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…

****

Lilly’s POV

"You must be insane if you think I’ll be riding in that to the ball!" Sade cried in horror as the apple-green 1911 Ford Jitney pulled up.

Jacob had made a call, and moments later the old vehicle rolled up the driveway.

The driver, an older wolf with grey hair, stepped out, nodded to the two warriors, and quickly moved to the back to open the door.

I couldn’t help but stifle a laugh at Sade’s reaction.

"It’s just a car, Sade," I teased, stepping closer to inspect the vehicle. "But I have to admit, it does look like something out of a vintage movie."

Sade shot me a hateful glare.

"What’s wrong with riding in the Jitney?" James asked, irritation in his voice. "It’s a classic! A wonderful ride! You should be grateful for it!"

I bit my bottom lip to hide a smile as Sade’s face turned red with anger.

"Grateful? You mean stuck in that old rust bucket?" she shot back, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

James raised an eyebrow, clearly amused by her reaction.

"It’s not just any old rust bucket; it’s got character," he replied, grinning.

"Character? More like a death trap on wheels," she retorted.

"You need transport to the ball," Jacob added.

"And we arranged it for you," James continued.

Sade crossed her arms defiantly, not convinced.

"Not in that!" she shrieked, pointing a trembling finger at the Jitney. "It’s... it’s hideous! I can’t be seen in that! What will the pack think of me?!"

Jacob and James exchanged a glance, both trying to suppress their laughter.

"They’ll think you’re the most daring pack member, ready to make a statement," Jacob said, attempting to lighten the mood.

"Seriously!" Sade exclaimed.

"The rest of the she-wolves on the jitney don’t seem to care," James pointed out, gesturing to the other dressed ladies.

I instinctively scanned their faces, hoping to spot someone familiar, but none triggered a memory.

"They’re just happy they have transport to the ball," Jacob said. "And so should you."

"I am not just anyone!" Sade yelled, stomping her feet. "I have class, you know! That thing will ruin my hair and reputation forever!"

The girls on the jitney looked offended by Sade’s comments and shifted uncomfortably in their seats.

James rolled his eyes toward the sky, as if saying a silent prayer—or maybe just counting to ten.

Jacob let out an irritated huff, glancing at his brother for help.

I was used to Sade’s tantrums, but clearly, they weren’t. I found the situation amusing. Sade was quite the diva, obviously entitled. Would she be able to sway the brothers to let her go with us? Which one would give in first?

I couldn’t help but smile at the tension sparking between the three of them.

"Suit yourself," Jacob said abruptly, shrugging and turning away to walk toward the limo. It was clear he’d grown tired of her demands.

I quickly pressed my hand over my mouth, stifling a chuckle.

"If you’d rather not accept a ride on the jitney," James said seriously, steering me toward the limo, "the only other option is for you to shift and run in wolf form..."

"But if I were you," Jacob added, glancing at Sade, "I’d make my decision quickly. You’ve already wasted enough time and the jitney needs to leave. I won’t delay eleven other guests because of your stubbornness..."

"Why can’t I go with you?" Sade cried, her bottom lip trembling. She was on the verge of tears, trying to sway them.

"Because this is a private arrangement," Jacob said sternly, opening the passenger door for me.

James helped me inside, and I scooted over to the center of the seat.

"But Lilly is like a sister to me!" Sade wailed. "She’s practically family! Sisters stick together! We should go together!"

I rolled my eyes and muttered under my breath, "More like an evil stepsister..." Too late, I realized I’d said it aloud.

"Did you say something?" James asked, squinting at me as he got in the car.

"Nope," I chirped, shaking my head. "Just thinking out loud." James chuckled and winked, closing the door behind him.

Jacob came around the car, opened his door, and suddenly paused.

Was Jacob about to yield to Sade’s demands?

My heart raced with worry. I really didn’t want to share the car with her... Was it wrong to feel that way?

Jacob’s expression was cold, his eyes turning black—his wolf had taken control. He focused on Sade and let out a warning growl that made her whimper.

I internally sighed in relief. I was glad Jacob didn’t cave in. Sade would certainly ruin my evening.

"Get in, brother!" James called impatiently from the other side. "We’re already behind schedule! Beta Zack will be furious with us."

Jacob’s attention snapped back to us.

"I said, get in!" James repeated, more forcefully.

Jacob gave a quick nod, shot Sade one last glance, and got into the car.

"That she-wolf is going to drive me to something stronger than alcohol," he muttered as he buckled up.

I chuckled, amused.

Jacob’s gaze snapped to me. "How the hell isn’t she driving you insane?" he huffed. "She’s impossible!"

That made me laugh even harder.

"I’m serious!" he groaned, clearly exasperated. "I’ll do anything—even chew off my wrists—just don’t make me deal with her ever again."

"I can’t promise that," I said, trying to get my laughter under control. "Besides, you two have done a much better job handling her and her mother than I ever did."

James and Jacob exchanged interested glances, and I felt my cheeks heat up.

I could tell they were curious about my experiences—they’d asked a few times—but I still wasn’t ready to open up about my pain to people I hardly knew.

"She isn’t worth getting upset about," I said, placing my hand on Jacob’s shoulder. "Sade’s just a spoiled brat. She doesn’t know any better."

"Yes, but—" Jacob started, but I shook my head, signaling that nothing he said would change anything.

He sighed, crossed his arms, and leaned back in his seat.

I rolled my eyes at him, and he raised a teasing eyebrow, making me laugh again.

James tapped on the driver’s window, signaling we were ready to go.

The driver slowly pulled out of the driveway, my heart pounding with excitement. This was it—I was leaving the Black residence, even if just for the night.

My gaze caught Sade’s face. It was flushed, her eyes dark and furious.

