Alpha's Abused Mate.

Forgiveness, Past And Future...

"It takes a lot of bravery to forgive and move forward and especially when unexpected obstacles from the past come on your way again..."

Cora's pov

"My Cora!?"

My father whispers with a cracking voice.

He seems so old, so neglected, so broken... He was always such a beautiful man, charming, elegant, with a confident and powerful aura. Now he has nothing to do with the man I knew and I was afraid of for so many years.

Owen is lost next to him, he is staring at me ready to cry, his eyes are not my brother's... Those dark blue almost black eyes that were shining now look so lifeless, so blur... He is a mess, a wreck... He is not my brother.

I take one step back gasping for air and lower my look on the ground.

What am I going to do?

I can't see them like these. I know they hurt me so much in the past but they are my blood and... My mother would be sorry for them. I know that I am an i***t of thinking like this when they never cared for me and her opinion all those years but I am not like them... I am not heartless and as I see they are not either.

"Cora... Talk to them, please..." Cynthia whispers.

My body shudders suddenly and I stiffen a bit towards Ivan. He tightens his hold around me and kisses the top of my head. I lift my head up slowly trying to find the courage I need... I look at them for some seconds before I take a deep breath.

"Leave us..." I whisper shortly.

Ivan looks surprised just like Owen who almost jumps up like he can't believe what I just said. Caleb pulls Leo, Jose and Rosa and begins walking back to the palace without saying a think. Chloe signs for Cora to go to her and leave while Ivan stares at me worried.

"My rose are you going to be alright? Do you want me to stay?" he whispers shortly.

"I will be fine sweetheart. Thank you..." I reply and he leaves with Chloe and Cora after he kisses my forehead again.

The three of us stay frozen for some more time.

My father starts crying more and Owen takes one step to me but stops. I walk to them slowly and stop three steps away from my father. I begin crying and my father falls suddenly on his knees and bust into sobbing. I am shaking the moment I hear his sobs and I lift my head up with my eyes closed. I try to breathe, I am ready to fall down as well, I can't bear it.

"Kill me my child. If you can't accept me then kill me please. If it makes you feel better do it! I can't anymore." He says through his sobs and I gasp ready to begin having spasms from the lack of air.

I fall on my knees in front of him and sob. Owen is crying loudly now, he is shaking and takes one step to us. I place my hands on the ground and bury my fingers in the earth trying not to scream. 

"I am so sorry baby. I wish I had died that day, I should have been dead in her place. I was a monster, not a father. I am so sorry." He whispers and gasps for air.

I take one proper breath and stop shaking and sobbing slowly. I raise my eyes on him and pull my hands on my knees. He is bended some inches away from me. He has his hands on his chest trying to breathe. Owen seems lost, he is not moving or talking. I slowly raise my hands and place them on my father's shoulders. He moves slightly and I pull him gently to lift his body a bit up.

"Can you please look at me?" I ask nervously.

He nods and sits up on his knees in front of me with difficulty. He lifts up his head and then his eyes slowly. He is ashamed, afraid of looking at me... He is not breathing and it is breaking my heart even more. I can't stand it anymore.

I bury myself in his embrace and hug him tightly. I start sobbing again and after some seconds he wraps his arms around me and cries calling my name. The pain in my heart is killing me but I feel a bit relieved. I was waiting for so many years this hug, I needed it so much, I was dreaming about it every day and night.

"My little girl! My baby..." he screams and begins kissing my hair, my shoulders and my cheeks and forehead.

"It's okay now. I am here, calm down!" I whisper.

He buries himself in my embrace and I kiss his forehead for some seconds. He murmurs something I can't understand and I caress his hair and back.

"I am so sorry sweetheart, I am..."

He pauses and gasps for air.

"I know, it is alright now." I reply softly.

"Cora, Owen!" Cynthia tells me worried.

I turn my head quickly and look at him stumbling with his face buried in his hands.

"Owen!" I say with concern and he takes two more steps and falls on his knees close to us.

My father jumps up worried and Owen lets his hands fall on his knees crying. I move in front of him and cap his face in my hands. He closes his eyes and lets out a low cry.

"Sister?" he murmurs and opens his full of tears eyes.

I give him a small smile and pull him in my arms. He hugs me back and caresses me while crying.

"It is fine brother. Please calm down. I can't bear more." He whisper and kiss him.

"I missed you so much!" he says trembling and pulls a bit back.

He raises his hand and caresses my cheek smiling. I take his hand in mine and kiss it softly. My father comes next to us and we both hug him. He lets out a low laugh and wraps his arms around us.

We stay like this for I don't know how much time. Our breathings become normal, our heartbeats are slower than before and we are not crying. I sigh relieved and kiss my father's cheek. Owen is caressing my lower back with his free hand and my father taps our backs softly.

"This is the best day of my life. I can die now, I don't care." My father whispers.

"You won't say anything like this again. I need you now that I found you." I reply and pull back.

I kiss his forehead again and Owen pulls back next to me and smiles.

"Are you alright sis? Are you happy?" he asks me and pecks my cheek.

"I am alright, just a bit frustrated. I will calm down in a while."

"We thought you were dead baby!" my father says sadly.

"I know, Chloe told me about it. I had no idea. It was a shock when I shifted, I could have never imagined that I am a lycanthrope."

