Destined To The Alpha

By Aline Silva

Could the gods undo a misunderstanding without punishment?

Cassandra Baumer is the precious daughter of Alpha Baumer and betrothed to the son of the neighboring tribe, Zedekiah Vasile. Raised to be an excellent wife and moon of the pack, Cassandra's dreams are shattered when, upon turning fifteen, her engagement to Zed is broken.

Three years have passed, life has broken her in several ways. Is it possible for Cassandra to ignore all the problems and live with Zedekiah, or would the gods be kind enough to send a guardian angel in her direction to free her from the suffering her life has turned into?

Emir Balan, the son and alpha of the rival tribe, with a burning desire for revenge; would he be Cassandra's liberating angel or just a new jailer for the young girl?

Only the gods can know whom Cassandra Baumer is truly destined.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Noveltoon
• Release date: Jan 10, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224180493

Book preview

A Destinada Ao Alfa

Chapter 1

It was a dark room, my sole diversion the slender beam of light that pierced through the gaps in the bricks while he was there, using my body without consent, slapping and biting my skin as my mind searched for an escape to ease my overwhelming despair. Weeping was useless; in the early days, I cried, I screamed, I begged for mercy, and all I got was a slap and shouts to shut my mouth. I felt dead, lifeless on the floor, merely feeling him enter and leave me, he wouldn't look at my face, nor did he make any sounds of pleasure, perhaps my lack of resistance took away his enjoyment, my inner wolf whimpered in my mind, pleading for an end.

The soft sound of his zipper ascending, signaling closure, was when I allowed just a single tear to trail down the side of my battered face – that subtle noise indicated that for today it was over, and he would return to his mansion where his parents were, while I'd remain here to decay in that cell, merely waiting for that tiny beam of light to filter through the bricks again. The same question circled my mind, how did I end up here?

3 years earlier

Excited, Cassie? My older cousin's voice broke the silence as I stood staring at a wedding dress in a storefront window. Indeed, in a few short weeks, I would marry Zedekiah Vasile, the firstborn of the tribe of the south.

My family, all who reside in the eastern tribe, are Werewolves, and not just any Werewolves. We are descendants of the original Werewolves blessed by the goddess.

It's not every day your childhood love becomes your husband! My cousin adjusted her reflection while appraising me.

Don't be silly, Daphne… My voice was soft; like any teenager, I felt a bit childish for having a crush on the strongest alpha's son from the South.

The sound of the shop bell indicated someone entering, pulling my cousin away as the store owner needed to greet the newcomer, but before she could get to the door, a woodsy scent enveloped me in bliss.

Cassandra… We need to talk. That slightly sexy, gravelly voice made me close my eyes, wondering what it would be like to wake up to him wishing me good morning in bed every day.

Just a second, Zedekiah. I replied, trying to hide my smile, Zed simply marched into the room where I was, disregarding Daphne's protests about him being presumptuous and unwelcome, as usual, she was very protective.

Zed was so grave that I thought for a moment it was something urgent, so I assured her it was okay.

Speak. I gestured for him to continue.

The wedding's postponed, no new date set yet. Even though I maintained a facade of understanding, it was impossible not to feel like that piece of news was a punch in the stomach, making my gut churn. Daphne growled in shock and slapped him across the face; I knew she was acting as my protective elder sister with the best of intentions, but did she need to hit him?

Is there a problem? My voice struggled to emerge, and after several attempts, I smoothed my sweaty hands on my dress.

Daphne left us alone for a few minutes, I knew she was raging on my behalf and if she stayed, she might go for his throat.

Did you tell my father? I finally asked, before noticing my cousin's return with a stern look, followed by the figures of my father and mother, both approaching to offer their support.

No, just want you to spend some time at Vasile Mansion, so we can get to know each other better. Zed's eyes sparkled amusingly at that moment, and like a naive one, I was charmed by the shine in his blue eyes.

Postponed? This is the fifth time just this year! My father's voice was firm, and after he accidentally shattered the kitchen table with a punch, my mother strategically positioned herself beside him as if to calm him.

She hasn't received her wolf yet; I will not marry her this way... You know full well that mating without the wolf can be deadly for her. Zed stood serious in front of my parents, explaining how I was weak without a wolf that I didn't notice the signs that something was deeply wrong.

She will be trained as soon as we arrive, I don't want a weak Luna, nor a useless one, only after that will I be able to say we have a marriage, I first want to assess her. To see if she is worthy. At that moment, Zed's words stung a bit, was I really an useless and weak girl? I would prove to him that I wasn't, that I could be a good wife and Luna.

