Once Upon a Full Moon

After my father's wolf, Beta, took him, I escaped and enjoyed a simple human life. It may not have been extravagant, but I cherished the independence. That changed when I foolishly chose a shortcut through wolf territory, which led to my capture. I was expecting imprisonment, but instead, the Alpha introduced me as a potential mate to the elusive and rumored-to-be cruel Lycan King, Bowden. He whisked me away from my familiar surroundings and brought me to his realm, where I was meant to become his mate, despite his lack of interest. I never signed up for this life, and the idea of being a submissive partner to a king was the furthest thing from my desires. I was strategizing my escape, biding my time. "I've had enough," I declared. "I'm leaving." Bowden raised an eyebrow in amusement. "Do you really think so?" he replied. "Yes, I do. Try to stop me," I challenged. He stepped aside nonchalantly. "I won't physically stop you. Go ahead. Maybe some peace and quiet will be a welcome change," he suggested. As I headed for the door, he called out, "Oswald!" The guard, obedient as always, promptly opened the door and awaited further instructions. "Escort the queen to her room and lock her in for the night," Bowden commanded. "But you said you wouldn't stop me," I turned back, livid with him for reversing his decision. "I won't, but Oswald's duty remains unchanged," the king explained, nodding at the guard. The door closed firmly behind the retreating guard. "Don't toy with me, young wild one. My experience far surpasses yours, and you'll never win this game. Remember, you're mine, and you're not going anywhere," he warned, leaving me trapped in my new reality.