Chapter 1
I looked up at the ceiling in my room and everything outside my door was just too noisy. Not surprising, considering they're celebrating the future Beta Elijah's birthday. I rolled over onto my side and stared at the wall in disgust. I couldn't stand him, he was rude, he had a hand in bullying me, he was too handsome for his own good, and he had this cold side to him. I am pretty sure that I was the only person in the pack that saw his cold side. He's always made my life difficult at every opportunity. But today, on his birthday, the noise levels and festivities had reached an all-time high, amplifying my frustration towards him even more. I sighed and contemplated how I could escape this suffocating atmosphere.
Should I have the courage to step out of my small bedroom? Doing so would expose me to the possibility of becoming the target of their ridicule, and today, I was simply not in the mood for that. I considered slipping out the back door while everyone was distracted, seeking solace in the quiet of the night. However, a nagging thought reminded me of my obligations and the inevitable confrontation that would follow my departure. No, it is best that I just stay here.
They would definitely seek the Omega's help to tidy up after their chaotic state. It is astonishing how reluctant they are to assume responsibility and tidy up after themselves. Goddess forbid that they do so even once in a while. I am sure that it would injure them to wash a freaking spoon.
Once more, I scoffed and restlessly turned in my bed. My gaze swept across the room until it fell upon a photograph of my beloved parents. With a heavy sigh, I reached out to hold the picture closer to my heart. Oh, how I longed for them! It has been three long years since they left this world, leaving me yearning for the warmth of their embrace. Three years without anyone truly showing me that they truly care. Three years since I have ever felt love, or felt that I mattered to anyone. It felt like a panic attack was approaching.
I sat up in bed, my heart racing, and reached for my cellphone. With trembling fingers, I opened a video I had captured of them. As I witnessed the heartwarming sight of them dancing together in our kitchen, an overwhelming surge of emotions coursed through me. Tears welled up in my eyes, tracing a path down my face. I laid in bed and cried, missing them terribly. I would do almost anything to bring them back.
“I hope that you’re proud of me down here.” I whispered to the photograph, placing a small kiss on it.
In all honesty, I am the Omega who was taken in by the Alpha and Luna out of guilt. They push me to my limits every single day, and not in a good way. More in an annoying work you to the bone way. Our Luna insists that I should be grateful for the opportunity to live with them. Without their support, I would be utterly helpless, lacking both a pack and any significant strength for protection.
Because of my smaller stature, I was consistently bullied at school, even though I tried to avoid confrontation. Despite my efforts, I was pushed around, beaten, and treated poorly on a daily basis. Nevertheless, I remained resilient, channeling my energy into excelling in my studies and training, ultimately achieving straight As. My academic achievements served as a form of escape from the torment I faced, providing me with a sense of accomplishment and self-worth. As I focused on my studies and physical training, I began to develop a quiet determination to prove my worth, not only to others but to myself as well.
No matter how badly they mistreated me, I would never allow them to witness my shattered spirit. I would never grant them the satisfaction they inexplicably sought. Gazing at the deep purple bruise on my arm, I recalled the moment when Jane, displeased by my lingering glance at Elijah, menacingly vowed to fracture it. Her older brother, Benjamin, the future Alpha, intervened just in time. He reminded Jane that I was without the ability to heal like the others. That day, she spat in my face and sternly warned me to avert my gaze from Elijah. I just nodded my head and disappeared out of sight.
I contemplated departing from the pack on multiple occasions, but the absence of a wolf left me extremely vulnerable. Without the protection of a wolf, my fate would surely have been sealed by the morning light. The notion of solitude both enticed and terrified me. I knew that the only way to survive was to stay close to the safety and comfort of the pack. I was made to believe that without their protection I would die from the hands of dangerous rogues.
I sat down my parents photo when I heard a knock at the door. When I opened the door the Luna was standing there with a smug look on her face.
“Yes Luna?” I asked and bowed my head.
“Your assistance is now needed downstairs. They have finished dinner and have left for a run with others in the pack. Go clean and straighten up the kitchen, sweep the floors, then mop them. After that please have the bathrooms and showers all cleaned.” She commanded me.
“Yes, Luna. I will clean everything immediately.” I told her, keeping my head bowed until she walked away.
I composed myself and headed downstairs to confront the aftermath left by everyone. I diligently cleaned up, washed and dried all the dishes, and meticulously arranged them in their designated spots. After wiping down the counters and the table, I swept and mopped the floor. I then moved to the bathrooms, cleaning all ten of them along with the tubs and showers. I made my way back into the kitchen and saw someone took out the gallon of water. I proceeded to put away the water left behind when I noticed a plate covered with foil in the fridge with a note addressed to me.
“Olivia, We made a plate for you. We know you have yet to eat today. -Benjamin and Elijah.”
I couldn't help but smile as I retrieved the plate from the fridge. Removing the foil, I heated it in the microwave and then carried it to my room where I savored it in solitary delight. When I finished I washed the plate and dried it, putting it away.
Ascending the staircase, I entered my room and settled onto my cozy bed. Opening my bookbag, I retrieved tonight's homework, and as I glanced at the assignment, a wave of dread washed over me. The math problems appeared more complex than anticipated. Undeterred, I persevered for an hour, finally conquering them. I relaxed onto my bed, succumbing to a blissful slumber. The next morning, roused by a sense of rejuvenation, I eagerly embraced the day. Grabbing my bag and heading out the door, a profound sense of accomplishment flooded my being, knowing I had conquered the daunting homework the previous night. I felt grateful that I could enjoy a homework-free weekend ahead.
When I opened the packhouse door, I inadvertently collided with Elijah, our bodies meeting suddenly. As he looked down at me, his eyebrows raised, and I found myself unable to look away. Elijah, the future Beta of our pack, exuded strength and confidence. His brown eyes were not just a muddy color, but rather a mesmerizing blend of gold and light. His jet-black hair, slightly tousled today, only added to his undeniable charm. He had a chisled jaw and his full lips seemed like they would be nice to kiss.
As we locked eyes, I noticed that neither of us was budging. I quickly averted my gaze, stepping aside and apologizing to him.
"Please forgive me. I was just trying to get to the store and wasn't paying attention. I'm sorry," I stammered.
“It’s okay, accidents happen. Bye now.” He scooted past me in a hurry, taking a backwards glance at me with an odd expression.
I observed him taking the stairs two at a time. As soon as he disappeared, I left the house, not even heading to the store. I chuckled to myself, puzzled by the sudden change in my feelings towards him. Why was he being so kind to me anyway? Frowning, I pondered this as I walked. I had a strong sense that something was definitely going on.
