out? Did he find a better Luna?

I paced back and forth in my room wondering if he had indeed found another Luna, if I had said something wrong to make him change his mind like that.

Suddenly a knock on my door jolted me out of my disturbing thoughts. It was my mother and the look on her face and sent my heart straight to my feet.

"I just got off a call from Drako." She said, her voice low.

I fisted my palm tightly. "He doesn't want to have anything to do with me anymore, does he?"

My mum's pearl blue eyes shone brightly. "Actually, he invited us both for dinner."

I let out a breath of relief. "Mum! You scared the shit out of me!"

Her laughter filled the entire room. "You should have seen your face. His driver is coming to get us by six, so change into something nice."

I slumped into the beanbag beside me. "I don't know what to wear, I did expect him to call but not so soon."

"It's just for pleasantries and discussion about the mating ceremony so don't get too worked up." She said before she walked out.

"I'm actually going to be the Luna of one of the largest packs in Crescent city." I tapped my cheeks to be sure that I wasn't dreaming. "It's real all right."

I spent the rest of the afternoon rummaging through my clothes, looking for the perfect dress that would make Drako swoon.

"Hayley, get down here! The car has arrived!" My mother yelled from the living room.

"In a minute!" I stared at my reflection in the mirror, not entirely satisfied with my look. I was dressed in a long light blue dress that clung to my curves in all the right places, the color brought out the cool tones of my skin, giving me a radiant glow. As for my hair,I let it fall freely off my shoulders, the silver locks cascading down my back.

I fiddled with my dress, smoothing out the fabric and I had to admit, I looked good. I wore no jewelry and all the shone were my gray eyes.

Just then there was a knock and my door and my mum barged in.

"Honey you look really beautiful but we really can't keep that beta waiting for too long."

"Alright, I'm ready." I took one last look at myself before heading out.

The trip was an hour long and I had fidgeted with my hands, hair and dress. My mother on the other hand, had started a conversation with our driver, Daniel; He was Drako's right-hand.

We finally arrived at Drako's mansion and it was a sight to behold. Dozens of servants were already waiting at the entrance once we stepped out of the car.

One of the maids walked over to me, a bright smile on her face. "Welcome, I'll show you where Mr Drako is waiting."

She led us into the mansion and the interior was even more lavishing than the exterior. The paintings, the designs, it was all beautiful. We finally arrived at the dining room where several delicacies were spread out.

Seated at the head of the table with a ravishing smile on his face was my future mate, Drako. "Welcome to my home, Hayley."

He stood up and motioned to the empty chairs. "Please have a seat."

"Thank you for having us for dinner." My mother said as she took her seat.

"I am honored that you found me worthy to be your Luna." I said with a slight bow.

Drako nodded graciously. "The honor is mine. You are now part of my pack which means you're family."

I felt my heart swell up at his words. I had finally fulfilled my mother's wish. "Thank you Drako."

As the evening progressed, the conversation shifted to more casual matters.

My curiosity led me to inquire about the wound on his arm, he looked like he was struggling to eat.

"Are you okay? You're injured." I asked

Drako's expression darkened and I immediately regretted being too nosy.

"Forgive me for prying, I shouldn't have asked you that." I lowered my head slightly.

"It's fine." He said, a smile appearing on his face. "Since you are going to be my Luna, it's only right you know these things."

"Recently, some of my betas deserted the pack because they were unhappy with the way I led the pack. In their opinion, an Alpha should rule with an iron fist and shouldn't be soft and merciful like I am. So they planned a coup, they were going to kill me and take my power."

I gasped. "That must have been awful."

His expression was downcast. "It was. As an Alpha nothing hurts more than taking the life of your betas. I keep thinking maybe I should have given them another chance, to try to be a little bit stronger."

I reached for his arm. "You are already strong enough and if they think being mean and cold is what makes an Alpha then they are wrong, very wrong."

He placed his hands over mine, his gaze never leaving mine. "Have I told you how beautiful you look tonight?"

My cheeks flushed red. "Thank you." I said shyly.

"Aren't you both just adorable." My mother said with a smile. "Drako, you have my full blessings to take my daughter as your Luna."

He bowed his head. "Thank you Theresa."

"I should be thanking you, Drako. I really can't wait to see the faces of all those other Alpha's." My mother said,

"Speaking of that," he turned to me. "I believe it's time we start planning the mating ritual. My pack is eager to officially welcome you as their Luna, and I am equally eager to make you mine."

I looked away shyly while my mother wiee a wide grin as she stared at both of us.

"Wonderful," She clasped her hands. "When do you want to hold the mating ritual?"

He kissed my hand softly. "Two weeks from now, on the first day of the full moon. Let's begin the new chapters of our lives with the moon goddess' blessing."

Dinner was over and Daniel had called Drako away to discuss something important, so it was just me and my mother left alone, discussing the mating ritual.

"I'm going to make sure to invite every Alpha in Crescent city, have them realize the gem they let go of."

I giggled. "I honestly don't mind who comes as long as you and Drako are there."

She leaned closer to me. "You must really like him huh."

"And that's my cue to leave." I said as I stood up. " I have to use the bathroom." I scurried off, not giving her time for a reply.

As I made my way down the hallway, I noticed that a room door was slightly ajar. I slowed my pace, my curiosity piqued. I could hear Drako's voice, low and menacing, and Daniel's responses, calm and reassuring.

"...everything must go according to plan, or else," Drako growled, his words sending a shiver down my spine.

I hesitated, wondering if I should keep listening or continue on my way. But before I could decide, Drako's head swiveled in my direction, his eyes locking onto mine.

I froze, feeling like an intruder. Drako's gaze narrowed while Daniel had a blank expression on his face.

"How long have you been standing there?" Drako asked, his voice stripped of the warmth I was used to.

"I just got here, I was looking for the bathroom." I said nervously.

He was quiet for a moment as he stared at me intently. "The bathroom is on the second floor by the left."

"Thank you." I said, my voice barely audible.

As I headed up the stairs,I could still feel his gaze on me, cold and unforgiving.