Shame and Pride
~Freya~"Where am I and why am I naked?" I wondered aloud, my voice trembling with both confusion and embarrassment. This was not good. I almost screamed when I turned around to see a man by my side, completely unclothed and with his back turned towards me.The realization hit me like a ton of bricks—I had slept with a stranger. Panic and shame washed over me, knowing how scandalous it would be if my father found out that his daughter ended up in a strange man's bed.As the sharp pain throbbed through my head, I felt lightheaded from the excessive drink I had consumed the previous night. I had indulged myself despite Emelda's pleading and warnings. Where was Emelda now? Did she abandon me here with this man, or worse, did she betray me and sell me out? The anger boiled within me, and thoughts of confronting her filled my mind. She had some explaining to do.Without wasting another moment, I hastily gathered my clothes, refusing to look at the man still lying on the bed. I didn't care who he was—I just wanted to distance myself as far as possible from this situation. It was utterly embarrassing, and I fervently wished that he would forget my face in a hurry. This was nothing more than a regrettable one-night stand, a shameful act for a maiden like me to engage in. Huh!Slipping on my shoes, I stealthily crept out into the dark night, my heart pounding as I ran home. Countless thoughts raced through my mind, but the events of the previous night were hazy and difficult to recall. It all started after my stepmother, Mira, slapped me for a mishap that wasn't my fault. Sofia, my half-sister, had bumped into me, causing her dress to be soiled. In tears, she accused me of deliberately ruining her outfit out of jealousy. Mira always took Sofia's side, and her punishments were relentless whenever Papa was away on his merchant travels.Mira made sure to threaten me with even harsher consequences if I dared to reveal her cruelty to Papa, who loved me dearly. But Klaus, my half-brother, often came to my defense, shielding me from her blows. Sofia, on the other hand, was a wicked soul, and I could only imagine how much worse she would become as she grew older, mirroring her mother's wickedness.At twenty-two years old, I was the outcast in my own family and the laughingstock of Moonstone Haven. The reason? I had yet to experience the transformation into a werewolf that most individuals accomplished by the age of sixteen or seventeen. Other maidens would mock and ridicule me, casting me aside as the black sheep. It was because of this constant humiliation that I rarely ventured outside, preferring to find solace in the forest or singing at the tavern. I yearned for the day the Moon goddess would grant my wish and deliver me from this living hell.As I contemplated returning to the place I dreaded most in the world—my home—I couldn't help but dwell on the mess I had gotten myself into. Was this what my depression had reduced me to? Engaging in casual encounters with strangers? I needed to put this behind me before I completely lost my sanity.I sprinted home, my heart pounding in my chest. If my stepmother asked about my whereabouts, I would lie and claim that I had fallen asleep at Emelda's place. It seemed like the easiest way to avoid further trouble.Four days passed, and I found myself in the marketplace, purchasing oil. Mira had warned me not to stay long, as she needed to prepare a special meal for Papa. But even without her warning, I would never linger because I missed my father immensely. He had returned from his trip just the day before, presenting me with a beautiful golden hairpin as a gift. Papa was always full of praise for me, and he never failed to shower me and my siblings with presents upon his return. He ensured I lacked nothing, even while he was away. Unfortunately, Mira, who received money from Papa to provide for my needs, never fulfilled her obligation.Returning home, I was taken aback by the presence of the last person I expected to find in my humble abode. I had noticed four horses outside, signifying the arrival of visitors.What was he doing here? It was already late in the day, and my family and the visitors had evidently noticed my presence, their eyes turning towards me.Instinctively, I yearned to flee, but as I made a dash for the door, a tall, imposing figure intercepted me, blocking my path. Dread washed over me—was he here to report my escapade to my father?"I am dead! I am dead!" I repeated silently in my mind, fearing the worst.To my surprise, however, he spoke, and his voice sent shivers down my spine. "Why are you running?" he inquired, his eyes fixed on me with a mixture of surprise and intrigue."Umm…," I stammered, scratching my head and averting my gaze, my mind racing with confusion. This wasn't good, three days ago Emelda had told me she had to leave me at the tavern with the Alpha after realizing he wasn't a stranger after all. This was after I confronted her about how she abandoned me in the hands of just anyone.Although I never mentioned to her what happened between me and the Alpha that night. Knowing who I had spent the night with after her revelation further made me want to put the experience behind me because it was so shameful."Do you know why the Alpha is here?" my father asked, his eyes filled with curiosity."No," I replied, my voice barely above a whisper."Freya, how are you? I have been waiting for you," Alpha Orion said, his voice softer now as he approached me with a warm smile."Huh? Me?" I stammered, unable to comprehend his words."Yes, you," he said, leaning closer and speaking softly into my ear. "I have been searching for you, Freya. Since that night, you have consumed my every thought."My heart fluttered with a strange