Alpha Calle's Cursed Mate

By Wolfe Bayne

As a werewolf, you constantly fantasize about meeting your mate. Until you've experienced it firsthand, you can never really understand it. Everything around me seemed colorful in my eyes as I looked forward to becoming Lennon's mate sooner. But unfortunately, my whole world fell apart when Lennon found his mate that night the pack's Luna celebrated her birthday. It was the same night when I lost everything just in a snap.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Wolfe Bayne
• Release date: Dec 17, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223070092

Book preview

CHAPTER 1

Daphne

You don't have much time left, little rogue. If I count to five and you are still here, you’re dead! Alpha Darius bellowed, and the floor seemed to shake with his words.

You can't do this! I screamed, rage erupting from within me as I refused to move. I was terrified, yes. But my raging rage was equal to the fear that was rising inside of me. I was determined to stand my ground. I'm part of this pack!

But he continued to count as if there was a bomb ticking in this pack house. Two...!

Oh, no. That's terrible. How can she just go away? She has no wolf. Someone commented. I could hear her laughter behind me. Poor little thing!

That was what everybody knew. I was already eighteen, yet wolfless. So I shut my eyes and summoned her. ‘Reina, h-help me!’

Just then, Reina stirred, and her roar filled my head. ‘They want us out? Then, fine!’

'But how do we—shit!’ My next words turned into a guttural scream as my whole body seized with pain. Every joint in me cracked as though someone had contorted them in a thousand directions. I dropped to the floor, my breath hitching in agonizing bursts that ripped through my throat. Gritting my teeth, I mustered all of my strength, channeling it into one fierce primal scream that echoed around me.

Reina took over and exploded out of the window like a bolt of lightning. ‘We'll hunt them all down one day! I swear!’

We fled as far as we could go while I wept in the deepest pit of her head. But Reina explained that we were just getting started in life, and leaving our family was just a chapter that had to be closed before we could move on.

Where are we right now? I asked her. I can't smell the pack anymore.

In another territory, I guess? She sniffed and made a low groan, turning her head from left to right. We have to keep moving and find a way out of here before it gets too dark.

She kept running, but this time she ran more slowly. Reina seemed to be in a state of confusion and discomfort, possibly due to being in unfamiliar surroundings. Despite this, she remained determined to continue and find a way out before nightfall. Regardless, everything looked brighter and more colorful through her eyes, as though it were daytime. We even felt better as the grass rustled against our fur. And the smell of damp earth and wild plants was like heaven.

What if we were indeed in heaven?

Can we stay here for a bit longer? I asked Reina.

‘Sure!’ she said, stopping by the thick roots of the tree. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, savoring the tranquility of the moment. The rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds were the only sounds that filled the air, and I knew that this was exactly where I wanted to be.

'This place is very safe. Though it would be much better if I could find a bunny rabbit. I want to work on my canines and practice my hunting skills.'

Whatever you want, I said with a smile. What Reina liked, I liked.

Mind if we take a little nap?

Of course. We need some time off.

So, where will we go later?

I shrugged my shoulders. To be honest, I don't know. I've never been anywhere else in my entire life. Anyway, we'll figure it out in the morning.

My wolf and I talked for a while longer before we both fell asleep.

The sun was shining through the tree branches when I woke up the following morning. When I finally stood up, my eyes grew wide as I turned to look down at myself. I had no clothes on, and I was stuck together with dirt and dead leaves.

Um, Reina? Are you there? I whispered, massaging my temples for the little ache in my head.

Great. My wolf was silent. And no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't shift! Wait, did I really transform last night? My stupid thoughts made me slap my forehead. Of course, I turned into a wolf last night. Without Reina, how could I have moved to this place? And my clothes had even been ripped when she appeared unexpectedly. But I couldn't just walk around naked. I needed to gather at least a few large leaves to cover myself. Then I'd walk down the street and ask for help.

Just as I was about to move, I heard someone on their way toward me.

Well, look what we have found here!

