The zipper of my duffel bag whined as I dragged it across the teeth, securing the sparse contents of what I could call mine. My hands shuffled through the drawer one last time, searching for a cloth that didn’t scream neglect or poverty—a task akin to finding a diamond in a coal mine. All I found were tattered jeans and faded shirts, each holding the scent of despair like a stubborn stain. I let out a frustrated sigh.

I pulled out a simple, worn dress that had once been blue but now bore the uncertain hue of the twilight sky, dulled by too many washes. It was the best among the worst, and with shaking fingers, I folded it into a neat square, laying it atop the pile of clothes.

My heart hammered against my ribs, each beat an echo of the fear swirling in my chest. The decision to leave was a wild beast pacing within me, its presence terrifying yet somehow empowering. I would face the auditions to be one of the Alpha King’s breeders, a thought that sent shivers down my spine—not from excitement, but from the terror of the unknown.

But the allure of freedom, of escaping this house that had become my prison, overpowered the dread. Every bruise from Kelly’s spiteful hands, every cold glance from my stepmother, every dismissive nod from my father—they were the fuel to my resolve. I couldn’t spend another day suffocating under the weight of their indifference.

“‘Escape or endure,’” I muttered to myself, gripping the fabric of the dress as if it were a lifeline. The choice lay before me, stark and irrevocable. With a deep breath that did little to steady my nerves, I zipped up the bag, ready to step into the unknown. Because anything—anything—was better than the life I was leaving behind.

The window had always been my secret exit. I stood before it now, my bag slung over one shoulder, ready to slip through once more. This time, though, I wouldn’t be coming back.

A sharp knock at the door jolted me from my thoughts. My pulse quickened; the simple sound felt like a thunderclap in the silence of my resolve. Fear prickled at the base of my skull. Kelly’s mocking tone or my stepmother’s cold reprimand loomed behind that door, waiting to shatter my plans into pieces.

“Freya?” A voice, soft yet firm, whispered. It wasn’t Kelly or her mother. It was Gerard.

I exhaled the breath I hadn’t realized I was holding and approached cautiously, as if the floorboards might betray my escape with their creaks. My fingers grasped the doorknob, hesitating for only a moment before swinging the door open to reveal the house butler. His kind eyes met mine, carrying a silent understanding that spoke of shared hardships.

“Gerard,” I whispered, my voice barely above the hum of my frantic heart. “I—I can’t stay here any longer.”

“Miss Freya,” he said, his use of formality a veil for concern, “what’s this about?”

Swallowing the lump in my throat, I explained. “The palace… the auditions for the Alpha King’s breeders. It’s madness, I know, but I need to go. To get away from…” My voice cracked, the litany of grievances rushing forward—Kelly’s barbs, her mother’s disdain, my father’s neglect.

“From all of this,” I finished lamely, gesturing to the room that felt more like a cage than a sanctuary.

Gerard’s eyes softened, his aged face crinkling not in judgment, but in empathy. He stepped closer, lowering his voice to a conspiratorial whisper. “Who knows, indeed,” he said, a smile playing on his lips. “You might just be what the Alpha is looking for, Miss Freya.”

Gerard was the unwavering support in this household, the only one who had ever looked at me and seen more than a burden or a plaything. “Thank you, Gerard,” I managed, my throat tight with emotions I couldn’t afford to indulge. Not when freedom was so close, yet still so far away.

Gerard’s hand rested on my shoulder, a gesture that anchored me to the moment. “It is a great honor, Miss Freya,” he said, his voice imbued with a warmth that filled the chilly room. “Many young ladies would leap at such an opportunity. The greatest Lunas are chosen as breeders.” His eyes held mine. “You could find your place among the elite at the King’s side.” I nodded.

“Be careful, though,” he continued, his tone dropping to a low note of caution. “The palace is not just grandeur and grace. There are those within its walls who wield power like a weapon, and they will not hesitate to use it against the unprotected. Trust not just anyone.”

I smiled gratefully at his advice.

“Thank you, Gerard,” I whispered, reaching out to him. My arms wrapped around his sturdy frame, clinging to the only semblance of family I had known. His embrace was strong and reassuring—a silent promise that someone believed in me.

