Switched Luna

Chapter 1: Disguise

|Carmella|

Sunsets has been a timeless reminder of the cyclical nature of life.

As the sun slowly disappeared in the horizon, the sky could still be a canvas of blazing hues of orange, pink and gold. Despite the sun bidding its fiery farewell to the day, it is a reminder that there is still beauty to be found as the sky fades from the vibrant hues.

“Lady Camilla,” I was a bit startled when I heard a voice behind me. Without looking away from the scenery in front of me, I could tell that her presence is nearing my direction and she's not alone.

“It is time,” the voice added. Her tone instantly registered into my system. My shoulder relaxes in return but it did not stop me from being wary of my surroundings.

Naturally, I'd remain watchful of everyone around me at all times. I exhaled a deep breath then observed the scenery in front of me.

The waves of clouds catch remnants of light and casting long shadows that infuse the surroundings with a sense of tranquility. With each passing moment, the colors deepened and intensified. And as the final rays of sunlight disappeared, the sky fades from its vibrant hues, a signification that the battle of day and night has meets its end.

As much as it is my desire to stay and appreciate the fireflies twinkling around like scattered embers, I had to leave and prepare for tonight’s tradition.

The tradition, huh? Do I really have to follow?

A bit conflicted, I turned my back and retreated back inside my room. Two maidservants stood poised at the threshold of the balcony, awaiting my return.

“Your bath is ready, Lady Camilla.” Janina, one of the maidservants, informed.

With a heavy sigh, I remained silent as I made my way directly to the bathroom. They automatically followed behind. And as soon as I got inside the bathroom, Lesley and Janina started helping me shedding my garments.

Tonight is an important day. It is an important day of the month where a tradition must be followed.

The tradition is where the husband and wife must share a bed where the full moon ascends in the night sky and shines on its peak. As much as I wanted to make an excuse like being sick or whatnots, I know I couldn't.

Doing so is not an option.

Lesley and Janina helped me get inside the bathtub filled with warm water. It was infused with fragrant oils that perfumed the air. When I sat down, I shut my eyes tight as I surrender to the soothing sensation of the water embracing my body. Then my maidservants started helping me cleansing my body with great care.

I must say this delicate assistance is not something I'm used to. It was very far from the life where I had grown up.

A total mismatch.

I had never experienced the luxury of having someone assist me with my bath, as I had always managed just fine on my own. Nor was I accustomed to the convenience of meals being brought to me, no matter where I chose to dine, since I was perfectly capable of whipping up my own dishes in the kitchen. The grandeur of living in such a vast mansion was foreign to me as well, for a cozy, modest home had always been more than sufficient.

In short, I wasn't used to being treated like a princess. And what I wasn't used of was being attended by the maidservant all day long.

The life here was entire different, a stark contrast to what I had accustomed. But then, this will be my life ever since I got in here. So, despite the difference, I know I must adapt as quickly as possible.

Lesley and Janina continued to assist me with my ‘night routine’ until I was done. As soon as I was done wearing my nightgown made from the finest silk, Janina started brushing my long straight brown hair after I settled in front of the vanity.

There's a portrait displayed in front of me. I stared at it for a few seconds before I lifted my gaze to look at my reflection in the mirror.

The portrait mirrors my reflection.

I have symmetrical features. My eyebrows are in perfect arch-shape. It complimented my siren eyes, filled with hazel liquid that changes its color depending on the lighting. My nose was sculpted with a delicate slope and my lips are plump and heart-shaped. The picture and my reflection in the mirror was very uncanny.

I was staring at my reflection for a few seconds when I was distracted when I heard a knock coming from the door. Janina stopped brushing my hair as Lesley immediately attended my sudden visitor. And when I heard the familiar baritone voice of the man outside my room, I knew right away that I need to leave.

“Is Lady Camilla ready? The Alpha is already waiting at their bedchamber.” Manuel, the Alpha's trusted and loyal Beta, inquired with a hint of urgency.

“She is ready, sir Manuel. She will be leaving in a moment.” Lesley informed.

“Alright, then. I'll be waiting here to escort her to the bedchamber.”

Janina and I exchanged a meaningful look through our reflection as I stood from my seat. I was the one to avert my gaze first, as Lesley returned to convey the details of her conversation with Manuel.

“I'll head there now,” I said with a cold voice. Lesley then helped me wore a shawl to cover up my nightgown. Once everything was in place, I approached the exit of my bedroom.

Lesley pulled the door wide open, revealing Manuel standing outside like a noble knight awaiting for his queen. And at the sight me, he bowed his head respectfully and spoke my title with conviction.

“Good evening, Luna.” he greeted.

I stayed silent and ignored him, as I compelled to do. Then I began my journey towards the bedchamber where my husband is waiting. It is located in the northern part of the mansion and it faces the best view of the entire territory of the Gilmore's clan.

If you're wondering why my husband and I don't share a bed, then I must say it is all due to tradition. Or perhaps I should say, with the years passed—we got accustomed with tradition and we have both agreed to uphold it.