After much arguing, my parents told me to pack and that I would spend some time with the Vasiles, if only I had known the hell that would follow, if only I had paid attention to the signs, perhaps today I wouldn't be where I am.

I should have paid attention to the signs.

Chapter 2

The landscape shifted as the car sped down the highway; within less than five hours, I had left behind my tribe, my parents, and the people who held me dear. Inside the vehicle, Zed remained mostly silent, playing some low, elevator-like music and kept his focus on the road.

I'm not certain how long it had been, but eventually, I dozed off, my head resting against the window, only to be awakened when the car engine was turned off. Opening my eyes, I beheld the vast house where we had parked, and outside stood the figures of Alphas Vasile—Zed's father—and his Luna, Zed's mother.

Finally! Cassie, it's been a while since we last saw you! Alpha's wife opened the door with care, allowing me to step out, her arms wrapping around me with strength and excitement as my practiced eyes fixated on my future mate. Zed stood with tense shoulders, flanking a blonde woman with blue eyes. There was an intimacy in their slight touch of fingers that indicated a connection, one his parents chose to overlook. Was that why he kept postponing our wedding? I hardly had time to formulate a thought, for Alpha's embrace enveloped me warmly.

So, my dear, eager for the wedding? the elder female inquired, and at that moment, my brow furrowed in confusion.

Zed... Zedekiah said the wedding was delayed so that I could spend some time here and get to know each other better, I responded. As soon as the words parted from my lips, a tension swept through their shoulders, and their gaze upon Zed became almost lethal, yet he looked back at me with the remnants of anger, swiftly concealed as the blonde whispered something to him.

I detested not having my wolf yet. Tradition held that my wolf would appear when I turned sixteen, merely two weeks away. It only then dawned on me that I would spend my birthday far from my family.

Father, Cassandra is still a child... I want her to have a normal adolescence, and once her wolf appears, we'll marry, Zed expressed, casting my spirits down. After all, he had turned eighteen, which rendered me a pitiful fifteen-year-old girl dreaming of marrying her prince charming.

They seemed to dismiss Zed's comments as they led me inside the house, but I noticed his mother stayed back to block the blonde's entry, and I'm pretty sure I heard something akin to growling, though they didn't allow me to look back.

I understand it must be a bit frightening, being away from family, and I know your birthday is coming soon... But don't worry, I'll take care of you as if you were my own daughter, because soon, you will be! Zed's mother was so kind and loving, my smile was involuntary when she kissed my forehead.

Uh... The woman you didn't let in... Who is she? I asked as I shifted from foot to foot, redirecting my gaze to the elder's face, which seemed to grasp my underlying question. She smiled while stroking my hair, but her smile didn't reach her eyes.

She's nobody, now rest—your journey must have been quite exhausting. Tomorrow, I'll show you around! Her excitement returned to her voice as she walked towards the door, carefully closing it, leaving me alone in the room with a suitcase to unpack and a huge window revealing the moonlit, starry sky.

Before I could unpack, I sat on the small bench beneath the window and sat in silence gazing at the sky, losing track of time until soft knocks drew me out of my reverie.

Come in... I replied, redirecting my attention to the door as Zed entered, followed by the same woman who was stopped by his mother.

Cassandra, I'd like to introduce you to Sapphire. We train together, and she'll be joining you in your training starting tomorrow, Zed finished, as a subtle smile appeared on the woman's lips.

Your training begins tomorrow with the other she-wolves of our tribe, and there will be no special treatment for being a Baumer, Zed said icily. Yet, before he could leave the room, I saw the blonde lace her fingers with his, igniting a surge of anger in me, relishing the thought of making her swallow her teeth.

By dawn, I was already at the training center, despite never being a morning person. Sapphire entered with a smile that almost made me sick. From just one glance, I knew I'd be heading home battered and bruised, but I was determined to prove Zed wrong about me being weak.

Chapter 3

The week whizzed by, with training turning into an ordeal; each step forward seemed like two steps back. Zed was indifferent to my injuries, and I suspected that Sapphire was taking something out on me, but I wasn't certain yet.

I believe it's not a good idea for Sapphire to continue training Cassie. Lydia's voice echoed from behind the door as I returned from another exhausting day.

Mom, you've always been supportive of me, why can't you just accept my choice? Zed's voice emerged from a corner of the room.

I've always supported you, and where has that led us? You've become a spoiled and weak boy, so desperate to fulfil a commitment that you don't even stop to consider what your fiancee's family expects of her... I will send Sapphire to the Western Tribe next week, I don't want to see you two together anymore. Enough. Lydia's voice was different, more serious and somber, as if she wanted to avoid the topic.

