

The Lycan Alpha's Mate (Second Chance)
Being rejected by her mate and first love leaves Emily devastated and shattered. But not for too long. Emily Starling is a headstrong young woman born to the Alpha and Luna of Moonlight Pack. When she discovers her pack is suffering financially, she accepts an offer to become the Luna of a lycan Alpha in search of a mate. Zane Sloan, the 28-year-old Alpha of a lycan pack, is known for his charms, success, and ruthlessness. After witnessing the death of his mate, he lost his will to live, kept going only by love for his family and pack. Zane didn't want a second chance mate, but he needed a Luna to keep the pack together - someone strong with Alpha blood. That's why he chose Emily Starling. What happens when Emily turns out to be his second chance mate? Will he reject her? Will Emily accept him?Chapter 1 Chapter 1: Maxwell
Provisional Blurb: Being rejected by her mate and first love, leaves Emily devastated and shattered but not for long. ** Emily Starling is a headstrong young woman, born to the Alpha and Luna of the moonlight pack. She loved her family and pack so much that when she got to know her pack was suffering financially, she was eager to help. Desperate to save her pack from poverty, she accepted an offer to become the Luna of a Lycan Alpha, who was in search of a Luna for his pack. Zane Sloan, the 28 year old Alpha of the Lycan pack was known for his charms, success, and ruthlessness. Witnessing the death of his mate, left him bitter and angry. He lost his will to live but one thing kept him going: The love for his family and pack. Zane didn’t want a second chance mate. He wanted a Luna, someone to keep the pack together. Someone strong and of Alpha blood... That was why he chose Emily Starling, daughter of Alpha Ethan Starling. What happens when Emily turns out to be his second chance mate? Will he reject her? Will Emily accept him? Read on to find out. **** //Emily// Heat rippled through my body and the scent of desire filled my lungs as the familiar silver gray eyes of the man I love was piercing through my soul: Max was simply perfect. Everything about him was mesmerizing. He was perfectly made by the moon goddess. His smiles, the eyes, voice, laugher, and his entire aura was breathtaking. He is mine forever. My first love and my mate to be.... he was mine! All mine! My breath seized as he hovered over me. Making me tremble beneath him like a desperate leaf during a heavy winter storm. I was intoxicated by him. I found myself getting wet and moist between my legs. I wanted to moan out loud when his moist pink lips touched my ear... “Ems” he whispers the short form of my name in the huskiest tone ever. His face was an inch away from mine. And our lips were almost touching. “My mate... I can’t wait to claim you, mark you, and make you mine forever “. His words were followed by a powerful growl, and lust, danced in his orbs. “ To be inside your sweet little pussy, fucking your brains out”. I swallow my saliva as my eyes darkened with lust. “ What are you waiting for max?! You can take me now” My voice was lower than normal... I wanted him! His sweet words had my core clenching to nothing. My mind clouded with mist and my thought was blocked with desire. I felt myself losing control. Thinking of the unimaginable thing his fingers, cock and tongue will do to my body. My body was weak for him. My hips moved on their own accord and I began grinding my moist core against him. He was hard as fuck and I could feel his long dick through our clothes. “Ems” he released a throaty groan and caged me in his strong arms. His lips gently brushed against mine. And I lost it. My body became hot and needy as I continued grinding against him. “ I want you, babe, I want a taste of that juicy pussy of yours”, he confessed and I lost the ability to breathe. My heart skipped multiple beats and waves of need washed within me. He wanted me too! Max was saying all the right things. Things I desperately wanted to hear. Is this real? Is Max really in my bed? Right at this moment, I didn’t care if It was real or not! All I cared about was having a moment with him. Having Max in my bed! “ I want to sink my teeth into your marking spot.” Butterflies swarm in my stomach as he continued. “Ravish you, possess you and mate you”. His teeth grazed my marking spot and a whimper of pleasure left my tiny lips. His sweet talks made me excited. I was finally getting my wish. Tonight I was going to fulfill my greatest desire. He will be mine and I will be his. He licked my lower lips and I parted my lips, waiting impatiently for him to kiss me. But he made no attempt... so I made the first move. By running my fingers through his brown hair and tugging him close. He let out a sexy chuckle that had my core begging for his attention. “Eager are we?” He nibbles his nose against mine and adds: “Patience little one. We’re getting there”. I took a sharp breath as his hand slowly moved under my short red nightdress, straight into my pant. His bold step knocked the air out of me. A smirk graced his lips as he slowly moved his fingers towards my clit. My breath became erratic and sparks of intense electricity jolted through my whole body. My heart was going crazy, beating abnormally fast. It was finally happening! My clit was pulsating and more moisture pulled out of my core. While eagerly waiting for his warm fingers to rub and tease my clit, I heard a voice that wasn’t Max’s. “Emily!!” The voice yelled. Who was that? The voice was not calm and alluring like Max. Who was trying to destroy my happiness?! “ Someone is calling little one. We have to stop here”. Max mumbles and tries’s drawing his hand away from the core. No! No! I quickly grab his hand halting his movement and move his fingers towards my core.., “ No, we need to continue, I need this Max” I whined in annoyance and frustration. “ Emily Starling. Get your ass out of bed before I do something we’ll both regret”. This time the voice was clear and familiar... Mother!! That was my mother’s voice. Her tone was stern and firm. “ Emily up now!”