mixture of fear and excitement. "Please," I pleaded, whispering and my voice trembling, "did you tell my family what we did? They will kill me if they find out.""No, honey. I would never do that," he reassured me, his thumb gently brushing against my cheek.Why was this man treating me as if he knew me? My family stared at us in amazement, their eyes wide with astonishment. They were wondering what we were saying to each other."So, what do you want from me?" I mustered the courage to ask, my voice quivering.He grinned, pulling me close to him, and then turned to face my family. "Now that she's back, the waiting is over. I'll announce why I'm really here."Silence filled the room as everyone's attention fixated on the man who everyone knew and didn't need to introduce himself as the Alpha, the Lycan King of Moonstone Haven."I am here to take Freya as my mate," he declared boldly."What?" Papa exclaimed, his voice filled with shock. Even I was taken aback by his response. The Alpha wanted me?"Yes, she is the one I want. Do you have any problem with that?" he challenged, his gaze unwavering."Not at all, Alpha," Papa replied, his tone carrying a hint of surprise. "I am just astonished that you would come to my humble home to ask for my daughter's hand in matrimony.""Well, don't be surprised. I have been watching her from afar," Alpha Orion said, turning back to wink at me, a gesture that sent my heart racing.Gratitude overwhelmed me for my father's response. Despite facing the formidable Alpha, he wanted to know my choice—to be the Alpha's mate or not."I will go with him, Papa. I agree," I found myself saying, fully aware of the eyes fixed upon me. To hell with Mira and Sofia—I would escape this torment, and find my peace. Though Orion was known as a beast, that night a man had slept beside me, not a monster, and I had survived.This was the break I had yearned for. It seemed that, finally, the Moon Goddess had answered my prayers. But becoming Luna was overwhelming—a reality I struggled to comprehend."Not so fast," my stepmother interjected, her voice filled with malice."What is it, Mira?" Papa asked, a coldness settling into his eyes as he sensed her intention to cause trouble."Alpha, forgive me for interfering, but as Freya's mother, I am concerned for her well-being. I worry that Freya has not been able to wolf out even at this age. Don't you think it will be a problem?" Mira questioned, a triumphant smile playing on her lips.Oops! She had done it! She was about to sabotage my chance of escaping this hellhole. He would surely reject me now.Heartbreak loomed over me—an imminent rejection after being claimed as a mate.The room fell into a suffocating silence as everyone anticipated the Alpha's response. My father stared at Mira with an icy glare, fully aware of her intentions to harm me."Well, that's unfortunate," Alpha Orion finally spoke, his voice calm and unwavering. "But it doesn't bother me. I will marry her just as she is. Freya is the one I want."No one dared utter another word, sensing the gravity of the Alpha's tone. The tension in the room was palpable."Thank you all for welcoming me into your home. The ceremony will take place in a week. Be prepared," Alpha Orion announced before flashing a smile in my direction and leaving with his guards.My heart pounded in my chest. What had just happened?The Alpha had accepted me with all my flaws. I couldn't fathom whether this man loved me or not, but if he was my only ticket out of this hellhole, I would follow him anywhere before I mentally crumbled beneath the weight of my stepmother's wickedness.Uncontrolled Yearning for Her~Orion~ Four days ago, impatience consumed me as I realized the drunk maiden had vanished in the middle of the night. There was a sinking feeling that I might never lay eyes on her again. But that wouldn't deter me—I was determined to find her. Our night together had been something special, a spark ignited by a one-night stand, a night of unbridled passion. To my surprise, I discovered that she was a virgin. Knowing this, I felt a sense of relief and security. Unlike many of the promiscuous maidens that surrounded us, she was pure and untainted. But with her extraordinary beauty, a flicker of jealousy crept into my thoughts—other men would surely covet her, and I couldn't bear the thought of losing her to another. It was the heartbeat my father spoke of, the one that resonated deep within me. From the moment Freya spoke, to the moment we danced, and finally, when we made love—each passing second intensified the rhythm of my heart. I dispatched some of
Murder in the Fort~Freya~ I sat on my nuptial bed, contemplating the whirlwind of events that had unfolded in my life over the past two weeks. It felt as if I had been swept away in a dream, where everything had transpired at a breathtaking pace. From that fateful encounter with Alpha Orion at the tavern to his subsequent visit to my humble home, and now, here I was, wedded to him. I am his wife, his mate. The ceremony had been grand, a joyful celebration attended by Papa, Emelda, and Klaus, who genuinely reveled in my happiness. However, the presence of my stepmother and Sophia was a mere obligation, their disapproval of our union unmistakable. But they could no longer hold sway over me. I was finally free, unshackled like a bird. Uncertain as I was about what awaited me in this new life, I couldn't help but feel it would be a vast improvement from the torments I endured at home. Despite the apprehension that gripped me, I couldn't deny the flicker of hope within my heart. Alpha
