Marked by the Lycan King

7

Alpha Ryan hurried forward with a group of maids trailing behind him, forcing a big respectful smile on his face. “Your Majesty,” he said, “Welcome to the Crimson Moon Pack.”

The tall figure who stepped out of the black Maybach barely looked at him. He gave a small nod. “There’s no need coming to welcome me at this hour.” Ryan cleared his throat. “I know, but I must greet you properly. This is the first time we’ve met since your parents’ burial. You’ve grown into a fine young man. I’m sure they would be so proud.”

Matteo’s face stayed cold, a little displeased with his words, he had only come here for his parents but he had started to regret it.

Without saying another word, the Lycan King turned and walked toward the main house, his long coat flapping behind him like.

Ryan’s face changed, he hated being dismissed like that, but he swallowed the anger and followed quietly, showing the him to the best room they had.

“Are you ready?

Aiden’s mother’s voice was soft as she stepped behind him, her eyes meeting his through the mirror.

“You look handsome. Kylie would be so happy for you.”

He remained quiet staring at his reflection, his expression unreadable, his eyes completely devoid of warmth, before slowly adjusting his tie.

“Do you think I’m doing the right thing?” His voice was low with uncertainty, “What if I’m wrong?” he added, his brows tightening slightly. “What if… she’s innocent?”

A hint of confusion flickered in his eyes, but it vanished just as quickly.

“No,” he muttered, his jaw tightening. “Lyka was there, she saw her push Kylie.”

His mother stepped closer, cupping his face gently. “Oh, my baby…” she murmured. “You’re just nervous.” She smiled softly.

“You’re no longer a child. You’re a grown man now… a Beta.”

Her tone became firmer“Some decisions cannot be undone.”

“You could have believed Myra when she said Kylie took her own life… but you know your sister. She had every reason to live.”

“Whatever reason you chose to marry Lyka… you must stand by it. For the rest of your life.”

She leaned forward and kissed his forehead before pulling him into a brief embrace.

“And remember,” she whispered, “as long as I live, I will always support you.”

A knock sounded at the door.

“Aiden! Hurry up—you don’t want to be late for your own wedding!”

“We’re coming,” his mother replied.

She straightened his collar one last time.

“And be a good husband.”

The venue was breathtaking. White flowers hung on every arch. Golden ribbons caught the sunlight. Tables were loaded with food, and soft music played everywhere. Servants ran around fixing everything for what everyone kept calling the wedding of the year..

Guests had already begun to arrive, Alphas, Betas, high-ranking wolves from different packs.

At the center, Alpha Ryan stood beside his Luna, greeting everyone with a smile.

Upstairs…

Myra stood in front of the mirror. Her reflection stared back at her, so empty and pathetic.

She applied the final touches to her makeup before gathering her curly ginger hair into a loose bun, a few strands falling gently around her face.

Her emerald eyes shimmered faintly under the light.

“Knock, knock.”

Kendall came in quietly, holding a tray of food. His face looked tight and worried. “You should eat something,” he said softly, setting the tray near her bed. “The ceremony starts soon.”

Myra didn’t move. Her voice came out small and tired. “Why are you being kind to me? Everyone else thinks I killed Kylie.”

Kendall’s eyes got darker,“I don’t know what Alpha meant by that… but I know you, Myra. You’re not a killer. And I understand you, your mate is getting married in front of you, you'll be in unbearable pain, the least I can do is to be kind to you."

Myra eyes welled up with tears before chuckling, "You're going to make me cry and ruin in my make up, I should be at least beautiful while they break my heart right?" Both of them laughed, the air feeling lighter.

Knock, knock...

“The Luna requests your presence downstairs,” the voice said. “The wedding is about to begin.” Myra exhaled softly.

After one last look at herself before smiling at Kendal, "Let's go."

Downstairs, Lyka was already waiting. She was dressed in white, she looked radiant, her gown hugging her curves perfectly, her expression glowing with excitement.

Lyka’s eyes lit up when she saw Myra, but seeing Kendal following her at her back, her face flashing with displeasure before smiling again.

“Sister,” she beamed, stepping forward. “You look absolutely beautiful… almost like a bride.”

Her smile widened slightly. “Your mate would have been so lucky.”

She covered her mouth lightly, “Oops… I’m sorry.”

Myra didn’t react much, she held Kendall’s arms and smiled, "We are going to be late, you wouldn't want to miss your wedding because you were busy hurling insults like some desperate bitch." Kendal stifled a laugh. She walked past them without another glance.

Lyka’s smile twitched, irritation flashing across her face, but she quickly composed herself. Today was her day.

The moment Myra stepped into the venue, everyone looked at her. The rumors about her crimes had already spread, but Myra didn't let that affect mood. She stood there alone, her face and temperament was dazzling, she was like an ethereal beauty standing in the middle of ruin.

Her gaze drifted across the crowd, almost everyone in the pack had come, gathered in groups of four and five, she sipped her juice lazily till her eyes landed on a secluded figure. His presence was quiet… yet suffocating.

His features were sharp, and three dimensional almost too perfect.

As if sensing her gaze, he slowly opened his eyes. And looked directly at her. Myra’s breath hitched.

She lowered her head instantly, breaking the connection. Across the hall, Matteo’s lips curved slightly.

That ginger hair again. He leaned back, watching her with curiosity. Intrigued, he considered standing… walking over…

But before he could move someone pulled Myra away.

“The ceremony is starting.”