~Diana’s POV~
The days went by quickly. It had been three days since I found myself trapped in this body, trying to avoid everyone and bracing for what was to come. I knew I’d have to face reality sooner or later. My father had been pestering me to receive visitors who came to congratulate him on my recovery from the strange illness.
“Miss, the Beta of the Moon Pack sent his regards and gifts congratulating you on your recuperation,” a maid announced from the doorway. I had instructed my father not to let anyone in. I wasn’t sure if I was ready for this.
“Come in.” The maid entered, bowing slightly, and placed the gifts, wrapped in colored silk, in my walk-in closet.
“Is my father around?” I asked the strange words hanging in the air. I still hadn’t grown used to them.
“No, he went to the pack-house,” she replied. I nodded and waved my hand, dismissing her. It felt strange to see how they all respected this body and feared her words.
“You’re not ready to receive visitors yet, Malia. Are you still in pain?” My father entered, bombarding me with questions. I glanced at the wall clock. It was already past 9 in the evening. I had been occupied with reading.
“I’m not in any pain,” I said, half-smiling to reassure him.
“I’ll be throwing a party in two days to celebrate and thank the Moon Goddess for bringing you back to me, hale and hearty,” my father said, stroking my hair.
“Is that really necessary?” I asked, narrowing my eyes. A party meant I’d have to attend, and I was afraid my cover would be blown if I couldn’t recognize people this body knew though Celeste had been of help filling me in with some details.
“It is. We had lost hope after consulting all the pack doctors who found no cure for your strange illness. And here you are, my precious daughter, hale and healthy. We should be thankful to the Moon Goddess,” he replied, excitement in his voice as he rubbed my hands.
“Okay then,” I said, feeling I had no choice but to go along with his decision. He seemed to dote on this body. Tears welled up in my eyes as I remembered my own struggles, having no parents and working as a maid.
“Don’t cry, my little princess. You know how much I hate seeing you tear up,” my father said, wiping away my tears.
“Lucian will be back tomorrow from the city. He’s been searching for a cure for your illness,” my father said, and I yelped, my lips parting in shock.
“Luc-ian,” I stuttered, the name feeling oddly familiar on my lips.
“Your mate and betrothed,” Celeste’s voice rang in my head, and I gasped, my breath catching in my throat.
“What? You must have missed him greatly,” my father teased. I felt my cheeks redden with embarrassment as I wondered why his name had such an impact on me. I wasn’t Malia. My father left after tucking me into bed.
“I don’t think I’m ready for this,” I said to Celeste in my head, pacing and biting my nails.
“You are. Everything will be fine. The Moon Goddess gave you a rare opportunity; you have to make the most of it,” Celeste reassured me, and I nodded thoughtfully.
I stared at my reflection in the mirror. It was still unbelievable. This wasn’t me. I was dressed in a midnight blue gown. The dress shimmered under the light, with silver and deep blue hues blending like a river under the moonlight. The fabric hugged my frame, smooth and silky, almost too delicate to touch. Silver thread weaved across the bodice, creating the illusion of stars in a midnight sky.
The neckline was elegant yet daring, curving slightly to accentuate my shoulders. The long, sheer sleeves were adorned with tiny silver beads that caught the light with every movement. The skirt flowed outward in soft, weightless layers, billowing like clouds as I turned. It was the kind of dress that made you feel like you belonged in another world—a world of royalty and magic.
I traced my fingers over the soft fabric, almost in disbelief. For a moment, I could almost believe I belonged in this body. Almost.
“Miss, it’s time,” a maid announced. My heart pounded in my chest, and I clenched my fists. I had to make this right. No one could notice my nervousness or see through my facade.
“Miss, it’s time,” the maid said. My heart was pounding, and I clenched my fists. I had to stay calm so no one would see I was nervous.
The room was full of laughter, music, and talking. A band played soft music while people from different packs greeted each other. I smiled and nodded at them.
The chandeliers sparkled and gave the room a soft light. The walls were decorated with blue and silver hues for the Moon Goddess. Lanterns shaped like moons floated around, making the room feel magical.
My heart pounded as I walked through the crowd, my heels clicking on the polished floor. Each step felt heavier, but I forced myself to smile and nod at those who greeted me. My fingers twitched slightly as I waved, but no one seemed to notice. I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself. This wasn’t my world, but tonight, I had to pretend it was.
“Malia, my princess. Come here,” my father’s voice boomed, interrupting my thoughts. I hurried over to him, smiling as he held my arm.
“He’s been asking for you every day since you woke up,” my father said. I smiled and shook the hand of the man beside him, who looked bewildered. He seemed to be in his late thirties.
“Why are you acting so distant? Come here, my dear,” the brown-haired man said, pulling me into a hug. I chuckled. Everyone seemed to love her, doting on her.
“Yeah, you’ve already forgotten. He’s one of the closest friends your father has that I told you about,” Celeste reminded me.
“Oh the Alpha of the Night Growlers Pack, more like an uncle", I hummed in agreement but why are there so many Alphas?
“You didn't know about the Crescent Moon Pack, did you?”Celeste asked and I only mumbled to myself, the name sounds oddly familiar.
“The Lycanthrope Pack, the Lycan King's Pack”, Celeste answered and I gasped, my jaws tightening.
“Holy f**k!! So, Malia is of Lycan's true blood”, The piece started to set in.
The night dragged on, and I grew tired of sneaking away from the endless guests. I found a quiet corner, slipping off my heels. I let out a loud sigh and leaned back in the armchair. This was exhausting. As the Luna of the pack, I’d always been kept away from glamorous events. Rolf had made sure of it, keeping me from embarrassing myself at pack gatherings. I scoffed, feeling my blood boil as I clenched my fists.
The soft whispers of people reached my ears.
“Alpha Lucian” someone gasped. That name sounded familiar. No way, he couldn’t have arrived this early. My breath hitched in my throat as I furrowed my brows, staring into a pair of golden hazel eyes that gleamed under the light—intense and captivating as if they could see right through me.
His tall, muscular frame moved with strength and grace. His broad shoulders filled out his black suit, the fabric clinging to his form. His movements were smooth, almost predatory, like a wolf stalking its prey.
His deep brown hair was tousled in a way that looked effortless, with just a hint of wildness. His chiseled face, high cheekbones, and full lips had an almost magnetic pull.
“There you are, my love,” his deep, husky voice sent shivers down my spine. As he moved closer, I caught a scent—a mix of cedar and something primal. Something intoxicating.
“Mate", Celeste murmured in my mind.
I swallowed the lumps in my throat, suddenly aware that I was holding my breath. This was Lucian.