VIDA

"Hey, Vida!" one of my co-workers called out, his voice dripping with mockery. "What's it like being such a freak? How does it feel?" Everyone laughed and murmured more mocking words.

“Ugly!”

“Murderer!”

“Bitch!”

“Wolfless killer!”

“What a useless omega!”

Instead of looking at them, I just bowed my head down and let myself be unfazed with their taunting. This was a routine I had grown accustomed to over the years. The whispers, the sneers, the alienation—I had heard it all before. And I’m used to it.

I stretched my weary arms, feeling the ache from the long and arduous day at work. I toiled away in the alcohol factory, where the demand for top-notch liquors and wine never seemed to wane.

What made our factory unique was that all the employees, including myself, were werewolves. Yet, even within this werewolf community, there existed a hierarchy.

The high-ranking werewolves enjoyed shorter work hours and generous pay, while those of us in lower ranks, like the omega werewolves, toiled away for extra hours.

As an omega, I found myself working diligently alongside with my fellow omegas. Despite the demanding hours, I found solace in this job. It allowed me to save up for my future expenses and work towards achieving independence.

With a contented sigh and a faint smile, I realized I was already fortunate.

In this vast world, I find myself without anyone to lean on. My parents are a distant memory, as I have no recollection of them. Curiously, my auntie never divulged any additional information about them.

Speaking of my auntie, I need to hurry home. She's ordered me to clean the bathroom once again, claiming it wasn't up to her standards. Hastily, I darted away, anxious to reach home promptly.

"She's going to despise me!" I whispered breathlessly as I hurried along. Upon arriving home, my auntie's disapproving glare greeted me.

"Why are you so late?" she inquired, her tone filled with annoyance. I cast my eyes downward, attempting to catch my breath.

"I-I'm... sorry," I muttered softly. She rolled her eyes and shook her head in exasperation.

"Why did I even allow you into my home when you're utterly useless!" With those words, my auntie turned and walked away. I let out a sigh of relief.

At least this time, she hadn't resorted to physical punishment. Making my way to the attic, which served as my room, I couldn't help but notice the numerous boxes scattered about. They contained old ornaments from years gone by, remnants of the house's past.

My auntie, Auntie Olivia, is my father's younger sister. Despite her indifference towards me, I still felt a sense of gratitude for her providing me with a roof over my head and three meals a day.

Placing my bag on the worn table in the attic, I contemplated whether I should combine cleaning with taking a shower, conserving water to keep the bills at bay.

Taking a moment to catch my breath, I proceeded downstairs to tackle the remaining chores assigned by my auntie.

"Oh, you're here!" I heard a scoff from behind. It was my eldest cousin, his face contorted with disgust.

Their treatment was nothing new to me; I had grown accustomed to it over the years since coming to their home. Survival meant acclimating to their ways.

"Hello, Harold," I greeted politely. He glared at me with venom in his eyes.

"Forget it! Don't you dare call me that! You repulsive, filthy little omega!" he spat before storming out of the room.

Though I claimed to be immune to their words and actions, each insult pierced my heart like a sharp blade, as they are my family.

I was on my own, with no one to shield me or stand by my side. Perhaps, this was my destined fate, to endure such treatment. I sighed, pushing the pain aside, and resumed cleaning the house diligently, ensuring everything was in its rightful place.

"Next, I must tend to the bathroom," I whispered to myself, grabbing a fresh set of clothes before returning downstairs to begin the task.

As I showered, I scrubbed the tiles meticulously, ensuring a spotless bowl, so as not to invite their wrath and avoid their scathing remarks about my supposed incompetence.

After thirty minutes, feeling refreshed, I stepped out of the bathroom, only to be called by my auntie.

"Vida, hurry up! We need to get to the mansion, or I'll be late because of you!" My auntie exclaimed, urging me to prepare.

Glancing at the clock, I realized it was almost seven in the evening, and my auntie need to go and work at the nearby mansion.

This was no ordinary wealthy family; it was the Alpha family's residence.

With age catching up to her, my auntie contemplated retirement, passing the responsibilities on to me.

The weight of the impending role made me nervous. I questioned my abilities, unsure if I would excel.

Observing my hesitation, my auntie frowned. "Don't just stand there! Go and make yourself presentable. Don't forget to apply your prosthetic make-up!"

