The Alpha King's Rejected Mate

Camila's POV

I luxuriated in the overwhelming sense of bliss, relishing the inexplicable joy coursing through me. Shouldn't I feel remorseful for belonging to the most wretched pack imaginable? Yet, lying here on this plush bed, basking in the tranquil breeze, I yearned for this moment of serenity to last indefinitely. Reality, however, beckoned me back, reminding me that I couldn't revel in peacefulness forever. I couldn't afford even a moment's respite, but why did it feel as though I had been transported to heaven? My thoughts abruptly halted as distressing memories flooded my mind. In a jolt of realization, I shot up from the bed, hastily opening my eyes. Without delay, I sprang to my feet, swiftly securing my hair into a ponytail, and hurried downstairs to prepare breakfast for the pack.

But as my surroundings finally registered in my consciousness, my jaw dropped in disbelief. I struggled to comprehend if this breathtaking scene before me was real or a figment of my vivid imagination. Whatever it was, it held an undeniable beauty. Stumbling on my own feet, I stood dumbfounded, captivated by the enchanting panorama that unfolded. I lost my balance and landed on the ground, cushioned by a carpet of grass. Towering trees adorned with vibrant flowers, butterflies dancing in the air, and birds reveling in the serenity of nature—it was a sight to behold. A nearby stream added to the magnificence of the picture.

Regaining my composure, I found myself clad in a simple yet elegant white and gold dress, its beauty stealing my breath away. A gasp escaped my lips in awe, contemplating who this exquisite dress might belong to. I had never had the opportunity to wear something so resplendent. I cautiously twirled, admiring its graceful contours, wary of causing any damage to its allure.

Was this a dream, or...? Suddenly, the reason for my awakening surged back into my consciousness. Fear instantly gripped me, extinguishing all the preceding happiness in an instant.

Could this be what I think it is? Am I dead?

"No, dear, you are not," a soft yet familiar voice chimed in. Startled, I turned in the direction of the voice, and a gasp reverberated through the air as I beheld a sight I thought I would never witness.

There, standing before me, adorned in a dress similar to mine, was the person I loved most in the world... my mother, wearing her signature radiant smile.

I gazed at her intently, refusing to divert my eyes or even blink for a moment. Questioning whether it could be a mere figment of my imagination, I surveyed my surroundings, savoring the captivating scenery. Yet, my traitorous eyes involuntarily gravitated toward the one person who stood out amidst the splendor—my mom.

My heart raced, unable to accept the reality before me. She couldn't be here, or perhaps she could be. But first and foremost, where was I? How had I ended up in this place? Shouldn't I be in the pack hospital or, worse yet, in the morgue?

"Don't, dear. Don't dwell on such thoughts," her melodious voice interjected, halting my train of thought. My eyes, without any conscious command, fixated on her.

No, this couldn't be real. I couldn't be here. It must be a trick played by my mind, a foolish game of emotions. Why subject me to such an intense rollercoaster? I blinked repeatedly, hoping that when I opened my eyes, she would no longer be there. Yet, to my surprise, she remained, wearing a slightly perplexed expression. Closing my eyes briefly, I reopened them, only to find her still standing in the same spot.

Rubbing my eyes in disbelief, I mustered the courage to ask, "Mom, is that really you? Are you truly here, or am I trapped in a dream?"

"Sort of. I exist within your mind, but I am still real. If you doubt me, why don't you come closer and embrace your momma? Then you can decide for yourself if I'm real or not," she replied in her tender, motherly tone.

Initially hesitant, I took a couple of hesitant steps, filled with trepidation. However, as I witnessed her steadfast presence and her angelic smile, I threw caution to the wind. Without a second thought, I sprinted toward her with all my might, wrapping my arms around her tightly, afraid that releasing my grip would cause her to vanish.

"Oh, Mom, I missed you so much," I sobbed.

"I know, my dear, and I've missed you too," my mom replied, holding me just as tightly as I held her.

"I love you, Mom," I cried, burying my face in her neck. My parents were the only ones in front of whom I could shed tears without feeling embarrassed. I released all the pain, hurt, and agony that had been bottled up inside me for years.

"I love you too, baby, and we're sorry we left you to face the world alone," she replied, a tear slipping from her eye as she gently stroked my hair.