"It's alright now. I am glad you found your aunt. I didn't know about your mother's identity, she knew nothing. She didn't have her memory when I found her."

"I know, I remember..." I murmur.

"Are you pleased with your life baby? Is everything alright?" Owen asks me with wary.

"I am... Aunt Alena is like a mother for me. We have a grandpa too, he is great. I have friends that are standing next to me like brothers and... I..." I pause awkwardly and blush.

"Archduke Ivan..." Owen says smirking teasingly.

I giggle and roll my eyes nodding.

"Is he a gentleman?" my father asks serious.

I open my eyes widely and Owen begins laughing.

Why don't I feel awkward with them? Why does it feel so good and familiar?

"Um... We are together since um... We had our problems... We had never confessed our feelings to each other until today but we are very good. I will tell you more later, don't worry!" I say smiling.

"Um... You know about that bastard, don't you? Chloe told you..." Owen says annoyed.

"Yes, some time ago. Our bond is gone. Cynthia broke it completely when I shifted. I am glad it has finished. I don't care about him, I just don't want to talk with him."

"If he dares come close to you we will kill him, don't worry!" Owen says through his teeth.

I laugh and they both stare at me confused. I stop slowly and clear my throat...

"I don't know if you will manage to kill him... There are lots of people in line that want to do it." I explain and they nod in understanding.

"Everything is going to be alright now my child. We are all next to you. No one will harm you again."

"I know dad!"

~some time later~

Ivan's pov

"Ivan stop going up and down the room, you are making me dizzy!"

I stop and stare Natalie annoyed. Queen Alena is silent and looks worried, Rosana is quite nervous and Mischa is way too calm.

"Can you tell me what is taking them so long? What if something bad happened?" I ask and continue walking nervous.

She is missing for about one hour, we left her alone with them and she hasn't come back yet. I am getting crazy, I don't have any reason to trust them, especially now that I know the whole story and this bastard is here as well.

"Ivan stop it my child. You are making me worse..." Alena says serious and stands up quickly.

"I am sorry but she is late and..."

"Am I?"

I turn immediately and see her getting inside the room smiling. She looks good. I rush to her and pull her in my arms sighing relieved. She kisses me and caresses my cheek. Her eyes are shining and the others circle us impatiently.

"Cut the loving couple's affection and tell us what happened." Rosa yells.

"My little rose?" Alena asks worried and pale.

"We are good... I forgave them."

"What? Have you lost your mind Cora?" Mischa exclaims surprised.

"No, I had talked with Chloe before they came. They were heartbroken. I know it was too sudden and quick but I feel good, I couldn't watch them sobbing and crying like that. I feel relieved now that I know we are alright!"

I kiss her forehead pulling her again close to me and she sighs. It was unexpected but... If she is happy then I am also. I respect her wish even if I don't agree after what they did to her. We are all silent for a while, Alena is ready to cry and I stiffen a bit anxious.

"Mischa, Natalie and Rosana please leave us alone for a while. Girls I will see you in some time at my room to get ready for the ball all together." Alena states frustrated.

They nod and leave quickly. Cora pulls a bit back and stares Alena nervously. It is weird to see them like this, they always had the perfect relationship and they were never so awkward with each other.

"Let's have a sit, shall we?" I say pointing the couch.

We all walk to the couch and sit with Cora in the middle. Alena shakes her head frustrated and Cora seems ready to cry. I tap her back gently and she places her hand on my knee.

"I want you to know that it is a bit difficult for me to accept it but I understand you and you are right... After all, your brother is my nephew and your father is my sister's mate... It is just weird after what they did to you. I am by your side... I want some time although..."

"I understand. I can't feel that weight inside me, I wanted to get free from my past and their behavior helped me, I feel better now."

I kiss her cheek and she smiles. Alena moves a bit closer to us and taps her knee gently.

"I love you very much auntie! I could never change you with anyone. You know it, right?"

Alena raises her eyebrows surprised and then lowers her gaze ashamed. Looks like Cora knows her very well...

Alena is... jealous?

I could have never thought about it, she is so confident and calm all the time and now she is almost panicked.

"Come here my Queen!" Says Cora and opens her arms giggling.

"You are the craziest child there is my little rose!" Alena whispers and pulls her in her embrace.

I smile and Alena pulls me to join them. I am quite surprised but I hug both of them and laugh.

This is my... Family!

Alena was like an aunt for me all these years and Cora...

Well Cora is the woman of my life.

I can't imagine my life without them.

"We have a ball to attend..." Alena whispers.

Cora jumps up like a flash and almost makes me fall on the floor. She quickly helps me stand up and kisses me in hurry.

What did just happen?

"I am sorry babe but... I have a ball to attend and I am late already... Because no one informed me before!" she screams in the end and turns to Alena who chuckles.

"What if I tell you that I have everything ready for you Cora?" she asks her smirking.

"You mean dress and shoes and EVERYTHING?"

I roll my eyes but don't dare to talk because they will both kill me and Cora punches my arm playfully. I raise my hands defeated and laugh. She narrows her eyes and smirks. Alena claps her hands smirking wickedly and we both turn and look at her.

