Loving An Evil Wolf

I stand before the ornate mirror in my small bedroom, barely recognizing the young woman staring back at me. My hands shake as I smooth down the simple white dress my stepfather thrust at me this morning. Today is my wedding day, but there's no joy in my heart, only a gnawing dread that threatens to consume me.

"Joey! Get down here now!" My stepfather's gruff voice echoes through our modest pack house, making me flinch.

I take a deep breath, trying to calm my racing heart. "Coming!" I call back, my voice wavering despite my best efforts to sound strong.

As I descend the creaky wooden stairs, I see him waiting impatiently by the front door. His eyes, cold and calculating, appraise me like I'm livestock headed to market. In a way, I suppose that's exactly what I am.

"Well, at least you clean up decent," he grunts, opening the door. "Let's go. We don't want to keep the Alpha King waiting."

The Alpha King. Lazarus. Even his name sends shivers down my spine. I've heard the whispers, the terrifying tales of his cruelty and cold indifference. And now, thanks to my stepfather's machinations, I'm to become his bride.

As we walk through our small village, I notice the pitying glances from my packmates. Some avert their eyes, unable to bear the sight of me being led to my fate. Others whisper behind their hands, their words carried to me on the breeze.

"Poor thing," an old woman murmurs. "Sold to that monster like a prized mare."

"Hush," her companion warns. "You know what happens to those who speak ill of the Alpha King."

I keep my head high, refusing to let them see me break. But inside, my heart is shattering into a thousand pieces.

At the edge of the village, a sleek black car waits for us. A tall, broad-shouldered man with close-cropped hair and a stern expression stands beside it. As we approach, he gives a curt nod to my stepfather.

"Mr. Blackwood," he addresses my stepfather. "I trust everything is in order?"

My stepfather nods eagerly. "Yes, yes. Joey's ready to fulfill her duty to the Alpha King."

The man's piercing gaze falls on me, and I resist the urge to shrink back. "I'm Bruce, the Alpha King's beta," he introduces himself. "You'll be riding with me to the palace."

I swallow hard, realizing this is it. This is the moment I leave everything I've ever known behind. "Can I... can I say goodbye?" I ask softly, glancing back at the village.

Bruce's expression doesn't change. "There's no time. The Alpha King is expecting you."

With a rough shove from my stepfather, I'm ushered into the car. As Bruce slides into the driver's seat, I catch a glimpse of my stepfather's satisfied smirk. The car door slams shut, and just like that, my old life ends.

The drive is long and silent. I watch through the tinted windows as my familiar forests give way to landscapes I've never seen before. My mind races with questions, but Bruce's stoic presence discourages any attempt at conversation.

Finally, after what feels like hours, Bruce speaks. "We're approaching the palace. Remember your place, girl. The Alpha King has no patience for weakness or disobedience."

I nod mutely, my throat too dry to form words. As we crest a hill, I get my first view of my new home, and my breath catches in my throat.

The palace is a massive structure of dark stone and gleaming windows, towers spiraling into the sky like the talons of some great beast. It's beautiful in a forbidding way, and I can feel the power emanating from it even at this distance.

As we pull up to the main entrance, a flurry of activity greets us. Servants scurry about, and I spot guards positioned at regular intervals, their eyes alert and weapons at the ready.

Bruce opens my door. "Come," he orders, not unkindly but with no room for argument.

On shaky legs, I step out of the car. The cool air hits my face, carrying with it unfamiliar scents that make my wolf stir uneasily within me. I follow Bruce up the grand steps, feeling smaller with each step I take.

Just as we reach the massive front doors, they swing open. A young man with a friendly face and warm brown eyes greets us with a smile. "Welcome to the Northern Territories," he says, his gaze landing on me. "I'm Ryan, the gamma in charge of palace security."

"H-hello," I manage to stammer out, surprised by his welcoming demeanor.

Bruce cuts in before Ryan can say more. "Where is the Alpha King?"

Ryan's smile falters slightly. "In his study. He's... in one of his moods today."