. Her voice had so much power that I jolt out of bed startled. While rubbing the sleep off my eyes, I snapped my head searching for Max but he was nowhere in sight. I looked down and found my spare pillow between my legs. How did this get here? Shit!!! Was Max truly here? Or was this a dream? Damn it, goddess! I was this close to getting my man. How can you play such a steamy, toe curling joke on me? I huff in irritation and smack my bed with my clenched fist. Urrggghh!!! I wrestled to untangle the blanket wrapped around my legs... I was sex deprived in my dream and irritated at the damn time. I huff annoyed more than ever. Although my cheeks were heated up from the steamy dream. “ You look flushed girly! That was one hell of a dream”. Leah, my pervert wolf giggled and barked”. I enjoyed every bit of it”. “ I’m sure you did,”. I remarked with a grin. I shifted my gaze to the clock on the nightstand. It showed the time as half past seven. Shit! I was late for training. I quickly jumped out of bed and rushed into the bathroom. I got rid of my nightdress and stopped in the middle of the bathroom turning to the large mirror on the wall. I stole a glance at my reflection, the damage done over the night was overrated. My wild red hair was in huge chaos, flying in all directions. I could be mistaken as a zombie in the walking dead movie. Not just my hair, my lips were red and sore as if I had been bitten by rats in my sleep. I sighed and stepped into the shower. I turned on the regulator and tried to bath as fast as possible. I didn’t want to piss my mother off. She was grumpy at this time of the day since she was not a morning person. She hated all mornings. Something I inherited. Provoking her would be like signing your death warrant. I chuckled at my exaggerated thought. The warm water ran down my hair and body, and I couldn’t stop thinking of Max. Maxwell Warner is the son of my father’s best friend and Alpha of the String breakers pack. Max is the next in line to the alpha and my all time crush. He is the kind of guy every girl want at first glance. I first met him a year ago when he visited my pack with his father. After he finished his studies in London and came back to Orlando. He enchanted me with his looks at first glance and I couldn’t help myself but ogle at him admiring his manly features. During his short visit, Max didn’t spare me a glance but that didn’t stop my attraction to him. I began having a huge crush on him. And since that time, I daydreamed about him and how it will feel like to be in his strong arm. I had several dreams where he asked me out on a date. These dreams boast my confidence and desire to have him as my man and mate. Not long after, I started sending him love letters anonymously and stalking him here and there. Haha, I know what you’re thinking Psychopath right ?? I call it a secret admirer..... I shook my head and quickly ran the thought out of my mind before I stepped out of the shower. After a quick bath, I dressed in tight black athletic shorts and matched them with a silver gray sports bra, just like the color of Max’s eyes. I smiled to myself and tied my red hair in a high ponytail. Just as I was about to tie my shoelace, my mother yelled. “ Emily! What are you still doing in your room? Don’t make me come there and drag you out”. My mother's grumpy voice echoed in the walls of the house. “ Mama, I will be out in a minute”. I shouted in reply. I took another glance at my reflection in the mirror, before I dashed out of my bedroom. I jogged down the stairs and maneuvered my way into the kitchen...
Chapter 2 Chapter 2: Birthday
//Emily\\ The smell of bacon, sausage, egg, and pancake, irritated my nostrils the moment I stepped into the kitchen. I took a moment and sniffed in the delicious smell of breakfast before I walked up to my mom. “ Good morning mom”. I greeted and kissed her cheeks. She was busy on the stove finishing up with breakfast. “ Good morning baby. You are late for training again.” My mom shot a dagger at me, “You know how your father hates lateness.” She stated. “ Sorry mama, I slept late last night. “ I lied between my teeth and managed to make a sad face which earned me some sympathy. “Alright dear! Sleep early next time.”“Sure mom, I will take my leave now. Gamma Trey must be waiting for me.” I murmured and tried to leave against the protest made by my stomach. “ Wait Emily,” I quickly halted and prayed earnestly for her to tell me to eat my breakfast. Before I leave for training. “Finish with breakfast before you leave. You can’t function properly on an empty stomach. ” She giggled and my lips curved into a smile as a sigh of relief left my lips. At the word breakfast, I did a happy dance in my head as I walked to the dining table and took a seat behind trays of scrumptious foods lined up on the table. I rub my small palms together and started salivating. All my eyes could see was food. The erotic dream was long forgotten. I love food and I’m not ashamed to voice it out. We werewolves are strong and energetic beasts. So we end up utilizing more energy than humans and other species. We also have a high metabolism rate, making us hungry all the time. “Happy sweet eighteen baby." My mother screams excitedly. Bringing me out of my daze. She slid a tray of food in front of me and I gasped at the sight. I lean over to the side and pulled her into a bear hug. “Oh my god! Mom. This smells delicious “ I praised. “It sure is” my mother chirps. ” I have to make my baby’s day special. Again, Happy birthday sweetie. I pray this day brings you a lot of goodwill and happiness “ “ Thanks, mom.” I kissed her cheeks and got back into my seat. The tray had bacon, sausage, and mushroom on one side and beans, toast, scrambled eggs, and tomatoes on the other side. It was a full English breakfast. Something she prepares once in a million years. Mmm Yummy! My mom knows me well. She knew I wouldn’t like any other present more than a palatable breakfast. Just the smell alone clouded my mind with fog. The smell of the food was alluring and made my stomach rumble over and over again. My sense came to live and I couldn’t help but stare at the food, swallowing my saliva. For a minute I forgot all about training since the food had my undivided attention. I didn’t waste any more time. I stuffed the mouthwatering food into my mouth. Chewing as fast as I could. My taste buds came alive as the delicious taste of food rolled on my tongue. Tasty! So tasty!! I must confess, my mother has got talent. She is the best cook in the world! Her cooking skills were incomparable. I shoved more bacon and sausage down my throat like a hungry lion