After all, we were only bound because of a tradition.

My husband and I were allowed to get married when I reached the age of eighteen.

However, tradition dictated that until I turned twenty-two, we couldn't share a bed after our marriage. To grow accustomed to each other, we embraced the custom of sharing a bedroom only on the nights of the full moon, allowing us to foster familiarity and comfort in each other's presence.

But I was already passed twenty-two almost three years ago. And up until now, my husband and I still keep separate bedroom.

Like what I had said, we still continued the tradition where the two of us would only meet every full moon. And…it's what we both desire and best for us.

My heart quickened its pace when I realized I was nearing the location of the bedroom. With each step, I feel like turning back. My insides were in tumult, like it was an instinct that I should retreat before I regretted my decision. But I constantly reminded myself that I must do this. I have reached far enough to be here so there's no turning back.

Not long after, I arrived in front of the designated bedroom. Without looking back, I felt Manuel, Lesley and Janina withdrawing. I shut my eyes tight and inhaled a sharp deep breath. I tried to shrug off the nervousness I was feeling.

I should treat this night as if everything is normal to me, that I was used with my new life even though I'm still not.

I slowly reached the knob and twisted it open. The brass felt so cold against my hand. And I know it was already too late to run away when I slowly pushed the door open.

The dim bedroom was the first thing that greeted my gaze. Seeing the lights off somehow lessened the tension I was feeling. I made another deep intake of breath before I stepped inside the bedroom and closed the door behind me.

The moonbeam on the right side of the room, pouring through the opened door connecting to the balcony, was the only means of light. The four-poster bed, draped with white and light canopy dominated the room. It's imposing presence casting a sense of foreboding over the space. And every little details of the room was adorned with classic and intricate touch.

I have known that the Gilmore's are rich. But I didn't know that they are this filthy-old rich family.

Whitlocks’ are also an old-rich family. But I must say that they don't equal the Gilmore's when it comes to properties. The only reason our family is standing still despite the growing influence of the other families was because Whitlock’s are an old-name clan and has expanded its allies over the centuries.

‘Where is he?’ I suddenly wondered as I neared the exit to the balcony to find my husband. I was told that he's already here but I couldn't sense his presence in this room.

I stepped out of the balcony to see if he was there. But I don't see anyone, even the trace of his scent and shadow.

A sense of relief washed over me. He must have left for a night hunt. He always do that. Well, if that's the case, that would be better. I hope he would come back when I’m already asleep.

The thought that my husband won't come back anytime soon made me linger on the balcony, savoring the tranquil embrace of the night.

I tightened the shawl around my body, its warmth as comfort against the cool night air. Lifting my eyes above, I marveled at the night sky. The sprinkled star glimmered in vast dark canvas, with the moon being the highlight of such a celestial masterpiece.

I squeeze my eyes shut, surrendering myself to the serene embrace of the moonlight. Time slipped away, lost in the tranquility, until a sudden thud jolted me from my reverie. A shadow loomed over me, compelling me to open my eyes and discover who it was.

And my breath caught in my throat as my gaze met a pair of blazing red eyes, and I found myself paralyzed by the sight.

“Theodore.” I breathed my husband's name. My heart pounded fiercely, like a wild drum echoing against my chest.

Theodore looked at me straight into my eyes. And for some unknown reason, the intensity of his gaze made me feel exposed, as if he could peer into the very depths of my soul.

A vivid memory washed over me, transporting me to that fateful initial encounter. The moment our eyes met, an inexplicable certainty settled in my mind: I don't like Theodore Gilmore.

Theodore was sporting a deep frown as he looked straight into my eyes. He looked hard and ruthless, which strengthened my belief that he is the person I've been looking for. His demeanor exuded arrogance and power, with an undercurrent of violence that sent a shiver down my spine. He radiated an unmatched vigor, a raw energy that was palpable. My gaze involuntarily traveled from his neck downward, taking in the chiseled contours of his body. Each muscle and bone a testament to his masculinity.

“Camilla.” Theodore called with his deep and hoarse voice, waking me up from the sudden reverie.

A lump formed in my throat as I caught myself lost in my gaze. With a conscious effort, I tore my eyes away and looked back up at him. But a sudden, inexplicable fear surged through me when I met his gaze once more. Overwhelmed, I quickly averted my gaze and turned away, desperate to escape his penetrating stare. I did not say anything as I turned my back against him and made my way back inside the bedroom.

“We need to talk, Camilla.” Theodore’s firm voice rang out once again. His words hung in the air as I caught the sound of his footsteps trailing close behind me.

I did not stop though.

It was not because I feared that he would unravel the depths of my secret. But because being addressed by a name that doesn't belong to me makes me feel uneasy, like wearing clothes that don't quite fit.

Because the truth is… I am not the true Luna of Gilmore's pack. I am not the wife of Theodore Gilmore.

And I am definitely not Camilla Whitlock-Gilmore.