"Do I really have to?" I asked, dreading the thought of putting on that irritating prosthetic make-up. Ever since my parents' passing, I had been wearing it. She scoffed at my reluctance.

"Do I need to repeat myself? Your face is too intimidating! We don't want to attract other she-wolves because of you!" My auntie explained with an exasperated huff.

I sighed and nodded, resigned to the fact. I retreated to my room and reluctantly applied the make-up, avoiding the reflection in the old table's mirror. The sight of my transformed face brought me nothing but displeasure.

Once I finished applying the make-up, I descended the stairs and found my auntie waiting at the door. As her gaze met mine, she simply stared and proceeded to exit. It was then that I noticed Harold, wearing a smirk, observing me closely.

"Nice face, freak!" he jeered, bursting into laughter.

I lowered my gaze and obediently trailed behind my auntie as we made our way to her workplace.

Upon arriving at the mansion, all eyes turned toward me, their gazes fixated as if I were some peculiar attractions at a circus, drawing a crowd of onlookers.

Their curious stares made me feel exposed, causing me to halt in my tracks. With my head hung low, I nervously rubbed my arms, despising the way they scrutinized me.

"Vida! Why are you just standing there?" my auntie called out, striding towards me with the intention of slapping me for my momentary distraction.

Thankfully, I noticed her movement in time and swiftly dodged the blow. No one uttered a word.

My auntie scoffed, rolled her eyes in annoyance, and resumed walking. I simply followed her inside, silently enduring the weight of their judgment.

VIDA

Auntie Olivia and I hurriedly made our way to the kitchen. Upon our arrival, we were greeted by a bustling scene of she-wolves hard at work.

Everything was meticulously arranged, from the gleaming pans and plates to the assortment of cooking utensils.

Some kitchen assistants diligently peeled potatoes, while others busied themselves with washing the vegetables that would be used for tonight's meal. As soon as they spotted my auntie, they offered their greetings, “Hello Miss Olivia.”

Taking a quick glance around, you could discern the hierarchical structure in place, with designated tasks assigned according to one's rank.

As always, I received disapproving glances and hushed whispers, but I had grown accustomed to such treatment. It was nothing new, for I had endured far worse.

“Who’s that?”

“Why does she look like that?”

"She looks absolutely dreadful! I can't bear to look at her face," one of them remarked, promptly retreating to the bathroom as if she were about to vomit. Others simply cast disgusted frowns in my direction.

"My goodness, Vida! Quit standing there and fetch me the pans!" my auntie commanded, her voice filled with impatience.

Obligingly, I scanned the area to locate the pans, then approached the counter to retrieve them.

However, as I reached for them, someone carelessly bumped into me, causing me to lose my grip. The pans crashed to the floor with a resounding clatter, reverberating throughout the kitchen.

‘Thud!’

‘Clang!’

‘Crack!’

I stood frozen in surprise as the person who bumped into me smirked and seamlessly merged into the crowd. My attention quickly shifted as my auntie's furious voice thundered through the air.

"VIDA! YOU STUPID, USELESS OMEGA!" she roared.

I cast my gaze downward, knowing deep down that it wasn't entirely my fault. However, I was certain that my auntie had no interest in hearing my side of the story.

Well, who would want to listen to me anyway?

Even before my auntie became my guardian, the people who knew my parents treated me as if I were invisible, as if I weren't even human. Their treatment mirrored that of my co-workers.

They were even worse than my auntie's family. They spat in my face and hurled insults my way.

They relentlessly branded me a cursed witch, an ungrateful ingrate.

The memories flooded back, echoing in my ears and searing into my heart. It hurt, but I refused to allow them to witness my tears; instead, I held them back.

"Sorry," I whispered, offering an apology. Auntie Olivia scowled in response. Gathering my composure, I picked up the fallen pans and dutifully brought everything over to her.

"You're truly clumsy! Stupid girl!" My auntie commented, continuing her work. I assisted her in preparing the food for the entire pack.

The mansion we were in belonged to the renowned and wealthy Golden Hades Pack—an ancient, distinguished, and well-regarded pack known for their strength and etiquette.

Once I finished helping my auntie, I found myself standing quietly in a corner, observing the others as they worked.

