Whatever it is
It feels like it's laughing at me through the glass of a two-sided mirror
Whatever it is
It's just sitting there laughing at me
And I just wanna screamWhat now?
I just can't figure it out
What now?
I guess I'll just wait it out (wait it out)
What now?
Please tell me
What now?
-Rihanna
"Pivot! Pivot! Pivot! Pivot! Pivot!"
"Shut up! Shut up! Shut up!"
I jumped at the sound of Chandler's voice. My eyes flew open sleepily and I quickly wiped away the trail of drool that had appeared on my chin.
I stared at the small tv screen in front of me, the sight of Ross, Chandler and Rachel trying to move Ross' couch up the stairs warmed me. I had seen this episode a million times before and it still never failed to make me smile.
The hours had passed and I had watched countless episodes of FRIENDS and had even taken an unintentional nap. My eyes darted to the clock and I saw that it was already four in the afternoon. Five hours had passed since I had eaten and at the thought of food, my stomach growled. I definitely should've eaten more at breakfast with Alpha Richards but I just couldn't. The thought of eating in the morning didn't appeal to me as it did now.
I huffed and sat up on my bed, grabbing the TV remote to switch the TV off. I was no longer in the mood to watch FRIENDS which was annoying because I was always in the mood to see Joey eating or Monica cleaning and cooking.
The sunlight outside my window, illuminated my room giving it a faint brightness. My window was small but it was enough to let me peer out and look at the deep woods that surrounded the back of the packhouse. Even if I wasn't allowed to go outside much, the window was enough for me.
I suddenly heard the unlocking of my bedroom door and I immediately stood up, my head bowed down so I was staring at the floor. I heard the door swing open and the sound of high heels clicked on the window floor as the person entered.
"You may look at me," The voice, I recognised to be the Luna's said.
Slowly, I raised my head up and looked at her. She was dressed elegantly as usual, but this time her outfit was fit for a Luna. She was dressed in a pure white dress that clung to her figure and flowed down to the floor. Her makeup was down immaculately and her brown hair was pinned up in some sort of fancy up-do.
In her hands, she held a satin red dress and shoes.
"It's from Alpha Richards, he wants you to wear it tonight, along with these shoes," she said, holding out a pair of red stilettos, that had ribbons on them. I frowned at the shoes and then quickly remembered who was standing in front of me.
"You tie the ribbons around your ankles, to form a bow," she said. I watched as she walked to my bed and placed the dress and shoes down.
"You need to start getting ready, the Alphas have started to arrive." Her tone was slightly cold and formal as if she was talking to a pack member of a lower status.
I opened my mouth to speak and instantly shut it and the sharp look she gave me.
"What do you want to say, Valerie?" She asked with an eye roll.
"Permission to ask a question?" My voice came out shaky and hoarse, she smirked at that and nodded her head.
"Granted."
"Is the Demon Alpha here?"
The Luna stared at me, her perfectly arched eyebrows raising.
"Don't concern yourself with him. All you need to do is look pretty on Alpha Richards' arm and only speak when spoken to. Do you understand?" Her sharp voice rang in my ear and I submitted down at her worlds; my head bowing low.
"Yes, Luna," I replied, bowing my head.
"I will be back to collect you. Please do something with your hair and do not forget to put your contacts in; the Alpha will have a fit if he sees those wretched purple eyes!"
I couldn't help but flinch at her. She and the Alpha were both alike, never showing me love or comfort; always quick to disregard me and cast me away.
I continued to listen to her instructions to shower, wash my hair, make sure that my makeup and hair were done perfectly. She made it clear that she did not want to help me and if nothing was done to her standards, she would make me do it again. She then stressed about the stupid contact lenses and I nodded my head and uttered out a reply.
"I will not forget," I answered her robotically and with that, she turned on her heels sharply and stormed out of my room; the door slamming behind her.
My hands ran over the smooth material of the dress, it really was beautiful. I picked it up and held it against my body and walked to the small full-length mirror I had. The dress was a burgundy berry colour, with a full pleated skirt and a high neck that was embellished with sequins and glitter. I had never owned such a beautiful dress or even worn something so pretty. The Alpha didn't permit me to wear such things and I found it strange how Alpha Richards got me the dress; how did he even know my size? This dress could have been designed to his taste for all I knew, or he could've just seen it in a boutique and purchased it.
I shrugged my thoughts away and grabbed two towels from my chest of draws in the corner of my room and made my way to the bathroom. I made sure that my skin was scrubbed raw and my hair was washed and conditioned. I was quick with my shower, conscious of the fact that the Luna could come in at any time she deemed. As soon as I was out of the shower, I wrung the water out of my thick long hair, cursing that I would have to spend the majority of my time making sure that it was dry.
