The Alphas Thorn

Her

Evelyn sat patiently, her nimble fingers weaving through Riley's hair as her younger sister prattled on about the upcoming Moonlight Ball hosted by Alpha Gabriel Thorn. Despite Riley's excitement, Evelyn couldn't muster any enthusiasm for such events, finding them distasteful at best. The spectacle of young women parading themselves in hopes of finding their supposed soulmates or chosen ones left her cold.

At 26, Evelyn had endured her fair share of suitors, none of whom had managed to capture her interest. Her sole focus was her family, particularly Riley. Despite her efforts to be the dutiful daughter, Evelyn always felt like an outsider within her own family, like a thorn among roses. Their loveless dynamic only fueled her determination to provide a better life for Riley, one filled with love and safety, the kind they both deserved.

"Riley, you're too young to worry about such matters," Evelyn gently chided, brushing off her sister's musings about finding a mate. "Those women are chasing illusions." When Riley pressed further about Evelyn's own desires, she vehemently rejected the notion of seeking a mate, insisting her priority was taking care of their family. With a final admonishment to go to bed, Evelyn saw her sister off and then set about completing the evening chores, knowing full well the consequences of leaving them undone.

As she made her way to her cramped bedroom down the corridor, the hushed whispers emanating from her parents' room pricked at her curiosity. Though she knew eavesdropping would invite punishment if caught, an instinctual sense of foreboding urged her to listen in despite the risks. The words Evelyn overheard sent her world into a tailspin. "She must marry him now, there's no alternative! It's what we've arranged from the start!" Her mother's voice was determined. "But what if she refuses?" her father countered. "Then we'll have to apply more pressure. If she realizes Riley's safety is at stake, she'll comply." Evelyn dashed away with urgency, her mind racing with the need to escape, even though she had no clear destination in mind. She waited until she knew her parents were asleep. "Riley, wake up," she urged, shaking her sister gently. As Riley stirred, Evelyn spoke with urgency, her voice low but determined. "Do you trust me?" Riley nodded, sensing the seriousness of the situation. "We're in danger. We have to leave now, okay? Stay quiet and follow my lead."

With swift movements, Evelyn gathered a few essential items for Riley, knowing time was of the essence. She had only one person she could turn to for help, her sole true friend. If she could reach his house safely, he could arrange transportation to ensure their escape. As Evelyn and Riley ventured through the thick woods, the rain intensified, making their trek even more challenging. Slipping and sliding, Evelyn worried about leaving visible tracks. She hoped the rain would wash away any evidence. Exhausted, they arrived at Malik's house, collapsing at his doorstep. Startled by the noise, Malik, armed and ready, opened the door to find Evelyn in distress. After explaining the danger they faced, they devised a plan to escape on the next ship leaving the port outside the city of Ambrosia. Despite the risks, they knew it was their only chance. With determination, they prepared to leave, but their departure was interrupted by the ominous presence of yellow eyes in the trees. "We're too late!" Evelyn cried out. Her father’s Wolfpack surrounded them and snatched up Riley. “No!” both Malik and Evelyn yelled. “unhand her right now!” Her father Derrick just chuckled. “ How many times have I told you to not underestimate me Evelyn!” “It appears you believe you are going somewhere and taking my daughter with you!” As what he said was registering she sank to her knees. Why would he say “my daughter” as if she didn’t exist. Than again she didn’t expect anything less from a family who always treated her as an outsider. “I heard you!” She screamed. “How can you treat your family like that?” I’m not marrying anyone and Riley needs me here not with someone as cruel as you guys!” “ What Riley needs, he accentuated the words one by one, is for you to do as your told or we know there will be consequences.” Just like that he threatened a five year old, just when she thought her parents couldn’t steep any lower here it was. Her mother walked out from behind her father. “You see Evelyn we will Marry you off though I couldn’t imagine anyone wanting such plain goods as you!” If you don’t follow through with the arraignment than your little friend and sister here will pay for your insubordination. They surrounded Malik and Riley Evelyns head was spinning, there was no way out of this but defeat. She hated this, and she hated them. She made a silent vow to herself that day. These monsters would pay and she would rescue her friend and her little sister if it was the last thing she does. “Time is ticking Evelyn” her father stated impatiently, “What will it be?” She yelled at the guards to release her arms which they held tightly behind her back. Her father gave his nod of approval. Riley stood up mud covering her everywhere. She walked almost menacingly towards her mother and father a smirk on her face. She got very close to both of them, the guards uneasy looking at each other ready to grab her if needed. Her father held up his hand. She continued her approach till her eyelashes were almost touching. “ I will do it for my sister and my friend, but make no mistake you will pay!” Her father just laughed not breaking eye contact and said, “ Maybe you do have some value after all.” Her mother snortled next to him. “ Oh honey she will always be a thorn in everyone’s side.” “Than she looked at Evelyn. Evelyn gave up along time ago hoping to have a loving relationship with her parents especially her mother. Her father though cold at least had his moments of care although brief he almost look like he felt bad the way her mother treated her at times. Almost. Her mother approached her. “ he will probably send you back seeing how plain you are as so many others have done in the past. Sad that you are 26 and never able to find someone who loves you.” Evelyn thought she would feel something from the sting of her mothers words. Instead she felt nothing, numb inside. Before they started the long trek back towards their house Evelyn looked at Malik. Tears where running down his face. She had tried so hard to hide the fact she loved him like a brother so they could never hurt him but she failed miserably. They exchanged a look that only they knew. She would have her revenge, and she would come back for them.