Fatigue gnawed at me, and I longed to return home for a decent and peaceful sleep before starting my own work.

"You, girl! Go and assist the others in preparing the food in the dining room!" One of the helpers called out.

I glanced at her, then looked around to confirm if she was referring to me. No one seemed to be paying attention. I tentatively pointed at myself, seeking clarification.

"Are you referring to me?" I inquired, seeking clarification. She frowned and directed a glare at me.

"Yeah, you're the only one who isn't busy at the moment! Get to it! Move your ass, freak!" she responded curtly.

I nodded, complying with her instruction. Stepping outside, I joined the others who had been assigned to assist in the dining room.

As I entered, my eyes widened in awe at the sight of the ceiling adorned with glistening crystal jewels, forming an exquisite chandelier.

The grandeur and elegance of it all captivated me, leaving me momentarily transfixed.

However, my fascination was abruptly interrupted as one of the helpers smacked my arm.

"Quit staring and start working!" she snapped.

Apprehensive of further reprimands, I quickly focused on the task at hand. A long table stood in the center of the room, positioned beneath the resplendent chandelier.

Adorning the walls were paintings that perfectly complemented the room's elegant and modern ambiance.

I diligently assisted in arranging the food on the table, taking care to ensure that no spills marred the pristine white tablecloth. The consequences for any mishap would undoubtedly be severe.

With the task completed, I returned to the kitchen.

Spotting my auntie near the doorway, donning a coat over her shoulder, I hurried toward her.

"Auntie, where are you going?" I inquired. She regarded me sternly.

"You stay here! If they aren't satisfied with the food, you'll have to make it right!" She instructed. My eyes widened in disbelief.

"B-But... but I have work tomorrow. I need to go to the factory," I protested, clutching the hem of her coat. Her scowl deepened as she forcefully pulled her coat from my grasp.

"You'll manage, so stop whining!" She retorted, then promptly exited the room, slamming the door behind her.

I gazed at the closed doors, a heavy sigh escaping my lips.

Will life ever offer me an ounce of respite? Seeking solace, I located a chair in the corner and sank down into it.

"Don't make me talk to her! I refuse to be in the company of a freak!"

"Look at her face! It's so hideous and terrifying!"

"Go ahead, approach her! Let's see if whatever she has on her face is contagious."

Their comments grew increasingly malicious. I bit my lip, feeling the sharp sting of their words.

It hurt, deep down, to be in this situation where every pair of eyes regarded me as the most repulsive, abominable creature they had ever encountered. With a heavy sigh, I lowered my head in resignation.

After enduring hours upon hours of this torment, the family finally finished their meal, and the plates were being collected for washing. Relief washed over me.

Finally, I could escape! It was time to go home.

Glancing at my wristwatch, I realized I only had three or four hours before my work began. I grumbled, letting out another sigh. I bid farewell to the others in the kitchen, but no one paid me any attention. So, I left.

"I hope I can squeeze in an hour of sleep," I muttered to myself, as I wandered down the hallway.

Lost in thought, I gazed out of a nearby window, observing the night sky adorned with twinkling stars.

Suddenly, my attention was drawn to someone on the balcony. Though it was not far from me, I could tell it was a man by his physique. Someone called out his name, causing me to gasp in shock.

“Blaze!”

It was none other than Blaze, the Alpha's son. The heir of the Golden Hades Pack.

BLAZE

When I arrived home, I was taken aback to find my entire family gathered around the dining table.

The spread of food before us was always lavish, but today it seemed more like a grand feast than usual.

I glanced at my mother, seated beside my father, and she smiled warmly, gesturing for me to take a seat on the other side of him. I couldn't help but feel curious as I observed their excitement.

Was my father about to make an important announcement?

"It seems like everyone is filled with anticipation," I remarked as I settled into my seat. My mother, Miranda, looked at me with a wide smile.

"Your father has something to share to everyone, son," she said, her smile never faltering as her gaze shifted towards my father.

“Blaze, son.” I turned my attention to him, but he simply shrugged his shoulders. With that, they began to partake in the meal.

It was a rare occasion for our entire family to dine together like this, and even more surprising to see important members of our pack joining us at the table.

"Well, the flavors tonight are absolutely delightful. Is the chef in a particularly good mood?" one of the elders inquired. I sampled the food and discovered that it truly was exceptional.

