Lilly's POV

"Oh, heavens, Beta Zackary!" Angelica's voice filled the kitchen. "Get away from that filthy girl before she ruins your clothes and reputation. What will the pack say when they see you—a person with a high status—treating a lowly, wolfless omega? She doesn't deserve your kindness!"

Zackary's expression hardened, a mixture of anger and defiance flashing across his face.

"Yeah," Sade added, crossing her arms around her chest. "Look at her. There is no need to help this piece of trash. She is more than capable of looking after her dirty and clumsy self!"

Zackary clenched his fists, the tension in the air palpable. He suddenly stilled, placed the towel down on the counter, and balled his hands into fists while anger colored his face.

He was furious.

He slowly stepped away from me—probably afraid he would scare me—turned around, and faced Angelica and Sade.

"That is enough!" he snarled, expanding his aura and silencing the two women.

They whimpered and quivered in fear and unwillingly dropped their heads, submitting to the higher power.

I knitted my eyebrows together, confused.

Why wasn't I affected by his strong aura?

Why didn't I feel afraid of his temper?

Why was I shielded from his wrath?

I peek from under my eyelashes, watching his eyes turn even colder. He wasn't done with them yet.

Why was he defending me? He didn't owe me anything! He doesn't know me?

Or does he...?

There was a sudden spark of hope rippling through me. Maybe Beta Zackary knew me.

Could he tell me who I was?

I took the opportunity and let my gaze trail his outline. He was tall and handsome and stood around 6'3". He had dark curly hair, golden brown skin, and a straight nose.

I could see his giant muscles flexed under his royal uniform. He looked fit, strong, and powerful—exactly how a Beta should be. However, I couldn't help noticing that he was much younger than I expected a Beta to be.

"Did I say anything to offend you, Beta Zackary?" Angelica stuttered nervously, unable to meet his gaze.

"I don't know who you are, or your rank or position," Zackary growled, his eyes flickering between black and blue. His voice was low and menacing, filled with an intensity that sent shivers down Angelica's spine. "But this is no way to treat a werewolf! It's against the law!"

"W-what..." Angelic stuttered, unprepared for the wrath that Zackary was about to release on them.

Zackary growled.

"W-we didn't know," Sade quickly added, trying to save her mom.

Zackary closed his eyes, trying to get his wolf under control before things escalated any further.

"Leave us!" He snarled coldly and gestured to the warriors to escort the women out.

I watched Zackary take a deep breath—he seemed to be struggling. He sighed and slowly turned back to me.

"Sorry about that," he said. "I hope I didn't scare you."

I shook my head.

He smiled and slowly moved closer. He grabbed the towel and gently started to clean the blood on the side of my face.

I couldn't believe that a stranger, who held a very high rank, actually cared.

Zackary's hands were skillful and careful—he tried his best not to hurt me.

I couldn't help but feel intimidated by his cold blue eyes—it felt as if he was looking right through me and into my soul. His gentle and warm touch was in strong contrast with his cold exterior.

For a moment I felt like a person; his concern felt almost real.

"Get your head out of the clouds and back to reality, Lilly!" I internally scolded myself. "This is too good to be true! This must be some kind of trick... Beta Zackary must want something of me."

"Penny for your thoughts?" Zackary asked when he patched up my last wound.

My gaze met his.

"I am all done," he said, removing the gloves from his hands. "Your wolf should be able to heal the wounds rather quickly..."

"I don't have a wolf," I muttered, embarrassed. "But I am very grateful for your help, Beta Zackary."

"Call me Zack," he said.

I nodded and smiled.

"Thank you, Beta Zack, for helping me," I whispered.

Zack scrunched his eyebrows together as an unknown emotion crossed his eyes. He wanted to say something more, but I quickly jumped off the barstool, grabbed a wet towel, and headed toward the bloody mess.

I needed to clean the blood off the floor before it stained the white Italian tiles—Angelica would just love that!

I squatted, lost my balance, and cried out in pain when I had to steady myself on my injured hand.

Zack was by my side in the blink of an eye. His blue eyes were full of raw concern as he steadied me.

"Are you alright?" he asked, helping me off my injured hand.

"I... I'm fine," I stuttered.

"You are a bad liar," he said, watching me as my face turned crimson.

"Let me," he said.

"No need. I can do it myself," I replied, trying to shift myself back onto my knees, but my face twisted in pain.

He shook his head in disapproval and held out his hand.

"It will go quicker if I do it," he said. "Your hand is too severely cut.

I froze when Zack gently took the towel from me and started cleaning the blood off the floor.