"Good! Now, Cora you are coming with me and Ivan you are going back to your room to get ready with Mischa. We will see you in some hours from now at the ball." She states smiling.

"Can't we stay a bit more here with Cora?" I ask desperately (don't judge me, I miss her).

"Mmmm... No! I am sorry my boy but a woman needs lots of hours to get ready, you will soon understand it." She says smirking.

"Cora come on! We are late."

She turns to me smiling and gives me a quick kiss. I try to wrap my arms around her but she jumps back like a flash and joins Alena. I sigh disappointed and nod.

I can't do a thing now, can I?

They will kick my ass if I say anything...

"I will see you in a bit, okay?" she asks with nozzle and Alena rolls her eyes and pulls her out of the room.

I stay alone and sigh. I have a stupid smile on my face and Vital is laughing.

"I am doing like a puppy, aren't I?" I ask him.

"Hmm... Yeah! It was about time to become a caring man... Now go and get ready."

"For what?"

"For the ball i***t, we are going to accompany the Princess. OUR PRINCESS!"

I smile and shake my head in agreement.

OUR PRINCESS!

~some hours later~

Third person's pov

"You all look so pretty!" Queen Alena said ready to cry staring the three young women in front of her.

Rosana was wearing a long, golden dress with lace on the sleeves and she had her hair up on a high bun. Natalie had a dark blue long strapless dress with some big silver roses at its bottom and her long brown hair was down in light curls.

Cora's dress was light blue, the same color with her big eyes. It was hugging her stern and back and its sleeves were thin on her arms. It had sparkles all over it and it was simple like she always wanted her dresses to be. She had silver high heel as for shoes, on her head she had her silver small tiara with diamonds and her makeup was light. Her hair was up in an elegant messy bun with long side pieces and she was shining from happiness.

"You know our tastes so well auntie..." Rosana said excited.

"Anything for my girls! They will be all staring at you tonight!" she answered proudly.

"I think we want to stare at us only three specific men..." Natalie whispered smirking.

"Yes! I want only my Jose! I don't care about anyone else... Right Cora?" Rosana asked wickedly.

"Hey! Don't you look at me like this... It's your turn. I did... What I had to do... A bit sooner than I had imagined but we are fine with Ivan." Cora stated shyly.

"I have time for marking and mating my friend... Jose is not pressuring me."

"I know, he is a great and kind man... I am worried about him Rosa, you will kill him sooner or later. You won't be able to stop." Cora replied.

"Hey! This was bad!" Rosa exclaimed.

They all began laughing and teasing each other. In some minutes they had to make their appearance and they were a bit nervous. Excited but nervous...

And they were right because someone was ready for anything in order to talk to Cora...

~at the same time~

"You are shining my Archduke!" Mischa commended smirking pointing Ivan next to him.

Ivan fixed his tie and gave one last look at himself in the mirror. He was wearing a black, elegant formal suit costume with a white shirt and a black tie. His black thick shining hair was stylist as always and he was smiling pleased. Then he turned and tapped Mischa's shoulder friendly.

"I am accompanying my Princess today my friend. I must be perfect. You look great too. This dark blue costume suit is perfect." He said teasingly.

"I am a Duke, I have to be elegant, right? My Duchess is a bit strict now with the pregnancy and I want her pleased..."

"Good luck then man. You will surely need it."

"Ivan, I want to ask you... Is everything alright with Cora? Rosa told me she told you everything today." Mischa said with wary.

"Uh! We are fine... I mean we are perfect, it's like we are together for years, I feel so good with her. I am just angry with her family and that bastard. I want to kill him so much." Ivan said through his teeth.

"I know, look I think that her brother and father won't disappoint her again but... Be careful and ready about her ex mate... She told the girls that he is shameless and he will surely try to talk to her."

Ivan growled angrily and his hands turned into fists immediately.

He wasn't going to accept it...

"Then I will kill him with my own hands and the end." He groaned.

"Ivan, I understand you but if you want to be alright with Cora just stand by her side and let her handle him. You don't want her to get mad at you. We are the men of the family here and I want to protect her like you do but just give her space. If that maniac makes anything too much I will be with you but not now."

Ivan sighed frustrated and lifted his head up trying to gain his control. Mischa was right, he had to trust Cora and be patient for her. He would stand by her side and if that jerk would try anything out of their limits he would then put him in his place in his own way.

Vital groaned in approval and he shook his head thoughtfully. Cora needed peace and especially now that she was taking part at the competition and she had to be calm and concentrated.

"Okay, I will follow your advice. Just help me sometimes when I lose control, it is going to be difficult." He said turning again to Mischa who smiled.

"Deal brother. Now let's go. Our girls mustn't go at the ball before us."

Ivan nodded and they both got out of his room talking and laughing.

They had good plans for tonight...

------

Chloe, Owen and Sebastian were already at the ball room. The room was full, they were all there except from Cora, Queen Alena and their friends. The Kings and the other Queen had just arrived and soon Cora would be there.

The three of them were happier than ever now that Cora had forgiven Owen and Sebastian and they were very optimistic about the future. They were a bit nervous about the Queen, they knew that she was aware of what they had done and they were ashamed. They didn't know how they would be able to face her and Owen was in worse case as this woman was his only aunt. Cora had assured them that she would soften but Owen was very uncomfortable even in the idea of meeting her after everything.