"Yes, it appears they have prepared this dinner with extra care," another chimed in.

I listened to their conversations as I silently enjoyed my meal. I was present mainly to hear what my father had to say.

Just moments ago, I had returned from managing the company and overseeing our sources of income.

As the heir to the pack, it was crucial for me to learn how to effectively govern and lead our pack.

"So, how's work, Blaze?" they inquired. I met their gaze with a smile.

"Everything is running smoothly. Nothing out of the ordinary," I replied.

They nodded and engaged in conversation amongst themselves. From the corner of my eye, I observed my father silently consuming his meal, while my mother attended to his needs.

To outsiders, they appeared to be a loving couple, but at times, I questioned whether my father truly loved my mother, given his impassive demeanor.

Shaking off those thoughts, I decided to focus on my food. A delectable assortment of desserts was presented before us, a testament to the kitchen's efforts in providing a truly satisfying dinner.

"Bring forth the wine," my father commanded. A servant promptly brought an aged bottle of wine, treasured by my father. A smirk crossed my lips.

"This is unexpected, father. I'm surprised you've chosen to unveil your prized wine for this occasion," I remarked with a smile. He glanced at me, his smile feeble and devoid of genuine warmth. It felt more like a mocking grin than a sincere expression.

"It's a special occasion," he uttered, rising from his seat.

The servant poured wine into my father's glass, followed by mine. As each person's glass was filled, my father surveyed the room, his eyes lingering on each individual.

"Well, now that everyone is gathered here, eagerly anticipating the announcement… Everyone, I officially declare that I will step down as the Alpha of Golden Hades and pass the mantle to my son," he proclaimed. I gazed at him, a mixture of amusement and surprise washing over me upon hearing his words.

Did I hear it correctly? Is he truly relinquishing his position?

Congratulations and well wishes flooded in from everyone, and I accepted them with gratitude. However, my surprise deepened when I learned of the condition attached to this transfer of power.

“Only if, Blaze will get married.”

"Excuse me?" I couldn't contain my reaction. He met my gaze, his smile now tinged with amusement.

"You heard me, my son. If you desire the throne, you must first take a wife," he reiterated.

The room fell into a hushed silence as I glared at my father. I couldn't say that I welcomed this stipulation.

I had attempted to court various women, but none had captured my heart. Marriage was not something I was prepared for at the moment.

"Father, can we discuss this thing first?" I confronted him, my voice tinged with frustration. He regarded me sternly.

"We can discuss it, but only after you marry and present a wife before me," he retorted. I stood up, facing him directly.

"That's absurd! You have no intention of relinquishing power to me. That's the real truth!" I exclaimed, raising my voice. My mother rose from her seat, a frown etched across her face as she looked at me.

"Blaze! Don't speak to your father like that! He is simply concerned for your well-being!" My mother reprimanded. I scoffed in disbelief.

"Seriously? If he's concerned, why am I being forced to marry someone? I don't need a woman to..." I began, but my father interrupted me.

"As an Alpha of the pack, you require a Luna by your side. Use your intellect for once, Blaze! You're no longer a child, and you must shoulder responsibilities," my father asserted. I rolled my eyes in exasperation.

"I don't need a Luna’s help! Currently, I have no need for one. If I were to accept a Luna, she would be my mate!" I retorted. My father smirked and casually patted my shoulders, treating my words as a joke.

"Well then, you better get started," he remarked.

The urge to punch him or unleash a string of curses surged within me. Without uttering another word, I drained the last drop of wine from my glass, rose from the table, and left the room.

The atmosphere in there was suffocating and aggravating. Why did my father insist on me marrying before bestowing the alpha rights upon me?

"Blaze, are you alright?" my wolf, Knoxx, inquired. I let out a sigh and made my way to my favorite spot—the balcony.

Upon reaching it, I retrieved a pack of cigarettes from my pocket and extracted one.

My lighter emerged from another pocket, and I ignited the cigarette. With a sigh, I gazed at the night sky, adorned with twinkling stars against the backdrop of darkness.

"Yeah, I'll be fine. I'm just pondering why my father insists on me marrying first before declaring me as the next Alpha," I mused, shaking my head slightly.

"So, should we search for our mate then?" Knoxx proposed.