Two
1056 Words
Chapter 2
“There's no way I can go back there," Annie said, her voice firm. "What if they find out about who I am and besides I promised my mother that I will never step foot in that pack ever again."
“But Annie—” Sarah attempted to convince her but she was cut short by Annie.
“No, but, Sarah,” Annie was adamant and Sarah sighed exhaustedly.
“It's been years, trust me they won't recognize you at first glance,” she said convincingly.
“I doubt that I'm certain they would know,” said Annie as she stood akimbo.
“Look, I respect your feelings and whatever decision you make. But Annie, your mother's life is at stake here. We don't have many options."
Hearing Sarah’s explicit words, Annie's heart sank.
The mere mention of Astral Pack sent shivers down her spine. The memories of the torment and cruelty she had endured there were still fresh in her mind.
Although she knew that her mother's life was hanging in the balance, her choices were limited.
A brief moment passed by, and Annie was still lost in thoughts as she wrestled with her feelings.
“Fine, I... I'll go to Astral pack. After all, I have no choice, my mother’s life is at stake and I can't sit by and do nothing,” she sadly lowered her head.
Sarah gazed at Annie pithily and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder, she knew how challenging this decision was for her.
"Annie, I'm proud of your courage. I know it won't be easy, but it's the only alternative we have right now. You're doing this for your mother, and I'll be there to support you every step of the way."
A trail of tears escaped Annie's eyes, but she managed a small, grateful smile. "T-thank you, Sarah. I don't know what I'd do without you."
“Hey, what are friends for?” Sarah smiled and she embraced her. “Trust me the pack won't know when they see you.”
“I hope so,” Annie sighed at her reassuring words, and she disentangled from her.
“Let's go inside and make sure you have everything you need,” Sarah said and Annie nodded.
While they both headed inside the house, Sarah’s checked her screen before informing Annie.
“I texted my younger brother, David. I made him know he’d be the one to drive you to the pack.”
“Thank you, Sarah, but what about my mother? I don't know who could—”
“Leave your mother to me, I will take care of her in the hospital while you away,” Sarah promised, and Annie’s eyes watered.
****
Three hours later, the drive to the pack's border was silent, yet tension in the air was livid.
Annie seated next to David in the truck, couldn't help but think about the heart-wrenching past and the uncertain future ahead of her.
David pulled the car in front of Astral Pack border, and his truck screeched before he turned to Annie.
"You take care of yourself, Annie. I'll be here to pick you up when it's over, okay?” He informed.
Annie glanced at him and she forced a fragile smile,” Thank you for everything, David, and for helping me get this far."
“It's nothing,” David chuckled nervously as he shifted uncomfortably in his seat.
Annie stepped out of the truck, then she grabbed her luggage before heading to the pack territory.
After many years, Annie noticed the curious glances from the pack members, but she tried to pay them no mind.
Sarah was right; the pack didn't recognize her.
Her mother’s story refreshed in her mind.
According to her mother's stories, her father had once held the title of Delta in the pack, but he met a tragic death during a rogue attack.
She made her way to the pack house, the inquisitiveness from the members were evident as they watched her every step.
Annie sought thoroughly for the chief maid and she found her, Mrs. Williams. After a few discussions, she agreed to let her work with the maids and she would paid in return.
Hence, Mrs Williams led Annie to a spacious room where the other maids were gathered. They all looked up at her as she entered, their expressions a mix of curiosity and glare.
"Everyone, this is Annie," Mrs Williams announced to the maids. "She'll be working with us starting tomorrow.”
The maids nodded and went back to their tasks, but their eyes remained on Annie, sizing her up.
Annie tried to ignore their stares and curious whispering about who she was, she knew the pack had long forgotten about her and her family.
Annie and the maids were oriented about the coronation tomorrow before they were transported to the royal bath.
Annie stepped into the bath, and she couldn't help but marvel at the luxurious surroundings. The water was warm and fragrant, and the soap was scented with lavender. The soft towel that was provided for her was made of the finest cotton, and the the uniform she was given was of the highest quality.
While Annie tied her hair into a neat bun, she could hear the maids giggling as they whispered about the alpha prince being a handsome freak.
Annie didn't pay attention as she felt prepared for her first task; she was here because of her mother and nothing more.
As Annie made her way to the laundry area with a basket of clothes to wash, her nose suddenly caught a scent; it was so enticing that it made her pause.
It was a scent that she had never smelled before, one that was both alluring and comforting.
“What's that?” She murmured, and unable to resist, she followed the fragrance, which led her to a set of grand double doors.
Her legs acted on their own accord as she stopped in front of a golden door, and cautiously pushed it open as she stepped inside.
“Mate!” Annie exclaimed shockingly, and her heart skipped a beat.
There, in the room, was a huge man looming above the woman who left her utterly stunned.
Her mate was cheating on her, not with her but with another woman!
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