and sipped on the chilled glass of pineapple juice. Sitting on my right. I let my eyes scan around the room. Where were the rest of the family? Where is dad and brother? “ Where is father?” I asked my mom when I found myself alone at the dining table. Her expression automatically changed and she stopped cleaning the working surfaces. Her face contorted in sadness before she quickly covered it up... Was something up? Before I could ask further questions my brother walked in to answer my previous question. “Father is out meeting with the alpha of the Golden Lycan pack. He will be back in a few hours.” The Lycan pack? I nodded but my mind was filled with more questions. Why was my father meeting the Lycan Alpha? Is it for alliance?? Or treaty? My mother’s sad face didn’t leave my mind for a second. Was something going on with the pack that I wasn’t aware of? I sighed and shifted my attention back to my food. My brother Darren strode toward me and kissed my temple. “ Happy birthday Red.” He addressed me by my nickname and joined me at the table. “ Thanks, Dar.” I smiled and averted my eyes in my mother’s direction. “ What about you mom? Join us for breakfast. “ I uttered. “ Sweetie I’m not that hungry. I will eat with your father when he gets back. Go ahead and eat with your brother .“ Her voice broke a little as she spoke. Something was eating her up. I could see it. All the same, I didn’t read much into it and continued my meal. Darren pulled a large plate in front of him and picked about eight beacons, ten sausages, five toasts, three pancakes, and four eggs from the tray. He was another foodie in the family. I believe we inherited our love for good food from our father. I remember him telling Darren and me that he married and mated my mom because of her skills in the kitchen. **** My name is Emily Starling, daughter of Ethan and Elena Starling. I live in the moonlight pack, in Orlando. My father is the Alpha of the pack and my mother is his Luna, making me a werewolf with pure Alpha blood. I have an older brother, Darren starling. He is older than me by three years. He is the future alpha of the pack. A calm and caring brother. My ride or die. My best friend and confidante. He has always been there for me and could easily read into my emotions at any given time. Darren took my father’s good looks. He has black hair and beautiful green eyes just like mine. He stands at 6’5 and is bulky than most male wolves. I on the other hand took my mother’s hourglass figure and her wild red hair. I love my brother and family more than anything in this world. I’m ready to fight with anyone who messes with them... “ As always, you forgot to introduce me” my wolf Leah, whines in my mind. And I let out a soft laugh. “I will Missy..., patience.” I muttered into our link before she moved back into the back of my mind. I gained my wolf, Leah, two years ago, when I turned Sixteen. Sixteen years is the normal age for a teenage werewolf to shift. Ever since my first shift, I felt more connected to nature and the pack. I could mind link anyone in the pack. Leah and I could talk whenever we felt like it. My sense of smell and vision also heightened. I became stronger and smarter ever since I shifted into my wolf. I recall my parent's expression when they saw Leah....it was hilarious. Leah is a rare specie of Wolf. Leah was blessed by the moon goddess with golden fur, purple eyes, and a silver crescent moon on her forehead, making me stronger in my wolf form. My wolf and I have a thing for Max, something she refused to say out loud. “No I don’t! “ She made herself known once more. “Yes, you do. You know I can feel your emotions and thoughts. “ I barked. She snorted and retreated in a speed of light. I smiled to myself and nibbled the last piece of toast in my mouth. “ See you later mom! Dar, I’m off to train”. I yelled and got out of my seat. “ Okay dear, be back early. Lisa is coming by to help you prepare for the ball”, she responded. “ Sure thing mom”. I rushed out of the Alpha suite since I was half an hour late.
Chapter 3 Chapter 3- Training
//Emily// I ran down the stairs saying my morning greetings to any pack member I crossed paths with and I received a birthday wish in return. I am eighteen years today. It’s an age that is important to every werewolf. It’s the age we find our soul mate. A.k.a....The moon goddess blessing. That special someone made just for us. I believe that special guy is Max. That would explain why I have been having steamy dreams about him for months. I subconsciously did a happy dance, skipping the stairs. The pack house is almost empty. Most of the pack members, be it a male or female is at the training ground for our routine morning training. I darted out of our four-story, pack house and ran towards the training field right behind the pack house. When I arrived at the field, training was in session. I hid behind a large oak tree and took a quick look at my surroundings. And my eyes found one of my closest friends, Carl. ....Training is not so far away from me. He sensed my presence and looked in my direction before we both shifted our gaze to my father’s gamma Trey. Trey was busy instructing some teenagers on hand-to-hand combats. And with this, I saw an opportunity to join training without him noticing. Carl’s gaze met mine and we both grin at each other. I sneaked in, walking towards him and at the same time peeping at Trey with one eye, making sure I was not caught. I successfully sneaked in and heaved a loud audible sigh. “ You’re late.” Carl states the obvious as we both took our position a few inches away from one another. Carl was my training partner and never got close to knocking me off my feet. Although he was a strong fighter and warrior. Just like his father gamma Trey. “I know, I slept late last night.” I rumbled another lie. “ Don’t lie to me red! You dreamt about Max didn’t you?” He grin as amusement played in his eyes. “ No, I didn’t!” I commented too quickly and averted my gaze from his. “ Yes, you did. You sneaky little bitch! You can lie all you want but I see right through you”, he chuckled with a mischievous smile tugging his lips... “ Okay, I did but I’m not telling you.” I pouted my lips and looked away. “ ooh, you will by the end of training “, a familiar evil glint shone in his eyes. Carl made the first swing with his fist. I quickly dodge his