If I didn't have a nap, I could have showered earlier and my hair would've been dry but I guessed that napping was more important. My hair was wrapped in the towel, and I quickly dried off applying a scentless lotion to my body and putting my underwear on. I soon began drying my hair with the beat-up blow dryer I owned, the Luna had given it to me nearly six years ago and thankfully it still worked. Once my hair was dry enough and falling into natural waves, I applied some serum and hairspray and then started on my makeup.
I didn't apply much, just a light base of foundation and concealer. Contouring wasn't something that I found easy, I could never blend the contour in enough so I just left that out and applied bronzer onto my cheekbones and around my hairline. I highlighted the high features of my face with a natural highlighter and applied mascara. My lashes were naturally long, but the addition of mascara made them thicker and darker. My fake eye colour stood out, but even I knew that my natural purples eyes would look much better. I finished off my makeup with blush and a light lipgloss. Staring in the mirror, I hoped that I looked good enough. Nothing was worse than having the Luna criticise me or the Alpha snarling in disgust. I was used to their reactions but at times I just wanted them to end.
My eyes darted to the clock and it was almost half-past five! The engagement party started at half five and I didn't have much time left. My body rushed to get the dress on, which wasn't easy as it took a few tries to pull it down my chest. I was slightly on the busty side, and this dress seemed to make my breasts appear larger than what they really were. Alpha Richards must have done that on purpose. Once the dress and the shoes were on, I smooth out any slight creases and stood in front of the full-length mirror. I didn't even get a chance to fully take in my appearance as my bedroom door swung open; causing me to instantly turn around and bow my head.
"Good you're ready, follow." The Luna said and I lifted my head slightly to look at her. I could've sworn I saw her smiling but it could've been my imagination because soon she scowled at me.
"Did I tell you to look at me?"
Instantly, I looked down and shook my head.
"Follow."
We walked out of my room, I kept a few paces away from her as she led us to the grand stairs of the packhouse that led to the huge foyer. She stopped at the stairs and gestured for me to walk down first. I found this slightly strange as I had never walked in front of her before. I didn't question her and breathed in deeply, praying that I didn't trip down the stairs in the long dress and extremely high heels. The heels I was wearing were extremely high and despite having to wear heels whenever Alpha Richards was around; it felt different this time.
I walked slowly down the stairs, my hand holding onto the smooth bannister for support. I stepped down the white marbled stairs feeling somewhat important but even I knew that this feeling wouldn't last for long.
Alpha Richards stood at the bottom of the staircase, engrossed in conversation with the Alpha. He hadn't noticed my presence yet, it gave me a chance to take in his appearance. Just like the Alpha, he was dressed formally in a crisp black tuxedo, a red bow tie in place of a traditional black one. Had he done that to match my attire? His greying honey-coloured hair was slicked back with gel, instead of the messy overhanging hair that he usually had. He looked nice, but something didn't sit right with me. Alpha Richards was old enough to be my father but yet no one else seemed to have a problem with the age difference. I was pretty sure that soon he would be coming up to fifty, but then again I wasn't completely sure.
I made it to the bottom of the stairs and stood with my head bowed down, my hands clasped in front of me.
"Look at us!" I heard the sharp order from the Alpha.
I obeyed and raised my head up. My eyes flickered to Alpha Richards, who was grinning way too enthusiastically for my taste. My eyes then flickered to the Alpha, who as always gave me the coldest look he could muster.
"Is that you, my Valerie?" Alpha Richards asked as he sauntered towards me, with a glint in his eyes.
"Red suits you very nicely, if I had it my way you would be married to me already!" He chuckled. I caught a whiff of his breath, he smelt of strong whiskey; the smell made my stomach turn.
I cleared my throat and thanked Alpha Richards for his compliment.
"I will be outside," The Alpha stated gruffly, as she walked out the huge lavish front door.
The engagement party was being held in the pack gardens. The gardens itself were huge and large enough to accommodate everyone who was invited. I swallowed hard and turned my head to Alpha Richards.
"I wanted to give you this," he placed a box in my hand and instantly a sickening feeling entered my stomach.
"Open the box, beautiful."
I flipped it open, eyes widening at the dark oval sapphire ring. It was so huge... and clunky.
"It was my mother's, the women to be my wife should wear it."
I couldn't help but think this was his dead mate's ring also. She must have worn this ring too.
Alpha Richards took the ring out of its encasement and grabbed my left hand. He placed the ring on my fourth finger, and then kissed my hand.
"Perfect fit!" He exclaimed.
I didn't want to burst his bubble... but no it wasn't. The ring was slightly too big, either his mother had wider fingers or mine were just really skinny.
Alpha Richards gripped my chin, raising my head to look at him.