A glass was thrown at the door where I stood eavesdropping, causing me to jump back, but a growl pulled me from my shock.

Haven't we taught you manners? Clean that up before you leave. Lydia opened the door, her eyes sweeping over mine as Zed growled under his breath. Before she could say more, I walked until I reached the threshold of the door, looking coldly at Zed.

I want her sent to the Western Tribe today. My chest was burning with rage while Zed met my gaze with fury.

Who do you think you are? You're nothing but a child... He snarled at that moment, and I simply raised one finger in his direction.

A spoiled child still believing in fairy-tale princes, let me tell you something, Cassandra, our marriage is arranged, not to my liking, so know if we ever marry, I will ensure everyone knows that Sapphire is my chosen Mate, not a pathetic child like you. His words deeply wounded me, my eyes filling with tears. His mother stood there, hand over her lips, looking at her son unsure of what to do, only breaking her stillness when a smile crossed Zed's lips and his father entered the room, growling like a truly ferocious alpha.

If you do not marry Cassie and make her your Mate, know that you will not be the alpha of this tribe. I'm tired of your whims; this is my decision. If you want to lead the Southern Tribe, then marry and love your wife. Enough, it's time to act like a man! The growl from his father grew louder and as Zed attempted to respond, I heard only the faint sound of bones cracking. Lydia quickly pulled me from the room—it seemed she wasn't concerned with whatever might happen within those walls.

Maybe to soothe tensions and to slip from memory, Sapphire was no longer training nor was she seen much around the mansion. From my bedroom window, I could see a tall tower that appeared abandoned.

My birthday was in two days, and as a gift for finally receiving my wolf, Lydia said that my family would join us for a celebratory dinner, and they would also take the opportunity to set the date for my marriage to Zed.

As my parents arrived for my birthday, I noticed the tension fall upon Zed's shoulders, perhaps fearing I would reveal what he had said. My cousin was with them, and upon seeing her, I ran to embrace her.

I've missed you all so much! After releasing her from my clumsy hug, she kissed the top of my head and asked how I was being treated. Before I could answer, Zed towered over me, hands resting on my shoulder.

She is being well taken care of. His voice was steady, but his gaze was cold, something Daphne must have noticed since she subtly pulled me by the arm after glancing at her partner, Lucian.

I believe Cassie has a voice and can answer for herself. Her response didn't please him at all.

Ignoring Zed, I took Daphne by the hands after asking Lydia for permission to show her the whole house, only stopping when we reached the garden, where, knowing me well, Daphne pulled me aside to chat.

There were no secrets between Daphne and me, and as soon as I finished telling her everything, she growled and pulled me into a tight hug.

If you want to leave, just say the word and we'll jump in that car and go! Daphne was, without a doubt, my favorite person in the whole world, and her words brought out a weak smile from me.

The priority here isn't your marriage to Zedekiah Vasile, the priority is you! My dear, the family's priority will always be you. My cousin's words filled my eyes with tears.

Chapter 4

After spending almost the entire early evening in the garden chatting with my cousin, I felt more relaxed. When we entered the house, I decided to show her my room before finally going down to dinner.

It was the first time I could hear the house filled with laughter and joy, a warm feeling in my chest, and when I opened the door, revealing my room and the expansive window, Daphne was the first to barge in and leap onto the bed, allowing her body to relish the mattress's soft embrace.

By the goddess, you are blessed! This mattress could easily replace Lucian, her comment made me snicker, a sound that quickly faded as an unfamiliar scent invaded my nostrils. My eyes widened while something churned inside me, Daphne must have noticed because she hopped off the bed, holding my hands gently, leading me to the window.

Looks like your little wolf is starting to awaken! With some difficulty, I sat beneath the window while everything around me began growing louder, even the faint clink of glasses downstairs seemed to disturb me, and my breath grew ragged. A wave of panic filled my chest while my cousin knelt before me, coaching me to control it all with the simple act of inhaling slowly and exhaling calmly.

A bath might help, that's what she said before flinging me into the bathroom, and in a matter of minutes, I was ready to head down for dinner. The box she had brought indeed contained a beautiful royal blue satin dress, and as I put it on and saw my reflection, I felt out of place.

The bedroom door flung open as Lucian, followed by Daphne and my mother, came in, all three looking at me admirably and cautiously approaching.

I heard my little one has finally received her wolf, Lucian said slowly, scrutinizing my figure, his fingers on his chin indicating he was about to say more before Daphne silenced him with a slap.