Fear suddenly surged through me—if Angelica saw that Zack was helping me to clean up this bloody mess, she would surely give me a beating.

"That's better," Zack said, smiling. He straightened himself and extended his hand to me.

I hesitated for a moment, looking at his hand, before shifting my attention to his gaze. His eyes were warm and gentle—he seemed genuinely happy to help me.

I gently placed my hand in his, and he pulled me to my feet.

"Thank you," I whispered. "I think I got it from here."

I took the bloody towel from him, picked up the dustpan, and made my way to the dustbin. I emptied the contents and went to pack the dustpan away.

Zack's gaze bore into my back—he was watching my every move.

A low growl suddenly escaped his lips, and my attention snapped toward him.

Before I could even ask him what was wrong, he grabbed my arm and turned my wrist.

"What is this!" He snarled, his eyes shifting between black and blue. The wolf seemed to be displeased by something, but what?

My heartbeat escalated as I shifted my gaze at what Zack was pointing at.

A too-small bangle—my only treasure—glittering in the sun on my left wrist.

Angelica gave the bangle to me when I was a kid. She said it was something my parents left me before they died.

"It was a gift," I whispered, watching him intensely.

Zack didn't look convinced. He brought my arm closer to have a better look.

"From whom?" he growled, letting go of my arm.

"The madam of the house, Angelica," I replied.

Zack roared in anger.

A moment later, the two warriors rushed inside.

"Watch them," Zack ordered, and rushed past them, down the hallway, and out the front door.

I was left standing there in pure bewilderment—what the hell just happened?

****

Lilly's POV

It has been two weeks since Beta Zack's visit, and things are slowly changing for the better.

The warrior brothers, Jacob and James, were now practically living here with us and were staying in the guest room—they were instructed to keep a watchful eye on me.

It felt good to be noticed for once and safe—well, sort of. Angelica's and Sade's glares were nerve-wracking. I wasn't sure when the two would strike.

My wounds had healed, and the scarring was almost nonexistent—all thanks to Beta Zack's proper care.

"Lilly," James called down the hallway. He was the friendlier of the two warrior brothers.

"In here," I replied, setting down a dish in the dry rack.

A moment later, he and Jacob appeared at the kitchen entrance, both carrying a box. They were smiling broadly and seemed a bit excited about something.

"What's this?" I asked, coming around the counter.

"Just a little something," James replied and placed the boxes on the counter.

Jacob handed me a white envelope.

"For me?" I gasped in surprise. I had never received a letter before.

Jacob nodded.

I glanced at the envelope, seeing my name neatly printed on the front.

Who would want to send a letter to me? I was a nobody.

I turned the envelope over, noticing the golden royal seal on the back. My body stiffened, and a whimper escaped my lips.

Was in trouble?

Did I do something wrong?

"Open it!" James urged.

With trembling fingers and a racing heart, I managed to open the envelope and find a neatly handwritten note inside.

Dearest Lilly,

I believe you need something special for tonight's occasion...

We took great care in selecting this; we hope it is to your liking.

Best wishes,

Zack.

A strange and unknown sensation twisted in my abdomen. I wasn't sure what the feeling meant.

"Is this really for me?" I whispered as tears threatened to spill over. No one has ever been this kind and generous to me.

The two brothers smiled and nodded.

"Open the boxes," Jacob urged, gesturing to the one he just carried inside. "We want to see what they have picked for you."

"They? Who's they"? Sade spat, coming down the stairs. She was wearing a silver robe, and her hair was already done for tonight's occasion. Was she eavesdropping on our conversation—again?

In the past two weeks I received regular gifts from Beta Zack. They were mostly necessities—which made her envious and jealous. She couldn't understand that someone of such a high rank liked me.

"The future king and his beta, of course," James answered, smiling.

The air was knocked right out of my lungs. I didn't expect to learn that Prince Lex was involved as well.

Sade's gaze darkened—she didn't like the idea that Prince Lex was giving me any attention at all.

"Come on, Lilly," James pouted. "Show us what they chose for you!"

I hesitated, looking back at Sade. She was now standing in the doorway, leaning against the doorframe.

"Show us," she sneered. "We all want to see your new private collection..."

"No, no, no," I shot the suggestion off. "I'll take a look at it some other time. Besides, the ball is only later tonight, and I'm still busy with my chores..."

"I insist," Sade said, leaving a cold feeling running down my spine. "You must show us at once! You can't have the royal warriors waiting—they have been so fond of you. It's the least you can do to thank them!"