I feel the blood drain from my face at those words. Bruce notices my reaction and sighs. "Girl, listen carefully," he says, turning to face me fully. "The Alpha King is not a man to be trifled with. Speak only when spoken to, keep your eyes lowered, and for the love of the moon, do not challenge him in any way. Do you understand?"

I nod quickly, my heart pounding so loud I'm sure they can hear it. "Yes, I understand."

"Good," Bruce grunts. "Let's go."

As we walk through the opulent halls of the palace, I try to take in my surroundings, but everything is a blur of rich fabrics, glittering chandeliers, and priceless artwork. Servants and guards alike stop and bow as we pass, their eyes flickering to me with curiosity and, in some cases, pity.

We come to a stop before a set of imposing double doors. Bruce knocks twice, then steps back. A deep, commanding voice from within calls out, "Enter."

Bruce pushes the doors open, and I follow him into what must be the Alpha King's study. The room is vast, lined with bookshelves and dominated by a massive desk. And there, behind that desk, sits the man who now owns my future.

Lazarus, the Alpha King of the Northern Territories, is even more intimidating than the stories suggest. He's tall and powerfully built, with sharp features and eyes that seem to glow with an inner fire. His dark hair is neatly styled, and he's dressed in an impeccably tailored suit that screams wealth and power.

As his gaze locks onto me, I feel a jolt run through my body. It's like electricity, a connection so strong and sudden that it nearly knocks me off my feet. My wolf howls within me, recognizing what my human mind can scarcely comprehend.

Mate. This cruel, cold Alpha King is my true mate.

I struggle to keep my face neutral as the realization washes over me. Does he feel it too? But Lazarus's expression remains impassive, showing no sign of the earth-shattering connection I've just experienced.

"So," Lazarus says, his voice deep and smooth like aged whiskey, "this is the bride."

Bruce nods. "Yes, Alpha. Joey Blackwood, as arranged."

Lazarus stands, moving around the desk with a predator's grace. He circles me slowly, his eyes roving over every inch of me. I keep my gaze lowered, remembering Bruce's warning, but I can feel the weight of Lazarus's stare.

"Look at me, girl," he commands suddenly.

Hesitantly, I raise my eyes to meet his. Up close, I can see flecks of gold in his dark irises, and the sharp angles of his face that make him devastatingly handsome despite the cruelty etched into his features.

"Do you understand why you're here?" he asks, his tone clinical, as if he's discussing a business transaction rather than a marriage.

I swallow hard before answering. "Y-yes, Alpha King. I'm here to... to bear you an heir."

A cold smile curves his lips. "Correct. And once you've fulfilled that duty, you'll be free to go. Simple enough, wouldn't you agree?"

The casual way he speaks of using me and discarding me sends a chill down my spine. How can this man be my mate? How can fate be so cruel?

"I asked you a question, girl," Lazarus says, a hint of impatience creeping into his voice.

I quickly nod. "Yes, Alpha King. I understand."

He seems satisfied with my response and turns to Bruce. "Get her settled in the east wing. I'll send for her when it's time."

Bruce bows slightly. "Of course, Alpha."

As Bruce leads me out of the study, I can't help but glance back at Lazarus. He's already returned to his desk, dismissing my presence entirely. The mate bond thrums between us, unacknowledged and ignored.

Once we're in the hallway, I let out a shaky breath I didn't realize I'd been holding. Ryan appears at my side, his face etched with concern.

"Are you alright?" he asks softly.

I nod, not trusting my voice. Bruce shoots Ryan a warning look. "Take her to her rooms," he orders. "And remember, Ryan, she's the Alpha King's bride. Nothing more."

Ryan's jaw tightens, but he nods. "This way, Miss Joey," he says gently, guiding me down a different corridor.

As we walk, Ryan attempts to lighten the mood. "So, how are you finding the palace so far? Bit overwhelming, isn't it?"

I manage a weak smile. "It's... very grand."

