Betrayed by the Moon

ra'

the sun had even risen. The strong soap left my fingertips sore and hurt. As though the pack wanted to

he pack's elite. She spoke in a deep, icy tone

s, I chose not to do so. What happened when I dared to r

ted black hair, my reflection in the pool of soapy water looked back

other women of the elite said. I could hear them, bu

opic of their conversation. I never gave it any thought, ev

k, "It means something."

d down at me as though my very existence was a criminal. I

cealing the imprint under my dress's frayed sleeve. I didn't have tim

mony, a celebration of the Lycans' power and unity, took place tonight. I had

inging elbows, while holding a tray of beverages.

d up, which

at that po

to miss with his wide shoulders and sharp golden eyes. The Alpha. Strong and invincible.

turned. Wine spilled at his fe

ence bec

eyes on me, the atmo

in a deep, powerful v

y legs shook. I avoided looking i

a," I said. "It ha

me," he c

eat. I experienced it-a sudden surge of warmth, an odd tingle tha

fri

avy that my knees almost gave out. Th

grew st

ick to m

ly, disinterested tone. "I could never have

e out among

"Alpha," but he silenced

Pack, deny you as my mate." His words

Not in this place. Not in public. Their whispers and l

hadowy corner of the servant's quarters. My soul

f in a whisper. She paired me with someone who detested m

med to give a subtle glow to the crescent mark on

wn the hallway. With a creak, the door opened, and two el

uestioned, "I

r. "It is confirmed

ng for?" My voice t

you don't belong in this pack. You'll be sent away tomorr

ion for being cruel, particularly to women

aying, "No." "This

in a position to argue." "Than

iny space. I was unable to allow them to

ecurity at the servant's qu

footsteps coming. Two pack warriors

bed my arm and s

nst their hold and yel

pulled me into the pa

d my face. The wheels of a carriage creaked menaci

thrashed more violently. "Darius!" Even though I

arriage. With tears running down my cheeks, I put my hands

ing for me when I left the