I swallowed hard, my gaze shifting to the two brothers. They seemed a bit surprised by Sade's attitude.

"Please show us," Jacob pleaded.

"We're leaving in an hour," James added. "Then we might not get a chance to see how pretty you will look..."

"Okay," I gave in. "I'll do it!"

I couldn't believe that I was pressured into opening these boxes. I hesitantly reached for the first box and opened it. My eyes widened, and I let out an audible gasp.

"This… is… too… much!" I whispered, removing the lid completely. "I can never accept this!"

"You really don't have a choice here," James mused. "You can't offend the future king."

I smiled weakly as my gaze traveled over the expensive accessories—each item was neatly packed in a separate container. The box held a white diamond-colored clutch bag. It was the most beautiful little thing I ever laid my eyes on. I moved my fingers over it, too afraid to even lift it out of the box.

Jacob saw me hesitate, and he carefully lifted it from the box and handed it to me—it was surprisingly heavy.

A screeching sound escaped from Sade's lips, and I hurriedly returned the bag back in its container.

"Try the shoes next," James exclaimed. "A little birdy told me they were imported from a famous designer."

My fingers trembled as I carefully lifted the white diamond-strapped stilettos from the box—they were gorgeous and glittered in the late afternoon sun.

Sade's eyes burned out of desire.

"Rumor has it that there is only one in existence," Jacob said.

"They are really something spectacular," James added.

I nodded in agreement and placed them back into the box.

The jewelry that accompanied the rest of the accessories was even more breathtaking.

I couldn't bring myself to touch the jewelry—it looked far too expensive to even consider.

"The gown next," James chirped, pointing at the larger box.

"Do I really have to?" I asked.

The brothers pouted, making me giggle.

"You two are the world's worst manipulators," I said, opening the box.

My breath caught in my throat. I couldn't help the whimper that escaped my lips. Inside the box was a soft, powdery yellow chiffon dress.

"I am going to look like a real princess," I muttered in disbelief, unable to take my eyes off it.

I slowly pulled the dress from the box, and I gasped.

It was made to my size. It was perfect. It was beautiful. It was my favorite color.

How did they know?

I held the dress before me and spun around. I felt so happy. I was so excited!

Someone cleared their throat; I abruptly froze, and my gaze snapped toward the sound.

Angelica was descending the stairs, her face was hard, and her eyes were cold. She passed her daughter and stopped in front of me.

"You'll only be going when all your chores are done," she said.

A smile formed on Sade's lips—this was her doing.

I knew trouble was coming. She was about to add increasingly more to the to-do list—just to make a point.

"That's unfair!" James exclaimed.

"Yeah," Jacob added. "Besides, all unmated she-wolves must attend the ball, including Lilly."

"True," Angelica said. "But the invitation didn't specify a time she should arrive...."

I knew she would find some kind of loophole to ensure my absence.

"Is that so?" James asked, a mischievous smile following on his lips. "Where's the list of things that need to be done?"

Angelica hesitated.

"Come on, show us," Jacob snarled.

Angelica pulled a list from her pocket. Jacob grabbed and unfolded it and showed it to James.

"When all those chores are done," she said vilely. "Your little Miss Muffet can attend the ball."

James smiled, and a moment later his eyes glazed over.

****

Lilly's POV

The girl staring back at me in the mirror looked so different, yet so familiar. The only thing I recognized was my eyes—the rest of me looked like I was a long-lost princess stepping out of a fairy tale.

The soft chiffon ballgown hugged my body perfectly, showing just enough skin while keeping it stylish and fashionable.

I turned my body side to side, looking at myself through a long borrowed mirror. The fabric moved around me, leaving an illusion of yellow flames moving around me.

My gaze shifted to my golden hair. I had styled it in a simple updo, and soft curls framed my soft make-up face.

I looked... beautiful. Even my dead parents would be so proud if they saw me now. This was still a lot to process. I was sure this must be a dream. How else do I explain this?

I shook my head in denial. This can't be real.

Was I really wearing this? Was I really seeing myself draped in expensive fabric? Was I really going to the ball?

This can't be me? I'm usually pale. A wallflower—not a colorful butterfly...

A soft knock interrupted my thoughts, and I unwillingly dragged my attention towards the door.

"Come in," I replied, trying hard not to look back at my reflection.

James peeked his head around the door, his gaze traveling over my small room, drinking in the interior. He let out a small gasp when his eyes landed on me.

"You look absolutely stunning, Lilly," he said.

My face heated up, and I shifted my gaze to my hands. No one has ever told me I looked stunning before.