I took a step back, pressing my bare back against the rough trunk. My hands began to shiver as I noticed five men appearing behind tall clumps of weeds and vines. They wore leather hats and boots. I gulped when I noticed the weapons in each of their hands.

I thought boar hunting was boring until we found you, the stout man said with a grin.

Then a lanky and pale old man approached me. Darling, what are you doing in the middle of the woods? Are you camping with your boyfriend?

No. No. She wasn’t camping. Who camps naked, anyway? The other stout man interrupted. Would you like to come with us, sweetie?

Stay away from me! I grumbled. I'd rather die than go with you, jerks!

Their laughter sent shivers up and down my spine. Out of fear, I closed my eyes and begged for help from anyone who could hear me.

Oh, we’re not going to hurt you, sweet child. We are here to bring you to safety. The man with wrinkles on his face extended his arm to me as he approached. And when I say safety, it means in my warm bed.

We should make a raffle so we know who'll f*ck her first.

Nah, there’s no fun in that. We can take turns, anyway.

You always have the best idea!

How could these humans violate such a helpless girl? Do all humans act savagely?

Got you, bitch!

Get your hands off me! Tears streamed down my face as I felt the sharp tug of a thick, calloused hand in my hair. Then my sobs erupted into a piercing scream as another hand roughly grabbed at my breast. I was paralyzed with fear, and the sickening realization that this wasn't a nightmare hit me like a falling rock.

I was resigned to my fate, accepting the fact that this was how it was going to end for me. But then, out of nowhere, a figure appeared and dragged the man away from me. In an instant, the other attackers were hurled against trees in every direction, leaving me confused as to what had just happened.

‘Is he one of them? Did he knock them off so he could have me all to himself?' The thoughts in my head left a bitter taste in my mouth. I let myself collapse to the ground and curled myself tighter into the curved space of the tree trunk, my face on my hands.

You okay? Did they hurt you?

Slowly, I looked up at the source of a rich, manly voice. I gasped when he grabbed my arms and helped me stand up. Did they touch you? He took a sharp look at my face, then looked down over my body to my feet.

N-no. I could only shake my head. My mind was busy gazing at his face. He seemed different from those bad guys. He was wearing a simple white shirt and a pair of faded jeans. His eyes were the color of amber, my favorite color, with a gold and copper hue to them.

Let's get you out of here before these scumbags awaken.

My eyes almost popped out of their sockets when he started to peel his clothes off. What the hell are you doing? Are you going to—oh, no! I knew it! He was one of them. I should have run when I got the chance!

Stop freaking out! He frowned and took off his jeans this time.

Please don’t do this to me! I swear my face was on fire when I spotted his most intimate area!

He got down on his hands and knees just as I was ready to bolt. Then, for a short moment, he transformed into a large wolf that was taller than I was.

My jaw dropped. S-so, you’re a werewolf?

The same captivating amber eyes met mine as he raised his head to look at me. Before I knew it, my hands were caressing his thick, healthy fur, loving the rich auburn and copper hues that it contained. You’re beautiful, I whispered.

He bent his head down until it was parallel to my waist. ‘Ride.’

Huh? I froze.

'What the fuck are you waiting for?' he growled, revealing his sharp fangs. 'Those humans will wake up soon and they will shoot us without hesitation!'

Okay! I’ll do it! I scrambled up, clinging to his huge body before flinging my arms around his back. With a sudden burst of speed, he leaped through the branches, bursting from tree to tree with me locked in a vice-like grip behind him. I felt like I was being thrust through the air with no control or direction.

I wanted to believe that he meant me no harm, yet something was unsettling about him that made me uncertain. He saved my life, but should I put my trust in him?

CHAPTER  2

EARLIER...

Daphne

As a werewolf, you constantly fantasize about meeting your mate. Until you've experienced it firsthand, you can never really understand it.

As I eagerly anticipated my future with Lennon, I began to see the world in vivid hues. However, everything came crashing down when Lennon finally found his mate. That very evening, I lost everything in a snap.

Are you ready, Daphne?