attack and lurch at him with full force. I landed a punch to his stomach and he groaned in pain taking three steps back. “You were saying??” I hissed. “Slow down tiger”.he yelped in return. I smirked at my little victory and my mind played back the erotic dream where Max had his tongue and mouth on the making spot. I begun feeling hot again and my core started clenching. I was so distracted and didn’t see Carl coming at me. The next thing I felt was a burning pain as Carl successfully punched my gut. Knocking me off my balance. I landed on my ass with a thud sound as a series of pain shot in my gluteal area. “ Are you daydreaming red?” Carl’s smirk widened. “Shut it mutt”. I hissed in pain and I didn’t get enough time to recover, when he darted towards me with his clenched fist ready to strike me the third time. I moved quickly and got right back on my feet and took a defensive stance. He threw three punches and I blocked with ease. Before he could turn or react, I striked back, punching his face. “ Easy there tiger. You don’t want me to look ugly for my fans at the ball”. A sneer plasters on his face making me roll my eyes. Carl is the gamma’s son and Darren’s gamma when my father decides to step down from his position. Carl is a down to earth kind of guy. He is about 6’3 tall, very muscular with a playboy grin always plastered on his ugly handsome face. His hair is black and his eyes hazel just like his father's. He is cocky but loving and charming at the same time. He is the kind of guy, girls will drool over or drop their pants for. He is simply a smooth talker. Our combat went on for over an hour with no one winning or losing. We were both tired and drench in sweat but neither of us was ready to give up until we heard his father’s voice. “ Alright everyone, enough for today”, every one of us heaves a sigh as he adds; “ we will meet at the same time tomorrow. Don’t drink too much at the ball.” A groan resonanted in the training ground. “Dismiss “ I turned around, ready to leave with Carl when Trey spoke again. “Not you Emily! “ I stopped walking and Carl and I exchange glances. “Did he know I was late? Or he saw me when I walked in…” I queried through the mind link. “I have no idea red. “ Carl replied, equally dumbfounded. “ You were late for training Emily. “ Trey’s words confirmed my curious questions. “ Was I?” I raised my left brow playing dumb like always. “ Don’t try to play smart with me, young lady!” He gritted his teeth. “ Me! Smart! Never.” I giggled but quickly shut it down when I realized I was the only one laughing. Carl gazed at me questionably as if he was asking if I was crazy... “Hmm....” I cleared my throat and exhaled. “ Sorry gamma, I was helping my mother in the kitchen.” I lied into his face without batting an eye. “ Ooh is that so?” I nodded my head and sent an apologetic smile his way... “ You big liar.” he exclaimed and narrowed his piercing eyes. “Huh!" I gasped at his outburst. “ I knew you will say something like this so I linked your mother before I called out to you”. His face turned serious. “ ooh” was all I said as I looked down at my feet in embarrassment. “ Hundred laps now!” Trey's voice was strict and stern. “ ahrrhh” Carl’s eyes blurred with tears as he tried holding back his laughter. “ since it’s your birthday I will take it easy on you” Trey adds. Easy on me ?? Are hundred laps easy to him? I stood there thinking of my next step... “ or better still I will inform your father of your lateness today.” He threatened. “ No my gamma dearest. A hundred laps is fine. Thanks for having mercy on me”, I said giggling awkwardly. At the mention of my father, I knew I had no choice. I have to do a hundred laps. Uuurrrgggghhhhh I mumbled strings of curses as I started my punishment. ***** After eighty laps, I was gasping for air and breathing like a fish out of its normal habitat. My legs were killing me but I couldn’t stop running. Gamma Trey was standing a few meters away from me. Staring at me with his seriously hard hazel eyes. I know he will report me to my father if I don’t finish with the punishment. And that was something I couldn’t allow. “ Go girl.... you can do it. More power to your elbow.” Carl encouraged with amusement in his eyes. He was sitting on a large rock at the side of the training ground, observing our exchange with rapt attention. I panted and finished off the twenty laps in distress. I sat on the ground as soon as I finished my laps. I was sweating profusely and my throat was super dry to the extent that I couldn’t speak. “ Take this.” Carl passed me a bottle of chilled water and in a hast, I gulp down the water in one swift movement. “ Wow... a hundred laps did a number on you”. Carl chuckled. I ignored him completely. I sat down and rested for a good five minutes before I slowly rose to my feet. I made my way towards the pack house with Carl. “ Are you not going to tell me about the dream?” He quizzed with his brows fused. “ Are you still thinking about it? You’re such a gossip.” I mumbled, laughing as I begun to give him a rundown of my dream. “ I was close to having my way with him when my mother decided to be my evil stepmother in my dream.“ I ended my narration bitterly, still blaming my mom for calling me out of my dream. Carl was laughing hard. ”wow!!! That was epic”. He exclaimed. “Hot and toe curling, I wish I was to witness all of it”. I chuckled .“ That was exactly what I said”. I laughed ignoring my flushed cheeks. “So do you think Max is your mate?” Carl asked as we entered the pack house. “ I’m not sure Carl but I have this gut feeling that he is mine. And Leah is also calm about it.” I whispered. “ Hmmm.... your doubt will be cleared tonight when you see him. “ He stated. “ He will be at the ball right?”“ Yeah, I’m sure dad invited his pack.” I replied which earned me a nod from him. “ Okay cool”. “ Emily where the heck are you ?” My mother’s voice appeared in my mind. “ Downstairs mom…”“Get yourself up here. Lisa is waiting for you”, she informed. “ I’m on my way mom.” I replied and closed the link. “I need to go Carl... see you later?” I muttered in the form of a question. “ Yeah Red, go make yourself beautiful for your mate. I will see you at the ball tonight” he grins. “ Okay bye!” I waved and walked towards the long stairs, up to the Alpha suite on the fourth floor.
Chapter 4 Chapter 4: Mating Ball.
