Episode 3

...Amara Follen...

I feel oddly nervous tonight, a strong pressure sits in my chest, but fortunately, Mia is here to assist with my makeup and hair. It's the first time the entire pack's entry to the castle is unrestricted, signaling the Alpha might have a surprise for us tonight.

"Amara, you're done, and you're breathtaking, a true spectacle; you risk stealing all the attention meant for Lina."

"Stop talking nonsense, that would never happen."

"Then you better look in the mirror, my friend."

"Can it be, is that really me?"

I couldn't believe my own reflection; it was as if the mirrored image didn't belong to me. For the first time, I studied my reflection carefully, and for a moment wondered if I resembled my mother at this age. This fleeting thought brought a solitary tear down my cheek.

"Amara, what's wrong? Didn't you like something?"

"It's not that, just missing my mother."

"Friend, I understand you might be feeling blue, but I assure you your mother would want you to be happy. So, just for today, allow yourself that happiness and don't even think about crying, or you'll ruin all the makeup."

"I promise not to spoil the makeup."

As we descended the stairs granting access to the grand hall, and my entrance was announced as the Gamma's daughter, all eyes fell on Mia and me, and within seconds, whispers could be heard across the room. I couldn't catch exactly what was said, for my hearing wasn't sharp, but I had a vague sense of their words.

"Don't worry about what they say; they're just jealous of your beauty," Kyra declared.

"Ah, now I feel like this party is about to get more entertaining!" Mia exclaimed.

"Kyra, it's a pleasure to see you again."

Deep down, I wished I could be as receptive to Kyra as Mia was, but I was fearful of befriending a witch, aware of their potential power, especially one descended from the ancient witch.

...Lina Hanks...

I couldn't believe what was happening; that wolf-less girl had just drawn all the attention to herself. I couldn't deny she looked stunning in her crimson dress, feeling my nails dig into the palms of my hands, that girl had a knack for infuriating me.

"I still can't believe the Alpha allowed everyone in tonight," remarked Vick.

"At least it's for a good reason tonight," I replied.

"Alphas Scott, Luna Serena, and Alpha Brandon Scott," a voice announced the arrival of the most anticipated guests.

Everyone rose from their seats to greet the newcomers, the three-member family exuding a strong and intimidating aura. No guest dared hold their gaze too long as they approached the end of the stairway, where Lina eagerly awaited them along with Alpha James and his Luna.

"Alphas Scott, Luna Serena, Alpha Brandon, welcome to the Royal pack," Lina greeted.

"Thank you, Alpha Lina," replied Alpha Scott.

Following the proper greetings, everyone made their way to the grand table, laden with mouth-watering dishes. Lina's excitement upon seeing Brandon was apparent; she had never seen a werewolf as handsome as him. Brandon, with his sun-kissed skin, a finely sculpted and toned body, neatly aligned black hair, a well-trimmed beard, thick eyebrows, a slender, elongated nose, and a pair of deep green eyes. Lina could say she fell for him the moment he descended the stairs.

Brandon, on the other hand, hardly gave Lina a glance, already feeling extremely uncomfortable and repulsed by Lina's fixed gaze.

"Alpha Brandon, do you plan to stay long in our pack?" inquired Lina.

Brandon took a deep breath before answering, clearly remembering his father's words.

"Alpha Lina, I am very interested in getting to know the Royal pack better; I've heard it has the finest lands."

"I'll be sure to show you the entire territory; I guarantee you'll be charmed," Lina responded.

...Amara Follen...

"Dad, why is the Alpha family from the North here?"

"They're likely here to forge an alliance through the marriage of Alpha Brandon to Alpha Liana."

"As ever, the werewolves are power-hungry," blurted out Kyra.

"Oh, my apologies for the blunt comment."

"And clearly, they want to make their alliance wishes evident to all, seeing as they've even allowed a weak omega like me entry," pointed out Mia.

"Girls, we better not discuss matters that don't concern us."

"Amara, are you okay? You're as pale as paper," Kyra asked.

"I don't feel very well, to be honest."

"Daughter, would you like to go up and rest awhile? I can have a maid serve you some tea in your room."

"It's not necessary; I believe some fresh air will make me feel better."

"Do you want company?"

"No need, Mia, enjoy your castle stay; keep Kyra company, my father wouldn't know how to distract her."

...Brandon Scott...

The agitation and restlessness of my wolf inside were driving me insane; I'd never experienced this before. My breathing was getting uneven, my heart thumped in my chest, and the Alpha's daughter was beginning to nauseate me with her forwardness, despite having initially impressed me with her maturity and leadership talent. I needed to get out of there, so I offered them an excuse.

"Excuse me all, I must make an urgent call!"

As I stepped away from the table, a subtle scent of lavender hit my nose and filled my lungs. My chest vibrated the moment that soft fragrance enveloped me, and my wolf became more agitated, a low growl escaping my lips. The more I followed the perfume, the more intense and captivating it became. As I trod the stone path around the castle, the silhouette of a woman stood before a fountain; even from the back, I imagined she possessed stunning beauty. Her crimson red dress was a perfect contrast to her pale skin, and her long, wavy black hair made her even more beautiful. Seeing such an exquisite being, I wondered if the Moon Goddess had her favorites.

Deciding to approach, a jarring voice startled her, sending her running like a defenseless doe fleeing its predator. I could only imagine who this beautiful woman might be, owner of an addictive perfume.

"Alpha Brandon, we are about to serve the cake; we would like you to be present for this moment."

***This work has been signed with NovelToon, and piracy such as reprinting without permission is strictly prohibited.***

***Download NovelToon to enjoy a better reading experience!***