Ryan chuckles. "That's one way to put it. Don't worry, you'll get used to it. And hey, if you need anything, just ask for me. I'm happy to help."

His kindness, so at odds with the cold reception I've received so far, nearly brings me to tears. "Thank you, Ryan," I whisper.

We arrive at a set of ornate doors, which Ryan opens with a flourish. "Your new home," he announces.

I step inside, my eyes widening at the luxury before me. The room is larger than my entire old house, with a massive four-poster bed, plush furnishings, and a balcony overlooking manicured gardens.

"The bathroom's through there," Ryan points, "and that door leads to your personal sitting room. Is there anything you need?"

I shake my head, feeling overwhelmed. "No, thank you. I just... I think I need some time alone."

Ryan nods understandingly. "Of course. I'll have some food sent up later. Try to rest, Joey. Tomorrow's going to be a big day."

As the door closes behind him, I finally let the tears fall. I sink to the plush carpet, my body shaking with silent sobs. How did I end up here? Mated to a man who sees me as nothing more than a means to an end, trapped in a gilded cage with no way out?

Through my tears, I catch sight of myself in a nearby mirror. The scared, lost girl staring back at me looks nothing like the brave wolves of legend I grew up hearing stories about. But I have to be strong. I have to survive.

Taking a deep breath, I wipe away my tears and stand. I may be the Alpha King's bride, but I'm also a she-wolf with a fire burning inside her. Lazarus may not know it yet, but I'm his mate. And one day, somehow, I'll make him see it too.

As the sun sets outside my window, casting long shadows across my new room, I steel myself for whatever tomorrow might bring. This isn't the tale I would have chosen for myself, but it's the one I've been given. And I swear by the moon above, I'll find a way to write my own ending.

I wake to the sound of knocking at my door. For a moment, I forget where I am, the unfamiliar luxury of my surroundings disorienting me. Then reality crashes back, and my heart sinks.

"Come in," I call out, my voice still rough with sleep.

A young woman enters, her head bowed respectfully. "Good morning, Miss Joey. I'm Clara, your personal maid. I'm here to help you prepare for the day."

I sit up, pulling the silken sheets around me. "Prepare? What's happening today?"

Clara busies herself opening the heavy curtains, letting sunlight flood the room. "Your wedding ceremony, miss. It's to be held this afternoon in the great hall."

My stomach churns at her words. Of course. The wedding. How could I have forgotten?

"The Alpha King has sent a gown for you," Clara continues, gesturing to a garment bag hanging on the wardrobe. "But first, let's get you bathed and fed."

The next few hours pass in a blur of activity. Clara runs a bath scented with lavender and rose petals, then helps me wash and style my hair. A breakfast tray arrives, laden with fruits, pastries, and fragrant tea, but I can barely eat, my nerves stealing my appetite.

As Clara helps me into the wedding gown – a creation of white silk and lace that probably costs more than my old pack's entire village – there's another knock at the door.

"Come in," I call out, expecting perhaps Bruce or Ryan.

To my surprise, it's a woman who enters. She's strikingly beautiful, with long dark hair and piercing green eyes. Her lips curve into a smile that doesn't quite reach her eyes as she looks me over.

"So you're the little wolf who's to be our new queen," she says, her tone dripping with false sweetness. "I'm Selena, head of the palace staff."

I nod politely, unsure of how to respond. There's something about Selena that sets me on edge, my wolf bristling inside me.

Selena circles me slowly, her gaze critical. "Well, you're prettier than I expected. Though I suppose that won't matter much to our Alpha King. He's not known for his... tenderness."

Her words send a chill down my spine, but I force myself to stand tall. "I'm sure I'll manage," I say, trying to keep my voice steady.

Selena laughs, a sound like tinkling glass. "Oh, I'm sure you will. For a while, at least. Just remember your place, little wolf. You're here to give the Alpha King an heir, nothing more. Don't go getting ideas above your station."

Before I can respond, there's another knock at the door. Ryan enters, his friendly face a welcome sight after Selena's thinly veiled hostility.