"The car has arrived," he continued, stepping inside. "Are you ready?"

Ready? No, I was everything but ready. I was nervous, and my stomach had decided to move in with my throat.

James saw the concern in my eyes and shifted his head to the side.

"Is everything okay?" he asked. "I promise—Jacob and I will take good care of you."

"It's not that," I muttered, finding my voice.

James closed the door.

I never allowed him inside before; my living conditions weren't perfect. I only had the bare basics.

The changes in the past two weeks were overwhelming, and they made me feel scared.

What if all this was just a dream? Will I be able to survive when it ends?

I couldn't get my hopes up—circumstances can change in a matter of seconds.

A breath escaped my lips.

"What is the matter?" James pushed, his voice low.

"I'm not sure I can dance," I said, my face heating up. "I've only ever danced in my dreams."

James stayed silent for a moment.

"I think you'll do just fine," he said. "I've been watching you sway to the music when you work..."

James held out his hand to me. "If all else fails," he said. "I'll personally be held accountable."

I placed my hand in his, and he suddenly pulled me close, spinning me around with ease. A soft giggle slipped from my lips as he dipped me back.

"See," he said, smiling. "You already know the moves... now you just need to own it!"

James had a knack for making me laugh and putting me at ease. His easygoing, happy-go-lucky attitude was infectious. I couldn’t help but trust him; he felt like the brother I never had—always looking out for me.

I had every reason to trust him. He had not only freed me from Angelica's list of duties but also firmly put her in her place.

I wasn't sure what to expect when James's eyes glazed over earlier. I knew he was mind-linked to someone, but who?

When his eyes returned to his natural color, he grabbed the mop and bucket and handed it to Angelica.

"What is this?" she sneered. "I'm not the help...."

"Punishment," he replied, pinning her gaze.

Angelica huffed, flipped her hair over her shoulder, and started towards the exit.

"I wouldn't do that if I were you," Jacob stopped her before she left.

She slowly turned to face him.

"As punishment for disobeying his orders, Beta Zack hereby orders you, Angelica Black, to do all the domestic work for a month."

"You will be starting with the list you compiled," Jacob added.

"This is outrageous!" She yelled.

"Is it?" James asked. "You have a choice to resist...."

"But then we will have to lock you up for at least three months, pending trial," Jacob said, keeping his face calm.

Angelica never thought that the two brothers would shift all the domestic duties onto her.

James winked at me, and I almost burst out laughing.

The way her face twisted in anger would stay by me for the rest of my life—it was priceless.

I had to give it to them; they had skills—no wonder they were part of the elite group of warriors in King Alpha Alexander's army.

"Now," James said, forcing the memory from earlier out of my mind. "Let's not have the Prince and Beta waiting. We still have a long drive ahead, and the two of them are expecting your arrival."

I nodded, and James held out his arm to me.

As we descended the stairs, I overheard Sade and Jacob arguing.

"You can't do this to me!" she yelled furiously. "How do you expect me to get there?"

"What is the meaning of this?" James asked, letting go of my arm and stepping forward.

Sade's head turned sharply at the sound of James's voice. She glared at me, hissing in anger.

My gaze swept over her. She wore a yellow dress that was completely out of character for her. Sade typically favored vibrant colors like pinks, purples, and reds that made bold fashion statements.

"He," Sade hissed angrily as she wildly pointed her finger at Jacob. "Refuse that I get in the limo and go with you!"

James tilted his head and furrowed his brows, regarding her as if she were out of her mind.

"But he's right," James replied, his expression serious. "The car isn't meant for you—it's for Lilly."

"What!" Sade roared, horrified. "You can't do that to me!"

The hairs on the back of my neck began to stand up as I sensed someone watching me. I knew who was behind me, but I couldn't bring myself to turn around.

"Can't you gentlemen make an exception?" Angelica asked. She kept her voice low and friendly—desperate for the warrior to agree.

I turned my head slightly to catch a glimpse of her from the corner of my eye.

Angelica hesitated to meet them outside; she feared the neighbors might spot her in her maid's outfit...

Jacob had given her an old apron and gloves he found in the kitchen drawer, insisting that she wear them. Additionally, she still had not finished the list of household tasks she had written down for me.

"We have been very accommodating towards you and the Royal House," Angelica continued. "The least you can do is drive my daughter to the ball tonight. It's not as if it is out of your way..."

Jacob and James looked at one another, then back at me. I could feel the weight of their gaze, amplifying the pressure I already felt from Angelica's demands…

****