"“MINE, MATE!” said four similar voices with a menacing growl. “This isn’t happening!” I screamed out loud, shocked and dumbfounded. “You are our mate! We finally found you!” Zeke exclaimed, his voice filled with joy. Four Alphas? Was this some kind of joke? How can the moon goddess be so cruel? How can she mate me with these four playboys? Alpha Ezekiel, known as a notorious womanizer. Alpha Azrael, infamous for dating a girl named Aria right after he broke up with her sister. Alpha Zeke and Sam, both entangled with Aria’s bestie while juggling other flings. “Stay away from me,” I cried, “I won’t accept you.” “We are so sorry, baby. We should’ve saved ourselves for our fated mate…” “Don’t bother,” I gasped, “I, Emerald Hutton, reject…” “No, please! Baby, give us a chance!”" --- Emerald’s POV: It's the last day of summer, and here I am, already dreading going back to school. Storm Academy is one of the most prestigious schools in the werewolf multiverse; I always felt I didn't belong there. Despite producing ruthless warriors, pack leaders, and established professionals, it had its quirks, with a constant ongoing hierarchy, competition among the students, the drama between the she-wolves, and the ample number of horndog male wolves lurking around. My name is Emerald Hutton. I am turning eighteen in two weeks and am one of the ten scholarship students who attend the academy. I have always wondered why I bothered returning to that place every year. I have always been overlooked and bullied by those socialist brats, claiming that I was a disgrace to the academy because of my financial status and looks and that the academy shouldn't harbor charity cases. I'm no size zero, with those fancy high-end brands and makeup skills. Still, I have a curvy hourglass figure with big brests, bum-long silver hair, and bright blue eyes. My best friend, Hannah Thor, the Alpha's only daughter and youngest, always said she envied my body and that I should flaunt it. Like every other student at Storm Academy, Hannah was filthy rich but was nothing like the other students. She was a sweet, caring, and humble she-wolf that always stood up for me. She had recently found her mate, Luca Samuel, the future Beta to the future quadruplet Alphas: Ezekiel, Azrael, Zaqeil and Samael Thor, Hannah's older brothers. It was as if the Moon Goddess had hand-crafted them herself; they resembled nothing less than Greek Gods. They were known for their brutality on the battlefield and major playboy ways outside it. The quadruplets had graduated a couple of years ago and were still unmated at twenty-two. As I pack my last piece of clothing for the school year, I can't help but wonder what life will be like once I am of age and can find my mate. Despite being adopted, my adoptive parents have always provided me with the best of their ability. We weren't the richest in the pack, but we had each other. I always wondered where my biological family was. I would never know if they loved me or even thought of me. As much as I wanted a mate, I feared that my mate wouldn't want me due to my financial status or looks. I honestly didn't have much to offer but my time and love. I hope the Moon Goddess finds it in her to pair me with someone passionate enough to accept me for me. The moment I finished zipping up the suitcase, my phone started buzzing. Knowing it was Hannah since I allocated a specific ringtone for her, I rushed to pick up her call because she wouldn’t stop calling till I did. "Hey, Em! Ready for the senior year tomorrow?" asked Hannah. "You have no idea," I replied, trying to get as much sarcasm out of me as possible. I was already dreading tomorrow. "It won't be all that bad, trust me! At least we get to share our quarters this time. Just wait and see. It’ll be so much fun; we have Leah and Ela with us this year. It's going to be epic!" Leah and Ela, which was short for Elanor, were our other two girls' best friends. Like Hannah, they were wealthy but super nice. I still didn’t get how these three decided to be my friends. Alongside Ela and Leah, our friend group consisted of our three clowns: Axel Smith, Ela's twin brother, Jeremiah Dun, who we called Jer for short, and Ian Holder. He, like me, was a scholarship student but wealthier than me. Again, I, to this day, don't get how we all became friends, but as fate would have it, here we are going four years strong on our friendship. " OK, more of that later, baby girl. I called to remind you about the dinner at my place the day after tomorrow. I won't take no for an answer, and you promised you'd let me dress you up,” Hannah said. The current Alpha, Alexander and Luna, Crystal Thor, Hannah’s parents, were hosting a celebratory dinner for the pack leaders, warriors, and Hannah's friends for finding her mate, Luca. So, as fate would have it, or should I say Hannah had it, she was not letting me skip. Usually, I kept going to the packhouse at a minimum because of the weird stares and whispers, but I guess I'll be going this time. "Don't worry, Han! As much as I don't like visiting the packhouse, I want to be there to show my support and happiness. Just please don't overdo it with the outfit!" Whatever I said was true; I was happy for Hannah to find Luca. She always talked about how she adored the guy since they were pups. "Don't worry about that, Em, I got you! Anyhow, I got to go! See you tomorrow,” We hung up after that. I am thankful to the Moon Goddess for helping me find Hannah, Ela, Leah, and my adoptive parents. I would be so lost without them. I sometimes think about where my biological parents are and if they know I am alive or if they ever wanted me in the first place. I was found by my adoptive parents near our pack border. Mum always said that the Goddess herself blessed me and that my eyes sparkled with love and kindness that melted even the darkest of hearts, but I honestly did not think so. If I were, then why did my biological family not want me? I’m not complaining, but I have always wanted to know why. Well, so be it, I suppose. I have my support system right here in the Dark Storm Pack. It may be limited to my adoptive parents, my six best friends, and Gabbana, my pet cat, whom I rescued from the forest, but it was enough for me. Maybe one day my mate could also be a part of it.