Tears pricked my eyes as the thought of leaving him hit me. Gerard had been my only friend. Releasing him, I felt the tether to this house, to my old life, begin to fray.

“Take care of yourself, Miss Freya,” he murmured, his voice rough with emotion. “And remember, whatever happens, you are braver than you believe.”

With those parting words, Gerard stepped back, his eyes glistening with unshed tears that mirrored my own. A lump formed in my throat as I realized this might be the last time we would stand together like this—in the safety of my small, dimly lit room where I had grown up but never belonged.

“Goodbye, Gerard,” I choked out, the words raw and heavy on my tongue. With one last look at the man who had been more of a father to me than my own ever was, I turned away, ready to face the uncertain path that lay ahead.

With Gerard’s final words echoing in my heart, I glanced around the small chamber that had been both refuge and prison. The bags lay by my feet, stuffed with the meager belongings I could call my own—a few articles of clothing, a cherished book, and my mother’s pendant. My hands trembled slightly as I hoisted one onto my back, the other gripped firmly in my hand.

I approached the window, its frame worn from years of secret departures. Pushing it open, the cool night air caressed my face, whispering of freedom and unknown destinies. I hesitated for a moment, but tonight was different; there was no turning back. With a determined exhale, I swung one leg over the sill and then the other, my hands steadying on the rough wood as I eased myself out.

The descent was second nature to me, my fingers finding purchase on the ivy that clung to the outer walls. The moon, concealed behind veils of clouds, offered little illumination, but it mattered not. I knew every inch of this escape route by heart. My feet found the ground with a soft thud, and I paused, listening for any sign that my departure had been discovered. Silence greeted me, save for the distant hoot of an owl.

Turning away from the house that never truly felt like home, I navigated through the shadows of the garden, my steps quiet on the grass. The looming shapes of trees stood as I passed, their leaves whispering secrets to the night. I couldn’t shake the feeling that they were bidding me farewell—or perhaps warning me of the perils ahead.

Finally, the main street came into view. My pace quickened, anticipation mingling with the fear that writhed in my gut. The station wasn’t far now, its outline visible against the skyline, a beacon drawing me onward.

I reached the platform just as the train hissed and steamed, preparing for departure. As I stepped aboard, the conductor nodded curtly, taking no particular note of me among the throng of others seeking passage to the palace.

Finding a seat by a window, I settled in, my bags stowed carefully beneath my feet. The train lurched forward, the mechanical rhythm quickly becoming a soothing mantra. Leaning my head against the cool glass, I watched as the houses and streets of my childhood receded into darkness, swallowed by the night.

Half a day’s journey lay before me, half a day between the life I’d known and the one that awaited me at the palace. As the landscape outside transformed into a blur of shadows and starlight, I closed my eyes, surrendering to the uncertainty of my future, but holding tight to Gerard’s belief in my bravery and the feeling of my mother’s spirit watching me with a proud smile on her angelic face.

“Hey, miss… miss?” The persistent tap on my shoulder pulled me out of my brief nap. I opened my eyes slowly with a yawn. My body felt exhausted, and I knew I needed more sleep. “Miss, you’re at Palace Road. You should get off before the train takes off.” My eyes shot open at the mention of the train.

“Oh! We’re here? Oh!” I hastily pulled my bag from under the seat and bolted out of the train in excitement. I stood in front of the Crimson Palace. My breath caught in my throat at the beautiful sight before me. The palace stood tall and immense, its white marble gleaming in the sunlight. I’d never seen anything like it before. I couldn’t help but stare at its beauty.

As I made my way toward the palace gates, I noticed I wasn’t the only one here. Women from all over the kingdom had also come to audition to be the Alpha King’s breeder. Everyone was talking excitedly amongst themselves as we waited for the gates to open. Whispers filled the courtyard as we stood, eager to be let inside. We were all here for the same reason—the chance to be chosen as the Alpha King’s breeder. Who would it be? Definitely not me.

A fanfare sounded, and the giant golden doors swung open. We moved forward, pouring into a hall so large my father’s entire house could fit inside it a hundred times. Crystal chandeliers glittered high above, and a long red carpet led to a stunning golden throne with three seats.

