When Lila awoke the next morning, the soft warmth of sunlight filtered through the curtains of the unfamiliar room. The air smelled of lavender and clean linen, a far cry from the cursed forest where she'd fought for her life. She blinked, her body still sore but her mind slightly clearer.
"Good, you're awake," a deep voice said.
Lila turned her head to where Alpha Jackson stood near the door; his arms were crossed but his face calm. Bright blue eyes regarded her analytically, and for the most part, she felt drawn to him-something she couldn't explain.
"How long have I been here?" she asked hoarsely.
Two days," Jackson replied, taking another step closer. "You were weak when I found you, but you're healing well. My pack doctor made sure of that."
Lila attempted to sit up, but immediately Jackson was at her side, his hands gently steadying her. She froze under his touch, a strange warmth that spread up her arm.
"You don't have to do that," she whispered, without knowing what to say or do.
Jackson tilted his head. "You're my guest, Lila. It's my duty to ensure you're safe."
The sincerity in his voice caught her off guard. She looked into his eyes and saw no malice, no pity—just genuine concern. It was a kindness she hadn't experienced in years.
That night, Lila had a dream-or something even more than that. She stood in a vast meadow under the light of a full moon. The air was cool, and above, the stars shone as bright as diamonds.
"Lila," a soft, melodic voice called.
She turned to see a figure now radiating from the shadows. Her hair of pure silver shimmered under the moonlight, her presence ethereal, commanding.
"Who are you?" Lila asked, struck with wonder.
I am the Goddess of the Moon," she returned, her voice soft as she smiled. "And I have come to remind you of what your heart doth know."
Before Lila could say a word, the images shifted around her. She saw Jackson in front of her, in all his strength and warmth. A soft glow diffused around him, their bonding pulsating like a living thing.
He is your second chance," the Moon Goddess said. "Fate has chosen him for you, and he will be the one to heal your broken heart."
Lila's eyes widened. "But why? Why would I deserve a second chance?"
The Moon Goddess placed a reassuring hand on Lila's shoulder. "Because even the strongest hearts deserve love, Lila. Trust the bond and let it guide you.
When Lila awoke, her heart was racing. The dream seemed so real, and the attachment she had felt in that vision lingered in her chest.
Jackson came into the room a moment later, carrying a tray with breakfast. His presence brought an odd sense of comfort, and as he laid the tray on her lap, their hands touched.
A spark shot through her, and she gasped. Jackson froze, his eyes meeting hers.
"You felt that too, didn't you?" he asked softly.
Lila nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. "The Moon Goddess… she told me."
Jackson's expression softened, a mixture of relief and awe crossing his face. "So it's true. You're my second chance mate."
For the first time in her life, Lila saw no reluctance, no aversion in someone's eyes-only acceptance. Tears welled in her eyes as the weight of the past few days crashed over her.
Jackson reached out, his thumb gently brushing away her tears. "No one will ever hurt you again, Lila. I promise. You're safe now, and I'll make sure you feel the love and care you've always deserved.
The sincerity in his voice broke down the walls Lila had built around her heart. She nodded, unable to speak, and for the first time, she allowed herself to believe in a future where she wasn't just tolerated—but cherished.