Chapter 9

The Mortal World, a place I've heard of but never personally visited.

It's a world where only ordinary beings reside. In the Mortal World, there are no werewolves, vampires, hybrids, or other unnatural creatures. Most humans there fear these beings, considering them monsters.

As a result, the Mortal World is often regarded as one of the most perilous realms to exist. However, Sianna mentioned that not all Mortal World inhabitants fear the unnatural. Some are open-minded, but even so, safety for these beings isn't guaranteed.

Interestingly, the Mortal World is said to be the closest to Theavia. Our ancestors visited it in the past, leading to the adoption of some of its cultures and languages. Yet, they must remain unseen to avoid danger.

Caiden's confession last night was a big blow—from our family history to his connection with Gresham. I hope they can eventually resolve their issues, especially now that both Caiden and Jayden's mates is from Gresham. Having both mates be Alpha's children adds an extra layer of complexity.

After finishing my kitchen chores, I decided to visit the greenhouse. On my way, I bumped into Theo. And I have a feeling I know what he wants.

"Art room."

He left promptly. I took a deep breath, wondering what he needs this time. Perhaps another favor from me?

When I opened the door, I was surprised to find Primo inside. I thought I'd be alone. He's painting, and I can't help but wonder what he's working on this time. He's completely absorbed in his art, so I take a moment to observe him.

Primo wears his usual attire—a fitted T-shirt, jeans, and brown boots. His simplicity somehow enhances his rugged handsomeness. His arms flex as he applies brushstrokes. His disheveled hair contrasts with the white t-shirt splattered with paint.

"Like what you see?" he teases. My face flushes, and I instinctively lower my head. I hear a soft chuckle from Alpha Primo. When I dare to glance up, I find him watching me.

Clearing my throat, I speak. "I apologize, Alpha Primo. It's just that you seem so engrossed in your painting. I didn't want to disturb you." I say while still avoiding eye contact.

"You've never been a bother. " he replies as his forehead crease. I let out an awkward laugh. Suddenly, he stands up from the high chair, heading toward a nearby table where he grabs a towel. As he wipes his hands, I remain standing, feeling somewhat foolish.

"Come here, Kianna." I step closer, my lips pressed together. "Is there something you need me to do?"

I ask as I avert my gaze from him. His intense stare unnerves me. Then, unexpectedly, I feel his finger on my chin.

"Look at me when you speak. " He demands. "Do I have paint on my face?" He inquires.

"Y-You have a splash of paint on your f-face." I stammer, his finger still lingering on my chin.

"Is that so? Can you wipe it off for me?" His voice softens. "I can't see where the splashes are."

I was momentarily stunned, but I managed to regain my composure and nodded slowly. He handed me the towel and my hands trembled as I reached for it. I stepped closer to him, ensuring I could wipe away the paint more easily. However, I maintained a cautious distance, aware that he might not appreciate my proximity. Yet, he surprised me by pulling me closer, his hand firmly on my waist. I almost dropped the towel. "You're too far. " He murmured.

Now we were too close. His body warmth enveloped me. He leaned down slightly so I could reach his face. Being this near felt both wrong and strangely good. I hadn't realized such conflicting emotions could exist.

I continued wiping the paint from his face, his eyes fixed on mine. I tried to avoid his gaze, unsure of his intentions. Alpha Primo is an enigma—his actions and words often defying normal boundaries. After all, I am just a human, a mere servant. He rarely allowed anyone this close, except perhaps Liliana.

The thought of them being intimate stirred an ache in my chest. But why is he doing this? And why am I allowing it?

You're smitten, Anna. How can you resist Primo? My inner voice scolded me.

"Are you alright? You seem lost. " He said as concern is etch in his face.

"Hmmm, I'm fine. " I replied, my voice surprisingly sweet. "There you go, all clean. " I added, stepping back to tidy up the towel. Thankfully, Alpha Primo released me promptly.

Now we're sitting on the couch and he retrieve a box from the nearby drawer.

"You've heard about Jayden's forbidden love, right?"

"Yes, Caiden told me about it."

"Well, I'm sure he also shared his life in Gresham." His expression turned serious. "The Alpha of the Moonlit Shadow Pack is hosting an anniversary celebration for their wolf pack. He invited the other neighboring packs, including ours."

"But aren't you on bad terms with them?" I furrowed my brow.

"Yes, we are. But we can set aside our differences temporarily. It was the Alpha's Luna who suggested inviting other leaders. She loves parties and is an excellent host."

"What does this have to do with me?" I asked, puzzled.

"I want you to come with me." His gaze bore into mine, assessing my reaction. When I remain silent, he adjusted his posture, measuring my response.