Sebastian turned his head on his left and saw Noah and the others. He groaned annoyed and his eyes turned black from anger. He hated this man more than anyone or anything else. He was sure that he would try to talk to Cora even now that he had a Luna and she was pregnant. He wouldn't let him go close to his daughter again.

She was under his protection now that she had forgiven him, it was his duty as her father to deal with him. She was happy, she had another man and he didn't want her hurt again.

"Father what are you looking at?"

Owen turned and looked towards the direction his father was looking. He sighed frustrated once his eyes landed on Noah and Camilla.

How dared he be there?

Caleb had told Chloe that Noah was trying to find Cora the day before and he was mad at him.

What did he want from his sister now?

He had already made his choice, he was with someone else, the woman that helped him kill his sister in the past and now he wanted to see her and talk? About what?

"This son of a b***h. I would gladly kill him right now!" Owen whispered.

"Shhh Owen. Calm down." Chloe whispered and took his hand in hers caressing it gently.

"Are you kidding me babe? Look at him! This slut is standing by his side like everything is perfect when last night he left her to find Cora!"

Sebastian growled lowly and took a deep breath to calm down. Owen was right, Noah had no pride at all, no shame, no heart.

How could he let his daughter go with him so easily?

How could he allow him to hurt her like that?

"I want you to ignore him please. Try to act like mature men. Cora is already worried about Ivan's reaction, I don't want her to be worried about you two as well." Chloe told them in a serious tone like they were kids and she was their mother.

"Did you talk with Ivan?" Sebastian asked her surprised.

"Yes, while we were coming back when we left you alone with Cora. He wants to kill Noah but he doesn't know who he is. Cora asked him not to do a thing and so will you. Am I clear?"

Owen nodded a bit unwilling and Sebastian signed in agreement.

"At least it looks like he loves her. Today she seemed very happy next to him." He whispered.

"Even Cora liked him father... This means a lot. We will soon know." Owen told him thoughtfully.

"Look! Ivan and Mischa!" Chloe exclaimed excited.

They turned their heads towards the central stairs opposite of them. He was walking down them with another tall, dirty blonde man, Mischa. They were smiling and he looked to have so much confidence and a charming and elegant air. He looked so royal and calm, so sure about himself. Lots of women were staring at both of them and Sebastian smirked pleased. He liked this man for his daughter, he seemed a good choice for her, they were a matched couple.

Chloe turned her head and looked discreetly towards Noah's side. She got worried once she saw the expression on his face while he was staring at Ivan.

He was jealous...

------

"I will kill him!" Noah screamed in his mind and Natan growled frustrated.

He had seen Cora with him the day before and earlier that morning and he could see that Cora was with him, her trainer, Ivan.

He was so happy the day before when he saw her in the arena but so scared when he realized that she was going to fight. He was sure she was dead and seeing her in front of him was like a miracle. His Cora was alive and better than any other time, she was a Princess for his biggest surprise and...

Not every Princess, the lycanthropes' Princess.

She was so beautiful, strong, attractive. He always loved her but he was too arrogant to admit it and he always wanted her like crazy but now...

Now it was one million times worse, she was his everything and he needed her.

He wanted to stop the fight, pull her in his arms and never let her leave again and later when he saw Ivan kneeling in front of her, kissing and then hugging her he saw red. She was a bit nervous with him the previous day but that morning she was shining next to him.

He had tried to find her but she was nowhere. He left Camilla alone all night but Cora wasn't in her room or anywhere else in the palace or the garden. Camilla was causing him a headache from the moment they had seen Cora and he could feel she was angry but he didn't care.

She was the reason that pushed Cora to leave him, she took advantage of him while he was drunk that day and slept with him even if she knew about Cora's condition. She always wanted power, she never cared about anything. He accepted her as his Luna one month ago when she told him that she was pregnant and his pack needed a new Luna. Also she was good in bed so...

But now everything was different. Cora was alive and she was his mate, she might had accepted his rejection but it didn't matter. Cora would be always his, he knew she loved him from the first time she had seen him, they had a son together and it was meant to be together no matter what. It was just a matter of time, he would talk to her, he would ask for her forgiveness and he would give her some time.

He knew nothing about Ivan, except that he was Cora's trainer and he didn't want to know more. He just wanted him away from Cora, dead would be better but frustrating Cora wouldn't be wise from him. He would let Ivan live if Cora would accept him back and Ivan would stay away from her.

This time he promised he would make everything different, he would respect her and he would be kind, he would show her his true feelings and interest.

"Babe!" Camilla whispered with nozzle and stuck her body on his seductively kissing his neck.

He woke up immediately and tried to push her away but she wrapped her hands around his neck and kissed him again without letting him.

"What?" he groaned annoyed.

"Our baby needs a hug." She complained smirking.

"My baby or you?"

"Why are you so rude with me? What did I do? Don't you want me anymore?" she asked annoyed.

"Act like a Luna and stop embarrassing me in front of everyone. And I hate that dress. It's too revealing."

He pushed her off of him and she groaned angrily. She crossed her arms on her chest and her cheeks got red.

How could he act like this?

She was his Luna. She had 'their' kid inside her, he had marked her, he was hers.