"I can't wait to marry you," he said fiercely and before I knew it he did something that was unthinkable. My eyes widened even more as he leaned in to kiss me. Without thinking I turned my head, his lips pressing a kiss against my cheek instead.
I had never been kissed before. Alpha Richards' kisses were usually on my cheek or forehead, never had he made a move onto my lips. The thought scared me, the thought of him kissing me didn't sit right.
I felt cold as I realised what I had done... gone against an Alpha.
He pulled away and stared at me, my eyes met his and I could see the confusion on his face. An unsettling feeling crossed me as I watched the disappointment flutter in his eyes.
"You'd deprive me of feeling your soft lips against mine?" He asked bitterly, raising an eyebrow. Panic surged through me, Alpha Richards had never used such a tone with me and it scared me.
I opened my mouth to answer but instantly clammed it such when I realised I didn't have his permission to speak.
"I will kiss you, and you will not pull away from me again." He said sharply. All I could do was stare at him emotionless. I didn't like the side I was seeing and I didn't like the fact that alcohol had brought out his true colours.
"Let's go," he said offering his arm to take. I linked my right one with his and he pulled me so close that I could feel the warmth on his body
"You're too sexy right now, I don't want anyone else to see you," Alpha Richards mumbled hungrily.
I inhaled sharply and bowed my head at his words. I stated what I knew he wanted to hear.
"I'm just for you and only you."
"Marvellous." I heard the grin in his voice.
The pack gardens were decorated beautifully. Twinkly white lights hung in the huge green-leafed trees. Different flowers, shrubs and potted plants had been placed wherever deemed fit, allowing the colour to burst through the gardens. It was truly a beautiful sight to see. The setting sun added to the burst of colour, the peachy pink sky gave the scene a sort of intimacy and a peaceful setting. The late summer heat made me feel warm and even if I felt cold and sick inside at least my skin could appreciate the heat.
The gardens were filled with many people, the main pack members of the Sheilds pack had been invited. Alpha Richards had his Beta and Gamma here. As well as that, multiple Alphas and their second and third in commands were here. All these people were here to witness not only the Demon Alpha but also this new alliance between two packs.
Alpha Richards guided us to a stage-like area where The Alpha and The Luna, along with my brothers stood.
"Zander, he is not here yet!" The Alpha spat out, frustration clear on his face.
"He's old, it takes him much longer to walk remember," Jared, the younger twin brother sniggered.
The Alpha through a glare in his direction and scorned at him for his disrespect.
"Robert, he will be here we just have to be patient," The Luna spoke, to the Alpha, and Alpha Richards agreed with him.
The Alpha sighed heavily and walked to the centre of the stage and cleared his throat.
"Welcome all!" he boomed loudly, catching the attention of everyone.
"I am pleased that you could make it here today, to witness the union of Alpha Richards and my daughter Valerie," He said with a smile.
So now he calls me his daughter, I mentally rolled my eyes.
"We are still expecting our Guest of Honour, he should be here soon. But please enjoy the food, the drink and mingle amongst yourselves!" The Alpha said, throwing his arms up for emphasis.
Alpha Richards cleared his throat, The Alpha turning to him with a curious look.
"Might I say a few words, Alpha Shields," He spoke.
"Of course."
Alpha Richards let go of me and walked to the centre of the stage. I blocked out whatever he was saying until I heard my name. I had no idea what he was saying but whatever he said made no sense.
"Even if he does not approve of the alliance, I can assure you all that the wedding will still progress! Thank you, enjoy the evening!"
Indisticant conversations erupted, Alpha Richards was either bordering drunk or he was insane. The wedding would never happen if the Demon Alpha didn't agree. Alliances such as this were threatening to the Alpha and were only approved on a few reasons. My blood felt cold and I could feel my anxiety boiling. I couldn't help but feel on edge, something didn't feel right and I couldn't put my finger on it.
Alpha Richards made his way back to me and grabbed my hand, towing me down from the stage and to the swarm of people. This was going to be a very long night.
For the past two hours, I had been glued at Alpha Richards side. Multiple alphas had come up to him, some I recognised, some I didn't. My cheeks hurt from all the fake smiling I had been doing, playing the part of a happy fiancee who was desperately in love with this drunken Alpha. As The Luna said, I was only something pretty on his arm. The majority of the Alphas dismissed me and only conversed with Alpha Richards.
It was extremely risky to have so many Alphas in one space at one time. The powerful dominance that they felt could lead to challenges and threats being thrown about. I had no idea how no one else was on edge or felt anxious. In one of the corners of the garden, a small orchestra was performing. The music was calming and slightly lively; people seemed to be enjoying the music as well as the for and drink that was provided.
"Good to see you Alpha Richards," an Alpha who I had never met before greeted suddenly.