****

Lilly’s POV

The second the royal packhouse came into view, my heart began to race uncontrollably. The building was massive and intimidating—stretching high, wide, and proud. I had never seen anything so grand before.

How many wolves lived here?

My gaze swept over several smaller buildings surrounding the packhouse. It looked like a little town protecting its heart.

The limo stopped, and my focus returned to the packhouse.

Two guards hurried closer, just as intimidating as the packhouse itself—big, strong, and powerful in their royal blue uniforms.

James lowered the window, and the guards paused.

"Senior Warrior, James," one said, surprise flickering in his eyes as he glanced at me.

"Yes, my brother Jacob and I," James replied, his face stern and eyes cold.

"Who is the she-wolf?" the second guard asked.

Jacob let out a low growl beside me, startling me. The two guards quickly stepped away from the vehicle, dropping their eyes in fear.

I frowned and glanced at Jacob. Why did he suddenly look so annoyed?

Jacob ignored my stare, simply opening the passenger door and stalking toward the guards.

"What’s going on?" I muttered, surprised by Jacob’s behavior.

James chuckled before opening his own door and getting out.

Jacob was growling furiously at the guards, barking out orders. James, meanwhile, grinned from ear to ear—thoroughly enjoying the scene.

What was Jacob’s deal? Was I the cause of his temper?

Fear filled me at the thought. I didn’t want to be the reason for anyone’s anger—not after everything I’d endured.

"Aren’t you coming?" James asked.

I turned to him, startled. Had he said something already?

James seemed puzzled by my reaction. Could he sense my fear?

"I—" I stuttered, glancing nervously back at Jacob. He looked so angry.

"Don’t worry," James said, offering his hand. "Everything’s fine. Jacob’s just annoyed at how they stared at you. He’s just... overprotective—like a brother."

"Overprotective?" I echoed quietly.

"Yes," James said. "Jacob is sensitive about how others treat you. He cares—a lot. We both do. We’ve seen how you’ve been living…"

They pity me, I realized. I never wanted that.

I sighed inwardly.

"Come on," James urged. "The party’s inside, and it’s getting late. Everyone is waiting for us."

I pushed aside my anxiety and carefully slid toward the door, trying not to wrinkle my dress.

"Are you ready?" Jacob asked once I stepped out. He seemed back to his usual self.

"Yes," I whispered, my gaze tracing the enormous outline of the packhouse. It felt even larger and more intimidating up close.

Jacob winked, turned, and climbed the steps, waiting for James and me at the top.

James patted my hand, and we started up the stairs together.

A small gasp escaped my lips as I spotted two enormous golden Lycan statues standing sentinel by the double doors. They were crafted with such intricate detail, they looked almost lifelike. Their sapphire eyes seemed to pierce right through you, radiating power and authority.

"You’ve seen nothing yet," James whispered.

The guards from earlier quickly opened the doors for us.

Jacob stepped aside, gesturing for us to enter first.

My eyes widened as I took in the foyer—a massive space centered around a grand fountain, natural light streaming down from above to illuminate it.

The fountain was incredible. I’d never seen anything so detailed or beautiful. The statues and orb were carved from the finest white marble, shimmering with golden flecks.

I stepped closer, drawn in, eager to touch the smooth marble.

My gaze settled on the centerpiece—a woman perched on a platform, encircled by four Lycan wolves.

Each Lycan held a different symbol and faced a different direction.

"It’s spectacular, isn’t it?" Jacob said, joining me.

"It’s... something," I agreed.

"The statues represent the four former Lycan kingdoms," Jacob explained.

"Four kingdoms?" I frowned. "I don’t understand."

"The Goddess created the Lycan wolves first. Each kingdom had its own magic and inhabited a different corner of the world," Jacob continued, gesturing toward the symbols. "The Northern kingdom could manipulate water—they’re known as snow wolves. The Eastern kingdom had the power to shift into fire—fire wolves."

My eyes widened.

"The Southern kingdom could move the earth," Jacob went on.

"Earth wolves?" I guessed, but Jacob shook his head.

"Mire, or mud wolves. And the Western kingdom rode the wind—they were called stormwolves."

"So what happened?" I asked, curiosity piqued.

"King Xavier—" James interrupted, casting a look at his brother. "This isn’t the time for a history lesson. They’re waiting. Beta Zack just mind-linked me, asking where we are."

"We’ll continue this later," Jacob promised with a nod.

I followed them down a long hallway lined with portraits of kings and queens. The last painting caught my eye, and I stopped in my tracks.

Those eyes. They looked so familiar, as if I’d seen them before.

"King Alpha Alexander," Jacob said proudly. "Our current king. Prince Lex’s father."

My gaze found Jacob’s. "Is there a painting of the prince?" I asked, a strange feeling stirring inside me.

"These are only for kings who have already ruled," he replied.

"Once Prince Lex formally takes over, his portrait will be hung here," James added.

I nodded, understanding, and we continued in silence until I heard excited chattering ahead.

"We’re here," Jacob announced.

James stopped to assess my appearance, gently tucking a stray hair behind my ear and straightening my dress.

"You look perfect," he said.

"Like a princess," Jacob added.

Before I could blush, the ballroom doors swung open and a wave of high-pitched screams erupted, as if a celebrity had just arrived.

My attention snapped to the commotion, curious to see the cause.

A group of wolves emerged from the ballroom, and I immediately recognized Beta Zack among them. He turned to us as if sensing our presence, his eyes lighting up as he smiled and waved.

I started to raise my hand to wave back, but the tall, dark-haired wolf beside him shifted his focus to where Zack was looking, silencing the group of she-wolves around him.

My breath caught as his gaze locked with mine...

****