Chapter Two: The Alphas Sunday Evening Cont. Ezekiel POV: It's been a week since my wolf, Ace, has denied shutting up in my head. His nagging of wanting to return to the pack gave me a headache. Usually, Ace doesn't interact much unless he senses danger, but he hasn't stopped bickering for the past week. After a long hot shower, I walked back into the Alpha guest suite where I had been staying at the Red Crescent Pack and found the Alpha's youngest daughter with her legs wide open, giving me a perfect view of her cave as she plunged two fingers in and out. At the same time, the other hand pinches her nuts. Being one of the Alpha quadruplets from the richest and strongest pack, she-wolves threw themselves at my brothers and me. We have yet to find our Luna, being four identical Alphas meant that, most likely, we would share a mate as we were one fertilized egg before splitting into four. Thus making us one Alpha in four bodies. "Alpha, since you'd be leaving tomorrow, why not have one last hurrah? You and your brothers have been kind enough to help our pack with our rogue problem. It's the least I can do,” Maya purred seductively as she watched my reaction under her long lashes. I have engaged in my fair share of escapades over the years despite Ace always howling like a b***h about saving ourselves for our Luna. Ace was about to go at it again, but I shoved him into the back of my mind, grabbed Maya by the hair, and smashed my l**s on hers. She gladly opens her mouth, and I slide my tongue inside, ravishing her mouth. When I pull back, she's completely breathless. I smirk at that. "On your knees, now,” I told her. Instead of instantly listening, she starts playing with her brests, caressing and pinching her nuts, making her already hard nuts more erect while staring up at me as she l***s her l**s seductively. Finally, having enough of her silly show, I yank her to her knees and shove my rock-hard /cok down her throat. She starts spluttering, and tears run down her cheeks as I go agonizingly slow, but making sure my his not-so-little friend touches the back of her throat, which is getting her wetter as her a*****l spreads around the room, scenting the area. But this was about my pleasure, so I sped up, fisting her long brown hair. I f**k her mouth relentlessly as she rubs her cl1t and squeezes her nut with her other hand. I throw my head back, let out a small m**n, and shoot strands and strands of my c*m down her throat, which she happily swallows. "Oh, please, Alpha, f**k me." I see some of my c*m mixed with her saliva running down her chin. It was hot, but it was something I was used to seeing. Having had enough of her talking, I picked her up and threw her on the bed, and in one swift motion, I ra'mned into her. "Mmmhmm, oh yes, yes, yes,” Maya moans while I pound her into a frenzy. I flipped her over, grabbed her w***t and pulled her up so her bottom was in the air, and without warning, I plunged right in her bottom. I started slowly and gradually picked up until I was pounding her. "Alpha! Please, please. Oh, yes!" she m****d. I reached for her cl1t and squeezed it. Her or'gаsm came shattering down on her. The muscles in her bottom squeezed my /cok, milking it, making me cvm. I pulled out slowly as she fell, stomach flat on the bed. She tried pulling me down to cuddle with her as she regained her breath, but I snatched my hand away and got up for another shower. "Ezekiel, we've shared intimate moments so many times. I genuinely have feelings for you. Why won't you consider giving us a chance? I'm confident I could make you happy if only you'd let me," Maya implored, her eyes searching my face for a glimmer of hope. This was precisely the part I dreaded—the emotional aftermath that always trailed casual affairs. Despite my reputation as a notorious womanizer, deep down, I yearned for my Luna. She might not claim the title of my 'first' in a sexual context, but I wanted her to be my first true love. "Maya, listen to me. We've had this discussion before. When you first entered my bed, the conditions were clear: we were just fking, nothing more. You're an exceptional woman, truly, but relationships aren't something I do," I said, locking eyes with her, attempting to convey both the sincerity and finality of my words. Maya's face fell, crestfallen. The disappointment in the eyes of the she-wolves I'd been intimate with always weighed on me. I was wary of committing to something I couldn't fully invest in, knowing it would hurt them more in the long run. Finally, her eyes heavy with unspoken words and a tinge of regret, Maya donned her robe, covering her unclothedness, and exited the room, the door shutting quietly but certainly behind her. 'This is exactly what I mean,' I thought, mentally shaking my head. "If you'd simply hold out for our destined mate, we wouldn't find ourselves in these emotionally messy situations," Ace interjected, as if reading my thoughts, keen to offer his perspective on the unfolding drama. With a mental sigh, I pushed Ace back into the recesses of my consciousness. I headed for the bathroom, contemplating the complexities of life and love as the shower's water enveloped me. Azrael POV: I was chilling on the balcony of our suite at the Red Crescent Pack's place. My brothers and I had come here to sort out some rogue wolf problem, and now that it's done, we're heading back home tomorrow. "Baby, I can't wait for you to get back! I've missed you like crazy, and I can't believe you guys will be Alphas this weekend. We've gotta hit the stores for a killer dress ASAP," Aria gushed over the phone. Aria wasn't my first rodeo. We started dating a few months back, right after I broke up with her cousin. Weirdly enough, that seemed to be a turn-on for her. I didn't question it; she was hot and in bed. But like other she-wolves my bros and I have dated, she's set her sights on being Luna. Honestly, I can't picture anyone but my fated mate in that role. I usually don't even get into it with them; it's just easier that way. "I've missed you too, Aria. But how about you go shopping with your friends? You know I hate the mall," I said, picturing her eye-roll. Yeah, we're dating, but I still expect some respect. I mean, I'm going to be an Alpha. "Oh, come on! Just this once? It's your big ceremony," she pushed. Just then, my younger brothers, Zeke and Sam, walked in. "Gotta go Aria. Hang with Cassandra and Ivy and pick out something nice. Night," I said, hanging up. "What's up? Trouble with your girl?" Zeke snickered. "Does this have to do with her wanting to drag you to the mall?" Sam added, grinning like he won the lottery. Ignoring Sam and Zeke's jabs, I walked back into the suite. They're both seeing Ivy and Cassandra—besties with my girl Aria. So yeah, they also get the whole "let's go shopping" drama. But unlike me, they sometimes give in and hit the mall, even if they'd rather be elsewhere. "Hey, you guys need something? We're bouncing back home tomorrow, and I gotta pack." I was in the middle of saying this when my phone buzzed. It's Hannah, our kid sister, and man, do we spoil her. She's just turned eighteen and found out her mate is Luca, our longtime buddy and the pack's future Beta. You bet it was a shocker for all of us. We'd asked Luca to take it easy until Hannah's wolf confirmed he was the one. Even though we knew—wolves could sense these things a few days ahead—we didn't want to face the fact that little sis was all grown up. But the moment they locked eyes on her big day, boom! Inseparable. She even got Dad to keep Luca from this Red Crescent Pack trip. It's weird watching your sister get all