She is the One for Me~Orion~"Alpha, we have fixed the ship. Though there is no gold on board, it seems the pirates have carted away with the gold." Seth comes into the room addressing me after he nods his head to show respect."What pirates? Are you serious right now? Are you saying this not to piss me off? Because If you are, then stop because you are pissing me off even more. You all know who the pirates are damn it!" I yell at Seth.I told him to leave because I wanted to be alone.I was so angry. This incident had made a new groom who was supposed to be a happy man leave his new wife and mate back at home just to attend to this stupid emergency.I am here suffering the damage incurred on my men and my ship. Just when I had finally succeeded in making Freya mine. I was happy and looking forward to having another time with her alone. The thought of us together was heavenly. Just the two of us!What I feel for Freya is magical and powerful. I can feel it. After that night at the ta
The Bad News~Orion~It's been twenty–four hours since I've been here. We still haven't found the men missing aboard the ship. I had already decided that if the situation remains as it is, I'll give it until the end of today to see what happens. Whatever happens, I'll be leaving tomorrow at first light.The impatience was building up more and more. I had to go be with Freya and perhaps while I am home and happy, I can have enough time to think about how to deal with Alpha Kane for creating this mess. He had hindered me from spending a special time with Freya on our wedding night. I am pacing around my room, I feel like just closing my eyes and finding myself at home. If anyone had told me a year ago that I would act in such a way because of a woman–one I just met. I'll swear that for me to behave as such then I might be under the influence of something or might have brain damage or probably I was cursed. No wonder Gabriel still doesn't believe that something is wrong with my head.Y
Protecting His Luna~Freya~If only I wasn't in the room at that moment maybe I would be able to prove my innocence. But whatever I say will only make things worse.And not to mention that my sister was the one who called the guards on me. I know she doesn't like me. But I could not believe she would go this far. You know you are doomed when your family decides not to support you in times like this. Sofia was so nice to me that nightly knew it was a facade and the next moment she was handing me over to the guards. She didn't see me kill Hannah, so why would she do that to me? Only my father and Klaus had come to visit me, then Alpha Orion's mother. I could tell from the look in her eyes she had her doubts, she knew I wouldn't do something like that but at the same time, she looked disappointed. "I didn't do it. Believe me, I didn't. She was lying right there already stabbed to death when I got to the room. " She only looked at me pitifully when I said this to her and she left. My o
Taken Away From Him Again~Freya~Surprisingly, Alpha Orion had told the maids to arrange a bath for me and a delicious meal. He truly is my lifesaver. I was so famished. The scraps of grains and crumbs of dried bread given to me in the prison were something I could not eat. Thinking about the prison made me sick. "Thank you," I told Alpha Orion softly after he offered me a bowl of hot broth. He told me to drink it as it was nutritious and would help me get rid of the cold. I looked like a ghost in prison. "Drink up before it gets cold." He whispered, pulling the blanket over me tightly. I still do not know why people see him as dark and ruthless. If he was all those bad things he would not be so sweet to me. They were all wrong. They hadn't had a chance to know him. I am no one, I had nothing to give this man but yet he treated me with love. "Why are you so nice to me?" I asked him, raising my eyes to meet him but I quickly looked down because his gaze was like he was looking righ
Hard Decision~Orion~"You fool!" I yelled immediately I reached Tristan's chambers hurling the door to his room open."Are you crazy? What did you do? Why didn't you inform me before doing what the elders asked?" I hauled Tristan."Alpha calm down, please. I was only following orders and doing my duty. It's not like I want her there too?" He said defensively."Oh really, and you couldn't wait until I returned huh? I was only gone for a minute. Whose side are you on anyway?" I replied to him, waiting for an answer. I had to get my answer because Tristan was becoming annoying lately. He is my cousin and my Beta for crying out loud, he is supposed to be on my side. But he was acting the opposite!He has always been one to fear and respect the council of elders. Unlike me, I did respect them but I do not fear them. Rather they should be the ones weary of me! I had left Freya still sleeping when I took off to see my mother. I planned to go back immediately. Last night before I dozed off,
Dark Sorrows~Freya~My end is near. Alone and abandoned. My mistake was being too hopeful, too daft to reason and defend myself to my last breath. Ever since I was thrown in prison for the second time, I hadn't set my eyes on Orion. I feel worthless. I was brought out of the prison and held in chains like a criminal, I could do nothing but look straight ahead, accepting my ill fate. I heard the maid whom I had met at the maid section to ask for Hannah on that fateful day had denied ever seeing me. I felt betrayed and pained. But this only taught me to trust fewer people. I don't think I need that advice now as I was dying soon. I could see the ropes hanging already. It saddens me that my father would be left to grief over the loss of a daughter.The only regret I have is that I wish it was Sofia I killed. Yeah! That evil girl! If I did that, it would make it one less evil in the world, I'd be doing the world a favour by making it a better place. I felt intense pain caused by a sto