I couldn’t help but feel intimidated by the women filling the palace. I felt so out of place among all these glamorous ladies and tried to stay at the back of the room, hoping no one would notice me—especially not my wicked stepsister.

As I scanned the room, a familiar face made my breath catch in my throat. Just as I’d feared. Kelly. My cruel stepsister was in a group, looking beautiful and dazzling in my mother’s dress. She tossed her golden curls, laughing with some girls.

My palms grew slick, and I couldn’t stop the fear and shock that overtook my body, even though I’d expected it. I couldn’t let her see me. I shrank into the shadows, wishing I could disappear completely. My eyes scanned the room again, this time searching for an escape route. I needed to leave the hall for now; otherwise, Kelly would cause a scene and embarrass me the moment she spotted me. My heart pounded as I slipped along the wall, heading for a small side door I spied across the hall. I had to get out of here before she noticed me. This was a mistake. I didn’t belong in this glittering room with these polished girls. I couldn’t do it. No.

I reached the small door and pulled it open, revealing a dark passageway. Glancing back to ensure no one had seen me, I slipped inside with my small bag in hand. The heavy door swung shut, enveloping me in musty blackness. I crept down the passage, one hand trailing along the cold stone wall to guide me. It was quiet, so I believed no one was passing through here. I released a breath of relief at being alone, at least, before moving forward. Where did this passage lead? With any luck, it would provide an escape from this place—away from the judgment, away from Kelly’s cruelty. I just wanted to get away from here. Maybe start a new life in a place far from home. I knew I couldn’t go back home anymore. By now, my stepmother and father would have discovered I’d run away. And the funny thing about all this was that they wouldn’t guess where I was. I smiled to myself.

They wouldn’t dare believe that the pathetic, gentle Freya would attempt going to the palace. They’d be clueless about my whereabouts. I trusted Gerard not to tell them a single thing.

My footsteps echoed as I hurried through the dark. As I rounded a corner, I collided with something solid. I stumbled back with a cry as the sound of scattering papers filled the air. “Ah!”

“Oh! I’m so sorry!” I gasped. A small lantern flickered on, illuminating a man gathering up papers now strewn across the floor. Oh no. Just when I thought I’d escaped, I came face to face with what was probably a guard. Now I could even be in trouble. I groaned in mortification. “I… I didn’t see you… I’m so sorry!”

He smiled kindly as I knelt to help him. “It’s okay. No harm done.”

By the warm glow of the lantern, I could see he had a gentle face framed by tousled brown hair. His clothes were finely made but rumpled, and he had ink stains on his fingers. He looked to be about my age, maybe a year or two older.

Once the papers were collected, I handed him the ones I’d picked up with an apologetic smile. He studied me curiously. “What are you doing wandering down here?”

I wrung my hands. “I… I was lost. I wanted to leave, but I think I missed my way. Please, can you show me the way out?”

The man tilted his head. I couldn’t help but notice how handsome he was. My face turned red, and I couldn’t imagine how foolish I looked right now. God!

“You want to leave? But you’ve only just arrived for the auditions, haven’t you?”

I nodded, my eyes downcast. “‘I don’t belong here,’” I murmured. “The other girls are so poised and beautiful. I could never compete with them.”

He laughed then, a warm, melodic sound that made me smile. “Don’t sell yourself short. I’m sure you’re just as lovely.”

I shook my head ruefully. “You’re kind to say so, but I’m no match for those ladies. And to be honest, I don’t see anything sensible in trying to compete to be the King’s breeder. I’d rather just go back home than stay here and hope some king will choose me to be his baby mama.” The man let out a loud laugh that filled the passageway.

“Well, I’m afraid I can’t show you the way out; it’s against my job,” he said apologetically. “But I can promise no harm will come to you here.” He extended his hand. “I’m Connor Turner. I work in the palace.”

I took it hesitantly. “Freya. It’s nice to meet you. And sorry for… knocking down your papers.”

Connor’s eyes sparkled with kindness as he chuckled. “That’s alright, Freya. Now come, let’s get you back to the hall. The auditions will be starting soon.”

Though anxious, I followed him as he led me through the passages. His gentle temperament and reassuring presence made me feel I could trust him. Perhaps I had found a friend in this strange, intimidating place after all.