cozy with your best mate, but if she's happy, so are we. "Azrael, Mum and Dad said you're heading back tomorrow. So, party on Friday—will my big bros be there? I've tried calling Ezekiel, but no dice. You're coming, right?" Hannah fires off, barely taking a breath. I laughed. "Yeah, Han. We'll be back. Mom and Dad were supposed to keep it on the down-low, but hey, cats outta the bag now." "No worries, I grilled them for info! Gotta dash, date night with Luca. I can't wait to see you all. Love you!" She hung up before I could say another word. Seeing Hannah this stoked and loved up with Luca is incredible, but it also makes me jealous. She's been crushing on him forever. And me? I'm still waiting on my mate. It's been five long years, and sometimes, I think maybe we won't ever find her like it's some cosmic payback. But Zeke and Sam? They're still holding out hope. They think she's not of age yet, so our wolves—Lex, Rowco, and Scar—can't sniff her out. Zeke POV: As I eavesdrop on Hannah's chat with Azrael, my thoughts drift toward my own elusive mate. What I wouldn't give to have her in my life already—romantic dinners, complete devotion, and an unending cycle of passion would be the order of the day. She needs to materialize already. Cassandra, my current fling and a she-wolf with killer curves, is great. But whenever we're in close quarters, my mind strays, envisioning a future with my destined Luna. My musings are cut short as Azrael wraps up his call with Hannah, snapping me back to the present and the reason we're all gathered here. "Guys, we've gotta wrap up the reports on the recent rogue attacks and pack activities. Let's get it off our plates so Dad and the warriors won't be bogged down with details later," I prompt. Sam snorts, dripping sarcasm. "Oh, paperwork, what joy." He isn't one for sitting down and dealing with the nitty-gritty. Unlike Azrael and me, who thrive on intellectual pursuits like pack history and strategic planning, Sam is more of an action man, the Alpha's go-to for physical tasks. We may be identical quadruplets, but our strengths diverge. Sam is an unparalleled force on the battlefield, while Ezekiel, our eldest, is the authority on pack laws, rituals, and alliances. Put Ezekiel and Sam together in a fight, and it's like summoning Lucifer himself to rain down mayhem. Azrael picks up on my cue. "Yeah, let's knock it out, baby bro. Hannah mentioned that Ezekiel's been MIA, which isn't like him. We should check on him anyway." Samael POV: As my older brothers and I approach Ezekiel's suite, we're greeted by the spectacle of a furious she-wolf storming out, her robe fluttering behind her like a flag of indignation. I recognize her—Maya, the youngest of the Alpha family. Such scenes aren't new to us. We're the magnetic quadruplets, the wealthiest and most formidable pack's future Alphas. We each have our fair share of admirers, but Ezekiel, the eldest, is the primary magnet for female attention. If fate keeps us from finding our true mates, his chosen one would be the most eligible for the Luna title. Entering Ezekiel's room, we find him visibly irked. He’s nursing a drink in one hand and clutching his phone in the other. The room is tinged with a scent that suggests a romp in the sack should have occurred. "Judging by the scent lingering in the air, I'd have expected to find you grinning like a Cheshire cat," I quip, smirking slightly. "Was she not submissive enough for your tastes, big bro?" Ezekiel has never been the dating type, opting for a straightforward 'hello, let’s f'k- and then goodbye' approach to romantic encounters. He sneers at me, downing his drink in a single gulp as if to wash away the conversation. "Ezekiel, those reports won't write themselves. We’re leaving for Dark Storm tomorrow and won’t have time to finish up there. If we slack off, Dad will be livid,” Azrael chimes in, pouring him a shot of Café Patrón as a sort of peace offering. I've always left the paperwork to my scholarly brothers. My philosophy leans more toward actions speaking louder than words. "No worries. I've already sorted it out and briefed Dad," Ezekiel says, rubbing his temple. "We're heading to Dark Storm first thing tomorrow. We have to attend an Alpha accession meeting before Sunday’s Alpha ceremony." Ugh, meetings. It's just another part of the Alpha gig I don't particularly enjoy. And it's not just because I disagree with the management style of some old-school Alphas; it’s seeing them with their Lunas that gets to me. They gaze at their mates with such palpable affection that it intensifies the emptiness of not having found my Luna. She's not just an accessory to an Alpha; she's his soul's mirror, strength, and missing puzzle piece. Despite our numerous expeditions to different packs, we keep returning empty-handed. I can only hope that we find her sooner rather than later.

Chapter Three: Back at Storm Academy  Monday Afternoon Emerald's POV:  Our pack lands were very vast; over generations, the current reigning Alpha would dissolve more miniature packs into ours, thus making us the largest today. The grounds were beautiful, with many forests where we could run in our wolf form for miles on end, lakes, and a breathtaking waterfall not too far off where our territory line ends. Elijah and I are on our way to Storm Academy. Elijah, who we call Eli for short, is my boyfriend. We have been dating for about two years now, and we are convinced we’re mates.  After driving for an hour, passing the small localities and green scenery situated on our pack lands, I can finally see the ginormous castle looming over us. You would think that being on top of a mountain the Elders would have built the academy smaller, but, no, there it stands in all its glory; the prestigious Storm Academy, where wolves from all over the wolf multiverse wish to study. To me, it's my own personal jail.  "Em, what's wrong? You've been awfully quiet the whole drive. Is everything okay?" asked Elijah.  Elijah has always been such a sweetheart, and I know he loves me, but I don't know why I've had this lingering feeling since last night that, what if we're not mates? Will I be able to handle that?  Will we still be friends if that's the case?  I know it’s a possibility, but I hoped we were mates. I feel so safe with him. Despite being together for quite some time, he has never pushed me into something I’ve never wanted. Because of that, we promised one another that we would only hа've sex once we were of age, so we couldn’t forget our first time as we marked each other and became one soul.  "Eli, have you ever thought what if we're not mates? Would you still want me in your life? Or would you completely cut me off?” I don't know why, but I could feel my heartbreak when I asked that.  I suddenly felt the car stop, and the next second Eli scooped me up in his l*p and held my face in his large hands. Looking into my eyes, he said,  "Em, even if we aren't mates, which I highly doubt. You'll always have a special place in my heart. We'll always be part of one another’s lives. I promise you that! If I'm not that lucky bаst3rd that gets to be with you, then whoever it may be should thank the Moon Goddess for blessing him with you,” saying the last part with his goofy smile, which I love so much. I stayed in his l*p, snuggled in his arms with my head nestled in his warm chest. This is why I love him and want him to be my mate. He always knows what to say to make me feel better, not only by his words but also by his actions. When I'm sated enough, I break away from his warm chest and go to open the door to start unloading. Before I can pull the handle, Eli pulls me back and pecks my l**s and says, "Always remember, Em, I will always love you, whether a lover or a best friend. I don't want to see you sad, ever, it breaks my heart! You're such a strong girl and have been through so much, so this defeated look you have going on right now is a turn off,” he chuckled while he said the last part.  