//Emily// The rest of the day went by pretty quickly and before I knew, it was evening, and the moon was out, blessing us with its luminous light. I was trembling, barely breathing and completely nervous as the time for the ball got close. With each passing second I got anxious: “Calm down sweetie, everything will be fine by the end of the night. Your mate is going to love you”, my mother said for the tenth time. But I wasn’t reassured. Mate! What if Max isn’t my mate? What if my mate is cocky or a playboy? What if my mate doesn’t want me? What if he rejects me? A lot of what ifs! These thoughts made my skin crawl. My nervousness grew more and more each time these silly thoughts crossed my mind. Don’t get me wrong. I am eager to meet my mate but I couldn’t shake off the eerie feeling in my chest. The night felt wrong. There was a strong sense of an impending doom. But I couldn’t put my fingers on it. I felt like this night will be a total disaster. I shook the idea off and allowed myself to sink back into reality. We are in my room with Lisa doing a final makeover. I was dressed in a black ball gown with a beautiful pattern made from golden crystals. My mother couldn’t hold back the tears that tricked down her cheeks when she walked in a few minutes ago and saw me standing in front of the mirror. The dress was absolutely stunning. It brought out my tanned skin and my wild red hair. It hugged my figure perfectly. I opted to wear a crystal necklace and gold stud earrings instead of a rose diamond necklace. My long red hair was tamed and held in a high pony, which flowed down my waist. And my makeup was lightly done by Lisa, the family’s beautician. “ Ems, the guests are arriving. We need to be at the entrance welcoming them.” My mother informed and I got nervous again. “ I don’t know mum... Can’t I sit this one out?” I uttered worriedly. Her face scrunched up in confusion. “What do you mean Sweetie? This is the day you find your fated mate and you want to sit this out. You have no idea the effort and money we have put into this ball.” She raised a brow in my direction. “ What if my mate doesn’t like me? What if he rejects me? What if he is one of the pack’s enemies ?” I ranted out and started panicking. I began pacing back and forth. Ranting and pinching the bridge in distress. “ What if my mate.....” Before I could rant some more my mother’s voice silenced me. “ Stop pacing Emily. You’re making me dizzy. “ She roared. I whirled to her and gaze at her with a watery eye”. Mom, I don’t feel too good about tonight. I feel like something tragic will happen to me and change my life forever”. “ Come here, Sweetie. “ She tapped the bed. “ sit by me child”. I flitted to her and settled down. Her warm palms cupped my cheeks and her earthly motherly scent infiltrated my nostril, calming my nerves instantly. “ I’ll say the for the last time, Emily. Listen carefully, you’re a beautiful, strong and intelligent woman. Every man out there will be happy to have you and treat you like the queen you are. If your mate doesn’t see this then it’s his loss. Put yourself up and come to the ballroom. Before your dad sends a SWAT team up here”. I giggled. “ Thank you, mom. You’re the best.” I pegged her cheeks. “ You’re welcome, dear. Don’t take too long to come down. “ She barked before she closed the door gently behind her. I exhaled loudly and rose to my feet. I rubbed my sweaty palms on my dress and trudged out. I had to go through the back door out of the pack house and come through the main entrance, since I didn’t want to be the center of attention. Just for tonight, I wanted to keep a very low profile. Tonight was a glorious day for the moonlight pack. Our annual mating ball was finally here. A day that not only moonlight pack treasure but every other pack in the region. It was the night most unmated werewolves in the whole of Orlando find their mates and I was lucky my birthday fell on this day. My parent created the mating ball eight years ago and it has been successful ever since. The purpose of the mating ball was to bring all werewolves together and maintain peace and harmony between the packs. So far, it’s purpose has been fully served. There were a lot of giggles, laughter, and voices in the ballroom. I pass by a lot of wolves who were busy chatting and engaging happily. There were over a thousand werewolves in the ballroom including Alphas, Lunas, betas, and gammas from the various packs. I could also see a few fairies and witches who were in attendance with their werewolf mates. “ Good evening distinguished guests.” I heard my father speak as I stumble further into the room. “ I am Alpha Ethan Starling and the stunning woman on my right is my mate Elena Starling. Our son Darren Starling. Our daughter is not yet in...she is still making herself pretty for her mate to be”. The crowd roared into a fit of laughter as my dad snapped his head searching for me in the crowd. He might have smelled my scent when I sauntered in. “ Ooh, there she is!” He pointed at me. Throwing me in the spotlight. My ears turned red. “I really wanted to keep a low profile”. I groaned inwardly. The curious crowd stared at me and I felt the heat of their gaze burning into my skin. I tried my best not to flinch. I held my head high and shoulders straight looking back at the crowd confidently. “Here comes Emily starling. Isn’t she beautiful? “ I smiled awkwardly and waved my hand like I had just won miss-world, hoping not to trip on my gown and come out like a clown in front of the gathering. My dad was beaming with smiles when he rumbled: “ The ball is officially open. Have a good evening! “ Claps and cheers echoed in the room as my dad descended the stairs. Music filled the room. My father ambled toward me with a huge smile plastered on his face. “Happy birthday sweetheart. You look amazingly beautiful “ he embraced me in his strong arms twirling me around like his little princess. Which I was. “ Thank you dad. I love your gift. This dress looks beautiful on me”. I smiled in appreciation. “ It’s nothing sweetheart. Are you ready to meet your mate tonight?” He asked. I nodded frantically and Leah stirred a bit in the back of my mind upon hearing the word mate. “ I was told you had a meeting with the Lycan Alpha? What was the meeting about ?” I inquired, changing the subject. His demeanor changed instantly at the mention of the Lycan Alpha... and that pricked my interest. “ Yes, I did. Can we talk about it later?” He sounded uncomfortable with the topic so I decided to let him be for the time being. I nodded my head in agreement. “ I want to introduce you to someone later tonight if you don’t mind”. He added. “ Not at all. Who is this person?” I furrowed my brow. “ You will know when the time comes” he replied. Who is my father talking about? Is he someone I know? These questions crossed my mind and like always I had no answers to them. I sighed in frustration. **** “Good evening Ethan, Emily “ both my dad and I turned at the same time. We came face to face with Alpha Marcus Warner and his Luna Valentina Warner of string breakers pack. They were Max’s parents and a beautiful couple. “ Marcus, you’re here! Valentina, you look beautiful as always. When did you get here?” Father asked. “Thank you Ethan.” Valentina mumbled. “ We arrived a few minutes ago”, replied Marcus. “ Happy birthday dear.” Luna Valentina’s voice rang in the air as she stretched out a gift to me. “ Ooh you didn’t have to but thank you very much” I whispered to my soon to be in-laws as a blush crept on my face. “ You’re very welcome dear”, was her gentle reply. Luna Valentina was in a backless golden gown. That brought out her petty figure. Her mate was devilishly handsome even at his age. He was carrying his age very well. His silver eyes reminded me of a special someone.... his son Maxwell Warner! A/N: Hello beautiful readers, thank you for reading my story. Please follow me and add my book to your library. And share your thoughts by leaving a comment.