Connor led me back through the palace halls, his hand warm and comforting around mine. Though I still had misgivings, his kindness had softened my resolve to flee.

As we neared the great hall where the other girls awaited, the sound of lively chatter reached my ears. I hesitated once more, stepping back. Connor gave my hand a gentle squeeze.

“There’s nothing to fear, Freya,” he said softly. “I’ll speak to the King on your behalf. I’ll tell him not to pick you, even if he notices you. All you have to do is keep to yourself. Once he picks his choice, you’ll be free to leave on your own.”

I nodded, gratitude welling up within me. “Thank you, Connor. I’m glad we met today.”

He smiled. “As am I. I feel we’re fated to be friends, you and I.” His eyes were so green, and I knew his wolf skin would be green.

With an encouraging pat on the shoulder, he guided me through the towering doors into the hall. I took a deep breath, steeling myself. The room was even more intimidating now, filled with beautiful, exquisitely dressed women.

As we entered, a hush fell over the gathering. Dozens of eyes turned our way. And there, directly before me, was the last person I hoped to see.

“Freya? Freya? What the hell are you doing here?” Kelly screamed at me. All eyes turned to me and Connor.

Great.

If looks could kill, I would be long dead by now. I stood still and speechless as I stared at my sister, who was glaring at me with fire in her eyes. Connor, beside me, watched the both of us confusedly.

"Do you know each other or something, Freya?" he asked me. I opened my mouth to form a response, but Kelly beat me to it.

"Oh, I would have you know that Freya is my housemaid. She must have sneaked out of the house the moment I left to join the auditions," Kelly said. She stepped closer to Connor, who was frowning at me. I took a shallow breath, feeling the tears well up in my eyes. "You should send her home, Mister. I will make sure my mother deals with her for deceiving everyone."

"I seem to remember that the audition is open to every female in the land who is not married or promised to another man. So Miss Freya is just as free as you to partake in this program. If you'll excuse me now, I have to be with the King," Connor said, brushing my shoulder lightly with a kind smile before he walked off, leaving me with Kelly, who was now regarding me with a sneer.

"Well, well, well, who would have thought the ugly duckling would try to sabotage me," she said mockingly. "What do you think you're doing here at the palace, Freya?"

I straightened my spine and lifted my chin. "I'm here for the same reason as you, Kelly. To compete for the role of Luna and become the Alpha's breeder."

Kelly let out a cruel laugh. "You? His Luna? Don't be ridiculous. We both know I'm the one with the looks, charm, and pedigree for the role. You're insane if you think the King will take a look at you, let alone pick you."

I bit my tongue hard to stop a sharp retort. Arguing with Kelly would get me nowhere. I was here for one reason only: to escape my family and have the freedom I've always dreamed of. I would not let her distract me from my goal. Not when I was so close.

"'We shall see,'" I said simply, then turned and walked away before she could reply.

My stomach roiled with anxiety. Of all the girls here, why did Kelly have to be one of them? I'd hoped to escape her torment when I left home. But I wouldn't let her ruin this chance for me. I would endure. For the opportunity to have my freedom, I would weather anything.

Even Kelly.

After about an hour of me sulking at the back of the room, we were all ushered into a grand hall. The room was filled with the scent of jasmine and lavender, and the walls were adorned with beautiful tapestries and paintings. I wished I could stay and admire all these paintings, but I moved forward as a guard reached me.

As we lined up, I couldn't help but feel like a small fish in a big pond. There were so many beautiful and talented girls around me, and I didn't think I stood a chance. But I had to try. I had to show everyone, especially Kelly, that I was capable of great things. I stood in line with ninety-nine other young women, waiting to be presented to the Alpha. We each wore a large white collar that had our name inscribed in gold lettering.

A man came forward and ordered us to get ready. He stated that only five ladies would be chosen from among us. My palms grew damp at the thought. So few, out of so many. What were the chances I would be one of them? Zero, I hoped. I knew I was no match for these beautiful girls, and I was even the last in line. No way he would see me.

A fanfare sounded, interrupting my worries. It was time.