From the moment he saw that b***h he lost his mind and was ignoring her completely. He didn't respect her the other night when she wanted to have s*x, he didn't let her touch him, he wasn't responding her when she was asking him some things, he was acting like she was no one.

She knew that everything was about Cora, she was alive and Noah was trying to talk to her. She was afraid that he would reject her to be with that slut, especially now that she was a Princess. She would lose everything if Cora would accept him but she was a bit relieved that she was in the arms of another man.

She lowered her gaze and looked herself annoyed. She may was older than Noah but she was still pretty and her body was sexy. She was wearing a long, bright red dress, her whole back was exposed and her breasts were quite revealed but she did it for Noah, to gain his interest again. She wanted to make him jealous but he wasn't showing any interest.

His mind was still on her and Camilla was losing the battle.

She had to do something or else she was done...

Leo, Caleb and Jose were standing next to them talking and laughing casually without talking to them.

Noah tried to learn about Cora, he had asked them about her but they told him nothing. They were happy for Cora and her new life, she deserved it after all. Caleb was feeling her like his daughter and Jose and Leo like their sister. They were happy that she had Ivan, he seemed very caring with her and she was so happy next to him.

Caleb however was worried about Noah, he knew his son after all these years and he could see how determinate he was to talk to Cora and win her again. He was sure that he would push the things up to their limits and he had to be ready for anything because Ivan, the Queen, Sebastian and Owen weren't willing to let him get close to Cora again.

"Look! Cora and the Queen!" Leo exclaimed suddenly enthusiastic.

They all turned their heads and Noah gasped for air because Cora was...

Gorgeous...

------

Cora was walking down the stairs next to her aunt who was wearing a long, dark red velvet dress with her crown on her head. Behind them were Rosana and Natalie. They were all smiling and Cora had her eyes locked on Ivan who walked quickly at the end of the stairs waiting for her once he saw her. Next to him was Mischa and after some seconds Jose approached them and stopped next to them staring at Rosana smiling.

Everyone was staring at them walking down the stairs slowly with grace.

Cora's cheeks were red. She was a bit shy, she could see and feel Ivan's eyes on her and she was excited. She wanted just to please him with her appearance and have a great night with him and their friends and family.

Ivan was drown in her, his eyes were following her every move, her every smile and step. She was the most beautiful woman on the earth for him, she was like a real Queen, his Queen. She was his and it was enough for him. She was smiling to him, it was like they were alone with no one else around them. His heart was beating fast and he was breathing harshly. Vital was howling excited while shaking his tail impatiently. It was magical.

Once Cora and the Queen reached some steps away from him and the other two men next to him he bowed and Cora with Alena stopped and bowed to him as well. He raised his hand and Cora took it and reached him smiling.

"Your are beautiful my Princess!" he whispered.

"You are very charming and sweet my Archduke." She replied and he kissed her forehead gently.

Rosana and Natalie reached Jose and Mischa and once they were all together Alena smiled ready to cry from happiness and pride. Her children were all together happy and in harmony. Rosa was not alone anymore, he had her mate and Cora had told her that Jose was a great man who would follow them gladly.

"You are making me the happiest and proudest woman there is. I love you all very much and you know I consider you like my own children." She said and turned to Jose.

"I am happy to meet you too my child. Cora and our Rosa have told me a lot about you. I welcome you to our family. You are very lucky you found my Rosa."

Jose tried to bow but she stopped him. She raised her hand and he stopped confused. She walked to him and pulled him in her arms.

"You are a member of the family. You don't have to bow to me in conditions like this. For you I am Alena or aunt just like the others." She whispered.

"Thank you very much my Q... Alena. Thank you very much!" Jose replied correcting himself in time and they all smiled.

"Now... I think it is party time. Go and have some fun. Amanda, George and Adrian are waiting for me. I will see you later." Alena stated and left to the other side of the room to find the other Queen and Kings.

"And now my lovebirds we are alone. What do we do?" Natalie asked smirking.

"I think that Mischa has to meet Jose." Cora answered pointing her two friends.

They nodded. Mischa and Jose hadn't had the opportunity to talk to each other and they had to because of Rosana. Cora smiled pleased after she saw them nodding and Mischa with Natalie walked to Jose and Rosa and began talking and greeting each other. Cora pulled Ivan who was extremely silent some meters away and he wrapped his hands around her waist staring at her with a big smile on his face.

"Why are you so silent?" she asked curious.

"I am admiring you, tonight you are more beautiful than any other time. I am a lucky man." He murmured and leaned to kiss her cheek.

She chuckled and placed her hands on his chest softly. She looked into his eyes and sighed happy. His light green eyes were shining, his face was so bright and calm. He was her man, the man she always wanted and fell in love with from the first time she saw him. She raised her hand and caressed his cheek gently.

"Can I ask you something?" she told him shyly.

He raised his eyebrows surprised and nodded. He knew that look on her face, she was going to ask something from him.

"Um... Do you want to meet my father and brother?" she whispered timidly and her cheeks blushed.

He looked at her for a while shocked but quickly nodded. They were her family, he had to meet them. Cora had already forgiven them and she was happy, he couldn't disappoint her now. She wanted it too much and he had to respect her, her needs and decisions.

"Of course baby. If you are happy with this then I am as well." He replied and kissed her forehead again.