Jaime leaned against the door frame as he laughed and studied my reflection. His arms were crossed over his chest, and he clearly didn't care if his crisp blue dress shirt wrinkled. He had taken on the role of father for me since I was a baby, and our parents had been killed in an ambush by a band of outlaws.

What keeps you going for so long? Hey, no matter how much powder you put on your face, it will never change. He smirked.

You're only distracting me, I grumbled as I met his gaze.

From what I see, you're already decent enough to blend in with other people, he said, examining my attire. Then he gasped for no reason. Oh, no! But what if you aren't my sister? The little Daphne I know doesn't even bother to comb her hair, which is why she's often mistaken for a witch's daughter... or a vampire’s!

I was seriously considering throwing things at him. I thought the solid wooden hairbrush I was holding would do the trick. I cocked my head to look over my shoulder at him. Why don't you just wait in the living room or assist your wife in putting on her dress? I rolled my eyes and returned my gaze to the mirror. I took a deep breath and forced myself to smile once more. I couldn't let go of my good mood.

I was just finishing up the last round of retouching, I explained when I noticed he was still standing by the door. You see, I have to be the most beautiful girl for this night... and for Lennon's eyes. I have to be ready in case he's found his mate, and that is none other than me. My greenish eyes twinkled in the mirror, which matched my apple green off-the-shoulder cocktail dress that contrasted with my jet-black long hair and pale white skin.

I expected Jaime to laugh again at my claim to be Lennon's soon-to-be mate. But his expression became serious. Daphne, it’s not possible. Only the Moon Goddess can decide who our mates will be. I'm simply stating the facts. Please do not misunderstand.

His words pricked my heart, causing me to blurt out my irritation. Then why did you choose to live with Yvette, who isn't your mate? You just stole her from her original pack.

Abusive pack, he corrected me. Will you stop bringing it up every time I give you advice?

There was an odd silence in my room as we both turned to face one another in the mirror. I despised being involved in family drama. But whenever he lectured me about something I knew he couldn't apply to his own, I didn't see the point in believing in it.

How many times do I have to tell you that my case was different? He sighed and shook his head as if water had hit him in the face. He turned the doorknob after that. I'll give you another five minutes. If you don't go downstairs after that, I'll drop Luna Carmela’s birthday invitation and claim I'm not feeling well. I'm so close to being one, actually.

I let out a long, frustrated sigh. My good mood was gone for good. But I had to go to the party, no matter how sad I was. It was the birthday of Lennon's mother. I had to be there.

We arrived at Alpha Darius's pack house a few minutes later. Our home was far from the town's heart. However, my brother chose to live on the outskirts of our urban community, so he could tell right away if rogues were invading the area. Also, he wanted to get along with the common werewolves rather than jam with the high-ranking officials. That made the other wolves love him. They had faith in him and adored how humble he was.

Returning to the present, I smiled as a familiar figure walked toward me. Lennon looked stunning in a black button-down shirt and a dark pair of trousers. He looked great in his casual attire. His hair was pushed back, giving him a stylish appearance.

Hey, pretty!

My mood instantly improved when Lennon leaned down and pressed his lips against my cheek. I had to tip my toes to meet the kiss.

You've arrived. I thought you weren't coming, he said quietly in my ear. His hypnotic voice almost made my knees turn to jelly, particularly when he encased me in his arms. Are you alone? Where’s your family?

My eyes wandered around the lobby over Lennon's broad shoulder. Then I noticed Jaime and Yvette talking with Luna Carmela. I frowned when Alaine came up to them and greeted Luna with a kiss on the cheek. Alaine was the daughter of Jaime and Yvette. We had the same blood running through our veins, but I couldn't seem to like her.

Why do they all appear to be so happy without me?

I'm not sure. I knew lying was wrong, but I didn't want to talk about it with Lennon. How did your trip in the Eastern region go, by the way?

Good, he said as if it weren't a big deal. Alpha Calle from the Blood Moon Pack will arrive tonight. He looked around and pointed his index finger in the direction of Alpha Darius. Oh, the wild one is finally here. He is talking to Dad.