"It's time," he says gently. Then, noticing Selena, he frowns slightly. "Selena, I wasn't aware you were needed here."

Selena's smile turns brittle. "Just welcoming our new queen, Ryan. I'll take my leave now." She turns to me one last time. "Good luck, little wolf. You're going to need it."

As Selena sashays out of the room, I let out a breath I didn't realize I was holding. Ryan approaches me, concern evident in his warm brown eyes.

"Are you okay?" he asks softly. "Selena can be... intense."

I nod, forcing a smile. "I'm fine. Just nervous, I guess."

Ryan offers me his arm. "That's understandable. But don't worry, I'll be right there with you. Shall we?"

Taking a deep breath, I place my hand on his arm. "Let's go."

As we walk through the palace corridors, I can't help but notice the increased activity. Servants scurry about, arms full of flowers and decorations. Guards stand at attention, their eyes following our progress.

"Ryan," I whisper, "does the Alpha King often take brides?"

Ryan shakes his head. "No, you're the first in... well, as long as anyone can remember. There are rumors about a curse, but..." He trails off, looking uncomfortable.

Before I can press for more information, we arrive at a set of massive doors. Bruce is waiting for us, his face as impassive as ever.

"You look acceptable," he says, which I suppose is as close to a compliment as I'm likely to get from him. "Remember what I told you yesterday. Speak only when spoken to, keep your eyes lowered, and do not challenge the Alpha King in any way."

I nod, my heart pounding so hard I'm sure they can hear it. Bruce turns to Ryan. "You're to stand with the other palace staff. I'll escort the bride."

Ryan gives my hand a reassuring squeeze before moving away. Bruce offers me his arm, his touch impersonal and cold compared to Ryan's warmth.

"Ready?" Bruce asks, though it's clear my answer doesn't matter.

The doors swing open, and I'm momentarily blinded by the brightness within. As my eyes adjust, I take in the great hall, transformed into a lavish wedding venue. Hundreds of wolves from various packs fill the seats, all turning to stare as I make my entrance.

At the far end of the hall, standing before an ornate altar, is Lazarus. He's dressed in a black suit that accentuates his powerful build, his dark hair styled impeccably. His face is a mask of indifference as he watches me approach.

With each step down the aisle, I feel the weight of my fate settling on my shoulders. The mate bond thrums between us, unacknowledged by Lazarus but impossible for me to ignore. How can I go through with this, knowing what we could be to each other, while he sees me as nothing more than a means to an end?

Before I know it, I'm standing beside Lazarus. He doesn't look at me, his gaze fixed straight ahead as an elderly wolf in ceremonial robes begins to speak.

"We are gathered here today to witness the union of our Alpha King, Lazarus, to his chosen bride, Joey Blackwood," the old wolf intones. "This union will strengthen our pack and ensure the continuation of the royal bloodline."

As the ceremony progresses, I steal glances at Lazarus. His jaw is clenched, his posture rigid. Does he feel nothing? Not even a hint of the connection that's threatening to overwhelm me?

"Do you, Alpha King Lazarus, take this woman as your mate and queen?" the officiant asks.

Lazarus's voice is cold and clear as he responds, "I do."

"And do you, Joey Blackwood, take the Alpha King as your mate and pledge your loyalty to him and the pack?"

I swallow hard, knowing that my answer will seal my fate. "I... I do."

"Then by the power vested in me by the moon goddess, I pronounce you husband and wife, Alpha and Luna. You may kiss your bride."

Lazarus finally turns to face me, his dark eyes unreadable. He leans in, his lips brushing mine in the briefest, most impersonal kiss imaginable. The assembled wolves erupt in cheers and applause, but I feel only a deep, aching emptiness.

As Lazarus leads me back down the aisle, his hand on my lower back feels like a branding iron. We're immediately swept into a whirlwind of congratulations and well-wishes from various pack leaders and nobles.

I smile and nod, letting Lazarus do most of the talking. My mind is reeling, trying to process everything that's happened. I'm married. I'm the Luna of the Northern Territories. And my mate, the man I'm bound to for life, sees me as nothing more than a convenient womb.

