Alpha Valerius

Fairy Tale Palace

The weather outside wasn't too happy.

When we got inside the car that was sent for us, I took my time to observe the clouds in the sky. They were gray, somber, like my mood. Any second now, the sky would shed it's tears, and it would be a perfect disguise for the ones that left traces on my cheeks. I wish I could return to the room I spent my whole life in, bury my face into the pillow that's seen so many of my tears, and cry the evening and night away.

The view of our house disappeared as we drove away. My father was ecstatic, radiating happy energy that exposed his overjoyed feelings. He was glad that his family would finally have the money to buy them food for the years that will come. New clothes, new house, new everything. And much more than they could ever hope for.

While I wither away in the arms of an alpha, they'll be pouring enormous amounts of food in their plate, sit by the fire that will warm their feet and laugh away the nights into happy mornings.

I was happy for them. Seeing my mother smile and my sister laugh, it was the finest cure for my sadness.

But I couldn't shake away the dark cloud over my head. My mind kept replaying the words that left my father's mouth and I kept wondering how my betrothed looks like. I knew very little of our generals. My disinterest for our warriors proved how much I disliked the war that fell upon our land and people. So many wounded, so many dead. And for what purpose? Another piece of land to celebrate how mighty and powerful our Alpha is?

Foolish.

Money can't buy them everything. So they use force and threats.

If my fiance leads the army with the intent of taking over other people's lives, then my life with him will be worse than I had imagined.

"Stop thinking."

My sister's voice shocked me out of the vortex of depressing thoughts.

"You haven't spoken a word ever since. Give us a smile, little sister. I'm sure it's not as bad as it seems."

She whispered gently, so her words wouldn't alert our father. I heaved a sigh and interlaced our fingers together, seeking comfort in her warmth.

"I'm not so sure...but I promise I won't make too much of a scene."

I retorted with a playful coat over my words. She offered me a dazzling smile, her chocolate eyes sparkling under the streetlights. Her thumb rubbed comforting circles on my knuckles and my body began to relax.

There is no use crying over spilt milk.

I should focus on the bigger picture.

My family will finally be happy.

As that thought occurred in my head, the car that picked us up came to a stop. I saw the enchanting lights decorating the gate which opened, and my eyes were met with a breathtaking sight. I had never been to the Alpha's palace. It was extravagant, rich, the path to the main door seeimingly out of a fairy tale.

It was charming. Expensive. I could see the people already piling into our Alpha's home, each couple or family led by a different servant.

"Wow."

My sister exclaimed.

She took the word right out of my mouth.

The driver stopped where all the other vehicles were, and no longer than a couple of seconds. the doors at either sides were opened. I hesitated for a moment, but still took the hand that was offered to me. A servant, about my age, bowed his head down as he helped me out of the car. His hand was cold, strong and secure, as if this wasn't the first time he was supporting a lady out of a car.

And I believe it isn't. All around me were men dressed in the same attire. A combination of deep, blood red, with gold stripes and ornaments attached. They were mostly tall and slim, with the exception of a few who seem to be quite fit.

I thanked the boy with a smile and he led me towards the entrance. My sister, who was led by another, came to my rescue. As she laced her arms around mine, the boy let me go and proceeded to climb up the huge stairs. The doors to the villa were decorated in gold. They were huge, reaching as far as a huge, castle gate.

When we entered, I could practically smell the money in the air. Everything was impeccable, golden and decorated in riches. Ornaments, antique figures and sculptures, expensive paintings of, what seemed to be, previous alphas of our pack. The floor was tiled, a color of satin and creamy vanilla. I was afraid if I stepped fully on my thin heel, it would go right through.

Not having enough time to catch every detail was a bit frustrating, seeing as this would probably be the only time I would visit this place. But when the two boys led us down a long corridor, when we exited into the garden, I had my breath taken away once again.

The sight was tantalizing. The stairs that led down onto the beautifully carved pavement, were limited by the gorgeous, golden handrails. When I touched, the sensation of the cold stone traveled up my arm.

Once my heels touched the pavement, I walked with my sister down the spiraling path. Some were on the freshly trimmed grass, some were dancing along the tables full of drinks and food. The yard was vast, but as more people came, there was less space to explore. My family and I stationed at the end, near one of the tables that offered mouthwatering treats.

I couldn't help but taste one.

Everything was so perfect.

No wonder our Alpha didn't fear investing his money into war.

My eyes trailed over the forms of well dressed people, admiring how each gown and suit had a specific, eye-catching detail on them. Majority of them were rich. Unlike my family, they breathed and walked with authority and power.

My father tried his hardest to look the same. Even though my mother joked of his superiority complex, she didn't mind to stand proud and tall next to him.

If I hadn't felt a sudden pinch in my lower belly, a tug at my heartstrings and set of wild butterflies awakening in my gut, I would have smiled when the servants announced that our Alpha was taking over the stage.