Chapter 5 Chapter 5: Mate!
//Emily// Max! Where is he? My wolf and I became alert and I stretched my neck scanning behind the Warner’s for their son. “He is not here,” his mother said with a soft smile on her pink lips. “Huh!” Did she know about my feelings for his son??? “ Maxwell is not here. He has some work to do in the next town.”“Ooh!” My face fell at her remarks and my mood instantly changed, turning sour. “ But he will join us soon.“ Valentina added when she saw my facial expression. My mood elevated as my face brightened up. His mom gave me a knowing look which made me flush. She knew about my feelings for his son. Was I being obvious? My dad poked his head to the side and raised his questioning brow. At that moment, I knew I had to escape from him. “ Hmm” I cleared my throat. ” Dad, I have to meet Carl, see you later”. “ Okay Dear”. He squeezed my hand gently. “ You have some explaining to do young lady. Don’t for a second think you’re off the hook”, he muttered into the mind link. I smiled nervously. “ Thanks for coming and for the gift. “ I managed to utter. Mentally kicking myself for getting all red and flushed in the presence of my in-laws. The Alpha and Luna of Spring breakers pack gave me a polite smile and carried on with their conversation with my dad. Instead of looking for Carl, I sprinted towards the buffet table. I knew Carl must be sucking the air out of some bitch in a dark corner and I didn’t want my poor eyes to see the unseeable or my sleep to be filled with horrifying nightmares. I ambled my way through the crowd. From the corners of my eyes, I could see unmated male wolves staring and ogling at me with lustful eyes. Others said a lot of disturbing things. I had to hold back my shiver of disgust and urge to puke. I ignored the hormonal male wolves in the room and briefly spoke with some of the members from other packs in attendance. As I moved through the people, I saw Alphas from other packs in the area introducing their unmated daughters to Darren hoping my brother would turn out to be their mate. Darren’s eyes were cold as he exchanged few to nothing words with them. I mentally rolled my eyes and approached the buffet. The table was filled with continental and foreign dishes. They all looked appealing and delicious but due to my nervousness, I didn’t have the stomach to all those foods. I opted for something sweet and light like a cupcake cake or other pastries. “ You look sexy my lady.” A deep growl drew my attention. I gently swirled around to see a blonde headed, middle aged guy with a cocky smile. The guy was neither younger nor older than my father. “ Thank you, sir”. I huffed as calmly as I could. With venom clearly visible on my face. “Sir?? I’m not that old, you know.” He chuckled. “ Do you mind if we get out of here and get to know each other? In a scenery environment?” I quirked my brows. “Scenery environment??really??” Leah queried and giggled. “ Sorry sir, I’m underage. I doubt you want to be labeled as my sugar daddy or a pedophile.” I spat flatly and carried my plate away. I could hear his disappointed growls behind me but I didn’t bother to look back. And I honestly didn’t care. I stopped at the corner of the room and settled my plate on a cocktail table. I began eating from my plate. From where I stood, I could see the entire ballroom. Alpha Eli and his Luna had forced smiles plastered on their faces as they moved through the room talking to other Alphas. There were about four packs here excluding my pack. They are; Blue moon pack, String breakers pack, Shadow walkers pack, and last but not least, Crescent moon pack. Werewolves who had found their mates tonight were on the dance floor dancing to a slow song. I could see joy and happiness written boldly all over their faces. I could see a few lycans in the room. This would be the first time seeing some of the Lycans at an event like this. They have been invited over the years by my father but they never showed up so seeing them here was kind of surprising. Is that why my father met with the Lycan Alpha? Maybe he wanted them in attendance this year. That would probably be the best explanation for their meeting. “There you are. I have been looking everywhere for you”. Carl appeared beside me. “ Don’t you look handsome!! “ I said sarcastically. “ Are you sure you weren’t whoring around?” I squinted my eyes. “ Aaahaha” he held his chest: ” you’ve wounded me. I am everything but a player. It’s not my fault that the ladies love me,” he said with a cocky grin. I rolled my eyes at him and allowed my eyes to take him in from his feet to his head. He was in a dark blue tuxedo. Looking more handsome than ever. “ Are you checking me out?” He smirked. “ Dream on mister!” I laughed. “Have you found your mate?”“ Not yet Red. You will be the first to know when I do.” His expression turned sour. Carl is twenty years old and was yet to find his mate. I knew he was sad about it but hid his emotion every time the word mate was mentioned. “Have you seen Max?” He drew me back into the conversation and carried on. “ I saw his parents not too long ago”“ No, I haven’t. His mom said he will be late”, my heart twisted a bit. Carl nodded and exhaled. “ Hey Carl, can I grab my sister really quick,” Darren asks out of nowhere. “ Yeah sure... later red”, he stated. “ Thanks, man”, Darren grabbed my wrist, dragging me away. “ I will find you later”, I called to Carl over Darren’s shoulder. “ Where are you taking me, Dar?”“ You will see when we get there”. He replied pulling me towards the other end of the room. “ Is a she-wolf involved?” I inquired, popping my eyes out. Darren’s emerald green eyes opened widely as his lips twitched in a smile. “ I knew it!” I squealed in joy. He had found his mate. My brother had found his mate!!! I splinted in excitement. How did I know of this? Well, his smile gave him away. On our arrival, he let go of my hand and twirls a brunette she-wolf about my age in his arm. “ Red, I want you to meet Maya.....my mate.” A gleaming smile crept on his face. “ Maya meet my little sister Emily.” A loud squeak left my lips and I began jumping in bliss. I was happy for them both, most especially my brother. He is twenty-one years and has been to the ball three consecutive times with no luck. Now the moon goddess has brought him his soul mate. “ Welcome to the family Maya.” I drew her into a hug. Squeezing the life out of her. “ Thank you Emily.” She laughed shyly. “ You can call me Ems or Red since you’re part of the family.” I gave her a goofy smile. “ Congratulations brother. You’ve got a gorgeous mate. Guard her with your life if you don’t some dude will steal her away.”“ I sure will”, Darren replied proudly. We all burst out laughing. Maya was a brunette with hazel eyes that twinkled in the dim room. She has cute nose and lips and a heart shaped face. She was about 5’5. An inch shorter than me and I could tell she was an omega by scent. “ So Maya, which pack are you from?” I quizzed. “ Crescent moon pack”, she whispered. “ That’s a few miles away. I heard your Alpha is a peaceful and good leader.” I stated. “ Yeah, Alpha Brooke is very good to us. He cares for some wolves like us, irrespective of our low rank “, she murmured and lowered her gaze. Darren whispered something to her and kissed her temple. “ You know, you’re pretty hot for an omega.” I grumbled truthfully. Her cheeks beamed with red. “Awww so cute!” Leah rumbles as she lay down quietly in my mind. “ Anyways welcome Maya. My mom will be ecstatic to meet you”. The night was going well than I had thought and I realized there was no need to be alarmed or alert. Even though the eerie feeling was still twisting in my gut. I indulged Maya and Darren in a lengthy conversation, we laughed and talked about everything under the sun. I didn’t realize it was almost midnight when a mouthwatering scent hit me with intensity. My wolf Leah started to stir and prance in my mind. “ Who’s perfume is that?” I asked, sniffing all over. “ What perfume are you referring to?” Darren stares at me weirdly. “ Can’t you smell that mouthwatering scent?” I quirked my brow in confusion. Maya and Darren gazed at me as if I have grown another head ... Another wave of cinnamon and wood scent hit me making Leah growl like crazy in my mind... “Mate! “ She roared. What???
