Chapter 1:Bloodlines and Bonds
Life as a vampire may sound like a blood bath, but for me, it's a carefully balanced existence. As a nurse, I sustain myself with blood bags from the local bank, ensuring I harm no one. Raised from infancy by a pack of wolves, I've always felt a dual nature within me—part vampire, part wolf. It's an upbringing that's shaped my identity and fueled my curiosity about my origins.
Mason, the Alpha's firstborn son and heir to the Blood Moon pack, is my mate. Despite our unmarked bond, he patiently supports my quest to find my biological family. Living together in the pack house, I work tirelessly as the head nurse at the pack hospital, where my role extends to researching every possible lead that could unveil my true lineage.
Physically, I stand out among vampires with my long, black curled hair and naturally orange eyes. My complexion, a delicate ivory with a hint of warmth, defies the stereotype of cold, undead vampires. If I'm flushed, my cheeks take on the rosy hue of a peach, a subtle reminder of my hybrid nature.
Discovering my royal lineage came with unexpected powers—beyond the typical vampire traits of speed, strength, heightened senses, and immortality. I possess the ability to heal myself and others, read minds, and even exert control over animals, although I'm cautious with this power. The pack's Alpha and Luna have accepted me despite my non-wolf status, recognizing the value of my abilities and my dedication to our community.
One evening, Mason's voice calls out from the doorway, breaking my concentration on a particularly intriguing lead. "Kali? Baby? Are you ready to go?" His presence always brings a sense of comfort, grounding me in our shared journey.
"Coming!" I call back, hastily throwing on one shoe and rushing towards him. Tonight feels significant—I've decided it's time to let him mark me, especially now that I've uncovered promising clues about my biological family.
Mind link:
Mason's emotions wash over me, a welcome warmth amidst the uncertainties of my past. For the first time, I feel truly wanted, cherished for who I am. I open up to him, sharing the painful chapters of my life: the tragic loss of my parents to rogue vampires when I was young, the tumultuous relationship with my first mate, and the existence of my son, Mason. His response is nothing short of unwavering support and understanding.
Mason takes my hand as we walk towards the main hall. "Kali, I've been thinking about what you've told me," he says softly, his eyes reflecting sincerity. "I want you to know that I'm here for you, no matter what. We'll find your family together, and Mason..." His voice catches briefly, a mix of pride and tenderness. "He's already my son, and I'll be honored to raise him as my own."
I squeeze his hand gently, feeling a rush of gratitude and love. "Thank you, Mason. I feel so lucky to have you."
As we reach the main hall, Jason Bowman, Alpha of a neighboring pack, approaches us with a warm smile. "Kali, Mason," he greets us warmly. "I've heard a lot about you both. It's a pleasure to finally meet in person."
"Likewise, Jason," Mason replies, returning the smile. "Thank you for coming. Your support means a lot to us."
Jason's gaze shifts to me, his expression thoughtful. "Kali, Mason has told me about your journey. It's not often we see someone with your abilities and lineage. Your presence will bring great strength to our combined pack."
Feeling a sense of belonging, I smile gratefully at Jason. "Thank you, Jason. I look forward to what the future holds for all of us."
With Jason's arrival, our focus shifts to planning a formal mating ceremony—a celebration of our union and the beginning of a new chapter for both our packs.