"I want to scream! Thank you so, so much!"

She pulled a bit back and smiled at him excited. He laughed and signed for her to lead him. She took his hand in hers and walked further in the room trying to spot Chloe, Owen or her father.

She found them quickly, they were not that far away from them and walked towards them with Ivan by her side. Ivan tightened his hold on her hand and she gave him a warm smile as they approached them. She smiled to her family and Sebastian kissed her forehead with affection.

"Um... This is Ivan." She began awkwardly pointing Ivan.

"And these are my father, Sebastian and my brother, Owen, Alpha of the Dark Blue River Moon Pack." She continued pointing her father and brother.

Ivan raised his hand for a handshake and greeted first Sebastian and then Owen. They smiled at Ivan and he smiled kindly back to them. Chloe greeted him next and Ivan wrapped his one hand around Cora's waist gently.

"I am happy to meet you." Sebastian told him with a satisfied expression.

"I am happy to meet you too Sebastian. You are the two persons I hadn't met but finally I did." Ivan replied and Cora smiled, turned her body to him and placed her hand on his chest.

"Um... How long do you know each other?" Owen asked confused.

"Five years, from the day Cora came to the palace on her 18th birthday." Ivan replied quickly.

"Why Owen?" Cora asked curious.

"Um... Wait, how long are you two together?" he continued.

"Owen!" Chloe scolded him annoyed.

"What? I am trying to understand." He whispered.

"Understand what?" Cora asked him confused and narrowed her eyes at him.

Owen rolled his eyes and Ivan laughed surprising Cora with his reaction.

"We are together from this morning Owen. I kissed your sister for the first time four days ago and back then she slapped me. Today we were lucky enough..." Ivan explained smiling casually.

"Ivan!" Cora yelled embarrassed.

Sebastian was speechless, Chloe was giggling and Owen was shaking his head in understanding without being mad or angry.

"So why did you ask?" Cora asked him again annoyed.

"Because you look like you are together for years and I wanted him to confirm the whole relationship..." Owen explained a bit troubled.

"He is my personal trainer and teacher for five years Owen. We are together almost all day, every day. It is logical..." Cora told him shortly.

"But the... Um... How can I say it now?" Owen continued and paused.

"You mean we are acting more like a couple and not friends and it is weird, right?" Ivan asked thoughtfully.

"Yeah..." Owen murmured.

"I think it was meant for them to be together, it feels natural to be next to each other." Chloe said smiling.

"It is a good explanation Owen so I think you took your answer." Sebastian stated satisfied.

"Looks like we are done with your weird, uncomfortable questions brother... Where is Cora? Why isn't she here?" Cora asked changing subject.

"She was tired, we left her to sleep and also we are going to be late and tomorrow she won't wake up so..." Chloe explained.

They began talking and getting to know each other better. Ivan was very kind with Owen and Sebastian. They were kind and warm with him and he was feeling good, it wasn't that awkward. He wasn't afraid of them, he had never got afraid of anyone but it was a bit weird to be with Cora's family. He didn't know them and it was too sudden. He began liking them although he was still angry with what they had done to Cora but Cora had made her decision and if she was fine with them he had to be as well.

He was ready to ask Cora to dance after some more time when Sebastian growled and Owen turned and looked at a brown haired man who was walking to them.

He was dressed in a dark grey costume suit, a white shirt and a black tie and Chloe seemed frustrated when she noticed him. Cora turned her head too and stiffened in his arms, her eyes darkened and tightened her hold around his waist.

"It's him..." Vital roared angrily.

Ivan sighed trying to stay calm and caressed Cora's back who was still in his arms holding him tightly. He observed the man who was getting closer to them and felt so much hatred and anger like he had never felt before.

This man was so cold, so distant, his arrogance and selfishness were obvious. No wonder how he was capable of abusing and r****g Cora even if she was his own mate. He felt no jealously over Noah, he was sure that Cora would never go back to him, he felt disgust. He had something strange and weird on him. He was a handsome man, he had to admit it but he was so inaccessible, so coldhearted...

So that was him...

Cora stiffened more in his arms, not because she was afraid or she had feelings for him but because it was weird. Deep inside her she was trying to convince herself that Noah wouldn't dare to talk to her and now he was coming to her even if she was not alone.

She felt disgusted, she felt so cheap that she had been his mate in the past and had feelings for him back then.

How could she love a man like him? How could she accept his behavior and his egoism?

She was worried about Ivan's reaction. She didn't want him to fight with Noah for her or even feel insecure. She wanted to be happy finally and she was sure that Noah wouldn't let her even now after all those years. She lifted her head up and looked Ivan.

His expression was so cold while he was staring Noah and her heart began beating faster from nervousness. She then turned to her father and brother. They were both shaking from anger, Chloe was holding Owen's arm with a worried expression and Owen had turned his hands into fists. His eyes were darker than the usual, he could easily lose his control and their father was growling lowly.

Her gaze went back to Noah who had his eyes locked on her for the whole time. His eyes were burning her, they were so dark green, almost black. His chest was going up and down from his deep breaths and his expression was full of desire and anger. She knew his expressions after so many months living next to him, he was ready for anything and he wanted her. Cynthia was growling frustrated in her mind after lots of time of purring and her heart began hurting.