I just huffed and slapped his arm, jumping out of the car while trying to contain my smile that was about to be let loose. Eli follows after helping me carry my luggage to my assigned quarters for the year.  I can't help but notice a lot of classmates in senior years sporting their silvery marks. Looks like a fair share of people found their mates this year.  My eyes automatically go back to Elijah, and I silently pray to the Moon Goddess that this chunk of a hunk, six foot two of a man, will be mine tomorrow. Before he turns his head to look at me, I quickly divert my eyes. I hear him chuckle. We walk in comfortable silence the rest of the way up to our quarters, walking hand in hand with our fingers interlaced.        As soon as I enter our quarters, I see Hannah on Luca's l*p, just a bra and p*****s away from joining the nudist colony.  Ugh!  Not on the couch! I close my eyes and clear my throat, I think that's got their attention since I hear rustling of clothes.  "I get it, you guys just found each other, but seriously, the couch you two! I sleep there at times. Is it safe to open my eyes now?" I asked as I peeked from one opened eye, and saw Hannah trying to stifle her laugh while Luca looks angry that I showed up before he got down to the actual deed.  Oh well, I don't care. They could've always used Hannah's room.  "Can you blame me, Em? Have you seen this Adonis here? It's hard not to soak my p*****s around him and not get some. Where's Eli by the way?" Hannah asked. "I honestly do not want to know about your sx life. My ears just recovered from your last very detailed description. Elijah left to go to his quarters, he said he'll meet us at the pub tonight to ring in his birthday,” I said. Luca was nice and had been fine towards me, unlike the quadruplets, who probably don't know I even exist anymore. I wouldn't say we were friends, but he had been better than the rest, and asked how I was from time to time. Since he and Hannah mated, we've become quite close after that. Hannah practically has glued me, Ela, Leah, and Luca to her every moment she gets.  "Well, I'll let you guys settle in. By the way, Em, knock next time unless you wanna see us bone live and give your critics after,” said Luca, smirking.  Which left me baffled with my mouth hanging open and face beet red. Hannah was literally snorting with laughter on the floor, tears running down her cheeks.  "Bye, babe. Gotta help your brothers with the upcoming ceremony and Alpha accession meeting. I'll try making it tonight,” Luca purrs while his nose is in Hannah's n**k. He nuzzles her, gives her a peck and leaves, but not before ruffling my hair into a bird's nest.  UGHH!!! I hate when he does that.        "You look so cute when your feathers are all ruffled up,” said Hannah while snickering.       "Oh! You think I'm cute when I'm mad. I'm about to become f*****g gorgeous then,” I replied with as much sarcasm as I could muster up. Hannah pounced on me at werewolf speed when I finished talking and started tickling me.  Not even five minutes into our tickle war, Ela and Leah came in, and pounced on us both, and we were all tickling one another. I think I had my fingers up Hannah's nose, someone's toe was almost up my b**t, and my toe was sandwiched between two soft b****s of fat, which I was guessing were Leah's t****s. After ten minutes of playing twister-tickling we broke apart, covering our armpits with our hands and clamping our legs, just in case someone decided to go for round two. We broke into a fit of laughter and giggles and tackled one another into a group hug.  As we were about to break apart, our four clowns: Axel, Jer, Ian and Eli decided to join, and squish into our hug as well. I felt Leah stiffen and smell the air, shrugging it off as maybe because of the guy's strong cologne smell or something.  This was my heaven, right here. But, I know coming tomorrow, I'll be invisible to everyone in the academy again, and even bullied when I won't have my friends around to protect me. But I didn’t care as long as my little circle remained smiling like this. "Alright, my four chipmunks, suit up! It's party time! And, oh, Em, remember to wear something Hot. Our boy Eli here will be mating and marking a certain chipmunk with silver hair and blue eyes tonight,” said Axel with a smirk playing on his l**s. My face was beet red and I looked everywhere other than Eli, who I knew for sure would be beaming. I caught a glimpse of him from the side of my eye and saw him smirking and giving me a wink.  Ughh, Goddess!  These guys live to embarrass me.  "Okay! Get out of here now. We want to have some girl time while getting ready for Eli's birthday. We'll meet you at the pub by nine,” said Hannah, while she and Ela pushed them out. Eli gave a look in my direction before Hannah shut the door in their faces. I don't know why, but that look he just gave felt like it wasn't for me, but for someone else. I looked behind me and saw Leah looking at the door with an expression of love and longing in her eyes.  Wait! Did that mean they could be ma…. No! I'm just overthinking it. Leah turned eighteen two months ago, and if Eli was her mate, she would have said something by now, especially when his wolf is hours away from waking up. She would've picked up his scent. "Leah, are you okay? You seem far away,” said Ela, waving her hands like a mad man in her face.  Leah snapped out of her daze and blushed a little and said, “Yeah, all good, Ela. Just remembered something that I need to do tomorrow,” she sounded so weak and heartbroken. I just couldn't shake the feeling that maybe I had something to do with it. Before turning around and going into her room, she gave me a somewhat apologetic look, but she masked her face in a split second. Was that my imagination or something? Hannah and Ela were busy on the side deciding what dress to wear tonight, so I'm pretty sure they didn't see Leah's reaction.        After that, we huddled up in Hannah's room to do each other's makeup and hair. I kept glancing at Leah, she was laughing and trying to be the clown she was around us, but I could tell it was all a front and something was really bothering her. Whenever I tried talking to her about it, she brushed it away with schoolwork and training. After the second time I tried asking what was wrong, I let her be. I hope she was okay. I hate seeing any of my friends sad. They've always protected me throughout my time at the academy. I still got bullied when they weren't around, but no one tried anything when any one of them was there, so whenever I could try and help I jumped at the chance, since I didn't have much to offer them other than my love and friendship.  After another hour of arguing about who will wear what and what colour, we were all standing in the living room; with Ela wearing a bottle green mini tube dress, with black wedge heels, and her black hair up in a messy updo, with unclothed lipstick, cat eyeliner, and defined highlighted cheekbones. Ela was a beautiful she-wolf. She was tall, standing at 5 feet 6 inches. Leah looked attractive in her short, shocking pink dress with a sweetheart neckline, and five-inch white heels, despite looking far away in her thoughts. Her dress flared around the w***t and stopped a couple of inches above her knees. She had unclothed lipstick on, her high cheekbones highlighted to perfection, and long black hair ran down her back. Hannah was in the corner talking to Luca, reassuring him that she wouldn't drink much or talk to any unmated wolves that weren't her friends.  