I watched where his finger went and found the person he was talking about. I didn't get to see his face because his big back was turned towards us. But the bun of hair on top of his head was noticeable from a long way away. Wow. Isn't this pack the most feared in the East? And you've managed to convince their leader? My eyes grew wide with awe as I looked back at him. I'm sure you'll be a great Alpha at some point. I'm so happy for you.

Thanks. Anyway, that’s for the sake of our pack. We need strong allies so our enemies won’t knock us down easily or hesitate to touch us in the first place. He grinned, but the emotion didn’t reach his eyes. Shortly, he wrapped my wrist with his hand and said, By the way, there’s something I need to bring up, Daphne. Can I have a moment with you?

For some reason, his tone made my heart race—in a bad way. S-sure. Here?

Outside.

The next thing I knew, we were standing by the fountain, settling in the garden. This was the center of their sprawling home. Everything was vintage and romantic.

Daphne...

My heart skipped a beat as he mentioned my name. But I didn't say anything or turn around. I bit my lower lip, waiting for him to complete his statement... or sweet confession?

I want you to know that—

Lennon, we were looking for you all over the place!

I turned around to face the familiar female voice that had the nerve to interrupt my private time with Lennon. Alaine?

Hello, Daphne. She smiled at me without appearing surprised but with an expression of disapproval. Have you heard the whole truth from him yet?

What truth? I asked with a frown.

Alaine looked over at Lennon, who had moved to stand beside her. He even put his arm around her waist.

Wait a minute, what in the world is going on? I clenched my teeth, seeing them together.

Alaine is my mate, Lennon declared, and kissed Alaine on the lips.

CHAPTER  3

Daphne

My lips opened, but no sound came from my mouth. Do I understand him correctly? What if this is all a dream? A nightmare, perhaps?

A-are you sure? Finally, I found my voice.

Surprised? Well, it looks like I'm the next Luna.  Alaine let go of her scarf, which showed a bite mark on her shoulder. Look, Lennon marked me two years ago. Don't you also want to see the mark I put on his shoulder as well?

This is impossible! I yelled, my tears stinging my eyes.

She pulled Lennon closer, then looked at me as they walked away. Will you excuse us? There's a big announcement coming up in a few minutes. You should come inside too.

I only froze as I stared at both of them. If I moved, I’d be shattered into a thousand pieces.

Of all the people, why would the Moon Goddess pair Lennon with the most difficult being in this whole world?

As I went back to the grand lobby, I was still trying to find out what was going on. Just a few hours ago, I thought I was the most beautiful girl in town. But now, all of my self-respect was gone, and all that was left was shame and self-pity.

Should I return home? What was the point of going to an event that wasn't for me? It hurts my eyes to see Lennon and Alaine in such intimate company. Then there was my brother and his bitchy wife; they were having a good time chatting with the Alpha. By his gestures, it looked like they were planning for the future—Lennon’s future, to be exact.

If I could shapeshift like other girls my age, I would run away into the woods and hide from everyone. But since I couldn't, I just stood there silently, feeling like an outsider in my own pack.

‘Run? No way. Confront the jerk!’

I let out a gasp when someone spoke. But it seemed like no one was talking to me as I looked around the busy hall. Perhaps, I'm just tired? I muttered.

‘Give him a taste of what he did, girl!’

I massaged my temples and realized that the voice was only coming from inside my head. Hold on. So, that means... A-are you my wolf? I asked hesitantly, feeling a bit foolish for even considering the possibility.

The voice chuckled in response, saying, "Yes, I am. And it's about time you acknowledged me. My name is Reina.'

Reina? I couldn't believe it, after all these years of feeling like something was missing, I had finally found my other half. It was a surreal moment that I will never forget.  But as much as I wanted to celebrate, I couldn’t. Every cell in my body was weeping because of what Lennon and Alaine did to me. I’m glad you're finally here, Reina. But forgive me, I can’t chat with you right now.

I felt her wrinkle her nose. Why's that?