Noah finally reached them and stopped three steps away from her and Ivan. He never took his eyes from her and he smiled warmly destroying his cold mask.

"Cora, we need to talk." He said with his deep, clear voice.

Cora felt nothing, the first time that his voice had no effect on her, she was not afraid or happy.

Her father and Owen growled and Ivan began caressing her arm and waist gently making her relax. Noah's eyes traveled to Ivan's hands and a low growl came out of his throat.

"Come baby." He continued and raised his hand for her.

Ivan was keeping himself under control with so much difficulty that his jaw began clenching and he was getting hotter and hotter from anger. This man had no shame, Cora was right, he had no heart or brain.

"Asshole." Owen said through his teeth and took one step to stand next to Cora.

"Stop it Owen. Let me talk with my mate and don't interfere." Noah said still looking at Cora and Sebastian growled louder than any other time.

Cora had enough, the word 'mate' made her reach her limits. She had accepted too many things and that was the last.

She had Ivan and she had nothing to do with Noah. Cynthia wanted to kill him so much but Cora kept her under control and pulled out of Ivan's arms gently. She stood between Ivan and Noah with confidence.

It was going to end tonight, she was going to put an end from her side.

"See? Come baby." Noah said smiling relieved thinking that Cora was accepting to follow him and talk.

"First of all I am not Cora for you. You will talk to me like everyone because you like it or not I am a Princess. Secondly, I am not your baby either. Thirdly, I am not your mate. I have no mark on my neck as you see and we have no bond." She said and pointed her neck showing him that his mark was not even fainted on her skin but completely gone.

"And last but not least I am not going anywhere with you Jackman. We have nothing to say. Turn and leave as you came."

Noah blinked his eyes shocked. He couldn't believe what Cora had just told him. He was sure that she was mad at him but not like this. Her expression was so cold and calm, he had no effect on her anymore and their bond...

There was no... bond?

He was trying to keep his self-control, he wanted to take her, place her on his shoulder and leave back to his room to stay alone with her. She couldn't do this to him, she was always his.

Owen was shaking more than before, Chloe was trying to calm him down but he was feeling nothing except from anger. Sebastian took full control over his anger once he saw Cora's reaction and her behavior towards Noah and Ivan was trying to keep Vital under control and support Cora as much as he could.

"Baby!" a female's high and annoying voice sounded and in a second Camilla was standing next to Noah and her hands were wrapped around his shoulders.

Camilla was smirking to Cora like she had won. Noah was frozen with his eyes looking straight into Cora's ignoring completely Camilla. Chloe was ready to start laughing from Camilla's pitiful reaction, Owen wanted to kill both of them, Sebastian was running out of patience and Ivan was ready to begin laughing like Chloe but...

Cora prevented them all as she began laughing loudly as the view in front of her was the funniest thing she had even seen.

Yes, for Cora that was the funniest thing she could see. Camilla's cheap appearance, her dress, her fake hair, eyelashes, nails, her too much makeup and fake ironic smile were enough. Her jealously was making her act thoughtlessly and she was pitiful.

Some years ago she was thinking that Cora was nothing and now... Now Camilla was nothing and she was strong and happy.

Soon, Ivan and Chloe joined her and began laughing making Owen and Sebastian giggle and Camilla ready to start screaming. Noah wasn't reacting, he was standing there frozen and lost like he was dreaming.

"I don't understand what is so funny you worthless, disgusting b***h!" Camilla groaned through her teeth shaking from anger.

Cora stopped quickly and her eyes darkened from her words. Cynthia was asking her to kill her and she had enough from her as well. Now it was her time...

She took one more step and stopped inches away from Noah and Camilla. Her eyes were on Camilla however and Cora was ignoring Noah. The others behind her stopped laughing immediately and Ivan got ready to interfere if it was necessary.

"You will listen to me NOW b***h!" Cora began saying through her teeth with her eyes full of anger.

"We are not the same, I am not a dirty, useless slut like you,I never was and I won't be so close your mouth or else I will close it on my own and not in a very gentle way. Secondly, watch your tone when you talk to me or else I will kill you, no one disrespects me without being punished in the end. Also, I can do and say whatever the hell I want because you like it or not in less than a month I am becoming Queen and no one can tell me what I can or can't do. And I am laughing because you two are the funniest and most pitiful couple I have ever seen. You are perfect for each other and I am glad you are together because in this way no one else will have to stand any of you. Zip your f*****g mouth or else I am going to zip it for you. And now get lost and don't let me see your i***t, bad tasted face again." Cora concluded and smiled pleased.

Owen began laughing again so loud that lots of people around them turned to look at him and Chloe joined him after a while not being able to hold back her laughter. Sebastian was smirking with pride for his daughter and Ivan was obvious that was proud and happy from Cora's behavior and strength.

Noah was ready to pass out, his heart was breaking listening to Cora's words about him but tried to stay on his ground and be patient. Camilla was speechless and ready to cry but took a deep breath after some seconds, gained her collectedness and bowed to Cora as everyone around them was staring at her with hatred and anger.

"Your Majesty..." she murmured with her eyes on the floor.

"Dismissed. Both of you!" Cora ordered smirking.