Doors opened, and we were led further into the hall. Sitting on a carved wooden throne at the far end was him-the Alpha King, Rafe Jackson. The one who would decide my fate today. And standing beside him was none other than Connor, my new friend. Just as my eyes fell on him, his also found mine, and he smiled at me. I smiled back at him.

Rafe Jackson rose from his throne and descended the steps toward us. Murmurs rippled through the gathered girls as we took in his appearance. He was tall, far too tall, with broad shoulders and muscular arms that spoke of physical power. His jet-black hair was cropped short in the middle, accentuating his sharp, masculine features and grey eyes. He moved with a grace and authority that immediately marked him as the Alpha. I couldn't deny that he was a good-looking man, even though he looked very intimidating, and I had a feeling he might be cruel.

"Isn't he just perfect? Gods!" The girl beside me squealed at me in excitement. I turned to look at her. "I hope the gods will make him notice me! I'll probably kill myself if he doesn't pick me!"

"Uh... I'm quite sure he'll pick you. You're very pretty," I said awkwardly to the girl. She smiled at me and took my hand in hers, holding it softly. I could feel the excitement in her. All this for a man who might end up not loving you?

Despite myself, I felt a flush rise in my cheeks looking at him. He was probably the most handsome man I'd ever seen. The raw magnetism rolling off him was palpable, even at a distance. No wonder every girl here was swooning over the chance to become his Luna.

"Welcome," Rafe's voice boomed out, deep and commanding. "I know you are all eager to begin the selection process. Please form a single straight line so that I can get a good look at every one of you."

With a rustle of skirts, we hurried to arrange ourselves in a long line before him. I found myself at the very back, my heart pounding. This was it. Rafe began looking through the girls, most of whom giggled, curtsied, or batted their eyelashes at him, attempting to catch his attention. I could see how bored he looked; the smile didn't reach his eyes.

But then, as Rafe's eyes swept over the line, they came to rest on me. I felt an electric shock shoot through my body as his gaze held mine for a moment. Was he looking at me because of how shabby I looked, or was he looking at me because I was glaring at him when he had caught my gaze?

'Oh no. I was actually glaring at the King!'

My hands dropped to my sides as our gazes held. The tension between us made the air thicken. Or was it just me? His piercing grey eyes seemed to stare right through me, seeing my very soul. I couldn't look away, transfixed by his powerful presence. Did he sense something in me that the others lacked? Or did he find me lacking, just a common peasant girl out of her depth here? I couldn't tell from the hard, unyielding look in his eyes.

After what felt like an eternity of silence, he turned abruptly away from me. I released the breath I didn't know I'd been holding. "I have made my choices," he announced to the room. There was complete silence. Everyone watched him with rapt attention, even his generals.

"The first girl I have selected is..." he paused for dramatic effect.

"Freya Hadid."

Gasps echoed around the hall. I froze, certain I had misheard.

"What!" I heard Kelly shout from the other side of the room. I knew she would be more shocked than I was. It simply wasn't possible that somehow I'd been picked first.

But Rafe gestured for me to step forward. Completely shocked, I somehow made my feet move, still unable to believe the Alpha had chosen me first of all the girls present. Me? How could he pick me? This was impossible!

I knew Connor must have had a hand in this. I had told him I didn't want to be here anymore, but I should have known he would take it as a challenge to keep me here.

I stepped out of the grand hall in a daze, my mind spinning. I stood alone for a few tense minutes before I heard a commotion back in the hall. Another name was called out-Addy Spencer. A tall, slender girl with flowing auburn hair hurried into the room. She gave me a hesitant smile as she introduced herself.

Before we could exchange more than a few pleasantries, a third girl entered-Aurora Margo. Aurora wasted no time embracing us enthusiastically. "Hi, Freya! Hi, Addy! I'm Aurora, and I'm so happy to be here! Aren't you guys?" I nodded, even though I knew I wasn't really happy. I didn't want to be here.

Our chatter ceased abruptly when the fourth selected girl arrived-Jessica Gabriel, a popular beauty and aristocrat. She didn't spare us a glance as she passed us and picked a seat to sit down.

"And the final pick, the fifth of my favorite ladies, is... Kelly Hadid!" I froze as I heard her name. My stepsister was part of the five.

I was stuck at the palace with Kelly.