Don't even think about playing the protector! Daphne growled while my mother pulled me into her arms and tenderly kissed my forehead.

You look stunning, who would have thought my baby, upon turning sixteen and gaining her wolf, would turn into such a beautiful woman? A solitary tear rolled down her cheek, causing me to smile and my own eyes to well up.

You're going to make her smudge her makeup, Auntie! Daphne protested, finishing a small braid in my hair, and they said they would wait for me in the dining room.

Once alone in the room again, I stood before the mirror, examining the curves of my body, the dress truly marked a rite of passage and frankly, it revealed too much. The same scent from earlier once again invaded the hall as I began walking towards the stairs, and without Daphne to distract me, I decided to follow the nauseating scent trail.

The door to Zedekiah's room was ajar, and before I could reach it, I was met with a sight I'd never forget. Zed lay in his bed with Safira naked atop him, and the two were intimately entangled. My legs shook, and I was engulfed by the urge to vomit; I didn't want to stand there a moment longer, watching the boy who was supposed to be my fiance in the arms of another, whispering declarations of love meant for me, his mate.

Fury was the feeling that swelled in my chest as I strode towards the stairs. Once I arrived at the dining room, everyone waited expectantly, and I couldn't hide the anger I felt when minutes later, Safira's laughter echoed down the stairs alongside Zed.

Many would say my subsequent actions were petty, but they were merely the result of a teenager with a newly-found wolf and heightened emotions.

I don't want her here, I declared as I turned, my gaze landing on Zed and then casting toward Safira.

The entire dining room fell silent as Aunt Lydia stepped beside me, attempting to grasp the unfolding situation.

This is my house, Cassandra, and Safira stays. You don't have the say here, know your place, Zed spoke with such disregard, forgetting my parents, Daphne, and her partner were present, his facade slipping.

You're mistaken, it's my birthday, the dinner here is in my honor, therefore I choose who I share the room with. And Safira is leaving - she can choose to leave amicably or be dragged out, Rage heaved in my chest as my green eyes burned into every inch of Safira's face until they landed on the love bite on her neck. My father and Aunt Lydia noticed where I was looking, and before Zed could retort, Lydia stepped in with her mask of indifference.

Leave my home, Safira. I've already told you you're not welcome here. I'm not asking, I'm commanding as the Luna of the tribe, Lydia's voice altered, becoming more beast-like than usual, and in that moment, I realized she was using her commanding voice, one no wolf could defy.

Chapter 5

What should have been my celebratory dinner turned into a tense affair; my father hugged me and kissed my forehead, requesting that Daphne escort me upstairs to pack my bags, because he stated he wouldn't stay after the insult from Zed.

Unwilling to engage in conversation, I shed the dress that had made me dazzle and sat on my bed, donning my pajamas. My mother's mouth opened and closed, wanting to say something, but words eluded her. My entire life had been a fantasy about a marriage that was now unattainable.

At three in the morning, my father came in, scratching the back of his neck. He lovingly kissed my forehead before delivering the darkest news.

Zedekiah has admitted his wrongs against you and expressed his wish to make amends. Therefore, you will not be returning with us… Give him a chance, my always-loving father somehow fell for Zed's deceiving words.

Everyone eventually fell asleep, and when I awoke, I was not in my usual bed. I was in a dark place, my feet and hands bound by chains, and in the corner, a shadowy figure looked on with a distant gaze.

We are not going to marry… I never wanted you as my moon, but my desire for you took other forms. Zed's voice was somber and his stare icy; I shivered as he approached with a sadistic smile on his lips.

Scream if you wish, fight… But to your parents, you agreed to travel with me, and to mine, you decided to return to your tribe, meaning no one will come to save you. Zed hissed, the sound of his zipper opening drew my attention, fear and panic filled every part of me.

I will destroy your body, your mind, and spirit. Those were the last words I heard before suffering the most brutal violation imaginable.

3 years later, present day

As the wooden door closed and Zedekiah left, I tried to breathe, but I no longer knew how. Three years in that hell, abused, assaulted, and tortured by him. I had no news from my family; in the early years I hoped that if I acted like a good girl he might let me go, or if I turned a blind eye to his romance with Safira, I might earn some reward, but he didn't care about any of that. If he had a fight with his father, he'd come and take his frustration out on me mere minutes later.

I had no more tears left, my wolf was unfortunately not strong enough; during a torture session, Zedekiah had revealed that when receiving a wolf on the sixteenth birthday, one had to transform so both would