Hours later, as the reception winds down, Lazarus finally addresses me directly. "It's time to retire," he says, his tone leaving no room for argument.

My heart races as I realize what he means. This is it. The moment I've been dreading and anticipating in equal measure.

As we make our way to the royal chambers, I gather my courage to speak. "Alpha King," I begin hesitantly.

He cuts me off with a sharp look. "Lazarus. You're my wife now, you might as well use my name."

"Lazarus," I try again, the name feeling foreign on my tongue. "I... I know why I'm here. But I was hoping we could talk. Maybe get to know each other a little?"

Lazarus stops abruptly, turning to face me. His expression is a mixture of irritation and something else I can't quite place. "Listen carefully," he says, his voice low and intense. "This is not a love match. This is not even a political alliance. You are here for one purpose only – to bear my heir. Once that's done, you'll be free to go. Don't mistake this for anything more than it is."

His words cut deep, but I force myself to meet his gaze. "I understand. But we're going to be spending a lot of time together. Wouldn't it be easier if we at least tried to be... friendly?"

For a moment, I think I see a flicker of something – surprise? respect? – in his eyes. But it's gone as quickly as it appeared.

"Fine," he says curtly. "What do you want to know?"

Encouraged by this small concession, I press on. "Well, for starters, how long have you been Alpha King?"

Lazarus's jaw tightens. "Longer than you've been alive," he says cryptically. "Any other burning questions?"

I bite my lip, considering. "I've heard rumors... about a curse. Is that why you need an heir so badly?"

The temperature in the hallway seems to drop several degrees. Lazarus's eyes flash dangerously. "The curse is none of your concern," he growls. "Your only job is to produce an heir. Nothing more."

With that, he turns on his heel and strides toward the bedroom door. I follow, my heart sinking. So much for getting to know each other.

The royal chambers are as opulent as the rest of the palace, but I hardly notice the decor. My attention is fixed on Lazarus as he shrugs off his jacket and begins to unbutton his shirt.

"Well?" he says impatiently. "Are you going to stand there all night?"

Swallowing my nerves, I reach for the zipper of my wedding gown. As the silk pools at my feet, I stand before him in nothing but a thin slip. Lazarus's eyes roam over my body, but there's no heat in his gaze – only cold calculation.

What follows is mechanical, devoid of any tenderness or passion. Lazarus is not cruel, but neither is he gentle. He takes what he needs with efficient precision, and I lie there, tears silently streaming down my face as I mourn the mate bond that he refuses to acknowledge.

When it's over, Lazarus rolls away without a word. Within minutes, his breathing evens out in sleep. I lie awake for hours, staring at the ornate ceiling and wondering how I'll survive this loveless marriage.

As dawn breaks, I slip out of bed, careful not to wake Lazarus. I pad over to the large windows, looking out over the misty grounds of the palace. Somewhere out there, beyond these gilded walls, my old life continues without me. Does anyone miss me? Or am I already forgotten?

A sound behind me makes me turn. Lazarus is awake, watching me with those unreadable dark eyes.

"You should be resting," he says, his voice rough with sleep. "You'll need your strength if we're to conceive quickly."

I wrap my arms around myself, suddenly feeling very exposed. "I couldn't sleep," I admit softly.

Lazarus sits up, running a hand through his tousled hair. For a moment, he looks almost human – vulnerable, even. But then his walls slam back into place.

"Get dressed," he orders. "I'll have breakfast sent up. We have a lot to discuss regarding your new role as Luna."

As he disappears into the bathroom, I sink into a nearby chair, my legs suddenly weak. This is my life now. A gilded cage, a loveless marriage, and a mate who refuses to see me as anything more than a means to an end.

But as I watch the sun rise over my new kingdom, I make a silent vow. I will not break. I will not let this cold, cursed man extinguish the fire within me. Somehow, some way, I will find a way to reach the man behind the monster – the man I know is my true mate.