KEANA'S POV
As Elena tightened the corset of my gown across my waist, my mind drifted back to the conversation I'd had with Dunya. After yesterday's painful encounter with my mate, I'd rushed to Dunya's chambers, unable to stop the tears streaming down my face.
I hadn't expected him to welcome me with open arms, but I'd thought there'd be some flicker of vulnerability, something to show he felt even a hint of what I did. My wolf, Rora, constantly tugged at me to go to him, our bond drawing me toward him like a force I couldn't control. But he treated me like I didn't matter, shouting at me as if I was nothing more than a nuisance.
I didn't ask to be made his mate. I came here as a slave, and I was ready to accept that fate. But discovering I was his chosen mate… it changed everything. So, I'd gathered my courage and approached him, hoping he'd feel some connection.
But instead, he left me feeling utterly broken, as though I was insignificant. I'd burst into Dunya's room, startling her awake, and poured out everything, even about Matilda and my fears that Raven might be attracted to her. Rora, hurt by the thought, had slumped inside me, amplifying my pain. Raven didn't need to say the word "rejection"—his actions had spoken loudly enough.
Dunya had listened with kindness and told me not to give up on him. She reminded me that he had his own battles and advised that I stake my claim as his mate, not just for him but for my own self-respect. She said I needed to show strength, especially now that the pack members were beginning to view me with newfound respect.
"Seduce him Keana, look extremely good, Matilda was just a fling he had in the past, she doesn't look half as good as you do, men find it hard to resist an appealing woman especially not one with a shape like yours" I remembered the frame of the woman who caused me pain yesterday and her short hair, round face and beautiful features were enough to question my own beauty.
Elena's voice pulled me back to the present. "I'm done, Miss. You look astonishing! Are you stepping out?" she asked, her cheerful smile revealing her dimples. Despite everything, I couldn't help but smile back. Elena, the maid assigned to me, was about my age, and we'd quickly grown comfortable around each other.
I glanced at my reflection. The gown hugged my figure perfectly, accentuating my curves and giving me an hourglass silhouette. I didn't even want to imagine the effect from behind. Today, I would look like a Luna—even if he didn't see it.
"Elena," I said, hoping,a spark in my eyes, "would you do something for me?"
"Anything, Miss. I'm at your service," she replied eagerly.
"I want you to take me to the finest part of the pack house, where you know the Alpha frequents—and where other important pack members gather."
"Of course, of course!" she said, beaming.
With her leading the way, I steeled myself. Today, I will stand tall.
As Elena guided me through the crowd, I felt my heart racing, the nerves I'd been trying to keep at bay now roaring to life. She brought me to a spacious hall decorated with hanging lights and vibrant tapestries, where the Beta, Diego, had organized a talent show for the pack members. It was an event meant to bring everyone together, a rare night of joy and unity. And Alpha Raven would be in attendance.
My steps faltered as I realized this was no ordinary seating. Elena led me straight to the section reserved for dignitaries, where I would sit among the highest ranks of the pack. I'd been a slave mere days ago, used to blending into the shadows, but tonight I was walking out into the light.
As I reached my seat, the eyes on me felt like weights, but I lifted my chin, holding steady. Pack members around me bowed respectfully, and even the whispers fell silent as I sat down. Out of the corner of my eye, I spotted Dunya in the crowd. She grinned, mouthing "You look hot," and I felt my lips curve in a smile. I clung to her encouraging words, letting them rebuild my courage.
Then suddenly, the energy in the room shifted. The crowd grew quiet, almost holding its breath. Beta Diego, who I'd exchanged polite greetings with earlier, rose to his feet, bowing deeply. His action was like a wave as the rest of the pack followed, bowing low in unison.
Confused, I remained seated, uncertain of what was happening, until I caught sight of him.
My mate,Alpha Raven ,strode into the hall with a commanding presence that seemed to fill every corner. His tall frame moved with quiet power, each step deliberate and fluid. His sharp jawline, etched like stone, was softened only by the deep, stormy eyes that held a glint of something dangerous and untamed. His hair, dark as midnight, fell in waves that framed his face with a rugged elegance. Broad shoulders, a strong stance… it was impossible not to feel his dominance radiating through the room.
With every step, his presence stole the breath from the crowd and from me.
I stood up too, shaking my head to rid myself of the treacherous thought I have of him and doing exactly what everyone was doing but as I made the action, my eye caught the figure strolling behind him,with a glint in her eyes.
Matilda.