The Alpha's Obsession: Claiming The Silver wolf

CHAPTER ONE

ZELYNE'S POV

I had mastered the art of courtesy by the age of 7.

To keep my expression neutral, I smiled even when I felt like shit and kept my chin up high even when the world didn't care to see even my shadow.

As the Beta's daughter, I had to follow certain rules and dance to certain tunes, even when I didn't like the rhythm.

My father captained my life, and my mother had no choice but to agree to whatever he said.

As an Omega, I didn't have much say in the Pack, and at home, I was treated just like the house workers. The only difference between us was the expensive ribbon my mother wrapped around my ponytail; she said it made me look extra beautiful.

The maids had scars from beatings and calluses from too much weaving and baking—I had the same, since my father would have me join them in every hard task.

That is the only way you can actually be of good use to me, Zelyne. He would say before throwing me out into the winter cold at dawn.

"How do you manage to weave so much without fainting, Mary?" I raised a brow, leaning in to check her designs.

Mary was literally the only friend I had. She was one of my father's slaves, which he earned from unpaid debts by pack debtors, and she had been working in our home for fifteen years now. She came in when she was just ten.

"Dear Zelyne, you'll never understand." She smiled, patting my shoulder. "There are so many tasks to do before the sun sets, and the only way to escape being punished is to be more efficient, extra efficient." She explained, flashing a warm smile at me.

One thing about Mary was that she was so nice. Even though she was much older than me, she never treated me like that. She took me as her friend, as an agemate.

"Hurry, the Head of the maids comes in by 4 and we should be done before then. Stitch up the embroidery and move on to another."

I sighed.

This was just another day working myself off until I was worn out.

"Mary Lambert?!"

A voice echoed in the room and as all eyes turned to the door, fear crept in.

Silas, the head of the soldiers, marched in alongside his men.

"Mary Lambert?" He called again, staring around.

Everyone had their eyes on Mary now, wondering what could have happened.

I was more afraid. Whenever they came calling, it was for nothing good.

"It is me," Mary said. "Is there a problem?"

Silas's men smirked, murmuring amongst themselves. "We finally found the bloody thief who stole Beta's diamond."

"Come with us." Silas grabbed her hand roughly.

"What have you done, Mary?" My voice broke as I stared into her eyes, waiting for her to speak, to deny the accusation, but she didn't speak. She just kept staring at me with apologetic eyes.

"You didn't do this, right?"

"I'm sorry, Zel." She sniffed, shaking her head. "It was the only way to save my dying mother. I had no choice."

"Ma—"

"We're sorry, Zelyne, but this is no time for cheap talk." Silas cut in, snatching her away. "Leo, Marcus. Escort her into the prison. Beta Mark will come for her later."

Indistinct talk filled the room, murmurs and gossip from every corner.

I stood in the middle of the room, tactless. There was no way I could save Mary; I could only watch them take her away.

Mother walked in a few minutes later, looking very disturbed. I rushed to her, frowning.

"Mother, is there anything wrong?"

"Zelyne…"

"They took Mary away. Is there a way you could help speak to Father?"

"Look, daughter." She held my cheek in her palm. "You and I know your father is adamant and would never listen even when I appeal. He never yields to anything I say. If not, why would he have thrown you out of your chamber to this lowly place?"

"So what happens to Mary? Is she going to die?"

Mother sighed. "Forget about Mary now. There is a more serious matter at hand."

"What is the issue, mother?" I asked, concern etched in my voice.

Seconds passed, but she remained quiet, still, just staring into my eyes.

I felt uneasy. Something was definitely wrong and I could tell from her expression.

"You're getting married, Zelyne."

I was forced to laugh.

Getting married? To whom?

I have never seen a suitor, not even one, walk in to speak to father about me.

No one in the Pack even looks my way.

"Is this a joke, mother? I beg you to make me believe it or I might explode soon."

She pulled me away briskly into her chamber and locked the door firmly behind us.

"Dominic Thorne, son of Darius Thorne of the Moon Fire Pack. He becomes Alpha in two days and your marriage is set to take place on his coronation day."

"How did you find out about this?"

"I overheard your father's discussion with Luna Aliya Thorne."

I gasped, looking around. "She's here?"

"Darius Thorne is in his sick bed. The Pack physician predicted he would give up the ghost in seven days. Luna Aliya says his dream is to watch her son get married before his death; therefore, she has chosen you, Zelyne, and your father agrees to it."

"No." I chuckled dryly, stepping back. "I have always dreamt of a marriage built upon love. Even when I haven't found my mate, I have always prayed to the Moon Goddess for a perfect partner. Dominic Thorne cannot be that man. Not ever. I object to it!"

"My dear Zelyne." Mother sobbed, pulling me into a hug. "I would never want that too and that is why I am informing you beforehand. Your father would never object because he can't forfeit the juicy promises Luna Aliya has made. She has vowed to help him become Alpha of this pack. He cannot resist."

"What shall I do, mother?" My voice dropped low, aching from inward pain.

How could a father be such a glutton to give out his only daughter like that?

Well, I knew I meant nothing to him, and I wasn't surprised to discover his plans now, but I needed a way out of this.

"I don't want Dominic, Mother. What sha

ll I do?"

She looked at me, eyes intent on mine.

"Tomorrow at dawn, I will have you elope away from here, Zelyne."