Chapter 6 Chapter 6: Max’s intentions.
//Max// “Fucking shit!” I growled as Bree took my cock into her mouth. She giggled and moaned around me making the nerves around my cock harden. “Shit Bree, suck my dick. Take all of me” I groaned and grabbed her head forcing her on my cock. She gave a seductive moan as she sucked me off with all her strength. Bree is my current and longest girlfriend. We met four years ago at a nightclub in London. I was there to study at a shifters academy. We hit it off immediately and we have been fucking buddies since then. She is a good fucker and knew her way around me. She made our nights together under the sheets a memory to behold. She didn’t want a mate. Neither did I, so we came to a clear term and made our relationship exclusive. My breath became rugged, clouding my thoughts. My eyes rolled back and I stiffened my growl as she deep throated me, taking my cock deep into her mouth. I instantly felt like I would explode at any given second. Just then, my phone rang for the third time this night, cutting into the intense atmosphere. I grabbed my phone from the bed and checked to see who it was that was interrupting another memorable moment of ours. My mom’s name and her contact were plastered on the screen. “ Hey, Mom!” I breathe out, ruggedly. “ Where the hell are you Max?” My mother screamed into the phone. I hastily pulled away from the phone to save myself from going deaf. “ What is it, mom? Why are you screaming? Did I do something wrong?” I asked, wiggling my eyebrows in confusion. “ You can’t be serious Max. Tell me you didn’t forget about the mating ball in Moonlight pack?” She questioned accusingly. “ Shit! Is it today? Omg. I will be there as fast as I can”. “ You better be. “ She grunted in disappointment and hanged up. Urgh! I forgot about that stupid event. How can I be so disappointing? I muttered sarcastically. I knew how serious my father was about me finding my mate before my inauguration. Now he will think I’m not ready to take over the pack. Shit! “I need to get going”. I lost interest in our intense activity and felt my cock relaxing. “ Let’s continue this some other time. “ I grumbled to Bree. She pulled my cock out of her mouth and mumbled. “But you just got here a few minutes ago.” She whined and removed herself from in-between my legs. I quickly got up on my feet and put on my business suit. I run my fingers through my hair and twirled to Bree who was lying in bed with her lustful gaze on me. “ Same time, same place next week?” She inquired. A smirk appeared on my face and I replied in a quirky way: “Is the sky blue? Hell yeah! - Same time! “ “ Haha, can’t wait”. She laughed out loud and said seductively. I pulled her into a short but sweet kiss, pushing my tongue into her mouth. I drew away in a hurry and picked up my bag, ready to leave. With one last kiss, I stroll out of our meeting place into my V8 and sped off into the night. It was almost midnight when I arrived at the moonlight pack. I parked my car and strode towards the location of the ball. Just as I walked into their pack house, my nose pick up a sweet wonderful scent. Strawberry and citrus. The scent made my dick hard instantly. My wolf, Matrix was stirring and purring in my mind. She is here! Mate is here! My wolf howled in excitement. Shit! He was telling me to find a mate, claim her and mark her. I shut him out and blocked him. I made my way out of the pack house into the garden, knowing my mate will find me first and I can reject her secretly, without anyone knowing.