The higher the ranking male, the more possessive they were, and Luca could atone for that statement as a future Beta. The dude hardly let Hannah out where he thought there would be too many unmated males to his liking. He c*********r dressing when she went out to the club, and even c*********r phone to ensure she kept talking to unmated wolfs to a minimum, which was extra as god.  In her strapless, knee-length, body-hugging white dress, Hannah looked gorgeous, defining her slim figure. Her blonde hair was done in a waterfall braid. She had red l*p-gloss on and highlighted every curve of her face. She looked like a goddess, no wonder Luca was always this possessive horndog around her. I snickered, thinking about what I had walked into earlier.       According to Hannah and Ela, I needed to look like a minx today for Eli. So they made me wear Hot blood red l******e underneath my body-hugging, dark brown ruffled dress. It had a square neckline, with long sleeves. My long silvery hair was curled and let down on my back. Ela highlighted my cheekbones with her bronzer, and gave me cat-eyes with a large amount of mascara to curl my already long lashes higher. She finished my look off with a combination of pink and dark brown l*p-gloss.  Unlike my friends, I was a short she-wolf, barely making five foot two inches. Thus, they tortured me by pushing me to wear five inch stilettos. No doubt I looked gorgeous. I wasn't used to seeing myself like this, as I tended to wear loose joggers and crop tops. But they didn't have my wardrobe choices today. Both Ela and Hannah were gushing about how Hot I looked.        "Oh honey, trust me, you aren't the one that will be wetting their p*****s. That's gonna be Eli!” said Ela.       "Maybe I should bring a pair just in case, you know, I don't want Eli embarrassing himself in front of his future mate!” said Hannah, feigning innocence while trying hard to control her fits of laughter.        "I do not even want to dignify that with an answer," I said, walking away with my face as red as a tomato, Ela and Hannah followed, and just as I turned my eyes to the side, I caught Leah wiping off a tear that ran down her cheek.        "Hey, guys! You guys go ahead in the car. I need to grab something with Leah." The moment I said that, I saw Leah stiffen a little. If I wasn't sure before that her distressed mood was because of me, now I was sure it had something to do with me.        "Be quick!” said Hannah and Ela in unison.  I closed the door and turned, I saw Leah fidgeting in her spot, trying to control her tears, so I quickly went to hug her.        "Leah! Shh shh! Are you okay? What's wrong? Maybe I can help?" I said, still while holding onto her.  We slowly crouched down and stayed there for five minutes until she calmed down and broke out of my hold. She went to the nearby mirror to fix her makeup. She came back to me, held my hand, and brought me to the couch, she wanted to say something, but it was like she couldn't. With her eyes downcast and grip on my hand increasing by the minute she said,       "Em, I think Eli is my mate……..  

Chapter Four: He's Not My Mate  Monday Night Leading into Tuesday Emerald's POV:       My blood ran cold, it couldn't be, could it? Is that why Elijah gave her a lingering look before he left? Are they pranking me, please, Moon Goddess? I'm not that strong to bear such a prank. My train of thought is disturbed when Leah squeezes me into a bone-crushing hug. I'm so numb that it didn’t even hurt. I feel the tears well up in my eyes, but I deny letting them fall.        "Em, believe me, I didn't know. I just saw Eli after the break. We weren't really talking much through the summer, and I never actually met him in person. If I even had the slightest hint, I would've told you. Please believe me, Em. Please, Em, say something!” said Leah, while her tears soaked my shoulder.    I didn't know what to say. This was happening. It was actually f*****g happening, I had a feeling yesterday at the back of my mind, but I refused to acknowledge the thought that Eli and I wouldn’t be mates. I should've believed my inner conscious. Maybe I wouldn't be as stunned as a robot now. Maybe she's wrong, right? I know it's rare to confuse the mate-bond, but it could happen, right? Now I was a ball of nerves and I didn't know what to do.    However, I couldn't let Leah think I hated her. She was one of my best friends, and has always been there for me. If she is Eli's mate, and when midnight comes, and his wolf awakens and claims her, we'll see what to do then I suppose. But, deep in my heart, I knew there wasn't much to see. I would have to back away from their lives. The Moon Goddess chose them for one another. No matter how much it would hurt, I would never deprive my two best friends of such a sacred bond that I knew they craved since I'd known them. So I squared my shoulders and held Leah's face in my palms, wiping the tears that fell on her cheeks with the pads of both my thumbs, and then hugged her trying my best to hold down my tears from falling.    "Leah, I'll say this once, so listen carefully. I am not mad at you or even Eli if he knew or did not know about the mate-bond between you guys. I knew there might be a chance where he wasn't my mate. But, if it is the case that you and Eli are destined, you will always have my blessings. I would never come between you two,” I said, with all the confidence I could muster up now while holding back my tears.  I meant whatever I said to Leah, and I wanted her to know that. Leah hugged me as tight as she could while nodding without saying a word. I could still feel her tears run down my shoulders. I whispered sweet nothings in her ear to calm her down while rubbing her back. Once she stopped hyperventilating, I grabbed a tissue and fixed up her makeup and gave her a smile.  I know what I'll ask right now might plunge her back into tears, but I had to know for my sanity.    "Leah, I know whatever you just told me is the truth, and I'm grateful you told me before midnight. But I just want to ask you one question, if that's okay with you?” I said, trying to keep up my façade that I was okay with whatever I just heard.    "Of course, Em, ask me anything you want!” she said while hiccupping after every word or so.    I sighed and held back my tears. Then, I looked her in the eyes while holding both her hands in mine, and giving her a feeble smile I asked,  "Are you sure he is your mate, like absolutely one hundred percent sure?"    I knew asking that was dumb, and she wouldn't be making such a thing up, but I still had to ask for my own subconscious. She just nodded her head, her eyes welling up with unshed tears again, and bowed her head in embarrassment and shame. Before they could fall, I wrapped her in my arms and said,    "Sweetheart, hey, hey, look at me,”  Leah looked up but did not meet my eyes. I gently grabbed her chin and made her look at me.       "Sweetheart, you have nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about. Yes, I'm a little hurt….,” which was a lie. I was devastated, but I continued consoling Leah regardless, "…but it isn't yours or Eli's fault. This does not affect us at all. You'll always be my best friend and so will Eli. I want you both to be happy with one another because that's what the Moon Goddess wishes!"       "I'm so sorry, Em, I really am. Please just always remember we're best friends. bimbos over d***s any day, every day, remember!” replied Leah giving me an apologetic smile.    I burst out laughing. This was the Leah I knew. Our clown would always make me smile no matter what. Leah was always there for me, whether to ward off bullies, be my shoulder to cry on or my tv show binge partner, she was there. I knew it would hurt tonight watching Eli take Leah into his arms and lay his claim on her, but I would be happy for her. I would be for them. Elijah was getting someone he deserved and so was Leah. I knew they would be happy together.      I helped her back up on her feet, and she went to fix her makeup while I set mine. Then, we left our quarters and hopped into Leah's Maserati to go to the pub to meet up with the rest of the group. As we drove in comfortable silence, I could not help but think if I would find my mate anytime soon.  Would he be like Eli or even Luca at that?      I looked at Leah from the corner of my eye, and saw that she was finally relaxed and giddy. I envied her at that moment, maybe I'll be like that once I find my mate. We reached the pub, but before we got out, I held Leah's wrist and said,        "Leah, I think you should tell Eli right now. I'll call him and ask him to come out so you guys can talk it out alone before you have to face everyone else,” Leah just nodded and wrapped me in another bone-crushing hug.        "I'm sorry, Em," Leah said.       "Hey, don’t say that, you did nothing wrong. I'm happy for you. I am. Trust me. Eli is one lucky guy to have you as his mate. So savour and cherish this time, sweetheart, and don't worry, like I said before, I'm repeating that we've been best friends and will remain best friends,” I replied and squeezed her hand.  After that, I called Eli and asked him to come out. Not even five minutes later, I saw Eli coming out of the pub in his signature dark blue jeans and green button-down with his curly hair slicked back. I went up to him and gave him a hug and said,        "Eli, always remember I'll always be here for you, and whatever happens now will never change anything between us. We were friends before dating and we will still be friends. I wish you every happiness." I kissed his cheek and turned around to walk in just as Leah came forward and grabbed his attention.        "You're here, I thought you and Leah were about to miss out on your boo's birthday,” said Hannah.  If only he was my boo I thought to myself. Hannah noticed my change in mood at the mention of Eli, and she pulled me into the corner where we were out of earshot from everyone.        "What's wrong, Em? Did you and Eli have a fight?" asked Hannah concerned. It was like Nurek Dam broke, I grabbed Hannah and just cried my heart out, all while she kept asking what happened and whispering sweet nothings in my ear.  "He's not my mate, Han…  He belongs to someone else… Why does the Moon Goddess hate me so much...?  Am I not destined to be loved? Why doesn't anyone want me…?” I quivered out on her shoulder while my tears soaked her b**e skin.  "Em, you need to calm down and tell me what happened." "Eli and Leah are mates. Eli doesn’t know yet, but Leah caught his scent when they came to our quarters earlier and claimed him,” I hiccupped while telling her. Hannah just opened and closed her mouth like a fish, dumbfounded.  After helping me up, she wiped off the mascara that ran down my cheeks. I could tell she was choosing her following words wisely.        "Emerald, I know asking you if you're okay right now would be the biggest understatement of the century. I just want you to know I'm here for you, and so is everyone else. The Moon Goddess doesn't hate you, you'll see that when you find your mate, he'll be the centre of your world. Trust me, love, I would never lie to you…” before Hannah could finish, I hugged her and said, "Let's go back out. I want to show my support for Leah and Eli, it's a big day for them and to be honest, as much as I don't want to be here, I don't want them to think I'm upset with them for something they have no control over.” Before Hannah could protest, I pulled her out of the corner and walked back to our friends.  As I near everyone, I can see the pity in everyone's eyes, I guess Eli and Leah must have told them. I see Eli looking at me with an apologetic look from the corner of my eye. I turn and walk up to him, enveloping him in a friendly hug.        "I'm happy for you and for Leah. You guys will make an awesome couple, but don't forget about me," I said the last part while poking his arm with my finger and smiling.        "Emerald, I'm sorry. Please don't think I kept it from you. I had a feeling when I came into your quarters earlier, but I shrugged it off, and wanted to wait till midnight to see what happens. I wanted to spare you any unnecessary tension with information that I thought may not be true".        "I'm not upset, Eli. Please believe me. I know what the mate-bond means to you and Leah, and nothing makes me happier than to see my two best friends getting something they've always dreamt of,” so I tell Eli while I give him one last squeeze, and go towards Leah. I give her a big hug and tell her how I'm happy for her.  She just smiles and hugs me back. Then, when she lets me go, I turn and see everyone's eyes on me to see if I'm okay.  As much as I wanted to curl into a ball in my bed and cry my eyes out, I didn't want everyone's pity. So I sent a silent prayer to the Goddess to give me strength for the next few hours, pushed my shoulders back, smiled and said,       "Guys, I'm not dead. Come on, get your b***s up and let's have some fun. We still need to ring in Elijah's eighteenth, and we’re already down two hours till twelve".  Even if they didn't want to, they all headed towards the bar with me in tow.  Three shots and one beer later, I forgot about my unfortunate situation, and was just swaying to the beat with Hannah and Ela. We ended up getting cut off by Axel since the three of us were becoming a handful for him to deal with. Like him, Eli and Leah were the only comparatively sober ones among us.        "Alright, my chipmunks and Chipettes, grab a shot, and let's start the countdown to my boy Eli's birthday," Ian tried saying while slurring his words.  We all started the count from ten, and as soon as we were about to finish, Eli ran out of the pub while Leah rushed behind him. We knew that he was okay and his wolf had awakened and was shifting. We downed our shots, and we were about to head back to the dance floor when Axel pulled us back to our booth.        "Han, I'm calling Beta Luca to take you back home. He and the Alphas will already be pissed as f**k that I didn't call one of them earlier and let you get drunk,” said Axel to Hannah's chagrin. He turned to me and told me to stay put as he would take Ela and me back to the academy once Luca was here to pick Hannah up. Then, just when Axel stopped being the possessive-bottom brother/friend he was, we saw Eli coming back in with a pair of red basketball shorts on carrying Leah bridal style. The way they looked at each other with so much love, adoration and pride was a kick right into my stomach, sobering me up entirely.  Everyone went to them and congratulated them for finding one another. As soon as my turn came, they squirmed a bit in their spots. I hugged them with a smile and told them I was happy for them for like the hundredth time tonight. After that, I remembered the loneliness I felt in my heart as I backed away from the booth with my head on Hannah's shoulder, waiting for this night to be over. 

