“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.

I scooped up the apple pie sitting beautifully on my plate and ate it generously, savoring the sweet taste as it melted in my mouth. I closed my eyes, feeling so content in that moment and even nostalgic.

When I was younger, my mom used to make pies like this. I remembered how excited I always was whenever she announced we'd be having apple pie for dinner. 'If only...'

"Hey, Freya. That's your name, right?" Addy whispered to me as she shifted her seat closer with a cheerful smile on her face. I nodded.

"Where are you and your sister from? Hope you don't mind me asking."

"Not at all. We live in the western part of the kingdom, not too far from the border. What about you?"

"Oh, I live in the kingdom city. My house is only a thirty-minute drive from here," Addy replied enthusiastically. You could tell she was from a wealthy family and had been showered with love her whole life. Unlike me, who had been mistreated for as long as I could remember. My gaze turned to Kelly, who was sitting at another table with the other ladies, Jessica and Aurora. They were listening attentively to whatever she was saying. No doubt, she was probably lying to them about how Father was rich and fancy. She tended to do that with her friends at home too.

I couldn't help the snort that escaped my lips.

"Oh, did I say something wrong?"

My eyes widened. I had forgotten Addy was beside me. "No, no! I... I was just thinking about something else, Addy."

"Freya... I hope we can somehow be friends? I think I've always been a good judge of character, and something tells me you'll be a good friend," Addy said, that same cute smile on her face. How could I tell her that I wasn't here to make friends? I was here to escape the terrible fate of being mistreated by my family.

"Besides..." she continued, "we all need a friend in a place like this. Competition or not. Don't you think?"

"Um... I do," I answered.

Just as she was about to say something else, a striking woman walked into the room, a paper in one hand and a box in the other.

"Hello, beautiful ladies. Good evening. My name is Aramatha, and I am your guide while you are here. I will give you instructions on the programs you are to attend while staying with the Alpha and his family. Please ensure you always follow the rules given to you, and you are guaranteed a perfect stay here. I will leave you for now. The keys to your rooms are placed in this little box with your names engraved on them, so your room is specifically made to your taste. Please proceed to your rooms once you are done with dinner. Tomorrow's activities will be communicated to you later. Thank you, beautiful ladies." Without waiting for any of us to respond, the woman walked out of the room, leaving the box with our keys on the table between our seats.

Kelly was, of course, the first to stand up and dip her hand into the box. "Kelly's room," she gloated, waving the key in our faces with a grin. Each of us followed suit and went to take our keys.

I stared at my key in wonder. It was made of gold, like almost everything in this place. My name, FREYA, was carved boldly on it. It felt oddly satisfying holding a key with my name on it.

I stepped into my new room in the palace, and I couldn't help but gasp at the sight of it. The room was spacious with high ceilings, adorned with intricate patterns that glimmered under the light of the crystal chandelier. The walls were painted in a shade of royal blue, and the furniture was made of polished wood with gold accents. It felt like I had walked into a dream.

But I knew better than to get too comfortable. My stepsister, who was also competing for the Alpha King's hand, wouldn't hesitate to sabotage me if given the chance. I couldn't let my guard down, not even for a moment. I didn't really want to be anybody's breeder, but if that was what I needed to be free of my family, I would do it. 'How bad could being Alpha Rafe's Luna be?'

"Excuse me, miss?" A soft voice interrupted my thoughts. I turned around to see three young girls dressed in identical uniforms standing behind me, each holding a tray of refreshments.

"Hi," I said, trying to sound friendly. "Who are you, and how may I help you?"

"We're your maids, miss," one of them said with a timid smile.

"Maids?" I repeated, confused. "I don't need any maids."

"Everyone has maids during their stay in the palace," another girl explained. "We're here to assist you with anything you might need."

I didn't know how to respond to that. Being waited on hand and foot wasn't something I was used to, and it made me feel uncomfortable. "Well, thank you, I guess," I said, still unsure.

"Is there anything we can help you with right now?" the first girl asked.

"Uh, no, I'm okay," I replied, feeling awkward.

"Okay, then," she said, bowing slightly. "We'll be just outside if you need us."

"Hold on," I called as they turned to walk out. They quickly turned back, a hopeful look on their faces.

"Yes, miss?"

"Sorry... what are your names?"

They shared awkward glances before turning back to me.

"My name is Grace, miss," the first girl answered. She seemed more mature than the other two. "This is Clara, and that is Flo."

"Alright, Grace, Clara, and Flo. Thank you," I said. "Good night, and sleep well."

"Sleep well too, miss," they chorused before walking out and closing the door behind them.

I turned and stared out the window, taking in the breathtaking view of the palace gardens. The scent of flowers wafted in through the open window, making me feel like I was in a dream. I couldn't believe just yesterday I was still at home, cleaning, and today I was in the royal palace of the werewolf king, as a guest. 'Life can be crazy, right?'

A soft knock sounded at my door, jarring me from my thoughts.

"Who's there?"

"It's Grace, miss. I have a message."

"Come in, please."

"Miss Freya, I was told to pass this information to you. The steward expects all the ladies to attend an orientation first thing tomorrow morning." I nodded, curiosity piqued about what awaited me and the other competitors tomorrow. So the games had begun.

"An orientation?" I asked, confused. "What exactly does that entail?"

The blonde girl stepped forward. "All the contestants gather to receive instructions on proper etiquette and protocol while staying at the palace. My lord insists that everyone behave appropriately."

I nodded thoughtfully, thanking Grace before she turned and left. The Alpha seemed quite strict. I only hoped he wouldn't be as cruel as my family had been. I didn't know if I could take any more than Kelly's wickedness while I was at the Crimson Palace.