I’m sure you know why, I said, staring at Lennon from afar.

‘Then go tell the jerk how stupid of an idiot he is!’

I grimaced as Reina continued to cuss in my head. Her anger towards Lennon was palpable, and it was clear that she wanted to confront him about something. I was a bit stubborn, but I think Reina was better, or worse. She appeared to be a feisty and carefree wolf—traits that I loved the most.

‘Just go! Give him a piece of your mind.’

A piece of my mind or a piece of ‘your’ mind? I clarified.

‘It’s just the same. We’re a single machine, anyway.’

And now I find myself pursuing her thoughts as I stomp toward Lennon, ignoring everyone's expressions, including Jaime's and Alpha Darius's.

As I approach Lennon, my heart is pounding with anger and frustration, but I take a deep breath and remind myself to stay calm and composed. I know that losing my temper won't solve anything, and I need to choose my words carefully to make sure he understands the gravity of his actions.

Hi, Daphne. Lennon smiled, but it was more of a smirk.

Why? I gritted my teeth, completely ignoring the notion that I should control my temper. You should have told me earlier. How dare you play with my emotions!

Everyone’s attention was drawn to us the moment my voice rose. I was about to step toward Lennon when Jaime grabbed my arm. Stop this nonsense, Daphne! he muttered in my ear.

No! I countered and pulled my arm away from him. I started this, I wouldn’t turn back!

What do you think you’re doing, little pup? Alpha Darius huffed.

The Alpha's voice caused my heart to beat a little bit faster. Lennon stood a solid six feet tall, but his father was taller, not to mention, larger. Even though he had gray hair and fine lines on his forehead and around his eyes, he still appeared to be the strongest one in our pack.

Although he was agitating the living daylights out of me, my hatred for his ill-mannered son was much stronger. Why am I doing this? I stared at him in disbelief. Your son has found a mate, but he refused to let me know and persisted in fooling around with me. Why the hell is that, then?

Is what you're fighting for worth the scandal? Alaine glared at me. Wow, it's obvious why the Moon Goddess didn't pick you as his mate. She is aware that you are not a good fit for the pack, just like you are not a good fit for my family.

I’m—what?

Enough, Alaine, Jaime grumbled at his daughter. This isn’t the right time to talk about this. Wait until we go home.

Let her. This is the right time to tell Daphne the truth. Yvette intervened between her daughter and her husband. Then she smirked at me secretly.

Confusion flooded my mind, making my stomach seem to churn even more. I glared at my brother. What truth are you guys hiding from me? I demanded, feeling like my own family had betrayed me. I deserve to know what's going on.

Tell us, Alpha Darius demanded, eyeing Jaime. We are going to be one house, so hidden backgrounds are not going to be tolerated.

The strange silence gave me goosebumps on my skin. Jaime’s eyes welled with tears as he looked down at me. Alaine is right. We don’t share the same blood. I... he paused, clenching his teeth. I just found you in the woods.

I tilted my head at him, his words slowly registering in my head. Reina, on the other hand, became more restless. Her low groans became dangerous growls.

‘Hell, no!’

T-that isn’t true, I chuckled bitterly, my misty sight wandering at each one of them. Reina, on the other hand, continued to deny our origin. You are my brother. And our parents are the previous high-ranked werewolves in this pack.

They were, Jaime said, staring down at his feet. But you are not one of us. I have no idea where you come from.

This is bad news, Alpha Darius said harshly as he looked at me. You know what we do to werewolves who don't belong in this pack, right? Who knows, maybe your parents were rogues.

I tried to speak, but nothing came out of my trembling lips. My heart was as cold as if someone had just stuck an icy dagger into it.

You. Leave.

I blinked. W-what?

Alpha Darius looked over at Jaime. I won't say what I just said again. So you should tell her, or I'll take away your Beta rank.

I turned to Jaime, giving him a begging look. I have nowhere to go!

He avoided my gaze. This is the best for you, Daphne. Now that they know, everybody in this pack will mock you. Worse, they will torture and kill you. So set yourself free.