Chapter Five: Stay the Night With Me  Tuesday  Azrael's POV:    It had been a restless night, my wolf, Lex, denied letting me have a moment of peace. He was adamant that I should immediately wake my brothers and head back to Dark Storm. Lex was never one to voice his thoughts much, nor did he talk to me much. Like my brother's wolves, Lex made his presence known when he sensed danger or when he tried taking control if I was fooling around with she-wolves. He wasn't favouring me f*****g other she-wolves that weren't his mate, and often snatched control from me at times.  I knew my brothers had these problems with their wolves as well. However, none of us wanted to confirm it. Finally, our pride got us, especially Ezekiel and Sam.   So here I was now, sitting with my brothers, our parents, our future Beta, Luca, and the current Beta, who was Luca's dad, cranky and sleep-deprived at the Alpha accession meeting at Dark Storm. By the looks on my brother's faces, they too had a rough night, and did not seem to care what the Alpha of White Water pack had to say. We had arrived about three hours ago and were pulled into the meeting, with the discussion running into the fourth hour.    I see Ezekiel lost in his thoughts from the corner of my eye, which was not like him one bit. Despite us being quadruplets, he sought to be more responsible in these situations. I felt terrible for my elder bro at times, so much was expected of him compared to us to be accountable and take charge being the eldest.      ‘Bro, you good? You seem kind of lost,’ I said, mind-linking him.    ‘ I don't know why but Ace has been antsy since last night. He usually never behaves like this. I can't help but worry if there's some incoming threat, and seeing all these Alphas snuggled up with their Lunas is making him jealous,’ replied Ezekiel over the mind-link.  Well, the feeling was mutual. Lex was pretty much like Ace. If only we had our mate, she would be able to help us and our wolves to calm down. I sighed.    I was brought back to the meeting, my thoughts cut short, when dad started talking;  "May the Alpha Quadruplets rise to their expectations, and help bring more procurement and prosperity to the Dark Storm Pack during their reign, and may the Moon Goddess bless them. The Alpha ceremony will be held on Sunday, and I hope all of you will be able to make it with your Luna and families. Till then, I bid you goodbye".    As soon as father had concluded the meeting, the other Alphas left with him and mom to his office to discuss prospective trade contracts to present to the Supreme Alpha's pack up north, formally known as the Supreme Diamond Pack. The Diamond Moon Pack hardly became allies with packs not from the north. They were known as the strongest and biggest pack in the north, which could make them valuable allies for us, but they seemed adamant on any treaties. They reported to the triplet Lycan Kings of all the lycan/werewolves species.      "Well, I could use a drink!” said Zeke, as we all left the conference room with Luca.   I could defiantly use one or maybe two. As soon as we stepped into the packhouse living room, Aria came running and jumped into my arms. Along with Cassandra and Ivy jumping into Zeke and Sam's arms, I could see Ezekiel roll his eyes and walk ahead with Luca from the corner of my eye.      "Why didn't you tell me you were back. I had to find out by the other she-wolves in training!” said Aria, while trying to suppress annoyance.      "Aria, you know very well I was away and had to report to my dad about the events at Red Crescent, and then we had the Alpha accession meeting. You need to understand that I will be an Alpha soon and I have other duties,” I replied, saying it a little more harshly than I meant to.  I wasn't usually a guy to lose his cool, but with hardly any sleep last night, and having to go through a four hour long meeting, while watching the Alphas and Lunas present snuggle up to one another, hasn't got me in the best of moods.    Aria just looks at me dumbfounded. Feeling bad for my outburst, I peck her l**s and put her down, holding her hand while walking in the direction where Luca and Ezekiel went. I see that Zeke and Sam, along with their girls, follow suit. We all ended up in the entertainment room.   Zeke's POV:    After meeting up with the girls in the living room, we all ended up in our entertainment room or man cave, as I liked to call it. My bros had designed this place when we were students back at the academy. Since mom wasn't a big fan of walking in on excitemed teenage male wolves making out on her sofas in the living room, we would take them to the entertainment room whenever we had our friends over.  Well, it was a tiny house on its own in the packhouse. It was a two-storey place, with the lower storey having four eighty-eight inch TVs, with the latest X-box and PlayStation on the market, surrounded by beanbags and recliners, a couple of arcade-type games in the corner, and a not so mini mini-bar with shelves and shelves of expensive alcohol. The upper story was more of a laid-back area; with a projector and screen, and a large custom u-shaped sectional made for at least twenty people, with a candy dispenser, popcorn machine, and another bar in the corner. There was also a pool table behind the sectional for the occasional games my brothers used to play.   Ivy and Sam were in the corner on one of the recliners making out furiously. Looks like he'll be vanishing in a bit by the way they’re going at it, and him being a excitemed b*****d. Cassandra was on my l*p talking to Aria about their mall trip tomorrow. Apparently, Aria was adamant about taking Azrael with her. I could tell Azrael was moments away from snapping. Azrael wasn't the type to be forced. He only did what he wanted to do. Aria was getting on his nerves, and I was convinced they would break up anytime now with how things have been with them lately.  Lately, Cassandra has become a nuisance, demanding constant attention, and arguing about the dumbest things. Ivy was none the wiser, she just copied whatever Aria and Cassandra did. I was convinced Sam purposely chose the slow ones to avoid the drama. His relationship was comparatively smoother than ours. We weren't the best boyfriends, but we respected whoever we dated. We were, after all, their future Alphas, and did not want any malice later when we ascended.  Between all four of us, I thought Ezekiel had it best. He never dated, but the number of girls he bedded was way more than us three combined, which I didn't know how well that would sit with our mate once we find her. I was brought out of my thoughts when I heard a loud growl. I saw Luca coming down the stairs fuming, eyes black, with Ezekiel on his heels pissed as well. Sam was nowhere to be seen as I had predicted, he was probably back in his room with his d**k up Ivy's bottom or something. I patted Cassandra on her bottom to get up, and went towards Ezekiel and Luca with Azrael behind me.       "What's up, bro?" I asked Ezekiel. Before he could reply, Luca spoke with a scowl on his face,     "Han is dead drunk out of her mind at the local pub with unmated wolves swarming around her. Her friends didn't bother to call me."    A low growl left my brothers and I, and we all darted out to go pick her up. But before we could get into the car, Luca turned to us, and said as he sensed our wolves were at bay in a formal tone,       "Alphas, with all due respect, I would like to go pick up my mate by myself. I would like to talk to her alone, and with all of you going there it might attract unnecessary attention,” all while bowing his head. I scowled, I knew Luca was Hannah's mate, but she was our baby sister, so how could he demand to go by himself!       "As much as I disagree with you, Luca, I understand. Bring her back to the packhouse instead of the academy quarters. She is to stay the night here. Let us know when you've picked her up and have her back here,” said Ezekiel, Azrael nodding in agreement.  As much as I disagreed with them, I did not protest. We had to show a united front in front of everyone. Luca nodded, got into his corvette, and speeded off. I knew Hannah would be alright.  Werewolves didn't tend to stay drunk for long, but she was still my baby sister, and the thought of excitemed wolves around her did not sit well with me. I could only imagine how Luca was composing himself. If it were my mate, she wouldn't even be allowed to go without my brothers or me or a pack warrior. I sighed and went back inside.    Emerald's POV:    It had been over thirty minutes since Axel had called Luca to pick up Hannah. Axel and Ela were sitting with Hannah and I in our booth, while Ian and Jer were busy grinding against two she-wolves they had picked up earlier. They kept trying to take me to the dance floor, but eventually stopped when Axel threw a threatening look at them. Elijah and Leah had left, probably to complete the mating process. Just the thought was making tears well up in my eyes again.  I tried pushing the idea to the back of my mind by taking care of Hannah. She was slowly recovering. We hardly got buzzed, and would eventually be sobered in an hour or so. Hannah was slowly recovering but was rubbing her temples, trying to soothe her throbbing head.      "Beta Luca just texted me, he’ll be here in the next five minutes,” Hannah shot Axel an angry look. She wasn't happy that Axel had called Luca, and when Hannah received Luca's call, she got an ear full.  Apparently, she's expected to head back to the packhouse as her brothers want a word with her. But, before she could open her mouth to give Axel another scolding, Luca entered, and walked towards us with a deep scowl etching his face. I've hardly ever seen Luca angry, and the sight in front of me told me that I would never want to see him mad ever again.     "As much as I would love to take you over my knee right here and now, your brothers are waiting for you. I expected more from you, Han,” before Hannah could reply, Luca held up his palm, and picked her up bridal style. As soon as Luca took one step away from us, I heard Hannah say,     "I get you’re mad, Luca, you have every right to be, and I take full responsibility. I'll even go back with you and meet my brothers. But Em went through a lot today, and despite her pain, she took care of me. What type of best friend would I be if I abandoned her when she needed me most? So I want her to come along with me to the packhouse, so she and I can have a night to ourselves,” Luca grumbled a bit but agreed. They both then turned to look in my direction.   My face paled. As much as my heart soared at that moment for the love Hannah had for me, I did not want to go to the packhouse.  Leah was the daughter of a prominent pack warrior, and was popular at the academy. I was pretty sure by tomorrow, the pack members would know she had found her mate. But, unfortunately, her mate was none other than my ex-boyfriend. I just didn't want to face anyone. I had already planned on hiding out with my face in a tub of Ben and Jerry's for at least tomorrow, to gather the courage needed before I went back to the academy. Being at the packhouse would not only put me in the spotlight for everyone else to attack me with their harsh words, but I would not have my privacy.      "I don't know what I would do without you, Han, but I'm okay. I'll have to get over it eventually. As much as I would love to spend the entire night with you to do our own thing, you know how I feel about the packhouse,” I said, choosing my words so she would not think I was avoiding her.     "Seriously, love? You can fool everyone, but not me. The first thing that gave you away was that you drank so much. Since when do you even drink, because I don't remember? Secondly...,” replied Hannah, crossing her arms as she snuggled closer to Luca. I just sighed, this girl knew me all too well. She knew I hardly ever drank, this probably being my third time. I wasn't one for parties, drinks, and o*******t stands. I thought of giving it one more try, but before I could say anything, Hannah cut me off and said,     "I know you hate it there, fine, I get it. But listen carefully, Emerald Hutton, if you don't come back with me tonight, I'll think you don't consider me your best friend, god even a friend. I know it's blackmail but please, Em, do this for me. Plus, you'll give me a reason to dodge my brother's wrath quicker,” she said, while trying her best not to smirk.    I just sighed, this girl will honestly drive me insane one day. I saw Luca getting impatient from the corner of my eye, and then suddenly his eyes glazed over. He was probably mind-linking someone.      "Okay, we must go. The Alphas want you back home, Hannah, right now. Emerald, I don't know what happened to you, and I won't ask since it's your private matter, but I think Han is right. Staying alone confined in your room won't help. You should stay over with her tonight. I have some important paperwork to do tonight anyway, so I wouldn't be able to sleep with her,” Hannah frowned at Luca, probably for not telling her that he didn't plan to come to bed with her. I giggled. That was Hannah for you, she could go from the most loving person in the country, to a wild cat in mere seconds. She probably even forgot that she offered to sleep with me tonight after she heard Luca was already planning to stay up.    Luca was right, probably sulking in my room wasn't going to help, so going with them would be better. I nodded my head. Han jumped out of Luca's arms and hugged me. We went to our friends to let them know we were heading home. We hugged everyone, and thanked them for coming out. Just as Hannah was about to embrace Axel, Luca's arm came around her, pulling her back to him with his head in the crook of her n**k.     "Mine,” he said in a low growl. Axel put his hands up in surrender, and started laughing with us. Hannah just kissed Luca while rolling her eyes over his possessiveness, and then we were off.    The packhouse was a forty-five minute drive from the pub, during which Luca would not shut up about how Hannah had broken her curfew, rules, and whatnot. I just rolled my eyes, listening to them bicker.      "Love, you know we care, that's why your brothers and I are upset. I was just scared if you were safe or not,” said Luca, trying to lighten up Hannah's mood. Hannah continued to ignore him, looking out the window.     "Ugh, fine, I'm sorry. I'll try controlling my anger, but you have to compromise with me, my love,” Hannah smiled, whipping her head in Luca's direction and nodding. Then she pecked his l**s, and told him she was also sorry.   I was glad they had stopped arguing, it was sort of giving me a headache, but more importantly, Hannah was happy again. I knew they loved each other insanely, and wouldn't stay mad at one another for long.  The rest of the ride went along in comfortable silence, but as we neared the packhouse, I couldn't shake the feeling that something was about to happen, something life-changing.    We arrived in front of the large spiked black gates, where the guards saw Luca, and immediately opened them for us. We drove down the long driveway that didn't seem to end. Once the car stopped, Luca first helped Hannah out, and then offered his hand for me to get out. As soon I placed my hand in his and got out of the car, I felt a rush of wind, and four bodies pressing against me,     "MINE, MATE!” said four similar voices with a menacing growl. Everything went dark after that.