Camilla took one step back and dragged Noah away from Cora and the others quickly. Noah was too lost to realize what was happening. His mind was only to Cora and her words and he promised he wouldn't stop until Cora would accept to talk to him.

Cora smiled with charm and grace at everyone around her and after they all bowed to her she turned to Ivan and her family.

"This was so f*****g awesome!" Owen exclaimed excited with some tears in his eyes from his previous laughter.

"You killed her so calmly and casually. Can we do it again?" Chloe whispered rubbing her stomach that was hurting.

"You are crazy!" Cora replied chuckling.

"I am proud of you sweetheart!" Sebastian said and kissed her forehead ready to cry.

Cora smiled and turned to look Ivan. He was silent and she was worried about his reaction and opinion. He was staring at her serious now and Cora's heart began beating faster from nervousness.

"Will you follow me Your Majesty?" he asked raising his hand for her.

She nodded immediately and took his hand in hers. She smiled to her family and after Ivan signed to them he began leading her out of the ball room and then the palace.

"Ivan where are we going?" she asked him curious yet worried.

"We are almost here..." he replied shortly.

After they turned right after the palace's entrance and walked for a while they reached at the back big garden with the big fountains, full of plants and flowers. The whole garden was full of small bright white lights, the fountains had their own hidden lights and the scenery was magical. The sky was clear, full of stars and it was peaceful and quiet. Ivan stopped and turned to look at Cora who was looking around her speechless with a big smile on her face.

"I think I had a good idea, right?" Ivan whispered.

"This is... unbelievable." she replied breathless.

He led Cora at the center of the garden next to the biggest fountain and they sat on a big bench. Cora was shaking from enthusiasm and she could see Ivan's exhilaration. He moved closer to her and took her hands in his gently. Cora caressed them and smiled at him ready to cry from joy.

"I love you more than anything. I am proud of you and I am sure about us rose. I want you to know that you mean everything to me. You are the best thing that has ever happened to me and my only purpose from now on is to make you happy and keep you safe. I can't live without you."

Once Ivan ended his confession Cora had lots of tears falling down from her eyes and her heart was beating so fast that she was feeling she was going to explode...

From happiness and completion.

She crashed her lips on his and kissed him desperately. She moved on his lap and wrapped her hands around his neck. Ivan wrapped his arms around her tightly and responded to her kiss with a passion he had never felt before.

They couldn't take it anymore, they were happy and full of love. They needed each other from the first time they had met. They belonged to each other. They were one.

They continued kissing for a while without breathing until they run out of oxygen and stopped. They broke the kiss slowly and gasped for air. Cora placed her forehead on Ivan's and sighed relieved. She pulled a bit back and looked at him in the eyes. He was smiling like a small child, he seemed so relieved and calm.

"I love you and you are the man of my life. Everything I had lived was preparing me for you. You are the one I wanted, the one I want and I will want for the rest of my life. I love every side of you, every reaction, every smile, every look, touch, expression. The only thing I want is to be completely yours and a life with you by my side."

Ivan was crying by the end of her words. He was the happiest man on earth. He had found the love of his life and Cora was his. She was the light in his life, the light he needed when he stayed in the dark after his mate's betrayal.

Cora had no idea...

She had to know but not at that moment, it would be difficult for both of them.

Ivan had done something unforgivable and had regretted it but it was not his fault only. A lot had happened and he wasn't himself.

He decided to tell Cora soon about his past but not before the final fight of the competition. She had to be calm until then.

They would be happy, he knew it, he had a feeling. He would never let her go again, he would follow her everywhere for the rest of their lives. He would be her protector, her friend, her man, her support, her happiness, her light and hope.

He stood up with Cora in his arms and began wriggling and laughing with tears in his eyes. Cora was laughing and giggling from joy and excitement. He stopped after some seconds and they both lifted their heads up and looked at the sky full of stars.

A star fell that moment above them and Cora started yelling excited like a small girl.

"We have to make a wish my Princess..." Ivan whispered near her ear.

"I know exactly what I am going to wish. Do you?" she asked him smiling.

"I do!" he replied and kissed her.

You!

**********************

Hello, hello! I am back!

And yes, the 10th chapter is on from now on and I hope you liked it!

I want to thank you all very much for your comments and support and promise you that I am going to do my best and update the book as soon as I can every time! Also I would like to explain you some things about it, at least what has happened until now because you really need to know it.

So, I have written until the 13th chapter until now and as I mentioned before this is the 10th which means that the next 3 chapters are quite easy for me to add but the rest of the story is not ready. I have already the whole plot until the end in my mind but you have to know that I am a person with lots of fantasy and I made the desicion to have 6 book being written at the same time so I left this one a bit back in order to continue the others. I see that you like it a lot so I will start writing it as well but after the 13th chapter I need you to be a bit patient and I will try to update it once or even twice a week.

As for the rest of my books, I have them in w*****d and the last one called "His Rejected Queen" can be found in Dreame as well! If you want you can go and check them out (I have the same name and picture like here).

I had a very hard month to be honest with you and this is why I had week to update any of my books and I am very sorry about it but from now on I will try to begin updating again once a week like before. 

Thank you all very much for your support, really. It came in a period that I need it desperately so please let me know your opinion and thoughts about this chapter and what is going to happen next!

Love you all,

                            Marie!