CHAPTER  4

PRESENT...

Daphne

My savior was a werewolf like me, yes. Regardless, he was still a stranger. Although the man let me wear his shirt that hung down to my knees, the kindness was odd for me—even suspicious!

Why would this guy help someone like me—not unless he needed something in return? Hell, I didn’t like losing trust in everyone. Blame this on the shitty pack of those shitty people who left me nothing but a shattered heart and soul before casting me away!

The next thing I knew, we were walking towards a building. Nestled in the middle of the woodland, it seemed to grow even bigger and bigger as we got near.

Are they aching? My rugged hero glanced down at my bare feet. Maybe he figured they were swollen from a long walk, offering to carry me in his arms when we got out of the forest. Regardless, I refused.

A few minutes later, we were standing in the middle of the grand lobby. From my spot, I could see everything the house offered, leaving me breathless in awe. Across the upstairs gallery ran a diamond-designed iron railing. On both sides of the house were wings.

He ascended a few steps made of marble just as I was ready to speak. I had no choice but to chase him on foot. Walking between the large columns, we passed room after room that was wide and light-filled. I found myself staring up at the chandelier over our heads. The teardrop bulbs shone brilliantly, like diamonds falling on us. It was so large and lengthy, and the ceiling was so high that our footsteps reverberated off of it, that all I could do was stare around like an idiot at everything I saw.

Do you live here? I asked with great admiration.

I don’t just live here. I designed everything you see in here.

My eyes grew wide as I turned to him. What exactly is your—

Let’s get you to your room so you can make yourself better. He cut me off. There was impatience in his tone.

Wait... I paused as we passed by another beautifully decorated door. Am I going to stay here too?

Do you have any other choices? He gazed at me with low brows. When I found you in the woods, it seemed like you were heading for nowhere.

But this is too much for me... and you are too generous to help a worthless little wolf. So tell me, what makes this even possible? I asked him, my eyes starting to well with tears. Yes, I was culture-shocked. One moment I was being thrown out of my pack, the next, some stranger wanted to treat me like a queen.

He crossed his muscular arms over his chest. You’ll find out soon.

Welcome back, Alpha Calle.

I looked at the man who just spoke. He was tall and had a commanding presence that demanded respect. The huge build of his body and the way he carried himself indicated that he was someone of importance, like how he welcomed my savior back.

‘Wait, what did he call him?’

Realization dawned on me as I connected the dots. The stranger who had rescued me was not just any ordinary person. Y-you are an Alpha?

My first instinct was to run away. Anything that had something to do with alphas made my nerves shiver in fear and anger. It seemed like I was allergic to them already as if my body had automatically recognized the danger they posed. If only Reina could take me away from here, I would disappear in no time. But she wasn’t talking to me just yet, and I couldn’t feel like I could shapeshift any longer.

But as I looked into Calles's eyes, I saw a kindness that contradicted my initial thoughts. Maybe not all Alphas were as horrible as Alpha Darius. More so, this man standing before me was the most attractive male I’d ever seen, with an olive skin tone, a prominent jawline, and dark hair that brushed against his broad shoulders. I was hesitant to ask about his age, but I think he was older than that jerk Lennon, but much younger than my brother, Jaime.

Is there any problem with that? he asked, referring to my question about him being an Alpha.

I wanted to blurt out the word ‘yes’, but I forced myself to shake my head. N-nothing at all. I just can't imagine that someone like you would save me, that's all. I stammered, feeling my cheeks flush.

His piercing gaze softened, and a faint smile played at the corners of his lips. Appearances can be deceiving. Anyway, that’s part of my territory. We're here to protect and serve, no matter who it may be, he said and turned to the man who remained standing by his side. Beta Degen, gather everyone in the hall. I’ll check them out after I talk to the warriors.

The man he called Beta Degen made a brisk nod. Right away, Alpha.

Where’s Suzette, by the way? asked Alpha Calle as he frowned slightly.

She’ll be off for two days to visit her father.