"Please call me Zander, it's good to see you too Alpha Cane."
That name sounded familiar... Alpha Steven Cane was a notorious Alpha; he was firm and strict but was also caring to his pack just like any Alpha should be. He was tall, a lot taller than Alpha Richards and had very short hair that was cropped to his skull. His dark skin complimented his features nicely and his eyes were dark, darker than my contacts.
"Valerie Sheilds, I haven't seen you since you were a little girl. My, my you've grown," Alpha Cane smiled, taking my hand and kissing my knuckles. This was the first Alpha to take notice of me, it was odd.
I smiled politely, remembering my father's words not to speak
"How are things at the Ronan pack?" he asked Alpha Richards, sounding generally interested in his pack.
"Ah yes they are very well, my warriors are training hard, the crops are thriving and soon a new Luna will be there," Alpha Richards said proudly, my eyes widened as I felt his hand drop to my backside. I swallowed hard as his hand rested on my ass and I couldn't help but want to move away. Alpha Cane looked down at the grip, my fiancee had on me and smirked.
"You horndog, or should I say hornwolf!"
I felt sick and I couldn't do anything.
The two Alphas continued to converse, I blanked out their conversation until Alpha Cane walked away.
"Enjoying yourself my dear?" Alpha Richards asked me, his hand trailing up my backside to my lower spine.
I nodded my head stiffly.
"Good," He smirked, holding me tightly. He lent his head into the crook of my neck and inhaled deeply.
"I can't wait to mark you, Valerie," he murmured against my neck. I swallowed the bile down my throat, wishing I had the strength and courage to speak out. Wishing I didn't have to forced into a marriage alliance.
"Alpha," a masculine voice said. Alpha Richards, lifted his head and straightened before turning around. My body turning also to see a man in his mid-forties, I recognised him to be the Beta of the Ronan Pack.
"Ah Damien, are you enjoying yourself?" Alpha Richards asked.
"Yes Alpha, but there's something you should know," Damien said and I quirked my head in interest.
"What is it?"
"He's here."
Alpha Richards swallowed hard and I felt him tense slightly, at his Beta's words...was he scared? He quickly turned to me and gave me a big smile, wiping all traces of any hesitation that he felt.
"Darling, please make yourself useful and get me some hors d'oeuvre." He said quickly, shoving me away, before sending a slap to my ass.
I winced, as my ass stung and resisted the urge to turn and glare at him.
I dragged my feet to the refreshment table and leaned against a chair. In the far distance, I could see Alpha Richards and his Beta conversing with Alpha Shields. The conversation appeared to be quite heated before they all turned away and went inside the house.
I stayed by the table, watching as people danced, people ate and people talked. Not one person came to speak to me. Not one person even looked at me, it made me think how easily I could just run away and perhaps no one would notice.
It seemed that half an hour had passed since Alpha Richards left and when he returned to the garden, I couldn't help but stare at the man he was with.
Next to Alpha Richards was a much older man, with snow like hair and a wrinkled face. The man was followed by a few other men, ranging in different ages. Was the older man the Demon Alpha? I continued to watch as they conversed for a few minutes; Alpha Richards' face was changing to confusion to anger quite often in those short minutes. I couldn't help but feel confused, what was going on. Soon Alpha Richards head snapped up as if he was looking for something, or someone... me.
His eyes soon caught onto me and with his right hand, he gestured for me to come over. I nodded my head obediently and shifted away from the refreshment table, I started to walk fast. I wasn't conscious of my surroundings and who was around; I just knew I had to get to Alpha Richards quickly before my father saw that I was away from him. My dress dragged behind me, creating a stream of red satin.
I carried on walking until suddenly I bumped into something, extremely hard. I wobbled on my feet, panic surged me as I thought that I would fall to the ground but strong arms were quick to grab onto me. I frowned and slowly looked up and believe me in front of me was the most handsome and tallest man I had ever seen.
Holy shit, I thought as he stared back down at me, his deep brown eyes locking with my own. I was so lost in his eyes that it felt like the whole world had stopped and no one was around. He must have felt the same because he didn't stop looking at me. I couldn't look at anything but those rich chocolatey brown eyes, so warm and comforting. His rich, dark, brown hair was styled effortlessly on his head. I wondered what it would be like to run my fingers through it. His skin was golden, possibly from being out in the sun often. It made his sharp features stand out, even with his slight 5 o'clock stubble. All I could do was stare and watch as he opened his mouth and spoke.
"Mine."
That one word left his lips in a rough growl, a sound that rippled right through me...
That's chapter 3... do you think the man Valerie bumped into is her mate?
What do you think of Alpha Richards' changed behaviour?
Please VOTE and COMMENT!!
Graphic on the side is made by @AmansRose