"Listen, Caiden is still a fugitive in Gresham. I won't surrender him, nor can I take him there. Instead, we'll offer them the Galliana. " He explained while opening the box.

"I want you to represent Caiden. You will offer them our gift. Once they accept it, the Alpha will decide what to do with him." His words caught me off guard.

"But won't he be off the hook? He would still gonna face punishment?" Concern for Caiden welled up in me.

"Yes, Kianna. But it won't be as harsh as you think. The Alpha will leave Jayden alone, and he'll be reunited with Hyacinth." Primo's comforting smile reassured me.

"If that's the case... it'll lessen Caiden's burden if we convince the Alpha. " Hope is visible in my eyes.

"Indeed, Kianna. As the ruler of Artea, I promise to do everything in my power to make this right. Jayden and Caiden will get what they deserve. " He declared with unwavering determination.

"You don't have to promise, Alpha Primo. I trust you... And thank you." I replied gently.

"Anything for you. " He murmured, his voice barely audible.

Alpha Primo dismissed me afterward.

He mentioned that we're leaving soon, so I need to get ready. He also sent Jasmine to take care of me.

°°°°°°

Jasmine is Primo's sister. Yes, Primo have a sister—a younger sister. She have curly brown hair that falls past her shoulders. Her skin is fair, and she has Nordic eyes. She's three years younger than him, and she's also Theo's other half.

Theo apparently picked her up from the city. The last time I saw her was three years ago, right after she finished her medical studies. I heard that she and Liliana didn't attend the same school—something about not getting along, though I'm not sure why.

"Wow, sis! I know you're beautiful, but right now, you could pass as a High Priestess. High Priestess Kianna of Artea. " Sianna said while poking my waist. She have a wide grin.

"Come on, Sianna. Don't say that out loud. What if the High Priestess hears you?" I scold her.

"Oops, my bad. But seriously, you look stunning, sis. I'm sure you'll gain attention from numerous men at the party. " She continued, still grinning.

"And I'm sure someone will lose his mind if that happens. " Jasmine chimed in while her gaze is still fixed outside the window.

"What are you talking about, Jasmine?" Sianna asked, looking puzzled.

"Huh? Nothing... I mean, just don't talk to men too much. Or better yet, don't talk to any men at all. " She replied as she tap my cheek playfully. Then she left to greet Theo.

"Well, that's weird. " Sianna commented. "But, sis, you truly look like a goddess. You're stunning! That fitted dress suits you perfectly. " She added, gently stroking my outfit.

I am wearing a champagne-colored, body-hugging mermaid evening gown with thin straps, paired with black single-strap heels that I wasn't used to wear. The dress have a slit that went past my knees and my back remained bare. Jasmine had given me a golden upper arm cuff with a crescent moon design. My hair was elegantly pinned up in a bun, with loose, curly strands framing my face. She'd also adorned my hair bun with small pearls and flowers. As I admired myself in the mirror, I couldn't help but feel amazed. I wasn't accustomed to dressing up like this, and it was my first time wearing such an extravagant outfit.

Jasmine and Theo joined us. They looked good together—the way they gazed at each other conveyed an unbreakable bond of love and compassion. Sianna had mentioned that Theo was fifteen when he first joined the pack. Since he is Jasmine's mate, Primo appointed him as the Beta of the pack.

"Looks like someone's going to lose control tonight. " Theo said as he smirk dangerously. "I know, hon." Jasmine replied.

"And make sure to keep an eye on him and always keep him occupied. " She added, her voice barely audible.

"We better leave now. Primo and Hayden are already on their way to Gresham. Braden didn't come along so he could stay with Jayden. I know he promised to behave, but we need to ensure he won't leave the pack house. " Theo explained.

"Hayden went ahead?" I asked Jasmine as we entered the carriage.

"Yep, and it's a good thing they left without us." She said, crossing her arms.

"Why?" I furrowed my brow.

Theo chuckled while wrapping his arm around Jasmine. "Because we might not make it to Gresham if the Alpha is here." Jasmine said, winking at me.

Their cryptic comments intrigued me but I decided to focus on the view outside the window. Clutching the box tightly in my lap, I hoped that the Alpha of Gresham would accept our gift as compensation for Caiden's actions. I wanted him to be free, just as much as I wanted Jayden to be reunited with his mate.

The journey to Gresham took nearly an hour. Their mansion was enormous, resembling a castle. The guests were all elegantly dressed, and the air buzzed with conversation.

"Anna, let's go inside." Jasmine called to me. "Don't be nervous, Anna. We'll take care of you. I promise." She squeezed my hand, leading me into the mansion.

Just take a deep breath, Kianna. You can do this!