Chapter 7 Chapter 7: Rejection
//Emily// Mate! My wolf was howling like crazy in my head with her tail wagging from side to side. “Emily find a mate... find your mate now!” Leah was pacing anxiously in my mind. Plunging me to follow the scent. The voices around me faded away and I splinted following the scent. The scent was so enticing and heavenly. It was something I had never smelled in my entire life before. It was a nerve calming kind of smell that had my wolf purring like a kitten. I was led out of the pack house and across the lawns into the garden, where the scent of my mate was intense and strong. I looked beyond the flowers and saw the muscular back of a man. This back features looked familiar. Who’s back was that? I asked myself. I took slow but confident steps towards him and felt my heart beating fast with no rest. The unknown man slowly turned and I came face to face with a pair of familiar silver gray eyes. Maxxxxx! I yelled inwardly. Both our eyes opened widely and our jaws dropped ten meters down, almost hitting the floor. Max is my mate! I knew it! I knew it! Ooh my god... I’m so happy. “ I know you will never disappoint me, moon goddess. Thank you goddess... thank you so much. I love you. I could kiss you right now.” I mumbled in joy. A broad smile crept on my face and my face brightened up instantly. Excitement filled my entire being. I inhaled his tantalizing wood and cinnamon scent. Leah purred in admiration. Max was in a black tuxedo and his well built muscles could easily be seen through his clothing. His hair was neatly styled. He looked dashingly handsome. My mate was perfect for me. We stood there staring into each other’s eyes for ten good minutes. That was when I knew something was off. Max’s face was void of emotions. He wasn’t happy. Like how I expected him to be. Didn’t he want me as a mate? My excitement was short-lived. His gaze turned cold and his eyes were filled with anger and disgust. I shuddered at his cold gaze. I held back a stubborn whimper that was threatening to leave my lips. A shiver of great intensity, run down my spine but I couldn’t look away from him. “ You !! This must be a joke of the century “, were the first words that left his mouth. He seems to be in a trance as I watched him shake his head vigorously, trying to clear his mind and make meaning of what was happening. “ Max, l ... “ , even before I could utter a sentence to him, his voice cut me off and before I could ask what was wrong, he grumbled the words I feared the most: “ I Maxwell Warner, future Alpha of Spring Breakers Pack reject you Emily Starling, daughter of Alpha Ethan and Luna Elena Starling as my mate! and Luna!” His disgusted and angry eyes hardened and rested on me. “ Nooo,” my wolf howled. Growling in pain as pains rippled through us. My heart felt like it had been shattered into tiny pieces. Pain surged across my heart burning into my chest and spreading through my body. My legs weakened and I collapsed onto the floor. Time seemed to slow down and I suddenly couldn’t breathe. I felt like all the air had been sucked out of my lungs. My ears and nose felt like they have been stuffed with cotton and my senses couldn’t process his words correctly. Did I hear him right? Was this Max speaking or it was someone else? My ears must be deceiving me. “ Accept the damn rejection and let’s get this over with”, he spat in disdain. His words continued breaking my shattered heart. “ But why Max?... why? You didn’t give me the chance to be your mate? Not even a fair chance Max.” I found myself asking. He laughed hysterically. “ Mate? I don’t need a mate. Not an ugly duckling like yourself!! “ Seeing so much hatred in his eyes had coldness creep on my skin. What did I do to be at the receiving end of his hatred? Did I wait for my mate, for nothing? No this can’t be the end. “ Please Max... please!” A sob build in my throat once more. I studied my trembling legs and began taking study steps toward him... “ Please mate, I’ll do better. I can be the mate you want. I have waited for years to be your mate. Give me...” I halted my steps and stopped in my statement when my eyes caught something I didn’t see from afar. Max had a red lipstick smeared on his face and love marks on his neck. He smelled like sex and a scent of a woman. Was my mate with a woman before coming here? My heart stung painfully. Is the woman the reason for his rejection? Was all my dreams a scam? A lie? The thought of it felt like a sharp knife had been shoved through my bleeding heart. It was just another slap on my face. I backed away nearly tripping on my heels. A smirk tugged his lips with a knowing look in his eyes. My veins boiled in anger and my eyes in fury. My wolf growled in rage and I had to hold her before she forced us to shift. “ Accept it!“ he roared as he stood there with a cold demeanor. I couldn’t decipher his true emotions. It was as though he didn’t feel any of the pain I was going through. “Do it!” He exclaimed. I have always thought, that having a mate was a blessing and a gift but this wasn’t the goddess’s blessing. This was torture. A curse. I stood there frozen in place not daring to move my trembling legs. I knew once I move I will collapse to the ground. I exhaled and looked dead in his cold eyes. With the last bit of dignity left, I mastered the courage and did what any she-wolf was scared to do... “ I Emily Starling, daughter of Alpha Ethan and Elena Starling accept your rejection and break the bond between us!” I felt a sharp snap in my head as the mating bond broke. I stepped back trying so hard not to gasp for air. My chest contracted painfully. Pushing me to hit my chest continually and my tears rolled down like a waterfall. Max suddenly yelped and doubled over in pain. He held onto the closest thing for support. His eyes flickered from silver gray to black as if he was having an internal battle with his wolf. But it was too late for his wolf to intervene. After what felt like torture, the pain subsided in less time. Although the burning in my heart continued to linger. I put myself together and wiped my tear stained face before I bent over to remove my heels. I whirled on my barefoot, ready to leave the cursed garden when Max towered over me. He gripped my chin between his fingers with such a force that I knew I’ll have bruises in the morning. “If you ever tell anyone about this. I’ll kill you and your entire pack.” Max threatened and his eyes flashed a deeper shade of gray. I whimpered a little and stared into the eyes I once loved, with disdain. I felt bitterness grow within me and I was fuming with fury. No one threatens my family and Pack... I was not someone weak to allow myself to be threatened by this jackass. I fought and struggled out of his grip. I smacked him hard across his face and completed by kicking him where the sun doesn’t shine. He yelped and stumbled back holding his precious baby-making organ (dick) in his hand. “ Don’t ever in your miserable life threaten my family and expect me not to fight back. You will regret this day Max. I promise you” I growled at him, gritting my teeth in rage. I turned on my shaky legs and walked away. Not before I heard him growling behind me. I entered the pack house with my head lowered. Hiding my face and red eyes. I succeeded in getting away from the crowd and made my way to the stairs. I ascended the first four steps when my dad's voice echoed: “ Emily come with me. I want to introduce you to an important guest of mine “. He said in hesitation. “ Not tonight father. I’m not in the mood to meet new people”, my voice broke a little as I carried on. “Perhaps another time” . “ Sweetheart this person came all the way here to meet you”. I didn’t wait for him to finish and I journey up the stairs. “Emily. “ “Emily listen to me” I didn’t look back. I rushed away and burst into my room. I was tired of meeting any new person already and I didn’t care whoever it may be; my mate had rejected me. I didn’t bother to change into my nightdress. I curled up on my bed like a ball and allowed my tears to flow.
